<p>Think about sipping a sugar-free drink that still tastes sweet. Many of us have puzzled over this illusion. Now scientists at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden reveal how our brains transform smell into taste.</p>



<p>The research, published in <em>Nature Communications</em>, shows that the brain encodes certain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-dna-may-explain-why-you-love-or-hate-certain-smells/">aromas</a> as if they were flavors themselves.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-flavor-and-smell-form">How flavor and smell form</h2>



<p>Flavor is more than taste. It comes from a combination of gustatory signals and retronasal odors, those aromas drifting from the mouth to the nose. </p>



<p>The insula, known as the taste cortex, was found to integrate these signals earlier than expected. This means the brain does not wait for higher regions to combine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-your-brain-decides-what-smells-good-or-bad/">taste</a> and smell but merges them immediately into one experience.</p>



<p>Study lead author Putu Agus Khorisantono is a researcher in the Department of Clinical Neuroscience at <a href="https://ki.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karolinska Institutet</a>. </p>



<p>“We saw that the taste cortex reacts to taste-associated aromas as if they were real tastes,” explained Khorisantono. "The finding provides a possible explanation for why we sometimes experience taste from smell alone, for example in flavored waters." </p>



<p>"This underscores how strongly odors and tastes work together to make food pleasurable, potentially inducing craving and encouraging overeating of certain foods.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-brain-links-flavor-and-smell">How the brain links flavor and smell</h2>



<p>The researchers tested 25 adults. First, participants learned to identify sweet and savory flavors through combinations of taste and smell. </p>



<p>Later, inside a scanner, they received either tasteless odors or odorless tastes. Algorithms trained on brain responses to actual tastes were then tested on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radio-waves-can-boost-our-sense-of-smell-without-contact/">odors</a> alone. The surprising outcome was that odours mimicked the brain’s taste responses.</p>



<p>The study revealed that sweet or savory odors activated the same neural patterns as the corresponding tastes.</p>



<p>This overlap was strongest in the ventral anterior insula, a region connected to olfactory areas. Importantly, the researchers ruled out simple pleasure ratings as the cause. Instead, the brain genuinely encoded odors in a way that matched taste perception.</p>



<p>“This shows that the brain does not process taste and smell separately, but rather creates a joint representation of the flavor experience in the taste cortex,” said senior researcher Janina Seubert. </p>



<p>“This mechanism may be relevant for how our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-sense-of-smell-and-different-odors-can-influence-how-we-see-colors/">taste</a> preferences and eating habits are formed and influenced.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-flavor-and-smell-matter">Why flavor and smell matter</h2>



<p>The findings highlight the insula as a hub for flavor integration. They also reveal that taste representations can drift over time. Neural patterns of taste identity were less stable across days, echoing results seen in rodent studies. </p>



<p>This suggests that our flavor experiences are dynamic, adapting with exposure, context, and internal states such as hunger, mood, or attention. </p>



<p>A flavor that feels vivid and distinct one day may blur or even shift the next, depending on what the brain has recently learned or anticipated.</p>



<p>This fluid quality points to a system designed not for rigid coding but for flexibility, helping us adjust to changing diets, environments, and cultural influences on taste.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flavor-identity-and-reward-value">Flavor identity and reward value</h2>



<p>The study also observed cross-modal decoding in other regions, such as the orbitofrontal cortex, which is known to encode the value of food. </p>



<p>The researchers propose that the insula forms a shared flavor identity, while the orbitofrontal cortex evaluates its reward value. This dual process could explain why certain odors make foods irresistible and shape long-term eating habits.</p>



<p>The team now wants to test external smells, or orthonasal odors. These are the scents we encounter before eating, like walking past bread or pastries.</p>



<p>“We want to find out whether the activation pattern in the brain’s taste cortex changes from salty to sweet when we walk from the cheese aisle to the pastries in the supermarket,” said Khorisantono. “If so, this could have a significant impact on the foods we choose to consume.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-flavor-and-smell-affect-health">How flavor and smell affect health</h2>



<p>This research reframes flavor as a deeply integrated brain process. Smell and taste are not separate streams but overlapping codes that can trick the brain into tasting without tasting.</p>



<p>Beyond solving everyday mysteries like sweet-tasting flavored water, the work raises questions about cravings, overeating, and how our diets are shaped by environments filled with powerful aromas. </p>



<p>The research also suggests that everyday exposure to food-related smells in supermarkets, restaurants, offices, and even advertising spaces may influence us more than we realize.</p>



<p>These aromas may prime the brain to expect certain tastes, creating a loop where scent alone can nudge us toward food choices we might not otherwise make. </p>



<p>Over time, this subtle influence could shape eating habits, nutritional patterns, and even health outcomes, revealing how deeply our sensory world directs behavior long before conscious decisions take place.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-63803-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.</em></p>



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How smell tricks the brain into tasting flavors

Think about sipping a sugar-free drink that still tastes sweet. Many of us have puzzled over this illusion. Now scientists at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden reveal how our brains transform smell into taste. The research, published in Nature Communications, shows that the brain encodes certain aromas as if they were flavors themselves. How flavor and smell form Flavor is more than taste. It comes from a combination of gustatory signals and retronasal odors, those aromas drifting from the mouth to the nose. The insula, known as the...

<p>Earth’s modern biosphere teems with plants, animals, and many other organisms that breathe oxygen to break down sugars into carbon dioxide and water. This process yields ATP - the universal “energy currency” essential for life’s biochemical reactions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>But early in our planet’s history, oxygen was absent from the atmosphere, raising the question of how organisms generated ATP in those conditions.</p>



<p>New research now provides an answer by closely examining primordial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-microbes-discovered-in-2-billion-year-old-rocks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbes</a> that inhabit present-day, oxygen-free ecosystems such as deep-sea hot springs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These ancient microbes illustrate a particular kind of respiration in which carbon dioxide and hydrogen are combined to form acetic acid, and the findings explain how that reaction is harnessed to generate ATP.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-oxygen-free-metabolism">Significance of oxygen-free metabolism</h2>



<p>Although life today often revolves around <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-oxygen-supply-may-have-been-kick-started-by-volcanoes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxygen</a>-based respiration, many habitats on early Earth - and even some modern extreme environments - lack this gas entirely. Instead, microorganisms living there rely on alternative energy-producing pathways, one of which uses CO₂ and hydrogen.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Understanding such processes is vital for reconstructing how life might have functioned billions of years ago when oxygen did not exist in the atmosphere, and also for potentially developing new biotechnologies.</p>



<p>These ancient microbes perform a known reaction: combining carbon dioxide and hydrogen to yield acetic acid. </p>



<p>The precise mechanism for producing ATP, however, remained unclear until a research team led by professor Volker Müller, Chair of molecular microbiology and bioenergetics at <a href="https://www.goethe-university-frankfurt.de/en?locale=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goethe University Frankfurt</a>, worked out the details.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-ion-based-energy-system">An ion-based energy system </h2>



<p>According to Müller, the team was able to show that the production of acetic acid itself activates a sophisticated mechanism as part of which sodium ions are pumped out of the bacterial cell into the environment.</p>



<p>“This reduces the sodium concentration inside the cell, whereby the cell envelope acts like a kind of dam for the ions. Once this dam is opened, the sodium ions flow back into the cell, driving a kind of molecular turbine that generates ATP," explained Müller.</p>



<p>In essence, the ancient microbes devised an ion-based energy system. Instead of using oxygen to drive electron transport, they rely on a pathway that pumps sodium ions out, creating a gradient that can be exploited for ATP production. </p>



<p>This approach parallels how many other organisms use proton gradients for ATP synthesis, underlining the remarkable plasticity of life’s energy strategies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protein-network-in-ancient-microbes"><strong>Protein network in ancient microbes</strong></h2>



<p>At the heart of the mechanism is a large, membrane-embedded collection of proteins called the Rnf complex. These proteins shunt electrons from hydrogen to carbon dioxide, forming acetic acid in the process.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, Rnf’s delicate structure made it extremely difficult to isolate. Researchers only managed to do so a few years ago, demonstrating just how challenging it is to study such ancient systems in the lab.</p>



<p>When carbon dioxide and hydrogen come together, electrons move through several intermediates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Rnf complex mediates the final leg of that journey, ensuring that each electron is properly transferred. This procedure led to the question: how exactly is electron flow coupled to pumping out sodium ions?</p>



<p>Using cryo-electron microscopy, the scientists created detailed, high-resolution snapshots of the Rnf complex from the bacterium <em>Acetobacterium woodii</em>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>During the imaging process, the purified complex was rapidly frozen, forming a thin film of ice that preserved it in near-native condition.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By looking at Rnf from various angles, the team constructed 3D models that reveal which parts of the proteins physically interact to enable electron flow.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sodium-ion-pumping-in-ancient-microbes">Sodium ion pumping in ancient microbes</h2>



<p>Still, knowledge of the protein structures did not fully explain how moving electrons expels sodium ions. That puzzle was partially solved by a molecular dynamics simulation conducted by Professor Ville Kaila’s group at <a href="https://www.su.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stockholm University</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team's simulation highlighted a crucial iron-sulfur cluster stationed in the middle of the membrane. As soon as the cluster takes on an electron, it becomes negatively charged, attracting sodium ions from within the cell like a magnet.</p>



<p>“The positively charged sodium ions from inside the cell are drawn to this cluster, just like a magnet,” said Jennifer Roth, a doctoral candidate in Müller’s research group.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This attraction in turn causes the proteins to shift around the iron-sulfur cluster, much like a rocker switch: they create an opening leading to the outside of the membrane, through which the sodium ions are once again released.”</p>



<p>That shift completes a full cycle: by “locking in” a sodium ion, toggling the cluster, and then releasing the ion externally, the cell effectively pumps sodium outward.&nbsp;</p>



<p>An abundant sodium gradient accumulates, and the bacteria later allow ions to flow back in, spinning the molecular turbine (ATP synthase) that synthesizes ATP.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-respiration-without-oxygen">Understanding respiration without oxygen</h2>



<p>Though the spotlight is on ancient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-metabolism-has-evolved-to-become-energetically-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">metabolism</a>, this discovery could have pragmatic uses in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-capture-technology-faces-uncertainty-despite-heavy-investment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon capture</a>. These microbes seize carbon dioxide to create acetic acid.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With deeper understanding, industries may be able to harness bacteria to remove greenhouse gases from emissions or to produce high-value chemicals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Once we know how the bacteria generate energy in the process, we may be able to optimize this process in a manner that would allow us to produce even higher-quality end products,” said Müller.</p>



<p>Furthermore, similar respiratory enzymes are found in some pathogens, raising the prospect of drug design that targets these crucial proteins to combat bacterial diseases.</p>



<p>By explaining a novel system for respiration without oxygen, the study has revealed another facet of life’s resilience.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Such findings reveal how the earliest life forms innovated to harness energy, demonstrating the creative adaptations that allowed Earth’s diverse biosphere to flourish - even under seemingly inhospitable conditions.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1101/2024.06.21.599731" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Breathing without oxygen: How ancient microbes powered early life

Earth’s modern biosphere teems with plants, animals, and many other...

<p>Our view of the Universe’s first galaxies is changing fast. Once, astronomers believed early galaxies were slow to mature, lacking heavy elements like oxygen.</p>



<p>Now, a discovery made in a remote desert has flipped that idea. At the heart of this revelation is JADES-GS-z14-0 - the most distant confirmed galaxy ever found. It glows not only with ancient light but also with unexpected chemical complexity.</p>



<p>The detection of oxygen in this galaxy has forced astronomers to reconsider how fast galaxies took shape after the Big Bang. These new findings have emerged from two separate research teams using one of the world’s most powerful telescopes. </p>



<p>Their work, built on years of observations, is helping reshape our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxy-found-in-the-early-universe-that-shouldnt-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic history</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-window-into-the-early-universe">Window into the early Universe</h2>



<p>JADES-GS-z14-0 lies so far away that its light took 13.4 billion years to reach us. That means we’re seeing it as it looked when the Universe was just 300 million years old - a mere 2% of its current age. Despite its youth, this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strange-signals-from-the-center-of-our-galaxy-hint-at-a-new-kind-of-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> shows signs of advanced development.</p>



<p>​The&nbsp;European Southern Observatory (<a href="https://www.eso.org/public/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESO</a>), which&nbsp;collaborates with the&nbsp;Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (<a href="https://www.almaobservatory.org/en/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ALMA</a>)&nbsp;in Chile, played a key role in observing the distant galaxy.​</p>



<p>ALMA, with its location in the Atacama Desert, continues to uncover cosmic details that other telescopes can’t reach. Its latest achievement? Detecting oxygen in JADES-GS-z14-0.</p>



<p>“It is like finding an adolescent where you would only expect babies,” said Sander Schouws, a PhD candidate at Leiden Observatory, the Netherlands, and first author of the Dutch-led study.</p>



<p>“The results show the galaxy has formed very rapidly and is also maturing rapidly.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mature-galaxy-in-an-infant-universe">Mature galaxy in an infant Universe</h2>



<p>Early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/andromeda-galaxy-shows-signs-of-violent-past-collisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> were thought to consist mostly of hydrogen and helium. Heavier elements like oxygen were expected to emerge later, after multiple generations of stars lived and died. </p>



<p>Oxygen is forged in the cores of stars and then scattered across space by stellar explosions. Until now, researchers believed this process hadn’t occurred much by the 300-million-year mark.</p>



<p>Yet JADES-GS-z14-0 has about ten times more heavy elements than previously thought possible for such an early galaxy. This surprising chemical richness points to a much faster rate of star formation and death than earlier models allowed.</p>



<p>“I was astonished by the unexpected results because they opened a new view on the first phases of galaxy evolution,” said Stefano Carniani of the Scuola Normale Superiore of Pisa, Italy.</p>



<p>“The evidence that a galaxy is already mature in the infant Universe raises questions about when and how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-radiation-may-actually-be-a-catalyst-for-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies formed</a>.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxygen-pinpoints-galaxy-location">Oxygen pinpoints galaxy location</h2>



<p>The oxygen detection didn’t just reveal new information about the galaxy’s makeup. It also gave astronomers a better way to measure the galaxy’s distance. </p>



<p>ALMA’s detection of oxygen allowed researchers to estimate the galaxy’s location in the cosmos with unprecedented accuracy.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/oxygen_early-galaxy_discovery-graphic_JADES-GS-z14-0_ESO_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/oxygen_early-galaxy_discovery-graphic_JADES-GS-z14-0_ESO_1s.webp" alt="The inset in this image shows JADES-GS-z14-0 –– the most distant known galaxy as of today –– as seen with the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA). The two spectra shown here result from independent analysis of ALMA data by two teams of astronomers. Both found an emission line of oxygen, making this the most distant detection of oxygen, when the Universe was only 300 million years old. Credit: ALMA/ESO" class="wp-image-1962941"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>The inset in this image shows JADES-GS-z14-0 –– the most distant known galaxy as of today –– as seen with the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA). The two spectra shown here result from independent analysis of ALMA data by two teams of astronomers. Both found an emission line of oxygen, making this the most distant detection of oxygen, when the Universe was only 300 million years old. Credit: ALMA/ESO</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>​Eleonora Parlanti, a PhD student at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sns.it/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scuola Normale Superiore of Pisa</a> and co-author of the study, explained the significance of the finding.</p>



<p>“The ALMA detection offers an extraordinarily precise measurement of the galaxy’s distance down to an uncertainty of just 0.005 percent. This level of precision - analogous to being accurate within 5 cm over a distance of 1 km - helps refine our understanding of distant galaxy properties,” said Parlanti.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-our-view-of-the-early-universe">Enhancing our view of the early Universe</h2>



<p>While ALMA provided the final confirmation, the galaxy’s story began with the James Webb Space Telescope (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JWST</a>). </p>



<p>JWST’s powerful infrared sensors first spotted JADES-GS-z14-0 and marked it as a candidate for further study. That’s when ALMA stepped in to provide deeper insight and validation.</p>



<p>“While the galaxy was originally discovered with the James Webb Space Telescope, it took ALMA to confirm and precisely determine its enormous distance,” noted Professor Rychard Bouwens, a member of the team at <a href="https://local.strw.leidenuniv.nl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leiden Observatory</a>.</p>



<p>“This shows the amazing synergy between ALMA and JWST to reveal the formation and evolution of the first galaxies.”</p>



<p>The combined power of these two telescopes makes it possible to study <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spherex-will-scan-the-galaxy-to-look-for-lifes-ingredients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> not just by their light but by their chemical fingerprints. Together, they allow astronomers to build a more complete picture of the early Universe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-galaxy-formation-after-the-big-bang">Galaxy formation after the Big Bang</h2>



<p>The detection of oxygen in such a young galaxy suggests the early Universe evolved more quickly than expected. </p>



<p>Galaxies might not have needed as much time to grow complex structures and develop rich oxygen-based chemical diversity. This finding challenges earlier models that assumed slower progress.</p>



<p>Gergö Popping, an ESO astronomer at the <a href="https://www.eso.org/sci/facilities/alma/arc.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European ALMA Regional Centre</a> who did not take part in the research, shares the same sense of wonder.</p>



<p>"I was really surprised by this clear detection of oxygen in JADES-GS-z14-0. It suggests galaxies can form more rapidly after the Big Bang than had previously been thought," said Popping.</p>



<p>"This result showcases the important role ALMA plays in unraveling the conditions under which the first <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bullseye-galaxy-reveals-stunning-rings-after-galactic-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a> in our Universe formed."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oxygen-rich-galaxy-raises-new-questions">Oxygen-rich galaxy raises new questions</h2>



<p>This discovery leaves astronomers with more questions than answers. How did such a young galaxy become chemically mature so quickly? </p>



<p>Are there more galaxies like JADES-GS-z14-0 out there, waiting to be found? And if so, what does that mean for our theories about galaxy formation?</p>



<p>As ALMA and JWST continue their joint work, scientists hope to uncover more early galaxies and gather stronger evidence. Each new detection brings us closer to understanding the first chapters of our cosmic story. </p>



<p>The early Universe may be far more dynamic than we ever imagined.</p>



<p>Image Credit<strong>:</strong> ESO/M. Kornmesser</p>



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"Astonishing" discovery: Oxygen is found in the universe where it shouldn't be

Our view of the Universe’s first galaxies is changing fast....

<p>Human activity in the Galápagos Islands is quietly reshaping wildlife behavior. A new study published in the journal <em>Animal Behaviour</em> reveals that Galápagos yellow warblers (Setophaga petechia aureola) grow more aggressive in response to traffic noise. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-americas-birds-scientists-declare-a-full-on-emergency-in-the-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a>, found only on the islands, respond differently based on their proximity to roads.</p>



<p>​The study was led by researchers from <a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anglia Ruskin University</a> and the <a href="https://klf.univie.ac.at/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Konrad Lorenz Research Centre</a> at the University of Vienna. Using recorded bird songs and simulated traffic sounds, the team observed how warblers reacted in different territories.​</p>



<p>The results showed birds living near roads exhibited more aggression, while those farther away behaved more passively when exposed to the same noise.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-human-impact-on-islands">Growing human impact on islands</h2>



<p>The Galápagos Islands lie over 500 miles off Ecuador’s coast. Once a quiet haven of biodiversity, the region now feels the strain of human presence. </p>



<p>A rapid rise in population and tourism has increased the number of vehicles on roads. This shift transforms the once-isolated environment, bringing unexpected consequences for its native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-adapt-their-survival-strategies-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildlife</a>.</p>



<p>The Galápagos yellow warbler, a subspecies genetically distinct from its mainland relatives, serves as a biological indicator of this change. The researchers studied the birds on the islands of Floreana and Santa Cruz.</p>



<p>In both regions, vehicle noise prompted warblers to behave more aggressively, even on Floreana, where only around 10 vehicles are in use.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-change-their-songs-near-traffic">Birds change their songs near traffic</h2>



<p>The scientists tested <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-are-moving-north-and-breeding-earlier-in-a-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird responses</a> by playing songs through a speaker, simulating a territorial intruder. Sometimes the sounds were paired with traffic noise. </p>



<p>When this occurred near roads, birds became more aggressive - flying near the speaker and singing longer. In quieter areas, birds became less confrontational when noise accompanied the song.</p>



<p>This pattern suggests that long-term exposure matters. Warblers with more experience around noise adjusted their behavior in ways that could help maintain territorial control despite sound interference.</p>



<p>“Birds use song during territorial defense as an aggressive signal. However, if external noise such as traffic interferes with the signaling, effectively blocking this communication channel, increasing physical aggression would be an appropriate response,” noted Dr. Caglar Akcay, senior lecturer in behavioural ecology at Anglia Ruskin University.</p>



<p>The research suggests these birds are learning to adapt. Changes in song length and pitch help their calls rise above low-frequency traffic sounds. </p>



<p>In all territories, birds raised the minimum frequency of their songs when traffic was present. This adjustment could improve their chances of being heard.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavioral-flexibility-and-conservation">Behavioral flexibility and conservation</h2>



<p>The findings shed light on the unexpected reach of human activity. Even in the Galápagos - long seen as a sanctuary for natural evolution - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birds-are-breathing-in-plastic-what-does-that-mean-for-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> now must compete with the noise of progress.</p>



<p>“Our results show that the change in aggressive responses in yellow warblers occurred mainly near roads. Birds occupying roadside territories on both islands, and therefore having regular experience of traffic noise, may have learned to increase physical aggression when the territorial intrusion was accompanied by traffic noise,” said Dr. Akcay.</p>



<p>Beyond aggression, warblers demonstrate flexibility. They tweak their songs to cut through the clamor. These subtle changes show nature’s resilience, but they also signal a need for reflection.</p>



<p>“Our study shows the importance of considering behavioral plasticity in conservation efforts and developing strategies to mitigate the effects of noise pollution on wildlife. It also highlights the significant impact of human activities on wildlife behavior, even in relatively remote locations such as the Galápagos Islands,” noted Dr. Akcay.</p>



<p>Understanding this behavioral flexibility may guide future conservation. It reminds us that protecting biodiversity requires more than preserving land - it demands attention to the noise we bring with us.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-traffic-noise-changes-birds-behavior">Traffic noise changes birds’ behavior</h2>



<p>This study urges conservationists and policymakers to look beyond visible damage. Roads, buildings, and pollution are easy to spot. Noise, on the other hand, slips in silently, altering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-birds-can-handle-climate-variability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> in less obvious ways. </p>



<p>Yet its effects are clear. For the Galápagos yellow warbler, this may mean adjusting song and behavior just to be heard and understood.</p>



<p>The warbler’s story is a quiet warning: the modern world reaches even the most distant corners. If we are to protect these natural wonders, we must consider not only what we build, but what we sound like as we do.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0003347225000466" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Animal Behaviour</a>.</em></p>



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



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

Some birds get 'road rage' when exposed to traffic noise

Human activity in the Galápagos Islands is quietly reshaping wildlife...

<p>Scientists who study our planet’s energy imbalance have noticed Earth now holds onto more energy than it sends away. This extra heat is raising global temperatures, warming the planet, and sparking questions about how changes in clouds and oceans might hasten climate shifts.</p>



<p><a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/adb448" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> have discovered surprising cloud patterns that no longer bounce as much light back into space. This effect makes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astonishing-global-heat-in-january-2025-defied-climate-expectations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming</a> from greenhouse gases worse and could speed up changes in weather, sea levels, and marine life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clouds-reflect-less-sunlight">Clouds reflect less sunlight </h2>



<p>“Think of Earth as a mirror reflecting sunlight back to space,” said Professor Richard Allan from the <a href="https://www.reading.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Reading</a>, who is the lead author of the study.</p>



<p>This is now referred to as a "dirty mirror" because certain clouds, especially over the ocean, have become less reflective than in past decades.</p>



<p>When cloud layers fade or become thin, more solar energy travels through into the water below. Warmer oceans then release <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-is-accelerating-beyond-control-as-co2-levels-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat</a> into the air, which boosts temperatures in a cycle that can reshape wind and precipitation patterns.</p>



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



<p>Any decrease in cloud brightness increases the total heat that Earth keeps enclosed within the atmosphere. This, in turn, intensifies storms, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-chaos-the-mass-extinction-that-reshaped-life-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat waves</a>, and heavy rainfall. Scientists have traced these changes to areas off California and Namibia, where <a href="https://weather.metoffice.gov.uk/learn-about/weather/types-of-weather/clouds/low-level-clouds/stratocumulus" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stratocumulus clouds</a> once helped bounce more light back into space.</p>



<p>Ongoing reductions in sea ice near Antarctica also matter. Darker seas absorb extra warmth, reinforcing the heating that <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gases</a> already cause.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-warm-oceans-trap-heat-shift-clouds">Warm oceans trap heat, shift clouds</h2>



<p>The top few hundred feet of the ocean, sometimes called the <a href="https://timescavengers.org/climate-change/ocean-layers-mixing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean mixed layer</a>, quickly absorb incoming heat. Warm water can then sink or shift horizontally, making temperature changes at the surface look unpredictable.</p>



<p>A shallower mixed layer warms up more rapidly when clouds let in extra solar radiation. This explains why we sometimes see abrupt spikes in ocean <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-meltdown-is-accelerating-global-warming-already-changing-earth-in-unimaginable-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperatures</a>, followed by shifts in global weather patterns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution-shifts">Air pollution shifts</h2>



<p>Reduced <a href="https://earth.gsfc.nasa.gov/climate/data/deep-blue/aerosols" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aerosols</a> in certain parts of Asia have also let more sunlight pass through, adding to the warming effect. Cleaner air is healthier for people but also contains fewer of the <a href="https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/particulate-matter-pm-basics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reflective particles</a> that once helped cool some regions.</p>



<p>Scientists noticed that eastern China now sends less light away than expected, which may reflect better pollution controls. This change can interact with greenhouse gases to disturb cloud patterns and ocean currents over the north Pacific.</p>



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



<p>We rely on satellites, ocean floats, and climate models to see how much sunlight our planet reflects or stores. These systems reveal a steady increase in Earth’s net heat gain, prompting governments to plan for possible extremes.</p>



<p>Less reflective clouds - combined with increasing greenhouse gas buildup - could lead to bigger challenges for agriculture, fisheries, and coastal safety. Understanding the dirty mirror effect can guide policies that balance cleaner air with stable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-the-world-is-on-track-for-a-catastrophic-level-of-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather patterns</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-complex-chain-of-events">A complex chain of events</h2>



<p>When sea surfaces get warmer, entire ecosystems shift, as species must adapt or move. Extra heat in the ocean can supercharge storms or disrupt currents that carry nutrients around the globe.</p>



<p>Cycles like <a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/ninonina.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Niño</a> push heated water around the Pacific, which can heighten the overall warming signal. This motion highlights why temperature jumps might feel sudden but are actually part of a complex chain of events.</p>



<p>Experts note that the dirty mirror effect may keep evolving as aerosol policies shift worldwide. Future data will show whether lower pollution levels, combined with thinning clouds, will accelerate warming faster than current forecasts suggest.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-clouds-and-global-warming">Tracking clouds and global warming</h2>



<p>Long-term solutions require better insights into how clouds respond to rising ocean heat. Every region contributes to the bigger story, whether through pollution regulations, carbon cuts, or monitoring local seas.</p>



<p>Although this cycle looks complicated, careful tracking of clouds, aerosols, and ocean temperatures offers hope for action. Some of the same steps that protect human health may also shape how much sunlight gets reflected back into space.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/adb448" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Environmental Research Letters</em></a>.</p>



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



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Clouds are trapping more heat and making global warming worse

Scientists who study our planet’s energy imbalance have noticed Earth...

<p>High in the Andes Mountains, glaciers have fed life for centuries. Their frozen stores of water support millions of people across six countries - Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia. These towering ice reserves aren’t just symbols of beauty and endurance. They’re critical lifelines.</p>



<p>But those lifelines are now unraveling. Global warming is melting these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-threaten-global-water-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glaciers</a> at an alarming pace. Scientists report that Andean glaciers are thinning by 0.7 meters each year - 35 percent faster than the global average.</p>



<p>Glacier retreat threatens to dry up rivers, weaken farming systems, limit drinking water, and destabilize power supplies.</p>



<p>At the heart of this crisis is the basic human need for water. In South America, more than 90 million people rely on glacier-fed sources for daily survival. This is not a distant problem for the next generation. </p>



<p>This is unfolding now. And it is doing so more rapidly than many expected.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glacier-loss-threatens-water-supply">Glacier loss threatens water supply</h2>



<p>On March 21 2025, scientists from the <a href="https://www.sheffield.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sheffield</a> and <a href="https://www.newcastle.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Newcastle</a> will issue a direct warning to global policymakers.</p>



<p>The occasion is the first-ever World Day for Glaciers, hosted by UNESCO in Paris. Their policy brief, titled <em>The Future of the Andean Water Towers</em>, outlines how the glaciers are vanishing and what that means for water and food security across the region.</p>



<p>The document draws on years of research and satellite observations. It presents the reality that some feared but hoped would not come so soon. The ice loss in the Tropical Andes could reach near-total collapse, while other parts of the mountain range may lose over half their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/glacier-melting-threatens-global-water-supplies-and-coastal-communities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">glacier</a> coverage if current trends continue.</p>



<p>“Our brief shows that what scientists have been predicting for years is now coming true, and swift action needs to be taken if we stand any hope of saving and preserving the glaciers that so many people rely on as a source of water,” noted Dr. Jeremy Ely, a researcher at the University of Sheffield.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-perfect-storm-of-climatic-pressures">A perfect storm of climatic pressures</h2>



<p>The causes are complex but deeply connected to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-glaciers-unleashed-floods-that-reshaped-the-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. Rising air temperatures, more frequent droughts, decreased snowfall, and erratic weather patterns have combined to weaken the glaciers’ ability to regenerate. </p>



<p>Since the year 2000, the pace of ice loss has reached levels never seen before. This acceleration aligns with rising greenhouse gas emissions around the globe.</p>



<p>The Andes are especially vulnerable. Many of the glaciers exist at lower elevations compared to other mountain ranges. That makes them more sensitive to even modest temperature increases. </p>



<p>As warming continues, the glaciers no longer act as natural regulators of water flow. They melt too quickly in hot seasons and can’t replenish during colder months.</p>



<p>The results are clear: unstable water supplies, dry farming lands, energy shortages, and rising tensions over resources. These changes threaten to alter life for both rural communities and sprawling cities that rely on glacial meltwater downstream.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-loss-of-glaciers-and-water">Rapid loss of glaciers and water</h2>



<p>The Paris Agreement of 2015 brought a measure of hope. Countries agreed to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. </p>



<p>Scientists warned that exceeding this target would cause serious harm, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-ice-age-cycles-are-predictable-but-humans-may-change-that/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather</a>, lower crop yields, economic damage, and water scarcity.</p>



<p>However, that 1.5°C ceiling was already surpassed for several months in 2024. Projections now suggest that we are moving toward a world that will warm by more than 2°C. In that future, large swaths of the Andes could become completely ice-free before the century ends.</p>



<p>This raises troubling questions. How will countries adapt to rapid glacier loss? What happens to communities that have relied on consistent freshwater from melting snow and ice for generations? And how can international agreements hold weight when their benchmarks are already being missed?</p>



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



<p>As glacier-fed rivers weaken, governments will need to act fast. One likely response is to build large-scale water storage systems, such as dams. </p>



<p>These structures can store water during rainy seasons and release it during dry periods. But such infrastructure requires huge investments. Many of the countries most affected may not have the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/algae-that-thrives-on-ice-plays-an-unexpected-role-in-glacier-melting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resources</a> to afford them.</p>



<p>Without alternatives, rural areas may face food shortages. Crops that rely on irrigation could fail. Livestock may suffer. Urban areas might experience water rationing, which can spark unrest. The loss of water also limits hydropower production, which fuels industries and homes throughout the continent.</p>



<p>“Such a loss of ice across the Andes needs urgent attention as it will increase the stress on freshwater resources relied upon by communities and major cities downstream of the glaciers,” said Dr. Ely.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closing-window-for-global-cooperation">A closing window for global cooperation</h2>



<p>Global coordination is not just helpful - it’s essential. As glaciers shrink, so does the margin for error. Scientists agree that curbing carbon emissions is the only reliable way to slow the damage. No amount of policy writing will reverse the melting unless it’s backed by action.</p>



<p>The longer the world waits, the harder it will be to reverse or even manage the crisis. Temperature increases of up to 4.5°C by 2100 are not just theoretical - they’re becoming real possibilities. If that happens, water and food security will deteriorate for millions.</p>



<p>“All the targets that have been set have already been missed and failed,” Dr Ely said. "Yet the only way to preserve glaciers is to drastically reduce carbon emissions once and for all. </p>



<p>"The situation is serious, and it will take global cooperation to tackle climate change and make meaningful difference for the communities around the world most vulnerable from the effects of climate change.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-next-matters-most">What happens next matters most</h2>



<p>The Andean glacier crisis is a climate emergency in motion. It touches agriculture, energy, urban life, and rural survival. It is not a regional issue - it is a global one. </p>



<p>The science is clear, the warnings have been given, and the time for delay has passed.</p>



<p>Whether the glaciers remain or vanish now depends on how quickly and how boldly the world responds.</p>



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



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Millions could run out of water if glaciers continue to melt

High in the Andes Mountains, glaciers have fed life for...

<p>Modern birds are closely related to dinosaurs, as seen by comparing flightless species like chickens and ostriches, which walk on two hind legs, or predatory hawks and eagles with their keen senses and sharp talons, to small theropod dinosaurs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Still, birds have diverged in crucial ways from their reptilian predecessors. One vital turning point was their development of larger brains, which spurred changes in skull size and shape.</p>



<p>Recent work by researchers at the <a href="https://www.uchicago.edu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chicago</a> and the <a href="https://missouri.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Missouri</a> demonstrates how these physical transformations affected how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-americas-birds-scientists-declare-a-full-on-emergency-in-the-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> move and utilize their beaks to eat and interact with the world - adaptations that helped them become one of the most diverse lineages on Earth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-nature-of-a-wiggly-skull">Complex nature of a “wiggly” skull</h2>



<p>Unlike many other animals, modern birds, along with certain snakes and fishes, have skulls whose jaws and palates are not firmly fixed in place.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Alec Wilken, a graduate student in integrative biology at the University of Chicago and lead author of this new study, calls this kind of flexible anatomy “wiggly.” He notes that such a trait complicates attempts to understand its function.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Just because you have a joint there, that doesn’t mean that you know how it moves. So, you also have to think about how muscles are going to be pulling on the joint, what kind of torque they have, and how other joints in the head limit the mobility,” he explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-how-bird-skulls-evolved">Investigating how bird skulls evolved</h2>



<p>Wilken first became involved in this project in 2015 while studying at the University of Missouri. </p>



<p>There, Casey Holliday, an associate professor of pathology and anatomical sciences, had received support from the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Science Foundation</a> (NSF) to investigate how bird skulls, jaw muscles, and feeding mechanics evolved from their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/where-did-dinosaurs-come-from-missing-fossils-hold-the-secret/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a> lineage to modern birds.</p>



<p>Wilken contributed to the research by analyzing data from computer tomography (CT) scans of fossils and existing birds, as well as the skulls of other reptiles such as alligators. </p>



<p>The gathered data then supported the creation of 3D models that track muscle positions, movements, and the physics of how they operate together.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advantages-of-modern-bird-skulls">Advantages of modern bird skulls</h2>



<p>One distinctive feature of modern birds is referred to as “cranial kinesis,” which is the capacity to move different portions of the skull independently. This affords birds an evolutionary edge, letting them open or expand their palates and use their beaks in various ways.</p>



<p>“Having a wiggly head like this really gives them a lot of evolutionary benefits,” Wilken said. Parrots, for instance, employ their beaks to climb, while other birds break open tough seeds and nuts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“In some ways, the beak functions like a surrogate hand, but being able to move the palate around while eating is also mission critical to helping them acquire food and survive.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-path-from-dinosaurs-to-birds">The path from dinosaurs to birds</h2>



<p>From analyzing these 3D models, the scientists observed that as non-avian theropod dinosaurs developed increasingly larger brains and skulls, muscles shifted into arrangements that allowed for more mobile palates and jaws.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Consequently, these transformations increased muscle force and supported cranial kinesis in the majority of today’s birds.</p>



<p>“We see this cascade of changes that happened along the dinosaur to bird transition,” said Holliday. “A large part of it hinges upon when birds evolved a relatively large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-brain-study-will-shed-new-light-on-avian-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a>. Just like in humans, bigger brains drive a lot of changes in the skull.”</p>



<p>Over time, paleontological findings have shown that the line between dinosaurs and birds is considerably blurred, especially since many dinosaurs sported feathers and some were capable of flight.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the scientists noted that truly flexible skulls and palates appeared later than species such as <em>Archaeopteryx</em>, leading them to speculate that cranial kinesis may turn out to be a key factor distinguishing modern birds from more primitive dinosaur-like birds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-blueprint-for-future-understanding">A blueprint for future understanding</h2>



<p>While it is well established that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-secrets-of-the-evolution-of-prehistoric-reptiles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric reptiles</a> gave rise to the birds we now see flying overhead, the genetic and mechanical steps along that journey remain a topic of intense investigation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This latest research strengthens the idea that the interplay between a bigger brain and skull modifications allowed birds to free up their jaws and palates, leading to vast ecological success.</p>



<p>Ultimately, the improved skull flexibility and diversified feeding methods among birds mirror the complicated interplay of evolutionary pressures that have continued since the time of dinosaurs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The new study represents only one step in unravelling how birds learned to harness their beaks’ capabilities, and how earlier dinosaur species formed the foundation for today’s avian biodiversity.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2411138122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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‘Wiggly’ skulls helped birds evolve from dinosaurs

Modern birds are closely related to dinosaurs, as seen by...

<p>A new study indicates that an experimental drug can reduce Alzheimer’s-related dementia risk in those certain to develop symptoms in their 30s, 40s, or 50s.&nbsp;</p>



<p>If confirmed, the results suggest that removing amyloid plaques from the brain long before memory issues occur may delay or even avert the onset of Alzheimer’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-disruptions-could-signal-the-onset-of-alzheimers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dementia</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-individuals-with-early-alzheimer-s-risk">Individuals with early Alzheimer’s risk</h2>



<p>The international research team was led by the <a href="https://knightadrc.wustl.edu/for-the-community/volunteer-for-research/dian/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Knight Family Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network-Trials Unit</a> (DIAN-TU) at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.</p>



<p>The study was focused on 73 people carrying rare, inherited mutations that substantially increase the production of amyloid in the brain - mutations that guarantee them Alzheimer’s disease in middle age.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Over two decades, the Knight Family DIAN-TU has worked to find therapies aimed at preventing or slowing disease progression in such families.</p>



<p>For a subgroup of 22 participants who exhibited no <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/even-mild-covid-can-cause-prolonged-cognitive-impairment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive problems</a> at the beginning of the study and who received the drug the longest (an average of eight years), the treatment decreased the risk of developing symptoms from 100% to approximately 50%.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This calculation, supported by multiple sensitivity analyses, suggests that early intervention may give participants additional healthy years, although the duration of protection is not yet known.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giving-people-more-years-of-healthy-life-nbsp">Giving people more years of healthy life&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Study senior author Randall J. Bateman, a professor of neurology at <a href="https://medicine.washu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WashU Medicine</a>, noted that everyone in the study was destined to develop Alzheimer’s disease and some of them haven’t yet.</p>



<p>“We don’t yet know how long they will remain symptom-free - maybe a few years or maybe decades. In order to give them the best opportunity to stay cognitively normal, we have continued treatment with another anti-amyloid antibody in hopes they will never develop symptoms at all,” said Bateman.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“What we do know is that it’s possible at least to delay the onset of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and give people more years of healthy life.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eliminating-amyloid-plaques-in-the-brain-nbsp">Eliminating amyloid plaques in the brain&nbsp;</h2>



<p>These results bolster the amyloid hypothesis, which proposes that Alzheimer’s disease begins with an accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brain. Researchers have speculated that eliminating those plaques, or halting their formation, could keep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-activity-may-delay-the-onset-of-dementia-by-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dementia</a> at bay.</p>



<p>For this work, Bateman and colleagues investigated whether an experimental anti-amyloid therapy might prevent Alzheimer’s dementia.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study sample comprised people who initially joined the Knight Family DIAN-TU-001 trial (the world’s first Alzheimer’s prevention study) and then continued into an extension phase where they received an anti-amyloid medication.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insufficient-evidence-of-alzheimer-s-prevention-nbsp">Insufficient evidence of Alzheimer’s prevention&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Knight Family DIAN-TU-001 began in 2012 to evaluate anti-amyloid therapies as preventive measures for Alzheimer’s in participants with no or very mild symptoms and lying between 15 years before and 10 years after their expected onset age.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Results shared in 2020 indicated that one drug - gantenerumab, made by <a href="https://www.roche.com/innovation/structure/genentech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Roche/Genentech</a> - lowered brain amyloid levels and changed certain Alzheimer’s biomarkers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, researchers found insufficient evidence of cognitive benefit because participants without symptoms remained stable, whether on drug or placebo.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extending-the-trial">Extending the trial</h2>



<p>To refine and continue testing, the team initiated an open-label extension of the trial. All individuals carrying a high-risk Alzheimer’s mutation could join - regardless of original trial assignment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Because everyone in the extension received the study drug, the researchers compared them with participants in a separate, untreated observational study and with some participants who had received placebo but did not enter the extension.</p>



<p>Although the extension was designed to run three years, it ended mid-2023 after Roche/Genentech stopped gantenerumab’s development in late 2022, owing to Phase III results in early symptomatic Alzheimer’s failing to meet the main endpoint of slowing clinical decline.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By that time, most extension participants had received gantenerumab for an average of 2.6 years.</p>



<p>Analyses of that extension data revealed that removing amyloid far in advance of symptoms potentially delayed disease onset and dementia progression, especially among participants with no initial symptoms who received the drug for about eight years. </p>



<p>In that subgroup, the drug halved the risk of becoming symptomatic.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treating-early-alzheimer-s">Treating early Alzheimer’s</h2>



<p>Though gantenerumab and other anti-amyloid therapies can trigger ARIA (amyloid-related imaging abnormalities) visible on brain scans, most cases yield no clinical symptoms and resolve on their own.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Two participants developed severe ARIA and had to discontinue the therapy but subsequently recovered. No life-threatening events or deaths occurred, and the overall safety profile matched other gantenerumab research.</p>



<p>Once Roche ended gantenerumab, most participants switched to lecanemab - an anti-amyloid agent recently authorized by the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Food and Drug Administration</a> for slowing cognitive decline in symptomatic Alzheimer’s.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The newly launched Knight Family DIAN-TU Amyloid Removal Trial will also use lecanemab to see how effectively it prevents or postpones Alzheimer’s in these high-risk families.</p>



<p>While the trial focuses on genetically caused early-onset Alzheimer’s, the team believes that the results will inform prevention and treatment for all forms of Alzheimer’s disease.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Both early- and late-onset disease begin with amyloid accumulation roughly 20 years before clinical symptoms arise. Data from early-onset mutation families has proven consistent with late-onset Alzheimer’s trials.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-optimism-for-therapeutic-breakthroughs-nbsp">Optimism for therapeutic breakthroughs&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“If late-onset Alzheimer’s prevention trials have similar results to the DIAN-TU trials, there soon could be Alzheimer’s preventions available for the general population,” Bateman said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“I am highly optimistic now, as this could be the first clinical evidence of what will become preventions for people at risk for Alzheimer’s disease. One day soon, we may be delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s disease for millions.”</p>



<p>While gantenerumab has been withdrawn from development, other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-have-found-powerful-antibodies-that-neutralize-all-covid-variants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibodies</a> targeting amyloid remain under evaluation for Alzheimer’s.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Observers within the research community say the findings demonstrate the significance of focusing on early removal of brain amyloid for potentially avoiding or postponing dementia, fueling optimism for near-future therapeutic breakthroughs.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laneur/article/PIIS1474-4422(25)00024-9/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>The Lancet Neurology</em></a>.</p>



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Stopping Alzheimer’s before it starts: Early treatment shows potential

A new study indicates that an experimental drug can reduce...

<p>NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has taken direct images of multiple gas giants in the HR 8799 system. This young planetary system, located 130 light-years away, has been a focal point for planet formation studies.</p>



<p>The observations indicate that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-3d-view-of-an-exoplanet-atmosphere-reveals-chaotic-alien-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets</a> in HR 8799 are rich in carbon dioxide. This suggests they formed in a similar way to Jupiter and Saturn. </p>



<p>Scientists believe they slowly built solid cores that attracted surrounding gas by means of gravitational force, a process called core accretion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-atmospheres-of-gas-giants">Atmospheres of gas giants</h2>



<p><a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Webb</a>'s ability to analyze exoplanet atmospheres using spectroscopy has further confirmed these observations. </p>



<p>The Telescope's spectroscopic instruments help to identify atmospheric components in great detail.</p>



<p>This means that scientists can now infer the chemical makeup of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-super-earth-hd-20794-found-just-20-light-years-away-is-best-target-yet-for-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distant worlds</a> using imaging.</p>



<p>“By spotting these strong carbon dioxide features, we have shown there is a sizable fraction of heavier elements, like carbon, oxygen, and iron, in these planets’ atmospheres,” said William Balmer, of <a href="https://www.jhu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University</a> in Baltimore. </p>



<p>“Given what we know about the star they orbit, that likely indicates they formed via core accretion, which is an exciting conclusion for planets that we can directly see.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gas-giants-in-hr-8799">Gas giants in HR 8799</h2>



<p>HR 8799 is about 30 million years old - extremely young compared to our solar system’s 4.6 billion years. Its planets still radiate heat from their formation, emitting strong infrared signals. </p>



<p>These signals allow researchers to gather important data on how such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-sized-exoplanet-orbiting-ultracool-dwarf-star-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets</a> form.</p>



<p>Gas giants can emerge in two main ways. One involves forming a solid core that then gathers surrounding gas, similar to the way in which Jupiter and Saturn are thought to have formed.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/HR-8799-system_carbon-dioxide_analysis-graphic_nasa_webb_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/HR-8799-system_carbon-dioxide_analysis-graphic_nasa_webb_1s.webp" alt="This graph shows a spectrum of one of the planets in the HR 8799 system, HR 8799 e. Spectral fingerprints of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide appear in data collected by Webb’s NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera). Credit: NASA" class="wp-image-1962889"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>This graph shows a spectrum of one of the planets in the HR 8799 system, HR 8799 e. Spectral fingerprints of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide appear in data collected by Webb’s NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera). Credit: NASA</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>The other occurs when gas particles rapidly collapse into a massive object from a young star’s cooling disk. Understanding which process is more common helps scientists differentiate planetary systems.</p>



<p>“Our hope, with this kind of research, is to understand our own solar system, life, and ourselves in the comparison to other exoplanetary systems, so we can contextualize our existence,” Balmer explained.</p>



<p>“We want to take pictures of other solar systems and see how they’re similar or different when compared to ours. From there, we can try to get a sense of how weird our solar system really is - or how normal.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cutting-edge-imaging-technology">Cutting-edge imaging technology</h2>



<p>Out of nearly 6,000 known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exoplanet-kmt-2020-blg-0414-reveals-fate-of-earth-eight-billion-years-from-now/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanets</a>, very few have been imaged directly.</p>



<p>This is because even large planets appear thousands of times fainter than their host stars. Webb’s <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/nircam/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIRCam</a> (Near-Infrared Camera) coronagraph made these new images possible by blocking starlight to the reveal hidden worlds.</p>



<p>This technology helped researchers detect infrared signals from HR 8799’s planets at wavelengths absorbed by specific gases. </p>



<p>Their findings show that these planets contain more heavy elements than previously thought.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hr-8799-plants-and-brown-dwarfs">HR 8799 plants and brown dwarfs</h2>



<p>Scientists are now working to determine whether objects seen around distant stars are true gas giants or whether they are brown dwarfs. Brown dwarfs form like stars but lack the mass needed for nuclear fusion to occur.</p>



<p>“We have other lines of evidence that hint at these four HR 8799 planets forming using this bottom-up approach,” said Laurent Pueyo, an astronomer at the Space Telescope Science Institute (<a href="https://www.stsci.edu/">STScI</a>) in Baltimore, who co-led the research.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/HR-8799-system_carbon-dioxide_first-direct-image_nasa_webb_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/HR-8799-system_carbon-dioxide_first-direct-image_nasa_webb_1s.webp" alt="NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has provided the clearest look in the infrared yet at the iconic multi-planet system HR 8799. The closest planet to the star, HR 8799 e, orbits 1.5 billion miles from its star, which in our solar system would be located between the orbit of Saturn and Neptune. The furthest, HR 8799 b, orbits around 6.3 billion miles from the star, more than twice Neptune’s orbital distance. In this image, the color blue is assigned to 4.1 micron light, green to 4.3 micron light, and red to the 4.6 micron light. Credit: NASA/Webb" class="wp-image-1962891"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has provided the clearest look in the infrared yet at the iconic multi-planet system HR 8799. The closest planet to the star, HR 8799 e, orbits 1.5 billion miles from its star, which in our solar system would be located between the orbit of Saturn and Neptune. The furthest, HR 8799 b, orbits around 6.3 billion miles from the star, more than twice Neptune’s orbital distance. In this image, the color blue is assigned to 4.1 micron light, green to 4.3 micron light, and red to the 4.6 micron light. Credit: NASA/Webb</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>“How common is this for planets we can directly image? We don't know yet, but we're proposing more Webb observations to answer that question.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hard-work-pays-off">Hard work pays off</h2>



<p>“We knew Webb could measure colors of the outer planets in directly imaged systems,” added Rémi Soummer, director of STScI’s <a href="https://www.stsci.edu/stsci-research/research-topics-and-programs/russell-b-makidon-optics-laboratory" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russell B. Makidon Optics Lab</a> and former lead for Webb coronagraph operations.</p>



<p>“We have been waiting for 10 years to confirm that our finely tuned operations of the telescope would also allow us to access the inner planets. Now the results are in and we can do interesting science with it.”</p>



<p>Webb’s NIRCam observations of HR 8799 and another system, 51 Eridani, were conducted under NASA’s <a href="https://science.gsfc.nasa.gov/691/JWSTSSS/index.html#:~:text=Guaranteed%20Time%20Observation%20Programs%20for,plan%20the%20observatory's%20scientific%20mission." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Guaranteed Time Observations programs</a>.</p>



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



<p>The James Webb Space Telescope is the world’s leading space science observatory and is operated as an international collaboration between <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, the European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>), and the <a href="https://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Canadian Space Agency</a>.</p>



<p>It will continue to uncover the mysteries of our solar system and study gas giants and other distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-planet-system-hd110067-discovered-that-moves-in-perfect-mathematical-harmony/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanets</a>. </p>



<p>By looking deeper into the cosmos, the JWST helps scientists understand the origins of the universe and humanity’s place in it.</p>



<p>Information in this article comes from a NASA <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/missions/webb/nasas-webb-images-young-giant-exoplanets-detects-carbon-dioxide/#:~:text=NASA's%20James%20Webb%20Space%20Telescope%20has%20captured%20direct%20images%20of,target%20for%20planet%20formation%20studies.">press release</a>.</p>



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First direct image of CO2 outside our solar system captured by Webb

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has taken direct images...

Brown,And,White,Sugar

<p>Sugar substitutes and artificial sweeteners show up in many diets and "low-calorie" products, promoted as a way to help people enjoy sweet flavors without the usual calories.</p>



<p>Some folks pick them to help manage weight goals or reduce daily sugar intake. Others look for sugar-free snacks to limit changes in blood glucose.</p>



<p>Their popularity reflects a common desire to avoid sugar-related pitfalls. Yet concerns continue to surface about how these substances may affect overall health. </p>



<p>Senior and corresponding author Stanley Hazen, M.D., Ph.D., from Cleveland Clinic’s <a href="https://www.lerner.ccf.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lerner Research Institute</a>, addresses these questions through new findings on certain sugar substitutes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sugar-substitutes-the-basics">Sugar substitutes - the basics</h2>



<p>There are many forms of "sugar substitutes," also known as artificial sweeteners. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mice-fed-artificial-sweetener-exhibit-alarming-health-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aspartame</a>, sucralose, saccharin, and sugar alcohols such as erythritol and xylitol are available in various items labeled “diet” or “low-calorie.” </p>



<p>They offer sweetness in small amounts because many are far sweeter than table sugar. Saccharin, for example, is typically hundreds of times sweeter than sugar, so only a tiny dose is required.</p>



<p>They also appeal to those trying to manage their weight. Some people believe replacing sugar with these products helps them avoid extra calories. </p>



<p>Others rely on them to reduce sudden spikes in blood sugar, which can be appealing to individuals with conditions like diabetes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-divide-in-the-scientific-community">Divide in the scientific community</h2>



<p>Several regulatory agencies consider many of these sugar substitutes acceptable at certain daily intake levels. Some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-baby-food-isnt-nutritious-despite-what-the-label-says/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutritional guidelines</a> encourage their use when people need to cut back on simple carbohydrates. </p>



<p>“Many professional societies and clinicians routinely recommend that people at high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-cannabis-users-face-higher-heart-attack-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular risk</a> - those with obesity, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome - consume foods that contain sugar substitutes rather than sugar,” Dr. Hazen explained.</p>



<p>“These findings highlight the importance of further long-term clinical studies to assess the cardiovascular safety of erythritol and other sugar substitutes.”</p>



<p>Though these products are labeled “<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/generally-recognized-safe-gras" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Generally Recognized as Safe</a>,” the way individuals actually consume them raises questions that may not have been fully covered in past research. </p>



<p>Some experts would like to see broader and longer studies on potential effects beyond weight management.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sugar-substitute-called-erythritol">Sugar substitute called Erythritol</h2>



<p>Over time, scientists wondered if all sugar substitutes behave the same way in the body. A Cleveland Clinic team looked at <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erythritol" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">erythritol</a>, a sugar alcohol found in sugarless items such as gum and certain snack products. </p>



<p>During an intervention study with healthy volunteers, they noticed a pattern that prompted follow-up.</p>



<p>“This research raises some concerns that a standard serving of an erythritol-sweetened food or beverage may acutely stimulate a direct clot-forming effect,” said study co-author W. H. Wilson Tang, M.D., research director for Heart Failure and Cardiac Transplantation Medicine at <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cleveland Clinic</a>. </p>



<p>“Erythritol and other sugar alcohols commonly used as sugar substitutes should be evaluated for potential long-term health effects, especially when such effects are not seen with glucose itself.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-xylitol-also-has-issues">Xylitol also has issues</h2>



<p>Those same scientists saw that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/holiday-dangers-keeping-your-pets-safe-on-easter-weekend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">xylitol</a>, another sugar alcohol, displayed similar behavior in the bloodstream. </p>



<p>Individuals with higher xylitol levels appeared to have an increased likelihood of experiencing serious cardiac-related events over the following few years. </p>



<p>Since these trends emerged in people already facing cardiovascular issues, the question has become whether these substances could pose added risks.</p>



<p>Some products are marketed as keto-friendly, which has further boosted the reputation of sugar alcohols for those on very <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/low-carb-diets-have-more-nutritional-value-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">low-carb diets</a>. </p>



<p>While xylitol and erythritol fit the profile for reduced-calorie sweetening, this latest work suggests that they merit deeper research to see how they interact with blood and overall heart function in various groups.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-sweetness-and-safety">Balancing sweetness and safety</h2>



<p>In light of the new data, there are suggestions for caution, particularly if a person has conditions linked to thrombosis or other cardiac complications. </p>



<p>“I feel that choosing sugar-sweetened treats occasionally and in small amounts would be preferable to consuming drinks and foods sweetened with these sugar alcohols, especially for people at elevated risk of thrombosis, such as those with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sugary-drinks-linked-to-millions-of-diabetes-and-heart-disease-cases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart disease</a>, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome,” Dr. Hazen advises. </p>



<p>“Cardiovascular disease builds over time, and heart disease is the leading cause of death globally. We need to make sure the foods we eat aren’t hidden contributors.”</p>



<p>Manufacturers often include sugar substitutes in a range of drinks and snacks. Some individuals like them simply because they believe they promote better control of caloric intake. </p>



<p>Yet researchers suggest that people who already have heart-related issues or metabolic conditions pay special attention to how often they rely on these sweeteners.</p>



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



<p>One reason experts remain cautious is the fact that sweetener consumption can vary widely from person to person. Some drink several diet beverages a day or frequently snack on sugar-free treats. </p>



<p>Guidelines about upper intake levels were developed when long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/morning-coffee-drinkers-have-a-lower-risk-of-heart-disease-and-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular outcomes</a> were less clear. </p>



<p>Now, these studies may prompt new evaluations of how all sugar alcohols behave in those at high risk for blood clots.</p>



<p>Whether someone chooses sugar alternatives for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weight-loss-drugs-could-save-an-enormous-number-of-lives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight management</a> or portion control, these details introduce fresh reasons to check in with a healthcare provider. </p>



<p>An individual plan that considers medical history and personal risk factors can be valuable when figuring out how often to use products sweetened with substances like erythritol or xylitol.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-sugar-substitutes">What's next for sugar substitutes</h2>



<p>Opinions differ about whether these sugar substitutes fully serve their intended purpose. Some see them as helpful for limiting sugar. </p>



<p>Others consider them a source of unintended problems when used regularly, especially in people with a history of heart disease or metabolic disorders. </p>



<p>As new information continues to emerge, discussions may lead to fresh guidelines or label requirements that highlight potential cardiovascular considerations.</p>



<p>For now, moderate consumption and a balanced diet remain popular approaches. Artificial sweeteners may fit into certain meal plans, but the recent research from Cleveland Clinic invites extra thought about possible drawbacks. </p>



<p>Reading labels and talking with trusted healthcare professionals can help people figure out the best mix of sweet options in daily life. </p>



<p>That awareness may allow many to avoid unwelcome surprises while still keeping their favorite flavors on the menu.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/ATVBAHA.124.321019" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology</a></em>.</p>



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Artificial sweeteners and sugar substitutes directly linked to heart attacks and strokes

Sugar substitutes and artificial sweeteners show up in many diets...

<p>A recent study hints that the universe’s current model of cosmology, known as ΛCDM, might be facing inconsistencies. If confirmed, these results would introduce a need to fundamentally alter our understanding of cosmic dynamics.</p>



<p>The study leveraged the full dataset from the <a href="https://www.darkenergysurvey.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dark Energy Survey</a> (DES), which operates via the 570-megapixel Dark Energy Camera (DECam) developed by the <a href="https://www.energy.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Department of Energy</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-changing-view-of-the-universe">A changing view of the universe</h2>



<p>Over the past several decades, modern cosmology has been guided by the ΛCDM framework. </p>



<p>About 95% of the cosmos is attributed to elusive components - 25% to dark matter and 70% to dark energy - leaving just 5% as normal matter. </p>



<p>Dark energy, in the form of a cosmological constant (Λ), has been seen as responsible for the accelerating expansion of space, holding a steady energy density.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, new findings from DES challenge that notion, suggesting that dark energy could be evolving over time. These findings join similar observations from other research efforts, adding weight to the speculation.</p>



<p>The DES collaboration unites more than 400 scientists from over 25 institutions, led by the <a href="https://www.fnal.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Department of Energy’s Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory.</a>&nbsp;</p>



<p>Across six years - totaling 758 nights of observations - the project mapped nearly an eighth of the entire sky. </p>



<p>The researchers employed several methods, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> surveys, galaxy clustering analyses, and weak gravitational lensing, aiming to illuminate dark energy’s role in cosmic expansion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-cosmic-expansion">Tracing cosmic expansion</h2>



<p>Two core DES methods - Baryon Acoustic Oscillations (BAO) and Type Ia supernova measurements - document the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-order-or-chaos-universe-expansion-may-follow-a-hidden-pattern/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe’s expansion</a> pattern. </p>



<p>BAO refers to a standardized cosmic scale imprinted by sound waves in the early universe, spanning around 500 million light-years. </p>



<p>By measuring how these features stretch or shrink across cosmic history, astronomers can observe how dark energy changes the “standard ruler” over time.</p>



<p>“By analyzing 16 million galaxies, DES found that the measured BAO scale is actually 4% smaller than predicted by ΛCDM,” explained Santiago Avila of <a href="https://www.ciemat.es/portal.do" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CIEMAT</a> in Spain, who oversaw the BAO analysis for DES.</p>



<p>Supernovae of Type Ia act as “standard candles,” given that their intrinsic brightness is consistent enough for distance calculations, especially in concert with knowledge about their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-is-starving-its-host-galaxy-of-star-forming-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">host galaxies</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In 2024, DES released the largest Type Ia supernova dataset to date, providing refined measures of cosmic distances. When paired with BAO data, that updated supernova information backs up the anomalies seen in the 2024 results.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-on-the-brink-of-a-scientific-revolution">On the brink of a scientific revolution</h2>



<p>By combining these DES observations with cosmic microwave background data, the research team inferred properties of dark energy and concluded that it might vary over time. </p>



<p>Should these findings hold, it would indicate that the cosmological constant is not truly constant, leading cosmologists to formulate new theoretical frameworks.</p>



<p>“This result is intriguing because it hints at physics beyond the standard model of cosmology,” said Juan Mena-Fernández of the <a href="https://ippog.org/node/1013" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subatomic Physics and Cosmology Laboratory</a> in Grenoble, France. </p>



<p>“If further data support these findings, we may be on the brink of a scientific revolution.”</p>



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



<p>Although these results do not yet achieve definitive status, the researchers are set to incorporate other DES probes, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colliding-galaxy-clusters-stir-up-hot-sloshing-gas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy clustering</a> and weak lensing, to confirm or refine the present conclusions. </p>



<p>Comparable hints have emerged from other major cosmological projects, including the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI), heightening the excitement among scientists.</p>



<p>“These results represent years of collaborative effort to extract cosmological insights from DES data,” commented Jessie Muir, a researcher at the <a href="https://www.uc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cincinnati</a>. </p>



<p>“There is still much to learn, and it will be exciting to see how our understanding evolves as new measurements become available.”</p>



<p>A final comprehensive DES analysis will combine additional cosmological methods to validate the findings and sharpen limits on dark energy. </p>



<p>Many in the scientific community are waiting for these developments, as they may mark a shift in the way we view cosmic structure and expansion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dark-energy-camera">The Dark Energy Camera</h2>



<p>The Dark Energy Camera was created by the Department of Energy and is mounted atop the Víctor M. Blanco 4-meter Telescope at Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO) in Chile. </p>



<p>Construction of the telescope began in 1969 with the casting of its main mirror. </p>



<p>Upon its 1974 completion, it was the world’s third-largest telescope, retaining the title of largest in the Southern Hemisphere for 22 years. </p>



<p>It gained the name “Víctor M. Blanco” in 1995 in honor of the Puerto Rican astronomer and former CTIO director.</p>



<p>DECam is installed on the U.S t. National Science Foundation’s Víctor M. Blanco 4-meter Telescope at <a href="https://noirlab.edu/public/programs/ctio/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory</a> in Chile - a Program of NSF’s <a href="https://noirlab.edu/public/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOIRLab</a>.</p>



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Is dark energy changing? The mystery of cosmic expansion deepens

A recent study hints that the universe’s current model of...

<p>Scientists have identified a new fossil species of freshwater fish, <em>Ferruaspis brocksi</em>, from a site near Gulgong, in NSW, Australia.</p>



<p>This discovery, led by Dr. Matthew McCurry from the <a href="https://australian.museum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Museum</a> and <a href="https://www.unsw.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNSW Sydney</a>, provides a rare glimpse into Australia’s ancient aquatic life. </p>



<p>The fossil, which is estimated to be 15 million years old, preserves both the fish's stomach contents and its color patterns. The <em>Journal of Vertebrate Palaeontology</em> has published the findings.</p>



<p><em>Ferruaspis brocksi</em> belongs to the Osmeriformes order, which includes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-fish-had-flexible-joints-like-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> like the Australian Grayling and Australian Smelt.</p>



<p>It is the first freshwater smelt fossil found in Australia. The species was named in honor of Professor Jochen J. Brocks from the <a href="https://www.anu.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian National University</a>, who contributed to fossil discoveries at McGraths Flat.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-evolution-of-osmeriformes">Tracing the evolution of Osmeriformes</h2>



<p>Dr. McCurry emphasized that before the discovery of this fossil, scientists lacked evidence to confirm when Osmeriformes first arrived in Australia.</p>



<p>“The discovery of the 15 million-year-old freshwater fish fossil offers us an unprecedented opportunity to understand Australia’s ancient ecosystems and the evolution of its fish species, specifically the Osmeriformes group during the Miocene epoch, 11-15 million years ago,” McCurry said.</p>



<p>Without fossils, researchers could not determine whether these fish had <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiktaalik-fossil-discovery-sheds-light-on-how-fish-walked-onto-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolved</a> significantly over time. This new find provides crucial evidence for understanding how they adapted to ancient Australian waters.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-did-the-fish-fossil-reveal">What did the fish fossil reveal?</h2>



<p>The well-preserved fossil reveals fascinating details about the fish’s diet. The stomach contents show that it fed on various invertebrates, mainly small phantom midge larvae. </p>



<p>This level of preservation is rare and helps scientists reconstruct past <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plesiosaur-fossil-contains-soft-tissue-preserved-for-183-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> with greater accuracy.</p>



<p>“One of the fossils even shows a parasite attached to the tail of the fish. It’s a juvenile freshwater mussel called a glochidium. These juvenile mussels attach themselves to the gills or tails of fish to hitch rides up and down streams,” McCurry added.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/fish_Ferruaspis-brocksi_fossil_stomach-contents_15-million-years-old_credit-Salthy-Dingo_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/fish_Ferruaspis_fossil_stomach-contents_15-million-years-old_credit-Salthy-Dingo_1s.webp" alt="A 15-million-year-old fish fossil, Ferruaspis brocksi, with preserved stomach contents. Credit: Salthy Dingo" class="wp-image-1962871"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>A 15-million-year-old fish fossil, Ferruaspis brocksi, with preserved stomach contents. Credit: Salthy Dingo</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>The species’ name reflects its discovery in iron-rich rock. “Ferru” comes from the Latin word “ferrum,” meaning iron, while “brocksi” honors Professor Brocks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-honoring-a-scientific-contribution">Honoring a scientific contribution</h2>



<p>Professor Brocks expressed excitement about having this fossil species named after him.</p>



<p>“Collecting fossils at McGrath Flat is a highlight for me every year. Splitting the rust-red slabs of rock is like opening an ancient book, revealing the creatures that inhabited an Australian oxbow lake some 15 million years ago," exclaimed Professor Brocks.</p>



<p>"This little fish is one of the most beautiful fossils there, and finding the first vertebrate among the abundant plant and insect fossils was a real surprise. Having <em>F. brocksi</em> named after me is a real joy.” </p>



<p>The McGraths Flat fossil site continues to provide remarkable insights into prehistoric life, and contributes to a better understanding of Australia’s ecological past.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revealing-the-fish-s-coloration">Revealing the fish’s coloration</h2>



<p>Dr. Michael Frese from the <a href="https://www.canberra.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Canberra</a> and <a href="https://www.csiro.au/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSIRO</a> highlighted another exciting aspect of the research - the ability to determine the fish’s color pattern.</p>



<p>“The fish was darker on its dorsal surface, lighter in color on its belly and had two lateral stripes running along its side,” Dr. Frese said.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/fish_Ferruaspis-brocksi_fossil_illustration_15-million-years-old_credit-Alex-Boersma_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/fish_Ferruaspis-brocksi_fossil_illustration_15-million-years-old_credit-Alex-Boersma_1s.webp" alt="A school of Ferruaspis is chased by the extinct platypus, Obdurodon. Credit: Alex Boersma" class="wp-image-1962873"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>A school of Ferruaspis is chased by the extinct platypus, Obdurodon. Credit: Alex Boersma</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>Using a powerful microscope, scientists identified melanosomes, which are tiny structures responsible for producing color. </p>



<p>While melanosomes have helped reconstruct the colors of ancient feathers, this is the first time they have been used to determine the color pattern of a long-extinct fish.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-site-of-exceptional-fossil-preservation">Site of exceptional fossil preservation</h2>



<p>Professor Kris Helgen, Director and Chief Scientist at the Australian Museum Research Institute, praised the ongoing research at McGraths Flat.</p>



<p>“Dr. Matt McCurry’s work at the McGraths Flat fossil site has been outstanding. This is one of many discoveries made at this site, which continues to play a significant role in advancing our understanding of Australia’s evolution during the Miocene era.”</p>



<p>McGraths Flat is one of the rare fossil sites in Australia classified as a "Lagerstätte" - a site with exceptionally well-preserved fossils. </p>



<p>Located in the Central Tablelands of NSW, it offers a unique window into an ancient rainforest ecosystem.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-do-fish-fossils-reveal-about-ancient-australia">What do fish fossils reveal about ancient Australia?</h2>



<p>Dr. McCurry explained that fossils from this site, dating back 11 to 16 million years, show that the region was once a temperate, wet rainforest teeming with life. </p>



<p>These discoveries help scientists reconstruct ancient landscapes and understand the biodiversity of prehistoric Australia.</p>



<p>The initial McGraths Flat expedition in 2017 received funding from a descendant of Robert Etheridge, a renowned English palaeontologist who played a crucial role in developing the Australian Museum’s collections. </p>



<p>Etheridge launched a series of scientific expeditions that continue today, ensuring that Australia’s rich fossil heritage remains a key focus for researchers.</p>



<p>The discovery of <em>Ferruaspis brocksi</em> is another milestone in understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coelacanth-ngamugawi-wirngarri-new-species-living-fossil-fish-survived-over-400-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient species</a> thrived and adapted in Australia’s evolving landscapes.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <em><a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02724634.2024.2445684" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology</a>. </em></p>



<p>Image Credit: Salthy Dingo</p>



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Stomach contents preserved after 15 million years in fish fossil

Scientists have identified a new fossil species of freshwater fish,...

<p>A new study has found that the H5N1 avian influenza virus is mutating to evade immune defenses in mammals following prior infection or vaccination.</p>



<p>The research, led by <a href="https://www.charlotte.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNC Charlotte</a>, emphasizes the growing threat of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/efforts-to-control-bird-flu-are-not-working-are-humans-next/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">H5N1</a> to both agriculture and public health.</p>



<p>“H5N1 can infect avian and mammalian livestock and jump to humans,” the authors wrote. highlighting that new strains appear increasingly resistant to existing antibodies. This evolution, they caution, suggests that older vaccine formulas may lose effectiveness.</p>



<p>“This study shows a trend of weakening binding affinity of existing antibodies against H5 isolates over time, indicating that the H5N1 virus is evolving immune escape from our therapeutic and immunological defenses,” noted the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-shifts-in-bird-flu-virus">Rapid shifts in bird flu virus</h2>



<p>By running large-scale computational models of specific viral proteins binding with neutralizing antibodies, the research team discovered “an overall worsening in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-have-found-powerful-antibodies-that-neutralize-all-covid-variants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibody</a> affinity to more recent H5N1 isolates.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“If one makes an H5N1 vaccine with a previous vaccine candidate virus, the vaccine will have less efficacy, based on our measurements of how much the virus has evolved in recent years,” explained lead author Colby T. Ford, a visiting scholar at UNC Charlotte’s <a href="https://cipher.charlotte.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Computational Intelligence to Predict Health and Environmental Risks</a> (CIPHER).</p>



<p>Conducted under the guidance of assistant professor Richard Allen White III, and CIPHER co-director Daniel Janies, the UNC Charlotte team joined forces with <a href="https://web.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Massachusetts Institute of Technology</a> (MIT) researchers Rafael Jaimes III and Phillip J. Tomezsko to explore how the H5N1 virus is adapting so quickly.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mounting-zoonotic-risk">Mounting zoonotic risk</h2>



<p>Analyzing 1,804 antigen-antibody interactions, the researchers examined how the virus’s hemagglutinin subunit changed from 1996 to 2018.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By applying high-performance computational techniques, they tracked the virus’s “antigenic drift” - small cumulative mutations that hamper the effectiveness of immune defenses from earlier infections or vaccines.</p>



<p>The new measurements of how much the bird flu virus has evolved in recent years confirmed that H5N1 is becoming less recognizable to established antibodies.</p>



<p>“These results indicate that the virus has potential to move from epidemic to pandemic status,” wrote the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emergence-across-multiple-species">Emergence across multiple species</h2>



<p>Though H5N1 has primarily circulated in birds, it has jumped to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/avian-influenza-h5n1-marine-mammals-spreading-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mammals</a> and, rarely, to humans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In the past year, the virus was found in dairy cattle in at least 17 U.S. states, and the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> (CDC) reported 70 human cases, including one fatality, in the United States since January 2022.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Worldwide, according to the <a href="https://www.who.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Organization</a>, H5N1 has been linked to 466 human deaths since 2003.</p>



<p>Between January 2022 and March 2025, the CDC also documented 12,510 H5N1 outbreaks among wild birds within the U.S., virus detections in 51 jurisdictions and 166,417,923 affected poultry.</p>



<p>Such widespread, cross-species infections strongly indicate that avian influenza can be considered a pandemic among animal populations, raising fears of a future human pandemic.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-flu-vaccination-and-public-health">Birds flu vaccination and public health</h2>



<p>In discussing how to avert the looming threat, the authors argue that a new approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universal-influenza-vaccine-could-offer-lifetime-immunity/">vaccine</a> development may be needed.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These findings indicate that once the bird flu virus modifies itself significantly, older vaccines will have less efficacy, making it essential to develop and regularly update H5N1 vaccines reflecting the virus’s continuous genetic changes.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the study’s results highlight the power of high-performance computing in mapping viral evolution. By integrating AI-based protein folding with physics-based simulations, researchers can anticipate changes in viral structure and better inform policy decisions.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-flu-s-potential-for-pandemic-status">Bird flu’s potential for pandemic status</h2>



<p>With H5N1 already widespread among wild birds and expanding its foothold in mammalian hosts, the virus’s cross-species jumps present a significant concern.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to the experts, more robust monitoring, updated vaccination strategies, and ongoing computational analyses will be crucial in mitigating a potential outbreak.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As Janies concluded, computational modeling can help experts “tune our intuition to the right approaches” for vaccine design and intervention strategies before a fast-adapting virus gains an uncontrollable edge.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ebiom.2025.105632" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>eBioMedicine</em></a>.&nbsp;</p>



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Bird flu virus is rapidly evolving to evade immune defenses

A new study has found that the H5N1 avian influenza...

<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=lHHxOej4QfE
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Researchers found a correlation between Alzheimer's disease and traffic pollution.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invisible-threat-in-urban-air"><strong>Invisible threat in urban air</strong></h2>



<p>City dwellers face an unseen danger with every breath. New findings from Emory University researchers suggest that fine particulate matter from <a href="http://earth.com/news/traffic-related-air-pollution-might-increase-alzheimers-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vehicle emissions may significantly elevate the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease</a>. The study examined brain tissue samples from 224 individuals who had confirmed diagnoses and volunteered their brains for scientific research.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disturbing-connections-emerge"><strong>Disturbing connections emerge</strong></h2>



<p>Scientists analyzed neuritic plaques — protein clusters that characterize Alzheimer's — while mapping each participant's exposure to PM2.5 particles based on residential location and surrounding traffic density. The correlation proved more alarming than anticipated. Individuals experiencing higher pollution exposure showed nearly double the likelihood of elevated plaque accumulation in brain tissue.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-matters"><strong>Timing matters</strong></h2>



<p>The research team discovered that pollution exposure during the final year before death demonstrated the strongest association with brain changes. This timeline suggests relatively rapid impacts from environmental toxins on neural health. The connection remained robust even after accounting for various demographic and health factors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-vulnerability-patterns"><strong>Genetic vulnerability patterns</strong></h2>



<p>Perhaps most concerning, people lacking the APOE gene—which naturally predisposes individuals to Alzheimer's — exhibited more than twice the susceptibility to pollution-related brain damage. Study author Dr. Anke Huels noted this indicates environmental elements like air contamination could trigger the disease in cases where hereditary factors don't explain.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-health-implications"><strong>Public health implications</strong></h2>



<p>These findings, published in <em><a href="https://www.neurology.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neurology</a></em>, underscore the critical importance of air quality regulations in urban planning. The research suggests that implementing stricter emission controls and promoting alternative transportation could serve as powerful tools in Alzheimer's prevention.</p>



<p>As cities worldwide grapple with growing traffic congestion and aging populations, this study highlights an urgent need for comprehensive approaches to environmental health that protect both our lungs and our minds.</p>



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHHxOej4QfE Researchers found a correlation between Alzheimer's disease and traffic...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0DuSr87SHY
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">57 million-year ice age mystery solved by Australian scientists.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-earth-became-a-frozen-wasteland">When Earth became a frozen wasteland</h2>



<p>Imagine Earth as a giant snowball, frozen solid from the North Pole to the equator. This wasn't the plot of a science fiction movie – it was our planet's reality 700 million years ago during an extreme ice age that has puzzled scientists for decades.</p>



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



<p>Australian researchers from the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sydney</a> have finally cracked one of geology's greatest mysteries: what caused the Sturtian glaciation and why it persisted for an unprecedented 57 million years. This period occurred long before dinosaurs roamed the Earth, when no complex plants or multicellular animals existed.</p>



<p>Dr. Adriana Dutkiewicz, the study's lead author, describes a world completely unlike today's climate. "Imagine the Earth almost completely frozen over," she explained. "The planet was blanketed in ice from poles to equator, and temperatures plunged."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-combination-of-climate-factors">The combination of climate factors</h2>



<p>The research team discovered that this massive freeze resulted from a "double whammy" of geological events. First, plate tectonic activity reduced volcanic carbon dioxide emissions to historically low levels. Volcanic activity typically releases CO2 into the atmosphere, creating a greenhouse effect that keeps Earth warm.</p>



<p>Simultaneously, weathering of volcanic rocks in what is now Canada actively absorbed atmospheric CO2, further reducing greenhouse gas concentrations. When atmospheric carbon dioxide levels dropped below 200 parts per million – less than half of today's levels – glaciation engulfed the entire planet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-climate-implications">Modern climate implications</h2>



<p>Published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/geology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geology</a></em>, this research provides crucial insights into Earth's climate system. While geological climate changes occur over millions of years, the study emphasizes that human-induced climate change is happening at a pace ten times faster than previously observed natural changes, highlighting the urgent need to understand our planet's delicate climate balance.</p>



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<p>—–</p>

What caused the planet's longest ice age

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0DuSr87SHY 57 million-year ice age mystery solved by Australian scientists....

<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>



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

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>



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<p id="block-1f9a227a-ec37-4140-81b8-ffa4a7cc6689">-----</p>



<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>



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



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

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>



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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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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>



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

<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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<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

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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

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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

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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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