<p>Eating is never just about filling the stomach. Hunger rises, flavors tempt, and moods decide whether a meal feels right or not. All of these signals meet in the brain, where tiny structures manage big decisions about food.</p>



<p>One of those small but powerful hubs is the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, or BNST. It sits near the center of the brain and is no bigger than a sunflower seed. Despite its size, it plays a surprising role in controlling how much we eat. </p>



<p>Researchers are now showing that this structure links taste, hunger, and even stress into a single system that can push us toward or away from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-our-brains-tell-us-when-we-need-to-eat-or-drink-neurons-hunger-thirst/">food</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-taste-signals-in-the-brain">Taste signals in the brain</h2>



<p>Scientists from <a href="https://www.columbia.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a> studied mice to see how the BNST responds to flavors. They offered water flavored with sweet, salty, sour, bitter, or umami tastes and watched the brain in action. </p>



<p>Sweet flavors activated a set of neurons, and those neurons, in turn, lit up the BNST. This showed that taste signals do not stop at the tongue or even the amygdala but reach deeper into the brain’s appetite circuits.</p>



<p>The discovery matters because it suggests the BNST does not just monitor need. It also listens to pleasure. The pull of sweetness can directly boost activity in this structure, setting the stage for more drinking and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-more-fruits-and-vegetables-will-help-you-get-better-sleep/">eating</a>.</p>



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



<p>When researchers blocked BNST neurons, mice lost much of their interest in sweet water. They drank far less than normal. </p>



<p>But when those neurons were artificially switched on, the opposite happened. Mice drank more water of any kind - even bitter water they usually avoid.</p>



<p>The message is simple: this structure does not just track <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/simple-eating-habit-may-be-key-to-weight-management/">taste</a>. It can drive behavior, pushing animals to consume more than they otherwise would. The BNST seems wired to amplify motivation itself, not just flavor preference.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-region-guides-eating">Brain region guides eating</h2>



<p>The BNST reacts differently depending on the body’s condition. Hungry mice or salt-depleted ones showed much stronger BNST activity than animals that were full or balanced in nutrients. </p>



<p>The results show that the BNST adjusts according to need. It encourages consumption when resources are low and quiets down when balance returns.</p>



<p>This flexibility turns the BNST into more than a taste relay. It acts like a central decision point that weighs bodily state against available flavors. The result is a finely tuned system that decides whether to keep eating or stop.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-reward-and-food">Stress, reward, and food</h2>



<p>The BNST does not only deal with hunger or flavor. It connects with circuits that manage stress and reward. </p>



<p>In some cases, stress suppresses appetite. In others, stress increases it. The BNST helps tip the balance. That explains why eating patterns often shift during emotional highs or lows.</p>



<p>By linking survival needs with emotional state, the BNST ensures that food-seeking happens at the right time. It keeps behavior flexible, guiding choices that fit both body and environment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-this-matters-for-people">Why this matters for people</h2>



<p>The BNST in humans looks and behaves much like the one in mice. That makes the research relevant beyond the lab. If scientists can control how this region works, they could design treatments for very different problems.</p>



<p>Activating the BNST might help patients who lose their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brain-has-a-meal-memory-that-controls-hunger/">appetite</a> during illness or medical treatments. On the other hand, carefully dampening its signals could support weight management in people struggling with overeating.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-drugs-fit-in">Where drugs fit in</h2>



<p>Some of today’s weight-loss drugs already interact with BNST-linked neurons. Understanding exactly how this happens may explain why some patients respond strongly while others see little effect. </p>



<p>It may also guide improvements. Since food intake involves many brain circuits, targeting only one pathway may not be enough. Still, the BNST offers a promising starting point for designing therapies that act on motivation and need together.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-s-role-in-eating">Brain's role in eating</h2>



<p>The BNST sits small and quiet in the brain, but its influence spreads wide. It links taste, hunger, salt balance, stress, and reward into a single system that can either open the door to food or close it. That makes it one of the most important switches for eating behavior.</p>



<p>As research grows, this tiny structure may become a major focus in medicine. By understanding how it balances signals, scientists could develop treatments that restore appetite where it is lost or calm it where it runs out of control. </p>



<p>In the end, this seed-sized part of the brain might hold the key to shaping healthier eating.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/cell/fulltext/S0092-8674(25)00976-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell</a></em>.</p>



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



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Tiny brain region has a big influence on how much we eat

Eating is never just about filling the stomach. Hunger rises, flavors tempt, and moods decide whether a meal feels right or not. All of these signals meet in the brain, where tiny structures manage big decisions about food. One of those small but powerful hubs is the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, or BNST. It sits near the center of the brain and is no bigger than a sunflower seed. Despite its size, it plays a surprising role in controlling how much we eat. Researchers are...

Air,Pollution,From,Car,Exhaust,Smoke,Traffic,In,The,City.

<p>Turns out our environment, the air we breathe, and the noise we hear, can play a crucial role in fertility. A recent Danish study published by <em>The BMJ</em> highlights that long term exposure to air pollution particulates (PM2.5) and road traffic noise can increase the risk of infertility in both men and women.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution-noise-and-infertility">Air pollution, noise and infertility</h2>



<p>Reproductive health is a significant topic around the world, garnering lots of attention and research. </p>



<p>Infertility, one particular aspect of reproductive health, affects one in every seven couples trying to conceive. </p>



<p>While various culprits have been blamed for this issue, our focus today is on the role of air pollution and traffic noise.</p>



<p>Inconsistent results from previous studies have driven the need to investigate these environmental factors further. </p>



<p>While some studies have suggested negative impacts of air pollution on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/semen-has-its-own-microbiome-and-it-may-be-the-cause-of-infertility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sperm quality</a> and fertility treatments, no concrete studies had looked into traffic noise's role.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-infertility-diagnoses">Infertility diagnoses</h2>



<p>To bring clarity to the matter, researchers delved into investigating if long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and road traffic noise could be associated with higher risk <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-fertility-rates-are-quickly-declining-and-little-is-being-done-about-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infertility</a> in men and women. </p>



<p>Using national registry data from Denmark, they selected 526,056 men and 377,850 women, all aged between 30-45 years, and mostly trying to become pregnant.</p>



<p>To ensure purity in their study, the researchers selected participants who were yet to receive infertility diagnoses or undergone surgeries that prevent pregnancy. </p>



<p>Also, the chosen participants had fewer than two children and were either cohabiting or married.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-pollution-and-noise-on-infertility">Impact of pollution and noise on infertility</h2>



<p>Based on the participant's addresses from 1995-2017, the researchers calculated the yearly average PM2.5 concentrations and road traffic noise levels. </p>



<p>They then cross-checked these records with infertility diagnoses from the national patient register.</p>



<p>The findings? During the 18-year follow-up, 16,172 men and 22,672 women were diagnosed with infertility. </p>



<p>Further adjustments for influential factors like income, education level, and occupation showed that exposure to 2.9 µg/m3 higher average levels of PM2.5 over five years increased the risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-testicles-created-in-a-lab-will-eventually-produce-sperm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infertility</a> in men aged 30-45 years by 24%. </p>



<p>On the other hand, women exposed to 10.2 decibel higher average levels of road traffic noise over five years had a 14% higher risk of infertility, but only for those older than 35 years.</p>



<p>For the men, road traffic noise increased infertility risk slightly in the 37-45 age group, but not among those aged 30-37 years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rich-poor-middle-class">Rich, poor, middle Class</h2>



<p>No corner of Denmark was spared. The study found consistent rise in the risk of noise-related infertility in women and PM2.5 related infertility in men across rural, suburban, and urban areas. Socioeconomic status, whether low, medium, or high, had little effect on these findings.</p>



<p>And while the study is observational, thus designed to find links rather than cause-effect relationships, their large sample size based on reliable health and residential data adds weight to the findings. </p>



<p>Additionally, validated models were used to assess the impact of pollution and noise levels, taking into account major social and economic factors.</p>



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



<p>The researchers acknowledge the potential limitations of their infertility study, including potential inclusion of couples not actively trying to conceive, or lacking information on factors such as lifestyle, or exposure to noise and air pollution at work and during leisure activities. </p>



<p>Yet, their findings shine a light on a rarely discussed aspect of infertility.  </p>



<p>“If our results are confirmed in future studies, it suggests that political implementation of air pollution and noise mitigations may be important tools for improving birth rates in the western world,” the authors conclude.</p>



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



<p>This begs the question: what does this mean for you and me, and what can we practically do about it?</p>



<p>While individual actions can be taken to reduce exposure to noise and air pollution, the study on infertility poses a challenging question to policymakers. </p>



<p>If these results are confirmed in future studies, does it warrant enforcing regulations on noise and air pollution?</p>



<p>It's certainly food for thought. Could this be the push needed for stricter regulations on noise and air pollution?</p>



<p>Ultimately, if these findings stand up to further scrutiny, they could guide strategies to protect us all from these exposures. In the end, it might not just be a call for cleaner air and quieter streets, but also a chance at improving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-infertility-screening-will-be-drastically-improved-with-ai/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birth rates</a> in the western world.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/386/bmj-2024-080664" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The BMJ</a>.</em></p>



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Air pollution and traffic noise increase the risk of infertility

Turns out our environment, the air we breathe, and the...

<p>A single million-strong population of Amur falcons (<em>Falco amurensis</em>) can consume up to two billion termites in just over two weeks, according to a new study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These large numbers highlight the vital role that Northeast India plays as a stopover site for these falcons during their migration.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The region allows the birds to prepare for their non-stop flight across the Arabian Sea, a journey that gives the Amur falcon the distinction of making the longest known overwater flight of any raptor.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fall-migration-of-amur-falcons">Fall migration of Amur falcons</h2>



<p>Amur falcons are small <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-falcons-are-highly-intelligent-and-eager-to-show-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds of prey</a> that migrate twice a year between northern Asia, where they breed, and southern Africa, where they spend the winter. Their autumn migration involves a 3,500 km (2,000 mile) journey across the Arabian Sea. </p>



<p>To successfully complete this flight, the falcons must build up energy reserves by feeding on protein-rich food, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/termites-are-natures-architects-building-well-ventilated-nests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">termites</a> are their preferred choice. </p>



<p>In the paper titled “Prey Species in the Diet of the Amur Falcon (<em>Falco amurensis</em>) During Autumn Passage Stopover in Northeast India,” lead author Amarjeet Kaur from the <a href="https://wii.gov.in/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wildlife Institute of India</a> and her co-authors identify the region of Nagaland in Northeast India as a critical stopover for the falcons. </p>



<p>As insect-eaters, the Amur falcons likely rely on termites to fuel their migration, making this area a priority for conservation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dominant-prey-for-amur-falcons">Dominant prey for Amur falcons</h2>



<p>To assess the role of insects in the falcons’ diet during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-of-peregrine-falcons-suggests-birds-have-a-migration-gene/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">migration</a>, Kaur and her team analyzed more than 1,000 regurgitated pellets collected from beneath an Amur falcon roost in Nagaland in October and November of 2017 and 2018. </p>



<p>These pellets, which contain undigested prey remains, showed a high concentration of body parts from two species of fungus-growing termites, <em>Odontotermes feae </em>and <em>Odontotermes horni</em>. Termites were the dominant prey for the falcons across both years and at all three roosting sites studied.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers also observed numerous Amur falcons feeding on termite swarms, providing further evidence that termites are a crucial food source.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Termites offer easily digestible protein and are rich in fat, a fact well-known to local hunters who historically called Amur falcons “loi,” meaning “insect eater.” In the past, hunters would capture the falcons late in the season, when their consumption of termites had resulted in a rich layer of fat.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-symbol-of-conservation-efforts-nbsp">A symbol of conservation efforts&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Today, the local Naga communities have become active in protecting the falcons, moving away from hunting them during migration. </p>



<p>Senior author Suresh Kumar initially began this research to raise local awareness about the falcons, and now he says the birds have become a symbol for regional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildlife-conservation-can-help-stabilize-the-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation</a> efforts. </p>



<p>“Local communities in Nagaland and neighboring States of Manipur and Assam have independently begun setting aside community lands for the protection of not only Amur falcons, but for all biodiversity in the area,” Kumar said. </p>



<p>“Given that Nagaland is predominantly governed by community-owned land, conservation actions are significantly shaped by local residents.”</p>



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



<p>The study’s findings are significant because they underscore the importance of stopover sites in the yearly migration of the Amur falcon, especially the pre-Arabian Sea refueling site in Nagaland.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Kaur and her team were surprised by the strong connection between the Amur falcons and termites, noting that “it appears that termites are the exclusive prey in this region, and the synchronization between termite emergence and the presence of Amur Falcons is remarkable.”</p>



<p>As long-distance migrators, the falcons are on a strict schedule and could be vulnerable to changes in the environment that disrupt this synchronization.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Climate change has already affected other long-distance migrators, such as the Great Knots (<em>Calidris tenuirostris</em>) and Bar-tailed Godwits (<em>Limosa lapponica</em>).&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study also emphasizes the role that insect-eating raptors like the Amur Falcon play in controlling insect populations, a fact supported by research on their wintering grounds in southern Africa.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-stopover-sites-nbsp">Critical stopover sites&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Looking ahead, Kaur and her colleagues aim to identify specific features of Amur falcon stopover sites across Northeast India and use this data to develop a more comprehensive GIS-based model. They also plan to conduct a detailed study of termite populations at these sites.</p>



<p>“We need to determine if the termite swarming events are cyclic in nature and how they might be influenced by climatic factors, particularly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-land-conditions-affect-the-asian-monsoon-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">monsoonal rains</a>,” noted the researchers. </p>



<p>Since the Amur Falcons may depend on just a few critical locations to gain the energy needed for their migration, understanding the connectivity between these sites is crucial. As the researchers conclude, “Amur falcon conservation requires a landscape-scale approach.”</p>



<p>The research is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3356/JRR-23-49" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of Raptor Research</em></a>.</p>



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



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

How do Amur falcons fuel their 2,000-mile flights?

A single million-strong population of Amur falcons (Falco amurensis) can...

<p>Breathe in the crisp, September air alongside an astronomical feast, as Jupiter, Saturn, and their moons emerge in our night skies, putting on a brilliant display for skywatchers.</p>



<p>While we revel in our Luna, do not neglect her celestial counterparts. Spot them by gazing upward at their pinnacle in the night sky, and let your telescopes and binoculars take you on a journey across the cosmos.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-saturn-s-spectacle-in-september-skies">Saturn's spectacle in September skies</h2>



<p>As the ninth month of 2024 unfolds, we find a spectacle awaiting us in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturns-rings-will-vanish-from-sight-in-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's orbit</a> with 146 identified moons, contrasting with Jupiter’s 95 moons. </p>



<p>These cosmic bodies' dimensions span the spectrum from diminutive celestial pebbles a few hundred feet across, to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exploring-the-tranquil-seas-of-saturns-moon-titan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">majestic Titan</a>, ranking second in size amongst the solar system's moons.</p>



<p>Even from a staggering distance of 900 million miles, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturns-moon-titan-has-shorelines-shaped-by-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Titan</a> is a persistent beacon beside Saturn, teasing even the 4-inch telescope wielder stationed under urban or suburban skies. Its grandiose size and atmospheric composition of nitrogen, hydrogen, and methane render it a unique celestial body.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A brief exploration by the 2005 Huygens probe, part of the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/cassini/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cassini-Huygens mission</a>, peeled back the layers of Titan's surface, laying the foundation for NASA's upcoming <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/dragonfly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dragonfly mission</a>, set to further explore Titan in the 2030s.</p>



<p>Saturn's moon, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-sparking-energy-source-found-on-saturns-moon-enceladus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Enceladus</a>, a shimmering world of ice, is another attraction. The Cassini mission's findings disclosed plumes of icy jets bursting out from below its surface, the ejected matter adding to the glory of Saturn's rings. </p>



<p>Enceladus appears to share a characteristic with our Moon -- both are tidally locked to their host planets, their same faces perpetually directed towards their respective giants.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-saturn-jupiter-s-galilean-glories">Beyond Saturn: Jupiter's galilean glories</h2>



<p>Shifting our gaze from Saturn to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-fresh-look-at-jupiter-through-an-ultraviolet-lens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King of planets, Jupiter</a>, we encounter a different spectacle. Although its 95 moons do not outnumber Saturn's, four of them definitely leave an indelible imprint on the skywatcher.</p>



<p>Meet the Galilean Moons -- Ganymede, Callisto, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lava-trails-captured-jupiters-volcanic-moon-io-new-images-shark-vis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Io with its volcanic lava trails</a>, and the most likely place to find <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-evidence-jupiter-moon-europa-deep-ocean-shifting-icy-shell/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life in our solar system, Europa</a>. </p>



<p>Accidentally stumbled upon in 1610, these moons continue to captivate star-gazers worldwide with their unique features and visible formation along a distinct line. </p>



<p>Easily observable with binoculars or even small telescopes, they extend a warm welcome to our inquisitive eyes.</p>



<p>Starting with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-moon-ganymede-has-huge-internal-ocean-and-salty-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ganymede</a>, we find the largest moon in our solar system, out-sizing even the planet Mercury. It boasts a magnetic field of its own and possibly even a subterranean saltwater ocean.</p>



<p>Next, meet Callisto, the solar system's third-largest moon. Its surface, marred by countless craters, portrays an intense celestial history. Despite being the farthest of the Galilean moons, Callisto takes a mere 17 days to orbit <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amalthea-jupiter-tiny-moon-captured-juno-spacecraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter</a>.</p>



<p>The third gem in our line-up, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brilliant-new-images-of-jupiters-moon-io-captured-by-juno-spacecraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Io, is Jupiter's nearest moon</a>. The gravitational strain exerted by Jupiter keeps this rocky world abuzz with volcanic activity, a spectacle even visible from some of Earth's largest telescopes.</p>



<p>Lastly, we encounter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iron-snow-brings-hope-for-finding-life-on-jupiters-moon-europa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa</a>, Jupiter's moon with the highest chances of possessing a liquid ocean under its cold exterior. NASA's upcoming Europa Clipper mission launching in October 2024, hopes to confirm if Europa hosts conditions conducive to life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-saturn-and-jupiter-facts">Fascinating Saturn and Jupiter facts</h2>



<p>Beyond their moons, both Saturn and Jupiter exhibit intriguing characteristics. Saturn, renowned for its extensive ring system, has rings composed mainly of ice particles, with some larger rocky debris. </p>



<p>They span an astonishing 175,000 miles in diameter but are merely around 30 feet thick. In contrast, Jupiter boasts the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-great-red-spot-may-not-be-as-old-as-we-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Red Spot</a>, a colossal storm larger than Earth, persisting for over 350 years.</p>



<p>Interestingly, both Jupiter and Saturn emit more energy than they receive from the Sun, indicating significant internal heat. </p>



<p>These features not only serve as themes of awe but also provide valuable insights into planetary formation and evolution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stargazing-in-september-skies">Stargazing in September skies</h2>



<p>As nightfall approaches in September, the art of stargazing transforms into an exhilarating adventure. To truly savour the celestial wonders of Jupiter and Saturn, one should venture to darker locations, away from the oppressive glow of urban lights.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Equip yourself with a reliable star chart, which will guide you in identifying these magnificent moons amidst the brilliance of their parent planets. </p>



<p>A good pair of binoculars can suffice for a closer look, although a small telescope will reveal even more intricate details of Saturn’s rings and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiter-and-the-moon-will-share-a-cosmic-kiss-on-valentines-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter</a>’s cloud bands. </p>



<p>Allow patience and curiosity to be your allies; the night sky is a dynamic tableau that changes with each passing moment. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious novice, the September nights promise a profound connection to the mysteries of the universe, inviting us all to partake in this stellar celebration.</p>



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



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

September stargazing: Celestial beauties visible in the night skies this month

Breathe in the crisp, September air alongside an astronomical feast,...

Ganymede,Largest,Moon,Of,Jupiter,,3d,Rendering,Science,Illustration,In

<p>A catastrophic event roughly 4 billion years ago shook our solar system to its core. Kobe University researcher Hirata Naoyuki discovered that a massive asteroid impact on Ganymede, Jupiter's largest moon, drastically reshaped its surface and altered its geological history.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ganymede-jupiter-s-largest-moon">Ganymede: Jupiter's largest moon</h2>



<p>Bigger than the planet Mercury itself, Ganymede tops the charts as the largest moon in our solar system. But, it is not just the size that makes Ganymede intriguing. </p>



<p>Scientists have found that Ganymede's surface has two main types of terrain: bright, ridged areas and darker, older sections filled with impact craters.</p>



<p>Splits and furrows, that resemble concentric circles around a specific spot, mark Ganymede's surface. These furrows, first noticed back in the 1980s, hinted at a monumental impact event.</p>



<p>What's most fascinating about this mammoth moon is that underneath its icy crust, there’s a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-moon-ganymede-has-huge-internal-ocean-and-salty-surface/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">subsurface ocean</a> that might hold more water than all of Earth's oceans combined, sparking exciting possibilities about the potential for life.</p>



<p>Beyond its sheer size, Ganymede has its own magnetic field, which is pretty unique for moons in our solar system. This magnetic field interacts with Jupiter’s strong magnetosphere, creating some amazing and dynamic auroras.</p>



<p>Researchers are still studying Ganymede’s atmosphere, which has a thin layer of oxygen, to get a better grasp of its geological and magnetic features.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asteroid-impact-on-ganymede">Asteroid impact on Ganymede</h2>



<p>“The Jupiter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brilliant-new-images-of-jupiters-moon-io-captured-by-juno-spacecraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moons Io</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iron-snow-brings-hope-for-finding-life-on-jupiters-moon-europa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa</a>, Ganymede and Callisto all have interesting individual characteristics, but the one that caught my attention was these furrows on Ganymede,” says the Kobe University planetologist HIRATA Naoyuki.</p>



<p>“We know that this feature was created by an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-large-asteroids-will-pass-near-earth-this-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroid</a> impact about 4 billion years ago, but we were unsure how big this impact was and what effect it had on the moon.”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ganymede-asteroid-impact_illustration_Kobe-university_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ganymede-asteroid-impact_illustration_Kobe-university_1s.webp" alt="Kobe University HIRATA Naoyuki was the first to realize that the location of an asteroid impact on Jupiter’s moon Ganymede is almost precisely on the meridian farthest away from Jupiter. Credit: Kobe University" class="wp-image-1943689"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Kobe University HIRATA Naoyuki was the first to realize that the location of an asteroid impact on Jupiter’s moon Ganymede is almost precisely on the meridian farthest away from Jupiter. Credit: Kobe University</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>To solve the puzzle, Hirata analyzed how the impact location almost perfectly aligned with Ganymede's meridian farthest away from Jupiter. This alignment indicated a pattern similar to an impact event on Pluto that triggered an axis shift. </p>



<p>Known for his expertise in simulating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-test-simulation-shows-earth-not-prepared-prevent-large-asteroid-strike/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroid</a> and moon impacts, Hirata leveraged his knowledge to decipher the kind of impact that could have caused Ganymede's dramatic reorientation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simulations-of-ganymede-asteroid-impact">Simulations of Ganymede asteroid impact</h2>



<p>In the latest edition of <em>Scientific Reports</em>, Hirata revealed that the asteroid causing this colossal impact likely had a diameter of around 300 kilometers.</p>



<p>This figure is 20 times larger than the asteroid that ended the era of the dinosaurs on Earth by creating a transient crater between 1,400 and 1,600 kilometers in diameter. </p>



<p>Simulations pointed out that only an asteroid of this monstrous size could cause a shift in Ganymede's rotational axis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ganymede-asteroids-and-the-future">Ganymede, asteroids, and the future</h2>



<p>“I want to understand the origin and evolution of Ganymede and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-great-red-spot-may-not-be-as-old-as-we-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter</a> moons. The giant impact must have had a significant impact on the early evolution of Ganymede, but the thermal and structural effects of the impact on the interior of Ganymede have not yet been investigated at all. I believe that further research applying the internal evolution of ice moons could be carried out next,” explains Hirata.</p>



<p>Good news is on the horizon for Hirata and other researchers. Ganymede, famous for its subsurface oceans, is the final target for the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Juice" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA’s JUICE space probe</a>. </p>



<p>The probe is expected to enter Ganymede's orbit by 2034, and will spend six months collecting data that might just answer Hirata's pressing questions.</p>



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



<p>Liquid water is a critical element in the search for extraterrestrial life, and Ganymede's subsurface ocean places it firmly in the spotlight of astrobiological research. Beneath its thick icy crust, this ocean may provide the essential conditions for life as we know it. </p>



<p>The presence of liquid water, combined with the potential for chemical interactions between the ocean and rocky mantle, creates a compelling environment for biological processes. </p>



<p>This raises significant questions: Could extremophiles, organisms that thrive in harsh conditions, exist there? Investigating these possibilities not only enriches our understanding of Ganymede but also expands the parameters of habitability in the universe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborations-on-asteroid-and-jupiter-study">Collaborations on asteroid and Jupiter study</h2>



<p>The study of Ganymede and its mysteries is not a solitary pursuit; rather, it underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaborations. </p>



<p>Scientists across various fields -- including planetary science, geology, astrobiology, and even materials science -- are contributing to a holistic understanding of this moon.</p>



<p>By sharing insights and methodologies, researchers can tackle complex questions regarding the moon's formation, history, and the implications for life. </p>



<p>As the JUICE mission approaches, the integration of diverse scientific expertise will be paramount in analyzing the data and further unraveling Ganymede's enigmatic characteristics, showcasing the collaborative spirit that drives cosmic discovery.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-space-odyssey">Ongoing space odyssey</h2>



<p>Hirata's groundbreaking research was supported by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science and the Hyogo Science and Technology Association. </p>



<p>As we continue to unravel the enigmas of our universe, this remarkable finding takes us one step closer in understanding the mysteries of our solar system's largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amalthea-jupiter-tiny-moon-captured-juno-spacecraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a>, Ganymede. </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-69914-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.</em></p>



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



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60-mile wide asteroid reshaped our solar system's largest moon

A catastrophic event roughly 4 billion years ago shook our...

<p>Gene therapy has long been a source of hope for the millions of people affected by genetic diseases, offering the promise of replacing faulty genes with healthy ones to treat conditions like the life-threatening blood clotting disorder hemophilia.</p>



<p>Despite its potential, the challenge has always been finding a safe, effective, and efficient method for delivering these therapeutic genes into the body. Now, a major breakthrough in gene-editing technology is poised to transform this dream into reality.</p>



<p>Researchers at the <a href="https://jabsom.hawaii.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Hawai'i's John A. Burns School of Medicine</a> (JABSOM) have developed a new technique that ensures quicker, safer, and highly efficient delivery of healthy genes, potentially offering treatment for hundreds of genetic conditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-out-with-the-old-in-with-the-new">Out with the old, in with the new</h2>



<p>Existing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crispr-gene-editing-gets-a-revolutionary-upgrade-with-new-tool/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gene-editing</a> techniques, while capable of rectifying errors in genes, potentially endanger the DNA by causing unintended breaks. Moreover, they falter when it comes to the insertion of larger genetic segments, including entire genes.</p>



<p>The new method developed by Dr. Jesse Owens and his team overcomes these limitations by using a novel super-active integrase to insert therapeutic genes without breaking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-can-now-collect-human-dna-from-water-air-and-basically-everywhere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a>, achieving success rates as high as 96 percent.</p>



<p>"It's like having a 'paste' function for the human genome," said Dr. Owens. "It uses specially engineered 'integrases' to carefully insert healthy genes into the exact location needed, without causing breaks in the DNA. This method is much more efficient, with success rates of up to 96% in some cases." </p>



<p>According to Dr. Owens, this technology could lead to faster and more affordable treatments for a wide range of genetic diseases, potentially impacting hundreds of conditions with a single faulty gene.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-gene-therapy">Beyond gene therapy</h2>



<p>The implications of the research extend beyond the scope of gene therapy. The ability to efficiently insert large DNA fragments significantly speeds up the development process, opening up exciting possibilities in various other medical sectors.</p>



<p>When creating cell lines for therapeutic protein production, the gene encoding the protein is usually randomly inserted into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-mystery-50000-knots-found-in-the-human-genome/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a>, making the process like "searching for a needle in a haystack." </p>



<p>This often results in a time-consuming and inefficient process. Instead, Dr. Owens’ technique "makes a stack of needles," delivering the gene directly to the desired location, thereby accelerating the development process. </p>



<p>This advancement could revolutionize how we produce biologics and advanced therapies like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-have-found-powerful-antibodies-that-neutralize-all-covid-variants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibodies</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-a-global-impact-one-gene-at-a-time">Creating a global impact, one gene at a time</h2>



<p>"JABSOM takes pride in nurturing talented researchers like Jesse Owens, whose work has the power to create a global impact," said Dr. Sam Shomaker, dean of the University of Hawai'i John A. Burns School of Medicine.</p>



<p>The genetic engineering research led by Dr. Owens' team in their Pacific-based lab is set to significantly enhance our approach to treating genetic disorders.</p>



<p>The researchers are also exploring how this avant-garde technique can expedite the development and manufacturing of biologics and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/revolutionary-gene-therapy-shows-promise-in-treating-autism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advanced therapies</a>.</p>



<p>Existing methods for identifying efficient cell lines for production can be time-consuming. However, the newly developed genome engineering tool could reduce the cell line development timeline, accelerating the production of life-saving therapeutics.</p>



<p>To further promote the advancement of genetic engineering, Dr. Owens has established a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local research in Hawaii. This initiative emphasizes the importance of his work and its potential to revolutionize the future of genetic medicine.</p>



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



<p>As the experts continue to refine this innovative approach, the future of gene therapy looks promising.</p>



<p>The new method developed by Dr. Owens and his team not only enhances the safety and efficiency of gene editing but also opens up a world of possibilities for other medical applications.</p>



<p>By precisely inserting therapeutic genes without causing unintended DNA damage, this breakthrough can pave the way for treatments that were previously deemed too risky or challenging.</p>



<p>The potential of this technology goes beyond curing genetic diseases. It could revolutionize the production of therapeutic proteins, advance the development of advanced cell therapies, and even accelerate vaccine development.</p>



<p>With such wide-ranging applications, the advancements in gene therapy technology could significantly impact healthcare, making personalized medicine more accessible and effective for patients worldwide.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://academic.oup.com/nar/article/52/14/e64/7702507" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nucleic Acids Research</a></em>.</p>



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New technology could safely treat hundreds of genetic diseases

Gene therapy has long been a source of hope for...

<p>Deep within the mysterious Genovesa Cave, a remarkable discovery is rewriting our understanding of early human settlement in the western Mediterranean. Encased in the heart of the idyllic island of Mallorca in Spain, an ancient submerged bridge discovered in the cave silently weaves a tale older than we could have ever imagined.</p>



<p>This discovery has not only provided startling new data about early human presence but also challenges established timelines, flipping our understanding of human history on its head.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cave-bridge-and-human-settlement">Cave bridge and human settlement</h2>



<p>A new study led by the <a href="https://www.usf.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of South Florida</a> reveals that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timeline-early-humans-great-migration-reached-america-challenged-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human migration</a> in the western Mediterranean happened much earlier than previously believed, challenging long-held assumptions and narrowing the gap between the settlement timelines of islands across the Mediterranean. </p>



<p>This research, published in the journal <em>Communications Earth &amp; Environment</em>, focuses on a 25-foot submerged bridge discovered in Genovesa Cave, located on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/the-city-and-port-of-palma-mallorca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spanish island of Mallorca</a>.</p>



<p>Mallorca, despite being the sixth largest island in the Mediterranean, was long considered to be among the last to be colonized. </p>



<p>While earlier research suggested human activity as far back as 9,000 years ago, inconsistencies and poor preservation of radiocarbon-dated materials, such as bones and pottery, cast doubt on these findings. </p>



<p>Newer studies have used charcoal, ash, and bones found on the island to create a timeline of human settlement around 4,400 years ago. </p>



<p>This aligns the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-used-lava-tubes-for-homes-middle-east-saudi-arabia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">timeline of human habitation</a> with significant environmental events, such as the extinction of the goat-antelope genus <em>Myotragus balearicus</em>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-genovesa-cave-bridge">Studying the Genovesa Cave bridge</h2>



<p>The discovery of the submerged bridge in Genovesa Cave has provided compelling evidence that pushes the timeline of human activity back even further. </p>



<p>Led by USF geology Professor Bogdan Onac, an interdisciplinary team of researchers used this bridge to trace historical sea-level changes and date its construction. </p>



<p>"The presence of this submerged bridge and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-migrations-north-america/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artifacts</a> indicates a sophisticated level of activity, implying that early settlers recognized the cave's water resources and strategically built infrastructure to navigate it," Onac explained.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Genovesa-Cave_submerged-stone-bridge_credit-Landreth_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Genovesa-Cave_submerged-stone-bridge_credit-Landreth_1s.webp" alt="Close-up view of the submerged stone bridge from Genovesa Cave, Mallorca, Spain. Credit: R. Landreth" class="wp-image-1943651"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Close-up view of the submerged stone bridge from Genovesa Cave, Mallorca, Spain. Credit: R. Landreth</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>The cave, situated near Mallorca's coast, has passages now flooded due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/caves-reveal-alarming-evidence-of-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rising sea levels</a>. </p>



<p>The submerged bridge, along with distinct calcite encrustations formed during periods of high sea level, serves as an accurate marker for dating. </p>



<p>By analyzing the mineral overgrowths on the bridge and the elevation of a light-colored band, researchers concluded that the bridge was constructed nearly 6,000 years ago -- more than two-thousand years older than previous estimations.</p>



<p>This finding compresses the timeline gap between eastern and western Mediterranean settlements.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-constructing-history-from-constructs-and-calcite">Constructing history from constructs and calcite</h2>



<p>Professor Onac emphasized the significance of this interdisciplinary approach in uncovering these historical truths. </p>



<p>"This research emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in uncovering historical truths and advancing our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/persian-plateau-fills-20000-year-gap-early-human-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human history</a>," he stated.</p>



<p>The findings not only enhance our knowledge of early human settlements but also highlight the role of scientific collaboration in reconstructing ancient timelines.</p>



<p>This groundbreaking revelation stands as a testament to the essence of scientific inquiry, showcasing how interdisciplinary research can redefine our understanding of the past. </p>



<p>As we continue to delve deeper into the annals of our shared history, discoveries like those in Genovesa Cave remind us that history is often more complex and interconnected than we once believed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-human-settlements">Early human settlements</h2>



<p>As we delve further into the mysteries of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-lush-green-sahara-desert-helped-early-humans-migrate-out-of-africa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early human settlements</a>, the cultural implications of these discoveries cannot be overlooked.</p>



<p>The presence of advanced infrastructure, such as the submerged bridge, suggests that early settlers in the Mediterranean were not just surviving but thriving. </p>



<p>Their ability to construct and utilize such structures indicates a level of societal organization and technological proficiency that challenges our existing narratives about prehistoric communities.</p>



<p>Artifacts uncovered alongside the bridge, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-ancestors-woodworking-sophisticated-techniques/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tools and remnants</a> of what appear to be communal gathering spaces, hint at a rich cultural tapestry woven by these early inhabitants.</p>



<p>These findings provide new insights into the social dynamics and daily lives of people who lived thousands of years ago, offering a glimpse into their interactions, trade practices, and possibly even their belief systems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-exchange">Cultural exchange</h2>



<p>Researchers are now focusing on understanding the cultural exchange that may have occurred between these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-first-american-settlers-traveled-there-on-an-ice-highway/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early settlers</a> of Mallorca and neighboring regions. </p>



<p>The discovery of materials not native to the island suggests that there was some form of communication and trade with distant cultures, which could have influenced the development of their own customs and technologies.</p>



<p>This cultural exploration adds another layer to our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timeline-early-humans-great-migration-reached-america-challenged-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding of human history</a>, illustrating how early communities were interconnected and how their innovations laid the groundwork for future civilizations.</p>



<p>As more discoveries come to light, we continue to piece together the story of human ingenuity and resilience in the face of environmental and societal challenges.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-024-01584-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Earth &amp; Environment</a></em>.</p>



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



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Ancient bridge found inside of a cave changes human migration timeline

Deep within the mysterious Genovesa Cave, a remarkable discovery is...

<p>The modern world is marred by the constant presence of digital devices, which has provoked considerable discourse in the field of sleep science. It is widely believed that the use of screens before bedtime interferes with children's sleep, leading to issues including difficulty falling asleep, poor sleep quality, and reduced overall sleep duration.</p>



<p>However, a fascinating new study from the <a href="https://www.otago.ac.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Otago</a> is challenging our conventional wisdom, revealing that the timing of screen use is more critical than screen use itself.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-screen-time-but-screen-timing">Not screen time, but screen timing</h2>



<p>Contrary to established sleep guidelines recommending no screen use for an hour or two before bed, this study suggests that it is screen time in bed, rather than before, that disrupts sleep.</p>



<p>Study lead author Dr. Bradley Brosnan, an expert at the Edgar Diabetes and Obesity Research Centre at Otago, said the most interesting findings were that screen time before bed had little impact on children's sleep that night.</p>



<p>"However, screen time once in bed did impair their sleep - it stopped them from going to sleep for about half an hour and reduced the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seven-hours-is-the-ideal-amount-of-sleep-from-middle-age-on/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amount of sleep</a> they got that night."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-effects-of-screen-timing">Studying the effects of screen timing </h2>



<p>To study the effects of screen timing, the researchers collected data from 85 adolescents aged 11 to 14 years. The participants wore a body camera on their chest for three hours before bed, up until bedtime, for a week.</p>



<p>An additional infrared camera was installed in their bedrooms to monitor screen time while in bed. They also wore a watch-sized sleep tracking device. </p>



<p>"It quickly became obvious that adolescents spend a lot of their screen time while in bed," noted Dr. Brosnan, highlighting a significant finding.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-children-using-screens-in-bed">Children using screens in bed</h2>



<p>The study revealed that 99% of participants used screens in the two hours before bed. More than half used screens once in bed, and a third continued to use them after their first failed attempt to sleep.</p>



<p>Interestingly, it was screen time once in bed that delayed sleep onset by roughly half an hour, decreasing overall sleep duration. This effect was more pronounced with interactive activities like gaming or multitasking on multiple <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toddler-screen-time-linked-to-atypical-sensory-behaviors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">devices</a>.</p>



<p>"Every additional 10 minutes of this type of screen time reduced the amount of sleep they got that night by almost the same amount," said Dr. Brosnan.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-guidelines-are-needed">New guidelines are needed</h2>



<p>The study’s findings suggest that the negative impact of screen time on sleep primarily results from time displacement that delays sleep onset rather than direct <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-term-effects-of-artificial-blue-light-remain-unknown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effects of blue light</a> or interactive engagement. </p>



<p>Dr. Brosnan proposes a practical approach: "A simple sleep guideline would be for devices to be kept out of the bedroom, allowing teenagers to use their devices before bed, but not in bed."</p>



<p>He further advocates for the revision of current sleep guidelines. "We need to revisit sleep guidelines, so they fit the world we live in and actually make sense - the current ones aren’t achievable or appropriate for how we live."</p>



<p>Ultimately, the research suggests that for better sleep, keeping devices out of the bedroom could strike a balance, allowing adolescents to use their devices before bed without the negative impact on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/best-measure-of-sleep-quality-is-how-you-feel-not-what-your-tracker-says/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep quality</a> that occurs when screens are used in bed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-routines-are-needed">New routines are needed</h2>



<p>The University of Otago study offers important insights for parents and educators promoting healthier sleep habits among adolescents. Instead of focusing solely on limiting screen time before bed, this research emphasizes the importance of managing when and where digital devices are used.</p>



<p>Parents can help by creating screen-free zones, particularly in bedrooms, to reduce the temptation of using devices in bed. Encouraging kids to use screens for activities like homework, entertainment, and socializing in common areas can further separate screen time from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-moon-disrupts-sleep-among-men-more-than-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>, making bedrooms restful, technology-free spaces.</p>



<p>Educators can also play a role by teaching students about the impact of screen timing on sleep. Schools might collaborate with parents to promote balanced technology use through initiatives like screen-free challenges, digital detox workshops, and sleep education, empowering students to make better choices about their screen habits.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/article-abstract/2822859#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Pediatrics</a></em>.</p>



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Children who watch screens in bed have the most disrupted sleep

The modern world is marred by the constant presence of...

<p>The "Eureka!" moment in the world of science doesn't always come with a bolt of lightning or an apple falling on a head. More often, it's the result of countless hours of careful lab research and painstaking work. One such momentous breakthrough in the field of blood stem cell research was recently accomplished by an industrious team of Melbourne researchers, bringing hope to the frontline of pediatric leukemia and bone marrow failure disorder treatment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landmark-blood-stem-cell-achievement">Landmark blood stem cell achievement</h2>



<p>When you imagine medical science leaping forward, it is just this kind of breakthrough you picture. It is a world-first. A team led by the Murdoch Children's Research Institute (<a href="https://www.mcri.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MCRI</a>) has, for the first time globally, developed lab-created blood stem cells that closely resemble those found in the human body.</p>



<p>This accomplishment has unlocked a challenging barrier in producing human blood stem cells, capable of creating red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, that closely match those in the human embryo.</p>



<p>MCRI Associate Professor Elizabeth Ng, one of the dedicated scientists on the team, expressed her excitement over this significant leap in human blood stem cell development, and for good reason. </p>



<p>"The ability to take any cell from a patient, reprogram it into a stem cell, and then turn these into specifically matched blood cells for transplantation will have a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-blood-test-accurately-predicts-cardiovascular-heart-disease-risk-30-years-into-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">massive impact</a> on these vulnerable patients' lives," she shared.</p>



<p>“Prior to this study, developing human blood stem cells in the lab that were capable of being transplanted into an animal model of bone marrow failure to make healthy blood cells had not been achievable. Importantly, these human cells can be created at the scale and purity required for clinical use.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blood-stem-cells-success-story">Blood stem cells success story</h2>



<p>The method has been successful for many, including Riya Mahajan, who was diagnosed with aplastic anemia, a dangerous blood disorder, at age 11. Riya's journey is one of pain, uncertainty, and hope.</p>



<p>A perfect bone marrow donor eluded them, forcing her mother, Sonali, to step in as a partial match. Despite the complications, Riya's family clung to hope, and today Riya, now 14, is back at school with her friends, her painful ordeal behind her.</p>



<p>Reflecting on her family's experience, Sonali had high praise for MCRI's research. "This research will come as a blessing to so many families. </p>



<p>The fact that one day there could be targeted treatments for children with leukemia and bone marrow failure disorders is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-failure-creates-a-lasting-stress-memory-in-the-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life changing</a>," noted Sonali.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-personalized-treatment">Future of personalized treatment</h2>



<p>The implications of this research are tantalizing. Imagine the relief of being told that your child's treatment can be personalized, potentially sparing them the harsh rigmarole that Riya, and countless other kids, have had to endure.</p>



<p>This research paves the way for a future where scientists can take patient-specific cells, reprogram them as stem cells, and then create specifically matched blood cells for transplantation. </p>



<p>The capacity to replicate this process safely and productively places countless lives on the precipice of hope and relief.</p>



<p>There's a lot to be said about the relentless spirit of researchers like Professor Ng, Professor Ed Stanley, and Professor Andrew Elefanty, all principal investigators at the Melbourne node of the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine (<a href="https://renew.ku.dk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reNEW</a>).</p>



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



<p>The task ahead is by no means small. Assuring the safety and effectiveness of the technology forms the crux of the next stage. </p>



<p>But the dedication and determination of this team of researchers are not to be underestimated. With government funding, they aim to conduct a phase one clinical trial to test the safety of using these lab-grown cells in humans, possibly within five years.</p>



<p>It's heartening to see how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/turning-cancers-defense-against-itself-using-novel-car-t-therapy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">medical science's cutting-edge developments</a> have the potential to impact lives, especially those of children with blood disorders. </p>



<p>For families like Riya's, caught in the whirlwind of diagnosis, treatment, and uncertainty, these strides in blood cell research offer a beacon of hope.</p>



<p>Never underestimate the determination of those in pursuit of medical breakthroughs. As we witness this pioneering research unfold, it's incredible to think of the countless lives that stand to be impacted. </p>



<p>So, let's continue celebrating these achievements in science, for they are our stepping stones to a healthier, brighter future!</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41587-024-02360-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Biotechnology</a>.</em></p>



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



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

Blood stem cells grown in the lab for the first time ever

The "Eureka!" moment in the world of science doesn't always...

<p>Life throws curveballs. From the trials and tribulations of daily living to major life events that pull the rug out from under our feet, we are all too familiar with setbacks. However, are you aware that our ability to cope with life's challenges, known as resilience, could hold the key to longevity?</p>



<p>There is new proof that overcoming life's adversities may lead to a longer life. This revelation stems from a thorough study released in the open access journal <em>BMJ Mental Health</em>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-mental-resilience-in-life">Power of mental resilience in life</h2>



<p>The "bounce-back" factor, scientifically known as mental resilience, is more of a dynamic and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-learn-resilience-from-stressful-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">active process</a> than you might think.</p>



<p>Growing evidence points to various influencers such as sex, state of health and even genes that govern your body's response to stress. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/resilience-is-surprisingly-linked-to-gut-and-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">factors contribute to your resilience</a>, molding it across different life stages.</p>



<p>As we age, the ability to overcome difficulty plays a vital role in managing long-term conditions and the prevailing likelihood of disability.</p>



<p>There is no denying that muscle and heart recovery after a bout of sickness or trauma is considered a sign of slow aging and a reduced risk of mortality. However, it's yet to be seen if mental resilience has a similar superpower.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted">How the research was conducted </h2>



<p>The researchers tapped into a wealth of information from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), an ongoing project that started in 1992, tracking US adults aged 50 and above.</p>



<p>The study reports on various aspects, such as the economic status, health, and family life of these adults, with updates every two years.</p>



<p>The researchers specifically looked at datasets for 2006-08 because this period first saw the inclusion of questions probing mental resilience. For the analysis, they selected 10,569 participants with complete data. The average participant was 66 years old, and women represented 59 percent of the group.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gauging-mental-resilience">Gauging mental resilience </h2>



<p>Moreover, the team used a recognized scale to gauge mental resilience, looking at qualities that signify strength, such as persistence, calmness, independence, and the understanding that certain trials must be faced solo. The resilience scores ran between 0 and 12, with the average score across the sample hitting 9.18.</p>



<p>The participants were tracked until either their passing or May 2021, whichever came first. Over an average monitoring span of 12 years, 3,489 individuals passed away.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-verdict-high-resilience-longer-life">The verdict: High resilience = longer life</h2>



<p>Interestingly, the data showed a near-linear relationship between resilience and mortality: the higher the resilience score, the lower the risk of death, with this link stronger in women than men.</p>



<p>When categorized into quartiles (25% sections), resilience scores linked directly to the chances of living for another 10 years. Those who scored in the bottom quartile had a 61% survival rate, while those in the middle quartiles saw percentages of 72% and 79%. However, participants in the top quartile boasted an impressive survival rate of 84%.</p>



<p>Drilling down, people in the top quartile were found 53% less likely to die in the next decade compared to those in the lowest quartile. After making adjustments for sex, race, marital status, and BMI, this connection held firm, although it dropped to 46% and 38% after considering ill health and lifestyle habits respectively.</p>



<p>Overall, those with higher resilience scores faced considerably lower death rates: 20% lower (2nd quartile), 27% lower (3rd), and 38% lower (4th), compared to those with the lowest scores.</p>



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



<p>This study is observational, so we can't jump to conclusions about cause and effect just yet. In addition, the research team did not account for the potential influence of hormonal factors, genetic elements, or the effects of childhood adversity.</p>



<p>They also relied on baseline data, which means changes during the watching period weren't factored into the analysis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychological-resilience-for-improved-life">Psychological resilience for improved life</h2>



<p>“Various factors, including but not limited to, meaning in life, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-training-improves-mental-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">positive emotions</a>, self-rated health and satisfaction with social support, have been identified as potential influences on psychological resilience,” noted the researchers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Triggering these positive emotions may enhance the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/muscles-defy-aging-with-remarkable-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protective effects</a> of psychological resilience and mitigate the negative impact of accumulated adversity on mental health in adults.”</p>



<p>The findings strongly suggest that initiatives aimed at boosting psychological resilience might help in reducing mortality risks. So, next time you face a setback, remember to stand back up because it could very well add years to your life.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://mentalhealth.bmj.com/content/27/1/e301064" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMJ Mental Health</a>.</em></p>



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



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People with high resilience live up to ten years longer

Life throws curveballs. From the trials and tribulations of daily...

<p>Quantum technology is making it possible to send secret messages through holograms, with the added ability to selectively erase parts of them even after they've been dispatched. </p>



<p>While this might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, it's becoming a reality. </p>



<p>By harnessing the unique properties of quantum light signals, scientists are developing methods to ensure secure communication where any interception or tampering is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">instantly detectable</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unravelling-quantum-light-signals">Unravelling quantum light signals</h2>



<p>Before we discuss the study, it’s important to understand the concept of quantum light signals. These signals act as highly secure carriers of information.</p>



<p>What makes them truly fascinating is that any attempt to intercept these signals disturbs their delicate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-smallest-quantum-light-detector-now-fits-on-silicon-chip/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum states</a>, which in turn compromises the encoded information.</p>



<p>This unique property ensures that the integrity of the original message is preserved.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-hologram">Quantum hologram</h2>



<p>Now, how are scientists using this quantum feature to their advantage? The answer lies in a research project by a team of scientists headed by Jensen Li from the <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Exeter</a> in the UK.</p>



<p>Their focus was to capitalize on this inherent security without resorting to voluminous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smaller-more-powerful-wireless-devices-are-on-the-horizon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">devices</a>.</p>



<p>To achieve this objective, they toyed with the idea of Metasurface -- a two-dimensional material that can be engineered to exhibit distinct properties.</p>



<p>The goal was to create "quantum holograms" using these metasurfaces.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-holographic-process">Holographic process</h2>



<p>Traditionally, holograms are capable of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unbreakable-encryption-brings-quantum-internet-communication-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">encoding complex information</a> that can be retrieved when illuminated in the right way.</p>



<p>For instance, a 2D holographic paper card can present <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/augmented-reality-ar-glasses-bring-3d-holograms-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">3D images</a> when light falls on it at the correct angle. The Exeter team followed a similar concept with a quantum twist.</p>



<p>They took a particle of light, known as a photon, and encoded information into its quantum state. This was done through a process starting with the employment of a laser to make a particular crystal emit two photons that were <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-dance-entangled-photons-wave-functions-captured-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantumly entangled</a>.</p>



<p>These entangled photons followed separate paths. One photon encountered the metasurface, including thousands of nano-sized components, which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-a-simple-way-to-grasp-this-impossible-concept-carl-kocher/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transformed the quantum state of this photon</a> in a predefined way, thus encoding a holographic image.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-holograms-disappearing-act">Quantum holograms disappearing act</h2>



<p>Simultaneously, the sibling photon encountered a polarized filter. This filter controlled which parts of the hologram would be revealed and which parts would vanish.</p>



<p>Since the first photon's state was a superpositional assembly of holograms, it contained many possible variants of the message. </p>



<p>The entangled photons' specialty meant that polarizing one impacted the image created by the other.</p>



<p>As an experiment, a test hologram was created that contained the letters H, D, V, and A. By including a filter for horizontally polarized light, the letter H was erased from the final image.</p>



<p>Li believes that more complex information could be encoded into the photons using the metasurface, potentially as a part of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-artificial-intelligence-ai-to-make-quantum-computers-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum cryptography</a> protocol.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perspectives-from-andrew-forbes">Perspectives from Andrew Forbes</h2>



<p>Li's revolutionary work was presented at the prestigious SPIE Optics + Photonics conference in San Diego, California, and earned attention from luminaries in the field like Andrew Forbes from the <a href="https://www.wits.ac.za/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of the Witwatersrand</a> in South Africa.</p>



<p>“Everybody's dream is to see all this quantum technology ... be compact enough to sit in your smartphone. Metasurfaces seem to be a good way to go", he said, indicating a formidable future for the technology.</p>



<p>Forbes also hinted at the practical implications of Quantum holograms, including imaging tiny biological structures in medical science, a rapidly growing field. </p>



<p>This breakthrough could serve as an unprecedented milestone in secure and efficient communication technology, thereby revolutionizing the field of information technology.</p>



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



<p>The potential applications of quantum holograms are vast, spanning from ultra-secure communications to advanced imaging techniques in medicine and beyond. </p>



<p>As researchers continue to explore this technology, several challenges must be addressed to bring it <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-quantum-revolution-will-impact-all-aspects-of-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">closer to mainstream use</a>.</p>



<p>One key hurdle is the scalability of the metasurface technology, as creating metasurfaces with consistent quality at a large scale remains a technical challenge. </p>



<p>Additionally, integrating these quantum systems with existing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/graphene-superhighway-allows-electronic-devices-to-use-much-less-power/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electronic devices</a>, such as smartphones or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-artificial-intelligence-ai-to-make-quantum-computers-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">computers</a>, requires significant innovation in miniaturization and power efficiency. </p>



<p>Despite these challenges, the ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/impossibility-paradox-calculating-incalculable-quantum-realm-particles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advances in quantum technology</a> and materials science promise a future where the seamless integration of quantum holograms into daily life may become a reality, paving the way for new innovations in secure data transmission and beyond.</p>



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



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Quantum holograms: The future of secure messaging

Quantum technology is making it possible to send secret messages...

<p>Virtual reality (VR) video games that combine exercise with screen time - often called “exergames” - offer a fun way to get fit. However, similar to traditional exercise routines, adherence to exergames is low, with many users dropping out once the activity becomes too uncomfortable or monotonous.</p>



<p>Computer scientists at the <a href="https://www.bath.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bath</a> believe they may have found a solution to this problem: developing exergames that continuously monitor a user's emotional state through advanced sensors and adjust the game in real time to keep players engaged. </p>



<p>For example, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-violent-video-games-impact-the-human-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">game</a> could be made easier if the user is struggling or ramped up with more obstacles when they’re ready for a challenge.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-video-games-and-physical-exercise">Video games and physical exercise</h2>



<p>Dominic Potts, lead author of a new study exploring this innovative use of sensor technology to maintain user motivation, noted that when it comes to physical exercise in all forms, motivation and exercise adherence are huge problems. </p>



<p>"With exergaming, we can address this issue and maximize a person's enjoyment and performance by adapting the challenge level to match a user's abilities and mood," said Potts.</p>



<p>“Exercise games that are completely adaptive will sense a person's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/27-different-human-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a> and give them more ‘rewards’ when they’re struggling, and more obstacles when they’re ready for a new challenge.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personalized-fitness-games-nbsp">Personalized fitness games&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The findings, published in the <a href="https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3613904.3642611" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems</em></a>, represent a significant step toward developing personalized fitness games that can keep users engaged longer.</p>



<p>Game designers have long aimed to create personalized exergames that adapt to a user’s changing emotions and challenges as they <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-in-a-pill-is-now-closer-to-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a>. However, accurately measuring a user’s emotional state during physical activity has been a difficult hurdle to overcome. </p>



<p>Most available technologies have been unreliable, especially during intense movement, making it hard to gauge whether a person is feeling happy, stressed, or bored.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sensors-to-track-user-emotions">Sensors to track user emotions</h2>



<p>The research team at Bath made a breakthrough by utilizing an innovative range of sensors - embedded in VR headsets or wearable devices like smartwatches - that track physical changes during exercise.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The sensors can measure various physiological indicators, including pupil size, facial expressions, heart rate, sweating, and skin inflammation. This data allows the game to understand how the user feels in real-time and adjust accordingly, creating a more engaging experience.</p>



<p>Potts noted that traditional sensor technologies, while effective when users are sedentary, often fail to deliver accurate readings during exercise because of the “background noise” generated by the user’s movements and the virtual environment (VE). For instance, pupil dilation might be triggered by lighting changes in the virtual world rather than reflecting a user's emotions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-different-emotions-affect-exercise-performance-nbsp">How different emotions affect exercise performance&nbsp;</h2>



<p>In the study, 72 participants took part in a VR cycling race. The researchers employed a specific combination of sensors to track various physiological factors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The cyclists raced through four distinct VEs, each designed to evoke a particular emotion: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-the-path-to-happiness-the-science-is-still-not-clear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">happiness</a>, sadness, stress, and calmness. The participants experienced these emotional states while exercising at low, medium, and high intensities.</p>



<p>Through these observations, the team could map how different emotions affected each user’s performance and how well the game's difficulty level aligned with their emotional and physical responses.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotionally-engaging-exergames-nbsp">Emotionally engaging exergames&nbsp;</h2>



<p>As a result of this study, the researchers developed eight key guidelines for creating more emotionally engaging exergames, including:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Correcting for lighting changes: Pupil-detecting sensors should account for luminosity shifts in the virtual environment, ensuring they accurately reflect emotional changes rather than external factors.</li>



<li>Taking pre-existing conditions into account: Pre-existing levels of sweating should be considered when predicting stress and arousal in the nervous system.</li>



<li>Filtering data: Sensor data should be regularly cleaned during gameplay to remove unrelated signals, making sure the game is appropriately tailored to each user’s emotional state.</li>



<li>Using multiple sensors: Employing a variety of physiological sensors can improve the accuracy of predicting a user's emotional state, creating a more personalized experience.</li>
</ul>



<p>“In the long run, our objective is to make VR exercise emotionally intelligent,” said Christof Lutteroth, director of the <a href="https://revealcentre.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">REVEAL</a> research center and co-investigator at <a href="https://www.camera.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CAMERA</a>, both based at the University of Bath.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-popularity-of-vr-fitness-games">Rising popularity of VR fitness games</h2>



<p>Lutteroth also highlighted the growing popularity of VR physical activities, noting their use in various settings, including schools, rehabilitation, and sports science.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We fully expect VR physical activities to explode in popularity in the years ahead - school children are already using them as part of their exercise programs, and they are also being used in rehab and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/watching-live-sporting-events-increases-wellbeing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sports</a> science - so it’s important to focus on making technology that’s emotionally intelligent and adaptive to differences between users,” he said.</p>



<p>By developing exergames that adapt to the user’s emotional and physical state, the researchers hope to create more immersive fitness programs that can keep people pedaling, running, or lifting weights long after they might have given up in a traditional setting.</p>



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Emotionally intelligent VR will change the way you exercise

Virtual reality (VR) video games that combine exercise with screen...

<p>Have you ever wondered why we say we're pulling our hair out when we feel stressed? While it may be a dramatic way to express frustration, there's more to this saying than you might think.</p>



<p>The persistent enemy in our lives, stress, has found a place in our hair follicles. Yes, you read it right; our hair can tell a tale of stress, more specifically - chronic stress.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cortisol-the-stress-hormone-in-hair">Cortisol: The stress hormone in hair</h2>



<p>Cortisol, known as the "stress hormone," is our body's automatic reaction to stress. It's like an alarm that activates when we face threats or challenges. Traditionally, doctors used to measure cortisol levels in our blood, saliva, or urine, which could indicate momentary stress.</p>



<p>However, this could be likened to checking your car's speed at a specific instance – you can tell how fast you're going at that moment, but not the average speed of the whole journey.</p>



<p>Our hair, on the other hand, accumulates cortisol over time. This provides a unique window to peek into our longer-term, or chronic, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poverty-impacts-brain-development-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress levels</a>. </p>



<p>Think about it this way; knowing you've forgotten your wallet when you're about to buy bread is a moment of stress, but it's not the same as knowing you can't afford to buy bread on a daily basis. </p>



<p>Ane Arregi-Otxotorena, a researcher at the <a href="https://www.ehu.eus/en/en-home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UPV/EHU</a>’s Faculty of Psychology, uses this crystal-clear analogy to explain the difference between momentary and chronic stress.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tales-from-strands-of-hair">Tales from strands of hair</h2>



<p>Arregi is part of the Basque Environmental Health Research Group (B-EHRG). The team used hair samples from 11-year-old children to measure chronic stress.</p>



<p>The researchers relied on data from the INMA project, a longitudinal study that collects various data on children and families for long-term research. What they found might come as a surprise.</p>



<p>The experts concluded that children with major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-under-two-should-not-be-exposed-to-tv-or-screen-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavioral problems</a> had higher levels of cortisol in their hair.</p>



<p>But that's not all; they also found that maternal stress is connected to children's behavioral problems, indicating that kids might be mirroring their mothers' stress through their own behavior. It's not exactly a comforting insight for moms already worried about the kind of world their children are growing up in.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unseen-noise-of-stress">Unseen noise of stress</h2>



<p>Interestingly, the researchers also stumbled upon something unexpected. They found that children exposed to a higher level of environmental noise had lower levels of cortisol in their hair. </p>



<p>But before you think about moving next to a construction site, remember this - the initial stress caused by noise might temporarily increase cortisol levels. However, chronic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-spaces-near-homes-reduce-emotional-problems-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exposure</a> to noise could potentially lead to a drop in cortisol levels.</p>



<p>However, Arregi cautions that this correlation was significant only among the boys’ sample set, adding a whole new layer of complexity to the mystery of stress. To verify these unexpected results, the team is planning to replicate the research as part of a broader European Athlete (Horizon 2020) project.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-cortisol-and-hair">Stress, cortisol, and hair</h2>



<p>In the grand scheme of things, stress is a product of various external and internal factors. These include environmental elements, like green spaces, air pollution, and noise, as well as social dynamics, like family and school relationships, and individual factors, like sleep patterns and physical activity.</p>



<p>According to Arregi, much remains to be investigated relating to the factors that influence hair cortisol levels in children and young people.</p>



<p>The model created by the team takes into account numerous factors to get a comprehensive picture. It helps determine which variables count and which can be benched when measuring cortisol in hair.</p>



<p>“From now on, the model will allow us to find out which variables should be taken into account when measuring the cortisol level in the hair and which should not," noted Arregi.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Our understanding of cortisol in hair is still in its infancy. We need to explore further to truly grasp how multiple environmental, social, and individual factors simultaneously influence cortisol concentration in hair. Chronic stress impacts children and adolescents, some of the most vulnerable stages in life.</p>



<p>Being aware of how different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/physically-active-children-cope-better-with-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">factors influence the health of children</a> and adolescents can help us make informed decisions. </p>



<p>“We believe that hair cortisol may be a useful tool when assessing how environmental exposures impact chronic stress," said Arregi.</p>



<p>"In short, this may help in the deployment of effective public policies; in fact, knowing what can cause the chronic stress of the population in a specific location may make it easier to implement policies to prevent it."</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0018506X24001004?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hormones and Behavior</a>.</em></p>



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Kids with behavioral issues have high cortisol levels in their hair

Have you ever wondered why we say we're pulling our...

<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>



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<p>—–</p>

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<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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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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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

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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>



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<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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