Quantum entanglement is a mind-boggling phenomenon in quantum mechanics that intrigues both scientists and the public alike.



Unlike the predictable nature of classical physics, quantum mechanics thrives on unpredictability, often challenging our everyday perceptions. This is particularly evident in the behavior of entangled particles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-quantum-entanglement">Understanding quantum entanglement</h2>



In quantum mechanics, particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously, a concept known as superposition. Entanglement elevates this idea: when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-laws-thermodynamics-follow-entropy-rule/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particles become entangled</a>, their states are interlinked.



A change in one particle's state instantly influences the other, regardless of distance—imagine two distant light bulbs flickering in sync across the cosmos.



Entanglement suggests that information can be shared instantaneously between particles, defying the notion that nothing travels faster than light.



This "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-spooky-action-at-a-distance-persists-between-top-quarks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spooky action at a distance</a>," as Albert Einstein famously termed it, prompts profound questions about the nature of space and time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-of-measurement">Challenges of measurement</h2>



Measurement in quantum mechanics presents unique challenges. Observing one particle in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-dance-entangled-photons-wave-functions-captured-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">an entangled pair</a> determines the states of both, leading to critical inquiries: What constitutes a 'measurement,' and how does it influence our understanding of reality?



The complex mathematics underpinning quantum mechanics -- incorporating concepts like Hilbert spaces, wave functions, and operators -- can be intimidating, rendering entanglement less accessible to many.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-puzzle">Fascinating puzzle</h2>



Simply put, quantum entanglement is just too complicated for most people to fully understand. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-tunneling-allow-particles-break-light-speed-barrier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">It defies classical intuitions</a>, involves sophisticated mathematics, and urges us to reevaluate our understanding of reality.



That is, until now. 



Enter Professor Carl Kocher, a pioneer of the study of quantum entanglement. He is currently a member of the <a href="https://quantumfoundry.ucsb.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quantum Foundry</a> at University of California Santa Barbara and Professor Emeritus at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>.



Professor Kocher is the author of a new article in Frontiers in Quantum Science and Technology, explaining his groundbreaking 1964-67 experiments in quantum entanglement and discussing the 'paradox' of quantum entanglement.



In the following guest editorial, <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Carl-Kocher" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Kocher</a> helps us stretch our minds to understand this apparently paradoxical phenomenon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-quantum-entanglement-0">Understanding quantum entanglement</h2>



My new article, ‘<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/quantum-science-and-technology/articles/10.3389/frqst.2024.1451239/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quantum Entanglement of Optical Photons: The First Experiment, 1964-67</a>’, is intended to convey the spirit of a small research project that reaches into uncharted territory. 



The article breaks with tradition, as it offers a first-person account of the strategy and challenges for the experiment, as well as an interpretation of the final result and its significance. 



In this guest editorial, I will introduce the subject and also attempt to illuminate the question ‘What is a paradox?’



Let’s begin with the gyroscope that I bought when I was eight, from a store that sold novelties and magic tricks. The spinning disk, supported at one end of its shaft, did not fall, but moved slowly around in a horizontal plane. 



This behavior seems mysterious or paradoxical in the context of common experience that excludes gyroscopes, but makes complete sense in the context of Newtonian mechanics, which resolves the paradox by predicting precisely how gyroscopes will behave.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-quantum-theory">Evolution of quantum theory</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quantum theory</a>, conceived in the mid-1920s, has been impressively successful in accounting for the properties and interactions of atoms and molecules. 



In 1935, Einstein, Podolsky, and Rosen stirred controversy with a thought experiment in which two particles of common origin move apart, noting that quantum theory predicts correlations in subsequent measurements of their spins.



The correlation may seem quite puzzling, as a measurement on one of the particles appears to influence a subsequent measurement on the other, even if the particles do not interact.



In current terminology, these correlations are an example of entanglement, and the correlation phenomenon is known as the EPR paradox.



The puzzle has become a subject for much discussion and analysis, especially because there was (and is) no known mechanism for measurements to communicate with each other.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disentangling-quantum-entanglement">Disentangling quantum entanglement</h2>



In 1964 I was intrigued by this unfamiliar effect and began to think of a way to actually perform the EPR experiment -- or at least a version of it -- for observing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">correlation and entanglement</a>. It would be a low-energy experiment that could be set up in a small laboratory.



For the experiment outlined here, the particles of interest are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-photons-used-to-measure-earth-rotation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">visible-light photons</a>, which are noninteracting, emitted by excited calcium atoms in a two-stage spontaneous emission process. The polarization states of the photons, which are related to their spins, can be measured simply, with ordinary linear polarizers. 



Photomultiplier detectors count the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-dance-entangled-photons-wave-functions-captured-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">individual photons</a>, #1 (green) and #2 (violet), and timing circuits enable the identification of photon pairs from the same atom. A rotatable linear polarizer is mounted in front of each detector.



In simplest terms, the experiment involves counting the rate at which photon pairs are detected, as a function of the orientation of the polarizers. A photon pair detected from the same atom is recorded as a “coincidence count.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theory-and-experiment-agree">Theory and experiment agree</h2>



Quantum theory makes the following predictions:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-photons-create-vortex-when-they-collide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Each photon</a>, taken separately, has a 50% chance of being transmitted by its polarizer, regardless of its angle of orientation. </li>



<li>If the polarizer axes are parallel, both photons from the same atom can pass through their polarizers and be counted. Coincidence counts will be observed. </li>



<li>If the polarizer axes are perpendicular, it never happens that both photons pass through their polarizers. Therefore, no coincidence counts will be observed.</li>
</ol>



Predictions #1 and #2 are not surprising, as the green and violet beams of light are unpolarized.



Prediction #3, discussed further in my article, is a quantum entanglement effect with no analog in classical (non-quantum) physics. It is especially interesting because it can be tested experimentally. I designed the experiment specifically for this purpose.



The results of the experiment, after nearly three years of effort in the laboratory, clearly demonstrate that coincidence counts are recorded if the polarizer axes are parallel, and that no coincidences are recorded if the polarizers are perpendicular. The agreement between theory and experiment is unequivocal and striking.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-so-is-there-a-paradox">So is there a paradox?</h2>



In our brief discussion of the gyroscope, no paradox was acknowledged because Newton’s theory (classical dynamics) fully explains how a gyroscope moves. 



Furthermore, both the theory and the observed gyroscopic behavior are compatible with our life experience and intuitive ability to grasp natural processes in the classical realm.



In the entanglement case, quantum theory accounts for the observed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-photons-fascinating-behavior-in-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">correlation of the photon polarizations</a>. But even when a theory predicts experimental results, a paradox may remain if the intuition cannot reach out to connect with it.



Take another look at predictions #1 and #3 above. If we draw on our experience of life in a non-quantum world, we may notice something very strange when the polarizers are “crossed” at 90 degrees. 



If each photon has a 50% chance of transmission through its polarizer, why don’t we get coincidences 25% of the time? Instead, we observe none at all. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stretching-the-mind-to-resolve-the-paradox">Stretching the mind to resolve the paradox</h2>



At first consideration, this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/impossibility-paradox-calculating-incalculable-quantum-realm-particles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">does seem to qualify as a paradox</a>. One possible explanation could involve a missing component of quantum theory - perhaps a causal mechanism that could allow one photon, or one measurement, to communicate with the other. 



However, despite extensive research, no evidence has been found for such a mechanism.



As we do not live in an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-quantum-revolution-will-impact-all-aspects-of-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overtly quantum world</a>, classical phenomena may influence our thought processes - even when we venture into the quantum realm. It may therefore remain a challenge to assimilate entanglement into the intuition.



I believe that the paradox can be at least partially resolved when further thought and experience, such as the experiment considered here, ‘stretch the mind’ to more fully embrace entanglement and other quantum phenomena.



I have come to view these aspects of nature as ‘strangely wonderful’.



The full paper and study can we read at <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/quantum-science-and-technology/articles/10.3389/frqst.2024.1451239/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Quantum Science and Technology</a>.



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Quantum entanglement: A simple way to fully grasp this 'impossible' concept

Quantum entanglement is a mind-boggling phenomenon in quantum mechanics that intrigues both scientists and the public alike. Unlike the predictable nature of classical physics, quantum mechanics thrives on unpredictability, often challenging our everyday perceptions. This is particularly evident in the behavior of entangled particles. Understanding quantum entanglement In quantum mechanics, particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously, a concept known as superposition. Entanglement elevates this idea: when particles become entangled, their states are interlinked. A change in one particle's state instantly influences the other, regardless of distance—imagine...

Hurricanes with the ability to rapidly intensify under unknown conditions have long been a cause for concern. Swift escalations from simple tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/storms-are-a-major-source-of-forest-mortality-in-the-amazon/">storms</a> or depressions to major hurricanes can be catastrophic, given the violent winds and deadly surges they bring.&nbsp;



However, new research suggests that hurricane unpredictability is due to not just one, but two distinct mechanisms that cause rapid intensification.&nbsp;



This is the conclusion of a computer modeling study conducted by scientists from the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Science Foundation</a> (NSF) and the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR).



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



The knowledge of two unique modes associated with hurricane intensification will enhance our understanding and prediction of these hazardous events.



“Trying to find the holy grail behind rapid intensification is the wrong approach because there isn’t just one holy grail,” said NCAR scientist Falko Judt, lead author of the new study. “There are at least two different modes or flavors of rapid intensification, and each one has a different set of conditions that must be met in order for the storm to strengthen so quickly.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modes-of-rapid-intensification">Modes of rapid intensification</h2>



The first type is when a hurricane intensifies symmetrically due to optimal environmental conditions, such as warm surface waters and low wind shear. Historical examples of this type include Hurricanes Andrew, Katrina, and Maria.&nbsp;



The most recent example is Hurricane Otis, which unexpectedly grew by 110 miles per hour within a day, evolving into a category 5 hurricane before hitting Mexico's west coast.



The second type, which previously went unnoticed due to the peak winds not being as destructive, is linked to significant bursts of thunderstorms distant from the hurricane's center.&nbsp;



These bursts rearrange the cyclone's circulation, enabling it to rapidly amplify, often reaching category 1 or 2 intensity in mere hours. Astonishingly, this form of intensification can occur even under unfavorable conditions, such as opposing upper-level winds.



“Those storms are not as memorable and they’re not as significant. But forecasters need to be aware that even a storm that’s strongly sheared and asymmetric can undergo a mode of rapid intensification," said Judt.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-discovery-nbsp">Unexpected discovery&nbsp;</h2>



Judt’s discovery emerged unexpectedly during an unrelated project, where he conducted a comprehensive 40-day simulation of the global atmosphere.&nbsp;



Upon analyzing the data, Judt discerned that the rapid intensification occurred in two distinctive manners. Such findings were previously elusive due to models focusing on isolated regions, rather than a global perspective.



Real-world tropical cyclone observations further corroborated both modes of rapid intensification.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-serendipitous-finding">Serendipitous finding</h2>



"It was kind of a serendipitous finding,” Judt said. “Just by looking at the storms in the simulation and making plots, I realized that storms that rapidly intensify fall into two different camps. One is the canonical mode in which there’s a tropical storm when you go to bed and when you wake up it’s a category 4."



"But then there’s another mode that goes from a tropical storm to a category 1 or 2, and it fits the definition of rapid intensification. Since nobody has those storms on their radar, that mode of rapid intensification went undetected until I went through the simulation.”



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



Concluding their research, the team theorized that many cases of rapid intensification could fall between these two modes. A storm might start with the "sprint" mode but gradually transition to the "marathon" mode.&nbsp;



According to Judt, a question for future research is why bursts of thunderstorms can cause about 10% of storms in an unconducive environment to rapidly intensify, even though the other 90% do not.



“There could be a mechanism we haven’t discovered yet that would enable us to identify the 10 from the 90,” said Judt. “My working hypothesis is that it’s random, but it’s important for forecasters to be aware that rapid intensification is a typical process even in an unfavorable environment.”



The research, funded by the U.S. Navy Office of Naval Research and the U.S. National Science Foundation, appeared in the Monthly Weather Review, a journal of the American Meteorological Society.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1175/MWR-D-23-0038.1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monthly Weather Review</a>.



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What causes the rapid intensification of hurricanes?

Hurricanes with the ability to rapidly intensify under unknown conditions...

The global goal to protect and restore forests by 2030 is veering off course, and the speed at which deforestation is occurring has intensified at an alarming rate.&nbsp;



Two new reports, the <a href="https://www.worldwildlife.org/publications/forest-pathways-report-2023" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forest Pathways 2023</a> by WWF and the Forest Declaration Assessment, have shed light on the urgency of this situation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sobering-reality">Sobering reality</h2>



Two years ago, over 130 countries (representing 85% of the planet's forests) made a pledge to halt and reverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brazilian-amazon-crisis-deforestation-is-escalating-in-indigenous-territories/">deforestation</a> by 2030. However, the world is not on a path to achieve this target.



To put the current situation into perspective, the planet has lost 16.3 million acres of forest. A staggering 96% of this deforestation occurred in tropical regions, except for Tropical Asia, which stands as the only beacon of hope nearing zero deforestation. The primary loss of tropical forest stood at 10.1 million acres in 2022 alone.



The consequences of such extensive deforestation can be catastrophic for our global climate, especially considering the significant roles played by the planet's three largest tropical forest basins: the Amazon, Congo, and Asia-Pacific.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-time-is-of-the-essence">Time is of the essence</h2>



Despite these bleak statistics, there is a silver lining, according to Kerry Cesareo, senior vice president for forests at WWF.



"If we're serious about ensuring a future for forests - and halting the biodiversity and climate crises - time is of the essence," said Cesareo. "While the numbers are stark, we know what we need to do. And the Forest Pathways report provides tangible guidance for decision-makers, from governments to financial institutions to private sector actors."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tangible-solutions-nbsp">Tangible solutions&nbsp;</h2>



The Forest Pathways report presents tangible solutions for diverse stakeholders, ranging from governments to private sectors.



One of the significant concerns addressed in the report is the financing channeled towards forests. A mere $2.2 billion in public funds are allocated for forests annually, which is a fraction of other global investments.



According to WWF, at least 100 times more public funding goes to environmentally harmful subsidies than financing to help forests.



Furthermore, indigenous communities, despite proving to manage forests better, are not receiving the necessary resources to safeguard their rights and their lands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-essential-measures-in-the-forest-report">Essential measures in the forest report</h2>



The Forest Pathways report is not just about highlighting the problems. It offers a blueprint to rescue our forests by 2030. The essential measures that are outlined in the report include:



<ul>
<li>Ending investments and subsidies that harm forests, such as the agricultural subsidies causing the loss of 5.4 million acres annually.</li>



<li>Overhauling global trade rules that are detrimental to forests and ensuring forest-friendly goods face no barriers.</li>



<li>Swift recognition of land rights for Indigenous peoples.</li>



<li>Transitioning toward nature-based economies.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-efforts">Global efforts</h2>



In addition, the report highlights specific global efforts, like the Amazon Region Protected Areas (ARPA) program in Brazil and WWF's Forests Forward program, that are making strides against deforestation.



WWF's message is clear: it's time for governments and businesses to take meaningful action. This includes endorsing acts like the FOREST Act and enforcing the Lacey Act in the United States.



Forests lie at the very core of WWF's mission. Their endeavors range from supporting the establishment of protected zones to promoting forest sustainability. Alongside local and global allies, WWF is tirelessly working to halt deforestation and breathe life back into our forests.



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We are off track to save our forests, but there's still time: WWF report

The global goal to protect and restore forests by 2030...

A month filled with awe-inspiring celestial sights will continue to captivate stargazers this weekend. On Saturday, October 28, the Hunter's Moon will shine brightly over the eastern horizon. For some, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/near-earth-asteroid-may-be-a-fragment-of-the-moon/">moon</a> will be accompanied by a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/longest-partial-lunar-eclipse-of-the-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">partial lunar eclipse</a>.



The Hunter's Moon will reach its fullest point at 3:35 p.m. EST, but the prime viewing time will occur later in the evening as the moon rises.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunter-s-moon-nbsp">Hunter's Moon&nbsp;</h2>



The term "Hunter's Moon" is specific to the Northern Hemisphere. Folklore suggests that the luminosity of this moon phase once served as the ideal backdrop for hunters to trace the game that had plumped up over the summer, just before the onset of winter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-partial-eclipse-nbsp">Partial eclipse&nbsp;</h2>



The Hunter's Moon will fade momentarily as it journeys through Earth's shadow in a partial lunar eclipse. This astronomical event will be visible across a vast portion of the Eastern Hemisphere, including Europe, Africa, Asia, and Antarctica.&nbsp;



The eclipse will also be viewable in some regions of North and South America. Certain parts of the U.S., including states like New York, Alaska, and North Carolina, will be able to observe the concluding stages of the eclipse.&nbsp;



During the climax of the eclipse, a section of the moon will be enveloped by Earth's darker inner shadow, known as the umbra. This interaction will give rise to the iconic reddish hue, often termed the "Blood Moon." Although merely six percent of the moon will be concealed, it promises to be an incredible sight.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jupiter">Jupiter</h2>



Regardless of where you are located, Jupiter will appear adjacent to the Hunter's Moon, and the planet will be exceptionally bright.&nbsp;



At a proximity of 370 million miles, Jupiter will be much closer to Earth than usual this year. Its average distance from Earth is 778 million kilometers. Jupiter will emerge at sunset and recede at sunrise, gracing the night sky throughout.&nbsp;



Jupiter will be at its best visibility on November 2, when it is positioned directly opposite the Sun, an event known as opposition.&nbsp;



On this day, Earth will align between the Sun and Jupiter, rendering the planet "full," with its entire face illuminated by the sun from our perspective.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-hunter-s-moon-nbsp">More about the Hunter's Moon&nbsp;</h2>



Every autumn, spectators around the world look to the night sky to witness the majestic display of the Hunter's Moon. As mentioned above, this unique celestial event, steeped in folklore and astronomical significance, provides not only a natural nocturnal spectacle but also marks an essential phase in the cultural and seasonal calendars.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-phenomenon">Understanding the phenomenon</h3>



The Hunter's Moon is the full moon following the Harvest Moon, which appears closest to the autumnal equinox. Its ascent heralds a period when the moonrise comes at a particularly opportune time. Contrary to other times of the year, there is a shorter-than-usual lag between the sunset and the moonrise during this period.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-in-ancient-times">Significance in ancient times</h3>



Traditionally, the Hunter's Moon held critical practical importance. Its early-evening rise gave an extended period of light after sunset, which historically helped hunters in tracking their prey after dusk, signaling a time to prepare for the oncoming winter months. It illuminated the fall landscape, helping people gather food and hunt more efficiently. Thus, societies were not solely reliant on the waning daylight, and the moon's brilliance allowed activities to continue into the evening.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunter-s-moon-is-a-sight-to-behold">Hunter's Moon is a sight to behold</h3>



Astronomically, the Hunter's Moon doesn't typically appear larger or more luminous than any other full moon. However, its beauty is undeniable, often displaying a deep orange hue as it rises. This coloration results from the moon's proximity to the horizon, causing its light to scatter, reflecting through more of Earth's atmosphere. Consequently, red and orange wavelengths, being longer, pass through the atmosphere, casting an enchanting tint across the moon’s surface.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-day-observance">Modern-day observance</h3>



Today, people celebrate the Hunter's Moon through various festivals and observances worldwide. While its practical implications of aiding survival are less significant, the event has maintained a cultural foothold. It remains a symbol of the changing seasons and a reminder of our ancestors' adaptation to the cycles of nature. Contemporary celebrations often include night-time gatherings, themed events at planetariums, and communal observances in open spaces where the moon is clearly visible.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preparing-for-the-hunter-s-moon">Preparing for the Hunter’s Moon</h3>



For those planning to observe this natural phenomenon, preparation can significantly enhance the experience. Opt for a location with minimal light pollution, and use standard stargazing etiquette to allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Although the Hunter's Moon doesn't require telescopic equipment for enjoyment, binoculars or a small telescope may enrich the detail visible on the moon's captivating surface.



In summary, the Hunter's Moon is more than a celestial event. It's a bridge that connects us to our past, reminding us of the enduring human tradition of syncing with nature's rhythm. This spectacular display stands as a testament to the ways early cultures harnessed natural phenomena and a prompt for modern societies to engage with and appreciate the mysteries the universe continues to offer.



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



A partial lunar eclipse occurs when only a portion of the moon enters Earth's umbra (the central, darkest part of its shadow). During this type of eclipse, a part of the moon remains brightly lit by sunlight, while another part appears darkened as it passes through the Earth's shadow.&nbsp;



The result is that the moon appears as if a chunk has been "bitten" out of it. This contrasts with a total lunar eclipse, where the entire moon enters the Earth's umbra and appears to be fully darkened.



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Huge Hunter's Moon, lunar eclipse, and an ultra-bright Jupiter coming tonight

A month filled with awe-inspiring celestial sights will continue to...

In a breakthrough study, researchers at <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu/">NC State</a> have genetically engineered a marine microorganism to break down plastics in salt water, specifically targeting PET (polyethylene terephthalate).&nbsp;



PET is a significant contributor to the growing issue of microplastic pollution in our oceans and is widely used in everyday products ranging from water bottles to clothing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pet-plastics-accumulation">PET plastics accumulation</h2>



"Like other plastics, PET resists natural degradation, thus accumulating in the environment. Several recycling strategies have been applied to PET, but these tend to result in downcycled products that eventually end up in landfills," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



"This accumulation of landfilled PET waste contributes to the formation of microplastics, which pose a serious threat to marine life and ecosystems, and potentially to human health."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-study-pet-plastics">How to study PET plastics</h2>



The research was focused on two specific bacteria species: Vibrio natriegens, which thrives in saltwater, and Ideonella sakaiensis, which produces enzymes that break down and metabolize PET. 



The DNA from Ideonella sakaiensis was extracted and embedded into a plasmid, a form of genetic sequence that has the capability to replicate within a cell independently, without reliance on the cell's inherent chromosome.&nbsp;



This plasmid, now carrying the genes from I. sakaiensis, was introduced into the V. natriegens bacteria.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-successful-results">Successful results</h2>



As a result, V. natriegens began to produce the enzymes required to break down PET on the surfaces of their cells. The team demonstrated that V. natriegens could actively break down PET in saltwater conditions at ambient room temperatures.



"In this work, we present a collection of engineered Vn strains that can depolymerize PET particles under ambient conditions and in media containing high concentrations of salts," wrote the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pet-plastics-significance">PET plastics significance</h2>



Study co-author Nathan Crook, a chemical and biomolecular engineer at North Carolina State University, highlighted the significance of the research.



"This is the first time anyone has reported successfully getting V. natriegens to express foreign enzymes on the surface of its cells," said Crook.&nbsp;



"From a practical standpoint, this is also the first genetically engineered organism that we know of that is capable of breaking down PET microplastics in saltwater," noted study lead author Tianyu Li.



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



While the researchers acknowledge that other challenges still need to be addressed, Crook said that breaking down the PET in saltwater was the most challenging part of their work.



"Microplastic detection, recovery, and remediation are highly complex problems requiring solutions at the intersection of multiple disciplines," wrote the study authors.



"This work establishes Vn as a promising chassis for expression and display of plastic-degradation enzymes, allowing it to be easily compatible with marine plastic recovery efforts."



The research is published in the <a href="https://aiche.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aic.18228">AIChE Journal</a>, and was funded by the National Science Foundation.&nbsp;



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Bacteria can break down PET plastics pollution in ocean water

In a breakthrough study, researchers at NC State have genetically...

Anti-aging,Hand,Care.,Smiling,African,Woman,Touching,Her,Soft,Body

Scientists have unveiled a fascinating discovery about the sense of touch, identifying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-body-parts-hair/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hair follicles</a> as previously unrecognized touch receptors. This breakthrough offers new insight into our sensory experience and might reshape our understanding of certain skin conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-twist-in-sensory-biology">Surprising twist in sensory biology</h2>



Researchers from <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Imperial College London</a> recently discovered that cells within <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-gray-hair-will-soon-be-a-thing-of-the-past/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hair follicles</a>, previously acknowledged solely for their role surrounding hair fiber, possess the ability to sense touch directly. This finding counters the traditional understanding that only specific nerve endings in the skin are responsible for sensing touch.



"Our findings are quite surprising," explains Dr. Claire Higgins, lead author of the study from Imperial’s Department of Bioengineering. "We're venturing into uncharted territory by discovering this unique role of hair follicle cells in processing light touch, an area traditionally reserved for specific nerve endings."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-delving-into-the-science-of-touch">Delving into the science of touch</h2>



The sense of touch has always been believed to be processed through various complex mechanisms:



<ol type="1" start="1">
<li>Sensory nerve endings in the skin: These nerve endings detect touch and relay these signals to the brain for interpretation. </li>



<li>Hair follicles: These structures, rich with nerve endings, sense the movement of hair fibers. </li>



<li>Special sensory nerves in hairy skin (C-LTMRs): These nerves process the emotional aspect or the 'feel-good' sensation associated with touch.</li>
</ol>



The new research indicates an additional, unexpected participant in this sensory experience: the hair follicles themselves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-methodology">Innovative methodology</h2>



The team's journey to this discovery involved analyzing single-cell RNA sequencing data from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-bioprinted-fully-functional-human-skin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human skin</a> and hair follicles. Astonishingly, they noticed that hair follicle cells contained a significantly higher percentage of touch-sensitive receptors compared to their counterparts in the skin.



To further investigate, the researchers established co-cultures of human hair follicle cells and sensory nerves. Upon mechanically stimulating the hair follicle cells, they observed an activation of the adjacent sensory nerves. This was a crucial indication that hair follicle cells themselves could respond to touch stimuli.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neurotransmitters-and-the-sense-of-touch">Neurotransmitters and the sense of touch</h2>



Seeking to understand the communication between hair follicle cells and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/if-you-feel-more-pain-sensitivity-than-others-blame-your-neanderthal-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensory nerves</a>, researchers employed a technique known as fast scan cyclic voltammetry. They discovered that when stimulated, hair follicle cells released two key neurotransmitters: histamine and serotonin.



"These neurotransmitters were crucial in the signalling process," Dr. Higgins notes. "When we inhibited their receptors on the sensory neurons, the neurons ceased to respond to hair follicle cell stimulation."



Additionally, interference with the synaptic vesicle production in hair follicle cells disabled these cells from signalling the sensory nerves, further confirming the integral role of these neurotransmitters.



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



In parallel experiments involving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvard-scientists-fountain-of-youth-pill-sparks-controversy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skin cells</a>, researchers found that while these cells released histamine in response to light touch, they did not release serotonin. This revelation has significant implications, especially in understanding skin conditions such as eczema traditionally linked with histamine release.



"We always presumed immune cells were the sole histamine contributors in conditions like eczema," Dr. Higgins remarks. "Identifying this new role of skin cells could be a game-changer for dermatological research."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digging-deeper-ito-the-sense-of-touch">Digging deeper ito the sense of touch</h2>



While these findings from cell cultures mark a significant step forward, replicating them in living organisms is the next critical phase. The team is also curious about exploring whether hair follicles activate specific types of sensory nerves, particularly since C-LTMRs are exclusive to hairy skin.



"We're on the brink of potentially uncovering a unique signaling mechanism," Dr. Higgins anticipates. "There's a whole new exciting path of research ahead of us."



In summary, this study not only broadens our comprehension of sensory biology but also opens up new avenues for therapeutic research, particularly concerning skin disorders. The touch, one of the fundamental senses, still holds many secrets. Studies like this are key to unlocking them.



The full study can be downloaded from <a href="https://imperialcollegelondon.box.com/s/l4ctp0bd7kuadpxzxi6yh4kyi4stjww0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Imperial College London</a>.



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Scientists discover a hidden way that humans feel and sense touch

Scientists have unveiled a fascinating discovery about the sense of...

In a study led by <a href="https://www.cornell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a>, a remotely operated underwater robot has shed new light on the circulation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-time-capsules-seawater-holds-secrets-of-ancient-earth/">seawater</a> beneath Antarctic ice shelves. 



The research reveals that crevasses, which were previously understood as mere cracks in the ice, play a significant role in influencing the stability of these ice shelves.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-icefin-robot">Icefin robot</h2>



This groundbreaking research was made possible by the innovative Icefin robot, which managed to navigate up and down a crevasse at the base of the Ross Ice Shelf.&nbsp;



The expedition produced the very first 3D measurements of oceanic conditions near the coastline's grounding zone – a critical intersection where the ice meets the mainland.



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



The robotic survey has uncovered a previously unidentified circulation pattern. Specifically, a jet was found channeling water laterally through the crevasse. This was in addition to the recognized rising and sinking currents.&nbsp;



Moreover, the survey highlighted varied ice formations which have been shaped over time by shifting flows and temperature changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invaluable-insight-nbsp">Invaluable insight&nbsp;</h2>



These discoveries will be invaluable in refining current models that predict the melting and freezing rates of ice shelves at grounding zones. Such zones, despite their significance in contributing to global sea-level rise, have rarely been directly observed.



"Crevasses move water along the coastline of an ice shelf to an extent previously unknown, and in a way models did not predict," explained Peter Washam, a polar oceanographer and research scientist at Cornell. "The ocean takes advantage of these features, and you can ventilate the ice shelf cavity through them."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grounding-zones">Grounding zones</h2>



The Icefin vehicle is a slender robot of approximately 12 feet in length. In late 2019, the team deployed Icefin into a 1,900-foot borehole that had been drilled with hot water near the juncture of Antarctica’s largest ice shelf and the Kamb Ice Stream.&nbsp;



Grounding zones like these are instrumental in maintaining the equilibrium of ice sheets. They are also the most susceptible to the influences of changing oceanic conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-ice">Evolution of ice</h2>



Matthew Meister, a senior research engineer, masterfully steered Icefin into one of five crevasses identified near the borehole during the team's third and final dive.&nbsp;



The robot, equipped with cameras, sonar, thrusters, and sensors for measuring salinity, water temperature, and pressure, managed to ascend nearly 150 feet up one side of the crevasse and descend the opposite side.



The images revealed the evolution of ice patterns as the crevasse tapered. Observations ranged from scalloped indentations transitioning into vertical runnels, to greenish marine ice and even stalactites.&nbsp;



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



The findings, according to Washam, emphasize the capacity of crevasses to transmit varying oceanic conditions, whether warmer or cooler, through the most fragile region of an ice shelf.



Funding for this monumental research came from Project RISE UP (Ross Ice Shelf and Europa Underwater Probe). The initiative falls under NASA’s Planetary Science and Technology from Analog Research program.&nbsp;



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/journal/sciadv">Science Advances</a>.



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New circulation pattern discovered beneath Antarctic ice shelves

In a study led by Cornell University, a remotely operated...

The importance of sunscreen has been emphasized by health campaigns worldwide. Its popularity is on the rise, with more people than ever relying on sunscreen to protect their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-does-skin-become-leathery-after-too-much-uv-light-from-sun-exposure/">skin</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunscreen-paradox-nbsp">Sunscreen paradox&nbsp;</h2>



However, recent findings suggest that this growing trust might be misplaced, hinting at what experts call the "sunscreen paradox." This unsettling concept suggests that the rising use of sunscreen correlates with increasing melanoma and skin cancer rates.



Dr. Ivan Litvinov, Chair of the Dermatology Division at <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGill University</a>, together with a team of researchers including Dr. Sandra Peláez, Dr. Richie Jeremian, and Dr. Pingxing Xie, have published two studies that delve into the sunscreen paradox.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-misguided-belief-nbsp">Misguided belief&nbsp;</h2>



A concerning revelation from the research is the way that sunscreen is viewed by the general public. “The problem is that people use sunscreen as a ‘permission slip’ to tan,” said Dr. Litvinov. “People think they are protected from skin cancer because they are using a product marketed to prevent a condition.”&nbsp;



Many people assume that sunscreen application offers complete protection. The result is a false sense of security, the researchers noted. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-cancer">Skin cancer</h2>



While sunscreen is essential, it is not a guaranteed way to protect yourself from skin cancer.&nbsp;



“Sunscreen is important, but it is also the least effective way to protect your skin when compared to sun protective clothing, rash guards, and sun avoidance. People can and should enjoy the outdoors, but without getting a sun burn or a suntan,” said Dr. Litvinov.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-melanoma-incidence">Melanoma incidence</h2>



In the first study, the team investigated the melanoma incidence rates in the Atlantic provinces of Canada.&nbsp;



Here, residents of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, despite being better informed about sun protection and more proactive in monitoring the UV index, showed higher melanoma incidence rates.



"Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer, with a propensity for metastasis and poor prognosis," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



Higher melanoma rates were attributed to increased sun exposure due to higher temperatures and a preference for outdoor activities.



"Within the Canadian population, several sociodemographic variables have been associated with sun exposure rates and subsequent CM development, including geographic latitude, climate, vegetation, genetic predisposition, Fitzpatrick skin phototype, socioeconomic status, occupation, and behavioral habits," explained the researchers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-discovery">Alarming discovery</h2>



The second study, focused on the UK Biobank, unearthed a startling correlation: sunscreen use is linked with more than double the risk of skin cancer development.&nbsp;



“These combined findings suggest a sunscreen paradox, whereby individuals with higher levels of sun exposure also tend to use more but not an adequate quantity of sunscreen or other sun-protection measures, providing a false sense of security,” explained Dr. Litvinov.



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



This growing body of evidence highlights a necessary shift in the global understanding and application of sun protection. We must adopt a comprehensive approach to sun safety, which includes awareness, the right sun-protective attire, and limited sun exposure.



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/cancers15194726" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cancers</a>.



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Sunscreen gives us a false sense of security

The importance of sunscreen has been emphasized by health campaigns...

Astronomers from the <a href="https://le.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leicester</a> have confirmed the existence of an infrared aurora on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-four-uranus-moons-may-have-oceans-that-are-miles-deep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uranus</a>, a phenomenon that was theorized but never proven until now. 



This discovery marks a significant leap forward in our understanding of outer planets, and opens a window to understanding the enigmatic magnetic fields of celestial bodies and the potential habitability of distant planets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-spectacle-infrared-aurora-on-uranus">Cosmic spectacle: Infrared aurora on Uranus</h2>



The team of scientists, with the support of the Science and Technology Facilities Council (<a href="https://www.ukri.org/councils/stfc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">STFC</a>), has successfully recorded the first measurements of the infrared (IR) aurora at Uranus. Aurorae have been in the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum on Uranus since 1986. 



These findings are critical for several reasons. Most importantly, they provide potential insights into the unique magnetic properties of the ice giants <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-finds-evidence-of-a-polar-cyclone-on-uranus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uranus</a> and Neptune.



Aurorae, natural light displays often visible in the Earth's polar regions, are the result of charged particles colliding with a planet's atmosphere along its magnetic field lines. On Uranus, with an atmosphere rich in hydrogen and helium, these collisions emit light outside the visible spectrum, thus requiring infrared observations for detection.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pivotal-role-of-the-keck-ii-telescope">Pivotal role of the Keck II Telescope</h2>



The researchers utilized the advanced capabilities of the <a href="https://www.keckobservatory.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Keck II telescope</a> to capture these elusive infrared auroral emissions. By analyzing specific wavelengths of light emitted from Uranus, they could examine the 'emission lines' or 'spectral barcodes' from the planet. 



These lines, particularly from a charged particle known as H3+, vary in brightness based on the temperature and density of this layer of the atmosphere, serving as a kind of cosmic thermometer.



What the team found was a distinct increase in H3+ density in Uranus's atmosphere, accompanied by negligible temperature changes -- a pattern consistent with ionization processes of an infrared aurora. 



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



According to lead author Emma Thomas, a PhD student at the University of Leicester, this research addresses one of the biggest puzzles in planetary science. The gas giants in our solar system, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-incredible-new-image-of-uranus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uranus</a>, exhibit temperatures significantly higher than what should be expected from solar warming alone.



“One theory suggests the energetic aurora is the cause of this, which generates and pushes heat from the aurora down towards the magnetic equator,” Thomas explained.



Furthermore, Thomas highlighted the importance of this research in the context of exoplanets. Many of the exoplanets discovered so far share physical characteristics with Neptune and Uranus. 



By studying the aurora and its connection to Uranus's magnetic field and atmosphere, scientists can make informed predictions about the atmospheres and magnetic fields of distant worlds, assessing their potential to support life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-insights-gained-from-the-uranus-aurora">Earth insights gained from the Uranus aurora</h2>



One of the more unexpected outcomes of this research is its implications for understanding the geomagnetic reversal on Earth. This is a rare event where the magnetic poles switch places. 



As Thomas noted, Uranus experiences a daily version of this phenomenon due to the misalignment of its rotational and magnetic axes.



“We don't have many studies on this phenomenon,” Emma elaborated, “and hence do not know what effects this will have on systems that rely on Earth's magnetic field, such as satellites, communications, and navigation.”



By continuing to study Uranus's aurora and its unique magnetic properties, researchers hope to gather data that can forecast what Earth might experience during its next pole reversal, profoundly impacting our planetary magnetic field.



In summary, the discovery of an infrared aurora on Uranus has opened a new chapter in space exploration. This study promises to unravel some of the solar system's long-standing mysteries and potentially offering clues about the habitability of planets far beyond our cosmic neighborhood.



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



Uranus, the seventh planet from the Sun, holds a special place in our solar system's family of planets. Not only does it have a unique blue-green color, but it also rotates on a tilt, earning it the nickname "the sideways planet." Scientists continually uncover the planet's secrets, enhancing our understanding of the universe.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovery-of-uranus">Discovery of Uranus</h3>



Sir William Herschel discovered Uranus on March 13, 1781, marking a significant milestone in astronomy. This discovery expanded the known boundaries of our solar system for the first time in modern history. 



Herschel initially thought he had discovered a comet, but further observations confirmed that it was, in fact, a new planet. This finding prompted astronomers to search more of the sky, eventually leading to the discovery of Neptune.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-rotation-of-uranus">Unusual rotation of Uranus</h3>



As mentioned previously in this article, Uranus rotates on its side, with an axial tilt of 98 degrees, unlike any other planet in the solar system. This extreme tilt causes the planet to experience 21-year-long seasons and unusual weather patterns. 



Astronomers believe that a massive collision with an Earth-sized object long ago could have caused this unique orientation. This event would have drastically altered Uranus's rotation, leading to its current anomalous state.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-atmosphere-and-climate-of-uranus">Atmosphere and climate of Uranus</h3>



Comprising hydrogen, helium, and methane, Uranus's atmosphere plays a critical role in the planet's distinctive color. Methane absorbs red light, reflecting the blue-green color we associate with this icy giant. Despite the planet's distance from the Sun, its atmosphere is dynamic and exhibits strong winds and large storms.



The climate on Uranus is one of the solar system's coldest, with temperatures plunging to -224 degrees Celsius. Its peculiar axial tilt also results in extreme seasonal variations, with the sun shining directly on each pole once every 84 Earth years, causing strange light patterns.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moons-and-rings-of-uranus">Moons and rings of Uranus</h3>



Surrounding Uranus is a system of 27 known moons, named after characters from the works of Shakespeare and Alexander Pope. The largest moons, Titania and Oberon, were discovered by Herschel in 1787. These moons have icy, cratered surfaces, and some exhibit signs of geological activity.



Uranus's ring system, although not as prominent as Saturn's, is a compelling feature of this planet. Discovered in 1977, these 13 faint rings consist primarily of dark, boulder-sized particles and debris, encircling Uranus in complex patterns that intrigue researchers and pose questions about their origin and the forces shaping them.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-uranus-in-the-future">Exploring Uranus in the future</h3>



While Uranus has been visited only once by a spacecraft, Voyager 2, in 1986, scientists advocate for new missions to this enigmatic planet. Future spacecraft will carry sophisticated instruments capable of penetrating the atmosphere's upper layers, studying the planet's interior structure, and possibly exploring its moons. Such missions could answer longstanding questions about the icy giant's unique features and broader implications for our understanding of the solar system.



In summary, Uranus remains one of the most mysterious planets in our celestial neighborhood. Its sideways rotation, extreme weather conditions, intricate ring system, and collection of moons offer endless areas for scientific investigation. As technological advancements propel space exploration forward, Uranus promises to be a source of fascination and discovery for many years to come.



The full study was published in the prestigious journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-023-02096-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Astronomy</a>.



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Uranus has an infrared aurora that offers clues to life on icy worlds

Astronomers from the University of Leicester have confirmed the existence...

The industrial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/echoes-of-the-past-whalings-long-term-impact-on-genetic-diversity/">whaling</a> of the 19th and 20th centuries left a lasting scar on the marine ecosystem, pushing several species towards the brink of extinction. However, even prior to this large-scale devastation, whaling's destruction had already begun.



A new study from the <a href="https://www.ntnu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian University of Science and Technology</a> shows that, despite the smaller scale of early whaling, at least two species were entirely wiped out from European waters.&nbsp;



“Whaling was widespread from a very early time. This had major consequences for species in Europe,” explained Youri van den Hurk, a former postdoctoral fellow at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) University Museum.



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



To gain deeper insight, a team of archaeologists analyzed more than 700 whale bones, dating from around 900 BCE to 1500 CE. The bones were stored in various museum collections across Europe.&nbsp;



By analyzing the proteins in these bones, the experts determined the species of the whales. The research spanned from Norway in the north to Spain in the south. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intensive-whaling-activities-nbsp">Intensive whaling activities&nbsp;</h2>



The findings shed light on intensive early whaling activities conducted by many European nations, including Scandinavia, the British Isles, Belgium, France, and Spain.



In the past, every part of a whale had significant utility. Meat, blubber, bones, and oil were transformed into products ranging from food, trinkets, corsets, and even houses. 



“Historical sources show that the earliest whalers used harpoons with buoys attached to them. This enabled them to tire the animals out before using spears and lances to kill them. However, the methods may have varied from place to place," explained van den Hurk.&nbsp;



"Sources from Norway mention that spears tipped with poison were used, or that hunters cornered whales by chasing them into fjords."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-easy-targets-nbsp">Easy targets&nbsp;</h2>



The two species most affected by early whaling were those which resided close to the shores, making them easy targets.&nbsp;



“We know little about the aims and scope of this pre-industrial whaling. However, archaeology and historical sources give us a valuable opportunity to find out more about this early whaling,” said van den Hurk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grey-whales">Grey whales</h2>



Bones of grey whales (Eschrichtius robustus) were found in abundance. “The large prevalence surprised us, because grey whale bones have not been commonly identified in such large numbers during previous studies,” said Professor James H. Barrett.



Although the grey whale disappeared from the North Atlantic by the 18th Century, it survived in regions where whaling was not predominant.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-right-whales">Right whales</h2>



Another species, the North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis), was less fortunate. Characterized by its slow speed and its habit of floating after death, it made for easy prey.&nbsp;



“The species is therefore relatively easy prey for whalers. This is probably why North Atlantic right whale bones make up most of the material we find,” said Professor Barrett.



Now, right whales are on the brink of extinction, with only 300 to 400 individuals remaining, primarily along North America's coast.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blue-whales">Blue whales</h2>



In the 20th century, an astonishing 1.3 million whales were slaughtered in Antarctica alone. Whaling declined after the 1960s due to the scarcity of whales.



Before modern whaling, approximately 300,000 blue whales could be found in Antarctica. Today, there are no more than 25,000 blue whales left in the world.&nbsp;



Whaling continued in some countries despite the 1982 ban, with Japan and Norway often justifying it under the guise of research. Norwegian whaling remains a contentious issue internationally, even though their targets, minke whales, are not endangered.



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



The past numbers of grey whales and North Atlantic right whales in Europe offer some hope for their eventual return.&nbsp;



“What I find particularly interesting and useful is that the grey whale and North Atlantic right whale were so widespread in Europe, perhaps the most common groups we had, and both were completely eradicated locally,” said van den Hurk.



With lone grey whales recently spotted again in Europe, the species could possibly make a comeback.&nbsp;



“Climate change has led to the Northwest Passage being ice-free for longer periods than previously. This makes it possible for grey whales to return to the North Atlantic," said van den Hurk.



"The Northwest Passage is the sea route between Asia and Europe, located to the north of North America. Seeing as we now know where the species used to be prevalent, we also know which areas we need to protect if the grey whale ever returns."



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Early whaling wiped out two species of whales in the eastern Atlantic

The industrial whaling of the 19th and 20th centuries left...

In a recent study of the Ngogo community in Uganda's Kibale National Park, <a href="https://www.ucla.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCLA</a> researchers have uncovered the first proof of menopause in wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chimpanzees-have-a-much-more-complex-language-than-we-thought/">chimpanzees</a>.&nbsp;



This finding is significant as it highlights that humans are not the only primates to experience a long post-fertile life stage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-menopause-observed-in-chimpanzees">Menopause observed in chimpanzees</h2>



The research team found that female chimpanzees in the Ngogo community went through a menopausal transition comparable to that of human females. The fertility of the chimpanzees waned past the age of 30 and completely ceased after age 50.&nbsp;



This discovery adds a new layer to our understanding of menopause and post-fertile survival in nature, and how such traits evolved in our species.



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



Prior to this study, signs of menopause had only been identified in a few species of toothed whales and, among primates, exclusively in humans.&nbsp;



This revelation will now aid in a more profound understanding of why menopause occurs in nature and its evolutionary trajectory in humans.



“In societies around the world, women past their childbearing years play important roles, both economically and as wise advisors and caregivers,” said study first author Professor Brian Wood. “How this life history evolved in humans is a fascinating yet challenging puzzle.”



Wood's team included Kevin Langergraber from Arizona State University, Jacob Negrey of the University of Arizona, and Ngogo Chimpanzee Project founders John Mitani and David Watts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-grandmother-hypothesis">The grandmother hypothesis</h2>



“The (study) results show that under certain ecological conditions, menopause and post-fertile survival can emerge within a social system that’s quite unlike our own and includes no grandparental support,” Wood said, referring to the grandmother hypothesis.



This theory suggests that postmenopausal survival in humans evolved because older women could increase their genetic legacy by aiding in raising their grandchildren.&nbsp;



While this has been observed in humans, the Ngogo chimpanzees present a different picture. Older female chimpanzees typically neither live near their daughters nor care for their grandchildren, yet they often outlive their reproductive years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-post-reproductive-life-spans">Post-reproductive life spans</h2>



Though other long-term studies of wild chimpanzees had not observed substantial post-reproductive life spans, such phases have been noted in captive primates provided with good nutrition and medical care.&nbsp;



One theory suggests the observed post-reproductive lifespan of the Ngogo chimpanzees could be attributed to favorable ecological conditions, including a bountiful food supply and minimal predation.&nbsp;



Another theory suggests this might be an inherent trait in chimpanzees, previously unobserved due to detrimental human impacts.



“Chimpanzees are extremely susceptible to dying from diseases that originate in humans and to which they have little natural immunity,” said Langergraber. “Chimpanzee researchers, including us at Ngogo, have learned over the years how devastating these disease outbreaks can be to chimpanzee populations, and how to reduce their chances of happening.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-research-efforts-into-chimpanzee-menopause">Research efforts into chimpanzee menopause</h2>



An immense effort went into this research. The team examined data from 1995 to 2016, involving 185 female chimpanzees. They studied hormone levels in urine samples from 66 females ranging from 14 to 67 years.&nbsp;



The hormonal analysis mirrored the signs associated with human menopause, further confirming their findings.



“This study is the result of an extraordinary amount of effort,” said Negrey. “It’s only because our team has spent decades monitoring these chimpanzees that we can be confident some females live long after they’ve stopped reproducing. We also spent thousands of hours in the forest to collect urine samples from these chimpanzees with which to study hormonal signals of menopause.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-discovering-chimpanzee-menopause">Implications of discovering chimpanzee menopause </h2>



Fertility in the chimpanzees declined after age 30, and no females gave birth after 50 - the age when Ngogo females experienced a menopausal transition. The researchers noted that, like humans, it was not unusual for these female chimpanzees to live past 50.&nbsp;



“We now know that menopause and post-fertile survival arise across a broader range of species and socio-ecological conditions than formerly appreciated, providing a solid basis for considering the roles that improved diets and lowered risks of predation would have played in human life history evolution,” said Wood.



According to the researchers, it will also be critical to track the behavior of older chimpanzees and observe how they interact with and influence other group members. “To allow such work, it is essential to support the long-term study of primates in the wild,” said Wood.



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.add5473" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



Image Credit: The Ngogo Chimpanzee Project



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Humans are not the only primates that experience menopause

In a recent study of the Ngogo community in Uganda's...

In the world of predator and prey, there a constant push and pull, where both sides continuously evolve to outwit each other. For example, bats evolved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bats-use-different-inner-ear-structures-to-navigate/">echolocation</a> abilities and some insects developed ultrasound-sensitive ears to evade them.&nbsp;



However, a recent study has brought forth questions regarding this evolutionary arms race theory between bats and insects.



The study was conducted by Professor Lasse Jakobsen, a bat expert at the <a href="https://www.sdu.dk/en">University of Southern Denmark</a>, along with researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence and the University of Toronto.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barbastelle-bats-nbsp">Barbastelle bats&nbsp;</h2>



Historically, the barbastelle bat (Barbastella barbastellus) is known to be quieter than other bats that hunt flying insects. Emitting sounds approximately 20 dB quieter means they produce a sound pressure that is 10 times lower.&nbsp;



This feature has led many to believe that the barbastelle evolved to be quieter as a retaliatory move against insects with ultrasound-sensitive ears, labeling it as the bat that "struck back."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-discovery-nbsp">Surprising discovery&nbsp;</h2>



However, upon analyzing the barbastelle's close relatives, the researchers made a surprising discovery. Most of the bat's relatives are not in the business of catching flying insects. Instead, they feed on insects resting on surfaces like leaves and branches.&nbsp;



These species, known as "gleaning bats,' are all quieter compared to those that hunt flying insects called "hawking bats." The barbastelle, despite its quiet nature, is categorized as a hawking bat.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barbastelle-ancestors">Barbastelle ancestors</h2>



"If most of the barbastelle’s family are gleaners, then their ancestor was very likely also a gleaner," said Jakobsen.



This means that it's improbable for the ancestor of the barbastelle to have been a loud hawking bat that adapted into a whispering barbastelle due to insect evolution.



"A species does not have free choice when it evolves in a new direction. For example, it is a condition for mammals that their ancestor did not have feathers, so their descendants will never evolve a wing with feathers. Instead, they have found another solution for flying: modified skin between the fingers," explained Jakobsen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-coincidence-nbsp">Evolutionary coincidence&nbsp;</h2>



So, why is the barbastelle quieter when hunting in the air? "It is not an evolved ability. It just cannot produce louder calls than it does, because as a descendant of a gleaner it is probably morphologically limited," said Jakobsen.



"But it has found a niche, where it can use its low amplitude calls. It is an evolutionary coincidence; it sort of fell into this niche, where there was something to eat."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-inherent-trait-nbsp">An inherent trait&nbsp;</h2>



Interestingly, the prey in this niche consist of flying, nocturnal insects that, despite their ultrasound-sensitive hearing, fail to detect the barbastelle, making them easy targets.



Further insights revealed that many gleaning bats emit sound from their noses, leading to their calls being 20 dB lower, while most bats call out of their mouths, allowing for louder sounds.&nbsp;



This distinction clarifies that the barbastelle's soft calls aren't a result of an evolutionary arms race, but rather an inherent trait derived from its ancestors.



"So, the reason why the barbastelles are so quiet today is not an expression of an arms race between bats and insects, but rather simply an expression of the fact that it is descended from bats that cannot call as loudly as others," said Jakobsen.



Image Credit: Sherri and Brock Fenton



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Barbastelle bats inherited a unique hunting advantage

In the world of predator and prey, there a constant...

Intermittent fasting, specifically time-restricted eating, has gained prominence as an innovative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-dietary-changes-could-offset-carbon-emissions/">dietary</a> approach. 



A recent study from the <a href="https://www.uic.edu/">University of Illinois Chicago</a> (UIC) suggests that this method may not only be safe - but also highly effective - for individuals with Type 2 diabetes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beneficial-strategy">Beneficial strategy</h2>



The research highlights the benefits of consuming meals within an eight-hour window, specifically from noon to 8 p.m., as participants adhering to this regimen experienced more weight loss over a six-month period than those who decreased their calorie intake by 25 percent.&nbsp;



This is significant given that the traditional advice for diabetics often focuses on calorie reduction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-sugar-levels">Blood sugar levels</h2>



Moreover, despite the differences in dietary methods, both sets of participants showcased similar reductions in their long-term blood sugar levels.&nbsp;



This was determined through a hemoglobin A1C test, which offers insight into blood sugar levels spanning the last three months.



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



The comprehensive study was focused on 75 participants, who were distributed into three distinct groups: time-restricted eating, calorie reduction, and a control group.&nbsp;



Over half a year, the research team meticulously measured the participants' weight, waist circumference, blood sugar levels, among other critical health indicators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-ease">Surprising ease</h2>



Study senior author Krista Varady, a professor of Kinesiology and Nutrition at UIC, said the time-restricted eating group adapted to this regimen with surprising ease.&nbsp;



By contrast, many individuals in the calorie-reducing group struggled to follow the dietary recommendations.&nbsp;



The researchers believe this is partly because patients with diabetes are generally told to cut back on calories by their doctors as a first line of defense, so many of these participants likely had already tried - and struggled with - that form of dieting.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effective-alternative-nbsp">Effective alternative&nbsp;</h2>



Notably, although the participants practicing time-restricted eating weren't specifically advised to cut calories, the defined eating window inadvertently led them to do so.



“Our study shows that time-restricted eating might be an effective alternative to traditional dieting for people who can’t do the traditional diet or are burned out on it,” said Professor Varady. “For many people trying to lose weight, counting time is easier than counting calories.”&nbsp;



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



Importantly, the six-month study did not report any adverse events. Both occurrences of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) remained consistent across the diet and control groups.



Given that an estimated 1 in 10 U.S. residents is diagnosed with diabetes - a figure projected to escalate to 1 in 3 by 2050 - the need for alternative dietary solutions is pressing.&nbsp;



While the study serves as an initial step in establishing the safety of intermittent fasting for Type 2 diabetics, Professor Varady emphasized the need for larger follow-up studies. She also noted that people with diabetes should consult their doctors before starting a time-restricted diet.&nbsp;



The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.39337">JAMA Network Open</a>.



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Tired of dieting? Time-restricted eating is a safe alternative

Intermittent fasting, specifically time-restricted eating, has gained prominence as an...

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



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.

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

[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

[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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

Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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

How the immune system responds to injury

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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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



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Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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