Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy.



This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-aspens-and-elk">Yellowstone, aspens, and elk</h2>



In the 1920s, people <a href="https://www.yellowstone.org/wolf-project/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eliminated wolves in Yellowstone</a>. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right thing to do.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-wolves-to-dogs-did-domestication-begin-without-human-help/">Without wolves</a>, elk herds grew very large. Elk love to eat aspen shoots - the tender young growth is highly palatable to them.



For roughly 70 years, elk browsed aspen sprouts down to stub height, and the trees couldn't grow. 



If you had walked through Yellowstone in the 1980s, you would have seen many tiny aspen shoots covering the ground, but almost no young trees gaining height. 



The forest's regeneration was stalled. Old trees died, and no new ones replaced them.



In 1995 and 1996, park managers reintroduced wolves into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/">Yellowstone Park ecosystem</a>. Scientists hoped and wondered whether this would change anything for the trees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-aspen-matter-to-yellowstone">Why aspen matter to Yellowstone</h2>



Aspen groves provide habitat for many species. Birds nest in them. Beavers eat the bark and use the wood for dams. Butterflies and moths lay eggs on the leaves. 



Their canopy admits enough light for wildflowers and shrubs to grow beneath. When it rains, aspen groves hold water in the soil better than some other forest types.



In short, when aspen return, dozens of other species benefit. More trees support more insects, which in turn support more birds, enriching the ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-checking-the-trees-three-decades-later">Checking the trees three decades later</h2>



<a href="https://fwcs.oregonstate.edu/users/luke-painter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luke Painter</a>, an ecologist at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>, sought clear answers. His team returned to 87 aspen stands across Yellowstone that scientists had previously surveyed. 



They measured thousands of young trees, looked for bite marks, and counted how many stems were tall enough that elk could no longer reach the tips.



About a third of these stands now have many tall young aspens pushing toward the canopy. 



"About 26 of the 87 aspen stands we examined had large numbers of tall saplings throughout, a remarkable change from the 1990s when surveys found none at all," Painter said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-wolves-matter-to-yellowstone-aspens">Why wolves matter to Yellowstone aspens</h2>



Breaking it all down, the conclusions of this study are pretty simple. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolves-move-pups-across-mountains-to-adapt-to-climate-pressure/">Wolves hunt elk</a>. When wolves came back, two things happened. First, elk numbers declined from unusually high levels. Second, elk changed their behavior. They spent less time in the same areas feeding.



With fewer elk and shorter feeding bouts, more aspen shoots survived long enough to exceed the browsing zone - about six to seven feet high. 



Once a sapling reaches that height, elk cannot easily reach the growing tip. The tree continues to grow.



"The reintroduction of large carnivores has initiated a recovery process that had been shut down for decades," Painter explained.



Scientists call this a <a href="https://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/trophic-cascades-across-diverse-plant-ecosystems-80060347/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trophic cascade</a> - when adding or removing one species causes changes that ripple through the whole system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-places-recover-others-don-t">Some places recover, others don't</h2>



Unfortunately, not every aspen stand has recovered yet. Some valleys still have many short, heavily browsed shoots, because it's not only elk eating them anymore. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstones-iconic-bison-have-merged-into-a-single-herd/">Bison herds have grown</a>, and bison browse on aspen as well. They are strong enough to break young trees. 



"Increasing numbers of bison may be emerging as a new constraint to aspen in some areas," Painter confirmed.



Additionally, winter snow depth varies; droughts stress trees; bears and mountain lions also hunt elk; and hunting outside the park influences elk distribution. 



All of these factors interact, which is why some sites show strong recovery, others show moderate recovery, and a few have changed very little.



The key pattern is that places with many tall saplings experience little browsing, and aspen groves that remain popular eating grounds today stay short. 



This fact is the strongest indication that tree recovery is linked directly to wolf presence, not solely to weather or soil conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proof-in-the-measurements">Proof in the measurements</h2>



Painter's team did not rely on casual observation. They used the same methods as earlier researchers, measuring the same plots. 



They counted recruitment - when young trees surpass browsing height and begin progressing toward maturity. This measure is crucial. Sprouts are insufficient if they never grow; without recruitment, the forest cannot replace itself.



The results are robust. After being stalled for most of a century, Yellowstone's aspens are increasing in height. In recovering stands today, you will see saplings - six, eight, or ten feet tall - that were not present in the 1990s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-yellowstone-s-aspens">The future of Yellowstone's aspens</h2>



"This is a remarkable case of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-viruses-found-in-yellowstones-hot-springs-may-be-near-the-root-of-all-life-on-earth/">ecological restoration</a>," Painter concluded. "Wolf reintroduction is yielding long-term ecological changes contributing to increased biodiversity and habitat diversity."



Trees grow slowly, so even with wolves restored, it will take decades for these young aspens to form a full-grown forest. 



Some areas might never fully recover if bison numbers continue to rise or if the climate becomes too hot and dry.



Thanks to the work of Painter and his team, scientists are now certain that restoring the Yellowstone predator has restarted aspen forest regeneration. Not everywhere and not perfectly, but enough to be measured, creating hope for the future.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112725004499?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forest Ecology and Management</a>.



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Yellowstone's aspen trees are growing again thanks to the reintroduction of wolves

Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy. This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns. Yellowstone, aspens, and elk In the 1920s, people eliminated wolves in Yellowstone. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right...

Often, stereotypes can paint an inaccurate picture of people. A recent study challenges the stereotype of older adults being risk-averse and weak in decision making.



A study from SWPS University in Poland suggests that, contrary to popular belief, older people are often risk-takers, and can be rather resistant to manipulation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-financial-decisions-of-older-adults">Financial decisions of older adults</h2>



Poland's population is noticeably growing older. According to 2023 data from Statistics Poland (GUS), citizens aged 65 and more numbered 7.5 million, making up over 20% of the total population.



This significant shift has vast implications, as it's often the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/centenarians-on-the-rise-living-over-100-is-now-more-common/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">older adults</a> who are tasked with crucial financial and healthcare decisions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decision-making-by-older-adults">Decision-making by older adults</h2>



Historically, research into the decision-making abilities of older adults has been contradictory. Some studies have found older people to be risk-averse and prone to manipulation, whereas others contradict this view.



The study by <a href="https://english.swps.pl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SWPS University</a> debunks common narratives around aging and decision-making. This research suggests that older adults should not be underestimated or overly shielded.



"Too often, older people are portrayed as defenseless and less capable of making correct decisions, which can lead to their infantilization or exclusion from important choices," noted study co-author Dr. Maciej Kościelniak from the SWPS University's Faculty of Psychology and Law in Poznań.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-older-adults-are-risk-takers">Older adults are risk takers</h2>



The research looked at how the approach of older adults to risky decision-making changes with age, focusing on their susceptibility to the "attraction effect," otherwise known as the decoy effect or asymmetric dominance effect.



Two separate experiments were conducted for this study - an online survey involving 357 participants and a lab-based project with 173 participants. 



The participants spanned three age groups - young adults (18-33 years), middle-aged adults (42-57 years), and older adults (65-80 years). All groups were balanced regarding educational background.



The results were unexpected. Older adults proved more likely to take risks than their younger counterparts. Also, both age groups exhibited an equal ability to resist manipulation related to the attraction effect.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-making-mistakes-learning-and-improving">Making mistakes, learning, and improving</h2>



Initially, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grandchildren-are-a-source-of-joy-and-well-being-for-older-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">older adults</a> made more mistakes, particularly in scenarios with significant financial and social repercussions. 



However, with practice and familiarity, they sharpened their decision-making skills. Although it took them longer, by the end of the trial, their performance was on par with that of the younger group.



This observation suggests that, while aging might slow down the processing of new information, it doesn't curb the ability to make sound decisions, nor the resistance to manipulation.



"The discovery that learning ability is comparable between older and younger adults has profoundly influenced my view on cognitive functions in the aging process – it's not simply a story of decline, but rather one of adaptation,"&nbsp;explained Maciej Kościelniak.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shattering-stereotypes">Shattering stereotypes</h2>



The study's findings offer invaluable insight into the cognitive functioning of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/loneliness-impairs-memory-in-older-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">older adults</a>. They indicate that the ability to make complex decisions in late adulthood is vastly underestimated, and that age-based stereotypes need a revision. 



"Whether we're talking about interactions with financial advisors, healthcare workers, or family members helping older people make decisions, our findings suggest that older adults often do not need protection from choices, but rather an opportunity and sufficient time to become familiar with new situations," noted Maciej Kościelniak.



In conclusion, perhaps it's time we reassess our views on aging and capability. After all, as this research indicates, there's much more to our senior citizens than meets the eye.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-stereotypes-involving-older-adults">Other stereotypes involving older adults</h2>



Older adults often face stereotypes that go beyond decision-making. For instance, they are frequently perceived as technologically inept. 



While some may take longer to adapt to new devices, studies show that many older adults actively engage with technology, from smartphones to social media platforms. This adaptability demonstrates their willingness to learn and stay connected.



Another common misconception is that aging individuals lose their creativity. Contrary to this belief, research indicates that older adults often channel their life experiences into innovative problem-solving and artistic pursuits. Many renowned artists and writers have produced some of their best work later in life.



Older adults are also wrongly seen as socially isolated. While some experience loneliness, many maintain active social lives, often volunteering, mentoring younger generations, or participating in community activities. This engagement highlights their resilience and continued contribution to society.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/ageing-and-society/article/effect-of-age-on-susceptibility-to-the-attraction-effect-in-sequential-risky-decisionmaking/D936EDA8DD61894C61E217984BDEA1DF" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ageing and Society</a>.



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Older adults make decisions and take risks just like young people

Often, stereotypes can paint an inaccurate picture of people. A...

The solar system's main asteroid belt, located between Mars and Jupiter, is home to millions of rocky objects. 



These asteroids orbit at an average of 250 million kilometers (155 million miles) from Earth. They range in size from large celestial bodies like Vesta, which measures about 530 kilometers (329 miles) in diameter, to countless smaller fragments.



Despite their abundance, the total mass of these asteroids is less than that of Earth's Moon. 



Over the last decade, extensive optical surveys have cataloged nearly 750,000 asteroids that are larger than one kilometer in diameter, but the smallest ones have largely remained elusive - until now.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asteroids-and-their-impact-on-earth">Asteroids and their impact on Earth</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/its-official-earth-now-has-two-moons-captured-asteroid-2024-pt5/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Asteroids</a> occasionally find their way into Earth's neighborhood, nudged by the gravitational influence of Mars and Jupiter. 



Known as Near-Earth asteroids (NEAs), these objects have historically impacted Earth and other planets, shaping their geological and evolutionary paths. 



Their potential threats to Earth have made their detection and tracking critical for planetary defense efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-main-belt-asteroids">Small main-belt asteroids</h2>



A recent study led by <a href="https://www.mit.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a> astronomers Julien de Wit and Artem Burdanov has leveraged data from NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JWST</a>) to spot the smallest main-belt asteroids ever detected. 



This effort, which involved researchers from the University of Liège (<a href="https://www.uliege.be/cms/c_8750816/en/uliege" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ULiège</a>) and other institutions, highlights how advanced technologies and innovative techniques can reveal hidden aspects of the solar system.



"The study of small bodies of the solar system is of high importance as they give us a unique view of the early phases of our system, even before the planets formed," explained Emmanuel Jehin, a planetary scientist at ULiège.



"Being able to observe the smallest main-belt asteroids would not only give us clues about the building blocks of planets but also provide a unique window into the source of meteorites falling on Earth."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exoplanet-data-for-main-belt-asteroids">Exoplanet data for main-belt asteroids</h2>



Although De Wit and Burdanov initially focused on exoplanet studies, they subsequently adapted their expertise to search for asteroids.



Their team, renowned for discovering the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trappist-1-has-seven-earth-like-planets-that-may-support-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TRAPPIST-1 planetary system</a>, utilized JWST's sensitivity to infrared light to identify asteroids. Infrared wavelengths are particularly advantageous for observing main-belt asteroids, as these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-large-asteroids-will-pass-near-earth-this-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">objects</a> appear brighter in infrared than in visible light.



The researchers applied a technique called “shift and stack,” which was originally developed in the 1990s. This method involves aligning and stacking multiple images of the same field to highlight faint, moving objects.



Using state-of-the-art GPUs, the team processed over 10,000 JWST images of the TRAPPIST-1 field that were originally intended for exoplanetary studies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discoveries-in-the-main-asteroid-belt">Discoveries in the main asteroid belt</h2>



This innovative approach revealed eight known asteroids and 138 previously undetected ones that ranged in diameter from 10 to several tens of meters. These tiny asteroids represent a new population of main-belt <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2024-pt5-mini-moon-say-goodbye-to-earths-second-moon-we-barely-got-to-know-you/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">objects</a>.



"We thought we would just detect a few new objects, but we detected so many more than expected, especially small ones," said de Wit. "It is a sign that we are probing a new population regime where many more small objects are formed through cascades of collisions."



The findings suggest that many of these small asteroids are fragments from larger collisions, offering critical insights into asteroid population dynamics. 



"Statistics of these very small, main-belt asteroids are critical for modeling the asteroid population," explained Miroslav Broz from Prague's <a href="https://cuni.cz/UKEN-1.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles University</a>. These smaller fragments, often linked by shared orbits, form asteroid families that provide clues to their origins.



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



The study's results on main-belt asteroids have far-reaching implications for planetary defense. By detecting small asteroids further from Earth, scientists can track their orbits better and assess potential threats.



Marco Micheli from the European Space Agency’s <a href="https://www.esa.int/Space_Safety/Planetary_Defence/Near-Earth_Object_Coordination_Centre#:~:text=ESA's%20Near%2DEarth%20Object%20Coordination,the%20Agency's%20Planetary%20Defence%20Office.&amp;text=Based%20at%20ESA's%20ESRIN%20site,data%20sources%20and%20information%20providers." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Near-Earth Object Coordination Centre</a> emphasized the importance of precise orbital determinations enabled by JWST’s capabilities.



"This is a totally new, unexplored space we are entering, thanks to modern technologies," noted Burdanov. "It’s a good example of what we can do as a field when we look at the data differently. Sometimes there’s a big payoff, and this is one of them."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-context-of-asteroid-science">Broader context of asteroid science</h2>



Asteroids vary widely in size and impact potential. While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-test-simulation-shows-earth-not-prepared-prevent-large-asteroid-strike/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive impactors</a>.like the one that potentially caused the extinction of the dinosaurs are rare, smaller asteroids strike Earth more frequently - sometimes with significant consequences.



Observing and understanding these smaller objects is vital for both scientific discovery and practical applications, such as modeling potential impact events.



"It is fantastic to see how archived JWST data can open new doors to a better understanding of the smallest asteroids, which play a crucial role in planetary defense," noted Thomas Müller from the <a href="https://www.mpg.de/institutes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-era-in-asteroid-research">A new era in asteroid research</h2>



This study of main-belt asteroids exemplifies how interdisciplinary collaboration and advanced technology can drive unexpected discoveries.



By repurposing exoplanetary data, researchers have uncovered a new layer of the solar system’s complexity, and paved the way for future breakthroughs in asteroid science and planetary defense.



As de Wit and his colleagues continue their work, their findings showcase the power of looking at existing data through a new lens. Whether studying distant exoplanets or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-has-lost-its-mini-moon-2024-pt5-may-have-come-from-our-main-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nearby asteroids</a>, the JWST continues to prove an invaluable tool for exploring the universe.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08480-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



Image Credit: Ella Maru



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Asteroids found in the main belt are the smallest ever detected

The solar system's main asteroid belt, located between Mars and...

We are all exposed to glyphosate, a chemical found in many herbicides. Glyphosate is widely used in crop farming to reduce the presence of unwanted weeds. 



Previous research has shown that this toxin can cross into brain tissue, but the effects have not been well studied.



New research on mice has revealed that even minimal levels of glyphosate are associated with cognitive changes in brain function. 



The study sheds light on the potential risks&nbsp;this pervasive chemical&nbsp;may pose&nbsp;to brain health at a time when dementia and Alzheimer's disease are affecting more and more people.



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



Herbicides are chemicals designed to kill weeds and other unwanted plants, making them a staple tool for farmers, gardeners, and landscapers alike. 



There are different types of herbicides, each targeting specific kinds of weeds. Some are broad-spectrum, wiping out a wide range of plants, while others are selective, focusing on particular species without harming the crops. 



This versatility makes herbicides incredibly useful for maintaining gardens and agricultural fields efficiently.



However, herbicides aren’t without their downsides. Overusing or misusing these chemicals can lead to environmental issues, such as harming beneficial insects, contaminating water sources, and reducing biodiversity. 



Additionally, some weeds can develop resistance to herbicides, making them harder to control over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-herbicides-and-brain-health">Herbicides and brain health</h2>



The research, conducted by <a href="https://www.asu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona State University</a> in collaboration with the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen),&nbsp;uncovers some&nbsp;alarming effects of glyphosate on brain health.



Mice that were exposed to the herbicide developed troubling symptoms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-mild-inflammation-can-majorly-damage-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain inflammation</a>,&nbsp;a condition linked to the early stages of neurodegenerative diseases.



"Our work contributes to the growing literature that highlights the brain's vulnerability to glyphosate,” said Ramon Velasquez, one of the researchers.



The study also revealed that these symptoms and signs of distress persisted long after exposure to the toxin ended, indicating the herbicide’s long-lasting impact on brain health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-prevalence-of-cognitive-decline">Rising prevalence of cognitive decline </h2>



The research team conducted experiments over 13 weeks, followed by a six-month recovery period. 



Even at low doses, close to what is considered acceptable for humans, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/glyphosate-disrupts-brood-care-in-bumblebees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glyphosate</a> caused significant harm in mice.



This included a persistent increase in inflammatory markers in the brain and blood, which remained elevated long after the exposure had ceased.



"Our goal is to identify environmental factors that contribute to the rising prevalence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ultra-processed-foods-directly-linked-cognitive-decline-stroke-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive decline</a> and neurodegenerative diseases in our society,” explained Velasquez. 



“By unveiling such factors, we can develop strategies to minimize exposures, ultimately improving the quality of life for the growing aging population.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-herbicide-byproduct-in-brain-tissue">Herbicide byproduct in brain tissue</h2>



Additionally, the researchers found that a glyphosate byproduct, namely aminomethylphosphonic acid, accumulated in brain tissue, further raising concerns about the herbicide’s long-term safety.



Glyphosate exposure in the mice was also&nbsp;associated&nbsp;with&nbsp;premature death, and anxiety-like behaviors, symptoms that were present long after&nbsp;the end of the recovery period.



"Given the increasing incidence of cognitive decline in the aging population, particularly in rural communities where exposure to glyphosate is more common due to large-scale farming, there is an urgent need for more basic research on the effects of this herbicide,” Velasquez emphasized.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unseen-battle-in-the-fields">An unseen battle in the fields</h2>



The Centers for Disease Research have emphasized the&nbsp;higher&nbsp;risks&nbsp;of glyphosate exposure associated with agricultural workers, farm laborers, and landscapers.



Apart&nbsp;from&nbsp;occupational exposure, the residues in&nbsp;foods and the widespread environmental presence pose risks to the general population.



"My hope is that our work drives further investigation into the effects of glyphosate exposure, which may lead to a reevaluation of its long-term safety and perhaps spark discussion about other prevalent toxins in our environment that may affect the brain,” said Samantha K. Bartholomew, first author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glyphosate-friend-or-foe">Glyphosate: Friend or foe?</h2>



Glyphosate is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world, famous for its role in controlling weeds in agricultural fields, gardens, and even urban areas. 



You might know it by its brand name, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weed-killer-roundup-causes-convulsions-in-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Roundup</a>, which farmers and gardeners spray to keep unwanted plants from stealing nutrients and space from their crops. 



Glyphosate works by targeting a specific enzyme that plants need to grow, effectively shutting down their ability to thrive. 



This makes it a go-to solution for many looking to maintain tidy landscapes or boost agricultural productivity without having to manually pull weeds all day.



While it is deemed safe by the <a href="https://www.epa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EPA</a>, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified glyphosate as “possibly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-we-breathing-cancer-causing-chemicals-in-our-cars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carcinogenic</a> to humans.” Studies, including this one, continue to question its overall safety.



Building on prior research, this study strengthens the evidence linking glyphosate exposure to an increased risk of neurodegenerative disorders. 



“These findings highlight that many chemicals we regularly encounter, previously considered safe, may pose potential health risks. However, further research is needed to fully assess the public health impact and identify safer alternatives,” said Patrick Pirrotte, associate professor with TGen and senior author of the paper.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reevaluating-herbicides-and-public-health">Reevaluating herbicides and public health</h2>



As glyphosate use continues to grow, particularly in large-scale farming, the study emphasizes the urgent need for stricter monitoring, further research, and potential reevaluation of the herbicide’s long-term safety.



The brain’s ability to heal may be formidable under certain circumstances, but exposure to harmful chemicals like glyphosate reveals vulnerabilities that cannot be ignored.



Addressing these risks proactively could play a critical role in reducing the incidence of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases in future generations. 



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://jneuroinflammation.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12974-024-03290-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Neuroinflammation</a>.



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Common weed-killing herbicide linked to brain issues and cognitive decline

We are all exposed to glyphosate, a chemical found in...

Scientists have identified a booster gene in a poplar species that can help certain plants grow exponentially taller and produce more plant matter. 



They found this gene after studying trees grown in different environments and noticed big differences in how quickly they sprouted up. 



The gene, which they named Booster, caught their eye with its unusual origins and its direct link to stronger growth and better <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-cells-capable-of-photosynthesis-created-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">use of sunlight</a>.



The gene can boost tree height by about 30% in field conditions and by as much as 200% in a greenhouse setting, which signals a possible route toward healthier, more productive plants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-plants-booster-gene">Finding plants' Booster gene</h2>



The study was led in part by Stephen Long at the <a href="https://illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois</a> Urbana-Champaign and Jerry Tuskan at <a href="https://www.ornl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oak Ridge National Laboratory</a>.



“This discovery could be a game-changer in terms of a big stimulation of photosynthesis and plant productivity," explained Stephen Long.



They focused on Populus trichocarpa, also known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genetically-engineered-wood-poplar-cottonwood-trees-store-more-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black cottonwood</a>, which grows from Baja California up into northern Canada. 



This species is often considered a promising candidate for producing biofuels and other useful materials. 



It was here that the researchers found Booster, a chimeric gene that emerged from several genetic pieces combined into one.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-did-the-booster-gene-come-from">Where did the Booster gene come from?</h2>



Booster developed as a combination of three originally separate genetic sequences. 



One came from a bacterium living in the tree’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-leaves-send-signals-to-their-roots-on-dry-days-telling-them-to-keep-digging-deeper-for-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">root zone</a>, one from an ant associated with a fungus that infects the tree, and one from the large subunit of a protein called Rubisco. 



Rubisco plays a key role in capturing carbon dioxide during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-to-life-on-earth-photosynthesis-begins-on-the-quantum-level-with-a-single-photon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a>. When the team encouraged poplar trees to express Booster more strongly, the results were striking. 



The trees showed up to 62% more Rubisco content, about a 25% increase in net leaf carbon dioxide uptake, as much as 37% taller growth in field tests, 88% more stem volume, and, under controlled greenhouse conditions, heights up to 200% taller. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/plants_boost-gene_scientists_Biruk-Feyissa_Wellington-Muchero_ORNL_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/plants_boost-gene_scientists_Biruk-Feyissa_Wellington-Muchero_ORNL_1s.webp" alt="In this photo from July 2024, ORNL’s Biruk Feyissa, left, holds a five-month-old poplar tree expressing high levels of the Booster gene, while then-colleague Wellington Muchero holds a tree of the same age with lower expression of the gene. Credit: Genevieve Martin/ORNL, U.S. Dept. of Energy" class="wp-image-1953077"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">In this photo from July 2024, ORNL’s Biruk Feyissa, left, holds a five-month-old poplar tree expressing high levels of the Booster gene, while then-colleague Wellington Muchero holds a tree of the same age with lower expression of the gene. Credit: Genevieve Martin/ORNL, U.S. Dept. of Energy</figcaption></figure>



Testing the same gene in Arabidopsis, a small flowering plant, increased its biomass and improved its seed output by 50%. 



“Conserved chimeric genes such as Booster are often disregarded as non-functional, evolutionary artifacts that no longer influence plant processes. But here we proved just the opposite," explained ORNL’s Biruk Feyissa.



"Our molecular and physiological validation confirmed that Booster <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-photosynthesis-could-transform-power-generation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enhances photosynthesis</a> so that plants perform better under steady and fluctuating light conditions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



Both black cottonwood and Arabidopsis belong to a group known as C3 plants. This group includes well-known food crops such as soybeans, rice, wheat, and oats. 



If Booster works similarly in these other plants, then farmers might achieve higher production without needing more land, water, or fertilizer. 



“Growing high-yielding, perennial bioenergy crops on marginal lands unsuitable for conventional agriculture can help us meet rising demand for liquid biofuels for hard-to-electrify sectors like aviation," noted Tuskan.



Scientists are now looking at putting these findings to the test in various places over longer periods. By trying Booster out in different environments, they can see how well it holds up and what kind of results it delivers over the long haul. 



“The discovery opens up a new avenue of scientific thinking. We tend to think of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/revealing-the-secrets-of-photosynthesis-through-pep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthesis</a> as a difficult-to-improve process," Tuskan continued. 



But in fact, the molecular machinery surrounding photosynthesis has continued to evolve as plants adapted to their environment.



In this case, the exchange of DNA with associated organisms changed a biological process in a fundamental way.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-screening-and-genetic-insights">Screening and genetic insights</h2>



For years, scientists at CBI studied <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/should-we-cut-down-all-the-oak-trees-a-disturbing-discovery-makes-this-question-plausible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poplar trees</a> as a steady source of plant material that does not compete directly with food crops. 



They carried out a genome-wide association study, collecting samples from around 1,500 wild trees and examining their genetic makeup. 



They identified over 28 million single nucleotide polymorphisms to help pinpoint genes related to growth, carbon and nitrogen content, lignin, and more efficient water use. 



From there, they looked for genes involved in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/details-photosynthesis-water-viewed-atomic-level-cryo-microscope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photosynthetic quenching</a>, a key process in handling changes in sunlight. 



Scientists at CABBI tested poplar in trial gardens in Davis, California. Molecular analysis then showed that Booster linked to genes that influence how plants manage energy flow in changing light conditions. 



Researchers used many state-of-the-art technology resources, benefiting from large-scale screening techniques that allowed them to measure physical traits rapidly and accurately.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-booster-and-plant-genes">What's next for Booster and plant genes?</h2>



To sum it all up, this discovery demonstrates how close teamwork across institutions can help uncover useful genetic traits that might have gone unnoticed. 



With ongoing support from the Department of Energy’s Biological and Environmental Research Program, these centers will explore Booster’s potential across a wide range of conditions and plant species. 



There is interest in seeing if similar results appear in other crops important for the economy and energy production.



If efforts continue and produce steady success, Booster could provide a simple way to improve plant growth. 



More productive plants that use resources efficiently would help meet increasing global food demands without straining existing farmland, and that would, quite literally, change everything.



-----



This work comes from researchers at two Department of Energy Bioenergy Research Centers: the Center for Bioenergy Innovation (<a href="https://cbi.ornl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CBI</a>) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (<a href="https://cabbi.bio/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CABBI</a>) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1534580724006671?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Developmental Cell</a>.



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Huge discovery: 'Booster' gene makes plants and trees grows 200 percent taller

Scientists have identified a booster gene in a poplar species...

Antarctic sea ice has long been a focal point in the evolving landscape of our world’s climate. The Southern Ocean, which encircles the icy landmass of Antarctica, remained an enigma for decades.



Despite rising global temperatures, the maximum winter sea ice cover in this region either stayed constant or increased slightly from the late 1970s through to 2015.



However, the waves of change reached these icy waters in 2016. A sequence of years with dwindling sea ice coverage culminated in a record low in 2023. 



By September 2024, the most recent winter peak, the ice cover hovered close to that record low.



What follows is a captivating deep-dive into Antarctic sea ice, as researchers from the <a href="https://www.washington.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a> unravel the mystery behind this precipitous decline in the Southern Ocean.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-antarctic-sea-ice-mystery">The Antarctic sea ice mystery</h2>



So, what exactly led to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-sea-ice-extent-hit-a-record-low-this-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">record low sea ice cover in 2023</a> - an event so severe that it was over five standard deviations away from the average?



The researchers found that the culprits were warming Southern Ocean conditions and changes in wind patterns months prior.



The winter ice area was 2.2 million square kilometers (849,424 square miles) less than the average, which equates approximately to a chunk twelve times the size of Washington State. 



To put it into perspective, ice lost would cover Texas three times over.



The goal of the research is to enhance sea ice coverage forecasts in the region of the South Pole. 



The predictions could provide valuable insights into future sea ice loss, allowing for improvements in regional and global weather and climate models.



"Since 2015, total Antarctic sea ice area has dramatically declined. We show that winter Antarctic sea ice has significant predictability at six- to nine-month lead times," noted study lead author Zac Espinosa.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-culprits-wind-and-ocean-temperatures">The culprits: Wind and ocean temperatures</h2>



Using a global climate model, the research team explored how different factors affect the Southern Ocean’s sea ice. 



These factors include air and ocean temperatures, as well as longer-term weather patterns such as El Niño and La Niña.



However, the team discovered that the 2023 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/el-nino-event-may-push-earth-towards-its-hottest-year-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Niño</a> played a less important role in this phenomenon than previously assumed. 



Instead, a pattern of regional winds explained almost 70% of the record-low winter sea ice cover in 2023.



These winds caused ocean mixing that pulled deep warm waters to the surface, thus hindering sea ice growth.



"It's interesting that, despite how unusual the winter sea ice conditions were in 2023 and again in 2024, our results show they were remarkably predictable over 6 months in advance," said study co-author Edward Blanchard-Wrigglesworth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forecasting-future-sea-ice-loss">Forecasting future sea ice loss</h2>



The ripple effect of these discoveries extends beyond solving an Antarctic mystery. 



Antarctic sea ice plays a critical role in influencing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-oceans-hidden-influence-on-global-weather-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global weather patterns</a>, reflecting sunlight, and interacting with ocean currents in the Southern Hemisphere. 



Not to mention, it’s vital for marine and coastal ecosystems.



"Our success at predicting these major sea ice loss events so far in advance demonstrates our understanding of the mechanism that caused them. Our model and methods are geared up to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-intelligence-can-predict-the-future-of-arctic-sea-ice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predict future sea ice loss</a> events," said co-author Cecilia Bitz, reflecting on the significance of these findings.



With summer approaching in the Southern Hemisphere, the current extent of Antarctic sea ice remains close to a record low. 



But now, with this research, we are better equipped to understand, predict, and prepare for these events.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-implications-of-sea-ice-decline">Global implications of sea ice decline</h2>



The implications of this dramatic loss of Antarctic sea ice extend far beyond the icy waters of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-southern-ocean-plays-a-major-role-in-capturing-co2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southern Ocean</a>. 



This vast, frozen expanse acts as a reflective barrier that bounces sunlight back into space and regulates Earth's temperature.



As sea ice retreats, more sunlight is absorbed by the darker ocean waters that are left exposed, which accelerates global warming and disrupts climate patterns.



Antarctic sea ice also plays a vital role in ocean circulation. Its seasonal freeze and melt drive the formation of cold, salty water that sinks to the ocean's depths, fueling the global conveyor belt of ocean currents. 



A reduction in sea ice could disrupt this balance, potentially altering weather systems worldwide and affecting marine ecosystems that are dependent on nutrient cycling.



The ripple effects of sea ice loss also extend to wildlife. Species like emperor penguins and seals depend on stable ice for breeding, resting, and hunting. 



As their habitats shrink, these iconic animals face unprecedented challenges - highlighting the urgency of understanding and mitigating sea ice decline.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01772-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a>.



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Shrinking sea ice: What record lows tell us about the future

Antarctic sea ice has long been a focal point in...

Cancer research evolves every day, offering hope for more effective, accessible, and less invasive treatments for patients.



Scientists are constantly exploring novel approaches to enhance the efficiency and reach of these therapies. 



A recent study conducted by a team of experts from the <a href="https://www.upenn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pennsylvania</a> suggests an intriguing alternative to boost the performance of CAR T cell therapy. 



The research suggests that a metabolite produced by the ketogenic diet may be a powerful weapon to enhance this cancer treatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-approach-to-cancer-treatment">A new approach to cancer treatment</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turning-cancers-defense-against-itself-using-novel-car-t-therapy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CAR T cell therapy</a> is a unique treatment path that enhances a patient's immune system to fight off cancer. Developed by experts at Penn Medicine, this approach has successfully treated thousands of individuals with blood cancers.



However, the effectiveness of CAR T cell therapy has not been uniformly consistent or reliable for all patients. With this in mind, the research team was compelled to adopt an unconventional method to enhance the therapy's efficiency.



Rather than focusing on genetic engineering to tweak T cells, the experts decided to target T cells through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diet-improves-health-in-women-with-breast-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fighting-cancer-with-a-ketogenic-diet">Fighting cancer with a ketogenic diet </h2>



The team examined the impact of different diets (keto, high-fiber, high-fat, high-protein, high-cholesterol, and a control diet) on the tumor-fighting abilities of CAR T cells.



The standout performer was the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ketogenic-diet-improves-mental-and-metabolic-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ketogenic diet</a>, which resulted in superior tumor control and survival in mouse models of diffuse-large B-cell lymphoma.



A closer look revealed that a metabolite called beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) played a crucial role in this enhanced effect. BHB is generated by the liver in response to a ketogenic diet.



Previous work by the team demonstrated that BHB can significantly suppress the growth of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seven-major-risk-factors-predict-colorectal-cancer-in-men/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">colorectal tumors</a>.



Puneeth Guruprasad, a medical student in the Perelman School of Medicine, elaborated on this dietary approach to enhancing cancer treatment.



"Our theory is that CAR T cells prefer BHB as a fuel source rather than standard sugars in our body, such as glucose. So, increasing the levels of BHB in the body gives the CAR T cells more power to take out the cancer cells," said Guruprasad.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ketogenic-diet-metabolite-and-cancer-treatment">Ketogenic diet metabolite and cancer treatment </h2>



The team then experimented with BHB supplementation alongside CAR T cell therapy in lab models of human cancer. 



The results were impressive. The experts observed almost absolute destruction of cancer in most cases, and amplified CAR T cell growth and activation.



The study did not stop there. The researchers also analyzed blood samples from patients who had previously received CAR T cell therapy. They found that higher BHB levels were associated with better CAR T cell growth in patients.



Additionally, upon examining the T cells of healthy volunteers who took a BHB supplement, they found similar energy production changes in normal T cells after exposure to BHB.



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



Research on the role of dietary interventions in enhancing cancer immunotherapy response has been carried out before. 



However, unlike previous studies that pointed to influences via the gut microbiome, this study indicates that the BHB effect comes from metabolic changes in the blood.



The remarkable theory that BHB supplementation could enhance CAR T cell therapy response will soon be tested in a Phase I clinical trial at Penn Medicine's Abramson Cancer Center.



"We're talking about an intervention that is relatively cheap and has low toxicity potential," said Maayan Levy, one of the researchers. "I'm excited to think about how a fairly simple approach like this could be combined with dietary interventions or other, more traditional approaches, to enhance the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/keto-diet-anti-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anti-cancer</a> effect."



The clinical trial will focus on patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma who are receiving commercially available anti-CD19 CAR T cell therapy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed </h2>



The experts are enthusiastic about the results of their study, but also call for caution as further research is needed. 



"At this point, the research is still preliminary, and we're not making any dietary or supplement recommendations to patients based on this study until we have definitive clinical evidence," said study co-author Marco Ruella.



The path to defeating cancer is long and challenging, but with continued dedication and innovative ideas such as dietary supplements, we have renewed hope.



The research was presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Hematology.



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Ketogenic diet may help the body kill cancer cells

Cancer research evolves every day, offering hope for more effective,...

Every year on December 10th, people worldwide come together to observe International Animal Rights Day. 



This day, which coincides with the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, serves as a vital reminder that animals, like humans, deserve respect, compassion, and protection from harm. 



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



The concept of animal rights revolves around the belief that every animal, irrespective of species, deserves to live a life free from suffering, cruelty, and exploitation.



This belief stems from recognizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-animal-day-2024-building-a-legacy-of-compassion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> as sentient beings, capable of feelings and thoughts. They are more than just resources for humans; they hold intrinsic value. 



And that’s why International Animal Rights Day stresses the importance of protecting the rights of all creatures, regardless of the protective laws that different countries have in place.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-do-animals-have-emotions">Do animals have emotions?</h2>



Numerous studies have demonstrated that animals experience emotions similar to humans. For example:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Elephants&nbsp;mourn their dead and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asian-elephants-perform-a-special-burial-ritual-for-their-calves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exhibit signs of grief</a>.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-feel-our-emotions-through-our-heart-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dogs</a>&nbsp;show happiness, fear, and anxiety, often forming strong bonds with humans.</li>



<li>Crows&nbsp;and other birds demonstrate problem-solving abilities and even play, suggesting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crows-hold-grudges-for-up-to-17-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional depth</a>.</li>
</ul>



Understanding these emotional capacities reinforces the ethical imperative to treat animals with compassion and respect. 



Recognizing that animals can feel joy, fear, and pain deepens the moral obligation to ensure their well-being.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-you-can-support-animal-rights">How you can support animal rights</h2>



Promoting animal rights is not limited to activists or organizations; everyone can contribute meaningfully. Here are some actionable steps:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Choose cruelty-free products: Look for certifications like "Leaping Bunny" or "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cruelty-free-means/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cruelty-Free</a>" labels.</li>



<li>Donate or volunteer: Support animal welfare organizations or local shelters.</li>



<li>Advocate for laws: Push for stronger animal protection regulations.</li>



<li>Adopt or foster animals: Provide a loving home to animals in need by reaching out to local shelters, rescue organizations, or online platforms like Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet. These resources connect individuals with animals looking for safe, caring environments.</li>
</ul>



Every small action counts in building a world where animals are treated with dignity and care.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-education-a-powerful-tool-for-animal-rights">Education: A powerful tool for animal rights</h2>



Educational programs highlight issues like animal cruelty, habitat destruction, and species extinction. By informing people about the challenges animals face, education builds a foundation for advocacy.



Education helps individuals understand animals' sentience and their capacity for suffering. Empathy-driven lessons can lead to more compassionate attitudes and behavior toward animals.



Education also ties animal rights to broader environmental and ecological concerns, showing how protecting animal welfare contributes to a healthier planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interconnection-of-humans-and-animals">Interconnection of humans and animals</h2>



International Animal Rights Day celebrates both animal and <a href="https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human rights</a>. This reminds us of the interconnectedness of life.



The mistreatment of animals also impacts humans and the environment, disrupting ecosystems and endangering biodiversity. Recognizing these connections, we must treat all living beings with dignity for a healthier planet and society.



Victories in the fight for animals, such as bans on animal testing for cosmetics in several countries, liberation of animals from circuses, and closure of inhumane puppy mills, are truly inspirational. These success stories demonstrate that our collective actions can ignite change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-international-animal-rights-day">International Animal Rights Day</h2>



International Animal Rights Day offers an opportunity to reflect on our commitments to animals. Here’s how you can participate:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Raise awareness: Organize or join events like marches or online campaigns.</li>



<li>Spread the message: Share educational content on social media using hashtags like #AnimalRights and #CompassionForAnimals.</li>



<li>Volunteer or donate: Support local shelters or animal welfare organizations.</li>



<li>Make ethical choices: Opt for a plant-based diet or reduce the use of animal products.</li>



<li>Engage in dialogue: Discuss animal rights with friends and family to promote a compassionate community.</li>
</ul>



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



There's a spark of hope growing for the future of animal rights. Innovations such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-meat-and-dairy-alternatives-will-dramatically-transform-the-global-food-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lab-grown meat</a> and alternatives to animal testing are encouraging advancements.



However, there are still considerable challenges, like combating wildlife trafficking, protecting habitats, and ensuring the enforcement of animal protection laws. But remember, staying informed and engaged can help shape a brighter future for all beings.



International Animal Rights Day is an important reminder of our collective responsibility towards the lives of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-know-far-less-about-four-footed-animals-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> and their rights.



Recognizing animal rights, and taking action to support their welfare, paves the way for a compassionate world. So, let's use this day to inspire ongoing action for a future where all creatures can live in harmony.



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International Animal Rights Day 2024: Honoring animals with justice

Every year on December 10th, people worldwide come together to...

Ever felt terrible about giving a late gift to a friend for their birthday or Christmas? Well, a recent study brings good news: your friend probably doesn’t mind as much as you think.



Researchers found a notable difference between how gift givers and recipients view late gifts. While givers fear causing harm to their relationships, recipients are more forgiving. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-send-that-late-gift">Send that late gift</h2>



"Go ahead and send that late gift, because it doesn’t seem to bother most people as much as givers fear," said Cory Haltman, lead author of the study and doctoral student in marketing at The Ohio State University’s <a href="https://fisher.osu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fisher College of Business</a>.



The research involved six studies examining how people <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/we-often-undervalue-the-most-meaningful-experiences-in-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perceive</a> late gifts. Interestingly, the results debunk the common belief that timeliness is essential. 



A survey revealed that 65% of Americans think occasion-based gifts should arrive on time. However, the study showed that recipients do not value punctuality as highly as givers assume.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-perception-gap">The perception gap</h2>



In one study, undergraduate students were asked to imagine either giving or receiving a birthday gift - a pint of ice cream - that arrived on time or two weeks late.



Those imagining themselves as givers believed a late gift would harm their relationship more than recipients did. This suggests givers place greater importance on the social norm of timely gift-giving than receivers.



Another experiment showed that givers worried late presents might signal a lack of care. 



"One of the key social functions of gift giving is to communicate care for the gift recipient, so it is not surprising that people fear a negative impact on their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-brain-literally-changes-based-on-daily-activities-and-lifestyle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">relationship</a> if they are late with their present," said study co-author Rebecca Reczek, a professor of marketing at Ohio State.



However, recipients didn’t share this perspective. "They didn’t see a late gift as signaling a lack of care. They were more forgiving than those giving late gifts thought they would be," Haltman explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effort-over-timeliness">Effort over timeliness</h2>



The fear of giving a late gift even influenced how people approached gift selection. 



In one experiment, participants said they would feel less guilty about a late gift if they had made it more personalized. For example, creating a custom gift basket instead of purchasing a pre-made one helped ease their concerns.



"People felt that if they put extra effort into the gift, made it more personalized, that can make up for it being late," Reczek said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-late-is-too-late">How late is too late?</h2>



While recipients tend to forgive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/time-flies-by-much-faster-as-we-get-older-human-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">late</a> presents, the study found a limit. Both givers and recipients agreed that the later the gift, the more harm it could cause to the relationship. 



Participants were asked to imagine gifts arriving two days, two weeks, or two months late. The later the gift, the more negative the perceived impact - but recipients still viewed the harm as less severe than givers did.



The ultimate faux pas? Not giving a gift at all. Another study confirmed that both givers and recipients believed skipping a gift entirely was worse for a relationship than being significantly late. 



"Late is definitely better than never when it comes to giving a gift," noted Haltman.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-late-gift-givers">Lessons for late gift givers</h2>



The findings highlight a mismatch in how givers and recipients view late gifts. Givers tend to overestimate the importance of timeliness, while recipients focus more on the gesture itself.



"If you’re late giving a gift, put yourself in the role of receiving a late gift. Based on our results, we believe that should reduce your worry that the lateness is going to be harmful to your relationship," said Reczek.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deciding-what-to-gift">Deciding what to gift</h2>



Choosing the right gift can be just as stressful as worrying about its timing. Givers often fear that their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/happiness-influences-online-shopping-habits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">choice</a> may reflect poorly on their relationship, but a little extra thought can go a long way in easing these concerns.



Personalized gifts are a great way to show care and effort, especially when giving a late present. For instance, a custom-made photo album or a handpicked gift basket tailored to the recipient’s tastes can feel more meaningful than a generic item. This aligns with the study’s findings that people feel less worried about late gifts when they put in extra effort to make them special.



However, personalization doesn’t have to be complex or expensive. Simple yet thoughtful gifts, such as a book in their favorite genre, a subscription to a service they love, or even a heartfelt letter, can communicate your care.



It’s also essential to consider the recipient's preferences and interests. Ask yourself: What would make them feel valued? For some, a practical gift like kitchen gadgets or a journal might resonate, while others might prefer an experience, such as concert tickets or a spa voucher.



Ultimately, the study highlights that it’s not about the grandeur of the gift but the intention behind it. A well-chosen present - whether timely or late - can speak volumes about your thoughtfulness and strengthen your bond. 



So, focus on what the gift represents rather than overthinking the timing. "Just make sure you give the gift," Haltman concludes.



The study is published in the <a href="https://myscp.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jcpy.1446" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Consumer Psychology</a>. 



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Forgot to send a gift? It's better late than never

Ever felt terrible about giving a late gift to a...

In a cosmos millions of light years away, a bustling city of galaxies called the Spiderweb protocluster is taking shape. 



From Earth, this celestial city might look like a confetti of stars scattered across a velvet sky, but it's much more than that.



It's a fascinating example of how galaxies come together to form larger structures - a grand construction that's been underway for over 10 billion years.



Guided by the remarkable viewing capabilities of the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, a group of astronomers have embarked on a mission to better comprehend this protocluster and to reveal new <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> hidden within it.



The telescope's ability to perceive infrared light, which effortlessly passes through cosmic dust compared to visible light, enabled the experts to observe regions of the Spiderweb that were previously concealed by this dust.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viewing-galaxies-during-their-adolescence">Viewing galaxies during their adolescence </h2>



"We are observing the build-up of one the largest structures in the universe, a city of galaxies in construction,” said Jose M. Perez-Martinez of the <a href="https://www.iac.es/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias</a> and the <a href="https://www.ull.es/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universidad de La Laguna</a> in Spain.



“We know that most galaxies in local galaxy clusters (the biggest metropolises of the universe) are old and not very active, whereas in this work we are looking at these objects during their adolescence."



"As this city in construction grows, their physical properties will also be affected. Now, Webb is giving us new insights into the build-up of such structures for the first time.”



The Webb telescope was used to study the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hydrothermal-vents-earths-first-living-beings-hydrogen-gas-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrogen gas</a> and reveal new galaxies obscured within the cluster. In about 3.5 hours of sightseeing through Webb's eyes, the astronomers made some unexpected discoveries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-revelations-in-the-spiderweb-cluster">Surprising revelations in the Spiderweb cluster</h2>



"As expected, we found new galaxy cluster members, but we were surprised to find more than expected,” noted Rhythm Shimakawa of Waseda University in Japan.



A surprising discovery was that the previously-known galaxy members were not as dust-filled or obscured as anticipated. This finding debunked the conventional belief that galaxy growth is primarily triggered by galaxy interactions or mergers that induce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/serpens-nebula-image-reveals-how-stars-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a>.



“We now figure this can instead be explained by star formation that is fueled through gas accumulating at different locations all across the object’s large-scale structure," noted Helmut Dannerbauer of the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias in Spain.



As the astronomers continue to explore this cosmic city, they plan to examine the newly discovered galaxy cluster members. They aim to establish their existence through more detailed and spectroscopic observations using the Webb telescope.



As we continue to map out the universe, each new discovery becomes a stepping stone towards unraveling the mysteries of cosmic city-building.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-spiderweb-protocluster-a-cosmic-hub">The Spiderweb protocluster: A cosmic hub</h2>



The Spiderweb Protocluster is not just a fascinating collection of galaxies - it is a key piece of evidence to understand how the largest structures in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-confirms-hubble-constant-our-understanding-of-universe-expansion-very-wrong/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a> come to life.



Protoclusters like the Spiderweb act as cosmic hubs, where galaxies gather and evolve under the influence of gravity. 



These environments are laboratories for studying how galaxies transform from their initial chaotic growth phases to the more stable, mature forms we see in the present-day universe.



By focusing on the Spiderweb, astronomers aim to answer long-standing questions about how these structures grew during a time when the universe was only a fraction of its current age. 



What makes this protocluster particularly intriguing is its sheer size and activity, offering a rare glimpse into a period when the cosmic web itself was still forming.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-mystery-of-galaxy-evolution">Unraveling the mystery of galaxy evolution</h2>



The Spiderweb Protocluster offers astronomers a unique opportunity to investigate the factors driving galaxy evolution in dense environments. 



Unlike isolated galaxies, those within protoclusters are subject to intense gravitational interactions and cosmic forces, which can accelerate their growth or strip them of vital resources. 



The James Webb Telescope's observations are shedding light on these processes, challenging the long-standing belief that galaxy interactions are the primary catalysts for star formation.



The full study was published in <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/1538-4357/ad8155" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal</a>.



Image Credit: NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope



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Hidden galaxies found in the depths of the Spiderweb protocluster

In a cosmos millions of light years away, a bustling...

In this age of virtual communication, emojis have become a universal language. Created as simple characters depicting emotions, objects, animals, and more, they've evolved as a language that pairs with text to convey complex meanings. 



Although we use emojis almost every day, have you ever wondered what these colorful symbols might reveal about us and our attachment styles?



This intriguing question was explored by Dr. Simon Dubé, a research fellow in The Kinsey Institute at Indiana University. According to his study, there's more to emojis than meets the eye.



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



Attachment styles describe how individuals form <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-tech-will-track-emotions-through-changes-in-our-skin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional bonds</a> and behave in relationships. They are influenced by early experiences with caregivers. Psychologists categorize attachment styles into four main types:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Secure attachment: People with this style feel comfortable with intimacy and trust. They balance independence and closeness, making them supportive and confident in relationships. </li>



<li>Anxious attachment: These individuals often fear abandonment and seek constant reassurance. They may appear overly dependent or worried about their partner's commitment. </li>



<li>Avoidant attachment: People with this style value independence and often avoid emotional closeness. They may struggle to open up or rely on others. </li>



<li>Disorganized attachment: This style combines elements of both anxious and avoidant tendencies, often resulting from traumatic or inconsistent caregiving. These individuals may exhibit unpredictable behaviors in relationships.</li>
</ol>



Understanding attachment styles helps explain relationship dynamics and guides personal growth or therapy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emoji-use-and-attachment-style">Emoji use and attachment style</h2>



To comprehend our emoji use behavior, Dr. Dubé and his colleagues examined associations between emoji use frequency, attachment style, and emotional intelligence in a sample of 320 adults. 



Emotional intelligence, the ability to process and manage one’s emotions and those of others, plays a crucial role here. On the other hand, as discussed, attachment styles dictate how individuals relate to others in close relationships.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-attachment-styles-and-emojis">Different attachment styles and emojis</h2>



The study revealed fascinating patterns. For example, people with higher emotional intelligence are better at understanding and managing their own emotions, as well as recognizing and responding to the emotions of others.



As a result, they tend to use emojis more frequently because emojis help them express their emotions clearly in digital conversations. 



Those with secure attachment also use emojis more often because they feel emotionally secure and connected to others. 



Emojis are a way for them to communicate affection and warmth in relationships, including with friends and romantic partners.



On the other hand, people with an avoidant attachment style tend to avoid emotional closeness and may find it difficult to express their emotions openly. 



They often distance themselves from others, especially in close relationships.



As a result, they use fewer emojis, particularly with friends and romantic partners, because they may prefer to keep their emotions more guarded or may not feel as comfortable using symbols that express affection or vulnerability.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gender-and-emoji-usage">Gender and emoji usage</h2>



Dr. Dubé's study also brings a gendered perspective to the table, showing that women use <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doctors-are-using-emoji-to-diagnose-patients-in-clinics-and-hospitals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emojis</a> with friends and family more than men.



However, if women have higher levels of attachment avoidance, they tend to send and receive emojis less frequently with friends and romantic partners. 



Similarly, men with higher levels of attachment avoidance send fewer emojis to their partners.



These patterns open an exciting dialogue on how emojis mirror our emotional landscapes and relationship styles, transcending their original purpose as simple graphical symbols.



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



Despite its findings, this research from the <a href="https://kinseyinstitute.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kinsey Institute</a> has its limitations. 



The majority of the participants were white, educated, married, English-speaking heterosexual individuals residing in the U.S. Hence, the insights do not reflect the entire spectrum of cultural and demographic diversity in emoji usage.



Nevertheless, as the experts noted, this research opens new avenues at the intersection of psychology, computer-mediated communication, and the study of attachment and emotional intelligence. 



By exploring further, we can better understand human behavior in the digital age.



"The way we interact during virtual communications may reveal something more about ourselves. It is not just a smiley face or heart emoji: it's a way to convey meaning and communicate more effectively, and how you use it tells us something about you," said the researchers.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/current-emoji-library-doesnt-accurately-represent-the-tree-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emojis</a>, therefore, are not just digital footnotes to our messages. They can reflect our emotional intelligence, attachment styles, and even our gendered behaviors. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emojis-beyond-attachment-style">Emojis beyond attachment style</h2>



Emojis are increasingly used in professional communication to add clarity and tone to messages. 



Studies suggest that over 80% of smartphone users share emojis regularly, with younger generations leading the trend. 



Interestingly, emojis can help reduce miscommunication in text-based interactions by providing emotional context.



Certain emojis, like the heart or smiley face, are universally popular, while others are interpreted differently across cultures. 



Research also shows that people tend to use more emojis when discussing positive topics, whereas fewer emojis are used in formal or serious discussions.



The evolution of emoji designs, including inclusive and diverse options, has also increased their appeal globally. 



These small symbols now form an essential part of digital communication, blending emotions with efficiency in modern language.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0308880" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a>.



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How you send and use emojis explains your attachment style

In this age of virtual communication, emojis have become a...

Beyond,The,Deserts:,Saudi,Arabia's,Remarkable,Landscapes

Amid a vast landscape of sun-scorched sand and earth, where deserts reign supreme and water remains scarce, lies a kingdom taking bold strides towards a greener future. 



This is Saudi Arabia, a nation synonymous with boundless deserts and rich oil reserves, that is now investing heavily in green technology to breathe life into its arid lands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoring-degraded-desert-land">Restoring degraded desert land</h2>



The capital city, Riyadh, recently hosted the <a href="https://www.unccd.int/cop16" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations COP16 conference</a> that focused on drought and desertification.



Because this scenario is all too familiar in the Kingdom, its officials have committed to restoring an impressive 40 million hectares of degraded desert land.



This audacious goal demonstrates Saudi Arabia's movement towards environmental sustainability, but it remains intertwined with its history as a defender and producer of oil. 



The country's green initiatives are discordantly set against its continued investment in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/star-studded-lineup-to-join-march-to-end-fossil-fuels-this-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuels</a>, which raises the question of whether these green efforts hold sufficient climate solution merit.



According to a 2023 report issued by PwC, Saudi Arabia contributes a staggering 75% of the Middle East's investment in global climate technology startups. 



However, this green investment leans heavily towards energy, with a plan to inject $363 million into climate-friendly energy solutions.



This figure dwarfs the relatively meager amount put into food, agriculture, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unsustainable-land-use-food-supply/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">land-use</a> innovations - areas that are critical for addressing the Kingdom’s water scarcity and ensuring sustainable development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harnessing-microorganisms-a-solution-in-the-sand">Harnessing microorganisms: A solution in the sand</h2>



In a sprawling complex, nestled in the desert north of Jeddah, a promising new project is underway.



The focus is on utilizing microorganisms to lessen the energy expense of treating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-wastewater-is-a-hidden-solution-to-the-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wastewater</a>.



At the helm of this innovative endeavor is Peiying Hong, an environmental science and engineering scholar from the <a href="https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King Abdullah University of Science and Technology</a>.



Hong explains that the process capitalizes on microorganisms to convert carbon into methane gas, which powers the facility while purifying wastewater.



The end result is nutrient-rich water that can nurture life in a desert, supporting the production of livestock feed and combating desertification.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turning-desert-sand-into-soil">Turning desert sand into soil</h2>



Access to a sustainable water source could be a game-changer for Saudi Arabia, a nation that grapples with severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-drought-has-caused-crisis-levels-of-food-and-water-scarcity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water scarcity</a>.



As part of its Middle East Green Initiative, the Kingdom plans to plant a staggering 10 billion trees and rehabilitate over 74 million hectares of land. For this ambitious plan to succeed, effective water and soil management are key.



At the same university, Himanshu Mishra, who is an environmental science and engineering expert, offers another innovative solution. His team believes they have created a product capable of transforming Saudi's desert sand into cultivable land.



Their secret weapon? Carbon-enriched compost derived from an abundant local resource – chicken manure.



This advanced compost, which retains vital nutrients and water while enhancing microbial biodiversity, is already turning arid soils into verdant landscapes.



Moreover, Saudi Arabia could potentially export this carbonated topsoil along with the supporting technology, which would broaden the scope of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-day-initiative-forest-restoration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green initiatives</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-funding-green-tech-the-challenge-ahead">Funding green tech: The challenge ahead</h2>



Though rife with potential, scaling such endeavors requires substantial financial backing and political support. 



"We really need venture funding and investment to demonstrate their effectiveness on a large scale," noted Hong.



Indeed, securing funding for green tech startups isn't a walk in the park. It's "extremely hard," said John Robinson, an investor and partner at Mazarine Ventures. Despite the challenges, some promising startups manage to attract private investors.



As the world's leading exporter of crude oil, Saudi Arabia's fervent defense of this resource casts a shadow over its green ambitions.



In the face of it all, the Kingdom continues to invest in technologies like carbon capture and hydrogen production as part of its touted "circular carbon economy."



 Critics argue this is merely greenwashing, aimed at perpetuating fossil fuel investments.



The Saudi Green Initiative isn't without its detractors. In May 2024, the European Center for Democracy and Human Rights (ECDHR) claimed that this initiative masked Saudi's ongoing fossil fuel reliance and disregard for environmental justice. 



In response, Riyadh defends its actions as being integral to its energy security.



As Saudi Arabia ventures into its green future, balancing oil production with environmental conservation will be its greatest challenge. 



Yet, the Kingdom's bold strides show a promising commitment towards a greener world.



Details of the study are <a href="https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/news/reusing-saudi-arabia-s-precious-water-resources">presented in a report</a> by the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.



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Saudi Arabia is turning arid desert sand into lush blooming soil

Amid a vast landscape of sun-scorched sand and earth, where...

Northern,Lights,Aurora.,Aurora,Borealis.,A,Wonderful,Night,With,Northern

In the last few years, observers have noticed unusual streaks of mauve and white lights called Steve, along with a glowing green feature known as the picket fence, appearing near the usual displays of auroras.



The more familiar auroras, with their greens, reds, and purples, have long been attributed to energized particles from the solar wind interacting with Earth’s upper atmosphere. But these new features raise fresh questions.



The mystery of the beautiful lights called "Steve" and the picket fence first came to light in 2018, when scientists realized that their properties differ sharply from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/auroras-southern-united-states-this-week-huge-solar-storm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">normal auroras</a>. 



After a time, many wondered if these lights might share the same origins as the classic auroras, or if they might arise from a different set of conditions. 



Claire Gasque, a graduate student in physics at the <a href="https://www.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Berkeley</a>, has stepped up to propose a new explanation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closer-look-at-the-steve-lights">A closer look at the Steve lights</h2>



The night sky often offers surprises, and sometimes these surprises challenge long-standing thinking and call for detailed study. 



Gasque, working at the Space Sciences Laboratory (<a href="https://www.ssl.berkeley.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SSL</a>) at Berkeley, suggests that a separate physical process could be responsible for these unusual lights. 



She argues that the time has come to question old assumptions and look for new answers.



“This would upend our modeling of what creates light and the energy in the aurora in some cases,” Gasque said. “It’s really cool, one of the biggest mysteries in space physics right now.”



Gasque believes that a <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> mission to send a rocket into an aurora would help confirm her ideas. 



With the sun’s activity ramping up in its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/northern-lights-activity-will-intensify-over-the-next-18-months/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">11-year cycle</a>, this might be a good moment to catch rare phenomena and learn something new in the process.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-mechanism-is-making-the-sky-glow">New mechanism is making the sky glow</h2>



The idea of launching rockets to measure electric and magnetic fields inside these glowing events has gained momentum. 



Gasque thinks that electric fields parallel to <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s magnetic field</a> might be creating the picket fence colors. 



Traditional auroras come from charged particles streaming down from space and energizing oxygen and nitrogen molecules, producing familiar colors. 



But Steve’s purple or mauve tones do not match the pattern, and the picket fence appears in latitudes where auroras typically do not form. Gasque sees this as a sign that something else is going on.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electrons-in-the-atmosphere">Electrons in the atmosphere</h2>



Gasque’s research shows that a parallel electric field of about 100 millivolts per meter at an altitude of about 110 km could energize electrons enough to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/steve-phenomenon-not-aurora-has-dawn-side-twin-swarm-satellites-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">produce the observed colors</a>. 



She also points out that this region has special conditions, like reduced plasma density and more neutral atoms. This environment might allow the field to do its work without shorting out.



“If you look at the spectrum of the picket fence, it’s much more green than you would expect. And there’s none of the blue that’s coming from the ionization of nitrogen,” Gasque said. 



“What that’s telling us is that there’s only a specific energy range of electrons that can create those colors, and they can’t be coming from way out in space down into the atmosphere, because those particles have too much energy.” 



Instead, she said, “the light from the picket fence is being created by particles that have to be energized right there in space by a parallel electric field, which is a completely different mechanism than any of the aurora that we’ve studied or known before.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-steve-lights-get-a-new-layer-of-complexity">Steve lights get a new layer of complexity</h2>



<a href="https://www.ssl.berkeley.edu/full-directory/name/brian-harding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brian Harding</a>, an assistant research physicist at SSL and a co-author on Gasque’s work, appreciates the significance of these findings. 



“The really interesting thing about Claire’s paper is that we’ve known for a couple of years now that the Steve spectrum is telling us there’s some very strange physics going on," Harding enthused.



"We just didn’t know what it was. Claire’s paper showed that parallel electric fields are capable of explaining this strange spectrum.”



The team plans to set their sights first on something called the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/auroras-are-a-visual-warning-of-shocks-to-earths-magnetic-field/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enhanced aurora</a>, which is basically this bright layer that’s embedded in the normal aurora. 



"The colors are similar to the picket fence in that there’s not as much blue in them, and there’s more green from oxygen and red from nitrogen," Gasque explained. 



"The hypothesis is that these are also created by parallel electric fields, but they are a lot more common than the picket fence."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nasa-we-need-your-help">NASA, we need your help</h2>



They have submitted a proposal to NASA for a sounding rocket campaign that, if selected, would launch from Alaska. 



The team aims to fly a rocket through that enhanced layer to actually measure those parallel electric fields for the first time, and also send one higher to distinguish the conditions from those that cause the auroras.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-the-steve-lights">What's next for the Steve lights?</h2>



Gasque credits cooperation with experts focused on different parts of the atmosphere for making progress. 



She hopes that a successful campaign will pave the way for a direct measurement of Steve and the picket fence themselves. 



The plan is to learn how these electric fields form and what they mean for the transfer of energy between Earth and space. Harding expects future work to break new ground in understanding these electric fields. 



“It’s fair to say that there’s going to be a lot of study in the future about how those electric fields got there, what waves they are or aren’t associated with, and what that means for the larger energy transfer between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/geomagnetic-storms-are-influenced-by-earths-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s atmosphere</a> and space,” Harding concluded. 



“We really don’t know. Claire’s paper is the first step in the chain of that understanding.”



If NASA gives the green light, the team could start making these measurements very soon. As the solar cycle moves forward, new opportunities will arise to see these phenomena again. 



Gasque’s work suggests that Steve and the picket fence are something else entirely, reshaping how scientists look at lights in the night sky and the processes that power them.



The full study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023GL106073" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a>.



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Sky lights called "Steve" are challenging what we know about auroras

In the last few years, observers have noticed unusual streaks...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-waters-beneath-ancient-craters">Hidden waters beneath ancient craters</h2>



Scientists have made a startling discovery that challenges everything we thought we knew about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-moon-mimas-has-remarkably-young-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's moon Mimas</a>. Beneath the heavily cratered surface that earned it the nickname "Death Star" lies a global ocean that formed just 5 to 15 million years ago—a remarkably young age by cosmic standards.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cassini-data-reveals-orbital-secrets">Cassini data reveals orbital secrets</h2>



The discovery, led by Dr. Valéry Lainey of the <a href="https://observatoiredeparis.psl.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Observatoire de Paris</a>, emerged from careful analysis of <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s Cassini spacecraft data. By studying subtle irregularities in Mimas's orbit around Saturn, researchers detected the gravitational signature of liquid water hidden 20 to 30 kilometers beneath the moon's icy shell.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unlikely-ocean-world">An unlikely ocean world</h2>



At only 400 kilometers in diameter, Mimas seemed like the least likely candidate to harbor a subsurface ocean. Unlike other ocean moons such as Europa and Enceladus, which show clear surface signs of internal activity, Mimas displays no obvious hints of the liquid water beneath its ancient, crater-scarred exterior.



"Mimas is a small moon, and its heavily cratered surface gave no hint of the hidden ocean beneath," explained Dr. Nick Cooper from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, a study co-author.



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



The ocean's recent formation makes Mimas a prime target for studying how oceans develop and potentially support life. This discovery adds another member to the exclusive club of ocean worlds in our solar system, each offering unique insights into the conditions necessary for habitability.



The research, published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a> journal, demonstrates how advanced orbital analysis can reveal hidden features of celestial bodies, opening new possibilities for understanding ocean formation throughout the cosmos.



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Scientists discover unexpected young ocean on Saturn's cratered moon Mimas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ 'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE
</div></figure>



On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop and sunlight barely penetrates through the polar winter. It was here, however, that an international team of scientists found <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predatory-worms-were-terror-beasts-half-a-billion-years-ago/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evidence of sea monsters</a> that would change our understanding of ocean life in the past.



This video captures the discovery of Timorebestia fossils that had been hidden for more than 500 million years in the Sirius Passet formation. The "terror beasts," as they are called, are a hidden chapter in the evolutionary history of <a href="https://www.earth.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth</a>, showing that sophisticated predator-prey interactions occurred much earlier than previously envisioned.



Dr. Jakob Vinther and his research team at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, in collaboration with researchers at the <a href="https://eng.kopri.re.kr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Korean Polar Research Institute</a>, braved extreme weather conditions at 82.5 north latitude to locate these giant creatures. Using sophisticated electron microprobe analysis, they revealed the detailed anatomy of the animals, including their muscle and nerve tissues.



The find upsets the traditional timeline of sea predators. Although we've long appreciated that Cambrian oceans were at one time ruled by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWI3-UgA3_o&amp;list=PL1QLQMW9MWDwpkFOnvgAmu7wT6rZmYqdJ&amp;index=19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">arthropods</a>, these discoveries indicate that relatives of arrow worms were first to dominate the seas. These worms were building sophisticated food webs several million years before other predator groups arose.



Each fossil is a story of ancient hunger, with fossil stomach contents revealing these meter-long beasts dined on heavily armored arthropods regularly, cementing their place as the ocean's first apex predators.



-----



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Y4eLFNYrKE On the unforgiving landscape of North Greenland, temperatures drop...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New York is the site of the world's oldest forest.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-385-million-year-old-trees-discovered">385-million-year-old trees discovered</h2>



Scientists have uncovered something extraordinary just two hours north of New York City. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-oldest-forest-discovered-close-to-new-york-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">world's oldest forest</a>, dating back 385 million years, offers a window into how Earth's first complex forests shaped our planet's atmosphere.



Located near <a href="https://townofcairo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cairo, New York</a>, in Greene County, these weren't merely primitive plants struggling to survive. These were sophisticated trees with root systems remarkably similar to modern forests. This ancient woodland predates dinosaurs by 140 million years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cairo-forest-discovery">The Cairo forest discovery</h2>



385 million years ago, upstate New York was a tropical paradise near the equator. Thanks to continental drift, this ancient forest has traveled thousands of miles to its current location.



The fossil forest sits in an abandoned quarry, roughly half the size of a football field. This represents just a slice of what was likely a massive forest system stretching from New York into Pennsylvania.



Charles Ver Straeten, curator of sedimentary rocks at the <a href="https://www.nysm.nysed.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York State Museum</a>, made the discovery in 2009. While scouting the former highway department property, his trained eye spotted wandering patterns in the stone that looked like marine features.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-age-and-preservation">Revolutionary age and preservation</h2>



The site contains 385-million-year-old rocks with fossilized woody roots forming horizontal patterns up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) wide. As Christopher Berry, a paleobotanist at Cardiff University, explains: "You are walking through the roots of ancient trees."



This discovery pushes back advanced tree evolution by millions of years. The research, published in <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a> in December 2019, fundamentally changes our understanding of when complex forests first emerged.



Researchers believe a massive flood buried the forest floor, creating perfect fossilization conditions. Over millions of years, sediment hardened into rock, preserving these root patterns like nature's time capsule.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-archaeopteris-the-first-modern-tree">Meet Archaeopteris: the first modern tree</h2>



The star of this ancient forest is Archaeopteris – not to be confused with the feathered dinosaur Archaeopteryx. This tree was far older and more revolutionary.



William Stein from <a href="https://www.binghamton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binghamton University</a> describes the roots as "strikingly modern, essentially what you'd see outside in my yard right now." These weren't simple root systems you'd expect from ancient plants.



Some fossilized roots are six inches (15 centimeters) in diameter, forming 36-foot-wide (11-meter) patterns. These giants grew up to 65 feet (20 meters) tall with five-foot-diameter (1.5-meter) trunks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-changing-impact">Climate-changing impact</h2>



These trees fundamentally changed Earth's environment. Kevin Boyce, a Stanford University geoscientist, explains how their deep roots triggered "weathering," chemical reactions that pulled carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.



This process dropped atmospheric CO2 levels from 10-15 times higher than today to roughly modern concentrations. These ancient trees helped create atmospheric conditions that made complex life possible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-forest-ecosystem">Ancient forest ecosystem</h2>



The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified Eospermatopteris, palm tree-like plants with short roots that reached 30 feet (9 meters) tall but lacked woody structure. The forest also housed cladoxylopsids and a mysterious third species still being studied.



All reproduced through spores rather than seeds – millions of years before seeds evolved. This tropical environment had no grass, flowers, or flying insects, just towering trees creating Earth's first complex forest canopy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-significance">Scientific significance</h2>



Before this finding, the Gilboa forest, located 25 miles (40 kilometers) away, held the "oldest forest" title. Cairo's trees are 2-3 million years older, showing that complex forest ecosystems developed much faster than scientists believed possible.



Patricia Gensel, a <a href="https://www.unc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of North Carolina</a> paleobotanist, notes: "The size of those root systems is really changing the picture. Even 20 years ago, researchers assumed trees with such complex root systems didn't evolve so early."



The Cairo site presents three unique root systems, suggesting Devonian period forests were diverse ecosystems with different trees occupying different environmental niches, much like today's forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-preservation-efforts">Modern preservation efforts</h2>



In 2022, New York State Senator Michelle Hinchey secured a $170,000 grant for the town of Cairo to construct specialized fencing around the fossil forest site. The town plans to conduct a feasibility study exploring the possibility of creating an educational center and working lab on-site.



Joe Hasenkopf, chair of the Cairo Planning Board, hopes to partner with educational institutions to create a research facility serving scientists, students, and the public.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-for-today-s-climate">Lessons for today's climate</h2>



Why does a 385-million-year-old forest matter today? It shows how dramatically forests can change Earth's climate. These ancient woodlands created the atmospheric conditions supporting complex life.



Understanding how prehistoric forests transformed the planet helps us appreciate modern forests' critical role in addressing climate change. Forests remain Earth's most effective carbon capture systems.



These prehistoric trees changed Earth's atmosphere by pulling massive amounts of carbon dioxide from the air. As we face modern climate challenges, this ancient forest reminds us of trees' incredible power to transform our planet's environment.



The next time you walk through a forest, remember you're experiencing an ecosystem whose blueprint was established 385 million years ago in upstate New York. These ancient pioneers didn't just survive – they thrived and changed the world forever.



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ow3JH03PqEQ New York is the site of the world's oldest...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-don-t-we-ever-hear-about-acid-rain-anymore-the-environmental-crisis-that-was-solved">Why don't we ever hear about "acid rain" anymore? The environmental crisis that was solved</h2>



Remember the 1980s when acid rain dominated headlines? Dire warnings about rain eating buildings, killing fish, and destroying forests filled every news cycle. Then, almost like magic, acid rain vanished from public discourse. What happened? Did we actually solve one of the late 20th century's most pressing environmental challenges?



The answer might surprise you. Unlike many environmental issues that drag on indefinitely, acid rain represents one of modern history's most successful ecological recovery stories. It's a tale of science, politics, and technology working together to tackle what seemed impossible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What was acid rain?</h2>



Acid rain isn't regular rain having a bad day – it's precipitation that became significantly more acidic due to air pollution. When power plants, factories, and vehicles burn fossil fuels, they release sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The science behind it</h2>



Think of acid rain as nature's chemistry experiment gone wrong. These compounds react with water, oxygen, and other chemicals to form sulfuric and nitric acids. When mixed with water vapor in clouds, they create precipitation with dangerously low pH levels.



While clean rain has a pH of about 5.6, acid rain could drop as low as 4.2 to 4.4 – roughly as acidic as tomato juice or coffee. According to US Geological Survey documentation, Scottish chemist Angus Smith first coined "acid rain" in 1872, but it didn't become a household phrase until the 1960s and 1970s when Swedish scientist Svante Odén documented its devastating effects on Scandinavian lakes and European forests.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The crisis at its peak</h2>



During the height of public concern, environmental damage was both widespread and visible. This wasn't some abstract future threat – people could see destruction happening in real-time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Environmental devastation</h2>



The most dramatic impacts were impossible to ignore. Research documented by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation shows that in the Adirondack Mountains, more than 200 lakes became so acidic they couldn't support fish life. The Adirondack Council reports that 409 lakes once supported brook trout, but many lost their fish populations due to acid rain.



By 1976, when scientists cataloged all acidified lakes in the Adirondack Park, researchers found that half of the lakes over 2,000 feet above sea level had no fish, according to studies published in environmental journals. The acidification process worked like a slow-motion disaster. As acid rain fell into watersheds, it gradually lowered pH levels. Fish couldn't survive in acidic water, and their food sources died off too.



Trees at high elevations showed stress directly linked to acid rain. It weakened them by leaching nutrients and making them susceptible to disease. Historical records show Germany's Black Forest saw nearly half its trees damaged by the mid-1980s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Economic impact</h2>



Acid rain wasn't just environmental – it was expensive. Acidic precipitation corroded infrastructure, buildings, and monuments. Historic stone structures deteriorated at accelerated rates. Tourism suffered as lakes became fishless and forests declined. EPA economic analyses from the period documented repair costs mounting into billions annually.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The solution: government action and technology</h2>



Transformation from crisis to success required unprecedented cooperation between governments, industries, and environmental groups.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Clean Air Act of 1990</h2>



The turning point came with the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, signed by President George H.W. Bush. This represented a fundamentally new approach to environmental regulation, as documented in EPA historical records.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cap-and-trade success</h2>



Instead of mandating specific technologies, the 1990 amendments introduced something revolutionary: a cap-and-trade system for sulfur dioxide emissions. EPA program documentation shows this market-based approach set overall limits but allowed companies to trade emission allowances.



The genius was harnessing market forces to find cost-effective pollution reduction. Companies reducing emissions cheaply could sell excess allowances to those facing higher costs. Research published in environmental economics journals and EPA progress reports shows this resulted in dramatic SO2 reduction at a fraction of projected costs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Technology advances</h2>



Policy provided the framework, but technology made reductions possible. Studies in atmospheric science journals document the widespread adoption of flue gas desulfurization systems ("scrubbers") that removed sulfur dioxide before it reached the atmosphere. By the 2000s, new installations could remove over 95% of SO2 emissions, according to EPA technical reports.



The push coincided with cleaner energy development. Natural gas produces fewer sulfur compounds than coal. Wind and solar, emerging in the 1990s, captured growing market share, reducing reliance on high-sulfur coal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-we-don-t-hear-about-it-today">Why we don't hear about it today</h2>



Why did acid rain disappear from headlines? Simple: the problem was largely solved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Success doesn't make news</h2>



There's an old journalism saying: "If it bleeds, it leads." Environmental success stories don't generate urgency like crisis reporting. Media attention shifted to other challenges: climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss. There's only so much environmental anxiety the public can absorb, and newer concerns replaced acid rain.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mission accomplished</h2>



The primary reason is beautifully simple: interventions worked. EPA monitoring data shows sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990. Academic research published in environmental science journals confirms pH levels in formerly affected areas returned closer to normal. This represents one of history's most dramatic environmental recoveries. Studies by the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation show fishless lakes now support healthy populations. Forests recovered, and building damage slowed dramatically.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-it-really-gone">Is it really gone?</h2>



The crisis is largely resolved, but monitoring data shows the problem isn't completely eliminated – it's managed to acceptable levels. Some areas still experience occasional events during high pollution periods. International environmental research indicates that rapidly industrializing Asian countries face similar problems to what we experienced decades ago, though they're implementing successful strategies.



EPA research shows nitrogen oxide emissions proved more challenging than sulfur dioxide, coming from vehicles and mobile sources. Climate science studies suggest changing weather patterns add complexity to how acid rain forms and falls.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What this teaches us</h2>



The acid rain experience proves that seemingly intractable environmental problems can be solved with scientific understanding, political will, and technological innovation. Environmental monitoring data shows recovery speed was remarkable – within a decade, measurable improvements appeared in air quality and ecosystem health.



Success came from bipartisan support across party lines. Policy analysis studies show the market-based approach appealed to those preferring economic incentives while achieving environmental goals. This support created lasting policy surviving political changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h2>



Acid rain's disappearance from public consciousness represents environmental science's greatest success stories. Through effective regulation, technological innovation, and international cooperation, we transformed an overwhelming crisis into a manageable challenge.



Today's silence isn't because we forgot – it's because we solved it. The 1990 Clean Air Act, combined with technology and energy market changes, reduced acid rain emissions over 90%, according to comprehensive EPA data analysis.



This success offers hope for current challenges. It proves complex problems can be solved when science, policy, and technology work together. As we face climate change and plastic pollution, acid rain reminds us that dramatic positive change is possible.



Next time someone asks whether environmental regulations work, remember acid rain. It's proof that sometimes, we get it right.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Sources: This article draws from EPA official documentation and progress reports, peer-reviewed research published in environmental and atmospheric science journals, historical data from the Adirondack Lakes Survey Corporation, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation records, US Geological Survey publications, policy analysis studies, and environmental monitoring data collected over three decades.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



1. Is acid rain completely gone? No, but EPA monitoring shows it's reduced to manageable levels. US sulfur dioxide emissions dropped over 90% since 1990, making acid rain much less severe than the 1980s crisis.



2. How long did solving take? Environmental monitoring data shows significant improvements began within 5-10 years of 1990s emission controls. Full ecosystem recovery took longer – some areas need 20-30 years for complete recovery.



3. What made the solution successful? Clear scientific understanding, visible damage motivating action, bipartisan support, available technology, and innovative market-based policies like cap-and-trade.



4. Do other countries have acid rain problems? Yes, particularly rapidly industrializing Asian countries. However, international environmental research shows many implement similar successful control strategies.



5. Could acid rain return? Potentially, if regulations weaken or we return to high-sulfur coal without controls, though effects would take years to become severe according to environmental projections.



6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"? The United States Environmental Protection Agency produced a wonderful teacher's guide for ages 14 and under that you can find on the EPA website here: <a href="https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-03/documents/teachersguide.pdf</a>



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The environmental problem we actually solved

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk Acid rain and a crisis solved. Why don't we...

Fresh,Radish,Harvest,On,Soil,In,Garden.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex
</div></figure>







Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving fall garden, and this guide lays out the best vegetables and herbs to plant now for a fruitful autumn harvest. 



Fast-growing leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, kale, and arugula perform especially well in the waning summer heat, with harvests beginning as soon as 30 days. 



These cool-season crops relish the transition into fall, offering repeated yields with cut-and-come-again methods.



Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and beets also excel during this period. Radishes deliver satisfaction in under a month, while carrots and beets mature in about two months. Employing succession planting ensures a continuous stream of produce deep into the cooler months. 



For a boost of fresh flavor, herbs like cilantro, basil, dill, and chervil are excellent picks. These heat-loving varieties flourish in July’s warmth and are harvest-ready in about 30 days, especially when sown continuously.



Gardeners in zones 6 through 9 can benefit from planting bush beans and snap peas, which don’t require trellising and are ideal for compact plots. 



Maturing in 50–60 days, they’re a smart choice for quick, protein-rich harvests. For those in hotter regions, heat-tolerant crops such as okra and southern peas provide reliable yields and thrive in scorching conditions.



This guide emphasizes more than crop selection—it highlights the importance of timing, soil preparation, and ongoing sowing techniques. 



With thoughtful planning and attention to regional climate needs, even late-summer gardeners can enjoy fresh salads, hearty stews, and the satisfaction of a robust, homegrown harvest well into fall.



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving...

Green,Ecoduct,Over,An,Empty,Highway,During,Sunset.

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that wildlife tunnels significantly reduce amphibian road mortality during seasonal migrations. 



Frogs and salamanders often cross roads to reach breeding ponds each spring, but many are killed by vehicles. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont</a>, in collaboration with local citizens and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, installed two underpass tunnels in 2015. 



Over a 12-year monitoring period, they observed an 80.2% reduction in amphibian deaths, and up to 94% for non-climbing species like salamanders. 



The study used a before-after-control-impact design and documented more than 5,200 amphibians, highlighting the tunnels’ effectiveness even in nearby buffer zones.



Funded at $342,397 - far cheaper than wildlife crossings for large mammals - the project showcased the power of community-led conservation.



Local groups initiated the effort after observing mass amphibian deaths. Wildlife cameras later captured over 2,200 amphibians using a tunnel in just one spring, along with other species like raccoons and bobcats, indicating wider ecosystem benefits.



This marks the first peer-reviewed, long-term data set in the northeastern U.S. confirming amphibian-specific underpasses work. 



The study urges transportation departments to incorporate these designs into road planning and highlights how community action, thoughtful infrastructure, and persistence can make a real difference for biodiversity.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1617138125000780" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal for Nature Conservation</a>.



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Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&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> Staff Writer 



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.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

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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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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