A pulsing headache can feel like your brain is fighting for space. New research suggests that this tug-of-war may trace back to Neanderthal skull traits we share with our extinct cousins.



A recent study zeroes in on Chiari malformation type 1, a condition in which the lower <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538167/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cerebellum</a> droops through the foramen magnum, the bony opening at the skull’s base.



Lead author Kimberly Plomp of the <a href="https://upd.edu.ph" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the Philippines Diliman</a> teamed up with neurosurgeon Yvens Barbosa Fernandes from Brazil’s <a href="https://unicamp.br/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">State University of Campinas</a> to test an idea he floated in 2013.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neanderthal-skull-shape-squeezes-the-brain">Neanderthal skull shape squeezes the brain</h2>



Surgeons diagnose <a href="https://www.ninds.nih.gov/chiari-malformation-fact-sheet" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chiari</a> after spotting a compressed cerebellum on MRI scans, but the root cause has stayed murky. Scientists estimate that type 1 affects about one in every 100 Americans.



The new modeling work confirms that people with Chiari share a smaller, flatter <a href="https://bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1136/inp.m1869" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">occipital bone</a> than unaffected <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-inject-40000-year-old-neanderthal-dna-gli3-gene-into-mice-with-incredible-results/">peers</a>. That subtle tilt reduces the bony cradle that normally cups the cerebellum and keeps it clear of the spinal canal.



“It makes sense, if you have less angulation, you have less space for the modern <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-superhighways-through-eurasia-recreated-with-supercomputers/">human</a> brain,” said Barbosa Fernandes at the end of surgery rounds. He first noticed the resemblance while examining museum casts of ancient skulls during a European trip.



Headaches are common, yet <a href="https://www.aans.org/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Chiari-Malformation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chiari</a> pain often flares when coughing, straining, or even laughing. Other symptoms range from neck pain to tingling hands, and some cases stay silent for years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neanderthal-skull-shape-linked-to-brain-condition">Neanderthal skull shape linked to brain condition</h2>



Plomp’s team built digital 3‑D models of 46 Chiari skulls and 57 controls from hospital CT scans, then compared them to eight fossil crania. 



The Chiari group <a href="https://academic.oup.com/emph/advance-article/doi/10.1093/emph/eoaf009/8175225" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">matched</a> Homo neanderthalensis almost point for point, while Homo erectus, Homo heidelbergensis, and early Homo sapiens aligned with today’s rounder <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-fossils-reveal-signs-of-a-population-collapse/">skulls</a>.



“It highlights the idea that these are Neanderthal traits, not just early traits,” said Plomp, her screen filled with color‑coded heat maps of bone angles. She called the overlap “another way that Neanderthal genes might be influencing our health, and in this case, in a negative way.”



Neanderthals carried brains slightly larger than ours, but their cranial base sloped backward like a built‑in ramp. That shape fits an ice‑age life of powerful jaw muscles and big sinus spaces, yet it also left scant room for a bulging <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-theory-explains-why-neanderthals-vanished-and-homo-sapiens-are-alive-today/">human</a> cerebellum.



Most people carry between 1 and 2 percent <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nature12961" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neanderthal DNA</a>, a legacy of interbreeding roughly 50,000 years ago. Much of that genetic cargo is benign, though some alleles affect immune response, metabolism, and now, it seems, skull geometry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-neanderthal-dna-and-skull-shape">Ancient Neanderthal DNA and skull shape</h2>



The overlap does not prove cause and effect, so the team now plans full‑genome scans of Chiari patients to hunt “introgressed” sequences, bits of archaic DNA that slipped into the modern gene pool. 



Introgression <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36763080/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> have already linked certain Neanderthal variants to nicotine addiction and even severe COVID‑19 cases.



If a skull‑shaping gene set turns up, clinicians could screen high‑risk families before symptoms strike. Early detection matters because decompression surgery, while effective, involves removing bone and sometimes fusing vertebrae.



“I didn’t have the science to prove my hypothesis. This paper is a big step closer toward that proof,” said Barbosa Fernandes after reviewing the metric curves.



Other forms of Chiari, labeled types 2 through 4, follow different rules. Type 2, in contrast, is tightly linked to severe <a href="https://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spina bifida</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-skull-shape-affects-daily-life">How skull shape affects daily life</h2>



The cerebellum fine‑tunes balance, speech, and motor control, so its squeeze can scramble day‑to‑day skills such as handwriting or climbing stairs. 



MRI technicians now know to look for the tell‑tale “tonsillar descent,” a downward bulge of cerebellar tissue past the foramen magnum.



Many patients report that lying flat eases pressure, hinting that gravity exacerbates the pinch. Others seek help only after years of unexplained migraines, an example of how ancient traits can hide in plain sight.



Anthropologists see the study as proof that evolutionary leftovers do not always vanish quietly. A skull optimized for an Ice Age hunter may pose problems for a modern desk worker whose brain spends hours hunched over screens. 



Pediatric surgeons are also watching. If Neanderthal‑linked genes surface, prenatal scans may one day flag a risky skull angle long before birth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-brain-conditions">Predicting brain conditions</h2>



Plomp’s group now collaborates with population geneticists to map their CT findings onto hundreds of living genomes. They hope to learn whether carriers of specific Neanderthal skull DNA face higher odds of surgical intervention.



Public health officials could then estimate regional Chiari burdens and tailor neurosurgery training programs. In areas with limited MRI access, a simple cranial X‑ray angle might serve as an early warning.



Evolution offers trade‑offs, and the Neanderthal‑style skull saved heat in bitter winters but became a tight squeeze for our expanded cerebellum. Knowing that trade‑off exists empowers clinicians and patients alike.



“It looks like this is just another way that Neanderthal genes might be influencing our health, and in this case, in a negative way,” said Plomp. The team hopes DNA data will seal the evolutionary link.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/emph/advance-article/doi/10.1093/emph/eoaf009/8175225?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Evolution, Medicine, and Public Health</a>.



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Neanderthal skull traits cause modern human brain problems

A pulsing headache can feel like your brain is fighting for space. New research suggests that this tug-of-war may trace back to Neanderthal skull traits we share with our extinct cousins. A recent study zeroes in on Chiari malformation type 1, a condition in which the lower cerebellum droops through the foramen magnum, the bony opening at the skull’s base. Lead author Kimberly Plomp of the University of the Philippines Diliman teamed up with neurosurgeon Yvens Barbosa Fernandes from Brazil’s State University of Campinas to test an idea he floated...

Sperm,Movement,To,The,Ovum.,Over,Black,Background.

Researchers at <a href="https://msu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan State University</a> (MSU) have made a significant breakthrough in understanding a mysterious sperm structure known as the cytoplasmic droplet (CD), potentially offering new insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-diet-improves-sperm-quality-and-fertility/">infertility</a>.



The cytoplasmic droplet, a poorly understood feature found in mammalian sperm, including humans, is located near the sperm's head. Despite being discovered over a century ago, its formation and function remained unclear due to limited molecular and genetic tools for its study.&nbsp;



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



The new research was led by Professor Chen Chen from the Department of Animal Science and the Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program at MSU's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.&nbsp;



Professor Chen said that while scientists have often disregarded the cytoplasmic droplet, it can no longer be ignored.



“Our new study using mice shows that the cytoplasmic droplet is indeed an actively forming organelle purposefully designed to regulate sperm maturation and fertility,” said Chen.&nbsp;



“It acts as a ‘storage room’ to pack up critical proteins needed for sperm function before its long journey to reach the egg. It’s like packing for a trip to Mars - the spaceship needs to load up everything needed for the journey before leaving Earth.” &nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-trafficking-system">Unique trafficking system</h2>



A novel aspect of Chen's research is the discovery of a unique protein trafficking system within developing sperm. This system, controlled by the SYPL1 gene, actively transports essential proteins via small membrane vesicles to the cytoplasmic droplet.&nbsp;



Chen compares these vesicles to cargo trucks delivering protein cargos to the sperm storage room. The SYPL1 protein, residing on these vesicles, is crucial in directing them to the cytoplasmic droplet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-insights-nbsp">Critical insights&nbsp;</h2>



Chen noted that when the SYPL1 gene is deleted in mice, this protein trafficking system collapses, and critical metabolic enzymes and essential proteins fail to be shipped to the cytoplasmic droplet, resulting in an empty cytoplasmic droplet devoid of vesicles - something he had never seen before.&nbsp;



This results in mutant sperm losing motility and the ability to adapt to osmotic changes, ultimately causing infertility.



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



“I believe this study represents a breakthrough in understanding the cytoplasmic droplet formation and its potential function,” Chen said. “At the cellular level, it helps us realize that there is a specialized protein trafficking system that actively transports cargos to the cytoplasmic droplet for future use by sperm for their journey to the egg.&nbsp;



“Fundamentally, this finding will change people’s misconception about this mysterious sperm structure. It will open new avenues for research on the cytoplasmic droplet as a biomarker for fertility in humans and animals and, possibly, on targeting this novel pathway for fertility control.”&nbsp;



The research offers a promising new perspective on a long-overlooked aspect of reproductive biology, with potential implications for understanding and treating infertility.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-40862-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Mysterious sperm structure offers new insights on infertility

Researchers at Michigan State University (MSU) have made a significant...

Researchers have revealed new insights into the dietary habits of mosasaurs, giant marine reptiles from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colossal-new-dinosaur-was-hidden-in-spains-early-cretaceous-fossils/">Cretaceous</a> period. The study reveals that these ancient creatures were surprisingly selective in their feeding habits.



The study was conducted by researchers from <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en/home-en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utrecht University</a> and the Natural History Museum Maastricht, along with colleagues from the University of Leicester.



Focusing on the wear marks on mosasaur teeth, the experts uncovered intriguing details about the food preferences of mosasaurs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geological-background">Geological background</h2>



The Maastricht limestones, renowned as the cradle of palaeontology, have been a focal point of research since the discovery of the first Mosasaurus in 1766.&nbsp;



This area, straddling the Dutch-Belgian border near the Limburg capital, offers a rich window into the Cretaceous period, which ended 66 million years ago.



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



"We were curious whether different species of mosasaurs around Maastricht were really getting in each other's way in their choice of food, or whether this was not so much of a problem," explained Dr. Femke Holwerda, a palaeontologist at the Utrecht University Faculty of Geosciences.&nbsp;



With a lack of stomach content data, the researchers analyzed minute scratches on mosasaur teeth from southern Limburg and near Eben-Emael, Belgium.



The experts used a novel approach, first making silicone rubber casts of the teeth, followed by 3D scanning. "This technique had already been used in dinosaurs, but we were the first to look at the teeth of mosasaurs in the same way," explained study co-author Anne Schulp.



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



"It seems that the various species of mosasaur reveal differences in diet. We noted these differences mainly between the smaller species - by mosasaur standards - of about three to seven meters in overall size, and the larger ones, eight to fifteen meters in length," said Dr. Holwerda.



There were also some dietary differences among the larger species. “Prognathodon in particular, with its large cone-shaped teeth, appears to have had a surprising amount of shellfish in its diet, so it apparently loved its seafood buffet."



"Another species, Plioplatecarpus, with narrow pointed teeth, showed a striking number of signs of wear. Perhaps this species was also fond of fish with strongly scaled bodies.”



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



This research adds crucial pieces to the puzzle of the Cretaceous world's ecosystem. "We wish to understand diversity better," said Schulp. "And that is made easier for us because the animals studied all come from the same rocks, and therefore the same period. So instead of describing just one species, we look at the ecosystem as a whole."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maastricht-limestones">Maastricht limestones</h2>



The soft limestone deposits around Maastricht are particularly valuable for paleontologists.&nbsp;



"Nowhere else in the world is the habitat of mosasaurus as well preserved as here. You can find them in very soft limestone, so wear and tear of the teeth from other causes may be ruled out," said Schulp.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amateur-paleontologists-nbsp">Amateur paleontologists&nbsp;</h2>



John Jagt, curator at the Natural History Museum Maastricht, emphasized the positive role of amateur paleontologists.



"Amateur literally means 'enthusiast' and thanks to 250 years of intensive research by these enthusiasts, we have learnt a lot about mosasaurs and other extinct life forms," said Jagt. "A museum like ours benefits greatly from this. What also helps is that this kind of amateur science is stimulated in the Netherlands: it is simply allowed by law. That's not the case everywhere."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mosasaurs">Mosasaurs</h2>



Mosasaurs were a group of large, marine reptiles that thrived during the Late Cretaceous period, approximately 82 to 66 million years ago. They were among the dominant marine predators of their time, filling a role similar to that of modern-day killer whales.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-and-diversity">Evolution and diversity</h3>



Mosasaurs are believed to have evolved from semi-aquatic squamates, a group that includes snakes and lizards. Over 40 species have been identified, ranging in size from about 1 meter to over 17 meters in length.



There was significant diversity in their body shapes and adaptations, reflecting a range of habitats and dietary preferences.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-characteristics">Physical characteristics</h3>



They had elongated bodies, large heads with powerful jaws, and paddle-like limbs adapted for swimming.&nbsp;



Mosasaur teeth varied among species, with some adapted for crushing shellfish, while others were more suited for slicing through flesh.



Many species had a bi-lobed tail, similar to sharks, which suggests they were powerful swimmers.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-and-diet">Habitat and diet</h3>



Mosasaurs inhabited a wide range of marine environments, from nearshore to open ocean.



Their diet was diverse, including fish, ammonites, smaller reptiles, and mollusks. As apex predators, they played a crucial role in their ecosystems.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reproduction-nbsp">Reproduction&nbsp;</h3>



Mosasaurs were viviparous, giving birth to live young in water, which is a trait shared with some modern lizards and snakes.



Little is known about their growth rates and lifespan, but it's likely that they grew rapidly to reach their large sizes.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extinction">Extinction</h3>



Mosasaurs, along with many other marine reptiles, went extinct during the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event about 66 million years ago, which also wiped out the dinosaurs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance">Scientific significance</h3>



Fossils of mosasaurs, including complete skeletons, have been found on every continent, including Antarctica. Studying these fossils can provide valuable insights into the marine ecosystems of the Cretaceous period.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-42369-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Mighty predators: Uncovering the dietary secrets of mosasaurs 

Researchers have revealed new insights into the dietary habits of...

A recent study from <a href="https://www.colostate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado State University</a> (CSU) has highlighted the crucial role earthworms play in global food production, a significant yet often overlooked aspect of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-soils-may-be-deeply-changed-by-global-warming/">soil biodiversity</a>. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earthworms-contribution">Earthworms' contribution</h2>



The research, led by Dr. Steven Fonte and his team, reveals that earthworms contribute to about 6.5% of global grain yield and 2.3% of legumes produced each year.



The researchers found that earthworms account for an estimated 140 million metric tons of food produced annually.



This figure is comparable to the cereal grains produced annually by Russia, the world's fourth-largest producer.



"This is the first effort that I'm aware of that's trying to take one piece of soil biodiversity and say, 'this is the value of it; this is what it's giving us on a global scale,'" said Dr. Fonte, the study's lead author.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-productivity-nbsp">Plant productivity&nbsp;</h2>



Earthworms promote healthy soils in different ways. They enhance soil structure, optimize water retention, and enrich the soil by churning organic matter, making essential nutrients more accessible to plants.



In fact, the presence of earthworms has been linked to a surge in plant productivity by an estimated 25 percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geographic-variations-nbsp">Geographic variations&nbsp;</h2>



The impact of earthworms on food production is more pronounced in the global south, accounting for up to 10% of grain yield in sub-Saharan Africa and 8% in Latin America and the Caribbean.



The greater impact in certain regions is attributed to the reliance on earthworm-rich organic matter, as opposed to chemical fertilizers and pesticides.



"Earthworms are contributing a lot in these areas where we have fewer chemical inputs," said Fonte.



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



The team, including Nathan Mueller and Marian Hsieh (supported by a U.S. National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship), conducted their analysis by overlaying maps of earthworm abundance with data on soil properties, fertilizer rates, and crop yields.



The study focused on four grain crops (rice, maize, wheat, barley) and a range of legumes, including soybeans, peas, chickpeas, lentils, and alfalfa.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-soil-biodiversity-nbsp">Soil biodiversity&nbsp;</h2>



Dr. Fonte noted that soil biodiversity has historically been undervalued, and he hopes this work will bring more attention to how healthy soils can have positive, tangible impacts on crops.  &nbsp;



 “If we manage our soils in a more sustainable way, we can better harness or leverage this biodiversity and produce more sustainable agroecosystems,” said Dr. Fonte. “This work highlights that potential.” &nbsp;



Dr. Fonte also noted that other recent research has shown that soils contain as much as half the world’s biodiversity, a significant increase from previous estimates of approximately 25 percent.&nbsp;



“Soils are just such an intricate habitat,” he said. “But there’s really been very few efforts to understand what that biodiversity means to our global crop yields.”  



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



According to Dr. Fonte, insights from this study could also have implications in future efforts to mitigate drought and erosion. For example, he said, earthworms can improve soil porosity, aiding in the beneficial capture and retention of water.  



The researchers emphasized that they are not advocating for anyone to transplant earthworms into places they do not already exist.&nbsp;



Dr. Fonte hopes this work shows how improved management of soil biology in places where earthworms already call home has the potential to enhance agricultural productivity and reduce our reliance on agrochemicals. He said the study marks an important first step.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-41286-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Earthworms are unseen heroes in food production

A recent study from Colorado State University (CSU) has highlighted...

Professor Amri Wandel from the <a href="https://en.huji.ac.il/">Hebrew University of Jerusalem</a> has recently conducted groundbreaking research that challenges and expands our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-exoplanets-could-have-enough-water-to-be-habitable/">habitable exoplanets</a>. His study, published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3847/1538-3881/ad0045">Astronomical Journal</a>, emphasizes the crucial role of subglacial liquid water in redefining the boundaries of the traditional Habitable Zone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-goldilocks-zone-nbsp">Goldilocks Zone&nbsp;</h2>



The classical concept of the Habitable Zone, often informally referred to as the “Goldilocks Zone,” is typically defined as the area surrounding a star where surface liquid water can exist, potentially supporting life as we know it.&nbsp;



Professor Wandel’s research, however, presents a novel viewpoint, suggesting that the presence of subglacial liquid water can significantly extend this zone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-the-habitable-zone">Expanding the Habitable Zone</h2>



A key finding of the study is the potential for expanding the Habitable Zone inwardly, especially for tidally locked planets orbiting close to M-dwarf stars. These stars are frequently considered prime candidates for detecting biosignatures on exoplanets.&nbsp;



The research details how an atmosphere and liquid water could coexist on these planets, thereby extending the Habitable Zone beyond previously considered limits.



Additionally, the study proposes that subglacial liquid water could expand the Habitable Zone beyond its outer conventional boundaries. This revelation opens up the possibility of finding liquid water on a wider array of exoplanets, enhancing the prospects for discovering extraterrestrial life.



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



This research gains further significance in light of recent observations by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).&nbsp;



The potential detection of atmospheric water vapor on GJ 486 b, an Earth-sized rocky exoplanet, and evidence of an ocean on K2-18b, a Super Earth exoplanet, suggest the presence of liquid water, possibly even organic chemistry, and the potential for life. These observations provide concrete data to explore the viability of habitable conditions on exoplanets orbiting M-dwarf stars.



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



“This work demonstrates that the Habitable Zone of red dwarfs is likely significantly broader than previously assumed, and planets within it have the capacity to maintain water and an atmosphere," explained Wandel.



"The latter conclusion is empirically supported by recent findings of water on such exoplanets by the Webb Telescope, particularly in K2-18 b, as predicted in the article submitted two months prior. In particular, it may optimize the target allocation and priority for biosignature research by JWST."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fresh-perspective">Fresh perspective </h2>



The study delves into the survival of water on terrestrial planets in close orbits around M-dwarf stars, potentially within a subglacial melting layer, offering a fresh perspective on the longevity of liquid water. It also considers how the detection of water on various exoplanets can help define their atmospheric properties.



In summary, this study sheds light on the crucial role of subglacial liquid water in broadening the Habitable Zone of exoplanets, thereby enhancing our understanding of potential life-supporting environments in the universe and the exciting possibilities of life existing beyond Earth.



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Habitable zone where we may find alien life is expanded by new study

Professor Amri Wandel from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has...

Flood predictions, traditionally reliant on local historical data, are undergoing a paradigm shift. A research project led by <a href="https://www.tuwien.at/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TU Wien</a> (Vienna) has identified a method to vastly improve flood forecasts by incorporating international data from hydrologically analogous regions. This approach offers a novel perspective on predicting catastrophic "mega-floods."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flood-risk-assessment-nbsp">Flood risk assessment&nbsp;</h2>



Traditionally, flood risk assessment has been based on the worst historical flood events within a specific region. This is considered the realistic upper limit for future floods.&nbsp;



However, recent occurrences of mega-floods have upended this assumption. These extreme events, often outliers based on local data, have repeatedly taken communities by surprise.&nbsp;



"Predicting the extent of such mega-floods is very difficult," said Professor Günter Blöschl, who led the project. He noted that conventional methods focus on extrapolating probabilities from past regional floods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crucial-insights">Crucial insights</h2>



However, the researchers have developed a much better strategy. They analyzed data from more than 8,000 gauging stations across Europe, from the years 1810 to 2021.&nbsp;



This comprehensive data set revealed a crucial insight: mega-floods that appear as anomalies locally are often within the expected range when considering similar hydrological conditions across the continent.



"The decisive step was to anticipate mega-floods in one place by using data from similar river basins in other places on the continent," explained study lead author Dr. Miriam Bertola. "In each river basin we can learn from other areas that have similar climatic and hydrological characteristics where mega-floods may have already occurred.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flood-disasters">Flood disasters</h2>



The 2021 flood disaster in Germany and Belgium, which tragically claimed over 220 lives, serves as a relevant case study. This event, which was unexpected based on regional data, would have been anticipated using the new continental-scale approach.&nbsp;



Such events are no longer statistical outliers when viewed in the broader context of similar river basins across Europe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-areas-with-similar-conditions-nbsp">Areas with similar conditions&nbsp;</h2>



"It is important to consider not only geographically adjacent areas, but also areas with similar conditions - these may also be located further away," said Professor Blöschl.&nbsp;



"It is therefore essential to move beyond national flood-risk assessment and share information on mega-floods across countries and continents, to reduce the surprise factor of their occurrence and save lives."



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



Mega-floods, or paleofloods, represent colossal hydrological events with water flow rates surpassing those recorded in human history. They are not recent phenomena but have occurred throughout the Earth's geological past.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sudden-release-of-water">Sudden release of water</h3>



These floods are identified and studied through the sediments they deposit and the landforms they shape or erode.&nbsp;



Unlike regular floods primarily caused by meteorological events like heavy rain or rapid snowmelt, mega-floods often result from the sudden release of large water volumes due to specific geological or hydrological triggers​​​​.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-outburst-floods-nbsp">Outburst floods&nbsp;</h3>



In geomorphology, mega-floods are sometimes referred to as outburst floods, characterized by their high magnitude and low frequency. They are catastrophic events involving the abrupt discharge of vast quantities of water.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mechanisms">Mechanisms</h3>



Throughout the Earth's history, such floods have been caused by various mechanisms, including the collapse of ice sheets or glaciers that formed dams for proglacial lakes, landslides blocking rivers and forming lakes, or volcanic activities creating dams that eventually fail.&nbsp;



These events have been known to occur not only on Earth but are also inferred from geomorphological evidence on Mars​​.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41561-023-01300-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a>.



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Mega-floods can be predicted by looking at other parts of the continent

Flood predictions, traditionally reliant on local historical data, are undergoing...

A recent study from the <a href="https://www.gu.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Gothenburg</a> has raised significant concerns about the safety of recycled plastics. The researchers discovered a multitude of toxic chemicals in recycled plastic pellets collected from 13 different countries. 



The experts detected the presence of hazardous substances such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and industrial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-masks-may-expose-users-to-harmful-chemicals/">chemicals</a> in these plastics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-issue">Complex issue</h2>



Professor Bethanie Carney Almroth emphasized the complexity added by these toxic chemicals to the reuse, disposal, and recycling of plastics.&nbsp;



“Plastic recycling has been touted as a solution to the plastics pollution crisis, but toxic chemicals in plastics complicate their reuse and disposal and hinder recycling,” said Professor Almroth.



This revelation casts doubts on the viability of recycled plastics for most purposes and challenges the notion of a circular economy.



The study revealed over 600 chemical compounds in the plastic pellets, including 491 organic compounds that were detected and quantified, along with an additional 170 compounds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limited-regulations">Limited regulations</h2>



The chemicals represent various classes, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals, and plastic additives. This issue is further complicated by the limited regulations on chemicals in plastics and the complexities brought by international trade in plastic waste.&nbsp;



A corresponding article published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adk9846" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>, involving researchers from the University of Gothenburg, IPEN, Aarhus University, and the University of Exeter, highlighted these risks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hazardous-chemicals">Hazardous chemicals</h2>



“The hazardous chemicals present risks to recycling workers and consumers, as well as to the wider society and environment. Before recycling can contribute to tackling the plastics pollution crisis, the plastics industry must limit hazardous chemicals," wrote the researchers.



The experts also pointed out that over 13,000 chemicals are used in plastics, with about 25% classified as hazardous, and stated that “no plastic chemical [can be] classified as safe.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plastics-treaty">Plastics treaty</h2>



To address such issues, delegates, scientists, and health and environmental advocates from around the globe are convening in Nairobi, Kenya, for the third session of the Plastics Treaty Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-3).&nbsp;



Here, scientists will urge delegates to consider the latest research indicating that all plastics, due to their inherent toxic chemical content and their ability to adsorb other chemicals during use, cannot be deemed safe or conducive to a circular economy.



Professor Carney Almroth will be bringing a clear message to the Nairobi meeting: “Numerous studies show that hazardous chemicals can accumulate even in relatively close-loop plastic recycling systems. We need to rapidly phase-out plastic chemicals that can cause harm to human health and the environment.”&nbsp;



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



This research is a wake-up call for the global community, emphasizing the need for more stringent regulations and a reconsideration of our reliance on plastic recycling as a primary solution to the plastic pollution crisis.&nbsp;



The safety of recycled plastics is now a critical issue that requires immediate attention and action at both the national and international levels.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.dib.2023.109740" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Data in Brief</a>.



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Hundreds of hazardous chemicals found in recycled plastics

A recent study from the University of Gothenburg has raised...

As Amazon and Walmart step up their game in drone delivery, with Amazon planning 10,000 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lab-on-a-drone-system-tracks-smelly-air-pollution/">drone</a> deliveries in Europe and Walmart expanding to an additional 60,000 homes in the U.S., the question arises: Are consumers ready for automated delivery?&nbsp;



This significant shift in delivery methods is the subject of a new study by <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/">Northwestern University</a>’s Mobility and Behavior Lab. The researchers set out to gauge public readiness for automated delivery technologies.



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



To explore the societal perceptions of these emerging technologies, the team conducted a survey involving 692 U.S. respondents. The survey was also designed to explore preferences across various delivery options and variables like speed and package handling.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-new-technologies-nbsp">Impact of new technologies&nbsp;</h2>



Study senior author Amanda Stathopoulos emphasized the importance of considering the impact of new technologies on people and communities.&nbsp;



“We need to think really carefully about the effect of these new technologies on people and communities, and to tune in to what they think about these changes,” said Stathopoulos.



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



The researchers found a complex relationship between behavior and acceptance of automated delivery technologies. Automated vehicles were more readily accepted compared to drones and robots, likely due to the existing familiarity with self-driving cars.&nbsp;



However, acceptance increased with faster delivery and lower costs. Tech-savvy individuals were more open to these technologies than those less familiar with them.



Stathopoulos said that people have come to expect efficient delivery from e-commerce purchases as they increasingly work from home, especially after the pandemic.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-automated-delivery">Benefits of automated delivery</h2>



“There’s a paradox: We're having a hard time reconciling the convenience and the benefit of getting speedy, efficient delivery with its consequences, like poor labor conditions in warehouses, air pollution and congested streets,” said Stathopoulos.&nbsp;



“We don't really see that other role that we play as citizens or as users of the city. And one role is directly affecting the other role, and we are both. With automated delivery, we could reduce some of these issues.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-public-acceptance-nbsp">Lack of public acceptance&nbsp;</h2>



Stathopoulos said that while new modes of delivery present an exciting opportunity, societally, “we’re not there just yet.” As companies ramp up drone deliveries, the researchers caution that these innovations may fail because of a lack of public acceptance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolving-dynamics-nbsp">Evolving dynamics&nbsp;</h2>



Stathopoulos urges the integration of shipping and logistics centers into city planning, taking cues from some European cities. She also calls for policy makers to join the conversation as drone use and labor dynamics evolve.&nbsp;



“On the planning side, we need to make sure that we embrace the fact that the massive amount of deliveries is going to shape our cities,” said Stathopoulos. “Collaboration, coordination, and information sharing between companies has been a running challenge - but it’s not going to work if everyone has their own technology. It just destroys the purpose and builds redundant and overlapping systems.”



To overcome reluctance to accept new technologies, Stathopoulos said that policy makers and companies can prepare for the future by listening to consumers and conducting more frequent assessments.



The study was supported by the National Science Foundation Career program.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-45371-1">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Robot at your door: Are consumers ready for automated delivery?

As Amazon and Walmart step up their game in drone...

A colossal comet, three times larger than Mount Everest and known as 12P/Pons-Brooks, has experienced another explosive event as it makes its way toward Earth. This ‘cold volcano’ comet, approximately 18 miles in diameter, is notorious for its violent ejections of ice and gas. This activity creates a trail resembling devil horns, making it a fascinating spectacle in space.



Discovered in 1812, 12P/Pons-Brooks is on a trajectory that will bring it closest to Earth in June 2024. Despite its proximity, it poses no threat to our planet. During this approach, it will be visible as a faint, star-like object with a distinct tail, even to the naked eye.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-behavior-nbsp">Volcanic behavior&nbsp;</h2>



Comets like 12P/Pons-Brooks are made up of an icy nucleus surrounded by a coma - a cloud of gas and dust. Its classification as a cryovolcanic comet indicates that it exhibits <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanic-eruptions-play-an-overlooked-role-in-earths-climate/">volcanic behavior</a>.&nbsp;



However, instead of ejecting molten rock, it releases gasses and ice, particularly when nearing the sun. As the comet approaches the sun, the increase in temperature and pressure leads to explosive releases of nitrogen and carbon monoxide, pushing out icy fragments from the nucleus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recent-outburst-nbsp">Recent outburst&nbsp;</h2>



Eliot Herman, an amateur astronomer based in Arizona, observed a dramatic brightening of the comet on October 31, indicating a fresh burst of cryovolcanic activity. This recent outburst is the second in a month and the third since July, reinforcing its reputation as the "devil comet." The comet’s appearance, with its devil-like horns, has been widely reported in the media.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-journey-around-the-sun">Journey around the sun</h2>



12P/Pons-Brooks orbits the sun, attracted by its gravitational pull, and completes this journey in 71 years. This period is relatively short compared to most comets, which may take thousands of years to orbit the sun. Comets like 12P/Pons-Brooks have highly elliptical orbits, bringing them close to the sun at perihelion and far away at aphelion. As they near the sun, their speed increases significantly.



Currently, the comet is hurtling towards the sun at over 40,000 miles per hour. This speed is expected to increase to over 100,000 miles per hour as it approaches its perihelion. Its closest encounter with the sun will occur on April 21 next year, followed by a close approach to Earth on June 2. After this encounter, the comet will be propelled back to the outer solar system, not returning until 2095.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cryovolcanic-comets">Cryovolcanic comets</h2>



Cryovolcanism is a type of volcanic activity that occurs at extremely low temperatures on icy moons and other celestial bodies. Unlike the typical molten rock volcanism we see on Earth, cryovolcanism involves the eruption of volatile substances such as water, ammonia, or methane - compounds that are usually in a frozen solid state at the low temperatures found on these bodies.



Cryovolcanic comets, specifically, are comets that exhibit such activity. As a comet approaches the sun, the increase in temperature can cause its icy components to sublimate (transition from solid to gas), leading to geysers or eruptions of gas and dust from the comet’s surface. This activity is reminiscent of volcanic eruptions.



The expelled materials can form a coma (a temporary atmosphere) and sometimes a tail, which are characteristic features of comets. Cryovolcanism is one of the processes that shape the surfaces of comets. It is a key phenomenon that missions such as <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/missions/deep-impact" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA's Deep Impact</a> and ESA's Rosetta have studied to understand the composition and behavior of these celestial objects.



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



Comets are celestial wanderers that capture the imagination with their breathtaking tails and ancient origins. They are composed of ice, rock, and cosmic dust, remnants from the formation of our solar system over 4.6 billion years ago. As they orbit the Sun, these "dirty snowballs" thaw and release gases and dust, creating their distinctive glowing comas and tails.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anatomy-of-a-comet">Anatomy of a comet</h3>



At the heart of a comet is the nucleus, a solid core typically less than 30 kilometers across. It's surrounded by a diffuse cloud of gas and dust called the coma when the comet is near the Sun. The coma can grow to be larger than planets. The tail, which can stretch for millions of kilometers, always points away from the Sun due to the solar wind's force and radiation pressure.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-orbit-of-comets">Orbit of comets</h3>



Comets have highly elliptical orbits, often bringing them very close to the Sun, a point called perihelion, and then slinging them far back into the depths of space, to their aphelion. There are two types of comets based on their orbital periods: short-period comets, like Halley's Comet, take less than 200 years to orbit the Sun, while long-period comets can take much longer, sometimes thousands of years.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comets-and-earth">Comets and Earth</h3>



Comets have had a significant impact on Earth in several ways. Historically, their appearances in the sky have been recorded and thought to be omens. Scientifically, it is hypothesized that comets may have delivered water and organic compounds to Earth, contributing to the emergence of life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-famous-comets">Famous comets</h3>



Throughout history, certain comets have stood out. Halley's Comet, with its predictable returns every 76 years, is perhaps the most famous. Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 became renowned for its spectacular collision with Jupiter in 1994, giving astronomers a front-row seat to cosmic impacts.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-comets">Observing comets</h3>



Comets can be a delight for amateur astronomers. When a comet is predicted to pass close to Earth, it can often be seen with the naked eye. Otherwise, binoculars or a small telescope can reveal the comet's central nucleus and its gaseous coma.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-comet-exploration">Future of comet exploration</h3>



Space agencies have sent several missions to comets, such as ESA's Rosetta, which orbited Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko and deployed a lander to its surface. Future missions aim to learn more about the composition of comets and what they can tell us about the early solar system.



In summary, comets are more than just celestial beauty; they are time capsules holding clues to our solar system's history. As they continue to be studied, they may reveal more secrets about the origins of Earth and other planets, and perhaps even life itself.



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'Devil comet' exploded in space and is racing towards Earth for a better view

A colossal comet, three times larger than Mount Everest and...

A recent study by <a href="https://msu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan State University</a> (MSU) has explored the role of pets in influencing human well-being during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-made-covid-19-patients-sicker-for-longer/">COVID-19</a> pandemic.&nbsp;



Pets have been long recognized for their positive impact on human well-being, both mentally and physically. Previous research suggests that pets increase levels of hormones such as dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin in humans, which are associated with feelings of happiness​​.&nbsp;



Additionally, interacting with pets has been shown to reduce blood pressure, slow heart rates, and decrease cortisol levels, a hormone related to stress​​.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perceived-benefits-of-pets">Perceived benefits of pets</h2>



The study involved 767 participants and was conducted over three periods in May 2020. The goal was to understand the impact of pet ownership on well-being during some of the most challenging weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic.



Pet owners in the study often reported positive experiences with their pets, such as increased positive emotions, affection, and companionship. They believed their pets made them happier.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contrasting-data">Contrasting data</h2>



Despite these positive sentiments, the study found no significant difference in well-being between pet owners and non-pet owners.&nbsp;



This finding was consistent regardless of the type of pet, the number of pets owned, the closeness with the pet, or the personality of the owner.



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



William Chopik, an associate professor in MSU’s Department of Psychology and co-author of the study, expressed that although people believe pets boost happiness, the study's measurements did not support this notion.&nbsp;



“People say that pets make them happy, but when we actually measure happiness, that doesn’t appear to be the case,” said Chopik. “People see friends as lonely or wanting companionship, and they recommend getting a pet. But it’s unlikely that it’ll be as transformative as people think.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-well-being-nbsp">Emotional well-being&nbsp;</h2>



The research team speculated that non-pet owners might have other sources of happiness in their lives. Chopik emphasized the importance of not relying solely on pets for emotional well-being and considering other avenues that could contribute to happiness.



“Staking all of your hope on a pet making you feel better is probably unfair and is maybe costly given other things you could do in your life that could improve your happiness,” said Chopik.&nbsp;



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



The study challenges the widely held belief that pets are a surefire way to enhance one’s happiness, particularly in times of crisis like the pandemic. It suggests that while pets can provide emotional support and companionship, they may not significantly impact overall well-being compared to other factors in a person's life.&nbsp;



Further research is needed to explore the complex relationship between pet ownership and human happiness, especially in varying contexts and life situations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-pet-ownership-nbsp">Benefits of pet ownership&nbsp;</h2>



Despite the finding that pets did not improve well-being during the pandemic, the benefits of pet ownership are well-documented.



Previous studies indicate that pet owners tend to have healthier hearts, are less likely to stay home sick, make fewer visits to the doctor, get more exercise, and are less prone to depression compared to non-pet owners.&nbsp;



Furthermore, pets - especially dogs and cats - are known to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, ease loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness, and even improve cardiovascular health. The role of pets is particularly significant in the development of children and the companionship they provide to older adults.&nbsp;



Caring for an animal can help children grow up to be more secure and active, and for older adults, pets offer valuable companionship​​.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/01461672231203" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin</a>.



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Pets did not improve emotional well-being during the pandemic

A recent study by Michigan State University (MSU) has explored...

The European Space Agency's ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (<a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Human_and_Robotic_Exploration/Exploration/ExoMars/Trace_Gas_Orbiter_instruments" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TGO</a>) mission has made an amazing discovery in space exploration. For the first time, astronauts exploring the polar regions of Mars will witness a unique natural phenomenon: a green glow in the night sky, known as the nightglow, previously unseen in visible light on Mars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nightglow-new-phenomenon-on-mars">Nightglow: New phenomenon on Mars</h2>



This visible nightglow, a familiar occurrence on Earth, has now been observed on Mars. It is produced about 50 kilometers above the planet's surface when two oxygen atoms combine to form an oxygen molecule. Unlike Earth, this spectacle had remained unobserved on Mars in visible light until this momentous discovery.



The process begins with <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Mars_nightglow_Production_of_oxygen_nightglow_on_Mars.gif" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxygen atoms</a> on Mars's dayside. Here, sunlight energizes carbon dioxide molecules, causing them to split and form oxygen atoms. When these atoms travel to the night side, away from the sun's excitation, they recombine at lower altitudes, emitting a visible glow.



Lauriane Soret is a researcher at the Laboratory of Atmospheric and Planetary Physics at the <a href="https://www.lpap.uliege.be/cms/c_4750285/en/laboratory-for-planetary-and-atmospheric-physics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Liège, Belgium</a> and a member of the team that published the discovery in Nature Astronomy. She sheds light on this process, saying, “This emission is due to the recombination of oxygen atoms created in the summer atmosphere and transported by winds to high winter latitudes, at altitudes of 40 to 60 km in the martian atmosphere.”



Jean-Claude Gérard is the lead author of the study and a planetary scientist at the University of Liège. He emphasizes the significance of this discovery.



Gérard said, “These observations are unexpected and interesting for future trips to the Red Planet.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-the-night-side-with-nomad">Monitoring the night side with NOMAD</h2>



The TGO, orbiting Mars at an altitude of 400 km, successfully monitored the <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Mars_nightglow_seen-from-space_ExoMars_ESA_1medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">night side of Mars</a> using the ultraviolet-visible channel of its NOMAD instrument. This instrument, spanning a spectrum from near ultraviolet to red light, oriented itself towards the edge of Mars for improved study of the upper atmosphere.



The NOMAD experiment, led by the Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy, is a testament to international cooperation. It involves teams from Spain, Italy, and the United Kingdom, among others, working together to deepen our understanding of Mars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance-of-mars-nightglow">Scientific significance of Mars' nightglow</h2>



Nightglow serves as an important tracer for atmospheric processes on Mars. It provides valuable information about the composition and dynamics of the Martian atmosphere. This encompasses the measurement of oxygen density and the deposition of energy by both the Sun's light and the solar wind.



Understanding Mars' atmosphere is crucial for future missions. The atmospheric density affects everything, from the drag experienced by orbiting satellites to the operation of parachutes used for landing probes on the Martian surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mars-nightglow-versus-aurora">Mars' nightglow versus aurora</h2>



Nightglow consistently and homogeneously glows in the night sky, while auroras, observed on both Earth and Mars, form through a different process.



Auroras occur when energetic electrons from the Sun hit the upper atmosphere, resulting in a more variable and colorful display. Nightglow and auroras, though different, both showcase a range of colors depending on atmospheric gases at various altitudes.



Discovery of the green nightglow on Mars by ESA's ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter marks a significant advancement in space exploration. It opens new doors for understanding Martian atmospheric processes and aiding future exploration of the Red Planet.



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Why the Martian sky often has an eerie green 'nightglow'

The European Space Agency's ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) mission...

Rear,View,Of,Young,Caucasian,Businessman,With,Black,Hair,Wearing

In a new study from the <a href="https://uiowa.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Iowa</a>, researchers have unveiled fascinating insights into how the human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-watching-movies-affect-our-brain/">brain</a> processes mistakes and learns from them. The research marks a significant advancement in our understanding of cognitive processes.



The study, led by Professor Jan Wessel in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, reveals that the brain can, within a mere second, differentiate between outcomes caused by human error and those for which a person is not directly responsible.&nbsp;



This capability is a testament to the intricate and rapid processing power of the human mind.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-error-recognition-nbsp">Rapid error recognition&nbsp;</h2>



The experts found that when the brain identifies an outcome as resulting from a human error, it engages in additional processes to catalog this error and communicate it to the body. This reaction is crucial in preventing the repetition of the same mistake.&nbsp;



“The novel aspect about this study is the brain can very quickly distinguish whether an undesirable outcome is due to a (human) error, or due to something else,” explained Professor Wessel. “If the brain realizes an error was the cause, it will then start additional processes to avoid further errors, which it won't do if the outcome wasn't due to its own action.”



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



The research team used an innovative approach, involving 76 young adults in a task where they identified the direction of arrows displayed on a screen.&nbsp;



Occasionally, unexpected symbols appeared, simulating surprise outcomes. These symbols were unrelated to the participant’s performance, offering a contrast to instances of human error. Brain responses were measured at intervals of 350, 1,700, and 3,000 milliseconds.&nbsp;



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



The key finding was the brain’s ability to distinguish between standard and surprise outcomes in about one second.&nbsp;



Furthermore, in cases of human error, the brain remained active for an additional two to three seconds, signifying a learning process taking place.



“When it is something that has to do with my own action and I can do something about it, then the brain takes a few seconds to reconfigure the entire cognitive apparatus, the visual system, the motor system,” said Professor Wessel.&nbsp;



“It’s as if the brain is taking a moment to fill in the rest of the body, the senses, the motor control, to tell the other working parts, ‘Let's not do this again.’”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-brain-s-adaptive-response">The brain’s adaptive response</h2>



The researchers also monitored brain waves through scalp electroencephalograms (EEGs). The data revealed distinct, ongoing neural activity specific to instances of human error.&nbsp;



“Indeed, we found that while both errors and unexpected outcomes of correct actions led to comparable neural activity early on, only errors showed reliable, sustained brain activity more than a second after the response,” said Wessel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-error-detection-system-nbsp">Error detection system&nbsp;</h2>



This study contradicts previous beliefs that the brain reacts similarly to outcomes, regardless of their cause. “Some have argued that we don't actually have a genuine error detection system in the brain,” said Professor Wessel.



But the research establishes that the brain does indeed differentiate between errors and other outcomes, effectively communicating this information throughout the body for adaptive responses.



“All in all, this shows that we do have genuine, error-specific systems in the human brain that detect our action errors that trigger adaptive responses, such as the strategic slowing of ongoing actions,” Wessel said.&nbsp;



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



This study not only sheds light on the human brain's remarkable ability to recognize and learn from errors but also opens avenues for further research in cognitive science and neuroscience. It underscores the complexity and adaptability of the human mind in its continuous pursuit of accuracy and efficiency.



The research was funded by the National Institutes of Health. The findings are published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1334-23.2023" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JNeurosci</a>.



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Our brain is constantly working to learn from our mistakes

In a new study from the University of Iowa, researchers...

A new study led by <a href="https://www.ohsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon Health &amp; Science University</a> (OHSU) has uncovered startling statistics about the intersection of drug use and incarceration in rural America. The research reveals that nearly half of rural illicit drug users have been incarcerated within the past six months, emphasizing a critical juncture for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-addiction-may-qualify-as-substance-use-disorder/">addiction</a> treatment intervention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survey-results">Survey results</h2>



The study, which spanned across eight rural areas in 10 states, involved a survey of almost 3,000 people. This extensive research has shed light on the pervasive issue of drug use in these communities.&nbsp;



A staggering 42% of respondents, who admitted to using illicit drugs, reported having been imprisoned either in local jails or prisons in the six months leading up to the survey.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-drug-use-in-rural-areas">Studying drug use in rural areas </h2>



The research was conducted by experts from OHSU and various institutions across the United States. The team investigated the complex relationship between drug use and the criminal justice system in rural areas.&nbsp;



The findings underscore the pressing need to address the nation's opioid crisis through expanded addiction treatment, specifically targeting those currently in custody.



“You have a reachable time in jails, and most jails are not providing this kind of addiction care,” said study lead author Dr. Dan Hoover. “In a broader sense, our correctional institutions have a mandate to rehabilitate people who have entered the system - and treating addiction is a huge part of that.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications">Broader implications</h2>



Dr. Hoover pointed to a Rhode Island study that showed a 12% decrease in statewide overdoses following the implementation of medication-assisted therapy in its prison system in 2016.&nbsp;



The common practice of leaving incarcerated individuals to endure withdrawal without treatment increases their vulnerability to resuming drug use, engaging in criminal activities, and facing a heightened risk of overdose upon release.



“Many of these individuals are released back to the community within days,” said Dr. Hoover. “Their health is community health. That time in jail is the reachable moment to begin their path to treatment and recovery.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rural-opioid-initiative">Rural Opioid Initiative</h2>



The study is part of the Rural Opioid Initiative and covers a wide geographic span, including 65 counties in Oregon, Illinois, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Kentucky, West Virginia, Ohio, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont.



Highlighting recent efforts in New Jersey and Seattle, the study points to developing pathways for treatment and recovery for inmates during and after incarceration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treatment-for-drug-users">Treatment for drug users</h2>



The experts noted the challenges posed by the lack of funding for substance use disorder (SUD) treatment within the criminal legal system and the absence of health insurance coverage during incarceration, which contribute to poor SUD treatment access for this population.



Despite the availability of FDA-approved medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone for opioid use disorder, their provision remains rare in American prison systems.&nbsp;



In Oregon, access to buprenorphine is available in the state prison system, but is inconsistent in local jails.



“Lack of criminal legal system funding apportioned for (substance use disorder, or SUD) treatment and lack of health insurance coverage during incarceration further contribute to poor SUD treatment access for this population,” wrote the researchers.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.42222" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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Half of all drug users in rural areas were recently jailed

A new study led by Oregon Health &amp; Science University...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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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

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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

How the immune system responds to injury

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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