From bright planets to a mythological bird soaring among the stars, July 2025 has an exciting show lined up in the night sky.&nbsp;



NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/skywatching/whats-up/">JPL</a>) has shared its skywatching highlights - revealing what to be on the lookout for this month, from sunset to sunrise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planets-in-motion">Planets in motion</h2>



Venus reigns in the morning sky all month, shining brightly in the east during the hours before sunrise. Look for it near the Pleiades star cluster and two brilliant stars - Aldebaran and Capella.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-lost-most-of-its-water-but-where-did-it-go/">Mars</a> is visible in the western sky shortly after sunset, glowing about 20 degrees above the horizon before it sets a couple of hours later. On July 28, it forms a striking pair with the crescent Moon.



Jupiter begins to climb into the morning sky after mid-month. Initially low on the eastern horizon, it rises higher each day, heading toward a dramatic August conjunction with Venus.



Mercury is visible only briefly - watch for it in the west during the first week of July, beginning about 30 to 45 minutes after sunset. It stays close to the horizon and sets quickly, so timing and a clear view are key.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-energy-imbalance-discovered-on-saturn/">Saturn</a> makes its entrance around midnight and climbs high in the southern sky by dawn - offering a glimpse of the planet for early risers.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/SQu8utmfOQk?si=IG-nb7ithbJF3vQD
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">What are some skywatching highlights in July 2025? Look for Mars in the evening, Venus and Jupiter in the morning, and find the eagle constellation, Aquila, soaring overhead.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-first-successful-mars-mission">The first successful Mars mission</h2>



July 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of NASA’s Mariner 4 mission, which performed the first successful Mars flyby in 1965. 



The spacecraft sent back the first close-up images of the Martian surface and revealed that the planet’s atmosphere was thin, cold, and not as Earth-like as once imagined.&nbsp;



Before Mariner 4, many scientists and the public still held out hope that Mars might resemble a second Earth - perhaps even supporting vegetation or signs of life.&nbsp;



However, the grainy black-and-white images, showing a cratered, barren landscape, were a sobering reality check that reshaped our understanding of the Red Planet.



Despite dashing earlier hopes, Mariner 4 paved the way for decades of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-collapse-why-did-mars-become-a-desert/">Mars</a> exploration. It was the first time humans had seen another planet up close. The mission proved that long-distance robotic exploration was not only possible, but essential.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spotting-aquila-in-the-july-sky">Spotting Aquila in the July sky</h2>



July is also the ideal time to view Aquila, the Eagle constellation, in the eastern sky during the first half of the night. Its brightest star, Altair, is easy to spot and forms part of the Summer Triangle, along with Vega and Deneb.



Aquila represents the eagle of Zeus in Greek mythology - a powerful messenger and symbol of divine strength. 



Altair marks the eagle’s heart, with its wings stretching wide across the night sky. To find it, look for the triangle-shaped pattern and note that Altair sits at the southern point.



While Aquila’s other stars aren’t as bright, they’re easier to trace under dark skies. The second half of July is especially good for observing this constellation, as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-earth-get-its-moon-a-new-theory-has-emerged/">Moon</a> rises later and leaves the early night sky darker.



For those in the Northern Hemisphere, Aquila is a summer favorite. Once you’ve located Altair, try to follow the eagle’s full wingspan across the sky. It appears to fly northward with its wings outstretched.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-dates-for-july-skywatching-nbsp">Key dates for July skywatching&nbsp;</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>July 1–7: Mercury is bright and easy to spot in the west after sunset - if you catch it in time. It vanishes within an hour of sundown.</li>



<li>July 21–22: Look east before sunrise to see Venus and Jupiter joined by a crescent Moon, along with several bright stars.</li>



<li>July 28: In the evening sky, the Moon passes close to Mars, offering a beautiful pairing.</li>
</ul>



Whether you’re watching Mars fade into the west or spotting Venus and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-past-how-the-young-gas-giant-shaped-our-solar-system/">Jupiter</a> at dawn, July will be a rewarding month to keep an eye on the sky.&nbsp;



NASA’s monthly “What’s Up” guide helps us stay connected to the ever-changing night sky. To explore more about NASA’s space missions and skywatching tools, visit <a href="https://science.nasa.gov">science.nasa.gov</a>.



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July 2025 skywatching: Bright planets and a summer constellation 

From bright planets to a mythological bird soaring among the stars, July 2025 has an exciting show lined up in the night sky.&nbsp; NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has shared its skywatching highlights - revealing what to be on the lookout for this month, from sunset to sunrise. Planets in motion Venus reigns in the morning sky all month, shining brightly in the east during the hours before sunrise. Look for it near the Pleiades star cluster and two brilliant stars - Aldebaran and Capella. Mars is...

In a fascinating exploration of speech planning, research led by the <a href="https://med.nyu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NYU Grossman</a> School of Medicine reveals how our brains prepare to speak before we actually verbalize our thoughts. 



The study, conducted among individuals undergoing surgery for epilepsy treatment, is pivotal for advancing our understanding of speech <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neurons-can-predict-human-speech-before-we-say-a-word/">production</a>. It unveils significant insights into the brain's mechanisms behind speech planning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-brain-s-blueprint-for-speech">The brain's blueprint for speech</h2>



The study delves into the roles of the inferior frontal gyrus and motor cortex - two regions situated in the outer layers of the cerebral cortex. These areas are pivotal for controlling the muscles involved in speech production, influencing our selection of words and sounds.



The researchers examined <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-advanced-brain-mapping-yet-reveals-how-we-think/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain-mapping</a> recordings from 16 patients, aged 14 to 43, at NYU Langone Health over the period from 2018 to 2021. These individuals were undergoing pre-surgical evaluations for epilepsy.



The process involved stimulating brain regions to pinpoint and conserve areas critical to speech while targeting seizure-inducing tissue for removal. 



Importantly, a key innovation of this research lies in measuring the brief time intervals, less than two seconds, between brain stimulation and its impact on speech. This approach offers fresh perspectives on the cortex's role in speech planning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-speech-production">Exploring speech production</h2>



The researchers have unveiled new insights into the organization of speech within the brain. They found that the delays before speech disruption, known as latencies, vary across different brain regions. This discovery highlights the brain's complex role in speech production and its elaborate mechanisms. 



"Our study adds evidence for the role of the brain's motor cortex and inferior frontal gyrus in planning speech and determining what people are preparing to say, not just voicing words using the vocal cords or mouthing the words by moving the tongue and lips," stated Dr. Heather Kabakoff, a speech pathologist at NYU Langone. 



Furthermore, Dr. Adeen Flinker, the study's senior investigator and a neuroscientist, explained: "Our results show that mapping out the millisecond time intervals, or latencies, between electrical stimulation in parts of the brain to the disruption or slurring of words and eventual inability to speak can be used to better understand how the human brain works and the roles played by different brain regions in human speech." 



Dr. Flinker emphasized the clinical implications of these findings. Additionally, he suggested that this research could pave the way for improved surgical techniques to protect speech functions during brain surgeries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-next-frontier-in-speech-and-brain-research">The next frontier in speech and brain research</h2>



The team is now expanding their focus, setting their sights on broader horizons. Consequently, they aim to unravel the roles of other brain parts in speech and auditory processing.



The researchers are studying real-time brain corrections of speech errors to enhance our understanding of speech control and modification. This endeavor marks another step forward in decoding the complexities of human communication.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The process of speech planning</h2>



The process of speech planning in the brain is a complex, multi-step process involving various brain regions working in coordination. It includes several key stages:



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



This is the initial stage where the intent or idea of what one wants to communicate is formed. It involves abstract thinking and decision-making processes in the prefrontal cortex, where the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-implant-may-allow-people-to-communicate-through-their-thoughts/">brain</a> decides on the message it wants to convey.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Lexical selection</h3>



Once the concept is formed, the brain selects the appropriate words to express the idea. This involves the temporal lobe, particularly the left temporal lobe for most people, where language comprehension and vocabulary are managed.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Syntactic processing</h3>



After selecting the words, the brain organizes them into a grammatically correct structure. This involves Broca's area, located in the left frontal lobe, which is responsible for speech production and the grammatical aspects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-begin-to-learn-language-before-they-are-even-born/">language</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Phonological processing&nbsp;</h3>



This stage involves planning the sounds that need to be produced to articulate the words. This involves the interaction between Wernicke's area, which is involved in language comprehension and the processing of phonological (sound) information, and Broca's area for the motor aspects of speech production.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Motor planning</h3>



Before speech occurs, the brain must plan and coordinate the specific movements of the mouth, tongue, vocal cords, and lungs that produce speech.&nbsp;



This involves the motor cortex, which controls voluntary muscle movements, and the cerebellum, which coordinates the timing and precision of these movements.



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



Finally, the motor cortex sends signals through the nervous system to the speech organs, executing the planned movements and producing speech. This involves intricate coordination of muscles and breathing to articulate words and modulate voice.



Throughout this speech planning process, the brain also relies on feedback mechanisms involving auditory and somatosensory systems to monitor and adjust speech production in real-time. This ensures accuracy in articulation and intonation.



The exact neural pathways and interactions between these areas are still a subject of ongoing research, as the brain's processes for managing speech are incredibly complex and vary from person to person.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/braincomms/article/6/2/fcae053/7627918" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brain</a>.



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Speech planning: How our brains prepare to speak

In a fascinating exploration of speech planning, research led by...

Plastic,Bottle,Dirty,Around,River,With,Children,Sitting,On,Ground

<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/limiting-global-warming-to-1-5-degrees-celsius-would-save-billions-of-lives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global warming</a> and plastic pollution, two critical environmental challenges, now clearly intertwine, forming a vicious circle where each exacerbates the other.



Researchers in Sweden have published a comprehensive study in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-46127-9">Nature Communications</a>, revealing the mutually reinforcing relationship between these issues. This cycle not only intensifies global warming and material degradation but also increases <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-waste-kills-person/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic waste</a> and toxic chemical leakage into our environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vicious-circle-between-warming-and-plastic-pollution">Vicious circle between warming and plastic pollution</h2>



The study was led by Xinfeng Wei, from the <a href="https://www.kth.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">KTH Royal Institute of Technology</a> in Stockholm. With rising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-global-temperature-exceeded-2c-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global temperatures</a>, plastics - materials we depend on daily - deteriorate more quickly. 



This deterioration demands the production of more plastics. Additionally, it significantly increases <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epa-plans-to-eliminate-greenhouse-gas-emissions-from-power-plants-by-2040/">greenhouse gas emissions</a>, further heating our planet.



"A self-reinforcing cycle is formed, creating a vicious circle between climate change and plastic pollution," Wei explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emissions-on-the-rise-the-plastic-contribution">Emissions on the rise: The plastic contribution</h2>



In 2019, the OECD reported that plastics contributed to 3.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, about 1.8 billion tons, primarily due to their production and fossil fuel conversion. Alarmingly, this figure is expected to more than double by 2060.



The research underscores the interconnected escalation of heat, moisture, and the weakening of polymers - materials like plastic and rubber, which consist of long molecular chains.



Wei highlights the issue, stating: "The higher the increase in temperature, the more the materials' properties are compromised."



With common plastics such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride, a temperature rise from 23°C to 40°C leads to a stiffness decrease of over 20%. Consequently, items made from these polymers, like clothing, auto parts, and appliances, require more frequent replacement, driving up manufacturing demands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ripple-effects-of-global-warming-and-plastic-pollution">Ripple effects of global warming and plastic pollution </h2>



The repercussions extend far beyond manufacturing challenges. Increased temperatures and plastic deterioration lead to several issues. Specifically, they cause unreliable food packaging, fouled waterways, and a surge in microplastics contaminating fish habitats.



Moreover, the study documents the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other hazardous substances, such as lubricants and plasticizers, into the air, soil, and water. Heat exacerbates this issue by accelerating their diffusion, evaporation, and leaching.



Wei noted the compound effects of increasing heat and moisture from global warming. A warmer atmosphere enhances moisture evaporation and water vapor capacity, posing challenges for polymers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-united-for-change-a-call-to-action">United for change: A call to action</h2>



To confront the intertwined crises of plastic pollution and global warming, the study emphasizes the need for urgent attention. It advocates for concerted action across all sectors involved in the plastic lifecycle.



It's clear that mitigating these escalating threats requires a holistic and collaborative approach. There is a critical need for innovation and regulation in addressing one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about plastic pollution&nbsp;</h2>



Plastic pollution has far-reaching impacts on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. Here are some key facts about plastic pollution:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Scale of the problem</h3>



Every year, about 380 million tons of plastic are produced globally, and a significant portion of this ends up in the oceans. It's estimated that up to 12 million tons of plastic enter the oceans each year.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Longevity of plastics</h3>



Plastics can take anywhere from 20 to 500 years to decompose in the environment, depending on the type of plastic. This longevity contributes to the accumulation of plastics in our oceans, waterways, and landscapes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Impact on marine life</h3>



Marine animals, including fish, seabirds, sea turtles, and marine mammals, can ingest or become entangled in plastic debris, leading to injuries, starvation, and death. It's estimated that over 100 million marine animals are killed by plastic waste each year.



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



These are tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size, which result from the breakdown of larger plastic waste or are manufactured for use in products like cosmetics.&nbsp;



Microplastics have been found in tap water, bottled water, and even in the air we breathe, posing potential health risks to humans.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Economic costs</h3>



The economic impact of plastic pollution affects tourism, fisheries, and shipping industries. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) estimates the economic damage of plastic pollution to marine ecosystems at $13 billion per year.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Recycling challenges</h3>



Despite efforts to improve waste management and recycling, only about 9% of all plastic waste ever produced has been recycled. The rest is incinerated, dumped in landfills, or ends up in the environment.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Legislation and initiatives</h3>



Many countries and regions have introduced legislation to reduce plastic waste, such as banning single-use plastics (e.g., plastic bags, straws, and cutlery) and implementing plastic bag levies.&nbsp;



Additionally, there are global and local initiatives aimed at cleaning up plastic pollution and promoting alternatives to plastic.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Role of individuals</h3>



Individuals can make a difference by reducing their plastic use, recycling properly, participating in beach clean-ups, and supporting policies and organizations that aim to tackle plastic pollution.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-46127-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Plastic pollution and global warming are linked in a vicious cycle

Global warming and plastic pollution, two critical environmental challenges, now...

Artificial intelligence (AI) has shown the capability to identify COVID-19 from lung ultrasound images with a precision likened to how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-decipher-every-possible-facial-expression-outperforming-therapists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">facial recognition</a> technology can pinpoint a face in a crowded space. 



This advancement signifies a significant leap in AI-driven medical diagnostics. Additionally, it brings the medical community closer to achieving quick and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-death-toll-of-covid-19-pandemic-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">accurate diagnoses</a> of COVID-19 and other pulmonary diseases. 



This is made possible through the use of sophisticated algorithms that analyze ultrasound imagery for disease indicators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-assisting-overworked-doctors">Assisting overworked doctors</h2>



The study, recently published in Communications Medicine, marks the culmination of efforts initiated early in the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, clinicians urgently needed efficient tools to quickly assess numerous patients in crowded emergency departments.



<a href="https://engineering.jhu.edu/faculty/muyinatu-bell/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Muyinatu Bell</a>, the study's senior author and Johns Hopkins University's John C. Malone Associate Professor, introduced the tool. 



"We developed this automated detection tool to assist doctors in emergency settings with high caseloads of patients who require prompt and precise diagnoses, akin to the earlier stages of the pandemic," Bell stated. 



She also highlighted the goal of allowing patients to monitor COVID-19 progression at home with wireless devices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-covid-19-and-the-future-of-wearable-health-tech">AI, COVID-19, and the future of wearable health tech</h2>



<a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/profiles/details/tiffany-fong" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tiffany Fong</a>, an assistant professor of emergency medicine at Johns Hopkins Medicine and co-author of the study, discussed the technology's potential. 



She highlighted its application in developing wearables for diseases like congestive heart failure, which shares <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machine-learning-reveals-how-to-prevent-covid-19-from-ever-returning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID-19 symptoms</a> such as fluid accumulation in the lungs.



Fong envisions, "An ideal use case would be wearable ultrasound patches that monitor fluid buildup and alert patients when they need a medication adjustment or a doctor's visit."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-this-ai-tool-detects-covid-19">How this AI tool detects COVID-19</h2>



The AI tool operates by analyzing ultrasound images of the lungs to identify features known as B-lines. These features, appearing as bright, vertical lines, signal inflammation commonly seen in patients with pulmonary issues. 



To achieve accurate detection, the AI merges computer-generated images with actual patient ultrasounds. This includes images from individuals treated at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins</a>.



Bell explained the complex process, stating, "We had to accurately model the physics of ultrasound and acoustic wave propagation to create believable simulated images. Subsequently, we trained our computer models to interpret real scans from patients with lung complications using these simulated data."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-early-obstacles">Overcoming early obstacles</h2>



The journey to this breakthrough encountered significant obstacles. Initially, the scarcity of patient data and a limited understanding of COVID-19's effects posed a challenge to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-intelligence-proves-very-useful-to-doctors-when-diagnosing-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI's diagnostic accuracy</a>. 



However, by developing software that leverages both real and simulated data, Bell's team enhanced the AI's ability to identify signs of COVID-19 in ultrasound scans. 



This improvement is attributable to deep neural networks. This type of AI mimics the brain's pattern recognition capabilities, resulting in a significant performance boost.



Lingyi Zhao, the study's first author and a former member of Bell's team, is now with <a href="https://novateur.ai/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Novateur Research Solutions</a>. 



She observed, "The early shortage of COVID-19 ultrasound images limited our development and testing. But with computer-generated datasets, we've achieved a high accuracy level in detecting COVID-19 features."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-future-study-of-ai-and-covid-19-diagnosis">Implications and future study of AI and COVID-19 diagnosis</h2>



This incredible technological advancement demonstrates the powerful capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming medical diagnostics, specifically in the rapid and accurate detection of COVID-19 and other pulmonary diseases through lung ultrasound images. 



By harnessing the potential of AI-driven tools and developing innovative solutions like wearable devices for continuous monitoring, researchers at Johns Hopkins University pave the way for a future where healthcare professionals can diagnose and manage diseases more efficiently. 



This advancement streamlines the diagnostic process in emergency settings and offers promising avenues for patient self-monitoring, highlighting the significant strides made in integrating technology with healthcare to improve patient outcomes.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43856-024-00463-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Medicine</a>.



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AI can detect COVID-19 from ultrasound images with incredible accuracy

Artificial intelligence (AI) has shown the capability to identify COVID-19...

Have you ever wondered how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microgravity-causes-big-problems-with-human-gene-expression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronauts</a> keep their muscles in peak condition, even as they float around in zero-gravity? Well, now there's a way to find out in real-time using MyotonPRO. 



An international team of researchers, including the <a href="https://www.charite.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a> and led by <a href="https://www.charite.de/en/">Charité University in Berlin</a>, has successfully used the simple handheld device to monitor astronauts' muscles during spaceflight. 



This technology also opens new doors for tracking muscle conditions right here on Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-working-out-in-microgravity">Working out in microgravity</h2>



In space, under conditions of microgravity, our bodies don't get the same workout as they do with Earth's gravity constantly pulling on us. Without that regular resistance, muscles start to shrink and bones can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-lettuce-and-salads-in-space-is-a-bad-idea-according-to-a-new-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lose density</a>. 



Astronauts can experience a shocking 20% decrease in muscle mass in just a month. To keep their bodies strong, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/watermeal-may-become-an-essential-food-for-astronauts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronauts</a> aboard the International Space Station (ISS) follow dedicated exercise routines typically lasting around two hours a day. 



However, until recently, there was no way to precisely track how effective these workouts were for individual muscles during the mission itself.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-muscle-monitoring-marvel">A muscle-monitoring marvel</h2>



The MyotonPRO device is a pocket-sized powerhouse of muscle analysis. It works by sending a gentle mechanical impulse into muscle tissue and measuring how the muscle responds. From this, the device can tell scientists a whole range of information:



<ul>
<li>Stiffness: Muscles need the right stiffness level to support movement and prevent injury. </li>



<li>Tone: This refers to the muscle's readiness to work. </li>



<li>Elasticity:&nbsp;How well a muscle can stretch and return to its original shape.</li>
</ul>



Researchers had twelve <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/international-space-station/">ISS</a> astronauts use the MyotonPRO on specific parts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-travel-takes-a-greater-toll-on-astronauts-brains-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">their bodies</a> throughout their missions – before the flight, during their stays of 4-11 months, and up to three months after returning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-myotonpro-space-muscle-verdict">MyotonPRO space muscle verdict</h2>



The results paint a mixed picture. Astronauts' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bad-news-for-first-mars-colonists-space-travel-is-proven-to-weaken-the-immune-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise programs</a> seem to do a great job of maintaining muscle stiffness - an indicator of strength - in most parts of the body like the shoulders, neck, back, and thighs. However, the lower leg caused concern.



The tibialis anterior, a muscle along your shin that lifts your foot, showed weakness in all the astronauts despite their workouts. 



Some of the calf muscles, essential partners to the tibialis anterior for walking and balance, also showed signs of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-microbiome-health-is-crucial-to-future-space-exploration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deteriorating</a>. 



The worry? This weakness could make astronauts more prone to injury when readjusting to gravity after their spaceflight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-myotonpro-significance">MyotonPRO significance</h2>



“Being able to perform inflight muscle health checks will allow the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-microbiome-health-is-crucial-to-future-space-exploration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronauts</a> to see which muscles are losing strength and adjust their exercise program accordingly,” explained Professor Maria Stokes, UK lead of the project. 



Individualized exercise routines are especially important as we look towards longer missions to places like the Moon and Mars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthcare-revolution-on-the-horizon">Healthcare revolution on the horizon</h2>



"The MyotonPRO technology and the assessment protocol used in space could also bring about a step-change in healthcare back on Earth," said <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/people/5wybsj/professor-maria-stokes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Maria Stokes</a> OBE, UK lead of the project from the University of Southampton.



Imagine a world where patients with conditions like Parkinson's Disease, stroke, or those recovering from severe injuries can easily track muscle changes between doctor appointments. That's the potential of the MyotonPRO. 



Instead of relying on subjective reports, both patients and doctors can have precise, real-time information on muscle health to fine-tune treatment plans.



"Widespread uptake could revolutionize healthcare in neuro-musculoskeletal, critical care and geriatric medicine, rehabilitation, and precision medicine,” added <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/people/5wzytn/doctor-martin-warner" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Martin Warner</a>, co-senior author of the research paper.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-directions">Future directions</h2>



This study is just the beginning. More research can lead to tailored exercise plans for astronauts that keep those lower leg muscles strong. 



With time, the use of portable muscle monitoring devices may become routine for astronauts and those of us on Earth. 



After all, whether in space or at home, everyone deserves a healthy, strong body!



The study is published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-54759-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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New device helps astronauts maintain their muscles in microgravity

Have you ever wondered how astronauts keep their muscles in...

A popular product Nemaslug, created to kill pesky agricultural slugs, could be deadly to one of the Pacific Northwest's native sideband snail. 



Scientists at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> released a study revealing this shocking discovery. The study urges caution as the product aims for approval in the United States. 



It's a reminder that even seemingly helpful solutions can have unanticipated consequences for our delicate ecosystems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nemaslug-and-sideband-snails">Nemaslug and sideband snails</h2>



The product, called Nemaslug, relies on a microscopic parasitic worm (<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/nematodes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nematode</a>). These tiny assassins are a farmer's friend when battling slimy crop-munching slugs. 



However, OSU's research reveals the dark side: these same nematodes could infect and kill native Pacific sideband <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-acidification-sea-snails/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snails</a> – and possibly other innocent gastropods, including the iconic banana slug.



The Pacific Northwest's misty climate is a paradise for snails and slugs. It's a biodiversity hotspot for these often overlooked creatures. Sadly, threats like habitat loss and rising temperatures already plague these unique animals, making the Nemaslug discovery even more concerning.



"This finding is a big deal because there are strong efforts to bring this commercialized nematode to U.S. markets to control invasive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crop-pest-will-spread-northward-as-soil-temperatures-warm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pests</a>, such as the gray field slug, that cause damage to a variety of agricultural crops,” explained Dee Denver, head of OSU's Department of Integrated Biology



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-nemaslug-affects-snails">How Nemaslug affects snails</h2>



Nematodes might be tiny, but they're ruthless. They exploit natural openings in a slug's body, sneaking inside like microscopic ninjas. 



Once within, they release a deadly bacteria, and the slug's fate is sealed. The nematodes multiply rapidly, and when their victim perishes, they burst out like a scene out of a horror movie, ready to find their next snail or slug to conquer.



Unfortunately, those nematodes don't seem to know the difference between a pesky agricultural slug and a harmless native snail. 



If Nemaslug becomes widely available in its current form, scientists fear it could wreak havoc on the local snail populations in our backyards and forests.



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



Farmers understandably need solutions to protect their livelihoods. But protecting those delicate ecosystems is a responsibility we all share. Good intentions in pest control have often gone wrong throughout history.



“Terrestrial slugs and snails make up more than one-third of the total documented animal species extinctions since the year 1500.” said Denver.



Remember, in Hawaii, well-meaning scientists introduced a snail to control another invasive snail species. Tragically, it led to the extinction of hundreds of native Hawaiian snail species. This sobering example proves the unforeseen dangers of tinkering with ecosystems without rigorous study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-field-research-on-nemaslug-and-snails">Field research on Nemaslug and snails</h2>



Clearly, more research is crucial. Scientists must study Nemaslug's effects on snails and slugs in the wild, not just in labs. 



Are there ways to modify it to target only the harmful invasive slugs? Are there <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-pest-control-the-hidden-power-of-aloe-vera-peels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alternative pest control</a> methods that are safer for our native snails? These questions need answers before Nemaslug gets approval for widespread use in the U.S.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-you-do">What can you do?</h2>



Following steps could help in conserving snails:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-get-to-know-your-local-snails">Get to know your local snails</h3>



Diving deeper into understanding and protecting our slimy companions starts with a simple curiosity about the mollusks that inhabit our local environments. 



By conducting a bit of online research, you might be amazed to discover the diversity of snail and slug species living right in your backyard or local park. This newfound knowledge transforms these often-overlooked creatures into familiar neighbors, fostering a deeper connection and a personal stake in their well-being.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spread-the-word">Spread the Word </h3>



Knowledge is most powerful when shared. By discussing what you've learned about local mollusks and the broader implications of indiscriminate pest control practices with friends and family, you create a ripple effect. 



Informed citizens are more likely to demand environmentally responsible pest management solutions from local authorities and gardening centers, emphasizing the importance of preserving our delicate ecosystems for future generations.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-support-wildlife-conservation">Support wildlife conservation</h3>



Beyond individual actions and spreading awareness, supporting organizations dedicated to wildlife conservation is a vital step in protecting our natural world. These organizations work on the front lines to safeguard habitats, conduct essential research, and advocate for policies that benefit biodiversity. 



Your contributions, whether financial or volunteering your time, empower these efforts. They also provide a means for you to be part of a larger community committed to environmental preservation.



Let's not let our beautiful Northwest snails become casualties of careless pest control.



The study is published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0298165" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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Pest control product 'Nemaslug' could harm beneficial snails

A popular product Nemaslug, created to kill pesky agricultural slugs,...

Zodiacal,Light,And,Night,Sky,In,Santuari,De,La,Mare

The night sky holds countless wonders, one of which is the enigmatic glow known as the zodiacal light. This faint, diffuse light, visible in the vast space between the planets, has captivated observers for centuries. 



Recent research led by a 45-member team sheds new light on the origins of this celestial phenomenon, challenging long-held beliefs and unveiling the pivotal role of heat in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-dust-may-contain-signs-of-extraterrestrial-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic dance of dust</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enigma-of-the-zodiacal-cloud">Enigma of the zodiacal cloud</h2>



The zodiacal cloud, a term that may sound esoteric to some, is essentially the light that we see reflected from a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-on-earth-may-have-blown-in-from-outer-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic dustbin</a> filled with debris from comets. These particles scatter sunlight, painting a faint glow across the canvas of our night sky called the zodiacal light.



Traditional theories suggested that these particles were the result of high-speed collisions that pulverized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cryovolcanic-comet-explodes-again-as-it-heads-in-earths-direction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comet ejecta</a>. However, this view has been turned on its head by recent findings published in the journal Icarus.



Dr. Peter Jenniskens is a meteor astronomer at the <a href="https://www.seti.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SETI Institute</a> and a leading figure in this research. "Comets eject most debris as large sand-grain to pebble-sized particles, called meteoroids," Jenniskens explains. 



"While these meteoroids are behind the meteors in our meteor showers, the zodiacal cloud is mostly composed of much finer particles, akin to tobacco smoke, which are challenging to detect," he continued.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disappearing-pebbles-and-zodiacal-light">Disappearing pebbles and zodiacal light</h2>



A key question that puzzled researchers was why these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-reveals-the-complexity-of-fomalhauts-dust-belts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pebble-sized particles</a> disintegrate over time. 



“Meteor showers show us this loss of pebbles over time, because older showers tend to contain fewer bright meteors than young showers,” said Jenniskens. “We set out to investigate what is responsible.”



To tackle this mystery, Jenniskens spearheads the NASA-sponsored <a href="http://cams.seti.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CAMS network</a>, a global initiative that uses low-light video security cameras to monitor the night sky for meteors. 



This effort, supported by a dedicated team of researchers and citizen scientists, has significantly advanced our understanding of meteor showers.



Peter S. Gural, a detection specialist on the team, developed sophisticated software that plays a crucial role in this research. 



“We developed software that detects meteors in videos recorded from different locations and then triangulates their trajectory in the atmosphere,” Gural explains. “Meteors arriving from the same direction each day belong to a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-lost-meteor-shower-named-andromedids-offers-a-celestial-surprise-this-weekend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meteor shower</a>.”



The culmination of 13 years of observations has recently been published as the "Atlas of Earth’s Meteor Showers," a comprehensive guide that maps out the trajectories of meteors and provides invaluable insights into each known meteor shower.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-culprit-behind-the-zodiacal-light-curtain">Culprit behind the zodiacal light curtain</h2>



One of the team's significant discoveries was the role of heat in the disintegration of comet debris. 



Initially, it was thought that proximity to the Sun, leading to more collisions, would result in the rapid destruction of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lifes-building-blocks-may-have-formed-near-newborn-stars-and-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pebble-sized particles</a>. 



However, the research revealed a surprising twist: these pebbles were far more resilient than anticipated.



“Because there is more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/devil-comet-is-hurtling-towards-earth-but-poses-no-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comet dust</a> closer to the Sun, we had expected collisions there would pulverize the pebbles that much faster,” Jenniskens clarifies. “Instead, we found that the pebbles survived better than expected.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meteor-clusters-show-evidence-of-thermal-breakdown">Meteor clusters show evidence of thermal breakdown</h2>



This process of thermal stress is evident near Earth and extends all the way to the orbit of Mercury. In the extreme environment within Mercury's orbit, the intense heat causes the particles to disintegrate by shedding material.



A fascinating manifestation of this phenomenon is the observation of meteor clusters. “Here at Earth, we sometimes see that process in action when in a short time of say 10 seconds we detect ten or twenty <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meteoroid-burn-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meteors</a> in part of the sky, a meteor cluster, the result of a meteoroid having fallen apart by thermal stresses just before entering Earth’s atmosphere,” Jenniskens concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zodiacal-light-interplay-of-light-dust-and-heat-in-space">Zodiacal light: Interplay of light, dust, and heat in space</h2>



In summary, the fascinating research led by Dr. Peter Jenniskens and his international team has revolutionized our understanding of the zodiacal light. These brilliant scientists discovered that heat, rather than collisions, plays a pivotal role in shaping the cosmic dust between the planets. 



By utilizing advanced technology and global cooperation, the team has unveiled the intricate processes that govern the disintegration of comet debris, challenging previous theories and opening new avenues for astronomical research. 



This discovery enriches our knowledge of the cosmos and highlights the dynamic interplay of forces that craft the beauty of our night sky, offering a deeper appreciation for the celestial phenomena that surround us.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0019103524000939?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Icarus</a>.



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Zodiacal light’s mysterious origin is finally discovered

The night sky holds countless wonders, one of which is...

Air pollution, a well-known source of various illnesses, finds a surprising combatant in urban greening near highways. 



A study from <a href="https://www.gsu.edu/">Georgia State University</a> has shown that these natural elements do more than just enhance the visual appeal of the area. They also play a crucial role in mitigating the pollution caused by motor vehicles.



Thie study highlights the importance of finding effective ways to combat air pollution. It underlines the potential of integrating vegetation into our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colorful-urban-environments-promote-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban environments</a> for health and aesthetic benefits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-leafy-shield-against-pollution">A leafy shield against pollution</h2>



For the investigation, the researchers conducted air quality tests over six months at various metro Atlanta highway sites. They discovered that areas with trees and bushes experienced a significant decrease in pollutants. 



Specifically, there was a 37% reduction in soot and a 7% decrease in ultrafine particles. These pollutants are harmful to health and are linked to serious diseases like asthma and lung cancer.



Study lead author Professor Roby Greenwald stated: “Trees and bushes near roadways don't solve the problem of air pollution caused by motor vehicles, but they can help reduce the severity of the problem."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-need-for-greener-solutions">Growing need for greener solutions</h2>



The need for solutions is critical, given that around 45 million people in the United States live, work, or attend school within 300 feet of a major highway. This proximity exposes them to elevated levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/auto-emission-climate-policies-save-children-boost-economies/">pollution</a>.



Consequently, the study shows that roadside vegetation can effectively reduce particulate air pollution. It achieves this through mechanisms such as offering a large surface area for small particles to adhere to. 



The research built upon previous findings by incorporating an extended sampling period. Additionally, it included a model that accounted for variables like wind direction, traffic volume, and proximity to the highway.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alternative-transportation-methods">Alternative transportation methods</h2>



Professor Greenwald noted the limitations of roadside vegetation, noting that it does not reduce carbon dioxide emissions or ozone pollution.



Therefore, to achieve a more comprehensive mitigation of health hazards associated with highways, the study suggests that municipalities should focus on enhancing the viability of alternative transportation methods. 



This effort could include expanding public transportation and upgrading infrastructure for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/active-travel-can-greatly-reduce-co2-emissions-in-the-city/">bicycles</a> and pedestrians. Such improvements would make it safer, more pleasant, and convenient for individuals to travel without depending on motor vehicles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planting-the-seeds-of-change">Planting the seeds of change</h2>



Professor Greenwald emphasized the value of roadside trees. "We should plant more trees along roadways because they provide benefits that go beyond aesthetics." 



Yet, Greenwald warned against seeing this as a complete solution to vehicle emissions, advocating for a comprehensive approach to the issue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Additional benefits of urban greening</h2>



Urban greening is a multifaceted approach with benefits that touch on every aspect of urban life, from enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem services to improving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-and-green-spaces-are-beneficial-in-all-stages-of-life/">human well-being</a> and economic vitality.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Environmental benefits&nbsp;</h3>



Environmentally, urban greening helps to mitigate the urban heat island effect, which is the phenomenon where urban areas experience higher temperatures than their rural surroundings due to human activities and the prevalence of concrete and asphalt.&nbsp;



Trees and plants provide shade and release moisture into the air through transpiration, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-measures-the-cooling-effect-of-shade-in-urban-areas/">cooling</a> urban areas. Additionally, green spaces can improve air quality by filtering pollutants and dust from the air.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Societal benefits&nbsp;</h3>



From a social perspective, urban greening has been linked to improved mental health and well-being. Access to parks and natural environments in urban settings offers residents spaces for recreation and relaxation, which can reduce stress and improve mood.&nbsp;



Furthermore, these green spaces can foster a sense of community by serving as gathering places for social interactions and community events.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Economic benefits&nbsp;</h3>



Economically, urban greening can enhance property values. Properties adjacent to or near well-maintained parks and green spaces are often more desirable and can command higher prices.&nbsp;



Moreover, green infrastructure, such as green roofs and walls, can reduce energy costs by providing natural insulation and cooling, leading to savings on heating and cooling expenses.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Biodiversity benefits</h3>



Urban greening also plays a crucial role in biodiversity conservation within cities, providing habitats for various species and contributing to the maintenance of ecological balance.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0296885" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS One</a>.



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Urban greening is a powerful weapon against air pollution

Air pollution, a well-known source of various illnesses, finds a...

The Milky Way, as we see it today, is a colossal galaxy, a vast island of stars, gas, and dark matter. However, its beginnings were far more modest. Researchers have pinpointed two of the earliest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-at-the-heart-of-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">building blocks</a> that contributed to the Milky Way's formation -- stellar populations nicknamed Shakti and Shiva. 



These ancient proto-galactic fragments, from 12 to 13 billion years ago, merged with our young galaxy, laying the foundation for the grand spiral we know as home.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galactic-ancestry">Galactic ancestry</h2>



Investigating the origins of stars that migrated to the Milky Way from other galaxies is a complex endeavor. However, astronomers Khyati Malhan and Hans-Walter Rix of the <a href="https://www.mpia.de/en">Max Planck Institute for Astronomy</a> tackled this challenge using two surveys:



<ul>
<li>Gaia: The European Space Agency's Gaia satellite has created a remarkably precise three-dimensional map of our galaxy. It provides detailed information on the positions, motions, and distances of almost 1.5 billion stars. </li>



<li>Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS):&nbsp;SDSS gathers in-depth spectra of stars, revealing their chemical makeup.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stellar-clues">Stellar clues</h2>



When <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> collide, there's a massive reshuffling of stars. However, certain fundamental properties of stars can offer clues about their origins:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stellar-motion">Stellar motion</h3>



Stars that were originally part of the same galaxy tend to retain similar patterns of motion. Astronomers track two key components:



<ul>
<li>Energy: The total energy of a star's motion gives hints about its interaction with the larger galaxy. </li>



<li>Angular Momentum:&nbsp;Related to a star's rotational motion, angular momentum offers clues about the galaxy in which it formed.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-composition">Chemical composition</h3>



Stars are born from clouds of gas that contain elements forged in earlier generations of stars. Older stars, born early in the universe's history, have a lower abundance of heavy elements (known as "metals" to astronomers). Searching for stars with low metallicity pinpoints the earliest populations within a galaxy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-shakti-and-shiva-in-milky-way">Identifying Shakti and Shiva in Milky Way</h2>



Malhan and Rix discovered distinct groups of stars with strikingly similar motion patterns and very low metallicity. These clusters, named Shakti and Shiva, are believed to be remnants of two very early galaxies absorbed by the nascent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> billions of years ago.



"We observed that, for a certain range of metal-poor stars, stars were crowded around two specific combinations of energy and angular momentum," explained Malhan.



Naming these ancient stellar groups Shakti and Shiva highlights the profound connection researchers feel with the cosmos. 



Shakti, the embodiment of feminine power and creation in Hindu mythology, reflects the birth of galaxies. Shiva, the symbol of destruction and rebirth, mirrors the transformative mergers galaxies undergo. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shakti-and-shiva-s-role-in-milky-way-formation">Shakti and Shiva's role in Milky Way formation</h2>



"Shakti and Shiva might be the first two additions to the ‘poor old heart' of our Milky Way, initiating its growth towards a large galaxy," said Rix. The "poor old heart" represents another group of ancient stars residing in the Milky Way's center and formed during its earliest stages.



This imagery emphasizes the heart as a record of the Milky Way's history, with Shakti and Shiva's addition marking key growth milestones. Their integration billions of years ago spurred the Milky Way's journey from a compact, young galaxy to the vast spiral we know. 



Mergers like these not only built up the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-milky-way-may-be-filled-with-millions-of-planets-like-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>'s mass but shaped its structure. Understanding such events is key to tracing galactic evolution, revealing how collisions fueled growth and organization.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technical-details-of-shakti-and-shiva">Technical details of Shakti and Shiva</h2>



Other technical details of Shakti and Shiva include:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-orbital-dynamics-and-spatial-distribution">Orbital dynamics and spatial distribution</h3>



Shakti and Shiva exhibit prograde orbits specifically located within the Milky Way's solar circle. This unique positioning indicates their early integration into the galaxy's complex dynamical system, suggesting a significant role in the Milky Way's formative processes and evolving structure.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contradictory-diagnostics-of-origin">Contradictory diagnostics of origin</h3>



While their orbital characteristics and metallicities clearly identify Shakti and Shiva, a paradox emerges regarding their origin. 



Their abundance patterns – particularly ratios of [Mg/Fe], [Al/Fe], and [Mg/Mn] against [Fe/H] – suggest a rapid enrichment process typically associated with in-situ formation within a galaxy's main potential well. 



However, the context of their discovery and overall properties point towards an accreted origin. This challenge underscores the complexities of early galaxy formation and how smaller proto-galactic fragments were incorporated into larger galaxies.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mass-estimates-and-galactic-influence">Mass estimates and galactic influence</h3>



Shakti and Shiva are each estimated to possess a mass 10 million times greater than our Sun. This significant mass indicates a substantial contribution to the Milky Way during its early development. 



These mass estimates help quantify their impact on the Milky Way's evolution, potentially affecting its mass distribution and influencing future star formation regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shakti-and-shiva-deciphering-the-milky-way">Shakti and Shiva: Deciphering the Milky Way</h2>



The discovery of Shakti and Shiva is just one piece in the intricate puzzle of our galaxy's formation. Ongoing and future astronomical surveys promise even more detailed data about stellar motion and chemical composition. 



This data will further illuminate our understanding of the Milky Way's complex and dynamic history. This discovery offers a glimpse into the earliest stages of our galaxy's formation, a testament to the power of astronomical observation and analysis.



The study is published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.3847/1538-4357/ad1885" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal</a>.



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Ancient stars "Shakti" and "Shiva" shaped the Milky Way galaxy

The Milky Way, as we see it today, is a...

Blue whales, the largest animals on Earth, are gradually recovering from near extinction caused by whaling. However, their battle for survival persists against global warming, pollution, food scarcity, shipping risks, and other human threats.



A study from <a href="https://www.flinders.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flinders University</a> provides a comprehensive overview of global blue whale populations, highlighting significant variations in their numbers, locations, and genetics. 



The research specifically notes differences among the eastern Pacific, Antarctic, and pygmy subspecies in the Indian and western Pacific oceans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-diversity-dilemma">The diversity dilemma</h2>



Dr. Catherine Attard emphasizes the importance of protecting varied blue whale groups to preserve species diversity. She points to environmental factors as key influences on their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/echoes-of-the-past-whalings-long-term-impact-on-genetic-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic diversity</a>.



"Each of these groups needs to be conserved to maintain biodiversity in the species, and there are indications that natural selection in different environments contributed to driving genetic differences between the high-level groups," said Dr. Attard. 



The study has revealed regional differences, emphasizing a need for focused <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/environmental-dna-can-be-used-to-monitor-whales/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a>,. The results showed no inbreeding, which makes the prospects for recovery even more hopeful.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-path-to-recovery-for-blue-whales">Path to recovery for blue whales</h2>



The path to recovery is complex and challenging. The study has highlighted various threats they encounter, such as underwater noise pollution, changing food availability, ship collisions, and entanglement in fishing gear. 



These challenges underscore the critical need for improved management strategies under the guidance of the International Whaling Commission (IWC).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-migration-mysteries-unveiled">Migration mysteries unveiled</h2>



Professor Luciana Möller noted that reduced genetic diversity was found in certain groups, likely due to climate effects. She also identified unique populations in the Indo-western Pacific, emphasizing the need for targeted conservation efforts in these areas.



The study was focused on the largest global genomic dataset for blue whales, enriched by satellite tagging, acoustics, and isotopes research. This approach has provided a detailed view of their population dynamics, connecting genetics with behavior to deepen our understanding of these marine giants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-charting-a-course-for-blue-whale-conservation">Charting a course for blue whale conservation</h2>



"Genomics is a vital tool that has unparalleled power to determine population differentiation, connectivity, and other characteristics to inform the conservation management of biodiversity," said Professor Luciano Beheregaray. He warned about the risk of blue whale depletion in areas with restricted population links due to concentrated threats.



The study advocates for informed management decisions by the IWC to refine blue whale stock delineations for effective conservation. It calls for national management bodies to reduce human activities harming whales within their regions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guardians-of-the-giants">Guardians of the giants</h2>



Since 1966, blue whales have been protected from commercial whaling, marking the start of global conservation efforts. This was followed by the International Whaling Commission's (IWC) global moratorium two decades later, further safeguarding these gentle giants.



Today, as we gain a better understanding of the complex challenges faced by blue whales, it's clear that our commitment to their conservation must be unwavering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about blue whales</h2>



Blue whales can grow up to 100 feet in length and weigh as much as 200 tons. Their heart alone is about the size of a small car, which underscores their immense size.&nbsp;



Despite their colossal dimensions, these whales primarily feed on tiny shrimp-like animals called krill. During the feeding season, a single blue whale consumes approximately 4 tons of krill a day.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Baleen whale family</h3>



Blue whales belong to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baleen-whales-rewriting-the-evolutionary-history-of-the-largest-animals-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">baleen whale</a> family, which means instead of having teeth, they have plates of baleen in their mouths that they use to filter food from the water. 



They are known for their distinct blue-grey coloration and a long body that appears more streamlined compared to other whale species.



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



One of the most fascinating aspects of blue whales is their vocalization. They produce a series of sounds that are the loudest of any animal on Earth, which can be heard over vast distances under the sea.&nbsp;



These calls are thought to be used for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-20-minute-conversation-with-a-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication</a> and navigation across the dark ocean depths.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Conservation&nbsp;</h3>



Although commercial whaling has significantly decreased, blue whales still face dangers from ship strikes and entanglement in fishing gear.&nbsp;



Conservation efforts are in place globally to protect these magnificent creatures and their habitats, aiming to ensure that blue whales continue to thrive in the world's oceans.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://zslpublications.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/acv.12935" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Animal Conservation</a>.



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Blue whales continue their battle for survival

Blue whales, the largest animals on Earth, are gradually recovering...

A new study has shed light on how simulated microgravity, akin to the conditions experienced by astronauts, profoundly disrupts human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/time-restricted-eating-affects-gene-expression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gene expression</a>. 



In an era where space exploration and the prospect of space tourism are becoming increasingly realistic, understanding the effects of space travel on the human body is paramount. 



This research from the <a href="https://www.surrey.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Surrey</a> deepens our understanding of the challenges posed by space travel but also explores the broader implications of prolonged bed rest on human health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-microgravity-on-humans">Impact of microgravity on humans</h2>



The allure of the cosmos has always captured human imagination, but venturing into this vast unknown comes with its unique set of challenges. 



Astronauts embarking on space missions are exposed to microgravity, a condition that significantly alters physiological functions. 



These alterations include immune suppression, increased inflammation, and a notable decrease in muscle mass and bone density. 



As humanity stands on the brink of expanding its reach into space, grasping the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-life-stress-alters-brain-genes-more-than-a-head-injury/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molecular mechanisms</a> behind these changes is crucial.



Professor Simon Archer, a leading figure in the molecular biology of sleep, spearheaded this research at the University of Surrey. He emphasizes the significance of their findings, saying, "This unique study represents the largest longitudinal dataset of time series gene expression in humans." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-study-was-conducted">How the study was conducted</h2>



The meticulous collection of time-series data, rather than snapshots from single time points, offers a comprehensive view of the body's response to simulated microgravity. 



Archer highlights the dramatic impact on the temporal organization of human gene expression, raising questions about the effects of extended periods of bed rest.



In collaboration with the <a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> and conducted at the <a href="https://www.medes.fr/en/space-clinic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MEDES space clinic</a> in Toulouse, the study involved a rigorous 90-day protocol. 



Twenty male participants underwent 60 days of constant bed rest with a -six-degree head-down tilt to simulate the effects of microgravity, preceded and followed by two weeks of baseline and recovery, respectively. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-findings-and-implications">Findings and implications</h2>



The research team meticulously analyzed gene expression across various phases, revealing that 91 percent of gene expression underwent significant disruption. This disruption affected the rhythm, number, timing, and amplitude of genes that exhibit daily changes in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-vaccines-linked-to-neurological-blood-and-heart-related-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mRNA</a> levels.



The alterations in gene expression were linked to critical bodily functions, including protein translation, immune responses, inflammatory processes, and muscle function. 



Although muscle function disruptions were reversible post-recovery, lasting effects were observed in protein translation. These insights underscore the importance of developing strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of space travel on human health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microgravity-humans-and-the-future-of-space-travel">Microgravity, humans, and the future of space travel</h2>



Professor Derk-Jan Dijk, a renowned expert in sleep and physiology, reflects on the journey from deeming space travel as unattainable to its current status as a burgeoning industry. 



He underscores the necessity of advancing our understanding of microgravity's impact on the body, particularly as space tourism edges closer to reality. The next phase of their research aims to explore how microgravity affects sleep, circadian rhythms, and hormones.



Professor Keith Ryden, a prominent figure in space engineering, highlights the renewed focus on human spaceflight, exemplified by projects like NASA's Artemis and the UK's participation in the ISS via the UKSA Axiom programme. 



The University of Surrey's contributions, through this research, lay the groundwork for enhancing space travelers' safety and well-being, reflecting its leading role in space research.



In summary, as we stand on the precipice of a new era of space exploration and tourism, the research conducted by the University of Surrey offers invaluable insights into the physiological challenges posed by microgravity. 



By understanding and addressing these challenges, we pave the way for safer and more sustainable space travel, ensuring that the final frontier is within reach for future generations.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589004224005522?utm_campaign=STMJ_219742_AUTH_SERV_PA&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_acid=11071408&amp;SIS_ID=&amp;dgcid=STMJ_219742_AUTH_SERV_PA&amp;CMX_ID=&amp;utm_in=DM452632&amp;utm_source=AC_" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a>.



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Microgravity causes big problems with human gene expression

A new study has shed light on how simulated microgravity,...

A recent study led by the <a href="https://www.elte.hu/en/">Eötvös Loránd University</a> in Budapest (ELTE) has found that dogs possess a remarkable ability to comprehend <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/typical-american-dog-knows-18-words-and-love-is-at-the-top-of-the-list/">human language</a> beyond mere command response.&nbsp;



The experts discovered that dogs not only react to certain words with learned behaviors but also mentally associate these words with specific objects, thereby activating object memories upon hearing their names.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-word-comprehension-in-non-verbal-communicators">Word comprehension in non-verbal communicators</h2>



Traditionally, assessing word comprehension in non-verbal communicators, such as infants and animals, involves tasks that require the subject to physically select or retrieve an object upon hearing its name.&nbsp;



In these settings, even the most intelligent dogs often perform no better than chance, fetching objects at random rather than demonstrating a true understanding of word-object associations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-learning-object-words">Dogs learning object words</h2>



However, the scientists approached this challenge from a new angle by measuring brain activity in dogs through non-invasive EEG techniques. This method aimed to capture the dogs' implicit understanding of object names without relying on their physical responses.&nbsp;



In the experiments, dog owners would verbally identify toys familiar to their pets, sometimes presenting the correct toy and other times showing an unrelated object. For instance, an owner might say, “Zara, look, the ball,” while either presenting a ball or a different toy, with the dog's brain activity being recorded throughout.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-brain-activity-patterns">Distinct brain activity patterns</h2>



The findings were striking, revealing distinct brain activity patterns when dogs viewed objects that matched the spoken word versus when they saw mismatched items. This differentiation mirrors human brain responses and is considered solid evidence of word comprehension.&nbsp;



In addition, the researchers found more pronounced brain activity differences for words the dogs were more familiar with, bolstering the case for their understanding of object names.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-understanding-of-object-words">Dogs' understanding of object words</h2>



Contrary to the researchers' initial hypothesis, a dog's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-understand-up-to-215-words/">vocabulary size</a> did not influence its ability to make these mental connections.&nbsp;



“Because typical dogs learn instruction words rather than object names, and there are only a handful of dogs with a large vocabulary of object words, we expected that dogs’ capacity for referential understanding of object words will be linked to the number of object words they know; but it wasn’t,” said co-author Lilla Magyari, an expert in psycholinguistics at ELTE and the <a href="https://www.uis.no/en">University of Stavanger</a>.



“It doesn’t matter how many object words a dog understands, known words activate mental representations anyway, suggesting that this ability is generally present in dogs and not just in some exceptional individuals who know the names of many objects,” added lead author Marianna Boros, an ethologist at ELTE.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linguistic-capabilities-of-dogs">Linguistic capabilities of dogs</h2>



This finding challenges existing beliefs about the unique nature of human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-have-a-much-more-complex-language-than-we-thought/">language</a> comprehension and has significant implications for our understanding of language evolution. It also offers a fresh perspective for dog owners on the depth of their pets' linguistic capabilities.



“Your dog understands more than he or she shows signs of,” Magyari said. “Dogs are not merely learning a specific behavior to certain words, but they might actually understand the meaning of some individual words as humans do.”



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



In future studies, the researchers plan to explore whether this aptitude for referential language understanding is exclusive to dogs or if it extends to other mammals.&nbsp;



Moreover, they are particularly intrigued by the origins of this capability, its dependence on the dogs' close relationship with humans, and the reasons why more dogs don't overtly demonstrate their understanding of object words.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2024.02.029.">Current Biology</a>.



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Dogs understand that some words refer to objects

A recent study led by the Eötvös Loránd University in...

Scientist,Researcher,In,Protective,Suit,Takes,Water,For,Analysis,From

Chemical companies and their subsidiaries are at the heart of a recent investigation that uncovers a strategic ploy to evade environmental accountability, positioning the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/creators-of-forever-chemicals-covered-up-the-toxic-dangers-for-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemical manufacturing sector</a> as one of the United States' top three polluters. 



Alongside metal mining and electric utilities, this sector is responsible for two-thirds of the nation’s toxic emissions, as reported by the Environmental Protection Agency's Toxics Release Inventory (<a href="https://www.epa.gov/toxics-release-inventory-tri-program" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TRI</a>). 



A study featured in the Strategic Management Journal reveals that major chemical corporations use a complex network of subsidiaries. 



This network helps them hide the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-plastics-treaty-tackles-the-pollution-problem-directly-at-the-source/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental impacts</a> of their operations. Consequently, this practice poses a significant challenge to the enforcement of environmental regulations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-corporate-camouflage-in-action">Corporate camouflage in action</h2>



The study, led by Juyoung Lee of the <a href="https://www.polyu.edu.hk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hong Kong Polytechnic University</a> and <a href="https://www.ivey.uwo.ca/faculty_research/directory/tima-bansal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pratima Bansal of Ivey Business School</a> in Canada, delves into the practices of 7,400 U.S.-based entities under the umbrella of 67 of America's largest chemical manufacturing groups. 



The researchers used comprehensive data from Dun and Bradstreet’s Corporate Family Tree and the EPA’s TRI program. They demonstrated that highly polluting sites are often strategically placed deep within corporate hierarchies. This positioning distances them from their parent companies.



Moreover, this deliberate separation serves a specific function. "The multi-layered structure permits parent companies to buffer themselves from the negative legal, reputational, and punitive outcomes related to risky activities, thereby shifting the costs to society as a whole," Lee articulates. 



Corporations dodge repercussions by hiding polluting operations in subsidiary mazes, shifting costs to society.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evading-environmental-responsibility">Evading environmental responsibility</h2>



Bansal elucidates the strategic benefits of this setup: "The lower pollution-intensive activities are in the corporate hierarchy, the more effectively the parent company can protect itself from government-related risks." 



The study shows proving a parent company's role in pollution is hard due to complex structures distancing them from polluting subsidiaries. 



Moreover, the research explored how a company's home state's environmental laws affect the placement of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-pfas-forever-chemicals-released-by-dupont-and-chemours-caused-significant-harm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polluting sites</a> in its structure.



The findings suggest several points. First, firms in states with strict environmental laws place their most polluting subsidiaries further down the corporate chain. This strategy complicates regulatory oversight and accountability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-call-for-transparency">A call for transparency</h2>



Lee's analysis shows: In states with lax environmental laws, companies often run or delegate pollution close to the parent level. In stricter states, they increasingly distance such activities down the hierarchy.



The evidence, though not definitive, strongly hints at strategic buffering by using subsidiaries to avoid pollution penalties as a key corporate tactic. 



This tactic weakens environmental law enforcement and shows regulation limits that miss corporate complexities. 



The study urges reevaluating regulations to tackle challenges posed by corporate veils, aiming to reveal rather than hide environmental harm.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/smj.3582" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Strategic Management Journal</a>.



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Big chemical companies hide pollution behind subsidiaries

Chemical companies and their subsidiaries are at the heart of...

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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https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
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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

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.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



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" 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.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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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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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" 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 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

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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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



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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



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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



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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



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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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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