<p>In Uganda’s Kibale National Park, scientists have spent years doing the slow, unglamorous work of catching tiny wasps. The payoff is big: a clearer map of “dark biodiversity” - the vast share of species that are poorly known or not yet described - and practical clues for how to protect it before it disappears.</p>



<p>Most of Earth’s species have never been formally documented, making them easy to overlook in conservation plans. Biologists call these overlooked lineages “dark taxa.” They are especially abundant in tropical forests, where species, habitats, and ecological roles remain thinly studied.</p>



<p>The Biodiversity Unit at the <a href="https://www.utu.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Turku</a> has made a specialty of unveiling this hidden diversity, describing new species each year, and building tools to slow global biodiversity loss.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-living-lab-for-biodiversity">A living lab for biodiversity</h2>



<p>Kibale National Park offers a mosaic of habitats. These include tracts of largely undisturbed forest, areas recovering from past logging, and nearby farmland. That patchwork allowed researchers to ask a simple but powerful question: where, exactly, is the unknown diversity concentrated?</p>



<p>The team focused on ichneumonid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-parasitic-wasps-quietly-crossed-oceans-now-thriving-in-u-s-oak-trees/">wasps</a> - one of the most diverse animal groups on the planet - and, within it, the subfamily Pimplinae.</p>



<p>These wasps don’t just buzz around flowers. They regulate other species by parasitizing the immature stages of insects and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-with-spiders-brain-suggests-arachnids-originated-in-the-sea/">spiders</a>, linking them tightly to the health of entire food webs.</p>



<p>“Ichneumonids are a very poorly known taxon in Africa - we estimate that over half of the species we found are new to science,” said doctoral researcher Emil Österman. </p>



<p>With so little baseline knowledge for tropical ichneumonids, the team used long-term, standardized sampling to see how Pimplinae diversity is distributed across Kibale’s different habitats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wasps-link-species-and-ecosystems">Wasps link species and ecosystems</h2>



<p>Because parasitoid wasps sit high in food webs, they are sensitive to disruptions below them. If the insects and spiders they rely on decline, parasitoids tend to follow. </p>



<p>That sensitivity makes Pimplinae useful indicators: shifts in their richness and abundance often mirror broader changes in biodiversity. The new work confirms what many ecologists have suspected but struggled to quantify in tropical Africa. </p>



<p>“Many of our finds weren't unexpected, but we didn't have data based on long-term collecting in the field," said Tapani Hopkins, a researcher with the Biodiversity Unit. </p>



<p>"Now we can tell in greater detail how many more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-owl-species-discovered-in-africa/">species</a> there are in natural forest, and to what extent disturbed or logged tropical forest can harbor species.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-farmland-cannot-match-forest-life">Farmland cannot match forest life</h2>



<p>The headline result is encouraging for conservation: intact forest in Kibale harbors especially rich Pimplinae communities. Secondary forest that is regrowing after logging also supports far more species than adjacent farmland.</p>



<p>In other words, protecting remaining forest is essential, and letting disturbed forest recover pays real biodiversity dividends.</p>



<p>“Our results clearly show that African forest, including forest that is recovering from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rainforests-replanted-seedlings-after-logging-do-not-recover-well/">logging</a>, maintains a species-rich Pimplinae fauna compared to, say, nearby farmland," Österman said. "Species-rich habitats can be considered especially valuable in conserving unknown dark biodiversity.” </p>



<p>That matters for policy and on-the-ground management. If you want to safeguard the most unknown species, prioritize forests - and don’t write off recovering stands. They’re already doing important work.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-forests-store-hidden-diversity">Global forests store hidden diversity</h2>



<p>The team also asked a bigger biogeographic question: how does African tropical diversity stack up against the New World? </p>



<p>Drawing on their parallel long-term collections in western Amazonia and Brazil’s coastal forests, the researchers found hints that South American rainforests may host even higher Pimplinae richness than Africa. However, African forests still harbor a rich fauna.</p>



<p>“Conserving dark taxa effectively requires a detailed knowledge of how biodiversity is distributed, both locally and at a global scale,” said Professor Ilari E. Sääksjärvi, who leads the Biodiversity Unit.</p>



<p>The comparison underscores a simple lesson: tropical forests on multiple continents are irreplaceable reservoirs of poorly known life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forest-biodiversity-loss-accelerates">Forest biodiversity loss accelerates</h2>



<p>Parasitoid wasps are only one window into dark biodiversity. But they tell a familiar story: clearing or simplifying forests causes losses to ripple upward. Protecting or allowing forests to recover lets complex communities rebound - including species we haven’t named yet.</p>



<p>The Kibale study shows <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodiversity-leaks-conservation-efforts-may-shift-harm-elsewhere/">conservation</a> can succeed despite limited taxonomy: protect habitats that concentrate hidden diversity. It also highlights the value of patient, long-term fieldwork in places where biodiversity is vanishing fastest.</p>



<p>“We will continue our field studies at different tropical forest sites, because that is where biodiversity is disappearing especially quickly. It is a fight against time. When a rainforest is destroyed, we lose countless species which we know nothing about,” Sääksjärvi concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://resjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/icad.70017" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Insect Conservation and Diversity</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Wasps shine a light on 'dark biodiversity' in rainforests

In Uganda’s Kibale National Park, scientists have spent years doing the slow, unglamorous work of catching tiny wasps. The payoff is big: a clearer map of “dark biodiversity” - the vast share of species that are poorly known or not yet described - and practical clues for how to protect it before it disappears. Most of Earth’s species have never been formally documented, making them easy to overlook in conservation plans. Biologists call these overlooked lineages “dark taxa.” They are especially abundant in tropical forests, where species,...

iron ore deposit - 1

<p>Many people find themselves disoriented when the clocks shift for the seasonal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/daylight-saving-time-has-little-influence-on-heart-health/">time change</a>. Our internal alarms can take days to settle, which may leave us feeling off-balance.</p>



<p>Some <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0317028" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experts</a> have been investigating how sled dogs in Ontario, Canada, respond to that same disruption. </p>



<p>They found that these working animals were so tied to their daily routine that it took them by surprise when handlers arrived an hour later than usual.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animals-clocks-and-routines">Animals, clocks, and routines</h2>



<p>We rely on Daylight Saving Time <a href="https://aa.usno.navy.mil/faq/daylight_time" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(DST)</a> to optimize daylight hours, yet not all creatures can adapt quickly. Sled teams in this recent study had been on strict schedules that revolved around the time of sunrise.</p>



<p>"I wasn't expecting any differences between the two groups [of dogs]," said <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Lavania-Nagendran" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lavania Nagendran</a>, a lead <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0317028" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researcher</a> at the <a href="https://www.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto</a>. She later explained that the working animals were tightly synchronized to their early start time.</p>



<p>Researchers placed <a href="https://global.epson.com/products_and_drivers/sensing_system/what_are_accelerometers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">accelerometers</a> on the dogs' collars to record their activity before and after the clocks went back. The team observed that, on the first morning of the shift, these animals were moving around about an hour earlier than usual.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pet-dogs-and-everyday-life">Pet dogs and everyday life</h2>



<p>In contrast, household companions of similar breeds showed no similar upheaval. Their extra hour of rest seemed to slip by without a fuss.</p>



<p>"Not all animals can just switch up their schedule based on human influences, [like changing the clocks]," said Ming Fei Li, the <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0317028" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">co-lead researcher</a>.</p>



<p>"When we've spoken to pet owners, everyone comments that, with that hour change, their dog or cat is up in the morning, going crazy, waiting to be fed," said Li, who observed no clear shift for household animals. She explained that their data contradicted the usual anecdotal complaints from owners.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-helping-animals-adjust-their-clocks">Helping animals adjust their clocks</h2>



<p>Experts have long <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23477947/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">noted</a> that people might experience fragmented sleep for up to a week after time adjustments. </p>



<p>Disrupted rest has even been linked to a spike in serious <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11152980/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">road crashes</a> right after clocks change.</p>



<p>This project is among the first to measure how domesticated canines respond to abrupt clock changes. </p>



<p>Within just a day, the group of working dogs returned to their usual schedule, while the pets barely seemed to notice any difference.</p>



<p>Handlers with strict timetables might consider shifting routine times in small increments before the official clock change. This gentle approach could <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/probiotics-help-overweight-dogs-shed-pounds/">help dogs</a> feel less rattled when sunrise no longer coincides with mealtime.</p>



<p>Pets with flexible routines may not need any special changes. Their behavior often shows surprising resilience when humans tamper with the daily clock.</p>



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



<p><a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosgenetics/article?id=10.1371/journal.pgen.1004016" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> wonder how these findings might apply to wolves, given that dogs diverged from wolf ancestors thousands of years ago. </p>



<p>It remains unclear whether wild canines would show the same one-day scramble to adjust, or be more resistant to the adjustment.</p>



<p>This question has sparked conversations about how domestication shapes an animal's internal clock. Most of our modern dog breeds share a genetic link with wolves but have adapted to human routines.</p>



<p>Early domestication likely favored animals that were comfortable living alongside humans. Over time, that compatibility included an ability to sleep and wake in sync with caregivers.</p>



<p>Future studies might explore whether wild relatives can handle abrupt time shifts or if they struggle to reset their daily rhythms. Answers to that could reveal new insights into canine adaptability.</p>



<p>Comparisons across species also show how biology and environment blend to shape behavior.<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-are-evolving-to-fit-the-modern-lives-of-humans/"> Dogs live </a>in a human-made world, so their responses to clock changes might differ from those of truly wild cousins.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-keeping-an-open-mind">Keeping an open mind</h2>



<p>Every dog is unique, and some may adapt more easily to seasonal schedule changes than others. External factors, like mealtime and exercise, can influence an animal's natural cycle.</p>



<p>Working animals rely on consistent daily patterns, from feeding times to training sessions. That routine could amplify their surprise when the clock switches overnight.</p>



<p>Pet dogs, in contrast, might lounge for an extra hour if no one is nudging them awake. Their laid-back lifestyle often shields them from abrupt schedule disruptions.</p>



<p>Experts note that minor tweaks to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-walking-improves-mobility-and-prevents-falls-in-older-adults/">mealtimes and walks</a> can smooth out this transition. Spreading those adjustments over a few days offers dogs a gentler shift in routine.</p>



<p>Such small steps may prevent confusion, especially for dogs that thrive on a predictable morning schedule. Even a half-hour move can be enough to avoid an early wake-up call.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-body-clocks-animals-and-humans">Body clocks, animals, and humans</h2>



<p>These observations add another layer to our understanding of how work-oriented and companion animals experience abrupt changes in their day-to-day flow and highlight the subtle effects of shifting external cues. </p>



<p>While many dogs seem to roll with life's shifts, an hour can still feel monumental when every meal, walk, and training session is truly anchored to a tightly orchestrated timetable.</p>



<p>For the curious, the official study was published in <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0317028" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>PLoS One</em></a>.</p>



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



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Pets and animals face internal chaos when you mess with their body clocks

Many people find themselves disoriented when the clocks shift for...

<p>Marine ecosystems rely on food webs that hinge on microscopic life. One creature in particular has drawn the attention of scientists because of its pivotal role in feeding relationships and ocean health.</p>



<p>Researchers have focused on <a href="https://oceana.org/marine-life/antarctic-krill/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic krill</a> as a critical link in food chains These small, shrimp-like <a href="https://www.britannica.com/animal/crustacean" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crustaceans</a> underpin the survival of large marine animals like whales, penguins, and seals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-ocean-color">Observing ocean color</h2>



<p>"Antarctic krill are the superheroes of the Southern Ocean. They are tiny, unsung heroes that sustain incredible marine life, but climate change and unsustainable fishing are putting them at risk," said <a href="https://www.arcticwwf.org/about/meet-the-team/downie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rod Downie</a>, chief polar adviser at the wildlife charity <a href="https://www.wwf.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WWF-UK</a>.</p>



<p>A new project aims to track these creatures by looking at subtle shifts in how seawater absorbs light. Scientists from the <a href="https://www.strath.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Strathclyde</a>, the <a href="https://www.worldwildlife.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WWF</a>, and the <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a> are working on this approach to gather precise population data.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-light-absorption-studies">Light absorption studies</h2>



<p>"We start with seawater, then we add in a krill and take a measurement [of how much light the water absorbs], then we add another krill and take another measurement." said <a href="https://pureportal.strath.ac.uk/en/persons/cait-mccarry-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr Cait McCarry</a>, who recently returned from Antarctica.</p>



<p>Her team believes those patterns of light absorption can reveal approximate numbers of krill from satellite images. </p>



<p>This method offers a way to observe vast stretches of the Southern Ocean without visiting them, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-lionfish-global-domination-mediterranean-sea-marine-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disturbing marine life</a> in any way.</p>



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



<p>Many conservation specialists worry that global warming will impact sea temperatures and threaten the survival of krill populations. Some <a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/climate-change" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experts</a> also question whether fishing pressures might weaken this vital link in the Antarctic ecosystem.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.int-res.com/abstracts/meps/v362/p1-23" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Research</a> on rising ocean temperatures shows potential shifts in krill distribution, which may affect predator populations. </p>



<p>Experts highlight the need for protective measures that balance commercial interests with protecting the ocean’s overall health.</p>



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



<p>"We urgently need to better manage the fishery and protect krill habitats within a network of marine protected areas. [This project could] give us a new tool to help monitor and safeguard this vital species," said Downie.</p>



<p>Krill also consume <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/features/Phytoplankton" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microscopic algae</a> that absorb carbon during photosynthesis. This exchange between animals and plants helps keep greenhouse gases in check, although the shifting climate adds extra stress on both sides of the chain.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whale-connections">Whale connections</h2>



<p>Some of the largest marine mammals depend on krill for nutrition. In turn, their waste releases nutrients that support the growth of more microscopic algae, which creates a <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/263782441_Whales_as_marine_ecosystem_engineers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">productive cycle</a> that benefits the entire region.</p>



<p>Scientists see krill as a linchpin in that nutrient exchange. If krill populatioins decrease, whales, seabirds, and even commercial fisheries could feel the repercussions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-monitoring-from-afar">Monitoring from afar</h2>



<p>Satellites help scientists capture changes across enormous swaths of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lobsters-are-ditching-their-old-habitats-for-open-water/">open water</a>. These images pick up small differences in color that are linked to krill abundance, enabling large-scale observations that were once impossible.</p>



<p>This process avoids intrusive sampling and offers consistent coverage over time. Researchers hope it will streamline the way in which they record shifts in krill hotspots.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-merging-new-and-old-methods">Merging new and old methods</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/project/krill-hotspots/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vessel-based surveys</a> have traditionally counted krill, but these can be costly and weather-dependent. Combining ship data with satellite insights may provide a fuller picture for conservation strategies.</p>



<p>Teams are testing how effectively remote readings match direct measurements. Accurate mapping could shape decisions about sustainable fishing quotas in Antarctic waters.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-relevance">Global relevance</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-krill-are-natures-unexpected-carbon-warriors/">Krill</a> might be small, but they are essential for the health of distant ecosystems that are connected by ocean currents. </p>



<p>Scientists emphasize that changes in krill populations can have ripple effects that influence biodiversity in regions far beyond Antarctic waters.</p>



<p>Some nations rely on krill as a fishery product for animal feed and human supplements. Striking a balance between utilization and preservation is critical for long-term ecological stability.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-ahead">Looking ahead</h2>



<p>Satellite monitoring may become a core part of Antarctic management strategies in the years to come. Many experts anticipate that this technology will strengthen our grasp on the ocean’s hidden patterns and guide policy decisions.</p>



<p>Researchers remain optimistic that a better understanding of krill numbers will be obtained by tracking their populations from space. They hope that this will boost conservation outcomes for every creature in these chilly waters. <br><br>This new research was detailed in press releases by the <a href="https://www.wwf.org.uk/press-release/krill-space-project-takes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>WWF</em></a> and the <a href="https://www.strath.ac.uk/whystrathclyde/news/2025/krillmonitoring/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>University of Strathclyde</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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

How satellites track Antarctic krill: Are these tiny ocean shrimp in danger?

Marine ecosystems rely on food webs that hinge on microscopic...

<p>Have you ever watched a school of fish gliding effortlessly through the water? Thousands of synchronized swimmers dart to and fro in perfect harmony, shifting directions in an instant as if guided by an unseen force.</p>



<p>It’s a mesmerizing spectacle - one that has fascinated scientists and nature lovers alike.</p>



<p>But have you ever pondered how these swimmers coordinate so effortlessly, despite having a limited view of their surroundings? What hidden cues influence each individual fish’s split-second decisions within the collective? </p>



<p>How do they perceive and respond to the fluid, ever-changing shoal dynamics around them?</p>



<p>These questions represent some of the captivating mysteries of collective animal behavior - a phenomenon that extends far beyond fish schools.</p>



<p>Scientists from the <a href="https://www.ab.mpg.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute</a> of Animal Behavior and the <a href="https://www.exc.uni-konstanz.de/collective-behaviour/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cluster of Excellence</a> "Collective Behaviour" set out to investigate.</p>



<p>The team has developed a non-invasive, 3D eye tracking method, which gives us a rare glimpse into the eye movements of fish based on video recordings.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexities-of-collective-animal-behavior">Complexities of collective animal behavior </h2>



<p>To appreciate the complexities of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-use-collective-behavior-to-reduce-energy-costs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collective behavior</a>, we must view the world as the fish does. Making sense of the retinal view of the fish in 3D is a crucial step in this process as we need to be able to follow the fish's gaze to determine which factors lead it to make a decision about its direction of movement.</p>



<p>Every shift in the school’s collective movement is an outcome of decisions made by each individual fish.</p>



<p>What influences a fish's decision to change its course? Which visual feature of a neighboring fish helps an individual with its navigation? How does the school react to this one fish's movement? </p>



<p>The answers to these questions lie in understanding the interactions among individuals in synchronized groups. This collective behavior is also seen in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-flocking-dynamics-inspire-advancements-in-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flocks of birds</a>, locust swarms, and large herds migrating across continents.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tools-of-discovery">Tools of discovery</h2>



<p>Applying computer vision to camera footage from both the lab and the field, the researchers tracked the position and body posture of each individual in a group.</p>



<p>The vast amount of data collected was analyzed every few milliseconds, allowing scientists to detect subtle shifts in movement and compare them with the responses of surrounding fish.</p>



<p>A crucial aspect of this research involved reconstructing each individual's visual field, which can provide insights into their perception and its impact on subsequent movement decisions. This method marks a significant leap in methodology in this domain of research.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reconstructing-fish-vision">Reconstructing fish vision</h2>



<p>The visual field of a freely-swimming fish isn't easily reconstructed. It needs to consider not only the eye position but also the body posture of the fish. </p>



<p>The researchers prioritized developing a method that required no interventions such as fitting the fish with an eyepiece.</p>



<p>"Our new, non-invasive method meets all these requirements," said Liang Li, who played a key role in developing the technology. </p>



<p>"Using the camera images, we reconstruct firstly the 3D body posture of the fish, secondly, the precise position of the eye - which, like for humans, can move in the eye socket - and thirdly, we reconstructed their retinal view, to see what they see."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-fish-behavior-in-3d">Analyzing fish behavior in 3D</h2>



<p>This new method marks a significant improvement, as it allows the behavior of fish to be analyzed in 3D. Traditional techniques based on 2D images couldn't capture the three-dimensional nature of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-three-fish-make-a-school-study-offers-surprising-insights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish schools</a>.</p>



<p>The method only requires a minimum of two cameras and the fish are left undisturbed, swimming freely in the tank. The more cameras added to the system, the more precise the analysis becomes.</p>



<p>"Understanding how animals perceive their environment and interact with social partners is critical for unravelling the mechanisms underlying collective behaviour," noted Li.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-a-fish-s-field-of-vision">Tracking a fish's field of vision</h2>



<p>This revolutionary approach has already been tested with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/goldfish-use-visual-cues-to-judge-how-far-they-have-traveled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">goldfish</a>, where researchers tracked the field of vision of a goldfish that was following another goldfish that swam ahead. </p>



<p>"The reconstruction of the retinal view revealed that goldfish dynamically adjust their eye movements so that the fish swimming ahead remains constantly in the center of their retina," explained study lead author Ruiheng Wu.</p>



<p>Furthermore, researchers observed that the eyes moved in opposite directions, a phenomenon known as "negative synchronization," rather than working in parallel. This enables a fish to observe the movement of two other fish, swimming on either side, at the same time.</p>



<p>In the future, the scientists would like to investigate whether the eyes of predatory fish align while the fish is focusing on prey.</p>



<p>This fascinating new methodology opens up intriguing new research possibilities in the realm of collective animal behavior.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-024-07322-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Biology</a></em>.</p>



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Fish eye tracking changes what we know about swarm behavior

Have you ever watched a school of fish gliding effortlessly...

<p>Cancer is sometimes described as the unchecked growth of abnormal cells. It is linked to all sorts of health issues, and doctors have spent years trying to find better ways to tackle it.</p>



<p>In a recent study, investigators reported the discovery of a molecular “switch” that seems to reverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-cancer-cell-death-may-transform-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">damaged cells</a> back into a more helpful condition.</p>



<p>The research was led by <a href="https://scholar.google.co.kr/citations?user=nTrFoYIAAAAJ&amp;hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kwang-Hyun Cho</a> of the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (<a href="https://www.kaist.ac.kr/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">KAIST</a>).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reprograming-cancer-cells">Reprograming cancer cells </h2>



<p>Most therapies focus on destroying cancer cells or removing them. This new approach is different because it directs abnormal <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/understanding/what-is-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cells</a> to change course.</p>



<p>Scientists tested the plan on lab-grown <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/organoid#:~:text=An%20organoid%20is%20generally%20defined,From%3A%20Engineering%2C%202022" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">organoids</a> made from colon tumors. They stopped the cells from going down the wrong path, which introduces the idea of an unexpected therapy option.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-the-research-matters">Why the research matters</h2>



<p>Experts say that too many cancer treatments harm healthy cells while trying to kill the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-lifetime-cancer-risk-may-be-established-before-we-are-born/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diseased ones</a>. The damage often leads to side effects and even long-term complications.</p>



<p>Dr. Tiffany Troso-Sandoval is a retired oncologist, formerly at <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center</a>, who was not involved in the study.</p>



<p>“This finding provides a new approach for cancer treatment by rewiring cancer cells rather than eliminating them,” said Dr. Troso-Sandoval. She believes this work might someday open safer treatment alternatives for those who need them.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-normal-cells-can-change">How normal cells can change</h2>



<p>Everything starts with DNA, the genetic code that tells cells how to function. When <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-discovery-about-cell-migration-will-help-defeat-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changes</a> build up in DNA, cells can start acting oddly.</p>



<p>At a certain point, these cells can switch from normal to malignant. This shift might be driven by carcinogens like chemicals in cigarette smoke or other harmful exposures. Once it happens, the body faces new challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-short-window-to-reverse-cancer-cells">Short window to reverse cancer cells</h2>



<p>The researchers found that there is a short interval when cells have both harmless and dangerous traits. During that moment, they are vulnerable to the right nudge.</p>



<p>The scientists observed a specific enzyme that stops certain proteins from breaking down. By interfering with that enzyme, the cells went back to operating as normal tissue.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-less-toxicity-fewer-worries">Less toxicity, fewer worries</h2>



<p>Chemotherapy and radiation are still mainstays in cancer care. However, they come with fatigue, hair loss, and other problems that many people dread.</p>



<p>If future work confirms that targeting these transitional cells is a safe strategy, patients might avoid some of the harsh downsides of cancer <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-games-could-accelerate-discoveries-in-cancer-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">therapy</a>. Lower toxicity may also mean a better quality of life.</p>



<p>This method could potentially slow or stop tumors before they truly get started. Some individuals with close relatives who have cancer might benefit from this discovery.</p>



<p>As soon as experts figure out how to track the early shifts in cells, doctors could potentially use this insight to steer risky tissues back to normal. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signals-that-control-cancer-cell-behavior">Signals that control cancer cell behavior</h2>



<p>Cho’s team watched how colon cells changed in tiny 3D cultures. These samples allowed the scientists to see the subtle shift in cell identity.</p>



<p>The study also highlighted the genetic networks at play. The data offer a map of which molecules push cells down dangerous roads.</p>



<p>No one is suggesting that surgeons can ditch their operating rooms tomorrow. Additional research must confirm the safety of reversing tumor cells inside the human body.</p>



<p>Animal tests, and eventually clinical trials, are needed to see if this plan works in real life. In time, it could be used alongside current therapies, giving doctors more choices.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perspectives-in-modern-oncology">Perspectives in modern oncology</h2>



<p>Scientists have learned a lot from advanced genetics tools. They can now see patterns in tumors that were invisible decades ago.</p>



<p>This has led to more refined solutions, including immunotherapies that harness the body’s own defenses. Reverting cells may add yet another tool to that kit, and each tool could serve a different need.</p>



<p>While the study was focused on colon tumors, the underlying process might affect other forms of the disease. </p>



<p>If these molecular signals apply to lung, breast, or other types of cancer cells, doctors may soon have a fresh way to respond. Labs around the world will likely explore that angle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-switching-harmful-cells-to-a-friendly-state">Switching harmful cells to a friendly state</h2>



<p>Scientists hope that mapping the triggers in each patient’s cells will yield precise <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-therapy-for-childhood-brain-cancer-halts-tumor-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">treatment options</a>.</p>



<p>When doctors can find the exact pathways that shift cells toward disease, they might dial those pathways back. As a result, the body may keep cells on a healthier track.</p>



<p>The researchers remain cautious about announcing any cures. They know from experience that early lab work can change once tested more broadly.</p>



<p>Regardless, there is much hope for a method that might switch harmful cells back to a friendlier state. It taps into a puzzle that scientists have studied for years.</p>



<p>Going forward, gathering more data on other cell types is a top priority. Scientists want to see if the same enzyme blockade works on different tissues.</p>



<p>They also aim to reveal more about how these transitional cells behave in diverse environments. Understanding that might help doctors find the perfect moment to act.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/advs.202412503" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Advanced Science</em></a>.</p>



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Breakthrough: Cancer cells have a molecular 'switch' that could be rewired to behave normally

Cancer is sometimes described as the unchecked growth of abnormal...

<p>Throughout history, Earth has faced cataclysmic events that reshaped its climate and ecosystems. Some of these events were triggered by asteroid impacts, leaving long-lasting effects on both land and sea. </p>



<p>Scientists continue to study these possibilities, not just to understand past extinctions but to prepare for potential future threats.</p>



<p>A recent study by researchers from the IBS Center for Climate Physics (<a href="https://ibsclimate.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICCP</a>) at <a href="https://www.pusan.ac.kr/eng/Main.do" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pusan National University</a> in South Korea explores what would happen if a medium-sized asteroid struck Earth.</p>



<p>Using advanced climate models, the research team simulated how such an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-asteroid-2024-yr4-has-a-chance-of-hitting-earth-in-2032/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact</a> could disrupt the atmosphere, weather patterns, and even global food security. </p>



<p>The findings reveal a world drastically altered, with some life struggling to survive while other forms unexpectedly thrive.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risk-of-an-asteroid-collision">Risk of an asteroid collision</h2>



<p>Earth is surrounded by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-ingredients-building-blocks-of-life-found-in-asteroid-bennu-dust-sample/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">countless objects</a> with relatively close orbits. Most pose no immediate threat, but some have collision probabilities that cannot be ignored.</p>



<p>One of the more notable objects is the asteroid Bennu, which measures about 500 meters in diameter. According to recent studies, there is a 1-in-2700 chance that Bennu could collide with Earth in September 2182.</p>



<p>To put that probability into perspective, it is similar to flipping a coin 11 times and getting the same outcome every time. </p>



<p>While such a scenario remains unlikely, the potential consequences are severe enough to warrant scientific investigation.</p>



<p>If an asteroid of this size were to strike, the damage would go far beyond the initial impact zone, triggering worldwide disruptions that could last for years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simulating-an-asteroid-impact">Simulating an asteroid impact</h2>



<p>To understand the potential consequences, researchers at <a href="https://ibsclimate.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICCP</a> created an advanced climate model to simulate a medium-sized asteroid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-large-asteroids-will-pass-near-earth-this-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">collision</a>. </p>



<p>Their model assumed that an impact would release several hundred million tons of dust into the upper atmosphere. This dust would block sunlight, triggering a global cooling event similar to what happened after massive volcanic eruptions in Earth's past.</p>



<p>Unlike previous studies, which focused mainly on atmospheric and temperature changes, this research also examined the effects on terrestrial and marine ecosystems. </p>



<p>The team wanted to determine how plant life, both on land and in the ocean, would respond to the sudden climate shift.</p>



<p>Using the IBS supercomputer Aleph, the researchers ran multiple scenarios, varying the amount of dust injected into the atmosphere. </p>



<p>The results showed widespread disruption to climate, atmospheric chemistry, and global photosynthesis for at least three to four years after the impact.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-changes-due-to-asteroid-collision">Climate changes due to asteroid collision</h2>



<p>The most extreme scenario revealed that solar dimming caused by dust would lead to a global surface cooling of up to 4°C. </p>



<p>This drop in temperature would have a severe <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-recent-mini-moon-2024-pt5-seems-to-be-a-lost-fragment-of-our-real-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact</a> on agriculture, making it harder for crops to grow in many parts of the world.</p>



<p>Rainfall would also decrease by around 15%, further worsening food production. In addition, the study predicted ozone depletion of about 32%, exposing life to harmful ultraviolet radiation.</p>



<p>While these changes would affect the entire planet, some regions would suffer more than others. Areas already prone to drought could experience even harsher conditions, while colder regions might see longer, more intense winters. </p>



<p>The disruptions would make it difficult for many species, including humans, to adapt quickly.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-on-land-and-ocean-ecosystems">Impact on land and ocean ecosystems</h2>



<p>Dr. Lan DAI, a postdoctoral research fellow at ICCP and lead author of the study, explained how these changes would affect ecosystems across the globe.</p>



<p>“The abrupt impact winter would provide unfavorable climate conditions for plants to grow, leading to an initial 20–30% reduction of photosynthesis in terrestrial and marine ecosystems. This would likely cause massive disruptions in global food security,” said Dr. Lan DAI.</p>



<p>While land plants would struggle with the sudden drop in temperature and reduced sunlight, the researchers found something surprising when they analyzed ocean plankton. </p>



<p>Unlike their land-based counterparts, plankton displayed an entirely different response to the impact.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-recovery-in-the-ocean">Surprising recovery in the ocean</h2>



<p>The computer models showed that while photosynthesis on land declined sharply, ocean plankton rebounded quickly. </p>



<p>Within six months, plankton levels returned to normal, and in some cases, they even surpassed pre-impact levels.</p>



<p>This unexpected recovery was linked to the composition of the asteroid dust and its climate impact.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/asteroid-impact-simulation_global-climate_plant-life_credit-IBS_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/asteroid-impact-simulation_global-climate_plant-life_credit-IBS_1s.webp" alt="Climatic and ecological responses to dust injections of 400 million tons from a Bennu-type asteroid impact. Spatial changes of surface temperature (upper left), total precipitation (upper right), percentage change of terrestrial net primary productivity (lower left) averaged over the first 24 months, and percentage change of marine net primary productivity (lower right) averaged from 10 to 38 months after the impact relative to the control simulation. Credit: Institute for Basic Science" class="wp-image-1959081"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Climatic and ecological responses to dust injections of 400 million tons from a Bennu-type asteroid impact. Spatial changes of surface temperature (upper left), total precipitation (upper right), percentage change of terrestrial net primary productivity (lower left) averaged over the first 24 months, and percentage change of marine net primary productivity (lower right) averaged from 10 to 38 months after the impact relative to the control simulation. Credit: Institute for Basic Science</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>“We were able to track this unexpected response to the iron concentration in the dust,” said Professor Axel Timmermann, Director of the ICCP and co-author of the study.</p>



<p>Iron is a critical nutrient for algae, and in some parts of the ocean, natural iron levels are extremely low. When the asteroid struck, it released iron-rich dust into the atmosphere, which eventually settled into the ocean.</p>



<p>This sudden influx of iron created ideal conditions for algae growth, particularly in nutrient-depleted regions like the Southern Ocean and the eastern tropical Pacific. The result was an explosion of marine productivity, with algae blooms spreading across large ocean areas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-boom-in-marine-life">Boom in marine life</h2>



<p>The study found that silicate-rich algae, known as diatoms, benefited the most from the increased iron levels. </p>



<p>These microscopic organisms form the base of the marine food chain, meaning their growth would attract higher levels of zooplankton, which feed on them. This process set off a chain reaction, boosting marine life at multiple levels.</p>



<p>“The simulated excessive phytoplankton and zooplankton blooms might be a blessing for the biosphere and may help alleviate emerging food insecurity related to the longer-lasting reduction in terrestrial productivity,” noted Dr. Lan DAI.</p>



<p>While terrestrial ecosystems would struggle for years after an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-test-simulation-shows-earth-not-prepared-prevent-large-asteroid-strike/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroid impact</a>, the ocean might become a refuge for certain species. This unexpected benefit could help balance some of the food shortages caused by declining crop yields on land.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-past-asteroid-strikes">Lessons from past asteroid strikes </h2>



<p>Medium-sized asteroids have collided with Earth approximately every 100,000 to 200,000 years. These events have left permanent marks on the planet’s geological and biological history. </p>



<p>Scientists believe that some of these impacts may have shaped human evolution by forcing early human populations to adapt to harsh environmental conditions.</p>



<p>“On average, medium-sized asteroids collide with Earth about every 100-200 thousand years. This means that our early human ancestors may have experienced some of these planet-shifting events before with potential impacts on human evolution and even our own genetic makeup,” said Professor Timmermann.</p>



<p>Studying these past events can help scientists understand how humanity might respond to a future impact. If a medium-sized asteroid were to strike again, modern technology and global cooperation could play a key role in minimizing its effects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asteroid-driven-climate-shifts-of-the-past">Asteroid-driven climate shifts of the past </h2>



<p>The ICCP researchers plan to expand their study by simulating how early human populations might have responded to asteroid-driven climate shifts. </p>



<p>Using agent-based computer models, they aim to recreate the survival strategies of ancient humans as they faced drastic environmental changes.</p>



<p>Understanding past events is crucial, but preparing for the future is just as important. While the chances of an asteroid collision remain low, having scientific models in place can help policymakers and researchers develop strategies to mitigate potential risks. </p>



<p>From planetary defense initiatives to climate adaptation plans, the knowledge gained from these studies could one day prove vital for protecting life on Earth.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adq5399" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.</em></p>



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What would happen if a small asteroid hit Earth? Scientists have an idea

Throughout history, Earth has faced cataclysmic events that reshaped its...

Earth,Inner,Structure.,Elements,Of,This,Image,Furnished,By,Nasa

<p>Hidden beneath layers of rock and molten metal, Earth's inner core has long been viewed as a solid sphere. However, a recent study suggests that the surface of the inner core is undergoing structural alterations and is currently changing shape.</p>



<p>This implies that Earth's center is far more dynamic than previously believed, which could completely transform our understanding of the planet's evolution, its magnetic field, and the way in which it rotates.</p>



<p>These revelations not only deepen our knowledge of Earth’s interior but also raise intriguing questions about the forces at play beneath our feet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-earth-s-interior-the-basics">Understanding Earth's interior - the basics</h2>



<p>Earth’s interior is like a giant layer cake with four main layers: the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core. </p>



<p>The crust is the thin, outermost layer where we live, and it’s broken into massive plates that constantly shift. Beneath it, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-volcanic-hotspots-are-all-connected-to-earths-interior-mantle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the mantle</a> extends about 1,800 miles deep and is made of hot, semi-solid rock that slowly moves. </p>



<p>This movement drives plate tectonics, causing earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and even the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-sunken-oceans-discovered-between-earth-core-and-mantle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">formation of mountains</a> over millions of years. </p>



<p>The deeper you go, the hotter it gets, with temperatures in the mantle reaching thousands of degrees.</p>



<p>Beneath the mantle, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doughnut-shaped-region-discovered-in-earths-liquid-core-impacts-our-magnetic-field/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the outer core</a> consists of molten iron and nickel, swirling around and creating Earth’s magnetic field. </p>



<p>This invisible shield protects us from harmful solar radiation and keeps compasses pointing north. At the very center, the inner core is a solid ball of iron and nickel, hotter than the surface of the sun - over 9,000°F. </p>



<p>Despite the intense heat, the crushing pressure keeps it solid. Scientists can’t drill that deep, so they study seismic waves from earthquakes to understand what’s going on down there, which is how this study was conducted.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-earth-s-inner-core">New perspective on Earth's inner core</h2>



<p>The inner core, which is located 3,000 miles (4,800 kilometers) below the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-warming-earths-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s surface</a>, was presumed to be a solid sphere.</p>



<p>In the current study, the scientists were primarily interested in understanding the way in which the inner core rotates, and in mapping its decelerating movement. </p>



<p>They set out to explore why the inner core appeared to rotate at a rate that was slower than Earth's rotation before speeding up again in 2010.</p>



<p>To investigate, the experts analyzed decades of seismic data, which led to their unexpected discovery that the surface of the inner core is changing shape.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-driven-by-seismic-waves">Driven by seismic waves</h2>



<p>In the analysis of multiple seismic waveforms, a particular set of data stood out as unusual. Further analysis of this data led to the conclusion that the Earth's inner core is not solid but is able to change shape.</p>



<p>The methodology was simple. The scientists leveraged seismic waveform data from various earthquakes that occurred between 1991 and 2024 near the South Sandwich Islands in Antarctica.</p>



<p>Analysis of these waveforms revealed one dataset with unprecedented characteristics, which hinted at physical upheavals inside the inner core.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-transformative-inner-core">The transformative inner core</h2>



<p>The analysis of this extensive data set revealed a dynamic process that was previously unaccounted for in geological models.</p>



<p>The seismic waveform data suggested that the inner core is dynamic and is undergoing continuous and complex temporal reshaping. This challenges the notion of the inner core's long-term stability.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/earth-inner-core_not-solid_shape-shifting_credit-USC_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/earth-inner-core_not-solid_shape-shifting_credit-USC_1s.webp" alt="The Earth's internal layers including the mantle, outer core and inner core. New research shows the inner core undergoes structural transformation likely caused by outer core disturbance. Credit: USC Graphic/Edward Sotelo" class="wp-image-1959640"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>The Earth's internal layers including the mantle, outer core and inner core. New research shows the inner core undergoes structural transformation likely caused by outer core disturbance. Credit: USC Graphic/Edward Sotelo</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>The researchers found that the inner core’s shallow boundary may undergo viscous deformation, which gradually and repeatedly alters its shape due to the intense pressures and interactions with the turbulent outer core.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-turbulent-outer-core">The turbulent outer core</h2>



<p>The researchers noted that the physical interactions between the inner and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-outer-core-is-its-largest-carbon-reservoir/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">outer core</a> seem to be triggering these structural changes.</p>



<p>The molten outer core, with its turbulence, was never before known to disrupt its inner counterpart within a human timescale.</p>



<p>Now, however, it appears that the outer core is disturbing the inner core by forcing the deformation of its surface layer. This opens up a window to explore the previously hidden dynamics within the Earth's core.</p>



<p>Professor John Vidale, who led the research, believes that the edges of the inner core may have deformed by over 100 meters in some areas.</p>



<p>"In all likelihood, this finding doesn't affect our daily lives one iota, but we really want to understand what's happening in the middle of the Earth," said Professor Vidale.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-implications-of-the-research">Further implications of the research </h2>



<p>This revelation has the power to improve our comprehension of Earth’s thermal and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-has-a-dent-and-nasa-is-watching-closely/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic fields</a>. It also sheds new light on the intricate interactions between the inner and outer core.</p>



<p>According to the researchers, it is possible that these changes are linked to alterations in Earth's magnetic field.</p>



<p>"The magnetic field has had jerks at various times in the past few decades, and we'd like to know if that is related to what we're seeing at the inner core boundary," said Professor Vidale.</p>



<p>A clearer understanding of these processes could refine our models of geomagnetic field generation, plate tectonics, and even the planet’s long-term climate stability. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-many-questions-remain">Many questions remain </h2>



<p>This study not only challenges existing geological models but also serves as a reminder that even the most fundamental aspects of our planet remain open to re-examination. </p>



<p>In this instance, the inner core - once thought to be a static, solid mass - appears to be in constant motion, changing and shape-shifting over time.</p>



<p>Yet, many questions remain. What governs the pace of these changes? How do they influence the broader geodynamic processes of our planet? Could similar mechanisms be at play in the cores of other celestial bodies? </p>



<p>As technology advances and seismic data grows more precise, the inner depths of our planet will no longer be a distant enigma but a frontier waiting to be explored fully.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-025-01642-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Geoscience</a></em>.</p>



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Earth’s inner core is not solid, it is 'shape-shifting' - time for textbooks to be rewritten

Hidden beneath layers of rock and molten metal, Earth's inner...

<p>An artificial intelligence (AI) tool has been developed to predict the habitat of endangered whales, helping to reduce deadly ship strikes and promote responsible ocean development. The tool was designed by researchers at Rutgers University-New Brunswick.</p>



<p>By analyzing vast datasets, the AI model improves existing monitoring techniques, offering a more precise way to track the movements of the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale.</p>



<p>This species has been listed as endangered under the <a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies/endangered-species-act" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Endangered Species Act</a> since 1970. Currently, the whales have an estimated population of only 370 individuals, including around 70 reproductively active females, according to the <a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/north-atlantic-right-whale" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration</a> (NOAA).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-whale-movements-with-ai">Mapping whale movements with AI</h2>



<p>The project was led by Ahmed Aziz Ezzat, an assistant professor in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering at <a href="https://newbrunswick.rutgers.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rutgers</a>’ School of Engineering.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Ezzat collaborated with Josh Kohut, a Rutgers professor of marine sciences, and doctoral student Jiaxiang Ji, who is the study’s first author.</p>



<p>Professor Kohut likened the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-helps-humans-have-20-minute-conversation-with-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a> model’s function to tracking human movement patterns in a household, where factors like food in the kitchen or a television in the den influence where people gather at specific times.</p>



<p>“With this program, we’re correlating the position of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-whales-use-songs-to-hide-from-predators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whale</a> in the ocean with environmental conditions,” Kohut explained. “This allows us to become much more informed on decision making about where the whales might be.”</p>



<p>“We can predict the time and location that represents a higher probability for whales to be around. This will enable us to implement different mitigation strategies to protect them.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-tools-for-the-blue-economy">Valuable tools for the blue economy</h2>



<p>The researchers initially aimed to create high-resolution habitat models to support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/offshore-wind-farms-threaten-electric-sensitive-sharks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">offshore wind farm</a> development. However, their findings have broader implications, prompting them to publicly share additional details as part of their study.</p>



<p>“These tools are valuable and would solidly benefit anyone engaged in the blue economy - including fishing, shipping and developing alternative forms of energy sustainably,” said Ezzat.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This approach can support a wise and environmentally responsible use of these waters so that we achieve our economic objectives, and at the same time make sure that we cause minimal to no harm to the environmental habitat of these creatures.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-ai-enhances-whale-tracking">How AI enhances whale tracking</h2>



<p>Unlike traditional programs that operate on fixed instructions, the machine-learning model used in this study analyzed massive datasets to detect patterns and refine its predictions over time.</p>



<p>“The outcome of the machine-learning model is basically a prediction of where and when you will have a higher likelihood of encountering a marine mammal,” Ezzat said, describing it as a “probability map.”</p>



<p>The model integrated data from the <a href="https://rucool.marine.rutgers.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rutgers University Center for Ocean Observing Leadership</a>, which has been gathering whale detection and oceanographic data since 1992. The analysis also incorporated satellite data from the <a href="https://www.udel.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Delaware</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leveraging-ocean-data-for-conservation">Leveraging ocean data for conservation</h2>



<p>To build an accurate predictive tool, the researchers used two primary sources of oceanographic data: autonomous underwater gliders and satellite-based measurements.</p>



<p>Underwater gliders, torpedo-shaped robotic vessels, collect real-time information on seawater temperature, salinity, currents, and chlorophyll levels. They also use sonar to assess fish populations and record whale vocalizations, allowing researchers to pinpoint their locations.</p>



<p>Meanwhile, satellite data provides broader environmental context, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-are-substantially-changing-the-seasons-of-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea surface temperature</a>, water color, and oceanic fronts—factors that influence whale distribution.</p>



<p>“We’ve had the data but, until now, we’ve not been able to put the two sets – those detections of where the whales are, and what the environment is like at those places - together,” Kohut said. “This is a demonstration of the power of employing AI methodologies to advance our ability to predict or estimate where these whales are.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-whales-with-ai">Protecting whales with AI</h2>



<p>By harnessing AI to integrate decades of environmental and whale tracking data, the Rutgers team has developed a powerful tool to improve conservation efforts, mitigate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-new-approach-to-protecting-whales-from-ship-strikes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ship collisions</a>, and support sustainable ocean development.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As human activities increasingly intersect with marine ecosystems, this AI-driven approach provides a critical step toward protecting North Atlantic right whales and ensuring responsible management of ocean resources.</p>



<p>The study was published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-80084-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Scientific Reports</em></a>.</p>



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AI predicts whale movements to reduce deadly ship strikes

An artificial intelligence (AI) tool has been developed to predict...

<p>It was first spotted in 1911 by the Australian geologist Griffith Taylor and has captivated explorers ever since. This crimson feature, known as Blood Falls, emerges from the pristine white surface of Taylor Glacier in East Antarctica and splashes onto the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-free-zones-found-in-antarctica-were-recently-mapped-for-the-first-time-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">icy terrain</a> below.</p>



<p>This strange spectacle has generated curiosity for over a century. </p>



<p>According to <a href="https://lanlexperts.elsevierpure.com/en/persons/chris-g-carr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chris Carr</a>, a glaciologist at Los Alamos National Laboratory (<a href="https://www.lanl.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LANL</a>) and lead author of a recent <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2021JF006325" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>, experts are still working to uncover the exact trigger behind the waterfall’s unpredictable flow.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-stays-liquid-at-blood-falls">Water stays liquid at Blood Falls</h2>



<p>Blood Falls does not flow year-round, but it stands out because the water beneath the glacier remains liquid, despite the intense cold of the surroundings.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-glaciology/article/an-englacial-hydrologic-system-of-brine-within-a-cold-glacier-blood-falls-mcmurdo-dry-valleys-antarctica/B5C197906AD54619AEA26068AD92989A" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Researchers</a> have traced this salty water to a hidden reservoir below <a href="https://www.swisseduc.ch/glaciers/antarctic/dry_valleys/taylor_glacier/index-en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Taylor Glacier</a> that retains heat more effectively than ordinary freshwater. </p>



<p>The high salinity also lowers its freezing point, which means that the water remains fluid in the harsh <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-melting-ice-shelves-threaten-global-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic</a> temperatures.</p>



<p>Some investigators have suggested that the reservoir may be an ancient body of marine water, possibly trapped millions of years ago. </p>



<p>The water then seeps out through cracks and channels inside the glacier, and bursts onto the surface at irregular intervals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-otherworldly-color">An otherworldly color</h2>



<p>It looks frightening, yet the color is not from blood. The hue is the result of <a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-oxidation-in-chemistry-605456" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oxidation</a>, a chemical process that happens when the iron-rich brine meets oxygen in the open air. </p>



<p>With each splash, more iron reacts and coats the ice with a rusty stain.</p>



<p>Researchers once attributed the crimson color to red algae, but that theory was eventually dismissed. </p>



<p>Careful chemical analyses subsequently identified <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/astronomy-and-space-sciences/articles/10.3389/fspas.2022.843174/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iron compounds</a> that darken the flow of water, making it a deep, ruddy color.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-puzzle-of-seasonal-flow">A puzzle of seasonal flow</h2>



<p>Winter is a hostile time in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-patterns-point-to-rapid-melting-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctica</a>, with temperatures that plummet far below freezing point.</p>



<p>Scientists were stunned to see that the water in Blood Falls continued gushing in these icy conditions. </p>



<p>There was hope that capturing the waterfall on camera would reveal some type of seismic activity linked to cracks in the ice. The sensors did record tiny shifts, yet none seemed to cause the brine flow.</p>



<p>That left experts scratching their heads. <a href="https://ceoas.oregonstate.edu/directory/erin-pettit" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Erin Pettit</a>, a glaciologist at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> and co-author of several Blood Falls investigations, <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2021JF006325" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">commented</a> on this anomaly.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We were just throwing out the most bizarre ideas because none of it made sense and we didn’t have very much data to draw from,” said Pettit. </p>



<p>The presence of wintertime flow has led researchers to guess that changes deep under the glacier might be involved.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teeming-with-hidden-life">Teeming with hidden life</h2>



<p>The brine at Blood Falls is by no means lifeless. Scientists have learned that it contains microorganisms adapted to an environment where sunlight is scarce and nutrients are locked beneath layers of ice.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.lpi.usra.edu/meetings/earlymars2004/pdf/8023.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> show that some microbes can feed on the iron and sulfur compounds, and glean energy from these chemical reactions instead of from sunlight.</p>



<p>Some experts see parallels between these microbes and the types of life that might exist on other icy worlds. </p>



<p>The protective blanket of ice, combined with salty subglacial waters, offers a hint of how life could persist in hidden pockets far from the Sun’s reach.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-falls-glaciers-and-other-planets">Blood Falls, glaciers and other planets</h2>



<p>The existence of brine in such a frigid place challenges older views about the limitations of cold glaciers. </p>



<p>“Researchers had assumed that any water would freeze solid, yet Taylor Glacier is known as the coldest glacier to have a steady flow of liquid water,” said Pettit in a <a href="https://www.uaf.edu/news/archives/news-archives-2010-2021/researchers-solve-the-100-year-old-mystery-of-blood-falls.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">press release</a>.</p>



<p>Those observations carry weight for our broader understanding of subglacial hydrology. </p>



<p>Data gathered at Blood Falls can guide future exploration of other cold glaciers on Earth and spark new ideas about possible habitats beneath the ice caps on Mars or Jupiter’s moon, Europa.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-falls-remains-a-puzzle">Blood falls remains a puzzle</h2>



<p>The exact cause of each outflow remains uncertain. Some propose that internal pressure builds in the subglacial reservoir until the water finds a weak point to burst through. </p>



<p>Others question if slight shifts in the glacier’s movement open narrow pathways that allow the <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2018JG004411" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brine</a> to escape.</p>



<p>Either way, each sudden pulse of red fluid reminds us that certain glacial processes occur on unpredictable schedules.</p>



<p>New technologies such as specialized radar and melting probes are helping scientists view these hidden systems more precisely. </p>



<p>Each time the crimson water appears, additional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emergency-meeting-reveals-the-alarming-extent-of-antarcticas-ice-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">observations</a> could provide clues about what sparks each discharge.</p>



<p>For now, Blood Falls stands as a striking reminder of Earth’s many surprises.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-blood-falls-research-is-important">Why Blood Falls research is important</h2>



<p>Antarctica’s secrets extend well beyond the bright red flow in Taylor Valley. Studying Blood Falls takes grit, funding, and strict protocols for working in polar conditions. </p>



<p>Field camps must be set up, gear transported, and delicate instruments installed, all without contaminating the pristine environment or endangering the research team.</p>



<p>This waterfall may look like a small trickle in a gigantic frozen desert, but it represents a bigger story of geological persistence. </p>



<p>The briny discharge hints at a vast hidden <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-sheet-past-present-and-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> network and the remarkable endurance of life where few would expect it.</p>



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



<p>Image credit: National Science Foundation (<a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NSF</a>)/Peter Rejcek</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2021JF006325" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of Geophysical Research: Earth Surface</em></a>.</p>



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"Blood Falls" is a dark red waterfall in Antarctica that remains a scientific mystery

It was first spotted in 1911 by the Australian geologist...

<p>Observers watching baboons in Namibia were impressed when they saw how the baboons responded to glowing spots shone onto their arms and legs. They poked and scratched at these bright areas with evident curiosity, hinting at a level of awareness about what appeared on their own bodies. </p>



<p>However, the mood changed when those same spots were placed on baboon body parts that were only visible in a mirror.</p>



<p>Although they sometimes stared at their own reflection, the baboons showed no indication that they knew the marks in the mirror were on themselves.</p>



<p>Dr. Alecia Carter, affiliated with University College London (<a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/anthropology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCL Anthropology</a>), led a field study tracking these baboons over several months. Her team documented how baboons interacted with laser marks and mirrors while in a wide-open habitat.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-recognition-in-animals">Self-recognition in animals</h2>



<p>The mirror test has long been used to examine whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-animal-will-replace-humans-as-earths-dominant-species-this-scientist-has-an-idea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> recognize a reflected image as their own. </p>



<p>Psychologist Gordon Gallup was among the first to observe that some great apes touched paint marks on their heads when placed in front of mirrors.</p>



<p>Subsequent efforts revealed that <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC33317" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dolphins</a> and a few <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.0608062103" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">elephants</a> also showed behavior suggesting they noticed marks on their bodies through reflection. </p>



<p>These findings inspired further research into how different animals handle the challenge of seeing themselves.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-baboons-were-chosen">Why baboons were chosen </h2>



<p>Scientists wanted to see if wild baboons that had never been in captivity, would respond differently than <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-monitoring-will-help-protect-endangered-spider-monkeys/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> in controlled environments.</p>



<p>Many earlier studies used limited samples, often involving apes or monkeys that were kept in enclosures where mirrors might not be entirely new.</p>



<p>Chacma baboons flourish in Namibia’s drier areas and do not often encounter reflective surfaces. This made them good candidates for determining whether they would link the moving shapes in a mirror to their own bodies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baboons-with-mirrors-and-laser-spots">Baboons with mirrors and laser spots</h2>



<p>Researchers introduced small safety mirrors near spots where baboons congregate. They then used laser pointers to place harmless green or red marks on the baboons’ fur, targeting areas that were visible without a mirror and other places that were only visible when looking at a reflection.</p>



<p>Baboons frequently touched or scratched at marks they could see right away. Yet the animals showed no equivalent reaction to marks that were only apparent in a mirror.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-results-of-the-baboon-mirror-test">Results of the baboon mirror test</h2>



<p>“The Chacma baboons we observed in Tsaobis Nature Park certainly enjoyed using the mirrors as a new toy, but throughout our study they didn’t quite understand that the mirror’s reflection represented their own bodies,” said Dr. Carter.</p>



<p>She and her collaborators believe it confirms a pattern seen in many monkey species that do not show full self-recognition in mirrors.</p>



<p>“Monkeys don’t spontaneously recognize themselves in a mirror,” noted corresponding author Esa A. Ahmad, who helped analyze the data. </p>



<p>The experts explained that this latest work adds to a broader discussion about which mental abilities are needed to pass mirror tests.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-about-other-species">What about other species?</h2>



<p>Some great apes, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-apes-will-suffer-through-frequent-and-extreme-climate-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chimpanzees</a>, bonobos, and orangutans, have been documented to pass mirror mark tests. </p>



<p>Researchers also mention bottlenose dolphins, Asian elephants, and certain birds, like <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2517622/">magpies</a>, that appear to notice a mark when seeing it in a reflection.</p>



<p>Domestic cats, dogs, and most monkeys typically fail to show convincing self-recognition. Scientists point out that these animals may rely more on other senses, so a mirror might not be the best measure of how they perceive themselves.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-possible-future-directions">Possible future directions</h2>



<p>Some experts suggest that alternative experiments might capture different kinds of self-awareness in species that depend less on vision. </p>



<p>Scent-based or social-behavior tasks could reveal that some animals are aware of their identity but do not prove it through mirror-based tests.</p>



<p>Meanwhile, wild baboon research highlights the role of age and temperament. Younger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whale-travels-farther-than-any-mammal-ever-recorded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> showed more interest in new objects or stimuli, while older ones often lost curiosity fast, which might influence how they respond to novel visual scenarios.</p>



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



<p>Understanding how self-awareness varies across species can shift how people view intelligence and cognition in non-human animals. </p>



<p>These mirror-based observations open deeper questions about whether awareness looks the same in every creature, given that some use their visual sense more than others.</p>



<p>Many anthropologists see such findings as a window into evolutionary processes that shape thinking and perception. </p>



<p>Insights from field studies add a fresh dimension, since animals roam and behave naturally, away from the artificial conditions of captivity.</p>



<p>The mirror test has drawn <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2023/04/fish-mirrors-animal-cognition-self-awareness-science/673718/">criticism</a> for its emphasis on the sense of sight. Yet, it remains a straightforward way to check if an animal perceives the reflection as an extension of itself.</p>



<p>The baboons gave scientists plenty to think about by investigating visible marks but ignoring those that only appeared in the mirror. Researchers plan to refine methods further and explore alternative signals of self-awareness out in the wild.</p>



<p>The study was published in the <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2024.1933" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences</em></a>.</p>



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Baboons don't pass the 'self-aware' mirror test, yet many other land and sea animals do

Observers watching baboons in Namibia were impressed when they saw...

<p>Music has a profound effect on human emotions. Some people experience deep joy from listening to a favorite song, while others remain indifferent. However, one response seems universal - the instinct to move to a beat. </p>



<p>A new study led by Concordia University researchers reveals that the urge to move to music exists independently of musical enjoyment.</p>



<p>This discovery challenges the assumption that pleasure and movement are always connected in musical experiences. The research focused on individuals with musical anhedonia, a condition where people do not feel joy from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-has-the-power-to-change-the-mood-of-our-memories/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a>. </p>



<p>Despite their lack of musical pleasure, they still exhibited a natural tendency to move to rhythm.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-movement-without-musical-enjoyment">Movement without musical enjoyment</h2>



<p>The study, led by PhD student Isaac Romkey, examined how people with musical anhedonia respond to rhythmic patterns. The researchers tested their reactions to over 50 short musical pieces, comparing them with individuals who enjoy music.</p>



<p>Participants with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/live-music-connects-people-emotionally-and-physically/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musical</a> anhedonia were carefully selected. They had to experience pleasure from other activities like food or physical intimacy. This ensured that their lack of response to music was not part of a broader emotional or neurological issue. </p>



<p>Additionally, they had to show normal pitch and rhythm perception and could not have depression, which might affect their emotional responses.</p>



<p>After listening to each piece, participants rated both their level of enjoyment and how much they wanted to move. The researchers expected those with anhedonia to report less pleasure but still feel the natural urge to move to groovy music.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-findings-in-groove-response">Unexpected findings in groove response</h2>



<p>Romkey and his team had a clear expectation based on previous research. </p>



<p>“Normally, we would expect to see an inverted U-shaped response to rhythmic complexity, meaning that we want to move to music that is of medium complex rhythms as opposed to music that is very simple or very complex,” said Romkey. </p>



<p>However, the results did not align with this prediction. People with musical anhedonia did not show lower groove responses than the control group. </p>



<p>Instead, their results suggested that movement itself could generate pleasure, even when the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-music-affects-a-babys-heartbeat-before-birth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a> was not inherently enjoyable to them.</p>



<p>For individuals with musical anhedonia, the instinct to move seemed to override their usual lack of enjoyment. This finding suggests that rhythm and movement play a more fundamental role in musical experiences than previously believed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-brain-responds-to-rhythm">How the brain responds to rhythm</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/song-melodies-have-become-much-simpler-since-1950/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Music</a> affects multiple areas of the brain. Romkey and his colleagues believe that the urge to move is linked to the dorsal striatum, a brain region involved in motor control. </p>



<p>Pleasure, on the other hand, is primarily associated with the ventral striatum, which is responsible for reward, motivation, and goal-directed behavior.</p>



<p>This distinction may explain why people with musical anhedonia still feel compelled to move to music. Even if their ventral striatum does not respond strongly to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-music-help-plants-grow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a>, their dorsal striatum remains active, triggering movement and possibly generating pleasure through physical engagement.</p>



<p>Romkey and his team are now working to explore this connection further. </p>



<p>“For future studies, we are going to look at differences in functional and structural connectivity in the brain between anhedonics and controls in the dorsal and ventral striatum using imaging techniques including MRI and magnetoencephalography,” he said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-are-less-likely-to-move-to-music">Some are less likely to move to music</h2>



<p>The reasons behind musical anhedonia remain largely unknown, but evidence suggests a genetic component. Some people may be born with differences in how their brain processes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/live-music-evokes-stronger-emotions-than-streamed-music/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musical pleasure</a>. </p>



<p>The fact that these individuals still respond to rhythm with movement suggests that the ability to groove is deeply ingrained in human biology.</p>



<p>This research could lead to a better understanding of why music is such a universal aspect of human culture. Even for those who do not experience musical pleasure in the typical sense, rhythm remains a powerful force that influences physical behavior.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-research-on-musical-response">Expanding research on musical response</h2>



<p>Romkey’s study opens the door for further research on how movement and music interact. His team, which includes researchers from <a href="https://www.concordia.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Concordia University</a> and <a href="https://international.au.dk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aarhus University</a>, plans to expand their work using advanced brain imaging methods.</p>



<p>By studying the brain’s response to rhythm and movement, they hope to uncover more about how music affects people on a neurological level. The findings could have implications beyond music, potentially influencing research on movement disorders, therapy, and human social interactions.</p>



<p>This study highlights the complexity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-reveals-which-brain-areas-are-affected-by-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musical experience</a>. Even those who do not feel pleasure from music still engage with it physically - revealing how deeply rhythm is embedded in the human mind and body.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0312030" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS One</a>.</em></p>



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Why your body moves to music even if you don’t enjoy it

Music has a profound effect on human emotions. Some people...

<p>Minecraft is more than just a globally popular video game. With over 141 million active players, it has become a virtual space where children explore, create, and interact. </p>



<p>Beyond its entertainment value, researchers at the University of South Australia have found that Minecraft plays a significant role in shaping children's development, social interactions, and cognitive learning.</p>



<p>The study highlights how collaborative play within the game encourages teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.</p>



<p>As children engage with others in real-time, they develop key skills that extend beyond the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-games-could-accelerate-discoveries-in-cancer-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">game</a>. Minecraft is no longer just a pastime; it is a digital environment where young minds grow and evolve.</p>



<p>As more schools integrate Minecraft Education Edition into their curricula, parents and educators need to understand how children interact within these spaces. The game presents opportunities for learning, but also includes challenges that require guidance and supervision.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minecraft-in-social-and-cognitive-development">Minecraft in social and cognitive development</h2>



<p>Dr. Vincenza (Enza) Tudini, a researcher at <a href="https://www.unisa.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UniSA</a>, believes Minecraft provides a valuable platform for creativity, learning, and social development.</p>



<p>“From what we see of children’s interactions on Minecraft, it’s far more than just a digital pastime; it’s a virtual playground where children can develop problem-solving skills, collaboration, and language abilities,” said Dr. Tudini.</p>



<p>The game promotes pro-social behavior, with players often greeting each other and providing positive feedback during play. Unlike many video <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-games-can-rewind-the-clock-on-cognitive-performance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">games</a> that focus on scoring points or defeating opponents, Minecraft allows for open-ended exploration. </p>



<p>This freedom encourages creativity and helps children build social connections as they navigate challenges together.</p>



<p>Additionally, Minecraft contributes to language development and digital literacy. Whether they are playing, watching tutorials, or discussing strategies with peers, children absorb new vocabulary and communication skills. </p>



<p>These interactions help them develop confidence in expressing ideas while improving their ability to collaborate effectively.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-developing-teamwork-skills">Developing teamwork skills</h2>



<p>One of Minecraft’s strongest features is its ability to develop problem-solving and teamwork skills. The game presents obstacles that players must overcome using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-gaming-can-boost-well-being-and-life-satisfaction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creativity</a> and strategic thinking. </p>



<p>Children often work together to complete tasks, whether constructing buildings, surviving in dangerous environments, or creating intricate in-game mechanisms.</p>



<p>“We also see many instances where knowledgeable players are actively guiding less experienced players through challenges. Such scaffolded-learning supports creative thinking, motivation and growth, and because it’s peer-delivered, it builds team-skills and confidence,” explained Dr. Tudini.</p>



<p>This peer-supported learning model allows experienced players to mentor newer ones, reinforcing their own understanding while helping others grow. As children navigate these challenges together, they learn valuable lessons about cooperation, patience, and leadership.</p>



<p>Unlike traditional competitive games that focus on individual success, Minecraft fosters collective achievement. Players often set goals that require teamwork, such as constructing large buildings or solving complex puzzles.</p>



<p>These activities mirror real-world problem-solving scenarios, making Minecraft an effective tool for developing critical thinking and collaboration skills.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balancing-benefits-with-online-risks">Balancing benefits with online risks</h2>



<p>Despite the numerous educational benefits Minecraft offers, the game is not without risks. Open online environments can expose children to potential dangers, including cyberbullying and interactions with strangers.</p>



<p>“All online spaces have safety risks. While Minecraft promotes positive social interactions, public servers can expose children to online risks such as bullying or interactions with unknown players,” warned Dr. Tudini.</p>



<p>Parents and educators must take proactive measures to ensure children’s safety while <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/video-gaming-positively-impacts-mental-well-being-reversal-previous-studies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">playing</a>. Choosing private servers, setting clear boundaries for online interactions, and monitoring gaming content can help create a safer experience. </p>



<p>Children should be encouraged to play with known friends and understand the importance of responsible online behavior.</p>



<p>By integrating safe gaming practices into daily routines, parents can create a balanced approach that allows children to enjoy Minecraft while staying protected from potential threats. Educators also play a key role in guiding students on how to interact safely and respectfully within digital spaces.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-parents-can-support-safe-gaming">How parents can support safe gaming</h2>



<p>To maximize Minecraft’s positive impact, parents should encourage collaborative play with siblings or friends. Playing in a familiar group enhances social skills and teamwork while minimizing the risks associated with public multiplayer modes.</p>



<p>Choosing family-friendly or private servers provides a controlled environment where children can enjoy the game without exposure to inappropriate content or unknown players. Parents should also take an active interest in their child's Minecraft activities by watching gameplay, asking questions, and discussing their experiences.</p>



<p>Monitoring online content is another essential step. Many children watch Minecraft-related videos on platforms like YouTube, where content varies widely. Ensuring that they follow appropriate channels helps maintain a positive influence while preventing exposure to harmful material.</p>



<p>Teaching children about online safety is just as important as supervising their gameplay. Setting clear guidelines on sharing personal information and encouraging respectful online communication can help them develop responsible digital habits.</p>



<p>Striking a balance between screen time and offline activities is also crucial. While Minecraft offers valuable learning experiences, children need time away from screens for physical activity, face-to-face social interactions, and other forms of play. Parents should encourage a mix of activities to support overall well-being.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-minecraft-for-education">Using Minecraft for education</h2>



<p>Minecraft Education Edition has gained popularity in classrooms worldwide, providing structured lessons in subjects such as coding, mathematics, and environmental science. Educators have found that the game engages students in unique ways, making learning more interactive and enjoyable.</p>



<p>By incorporating Minecraft into lesson plans, teachers can encourage students to explore concepts through hands-on experience. </p>



<p>For example, in mathematics, students can build structures to understand geometric principles, while in science, they can simulate ecosystems to study environmental changes. The open-ended nature of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-brain-computer-interface-lets-users-game-with-their-minds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">game</a> makes it adaptable to various learning objectives.</p>



<p>Digital citizenship is another area where Minecraft can be beneficial. Schools can use the game to teach online etiquette, cyber safety, and the importance of respectful interactions. When students learn these principles in a familiar and engaging environment, they are more likely to apply them in other online settings.</p>



<p>Encouraging collaborative problem-solving within the game also helps students develop teamwork skills. Group projects in Minecraft can require students to plan, communicate, and work together toward a common goal, reinforcing skills that are essential for real-world collaboration.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minecraft-as-a-learning-tool">Minecraft as a learning tool </h2>



<p>As digital technology becomes increasingly integrated into education, Minecraft serves as a model for how video games can be harnessed for learning and development. Its ability to promote problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork makes it a valuable tool for both home and classroom use.</p>



<p>While the game offers many benefits, responsible use is essential. With proper guidance from parents and educators, children can navigate Minecraft’s digital world safely and gain skills that will benefit them beyond the game. </p>



<p>The key lies in creating a balanced and structured approach that allows children to enjoy Minecraft while learning valuable life lessons along the way.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/childrens-online-language-and-interaction/6D798F3ADE6E989565A887F3AC913B44" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Children’s Online Learning and Interaction</a></em>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: Creative Commons</p>



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Minecraft is a digital playground for learning and growth

Minecraft is more than just a globally popular video game....

<p>New research suggests that a playful mindset can be instrumental during difficult times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Individuals who score high on a playfulness scale exhibit stronger resilience compared to less playful counterparts. </p>



<p>The findings indicate that this resource is essential to maintaining well-being and facing adversity.</p>



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



<p>The research, conducted by researchers at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a> (OSU), offers profound insights into how playful people navigate adversity.</p>



<p>The research may ultimately guide the development of strategies and interventions aimed at helping individuals handle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-eats-away-our-brains-cognitive-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> and uncertainty.</p>



<p>These findings are timely, given the increasing global challenges that demand both a realistic assessment and creative adaptation.</p>



<p>Xiangyou “Sharon” Shen of the OSU Health, Environment, and Leisure Research Lab (HEAL) is the study's lead author.</p>



<p>"Understanding how playful people navigate adversity can inform interventions and strategies to help people cope with stress and uncertainty," said Shen. </p>



<p>"They shared similar perceptions of risk and protective factors as their less playful peers, but demonstrated greater optimism when envisioning future possibilities, engaged in more creative problem solving, and managed to infuse quality and enjoyment into everyday activities."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pandemic-stress-and-public-health">Pandemic stress and public health</h2>



<p>Chronic stress is a significant public health concern in the United States, linked to a wide range of health problems including heart disease, diabetes, depression, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/teachers-experienced-high-anxiety-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anxiety</a>. </p>



<p>External factors like the pandemic, economic uncertainty, and social issues can exacerbate stress levels and contribute to mental health diagnoses.</p>



<p>For the analysis, Shen and study co-author Zoe Crawley divided a group of more than 500 U.S. adults into two subgroups based on their levels of playfulness, as measured by the Adult Playfulness Trait Scale.</p>



<p>Shen noted that highly playful individuals actively altered challenging situations, found creative substitutes for what was lost, viewed obstacles as opportunities for growth, and maintained a strong sense of control over their responses.</p>



<p>Perhaps most revealing, she added, was that while the highly playful didn’t necessarily engage in different activities or do them more often than their less playful counterparts, they experienced those activities with higher quality - demonstrating greater immersion, activeness, and positive affect.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-playful-people-during-the-pandemic">Playful people during the pandemic </h2>



<p>Shen describes the approach of creating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dopamine-helps-us-learn-from-positive-and-negative-experiences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">positive experiences</a> amid adversity as "making lemonade from lemons." </p>



<p>This is deeply connected with resilience as it combines realistic assessment with flexible problem-solving, which offers a clear demonstration of how personality traits like playfulness shape our responses to stress.</p>



<p>"Highly playful people were just as realistic about COVID-19 risks and challenges as others, but they excelled at ‘lemonading’ - creatively imagining and pursuing the positive, discovering ways to create moments of joy even in difficult circumstances," said Shen.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-playful-advantage-in-a-pandemic">Playful advantage in a pandemic</h2>



<p>While it has been widely accepted that playful people "reframe" situations to make them more enjoyable, these findings suggest that it is not about wearing "rose-colored glasses." </p>



<p>Playful individuals maintain their ability to view <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consciousness-may-stem-from-unseen-dimensions-beyond-our-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reality</a> as it is while finding the silver linings.</p>



<p>Shen emphasized that playfulness doesn't distort reality - it enhances it, offering specific ways in which this trait helps individuals navigate challenging times.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-playfulness-can-be-cultivated">Playfulness can be cultivated</h2>



<p>The study also suggests several approaches to cultivate playfulness, including engaging in activities that provoke joy and curiosity, embracing new experiences, creating opportunities for spontaneous exploration, spending time with inspiring, fun-loving people, and appreciating moments of silliness and humor.</p>



<p>"A key to all of this is focusing on the quality of engagement rather than simply doing what might be called play activities. True playfulness doesn’t require a playground, games, or toys. It’s about bringing a spirit of openness, flexibility, and fun to everyday moments," noted Shen.</p>



<p>She also emphasized that setting aside time for play can be beneficial, providing a safe space to express and practice playfulness. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-life-s-biggest-challenges">Navigating life's biggest challenges </h2>



<p>No matter how occupied you might be, dedicating five to ten minutes daily for a small dose of play can make a meaningful difference in your life.</p>



<p>This research represents a significant step toward understanding the role of playfulness in helping individuals navigate challenging situations. </p>



<p>In the context of our current global challenges - whether economic uncertainty, environmental concerns, or public health crises - the insights are invaluable. </p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1462980/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Psychology</a></em>.</p>



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Playful people handled pandemic stress better than others

New research suggests that a playful mindset can be instrumental...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHHxOej4QfE
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Researchers found a correlation between Alzheimer's disease and traffic pollution.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXXGGiynIjs
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Greenland is not sinking. In fact, it is the opposite.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSM3EVeGHJU
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Companies like MindStudio help companies train their employees to implement the latest AI Agent building platform.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HDXqTGEmi4
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Scientists give plants superpowers against bacterial disease</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVywlgRJXsc
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Some children read facial expressions when making food choices.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JynHpMaNO8A
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chaotic cancer protein finally controlled after decades of mystery</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Veg4HmmRVZY
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Our bodies hits two 'aging cliffs' at these ages.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqlF0XKzHY4
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The hidden science behind tickling.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elr4948_uOU
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dr. Ronald Mallett from the University of Connecticut reveals secret mission to create working time travel device.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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