<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>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



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



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

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,...

<p>Pregnancy is a crucial period that shapes a baby’s future health. While much attention is given to physical well-being, new research highlights the impact of maternal stress on fetal development. </p>



<p>A study published in the journal <em>European Neuropsychopharmacology</em> suggests that stress during pregnancy may leave epigenetic imprints on placental genes linked to cortisol regulation.</p>



<p>Cortisol plays a key role in fetal growth and stress response, and disruptions in its regulation could have lasting effects on a child’s development.</p>



<p>This discovery emphasizes the importance of maternal mental health. A mother’s emotional state during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cbd-use-during-pregnancy-has-unexpected-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pregnancy</a> does not only affect her but could influence her baby’s well-being from the earliest stages. </p>



<p>As science uncovers new connections between stress and fetal development, it becomes increasingly clear that prenatal care must include psychological support alongside physical health monitoring.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pregnancy-stress-and-the-placenta">Pregnancy stress and the placenta</h2>



<p>The study was led by Lourdes Fañanás, a professor at the Faculty of Biology and the Institute of Biomedicine (<a href="https://www.ub.edu/ibub/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IBUB</a>) at the University of Barcelona. The research was co-led by Elisabeth Binder from the <a href="https://www.psych.mpg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry</a>.</p>



<p>The investigation was focused on how maternal stress can leave biological marks on the placenta. </p>



<p>The placenta is a vital organ during pregnancy, supplying oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. It also responds to external factors, including maternal stress, to help the fetus adapt to its environment.</p>



<p>However, the exact ways in which the placenta adjusts to stressors and influences <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pregnancy-may-speed-up-aging-in-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fetal development</a> are still not fully understood.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-placenta-and-stress-regulation">Placenta and stress regulation </h2>



<p>Epigenetics refers to modifications that affect gene function without changing the DNA sequence. The study found that maternal stress can cause epigenetic changes in placental genes. These changes particularly affect genes involved in cortisol regulation, such as HSD11B2, NR3C1, and FKBP5.</p>



<p>Cortisol is an essential hormone that helps the body respond to stress. In pregnancy, it plays a critical role in fetal development by influencing growth, metabolism, and brain function.</p>



<p>When stress disrupts the proper regulation of cortisol, it could impact the baby’s ability to handle stress after birth. The placenta usually acts as a barrier, controlling how much maternal cortisol reaches the fetus. </p>



<p>However, if stress alters the placenta’s function through epigenetic changes, it may affect fetal exposure to cortisol and have long-term consequences for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-pregnancy-changes-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">child’s health</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-in-stress-related-genes">Changes in stress-related genes</h2>



<p>This pilot study, funded by a CIBERSAM Intramural project, involved 45 first-time pregnant women who were considered healthy. </p>



<p>Researchers measured their cortisol levels and depressive symptoms throughout pregnancy. After delivery, they collected and analyzed placental samples to examine potential epigenetic changes.</p>



<p>Seven weeks after birth, the babies underwent neuro-developmental assessments using Brazelton’s Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale (<a href="https://www.childrenshospital.org/research/centers/brazelton-institute-research/nbas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBAS</a>). This test evaluates reflexes, motor abilities, and social responses, providing insights into early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/calcium-zinc-are-keys-to-healthier-pregnancy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">developmental outcomes</a>. </p>



<p>The team used advanced sequencing technology to study epigenetic changes in large sections of DNA, offering a detailed look at how the placenta responds to maternal stress.</p>



<p>The findings indicate that stress during early pregnancy may have the strongest effect on these epigenetic changes. The altered genes linked to cortisol regulation suggest that maternal stress may influence fetal development in ways that extend beyond pregnancy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-early-maternal-support">Need for early maternal support</h2>



<p>Águeda Castro, first author of the study and a CIBERSAM researcher at the University of Barcelona, highlighted the importance of supporting maternal mental health from the start of pregnancy.</p>



<p>“This study reinforces the importance of taking care of the mental health of mothers from the beginning of pregnancy, since stress could leave a biological imprint on the baby’s development through epigenetic mechanisms that we are just beginning to understand,” said Castro.</p>



<p>This research adds to growing evidence that maternal stress is not just a temporary concern but one that could shape a child’s future health. </p>



<p>Mental health care should be an integral part of prenatal care, ensuring that pregnant women receive emotional support alongside physical health monitoring. Addressing stress early on may help prevent long-term developmental challenges in children.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-research">Significance of the research</h2>



<p>The Institute of Biomedicine of the University of Barcelona selected this study as the best scientific publication of November 2024. Its recognition highlights the study’s innovative approach to understanding prenatal health and epigenetics. </p>



<p>While the research offers important insights, the sample size remains small. More extensive studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore potential interventions.</p>



<p>Future research could focus on identifying risk factors that make some mothers more susceptible to stress-related epigenetic changes. Understanding these risks may help develop targeted interventions to support expectant mothers, particularly those in vulnerable situations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-approach-to-prenatal-care">New approach to prenatal care</h2>



<p>Pregnancy care has traditionally focused on nutrition, physical health, and fetal monitoring. However, this study suggests that mental health deserves equal attention. </p>



<p>Stress management techniques, psychological support, and early interventions could improve maternal well-being and contribute to healthier pregnancies.</p>



<p>By prioritizing emotional health during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-in-the-placenta-linked-to-preterm-births/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pregnancy</a>, healthcare providers can help ensure better outcomes for both mothers and their babies. </p>



<p>As research continues to uncover the biological links between stress and fetal development, integrating mental health care into routine prenatal visits may become an essential part of maternal care.</p>



<p>While more research is needed, this study emphasizes the deep connection between a mother’s mental state and her baby’s development. Taking care of expectant mothers’ emotional well-being is not just beneficial for them - it may shape the long-term health of the next generation.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0924977X24007375?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Neuropsychopharmacology</a>.</em></p>



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



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



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



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

Pregnancy stress may have lasting effects on fetal development

Pregnancy is a crucial period that shapes a baby’s future...

<p>Fungi are often overlooked in the grand tapestry of life, yet they play an essential role in ecosystems around the world. From decomposing organic matter to forming symbiotic relationships with plants and animals, fungi are nature’s silent architects. </p>



<p>Recently, a discovery involving a fungus growing on a spider has added a new layer of understanding to the story of these remarkable organisms.</p>



<p>During this research, scientists identified a previously unknown <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungi-can-think-and-make-smart-decisions-without-a-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species of fungus</a> that has been named in honor of a legendary figure in natural history. </p>



<p>This discovery adds to our knowledge of fungal diversity and is a reminder of how much there is still to learn about the intricate connections between fungi and their hosts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-species-gibellula-attenboroughii">New species <em>Gibellula attenboroughii</em></h2>



<p>Dr. Harry Evans, an Emeritus Fellow at CAB International, led a team of researchers from institutions such as the <a href="https://snm.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural History Museum of Denmark</a> and the <a href="https://www.kew.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Botanical Gardens Kew</a>. </p>



<p>The investigation began during the filming of the <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p012msk2/episodes/guide" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BBC Winterwatch series</a> in Northern Ireland, where a peculiar fungus was found growing on a spider.</p>



<p>Using both morphological and molecular evidence, the scientists confirmed that this fungus represented a novel species. </p>



<p>In recognition of his profound impact on natural history programming, the team decided to name it after Sir David Attenborough.</p>



<p>"[The species is] named after the broadcaster and natural historian Sir David Attenborough, a pioneer of BBC natural history programs, who - in his role as controller of BBC 2 - helped to develop the Natural History Unit," noted Dr. Evans.</p>



<p>This led, indirectly, to the filming of the present nature series, during which the new species was first discovered.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gibellula-attenboroughii-and-spiders"><em>Gibellula attenboroughii</em> and spiders</h2>



<p>The spider that hosted the fungus was later identified as <em>Metellina merianae</em>, an orb-weaving cave spider belonging to the family Tetragnathidae.</p>



<p>With the help of a local speleologist, the researchers extended their search and discovered more specimens of the newly named species, <em>Gibellula attenboroughii</em>, in cave systems across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. </p>



<p>Interestingly, the fungus was also found to infect another spider species, <em>Meta menardi</em>, which occupies different ecological niches within the caves. </p>



<p>Like the original specimen, which was located on the ceiling of a gunpowder store, all of the infected spiders were found on the roof or walls of the caves.</p>



<p>These typically reclusive creatures had abandoned their usual hiding spots or webs, and migrated to exposed areas before dying.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connection-to-zombie-ant-fungi">Connection to zombie-ant fungi</h2>



<p>This behavior mirrors what has been observed in ants that are similarly infected by fungi of the genus <em>Ophiocordyceps</em> in Brazil's Atlantic rainforest. </p>



<p>In those cases, the fungi manipulated their ant hosts to position themselves in locations ideal for spore dispersal, which led to the use of the term "zombie-ant fungi."</p>



<p>This phenomenon has captured the public's imagination, inspiring books, video games, and even the popular television series <em>The Last of Us</em>. </p>



<p>Scientists have since identified behavioral-changing metabolites, such as dopamine, in cultures of zombie-ant fungi.</p>



<p>The discovery of similar behaviors in spiders infected by <em>Gibellula attenboroughii</em> suggests that these fungi may employ comparable mechanisms to control their hosts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fungus-and-spiders-in-the-british-isles">Fungus and spiders in the British Isles</h2>



<p>Published in the journal <em>Fungal Systematics and Evolution</em>, the study went beyond identifying the new species. </p>



<p>The researchers conducted extensive historical herbarium records and literature searches, and revealed a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-fungi-diversity-can-be-pulled-out-of-thin-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hidden diversity</a> within the genus <em>Gibellula</em> in the British Isles.</p>



<p>The experts also uncovered evidence of widespread disease epidemics among spiders in Norfolk and Wales. </p>



<p>The findings suggest that fungi like <em>Gibellula attenboroughii</em> may play a significant role in regulating spider populations.</p>



<p>"Their role in spider-population dynamics warrants further study, as do the metabolites they produce which enable them to exploit such a highly specific ecological niche," noted the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-zombie-fungus-controls-spiders">How zombie fungus controls spiders</h2>



<p>The discovery of <em>Gibellula attenboroughii</em> highlights the importance of studying fungi not only for their ecological roles but also for their potential applications. </p>



<p>Understanding how these fungi influence spiders could provide insights into broader <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tipping-point-discovered-in-fungi-evolution-that-impacts-their-shape-and-growth-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological dynamics</a>.</p>



<p>For instance, if certain fungi regulate spider numbers, they might indirectly affect other species within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-frost-beard-ice-formation-exidiopsis-effusa-fungi-discovered-by-hiker/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystem</a>. </p>



<p>Additionally, investigating the metabolites produced by these fungi could lead to discoveries with implications beyond ecology. </p>



<p>Such compounds might have pharmaceutical or industrial uses, which makes this area of research particularly promising.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tribute-to-sir-david-attenborough">Tribute to Sir David Attenborough</h2>



<p>Naming the fungus after <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0041003/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sir David Attenborough</a> serves as a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to exploring and sharing the wonders of the natural world. </p>



<p>His work has inspired countless individuals, including the scientists involved in this study, to examine the mysteries of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-fungus-found-in-garden-soils-across-america/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a>. </p>



<p>By honoring Sir Attenborough in this way, the researchers not only celebrate his contributions but also emphasize the interconnectedness of scientific discovery and public engagement. It is a reminder that science thrives when curiosity is shared and nurtured.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-gibellula-attenboroughii-important">Why is <em>Gibellula attenboroughii</em> important?</h2>



<p>The identification of <em>Gibellula attenboroughii</em> opens up numerous avenues for future research. Scientists are eager to explore how these fungi manipulate their hosts and what chemical compounds they produce to achieve such precise control. </p>



<p>Furthermore, understanding the role of fungi in regulating spider populations could provide valuable insights into ecosystem stability.</p>



<p>In a time when biodiversity is under threat, studies like this remind us of the importance of preserving ecosystems and the species within them. </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/wfbi/fuse/pre-prints/content-f1_fuse_vol15_art7;jsessionid=dd632sclfekn9.x-ic-live-03" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fungal Systematics and Evolution</a>.</em></p>



<p>Image Credit: CABI</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



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



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

Fungus infects and controls spiders, turning them into 'zombies'

Fungi are often overlooked in the grand tapestry of life,...

<p>Almost a thousand years ago, stargazers in ancient China and Japan noticed a new star near the constellation of Cassiopeia. The star glowed brightly for six months before vanishing. </p>



<p>This celestial event, known as a 'guest star,' mystified astronomers for centuries. Part of it was later discovered to be a 'zombie star,' reigniting debates and curiosity in the scientific community.</p>



<p>It was one of the few supernovas recorded before the invention of telescopes. The question remained, where did it go?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-traceable-at-last">Traceable at last</h2>



<p>The mystery deepened for centuries as the star remained an "orphan," meaning none of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-coronae-borealis-nova-explosion-nearby-star-light-up-earths-skies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">celestial objects visible today</a> are linked to it. </p>



<p>Fast forward to the 21st century, and the orphan found a home. Scientists traced the remnant of supernova SN 1181 to the nebula Pa 30.</p>



<p>Amateur astronomer Dana Patchick discovered this in 2013 while rummaging through archives of the WISE telescope's images as part of a citizen scientist project.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zombie-star-that-never-died">“Zombie star” that never died</h2>



<p>The SN 1181 remnant is not the usual supernova remnant. It has a “zombie star” at its heart. This is a dense, dead star called a white dwarf that triggers a thermonuclear explosion resulting in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shockingly-bright-carbon-monoxide-detected-in-supernova-remnant/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a>.</p>



<p>In most cases, the explosion obliterates the white dwarf. With SN 1181, some of the star survived and turned into a zombie star. This unusual partial explosion is a type Iax supernova.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strange-filaments-of-zombie-star">Strange filaments of zombie star</h2>



<p>The zombie star radiates dandelion petal-like filaments. With the aid of Caltech’s Keck Cosmic Web Imager (KCWI), the research team went deep into the supernova remnant.</p>



<p>Assistant Professor <a href="https://ista.ac.at/de/forschung/caiazzo-gruppe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ilaria Caiazzo</a> from ISTA and lead author <a href="https://www.cfa.harvard.edu/people/tim-cunningham" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tim Cunningham</a>, a NASA Hubble Fellow at the <a href="https://www.cfa.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Astrophysics</a>, Harvard &amp; Smithsonian studied these features in unprecedented detail.</p>



<p>Positioned above 4,000 meters at the <a href="https://www.keckobservatory.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">W. M. Keck Observatory</a> in Hawaii, near the summit of Mauna Kea volcano, KCWI is a powerful asset for exploring deep space.</p>



<p>The highly sensitive KCWI captures spectral information for every pixel in an image and analyzes the matter's motion in a stellar explosion, similar to watching a 3D movie of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/string-of-pearls-found-around-supernova-sn-1987a-visible-with-naked-eye/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a>.</p>



<p>Using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-matter-seen-separating-from-normal-matter-after-galaxy-cluster-collision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Doppler shift</a>, the principle that changes the frequency of objects as they move toward and away from a source, the researchers created a detailed 3D map of the nebula and its filaments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-asymmetry-of-zombie-star">Unusual asymmetry of zombie star</h2>



<p>Researchers discovered the remnants of SN 1181 aren't flying through space in every direction like fireworks. Instead, there's an asymmetry to the shapes that show a gap around the zombie star.</p>



<p>This suggests the asymmetry stems from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-coronae-borealis-blaze-star-explosion-visible-one-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">initial explosion</a> and offers a unique peek into the celestial spectacle that amazed humanity centuries ago.</p>



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



<p>A supernova is an amazing explosion that happens when a massive star dies or when two <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-dwarf-stars-may-be-billions-of-years-older-than-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white dwarfs</a> crash together. Picture a star way bigger than our Sun running out of fuel; without enough energy to fight gravity, it collapses under its own weight. </p>



<p>This collapse releases a massive amount of energy, blowing the star apart in a spectacular burst of light and energy that can outshine entire galaxies for a little while. There are different types of supernovae, but they all wrap up with this incredible explosion.</p>



<p>When a star explodes, it spreads heavy elements like carbon, oxygen, and iron into space, which eventually become the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lifes-building-blocks-may-have-formed-near-newborn-stars-and-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">building blocks</a> for planets and even life. </p>



<p>These explosions also kickstart the formation of new stars by compressing nearby gas clouds. Plus, supernovae can impact how galaxies evolve, contributing to their development over billions of years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-cycle-of-a-type-iax-supernova">Life cycle of a type Iax supernova</h2>



<p>Understanding the life cycle of a type Iax supernova like SN 1181 provides astronomers with insights into the universe's lifecycle and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/beautiful-stellar-nursery-herbig-haro-objects-orion-constellation-captured-by-hubble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stellar evolution</a>.</p>



<p>Unlike the more commonly studied type Iax supernovas, which result from the disintegration of a white dwarf in a close binary system, type Iax supernovas only partially destroy their progenitor stars.</p>



<p>This leads to enigmatic phenomena such as the "zombie star," which exists after the explosion. The study of SN 1181 challenges conventional models and suggests there may be more diversity in supernova types than previously understood.</p>



<p>The findings urge the scientific community to reconsider certain fundamental theories about stellar deaths and to explore the potential for other oddities lurking across the cosmos.</p>



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



<p>The discoveries surrounding SN 1181 and its surviving zombie star hold substantial implications for future astronomical research and the comprehension of stellar phenomena.</p>



<p>By analyzing remnants like SN 1181, scientists can better predict potential supernova appearances and refine the criteria for persistent stellar survivability post-explosion.</p>



<p>This expanded understanding invites new investigative strategies about asymmetric structures formations in supernova remnants.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tale-of-a-vanishing-star">Tale of a vanishing star</h2>



<p>While the study brought researchers closer to understanding the story of the SN 1181 supernova, it also posed new questions to astronomers worldwide.</p>



<p>“Our first detailed 3D characterization of the velocity and spatial structure of a supernova remnant tells us a lot about a unique cosmic event that our ancestors observed centuries ago. But it also raises new questions and sets new challenges for astronomers to tackle next,” said Caiazzo.</p>



<p>As technology advances, instruments like the Keck Cosmic Web Imager provide more detailed views of distant phenomena and pave the way for uncovering further anomalies.</p>



<p>As scientists examine each puzzle piece, the astronomical community edges closer to demystifying the secrets of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bright-star-documented-year-1181-was-actually-supernova-sn-1181/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic events</a>.</p>



<p>The study is published in <em><a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad713b" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal Letters</a>. </em></p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



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



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

Cosmic dandelion supernova left a 'zombie star' at its center

Almost a thousand years ago, stargazers in ancient China and...

<p>Remarkable social behaviors have been discovered in Kinda baboons (<em>Papio kindae</em>) that set them apart from other baboon species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research, led by <a href="https://www.umass.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts Amherst</a> anthropologist Anna Weyher, was conducted over nine years in Zambia’s Kasanka National Park.</p>



<p>The study reveals that male Kinda baboons form strong, long-term social bonds with females, a behavior uncommon in most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/baboons-fail-to-recognize-themselves-in-mirrors-unlike-some-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">baboon species</a>.</p>



<p>Unlike their more aggressive and competitive relatives, Kinda males initiate and maintain affiliative relationships with multiple females, forming lasting friendships that persist beyond mating periods.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These findings suggest that the social structures of Kinda baboons challenge traditional classifications of baboon behavior and could provide valuable insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primate-evolution-completing-the-timetree-of-life-for-all-of-our-closest-relatives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primate evolution</a>, including early human social dynamics.</p>



<p>“In some ways, it’s not surprising that, behaviorally, Kindas are so different because, anatomically, they look a lot different than other baboons,” said Jason Kamilar, professor of anthropology at UMass Amherst and co-author of the study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Kindas are the smallest baboons and they’re also the least sexually dimorphic, so the difference in body size between males and females is the smallest - making them the best baboon species [for us] to understand humans.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unusual-male-female-social-bonds">Unusual male-female social bonds</h2>



<p>In most baboon species, female social bonds dominate, and male-female relationships are typically short-lived, forming primarily around mating opportunities. However, Kinda baboon males take a different approach, prioritizing affiliative relationships with females.</p>



<p>Researchers found that male Kindas were the primary initiators of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-early-primates-lived-in-pairs-and-were-not-solitary-creatures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social interactions</a>. They frequently engaged in proximity maintenance (staying close to specific females for extended periods), grooming (a key social behavior in primates that promotes trust and reduces stress), and long-term friendships lasting years, rather than being tied solely to reproduction.</p>



<p>These findings suggest that male-female bonds serve a broader social function beyond mating. The benefits for males could include increased reproductive opportunities, while females may gain social stability, reduced harassment, and greater protection.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baboons-and-cooperative-social-dynamics">Baboons and cooperative social dynamics</h2>



<p>Another striking discovery was the notably low level of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-animals-have-mirror-neurons-that-spark-aggression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aggression</a> among Kinda males. In most baboon species, males compete aggressively for dominance, engaging in frequent battles over access to mates. </p>



<p>However, the study found that Kinda baboons display minimal aggression toward each other and toward females.</p>



<p>“What we’ll typically see is that a male from outside the group will enter the study group, but they do so without much fanfare,” Kamilar explained.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The new male will have to slowly move his way up the social hierarchy. That’s very different from yellow baboons, for instance, where you’ll have an individual male come in as an alpha and basically take over the group.”</p>



<p>Instead of forcefully challenging dominant males, new male Kinda baboons integrate gradually, forming relationships with group members rather than disrupting existing social structures.</p>



<p>This “long-game” strategy contrasts sharply with other baboon species, where males frequently battle for alpha status. The researchers believe this unique approach could provide evolutionary advantages, promoting cooperative relationships rather than dominance-based competition.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-baboon-social-structures">Rethinking baboon social structures</h2>



<p>The study’s findings challenge the traditional classification of baboon social models. Historically, baboons have been grouped into two primary social structures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The “savannah” model is characterized by strong female bonds, with males competing aggressively for mates, as seen in species like yellow and olive baboons.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In contrast, the “hamadryas” model features rigid, male-dominated groups where males exert strong control over female movements, a structure typical of hamadryas baboons.</p>



<p>However, Kinda baboons don’t fit neatly into either category. Instead, they exhibit a blend of social behaviors, where males form lasting social ties with females without controlling them.</p>



<p>According to the experts, Kinda baboons exhibit a variety of behaviors, with male-driven social investment similar to that of hamadryas baboons, but within a more fluid and egalitarian group structure.</p>



<p>This raises intriguing questions about the evolution of social behavior in primates, suggesting that Kinda baboons might represent an ancestral social system - one that predates the more hierarchical structures seen in other baboon species today.</p>



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



<p>Because Kinda baboons are the least sexually dimorphic of all baboon species, meaning males and females are closer in size than in other baboon species, researchers believe they offer insights into early human social evolution.</p>



<p>“Understanding how different primate species interact socially gives us clues about the evolutionary pressures that shaped human behavior,” Kamilar said.</p>



<p>The findings suggest that early primates - potentially including human ancestors - may have exhibited similar cooperative, male-female social bonds rather than strict dominance-based hierarchies. This could provide a model for understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-had-surprising-diets-3-5-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early humans</a> balanced competition and cooperation in their social groups.</p>



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



<p>The Kasanka Baboon Project, founded by lead researcher Anna Weyher, continues to study Kinda baboons to further investigate their unique social structures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team hopes to answer additional questions, such as: Do male-female friendships affect offspring survival rates? How do Kindas resolve conflicts without aggressive dominance struggles? Could this social model be more widespread among other primate species?</p>



<p>“Kinda baboons challenge many of our assumptions about primate behavior,” Weyher said. “By studying them, we’re not just learning about baboons - we’re uncovering new perspectives on how complex social behaviors evolve.”</p>



<p>By shedding light on the cooperative social strategies of Kinda baboons, this study not only deepens our understanding of primate behavior but also offers a fascinating glimpse into the social lives of our early ancestors.</p>



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



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



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



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

Baboons may offer clues to early human social evolution

Remarkable social behaviors have been discovered in Kinda baboons (Papio...

<p>Mantis shrimp are among the ocean’s most formidable predators, delivering one of the most powerful and fastest punches in the animal kingdom.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With their specialized dactyl clubs, these shrimp can strike with the force of a .22 caliber bullet, shattering mollusk shells and even cracking aquarium glass. But while their blows are lethal to prey, an even greater mystery is how they themselves remain unharmed.</p>



<p>A new study from <a href="https://www.northwestern.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northwestern University</a>, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adq7100" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science</em></a>, has revealed the secret behind the mantis shrimp’s resilience. Researchers found that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrimp-crisis-alarming-virus-threatens-global-seafood-supplies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shrimp</a>’s club structure selectively filters out harmful shockwaves, protecting its delicate tissues from the immense forces it generates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This discovery could inspire advanced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-helmeted-hornbill-can-withstand-high-impact-collisions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact-resistant materials</a>ù for applications in protective gear, military armor, and industrial equipment.</p>



<p>“The mantis shrimp is known for its incredibly powerful strike, which can break mollusk shells and even crack aquarium glass,” said Horacio D. Espinosa, the study’s co-corresponding author. “However, to repeatedly execute these high-impact strikes, the mantis shrimp’s dactyl club must have a robust protection mechanism to prevent self-damage.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Most prior work has focused on the club’s toughness and crack resistance, treating the structure as a toughened impact shield.”</p>



<p>“We found it uses phononic mechanisms - structures that selectively filter stress waves. This enables the shrimp to preserve its striking ability over multiple impacts and prevent soft tissue damage.”</p>



<p>Espinosa, a professor of mechanical engineering at Northwestern’s McCormick School of Engineering, collaborated with M. Abi Ghanem from the <a href="https://ilm.univ-lyon1.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Light and Matter</a> in France to lead this groundbreaking research.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mantis-shrimp-s-deadly-strike">The mantis shrimp’s deadly strike</h2>



<p>Mantis shrimp, which inhabit shallow tropical waters, rely on an internal spring-loaded system to deliver their extraordinary punch. Their dactyl clubs store large amounts of energy in elastic structures, held in place by latch-like tendons.&nbsp;</p>



<p>When the latch is released, the club accelerates faster than a bullet, unleashing a strike that pulverizes shells and deters predators.</p>



<p>This powerful impact has an additional effect: as the club moves through water, it creates a low-pressure zone behind it, forming a small cavitation bubble. When this bubble collapses, it generates a secondary shockwave, adding to the destructive force of the initial strike.</p>



<p>“When the mantis shrimp strikes, the impact generates pressure waves onto its target. It also creates bubbles, which rapidly collapse to produce shockwaves in the megahertz range,” explained Espinosa.</p>



<p>“The collapse of these bubbles releases intense bursts of energy, which travel through the shrimp’s club. This secondary shockwave effect, along with the initial impact force, makes the mantis shrimp’s strike even more devastating.”</p>



<p>Yet despite these immense forces, the mantis shrimp’s own nerves and tissues remain unscathed - a phenomenon that led researchers to investigate the shrimp’s unique biological armor.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-natural-shockwave-filter">A natural shockwave filter</h2>



<p>To uncover how mantis shrimp survive their own punches, the researchers examined the microstructure of the dactyl club using two advanced techniques.</p>



<p>The team used transient grating spectroscopy, which tracks how stress waves move through materials, and picosecond laser ultrasonics, which provides high-resolution imaging of structural details.</p>



<p>The analysis revealed that the club consists of two distinct regions, each serving a specialized protective function. The outer impact layer is made of mineralized fibers arranged in a herringbone pattern, reinforcing the club against fractures and absorbing direct impact forces.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Beneath this layer, a deeper periodic region contains twisted, corkscrew-like fiber bundles arranged in a Bouligand structure, where each layer is slightly rotated relative to the one above it.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-mantis-shrimp-armor">Remarkable mantis shrimp armor</h2>



<p>The researchers found that this inner periodic region selectively filters out high-frequency shockwaves, preventing harmful vibrations from propagating back into the shrimp’s body.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This structure, acting as a phononic shield, ensures that only safe, low-energy waves pass through, shielding the shrimp’s delicate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crocodile-scales-are-shaped-by-tissue-growth-not-genetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tissues</a> from damage.</p>



<p>“The periodic region plays a crucial role in selectively filtering out high-frequency shear waves, which are particularly damaging to biological tissues,” noted Espinosa. “This effectively shields the shrimp from damaging stress waves caused by the direct impact and bubble collapse.”</p>



<p>This discovery provides a new way of thinking about biological impact resistance, suggesting that mantis shrimp armor isn’t just tough - it actively manages and disperses shockwaves to protect the animal from self-inflicted damage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-materials-that-mimic-the-mantis-shrimp-nbsp">Materials that mimic the mantis shrimp&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The mantis shrimp’s ability to absorb and filter shockwaves could inspire new synthetic materials with similar properties.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Protective gear, including helmets, body armor, and industrial shields, could be designed to redirect or absorb impact forces, reducing injuries in fields ranging from sports and military defense to hazardous industrial work.</p>



<p>Beyond impact-resistant materials, this research also has implications for reducing blast-related injuries in military and high-impact environments.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By developing materials that mimic the shrimp’s phononic properties, researchers could design lightweight protective systems capable of selectively filtering out harmful shockwaves, while allowing less damaging forces to pass through.</p>



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



<p>Although this study provides groundbreaking insights into how the mantis shrimp’s club mitigates shockwaves, further research is needed to fully understand the complexities of its design.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Espinosa and his colleagues plan to conduct 3D simulations to model how the club’s layered structure disperses energy in real-world conditions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, they hope to develop aquatic experiments using state-of-the-art instrumentation to observe how these phononic properties function in submerged environments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-powerful-biological-weapons-nbsp">Powerful biological weapons&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Mantis shrimp have evolved one of the most powerful biological weapons in nature, yet they remain unscathed by their own force.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their layered dactyl club structure, with its ability to filter and absorb shockwaves, provides a natural model for engineering materials that can withstand repeated high-impact blows.</p>



<p>As scientists continue to explore nature’s designs for solving engineering challenges, the mantis shrimp’s unique armor may hold the key to the next generation of protective technology - one that not only resists impact but manages vibrations in ways that could revolutionize human safety and material science.</p>



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



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



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



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

How mantis shrimp survive their own lethal punches

Mantis shrimp are among the ocean’s most formidable predators, delivering...

<p>For centuries, humanity has gazed at the stars in the night sky, wondering if planets beyond our solar system exist. In the past few decades, technology has given us the ability to find them. Scientists have discovered thousands of exoplanets using a method called the transit technique. </p>



<p>This method involves watching for dips in a star’s brightness as a planet passes in front of it. These dips help scientists determine a planet’s size and atmospheric composition.</p>



<p>However, new research suggests that these measurements may not be as precise as previously thought. Changes in a star’s surface, caused by its own activity, can interfere with how researchers interpret exoplanet data.</p>



<p>A recent study published in <em>The Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series</em> reveals that stellar variability may distort exoplanet observations more than expected. This discovery has major implications for how we study planets beyond our solar system.</p>



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



<p>The transit method has revolutionized the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-super-earth-hd-20794-found-just-20-light-years-away-is-best-target-yet-for-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">search for exoplanets</a>. As a planet moves across its host star, it blocks a small portion of the starlight. </p>



<p>Scientists measure these changes in brightness to determine the planet’s size. They also study how the star’s light changes as it passes through the planet’s atmosphere. This helps them understand what gases make up the planet’s air.</p>



<p>However, stars are not uniform in brightness. Their surfaces contain regions that are hotter and brighter, as well as cooler and darker spots. These variations can interfere with transit data, leading scientists to misinterpret the characteristics of a planet. </p>



<p>If researchers do not take stellar variability into account, they may draw incorrect conclusions about an exoplanet’s size, temperature, and atmosphere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-star-variability-affects-exoplanet-data">How star variability affects exoplanet data</h2>



<p>The study examined the atmospheres of 20 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exoplanet-kmt-2020-blg-0414-reveals-fate-of-earth-eight-billion-years-from-now/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanets</a>, focusing on Jupiter- and Neptune-sized worlds. The researchers found that the host stars’ changing brightness distorted data for about half of the planets. </p>



<p>If these variations were not accounted for, researchers could mistakenly believe a planet was larger, hotter, or had a different atmospheric composition than it actually does.</p>



<p>“These results were a surprise – we found more stellar contamination of our data than we were expecting. This is important for us to know,<em>"</em> said study lead author Dr. Arianna Saba from UCL <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/physics-astronomy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physics &amp; Astronomy</a>.</p>



<p><em>"</em>By refining our understanding of how stars’ variability might affect our interpretations of exoplanets, we can improve our models and make smarter use of the much bigger datasets to come from missions including James Webb, Ariel and Twinkle.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenge-of-distinguishing-planetary-signals">Challenge of distinguishing planetary signals</h2>



<p>The difficulty in exoplanet research lies in separating the light from the star from the light altered by the planet. If a star has uneven brightness, the planet may appear different depending on which region it passes in front of.</p>



<p>“We learn about exoplanets from the light of their host stars and it is sometimes hard to disentangle what is a signal from the star and what is coming from the planet,” said Alex Thompson, a PhD student at UCL.</p>



<p>Some stars have stronger magnetic activity, creating patches of darker, cooler regions and brighter, hotter areas. These patches can alter how much light a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/six-planet-system-hd110067-discovered-that-moves-in-perfect-mathematical-harmony/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet</a> appears to block. </p>



<p>If a planet moves in front of a hot, bright region, it may seem larger or have a denser atmosphere than it actually does. If it crosses a cooler, darker area, it might appear smaller than it really is.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risk-of-false-planet-detections">Risk of false planet detections</h2>



<p>Stellar variability can sometimes mimic the effect of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-sized-exoplanet-orbiting-ultracool-dwarf-star-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet</a> passing in front of a star. </p>



<p>If a star’s brightness fluctuates, it could create the illusion that a planet exists when there is none. This makes follow-up observations crucial for confirming whether a detected signal truly belongs to a planet.</p>



<p>“These variations from the star can also distort estimates of how much water vapor, for instance, is in a planet’s atmosphere. That is because the variations can mimic or obscure the signature of water vapor in the pattern of light at different wavelengths that reaches our telescopes,” explained Thompson.</p>



<p>This interference means that even basic details about a planet’s atmosphere could be misinterpreted. Scientists must take stellar activity into account when analyzing exoplanet data to avoid drawing incorrect conclusions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-hubble-observations">Role of Hubble observations</h2>



<p>To investigate the impact of stellar variability, the researchers examined 20 years of data from the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble Space Telescope</a>.</p>



<p>The team used two instruments: the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/observatory/design/space-telescope-imaging-spectrograph/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">STIS</a>) and the Wide Field Camera 3 (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/observatory/design/wide-field-camera-3/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WFC3</a>). These instruments collect light at different wavelengths, helping scientists identify how much stellar activity affects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exoplanet-discovery-nasa-identifies-over-5500-distant-worlds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanet observations</a>.</p>



<p>By analyzing light at visible, near-infrared, and near-ultraviolet wavelengths, the researchers found that stellar activity is more noticeable at shorter wavelengths. This means optical observations are particularly useful in detecting and correcting for stellar contamination.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-correcting-star-errors-in-exoplanet-analysis">Correcting star errors in exoplanet analysis</h2>



<p>The research team developed two methods to determine whether stellar variability was interfering with planetary data. </p>



<p>“One is to look at the overall shape of the spectrum - that is, the pattern of light at different wavelengths that has passed through the planet from the star - to see if this can be explained by the planet alone or if stellar activity is needed,<em>"</em> explained Dr. Saba.</p>



<p><em>"</em>The other is to have two observations of the same planet in the optical region of the spectrum that are taken at different times. If these observations are very different, the likely explanation is variable stellar activity.”</p>



<p>Using these methods, the researchers found that six of the 20 planets had a better fit with models that accounted for stellar variability. Another six showed minor contamination from their host star.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-wavelength-selection">Importance of wavelength selection</h2>



<p>“The risk of misinterpretation is manageable with the right wavelength coverage. Shorter wavelength, optical observations such as those used in this study are particularly helpful, as this is where stellar contamination effects are most apparent,” noted Thompson.</p>



<p>By analyzing exoplanet data at different wavelengths, scientists can separate true <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-identified-85-new-exoplanets-that-could-harbor-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary signals</a> from distortions caused by stellar activity. This approach helps ensure that their findings are as accurate as possible.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-studies-of-stars-and-exoplanets">Future studies of stars and exoplanets</h2>



<p>This study highlights the complexity of exoplanet research and the importance of refining observation techniques. </p>



<p>Future space missions, such as <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Webb</a>, <a href="https://arielmission.space" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ariel</a>, and <a href="https://bssl.space/twinkle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Twinkle</a>, will provide larger and more detailed datasets. These missions will allow scientists to further improve their models and better understand the impact of stellar variability.</p>



<p>As researchers continue to explore new worlds, they must account for the ever-changing nature of stars. By doing so, they will enhance the accuracy of their discoveries and bring us closer to identifying Earth-like planets beyond our solar system.</p>



<p>The study is published in <em><a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/1538-4365/ad8c3c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series</a>.</em></p>



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



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



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



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

Star behavior can distort our view of distant planets

For centuries, humanity has gazed at the stars in the...

<p>Meditation has long been associated with relaxation and mental clarity. Many cultures have used it for centuries to promote emotional balance and spiritual growth. Modern science is now beginning to reveal the biological effects of meditation, particularly its benefits for the brain.</p>



<p>A recent study by researchers at the <a href="https://icahn.mssm.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Icahn School of Medicine</a> at Mount Sinai provides remarkable insights into how meditation affects brain activity.</p>



<p>By using advanced brain recording techniques, the study highlights how meditation influences key brain regions responsible for emotional regulation and memory. </p>



<p>The findings offer a new understanding of how meditation might <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-is-a-powerful-weapon-against-chronic-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">support mental well-being</a> and contribute to potential therapies for mood disorders.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-s-response-to-meditation">Brain’s response to meditation</h2>



<p>For years, scientists have explored the connection between meditation and brain function. While previous research linked <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-deep-meditation-experiences-feel-timeless-no-past-no-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meditation</a> to improved mental health, the exact neural mechanisms remained unclear. This study aimed to address that gap by focusing on deep brain activity during meditation.</p>



<p>The researchers used intracranial electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings to examine brain activity in the amygdala and hippocampus.</p>



<p>These two regions play a major role in processing emotions and forming memories. By analyzing brain waves, scientists could observe the immediate impact of meditation at a neural level.</p>



<p>The study was led by Christina Maher, a neuroscience PhD student at Mount Sinai. </p>



<p>“Traditionally, it has been challenging to study these deep limbic brain regions in humans using standard methods like scalp EEG," noted Maher.</p>



<p>"Our team was able to overcome this challenge by leveraging data collected from a unique patient population: epilepsy patients with surgically implanted devices that allow for chronic EEG recording from electrodes implanted deep in the amygdala and hippocampus."</p>



<p>“It was quite amazing to uncover changes in brain wave activity in these key regions, even during first-time meditation.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-meditation">Impact of meditation</h2>



<p>To conduct this research, scientists worked with eight neurosurgical patients who suffered from drug-resistant epilepsy. These individuals had responsive neurostimulation devices implanted in their brains, allowing for continuous monitoring of deep brain activity. </p>



<p>Unlike traditional scalp EEG, which only records surface-level activity, these implants provided a more precise and detailed view of brain function.</p>



<p>The participants had little prior experience with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/transcendental-meditation-using-the-power-of-the-mind-to-heal-trauma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meditation</a>. Before the experiment, they completed a five-minute audio-guided introduction. They then engaged in ten minutes of “loving kindness” meditation, a practice that involves focusing on thoughts of well-being for oneself and others. </p>



<p>Afterward, the individuals rated their depth of meditation on a scale of 1 to 10. The average reported score was 7.43, indicating that even first-time meditators could engage meaningfully with the practice.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meditation-s-influence-on-brain-waves">Meditation’s influence on brain waves</h2>



<p>One of the key discoveries of the study involved changes in specific brain waves. </p>



<p>Scientists focused on beta and gamma waves, which are linked to attention, memory, and emotional processing. These waves play a crucial role in mental health and are often affected in conditions such as anxiety and depression.</p>



<p>Study senior author Dr. Ignacio Saez is an associate professor of neuroscience at Mount Sinai.</p>



<p>“We found that loving kindness <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meditation-reveals-common-altered-states-of-consciousness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meditation</a> is associated with changes in the strength and duration of certain types of brain waves called beta and gamma waves,” said Dr. Saez.</p>



<p>“These kinds of brain waves are affected in mood disorders like depression and anxiety, so the possibility of being able to willfully control these through meditation is pretty amazing, and may help explain the positive impact that these practices have on individuals.”</p>



<p>This finding suggests that meditation might offer a natural way to regulate mood and improve mental health. By engaging in meditation, individuals could potentially strengthen their ability to control emotional responses, reducing stress and anxiety over time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-a-real-world-meditation-environment">Creating a real-world meditation environment</h2>



<p>One of the study’s unique aspects was its setting. Instead of conducting the research in a traditional hospital or laboratory environment, scientists used the Quantitative Biometrics Laboratory at Mount Sinai West. </p>



<p>This space was designed to create a calm and relaxing atmosphere, free from the distractions commonly found in medical facilities.</p>



<p>By allowing participants to meditate in a naturalistic setting, the researchers improved the study’s ecological validity. This means the results are more likely to reflect real-world experiences.</p>



<p>The ability to observe brain activity in such an environment strengthens the case for meditation as a practical tool for mental well-being.</p>



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



<p>While the findings are promising, the study had certain limitations. The sample size was small, with only eight participants. The study also focused on a single meditation session rather than tracking the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-training-improves-mental-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effects of long-term practice</a>. </p>



<p>More research is needed to determine whether these changes in brain activity persist over time and how repeated meditation might strengthen these effects.</p>



<p>“This study provides a foundation for future research that could contribute to developing meditation-based interventions to help individuals modulate brain activity in areas involved in memory and emotional regulation,” said Dr. Saez. </p>



<p>“Meditation is noninvasive, widely accessible, and doesn’t require specialized equipment or medical resources, making it an easy-to-use tool for improving mental well-being." </p>



<p>"However, it is crucial to note that meditation is not a replacement for traditional therapies. Instead, it could serve as a complementary low-cost option for individuals experiencing challenges with memory or emotional regulation.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps-in-meditation-and-brain-research">Next steps in meditation and brain research</h2>



<p>The Mount Sinai research team plans to build on these findings by conducting follow-up studies. Future research will explore the connection between brain activity and mental health outcomes. </p>



<p>Scientists aim to determine whether meditation can produce lasting changes in mood and emotional regulation.</p>



<p>A key focus will be understanding how ongoing meditation practice influences brain function over time. If researchers can establish a link between meditation and long-term mental well-being, this could open the door to new therapeutic applications. </p>



<p>Meditation could become a widely recommended practice for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, or cognitive difficulties.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-meditation-in-mental-health">Role of meditation in mental health</h2>



<p>As scientific interest in meditation grows, more studies will likely explore its impact on the brain. The ability to measure brain activity in real time provides valuable insights into how meditation shapes neural processes. If future research confirms these effects, meditation could become a mainstream tool for improving mental health.</p>



<p>For now, this study serves as a compelling starting point. It demonstrates that even a brief meditation session can produce measurable changes in brain activity. </p>



<p>As researchers continue to investigate meditation’s potential, individuals seeking mental clarity and emotional balance may find encouragement in these findings. </p>



<p>Meditation, long regarded as a practice for personal well-being, may soon be recognized as a powerful tool for enhancing brain function and emotional resilience.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2409423122" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.</em></p>



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



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



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



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

Meditation rewires the emotional centers of the brain

Meditation has long been associated with relaxation and mental clarity....

<p>Whales have fascinated people for centuries. Now, scientists have discovered that humpback whales produce songs with some structure that looks a lot like how humans organize language.</p>



<p>These findings draw on methods used to see how babies detect words in speech. The <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/science.adq7055" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> was led by <a href="https://www.arnonlanguagelab.com/inbal-arnon-phd" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Inbal Arnon</a> from the Hebrew University, along with colleagues at multiple universities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whale-songs-and-human-speech">Whale songs and human speech</h2>



<p>For years, experts questioned whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-helps-humans-have-20-minute-conversation-with-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whales</a> used anything resembling human language. That has changed, with this <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq7055" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> reporting that whale songs contain recurring elements similar to those in spoken words.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team compared patterns in whale recordings to patterns in human language. They found that certain repeated sounds appeared in a skewed distribution, which also shows up in language.</p>



<p>They arrived at these conclusions using eight years of recordings gathered near New Caledonia. The analysis suggests that whales may create phrases with distinct internal boundaries that appear repeatedly.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://media.ed.ac.uk/media/1_x47e22m8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">*** Click here to listen to the whale songs ***</a></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-baby-language-research-helps">How baby language research helps</h2>



<p>Researchers turned to methods originally used by baby-language experts. In a classic 1996 <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.274.5294.1926" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>, scientists showed that eight-month-old infants track probabilities between syllables to spot word boundaries.</p>



<p>Applying these same ideas to whale song helped the team identify distinct structural units. They suspect whales might piece together these sound units through a similar statistical process.</p>



<p>The question is whether whales detect transitions between sound elements as cues. That possibility opens new doors for understanding how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-20-minute-conversation-with-a-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> learn complex calls.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-chain-across-the-ocean">Cultural chain across the ocean</h2>



<p>Humpback whales learn their songs from each other, passing new phrases through communities. This type of <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0065345408603770?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cultural transmission</a> can shape communication in ways that mirror human language.</p>



<p>Experts believe these communal practices may help songs change over time. As new whales adapt tunes, they add fresh twists to a shared repertoire.</p>



<p>Such changes might explain why certain phrases dominate a region, while others fade away. That dynamic process could be central to how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-whales-use-songs-to-hide-from-predators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> maintain a musical tradition.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-debating-what-whale-songs-mean">Debating what whale songs mean</h2>



<p>This work extends beyond simple comparisons. “Whale song is not a language; it lacks semantic meaning,” said <a href="https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/biology/people/ecg5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Ellen Garland</a> from the <a href="https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of St Andrews</a>.</p>



<p>“Using insights and methods from how babies learn language allowed us to discover previously undetected structure in whale song.” said Professor Inbal Arnon from the Hebrew University.</p>



<p>The team sees a bigger question about whether these patterns matter to the whales themselves. It's unclear if they perceive these divisions the same way we do.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-communication-in-whales-and-humans">Communication in whales and humans</h2>



<p>“It suggests that our understanding of the evolution of language can benefit not only from looking at our closest primate relatives, but also at cases of convergent evolution elsewhere in nature,” remarked Professor Simon Kirby from the <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a>.</p>



<p>Language evolution research has often focused on apes or other primates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Looking at whales may highlight the role of cultural factors in shaping communication. The study's authors see parallels that challenge old ideas about human uniqueness.</p>



<p>Other scientists note that humpback songs may also resemble music more than language. Some traits might bridge both domains, hinting at shared pathways in how complex signals emerge.</p>



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



<p>The study authors plan to explore whether <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humpback-whale-travels-farther-than-any-mammal-ever-recorded/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whale</a> songs contain segments that have special significance. They want to know if whales respond differently when certain phrases are rearranged.</p>



<p>Dr. Garland mentioned that these new perspectives raise many open questions about cognition and communication. She adds that more data will help confirm if whales use these breaks in real interaction.</p>



<p>Some observers hope these results will guide better conservation strategies. If we grasp how whales craft their songs, we might better protect their communication hotspots.</p>



<p>Some researchers see parallels between whale melodies and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-causes-similar-emotional-experiences-and-sensations-in-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human music</a>. Yet the authors emphasize that whale songs do not carry the expressive content of a full language.</p>



<p>Scientists might compare humpback song shifts across different regions. That approach could reveal how social learning shapes each population's signature sounds.</p>



<p>Others are keen to track how quickly whales adopt new phrases from traveling groups. Rapid changes might hint at a flexible system that's primed for adaptation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whales-and-humans-share-cultural-learning">Whales and humans share cultural learning</h2>



<p>Whales and humans seem incredibly different. Yet both rely on cultural learning to pass key behaviors across generations.</p>



<p>These findings highlight a surprising link between human speech and whale song. Researchers believe this shared trait might spark new ideas about how communication evolves.</p>



<p>They see whales as a window into broader questions about how complex signals arise through cultural means. Tracking those signals could lead to fresh insights about creativity in nature.</p>



<p>Many experts now wonder if whale songs might reshape our definitions of language-like behavior. More studies are needed to see if these patterns hold across different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conversation-with-humpback-whale-gives-seti-team-ideas-on-how-to-talk-to-aliens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whale species</a>.</p>



<p>These results might broaden how we see animal communication in the future.</p>



<p>The study is published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/science.adq7055" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science</em></a>.</p>



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



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



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



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

Whale songs share very similar patterns with human language

Whales have fascinated people for centuries. Now, scientists have discovered...

<p>Yerba mate is an herbal tea that ranks among the world’s most popular caffeinated beverages. Beloved in South America for its invigorating properties, this versatile plant contains an abundance of bioactive compounds known to promote various health benefits.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Recently, an international research team achieved a significant milestone: they successfully mapped the yerba mate genome. The study is shedding new light on how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-caffeine-levels-reduce-the-risk-of-diabetes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">caffeine</a> is synthesized in this plant and opening avenues for developing enhanced varieties.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-caffeine-in-yerba-mate">Evolution of caffeine in yerba mate</h2>



<p>The project was led by the <a href="https://www.uba.ar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Buenos Aires</a>, with participation from the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Hamburg and other institutions in Argentina, Brazil, and the United States. </p>



<p>Through genome analysis, the scientists uncovered surprising insights into yerba mate’s evolutionary history - particularly its pathway for producing caffeine.</p>



<p>“I discovered that an ancestor of yerba had duplicated its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-genome-size-impact-evolutionary-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a> approximately 50 million years ago,” said Federico Vignale, the study’s first author and an EMBL Hamburg postdoctoral fellow.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This ancestral duplication may have been key in the evolution of its metabolic complexity, allowing it to synthesize a wide range of bioactive compounds, such as terpenes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flavonol-rich-foods-reduce-the-risk-of-developing-frailty/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flavonoids</a>, phenols, and xanthines, known for their antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and nervous system stimulant properties. Of all these compounds, my interest focused on caffeine.”</p>



<p>Although caffeine appears in multiple unrelated plant species such as yerba mate and coffee, the researchers discovered that the genes behind its production do not share a single evolutionary origin.</p>



<p>Adrián Turjanski, the project leader, is a researcher at the Institute of Biological Chemistry in the Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences at the University of Buenos Aires.</p>



<p>“We came to understand in detail that the genes do not have a common ancestor, but come from separate origins, and that both yerba mate and coffee came to have caffeine biosynthesis by evolving along convergent pathways,” said Turjanski.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Because yerba mate and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-flavor-can-be-improved-with-a-simple-trick/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> independently evolved to produce caffeine, scientists suspect that this compound plays a crucial protective role, potentially defending these plants against insects or other threats.</p>



<p>Through in-depth structural, experimental, and bioinformatic work, the team also showed how yerba mate’s specific route to caffeine biosynthesis sets it apart from coffee.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-insights-into-yerba-mate">Genetic insights into yerba mate</h2>



<p>This genomic breakthrough not only illuminates yerba mate’s past but also hints at a future of optimized cultivation. Armed with precise genetic insights, researchers can now create decaffeinated strains, boost desirable health-promoting compounds, or breed plants adapted to a broader range of environments.</p>



<p>“By reading the genome you would know how to intervene and modify the plant,” Turjanski said. “One could propose making it richer in certain characteristics, for example, a decaffeinated yerba mate, or one that is better adapted to other lands, and thus expand its cultivation.”</p>



<p>These findings establish a foundation for subsequent research efforts, enabling breeders and industry specialists to refine the plant to meet emerging consumer preferences and agricultural demands.</p>



<p><strong>A cultural touchstone</strong></p>



<p>For Vignale, the personal resonance of sequencing yerba mate’s genome runs deep. Beyond the scientific intrigue, yerba mate stands as a defining element of South American life.</p>



<p>“Yerba mate, for me, represents the most beautiful thing about the culture of my home country, Argentina - a drink that unites us, accompanies us, and is present in every moment of our lives,” said Vignale.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“That's why I didn't hesitate for a second to accept the challenge. Sequencing the yerba mate genome felt, in a way, like sequencing Messi's genome.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaboration-across-continents">Collaboration across continents</h2>



<p>Under the direction of the Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences at the University of Buenos Aires, the project integrated expertise from the U.S., Europe, and South America.</p>



<p>To clarify how caffeine biosynthesis differs in yerba mate, EMBL Hamburg contributed structural modeling and molecular docking insights.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Vignale, alongside colleague Lucas Defelipe of EMBL Hamburg’s García Alai Team, played a key role in unraveling the molecular steps in this specialized pathway.</p>



<p>“This experience taught me the true value of interdisciplinary work and to grow together with scientists from different specialties,” Vignale said.</p>



<p>Vignale initially connected with EMBL through <a href="https://www.cabana.online/index" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the CABANA project</a>, an initiative coordinated by Latin American organizations and EMBL-EBI. Funded by the <a href="https://www.ukri.org/what-we-do/browse-our-areas-of-investment-and-support/global-challenges-research-fund/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UKRI Global Challenges Research Fund</a>, CABANA focuses on enhancing bioinformatics capacity across Latin America to tackle challenges in communicable diseases, sustainable food production, and biodiversity.</p>



<p>“The CABANA project has not only strengthened my bioinformatics skills, which were essential for carrying out this research, but it also provided the necessary funding to complete the study,” Vignale added.</p>



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



<p>With its genome now comprehensively mapped, yerba mate stands at the threshold of a new era in cultivation and consumption.&nbsp;</p>



<p>From potential decaffeination to region-specific breeding, the ability to hone the plant’s genetic traits heralds promising developments in agriculture and industry.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As research continues, both farmers and consumers can look forward to innovative strains that retain yerba mate’s cherished cultural significance while expanding its global reach.</p>



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



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



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



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

Caffeine evolution in plants: The surprising story of yerba mate 

Yerba mate is an herbal tea that ranks among the...

<p>Cannabidiol (CBD) is emerging as the future of medicinal cannabis, as new research uncovers how it works with brain receptors to affect anxiety and pain management.</p>



<p>Unlike its psychoactive cousin, THC, cannabidiol has the potential for therapy without the high.</p>



<p>Scientists have long hypothesized about CBD's functional mechanisms, but a recent breakthrough has provided new insight into how it fine-tunes key biological processes.</p>



<p>While research on cannabis has intensified recently, there is still much to understand regarding the ways in which the plant components interact in the body.</p>



<p>In a significant advance, researchers have now looked more closely at what is being characterized as a highly complex interplay between CBD and THC that opens new avenues for using the benefits with fewer of the negatives.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-introducing-the-power-of-cbd-and-thc">Introducing the power of CBD and THC</h2>



<p>A team of researchers from the <a href="https://olemiss.edu/departments/pharmacy/natural-products-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Mississippi's</a> National Center for Natural Products Research has investigated the complex relationship between cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis.</p>



<p>Their study sheds new light on how these compounds interact with the body's cellular receptors, potentially revolutionizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-women-experience-more-chronic-pain-than-men/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-found-in-cannabis-plants-can-actually-reduce-cannabis-induced-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anxiety</a> treatments.</p>



<p>As demand for CBD products surges in the U.S., following hemp’s decriminalization by the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, it as become critical to understand these interactions.</p>



<p>"The 2018 Farm Bill passage effectively opened a Pandora's box of research challenges," said Amar Chittiboyina, principal scientist and associate director of the Center.</p>



<p>"CBD's use proliferated across a wide spectrum, from pain management and recreational purposes to seemingly endless other applications. However, the fundamental question lies in understanding how CBD works on various targets and exerts its perceived effects at the molecular level," commented Chittiboyina.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-magic-key-cb1-receptor">The magic key: CB1 receptor</h2>



<p>At the core of the study is cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1), a protein that is found throughout the body and regulates pain, mood, appetite, metabolism, and memory.</p>



<p>Both CBD and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prenatal-thc-exposure-linked-to-life-long-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">THC</a> interact with this receptor, but they do so in distinctly different ways.</p>



<p>When THC binds to CB1, it acts like an "off switch" for pain, providing relief but often leading to side effects such as memory loss, nausea, and addiction.</p>



<p>CBD, on the other hand, behaves more like a dimmer switch, as it delicately modulates the receptor’s function.</p>



<p>This newfound understanding paves the way for future research aimed at harnessing the benefits of THC while minimizing its drawbacks.</p>



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



<p>"Often, to mitigate pain, patients combine opiates with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recreational-cannabis-use-protects-against-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cannabis</a>, kratom, and other substances. Is this approach beneficial or detrimental?" asked Chittiboyina, highlighting the many research opportunities that lie ahead.</p>



<p>The findings could even pave the way for the development of a more efficient, synthetic form of CBD that is designed to optimize receptor interactions while reducing unwanted effects.</p>



<p>This research goes beyond viewing cannabis merely as a drug - it positions the substance as a "treasure chest" of medicinal advances.</p>



<p>"We're trying to pull out the benefits and leave the harms behind," said Robert Laprairie, an associate professor at the <a href="https://www.usask.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Saskatchewan</a>, and co-author of the study.</p>



<p>One of the next research frontiers involves investigating whether CBD interferes with opioids like morphine. </p>



<p>If CBD negatively interacts with opioid receptors, it could reduce the efficacy of opioids, which is a potential concern for individuals who rely on opioids for pain relief.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cbd-research-s-promising-path">CBD research’s promising path</h2>



<p>While these findings provide a foundation for understanding CBD’s therapeutic potential, the researchers emphasize that further studies are necessary before drawing definitive conclusions.</p>



<p>"But, if we can pinpoint how CBD interacts with multiple targets on a molecular level, we will be in a stronger scientific position to develop solutions that are relevant to public health," the team concluded.</p>



<p>Their discoveries not only deepen our understanding of cannabis compounds but also open doors for targeted drug development aimed at reducing the risks associated with THC and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-discovery-offers-hope-for-tackling-opioid-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">opioids</a>. </p>



<p>The study marks an important step toward safer and more effective treatment options for those suffering pain and struggling with mood disorders. </p>



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



<p>The research was supported by grants from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, the National Science Foundation XSEDE Bridges, and the Mississippi State-sponsored National Center for Cannabis Research and Education.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00343" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Chemical Neuroscience</a></em>.</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



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



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



<p></p>

CBD can help ease chronic pain, anxiety, and mood disorders

Cannabidiol (CBD) is emerging as the future of medicinal cannabis,...

<p>Researchers at Columbia University have discovered a unique group of neurons in the mouse brain that command the animal to stop eating.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While many brain circuits monitor food intake, these neurons - located in the brainstem, one of the oldest regions of the vertebrate brain - appear to make the final decision to end a meal. This breakthrough finding may open new avenues for developing obesity treatments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neurons-sense-eating-behavior-nbsp">Neurons sense eating behavior&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Alexander Nectow is a physician-scientist at <a href="https://www.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a> Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, who led the research with Srikanta Chowdhury, an associate research scientist in the Nectow lab.</p>



<p>“These neurons are unlike any other neuron involved in regulating satiation,” said Nectow.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/binge-eating-linked-to-a-specific-set-of-brain-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neurons</a> in the brain are usually restricted to sensing food put into our mouth, or how food fills the gut, or the nutrition obtained from food. The neurons we found are special in that they seem to integrate all these different pieces of information and more.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-final-step-in-meal-termination">The final step in meal termination</h2>



<p>The process of ending a meal is something everyone experiences - at some point during eating, a signal builds, and we decide, “That’s enough.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>While previous studies have pinpointed brain circuits that monitor various aspects of food intake, they did not identify the specific cells responsible for actually stopping the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-ultra-processed-foods-makes-your-muscles-weaker-and-more-fragile/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating</a> process. </p>



<p>Previous leads had traced this decision-making capability to the brainstem, but the precise neurons remained unidentified until now.</p>



<p>Nectow and his team employed advanced single-cell techniques that enable researchers to distinguish between cell types in complex brain regions. This method, called spatially resolved molecular profiling, allowed them to observe cells in their native environment and determine their molecular makeup.</p>



<p>“This technique - spatially resolved molecular profiling - allows you to see cells where they are in the brainstem and what their molecular composition looks like,” Nectow explained.</p>



<p>During their detailed examination of a brainstem region known for processing complex signals, the team discovered a set of cells with characteristics resembling other appetite-regulating neurons. But what do these neurons actually do?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-neurons-control-eating-behavior-nbsp">How neurons control eating behavior&nbsp;</h2>



<p>To investigate the role of these neurons in controlling food intake, the researchers used optogenetics - a method that allows cells to be activated or deactivated by light.&nbsp;</p>



<p>When these newly discovered neurons were stimulated with light, the mice responded by eating significantly smaller meals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, the degree of light activation determined how quickly the mice reduced their food intake, suggesting that these neurons not only signal an immediate stop but also help modulate the pace at which eating slows down.</p>



<p>“Interestingly, these neurons don’t just signal an immediate stop; they help the mice to slow down their eating gradually,” Chowdhury said.</p>



<p>The experiments revealed that these cells track every bite the mice take by integrating sensory cues from the mouth, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hunger-hormones-in-the-gut-can-change-our-eating-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut</a>, and even visual signals of food. Their coordinated activity underlies the decision-making process that eventually leads to satiety.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interactions-with-other-neural-signals">Interactions with other neural signals</h2>



<p>The researchers also probed how these neurons interact with other known components of feeding regulation. They found that the neurons are silenced by a hormone that increases appetite, and conversely, they are activated by GLP-1 agonists - a class of drugs that is increasingly used for treating obesity and diabetes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These observations indicate that the neurons respond to a broad range of signals, effectively “sensing” food through multiple channels and integrating this information to decide when enough food has been consumed.</p>



<p>“Essentially these neurons can smell food, see food, feel food in the mouth and in the gut, and interpret all the gut hormones that are released in response to eating,” Nectow said. “And ultimately, they leverage all of this information to decide when enough is enough.”</p>



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



<p>Although these specialized neurons were discovered in mice, their location in the brainstem - an area highly conserved among vertebrates - strongly suggests that humans possess similar cells.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This finding represents a major new entry point for understanding satiety and could lead to innovative therapies for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-rates-are-surging-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a> by targeting the neural circuitry responsible for stopping food intake.</p>



<p>“We think it's a major new entry point to understanding what it means to be full, how that comes about, and how that is leveraged to end a meal,” Nectow added. “And we hope that it could be used for obesity therapies down the road.”</p>



<p>By identifying and characterizing these neurons, Columbia scientists have taken a significant step toward unraveling the complex neural mechanisms underlying hunger and satiety.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As further research is conducted to explore these pathways in humans, new treatments for obesity and related disorders may emerge, offering hope for those struggling with excessive food intake.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0092867425000479" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Cell</em></a>.</p>



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



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



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



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

Neurons discovered that tell us when to stop eating

Researchers at Columbia University have discovered a unique group of...

<p><em>Chlorella vulgaris</em> is a small species of microalga that is rapidly becoming the new champion in superfoods. It combines high nutritional power with sustainable production methods and may represent a game-changer in terms of global food security.</p>



<p>Could this little green powerhouse be the future of sustainable nutrition? Science is starting to say yes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chlorella-vulgaris-is-a-nutritional-powerhouse"><em>Chlorella vulgaris</em> is a nutritional powerhouse</h2>



<p>This tiny <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-microalgae-show-photosynthesis-is-possible-in-near-darkness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microalga</a> is abundant in freshwater habitats and uses sunlight and carbon dioxide to manufacture its own food, even though its entire body consists of only a single cell. </p>



<p>Previous <a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/3106856?origin=crossref">research</a> has found that <em>Chlorella vulgaris</em> cells contain almost 50% protein, along with a healthy supply of fats, carbohydrates, and various vitamins and minerals.</p>



<p>This makes algae a go-to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/algae-may-be-the-future-of-sustainable-superfoods/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">superfood</a> for our increasingly health-conscious society. Not only is it rich in nutrients, but its cultivation requires minimal land and water use. </p>



<p>Thus, it is a way to reduce our environmental footprint while eating without concerns about animal cruelty or damage to the planet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthy-for-body-and-environment">Healthy for body and environment</h2>



<p>Its environmental friendliness is not the end of its superpowers - it also has antioxidant properties and supports immune function, making it an attractive, nutrient-dense addition to food products.</p>



<p>It is currently marketed on a small scale in tablet and powder form, as a food supplement.</p>



<p>In this current wave of health and eco-conscious awakening, a team of scientists from the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a> have investigated the potential of <em>Chlorella vulgaris</em> as a large-scale source of nutrients for humans.</p>



<p>“<em>Chlorella vulgaris</em> could be one of the superfoods that redefine the future of food innovation,” they state. However, they caution that realizing this potential food revolution will not be without hurdles.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-challenges-for-widespread-adoption">Overcoming challenges for widespread adoption</h2>



<p>The researchers acknowledge the need for further development in various areas. </p>



<p>From refining cultivation techniques to processing methods that can enhance its appeal to the average consumer's palate, the future is ripe with opportunities for growth. </p>



<p>“Our study underscores the critical role of applied research in addressing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vaccinating-plants-could-boost-global-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global food security</a> challenges while promoting environmental sustainability,” shared Dr. Helen Onyeaka, a co-author of the study.</p>



<p>The bright future of this microalga is dependent on continued technological advances, which can improve the efficiency of production and broaden its adoption among food producers.</p>



<p>The researchers note that the key to success involves enhancing strains of <em>C. vulgaris</em> using genetic modification and improving cultivation systems. They propose that the development of new culture systems could increase yields and cut costs.</p>



<p>Furthermore, they recommend the use of diverse bioreactors that allow for the tweaking of light and nutrient parameters in order to maximize yield in sterile conditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovations-for-a-better-future">Innovations for a better future</h2>



<p>In order to unlock the full potential of <em>Chlorella vulgaris</em> as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-confirms-that-broccoli-is-a-superfood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mainstream superfood</a>, significant advances in processing and cultivation are essential.</p>



<p>Various techniques, such as mechanical milling and ultrasonication, can significantly increase nutrient accessibility, making this micro-organism's rich protein and vitamin content more bioavailable.</p>



<p>Additionally, advanced techniques such as pulsed electric fields can improve digestibility while retaining the production costs within economically acceptable limits. </p>



<p>Sensory evaluations and consumer testing play a crucial role in refining the taste and texture of the final products, so that it is palatable and appealing to a wide audience.</p>



<p>As scientists continue to refine these processes, <em>Chlorella vulgaris</em> is poised to transition from a niche supplement to a widely accepted dietary staple that merges nutrition, sustainability, and food security into a single, green solution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chlorella-vulgaris-a-superfood-with-far-reaching-benefits"><em>Chlorella vulgaris</em>: A superfood with far-reaching benefits</h2>



<p><em>Chlorella vulgaris</em> is not only a promising addition to the food industry but also a powerful tool in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increasing-plant-extinction-threatens-the-future-of-medicine-and-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">medicine</a> and environmental sustainability.</p>



<p>Studies suggest it may aid in cholesterol reduction, cancer prevention, and neuroprotection against some diseases, including Alzheimer’s.</p>



<p>Its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties make it a compelling candidate for future medical research.</p>



<p>Additionally, this microalga contributes to sustainability by absorbing carbon dioxide, supporting carbon sequestration, and helping to purify wastewater through its ability to remove heavy metals and toxins. </p>



<p>With continued research and technological advances, <em>Chlorella vulgaris</em> could become a cornerstone of health, industry, and environmental solutions, paving the way for a more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-inspires-solutions-for-a-sustainable-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable future</a>.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the <em><a href="https://research.birmingham.ac.uk/en/publications/ichlorella-vulgarisi-as-a-food-substitute-applications-and-benefi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Food Science</a></em>.</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



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



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

This unlikely hero is shaping up to be the next big 'superfood'

Chlorella vulgaris is a small species of microalga that is...

<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>



<p>—–</p>



<p>Like what you saw and read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



<p>—–</p>



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



<p>—–</p>

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>



<p>—–</p>



<p>Like what you saw and read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



<p>—–</p>



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



<p>—–</p>

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>



<p>—–</p>



<p>Like what you saw and read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



<p>—–</p>



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



<p>—–</p>

What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



<p>Like what you saw and read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



<p>—–</p>



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



<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>



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



<p id="block-43e218f4-0391-477c-8396-eb777c8c80a3">Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



<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>



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



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



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

Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<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>



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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



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



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



<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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



<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

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"]</div>



<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

[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

News coming your way