<p>A new study reports microbial DNA preserved inside woolly and steppe mammoth remains that are older than one million years. The team shows that some bacteria were living with these animals while they were alive, not just invading after death.</p>



<p>Researchers analyzed DNA from 483 specimens and sequenced 440 of them for the first time. From a steppe mammoth that lived about 1.1 million years ago, they even pieced together parts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-buried-for-millions-of-years-may-guide-search-for-alien-life/">bacterial</a> genomes that once infected or inhabited the animal.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-microbes-in-mammoths">Ancient microbes in mammoths</h2>



<p>The work was led by Benjamin Guinet, a postdoctoral fellow at the Centre for Palaeogenetics in Stockholm (<a href="https://palaeogenetics.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CPG</a>). The Centre is a collaboration between Stockholm University and the Swedish Museum of Natural History (<a href="https://www.nrm.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NRM</a>).</p>



<p>"Our results push the study of microbial DNA back beyond a million years, opening up new possibilities to explore how host-associated microbes evolved in parallel with their hosts," said Guinet. </p>



<p>The project involved an international team of experts working across multiple collections and labs.</p>



<p>The researchers used strict lab protocols, computational filters, and DNA damage checks to separate life stage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-found-alive-sealed-inside-rock-after-2-billion-years/">microbes</a> from postmortem contaminants. That approach helped them focus on organisms that were likely part of the mammoth’s own internal community.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inside-mammoth-dna">Inside mammoth DNA</h2>



<p>The scientists kept finding the same six types of bacteria in mammoth remains from different times and places, including close relatives of <em>Actinobacillus</em>, <em>Pasteurella</em>, <em>Streptococcus</em>, and <em>Erysipelothrix</em>. </p>



<p>This pattern suggests that these microbes had a long history with mammoths, sticking with them through environmental changes and population shifts.</p>



<p>The scientists distinguished host-associated microbes, meaning those living in or on a host while it was alive, from environmental bacteria that entered after burial. </p>



<p>They used metagenomics, a method that reads all DNA in a sample at once, then identified ancient damage patterns to authenticate the oldest material.</p>



<p>From the 1.1 million year steppe mammoth, the team reconstructed partial genomes of <em>Erysipelothrix</em> that likely came from an infection during life. This is the oldest authenticated host-associated microbial DNA ever reported, and it extends the range for studying ancient host <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-aquificales-discovered-in-hot-springs-breathe-oxygen-and-sulfur-at-same-time/">microbe</a> interactions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-ancient-microbes-matter">Why ancient microbes matter</h2>



<p>This result builds on earlier work that recovered genome scale data from mammoth teeth more than one million years old, demonstrating that DNA can survive when conditions are right. </p>



<p>The previous <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-021-03224-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> established methods and expectations for data quality at this extreme age.</p>



<p>Ancient DNA is fragile and breaks into tiny pieces, and chemical changes accumulate over time. By tracking these signatures, scientists can tell ancient sequences from modern contamination and avoid false signals.</p>



<p>"As microbes evolve fast, obtaining reliable DNA data across more than a million years was like following a trail that kept rewriting itself," said study senior author Tom van der Valk.</p>



<p>"Our findings show that ancient remains can preserve biological insights far beyond the host genome, offering us perspectives on how microbes influenced adaptation, disease, and extinction in Pleistocene ecosystems."</p>



<p>The Pleistocene was a period from about 2.6 million years ago to 11,700 years ago that included repeated ice ages.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-linked-to-mammoth-health">Microbes linked to mammoth health</h2>



<p>One bacterium in the dataset is closely related to a <em>Pasteurella</em> species implicated in lethal outbreaks among African elephants. That connection is supported by a 2023 <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37880229/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">paper</a> that identified a Pasteurella relative as the likely cause of fatal septicemia in elephants in Zimbabwe.</p>



<p>The new study reports several putative <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2646308/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virulence factors</a>, which are gene features tied to disease-causing ability, in some clades. The authors are careful about cause and effect because ancient DNA is incomplete and infections leave mixed traces.</p>



<p><em>Erysipelothrix</em> is also known to sicken Arctic wildlife today, including muskoxen during unusual mortality events. That pattern has been documented in a Canadian Veterinary <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4431149/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal</a> that found <em>Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae</em> associated with widespread deaths in the Canadian Arctic.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mammoth-survival-and-microbes">Mammoth survival and microbes</h2>



<p>Microbes that stayed with mammoths for hundreds of thousands of years hint at stable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breathing-without-oxygen-how-ancient-microbes-powered-early-life/">relationships</a> shaped by diet, climate, and social behavior. The persistence of these lineages across far flung regions points to deep coevolution.</p>



<p>The last woolly mammoths survived on Wrangel Island until about 4,000 years ago, long after mainland populations vanished. Genetic work on that relict group links their late survival to small population size and accumulating harmful mutations.</p>



<p>"This work opens a new chapter in understanding the biology of extinct species. Not only can we study the genomes of mammoths themselves, but we can now begin to explore the microbial communities that lived inside them," said Love Dalén, professor of evolutionary genomics at the CPG. </p>



<p>Ultimately, the data help connect health, ecology, and extinction risks in a single picture.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-this-research-can-go-next">Where this research can go next</h2>



<p>Reconstructing ancient microbiomes can help set baselines for living elephant microbiomes. That matters because health, diet, and stress are all reflected in the microbiome, the community of microbes that live in and on an organism.</p>



<p>Ancient pathogen signals can also clarify whether outbreaks played a role in population declines. Learning which bacteria carried disease associated genes in the past could inform surveillance and treatment strategies for modern elephants.</p>



<p>Finally, the same tools can be applied to other Ice Age species to test whether long-lived microbial partners were the rule rather than the exception. Careful sampling, clean labs, and independent checks will keep new claims on firm ground.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/cell/abstract/S0092-8674(25)00917-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Cell</em></a>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Million year-old mammoth microbes reveal new clues about disease

A new study reports microbial DNA preserved inside woolly and steppe mammoth remains that are older than one million years. The team shows that some bacteria were living with these animals while they were alive, not just invading after death. Researchers analyzed DNA from 483 specimens and sequenced 440 of them for the first time. From a steppe mammoth that lived about 1.1 million years ago, they even pieced together parts of bacterial genomes that once infected or inhabited the animal. Ancient microbes in mammoths The work...

<p>A team of scientists has recently identified a widely available, naturally occurring plant compound that appears to safeguard nerve cells from deterioration, potentially offering a breakthrough in the treatment of ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and dementia. </p>



<p>Many fruits and vegetables, including kale, endives, and berries, naturally contain the compound kaempferol, which is an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrimp-proven-to-be-a-nutritional-treasure-packed-with-antioxidants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antioxidant</a>.</p>



<p>Despite its common presence in our diet, new findings reveal that the compound kaempferol’s benefits for nerve cell health may far exceed what we previously understood.</p>



<p>“It’s exciting to discover a naturally occurring compound that may help people suffering from ALS or dementia,” said Smita Saxena, a professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the <a href="https://medicine.missouri.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Missouri School of Medicine</a> and the lead investigator on this study. </p>



<p>“We found this compound had a strong impact in terms of maintaining motor and muscle function and reducing muscle atrophy.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-unique-plant-compound">A unique plant compound </h2>



<p>Kaempferol is a flavonoid, a class of molecules prized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In this research, scientists honed in on how kaempferol might help nerve cells deal with two major sources of stress.&nbsp;</p>



<p>First, neurons depend on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/damaged-mitochondria-recycled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mitochondria</a> to produce the energy they need to function. If these mitochondria falter, neurons become less able to maintain the electrical signals and chemical communications essential to muscle control.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Second, neurons rely on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to assemble and process proteins correctly. In many neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS, the ER is under tremendous strain, leading to protein misfolding and cell damage.</p>



<p>In nerve cells sampled from ALS patients, the plant compound significantly boosted the cells’ energy production and reduced ER stress.</p>



<p>The experts argued that this is one of the first compounds scientists have identified to directly act on both mitochondria and the ER at once. That double-targeting mechanism could be a potent means of slowing or preventing neuronal loss.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-compound-has-potential-to-fight-als">Compound has potential to fight ALS</h2>



<p>ALS is a progressive condition that disrupts muscle control, often beginning with twitching or weakness and ending in complete paralysis. Current treatments for ALS are limited and generally only slow progression marginally.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As a result, the demand for new therapeutic options is high. Kaempferol’s ability to bolster two of the cell’s most vulnerable processes - energy generation and protein management - makes it stand out as a promising candidate.</p>



<p>Lab tests showed that kaempferol not only delayed the deterioration of nerve cells but also retained motor function in experimental models.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to Saxena, the compound is particularly interesting because it seems effective even after symptoms of ALS begin manifesting.</p>



<p>Many potential therapies lose their efficacy once a disease’s clinical signs emerge, so a compound that works in symptomatic patients could represent a major step forward.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-obstacles-to-overcome">Obstacles to overcome</h2>



<p>Despite these promising findings, there are two major challenges to transforming kaempferol into a widely used treatment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The first issue is that the human body absorbs it poorly. While foods such as kale or berries do contain kaempferol, you would need to eat staggering amounts - at least 10 to 11 pounds of kale in a single day - to reach the dosage levels shown to be beneficial in laboratory conditions.</p>



<p>This poor absorption means only a small fraction of dietary kaempferol reaches nerve cells.</p>



<p>Second, the blood-brain barrier adds another challenge. While it protects the brain from harmful substances, it also blocks helpful compounds like kaempferol from reaching target cells in effective amounts. Even if one manages to consume enough kaempferol, delivering it to the brain is another significant challenge.</p>



<p>“Our bodies don’t absorb kaempferol very well from the vegetables we eat,” Saxena said. “Because of this, only a small amount reaches our tissues, limiting how effective it can be. We need to find ways to increase the dose of kaempferol or modify it so it’s absorbed into the bloodstream more easily.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paving-the-way-for-clinical-tests">Paving the way for clinical tests</h2>



<p>To address these issues, Saxena’s team is experimenting with improved delivery strategies. One leading idea is to use lipid-based nanoparticles as carriers. </p>



<p>Researchers have already explored these tiny fat-based spheres in other areas of medicine - particularly vaccines - to ferry molecules across biological barriers.</p>



<p>By packaging it in this way, scientists can help it dodge some of the body’s natural defense systems and enable more of it to reach the neurons. Essentially, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neurons-can-predict-human-speech-before-we-say-a-word/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neurons</a> would take up these nanoparticles more efficiently, delivering a potent dose of kaempferol to the exact spot where it’s needed.</p>



<p>Saxena’s lab aims to finalize their nanoparticle formulations and begin testing them in model systems later this year. </p>



<p>If these trials are successful, it could pave the way for clinical testing in humans, a process that could eventually yield a new class of neuroprotective drugs derived from compounds found in common foods.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-compound-s-potential-beyond-als">Plant compound's potential beyond ALS</h2>



<p>While the research is focused on ALS, the mechanisms targeted by kaempferol - such as energy metabolism and protein folding - are also at play in other neurodegenerative diseases, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alzheimers-may-not-be-a-brain-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer’s</a> and Parkinson’s. </p>



<p>This raises the possibility that a kaempferol-based therapy, once refined, could have broader applications in neurology.</p>



<p>By stabilizing both energy production and protein management, there’s a chance the compound could alleviate several types of degenerative stress in neurons.</p>



<p>Of course, researchers must still conduct substantial studies before they can consider kaempferol a bona fide treatment. Still, these early results renew hope in a field that desperately needs effective solutions.</p>



<p>For now, this work reminds us that even a molecule we routinely consume in fruits and vegetables may harbor remarkable secrets - if only we can figure out how to harness its power.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://actaneurocomms.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40478-025-01927-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Acta Neuropathologica Communications</em></a>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Plant compound shows potential for treating ALS and dementia

A team of scientists has recently identified a widely available,...

<p>Archaea are tiny, single-celled organisms often confused with bacteria. They live everywhere - from inside salty lakes to down our own guts - and yet, they rarely get the attention they deserve.</p>



<p>Although they are unicellular and might look like bacteria on the outside, archaea are genetically closer to plants and animals.</p>



<p>And now, new research shows they’re capable of something that was long thought to be exclusive to more complex life forms.</p>



<p>Scientists have uncovered a surprising trait in archaea: under certain physical conditions, these microscopic organisms can behave like multicellular beings.</p>



<p>This finding may change the way we think about life’s earliest building blocks and the evolution of biological complexity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-archaea-so-unique">What makes archaea so unique?</h2>



<p>Archaea don’t have the rigid cell walls that many bacteria do. Instead, they’re wrapped in a flexible protein surface. That detail sparked curiosity. </p>



<p>“The absence of a covalent-bound <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-plants-build-their-cell-walls-is-seen-by-scientists-for-the-first-time-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cell wall</a> suggests a more dynamic, but less rigid structure, leading to the hypothesis that archaea might be 'squishy' and sensitive to mechanical stimuli,” explained Alex Bisson from <a href="https://www.brandeis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brandeis University</a>.</p>



<p>This initial hunch led the research team to examine what happens when these "squishy" cells are put under pressure. </p>



<p>The result? A completely unexpected display of complex behavior.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-simplicity-to-multicellular-structure">From simplicity to multicellular structure</h2>



<p>The team studied <em><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finding-alien-life-may-be-as-simple-as-watching-microbes-move/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Haloferax volcanii</a></em>, an archaeon known for surviving in extreme environments like salt flats. </p>



<p>When the cells of this species were placed under mechanical pressure, something extraordinary occurred. They didn’t divide the way that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aggressive-predatory-behavior-discovered-in-tiny-single-celled-organisms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">single-celled</a> organisms normally do.</p>



<p>Instead, they got bigger and started forming organized structures that resembled tissues. These clusters even contained multiple copies of genetic material.</p>



<p>“It was Theopi Rados, the first author leading the project, who first observed and described this remarkable behavior,” said Bisson. </p>



<p>“As Olivia Leland, co-first author, aptly put it - it's as if the cells were squished down and then encouraged to grow wider and taller, more like a rising sourdough loaf than traditional cell division.”</p>



<p>This physical transformation suggests that archaea have a hidden potential for structural organization, despite their very ancient origins.</p>



<p>“That such behavior can be triggered by a simple physical constraint and involves cytoskeletal remodeling, and coordinated cellularization suggests that the capacity for structural organization runs deeper in biology than previously thought,” remarked Rados.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-universal-thread-of-complexity">A universal thread of complexity?</h2>



<p>This study doesn't just shed light on the archaea - it challenges assumptions about all forms of life.</p>



<p>“Our work shows that the emergence of complexity in life isn’t limited to a few special branches on the tree of life - it’s a deeper property, present even in lineages we’ve long overlooked,” noted Vikram Alva of the <a href="https://www.bio.mpg.de/2923/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Biology</a> in Tübingen.</p>



<p>“This work also underscores the power of combining comparative genomics with observable traits to uncover genes behind novel behaviors - an approach that has long driven discoveries in plants and animals,” Pedro Escudeiro, a postdoctoral researcher in the Alva group, added.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/archaea_Haloferax-volcanii_going-multicellular_credit-Alex-Bisson_1big.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/archaea_Haloferax-volcanii_going-multicellular_credit-Alex-Bisson_1s.webp" alt="Sensing complex multicellularity: The observed transition of Haloferax volcanii, revealing archaea’s novel capacity to go from unicellular to complex multicellular structures when subjected to mechanical forces. Credit: Alex Bisson, Brandeis University" class="wp-image-1965449"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Sensing complex multicellularity: The observed transition of Haloferax volcanii, revealing archaea’s novel capacity to go from unicellular to complex multicellular structures when subjected to mechanical forces. Credit: Alex Bisson, Brandeis University</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>The research emphasizes that mechanical pressure alone can coax a basic single-celled organism into displaying a complex, multicellular-like response. </p>



<p>“The fact that archaea can orchestrate complex from tissue-like structures suggests that nature can emerge complex traits from seemingly unsophisticated raw materials,” remarked Bisson.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-direction-in-cell-biology">A new direction in cell biology</h2>



<p>The findings may not only be applicable to archaea.</p>



<p>“We found that mechanical compression induces <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannibalism-cellular-level-common-across-various-life-forms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multicellularity</a>, a surprising finding, to say the least!” said Tanmay Bharat from the <a href="https://www2.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MRC Laboratory</a> of Molecular Biology in Cambridge.</p>



<p>This suggests other single-celled organisms might also have the hidden ability to form multicellular structures - if exposed to the right conditions.</p>



<p>It’s long been understood that archaea don’t do well in confined spaces, likely due to their flexible outer layers. But now, that same flexibility appears to be key to their ability to adapt and organize. </p>



<p>This raises an important question for future research: Could multicellularity be a more common and accessible state than previously believed?</p>



<p>This study encourages scientists to revisit the origins of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiny-microbes-may-have-given-rise-to-complex-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex life</a> - not just by examining genetics, but by paying attention to the physical forces that shape biology from the outside in.</p>



<p>-----</p>



<p>Researchers from Brandeis University, the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, and the Max Planck Institute for Biology in Tübingen participated in this study.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adu0047" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a></em>.</p>



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When the pressure builds, archaea go multicellular

Archaea are tiny, single-celled organisms often confused with bacteria. They...

Injecting,Injection,Vaccine,Vaccination,Medicine,Against,Covid-19,Into,A,Syringe.

<p>Five years ago, as the world reeled from the emerging COVID-19 pandemic, the first volunteers lined up to test what would become a groundbreaking vaccine. Within a year, tens of millions of Americans had received at least one dose - free of charge. Now, new research shows that decision paid off in many ways.</p>



<p>A new study led by researchers at the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> (U-M), has confirmed that the U.S. national COVID-19 vaccination strategy not only saved lives but also saved money - making it a rare example of a public health effort that fully paid for itself, and then some.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-worthwhile-national-investment">A worthwhile national investment</h2>



<p>“All in all, we can safely say that this was a prudent investment for the American people, using a really conservative analysis,” said Lisa Prosser, lead author of the study and a professor at the U-M Medical School and School of Public Health.</p>



<p>“From a broader societal economic perspective, and from the perspective of medical care costs, the federal government’s decision to accelerate vaccine testing, buy large quantities of vaccine, and support the cost of vaccination in many settings was wise.”</p>



<p>The study assessed not only how much was spent on testing, distributing, and administering the vaccine, but also what the country saved in return - from reduced hospitalizations and emergency care, to fewer cases of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-covid-persistent-spike-proteins-accumulate-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long COVID</a>, and even fewer work days lost.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breaking-down-the-savings">Breaking down the savings</h2>



<p>The research team, including senior author David Hutton from U-M, created a comprehensive economic model to evaluate the costs and benefits of the vaccine rollout during its first year.</p>



<p>The analysis included factors such as: the price of the vaccine and associated delivery costs, medical care for various degrees of illness, costs related to testing, rare vaccine side effects, the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-people-who-suffer-from-long-covid-never-even-tested-positive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long COVID</a>, and productivity losses from illness and death.</p>



<p>Even when productivity losses weren’t factored in, the strategy was cost-saving for most adults over 40. And for younger adults aged 18 to 39 - who tend to have milder COVID cases - the vaccine program still proved cost-effective by national standards.</p>



<p>Thus, since the vaccines reduced how many people developed serious illnesses or died, the U.S. saved more money than it spent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-conservative-estimate">A conservative estimate</h2>



<p>The researchers emphasize that their findings likely underestimate the true financial benefits. The model doesn’t include a number of indirect costs, such as unpaid family caregiving, patients’ out-of-pocket expenses, or transportation to and from medical facilities.</p>



<p>The model also didn’t include the government’s decades-long investment in basic mRNA research that paved the way for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, nor the broader economic damage a deadlier pandemic might have caused.</p>



<p>According to Prosser,&nbsp;since the model uses conservative estimates, the amount of the savings may in fact be even larger than the study reports.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-covid-vaccines-still-matter-in-2025">COVID vaccines still matter in 2025</h2>



<p>While the early years of the pandemic saw record numbers of hospitalizations and deaths, the situation in 2025 is markedly improved. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universal-vaccine-may-be-effective-against-any-variant-of-any-virus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vaccination</a> and improved treatments have brought down the death toll - but the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/viruses-can-hide-in-lung-cells-and-cause-chronic-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virus</a> hasn’t disappeared.</p>



<p>Still, 800 to 1,000 people have died of COVID-19 every week of 2025 for which full data is available. Additionally, approximately 1% of all emergency department visits in recent months have been for COVID-19.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-guidance-for-covid-vaccines">Guidance for COVID vaccines </h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDC</a> currently recommends that everyone over the age of six months receive at least one dose of one of the three updated COVID-19 vaccines, which have been revised annually since 2023. As of now, about 30 million people have followed that recommendation.</p>



<p>Among those at highest risk - people aged 65 and older - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-vaccines-linked-to-neurological-blood-and-heart-related-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vaccination</a> rates hover around 30%, a figure that public health officials hope to increase. </p>



<p>For those in that group, or for people who are immunocompromised, the CDC recommends a second dose six months after the first. That means individuals who received their updated vaccine in September 2023 are due for another.</p>



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



<p>The U-M team has continued its work by modeling the cost-effectiveness of additional waves of vaccination after 2021 in collaboration with the CDC. They hope to develop models for future vaccine updates, depending on funding and data availability.</p>



<p>The research confirms that the benefits of vaccination extend beyond health and safety - they’re also a smart economic choice. As Prosser put it, this was a prudent investment for U.S. citizens.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0264410X25000222?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Vaccine</em></a>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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COVID vaccine strategy paid off - and it’s still saving lives

Five years ago, as the world reeled from the emerging...

Wave,Function,Series.,Backdrop,Of,Colored,Sine,Vibrations,,Light,And

<p>A little over 50 years ago, theorists predicted that certain groups of quantum particles could switch into a coordinated, collective state without any outside push. However, until very recently, this phase was thought to be impossible in the real world.</p>



<p>Researchers just reported the first direct observation of this behavior, known as superradiant phase transition (SRPT), showing that reality can sometimes match even the most puzzling theoretical ideas. </p>



<p>Their work points to interesting possibilities in quantum computers and sensing devices.</p>



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



<p>The superradiant phase transition (SRPT) is a remarkable phenomenon that occurs when a collection of atoms - each behaving like a tiny dipole - interacts very strongly with a shared <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invisible-electric-field-discovered-surrounding-earth-nasa-says-its-as-crucial-as-gravity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electromagnetic field</a>, typically within a cavity or resonator. </p>



<p>Under normal conditions, atoms emit light independently, but in this case, they begin to radiate collectively, producing an intense burst of light. </p>



<p>What sets SRPT apart is that this collective behavior marks a distinct phase of the system, much like the transition from liquid to solid. </p>



<p>When the coupling strength between the atoms and the electromagnetic field exceeds a critical threshold, the system shifts into a superradiant phase in which the field acquires a nonzero value, even without any external driving force.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-team-discovered">What the team discovered</h2>



<p>The scientists found evidence of this unexpected state in a crystal containing erbium, iron, and oxygen. </p>



<p>The crystal was chilled to minus 457 degrees Fahrenheit and placed under a powerful 7-tesla magnetic field, which is over 100,000 times stronger than <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>.</p>



<p>“Originally, the SRPT was proposed as arising from interactions between quantum vacuum fluctuations - quantum light fields naturally existing even in completely empty space - and matter fluctuations," explained lead author Dasom Kim from <a href="https://www.rice.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rice University</a>.</p>



<p>“However, in our work, we realized this transition by coupling two distinct magnetic subsystems - the spin fluctuations of iron ions and of erbium ions within the crystal.” </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-go-theorem">No-go theorem</h2>



<p>Spin describes the magnetic orientation of particles like electrons. When spin patterns ripple across a solid, those <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/goodbye-electrons-future-computers-may-be-powered-by-magnons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ripples are magnons</a>. </p>



<p>Until now, there were questions about whether this phase could happen at all due to a theoretical obstacle sometimes called a no-go theorem.</p>



<p>One group of magnons in the material did the job once believed to belong to quantum vacuum fluctuations, while another group of spins served as matter fluctuations. </p>



<p>This approach allowed the team to dodge that long-standing obstacle and see unmistakable signs of a new phase.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-srpt-in-the-lab">Observing SRPT in the lab</h2>



<p>“We established an ultrastrong coupling between these two spin systems and successfully observed an SRPT, overcoming previous experimental constraints,” Kim said. </p>



<p>In practical terms, the energy signal of one spin mode dropped away, and another showed a sudden shift. </p>



<p>Those signs matched theoretical predictions for the onset of the new phase, reinforcing that a half-century-old prediction really plays out in nature.</p>



<p>“Near the quantum critical point of this transition, the system naturally stabilizes quantum-squeezed states - where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microsoft-announces-giant-leap-in-quantum-computing-majorana-1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum noise</a> is drastically reduced - greatly enhancing measurement precision,” Kim explained. </p>



<p>“Overall, this insight could revolutionize quantum sensors and computing technologies, significantly advancing their fidelity, sensitivity, and performance.”</p>



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



<p>By catching this event in a solid crystal, the team showed that methods from quantum optics can be adapted for use in other materials. </p>



<p>“Although the basic mathematical model was already laid out before by Motoaki, we needed to account for some of the specific magnetic properties of the material to obtain the precise results," noted Rice graduate student and co-author Sohail Dasgupta, who collaborated with <a href="https://www.ynu.ac.jp/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yokohama National University</a> professor Motoaki Bamba on the model.</p>



<p>"When your theory matches the experimental data - which happens rather rarely - it is the best feeling for a scientist."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlling-phases-of-matter">Controlling phases of matter</h2>



<p>Research on magnons has already helped make sense of several quantum effects, and these latest findings add a fresh piece of evidence for the versatility of such approaches.</p>



<p>“This opens a new way to create and control phases of matter using ideas from cavity quantum electrodynamics,” said Rice associate professor of physics and astronomy, <a href="https://profiles.rice.edu/faculty/kaden-hazzard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kaden Hazzard</a>. </p>



<p>He and Dasgupta worked closely to interpret the measurements and confirm that the data aligned with the model.</p>



<p>The crystal that was used belongs to a bigger family of magnetic materials, so there might be more examples of interesting behaviors hidden in similar crystals. </p>



<p>The latest work hints that related combinations of spins could yield novel quantum features.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next-with-srpt">What happens next with SRPT?</h2>



<p>“Demonstrating a form of SRPT driven entirely by coupling two internal matter fluctuations marks a significant breakthrough in quantum physics, establishing a new framework for understanding and exploiting intrinsic quantum interactions within materials,” concluded Junichiro Kono, the Karl F. Hasselmann Professor in Engineering and the corresponding author on the study.</p>



<p>This discovery shows that ideas once confined to theory can become a reality under the right lab conditions. </p>



<p>It offers a peek at fresh opportunities for sensing, computing, and beyond, all thanks to a single crystal and a well-chosen magnetic field.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adt1691" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Exotic quantum phase, once thought impossible, was just observed in the lab

A little over 50 years ago, theorists predicted that certain...

<p>Fiddler crab mating on the bustling mudflats of southern Europe is about sending seismic love signals beneath the surface - quite literally.</p>



<p>In their quest to attract a mate, male crabs produce ground vibrations as part of an elaborate courtship ritual. For the first time, scientists have recorded and analyzed these signals to understand how they communicate in a chaotic and noisy habitat.</p>



<p>Researchers from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a> have captured the full courtship display of the European fiddler crab (<em>Afruca tangeri</em>), combining video footage and geophone recordings to listen in on the crabs’ seismic conversations. </p>



<p>These crabs inhabit the muddy shores of the Iberian Peninsula, where waves, wind, and competing crabs make for a challenging environment to get a message across. </p>



<p>However, the study reveals that these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-invasive-crustacean-species-discovered-in-the-mediterranean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crustaceans</a> have developed a clever and consistent way to make themselves heard - and felt.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-fiddler-crabs-use-vibrations">How fiddler crabs use vibrations</h2>



<p>Male fiddler crabs are known for their oversized claws, which they use to wave at potential mates and generate ground vibrations. These signals are produced by striking the ground with the claw or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crab-shells-could-help-pave-the-way-for-sustainable-electronics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shell</a>, and later by drumming from inside their burrows.</p>



<p>The researchers discovered that fiddler crab mating follows a four-step courtship routine, starting with subtle claw waves, followed by body drops, synchronized movements, and ending with underground drumming if a female shows interest.</p>



<p>As each stage progresses, the energy of the vibrations increases. The recordings, captured with GoPro cameras and precise geophones, allowed the team to measure over 8,000 seismic signals during the courtship routines.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seismic-vibrations-reveal-crab-size">Seismic vibrations reveal crab size</h2>



<p>The key question was whether these vibrations serve as honest signals of the male’s size and strength. The results suggest they do. </p>



<p>The data showed that larger male crabs with bigger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strawberry-claws-the-hermit-crab-that-sings-underwater/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">claws</a> produced more powerful seismic signals, especially during drumming. This means the crabs can’t fake their physical traits – what you vibrate is what you are.</p>



<p>“It appears as though the males cannot, or do not, lie about their physical size,” said Tom Mulder from the Department of Biology at the University of Oxford. </p>



<p>“Females can rely on the loudness of seismic signals to honestly assess a potential mate’s quality, all without needing to see him.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-machine-learning-meets-marine-dating">Machine learning meets marine dating</h2>



<p><span style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">When it comes to </span>fiddler crab mating, the frequency of vibrations stays the same - but other features like rhythm, duration, and loudness change depending on the&nbsp;crab’s demeanor.</p>



<p>This allowed the researchers to classify each action (such as a body drop or an underground drum) by analyzing the vibration patterns.</p>



<p>To test this further, the team used <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientific-discoveries-machine-learning/">machine learning</a> to teach a computer how to distinguish between different crab behaviors based solely on these recordings.</p>



<p>The program achieved a 70% accuracy rate, showing strong potential for future applications. The technique could lead to the development of non-invasive monitoring systems for a wide range of animals.</p>



<p>From tracking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-the-future-of-the-endangered-species-act/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endangered species</a> across the savannah to identifying crop pests or spotting injured livestock, material-bound vibrations could become a new frontier in remote wildlife observation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vibrations-work-for-the-fiddler-crab">Vibrations work for the fiddler crab</h2>



<p>When it comes to fiddler crabs, relying on seismic signals instead of sound makes perfect sense. Their noisy, open-air environment is difficult to navigate acoustically, but the ground beneath them offers a stable way to communicate.</p>



<p>By altering the strength and tempo of their vibrations, they can get their messages across without saying a word.</p>



<p>“Larger claws have the advantage of overcoming seismic noise so that they can signal to females that are further away, and females will show more interest in them,” explained Dr. Beth Mortimer, also from the Department of Biology.</p>



<p>“However, the advantages are only observed for the percussive signals such as drumming, and fortunately for smaller clawed crabs, these are only part of the courtship routine.”</p>



<p>So, while size matters when it comes to seismic communication, smaller males can still show off through other parts of the ritual. In the unpredictable world of fiddler crab mating, it’s not just about waving your claw - it’s about how hard you drum.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://journals.biologists.com/jeb/article/228/7/jeb249323/367607/Constraints-on-percussive-seismic-signals-in-a" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Experimental Biology</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Fiddler crabs use seismic vibrations to attract mates

Fiddler crab mating on the bustling mudflats of southern Europe...

<p>Launched just seven months ago, the Arctic Weather Satellite is already reshaping the future of weather forecasting.</p>



<p>Despite its compact size and modest development time, the satellite is producing detailed temperature and humidity data that could soon boost short-term forecasts - especially in remote regions like the Arctic.</p>



<p>Developed by scientists from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Space Agency</a> (ESA), this prototype satellite was built in only three years and at a fraction of the cost of traditional Earth observation missions. ESA designed it to test a new approach: build fast, build affordably, and still deliver high-quality data. </p>



<p>Early results show this model is working. The satellite’s microwave radiometer has proven capable of producing data that are comparable with those gathered by much larger, more established missions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-size-powerful-data">Small size, powerful data</h2>



<p>At the heart of the Arctic Weather Satellite is a 19-channel cross-track scanning microwave radiometer. This tool measures atmospheric <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperature-increase-2023-blew-past-all-climate-models/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humidity-increases-urban-heat-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">humidity</a> through cloud cover, providing critical information in all weather conditions. </p>



<p>Though named after the Arctic, the satellite gathers global data. Its insights into water vapor levels are particularly valuable in polar regions, where rapid changes in humidity can dramatically alter forecasts.</p>



<p>What makes this even more impressive is that the satellite weighs just 125 kilograms - roughly the size of a washing machine. It also uses a new 325 GHz sounding channel, a frequency that has never before been applied to operational <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-data-could-revolutionize-weather-forecasts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather monitoring</a>. </p>



<p>This addition allows for better cloud-ice measurements, potentially improving forecast accuracy even further.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-step-toward-a-satellite-constellation">Step toward a satellite constellation</h2>



<p>The Arctic Weather Satellite is just the beginning. It serves as a prototype for the proposed EPS-Sterna constellation, a future group of six similar satellites. </p>



<p>ESA would build the satellites, and Eumetsat would manage their operations and data distribution - mirroring the approach used for Europe’s Meteosat and MetOp weather missions.</p>



<p>Before making that leap, though, scientists need to confirm how much value this small satellite’s data can add to existing forecasts. That evaluation is already underway.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broad-testing-strong-feedback">Broad testing, strong feedback</h2>



<p>Meteorological agencies across Europe are studying the satellite’s data, including the Danish Meteorological Office, the German Weather Service, and the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts. </p>



<p>Eumetsat is also running its own independent performance assessments. So far, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive.</p>



<p>“Our team has carefully evaluated the quality of the Arctic Weather Satellite’s data and has already been able to demonstrate a positive impact on our forecasts at the global scale, and we plan to include the data in our global prediction system later this year," said Philippe Chambon from Météo-France. </p>



<p>According to Chambon, this a very promising achievement in view of the EPS-Sterna constellation, which is seen as a key component of the future observing system.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-data-from-small-satellites">Valuable data from small satellites</h2>



<p>“The Arctic Weather Satellite is a great example of the quality of meteorological data that can be achieved from a small satellite," commented Niels Bormann from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts. </p>



<p>Bormann noted that the initial results are very promising for global weather forecasts and, if they hold up, the data may be used operationally later in the year. From a regional perspective, the data is proving just as useful.</p>



<p>“Together with the Nordic national meteorological services, we are evaluating the Arctic Weather Satellite’s data for regional forecasting over Scandinavia and the Arctic," said Adam Dybbroe from the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-closing-the-polar-coverage-gap">Closing the polar coverage gap</h2>



<p>Current weather satellites have limitations. For example, <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/meteosat-weather-satellite-captures-earth-in-stunning-detail/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Meteosat satellites</a> orbit 36,000 kilometers above the equator, returning images every 15 minutes, but they can’t cover the high latitudes near the poles. </p>



<p>MetOp satellites, which follow a polar orbit, can reach these regions but take up to 24 hours for full global coverage.</p>



<p>The proposed EPS-Sterna constellation of six satellites would dramatically shorten this time gap, offering more frequent data - especially over the Arctic.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-huge-potential-in-a-small-satellite">Huge potential in a small satellite </h2>



<p>ESA’s Arctic Weather Satellite project manager, Ville Kangas, summarized the progress.</p>



<p>“We have demonstrated that a small satellite, weighing just 125 kg, can match the performance of large meteorological missions," said Kangas.</p>



<p>"And since we are at a relatively early stage, the data still need to be further corrected and analyzed so we expect the Arctic Weather Satellite to shine even more in the months to come."</p>



<p>If approved, the EPS-Sterna constellation will work alongside Europe’s next-generation weather satellites, including MTG-S1 and MetOp-SG-A1, which are scheduled for launch later this year. </p>



<p>Together, these systems could create a far more complete and timely picture of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-shrinking-earths-atmosphere-and-thats-bad-for-satellites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s changing atmosphere</a>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Small satellite could transform weather forecasting

Launched just seven months ago, the Arctic Weather Satellite is...

Harvest,Pink,Moon,On,Night,Sky,Back,Over,Silhouette,Pines

<p>The Moon has always fascinated humans. But even now, with satellites and science at our fingertips, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-ridges-on-moons-surface-suggest-that-it-is-still-active/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a> can still surprise us. This Saturday night, skywatchers will witness one such surprise: a pink micromoon.</p>



<p>While not as dramatic as a total eclipse or as bright as a supermoon, the micromoon holds its own quiet charm. It’s a moment to pause, look up, and remember that the heavens are always in motion - even if the changes aren’t always obvious.</p>



<p>Let’s explore what makes a micromoon special, why our brains sometimes trick us, and how even seasoned scientists are still mystified by the Moon’s shifting appearance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-exactly-is-a-micromoon">What exactly is a micromoon?</h2>



<p>A micromoon occurs when the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/march-2025-stargazing-a-red-moon-and-a-vanishing-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a> reaches the farthest point in its elliptical orbit around Earth. That moment, called apogee, coincides with the full moon phase.</p>



<p>When this happens, the Moon looks smaller and dimmer than usual. The effect is subtle - most people won't notice unless they compare photos side by side.</p>



<p>“It’s a very subtle difference,” said astrophysicist Alain Brizard from <a href="https://www.smcvt.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saint Michael’s College</a> in Vermont.</p>



<p>In contrast, a supermoon happens when the Moon is at its closest point to Earth. The difference between a micromoon and a supermoon isn’t huge, but it’s measurable. Supermoons can appear about 14% larger and 30% brighter.</p>



<p>Micromoons and supermoons aren’t rare. They happen several times a year when the Moon’s full phase syncs up with the right point in its orbit. </p>



<p>Another micromoon will arrive in May. Three supermoons are expected later this year in October, November, and December.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-moon-illusion">The Moon illusion</h2>



<p>Many people believe the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/total-lunar-eclipse-will-paint-the-moon-blood-red-tomorrow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a> looks biggest when it rises over the horizon. This is true - at least, visually.</p>



<p>When we see the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/whats-up-in-the-night-sky-during-the-month-of-april-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a> rise over city skylines, treetops, or mountains, it can seem enormous. The truth is, though, that its size hasn’t changed at all. It’s a trick of the mind.</p>



<p>Photos show the Moon stays the same width, whether near the horizon or overhead. Still, our eyes say otherwise. The Moon looks larger near the horizon, though it's not.</p>



<p>This illusion comes from how our brains handle visual information. It's a perception trick. Even after thousands of years of watching <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-ridges-on-moons-surface-suggest-that-it-is-still-active/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Moon</a>, no one fully understands why we see it this way.</p>



<p>This phenomenon is known as the Moon illusion. It has nothing to do with the Moon itself and everything to do with human perception.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-test-the-micromoon-illusion-yourself">How to test the micromoon illusion yourself</h2>



<p>You don’t need a telescope to prove the illusion is real.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> suggests simple tests. Hold out your index finger next to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-that-once-threatened-earth-may-target-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Moon</a>. Your fingernail and the Moon will appear nearly the same size - no matter where the Moon sits in the sky.</p>



<p>You can also look through a paper tube or even bend over and look between your legs. The Moon will suddenly seem much smaller than it did a moment before.</p>



<p>Step outside on a full moon night and watch the Moon as it rises. It can feel magical - so big and beautiful that it might make you say “Wow!” out loud. </p>



<p>When the Moon is low in the sky, near mountains, buildings, or trees, it looks huge. It seems like it’s towering over the landscape.</p>



<p>But here’s the truth: the Moon hasn’t actually grown. Your brain is just playing a trick on you.</p>



<p>The large size you see is an illusion. It’s not caused by the atmosphere or the Moon’s distance. It’s all about how your mind interprets the scene in front of you.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-micromoon-looks-pinkish">Why the micromoon looks pinkish</h2>



<p>While the Moon doesn’t grow or shrink in size, it can appear to change color.</p>



<p>When the Moon is low in the sky, it often looks pink, yellow, or sometimes orange. This happens because its light must travel through more of Earth’s atmosphere. </p>



<p>The atmosphere scatters shorter wavelengths of light, like blue and violet. What’s left are the longer wavelengths - pink, orange, and yellow.</p>



<p>Dust or pollution in the air can make this effect stronger, giving the Moon a deeper red or orange tint.</p>



<p>This effect is especially visible during events like lunar eclipses. A total eclipse in March turned the Moon a deep coppery red - a visual reminder of how much the atmosphere shapes what we see.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theories-behind-the-moon-illusion">Theories behind the Moon illusion</h2>



<p>Despite centuries of study, scientists still don’t have a full explanation for the Moon illusion. Here’s the surprising part: scientists still don’t fully understand why the Moon illusion happens.</p>



<p>That might sound frustrating if you like clear answers. But it also shows how mysterious our brains can be. Even after years of research, no one has found a complete explanation for why the Moon looks bigger near the horizon.</p>



<p>So depending on how you see it, this mystery can either be disappointing - or something to wonder about and enjoy.</p>



<p>The most common idea is that our brains misjudge size and distance when the Moon is near the horizon. When objects like buildings, mountains, or trees are in the foreground, they can trick the brain into thinking the Moon is closer - and therefore larger - than it actually is.</p>



<p>One well-known theory is the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponzo_illusion" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ponzo illusion</a>. Imagine railroad tracks converging into the distance. Place two identical lines across the tracks - one higher, one lower. </p>



<p>The upper line will seem longer. This may be similar to how we view the Moon over a landscape.</p>



<p>But the mystery deepens. Astronauts in space, far from any such cues, also report seeing the Moon illusion. So the story doesn’t end there.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-micromoon-s-mystery-is-worth-enjoying">Why the micromoon’s mystery is worth enjoying</h2>



<p>In the end, maybe we don’t need a perfect answer.</p>



<p>Imagine seeing the Moon rise during the day over mountains. Even without knowing the science behind it, that sight can fill you with wonder.</p>



<p>We may not fully understand why the Moon looks bigger or more dramatic at times. But while scientists keep searching for answers, there's nothing stopping us from enjoying the view.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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What is a pink micromoon? You'll find out tonight

The Moon has always fascinated humans. But even now, with...

<p>Japan loves otters and so does the internet. From squeaky coos to floating belly naps, Asian small-clawed otters have taken over YouTube and Instagram feeds. These animals show up in themed cafés, cozy up to coffee cups, and pose beside smiling tourists. It’s not hard to see why they’ve become a social media sensation.</p>



<p>But this viral fame hides a growing crisis. The adorable otter’s rise to stardom has come at a cost to wild populations. Behind every click, like, and share may lie a deeper story - one of trafficking, genetic decline, and fading <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-otters-help-kelp-forests-recover-but-theres-more-to-the-story/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>. </p>



<p>Japan sits at the center of this trade, both as a consumer and as a mirror to a broader wildlife issue across Asia.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-japan-s-pet-otter-boom">Japan’s pet otter boom</h2>



<p>Asian small-clawed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-otters-have-protected-california-kelp-forests-for-a-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">otters</a>, native to South and Southeast Asia, are now listed as vulnerable by the IUCN. Their populations are threatened by habitat destruction, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. </p>



<p>Since 2019, they have been listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (<a href="https://cites.org/eng/disc/what.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CITES</a>), which bans commercial trade except in exceptional cases.</p>



<p>Despite this listing, the otters continue to appear in Japan’s pet stores and animal cafés. Their presence in such places indicates an active, and often illegal, wildlife trade. The allure is strong - cuddly, curious, and highly intelligent, otters are marketed as ideal companions for exotic pet lovers.</p>



<p>But their popularity on social media has created a feedback loop of demand that encourages continued trafficking from wild populations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-illegal-otters-sourced-from-thailand">Illegal otters sourced from Thailand</h2>



<p>To understand how otters are ending up in Japanese cafés, researchers from <a href="https://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyoto University</a> teamed up with Thai scientists. </p>



<p>They aimed to trace the geographic origins of the otters now living in captivity in Japan. Most attention turned to Thailand - a country previously identified as a key player in the illegal otter trade.</p>



<p>"Collaborative research can help identify the origins of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-otters-use-tools-to-access-larger-prey-and-protect-their-teeth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">otters</a> kept in Japan and hot spots of illegal trade in Thailand, thus encouraging legal control in both countries," said study first author Mayako Fujihara.</p>



<p>Over the last two decades, more than 100 otters have been seized at airports in Thailand and Japan. Most seizures involve multiple individuals at once, suggesting coordinated smuggling efforts. </p>



<p>Despite Japanese import bans and Thailand’s export restrictions, traffickers continue to find ways to move these animals across borders.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-links-otters-to-wild-origins">DNA links otters to wild origins</h2>



<p>To track where the otters came from, researchers sequenced 1,511 base pairs of mitochondrial DNA from 81 captive otters in Japan.</p>



<p>These included <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-wildlife-day-2025-a-global-call-to-protect-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">individuals</a> from zoos, aquariums, animal cafés, and customs seizures. The goal was to compare these sequences with those from known wild populations in Thailand and surrounding countries.</p>



<p>The analysis revealed 12 different haplotypes, grouped into three major clades. Six of these haplotypes matched wild otters from southern Thailand - areas known for coastal wetlands and hilly riparian zones. </p>



<p>This suggests that the majority of otters found in cafés and seized at airports had likely originated from poaching hotspots in southern Thailand.</p>



<p>The findings are troubling. According to the CITES trade database, no legal otter imports from Thailand to Japan have occurred since 1988. This means the otters arriving since then - including those born to trafficked individuals - have entered the country through illegal means.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-media-stardom-drives-demand">Social media stardom drives demand</h2>



<p>The modern otter craze didn’t start in a forest - it started online. YouTube channels featuring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-disturbing-details-about-the-state-of-earths-wildlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pet</a> otters have millions of subscribers. One top channel in Japan, showing the lives of two otters, has over 1.8 million followers and a merchandise line. The same owner also runs otter cafés in major cities.</p>



<p>These cafés, known as exotic animal cafés, let customers play with otters while sipping coffee. They are part of a broader industry that has expanded rapidly since the early 2000s. </p>



<p>As of 2019, Japan hosted at least 137 exotic animal cafés, housing more than 400 species. The Asian small-clawed otter is among the most popular mammals in these cafés.</p>



<p>Some cafés even sell otters, with prices reaching over $10,000 per animal. In 2018, nearly half of the otters advertised for sale in Japan came from unknown sources. This lack of transparency fuels concerns about continued reliance on wild populations and unclear breeding histories.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-japan-s-native-otter-is-gone">Japan’s native otter is gone</h2>



<p>Japan’s obsession with otters may also stem from a deep-rooted cultural memory. The <em>kawauso</em>, or river otter, appears in Japanese folklore as a playful and mischievous shapeshifter. But this creature was based on a real animal - the Japanese river otter, once common across the country.</p>



<p>Decades of hunting for fur and destruction of river habitats led to its tragic extinction. It was declared extinct in 2012 after not being seen for over 30 years.</p>



<p>"It is precisely because Japan's endemic otter species has gone extinct that we aim to continue conducting research that will help protect other vulnerable species," said Fujihara.</p>



<p>This extinction leaves a shadow over current efforts to protect other otters in captivity and the wild. It also heightens the urgency to prevent similar outcomes for other species caught in the trade.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uneven-diversity-in-captivity">Uneven diversity in captivity</h2>



<p>One of the most striking findings from the study was the difference in genetic diversity between otters in zoos and those in cafés. </p>



<p>Otters in zoos and aquariums had higher genetic diversity and more varied haplotypes. This is likely due to more structured breeding programs and a larger pool of founding individuals.</p>



<p>In contrast, the otters found in cafés often shared just a few haplotypes. Many had been bred in-country from a narrow gene pool. Some appeared to be closely related. </p>



<p>This lack of diversity poses risks. Inbreeding can cause health problems and lower reproductive success. It also weakens the species’ long-term ability to adapt and survive.</p>



<p>Otters in zoos also came from a wider range of regions, including Peninsular Malaysia and Indonesia. This indicates legal or semi-legal acquisition before tighter regulations were in place. But many of the café otters clustered genetically with those from southern Thailand - regions known for illegal poaching activity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-as-a-shield-for-conservation">Science as a shield for conservation</h2>



<p>The study's genetic work serves a dual purpose: it not only tracks trafficking routes but also supports captive breeding. </p>



<p>By understanding the genetic background of individual otters, zoos can avoid inbreeding and maintain genetic health. Otters with rare haplotypes - some found in just one or two individuals - can be prioritized for conservation.</p>



<p>However, mitochondrial DNA offers only part of the story. The researchers suggest that nuclear DNA sequencing could give more precise geographic information. This would allow officials to better identify the origin of seized otters and link them to specific regions.</p>



<p>The findings also highlight a need to build comprehensive genetic reference maps for otters across Southeast Asia. Expanding these databases would help pinpoint where wild-caught animals originate and guide future protection efforts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breeding-for-a-future-not-a-fad">Breeding for a future, not a fad</h2>



<p>As of late 2022, Japan’s zoos and aquariums housed more than 200 Asian small-clawed otters. Many participate in coordinated breeding programs, but others still rely on imports or unverified sources. Without full genetic records, some valuable lineages may be lost.</p>



<p>For example, rare haplotypes found in only one or two otters could disappear without focused efforts. Losing these variants would narrow the gene pool and reduce future adaptability.</p>



<p>Better genetic planning, stronger import regulations, and broader cooperation between nations can help secure the future of this species. The café boom may fade, but the consequences for wildlife will last unless steps are taken now.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-japan-s-love-for-otters-has-limits">Japan’s love for otters has limits</h2>



<p>Otters continue to delight audiences with their charm and antics. But behind every viral video lies a question - where did that otter come from, and what did it cost to bring it here?</p>



<p>If admiration leads to exploitation, then love for animals becomes dangerous. Science, policy, and awareness must align to ensure that what we adore today doesn’t vanish tomorrow.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://conbio.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/csp2.70010" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conservation Science and Practice</a>.</em></p>



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Japan’s obsession with otters comes at a cost

Japan loves otters and so does the internet. From squeaky...

<p>A recent study suggests that sleep may not only preserve our memories but actually enhance them, especially when it comes to recalling the order in which events occur. </p>



<p>This discovery points to the significant role that restful sleep plays in consolidating daily experiences. It shows that this effect can remain robust for more than a year after the events in question.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-boosting-memory-through-sleep">Boosting memory through sleep</h2>



<p>The research was carried out by a team affiliated with a leading center for aging and brain health. The scientists developed an innovative approach to test how sleep influences the sequence of memories over extended periods.</p>



<p>Study senior author Brian Levine is a scientist at the <a href="https://www.baycrest.org/about-us-rri">Rotman Research Institute</a>, part of the Baycrest Academy for Research and Education.</p>



<p>“While our memory for features such as object size and color declines over time, sleep can improve our memory for event sequence,” said Levine. "This study deepens our understanding of how critical sleep is for integrating experiences into memory,” he added.</p>



<p>According to these findings, sleep organizes daily events in order, strengthens their links, and helps us remember them months later.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-museum-tour-and-memory-recall">Museum tour and memory recall</h2>



<p>To achieve these insights, the researchers moved beyond typical laboratory procedures that ask participants to memorize word lists or pictures. Instead, they created a 20-minute, audio-guided tour of selected artworks to provide a more authentic experience.</p>



<p>People who took part in this study walked through the exhibit while listening to narrated explanations. They then completed memory tests at intervals ranging from one hour after the tour to 15 months later.</p>



<p>The tests included both questions about the physical features of each artwork and about which piece came first, second, third, and so on. Although shape and color memory faded, sleep notably improved recall of the order in which tour items appeared.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-sleep-boosts-memory">Deep sleep boosts memory</h2>



<p>A second experiment reinforced these results through a design that separated participants into two groups. One set - the sleep group - experienced the art tour in the evening and was tested shortly afterward. They then slept in a monitored environment where their brain activity was recorded using electroencephalography (EEG).</p>



<p>The other set - the wake group - took the tour and the initial test in the morning, stayed awake during the day, and was re-tested that evening. Both groups took additional memory tests a week, a month, and 15 months later.</p>



<p>The data showed that even a single night of slumber made a meaningful difference in how participants remembered the order of the tour items. Their advantage, established early, remained evident more than a year afterward.</p>



<p>Meanwhile, memory for the physical features of each artwork continued to deteriorate for both groups. Detailed EEG readings revealed that deep sleep, particularly the combination of slow waves and sleep spindles, correlated strongly with this sustained memory improvement.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-s-lasting-impact"><strong>Sleep’s lasting impact </strong></h2>



<p>Sleep’s effect on memory has long intrigued scientists. These findings show that the sequence of experiences can remain intact over extended periods.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the study suggests that certain types of memory, such as object details, may not benefit in the same way. </p>



<p>By showing this difference, researchers explore why our brains preserve event order even as other details fade over time. Understanding this pattern also holds relevance for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/defying-time-three-ways-to-slow-biological-aging/">aging</a> populations and those with cognitive conditions, since it sheds light on why memory for events can change so dramatically in later life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-health-and-new-interventions"><strong>Cognitive health and new interventions</strong></h2>



<p>The benefits of a good night’s rest extend beyond short-term improvements. “The benefits of sleep on memory are powerful; just one night makes a difference that persists over a year,” Levine said.</p>



<p>This underscores the importance of consistent, high-quality sleep as part of an overall strategy to maintain and strengthen cognitive health. Activities such as regular exercise, a balanced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-health-and-diet-nutrition-helps-lower-dementia-risk/">diet</a>, and attention to sleep routines can work together to keep the mind functioning at its peak.</p>



<p>Researchers hope studying sleep rhythms, slow waves, and spindles will lead to new memory-boosting interventions. These interventions might prove especially significant in helping older adults or those living with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-sleep-may-predict-memory-loss-years-in-advance/">dementia</a> retain key aspects of their experiences for longer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-frontier-of-discovery">Ongoing frontier of discovery </h2>



<p>For anyone interested in preserving the narrative thread of life’s events, these results offer an encouraging perspective: better rest today might translate into clearer, more accurate recollections tomorrow and beyond.</p>



<p>The ways in which sleep shapes our memories remain an ongoing frontier of scientific inquiry, but one message comes through loud and clear. </p>



<p>Whether you are studying for an exam, trying to remember cherished family moments, or simply hoping to keep your recollections intact over time, sleeping well stands out as a critical part of the formula.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-025-02117-5"><em>Nature Human Behavior</em></a>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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Sleep can boost memory in a surprising way

A recent study suggests that sleep may not only preserve...

A,School,Of,Salmon,Swimming,In,The,Clear,Water,,Australia

<p>In a large-scale study considered to be the most extensive of its kind so far, researchers from around the world investigated how pharmaceutical pollution influences the behavior and migratory patterns of Atlantic salmon.</p>



<p>The project was led by the <a href="https://www.slu.se/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences</a> and focused on commonly detected concentrations of clobazam - a medication used to treat sleep disorders - found in waterways.</p>



<p>In the wild, these levels of clobazam were shown to increase the river-to-sea migration success of juvenile <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-summer-fishing-shrinks-atlantic-salmon-size-over-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salmon</a> and shorten the time it took them to pass through obstacles like hydropower dams.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pharmaceutical-pollution-in-salmon-habitats">Pharmaceutical pollution in salmon habitats</h2>



<p>The findings involved collaboration between many institutions, including Griffith University’s <a href="https://www.griffith.edu.au/research/sciences/australian-rivers-institute" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Rivers Institute</a>. Marcus Michelangeli from Griffith, who played a key role in the study, described it as highlighting a global and growing problem of pharmaceutical pollution in natural habitats.</p>



<p>“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antidepressant-prozac-pollution-is-severely-depressing-fish-populations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pharmaceutical pollutants</a> are an emerging global issue, with over 900 different substances having now been detected in waterways around the world,” Michelangeli said. </p>



<p>“Of particular concern are psychoactive substances like antidepressants and pain medications, which can significantly interfere with wildlife brain function and behavior.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-real-world-approach">Unique real-world approach</h2>



<p>One unique aspect of this research is its real-world perspective. According to Michelangeli, most previous studies examining the effects of pharmaceutical pollutants on wildlife have been conducted under controlled laboratory conditions, which don’t fully capture the complexities of natural environments.</p>



<p>“This study is unique because it investigates the effects of these contaminants on wildlife directly in the field, allowing us to better understand how exposure impacts <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-lockdowns-had-unexpected-impacts-on-wildlife-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife behavior</a> and migration in a natural context.”</p>



<p>Clobazam was not the only drug tested. The team also looked at tramadol, an opioid painkiller frequently detected in water samples. </p>



<p>The researchers used slow-release pharmaceutical implants in combination with tracking transmitters to monitor how both substances affected juvenile Atlantic salmon (<em>Salmo salar</em>) in Sweden’s River Dal as the fish made their journey toward the Baltic Sea.</p>



<p>In addition, the team conducted a laboratory experiment that revealed clobazam altered the salmon’s shoaling behavior, reinforcing the idea that shifts in social or risk-taking tendencies might be tied to drug-induced changes in the fish’s neural functioning.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-pharmaceutical-pollution">Consequences of pharmaceutical pollution</h2>



<p>“While the increased migration success in salmon exposed to clobazam might seem like a beneficial effect, it is important to realize that any change to the natural behavior and ecology of a species is expected to have broader negative consequences both for that species and the surrounding wildlife community,” Michelangeli said.</p>



<p>He also noted how complicated these consequences might be when multiple pollutants and species are involved. </p>



<p>“When you consider realistic exposure scenarios where entire ecosystems are exposed - encompassing multiple species and a diversity of contaminants - the potential consequences become even more complex."</p>



<p>So far, the decline in Atlantic salmon numbers has largely been blamed on factors like overfishing and habitat loss. However, the study implies that pharmaceutical pollution could be subtly reshaping critical life events like the salmon’s migration.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-calls-for-better-wastewater-treatment">Calls for better wastewater treatment</h2>



<p>Addressing this issue may be daunting, since many medications do not degrade quickly in the environment and often slip through conventional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reed-beds-a-sustainable-revolution-in-wastewater-management/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wastewater treatment</a> systems.</p>



<p>“Advanced wastewater treatment methods are becoming more effective at reducing pharmaceutical contamination, and there is promising potential in green chemistry approaches,” Michelangeli said.</p>



<p>“By designing drugs that break down more rapidly or become less harmful after use, we can significantly mitigate the environmental impact of pharmaceutical pollution in the future.” Indeed, this study underlines how such pollution can produce biological effects that reverberate throughout ecosystems.</p>



<p>Though improved wastewater practices and drug design might help, Michelangeli argued that the task ahead is to figure out how a multitude of chemicals, each at low concentrations, might collectively influence everything from fish migration to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/danger-zones-climate-change-is-altering-predator-prey-dynamics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator-prey dynamics</a>.</p>



<p>“Pharmaceutical pollutants are an emerging global issue, with over 900 different substances having now been detected in waterways around the world,” Michelangeli said, emphasizing that efforts to reduce contamination could make a crucial difference for both animals and humans who share these water sources.</p>



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



<p>Ultimately, the story of clobazam and Atlantic salmon reminds us how connected we are to the world around us. Many people rely on medications for their well-being, yet each pill or patch might release chemical remnants into rivers and lakes far beyond our sight.</p>



<p>As the global usage of medications continues to rise, researchers hope to refine tools and strategies that can minimize these ecological footprints. </p>



<p>They believe that thoughtful design of medicines and advanced treatment systems could go a long way toward safeguarding species. This includes the Atlantic salmon and the wider tapestry of aquatic life that sustains our planet.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adp7174" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science</em></a>.</p>



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Pharmaceutical pollution changes the behavior of Atlantic salmon

In a large-scale study considered to be the most extensive...

<p>Dogs have long been recognized for their remarkable ability to detect faint scents associated with various diseases. </p>



<p>From identifying cancer and low blood sugar to sensing infections, their keen noses have inspired trainers to develop specialized tasks that enhance safety and independence for people managing health conditions.</p>



<p>Scientists recently <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0320158" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">discovered</a> new connections between how dogs interpret ambiguous situations and how they tackle scent detection tasks.</p>



<p>The research was led by Sharyn Bistre Dabbah of the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>, who explored whether a dog’s upbeat or doubtful attitude influences how well it can sniff out important odor cues.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-dogs-learn-medical-scent-detection">How dogs learn medical scent detection</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.medicaldetectiondogs.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Medical detection dogs</a> have earned respect among healthcare professionals, especially for their role in identifying certain <a href="https://bmcinfectdis.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12879-020-05281-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diseases</a> and assisting people with chronic issues. </p>



<p>They are trained to detect unique scent markers in clinical samples or to warn someone about an imminent change in health status.</p>



<p>Training starts young, using exercises to boost focus and confidence in new environments. The programs highlight gentle yet consistent methods that reward a dog for accurate performance and reduce confusion through repetition.</p>



<p>Because tasks based on scent detection are demanding, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pet-dogs-severely-harm-wildlife-even-when-leashed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">canines</a> must learn to keep calm under pressure. They must stay determined and engaged through repeated trials, which can be challenging for some dogs. Despite these challenges, many dogs handle the work with remarkable ease.</p>



<p>When some dogs show more precision and fewer false alerts, experts start searching for the reasons why. If these traits can be identified early, it could bring more certainty to an already impressive field.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-optimism-and-performance">Connecting optimism and performance</h2>



<p>One experimental approach used in this research is <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26440495/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">judgment bias testing</a>, a strategy for gauging how animals respond to uncertain situations. </p>



<p>Dogs learn a bowl in one spot with a known scent means a reward, but in another spot, it doesn't. When the bowl appears in a middle spot, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-dogs-replacing-children-how-modern-society-is-changing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">canines</a>’ reaction time can hint at their emotional outlook.</p>



<p>“Dogs that approached ambiguous cues more quickly - indicative of ‘optimism' - were associated with higher levels of traits such as confidence and playfulness. These insights could have important implications for training and selection methods in medical detection dogs,” said Dabbah.</p>



<p>In plain terms, dogs that zipped toward the bowl, hoping it held a tasty morsel, also seemed to have strong overall abilities when it came to learning and focusing. They appeared quicker to embrace new tasks and bounced back from empty bowls without getting flustered.</p>



<p>At the same time, some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-than-99-of-dogs-in-the-u-s-have-a-behavior-problem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">canines</a> showed a more guarded approach. They paused a moment longer at uncertain bowl placements, almost as if they were doing a double-check before taking action.</p>



<p>Interestingly, these dogs often had fewer false positives, indicating that a degree of “cautious thinking” may reduce errors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimistic-dogs-and-scent-detection">Optimistic dogs and scent detection</h2>



<p>Older dogs showed signs of calm confidence, which might help them approach tricky tasks without wasting energy on confusion. It is possible that time in training leads to more measured responses, as dogs hone both their search skills and emotional stability.</p>



<p>Dogs with a high drive for food did not hesitate to check a bowl, reflecting an eagerness to score a reward. While that can propel a dog to excel in learning, it may lead to hasty alerts on non-target scents. Balancing that enthusiasm with steady caution can be a challenge.</p>



<p>Some dogs leaned on playfulness to make tasks more pleasant. Tail-wagging and enthusiasm can boost training, but too much excitement may disrupt focused sniffing. Striking a middle ground is ideal for daily practice.</p>



<p>When a trainer recognizes that a dog’s personality tends toward optimism, that knowledge can guide how training is structured. The approach may focus on channeling the dog’s quick reactions while refining its ability to stop and think when necessary.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimistic-dogs-have-greater-detection-ability">Optimistic dogs have greater detection ability</h2>



<p>“Our findings suggest that dogs displaying more ‘optimistic’ responses in a judgment bias test tend to demonstrate higher overall ability, as rated by their trainers. Understanding this link could help us to better train, select, and support successful medical detection dogs,” said Dabbah.</p>



<p>Some of the more reserved dogs achieved stronger scent specificity, which can be a valuable quality for tasks where false alarms carry greater cost. Training might then look for ways to add a dash of positive expectation to help these dogs stay motivated.</p>



<p>Moving ahead, experts are exploring whether these insights might hint at early screening tools. Dogs that have an optimistic streak could be strong candidates for highly active detection tasks.</p>



<p>Such early indicators might spare time and resources, enabling trainers to focus on dogs whose personality suits the intensity of constant sniffing and monitoring. </p>



<p>Research suggests this approach may also enhance the dog’s well-being, as training can be fine-tuned to match its natural tendencies.</p>



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



<p>Trainers often keep logs of each dog’s progress and note any unusual struggles. A quick emotional test could add insight into what drives each dog’s successes and setbacks</p>



<p>Dog organizations might use these new findings to perfect selection programs. Dogs that see gray areas as opportunities often recover quickly from setbacks, making training more enjoyable.</p>



<p>The broader community of working-dog enthusiasts is always on the lookout for ways to elevate standards in canine professions. </p>



<p>By evaluating how optimism or hesitation shapes detection tasks, it may be possible to maximize performance without pushing dogs beyond healthy limits.</p>



<p>Refining this process promises a better match between each dog’s inherent scent style and the tasks they are asked to tackle. Such harmony could improve the reliability of medical alerts while protecting the dog’s quality of life.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0320158" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>PLOS One</em></a>.</p>



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Good mood, sharper nose? Optimistic dogs excel in scent detection

Dogs have long been recognized for their remarkable ability to...

Electric,Cars,At,Charing,Station,In,Hanoi,,Vietnam

<p>Electric vehicles (EVs) have come to symbolize the green revolution. Quiet, zero-emission cars now glide through city streets, while governments offer tax breaks and incentives to accelerate the shift from gasoline to electric power. </p>



<p>Headlines celebrate electric vehicles as a solution for climate change. But are they? A recent study raises new doubts.</p>



<p>Researchers from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.auckland.ac.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Auckland</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.xmu.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Xiamen University</a>&nbsp;argue that electric <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/driverless-utility-vehicles-are-taking-over-boring-and-risky-jobs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vehicles</a> cannot help the planet unless we clean up the electricity that powers them. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electric-vehicles-can-raise-emissions-nbsp">Electric vehicles can raise emissions&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The analysis reveals a surprising and uncomfortable truth: electric vehicles can, in some cases, increase carbon emissions.</p>



<p>The research team examined data from 26 countries over a 15-year period using a rigorous method known as the STIRPAT framework. </p>



<p>This analytical tool enables experts to assess the impact of population, economic development, and technological change on emissions.</p>



<p>The researchers looked beyond surface-level calculations. They tested how electric <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-electric-vehicle-owners-have-high-carbon-footprints/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vehicle</a> adoption, renewable energy use, population clustering, and green innovation all shape a country’s carbon output. </p>



<p>The results do not align with the common belief that more electric vehicles mean fewer emissions.</p>



<p>"On the contrary, EV adoption is positively associated with CO₂ emissions. This finding appears counterintuitive. It challenges the conventional belief that EVs contribute to decarbonization," said study lead author Miaomiao (Simon) Tao, a doctoral candidate at the <a href="https://www.energycentre.auckland.ac.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UoA Energy Centre</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electric-vehicles-and-climate-issues">Electric vehicles and climate issues</h2>



<p>The counterintuitive results of the study are linked to where electric vehicles get their power. In many parts of the world, electricity still comes from burning coal, oil, or gas. Charging an EV in such places often leads to more emissions than using a fuel-efficient petrol car.</p>



<p>“Take EVs charged using electricity from coal-fired power plants. In that case, they may indirectly contribute to higher emissions than modern gasoline or diesel vehicles, especially considering the entire lifecycle from production to disposal," said study co-author Professor Stephen Poletti.</p>



<p>The experts identified a clear tipping point. Electric vehicles only start cutting emissions once clean electricity makes up nearly half of a country’s power supply.</p>



<p>In 2023, renewables made up just over 30 percent of the global electricity mix. Most nations still fall short.</p>



<p>"Electric <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brake-pad-copper-emissions-are-worse-than-diesel-exhaust-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vehicles</a> are often seen as a silver bullet for climate change, but our results show that's not the case if the electricity powering them isn't clean,” said Professor Poletti.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-that-fuels-electric-vehicles">The power that fuels electric vehicles </h2>



<p>Some countries do better than others. New Zealand, for example, gets over 80 percent of its electricity from renewable sources. This makes EV adoption far more effective. In such places, switching from petrol to electric really does lower emissions.</p>



<p>"This research is a reminder that decarbonizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/direct-evidence-electric-vehicles-measurably-reduce-carbon-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transport</a> can't happen in isolation," said Professor Poletti. The grid and the garage are closely linked. You can’t clean one and ignore the other.</p>



<p>The researchers also found that countries focused on EV sales alone may miss the bigger picture. </p>



<p>Without electricity reform, the environmental benefits of EVs disappear. Countries must first green their energy sectors before EVs can truly help fight climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clean-energy-lowers-emissions">Clean energy lowers emissions</h2>



<p>The study didn’t stop at electric vehicles. The team analzyed several other factors that influence carbon emissions. Economic growth came out as a strong driver of increased emissions.</p>



<p>More businesses, more consumption, and more industry almost always mean more pollution. On the other hand, green innovation, renewable energy, and population density in urban areas were associated with lower emissions.</p>



<p>Technological <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-future-is-electric-epa-sets-strictest-ever-vehicle-emission-rules/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advances</a>, especially those related to energy use and storage, helped countries emit less carbon. Densely populated cities, when designed efficiently, used energy more wisely.</p>



<p>Notably, the study found that renewable energy had the strongest emissions-reducing effect of all variables. When renewables replace fossil fuels, the results are dramatic.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electric-vehicles-can-still-help">Electric vehicles can still help </h2>



<p>How much clean energy do countries need before EVs make a positive difference? According to the study, the magic number is 48 percent. </p>



<p>Once nearly half the electricity comes from sources like wind, solar, or hydro, the environmental gains of EVs begin to outweigh their hidden costs.</p>



<p>Before reaching that point, EVs can actually increase emissions. That’s because battery production and fossil-fuel-powered charging create more problems than they solve.</p>



<p> In high-emission countries, adding more EVs often raises electricity demand, putting more pressure on already dirty grids.</p>



<p>With EV sales growing rapidly - over 10 million units sold globally in 2022 - this tipping point becomes urgent. Nations need to match that growth with equally aggressive investments in renewables.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-early-adoption-may-backfire">Why early adoption may backfire</h2>



<p>Using an advanced model called Method of Moments Quantile Regression (MMQR), the researchers found that the link between EVs and emissions varies depending on how polluted a country already is. </p>



<p>In lower-emission countries, electric vehicles had a modest effect. But in high-emission countries, the adoption of EVs actually worsened the situation.</p>



<p>This reinforces the idea that EVs are not one-size-fits-all. They must be part of a broader environmental strategy. Without reforming energy sources, even a fleet of electric vehicles won't reduce overall carbon output.</p>



<p>The results show that early-stage EV deployment often leads to a spike in electricity consumption. If that power comes from coal, the net emissions rise. As the share of renewable energy grows, this negative effect fades - and can eventually reverse.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electric-vehicles-need-clean-power">Electric vehicles need clean power </h2>



<p>The takeaway? Clean cars need clean power. Governments should not treat EVs as an end in themselves. Instead, policies must align EV growth with renewable energy targets, urban planning, and investments in green technology.</p>



<p>Infrastructure matters too. Building smart grids and improving battery storage systems can help EVs use more clean energy. </p>



<p>Likewise, offering incentives for off-peak charging - when renewable generation is high - can reduce their footprint.</p>



<p>If governments only focus on getting people to buy EVs, they risk making climate goals harder to reach. The real gains come when electric vehicles are part of a clean ecosystem, powered by wind, sun, and smarter design.</p>



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



<p>The future of transport must be electric, but it must also be clean. That’s the core message of this study. It doesn’t reject electric vehicles; It warns that their benefits depend on context - especially the cleanliness of the power grid.</p>



<p>As Tao and Poletti show, electric vehicles alone won’t save the planet. But with the right mix of policies and infrastructure, they can still play a crucial role.</p>



<p>The road to net zero is longer and more complex than many assume. It runs not just through car factories, but through power plants, research labs, and city streets. Electric vehicles are a solid step toward climate mitigation - but only if we power them right.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S036054422500115X?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Energy</em></a>.</p>



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Dirty power: The hidden climate cost of electric vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs) have come to symbolize the green revolution....

<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=WXXGGiynIjs
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Greenland is not sinking. In fact, it is the opposite.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-contrasting-climate-response">A contrasting climate response</h2>



<p>Most coastal towns are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sinking-land-will-intensify-the-effects-of-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preparing for higher sea levels</a>, but <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/greenland-no-longer-has-to-worry-about-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greenland presents</a> a different scenario during climate change. The ground there is rising at a remarkable rate. Over the past decade, some areas have lifted about 20 centimeters, which translates to roughly 2 meters per century. This rate significantly exceeds current projections for sea level rise.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geological-rebound-process-through-climate-change">Geological rebound process through climate change</h2>



<p>The mechanism behind this phenomenon is straightforward. As the ice sheet melts, the immense weight is removed from the bedrock, causing the land to rebound upward. This process resembles the way compressed material springs back when pressure is released.</p>



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



<p>Researchers at the <a href="https://www.dtu.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Technical University of Denmark</a> are documenting this uplift using the GNET network, consisting of 61 GPS stations positioned around Greenland's coast. These sensors can detect movement with millimeter precision, providing detailed measurements of the ongoing changes.</p>



<p>The data reveal that current uplift rates exceed the gradual rebound occurring since the last ice age ended approximately 12,000 years ago. This acceleration corresponds directly with increased ice sheet melting rates.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coastal-transformation">Coastal Transformation</h2>



<p>This uplift is actively reshaping Greenland's coastline. New islands and rocky formations, called "skerries," are emerging as previously submerged land surfaces rise above the water level. This represents a notable contrast to global concerns about rising seas.</p>



<p>The study, published in Geophysical Research Letters, demonstrates the varied regional impacts of climate change. While many locations face rising water levels, Greenland's bedrock is literally rising above the surrounding seas.</p>



<p>The full study was recently published in <em><a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1029/2023GL104851" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a></em>.</p>



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXXGGiynIjs Greenland is not sinking. In fact, it is the...

<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=DSM3EVeGHJU
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Companies like MindStudio help companies train their employees to implement the latest AI Agent building platform.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-agent-training-transforms-the-workplace-fear-factor-into-a-competitive-advantage">AI agent training transforms the workplace 'fear factor' into a competitive advantage</h2>



<p>Organizations that offer comprehensive artificial intelligence training to their workers find remarkable value that extends well beyond basic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mind-wandering-might-be-more-productive-than-you-think/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">productivity improvements</a>. Emerging research demonstrates that carefully crafted AI training programs <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-does-not-replace-human-creativity-but-enhances-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enhance</a> corporate performance, lower operational costs, and dramatically improve employee psychological well-being by turning workplace uncertainty into professional empowerment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-widespread-ai-anxiety-crisis-among-us">Addressing the widespread 'AI anxiety' crisis among us</h2>



<p>A staggering 53% of employees expressed concern that the use of AI tools to automate work tasks could make them appear disposable to their employers, according to <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microsoft</a>'s 2024 workplace survey. Such pervasive worry about being substituted by machines has caused what researchers have termed "AI technostress" – a psychological state that can result in occupational burnout and poorer mental well-being.</p>



<p>Data published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/palcomms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Humanities and Social Sciences Communications</a> showed that belief in AI learning ability was a moderator in the link between technology adoption and work pressure, and higher confidence significantly lowered negative psychological responses. Workers provided ample training to become competent with AI software have significantly lower stress.</p>



<p>Companies like <a href="https://www.mindstudio.ai/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MindStudio</a> have platforms for building what are known as "AI Agents".  In essence, AI Agents are simply tools that employees can build for themselves or their teams quickly and inexpensively.   MindStudio will even train entire companies, from the CEO on down, at no cost. By letting MindStudio empower employees, companies avoid hiring more IT staff, buying more software, and implementing solutions to problems that do not exist.</p>



<p>MindStudio even has partners locally for companies, like <a href="http://www.dominnus.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dominnus</a> with offices in the Carolinas, California, and Denver, to help build AI Agents and support employees as they become resident AI experts for their organization.  The training provided by MindStudio is applicable across other AI Agent building platforms as well.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionary-productivity-through-focused-learning">Revolutionary productivity through focused learning</h2>



<p>Organizations that implement large-scale AI training programs achieve dramatic outcomes. Employees performed tasks significantly better when they utilized AI support compared to when they didn't, according to <a href="https://www.nngroup.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nielsen Norman Group</a> research findings. Their study documented productivity increases of 66% for a variety of professional tasks.</p>



<p>Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis research finds workers record 33% higher productivity in time working with generative AI tools. The benefit is equivalent to 5.4% of work time savings for AI users – around 2.2 hours per week for full-time workers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychological-well-being-benefits-through-ai-competence">Psychological well-being benefits through AI competence</h2>



<p>The emotional transformation when employees are provided with proper technology training is a fundamental transformation from fear to professional confidence. A survey of 600 employees across industries, carried out by ScienceDirect, proved that AI capabilities strengthen work environment commitment and improve job satisfaction.</p>



<p>A <a href="https://www.lut.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LUT University</a> study discovered that AI adoption has no direct effect on workers' well-being but does so indirectly through working conditions like task optimization and safety protocols. Strategically deployed AI that involves correct training can actually increase workplace mental well-being.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-replacement-anxiety-to-partnership-confidence">From 'replacement anxiety' to 'partnership confidence'</h2>



<p>Although 35% of those interviewed in recent McKinsey studies were concerned about workforce displacement, firms with large-scale training initiatives witness such fears dissipate quickly. The World Economic Forum found that two out of three respondents believe AI competencies will enhance their career prospects and job marketability.</p>



<p>This shift from fear to trust has measurable implications for job satisfaction. Applied Sciences research indicates AI can create tailored wellness programs based on individual employee requirements.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-financial-benefits-of-increased-retention">Financial benefits of increased retention</h2>



<p>The mental health advantages of AI learning have a direct impact on organizational bottom lines in the form of a positive feedback cycle with high retention of employees. Recent ROI research validates that artificial intelligence learning has a beneficial impact on employee turnover and satisfaction levels.</p>



<p>PriceWaterhouseCoopers' research documents 20% to 30% improvements in productivity, market speed, and revenue in organizations that attempt systematic AI adoption through comprehensive training.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-advantages-of-ai-enabled-teams">Environmental advantages of AI-enabled teams</h2>



<p>AI training has unforeseen environmental benefits as it makes the work environment more efficient. According to a study in Scientific Reports, the carbon footprint in writing and illustrating work is significantly lower when AI performs it compared to humans. AI software produces 130 to 1,500 times less CO2 equivalent per page of text created than human authors.</p>



<p>In addition, AI-driven remote work functionality significantly reduces environmental impact. Research by Cornell University and Microsoft indicates that remote workers reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 54% by not commuting daily to offices. Hybrid workers working remotely two to four days a week can reduce their carbon footprint by 11% to 29%.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cumulative-organizational-advantages">Cumulative organizational advantages</h2>



<p>The compounding gains of better mental well-being, reduced turnover, increased productivity, and environmental benefits flow to enterprises from the pairing. McKinsey analysis estimates the long-term AI potential at $4.4 trillion in incremental productivity growth opportunity from business use cases.</p>



<p>As of now, 75% of knowledge workers globally utilize generative AI, mirroring widespread adoption patterns. Organizations that provide organized training and assistance see the most favorable results in productivity, worker satisfaction, and ecological sustainability.</p>



<p>The research overwhelmingly indicates that companies that invest in proper AI education, like that offered through <a href="https://www.mindstudio.ai" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MindStudio</a>, establish win-win scenarios where employees are both more empowered and less stressed, and companies enjoy the gains of increased productivity, reduced turnover, and improved mental health outcomes throughout their workforce.</p>



<p>For more on MindStudio's free AI training for companies, visit the website's of MindStudio and Dominnus from the links below.</p>



<p>The research was published across a variety of peer-reviewed journals, including <a href="https://www.nature.com/palcomms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Humanities and Social Sciences Communications</a>, <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/artificial-intelligence" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence</a>, and <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/journal/applsci">Applied Sciences</a>.</p>



<p id="block-9bd989d6-2fd3-4580-957f-6cacce134f08">-----</p>



<p id="block-eff5dea3-a9bb-40b5-a923-e5a9978bc0e2">Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



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<p>MindStudio.AI: <a href="https://www.mindstudio.ai" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.mindstudio.ai</a></p>



<p>Dominnus: <a href="https://www.dominnus.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.dominnus.com</a></p>

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSM3EVeGHJU Companies like MindStudio help companies train their employees to...

<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=0HDXqTGEmi4
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Scientists give plants superpowers against bacterial disease</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-natural-solution-to-disease-through-crop-modification">A natural solution to disease through crop modification.</h2>



<p>The agricultural industry stands at a crossroads between productivity and environmental responsibility, and crop modification often carries a negative connotation. While chemical pesticides have long been the go-to solution for crop protection, their harmful effects on ecosystems and human health have prompted scientists to seek alternatives. The recent breakthrough by <a href="https://www.southampton.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southampton</a> researchers offers a promising path forward through the precise manipulation of plant-associated microbial communities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-science-behind-microbial-partnerships">The science behind microbial partnerships</h2>



<p>Plants naturally harbor diverse ecosystems of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that function as biological allies. These microscopic partners contribute to disease resistance, nutrient absorption, and stress tolerance. However, until now, scientists lacked the tools to deliberately reshape these communities to enhance crop protection.</p>



<p>The Southampton team's approach centered on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/engineered-plant-microbiomes-the-future-of-crop-protection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modifying lignin biosynthesis genes in rice plants</a>. This strategic intervention altered the plant's metabolic output, creating conditions that favored beneficial bacterial populations while suppressing harmful ones. The result was a living defense system embedded within the plant itself.</p>



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



<p>The successful demonstration against Xanthomonas oryzae, the pathogen responsible for bacterial blight in rice, represents more than a laboratory achievement. Rice feeds nearly half the world's population, and bacterial blight causes devastating crop losses annually. Traditional control methods rely heavily on pesticides that contaminate soil and water systems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-beyond-disease-resistance">Looking Beyond Disease Resistance</h2>



<p>While disease protection represents the immediate application, the research framework opens doors to broader agricultural improvements. Future developments could engineer microbiomes to enhance nutrient uptake, reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. This dual benefit addresses both crop productivity and environmental sustainability.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-forward">The path forward</h2>



<p>As this technology advances from laboratory to field applications, it promises to reshape sustainable agriculture. The ability to program plants with their own biological defense systems could herald a new era where crops protect themselves naturally, reducing chemical inputs while maintaining yields necessary for global food security.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-44335-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a>.</p>



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<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HDXqTGEmi4 Scientists give plants superpowers against bacterial disease A natural...

<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=kVywlgRJXsc
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Some children read facial expressions when making food choices.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-people-s-reactions-influence-children-s-eating-habits">Other people's reactions influence children's eating habits</h2>



<p>Many children are finicky eaters, but research explains how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-learned-why-so-many-kids-dislike-vegetables/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">watching others eat and social modeling</a> influence the eating habits of children.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Study Methodology Demonstrates Social Learning Impact</h2>



<p>Researchers at <a href="https://www.aston.ac.uk/hls/school-of-psychology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aston University School of Psychology</a> have published findings in Frontiers in Psychology that illuminate the neurobiological foundations of food preference development through observational learning. The investigation employed controlled video stimuli featuring adults consuming raw broccoli while displaying systematically varied facial expressions to measure participant responses.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Asymmetrical Response Patterns Identified</h2>



<p>The research, conducted with 204 female participants, revealed a pronounced asymmetry in social modeling effects. Negative facial expressions during vegetable consumption significantly diminished observer food preference ratings, while positive expressions failed to produce corresponding increases in vegetable appeal. This finding challenges conventional assumptions about the bidirectional nature of social influence in dietary behavior formation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Evolutionary Psychology Framework Applied</h2>



<p>Dr. Katie Edwards and her research team propose that these results reflect adaptive mechanisms developed through evolutionary processes. The heightened sensitivity to disgust expressions likely functions as a protective system, enabling individuals to identify potentially harmful foods through social cues without direct risk exposure.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Clinical and Educational Implications</h2>



<p>These findings carry substantial implications for pediatric nutrition interventions and family meal dynamics. The research suggests that parental expressions of distaste during vegetable consumption may inadvertently reinforce children's existing food aversions through unconscious social transmission pathways.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Future Research Directions</h2>



<p>The study establishes a foundation for expanded investigation into real-time social modeling effects and cross-demographic applicability. Researchers emphasize the necessity for longitudinal studies examining actual consumption behaviors rather than preference ratings alone, particularly within family contexts where social learning occurs most frequently.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVywlgRJXsc Some children read facial expressions when making food choices....

<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=JynHpMaNO8A
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chaotic cancer protein finally controlled after decades of mystery</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-causing-protein-bound-and-blocked">Cancer-causing protein bound and blocked</h2>



<p>In a discovery that can one day revolutionize cancer treatment, researchers at the <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Riverside</a> have successfully developed a means of controlling MYC, a notoriously slippery protein that causes approximately <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chaotic-protein-that-fuels-75-of-cancers-can-be-controlled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">75% of all cancers in humans</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-myc-different">What makes MYC different</h2>



<p>MYC presents a unique challenge when studying cancer. Normally, this protein plays a vital role in healthy cells. It carefully controls transcription - the process that converts genetic information from DNA and RNA into proteins.</p>



<p>However, cancer changes everything. In cancer cells, MYC becomes a destructive force. It operates in overdrive mode with no regulation whatsoever.</p>



<p>Professor Min Xue, who led the research team, explains it simply: "MYC is less like food for cancer cells and more like a steroid. It drives cancer's aggressive growth." This superactive behavior makes MYC involved in three out of every four cancer cases.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-myc-is-hard-to-target">Why MYC is hard to target</h2>



<p>Despite its clear role in cancer, targeting MYC has been one of medicine's biggest challenges. The main problem lies in MYC's unusual structure - or rather, its complete lack of structure.</p>



<p>Professor Xue describes the protein as "basically a glob of randomness." This means conventional drug discovery methods don't work. These traditional approaches rely on sharply defined protein structures. MYC simply doesn't have one.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A New Approach to Fighting MYC</h2>



<p>The UCR research team developed a clever solution. They designed a special peptide molecule that could selectively bind to MYC. More importantly, this peptide could block MYC's destructive activity.</p>



<p>The key was fine-tuning two specific features: the peptide's stiffness and its shape. Through careful adjustments, researchers achieved something remarkable. They reached "sub-micro-molar affinity" - meaning their peptide binds as strongly as antibodies do.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakthrough-results">Breakthrough results</h2>



<p>This accomplishment represents a major leap beyond previous attempts. The researchers enhanced their peptide's binding strength by two orders of magnitude. This dramatic improvement brings the work significantly closer to practical drug development goals.</p>



<p>The research opens new possibilities for treating the vast majority of cancers where MYC plays a destructive role.</p>



<p>The researchers are presently optimizing peptide-delivery systems based on lipid nanoparticles that deliver the peptide effectively into cancer cells. The<a href="https://www.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> National Institutes of Health</a> and the <a href="https://www.defense.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Department of Defense</a> funded the study, which appeared in the Journal of the <a href="https://www.acs.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Chemical Society</a>.<br>This research offers renewed hope against cancer, and it can potentially open a door to more effective cancer therapies for most cancer patients worldwide.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

The protein that fuels 3 out of 4 cancers has been controlled

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JynHpMaNO8A Chaotic cancer protein finally controlled after decades of mystery...

<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>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

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>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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."</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified <em>Eospermatopteris</em>, 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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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."</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em>Current Biology</em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

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=Veg4HmmRVZY
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Our bodies hits two 'aging cliffs' at these ages.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientists-map-exact-ages-when-your-body-rapidly-ages">Scientists Map Exact Ages When Your Body Rapidly Ages</h2>



<p>Scientists have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-bodies-begin-breaking-down-two-very-precise-ages/#google_vignette">discovered that aging</a> isn't the gradual, steady process many assume it to be. Instead, researchers from Stanford Medicine have found that our bodies undergo dramatic molecular changes at two specific ages: 44 and 60. This research, published in Nature Aging, reveals that aging happens in sudden bursts rather than smooth transitions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-two-waves-of-rapid-aging">Two waves of rapid aging</h2>



<p>The Stanford study tracked over 135,000 different molecules and microbes in 108 participants aged 25 to 75 over several years. Results showed that 81% of all molecules studied exhibited non-linear changes, meaning they shifted dramatically at certain ages rather than changing gradually over time.</p>



<p>Michael Snyder, chair of genetics at Stanford School of Medicine and the study's senior author, noted significant findings. "We're not just changing gradually over time; there are some really dramatic changes. It turns out the mid-40s is a time of dramatic change, as is the early 60s. And that's true no matter what class of molecules you look at."</p>



<p>The first wave of changes occurs around age 44, affecting molecules related to alcohol metabolism, caffeine processing, lipid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/age-related-changes-in-metabolism-dont-match-our-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">metabolism</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-disease-remains-the-leading-cause-of-death-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease</a>, and skin and muscle function. The second wave hits around age 60, involving changes in carbohydrate metabolism, immune regulation, kidney function, and again cardiovascular and muscle health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-during-these-aging-bursts">What happens during these aging bursts</h2>



<p>During the mid-40s transformation, researchers observed significant changes in how the body processes alcohol and fats. This period often coincides with increased stress levels in many people's lives, potentially contributing to lifestyle factors that accelerate these molecular shifts.</p>



<p>"It's possible some of these changes could be tied to lifestyle or behavioral factors that cluster at these age groups, rather than being driven by biological factors," Snyder explained. For instance, alcohol metabolism dysfunction might result from increased consumption during the typically stressful mid-40s period.</p>



<p>The changes at age 60 are perhaps less surprising, as this is when many age-related diseases begin to manifest more prominently. The molecular shifts affect immune function and kidney health, both critical for maintaining overall wellness as we enter our senior years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-latest-research-confirms-aging-patterns">Latest research confirms aging patterns</h2>



<p>Recent 2025 studies have validated these findings. Research examining tissue samples from 76 people found similar aging patterns, noting an "inflection point" between ages 45 and 55.</p>



<p>Scientists discovered that blood vessels, particularly the aorta, age fastest among all body tissues. This vascular aging may drive aging in other body parts, highlighting cardiovascular health's central role in the aging process.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cellular-changes-and-microbiome-shifts">Cellular changes and microbiome shifts</h2>



<p>The Stanford research revealed that these aging bursts affect our microbiome – the trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi living in and on our bodies. These microbial communities undergo substantial shifts during both aging periods, potentially affecting everything from digestion to immune function.</p>



<p>Additionally, researchers found that protein production and gene expression begin to fall out of sync as we age. This breakdown in cellular communication becomes especially pronounced during the two aging waves, contributing to the accumulation of damaged proteins associated with diseases such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alzheimers-may-not-be-brain-disorder-important-data-was-fabricated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer's</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-implications-and-longevity-considerations">Health implications and longevity considerations</h2>



<p>Understanding these aging patterns has important implications for healthcare strategies. Research suggests that people should pay particular attention to their health during their 40s and 60s, when these dramatic molecular changes occur.</p>



<p>Snyder emphasized the importance of proactive health measures. "I'm a big believer that we should try to adjust our lifestyles while we're still healthy," he noted. This might include increasing exercise to protect heart health and maintain muscle mass, or reducing alcohol consumption in the 40s as the body's ability to metabolize it declines.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-approaches-to-anti-aging-treatment">New approaches to anti-aging treatment</h2>



<p>Aging research has seen notable advances in 2025. Harvard Medical School scientists developed chemical cocktails that reverse cellular aging without genetic modification. These six combinations restored aged cells to youthfulness in under a week, offering safer alternatives to gene therapy.</p>



<p>Researchers identified new biomarkers like "InflammAge," a saliva-based test measuring chronic inflammation associated with aging. This non-invasive approach could change how we monitor aging and intervention.</p>



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



<p>Emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, cellular reprogramming, and senolytic therapies, are opening new possibilities for extending healthspan. Companies develop treatments targeting aging's fundamental mechanisms rather than just managing age-related diseases.</p>



<p>The Stanford findings provide a roadmap for implementing preventive measures. Rather than waiting for symptoms, people can prepare for and potentially mitigate these predictable aging waves.</p>



<p>As aging understanding evolves, one thing becomes clear: aging isn't inevitable decline, but specific biological events we may learn to prevent or reverse. The key is recognizing when these transitions occur and taking proactive health steps during vulnerable periods.</p>



<p>The study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/nataging" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Aging</a></em>.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Scientists discover we age in bursts

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Veg4HmmRVZY Our bodies hits two 'aging cliffs' at these ages....

<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=PqlF0XKzHY4
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The hidden science behind tickling.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientists-discover-the-brain-s-tickling-command-center">Scientists discover the brain's 'tickling command center'</h2>



<p>Researchers have finally solved one of humanity's most enduring mysteries: why we can't <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/after-centuries-of-debate-we-still-dont-know-how-tickling-works/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tickle</a> ourselves and what makes some people incredibly ticklish while others barely react? Recent scientific discoveries are revolutionizing our understanding of this peculiar human behavior.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakthrough-discovery-in-the-brain">Breakthrough discovery in the brain</h2>



<p>In 2023, Dr. Michael Brecht's team at <a href="https://www.hu-berlin.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Humboldt University</a>-<a href="https://www.hu-berlin.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Berlin</a> made a major discovery published in the <a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(22)01991-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">journal <em>Neuron</em></a>. They identified the brain's actual "tickling command center" – specific neurons in a region called the periaqueductal gray that control both tickling responses and play behavior.</p>



<p>When researchers used cutting-edge optogenetic technology to shut down these neurons in laboratory rats, something remarkable happened. The animals completely lost their ability to be tickled or engage in playful behavior.</p>



<p>"We found that global blockade of the rat periaqueductal gray with either muscimol or lidocaine interfered with ticklishness and play," the research team reported in their study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-two-types-of-tickling-revealed">Two types of tickling revealed</h2>



<p>What we call "tickling" is two completely different phenomena, according to the latest research. Light tickling – that feathery sensation that makes you want to scratch – is essentially your body's sophisticated bug detection system. This alerts you to potential insects or parasites on your skin.</p>



<p>Deep tickling – the kind that makes you laugh uncontrollably – involves complex brain circuits and is fundamentally social. You literally cannot tickle yourself with this type of stimulation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-self-tickling-is-impossible">Why self-tickling is impossible</h2>



<p>Your cerebellum acts like a prediction machine, recent findings show. When you move your own hand to touch yourself, your brain generates precise predictions about what you will feel and then cancels out the tickling sensation through neural inhibition.</p>



<p>When someone else tickles you, your brain can't predict their movements, so the full tickling response activates. It's like your brain's way of distinguishing between self and others.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-individual-differences-explained">Individual differences explained</h2>



<p>Individual differences in ticklishness depend on genetics, psychology, and even trust. Dr. Xinzhong Dong at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University</a> notes that people with denser nerve endings tend to be more sensitive.</p>



<p>Psychological factors matter just as much. You respond more strongly when tickled by people you trust, and anxiety completely shuts down tickling responses. This explains why the same physical stimulus can produce completely different reactions depending on who's doing the tickling.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlling-your-ticklishness">Controlling your ticklishness</h2>



<p>Science offers answers for controlling your ticklishness. You can reduce tickling sensitivity through systematic desensitization – gradual exposure in controlled settings.</p>



<p>Dr. Konstantina Kilteni's 2025 research, published in <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adt0350" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a></em>, reveals another technique: place your hand on the tickler's hand. This allows your brain to partially predict the sensations, reducing the tickling response by up to 90 percent.</p>



<p>"Your brain is essentially learning to override its own reflexes," Kilteni explained in her review of tickling research.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolutionary-purpose-discovered">Evolutionary purpose discovered</h2>



<p>From an evolutionary perspective, tickling serves vital functions according to <a href="https://www.umd.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland</a> researcher Dr. Robert Provine's extensive studies. It trains our defense reflexes for vulnerable body areas and facilitates social bonding between family members.</p>



<p>Tickling-induced laughter is actually one of the first forms of communication between infants and caregivers. "Tickle involves a neurological self/nonself discrimination, providing the most primitive social scenario," Provine noted in his research.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clinical-applications-emerge">Clinical applications emerge</h2>



<p>Research shows people with autism spectrum disorder perceive touches as more ticklish than people without the condition. Investigating this difference could provide insight into brain differences and help advance autism research.</p>



<p>People with schizophrenia tend to experience self-touches similarly to external tickles, allowing them to essentially tickle themselves. This suggests altered sensory prediction mechanisms in the condition.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animal-research-reveals-universal-nature">Animal research reveals universal nature</h2>



<p>Scientists have discovered that many species beyond humans are ticklish. Rats emit ultrasonic "laughs" when tickled, while chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans all respond to tickling stimulation.</p>



<p>This widespread occurrence across species suggests that tickling serves fundamental biological and social functions that evolved long before humans developed complex language and culture.</p>



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



<p>Dr. Kilteni argues that tickling research deserves more scientific attention. "It is a complex interplay of motor, social, neurological, developmental, and evolutionary aspects," she stated in her recent review.</p>



<p>New haptic technologies and advanced research methodologies now permit scientists to investigate tickle sensation with unprecedented precision. Standardized experimental methods using mechanical tickling devices ensure consistent results across studies.</p>



<p>Recent findings published in <em>Science Advances</em> show that tickling research is opening new doors in neuroscience, potentially leading to a better understanding of social behavior, sensory processing, and neurological conditions.</p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqlF0XKzHY4 The hidden science behind tickling. Scientists discover the brain's...

<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=elr4948_uOU
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dr. Ronald Mallett from the University of Connecticut reveals secret mission to create working time travel device.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-could-an-equation-truly-bend-time-a-physicist-s-decades-long-quest-to-rewrite-reality">Could an equation truly bend time? A physicist's decades-long quest to rewrite reality</h2>



<p>Imagine the impossible: stepping back through time in a time machine, not in fantasy, but through a scientific endeavor driven by profound personal loss. For <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astrophysicist-says-hes-cracked-the-equation-for-time-travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Ronald Mallett</a>, a distinguished astrophysicist and professor emeritus at the <a href="https://uconn.edu/">University of Connecticut</a>, this deeply human longing has fueled a lifelong mission. He claims to have discovered the equation that could unlock temporal displacement, pushing boundaries once deemed purely science fiction.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-profound-grief-that-forged-a-vision">A profound grief that forged a vision</h2>



<p>Mallett's extraordinary pursuit began with devastating tragedy in 1955. At merely 10 years old, he endured his father Boyd's sudden death—a television repairman whose passion for science had ignited a similar spark in his young son. Boyd Mallett, only 33, succumbed to a heart attack, leaving behind a grief-stricken child searching for solace.</p>



<p>That solace came through H.G. Wells' <em>The Time Machine</em>. Within its pages, Mallett found a captivating concept: "Time is only a kind of Space." These words transformed from a literary phrase into a guiding principle, becoming the driving force behind his unwavering commitment to unraveling time's fundamental mysteries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-humble-beginnings-to-academic-heights">From humble beginnings to academic heights</h2>



<p>Mallett's journey was far from straightforward. After serving in the Air Force during the Vietnam War era, he utilized the GI Bill for higher education, earning his Ph.D. in physics from Pennsylvania State University in 1973 at the age of 28.</p>



<p>In 1975, he made history as the first African American professor in the University of Connecticut's physics department, achieving full professorship in 1987 before retiring in 2024 as professor emeritus.</p>



<p>Throughout these successful academic years, Mallett harbored his radical ambition as a closely guarded secret. "I kept my time travel goal a secret," he confessed. "I worried people would think I was nuts." His public research centered on black holes, serving as a "cover story" while he quietly developed his revolutionary time travel theory.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-breakthrough-moment">The breakthrough moment</h2>



<p>His pivotal insight arrived while hospitalized for a heart condition—a profound irony given his father's heart attack started this journey. The breakthrough was elegantly simple yet revolutionary: "If gravity can bend time, and light can create gravity, then light can bend time."</p>



<p>"It turns out that black holes can create a gravitational field that could lead to the creation of time loops that could allow us to go back in time," he explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-blueprint-for-a-temporal-vortex">The blueprint for a temporal vortex</h2>



<p>Mallett's vision for a functioning time machine replicates spacetime-warping phenomena around black holes. He offers a compelling analogy: "Picture a cup of coffee. Stir it with a spoon, and the coffee swirls. A spinning black hole does the same to spacetime."</p>



<p>In Einstein's general relativity, the universe is a dynamic fabric woven from space and time. Massive objects like black holes warp this fabric—an effect we perceive as gravity. Mallett theorizes that an intense, continuous, circulating beam of light from a ring of powerful lasers could replicate this gravitational torsion, effectively twisting time into a loop.</p>



<p>This "time loop" would theoretically allow information—or perhaps matter—to travel backward in time. He detailed this mathematical concept in his 2006 autobiography, <em>Time Traveler: A Scientist's Personal Mission to Make Time Travel a Reality</em>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-published-research-and-recognition">Published research and recognition</h2>



<p>His work, published in respected journals including <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/physics-letters-a" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physics Letters A</a></em> and <em><a href="https://link.springer.com/journal/10701" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Foundations of Physics</a></em>, suggests circulating laser light could generate gravitational fields potent enough to create closed timelike curves, enabling time travel for data.</p>



<p>Mallett's research has gained worldwide media attention, featured on <a href="https://www.thisamericanlife.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Public Radio's <em>This American Life</em></a>, the <a href="https://www.history.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">History Channel</a>, and <a href="https://www.today.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBC's <em>Today Show</em></a>. The widespread interest reflects both his compelling personal story and rigorous scientific approach.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-galactic-hurdles-and-persistent-skepticism">The galactic hurdles and persistent skepticism</h2>



<p>While Mallett's equations captivate imagination, the path to reality faces immense obstacles. The energy requirement is staggering—Mallett acknowledges needing "galactic amounts of energy," far beyond current technological capabilities.</p>



<p>There's also a poignant limitation: even if realized, his machine could only send information back to when it was first activated, meaning it couldn't transport him to 1955 to prevent his father's death.</p>



<p>The scientific community remains skeptical. Physicists Ken Olum and Allen Everett argue that Mallett's proposed laser ring would need to be larger than the observable universe to achieve the necessary spacetime distortion. They invoke Stephen Hawking's chronology protection conjecture, suggesting physics may prevent macroscopic time travel.</p>



<p>Astrophysicist Paul Sutter has voiced doubts about Mallett's underlying mathematics, while science writer Brian Clegg finds the concept intriguing enough to warrant experimental investigation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-legacy-that-transcends-time">A legacy that transcends time</h2>



<p>Now approaching 80, Dr. Mallett remains steadfast. "I believe my work will show time travel is possible," he asserts. "Future generations will build on it in ways we can't yet imagine."</p>



<p>His equations, though yet to physically bend time, have bent our collective imagination. Ongoing public interest, evidenced by his continued media appearances and Spike Lee's film adaptation of his memoir, underscores his ideas' profound impact.</p>



<p>More than a scientific pursuit, Mallett's story testifies to human resilience, intellectual courage, and hope's enduring power. Whether his theoretical time machine ever materializes, his legacy is immeasurable—inspiring countless individuals to challenge conventional limits and perceive time not as an unyielding barrier, but as a boundless frontier awaiting exploration.</p>



<p></p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elr4948_uOU Dr. Ronald Mallett from the University of Connecticut reveals...

<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>



<p>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?</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p><strong>Sources:</strong> <em>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.</em></p>



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



<p><strong>1. Is acid rain completely gone?</strong> 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.</p>



<p><strong>2. How long did solving take?</strong> 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.</p>



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



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



<p><strong>5. Could acid rain return?</strong> 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.</p>



<p><strong>6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"?</strong> 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></p>



<p>-----</p>



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<p>-----</p>

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

<p>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. </p>



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



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https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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).</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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>.</p>

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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.</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p>"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."</p>



<p><em>Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p><em>Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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?</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p>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;</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ACS Reactions</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

How does salt makes things taste better?

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> 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;</p>



<p>'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)."</p>



<p>"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.</p>



<p><em>Video/ Image Credit: ESA</em></p>



<p><em>-</em><em>--</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>

Santiago, Chile in South America

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