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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Wasps shine a light on 'dark biodiversity' in rainforests

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

<p>Climate change is more than a buzzword; it's transforming landscapes across the globe, and North America is no exception. </p>



<p>As weather extremes become more frequent, the impact on ecosystems and human infrastructure is becoming impossible to ignore.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-fuels-extreme-weather">Climate change fuels extreme weather</h2>



<p>According to new research from <a href="https://www.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University</a>, extreme weather patterns - severe droughts in the American Southwest and Mexico, alongside more intense wet years in the Northeast - are the modern norm. The analysis also suggests these seasonal patterns will become more severe in the future.</p>



<p>The study highlights that the central United States can expect bigger swings between pluvials, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heavy-rainfall-events-in-the-northeast-are-set-to-increase-by-over-50-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high-rainfall</a> years, and drier summers through the rest of this century. </p>



<p>The findings, based on precipitation data, historical tree rings, and climate models stretching from 850 to 2100, suggest that climate change has pushed North America's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-warming-influences-us-weather-patterns-ai-machine-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weather patterns</a> toward extremes unseen before the industrial era.</p>



<p>"It’s very much a tale of the Southwest versus the Northeast for most of the seasons," said study senior author Professor James Stagge. </p>



<p>"Mexico and the American Southwest tend to get drier across more or less all seasons, whereas we’re seeing in the Northeast – and Ohio is included in that - a trend toward wetter, particularly in the winter and early spring."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dissecting-the-data">Dissecting the data</h2>



<p>The study doesn’t just document the present-day shift but traces the pre-industrial patterns to predict future extremes. </p>



<p>“The scale of the change we’re seeing now and into the future is dramatically larger in many areas than any natural climate variability we saw prior,” said study lead author Kyungmin Sung.</p>



<p>This variability is particularly concerning as it introduces unpredictability to weather management. </p>



<p>"You might be going from, say, this year’s drought being really bad, and in five years, we might see the wettest pluvial we’ve had in a while," noted Professor Stagge. "That variability is concerning because it changes how we might need to manage water to prepare for more extremes in both ways."</p>



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



<p>The research team merged data from five sources: two modern precipitation datasets, tree ring reconstructions, and two <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weather-in-dry-regions-isnt-behaving-as-climate-models-predict/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate models</a>. </p>



<p>"A benefit of having very different types of data is they can fill in each other’s gaps," said Professor Stagge. "We consider trends to be significant only when they’re showing up across multiple datasets - so that increases our confidence."</p>



<p>This holistic approach paints a clear picture of the future: the Southwest will continue to experience worsening droughts, while the Northeast will face wetter winters and springs. </p>



<p>At the same time, the central U.S. will see more dramatic swings between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/expect-more-extreme-wet-and-dry-seasons-with-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wet and dry</a> periods.</p>



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



<p>The implications of these findings reach beyond weather prediction - they affect sectors from agriculture to city planning.</p>



<p>"In the Southwest, you’re going to have less water to deal with, and if you’re managing a farm in the middle of the country, you might be seeing wider swings between droughts and pluvials," noted Professor Stagge.</p>



<p>The study, published in the journal <em><a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023GL107400" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geophysical Research Letters</a></em>, emphasizes the urgency of proactive planning to deal with the ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-impacts-on-waterways-contribute-to-the-climate-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate crisis</a>. </p>



<p>"Certainly, we’d like to arrest further climate change, but it takes a long time to turn that ship. In the meantime, we should be planning on where we’re headed to decrease impacts on people, the economy, and the environment," said Professor Stagge.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-to-climate-change">Adapting to climate change</h2>



<p>As the data points to worsening weather extremes, the urgency to address climate change grows ever more pressing. </p>



<p>The combination of drier droughts and wetter pluvials presents significant challenges not only for managing water resources but also for sustaining agricultural productivity and protecting infrastructure. </p>



<p>These shifts in weather patterns can strain ecosystems, create economic burdens, and increase the vulnerability of communities across North America.</p>



<p>While curbing climate change is a global priority, local and regional efforts to adapt to these emerging conditions are equally important. Preparing for the inevitable changes is critical to mitigating the impacts on people and industries alike. </p>



<p>From investing in sustainable water management practices to rethinking urban planning and agricultural strategies, adaptation must be part of the solution.</p>



<p>By taking proactive steps now, governments, businesses, and communities can lessen the blow of future climate extremes, ensuring a more resilient and sustainable future for the next generations.</p>



<p>The research was supported by the National Science Foundation, the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, and the Ohio Supercomputer Center..</p>



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Droughts and extreme weather events are escalating

Climate change is more than a buzzword; it's transforming landscapes...

<p>Alzheimer's disease, a leading cause of cognitive decline, may have an unexpected link to a widespread environmental issue - light pollution.</p>



<p>As artificial illumination continues to fill our cities and suburbs, researchers are now exploring how constant exposure to nighttime light may influence public health. </p>



<p>While streetlights and neon signs enhance safety and urban beauty, this constant glow could have hidden consequences, potentially contributing to an increased risk of Alzheimer's.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-light-pollution-and-alzheimer-s-disease">Light pollution and Alzheimer's disease</h2>



<p>In the US, several states have implemented measures to mitigate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-pollution-disrupts-entire-ecological-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light pollution</a>. Yet, some parts of the country continue to bathe in high levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-exposure-is-extremely-harmful-to-our-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial night light</a>.</p>



<p>Suspecting a possible connection between this incessant light exposure and public health, researchers embarked on a study to investigate the association between outdoor light pollution and Alzheimer's disease prevalence.</p>



<p>"We show that in the US there is a positive association between AD prevalence and exposure to light at night, particularly in those under the age of 65," noted study lead author Dr. Robin Voigt-Zuwala, a professor at <a href="https://www.rush.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rush University Medical Center</a>.</p>



<p>"Nightly light pollution - a modifiable environmental factor - may be an important risk factor for Alzheimer's disease."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-higher-the-intensity-the-greater-the-risk">The higher the intensity, the greater the risk?</h2>



<p>The investigative team scrutinized light pollution maps of the continental United States and considered various medical data known to influence Alzheimer's disease risk. </p>



<p>They produced data reflecting the nighttime light intensity for each state, categorizing them into five groups based on the intensity level.</p>



<p>Among individuals aged 65 and older, the findings revealed a stronger correlation between Alzheimer's disease prevalence and nightly light pollution than with other established disease indicators such as alcohol abuse, chronic kidney disease, depression, and obesity.</p>



<p>While other risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke did display a higher association with Alzheimer's disease, the impact of light pollution was undeniable.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-vulnerability-in-younger-people">Increased vulnerability in younger people</h2>



<p>Interestingly, this association was even more pronounced in the population under 65, indicating a higher sensitivity to the effects of nighttime light exposure. The reason behind this age-related sensitivity to light pollution remains unclear.</p>



<p>"Certain genotypes, which influence early-onset AD, impact the response to biological stressors which could account for increased vulnerability to the effects of nighttime light exposure," said Voigt-Zuwala.</p>



<p>"Additionally, younger people are more likely to live in urban areas and have lifestyles that may increase <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-light-during-sleep-can-damage-your-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exposure to light at night</a>."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prevention-and-mitigation-techniques">Prevention and mitigation techniques</h2>



<p>As a result of their findings, the researchers advocate for increased public awareness regarding the potential effects of light pollution.</p>



<p>"Awareness of the association should empower people – particularly those with risk factors for Alzheimer's disease – to make easy lifestyle changes,” said Voigt-Zuwala. Changes may include the use of blackout curtains or sleeping with eye masks, especially for those residing in high light pollution areas.</p>



<p>Moreover, internal light exposure would be as significant in this discourse. Although not examined in this study, the researchers pointed out that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-term-effects-of-artificial-blue-light-remain-unknown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blue light</a>, in particular, disrupts sleep. </p>



<p>The usage of blue light filters, transition to warm light, and installation of dimmers could effectively reduce light exposure within households.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alzheimer-s-and-the-path-forward">Alzheimer's and the path forward</h2>



<p>The team acknowledges that their study is based on a subsection of the U.S. population and that not everyone resides in areas with high light pollution throughout their lives. </p>



<p>The experts noted that further research is needed to explore the complex relationship between nighttime light exposure and Alzheimer's disease.</p>



<p>As research continues to uncover the potential connections between Alzheimer's and light pollution, experts emphasize the importance of taking preventative steps. </p>



<p>Communities can work to reduce outdoor light pollution by using shielded streetlights and promoting darker night skies, which may help minimize the risk of Alzheimer's disease in the population. </p>



<p>On an individual level, simple adjustments such as reducing blue light exposure in the evening and prioritizing quality sleep can be vital in protecting long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/walking-is-a-powerful-tool-to-boost-brain-health-and-overall-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain health</a>. </p>



<p>By addressing both external and internal sources of light pollution, there is hope for mitigating one of the many factors linked to Alzheimer's disease.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2024.1378498/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Neuroscience</a></em>.</p>



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Light pollution increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease, a leading cause of cognitive decline, may have...

<p>Ever wondered about the countless mysteries lurking beneath Utah’s Great Salt Lake? As the lake shrinks and exposes more of its hidden wonders, one aspect has been grabbing the attention of scientists lately: the dust released from the dried lakebed.</p>



<p>This is not ordinary dust. It carries certain elements that have been raising eyebrows and, more importantly, concerns. Scientists from the <a href="https://www.utah.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Utah</a> have investigated what pollutants may be lurking within these airborne <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drying-lake-beds-are-a-major-source-of-harmful-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sediments</a>.</p>



<p>And what do their findings suggest? These sediments could potentially be more harmful than other significant dust sources that affect air quality in the Wasatch Front.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-composition-of-the-salt-lake-dust">Composition of the Salt Lake dust</h2>



<p>What exactly is in these sediments? When these particles become airborne or aerosolized, they exhibit higher levels of reactivity and bioavailability than sediments from other places upwind of Utah's major population center.  </p>



<p>Chemical analysis has helped uncover the presence of numerous metals and levels of arsenic and lithium exceeding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's soil residential regional screening levels.</p>



<p>“You’re talking about a very large dust source located next to a very large population, and you’ve got elevated levels of manganese, iron, copper and lead. Lead is a concern for developmental reasons,” said senior author&nbsp;Kerry Kelly, a professor of chemical engineering.</p>



<p>“Manganese, iron and copper, these are transition metals and are known to be very irritating to your lungs. Once you get irritation, that can lead to this whole inflammatory response. And that’s part of the problem with particulate matter and it’s adverse health effects like asthma.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harmful-dust-pollution">Harmful dust pollution </h2>



<p>The Great Salt Lake is not a solitary entity; it receives runoff from a considerable drainage basin spread across northern Utah and parts of three other states.</p>



<p>Metals, both from natural sources and human disturbances, are pushed into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/great-salt-lake-drying-up-causing-major-dust-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lake</a> from inflows or atmospheric deposition, accumulating in the lakebed. </p>



<p>This potential for harmful dust pollution has caught the attention of Utah state officials, resulting in a set of priority goals to tackle the issue.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-impacts-of-the-dust">Social impacts of the dust</h2>



<p>Dr. Sara Grineski, a professor of sociology, led another recent study which revealed that dust from the lakebed disproportionately impacts disadvantaged neighborhoods in Salt Lake County. It's not just about environmental impacts, but social ones too.</p>



<p>In a separate forthcoming study led by Michael Werner, a biologist at the University of Utah, a second team of researchers dug into the history of the lakebed. They surveyed levels of toxic metals in submerged lakebed sediments from the lake's record low-water year of 2021 and noticed changes from Utah's mining era years.</p>



<p>While concentrations of some metals, such as lead and zinc, appear to have decreased, mercury levels have strangely increased.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-are-the-pollutants-going">Where are the pollutants going?</h2>



<p>However, here's a twist in the tale. Experts cannot conclusively say if these pollutants are being swept into populated areas during high-wind events. Why? The answer lies in the lack of sufficient monitoring equipment to capture the dust downwind of the lake.</p>



<p>Researchers in Dr. Kelly’s lab, who specialize in air quality, set out to unravel this mystery. They teamed up with colleagues in the U’s College of Science.</p>



<p>The experts analyzed sediment samples from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restoring-the-great-salt-lake-is-a-matter-of-environmental-justice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Salt Lake</a>, comparing them with sediments from other dust sources in the Great Basin. Interestingly, only a small fraction of the exposed lakebed, around 9%, emits dust from areas where the lakebed crusts have been disturbed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-threat-level-of-salt-lake-dust">Threat level of Salt Lake dust</h2>



<p>So, should we be worried? The initial findings suggest that the broken layers of the lakebed reset fairly easily, implying that the threat to air quality might not be as severe as previously assumed.</p>



<p>However, the latest study brings forth a new perspective. It explores the dust's "oxidative potential," a measure of its ability to react with oxygen. "When you breathe in something that’s really reactive, it’s going to interact with the cells inside your lungs and cause damage," explained Dr. Kelly.</p>



<p>In the lab, the team aerosolized the sediment samples to isolate particles small enough to inhale and lodge in lung tissue. Further analyses showed high oxidative potential associated with certain metals, including copper, manganese, iron, and aluminum.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1352231024004035?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atmospheric Environment</a>.</em></p>



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Great Salt Lake is shrinking and releasing harmful dust

Ever wondered about the countless mysteries lurking beneath Utah’s Great...

<p>Let's face it, the world is warming up, and climate change, whether we like it or not, is affecting everything around us. Birds from North America are quite alarmingly showing us how they're feeling the heat rise. </p>



<p>Their response? Well, birds have three main tricks up their wings: trotting towards the north, soaring up to higher altitudes, and tweaking their annual breeding cycles, or what we scientists prefer calling - making phenological changes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-s-eye-view-of-climate-change">Bird's eye view of climate change</h2>



<p>Researchers at UCLA set out to study the issue from all angles. They have spent 27 years examining data from 311 land-based species to understand how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-behavior-productivity-being-directly-impacted-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> deal with climate change. </p>



<p>The results were startling, especially when they saw how these species were using all three strategies collectively.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-but-at-what-pace">Adaptation, but at what pace?</h2>



<p>While our avian friends seem to be taking a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-birds-are-at-great-risk-from-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">similar approach to change</a> - moving away from the heat, they aren't adapting fast enough. </p>



<p>According to the study, the adjustments made by these creatures barely cover a mere one-third of what's necessary to cope with the speed at which our world is warming up.</p>



<p>The research was led by Monte Neate-Clegg, an ecologist at <a href="https://www.ucla.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCLA</a> who sheds some light on the findings. "The amount of temperature tracking in birds that we've seen, 64% is due to phenology tracking alone," he said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-breeding-due-to-climate-change">Early breeding due to climate change</h2>



<p>On average, our feathered friends have started breeding 0.08 days earlier. That's their way of dealing with a rise of one degree Celsius.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts believe this is easier and more efficient than moving 1,000 kilometers up north or climbing a few hundred meters in elevation every time there's a change in their habitat.</p>



<p>"This is a response we've hypothesized before, particularly for birds from California," said Morgan Tingley, a UCLA professor of ecology and evolutionary biology. </p>



<p>"But now, for the first time, we can see how animals are using multiple ways simultaneously to adapt to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tropical-birds-can-handle-climate-variability/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>, and shifting the timing of key life events may just be one of the first and easiest options."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-moving-in-climate-change">Birds moving in climate change</h2>



<p>The study found that on average, birds are moving a small distance spatially: just 1.1 kilometers per year towards the north and 1.2 meters per year upward. But of course, such averages always hide surprising variations.</p>



<p>Here are the odd ones out in the flock: the lesser goldfinch is on a faster track north and breeding earlier than most. And then we have the black phoebe, oddly shifting south and downward, probably due to urbanization, precipitation changes, and habitat availability. </p>



<p>So, while some are keeping up with the temperature changes completely, others are partially doing so, and some are even moving counterintuitively.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-habitat-in-bird-adaptation">The role of habitat in bird adaptation</h2>



<p>Habitat plays a crucial role in how birds adapt to climate change. The availability of suitable environments can either facilitate or hinder their ability to move northward or gain altitude. </p>



<p>For example, many birds are limited by urban development, which fragments their habitats and can make it challenging for them to find new nesting grounds. </p>



<p>Additionally, alterations in vegetation due to changing temperatures affect food sources, thereby impacting breeding success. As habitats shift, so too must birds, but this transition is fraught with obstacles, leading to concerns about future population viability.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-impact-a-double-edged-sword">Human impact: A double-edged sword</h2>



<p>While birds are showing remarkable adaptability in response to climate change, human actions often complicate these efforts. Factors such as deforestation, pollution, and climate-altering greenhouse gas emissions exacerbate the challenges that birds face. </p>



<p>Notably, habitat conservation and restoration efforts can bolster bird populations and provide the necessary resources they need to thrive amid changes. </p>



<p>Yet, these initiatives must be implemented swiftly and on a large scale, as the rate of environmental change continues to outpace the natural adaptive capacities of avian species. </p>



<p>It is imperative that we take action to mitigate these effects and support birds in their struggle for survival in an increasingly hostile environment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-for-survival-a-lesson-from-birds">Adapting for survival: A lesson from birds</h2>



<p>How birds adapt to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-species-are-shifting-their-habitats-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate changes</a>&nbsp;is crucial to their survival, and it is equally essential for our conservation efforts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The fact that birds are altering their breeding season timings means that we need to shift our focus not just to protect their habitats but also consider the timing of ecological events and how individual species are changing.</p>



<p>"In order to best target our conservation efforts, we need to know how species are and are not adapting to ongoing climate change," noted Tingley. "While shifting the timing of nesting may help <a href="https://phys.org/tags/birds/">birds</a> in the short term, if they do not move in the long term, greater conservation efforts are likely to be necessary."</p>



<p>So, our winged friends are giving us not just a bird's eye view of the ongoing climate change but also a peek into their world of adaptation under pressure. Can we, as humans, take a leaf, or rather, a feather out of their book? </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02536-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</em></a>.</p>



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



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Birds are moving north and breeding earlier in a changing climate

Let's face it, the world is warming up, and climate...

<p>When we think of an elegant restaurant in a sophisticated setting, we probably think of expensive cities or secluded beach resorts. The depths of the Pacific Ocean don't cross our mind. Yet, that is exactly where some northern elephant seals dine out, according to a new study led by University of Victoria researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-the-mysterious-mammal">Observing the mysterious mammal</h2>



<p>Published in <em>PLOS ONE</em>, this study provides a unique, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unexpected-discovery-large-sharks-are-hunting-each-other/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unprecedented visual</a> insight into the rarely observed behaviors of these elusive mammals in the deep sea.</p>



<p>The focus? Their advanced feeding techniques, prey choices, and even their rest habits. </p>



<p>At least eight male elephant seals, aged between 4 and 7, were observed using ONC’s observatory equipment during multiple visits to the research site situated 645 meters deep in Barkley Canyon. The observations were recorded between 2022 and 2023.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprise-visitors">Surprise visitors</h2>



<p>Researchers from the UVic, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar (ICM-CSIC), a Barcelona-based research institute, and ONC were initially studying the impact of light and bait on fish and invertebrate behavior. Little did they know, these clever seals had their eyes on the prize.</p>



<p>After reviewing camera footage, acoustic images, and sound data, the seals were discovered as unexpected visitors. The researchers surmised that the seals linked the sonar noise with potential prey, effectively considering it a "dinner bell."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunting-tactics-of-elephant-seals">Hunting tactics of elephant seals</h2>



<p>"The seals appeared to use this sound to locate an area with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/does-hunting-fishing-connect-humans-with-nature-or-reinforce-superiority-complex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prey</a> and may take advantage of fish disturbed by the camera lights, particularly targeting sablefish, their preferred meal, as seen in the video footage," said Héloïse Frouin-Mouy, the lead author of the publication.</p>



<p>Héloïse Frouin-Mouy, a visiting scientist at <a href="https://www.uvic.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UVic</a>'s biology department and assistant scientist at the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Miami</a>, conducted this research with her colleagues, including Francis Juanes, a UVic biology professor and Liber Ero Chair for Fisheries Research, and adjunct professor Rodney Rountree. </p>



<p>Other notable contributors were ICM-CSIC's Jacopo Aguzzi and ONC's Fabio De Leo Cabrera.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-observations-of-elephant-seals">Unique observations of elephant seals</h2>



<p>The findings suggest that the seals quickly adapted to use the infrastructure for more efficient foraging. In a span of 10 days, four seals were repeatedly seen visiting the research site.</p>



<p>"They returned often to feed more efficiently," said Frouin-Mouy. "We became familiar with these seals, even distinguishing between their frequencies of visits and observed habits. We even ended up naming them after members of The Beach Boys."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-discoveries">Remarkable discoveries </h2>



<p>Their favorite dish? Actively swimming sablefish, ignoring all the other stationary or drifting prey options. The seals were even recorded on camera and hydrophone bobbing their heads and producing low-frequency sounds in pursuit of their prey.</p>



<p>In another fascinating revelation, these adolescent male northern elephant seals were found to be power napping on the ocean floor at Barkley Canyon - a sight never-before-seen.</p>



<p>The real-time monitoring capacity of NEPTUNE observatory played a crucial role in this discovery. It allowed the research team to adjust the use of ONC's underwater instrument - initially deployed for the fish study - to detect the presence of seals and observe them for nearly a year.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-elephant-seal-behavior">Significance of elephant seal behavior</h2>



<p>Understanding the foraging behaviour of northern elephant seals is not merely an academic exercise; it holds significant ecological implications. </p>



<p>As apex predators of the deep sea, these seals play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. Their prey choices, particularly for sablefish, can influence population dynamics within the ecosystem, thereby affecting the species that inhabit these underwater environments. </p>



<p>Moreover, insights gained from monitoring their behaviour provide invaluable data on how marine species may adapt to changes in their environment, which is increasingly under threat from climate change and human activity.</p>



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



<p>The revelations from this study pave the way for further exploration of the habits and habitats of marine mammals. </p>



<p>Future research could investigate not only the elephant seals but also the broader impacts of environmental changes on other deep-sea species.</p>



<p>By utilizing advanced technology similar to that employed in this study, researchers can delve deeper into marine behaviors and interactions, enriching our understanding of ocean dynamics.</p>



<p>This could ultimately inform conservation strategies aimed at <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-flu-is-killing-thousands-of-seals-and-sea-lions-globally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protecting these delicate ecosystems</a>, ensuring their sustainability for future generations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elephant-seals-beyond-the-ocean-floor">Elephant seals beyond the ocean floor</h2>



<p>Northern elephant seal colonies can be found from as far north as Alaska to as south as the Baja Peninsula. Typically, tracking of the seals' movements is done using bio-tags, or primarily on land. </p>



<p>This research provides a rare look into their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fascinating-mating-behaviors-of-leopard-seals-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underwater behavior</a>, unlocking a new perspective on these fascinating creatures that share our world.</p>



<p>"Understanding the underwater lives of marine mammals is still limited by our inability to fully study the animal’s behavior beneath the water, notably the tactics used by apex predators, such as pinnipeds, to capture their prey," noted the researchers.</p>



<p>"Animal-borne tags have provided an opportunity to gain new insights into the diving and foraging behavior of pinnipeds."</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0308461" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS ONE</a></em>.</p>



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Elephant seals use sonar signals to dine deep underwater

When we think of an elegant restaurant in a sophisticated...

<p>Have you ever watched a dragonfly zipping about, chasing its prey with pinpoint accuracy regardless of the shifting environmental conditions? Not even the hot summer sun or a cloud blockade seems to deter this nimble creature. And what else doesn't falter? A dragonfly's precision, even in extreme temperatures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dragonflies-in-a-warming-world">Dragonflies in a warming world</h2>



<p>These remarkable insects are the subject of an exciting new study by researchers at the University of Adelaide and collaborators from Lund University in Sweden.</p>



<p>The research team, including PhD candidate Mahdi Hussaini and Professor Steven Wiederman from the <a href="https://www.adelaide.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Adelaide</a>'s School of Biomedicine, embarked on a mission to decipher how a dragonfly's brain functions in different temperatures. </p>



<p>"Dragonflies are poikilothermic animals with limited thermoregulation, which means the temperature of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonflies-developed-dark-wing-spots-for-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">entire bodies</a>, including their brains, vary and change throughout the day," explained Hussaini, the paper's lead author.</p>



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



<p>So, what's their secret? How do they manage to maintain their accuracy even as their brain temperature changes throughout the day?</p>



<p>"They have the ability to chase prey successfully whether in sunlight or under cloud cover, most likely due to small target motion detector (STMD) neurons in the visual pathway of a dragonfly's brain," explained Hussaini.</p>



<p>These STMD neurons are not only sensitive to target contrast but also finely tuned to the target's size and velocity. As the temperature rises, these neurons adjust their sensitivity and speed. It's like they have an inbuilt thermostat to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonflies-develop-waxy-coating-to-withstand-warmer-climates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adapt to the environment</a>.</p>



<p>A summer's day can drastically increase the sensitivity of STMD neurons to small moving targets, almost a nine-fold increase, to be precise.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dragonflies-predators-in-extreme-temperatures">Dragonflies:  Predators in extreme temperatures </h2>



<p>Dragonflies reign supreme as apex predators in their niche. They excel in chasing small prey within cluttered environments. </p>



<p>Using brain recordings, the researchers aim to craft neuro-inspired, computational models for target-tracking applications. This could pave the way for artificial vision systems capable of detecting fast-moving, aerial drones from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dragonfly-space-mission-saturn-moon-titan-gets-greenlight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">autonomous vehicles</a>.</p>



<p>But how is biology giving us the edge in engineering? "Inspiration from biology helps us to provide solutions to engineering problems from a different perspective," noted Professor Wiederman.</p>



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



<p>The insights gleaned from dragonfly neural mechanisms extend beyond mere fascination; they hold transformative potential for the field of robotics. </p>



<p>Engineers are currently exploring how the principles observed in dragonflies can inform the design of advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). </p>



<p>By integrating neuro-inspired algorithms that mimic the dragonfly's predatory efficiency, future drones may achieve unparalleled agility and precision in complex environments. Such advancements could revolutionize not just military applications but also search-and-rescue operations, wildlife management, and agricultural monitoring.</p>



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



<p>As this groundbreaking study unfolds, it sets the stage for an array of future investigations into the fascinating world of insect neurobiology. </p>



<p>Researchers aim to delve deeper into the specifics of how temperature variations affect other aspects of dragonfly behaviour and cognition. </p>



<p>Questions remain about whether similar mechanisms are present in other poikilothermic species and how these principles can be generalized across the animal kingdom. </p>



<p>By understanding the nuances of these natural systems, scientists hope to uncover further innovations that bridge biology, technology, and environmental sustainability, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drone-swarms-help-combat-forest-fires-natural-disasters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">paving the way for solutions</a> inspired by the complexity and resilience of nature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-pathway-to-the-future">A pathway to the future</h2>



<p>Despite our extensive knowledge about dragonflies, there are still unknown territories regarding the impact of external factors like temperature on a dragonfly's perception. </p>



<p>"Given that biology rapidly changes in response to external factors like temperature, we need to understand what role this plays in information processing," said Professor Wiederman.</p>



<p>This provides an intriguing direction for future research. How the dragonfly brain interprets temperature-altered information to still provide a robust perception will be an exciting avenue to explore. Not only from a biological standpoint but also from an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fireworks-have-alarming-impact-air-quality-particulate-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">engineering perspective</a>.</p>



<p>"Until now, no one understood how large the impact of external factors (like daily changes in temperature) is on the dragonfly's perception of the world (via changes in neurons' spiking activity)," noted Professor Wiederman.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/abstract/S0960-9822(24)01083-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a>.</em></p>



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Dragonflies are perfect hunters, even in extreme temperatures

Have you ever watched a dragonfly zipping about, chasing its...

<p>A pterosaur, one of the prehistoric giants of the skies, flew by either flapping its wings or soaring, according to a new study published in the <em>Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology</em>.</p>



<p>For years, scientists have debated whether the largest pterosaurs could fly at all. However, “remarkable” and “rare” three-dimensional fossils of two large-bodied azhdarchoid pterosaur species, including one new-to-science, now suggest that not only could the largest pterosaurs fly, but their flight styles could vary significantly.</p>



<p>The study was led by researchers from the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a>, the Natural Resources Authority, <a href="https://www.yu.edu.jo/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yarmouk University</a> in Jordan, and the Saudi Geological Survey.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-three-dimensionally-preserved-pterosaur-bones">Three-dimensionally preserved pterosaur bones</h2>



<p>The fossils, from the late <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extraordinary-dinosaur-fossils-discovered-from-the-end-of-cretaceous-era/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cretaceous period</a> (approximately 72 to 66 million years ago), were exceptionally preserved in 3D at two sites within a nearshore environment on the ancient landmass of Afro-Arabia.</p>



<p>“The dig team was extremely surprised to find three-dimensionally preserved pterosaur bones, this is a very rare occurrence,” noted Dr. Kierstin Rosenbach, lead author from the University of Michigan.</p>



<p>Since pterosaur bones are hollow and fragile, they are typically found flattened. “With <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/500-million-year-old-trilobites-fossils-preserved-in-volcanic-ash/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">3D preservation</a> being so rare, we do not have a lot of information about what pterosaur bones look like on the inside,” she added.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ct-scans-reveal-flight-mechanics">CT scans reveal flight mechanics</h2>



<p>Using high-resolution computed tomography (CT) scans, the team analyzed the internal structures of these wing bones. </p>



<p>The scans revealed that <em>Arambourgiania philadelphiae</em>, an already-known giant pterosaur with a 10-meter wingspan, exhibited spiral ridges inside its humerus, resembling those in the wing bones of vultures. These ridges likely resisted torsional loadings associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jurassic-park-was-wrong-about-how-fast-pterosaurs-could-fly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soaring</a> flight. </p>



<p>“The ridges in <em>Arambourgiania</em> were completely unexpected, we weren’t sure what we were seeing at first!” noted Dr. Rosenbach. “Being able to see the full 3D model of <em>Arambourgiania’s</em> humerus lined with helical ridges was just so exciting.”</p>



<p>In contrast, the newly discovered species, <em>Inabtanin alarabia</em>, had flight bones adapted for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universal-equation-predicts-the-flapping-frequency-of-birds-insects-and-even-whales/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flapping</a> flight, with internal struts similar to modern flapping birds. </p>



<p>“The struts found in <em>Inabtanin</em> were cool to see, though not unusual,” said Dr. Rosenbach. With a five-meter wingspan, this pterosaur's bone structure indicates it was likely adapted for resisting bending loads during flapping.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-pterosaur-flight">Understanding pterosaur flight</h2>



<p>The discovery of varying flight styles opens exciting new discussions about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pterosaurs-had-good-parenting-skills-but-only-the-larger-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">how pterosaurs lived</a> and the correlation between body size and flight mechanics. </p>



<p>“There is such limited information on the internal bone structure of pterosaurs across time, but looking at other flying vertebrates, we can see that flapping is the most common flight behavior," said Dr. Rosenbach.</p>



<p>Professor Jeff Wilson Mantilla from the University of Michigan and Dr. Iyad Zalmout from the Saudi Geological Survey, co-authors of the study, found the fossils in Jordan in 2007. </p>



<p>“The variations likely reflect responses to mechanical forces applied on the pterosaurs’ wings during flight,” noted Professor Mantilla.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-framework-for-future-studies">A new framework for future studies</h2>



<p>“This study provides a framework for further investigation of the correlation between internal bone structure and flight capacity in pterosaurs," said Dr. Rosenbach. </p>



<p>With these discoveries, scientists hope to expand their understanding of vertebrate flight by examining more fossils and building on the knowledge of these prehistoric giants.</p>



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



<p>Although pterosaurs ruled the skies millions of years ago, their legacy continues to inspire scientists today. </p>



<p>These creatures, the first vertebrates to achieve powered flight, ranged in size from small, bird-like species to massive giants like <em>Quetzalcoatlus</em>, which had wingspans rivaling modern aircraft. Their hollow bones, lightweight frames, and varied flight adaptations allowed pterosaurs to conquer diverse environments, from coastal cliffs to inland forests.</p>



<p>Despite their extinction, pterosaurs offer invaluable insights into evolutionary biology, biomechanics, and flight mechanics. </p>



<p>Ongoing discoveries, like those from this recent study, deepen our understanding of how flight evolved and what environmental pressures shaped the development of these remarkable creatures. </p>



<p>The study of pterosaurs also contributes to broader scientific fields, helping researchers apply ancient lessons to modern questions, such as the physics of flight and the evolution of other flying animals, including birds and bats.</p>



<p>As more fossils are uncovered and new technologies emerge, the flight secrets of pterosaurs will continue to be unraveled, providing glimpses into the world of the prehistoric skies.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02724634.2024.2385068" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology</a></em>.</p>



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Cracking the code of pterosaur flight: Soaring vs. flapping

A pterosaur, one of the prehistoric giants of the skies,...

<p>Trees, shrubs, flowers, everything green and beautiful - they're all doing their bit above ground. But have you ever thought about the world beneath their roots? The organisms living below, like earthworms and bugs, are just as crucial to our ecosystem. Unfortunately, soil pollution affects them, and our knowledge about the issue is limited.</p>



<p>New research sheds light on the grossly underestimated impact of soil pollution on the creatures working tirelessly in the shadows - our earthworms, insects, and mites.</p>



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



<p>The study was led by Dr. Victoria Burton at the Natural History Museum. Her team found that contrary to expectations, it's not farming intensification or climate change, but <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-and-drying-soils-are-losing-more-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil</a> pollution that's bullying these underground dwellers the most. </p>



<p>"Above ground, land use, climate change and&nbsp;invasive species&nbsp;have the greatest impact on biodiversity, so we assumed that this would be similar below ground. Our results show, however, that this isn't the case," said Dr. Burton.</p>



<p>"Instead, we found that pesticide and heavy metal pollution caused the most damage to soil biodiversity. This is worrying, as there hasn't been a lot of research into the impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-environment-day-2024-a-call-for-land-restoration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil</a> pollution, so its effects might be more widespread than we know."</p>



<p>Dr. Burton noted that, amid concern over&nbsp;soil degradation, we need to investigate the impacts of other pollution sources - such as microplastics and persistent chemicals - on the life beneath our feet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bugs-battling-soil-pollution">Bugs battling soil pollution</h2>



<p>"Soil isn't just a homogenous lump of dirt," said Dr. Burton. "It's a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warming-soils-release-more-carbon-than-plants-can-replace/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complex environment</a> containing many different structures, nutrients and minerals. While the majority of life is found within 10 centimeters of the surface,&nbsp;some organisms can live much deeper."</p>



<p>"But with so few specialists who can identify subterranean organisms, we know much less about life below than above ground."</p>



<p>It's not all doom and gloom though. There are still ways to strengthen the soil and return the favor to these little heroes of ours. The use of organic fertilizers and mulch, for instance, introduces more carbon into the soil offering a feast to earthworms.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revitalizing-our-soils">Revitalizing our soils</h2>



<p>As we explore methods to heal our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-soils-produce-a-symphony-of-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soils</a>, it's essential to cultivate practices that support the delicate balance of underground ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>One effective approach is adopting crop rotation, which not only enhances soil structure but also disrupts the life cycles of harmful pests and pathogens. </p>



<p>Incorporating cover crops can be invaluable too; these green protectors help prevent soil erosion and enrich the nutrient content, ultimately benefiting our hidden allies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Also, cutting back on synthetic pesticides is really important for keeping our soil healthy. By doing this, we can help create a thriving community of earthworms and insects that play a vital role in our ecosystem.</p>



<p>By using these strategies, we work together to create healthy soil, which is vital for supporting life above ground.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saving-worms-and-bugs-from-soil-pollution">Saving worms and bugs from soil pollution</h2>



<p>Raising awareness about soil pollution is a responsibility we all share. Community initiatives, educational programs, and outreach efforts are pivotal in informing the public about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-can-store-the-most-soil-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">critical role</a> of soil organisms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Engaging local farmers, gardeners, and policymakers in conversations about sustainable agricultural practices can lead to meaningful change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, supporting research initiatives like Dr. Burton’s can help illuminate the complexities of soil ecosystems and the necessity of preserving them. By advocating for soil health, we not only enhance agricultural productivity but also ensure the well-being of our planet.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>There's a lesson here for all of us. Issues we often overlook can be the ones causing the most harm to our environment.</p>



<p>"I'm excited to include <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electronic-soil-boosts-crop-growth-by-over-50/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil</a> biodiversity work within the National Education Nature Park," said Dr. Burton. "It's a good opportunity to get young people excited about the life under their feet, and to get them interested in the life cycles of animals like craneflies and beetles which they might not know about."</p>



<p>"It's not just an opportunity to inspire them, but to do some important science that is currently being overlooked."</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<em><a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(24)01765-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iScience</a></em>.</p>



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



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

Soil pollution is harming worms and bugs to an unknown degree

Trees, shrubs, flowers, everything green and beautiful - they're all...

<p>In the ongoing battle against cancer, a new AI approach is being explored that holds the potential to revolutionize the future of personalized cancer treatments.</p>



<p>The technology, which is an amalgamation of artificial intelligence, molecular dynamics simulations, and network analysis, aims to predict the binding sites on cancer-related proteins. This will pave the way for a faster development of treatments tailored for individual cancer patients.</p>



<p>The study was led by Dr. Rafael Bernardi, an associate professor of biophysics in the Department of Physics at Auburn University. As part of a collaborative effort with the <a href="https://www.unibas.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Basel</a> and <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a>, the team is breaking barriers on how we understand and fight cancer.</p>



<p>"Our research underscores the potential of employing dynamic network analysis to enhance AI-based structure predictions for more accurate identification of protein-protein interaction interfaces," noted the study authors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-and-biophysics-in-cancer-therapy">AI and biophysics in cancer therapy</h2>



<p>The team’s primary focus was understanding the interaction between therapeutic proteins and PD-L1, a protein that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unique-fingerprint-of-cancer-cells-revealed-in-hydrogen-atoms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer cells</a> use to hide from the immune system. </p>



<p>This insight could dramatically improve immunotherapies, making treatments like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) more effective.</p>



<p>“Utilizing computational tools to engineer proteins represents the next frontier in cancer therapeutics,” explained Dr. Bernardi. “Our integrated approach combining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cancer-research-ai-will-change-the-way-we-see-tumors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a>, molecular dynamics, and network analysis holds immense potential for developing personalized therapies for cancer patients.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protein-manipulated-by-cancer-cells">Protein manipulated by cancer cells</h2>



<p>The most significant obstacle in this field of study is predicting the precise point where a drug can bind to its target protein. In this instance, the researchers concentrated on PD-L1, a checkpoint protein that cancer cells cleverly manipulate to suppress our immune defenses.</p>



<p>Modern drugs that block PD-L1 empower our immune system to attack these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/holy-grail-molecule-can-kill-all-types-of-solid-cancer-tumors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tumors</a>, but knowing where precisely to target PD-L1 has remained elusive until now.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-merging-computation-and-experimentation">Merging computation and experimentation</h2>



<p>Dr. Bernardi and his team have innovatively combined AlphaFold2-based AI tools with molecular dynamics simulations and dynamic network analysis to predict and verify crucial binding regions in the PD-L1 protein. </p>



<p>“This work showcases the importance of collaboration between the computational team at Auburn University and the experimental validation efforts of our colleagues at the University of Basel and ETH Zurich, Switzerland, driving forward breakthroughs in the field,” said study lead author Dr. Diego Gomes.</p>



<p>To confirm the accuracy of their predictions, the team relied on cutting-edge experimental techniques, such as cross-linking mass spectrometry and next-generation sequencing. </p>



<p>These experiments have shown how powerful it can be to combine computational models with laboratory validation to unravel the complexity of protein-protein interactions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-the-future-of-targeted-treatments">Expanding the future of targeted treatments </h2>



<p>The impact of this study is expected to extend well beyond PD-L1. The methods developed can be applied to numerous other proteins, potentially leading to the discovery of new drug targets for various diseases, including different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-is-linked-to-32-cancer-types-that-could-drive-40-of-cases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">types of cancer</a> and autoimmune conditions.</p>



<p>Moreover, it opens the door for more cost-effective and swift development of therapeutics, an area where traditional experimental methods have often been slow and costly.</p>



<p>“This research stresses the potential of computational tools like NAMD and VMD, combined with cutting-edge hardware such as NVIDIA DGX systems, to advance cancer therapeutics. Our findings mark a significant step toward developing new, targeted treatments for cancer,” noted Dr. Gomes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-ai-driven-cancer-treatment">Advancing AI-driven cancer treatment </h2>



<p>While this research offers significant promise, the road to clinical application is not without its challenges.</p>



<p>Translating computational findings into effective cancer therapies requires extensive testing and collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and pharmaceutical companies. </p>



<p>However, the team remains optimistic about the potential of these AI-driven approaches to fast-track drug development.</p>



<p>The next phase of this research will focus on refining the accuracy of these predictions and expanding the scope of study to include other cancers and autoimmune diseases. </p>



<p>As personalized medicine continues to evolve, AI-powered approaches like this one could soon become a standard tool in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-plant-species-show-great-promise-in-fight-against-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fight against cancer</a>, offering patients faster, more effective treatments tailored to their specific genetic makeup.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jacs.4c05869" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the American Chemical Society</a></em>.</p>



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



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AI is the next frontier in cancer treatment

In the ongoing battle against cancer, a new AI approach...

<p>The low-carb lifestyle has been a point of contention for dieticians and individuals, with some questioning its nutritional value. </p>



<p>As interest in low-carb diets skyrockets, it is increasingly important to dispel any misconceptions that undermine the potential benefits of a low-carb lifestyle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-low-carb-diets">New perspective on low-carb diets</h2>



<p>Recently, a study published in <em>Frontiers in Nutrition</em> busted one of the top myths about low-carb diets - that they leave you undernourished. Contrary to this belief, the research reveals that strategically planned low-carb diets can meet, and sometimes surpass, one’s dietary needs.</p>



<p>According to Dr. Beth Bradley, a co-author of the study from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/cals/nfs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont’s Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences</a>, many Americans struggle to get the nutrients they need from typical food choices. </p>



<p>"Low-carb eating patterns can actually help promote better diet quality and close critical nutrient gaps," said Dr. Bradley. </p>



<p>The researchers evaluated the nutritional composition of three distinct 7-day low-carb meal plans. Two of these were <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegan-and-keto-diets-rapidly-transform-the-immune-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ketogenic diets</a>, comprising roughly 20 grams and 40 grams of net carbs daily, while the third had around 100 grams of net carbs daily.</p>



<p>All three diets meet the key requirement for low-carb diets, which is under 130 grams of carbs per day.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-packed-with-nutrients">Packed with nutrients</h2>



<p>Each of these meal plans exceeded the average nutrient needs for essential vitamins such as A, C, D, E, K, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, and vitamins B6 and B12. This was applicable for men and women aged 31-70. </p>



<p>Dr.Bradley emphasized that low-carb eating patterns can actually help promote better diet quality, further dismissing the belief that these diets result in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/micronutrient-deficiency-rates-are-soaring-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrient deficiency</a>.</p>



<p>However, for specific sub-populations with higher needs, such as younger women and older adults, a few nutrients like iron and calcium might fall slightly short. This highlights the importance of individualized nutritional planning when adopting a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-exactly-constitutes-a-low-carb-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">low-carb lifestyle</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-about-fiber">How about fiber?</h2>



<p>One of the most notable findings from the study revolved around fiber. The meal plans with 40 grams and 100 grams of net carbs succeeded in meeting the daily fiber needs of women aged 31-70.</p>



<p>“The idea that a low-carb diet must also be low in fiber is simply not supported by the data,” noted Dr. Bradley. She emphasized that “high-fiber foods are actually an important part of a low-carb lifestyle, in part because <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fiber-rich-diets-reduce-antimicrobial-resistance-in-the-gut/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fiber-rich</a> food choices can help lower net carbohydrate intake.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protein-and-fat-consumption">Protein and fat consumption</h2>



<p>While the protein content of these meal plans exceeded the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), they still fell within the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range of 10-35% of daily calories. The diets were lower in saturated fat and sodium compared to the average <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthier-american-diets-could-greatly-benefit-the-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American diet</a>.</p>



<p>However, the diets slightly exceeded recommendations for these components, providing more beneficial omega-6 to omega-3 and sodium to potassium ratios.</p>



<p>“Which foods your nutrients come from and how they fit within the broader context of your overall diet may play a more important role in determining health outcomes," said Dr. Bradley. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-era-of-low-carb-lifestyles">A new era of low-carb lifestyles</h2>



<p>The research ultimately reinforces evidence that supports the role of a low-carb lifestyle in promoting a balanced diet, overall well-being, and controlling or even reversing diet-related diseases.</p>



<p>While some individuals may need dietary supplements to meet their personal needs, a low-carb diet provides a robust nutritional foundation for a healthy lifestyle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-health-implications-of-low-carb-diets">Broader health implications of low-carb diets</h2>



<p>Low-carb diets go beyond improving nutrient intake; they also have significant implications for managing chronic conditions. For individuals with metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, low-carb diets help regulate blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.</p>



<p>These diets are also linked to better cardiovascular health, as they can improve omega-6 to omega-3 ratios and balance sodium and potassium intake, reducing the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.</p>



<p>In terms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-foods-are-great-for-weight-loss-regardless-of-the-type/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight management</a>, low-carb diets can promote satiety and reduce overall calorie consumption, making them a sustainable option for those aiming to manage their weight. </p>



<p>While not a universal solution, the potential benefits of low-carb diets make them a valuable tool in supporting overall health.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1449109/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Nutrition</a></em>.</p>



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Low-carb diets have more nutritional value than expected

The low-carb lifestyle has been a point of contention for...

<p>Meditation is a powerful tool for managing pain, far beyond mere physical sensations. How we perceive and process pain shapes our overall experience, and this is where meditation plays a pivotal role.</p>



<p>Traditionally, it’s been assumed that mindfulness meditation, a centuries-old practice, alleviates pain by activating the placebo response - where an improvement in symptoms is attributed to an inactive treatment.</p>



<p>However, recent research challenges this long-held belief, revealing that mindfulness meditation operates through distinct neurobiological mechanisms, separate from the placebo effect.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-mechanisms-of-mindfulness-meditation">Brain mechanisms of mindfulness meditation </h2>



<p>A breakthrough study unveiled in the <em>Biological Psychiatry</em> journal uncovers that mindfulness meditation uses separate brain mechanisms than those activated by the placebo response to alleviate pain.</p>



<p>Researchers from the <a href="https://medschool.ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California San Diego School of Medicine</a> used sophisticated brain imaging techniques to distinguish between the pain-relieving effects of mindfulness meditation, placebo cream, and a counterfeit mindfulness meditation method, referred to as "sham" mindfulness meditation among healthy participants.</p>



<p>The experts found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-can-lead-to-altered-states-of-consciousness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mindfulness</a> meditation resulted in significant reductions in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-meditation-can-reduce-pain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain</a> intensity and unpleasantness, and also downregulated brain activity patterns associated with pain and negative emotions.</p>



<p>However, the placebo cream only affected the brain activity pattern synchronized with the placebo effect, leaving the person's primary experience of pain untouched.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-meditation-in-pain-management">Power of meditation in pain management</h2>



<p>“The mind is extremely powerful, and we’re still working to understand how it can be harnessed for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-as-a-pain-reliever-the-power-of-your-playlist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pain management</a>," noted Fadel Zeidan, an anesthesiology professor at the UC San Diego Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion.</p>



<p>"By separating pain from the self and relinquishing evaluative judgment, mindfulness meditation is able to directly modify how we experience pain in a way that uses no drugs, costs nothing and can be practiced anywhere.”</p>



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



<p>Engaging 115 participants from two separate clinical trials, the researchers explored the effects of four interventions. These included guided mindfulness meditation, sham-mindfulness meditation with only deep breathing, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-energy-boost-from-your-morning-cup-of-coffee-may-be-a-placebo-instead-of-the-caffeine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">placebo</a> cream (petroleum jelly) that participants were led to believe reduces pain, and an audiobook serving as a control.</p>



<p>After administering a painful yet harmless heat stimulus to the back of the participant's leg, their brains were scanned before and after the interventions.</p>



<p>Using a novel method, multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA), the experts analyzed the brain activity patterns of participants. These patterns revealed whether mindfulness meditation and placebo engaged similar or separate brain processes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-placebo-mindfulness-overlap-myth">The placebo-mindfulness overlap myth</h2>



<p>The findings indicate that although the placebo cream and sham-mindfulness meditation decreased pain, mindfulness meditation was markedly more effective at pain reduction as compared to the other tested methods and controls. </p>



<p>Additionally, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meditation-and-yoga-reduce-chronic-pain-and-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mindfulness-based pain relief</a> reduced synchronization between brain areas involved in introspection, self-awareness, and emotional regulation, known collectively as the neural pain signal (NPS).</p>



<p>On the other hand, placebo cream and sham-mindfulness meditation failed to show a significant change in the NPS compared to controls, interestingly engaging separate brain mechanisms with minimum overlap.</p>



<p>These findings challenge the commonly held view that the placebo effect overlaps with brain mechanisms triggered by active treatments, specifically regarding pain. </p>



<p>“Instead, these two brain responses are completely distinct, which supports the use of mindfulness meditation as a direct intervention for chronic pain rather than as a way to engage the placebo effect," said Zeidan.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meditation-and-chronic-pain-relief">Meditation and chronic pain relief</h2>



<p>In conventional medicine, therapies are usually deemed effective if they surpass the placebo in their effects. As this study found mindfulness meditation to be more potent than a placebo and not engaging the same neurobiological processes, it opens up new avenues for developing treatments for chronic pain.</p>



<p>Further research is needed to validate these results in individuals living with chronic pain, not just healthy participants.</p>



<p>In the long run, the researchers aspire to create more effective and accessible interventions by understanding the distinct brain mechanisms underlying mindfulness meditation and its power to reduce pain in people with various health conditions.</p>



<p>"Millions of people are living with chronic pain every day, and there may be more these people can do to reduce their pain and improve their quality of life than we previously understood,” said Zeidan. "We are excited to continue exploring the neurobiology of mindfulness and how we can leverage this ancient practice in the clinic.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0006322324015567" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological Psychiatry</a></em>.</p>



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Mindfulness meditation is a powerful weapon against chronic pain

Meditation is a powerful tool for managing pain, far beyond...

Probiotic,Background.,Gastrointestinal,Tract.,Large,And,Small,Intestine,With,Bifidobacteria.

<p>In a world that is increasingly turning towards personalized health, an innovative holistic tool has surfaced that studies our gut health at an unprecedented level. </p>



<p>Developed by a team of Mayo Clinic researchers, this sophisticated computational tool provides insights into the complex ecosystem of the gut microbiome -- a bustling city of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms within the digestive system.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-getting-to-the-heart-of-the-matter">Getting to the heart of the matter</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-gut-microbiome-is-shaped-by-what-we-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut microbiome</a> plays a pivotal role in digestion, metabolism, immune function, and even chronic diseases. </p>



<p>However, knowing what constitutes a healthy microbiome and identifying early indicators of potential health issues has been a longstanding challenge.</p>



<p>This is where the new tool, called the Gut Microbiome Wellness Index 2, steps in, revolutionizing how we assess gut health by filling a significant gap in existing wellness measurement tools.</p>



<p>"Finally, we have a standardized index to quantitatively measure how 'healthy' a person's gut microbiome is," explained Dr. Jaeyun Sung, senior author and computational biologist at <a href="https://www.mayo.edu/research/centers-programs/center-individualized-medicine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mayo Clinic's Center for Individualized Medicine</a>.</p>



<p>The tool aims to be a "proactive health indicator" rather than a diagnostic tool, providing early warnings about adverse changes in gut health before serious symptoms arise. </p>



<p>"Our tool is not intended to diagnose specific diseases but rather to serve as a proactive health indicator. By identifying adverse changes in gut health before serious symptoms arise, the tool could potentially inform dietary or lifestyle modifications to prevent mild issues from escalating into more severe health conditions, or prompt further diagnostic testing," said Dr. Sung.</p>



<p>"By being able to answer whether a person’s gut is healthy or trending toward a diseased state, we ultimately aim to empower individuals to take proactive steps in managing their own health."</p>



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



<p>The tool demonstrated at least 80% accuracy in distinguishing healthy individuals from those suffering from any disease.</p>



<p>This feat was achieved by analyzing over 8,000 gut microbiome profiles gathered from published studies spanning 26 countries and six continents, showcasing the impressive range and reliability of the new technology.</p>



<p>The tool can detect subtle changes in gut health, offering insights into whether an individual is progressing towards or recovering from a disease.</p>



<p>The experts tested the index on a massive dataset and validated it on a new cohort of over 1,100 samples, demonstrating the tool’s capability across clinical scenarios such as fecal microbiota transplantation, changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boost-your-gut-health-top-five-prebiotic-rich-foods-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dietary fiber intake</a>, and antibiotic exposure.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-gut-health-monitoring">Future of gut health monitoring</h2>



<p>Building upon the original tool, the Gut Microbiome Wellness Index 2 incorporates a broader range of data and refined computational methods. </p>



<p>Dr. Sung and his team are working to expand the dataset further and integrate advanced artificial intelligence techniques to enhance the predictive accuracy and adaptability.</p>



<p>The ultimate goal is to empower individuals to take proactive steps in managing their own health through early detection and lifestyle adjustments.</p>



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



<p>The importance of gut health extends far beyond <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-humans-have-shockingly-different-digestive-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">digestion</a>. Recent research has uncovered a deep connection between the gut microbiome and various aspects of overall health, including mental well-being, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-people-have-unique-immune-responses-that-block-covid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immune response</a>, and chronic disease management. </p>



<p>The gut is often referred to as the "second brain" due to the gut-brain axis, a communication network linking the central nervous system and the digestive tract. This system plays a crucial role in regulating mood, stress levels, and even cognitive function.</p>



<p>Imbalances in the gut microbiome have been linked to a wide range of health issues, including obesity, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and autoimmune disorders. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests that gut health can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-gut-brain-communication-affect-emotional-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influence mental health</a> conditions like anxiety and depression. </p>



<p>Researchers have found that maintaining a balanced and diverse gut microbiome may help reduce inflammation, improve metabolic function, and strengthen the immune system.</p>



<p>By providing individuals with a quantifiable measure of their gut health, tools like the Gut Microbiome Wellness Index 2 offer the potential to address these broader health concerns. </p>



<p>As Dr. Sung noted, early detection of gut imbalances through such tools could lead to preventive measures that enhance overall wellness, not just digestive health.</p>



<p>In an era where personalized medicine is gaining traction, understanding and nurturing gut health is becoming increasingly essential for both physical and mental well-being.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51651-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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New tool detects changes in gut health to help prevent disease

In a world that is increasingly turning towards personalized health,...

<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>



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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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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