Fossil footprints from the ancient Carboniferous Period have caused a stir among paleontologists worldwide. These tracks suggest reptiles roamed Earth far earlier than anyone suspected. 



Researchers uncovered <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-discovery-pushes-back-reptile-evolution-by-40-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reptile</a>-like footprints in northern Victoria, Australia, and matched them to the era that started around 359 million years ago.



According to Professor John Long from <a href="https://www.flinders.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flinders University</a>, these imprints challenge the traditional view of reptile evolution.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-footprints-of-reptile-ancestors">Footprints of reptile ancestors</h2>



According to the experts, the tracks suggest that these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-reptiles-are-more-colorful-in-open-habitats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> may have appeared roughly 350 million years ago. That date pushes them back to 40 million years earlier than what was previously recorded.



One set of partial prints had distinct claw marks, hinting that these creatures were true reptiles rather than amphibians. Another set showed a smaller front foot and a larger hind foot, which is typical of land-walking vertebrates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reptile-origins-in-gondwana">Reptile origins in Gondwana</h2>



Scientists have long studied the southern supercontinent <a href="https://academic.oup.com/book/41714/chapter-abstract/353976691?redirectedFrom=fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gondwana</a>, where many early tetrapods left behind their skeletons and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reptiles-provide-new-clues-about-the-diets-of-extinct-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tracks</a>. This find in Victoria adds weight to the idea that pivotal evolutionary steps began in these territories.



At the time, Australia formed a central piece of this landmass. Warmer climates may have played a role in encouraging new adaptations among reptile forerunners.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-timeline-of-reptile-evolution">New timeline of reptile evolution</h2>



Paleontologists analyze footprints to piece together how ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-ever-marine-reptile-ichthyotitan-severnensis-discovered-by-11-year-old-girl/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> moved. A set of clawed toes can reveal whether a creature was an amphibian or a reptile.



“This pushes back the likely origin of crown-group amniotes by at least 35-40 million years,” said Professor John Long. The research highlights how vital footprints can be for revealing new timelines.



Reptiles are part of the <a href="https://ucmp.berkeley.edu/vertebrates/tetrapods/amniota.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amniote</a> group, which includes birds and mammals. The discovery of claw marks in these fossil tracks implies full independence from watery environments, which is a characteristic of reptiles.



Many scientists once assumed that amniotes emerged in the Northern Hemisphere. These footprints raise questions about when and where some of the earliest reptiles spread across ancient landscapes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-landscapes-and-animal-diversity">Shifting landscapes and animal diversity</h2>



Researchers plan to explore other parts of Victoria for more trace fossils that could fill gaps in the record. They hope future finds will clarify how these animals became adapted for dry land.



Unearthing additional trackways may add to our understanding of how reptiles branched off from amphibians. Each new print can reveal details about posture, movement, and survival tactics.



The Carboniferous Period stretched from about 359 million to 299 million years ago. It featured vast swampy forests, giant insects, and a rise in atmospheric oxygen levels.



Land masses were arranged differently than they are today. Some scientists believe shifting coastlines created niches that spurred new adaptations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitats-of-reptile-ancestors">Habitats of reptile ancestors</h2>



Some reptile ancestors likely ventured onto stable ground while others stayed near water. Traces of this transition remain scarce, so every fossil footprint matters.



Even a single impression can show scientists how early amniotes balanced their weight or held their tails. The shape, depth, and spacing can reveal clues about speed or range of motion.



A single fossil slab from Victoria has opened up this debate about reptile origins. Researchers suggest it is significant to re-check older formations in case more reptile evidence has been overlooked.



Professor Long and his team emphasize the need for more fieldwork to confirm whether reptiles appeared across multiple regions at around the same time. They believe this discovery highlights how a single trackway can reshape our ideas about early amniotes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seeking-more-reptile-footprints">Seeking more reptile footprints</h2>



Future excavations may uncover more footprints from the early stages of reptile evolution. That could bring clarity to how quickly these animals adapted to life away from water.



Technological advancements like high-resolution scans can make it easier to analyze the details of each print. Insights like these help paleontologists reconstruct entire ecosystems from a few traces left in stone.



Footprint analysis often involves laser scanning to capture 3D shapes. These scans can highlight fine ridges that point to muscle strength or toe flexibility.



Traces of skin patterns, though rare, can also indicate the texture of scales. Each layer of mud or sand holds hints about local conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-land-adaptation-of-reptiles">Early land adaptation of reptiles </h2>



Before amniotes, vertebrates such as fish and amphibians still needed water for reproduction. Over time, eggs with protective membranes evolved and these allowed animals such as reptiles to venture inland.



That transition set the stage for reptiles, birds, and mammals to diversify into countless forms. These footprints mark a link in that long chain.



Researchers compare new prints to known trackways from synapsids and early amphibians. Key distinctions include toe curvature and the presence of claws.



Synapsids, which later led to mammals, often left broader footprints with different digit spacing. Reptile-like tracks, on the other hand, typically show sharper claw impressions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-footprints-of-reptile-ancestors">Ancient footprints of reptile ancestors</h2>



These ancient footprints connect modern wildlife to ancestors that once explored muddy banks. Each imprint brings a sense of wonder about how life took shape on land.



Understanding those steps may also shed light on broader evolutionary processes. After all, reptile success paved the way for the future rise of dinosaurs and beyond.



Scientists emphasize that no single discovery stands alone. Footprints, bones, and environmental data must all be pieced together to form a coherent story.



Though incomplete, this record keeps expanding thanks to fresh finds in unexpected places. Each new track offers a glimpse into a time of rapid evolutionary change.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08884-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Reptile ancestors appeared 40 million years earlier than we thought

Fossil footprints from the ancient Carboniferous Period have caused a stir among paleontologists worldwide. These tracks suggest reptiles roamed Earth far earlier than anyone suspected. Researchers uncovered reptile-like footprints in northern Victoria, Australia, and matched them to the era that started around 359 million years ago. According to Professor John Long from Flinders University, these imprints challenge the traditional view of reptile evolution. Footprints of reptile ancestors According to the experts, the tracks suggest that these animals may have appeared roughly 350 million years ago. That date...

We show our emotions using our facial expressions as well as our body language. The way your body shakes with laughter during a comedy routine versus the restrained movements of a heartfelt reunion with a dear friend - both express joy, yet in profoundly different ways.



Understanding these subtly different layers of physical expression was the focus of a recent research project. 



The uniqueness of the study was not just its shift from facial expressions to body movements. The researchers also considered the cultural aspects of body language.



How do we account for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-find-cultural-differences-in-how-we-interpret-rhythm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cultural diversity</a> in body language? What does happiness look like for someone born and raised in Japan?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-charting-emotions-in-motion">Charting emotions in motion</h2>



Building on previous research that primarily focused on Western populations and simple, repetitive actions, this study takes a significant step forward. 



In a collaborative effort, scientists from the <a href="https://www.riec.tohoku.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Research Institute</a> of Electrical Communication at Tohoku University (Japan) and National Chung Cheng University (Taiwan) joined forces to address these challenges.



The researchers' quest led them to a motion capture lab where six professional performers expressed a range of emotions by simply moving their bodies.



Notably, the study focused on the emotional expression of Japanese people - a demographic largely overlooked in past studies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotions-conveyed-through-body-language">Emotions conveyed through body language </h2>



The researchers asked the performers to recall personal emotional experiences that made them feel everything from joy to anger, sadness, surprise, fear, disgust, and contempt. 



Their movements captured by high-tech motion capture technology were later transformed into simple, stick figure-like animations.



The team also explored imitation learning. This technique involves a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robots-can-now-learn-to-accomplish-any-task-by-watching-videos-or-observing-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robot learning</a> by mimicking the movements of a human who is performing a task. Despite its effectiveness in stable environments, imitation learning falters in new or unfamiliar situations.



Professor Mitsuhiro Hayashibe of the Graduate School of Engineering at Tohoku University provided a solution to this dilemma. 



The researchers merged imitation learning with another approach. Instead of applying deep learning to the Central Pattern Generators (CPGs), they applied it to a reflex neural network that supports the CPGs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-body-language">Decoding the body language </h2>



The study participants watched the animations and interpreted the expressed emotions. Surprisingly, their accuracy matched those found in earlier studies that used simpler action databases.



Of the various emotions displayed, the participants found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/want-to-control-anger-write-your-feelings-down-and-destroy-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anger</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-a-new-way-to-suppress-fear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fear</a> the easiest to decode, while contempt and disgust were considered challenging.



Dr. Miao Cheng, an assistant professor at Tohoku University, praised the study. He described it as a vital step forward in creating a diverse, Asian-centric dataset to bolster further research on emotional communication.



"We are extremely fortunate to have the support of a local musical company based in Sendai, SCS musical company, to fully support this endeavor from the moment performers were recruited and throughout their performances," noted Dr. Chia-huei Tseng, an associate professor at Tohoku University.



"Without the professional help provided by Mr. Jun Hirose and Mr. Kazumasa Fujita from SCS musical company, it would have been very difficult to bridge art and science properly in this study." 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-promise-of-future-research">The promise of future research</h2>



The researchers hope future studies will use this database to provide fresh insights into cultural variations in nonverbal communication. This kind of understanding could prove invaluable in developing tech communication tools that promote cross-cultural understanding. 



Industries employing motion capture techniques might also benefit from this research, including those in the fields of gaming, film, animation, and virtual reality.



Additionally, the research paves the way for advances in mental health diagnostics. The way individuals move when experiencing different emotions might offer subtle cues about their psychological state, potentially aiding in early detection of conditions such as anxiety or depression.



By incorporating motion-based emotional assessment into therapeutic practices, psychologists and neuroscientists could gain an additional layer of insight into a patient’s well-being.



Finally, the study highlights the importance of expanding the scope of psychological and neuroscientific research beyond Western perspectives. 



Much of the existing literature on body language and emotional expression is based on Western subjects, leading to potential biases in how we interpret emotions globally. 



By emphasizing culturally diverse datasets, the study contributes to a more comprehensive and inclusive understanding of human emotion, and paves the way for richer cross-cultural research.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.3758/s13428-024-02558-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Behavior Research Methods</a>.



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Body language expresses emotions across cultures

We show our emotions using our facial expressions as well...

Nitrogen was important in the evolution of life on early Earth, but its availability has been heavily debated. Although earlier hypotheses proposed that biologically available nitrogen was limited, recent studies contradict this notion.



Researchers, including scientists at <a href="https://rptu.de/en/home-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RPTU</a> University Kaiserslautern-Landau in southwestern Germany, have been studying how nitrogen affected the development and dissemination of life billions of years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nitrogen-and-the-origins-of-life">Nitrogen and the origins of life</h2>



Nitrogen is an essential element in all life. It is required for the formation of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, and for other biological compounds.



Although the Earth's atmosphere is full of nitrogen gas, it is not readily available to most living organisms. 



Some types of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-laid-the-foundation-for-early-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbes</a> can convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that are usable by other organisms - a process referred to as nitrogen fixation. But how did ancient microbes obtain nitrogen, and was it present in adequate amounts to facilitate the development of life?



This is where the research, led by RPTU researcher Michelle Gehringer, gives us some clues.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nitrogen-fixation-remained-stable-over-time">Nitrogen fixation remained stable over time</h2>



The scientists tracked nitrogen fixation stability under different environmental conditions. They used a method that detects nitrogen isotopes in two stable forms (15N and 14N) to track the process of nitrogen fixation by bacteria.



"Nitrogen gas is a mixture of the light atom 14N and the heavier atom, 15N. When modern microbes use nitrogen in their metabolism, they use these two isotopes in a certain ratio to each other. We measure this by burning nitrogen-containing biomass and collecting the nitrogen gas produced during combustion," explained Gehringer.



So&nbsp;far,&nbsp;everyone&nbsp;assumed&nbsp;that microbes&nbsp;maintained the same 15N:14N ratio in any environmental conditions, even in a carbon dioxide-dense, oxygen-free <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-ancient-breath-study-links-atmospheric-oxygen-and-mantle-chemistry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient atmosphere</a>. However, no one had ever tested this assumption.



Because metabolic rates depend on environmental conditions, the researchers theorized that nitrogen isotope ratios might be variable as well.



To test this, Gehringer and coworkers cultured cyanobacteria under conditions closely approximating those of the early Earth, with no oxygen present and lots of carbon dioxide.



"We found that the 15N:14N ratios of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cyanobacteria-may-shed-new-light-on-the-history-of-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cyanobacteria</a> remain stable. Our results therefore support the assumption that this ratio was the same throughout the Earth's history," Gehringer explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-rocks-hold-more-clues">Ancient rocks hold more clues</h2>



Following this research, Gehringer worked with Dr. Ashley Martin from Northumbria University and Dr. Eva Stüeken from the University of St Andrews. The experts set out to study nitrogen cycles in ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stromatolites-algae-found-saudi-arabia-red-sea-new-clues-earliest-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stromatolites</a> - microbial-generated sedimentary rock formations.



These rocks, dated to be approximately 2.7 billion years old, contain records of early life and offer a glimpse into Earth's distant past.



"We gained access to pristine, unweathered rock, which we ground into a fine powder and analyzed for nitrogen isotopes," said Gehringer.



The results were surprising. Unlike living stromatolites, which depend completely on cyanobacterial nitrogen fixation, the ancient samples indicated a secondary source of nitrogen - dissolved ammonium.



"And the most plausible source for this is hydrothermal activity on the sea floor," stated Gehringer.



To test this hypothesis further, the researchers also analyzed sedimentary rocks in a volcanic basin that is also around 2.7 billion years old.



These findings supported the fact that hydrothermal vent-borne ammonium was a large contributor to the nitrogen cycle at the time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-this-means-for-life-beyond-earth">What this means for life beyond Earth</h2>



Scientists have long explored the factors that shaped the spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-early-life-may-be-a-model-of-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early life on Earth</a>. However, this research challenges previous assumptions.



"Until now, it was assumed that life on the early Earth, before the atmosphere was enriched with oxygen, was limited by a lack of biologically available nitrogen," said Gehringer.



"With the help of hydrothermal vents, nitrogen did not limit the spread of life on early Earth. Rather, life was able to flourish in both deep and shallow-water marine environments."



This finding has broad implications - both for what it reveals about the history of our own planet and for whether life can or might exist elsewhere.



"Hydrothermal activity has been documented on Mars and probably also takes place on the icy moons in the outer solar system." 



If the same sources of nitrogen are present outside Earth, the conditions that nourished microbial life here may also exist elsewhere in the universe.



Ongoing research not only fills gaps in Earth's history but also expands our understanding of where life might exist beyond our planet.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-57091-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Nitrogen was plentiful for early life on Earth

Nitrogen was important in the evolution of life on early...

In 1982, the Syrian government laid siege to the city of Hama, an attack that resulted in horrific violence and the deaths of tens of thousands of people and left deep, genetic trauma scars on the lives of survivors. 



Decades later, as the country erupted into civil war, the memory of that massacre fueled the resistance against the ruling Assad family.



But beyond its political and social repercussions, the violence may have left a lasting impact in an unexpected place: the DNA of future generations.



Scientists from the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Florida</a> have found that the grandchildren of women who were pregnant during the Hama siege show genetic marks of that traumatic event - even though they never lived through it themselves.



Passed down through their mothers, these genetic imprints provide some of the first evidence that stress from violence in humans can leave biological signatures that persist across generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-violence-and-genetic-trauma">Violence and genetic trauma</h2>



“The idea that trauma and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-violence-may-rewire-teenage-brains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">violence</a> can have repercussions into future generations should help people be more empathetic, help policymakers pay more attention to the problem of violence,” said Connie Mulligan, Ph.D., professor of Anthropology at the University of Florida and senior author of the new study.



“It could even help explain some of the seemingly unbreakable intergenerational cycles of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/verbal-abuse-can-be-as-harmful-to-children-as-physical-abuse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">abuse</a> and poverty and trauma that we see around the world, including in the U.S.”



Scientists have long known that while life experiences don’t change our genetic code, they can influence how genes function. This process, known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epigenetic-dna-clocks-predict-biological-age-more-accurately/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">epigenetics</a>, allows our cells to modify genes by adding small chemical markers. 



These changes can affect how genes are expressed, often as an adaptive response to stress or environmental factors. Until now, this phenomenon had only been observed in animals.



Mulligan and her team set out to explore whether the same thing could happen in humans. They focused on families who had lived through different waves of violence in Syria, and analyzed three generations of Syrian immigrants in Jordan.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-trauma-across-generations">Tracing trauma across generations</h2>



To conduct the study, Mulligan collaborated with Rana Dajani, Ph.D., a molecular biologist at Hashemite University in Jordan, and anthropologist Catherine Panter-Brick, Ph.D., of Yale University. 



The team examined Syrian families with different experiences of violence. Some had survived the Hama massacre before fleeing to Jordan. 



Others had endured the more recent Syrian civil war. A third group had left Syria before 1980, providing a crucial control group that had not been exposed to war.



Dajani, who is the daughter of refugees herself, worked closely with the Syrian immigrant community to gain their trust. 



The team collected cheek swabs from 138 people across 48 families, spanning three generations. 



“The families want their story told. They want their experiences heard,” Mulligan shared. “I think we worked with every single family who was eligible to participate in the study.”



Back in Florida, Mulligan’s lab analyzed the DNA samples to look for epigenetic markers that might be associated with exposure to violence.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-footprint-of-violence">Genetic footprint of violence</h2>



The researchers discovered that grandchildren of Hama survivors carried 14 specific genetic modifications that were not found in families who had not experienced the massacre. 



These changes suggest that exposure to extreme <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-eats-away-our-brains-cognitive-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> can trigger biological responses that persist for generations.



The study also found 21 genetic modifications in people who had directly lived through violence in Syria. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/violence-war-exposure_epigenetics_generational-harm_credit-Mulligan_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/violence-war-exposure_epigenetics_generational-harm_credit-Mulligan_1s.webp" alt="The study design allowing comparison of violence exposure and epigenetic marks in genomes. Credit: Connie Mulligan" class="wp-image-1961441"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The study design allowing comparison of violence exposure and epigenetic marks in genomes. Credit: Connie Mulligan</figcaption></figure>



Another key finding was that individuals exposed to violence while still in their mothers’ wombs showed signs of accelerated epigenetic aging. This kind of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/random-dna-mutations-shape-biological-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biological aging</a> may increase susceptibility to age-related diseases.



Most of these epigenetic changes followed a similar pattern, reinforcing the idea that trauma leaves a genetic signature. 



“We think our work is relevant to many forms of violence, not just refugees. Domestic violence, sexual violence, gun violence: all the different kinds of violence we have in the U.S.,” Mulligan said. 



“We should study it. We should take it more seriously.”



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



It’s still unclear what these epigenetic changes mean for the long-term health of the individuals carrying them. 



Some studies suggest that stress-induced genetic modifications may be linked to conditions like diabetes or obesity. 



One well-known study on Dutch famine survivors from World War II found that their children carried epigenetic changes associated with increased body weight.



Though more research is needed, these findings could help scientists understand how trauma shapes not just individuals but entire family lineages. 



It could also inform policies and interventions aimed at breaking cycles of violence and trauma.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-strength-of-survivors">The strength of survivors</h2>



While the research highlights the biological scars of war, it also reveals something just as powerful - the resilience of the families who lived through it.



Despite carrying these genetic imprints, they continue to build new lives, raise families, and preserve their culture.



“In the midst of all this violence we can still celebrate their extraordinary resilience. They are living fulfilling, productive lives, having kids, carrying on traditions. They have persevered,” Mulligan said. “That resilience and perseverance is quite possibly a uniquely human trait.”



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-89818-z">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Exposure to violence alters human genetics for future generations

In 1982, the Syrian government laid siege to the city...

Obesity is not just a health issue anymore; it's a crisis in waiting, with recent data showing that one in six children and adolescents worldwide could face obesity by 2050. 



A recent study published in The Lancet warns of a dramatic rise in childhood and adolescent obesity over the next 25 years.



The projections equate to 356 million children aged 5-14 years and 390 million aged 15-24 years living with obesity by mid-century.



The research, conducted by experts from the <a href="https://www.mcri.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Murdoch Children’s Research Institute</a> (MCRI), highlights the urgency of addressing this growing public health challenge before it spirals further out of control.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-childhood-obesity-rates">Rising childhood obesity rates</h2>



The situation has worsened over the last three decades. Global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-rates-spiked-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity rates</a> among children and adolescents aged 5-24 years have tripled since 1990.



Despite numerous attempts to curb this trend, there was a 244 percent rise in childhood obesity rates by 2021, reaching a staggering 174 million.



The harsh reality is that previous strategies to combat obesity may have failed an entire generation.



Jessica Kerr, a researcher from MCRI, expressed concern about the dire future awaiting our youth if no immediate action plans are devised.



"Children and adolescents remain a vulnerable population within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/americas-tide-of-obesity-is-rising-with-75-already-impacted/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity epidemic</a>,” said Kerr.



The situation becomes more critical when children cross into adolescence, as obesity is much harder to reverse beyond this age.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-risks-and-economic-burdens">Health risks and economic burdens</h2>



The implications of rising obesity rates extend beyond health to massive economic consequences.



“This giant burden will not only cost the health system and the economy billions, but complications associated with a high body mass index (BMI) - including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-diabetes-rate-has-doubled-reaching-over-800-million/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diabetes</a>, cancer, heart problems, breathing issues, fertility problems and mental health challenge - will negatively impact our children and adolescents now and into the future," said Kerr.



She noted that the burden even holds the potential to impact our grandchildren’s risk of obesity and quality of life for decades to come.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-australia-s-alarming-obesity-trend">Australia’s alarming obesity trend</h2>



Australia has seen one of the fastest transitions to obesity among children and adolescents worldwide. Girls are already more likely to be obese than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/being-overweight-makes-it-harder-for-brain-to-resist-unhealthy-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overweight</a>.



By mid-century in Australia, an estimated 2.2 million people between 5 and 24 years old could be obese, while 1.6 million could be overweight.



Kerr warned that without a reform in policy, the transition to obesity will accelerate, particularly in regions like north Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and the Caribbean. These regions are already grappling with high population numbers and limited resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prevention-of-childhood-obesity">Prevention of childhood obesity</h2>



The specific countries that will bear the brunt of the obesity crisis include the United Arab Emirates, Cook Islands, Nauru, Tonga, China, Egypt, India, and the United States.



Amidst this grim projection, there is a glimmer of hope. The research also indicates that there's a chance to avoid this outcome if action begins before the year 2030.



What is needed is a significant shift in focus. National surveys monitoring obesity in children and adolescents should become a priority in all countries.



Kerr noted that adolescent girls entering their reproductive years should be a key demographic for intervention to prevent intergenerational transmission of obesity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interventions-and-societal-changes">Interventions and societal changes</h2>



Professor Susan Sawyer of MCRI urges governments to invest in strategies that address various obesity drivers, including nutrition, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fitness-focused-medicine-physical-activity-reduces-chronic-disease-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical activity</a>, lifestyle, and the built environment.



It is crucial for governments to regulate interventions such as banning junk food ads that target young individuals, taxing sugary beverages, and funding healthy meals in schools. Urban planning also needs a revamp to promote more active lifestyles.



While individuals and families can strive to balance their physical activity, diet, and sleep, the environment around us often works against these efforts. 



“Given this huge global shift in children’s and adolescents’ weight, we can no longer keep blaming people for their choices," said Professor Sawyer. It is now up to governments to take action and promote an environment that supports healthier lifestyle choices.



The research, which was released on World Obesity Day, utilized data from the 2021 Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(25)00397-6/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Lancet</a>.



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Global childhood obesity rate is expected to soar by 2050

Obesity is not just a health issue anymore; it's a...

The ocean is a vast and interconnected expanse that sustains life, regulates our climate, and provides refuge for diverse marine species. But beneath the surface, marine heatwaves are intensifying, signaling a growing crisis.



Marine heatwaves used to be rare and short-lived, but now they happen more often and last longer. 



Scientists from the <a href="https://www.mba.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Biological Association</a> of the United Kingdom and other top universities around the world are warning that this is a serious problem. Rising ocean temperatures are putting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-broke-records-for-450-straight-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a> and entire ecosystems at risk.



The experts emphasize that rising ocean temperatures are dangerous for sea life, disrupt weather, and hurt coastal communities - and the problem is getting worse.



The question now is, are we equipped to alter the ocean's course before its too late?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-marine-heatwaves">Rising marine heatwaves</h2>



For years, warnings about steadily rising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-warming-broke-records-for-450-straight-days/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean temperatures</a> have been reported by researchers, environmentalist groups, and media outlets globally. 



Initially, this appeared to be an occasional rise in warmth, a localized anomaly. Now, however, the statistical evidence tells a different tale.



Between 2023 and 2024, the frequency of marine heatwaves escalated to 240% above previous records, an alarmingly steep increase. These prolonged heatwaves pose a substantial hurdle for ecosystems to bounce back.



Coral reefs bleach, kelp forests vanish, and food chains break down. This phenomenon is not just about current changes, but also about the irreversible damage that these events leave behind.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ripple-effects-from-ocean-to-land">Ripple effects: From ocean to land</h2>



Warmer oceans do not confine their effects to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-global-heat-in-january-2025-defied-climate-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine environment</a>. The heat triggers storms of increasing intensity - as seen in Cyclone Gabrielle that hit New Zealand in 2023, claiming 11 lives. This example serves as a harsh reminder of how warmer waters fuel severe weather events.



Furthermore, beneath the surface, marine life grapples with their struggles. Several marine animals like whales and dolphins are forced to venture nearer to the shore in search of food, risking themselves to stranding. 



On the other hand, certain species like mussels held hostage in overheated waters, find themselves dying in millions, leading to the collapse of entire food webs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-struggle-of-the-coral-reefs">Struggle of the coral reefs</h2>



Coral reefs, the vibrant underwater cities, are among the ecosystems that bear the brunt of marine heatwaves. 



White, bleached corals aren't just aesthetically jarring, but also signal the death of corals. With the loss of corals, entire marine communities break down, causing biodiversity to take a nosedive.



Scientific observations have seen coral reefs' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-draining-nutrients-from-the-oceans-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distress</a> before, but never at this scale. Once a reef collapses, its recovery can take decades - if rebounding is even possible. Each heatwave leaves behind a decimated reef, with little time for recovery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tackling-marine-heatwaves">Tackling marine heatwaves</h2>



Conservation groups are tirelessly working to protect endangered species, restore damaged reefs, and establish marine sanctuaries. 



However, these efforts only address the symptoms, not the cause. The actual issue arises from the atmosphere, which traps heat due to the increasing greenhouse gas emissions.



The theoretical solution, to cut emissions and slow the warming allowing the ocean to recover, is simple. However, implementing it is a daunting task.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-severe-economic-consequences">Severe economic consequences </h2>



Surging sea temperatures have severe financial consequences aside from the ecological damage. Coastal communities, particularly those dependent on fishing and tourism, are experiencing the impact. 



Warmer waters disrupt fish populations, forcing commercial fisheries into a crisis. Additionally, coral reef tourism is dwindling as vibrant reefs turn into lifeless graveyards.



Stronger storms and frequent flooding are damaging buildings, roads, and other structures along coastlines. As a result, insurance costs are rising, and in some places, homes and businesses can no longer be insured. 



If we ignore marine heatwaves now, fixing the damage later will cost even more.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-our-oceans">The future of our oceans </h2>



Though government policies and corporate changes are primary drivers in reducing emissions, individual contributions are equally powerful. 



Consciously reducing energy usage, endorsing sustainable seafood, voicing out for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mapping-marine-heatwaves-to-understand-their-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate action</a> collectively contribute towards making a difference.



The future of our oceans hangs in the balance. The choices we make today will decide whether marine ecosystems disintegrate or flourish.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-025-02269-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a>.&nbsp; 



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Scientists warn of an alarming rise in marine heatwaves

The ocean is a vast and interconnected expanse that sustains...

Water is a fundamental element of life as we know it. Its presence on Earth and other celestial bodies has long intrigued scientists. Until now, researchers believed water formed relatively late in the universe’s history. 



However, new findings suggest that water may have appeared far earlier than previously thought.



A study published in Nature Astronomy proposes that water may have first emerged 100–200 million years after the Big Bang. This discovery challenges long-held assumptions and opens new possibilities about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-arrived-on-earth-gradually-not-in-one-big-event/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">origins of water</a> in space. 



If water existed at such an early stage, it could have played a crucial role in shaping the first galaxies and planets.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origins-of-water-s-components-in-universe">Origins of water’s components in universe</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-fueling-a-global-water-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Water</a> is made of two elements - hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen was one of the first elements to exist. Right after the&nbsp;Big Bang, hydrogen, along with helium and lithium, filled the universe. These light elements helped form the first stars and galaxies.



Oxygen, however,&nbsp;did not exist from the beginning. It was created&nbsp;much later&nbsp;inside massive stars. When these stars exploded in&nbsp;supernovae, they spread oxygen and other heavy elements into space. This process made it possible for new chemicals, including&nbsp;water, to form.



Scientists have long debated&nbsp;when water first appeared&nbsp;because its two ingredients - hydrogen and oxygen - came from different sources.&nbsp;Hydrogen was always available, but oxygen had to be made inside stars first.&nbsp;This made it unclear how early water could have formed in the universe.



A study conducted by Daniel Whalen and his team from <a href="https://www.port.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Portsmouth University</a> sheds light on this mystery by simulating the conditions following supernova explosions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birth-of-water">Birth of water</h2>



Whalen and his colleagues used computer models to study two supernovae. The first simulation focused on a star 13 times the mass of the sun, while the second analyzed a much larger star, 200 times the sun’s mass. 



These models allowed researchers to observe how elements formed and mixed after these cataclysmic events.



The results showed that the smaller supernova produced 0.051 solar masses of oxygen, while the larger one generated 55 solar masses of oxygen. 



The findings suggest that even the earliest generations of stars could have created significant amounts of oxygen, making water formation possible much earlier than previously assumed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-water-formed-in-the-aftermath">How water Formed in the aftermath</h2>



The study revealed that the oxygen released after supernova explosions mixed with hydrogen that was already present in space.



As this mixture cooled down, water molecules started to form. The water collected in dense clouds of gas and dust, which later became the birthplaces of new stars and planets.



In the first simulation, a small amount of water formed within 30 to 90 million years after the explosion. This water was between one hundred millionth to one millionth of the sun’s mass.



In the second simulation, water formed much faster. Within just 3 million years, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-cycles-through-plants-with-unexpected-speed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amount of water</a> reached about 0.001 times the sun’s mass. The results suggest that water may have existed in space much earlier than scientists had previously thought.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survival-of-water-in-the-young-universe">Survival of water in the young universe</h2>



One major question remains - did this early water persist, or was it destroyed in the process of galaxy formation? The formation of the first galaxies was likely a turbulent event, with extreme radiation and gravitational forces at play.



However, if water could withstand these conditions, it might have been incorporated into forming planets billions of years ago.



This raises the possibility that water has been present in planetary systems since the earliest stages of cosmic history. The implications are profound, suggesting that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wave-ripples-discovered-mars-surface-indicate-liquid-water-present-4-billion-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ingredients for life</a> may have existed long before Earth and other known planets took shape.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-water-in-space">New perspective on water in space</h2>



The research challenges the traditional timeline of water’s formation in the universe. Scientists now have evidence that water may have appeared much earlier than expected, changing the way we understand the chemical evolution of space.



If water was present before the first galaxies fully formed, it could mean that many ancient planetary systems had access to it. This opens up new questions about the conditions necessary for life beyond Earth and whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-water-day-a-focus-on-prosperity-and-peace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">similar processes</a> occurred in other parts of the universe.



Studying water’s history in space helps us learn how life began. This research moves us closer to understanding the universe’s past and the chances of life beyond Earth.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-025-02479-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Astronomy</a>.



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Water may have existed in the universe far earlier than we thought

Water is a fundamental element of life as we know...

Slight changes in pitch, also called prosody, shape meaning in everyday conversation. New research suggests that even the smallest tonal variations, such as a speaker’s emphasis or intent, can significantly guide the listeners’ understanding of language.



In a multidisciplinary effort involving researchers from multiple institutions, scientists found that a specific part of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-speech-speed-can-signal-brain-health/">brain</a>, known as Heschl’s gyrus, is responsible not only for basic sound processing but also for interpreting these subtle pitch shifts as meaningful information.&nbsp;



The study reveals that this region doesn’t just process sounds, but rather transforms subtle changes in pitch - known as prosody - into meaningful linguistic information which structures how humans understand emphasis, intent, and focus in conversations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-assumptions-about-speech-processing">Assumptions about speech processing</h2>



For decades, it was generally believed that prosody was mainly handled by the superior temporal gyrus, a brain region long associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-human-speech-changes-when-we-talk-to-dogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">speech</a> perception. 



According to co-principal investigator Bharath Chandrasekaran, a scientist at <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a>, these results “redefine our understanding of the architecture of speech perception.” 



“We’ve spent a few decades researching the nuances of how speech is abstracted in the brain, but this is the first study to investigate how subtle variations in pitch that also communicate meaning are processed in the brain,” Chandrasekaran said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-speech-processing-and-brain-activity">Speech processing and brain activity</h2>



At the heart of this discovery was a group of 11 adolescent patients undergoing neurosurgery for severe epilepsy, each with electrodes implanted deep in a crucial language-processing region of the cortex.&nbsp;



Taylor Abel is the chief of pediatric neurosurgery at the <a href="https://www.medschool.pitt.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine</a>. 



“Typically, communication and linguistics research rely on non-invasive recordings from the surface of the skin, which makes it accessible but not very precise,” said Abel.&nbsp;



“A collaboration between neurosurgeon-scientists and neuroscientists, like ours, allowed us to collect high-quality recordings of brain activity that would not have been possible otherwise, and learn about the mechanisms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-the-brain-process-experiences-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain processing</a> in a completely new way.”



These implanted electrodes offered a rare, direct look at neural responses to subtle pitch changes in speech. To explore how the brain interprets the “melody” of speech, participants listened to an audiobook recording of Alice in Wonderland.&nbsp;



During these sessions, scientists recorded brain activity from different regions in real time, providing detailed data on how auditory information was processed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-encoding-of-speech-melody">Early encoding of speech melody</h2>



Using this intracerebral monitoring, the researchers discovered that Heschl’s gyrus encoded changes in pitch - prosodic cues - as linguistic units, distinct from the raw acoustic signals that make up words.&nbsp;



Study co-first author G. Nike Gnanataja is a professor at <a href="https://csd.wisc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Wisconsin-Madison's Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders</a>. 



“Our study challenges the long-standing assumptions how and where the brain picks up on the natural melody in speech - those subtle pitch changes that help convey meaning and intent,” said Gnanataja.



“Even though these pitch patterns vary each time we speak, our brains create stable representations to understand them.”



By seeing how quickly these prosodic patterns registered in Heschl’s gyrus, the team realized that the process happens earlier than once assumed.&nbsp;



Rather than being filtered extensively in higher-level brain areas, the natural rise and fall of speech gets broken down into meaningful contours at an earlier stage in the auditory pathway.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-acoustic-signals-and-speech-processing">Acoustic signals and speech processing </h2>



A related line of research compared non-human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-early-primates-lived-in-pairs-and-were-not-solitary-creatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a>’ ability to process the same acoustic signals. 



While these animals could detect the sounds themselves, they did not seem to abstract any linguistic or meaning-laden information from those pitch changes. This contrast highlights a uniquely human capacity to transform tiny shifts in tone into communicative signals.



By revealing this hidden layer of speech, the experts discovered how the brain processes pitch accents, which has profound implications for various fields.&nbsp;



According to the researchers, this work could lead to novel rehabilitation methods for speech and language disorders. For instance, early detection and tailored interventions might help individuals with conditions such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-with-autism-benefit-from-learning-multiple-languages/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">autism</a> or those recovering from strokes reestablish more effective communication strategies.



“Our findings could transform speech rehabilitation, AI-powered voice assistants, and our understanding of what makes human communication unique,” Chandrasekaran said.&nbsp;



Improved knowledge of prosody might enable voice-recognition systems to better interpret user intent and emotional tone, bringing us closer to natural language processing that mirrors how people actually speak.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-hallmark-of-human-language-nbsp">A hallmark of human language&nbsp;</h2>



The discovery also underlines the significant role played by linguistic experience. Because non-human primates cannot form abstract categories from pitch accents, scientists now have new evidence that our ability to interpret and manipulate prosodic cues represents a hallmark of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-generated-birdsongs-may-shed-new-light-on-human-language/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human language</a>.



As research continues to uncover how these vocal subtleties are perceived and encoded in the brain, fields ranging from neurolinguistics to artificial intelligence will likely reap the benefits.&nbsp;



By demonstrating that Heschl’s gyrus takes on advanced speech-interpretation tasks much earlier than once believed, this study encourages a reevaluation of the traditional hierarchy of speech processing - and highlights the complexity behind the timeless adage, “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.”



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-56779-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Speech processing in the brain goes beyond words

Slight changes in pitch, also called prosody, shape meaning in...

Imagine the agility of a mountain goat as it effortlessly scales near-vertical terrains, the protective instinct of an armadillo as it rolls into a ball, or the adaptability of creatures that can traverse any environment thrown their way.



Now, envision these extraordinary traits fused into a single robotic system, designed to conquer the most challenging landscapes with ease.



A team of researchers, led by Josie Hughes at the CREATE Lab in <a href="https://sti.epfl.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EPFL’s School of Engineering</a>, has created a unique new robot that redefines mobility and adaptability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-birth-of-goat">The birth of GOAT</h2>



The experts set out to engineer a robotic device with the adaptability of creatures in the animal kingdom. They aimed to push the boundaries of robotic mobility by designing a machine that could transition seamlessly between different environments with minimal effort.



The goal was to develop a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/anymal-the-quadrupedal-robot-that-has-mastered-parkour/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robot capable of navigating diverse terrains</a> by dynamically changing its form as needed, just like nature’s most versatile animals.



After much research and development, the researchers developed GOAT - Good Over All Terrains - a promising new development in robotic locomotion and control.



This robust machine is capable of morphing between a flat, "rover" shape and a sphere. This flexibility allows the robot to switch between modes of mobility such as driving, rolling, and even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-invent-robot-that-can-swim-under-sand-like-sea-turtle-hatchlings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">swimming</a>. The new development combines clever design with a surprising amount of energy efficiency.



“While most robots compute the shortest path from A to B, GOAT considers the travel modality as well as the path to be taken," said Hughes.



"For example, instead of going around an obstacle like a stream, GOAT can swim straight through. If its path is hilly, it can passively roll downhill as a sphere to save both time and energy, and then actively drive as a rover when rolling is no longer beneficial.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-key-to-goat-s-success">The key to GOAT's success</h2>



The team at the CREATE Lab developed a design that thrives in unpredictable environments.



The researchers drew inspiration from some of nature’s most agile and resilient creatures - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-kangaroos-of-the-past-didnt-hop-they-walked-on-all-fours/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kangaroos</a>, with their powerful leaps, spiders with their precise locomotion, octopuses with their fluid adaptability, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cockroaches-can-be-turned-into-cyborgs-for-life-saving-missions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cockroaches</a> with their near-indestructible resilience.



This bio-inspired compliance allows GOAT to adjust its structural properties seamlessly, shifting from a flexible and maneuverable "rover" mode to a robust, impact-resistant sphere when necessary.



Constructed of low-cost materials, GOAT's simple frame is made up of two intersecting, elastic, fiberglass rods, and four motorized, rimless wheels.



The robot's transformation is made possible by two winch-driven cables that shorten like tendons to draw it tightly into a ball. This protects the onboard computer, sensors, and battery in its core - much like a hedgehog protects its underbelly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-via-the-path-of-least-resistance">Navigating via the path of least resistance</h2>



Compliance is not just about physical adaptability; it’s also about navigation. Max Polzin, a PhD student at the CREATE Lab, noted that GOAT’s compliance allows it to navigate effectively with minimum sensing equipment.



Lacking cameras, the robot relies solely on a satellite navigation system and an inertial measurement unit to measure its orientation.



“Most robots that navigate extreme terrain have lots of sensors to determine the state of each motor but, thanks to its ability to leverage its own compliance, GOAT doesn’t need complex sensing," said Polzin. 



"It can leverage the environment, even with very limited knowledge of it, to find the best path: the path of least resistance."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-morphing-robots">The future of morphing robots</h2>



Future research will explore advanced algorithms to better exploit the unique capabilities of morphing, compliant robots like GOAT. The potential applications vary from environmental monitoring to disaster response and even extraterrestrial exploration.



“Robots like GOAT could be deployed quickly into uncharted terrain, with minimal perception and planning systems, allowing them to turn environmental challenges into computational assets," said Hughes. 



"By harnessing a combination of active reconfiguration and passive adaptation, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robots-with-space-to-think-will-become-more-useful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">next generation of compliant robots</a> might even surpass nature’s versatility."



With continued advances in materials science, AI-driven decision-making, and energy-efficient actuation, these robots could become indispensable tools for navigating environments that are too hazardous or unpredictable for traditional machines.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scirobotics.adp6419" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Robotics</a>.



Image Credit: © CREATE EPFL 



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GOAT: The shape-shifting robot that masters any terrain

Imagine the agility of a mountain goat as it effortlessly...

Caribou conservation&nbsp;has always been a challenge, along with protecting other endangered species. Conservationists typically focus on genetic diversity and habitat protection, but a new study suggests a more detailed approach. 



Researchers at the University of Calgary have proposed a new way to identify at-risk wildlife populations.



Their method focuses on individual movement patterns rather than broad <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-2025-a-global-call-to-protect-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">population trends</a>. Caribou, a species facing serious environmental threats, is the focus of this study.



A recent paper in Biological Conservation presents findings from long-term GPS tracking of caribou across Western Canada. The study identifies six behavioral groups, each requiring unique conservation efforts.



“We took the approach of using behavior to try to see if there are differences between individuals and groups that can be clustered into similarities,” said lead author Margaret Hughes, a PhD candidate in the Department of Biological Sciences.



By analyzing movement, the researchers inferred why caribou travel to certain locations. They examined migration patterns, habitat size, and elevation changes to determine behavioral differences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-caribou-conservation-beyond-genetics">Caribou conservation beyond genetics</h2>



Conservation efforts often rely on genetic data to define at-risk caribou populations. However, Hughes argues for a broader approach that incorporates behavioral insights.



“It allows conservation managers to recognize ecologically meaningful variation within species, helping to maintain biodiversity and improve management strategies,” noted Hughes.



This method challenges traditional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-era-in-wildlife-conservation-how-ai-will-help-protect-elephants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife management</a>. It provides a more detailed understanding of how caribou interact with their environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-human-activity">Impact of human activity</h2>



Caribou, known as reindeer in Europe, belong to the deer family. Their survival is threatened by habitat destruction from industries like oil, gas, and forestry. Climate change adds further pressure.



“The species is iconic,” said Dr. Marco Musiani, a professor at the <a href="https://www.unibo.it/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bologna</a> and an adjunct professor at <a href="https://www.ucalgary.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCalgary</a>. “It is the most famous species affected by oil and gas and forestry in Canada and also climate change, and one of the most sensitive worldwide.”



Musiani supervised Hughes’ research and believes this science could have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodiversity-leaks-conservation-efforts-may-shift-harm-elsewhere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wide-reaching effects</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-strategies-for-caribou-conservation">New strategies for caribou conservation</h2>



The study suggests that this approach could guide conservation beyond caribou.



“Our findings provide a framework that can be applied beyond caribou to other species at risk, helping to guide habitat protection, restoration, and even translocation strategies - areas that are currently the focus of significant investments,” explained Hughes.



She noted that the tracking data could be used to design protected ecological corridors and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> areas. This could help safeguard wildlife movement across landscapes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-technology">The role of technology </h2>



Technological advancements have made it easier to study wildlife behavior in real-time. 



The GPS collars used in this research provided highly detailed movement data over several years. These tools allow scientists to track animals across large regions, revealing patterns that were previously difficult to detect.



Drones, satellite imaging, and remote sensing can complement GPS tracking. By combining these technologies, researchers can assess changes in habitat conditions, monitor threats, and refine conservation efforts. This approach moves beyond traditional field studies, offering more precise and actionable data.



Understanding movement patterns with this level of accuracy can help conservationists predict how wildlife will respond to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-bonobo-day-a-celebration-of-love-peace-and-conservation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental changes</a>. 



This knowledge is crucial in developing&nbsp;caribou conservation&nbsp;strategies that can withstand future threats, including climate shifts and human expansion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-protecting-ecosystems">Importance of protecting ecosystems</h2>



Caribou do not exist in isolation. Their survival depends on the health of entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-conservation-day-2024-saving-species-from-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a>. Boreal forests and alpine environments provide the food and shelter they need, but these habitats are increasingly at risk. 



Deforestation, resource extraction, and infrastructure development continue to fragment caribou ranges, making it harder for them to migrate and find suitable conditions.



Protecting ecosystems benefits not just caribou but also other species that share the same habitats. Wolves, bears, and smaller mammals rely on similar landscapes. By safeguarding large areas of intact wilderness, conservationists can preserve biodiversity on a much larger scale.



This research shows that conservation should protect both animals and their habitats. A broad approach helps future generations enjoy nature’s beauty.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-collaborative-effort">A collaborative effort</h2>



The research involved multiple institutions, including the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Faculty of Science. 



Researchers from the University of Bologna, the British Columbia <a href="https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/organizational-structure/ministries-organizations/ministries/water-land-and-resource-stewardship" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship</a>, and the Canadian Wildlife Service also contributed.



The study covered vast regions of the Rocky Mountains and the boreal forests of Western Canada.



Hughes emphasized the role of First Nations communities in making this research possible.



“We acknowledge that this work took place throughout British Columbia, on the traditional territories of the First Nations where caribou currently exist,” said Hughes.



This collaborative approach highlights the importance of integrating science with Indigenous knowledge to support&nbsp;caribou conservation&nbsp;and protect at-risk species.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320724004956?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological Conservation</a>.



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Tracking caribou movement patterns can transform conservation

Caribou conservation&nbsp;has always been a challenge, along with protecting other...

Two U.S. spacecraft launched from Florida’s Cape Canaveral on February 27, 2025, with a major goal. They aim to explore the presence of lunar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-are-searching-for-viable-sources-of-water-on-the-moon/">water</a> near the Moon’s south pole.



Experts believe this resource could pave the way for extended missions and long-term stays on the lunar surface. 



These efforts are supported by new research from <a href="https://www.jhuapl.edu/about/people/parvathy-prem" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Parvathy Prem</a>, a planetary scientist at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland. She is not affiliated with either mission.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-at-the-moon-s-south-pole">Water at the Moon's south pole</h2>



<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/missions/lunar-trailblazer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lunar Trailblazer</a> is designed to chart the distribution of water across wide expanses. This orbiter follows a slower trajectory and should begin mapping in a few months.



Researchers will analyze its data for detailed insights on chemical composition and surface temperature. These observations might identify the best spots for future landings.



Some scientists believe the&nbsp;lunar south pole&nbsp;contains&nbsp;hidden ice deposits&nbsp;buried in craters that have never seen sunlight. These regions remain&nbsp;extremely cold, preserving water in frozen form for&nbsp;millions of years. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-commercial-lander-s-second-try">The commercial lander’s second try</h2>



<a href="https://www.intuitivemachines.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intuitive Machines</a>, based in Houston, Texas, has sent a lander named <a href="https://www.intuitivemachines.com/im-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Athena</a> to the Moon’s south polar region. This is the company’s second attempt after an earlier spacecraft tipped on landing last year.



It is scheduled to arrive on March 6, aiming to land closer to the Moon’s south pole than any previous mission. NASA’s <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/images/pia23874-trident-exploring-the-mysteries-of-triton/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TRIDENT</a> drill will then dig up to three feet deep to extract material from beneath the surface.



“This ability to drill and analyze simultaneously provides critical data on how lunar soils behave,” said <a href="https://technology.nasa.gov/blog-MEET-THE-INVENTOR-Jackie-Quinn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jackie Quinn</a>, the drill’s project manager at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on Merritt Island, Florida. 



A <a href="https://www.broadinstitute.org/technology-areas/what-mass-spectrometry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mass spectrometer</a> will measure escaped gases for water or other volatiles.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-water-matters-on-the-moon">Why water matters on the Moon</h2>



Scientists have known about lunar water since 2009, when NASA’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/lcross/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LCROSS</a> mission confirmed it. Liquid or frozen water could provide drinking water or fuel components for deeper space travel.



Mastering a local supply means less reliance on cargo from Earth. These new vehicles “are going after really important pieces of that puzzle,” said Dr. Prem.



Harvesting water directly from the Moon could support permanent bases near the south pole. NASA views this region as a key location for future missions. 



It could become a key location for future human exploration on the Moon. With its potential resources, it may also support long-term settlement and sustained missions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-eyes-on-the-moon">Global eyes on the Moon</h2>



<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/chandrayaan-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chandrayaan-2</a>, operated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (<a href="https://www.isro.gov.in/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ISRO</a>), is currently collecting data about possible ice at the Moon’s poles. A Korean probe known as <a href="https://www.planetary.org/space-missions/kplo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Danuri</a> also searches for signs of hidden water on the Moon using a NASA camera designed for shadowed terrain.&nbsp;



Rovers from other nations are considering these icy areas as well. Multiple projects could reveal how ancient collisions and solar particles shaped the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moons-entire-surface-is-covered-with-water-and-hydroxyl-not-just-the-poles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon’s</a> hidden layers.



“Everyone wants to go to the most interesting spots on the Moon,” said <a href="https://www.gps.caltech.edu/people/bethany-l-ehlmann" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bethany Ehlmann</a>, a planetary scientist at the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena and the mission’s principal investigator. 



That interest has fueled worldwide collaborations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-presence-on-the-moon">Long-term presence on the Moon</h2>



Last month, two commercial spacecraft launched with rovers and exploration equipment to study the Moon. One spacecraft was developed by Tokyo-based <a href="https://ispace-inc.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ispace</a>, while the other was built by <a href="https://fireflyspace.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Firefly Aerospace</a> in Cedar Park, Texas.



The Firefly Aerospace lander successfully touched down on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-is-the-moons-water-a-nasa-mission-will-soon-find-out/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a>’s equator on March 2. This region is believed to contain less water than the poles. However, every mission contributes valuable data about the Moon’s environment and resources.



Scientists believe these findings will help future crewed missions by identifying areas rich in ice deposits, which could support long-term human presence. A sustainable Moon base may be possible if astronauts can extract and use lunar water for drinking and fuel production.



The idea of using lunar ice as a resource is becoming more realistic. Experts predict that these ongoing efforts will shape the next generation of both human and robotic exploration on the Moon.



The findings are published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-00597-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Two spacecraft set out to drill for water on the Moon's south pole

Two U.S. spacecraft launched from Florida’s Cape Canaveral on February...

Tattoos, revered for their cultural significance, personal meaning, and artistic appeal, have adorned human bodies throughout history. This unique form of art is not just an ancient tribal tradition but a popular contemporary mode of self-expression. 



However, the potential health risks associated with the injected tattoo ink have largely been overlooked.



Scientists are now investigating the long-term effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tattoos-increase-the-risk-of-developing-lymphoma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tattoo</a> ink within the body and whether it could contribute to health issues, including cancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tattoo-ink-s-journey-in-the-body">Tattoo ink's journey in the body</h2>



Once the tattoo artist punches the ink into the skin, your body identifies the pigments as foreign substances. 



Some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tattoos-and-body-art-found-on-1200-year-old-peruvian-mummies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ink</a> stays in the skin, making the tattoo permanent, but some travels in the blood and collects in the lymph nodes, which help protect the body from illness.



Experts are concerned that tattoo ink in the lymph nodes might cause long-term swelling and possibly lead to cancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tattoo-ink-and-health-concerns">Tattoo ink and health concerns</h2>



A study from the University of Southern Denmark (<a href="https://www.sdu.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SDU</a>) and the <a href="https://www.helsinki.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Helsinki</a> suggests that tattoo ink may compromise the immune system's performance.



As the lymphatic system plays a pivotal role in the immune response, any disruption caused by foreign substances could have long-term consequences.



Henrik Frederiksen is a consultant in haematology at Odense University Hospital (<a href="https://en.ouh.dk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OUH</a>) and a clinical professor at SDU.



“We can see that ink particles accumulate in the lymph nodes, and we suspect that the body perceives them as foreign substances,“ noted Fredericksen.



“This may mean that the immune system is constantly trying to respond to the ink, and we do not yet know whether this persistent strain could weaken the function of the lymph nodes or have other health <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cancer-cells-collaborate-to-survive-challenging-conditions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consequences</a>.”



Scientists worry that if the immune system keeps fighting ink particles, it might cause unusual cell growth, which can lead to cancer. But since cancer develops slowly, it's hard to know the true effect of tattoos on health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-between-tattoos-and-cancer">Connection between tattoos and cancer</h2>



Analyzing the long-term effects of tattoos requires extensive data spanning considerable time periods. Scientists at SDU have found a solution by exploiting data from the Danish Twin Tattoo Cohort, encompassing over 5,900 Danish twins.



By observing tattoo patterns and corresponding cancer diagnoses, they concluded that tattooed individuals had higher skin and lymphoma cancer rates.



“This provides us with a stronger method for investigating whether tattoos themselves may influence cancer risk,” said Jacob von Bornemann Hjelmborg, professor of biostatistics at SDU.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influence-of-tattoo-size">Influence of tattoo size</h2>



The study further unveiled that tattoo size matters. Large tattoos showed a stronger link to cancer risk than smaller ones. Concerning lymphoma, people with large tattoos had a nearly three times higher <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-lifetime-cancer-risk-may-be-established-before-we-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">occurrence rate</a>.



“This suggests that the bigger the tattoo and the longer it has been there, the more ink accumulates in the lymph nodes,” said Signe Bedsted Clemmensen, assistant professor of biostatistics at SDU.



”The extent of the impact on the immune system should be further investigated so that we can better understand the mechanisms at play.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tattoos-remain-fashionable">Tattoos remain fashionable</h2>



Despite health concerns, the popularity of tattoos continues to rise. The Danish Twin Tattoo Cohort study revealed that nearly 40% of women and 30% of men will have tattoos by age 25.



This trend is a global phenomenon, with increasing social acceptance of tattoos, particularly among youths and women.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-does-tattoo-ink-color-matter">Does tattoo ink color matter?</h2>



The safety of tattoos also hinges on the composition of the ink. Various pigments contain different chemicals, potentially harmful when absorbed into the body. 



While the current research doesn't identify specific ink colors as direct cancer causes, future research may examine this aspect further.



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



Researchers are shifting focus to understand how ink particles interact with the body on a molecular level. They aim to determine whether certain types of lymphoma are more strongly linked to tattoos and how long-term exposure to ink affects immune system function.



“We want to gain a better understanding of the biological mechanisms - what happens in the lymph nodes when they are exposed to ink particles over decades? This can help us assess whether there is a real health risk and what we might do to reduce it,” concluded Clemmensen.



Understanding the potential health risks associated with tattoos is thus paramount for informed decisions regarding tattoos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-research-efforts">Ongoing research efforts</h2>



The Danish Twin Tattoo Cohort is a research project designed to study whether tattoos could be linked to cancer. Scientists want to understand if tattoos increase <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-discovery-about-cell-migration-will-help-defeat-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health risks</a>, but it’s tricky because people have different genetics and lifestyles. 



This study compares twins - who share the same genes but may have different tattoo habits. By doing this, researchers can see if tattoos alone have any health effects or if other factors, like family history or environment, play a bigger role.



In 2017, a government agency in Denmark estimated that 14% of the population had tattoos. By 2021, tattoos had become even more popular, with 30-40% of people under 35 having at least one. 



As more people get tattoos, scientists want to learn whether ink inside the body has any long-term health effects.



In short, tattoos are not just designs on the skin. When ink is injected, it stays in the body, and some of it may move to other areas. Scientists are still figuring out if this could lead to serious health problems like cancer. Until more research is done, it’s important to stay informed and understand the potential risks.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-025-21413-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMC Public Health</a>.



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Tattoo ink travels through the body and may cause long-term risks

Tattoos, revered for their cultural significance, personal meaning, and artistic...

When sea otters returned to islands along Southern California and British Columbia, researchers saw kelp forests revive. These forests had been wiped out by unchecked sea urchin populations. However, the speed of recovery varied by location, leaving scientists searching for answers.



A new study from <a href="https://www.colorado.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CU Boulder</a> sheds light on this puzzle. It confirms that sea otters, a keystone species, help kelp forests grow back, but their impact depends on interactions with other marine species. The researchers analyzed decades of data to map changes in ecosystems over time.



“We always thought keystone species control their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-still-fighting-climate-change-against-all-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a> the same way, regardless of where they are or what else is in the ecosystem,” said Ryan Langendorf, lead author of the paper. 



“A more modern view is that they are still very important, but they can have different effects in different places.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-sea-otters-in-forest-health">Role of sea otters in forest health</h2>



Scientists have been studying keystone species - animals that have a big impact on their environment - for a long time. One of these scientists, Jim Estes, spent his career researching sea otters. He discovered that sea otters play a key role in keeping kelp forests healthy.



Otters eat sea urchins, which are animals that feed on kelp. When there aren’t enough otters, sea urchins multiply and eat too much kelp. This destroys kelp <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-more-resilient-to-change-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forests</a>, turning them into empty underwater areas with little life. 



But when otters are present, they keep the urchin population under control, allowing kelp forests to grow and support many marine species.



To understand this better, Estes and scientist Jane Watson studied what happened when sea otters were brought back to areas where they had disappeared. 



They focused on two locations: Nicolas Island in California and Vancouver Island in British Columbia. Over 30 years, they collected detailed data to see how sea otters influenced their surroundings. 



Before otters were reintroduced, both locations had too many sea urchins, and the kelp forests had almost disappeared. Their research provided strong evidence that sea otters are crucial for maintaining a balanced ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-rates-of-recovery">Different rates of recovery</h2>



The data showed that while kelp forests recovered in both locations, British Columbia saw much faster regrowth. 



In this region, the return of sea otters triggered a clear chain reaction: otters ate sea urchins, allowing kelp forests to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-play-an-overlooked-role-in-the-climate-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flourish</a>. However, in California, recovery was slower, revealing gaps in understanding.



To explore these differences, Langendorf developed a new model that visualized species interactions over time. This model functioned like a movie, capturing how different species influenced one another across decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-web-of-interactions">Complex web of interactions</h2>



The model provided a clearer picture of what slowed kelp recovery in Southern California. In this region, species interactions were more complex. 



Unlike in British Columbia, where otters had a strong effect on urchins, California’s ecosystem had additional competition among different species. This weakened the direct influence of sea otters on the system, slowing the pace of recovery.



“Almost all studies of ecological communities assume that these interaction strengths are static – that ‘the rules of the game’ don’t change even as the abundances of species do,” said Dan Doak, a professor of environmental studies at CU Boulder. 



“By developing a way to estimate these changing rules, Ryan has added to our appreciation of this particular system, as well as pioneering a more powerful way to understand other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-rich-tree-diversity-adapt-better-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological systems</a>.”



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



This study introduces a method that can help researchers understand how ecosystems change when species are reintroduced. By analyzing long-term data, scientists can predict how different species interact in shifting environments.



“The dynamic nature of ecosystems has long kept ecologists from understanding what species need and how best to manage them,” Langendorf said. 



“Being able to turn common survey data into a movie of species reacting to changes in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-forests-which-tree-species-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment</a> and each other feels like renewed hope for a field that more than ever needs to offer useful advice about how to help the many complex living systems we live with and cherish.”



This approach could provide insights into conservation efforts worldwide, helping scientists protect and restore fragile ecosystems.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2413360122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Sea otters help kelp forests recover, but there's more to the story

When sea otters returned to islands along Southern California and...

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.



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" 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.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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.

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Carl...

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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Santiago, Chile in South America

[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



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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How the immune system responds to injury

[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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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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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



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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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