<p>Inside our bodies, countless decisions play out silently at the cellular level. Some cells divide, some die, and others are forced out when they no longer serve their purpose. </p>



<p>A study from <a href="https://www.kcl.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King’s College London</a> and the <a href="https://www.crick.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Francis Crick Institute</a> reveals that epithelial cells use electricity to spot weak neighbors and remove them. This breakthrough offers fresh insight into how diseases like cancer and stroke arise when energy balance within cells is disturbed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cells-renew-constantly">Cells renew constantly</h2>



<p>Epithelial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hemifusome-newly-discovered-organelle-inside-human-cells-with-immense-potential/">cells</a> form the barrier that lines organs, renewing rapidly to stay protective. Their balance depends on extrusion, the process of ejecting damaged or excess cells. This keeps tissues tightly packed and efficient. </p>



<p>If extrusion falters, cell numbers become chaotic, creating openings for disease. Without this constant regulation, unhealthy cells may linger, disrupt organ integrity, and interfere with critical signaling pathways. </p>



<p>Over time, these disturbances can weaken the protective barrier, encourage unchecked growth, and increase vulnerability to conditions such as cancer, chronic inflammation, or infections that compromise overall tissue health and resilience.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electricity-targets-weak-cells">Electricity targets weak cells</h2>



<p>Earlier work showed that overcrowding forces some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-the-first-cells-life-form-on-earth-scientists-think-they-finally-figured-it-out/">cells</a> to be squeezed out mechanically. The latest discovery goes further. It shows that extrusion is not random but targets energy-poor cells. Crowding pushes sodium into cells through specialized ion channels, altering their electrical signals. </p>



<p>Healthy cells restore balance, but weak ones cannot, triggering shrinkage and eventual extrusion. This reveals a precise surveillance system where tissues actively monitor cellular energy, ensuring only the strongest cells remain. </p>



<p>Such control preserves organ stability, while defects in this mechanism may promote disease progression and unchecked cellular growth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cells-sense-crowding-with-electricity">Cells sense crowding with electricity</h2>



<p>The researchers noticed a striking prelude to extrusion: cells briefly shrank before being expelled. This stage, termed homeostatic early shrinkage, reflects water leaving the cell. </p>



<p>Roughly 70 percent of extruding cells undergo this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cells-vomit-waste-to-speed-up-healing-in-our-body/">shrinkage</a>. It is not caused by contractile forces but by ion channels regulating water movement. Key players include the potassium channels Kv1.1 and Kv1.2, and the chloride channel SWELL1.</p>



<p>The study revealed that an epithelial sodium channel, ENaC, senses crowding. It acts as a tension detector, letting sodium rush in when cells press against one another.</p>



<p>If a cell has enough ATP, it pumps sodium back out and stabilizes. If not, depolarization occurs, potassium and chloride exit, water follows, and the cell shrinks, crossing the threshold that triggers extrusion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-energy-as-a-trigger">Low energy as a trigger</h2>



<p>Time-lapse experiments revealed that cells destined for extrusion show falling ATP levels before they depolarize and shrink. When ATP levels were artificially lowered, extrusion increased. </p>



<p>This shows energy deficiency directly selects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-space-changes-our-cells-insights-from-the-iss/">cells</a> for removal. In essence, epithelial tissue runs a built-in fitness test: cells unable to maintain their electrical balance are expelled.</p>



<p>"We see this sodium channel acting as a sensor, exposing cells with the least amount of energy and targeting those cells for death," noted study lead author Dr. Saranne Mitchell. </p>



<p>"This mechanism gives epithelia a constant surveillance system to rapidly detect weak cells and remove them. It's like an electrical quality-control check, keeping tissues robust and functional."</p>



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



<p>The study highlights how epithelial tissues are not passive layers but dynamic communities constantly testing their members. By identifying weaker cells early, they can preserve strength and protect organ function.</p>



<p>"By revealing that cells with low energy are targeted for extrusion, our work also adds a new layer into how metabolism can impact many diseases," said Professor Jody Rosenblatt.</p>



<p>"This new insight could suggest how overconsumption, through eating more and consuming more calories, might override this 'low energy trigger' for extrusion and prevent the elimination of defective cells, allowing them to accumulate into cancers." </p>



<p>"It might also reveal how energy deprivation following a stroke, caused by impacted blood supply, could lead to excess extrusion and organ damage."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cells-use-electricity-effectively">Cells use electricity effectively</h2>



<p>This model highlights energy sufficiency as a deciding factor in cell survival. Much like how mitochondria regulate apoptosis, epithelial extrusion uses energy balance as a checkpoint. </p>



<p>The findings also connect to conditions like cystic fibrosis and cancer, where ion channel malfunctions are common. By linking ion flow, energy, and crowding, this study reframes how tissues maintain integrity.</p>



<p>The discovery paints epithelia as more than static barriers. They are dynamic, electrically sensitive tissues constantly probing their members for weakness. </p>



<p>Cells that cannot meet the energy demands are removed for the greater good of the tissue. Even the faintest electrical flicker within these cellular communities can tip the balance between health and disease.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09514-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: CC0 Public Domain</p>



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Body tissues use electricity to expel weak cells

Inside our bodies, countless decisions play out silently at the cellular level. Some cells divide, some die, and others are forced out when they no longer serve their purpose. A study from King’s College London and the Francis Crick Institute reveals that epithelial cells use electricity to spot weak neighbors and remove them. This breakthrough offers fresh insight into how diseases like cancer and stroke arise when energy balance within cells is disturbed. Cells renew constantly Epithelial cells form the barrier that lines organs, renewing rapidly to...

<p>Have you ever felt your skin tingle during a horror movie, or experienced the warmth of a tender family scene? According to researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University, these skin reactions might tell more about your emotions than you think.</p>



<p>The team, led by Professor Shogo Okamoto, has been exploring a fascinating question: Can our skin conductance shed light on our emotions? </p>



<p>When we feel different sensations, the electrical properties of our skin change dramatically due to perspiration. Signals of these changes appear within one to three seconds after the original emotional trigger. </p>



<p>This might sound complex, but let's make it simple: different emotions make our skin behave differently.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-s-response-to-different-emotions">Skin's response to different emotions</h2>



<p>To investigate this, the researchers from <a href="https://www.tmu.ac.jp/english/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tokyo Metropolitan University</a> conducted an experiment where volunteers watched various types of videos while wearing skin probes.</p>



<p>These videos ranged from heart-pounding horror scenes, feel-good family bonding moments, and hilarious acts by comedians. Each scene offered clear points at which the viewer's emotions were significantly triggered.</p>



<p>Following each video, the team recorded and analyzed the conductance traces, which led to some intriguing findings. </p>



<p>Turns out, those bone-chilling horror scenes prompted responses that lasted the longest. This could be our body's survival mechanism, keeping us alert and ready in potentially dangerous situations.</p>



<p>When comparing the heartwarming family scenes and humor-filled clips, the former elicited a slower <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/facial-expressions-arent-enough-to-understand-human-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reaction</a>. This could reflect the complex mix of happiness and sadness that often accompanies poignant family moments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revealing-the-emotional-mystique">Revealing the emotional mystique</h2>



<p>The most exciting part of their study, however, was the team's discovery that different numbers extracted from the skin conductance traces could help distinguish the viewer's emotions.</p>



<p>While they can't pinpoint emotions with perfect accuracy just yet, the data can predict whether a person was experiencing fear or the warmth of family ties with a significant degree of certainty.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-skin-react-to-emotions">Why does skin react to emotions?</h2>



<p>The findings of extended responses during bone-chilling horror scenes and slower reactions in heartwarming family moments warrant further exploration. </p>



<p>Several factors may contribute to these distinctive patterns of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emotions-sensory-perception-brain-fascinating-interplay/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional response</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-survival-instincts">Survival instincts</h3>



<p>Our physiological responses to fear-inducing stimuli, such as horror scenes, may be rooted in our evolutionary history. </p>



<p>The prolonged responses could be attributed to our body's survival mechanism, designed to keep us vigilant and prepared in potentially dangerous situations.</p>



<p>These scenes may activate the release of stress hormones, heightening our senses and readiness to react.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexity-of-emotions">Complexity of emotions</h3>



<p>Heartwarming family scenes often evoke a mix of happiness and sadness, resulting in more nuanced and complex emotional experiences. These conflicting emotions may require additional cognitive processing, leading to a slower physiological response. </p>



<p>The interplay of joy and nostalgia in these moments may contribute to a unique pattern of emotional engagement.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-individual-differences-and-personal-context">Individual differences and personal context</h3>



<p>Emotional responses can vary widely among individuals due to personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and individual sensitivities. </p>



<p>Factors such as past trauma, personal values, and individual preferences can influence the intensity and duration of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-emotions-linked-to-unique-brain-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional responses</a>.</p>



<p>It is important to consider the diverse range of subjective experiences when interpreting these findings.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-emotional-response-analysis">Future of emotional response analysis</h2>



<p>The research on skin conductance traces unlocks new possibilities for understanding and interpreting emotions.</p>



<p>As technology continues to advance, it is not far-fetched to imagine a future where devices can accurately detect our emotions in real-time. </p>



<p>This could revolutionize various fields, including entertainment, healthcare, and communication. </p>



<p>Personalized movies could be created to adapt their storyline based on emotional engagement. Healthcare devices could be designed to provide immediate support based on specific emotions. The potential applications are vast and exciting.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skin-devices-detecting-emotions">Skin devices detecting emotions</h2>



<p>Imagine a world where skin devices can sense your emotions and adapt their services accordingly. </p>



<p>While such technology would rely heavily on facial expressions, skin conductance could be a rich, alternative source of information, particularly when facial data isn't available.</p>



<p>The world of emotionally aware technologies might still be a few steps away, but this work brings us one significant step closer. It supports a better understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/doomscrolling-is-silently-ruining-our-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human emotions</a>, while opening up exciting new doors in the world of technology.</p>



<p>In conclusion, the fascinating research on skin conductance and its potential to decipher human emotions opens up a world of possibilities for emotionally aware technologies. </p>



<p>This research was backed by an Institutional Research Grant from Tokyo Metropolitan University.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/10718281" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IEEE Access</a>.</em></p>



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Future tech will track emotions through changes in our skin

Have you ever felt your skin tingle during a horror...

<p>Imagine tripping over a piece of old metal while exploring the ruins of a long-forgotten town, only to find that the obstacle was something exceptional. That's precisely what happened to a group of archaeologists, who recently unearthed the oldest known firearm, in the United States, known as "The Bronze Cannon." </p>



<p>The cannon, often referred to as a wall gun, was a significant part of the Coronado expedition led by Spanish conquistador Francisco Vázquez de Coronado. This expedition comprised brave explorers who sailed far from home in search of the "Seven Cities of Gold" almost half a millennium ago.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-bronze-cannon-was-a-formidable-weapon">"The Bronze Cannon" was a formidable weapon </h2>



<p>Built to dispense projectiles in a manner that resembled a swarm of angry hornets, the 40-pound cannon was a force to be reckoned with.</p>



<p>But, unlike modern-day firearms, it had a unique firing mechanism that used round projectiles or buckshot. The coroner's report described the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-masters-woodworking-crafting-wooden-hunting-weapons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weapon</a>'s effect on the enemy soldiers as akin to a hornets' assault.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spanish-connection-of-the-cannon-firearm">Spanish connection of the cannon firearm</h2>



<p>The team conducted a scientifically rigorous radiocarbon analysis on the artifact to trace the cannon's origin. </p>



<p>The result? The weapon was fashioned between 1500 and 1520 using metal and decoration indicative of Mexican craftsmanship rather than the ornate Spanish designs.</p>



<p>This discovery points towards the firearm's being cast in Mexico - an unexpected find that challenges the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-used-interesting-technique-hunt-big-animals-clovis-points/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">traditional narrative</a> of Spanish involvement.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannon-and-firearm-history-in-the-u-s">Cannon and firearm history in the U.S.</h2>



<p>The scientist championing this discovery is Deni Seymour, an independent archaeologist and the lead author of the study that describes this significant find.</p>



<p>The cannon, uncovered in the town of San Geronimo III, is described by Seymour as an important artifact.</p>



<p>"Until this particular cannon was found, no firearms from the Coronado Expedition had been discovered. No firearms from this early period are known from the U.S. or on the continental land mass as a whole," noted Seymour.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannon-s-final-resting-place">Cannon's final resting place</h2>



<p>Seymour and her team unearthed the cannon from the ruins of San Geronimo III, a town established by the members of the Coronado expedition. This was not a peaceful settlement by any means.</p>



<p>The Sobaipuri O’odham people rose against the Spanish settlers in what Seymour describes as "the earliest, most consequential Native American uprising in the continental U.S."</p>



<p>The battle left the Spanish with no choice but to flee, leaving behind their prized possession that, ironically, was never fired.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rewriting-firearm-history-cannon-from-arizona">Rewriting firearm history: Cannon from Arizona</h2>



<p>The discovery of the bronze cannon is not just a fascinating find; it's a revelation that pushes the historical timeline of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-hunter-gatherers-were-nearly-wiped-out-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">firearm</a> introduction in the U.S. back by 300 years.</p>



<p>It was previously believed that the first cannons came ashore in colonial Boston amidst the upheaval of the Revolutionary War. </p>



<p>However, this recent finding takes the timeline far back to a Spanish adobe house used by settlers who were a part of the Coronado expedition, nearly 500 years ago.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-journey-through-uncharted-lands">Journey through uncharted lands</h2>



<p>The Coronado expedition, led by Francisco Vázquez de Coronado, was not just a journey to unknown lands; it was a test of endurance that brought together over 2,500 Europeans and Mexican-Indian allies. </p>



<p>The two-year-long journey saw the allies navigate through current-day Mexico and the American Southwest in search of riches, which brought them into direct contact, and inevitable conflict, with indigenous cultures along the way.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legacy-of-the-cannon">Legacy of the cannon</h2>



<p>The study, published in the <em><a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10761-024-00761-7#Abs1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Journal of Historical Archaeology</a></em>, speculates on why the cannon was abandoned.</p>



<p>The experts suggest that the Spanish settlers ran out of time to load it when the Sobaipuri O'odham tribe launched a successful attack against them in late 1541.</p>



<p>Under normal circumstances, the weapon would have been too valuable to leave behind.</p>



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



<p>In conclusion, the discovery of this ancient firearm has implications far beyond archaeological interest. </p>



<p>"From the standpoint of interpretation, this cannon and the battle that occurred around it represent the earliest successful Native American uprising in the Continental US since the Spaniards did not come back for 150 years," noted Seymour.</p>



<p>The Bronze Cannon will, undoubtedly, serve as an important cornerstone in narrating the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/prehistoric-homo-sapiens-stone-tools-preserved-volcanic-ash-grotta-di-castelcivita/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">history</a> of firearms within the complex tapestry of modern human existence in the Americas.</p>



<p>Image Credit: <em>International Journal of Historical Archeology</em></p>



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The Bronze Cannon: Oldest known firearm discovered in Arizona

Imagine tripping over a piece of old metal while exploring...

<p>The Gulf of California is a place where whale sharks - the world's largest fish - glide through the deep blue, growing up to 18 meters long. They are no longer the ocean's undisputed titans. </p>



<p>Killer whales, or "orcas," as they are popularly known, feast on marine mammals, turtles, and even these whale sharks.</p>



<p>It appears a pod might have honed new skills, making these whale sharks their choice prey.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-hunting-behavior-of-killer-whales">New hunting behavior of killer whales </h2>



<p>Erick Higuera Rivas, a seasoned marine biologist at Conexiones Terramar, recently shared fresh evidence to support this new hunting behavior during young whale shark aggregation in the Gulf of California. </p>



<p>Higuera Rivas, known for his significant contributions to marine biology, is the senior author of the related article published in <em>Frontiers in Marine Science</em>.</p>



<p>"Killer whales (<em>Orcinus orca</em>) are the apex predator in global oceans, and as such they are afforded access to prey species at all trophic levels and sizes. Due to their enhanced cognitive abilities, they are frequent predators of other ocean giants, including large sharks," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>"Observations of these predator-prey interactions are rare globally; however, records appear to be increasing in recent years, possibly due to increased access to surveillance."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-orcas-hunting-whale-sharks">Orcas hunting whale sharks</h2>



<p>The series of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-are-killer-whales-struggling-to-survive-in-the-pacific/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predation events</a> occurred between 2018 and 2024, captured across images and videos by both the public and scientists. </p>



<p>Interestingly, an individual orca was consistently involved in three of the four reported events. This orca, known as Moctezuma, worked cohesively with other pod members, possibly specializing in shark <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orcas-have-hunting-and-eating-habits-that-we-never-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hunting</a>. </p>



<p>"When hunting, all pod members work together, hitting the whale shark to turn it upside down. In that position the sharks enter a state of tonic immobility and can no longer move voluntarily or escape by going deeper," Higuera Rivas explained. </p>



<p>"By keeping it under control, the orcas then have greater ease and speed in approaching the pelvic area of ​​the shark and are able to extract organs of nutritional importance for them."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-whale-shark-vulnerable-prey">Whale shark: Vulnerable prey</h2>



<p>As the least protected part of the whale shark, the ventral side became an easy target for the orcas since there was less muscle and cartilage here, permitting easier access to the aorta. </p>



<p>Though the livers are a significant part of orcas' diets, none of the photos captured showed orcas consuming the organ.</p>



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



<p>The discovery of a whale shark hunting pod in the Gulf of California highlights the urgent need for better management of marine adventurers and tourists to reduce disruption. </p>



<p>Higuera Rivas strongly emphasizes the importance of sustainable and respectful non-extractive use activities, urging for specific regulatory norms.</p>



<p>Further, this orca pod's survival may be at risk due to potential climate change threats that could lead to the disappearance of whale sharks from the region.</p>



<p>Should this happen, it could lead to significant disruption in orca populations and their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/killer-whales-seen-hunting-sharks-new-population/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hunting behavior</a>.</p>



<p>The findings offer researchers valuable insights into hunting adaptations unique to geographical location and species-specific needs.</p>



<p>"It is very impressive how orcas work together strategically and intelligently to access only a very specific area of ​​the prey. It highlights what great predators they are," noted Higuera Rivas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-delicate-balance-of-marine-ecosystems">Delicate balance of marine ecosystems</h2>



<p>The discovery of orcas hunting whale sharks has significant implications for conservation efforts aimed at protecting orca populations and their ecosystems.</p>



<p>Understanding the specific hunting adaptations and strategies employed by orcas in different regions can inform targeted conservation measures. </p>



<p>By implementing regulatory norms that promote sustainable and respectful non-extractive activities, we can help safeguard the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and mitigate potential threats posed by climate change. </p>



<p>This knowledge serves as a guiding light for conservationists and policymakers in their ongoing efforts to preserve these magnificent creatures and their habitats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-orcas-hunting-behavior-beyond-sharks">Orcas hunting behavior beyond sharks</h2>



<p>While this study sheds light on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/killer-whales-use-clever-hunting-strategies-to-outsmart-prey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hunting adaptations</a> of orcas in a specific geographical location, there is still much more to explore and discover. </p>



<p>Future research could focus on investigating the hunting behaviors and adaptations of orcas in different regions worldwide. </p>



<p>By studying these variations, researchers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the ecological diversity and evolutionary dynamics of this apex predator. </p>



<p>Additionally, exploring the potential impacts of human activities and climate change on orca populations and their hunting behavior would further inform conservation strategies for their long-term survival.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science/articles/10.3389/fmars.2024.1448254/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.</em></p>



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Orcas attack whale sharks' pelvis to make them easier to catch

The Gulf of California is a place where whale sharks...

<p>A humble voyager from NASA was launched on October 14, 2024 for its longest journey yet. The valiant vessel, known as the Europa Clipper, was catapulted from the constraining clutches of Earth's gravity.</p>



<p>Now it's moving at a speed of 22 miles per second (35 kilometers per second), away from the Sun, and towards a new horizon. </p>



<p>Europa Clipper&nbsp;is the largest spacecraft that has ever been developed by NASA for a planetary mission. The voyager has its sights set on Jupiter’s frosty moon Europa, which is one of the most intriguing targets in the search for extraterrestrial life within our solar system.</p>



<p>As space agencies worldwide watch its progress keenly, Europa Clipper will cover hundreds of millions of miles towards the object of its quest.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-epic-journey-into-space">An epic journey into space</h2>



<p>The spacecraft will ultimately <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/europa-clipper/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">venture</a> an astounding 1.8 billion miles (2.9 billion kilometers) away from home.</p>



<p>The voyager is expected to reach Jupiter in 2030. The following year, it will begin carrying out a series of 49 flybys past Europa.</p>



<p>The main objective of the mission is both simple and captivating. The goal is to accumulate data that will reveal whether this icy moon and its hidden ocean possess the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/europa-clipper-mission-set-to-search-for-life-on-jupiters-ocean-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">necessary conditions</a> to harbor life.</p>



<p>Europa is believed to have a vast subsurface ocean beneath its icy crust. This ocean contains more water than all of Earth's oceans combined, offering a potential environment for life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-look-inside-the-mission">A look inside the mission</h2>



<p>Currently, the information being sent from the spacecraft to the mission team is purely data about the craft's operational status.</p>



<p>Dr. Jordan Evans, Europa Clipper's project manager at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, noted that all of the systems are working in an impeccable manner.</p>



<p>“It’s an exciting time on the spacecraft, getting these key deployments done,” said Dr. Evans. "Most of what the team is focusing on now is understanding the small, interesting things in the data that help them understand the behavior of the spacecraft on a deeper level. That’s really good to see.”</p>



<p>As the Clipper moves farther into space, its next pit stop is Mars. Predicted to reach Mars' orbit by March 1, 2025, the spacecraft will harness the planet's force of gravity to gain speed.</p>



<p>Scientists plan to test Clipper's thermal imager by capturing multi-colored snapshots of Mars during this period. The data gathered using the radar instrument will also ensure the machinery's efficacy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-gravity-boost-for-europa-clipper">Earth gravity boost for Europa Clipper</h2>



<p>In an intriguing maneuver, the Clipper will gain another gravity boost in December 2026 - courtesy of our very own planet, Earth.</p>



<p>It will make a fleeting visit before taking off again towards the Jupiter system. During this "visit," the spacecraft's magnetometer will gauge Earth’s magnetic field, which will fine tune the instrument.</p>



<p>Stepping back to view the broader picture, the Europa Clipper has three main scientific goals. Initially, it will help scientists determine the thickness of Europa’s icy shell, and investigate its interaction with the ocean beneath.</p>



<p>Clipper will also scrutinize the composition of Europa and study its geology. This thorough examination of Europa will equip scientists with crucial insights into the potential for habitable worlds existing beyond our own.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-europa-clipper-s-future-exploration">Europa Clipper's future exploration</h2>



<p>The Europa flybys will take place over several years. Each encounter will provide fresh data about the moon's constituents, geological structure, and potential habitability.</p>



<p>The success of this undertaking could open doors to further exploration. It may possibly pave the way for future missions that would involve&nbsp;physically landing on Europa's icy surface to collect more detailed samples.</p>



<p>The insights will broaden our understanding of Jupiter's intriguing moon and contribute to the vast knowledge about conditions beyond Earth. This mission is indeed a giant leap in our pursuit to unravel the mysteries of our solar system and to discover potentially hospitable worlds beyond our own.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-minds-behind-the-mission">The minds behind the mission</h2>



<p>Several prestigious institutions have come together to execute the Europa Clipper mission.</p>



<p>Guided by the <a href="https://www.caltech.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California Institute of Technology</a> in Pasadena, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) took the lead in developing the mission. The team also included experts from the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, Maryland.</p>



<p>The main spacecraft body was designed and built in a collective effort by APL, <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPL</a>, NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, and Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA</p>



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Europa Clipper is on a 1.8-billion-mile journey to Jupiter's moon

A humble voyager from NASA was launched on October 14,...

<p>As urban populations swell and climate change accelerates, the cooling effects of green spaces in cities become increasingly vital. </p>



<p>A recent study has identified a significant gap in green space - and therefore cooling capacity - between cities in the Global South and those in the Global North. </p>



<p>Utilizing NASA satellite data, the research underscores the urgent need for equitable urban planning to mitigate the impacts of extreme heat.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-risks-of-urban-heat">Health risks of urban heat</h2>



<p>Cities are often hotter than surrounding rural areas due to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/urban-heat-island/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban heat island</a> effect. Dark surfaces like roads, buildings, and sidewalks absorb and retain heat from the sun, raising temperatures in urban environments. </p>



<p>This exacerbated heat poses serious health threats to city dwellers, including dehydration, heat stroke, and increased mortality rates. Greenery provides natural cooling through shade and the release of moisture into the air, helping to reduce these risks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooling-capacity-of-green-spaces-in-cities">Cooling capacity of green spaces in cities</h2>



<p>An international research team led by Yuxiang Li, a doctoral student at <a href="https://www.nju.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing University</a>, analyzed the 500 largest cities globally to compare their cooling capacities. </p>



<p>The experts employed data from the Landsat 8 satellite, managed by <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> and the <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Geological Survey</a>, to assess land surface temperatures during the hottest months from 2017 to 2019. </p>



<p>The team used the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) to quantify the amount of healthy vegetation in each city. NDVI measures the difference between absorbed red light and reflected infrared light to determine vegetation density from satellite images.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disparities-between-global-north-and-south">Disparities between Global North and South</h2>



<p>The study revealed that cities in the Global South have only 70% of the greenery-related cooling capacity found in cities in the Global North.&nbsp;</p>



<p>On average, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-green-spaces-are-urgently-needed-across-the-global-south/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green spaces</a> in Global South cities lower temperatures by about 4.5°F (2.5°C), whereas those in Global North cities achieve a reduction of 6.5°F (3.6°C). </p>



<p>This disparity intensifies existing problems, as many Global South cities are situated closer to the Equator and are expected to face more frequent and severe heat extremes due to climate change.</p>



<p>“It's already clear that Global South countries will be impacted by heat waves, rising temperatures, and climatic extremes more than their Global North counterparts,” said Chi Xu, a professor of ecology at Nanjing University and co-author of the study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The capacity to adapt to heat is also lower in the Global South, where air conditioning is less common and power outages are more frequent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-luxury-effect-across-cities">The "luxury effect" across cities</h2>



<p>Cities in the Global South generally have less green space, reflecting a pattern known as the "luxury effect," where wealthier areas possess more greenery than poorer ones.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This trend is observed both within cities and on a global scale. “Wealthier cities also have more urban green spaces than the poorest cities,” Chi noted.</p>



<p>Bridging the gap between cities like Mogadishu, Somalia (the study's lowest-performing city), and Charlotte, North Carolina (the highest-performing city), is challenging.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Factors such as dense <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eurasian-otters-threatened-by-urban-development-in-hong-kong/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban development</a> and arid climates limit vegetation growth in some regions. However, cities can learn from regional leaders in cooling capacity. </p>



<p>By identifying top-performing cities within their regions, urban planners can set realistic goals to enhance their own green spaces and cooling effects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cooling-cities-with-green-spaces-nbsp">Cooling cities with green spaces&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Increasing green space is one strategy among many to improve a city's cooling capacity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“How you utilize green space is really going to vary depending on the climate and the urban environment you're focused on,” said Christian Braneon, a climate scientist at NASA's <a href="https://www.giss.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Institute for Space Studies</a> who was not involved in the study.</p>



<p>Other methods include creating water bodies, installing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cool-roofs-on-city-buildings-secret-to-beating-urban-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green roofs</a>, and using lighter-colored materials for roofs and pavements to reflect more sunlight. </p>



<p>While greener cities in the U.S. and Canada often have lower population densities, this isn't inherently better for the environment, as it can lead to increased car reliance and larger, less efficient homes.</p>



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



<p>The global insights from this study enable urban planners to compare and adopt strategies suitable for cities with similar climates or densities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“For newly urbanized areas that aren't completely built out, there's a lot of room to still change the design,” Braneon emphasized.</p>



<p>By proactively integrating green spaces and other cooling measures into urban planning, especially in rapidly developing regions, cities can significantly enhance their resilience to rising temperatures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Addressing the disparities in urban green spaces is crucial for protecting vulnerable populations in the face of escalating climate challenges.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-51355-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Cities in the Global South have far less green space

As urban populations swell and climate change accelerates, the cooling...

<p>Earth experienced its hottest recorded year in 2023, with temperatures soaring 2.12 degrees Fahrenheit above the 20th-century average, surpassing the previous record set in 2016. The ten warmest years on record have all occurred in the past decade.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With 2024 already witnessing the hottest summer and single hottest day, it is on track to set yet another alarming record.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-regional-heat-waves">Extreme regional heat waves</h2>



<p>While the steady increase in global average temperatures may not surprise everyone, a striking new phenomenon is emerging: certain regions are experiencing repeated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-are-intense-heat-waves-affecting-life-in-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heat waves</a> so extreme that they far exceed what any global warming model can predict or explain. </p>



<p>In a new study, researchers have created the first <a href="https://www.eurekalert.org/multimedia/1050937" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">worldwide map </a>of the regions experiencing unprecedented heat, which appear on every continent except Antarctica like vast, alarming hotspots. </p>



<p>In recent years, these heat waves have resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, devastated crops and forests, and ignited catastrophic wildfires.</p>



<p>“The large and unexpected margins by which recent regional-scale extremes have broken earlier records have raised questions about the degree to which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-temperature-increase-2023-blew-past-all-climate-models/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate models</a> can provide adequate estimates of relations between global mean temperature changes and regional climate risks,” the authors explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decades-of-heat-waves">Decades of heat waves</h2>



<p>“This is about extreme trends that are the outcome of physical interactions we might not completely understand,” said lead author Kai Kornhuber, an adjunct scientist at the Columbia Climate School's <a href="https://lamont.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory</a>. “These regions become temporary hothouses.” </p>



<p>The researchers examined heat waves over the past 65 years. It identifies areas where extreme heat is accelerating much faster than moderate temperatures, often resulting in record-breaking maximum temperatures by astonishing amounts.</p>



<p>For example, a nine-day heat wave that struck the U.S. Pacific Northwest and southwestern Canada in June 2021 shattered daily records in some locations by 30 degrees Celsius (54 degrees Fahrenheit).&nbsp;</p>



<p>This included Canada's highest ever recorded temperature of 121.3 F in Lytton, British Columbia. Tragically, the town burned to the ground the next day in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fast-wildfires-are-gaining-even-more-speed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire</a> fueled largely by dried vegetation from the extreme heat. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-regions-affected-by-unprecedented-heat">Regions affected by unprecedented heat</h2>



<p>In Oregon and Washington state, hundreds of people died from heat stroke and other health conditions. These extreme heat waves have predominantly occurred in the last five years, though some happened in the early 2000s or earlier.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The most affected regions include populous areas of central China, Japan, Korea, the Arabian Peninsula, eastern Australia, and scattered parts of Africa.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Other impacted areas include Canada's Northwest Territories and High Arctic islands, northern Greenland, the southern tip of South America, and scattered regions of Siberia. Parts of Texas and New Mexico also appear on the map, though they are not among the most extreme areas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-europe-s-vulnerability-to-unprecedented-heat-nbsp">Europe's vulnerability to unprecedented heat&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to the report, the most intense and consistent signals come from northwestern Europe, where successive heat waves contributed to approximately 60,000 deaths in 2022 and 47,000 deaths in 2023.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These events occurred across Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and other countries. In recent years, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-just-experienced-its-hottest-day-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hottest days</a> are warming twice as fast as average summer temperatures in this region. </p>



<p>Europe is particularly vulnerable because, unlike places like the United States, few people have air conditioning due to traditionally milder climates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The heat waves have continued; as recently as this September, new maximum temperature records were set in Austria, France, Hungary, Slovenia, Norway, and Sweden.</p>



<p>Researchers refer to these statistical trends as “tail-widening” - the unusual occurrence of temperatures at the extreme upper end, or beyond, anything expected from simple upward shifts in mean summer temperatures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, this phenomenon is not universal; the study shows that maximum temperatures in many other regions are actually lower than what models would predict.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These areas include vast parts of the north-central United States and south-central Canada, interior regions of South America, much of Siberia, northern Africa, and northern Australia. While heat is increasing in these regions, the extremes are rising at similar or lower rates than changes in average temperatures would suggest.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-causes-of-extreme-heat-events">Causes of extreme heat events</h2>



<p>Overall rising temperatures make heat waves more likely in many cases, but the exact causes of these extreme heat events are not entirely clear. In Europe and Russia, a previous <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-019-0637-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> led by Kornhuber attributed heat waves and droughts to fluctuations in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-accelerate-jet-stream-winds-and-airplane-turbulence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">jet stream</a> - a fast-moving air current that circles the northern hemisphere. </p>



<p>Traditionally confined to a narrow band due to the temperature difference between the frigid Arctic and warmer southern regions, the jet stream is becoming destabilized as the Arctic warms more rapidly than other parts of the Earth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This destabilization leads to the formation of Rossby waves, which draw hot air from the south and stall it over temperate regions not accustomed to extreme heat for prolonged periods.</p>



<p>However, this hypothesis does not explain all extreme events. A <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-022-01520-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> of the deadly 2021 Pacific Northwest and southwestern Canada heat wave, led by Lamont-Doherty graduate student Samuel Bartusek (also a co-author on the latest paper), identified a combination of factors. </p>



<p>Some were linked to long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-will-climate-change-affect-our-outdoor-activities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, while others appeared to be due to chance. The study noted a disruption in the jet stream similar to the Rossby waves affecting Europe and Russia. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decades-of-rising-temperatures">Decades of rising temperatures </h2>



<p>The researchers also found that decades of gradually rising temperatures had dried out regional vegetation, so when intense heat arrived, plants had less water to evaporate into the air - a process that helps moderate temperatures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Another factor was a series of smaller-scale atmospheric waves that transported heat from the Pacific Ocean's surface eastward onto land. As in Europe, few people in this region have air conditioning, likely increasing the death toll.</p>



<p>The heat wave “was so extreme, it's tempting to apply the label of a 'black swan' event, one that can't be predicted,” Bartusek said. “But there's a boundary between the totally unpredictable, the plausible, and the totally expected that's hard to categorize. I would call this more of a grey swan.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-human-toll-from-unprecedented-heat">Increasing human toll from unprecedented heat</h2>



<p>Even in wealthy nations like the United States, excessive heat remains the leading cause of weather-related deaths, surpassing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-amplified-hurricane-strength/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hurricanes</a>, tornadoes, and floods combined. </p>



<p>A study released this past August reported that the annual death rate has more than doubled since 1999, reaching 2,325 heat-related deaths in 2023.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This alarming trend has led to calls for naming heat waves, similar to hurricanes, to increase public awareness and encourage government preparedness.</p>



<p>“Due to their unprecedented nature, these heat waves are usually linked to very severe health impacts, and can be disastrous for agriculture, vegetation, and infrastructure. We’re not built for them, and we might not be able to adapt fast enough,” Kornhuber concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2411258121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em></a>.</p>



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Unprecedented heat is popping up in 'hotspots' across the globe

Earth experienced its hottest recorded year in 2023, with temperatures...

<p>Scientists have recently made a major breakthrough in molecular robotics by developing programmable nanostructures using DNA origami.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This innovative method, developed at the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/nano/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sydney Nano Institute</a>, utilizes DNA’s natural folding properties to create nanoscale biological structures with vast potential applications, ranging from targeted drug delivery to responsive materials and energy-efficient optical signal processing.</p>



<p>The study, led by Dr. Minh Tri Luu and Dr. Shelley Wickham, showcases the creation of modular, three-dimensional nanostructures called “voxels.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>These voxels, akin to 3D versions of pixels, enable the rapid prototyping of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/anthrobots-scientists-create-tiny-biological-robots-from-human-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nanoscale robotic systems </a>with applications in synthetic biology, nanomedicine, and materials science.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-nanorobots-with-dna-origami">Building nanorobots with DNA origami</h2>



<p>The researchers demonstrated the versatility of their approach by designing over 50 nanoscale objects, including a “nano-dinosaur,” a “dancing robot,” and a miniature Australia measuring just 150 nanometers across - a thousand times narrower than a human hair.</p>



<p>Wickham explained the concept by likening it to childhood engineering toys: “The results are a bit like using Meccano, the children's engineering toy, or building a chain-like cat's cradle. But instead of macroscale metal or string, we use nanoscale biology to build <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/origami-inspired-robots-mimic-the-behavior-of-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robots</a> with huge potential.”</p>



<p>The modular voxels can be customized for specific functions, allowing researchers to create complex and adaptive configurations. This flexibility is key to developing nanoscale machines that can operate in fields as diverse as medicine, material science, and energy technologies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-velcro-dna-the-secret-to-assembly">Velcro DNA: The secret to assembly</h2>



<p>To assemble the nanostructures, the team integrated additional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/co2-may-actually-be-good-for-our-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> strands onto the exterior of the voxels. These strands act as programmable binding sites, enabling precise control over how the structures connect.</p>



<p>“These sites act like Velcro with different colors - designed so that only strands with matching 'colors' (in fact, complementary DNA sequences) can connect,” said Dr. Luu.</p>



<p>This method allows researchers to construct customizable, highly specific architectures that can perform intricate tasks at the molecular level.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-targeted-drug-delivery-a-key-application">Targeted drug delivery: A key application</h2>



<p>One of the most promising applications of this technology is its ability to create nanorobots capable of delivering drugs directly to targeted areas within the body.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By programming the DNA origami structures to respond to specific biological signals, these nanobots could release medications only when and where they are needed, enhancing the effectiveness of treatments while minimizing side effects.</p>



<p>Dr. Luu emphasized the versatility of these innovations: “We've created a new class of nanomaterials with adjustable properties, enabling diverse applications - from adaptive materials that change optical properties in response to the environment to autonomous nanorobots designed to seek out and destroy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reprogramming-the-immune-system-to-attack-cancer-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer cells</a>.”</p>



<p>This targeted approach has the potential to revolutionize cancer treatments and other precision medicine applications.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-responsive-materials-and-energy-applications">Responsive materials and energy applications</h2>



<p>In addition to drug delivery, the team is exploring the development of materials that adapt to environmental changes. For instance, they are designing materials that can alter their properties in response to higher loads, temperature changes, or variations in acidity (pH).</p>



<p>“This work enables us to imagine a world where nanobots can get to work on a huge range of tasks, from treating the human body to building futuristic electronic devices,” Dr. Wickham explained.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers are also investigating energy-efficient methods for processing optical signals, with potential benefits for medical diagnostics, security systems, and computing technologies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-dna-nanorobots">Future of DNA nanorobots</h2>



<p>The ability to program DNA into versatile, nanoscale structures represents a significant leap forward in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nano-sensors-can-quickly-detect-pesticides-on-fruits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nanotechnology</a>. By harnessing the unique properties of DNA origami, the researchers are opening new avenues for innovation in health, materials science, and energy applications.</p>



<p>“Our work demonstrates the incredible potential of DNA origami to create versatile and programmable nanostructures. The ability to design and assemble these components opens new avenues for innovation in nanotechnology,” said Dr. Luu.</p>



<p>Dr. Wickham echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collaboration.&nbsp; She noted that the research not only highlights the capabilities of DNA nanostructures but also emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing science.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We are excited to see how our findings can be applied to real-world challenges in health, materials science and energy,” said Dr. Wickham.</p>



<p>As these technologies continue to evolve, the dream of adaptive nanomachines capable of operating in complex environments, including within the human body, is becoming an achievable reality.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scirobotics.adp2309" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science Robotics</em></a>.&nbsp;</p>



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Nanorobots built with folded DNA could revolutionize medicine 

Scientists have recently made a major breakthrough in molecular robotics...

<p>Being powerful doesn’t inherently make someone unfaithful, but a recent study suggests that those with greater power are significantly more likely to cheat on their partners. </p>



<p>Psychologists from <a href="https://www.runi.ac.il/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reichman University</a> in Israel and the<a href="https://www.rochester.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> University of Rochester</a> in the U.S. conducted a series of experiments to explore how power dynamics influence faithfulness in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/agape-a-new-app-could-help-strengthen-romantic-relationships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">romantic relationships</a>.</p>



<p>The findings suggest that power can lead to feelings of confidence and entitlement, which may result in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sufficient-sleep-can-prevent-impulsive-behavior-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impulsive behavior</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While previous research has shown that powerful individuals often wield greater influence over others and are more resistant to external pressures, this study examines how such dynamics specifically affect intimate relationships.</p>



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



<p>The researchers found that power affects how individuals perceive themselves and their relationships. People who feel powerful are often less dependent on their partners, think more highly of themselves, and are more confident that others find them desirable.</p>



<p>“In a romantic relationship, these power dynamics might lead the more powerful partner to think they bring more to the table than their less powerful partner,” said lead author Gurit Birnbaum, a professor of psychology at Reichman University.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The more powerful might see this as a sign that they have more options outside the relationship and are more desirable partners in general.”</p>



<p>This sense of self-assuredness and perceived desirability could explain why powerful individuals are more inclined to explore alternatives outside their relationships.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perceptions-of-power-in-relationships">Perceptions of power in relationships</h2>



<p>The researchers conducted four experiments to test how perceptions of power influence interest in alternative romantic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spending-time-with-a-romantic-partner-can-improve-your-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">partners</a>. They recruited participants in monogamous, heterosexual relationships lasting at least four months and examined how power dynamics shaped their romantic behaviors.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fantasy-and-power">Fantasy and power</h3>



<p>In the first study, participants were asked to describe either a time they felt powerful in relation to their partner or a typical day in their relationship. Afterward, they wrote a sexual fantasy about someone other than their partner.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-assessing-attraction">Assessing attraction</h3>



<p>In the second study, participants underwent the same power manipulation before viewing photos of strangers. Under time pressure, they decided which individuals they might consider as potential partners.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interaction-with-an-attractive-insider">Interaction with an attractive insider</h3>



<p>In the third study, participants described the power dynamics within their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/relationship-loss-can-lead-to-renewed-sense-of-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">relationship</a>, rated their perceived power and value compared to their partner, and completed a task with an attractive study insider. They then rated their sexual desire for the insider.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-daily-reporting-on-relationship-power">Daily reporting on relationship power</h3>



<p>In the fourth study, both partners in a relationship separately reported, over three weeks, their perceived power, their value as a partner, and any sexual activities, including fantasies, flirting, or interactions with someone other than their partner.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-and-the-desire-to-cheat">Power and the desire to cheat</h2>



<p>Across all four studies, the results consistently showed that individuals who perceived themselves as more powerful within their relationships expressed greater interest in alternative partners.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This included fantasizing about others, feeling sexual desire for outsiders, and engaging in real-life interactions.</p>



<p>“Those with a higher sense of power may feel motivated to disregard their commitment to the relationship and act on desires for short-term flings or potentially other, more novel partners if the opportunity arises,” said co-author Harry Reis, a psychology professor at the University of Rochester.</p>



<p>The findings also revealed that powerful individuals tended to rate their own value as a partner higher than their partner’s, a perception that could weaken their commitment to the relationship.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-and-the-inclination-to-cheat">Power and the inclination to cheat</h2>



<p>The belief that one has more romantic options outside the relationship can undermine fidelity.</p>



<p>“When people feel powerful and believe they have more relationship options than their current partner, they might be more inclined to pay attention to other potentially promising alternatives,” Reis said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The belief in having other options, like other possible partners, can weaken their commitment to their current relationship.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-complex-role-of-power-nbsp">The complex role of power&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The findings highlight the complex role of power in intimate relationships and the risks it poses to long-term commitment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While power can promote confidence and autonomy, it may also increase susceptibility to infidelity by diminishing dependence on a current partner and amplifying perceptions of one’s desirability.</p>



<p>Understanding these dynamics can offer valuable insights for individuals and couples seeking to navigate the challenges of maintaining trust and commitment in relationships where power imbalances exist.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10508-024-02997-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Archives of Sexual Behavior</em></a>,</p>



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People with power are more likely to cheat on their partners

Being powerful doesn’t inherently make someone unfaithful, but a recent...

<p>We all know that water is vital for life and our daily routines, and we often take it for granted. Turn the knob above the sink, and water comes out. No big deal, right? Unfortunately, scientists recently identified a potentially undesirable chemical lurking in our precious tap water.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-byproduct-in-water">Chemical byproduct in water</h2>



<p>A recent study found that this unidentified chemical byproduct could be present in the tap water in approximately one-third of all U.S. homes.</p>



<p>Now, before you put down your glass of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forever-chemicals-found-in-tap-and-bottled-water-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> with a shudder, let's emphasize that scientists are not yet sure whether this byproduct is harmful or not.</p>



<p>However, they are worried that it could be, due to the characteristics of the molecules.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-chloronitramide-anion">Understanding "chloronitramide anion"</h2>



<p>This enigmatic substance, dubbed "chloronitramide anion," is the offspring of chloramine, a chemical that, ironically, is used to treat water to make it safe for human consumption. It's a type of charged particle made up of chlorine and nitramide parts. </p>



<p>Think of it like a tiny building block that has an extra negative charge, which makes it react differently compared to neutral molecules. </p>



<p>This special charge allows it to connect with other molecules in unique ways, making it useful for certain chemical reactions.</p>



<p>Chloramine is a concoction of chlorine and ammonia that kills viruses and bacteria in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-4-4-billion-people-lack-access-to-safe-drinking-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> treatment systems. Unlike plain chlorine, chloramine doesn’t disappear as quickly, so it provides longer-lasting protection.</p>



<p>Chloramine does a great job at disinfecting, and the newly-identified "chloronitramide anion" is produced when chloramine breaks down.</p>



<p>"It has similarity to other toxic molecules," said David Wahman, one of the study's authors and a research environmental engineer at the Environmental Protection Agency (<a href="https://www.epa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EPA</a>).</p>



<p>"We looked for it in 40 samples in 10 U.S. chlorinated drinking water systems located in seven states. We did find it in all the samples."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-battle-against-microbes">Battle against microbes</h2>



<p>Chloramine has been trusted for about a hundred years to keep our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/too-much-fluoride-in-tap-water-supply-might-lower-kids-iq-by-few-points/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> free of pathogens. It's often used to maintain the water that stays in our pipes for several days after leaving a water treatment plant.</p>



<p>In fact, chloramine has become the preferred water warrior because its alternative, chlorine, also produces byproducts -- some of which are linked to the incidence of bladder cancer and are patrolled by the EPA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-lies-beneath">What lies beneath</h2>



<p>David Reckhow, a research professor in civil and environmental engineering at the <a href="https://www.umass.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Massachusetts, Amherst</a>, who wasn't part of the study, thinks the discovery is significant. </p>



<p>His major concern is understanding whether this newfound entity is hazardous.</p>



<p>“It’s a pretty small molecule and it can probably for that reason enter into biological systems and into cells. And it is still a reactive molecule. Those are the kinds of things you worry about,” Reckhow explained.</p>



<p>“We can go about the hard work of trying to figure out what its toxicological relevance is in our water systems,” said Julian Fairey, the lead author and an associate professor at the University of Arkansas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-link-to-cancer">Link to cancer</h2>



<p>While this ongoing investigation creates waves, some past studies have alluded to a connection between drinking disinfected water and higher rates of certain cancers.</p>



<p>However, whether these occurrences have anything to do with this newly-identified compound remains untested.</p>



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



<p>Drawing conclusions about the toxicity of this compound and establishing regulations based on those findings is more likely to be a marathon than a sprint.</p>



<p>"It’s a lot [of time] - probably a decade of research once a funding source is found," said Alan Roberson, executive director of the <a href="https://www.asdwa.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Association of State Drinking Water Administrators</a>.</p>



<p>In the meantime, water utilities should pay heed to ongoing research and try to limit people’s exposure. </p>



<p>“You do what you can to minimize. You make the best judgment you can on the toxicity and you run with incomplete information,” Reckhow recommends wisely .</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-questions-arise">Questions arise</h2>



<p>This study has also cast doubt on whether, from a health perspective, chloramine is indeed a safer disinfection process than chlorine.</p>



<p>“This study really calls into question whether or not this disinfection process is safer from a health perspective,” said David Andrews, a senior scientist at the <a href="https://www.ewg.org/">Environmental Working Group</a>, an advocacy organization that pushes for more scrutiny of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/collecting-water-from-the-air-to-tackle-a-global-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemicals</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>He noted that there are several disinfection byproducts found in water systems but that this one deserves scrutiny.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tap-water-chemicals-and-safety">Tap water, chemicals, and safety</h2>



<p>Any treatment of drinking water involves some level of health risk. </p>



<p>While disinfection processes have largely eradicated waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid, research suggests that some byproducts may pose cancer risks and increase the chances of miscarriage or low birth-weight babies.</p>



<p>Yet, these processes are crucial to neutralize real bacterial and viral threats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-check-on-water-quality-and-byproducts">Check on water quality and byproducts</h2>



<p>Thankfully, many U.S. water utilities provide information on their websites about whether the supplied water is treated with chlorine or chloramine. </p>



<p>There's also some evidence that activated carbon filters, like those used in home water purification devices or fridge filters, can rid water of disinfectant byproducts. But, more research is needed.</p>



<p>So, the next time you turn on your tap for a glass of water, remember the invisible actors at work. They are unseen, but critical; unnoticed, yet ever-present. </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adk6749" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science</em></a>.</p>



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Tap water found to contain a newly-identified toxic chemical

We all know that water is vital for life and...

<p>About 6 million years ago, an extraordinary event occurred that restructured the Mediterranean and its water. This phenomenon, known as the Messinian Salinity Crisis, transformed the sea into a massive salt basin.</p>



<p>But how did a million cubic kilometers of salt come to rest in such a short time on the Mediterranean seabed? Until now, that remained a mystery.</p>



<p>Now, scientists have made a significant breakthrough. By analyzing chlorine isotopes found in the salt on the Mediterranean seabed, they've unveiled the two distinct phases of this intense evaporation event.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-phases-of-desiccation-and-salt-accumulation">Phases of desiccation and salt accumulation</h2>



<p>The first desiccation phase lasted approximately 35,000 years. During this time, salt deposition occurred exclusively in the eastern <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/corsica-sardinia-mediterranean-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mediterranean</a>. This was due to a restriction of the Mediterranean outflow into the Atlantic, resulting in a brine-filled basin in the east.</p>



<p>The second phase, however, was a different story altogether. Over less than 10,000 years, salt accumulation took place throughout the entire Mediterranean.</p>



<p>An expeditious evaporative event caused such a sharp decline in sea-level - 1.7-2.1 kilometers in the east, and approximately 0.85 kilometers in the west - that the Mediterranean basin lost up to 70% of its total water volume.</p>



<p>Moreover, change on such a monumental scale didn't occur without <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/distress-signals-earths-water-cycle-is-becoming-more-erratic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">repercussions</a>. The effects of the spectacular fall in sea level were far-reaching and not just limited to the marine environment itself.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-linked-to-mediterranean-water-loss">Factors linked to Mediterranean water loss</h2>



<p>Local volcanic eruptions may have been triggered due to the release of pressure on Earth's crust. These eruptions could be thought of as Earth's reactions to the rapid loss of such a substantial amount of water weight.</p>



<p>Moreover, this large scale evaporative event also might have influenced global climate patterns. The drastic depression caused by the sea-level drawdown rippled outwards, affecting weather systems far and wide.</p>



<p>These results point towards a better understanding of not just the Messinian Salinity Crisis, but also of the ways extreme desiccation events can drastically alter ecosystems and climates on a global scale.</p>



<p>In the last moments of this salinity crisis, the sea-level of the Mediterranean was almost a kilometer below that of the Atlantic Ocean. This extreme difference lead to the eventual collapse of the Strait of Gibraltar.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mediterranean-water-loss-and-marine-life">Mediterranean water loss and marine life</h2>



<p>The Messinian Salinity Crisis also posed significant challenges for marine life in the Mediterranean basin. </p>



<p>The extreme hypersaline conditions would have been inhospitable for most marine organisms, leading to mass extinctions of species that could not adapt. </p>



<p>However, evidence suggests that some extremophilic organisms (organisms capable of surviving in highly saline environments) managed to persist during this period. </p>



<p>Fossil records indicate that isolated pockets of less saline water, or refugia, may have existed, providing temporary habitats for certain species. These pockets paint a picture of resilience amidst an environment of extreme ecological stress.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoration-of-the-mediterranean-water">Restoration of the Mediterranean water</h2>



<p>The collapse of the Strait of Gibraltar acted as a gateway for the Atlantic Ocean to flow back into the Mediterranean. This sudden influx of water ended the prolonged desiccation, refilling the Mediterranean basin and restoring its water levels. </p>



<p>As a result, the Mediterranean transitioned from a nearly dry, hypersaline basin dominated by thick salt deposits into a thriving open sea once again, with normal marine conditions and ecosystems returning over time. </p>



<p>This event marked the resolution of the Messinian Salinity Crisis, reshaping the region's geography and ecological dynamics permanently.</p>



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



<p>The insights gained from studying the Messinian Salinity Crisis carry valuable lessons for our understanding of current and future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-drought-has-caused-crisis-levels-of-food-and-water-scarcity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental changes</a>. </p>



<p>This event showcases how rapid geological and hydrological transformations can trigger cascading effects on the climate, ecosystems, and even tectonic activity. </p>



<p>Contemporary concerns about rising temperatures, altering precipitation patterns, and water scarcity echo some of the climate disruptions that may have been felt during the crisis. </p>



<p>By learning from this historic event, scientists emphasize the importance of global collaboration and sustainable resource management to mitigate the impacts of looming environmental challenges on both natural systems and human societies.</p>



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



<p>This research on the history of Mediterranean water has provided fresh insights into historical geological events, enhancing our comprehension of these past occurrences.</p>



<p>By examining these findings, scientists and researchers have the opportunity to improve their predictions about future geological phenomena. </p>



<p>Understanding the patterns and causes of past events allows for better preparation and response strategies, potentially reducing the adverse impacts of similar events that may occur in the future. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-from-geological-history">Learning from geological history</h2>



<p>The study emphasizes the importance of learning from past geological activities to make informed decisions that safeguard communities and environments against natural disasters. It raises a critical question: will we apply the lessons learned to protect our future? </p>



<p>The findings from the study serve as a call to action, urging society to integrate historical lessons into future planning and preparedness efforts.</p>



<p>The study was led by G. Aloisi, a scientist at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (<a href="https://www.cnrs.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CNRS</a>), which is one of the largest governmental research organizations in France.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-53781-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.</em></p>



<p>Image Credit: Pibernat &amp; Garcia-Castellanos</p>



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Mediterranean Sea lost almost all of its water, triggering a global crisis

About 6 million years ago, an extraordinary event occurred that...

<p>Thousands of years ago, a roar echoed through the Highland caves of Scotland. It was the roar of bears. But, were these the average brown bears or something more "polar" in nature? </p>



<p>Using advanced methods to analyze Scottish bear fossils, researchers from the University of Aberdeen and National Museums Scotland have made a fascinating discovery. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-the-bear-fossils">Analyzing the bear fossils </h2>



<p>The study was led by Professor Kate Britton, an expert known for her insightful approach to ancient fauna.</p>



<p>The experts reevaluated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-bear-tardigrade-fossils-reveal-how-they-survived-several-mass-extinction-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossils</a> collected from the Inchnadamph "Bone Caves" in Sutherland. What they found was evidence of fish in the diet of bears that had been identified as brown bears.</p>



<p>Working closely with masters student Holland Taekema from the <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a>, the team used a technique known as "stable isotope data" to dig deeper into the diets of the fossilized bears.</p>



<p>The evidence they unearthed pointed to a marine diet dating back to 30,000 to 50,000 years ago. This means that the bears were feasting heavily on seafood long before human footprints graced Scottish lands.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-could-the-fossils-belong-to-polar-bears">Could the fossils belong to polar bears?</h2>



<p>As exciting as it sounds, this revelation required a fair bit of head-scratching. After all, it's a hard shift from the grisly diet of modern brown bears.</p>



<p>The research suggests an intriguing possibility - could these have been polar bears frolicking in Scottish terrain amidst the Last Ice Age?</p>



<p>"We have identified several samples which stick out like a sore thumb both from the diets of other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coelacanth-ngamugawi-wirngarri-new-species-living-fossil-fish-survived-over-400-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bears</a> living in Scotland thousands of years ago and from what we'd expect of today's brown bears. These bears appear to have lived almost exclusively on seafood," said Professor Britton.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-polar-perspective">A polar perspective</h2>



<p>Indeed, the frosty north is the only homeland we associate with polar bears today, but our researchers remind us that the Last Glacial Maximum brought down the seasonal sea ice limit in the North Atlantic, allowing these majestic creatures to roam further south than their current <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-life-and-environment-co-evolved-over-500-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">territories</a>.</p>



<p>A similar theory was hinted at in the 1990s, revolving around a bear skull with polar bear-like features. However, lack of further evidence and questions about the skull's radiocarbon dating have put a pause on accepting this interesting possibility.</p>



<p>Dr. Andrew Kitchener is the Principal Curator of Vertebrates at National Museums Scotland.  </p>



<p>"As we know that polar bears and brown bears can successfully interbreed today where their ranges overlap, it presents interesting questions about the ancestry of bears that later roamed our islands," noted Dr. Kitchener.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ice-age-connection">The Ice Age connection</h2>



<p>To shed light on the intriguing genetic links between modern polar bears and Ice Age European brown bears, the research team is embarking on an ambitious journey. </p>



<p>By analyzing the DNA of brown bears from different regions and comparing it to the genetic makeup of present-day polar bears, they aim to uncover the ancestral ties that bind these species together. </p>



<p>This comprehensive genetic analysis, coupled with the isotopic evidence from the bone caves, may hold the key to unraveling the mysteries surrounding the enigmatic fossil bears.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preserving-the-past">Preserving the past</h2>



<p>The bears fossils, now meticulously curated by the experts at National Museums Scotland, will continue to serve as invaluable resources for ongoing research.</p>



<p>The team plans to go deeper into the fossil record, exploring additional bone caves and collecting further samples for analysis. </p>



<p>By employing state-of-the-art techniques and collaborating with multidisciplinary experts, they hope to unlock new insights and unveil more secrets about the ancient bears that once roamed our lands. </p>



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



<p>The plot only thickens as the team sets out to further explore the mystery. </p>



<p>The researchers plan to unearth the connections between brown bear DNA in modern polar bears and polar bear DNA in Ice Age European brown bears. </p>



<p>The challenge is to understand how this genetic data links to the isotopic evidence from the bone caves.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gordonia-traquairi-pig-like-creature-discovered-roamed-earth-250-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil</a> bears will be the subject of ongoing research by a newly-appointed research fellow, Dr. Alicia Sanz Royo, at the <a href="https://www.abdn.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Aberdeen</a> in 2025.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://bioone.org/journals/annales-zoologici-fennici/volume-61/issue-1/086.061.0124/The-bears-of-Scotland/10.5735/086.061.0124.short" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annales Zoologici Fennici</a></em>.</p>



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Were polar bears feasting on fish in Scotland 30,000 years ago?

Thousands of years ago, a roar echoed through the Highland...

<p>The mystery of what dinosaurs ate around 200 million years ago, as well as the role they played in their ecosystems, is one step closer to being uncovered.</p>



<p>And guess what has been aiding in solving this mystery? It's none other than the fossilized feces of these gigantic creatures.</p>



<p>The interesting findings have emerged as part of an international research endeavor exploring the hidden <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-dinosaurs-benefited-from-changes-in-global-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient world</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-piecing-together-the-dinosaur-diet">Piecing together the dinosaur diet</h2>



<p>The research team included experts from <a href="https://www.uu.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uppsala University</a>, who collaborated with colleagues in Norway, Poland, and Hungary.</p>



<p>Their approach was simple yet extraordinary. The researchers examined hundreds of samples using advanced synchrotron imaging to visualize the internal components of the fossilized feces - or coprolites - in great detail.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Piecing together ‘who ate whom’ in the past is true detective work,” said study lead author Martin Qvarnström. </p>



<p>“Being able to examine what animals ate and how they interacted with their environment helps us understand what enabled dinosaurs to be so successful.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-gold-mine-of-fossil-treasures">A gold mine of fossil treasures</h2>



<p>An integral part of the research was its focus on the Polish Basin - a region from the Late <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/benggwigwishingasuchus-eremicarminis-new-triassic-crocodile-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Triassic</a> era that had been previously underexplored.</p>



<p>The study of this region led to revelations about dinosaur diets as well as insights into the ecosystem's structure during the Triassic period.</p>



<p>The experts further strengthened the findings by using additional fossils, climate data, and other evidence such as bones and footprints.</p>



<p>“Our research is innovative because we have chosen to understand the biology of early dinosaurs based on their dietary preferences. There were many surprising discoveries along the way.” said Grzegorz Niedźwiedzki, one of the contributing authors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dinosaur-s-dining-menu">The dinosaur's dining menu</h2>



<p>The coprolites revealed an unexpected variety of diet for these dinosaurs that included fish, insects, large animals, plants, and even charcoal.</p>



<p>One species, the long-necked <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-learn-how-super-giant-sauropods-grew-to-be-so-massive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sauropods</a>, might have ingested charcoal to detoxify their stomach contents - as ferns can be toxic to herbivores.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspectives-on-dinosaur-evolution">New perspectives on dinosaur evolution</h2>



<p>This research addresses a significant gap in our understanding of the first 30 million years of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-daspletosaurus-sheds-light-on-dinosaur-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur evolution</a> during the Late Triassic period. </p>



<p>Though we have ample knowledge about their life and extinction, the processes that led to their rise remain a mystery. </p>



<p>The findings from this research could enlighten us about prehistoric ecosystems and evolutionary processes in a manner never seen before.</p>



<p>However, the most important take away from this research extends beyond the realm of dinosaurs.  </p>



<p>"Unfortunately, climate change and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-predict-how-and-when-humans-and-mammals-will-face-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mass extinctions</a> are not just a thing of the past," noted Qvarnström. "By studying past ecosystems, we gain a better understanding of how life adapts and thrives under changing environmental conditions."</p>



<p>Thus, the dinosaur's recipe for survival reveals the importance of adaptability in the face of environmental changes. </p>



<p>“The way to avoid extinction is to eat a lot of plants, which is exactly what the early herbivorous dinosaurs did," said Niedzwiedzki. "The reason for their evolutionary success is a true love of green and fresh plant shoots.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-ecosystem-interactions">Insights into ecosystem interactions</h2>



<p>The findings from this study go beyond reconstructing what dinosaurs ate - they provide a glimpse into the intricate web of interactions within ancient ecosystems.</p>



<p>Fossilized feces not only reveal dietary habits but also hint at the relationships between species, such as predator-prey dynamics, competition for resources, and the role of plants in shaping these early environments. </p>



<p>For instance, the discovery of charcoal in some dinosaur coprolites suggests that these creatures lived in regions prone to wildfires, and their diets likely adapted to such challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-role-of-dinosaurs">Ecological role of dinosaurs </h2>



<p>Moreover, the research highlights how dinosaurs may have influenced their surroundings. Large herbivores, for example, played a key role in shaping vegetation through grazing, potentially altering plant diversity and distribution.</p>



<p>Such insights provide a deeper understanding of how dinosaurs contributed to maintaining the balance within their ecosystems, mirroring the vital role large animals play in modern habitats.</p>



<p>This broader perspective not only enriches our knowledge of the Triassic period but also highlights the importance of studying ancient ecosystems to inform current conservation strategies. </p>



<p>The resilience and adaptability exhibited by these prehistoric creatures may offer lessons for preserving biodiversity in the face of environmental change.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08265-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a></em>.</p>



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



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

Fossilized poop reveals the diet of dinosaurs 200 million years ago

The mystery of what dinosaurs ate around 200 million years...

<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>



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<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>



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<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>



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<p>—–</p>

What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p id="block-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>



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

Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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