For years, bacteria dominated gut health research. Now, the gut virome is gaining attention as a major player in health and disease. Bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-think-they-found-two-key-bacteria-that-cause-multiple-sclerosis/">bacteria</a>, make up around 90% of the gut virome.



Though small in biomass, they outnumber bacteria by up to tenfold. These tiny viruses shape microbial communities, influence immunity, and affect gut health.



A landmark review published recently in Precision Clinical Medicine reveals how the gut virome links to diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/inflammatory-bowel-disease/about/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IBD</a>), <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colonoscopy-vs-stool-tests-doctors-found-out-which-is-better-at-detecting-cancer/">colorectal cancer</a>, and Clostridium difficile infection (<a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15548-c-diff-infection" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDI</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-s-virome-changes-across-life-stages">Gut's virome changes across life stages</h2>



The gut virome changes constantly throughout life. Infants show high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-that-eat-forever-chemicals-discovered-in-contaminated-soil/">diversity</a> in gut bacteriophages (also called phages), which is shaped by birth method, diet, and antibiotic exposure.



As individuals grow, diet and hormones refine the virome. In adults, phages and bacteria form a stable, <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41579-021-00536-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">balanced community</a>.



However, aging shifts this balance. Older adults show more lysogenic phages, which integrate into bacterial genomes and potentially alter metabolism and immune interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-environment-shape-the-virome">Diet and environment shape the virome</h2>



Diet greatly <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9455721/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influences</a> the virome. High-fiber diets support beneficial phages by encouraging helpful bacteria. Western diets, rich in fat and sugar, promote harmful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-bacteria-breathe-by-creating-electricity/">phages</a>.



Urbanization reduces exposure to natural viruses. Studies show that rural diets which are rich in fiber boost gut virome diversity.



Host genetics and immunity also play roles. Genetic variants can affect viral detection and clearance. Immune defenses, like <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/interferons" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interferons</a> and <a href="https://www.immunology.org/public-information/bitesized-immunology/receptors-molecules/immunoglobulin-iga" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IgA</a>, keep the virome balanced.



However, immune dysfunction can trigger viral imbalances, worsening conditions like HIV and gut inflammation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viruses-and-bacteria-interacting">Viruses and bacteria interacting</h2>



Viruses, including phages, along with bacteria and fungi form a complex and dynamic ecosystem in the gut. The components interact in positive and negative ways, thus affecting host metabolism, immune regulation and resistance to disease. 



The gut virome plays a crucial regulatory role in these intricate interactions. Phages interact with bacteria through lytic, lysogenic, and budding cycles, which regulate bacterial populations and gene flow. 



In a form of microbial arms race, the bacteria defend against phages using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crispr-used-to-remove-extra-chromosomes-in-down-syndrome-and-restore-cell-function/">CRISPR systems</a> and the phages evolve escape mechanisms.



Some phages even boost bacterial metabolism and biofilm formation, affecting disease risk. For instance, phages can transfer genes that enhance bacterial survival in acidic conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virome-s-influence-on-immunity">Virome’s influence on immunity</h2>



The virome affects gut immunity deeply. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-bacteria-get-hungry-they-turn-on-each-other/">Phages</a> can anchor to gut mucus and form a protective barrier. They also shape our own <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459471/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">T and B cell</a> activity and regulate macrophages. In addition, viruses that infect eukaryotic cells affect immune pathways and maintain gut balance.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/virome_microbiome_human-gut_graphic_credit-PCM_1m.jpg"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/virome_microbiome_human-gut_graphic_credit-PCM_1s.webp" alt="This infographic illustrates four major therapeutic approaches—fecal microbial transplantation (FMT), phage therapy, dietary interventions, and probiotics/prebiotics—that aim to restore gut health by modulating the microbiome and virome. Each strategy offers unique methods, benefits, and challenges in managing gastrointestinal disorders such as IBD, CRC, and CDI, highlighting the growing potential of virome-informed precision medicine. Credit: Precision Clinical Medicine" class="wp-image-1976450"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This infographic illustrates four major therapeutic approaches—fecal microbial transplantation (FMT), phage therapy, dietary interventions, and probiotics/prebiotics—that aim to restore gut health by modulating the microbiome and virome. Each strategy offers unique methods, benefits, and challenges in managing gastrointestinal disorders such as IBD, CRC, and CDI, highlighting the growing potential of virome-informed precision medicine. Click image to enlarge. Credit: Precision Clinical Medicine</figcaption></figure>



However, infections and antibiotics can disrupt this harmony and lead to inflammation. Phages can trigger TLR9 pathways, causing excessive immune responses such as those linked to IBD.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virome-s-role-in-disease">Virome’s role in disease</h2>



Imbalances in the gut virome have been linked to several gut diseases. In IBD, specific phages become abundant and worsen inflammation.



Certain groups of phages (such as Caudovirales) amplify immune responses, while norovirus and rotavirus can damage the gut lining. Viral imbalances are also common in IBS and CDI.



In colorectal cancer, phages and eukaryotic viruses like HPV and JC virus (polyomavirus) appear more often. They may promote tumor growth by altering bacterial communities and gene expression.



Studies suggest that some phages directly influence cancer risk by promoting biofilms and transferring harmful genes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virus-based-treatments">Virus-based treatments</h2>



Several therapies now explore the virome’s potential to treat certain diseases or conditions. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) restores gut balance and reduces inflammation in IBD and CDI.



FMT works not only by shifting bacteria but also by transferring beneficial phages. Studies show that donor phages often align quickly with recipients and promote recovery.



Phage therapy, which uses viruses to kill specific bacteria, is another approach that is gaining traction. It can reduce harmful microbes while preserving beneficial ones.



Researchers have created phage cocktails that target specific gut pathogens like E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, and this approach has had promising results in animal models.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-as-a-tool-to-reshape-the-virome">Diet as a tool to reshape the virome</h2>



Dietary strategies also reshape the virome. High-fiber diets boost beneficial phages and support bacterial diversity.



Whey protein has shown potential in managing Crohn’s disease by improving phage-bacteria interactions.



Other interventions, such as exclusive enteral nutrition and low-FODMAP diets, also show benefits in gut diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-probiotics-prebiotics-and-phages">Probiotics, prebiotics, and phages</h2>



Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria, while prebiotics feed them. Combining them, known as symbiotics, shows promise for restoring and maintaining gut health.



Recent research suggests that adding phages can enhance these effects. Phage-based products, such as PreforPro, have already shown benefits in clinical trials.



These products can reduce populations of harmful bacteria and improve probiotic performance, thereby creating a more stable gut environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-gut-viruses-to-detect-diseases-early">Using gut viruses to detect diseases early</h2>



The gut virome is now being studied as a diagnostic tool. Viral patterns are more stable than bacterial ones, making them reliable biomarkers.



Distinct virome signatures can predict IBD and colorectal cancer. Machine learning models already use virome data to detect these diseases early.



Virome profiling may also track treatment responses, such as FMT success in IBD and CDI.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-future-prospects">Challenges and future prospects</h2>



Despite the excitement over potential new treatments, many hurdles remain. Current methods struggle to capture the full virome due to technical limits.



Many phages are still unculturable, and their roles remain unclear. Researchers are working to improve viral databases and develop targeted therapies. Once these gaps close, virome-based therapies could change how we treat gut diseases.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/pcm/article/8/2/pbaf010/8152264" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Precision Clinical Medicine</a>.



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Move over microbiome, it's time for the human gut's 'virome' to shine

For years, bacteria dominated gut health research. Now, the gut virome is gaining attention as a major player in health and disease. Bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect bacteria, make up around 90% of the gut virome. Though small in biomass, they outnumber bacteria by up to tenfold. These tiny viruses shape microbial communities, influence immunity, and affect gut health. A landmark review published recently in Precision Clinical Medicine reveals how the gut virome links to diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer, and Clostridium difficile infection (CDI)....

Two researchers were walking near a small community in northeastern India on a warm afternoon, when they came across a creature that measured about 4 feet in length. They had no idea what they were looking at.



At first glance, it appeared to be just another dead snake. But a quick look at its oddly elongated snout had them scratching their heads, wondering what in the world it could be.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-documenting-a-new-species">Documenting a new species</h2>



Sourabh Verma, a herpetologist working on reptile surveys, was one of the two scientists on that walk. He and fellow researcher, Soham Pattekar, decided to take the specimen for further examination. 



They knew something was different about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snake-evolution-legless-lizards-into-slithering-snakes-100-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">this snake</a> because it didn’t match any of the species they were familiar with. There was a hint of mystery in this discovery, and they felt a need to dig deeper.



By the time the analysis began, a larger research group had formed under the umbrella of the <a href="https://www.ncbs.res.in/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Centre for Biological Sciences</a> in India. 



This collaboration eventually resulted in their findings appearing in the Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity, where these experts presented details about something never before documented.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ahaetulla-longirostris">Ahaetulla longirostris</h2>



When the scientists took a closer look, they realized this snake stood out in several ways. They described it in their report as “considered ‘medium sized,’ reaching up to 4 feet in length.” 



They noted the head shape, which they described as “‘triangular’ heads tapering into ‘very long’ snouts, taking up roughly 18% of their head length.”



The research team chose to name this species Ahaetulla longirostris, which comes from the Latin words “longus” meaning “long,” and “rostrum” meaning “snout.”



They zeroed in on this distinctive feature because it clearly separated this animal from others in its group.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-colors-that-pop">Colors that pop</h2>



The researchers said the newly found snake had an orange belly, but what caught their eye even more were the colors on its back. 



“Some are ‘bright green,’ while others are orange-brown,” they reported. 



Variations like these found on Ahaetulla longirostris can sometimes help creatures blend in with their surroundings or signal something special about their environment. 



It’s not unusual for vine snakes to show a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dipsadine-snakes-have-skulls-that-evolve-to-fit-their-needs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">range of hues</a> but, in this case, the combination of a bizarre snout and a vibrant palette raised questions about how this species might behave, where it prefers to live, and how it evolved.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-neighborhoods">Unexpected neighborhoods</h2>



The snake was found in northeastern India, near the borders it shares with the countries Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal.



As of now, the researchers know it exists in places like Bihar and Meghalaya. They suspect that this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-coral-snakes-caught-in-rare-food-fight-over-caecilian/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snake species</a> might have a wider distribution, but proving that will take more field surveys.



The scientists’ report made it clear that Ahaetulla longirostris doesn’t limit itself to deep forest hideouts. 



According to their observations, it can thrive in “human-dominated” areas, including cities and villages. This suggests that it’s somewhat adaptable.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-local-biodiversity-woes">Local biodiversity woes</h2>



The broader region of <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/bangladesh-and-northeast-india/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">northeastern India</a> is known for its rich wildlife. At the same time, scientists have often pointed out that amphibians and reptiles in these parts are under-documented. 



This lack of detailed information makes it tough to protect habitats and ensure that species remain viable.&nbsp;



If people don’t know what’s living in their surroundings, they can’t make informed decisions about conservation. 



Every new species identified can help shine a light on the health of ecosystems. It can also motivate further study, giving local and international researchers a reason to keep exploring.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-they-figured-it-out">How they figured it out</h2>



The team relied on DNA testing to confirm their hunches. They matched genetic sequences with those of related species that are found several hundred miles away.



Then, they checked things like scale patterns, body texture, and the shape of the animal’s head. All of these clues helped confirm that this snake was something fresh and unknown.&nbsp;



One detail was notable: they had encountered the initial specimen as a lifeless body. Normally, discovering new species involves more active searching, careful tracking, and sometimes lucky encounters with living animals.



Stumbling across a deceased individual that leads to such a finding is less common. Yet, it serves as a reminder that any encounter can bring valuable data.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-next-for-ahaetulla-longirostris">What's next for Ahaetulla longirostris?</h2>



Now that Ahaetulla longirostris is in the books, what’s next? Discovering a new species can spark interest far beyond academic circles. 



It can draw attention to wildlife protection, the importance of habitat maintenance, and the need for ethical, science-based policymaking. 



Perhaps this snake’s existence will prompt more local surveys. Maybe it will encourage budding scientists to pick up a field guide and see what’s waiting right outside their homes.



The full article is published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2287884X24000955" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity</a>



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Mysterious, 'long-snouted' creature found dead in India is a new species

Two researchers were walking near a small community in northeastern...

Picture this: you've just been left out of your friend's wedding or were the last to get picked for a team. You are feeling a sense of social rejection.



While social rejection hurts, it also teaches us valuable lessons, according to a recent study from the University of Southern California (USC).



The study explores how rejection shapes our social interactions. It uncovers the brain’s role in helping us understand relationships - revealing why some bonds feel rewarding yet others do not.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-rejection-as-a-learning-tool">Social rejection as a learning tool</h2>



Leor Hackel, an assistant professor of psychology at <a href="https://www.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC</a>, explained the study’s unique focus. "We often study how rejection causes distress. But we know less about its role as a learning tool."



The researchers set out to answer critical questions: How do these experiences refine our understanding of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-observation-our-decisions-shift-when-people-are-watching/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social roles</a>? How do they influence our perceptions of how others see us? Most importantly, how do they help us decide who deserves our time and effort?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-bonds-and-the-brain">Social bonds and the brain</h2>



According to the study, forming relationships relies on two key brain functions: learning from rewards and recognizing relational value, or how much others appreciate us.



Positive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-stress-harms-the-brains-of-low-status-fish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social interactions</a>, such as smiles or compliments, act as rewards that encourage further connection. Similarly, recognizing when others value us - like a friend offering support - motivates us to deepen those relationships.



But these two processes don’t always align. A friend might miss your birthday party due to work but still value you deeply. Similarly, a job rejection doesn’t necessarily reflect your worth as a candidate. 



"Our brains track these nuances," said Professor Hackel. "Understanding this can provide insight into mental health issues like social anxiety or depression, where these signals may get misinterpreted."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-pain-and-rejection">Social pain and rejection</h2>



To study these mechanisms, researchers designed a game mimicking real-life <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/survival-of-the-friendliest-social-animals-live-longer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social interactions</a>. College students - an ideal group to study due to their rapidly changing social networks - played the game while undergoing MRI scans.



Participants created profiles describing their trustworthiness, believing that others would evaluate them. They then acted as "responders" in an economic trust game, deciding whether to share rewards with hypothetical "deciders."



Each interaction provided feedback on two fronts: whether a match was successful and how highly the participant was ranked. Brain scans revealed distinct neural pathways for processing these outcomes. 



Rejection activated areas associated with social pain, while acceptance engaged regions tied to reward learning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-brain-interprets-feedback">How the brain interprets feedback</h2>



The study’s computational models showed participants’ decisions were influenced by both outcomes and rankings. 



For instance, someone who experienced a positive match and a high ranking was more likely to choose the same "decider" again.



The findings also highlighted differences in brain activity based on feedback type. Negative feedback triggered areas linked to social rejection, while positive experiences activated reward-related regions.



These insights shed light on how we process <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gen-ai-and-social-media-divert-peoples-attention-from-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social</a> cues. "Our study shows that people learn differently from the same feedback," noted Professor Hackel. "This raises questions about how these variations influence our ability to form connections."



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



The research has profound implications for understanding mental health. For instance, individuals with social anxiety might struggle to recognize when others value them. 



Similarly, people with depression may find it hard to feel motivated by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-characters-boost-social-and-emotional-skills-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social</a> rewards, hindering their ability to form relationships.



"By exploring these neural pathways, we hope to develop better strategies for addressing these challenges," said Professor Hackel.



"Understanding the science of social learning could improve interventions for those struggling with loneliness or relationship difficulties."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-lab-practical-lessons">Beyond the lab: Practical lessons</h2>



While the study focuses on brain mechanisms, its findings have practical implications. Recognizing that rejection doesn’t always reflect a lack of value can help people navigate social challenges more effectively. 



For example, understanding that a missed invitation doesn’t necessarily mean someone doesn’t care can prevent unnecessary misunderstandings.



"Social rejection, though painful, can help us refine our understanding of relationships. It teaches us where to invest our time and energy," said Professor Hackel.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-better-social-connections-with-rejections">Better social connections with rejections</h2>



The USC study highlights the complexity of human relationships. It reveals how our brains navigate the delicate balance of social acceptance and rejection, guiding us toward meaningful connections. 



By understanding these processes, we can promote healthier relationships and support those struggling with social challenges.



Ultimately, while rejection may sting, it also holds the potential to shape us into better, more discerning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-trust-news-that-matches-their-political-views-even-when-its-fake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social beings</a>. As this research shows, even the pain of exclusion can serve as a powerful tool for growth and connection.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2400022121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Social rejection teaches us valuable lessons about relationships

Picture this: you've just been left out of your friend's...

Every winter, a spectacle unfolds across North America. Millions of monarch butterflies, those radiant creatures with iconic wings, embark on a journey that stretches thousands of miles to their wintering grounds in the forests and mountains of central Mexico.



However, this annual migration faces growing challenges as monarch populations experience a troubling decline.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proposal-to-protect-monarch-butterflies">Proposal to protect monarch butterflies</h2>



In response to this alarming trend, U.S. wildlife officials <a href="https://www.fws.gov/press-release/2024-12/monarch-butterfly-proposed-endangered-species-act-protection" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proposed</a> listing the monarch butterfly as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.



This status signifies that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/creating-new-forests-to-assist-monarch-butterfly-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> is likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future. 



The monarch butterfly, with its remarkable orange-and-black coloration, plays a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity by pollinating plants and serving as a food source for various animals.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mounting-threats-to-survival">Mounting threats to survival</h2>



The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-are-monarch-butterflies-vanishing-in-the-winter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monarch’s plight</a> stems from a combination of threats, including habitat loss due to illegal logging, exposure to insecticides, and the intensifying climate crisis. These factors have disrupted the species’ breeding and migratory patterns.



The butterfly’s eastern migratory population has declined by roughly 80%, while the western population has plunged by more than 95% since the 1980s, according to U.S. wildlife officials.



Without immediate intervention, experts warn the monarch could disappear from the continent by the end of the century.



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



In 2022, the International Union for Conservation of Nature categorized the migratory monarch butterfly as endangered, citing climate change and habitat loss as primary drivers. 



Between 2021 and 2022, the monarchs’ presence in their Mexican <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monarch-butterflies-shift-to-winter-breeding-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wintering grounds</a> decreased by 22%, according to a World Wildlife Fund (WWF) report.



Droughts, frost, and heat across the continent are killing milkweed - the monarchs’ food source - and destroying their habitat.



Eduardo Rendón-Salinas, head of the monarch butterfly program for WWF-Mexico, highlighted the devastating effects of the climate crisis.



"Pollinators are responsible for 75% of the production of the food for humans. To save these monarchs, humans must reduce the emissions of gasses warming the atmosphere. A lot of [monarchs] are dying. That is my call to action," said Rendón-Salinas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-plan-for-preserving-monarch-butterflies">A plan for preserving monarch butterflies</h2>



The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s proposed plan aims to bolster conservation efforts by protecting nearly 4,400 acres in California as critical habitat for the western monarch population.



However, experts stress that government protections alone cannot stabilize and reverse population trends.



"Stabilizing and reversing population trends requires an all-hands approach that not only relies on government protections, but also collaboration among landowners, farmers, conservationists, and everyday citizens," said Clay Bolt, the World Wildlife Fund’s manager of pollinator conservation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilience-of-monarchs">Resilience of monarchs</h2>



"Despite [the monarch’s] fragility, it is remarkably resilient, like many things in nature when we just give them a chance," said Martha Williams, director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.



"Science shows that the monarch needs that chance, and this proposed listing invites and builds on unprecedented public participation in shaping monarch conservation efforts," she explained.



Williams emphasized that providing monarchs with sufficient milkweed and nectar plants, “even in small areas,” could significantly aid their recovery. "Working together, we can help make this extraordinary species a legacy for our children and generations to come," she said.



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



Protecting the monarch butterfly calls for all of us to act together. You can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milkweed-gardens-are-needed-to-save-monarch-butterflies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">help by planting milkweed</a> and nectar-rich flowers in your garden or community. 



Supporting conservation programs and pushing for sustainable practices can also make a difference.



Small changes, like reducing pesticide use, can have a big impact. By working across neighborhoods and nations, we can ensure the monarch butterfly continues its incredible journey for generations to come.



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



Monarch butterflies are not only famous for their striking appearance, but also for their unique life cycle.



The butterfly undergoes four life stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. The entire process takes about a month. 



Remarkably, the monarch’s migration spans several generations, with one generation flying north in spring and subsequent generations continuing the journey until the final one travels back to Mexico in autumn.



Another fascinating aspect is their navigational ability. Monarchs use environmental cues like the position of the sun and Earth’s magnetic field to find their way, even though no single butterfly completes the entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monarch-butterflies-with-more-white-spots-are-more-likely-to-survive-their-migration-journey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a>.



The protection proposal by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services is reported <a href="https://www.fws.gov/press-release/2024-12/monarch-butterfly-proposed-endangered-species-act-protection">here</a>. 



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Monarch butterflies may be added to the endangered species list

Every winter, a spectacle unfolds across North America. Millions of...

A minuscule bacterium, named after the legendary hero Conan, has been gaining attention due to its unparalleled ability to thrive in extreme environmental conditions.



Identified as Deinococcus radiodurans, this robust bacterium can endure radiation levels that would easily wipe out other organisms on Earth, including humans.



It's a superhero in its own right, possessing a unique power that has baffled scientists worldwide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-secret-to-conan-s-sturdiness">The secret to Conan's sturdiness</h2>



The remarkable resistance of this bacterium lies in a cluster of simple metabolites that, when partnered with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/manganese-soil-turns-forests-into-net-carbon-emitters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">manganese</a>, form a potent antioxidant shield.



An innovative study has recently shed light on how this antioxidant shield functions and its potential applications.



A team of chemists from <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a> and the <a href="https://www.usuhs.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uniformed Services University</a> (USU) took on the task of investigating this cellular mystery.



By focusing their attention on a synthetic antioxidant named MDP (Mn2+-Decapeptide Complex), which was inspired by the resilience of Deinococcus radiodurans, the researchers discovered something extraordinary.



They found that MDP, made up of manganese ions, phosphate, and a small peptide, forms a strong trio complex. This trio is exponentially more effective in protecting against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chernobyl-is-teeming-with-worms-resistant-to-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">radiation</a> than any individual or dual combination of its components. 



The antioxidants in this complex are able to mop up the oxygen radicals before they can damage proteins in the bacterial cell that are critical to its repair processes. 



This revelation could lead to the design of new synthetic antioxidants that are specifically tailored to address human needs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-science-fiction-real-world-applications">Beyond science fiction: Real-world applications</h2>



Potential applications of such innovations are vast, spanning from the protection of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-radiation-levels-are-measured-for-the-first-time-and-will-help-astronauts-prepare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronauts</a> during lengthy interstellar missions to emergency radiation preparedness. 



"It is this ternary complex that is MDP’s superb shield against the effects of radiation," said Brian Hoffman from Northwestern University.



"We've long known that manganese ions and phosphate together make a strong antioxidant, but discovering and understanding the 'magic' potency provided by the addition of the third component is a breakthrough."



"This study has provided the key to understanding why this combination is such a powerful - and promising - radioprotectant," Hoffman explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-conan-bacterium-and-its-microbial-world">The Conan bacterium and its microbial world</h2>



The latest study builds upon <a href="https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/ast.2022.0065">earlier research</a> which was focused on understanding the forecasted radiation resistance capacity of Deinococcus radiodurans on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-kidneys-may-not-survive-a-roundtrip-to-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>.



The Northwestern team successfully measured the accumulation of manganese antioxidants and found that the amount of resistance an organism can put up against radiation directly correlates with its manganese antioxidant content.



In simple words, the more the manganese antioxidants, the higher the radiation resistance.



Past studies have revealed that Deinococcus radiodurans can survive a whopping 25,000 grays of radiation. But the 2022 research discovered that dried and frozen bacteria could endure up to 140,000 grays, a level 28,000 times the lethal dose for humans.



This suggests that such organisms that may be buried on Mars amidst the storm of galactic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-surges-of-cosmic-radiation-from-space-directly-linked-to-earthquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic radiation</a> and solar protons, could possibly have survived to this day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-manganese-based-antioxidants">Powerful manganese-based antioxidants</h2>



Further unfolding the mystery of this microbe's radiation resiliance, the team explored a designer decapeptide called DP1.



When paired with phosphate and manganese, DP1 forms the effective free-radical-scavenging agent called MDP, which has been proven to protect cells and proteins against radiation damage.



In a more recent analysis, it was discovered that MDP could potentially play a crucial role in the preparation of irradiated polyvalent vaccines. 



"This new understanding of MDP could lead to the development of even more potent manganese-based antioxidants for applications in healthcare, industry, defense, and space exploration," said Michael Daly from USU.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-the-conan-bacterium">Implications of the Conan bacterium</h2>



Deinococcus radiodurans, now famous for its unparalleled radiation resistance, continues to captivate scientists seeking to push the boundaries of biotechnology and innovation.



Its antioxidant mechanisms, driven by a manganese-based shield, offer insights that could transform various fields.



For example, the bacterium’s resilience could play a crucial role in space exploration, particularly in protecting astronauts from cosmic radiation on long missions, such as a journey to Mars. 



This natural defense system may also aid in preserving biological materials that are vital for deep-space research and future colonization efforts.



Beyond space, the bacterium’s unique properties hold potential in healthcare and industrial applications.



As researchers explore its extraordinary mechanisms, Deinococcus radiodurans stands as a testament to the untapped possibilities within the microbial world.



The full study was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.



Image Credit: USU/Michael Daly



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'Conan the Bacterium' can endure extreme radiation

A minuscule bacterium, named after the legendary hero Conan, has...

Who doesn't enjoy a sweet treat now and then? After all, a little of what you fancy does indeed seem to do you good. Well, unless it’s a fizzy drink, according to a new study.



Unraveling the tangled relationship between sugar and cardiovascular disease, the research suggests that indulging in the occasional treat could potentially lower your risk for heart-related ailments.



On the other hand, regularly gulping down sweet beverages might do just the opposite. This finding challenges long-held assumptions that all sugars are equally detrimental to heart health.



It also highlights the importance of considering not just how much sugar we consume - but also the form and context in which we consume it.



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



Researchers at <a href="https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lund University</a> embarked on a mission to understand the complexities of how our consumption of added sugars impacts our heart health.



Intriguingly, they found that not all sugars consumed are equal in the eyes of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular system</a>.



Suzanne Janzi, a Ph.D. candidate and the corresponding author of the study, noted that the team's most striking discovery was the divergent relationship between different sources of added sugar and cardiovascular disease risk.



Janzi emphasizes that the source and context of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-average-american-consumes-80-pounds-of-sugar-per-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sugar</a> consumed are as significant to consider as the amount of sugar. This unexpected contrast implies that blanket advice to cut down all sugars might not be the most helpful guidance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sugar-intake-and-cardiovascular-disease">Sugar intake and cardiovascular disease </h2>



As we all know, public health bodies across the globe have long advocated for eradicating excess sugar from our diets, in an effort to protect our teeth and promote healthier <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-eating-habits-can-lead-to-lifelong-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating habits</a>.



However, concrete evidence linking sugar intake to cardiovascular diseases has remained limited.



Given that some of these diseases rank as leading causes of death in Europe, the researchers sought to fill this gap, focusing on diet as an accessible lever for risk reduction. They collected data from two major cohort studies involving over 69,000 participants.



Each individual's consumption of different kinds of sugar was tracked and cross-examined against their incidence of seven distinct cardiovascular diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sweet-treats-vs-sugary-beverages">Sweet treats vs. sugary beverages</h2>



The researchers discovered that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-are-consuming-more-sugary-drinks-than-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sugary drinks</a> have the most egregious impact on health, far outweighing any other form of sugar intake.



The risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stroke-deaths-expected-to-rise-to-five-million-by-2030/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ischemic stroke</a>, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and abdominal aortic aneurysm significantly spiked with an increase in these liquid sugars.



"Liquid sugars, found in sweetened beverages, typically provide less satiety than solid forms - they make you feel less full - potentially leading to overconsumption," explained Janzi.



The context of consumption also matters, with treats often savored during social settings or special occasions and sweet beverages consumed more regularly, she added.



Interestingly, various kinds of cardiovascular diseases were impacted differently by sugar intake and, surprisingly, eating occasional treats such as chocolate and pastries hinted at better outcomes than not indulging at all.



"This might reflect underlying dietary behaviors - individuals consuming very little sugar might have very restrictive diets or might be limiting sugar due to pre-existing health conditions," said Janzi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viewing-diet-and-health-in-a-broader-context">Viewing diet and health in a broader context</h2>



These findings, intriguing as they are, pose several knots that have yet to be unraveled. How different types of sugars trigger diverse responses in our bodies remains an area that needs further exploration.



Moreover, given the cultural specificity of dietary habits, these findings might not directly translate across diverse populations.



"Our findings are based on a Swedish population, which may have dietary habits and lifestyle factors that differ from those in other populations," said Janzi, alluding to the cultural element that is often overlooked in dietary studies.



So, while these insights might not be applicable globally, they highlight the importance of viewing diet and health in a broader, culturally-informed context.



In conclusion, the Lund University study invites us to take a new look at our sugar consumption habits, and reminds us that balancing our sweet tooth with an understanding of the source and context of our indulgence might ultimately hold the key to a healthier heart.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2024.1452085/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Public Health</a>.



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Sugary drinks harm heart health, but sweet treats can be beneficial

Who doesn't enjoy a sweet treat now and then? After...

Detail,Of,Pouring,Beer,Into,Glass,,Close-up.,Abstract,Beverages,Background.

A new study has revealed evidence of rice beer brewing dating back approximately 10,000 years at the Shangshan site in Zhejiang Province, China.



This discovery sheds light on the ancient roots of alcoholic beverage production in East Asia and its connections to early agricultural practices and social structures.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-early-beer-brewing-practices">Tracing early beer brewing practices</h2>



The study focused on twelve pottery fragments from the Shangshan site in Pujiang County, Zhejiang Province, dating to the early Holocene (10,000–9,000 years before present).&nbsp;



“These sherds were associated with various vessel types, including those for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brewing-beer-in-space-the-future-of-fermentation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fermentation</a>, serving, storage, cooking, and processing,” explained senior author Jiang Leping, a scientist at the Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology (<a href="https://rwsk.zju.edu.cn/rwsken/2019/0621/c30504a1263820/page.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICRA</a>)..



To uncover the vessels' roles, the researchers analyzed microscopic residues on the pottery's inner surfaces and surrounding sediments. 



Using microfossil extraction techniques, they identified phytoliths, starch granules, and fungi -- key indicators of food processing and fermentation.



“We focused on identifying phytoliths, starch granules, and fungi, providing insights into the pottery’s uses and the food processing methods employed at the site,” said Jiu Li of <a href="https://www.stanford.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a>, the study’s lead author.



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



Beer fermentation is the seemingly magical process that turns simple ingredients like water, malt, hops, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-and-bakers-yeast-have-similar-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">yeast</a> into the delicious brew we all enjoy. 



It all starts when brewers mix malted <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genetic-variants-help-plants-adapt-to-nitrogen-deficiency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">barley</a> with hot water to create a mash, which converts the starches into sugars. 



Once the mash cools down, they add yeast, the star of the show, which munches on those sugars and produces alcohol and carbon dioxide as byproducts. 



This transformation usually takes about one to two weeks, depending on the type of beer being made. 



During fermentation, the beer starts to develop its unique flavors and aromas, whether you’re brewing a crisp lager or a rich stout.



But fermentation isn’t just about flavor -- it's also where the alcohol content is created and the beer gets its fizz. 



Brewers carefully control the temperature and environment to ensure the yeast does its job properly, avoiding off-flavors and ensuring consistency.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rice-centric-fermentation">Rice-centric fermentation</h2>



Phytolith analysis revealed a substantial presence of domesticated rice, indicating that it was a staple resource for the Shangshan people.&nbsp;



Further investigation revealed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-study-reveals-secrets-of-weedy-rice-invasion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rice</a> husks and leaves were used in pottery production, underlining rice's centrality in Shangshan culture.&nbsp;



Alongside rice, the researchers identified starch granules from other plants such as Job’s tears, barnyard grass, Triticeae, acorns, and lilies. 



Many granules displayed signs of enzymatic degradation and gelatinization, hallmarks of fermentation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-traditional-qu-based-brewing-techniques">Traditional qu-based brewing techniques</h2>



Additionally, fungal elements, including Monascus molds and yeast cells, were detected in the pottery residues. Some of these fungi exhibited developmental stages associated with fermentation.&nbsp;



These findings align with the traditional qu-based brewing techniques still used in producing red yeast rice <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wine-production-in-a-warming-world-the-winners-and-losers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wine</a> (hongqujiu) in China.



Globular jars showed higher concentrations of Monascus and yeast remains compared to other vessel types like cooking pots and processing basins. 



This pattern suggests that these jars were specifically designed for alcohol fermentation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technological-and-agricultural-synergies">Technological and agricultural synergies</h2>



The emergence of this early brewing technology coincided with rice domestication and the favorable climate of the early Holocene, which supported the growth of fermentation-related fungi.&nbsp;



“Domesticated rice provided a stable resource for fermentation, while favorable climatic conditions supported the development of qu-based fermentation technology, which relied on the growth of filamentous fungi,” Liu explained.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/rice-beer_ancient-china_pottery_brewing_diagram_credit-IGG_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/rice-beer_ancient-china_pottery_brewing_diagram_credit-IGG_1s.webp" alt="Reconstruction of the production-consumption process involving pottery and food in early Shangshan culture. (A) Plant procurement: collecting wild plants and harvesting rice; (B) plant processing: for food and pottery making; (C) food processing: cooking food and making qu starter with molds, yeast, and rice; (D) food consumption: eating and drinking. Credit: IGG" class="wp-image-1953128"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Reconstruction of the production-consumption process involving pottery and food in early Shangshan culture. (A) Plant procurement: collecting wild plants and harvesting rice; (B) plant processing: for food and pottery making; (C) food processing: cooking food and making qu starter with molds, yeast, and rice; (D) food consumption: eating and drinking. Credit: IGG</figcaption></figure>



To confirm their findings, the researchers conducted modern fermentation experiments using rice, Monascus, and yeast.&nbsp;



The experiments demonstrated morphological similarities with the fungal remains identified on the ancient pottery.&nbsp;



Control samples of sediment showed significantly fewer starch and fungal remains, ruling out contamination and reinforcing the connection between the residues and ancient fermentation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-significance-of-beer-brewing">Cultural significance of beer brewing</h2>



The study suggests that rice <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/beer-may-be-better-for-your-gut-than-probiotics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beer</a> played an important role in ceremonial feasting during the Shangshan period. These rituals may have encouraged the intensified use and cultivation of rice in Neolithic China.&nbsp;



“These alcoholic beverages likely played a pivotal role in ceremonial feasting, highlighting their ritual importance as a potential driving force behind the intensified utilization and widespread cultivation of rice in Neolithic China,” Liu said.



The discovery represents the earliest known evidence of rice-based alcohol production in East Asia. It offers a deeper understanding of how rice domestication, brewing technology, and social structures were interconnected during the early Holocene.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-window-into-early-innovation">A window into early innovation</h2>



The findings at Shangshan provide critical insights into the technological and cultural advancements of ancient China.&nbsp;



By revealing the link between early rice agriculture and alcohol fermentation, this research highlights the innovative spirit of the Shangshan people and their influence on subsequent agricultural and social developments.



This study opens doors for further exploration into the interplay between human innovation, environmental factors, and cultural evolution in shaping ancient societies.



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The research was a collaboration between <a href="https://www.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a>, the <a href="https://english.igg.cas.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Geology and Geophysics</a> (IGG), and the Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology (<a href="https://rwsk.zju.edu.cn/rwsken/2019/0621/c30504a1263820/page.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICRA</a>).



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2412274121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Ancient humans were drinking beer in China over 10,000 years ago

A new study has revealed evidence of rice beer brewing...

Planetary scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder have made progress in understanding what sparks massive dust storms on Mars, weather phenomena that can envelop the entire planet in swirling clouds of grit. 



The findings indicate that relatively warm and sunny conditions may play a key role in initiating these dramatic storms.



Study lead author Heshani Pieris is a graduate student at the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (<a href="https://lasp.colorado.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LASP</a>) at CU Boulder.



“Dust storms have a significant effect on rovers and landers on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-captured-in-true-color-like-youve-never-seen-the-red-planet-before/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a>, not to mention what will happen during future crewed missions to Mars,” said Pieris. "This dust is very light and sticks to everything.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mystery-of-dust-storms-on-mars">The mystery of dust storms on Mars</h2>



Dust storms on Mars are extraordinary spectacles, often beginning as small, localized events around the planet’s polar ice caps during the latter part of the Martian year, which lasts 687 Earth days. These storms can rapidly grow, spreading across millions of square miles and persisting for days.



In popular media, such as the film The Martian, these storms are depicted as violent enough to wreak havoc on equipment and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-travel-takes-a-greater-toll-on-astronauts-brains-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronauts</a>. However, Mars’ thin atmosphere means the storms lack the force to cause such destruction.&nbsp;



Nonetheless, they can pose serious challenges. In 2018, a global dust storm coated NASA’s Opportunity rover in dust, blocking its solar panels and ultimately ending its mission.



“Even though the wind pressure may not be enough to knock over equipment, these dust grains can build up a lot of speed and pelt astronauts and their equipment,” explained Paul Hayne, co-author of the study and an associate professor at LASP.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-weather-patterns-on-mars">Investigating weather patterns on Mars</h2>



The study focused on two recurring weather patterns on Mars, labeled “A” and “C” storms. Using data from NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, particularly the Mars Climate Sounder instrument, the researchers examined eight Martian years (equivalent to 15 Earth years) of observations.&nbsp;



They identified periods of increased surface temperatures - when more sunlight penetrates Mars’ thin <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-mars-missing-atmosphere-hiding-in-plain-sight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atmosphere</a> and heats the surface - as a potential precursor to major storms.



The researchers found that about 68% of large dust storms were preceded by a sharp increase in surface temperatures. These warm periods appeared to act as a trigger for storm formation, with a few weeks of heightened heat followed by the emergence of dusty conditions.



“It’s almost like Mars has to wait for the air to get clear enough to form a major dust storm,” Hayne noted.



While the team cannot definitively say that warm conditions directly cause the storms, Pieris pointed out that similar processes occur on Earth. On hot summer days in places like Boulder, Colorado, warm air near the ground rises, forming towering storm clouds.



“When you heat up the surface, the layer of atmosphere right above it becomes buoyant, and it can rise, taking dust with it,” Pieris explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-dust-storms-on-mars">Predicting dust storms on Mars</h2>



Pieris and Hayne are now analyzing data from more recent Martian years to further refine their understanding of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-oceans-hidden-influence-on-global-weather-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather patterns</a>. They aim to eventually predict dust storms on Mars in real-time, improving the safety of future robotic and crewed missions.



“This study is not the end all be all of predicting storms on Mars,” said Pieris. “But we hope it’s a step in the right direction.”



Understanding the triggers behind these storms, including why some regional events grow into planet-wide phenomena, is a critical piece of the puzzle.&nbsp;



“We don’t even fully understand the basic physics of how dust storms start at the surface,” Hayne added.



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



The research lays the groundwork for better tools to predict and mitigate the effects of Martian dust storms.&nbsp;



Such advancements could prove invaluable for future exploration, ensuring that equipment and astronauts are prepared for the challenges of the Red Planet.



As the experts concluded, this research is a foundational step toward building the tools we need to tackle Mars’ extreme weather, by bridging the gap between what we observe and what we can predict.



Pieris will present these <a href="https://agu.confex.com/agu/agu24/meetingapp.cgi/Paper/1725206">findings</a> on December 10 at the <a href="https://www.agu.org/annual-meeting" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2024 American Geophysical Union meeting</a> in Washington.



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Dust storms can engulf the entire planet of Mars - but how?

Planetary scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder have made...

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into journalism, newsrooms face the dual challenge of effectively using the technology while transparently disclosing its involvement to readers.&nbsp;



New research from the <a href="https://www.ku.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Kansas</a> (KU) reveals that readers often view AI's role in news production negatively, even when they don't fully understand its specific contributions. This perception can lower their trust in the credibility of the news.



The studies, led by researchers Alyssa Appelman and Steve Bien-Aimé of the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications at KU, explores how readers interpret AI involvement in news articles and its impact on perceptions of credibility.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-bylines-and-reader-perception">AI bylines and reader perception</h2>



Appelman and Bien-Aimé, along with their collaborators Haiyan Jia of <a href="https://www2.lehigh.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lehigh University</a> and Mu Wu of <a href="https://www.calstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California State University</a>, conducted an experiment to investigate how different AI-related bylines influence readers.&nbsp;



Participants were randomly assigned one of five bylines on an article about the safety of artificial sweetener aspartame. These bylines ranged from “written by staff writer” to “written by artificial intelligence,” with variations indicating collaboration or assistance from AI.



The researchers found that readers interpreted these bylines in diverse ways. Even when the byline simply stated “written by staff writer,” many readers assumed AI had played a role in the article's creation due to the absence of a named human author.&nbsp;



Participants used their prior knowledge to make sense of AI’s potential contributions, often overestimating its involvement.



“People have a lot of different ideas on what AI can mean, and when we are not clear on what it did, people will fill in the gaps on what they thought it did,” Appelman explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-and-credibility-a-complex-relationship">AI and credibility: A complex relationship</h2>



Regardless of their interpretation, participants consistently rated news articles as less credible when they believed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-predicts-global-warmings-impact-on-extreme-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a> was involved. This effect persisted even when the byline explicitly indicated human contribution alongside AI assistance. 



Readers appeared to prioritize the perceived extent of human involvement in evaluating the article's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-robots-with-a-local-accent-seem-more-trustworthy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trustworthiness</a>.



“The big thing was not between whether it was AI or human: It was how much work they thought the human did,” Bien-Aimé noted.



The findings highlight the importance of clear and precise disclosure about AI’s role in news production.&nbsp;



While transparency is crucial, simply stating that AI was used may not suffice to alleviate reader concerns. If readers perceive AI as having contributed more than a human, their trust in the news could diminish.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transparency-and-ethical-considerations">Transparency and ethical considerations</h2>



The studies highlight the need for greater transparency and improved communication about the use of AI in journalism.&nbsp;



Recent controversies, such as allegations that Sports Illustrated published AI-generated articles while presenting them as human-written, have underscored the risks of insufficient disclosure.



The research also suggests that readers may be more accepting of AI in contexts where it has not traditionally replaced human roles. For instance, algorithmic recommendations on platforms like YouTube are often perceived as helpful rather than intrusive.&nbsp;



However, in fields like journalism, where human expertise is traditionally valued, the introduction of AI can create skepticism about the quality and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coaches-can-improve-athletes-lives-by-being-authentic-leaders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">authenticity</a> of the work.



“Part of our research framework has always been assessing if readers know what journalists do,” Bien-Aimé said. “And we want to continue to better understand how people view the work of journalists.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-need-for-improved-reader-education">The need for improved reader education</h2>



Appelman and Bien-Aimé’s findings point to a gap in reader understanding of journalistic practices. Disclosures about AI involvement, corrections, ethics training, or even bylines are often interpreted differently by readers than journalists intend.&nbsp;



To bridge this gap, the researchers emphasize the need for journalists and educators to better communicate the specifics of how AI is used in news production.



“This shows we need to be clear. We think journalists have a lot of assumptions that we make in our field that consumers know what we do. They often do not,” Bien-Aimé said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-journalism-and-future-research">Implications for journalism and future research</h2>



Both studies call for further investigation into how readers perceive AI’s role in journalism and how these perceptions influence trust in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spending-less-time-on-social-media-improves-your-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">media</a>. By understanding these dynamics, journalists can refine their practices to maintain credibility while leveraging AI’s potential.



As AI continues to shape the future of journalism, the field must navigate the balance between technological innovation and maintaining public trust.&nbsp;



Transparency, clear communication, and ethical practices will be essential to ensuring that AI serves as a tool to enhance rather than undermine the credibility of the news.



The findings are published in <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08934215.2024.2424553" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communication Reports</a> and <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2949882124000537?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Computers in Human Behavior: Artificial Humans</a>.



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Readers trust news less when AI is involved

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into journalism, newsrooms...

Fresh reports of a new, deep-sea oil discovery have arrived, and they’re turning heads among everyday people and seasoned industry pros.



Many wonder whether this well could tip the balance of the global market, especially now when energy supply concerns hover in the background.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-sea-oil-rumor-confirmed">Deep-sea oil rumor confirmed</h2>



The massive, deep-sea oil discovery was quietly announced in early September during the blur of the US election season by <a href="https://www.talosenergy.com/home/default.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Talos Energy</a>, a U.S.-based firm that has been eyeing the Gulf of Mexico’s hidden potential.



The well, known as EW 953, stretches down about 19,000 feet below the surface and could yield somewhere between 8,000 and 10,000 barrels per day.&nbsp;



The plan is to link it to the South Timbalier 311 Megalodon platform, a host facility partially owned by Talos. <a href="https://walteroil.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walter Oil &amp; Gas</a> holds a solid share, about 56.7%, with Talos having about 33.3%, and Gordy Oil Company claiming 10%. 



Sitting at a staggering depth, the well presents a complex engineering challenge that will involve significant cost and incalculable risk at every step.



With the Murphy Oil Corporation’s Sebastian prospect (another planned well in the region that is estimated to produce 6–10 thousand barrels per day) running on a parallel timeline and drilling down around 12,000 feet, this is arguably one of the largest projects in the whole of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cleaning-up-14000-inactive-oil-wells-in-gulf-of-mexico-will-cost-30-billion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gulf of Mexico</a>.



Preliminary figures place the potential total haul at roughly 15 to 25 million barrels of oil equivalent, with the total value of around $1.89 billion. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-market-ripples-and-economic-stakes">Market ripples and economic stakes</h2>



“We are excited about the results of the Ewing Bank 953 well. The well logged better than expected rock properties, which we believe should lead to a robust initial flow rate," enthused Joe Mills, the Interim President and Chief Executive Officer at Talos Energy. 



With these numbers, energy watchers brace for potential shifts. New sources like this can reshape how oil flows around the world. 



Prices might not swing overnight, but traders and analysts pay close attention to each new data point. Some might look at this project and see a chance to ease import pressures. 



Others could consider it an opportunity to cement competitive standing on international markets. 



A well that’s firing on all cylinders in a strategic location changes the conversation about who calls the shots in future energy negotiations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-past-trouble-with-deep-sea-oil-drilling">Past trouble with deep-sea oil drilling</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-the-deep-gulf-of-mexico-from-bp-oil-spill-damage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Gulf of Mexico</a> has known deep-sea oil exploration activity for decades, and not all stories have been pleasant. Back in 2010, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepwater-horizon-spill-today/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Deepwater Horizon</a> disaster shook the public’s trust in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-impact-of-offshore-drilling-has-been-greatly-underestimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">offshore drilling.</a> 



Millions of barrels of crude spilled, causing severe environmental harm and prompting global outrage. That memory lingers.



While technology and safety protocols have improved since then, any new venture in these waters reminds observers of the potential risks. 



Spill prevention, emergency response plans, and rigorous safety standards remain essential. This new find must still face the scrutiny of those lessons learned.



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



Investors see new wells as possible keys to financial growth. Local economies might anticipate job creation and revenue boosts. Yet, behind the scenes, caution rules the day. 



Drilling for oil in deep-sea waters always carries engineering hurdles, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-mining-forms-dust-clouds-that-devastate-marine-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental risks</a>, and regulatory checks. Equipment needs regular monitoring, and unexpected geology can mean higher costs. 



Companies must weigh these issues, and their decisions don’t happen in a vacuum. Consumers, activists, and politicians watch closely, shaping what comes next.



Production might start in a few years, but even that timeline can shift. Equipment delays, political negotiations, or unforeseen technical snags could change the story. 



The energy sector never follows a neat script. Instead, it jumps from twist to turn, leaving everyone guessing. 



Will this new well simply join the mix of global suppliers, or might it eventually reshape who holds influence in this industry?



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



As things stand, the details we have only scratch the surface. It’s a moment that invites big questions about safety, finance, and responsibility. Curious folks keep one ear open, waiting for updates. 



The energy world thrives on surprises. If this well hits its targets, we’ll likely hear more about what it means. 



For now, all we have are numbers, hopes, and a reminder that deep beneath the waves, there’s still plenty worth watching.



Read more details about this oil discovery <a href="https://www.talosenergy.com/investor-relations/news/news-details/2024/Talos-Energy-Announces-New-Discovery-and-Adds-Additional-2024-Prospect-in-the-Gulf-of-Mexico/default.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here...</a>



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Jaw-dropping deep-sea oil find sparks global anxiety

Fresh reports of a new, deep-sea oil discovery have arrived,...

Dogs have always found unique ways to communicate with humans, but a recent study reveals that dogs trained with soundboards can piece together two-word combinations. These furry friends are not just mindlessly parroting their owners - they are making sense.



Published in the journal&nbsp;Scientific Reports, the study was focused on data from 152 dogs over 21 months, documenting over 260,000 button presses. Of these, an impressive 195,000 were made independently by the dogs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-using-soundboards-for-expression">Dogs using soundboards for expression</h2>



Study co-author Federico Rossano is an associate professor of cognitive science at UC San Diego and director of the&nbsp;<a href="https://cclab.ucsd.edu/">Comparative Cognition Lab</a>.&nbsp;



"This is the first scientific study to analyze how dogs actually use <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-learn-to-speak-by-pressing-buttons-on-a-soundboard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soundboards</a>. The findings reveal that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-human-speech-changes-when-we-talk-to-dogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> are pressing buttons purposefully to express their desires and needs, not just imitating their owners," said Rossano.



"When dogs combine two buttons, these sequences are not random but instead seem to reflect specific requests."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-dog-intentions-with-soundboards">Understanding dog intentions with soundboards</h2>



The most frequently used buttons corresponded to dogs’ basic needs, such as "outside," "treat," "play," and "potty." 



Combinations like "outside" + "potty" or "food" + "water" were meaningful and occurred more often than chance would predict. These findings provide compelling evidence that dogs use soundboards intentionally rather than as random or imitative behavior.



"While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-communication-what-is-your-pet-trying-to-tell-you/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs already communicate</a> some of these needs, soundboards could allow for more precise communication. Instead of barking or scratching at the door, a dog may be able to tell you exactly what it wants, even combining concepts like ‘outside’ and ‘park’ or ‘beach,'" noted Rossano. 



"This could improve companionship and strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-soundboard-dogs-vs-owners">Using soundboard: Dogs vs owners</h2>



The study relied on data collected via the FluentPet mobile app, where dog owners logged their pets’ button presses in real time. 



The researchers selected 152 dogs that had logged more than 200 button presses each, allowing them to analyze consistent patterns of use.



Advanced statistical tools and computer simulations ruled out randomness and confirmed the intentional nature of the button combinations. Importantly, the experts also compared button usage of dogs to that of their owners.



While humans frequently pressed buttons like "I love you," dogs used such expressions far less often, further supporting the conclusion that dogs were not merely mimicking human behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glimpse-into-future-research">Glimpse into future research</h2>



While the study establishes that dogs can intentionally combine two buttons to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/talking-slower-helps-dogs-understand-what-humans-are-saying/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communicate</a> immediate needs, the researchers aim to explore even deeper questions about canine intelligence. 



Could dogs use soundboards to reference past experiences, absent objects, or future events? Could they combine buttons to communicate ideas for which they lack specific vocabulary?



"We want to know if dogs can use these soundboards to express ideas beyond their immediate needs, like absent objects, past experiences, or future events. If they can, it would drastically change how we think about animal intelligence and communication," said Rossano.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-dog-owners-and-beyond">Implications for dog owners and beyond</h2>



For pet lovers, this study opens up exciting possibilities for deepening the human-canine bond. 



With soundboards, dogs might communicate with their owners in ways previously thought impossible. Imagine your furry friend combined words like "outside" and "park" or "play" and "ball" to convey exactly what they wanted.



As future research unfolds, the potential for understanding our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-feel-our-emotions-through-our-heart-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal companions</a> could redefine how we think about intelligence and communication across species.



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



The study’s co-authors include Amalia P. M. Bastos, now at Johns Hopkins University; Zachary N. Houghton, now at UC Davis; and Lucas Naranjo, an expert with CleverPet, Inc.



 While some of the researchers have ties to CleverPet, the company that manufactures the FluentPet devices, the research design and analysis were conducted independently, ensuring unbiased results. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-communication-beyond-soundboards">Dog communication beyond soundboards</h2>



Dogs have always been skilled communicators, even without soundboards. Their body language, vocalizations, and behaviors provide clues to their thoughts and feelings. 



For instance, a wagging tail can indicate happiness or excitement, while pinned-back ears may signal fear or discomfort. Dogs also use nuanced behaviors, like leaning into their owners for comfort or barking at specific objects, to express themselves.



Research into canine communication shows that dogs are highly attuned to human emotions and can read facial expressions and respond to tone of voice.



For example, a soothing voice may calm a nervous dog, while a cheerful tone can encourage playful behavior. Dogs even appear to distinguish between human words, recognizing familiar commands and associating specific sounds with actions or outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-communicate-through-scent">Dogs communicate through scent</h2>



Another fascinating aspect of dog communication involves scent. Dogs possess an extraordinary sense of smell, which they use to gather information about their environment and the emotions of other beings. 



A quick sniff can tell a dog if another animal is stressed, healthy, or on heat. Scent marking, common during walks, serves as a way to leave messages for other dogs.



While soundboards represent a technological leap in understanding canine communication, they are just one part of the puzzle. 



Traditional behaviors, combined with emerging tools like soundboards, offer an even richer view of how dogs convey their thoughts, emotions, and needs. These findings not only deepen our appreciation for our furry companions but also highlight their intelligence and emotional complexity.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-79517-6">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Dogs can use soundboards to express their needs

Dogs have always found unique ways to communicate with humans,...

The ocean absorbs up to a third of the world's man-made carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. However, this carbon absorption comes at a cost, as it leads to the acidification of seawater.



To combat this issue, scientists are exploring ways to increase the alkalinity of seawater, so it can absorb more CO2 without becoming increasingly acidic. 



Professor Ulf Riebesell’s group at the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research, Kiel plays a critical role in this research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-ocean-alkalinity-enhancement">What is ocean alkalinity enhancement?</h2>



Ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE) involves adding alkaline substances to seawater to increase its capacity to absorb CO2. This process also helps counteract the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-acidification-is-spreading-into-deeper-waters/">acidification</a> effects caused by anthropogenic CO2 emissions.



Alkaline substances, such as limestone, olivine, and various carbonates can dissolve in seawater and neutralize acidity, thereby enabling greater CO2 sequestration. The approach mimics natural processes where minerals are weathered and transported to oceans over geological timescales.



Different methods are being explored to implement OAE effectively. These include distributing finely ground minerals across large ocean areas or directly injecting alkaline solutions into seawater. The efficiency of OAE depends on factors like ocean currents, water temperature, and the types of minerals used. 



Some forms of ocean alkalinity enhancement might also enhance the growth of marine organisms, such as phytoplankton, which play a role in the biological carbon pump by sequestering CO2 in deeper ocean layers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adjusting-seawater-chemistry-with-alkaline-water">Adjusting seawater chemistry with alkaline water</h2>



The researchers tested the efficiency of CO2-equilibrated OAE, a moderate approach that adjusts seawater chemistry by using alkaline water that is pre-saturated with CO2.



This method ensures carbon dioxide removal (CDR) before releasing the treated water back into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-weaker-ocean-will-release-more-carbon-into-the-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a>. 



To simulate real-world conditions, the team used KOSMOS mesocosms (Kiel Off-Shore Mesocosms for Ocean Simulations). These large test tubes, which are submerged directly into the ocean, isolated eight cubic meters of water for this controlled study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-achieving-ocean-alkalinity">Achieving ocean alkalinity </h2>



Different concentrations of sodium carbonate and bicarbonate were added to achieve varying levels of alkalinity, ranging from what occurs in natural conditions to a level that is double what is found in seawater.



Over a 33-day period, the team monitored the responses of zooplankton by examining metrics such as biomass, diversity, production, and fatty acid composition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-response-of-marine-communities">Response of marine communities</h2>



The results were encouraging. Plankton communities remained stable, and zooplankton tolerated the moderate chemical changes associated with CO2-equilibrated OAE.



While the nutritional quality of particulate matter - the primary food source for zooplankton - showed potential deterioration, it did not significantly impact these marine consumers.



The researchers attributed this resilience to the oligotrophic (nutrient-poor) conditions of the subtropical waters, which may have buffered the zooplankton’s responses.



"Our study shows that the increase in alkalinity has minor impacts on the zooplankton and that the food web as a whole remains stable," said Nicolás Sánchez, Ph.D. student and first author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-in-climate-protection">Potential in climate protection</h2>



Ocean alkalinity enhancement holds promise as a powerful tool in the fight against climate change. 



By enhancing the ocean’s capacity to absorb CO2 without increasing acidity, OAE could play a vital role in buffering global warming.



It could bridge the gap during the transition to renewable energy, mitigate emissions from hard-to-decarbonize industries, and facilitate the safe removal of historical carbon emissions.



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



However, significant gaps in knowledge remain. The study, which was conducted in the nutrient-poor subtropical waters, provides a promising start but its findings cannot be generalized to all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-declared-ocean-pollutant-international-court-ruling/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine ecosystems</a>.



"Our experiment has shown that CO2-equilibrated OAE does not have a lasting impact on zooplankton and the food web in the nutrient-poor subtropical area we studied," said Sánchez.



"But this does not say anything about how it will affect other marine environments, nor about the safety of other, technically more feasible forms of OAE that cause greater changes to seawater chemistry."



The <a href="https://www.geomar.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GEOMAR</a> researchers stress the need for extensive investigations across diverse ecosystems and with various OAE approaches. These studies will be essential to develop a responsible framework for the application of alkalinity enhancement. 



"Our study is a promising first step towards defining a responsible framework for the application of alkalinity enhancement," Sánchez concludes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-alkalinity-as-a-climate-solution">Ocean alkalinity as a climate solution</h2>



While ocean alkalinity enhancement shows significant potential as a climate mitigation strategy, its implementation requires cautious, science-backed approaches.



This initial experiment demonstrates that moderate OAE interventions can be ecologically safe in specific conditions, but broader studies are crucial to address global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oceans-hidden-skin-could-protect-us-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine variability</a>.



By advancing research on OAE and understanding its implications, scientists can help ensure that this innovative approach becomes a safe and effective tool in the global effort to combat climate change.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.ado0264" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Ocean alkalinity may safely boost the carbon storage capacity of seawater

The ocean absorbs up to a third of the world's...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Older adults make decisions and take risks just like young people

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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



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



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



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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



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

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes the first comprehensive estimate of carbon density in the Saharan, Sahel, and Sudanian zones of Africa. In an effort to measure the amount of carbon stored across these drylands, a team of scientists used high-resolution satellite images and artificial intelligence to map nearly 10 billion individual trees. 



"The high spatial resolution (50 cm) combined with AI and field measurements used in this study is key to improving tree inventories in drylands," said Pierre Hiernaux, a French researcher working for NASA. "The ever-increasing availability of very high-resolution satellite imagery will make it possible to assess carbon pools and their dynamics at the individual tree level on a global scale."



"This study is exceptional because it is pioneering a type of approach that will revolutionize the monitoring of trees and forests on a global scale: in the short term, it will be possible to map the world's trees from the centre of the Amazon to our schoolyards," said <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en">INRAE</a> researcher Jean-Pierre Wigneron.



"Many fields of application will become much more efficient and accurate, such as tracking carbon stocks, biodiversity, monitoring logging and protection against illegal forest degradation, in near real time.”



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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.

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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How the immune system responds to injury

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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