<p>Strength training often brings to mind toned arms and powerful legs. But new research suggests that the benefits extend much further. Lifting weights may also reshape the trillions of microbes living in our gut, which influence everything from metabolism to immunity.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/studies-learn-the-exact-amount-of-time-you-should-spend-training-to-build-muscle/">gut</a> microbiome is closely linked to both health and aging. Inside of it are microbes like <em>Faecalibacterium, Akkermansia, </em>and<em> Roseburia hominis</em>. These tiny organisms produce short-chain fatty acids that strengthen the gut lining and ease inflammation.</p>



<p>Endurance activities like running or cycling are known to boost these helpful microbes. But when it comes to resistance training, the picture has remained far less clear.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conflicting-past-studies">Conflicting past studies</h2>



<p>Until recently, research painted a mixed picture. Some trials found that weight training shifted microbial communities, while others reported almost no changes. </p>



<p>Matthieu Clauss of the <a href="https://www.nih.no/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian School of Sport Sciences</a> in Oslo noted that the existing research remains limited.</p>



<p>To settle this uncertainty, Sven Nahnsen and colleagues at the <a href="https://uni-tuebingen.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tübingen</a> studied 150 sedentary adults. Participants engaged in an eight-week resistance program using advanced machines that adjusted loads in real time and tracked every lift.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-strength-and-gut-microbes">Tracking strength and gut microbes</h2>



<p>This digital system created detailed performance records while ensuring progressive, individualized training. Stool samples collected before, during, and after the program allowed researchers to map microbial changes.</p>



<p>When researchers looked at the whole group, they saw no clear changes in microbial diversity. The story shifted, however, once strength gains came into focus. </p>



<p>Participants who made the biggest improvements showed noticeable rises in <em>Faecalibacterium</em> and <em>Roseburia hominis</em>. In fact, these microbes were especially abundant in individuals who gained far more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strength-training-may-be-the-best-exercise-for-insomnia/">strength</a> than everyone else.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-differ-in-strong-lifters">Microbes differ in strong lifters</h2>



<p>The study revealed clear differences between high and low responders. The strongest gains were linked with distinct changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-sweet-remedy-honey-is-a-microbial-marvel/">microbial</a> composition.</p>



<p>High performers also showed enrichment of members of the Lachnospiraceae family, many of which are linked to anti-inflammatory effects.</p>



<p>Notably, an amplicon sequence variant classified as <em>Roseburia hominis</em> showed the most significant increase in high responders by week eight.</p>



<p>Other enriched microbes included <em>Bacteroides massiliensis</em> and certain <em>Prevotellaceae</em>. Meanwhile, taxa like <em>Lachnoclostridium</em> and <em>Oscillospiraceae</em> declined.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-shifts-depend-on-training-progress">Gut shifts depend on training progress</h2>



<p>Why do only some people experience these changes? <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weight-training-shields-the-aging-brain-from-dementia/">Training</a> compliance was similar, and diet surveys showed no clear differences. </p>



<p>This suggests factors beyond effort or food intake. One possibility is that microbial shifts themselves supported muscle gains by increasing production of short-chain fatty acids, which enhance energy metabolism and recovery.</p>



<p>Resistance training did not increase overall microbial richness (alpha diversity), unlike endurance training, but it did remodel microbial composition (beta diversity) in high responders. </p>



<p>This points to a dose-response effect: only when strength improvements cross a certain threshold do microbiome shifts emerge.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifting-and-running-converge">Lifting and running converge</h2>



<p>Despite differences between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-running-can-help-you-move-think-and-feel-better/">running</a> and lifting, both exercise types seem to converge on similar microbial outcomes. </p>



<p>Enriched short-chain fatty acid producers like <em>Faecalibacterium</em> and <em>Roseburia</em> suggest common pathways that support gut integrity, regulate glucose, and reduce systemic inflammation.</p>



<p>The changes occurred without dietary modification, meaning resistance training alone can act as a driver of gut remodeling. This highlights its role not only for musculoskeletal health but also for metabolic and immune regulation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-benefits-are-clear">Exercise benefits are clear</h2>



<p>Some mysteries remain. Stool metabolomics showed no significant changes, which may indicate that functional shifts were subtle, localized, or required longer adaptation. </p>



<p>The study also lacked a non-exercising control group, leaving room for further confirmation.</p>



<p>Even so, outside experts remain hopeful. The results suggest that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-reduces-depression-and-anxiety-in-children-and-teens-with-mental-health-issues/">exercise</a> of any kind can benefit gut health. They also point to the possibility that resistance training sparks unique, health-related shifts in the microbiome.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strength-training-as-gut-medicine">Strength training as gut medicine</h2>



<p>From a public health perspective, resistance training may offer far more than toned muscles. It could serve as a non-drug approach to improving gut health, especially for people facing chronic inflammation or the challenges of aging.</p>



<p>The changes happening inside the gut are striking. Beneficial microbes increase, the gut lining becomes stronger, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fasting-helps-the-body-fight-inflammation-and-chronic-diseases/">inflammation</a> settles down. These microbes also help regulate blood sugar and energy use, lowering the risk of long-term conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and digestive problems.</p>



<p>What makes this especially interesting is that participants did not need to change their diets. The exercise itself appeared to reshape the gut community, suggesting that strength training works as its own form of medicine.</p>



<p>For many, this shifts how we think about working out. Exercise is not only about muscles or appearance - it is about keeping the body resilient from within. Regular resistance training might help people recover faster, age more gracefully, and carry less risk of disease throughout life.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.08.13.670057v1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bioRxiv</a></em>.</p>



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Strength training can boost healthy gut bacteria

Strength training often brings to mind toned arms and powerful legs. But new research suggests that the benefits extend much further. Lifting weights may also reshape the trillions of microbes living in our gut, which influence everything from metabolism to immunity. The gut microbiome is closely linked to both health and aging. Inside of it are microbes like Faecalibacterium, Akkermansia, and Roseburia hominis. These tiny organisms produce short-chain fatty acids that strengthen the gut lining and ease inflammation. Endurance activities like running or cycling are known to...

<p>It seems the Y chromosome, the crucial marker of male biology, is slowly vanishing from our genetic makeup. But don't fret - an alternate sex gene may save the day, and indeed, our species.</p>



<p>In humans and other mammals, it is the Y chromosome that determines the sex of the offspring. Now for some unsettling news: the human Y chromosome is shrinking and on track to disappear entirely down the evolutionary line, potentially signaling our extinction. </p>



<p>However, hope springs from a curious corner -- rodent species that lost their Y chromosome but are thriving nonetheless.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-y-chromosome">Decoding the Y chromosome</h2>



<p>From a superficial standpoint, the Y chromosome might appear underwhelming. Compared to the female dual set of X chromosomes, males possess a lone X chromosome and a rather diminutive chromosome dubbed Y. </p>



<p>Yet, despite its size, the Y chromosome packs quite a wallop. It houses an essential gene that kick-starts male development in the embryo.</p>



<p>This master sex gene, designated SRY, was pinpointed in 1990. It sets off a chain of genetic events leading to the formation of testes in the developing baby. The embryonic testis produces male hormones, ensuring the development of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-animals-balance-their-sex-chromosomes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">male characteristics</a>.</p>



<p>The Y chromosome began with nearly 900 active genes, but over 166 million years, it lost most of them, leaving about 55. </p>



<p>This significant gene loss over the centuries has lead scientists to predict that the Y chromosome might vanish entirely in about 11 million years. This has sparked intense scientific debate and numerous claims and counterclaims about the expected lifespan of our Y chromosome.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rodents-our-guide-to-the-future">Rodents: Our guide to the future?</h2>



<p>In this seemingly bleak scenario, two rodent lineages bring us a glimmer of hope. The mole voles of Eastern Europe and the spiny rats of Japan have both lost their Y chromosome - and are getting along just fine.</p>



<p>A team led by Asato Kuroiwa from <a href="https://www.global.hokudai.ac.jp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hokkaido University</a> made a breakthrough in understanding how the spiny rats could continue without the Y chromosome. They found that most of the genes on the Y chromosome had relocated to other chromosomes.</p>



<p>The team also discovered a tiny difference near the key sex gene SOX9, on chromosome 3 of the spiny rat. They found that a small duplication was present in all males but absent in all females. This discovery suggests that this duplicated gene could potentially turn on SOX9, allowing it to work without SRY.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-y-chromosome-and-males">Future of Y chromosome and males</h2>



<p>So, what does this mean for us, the human species? The impending disappearance of the Y chromosome has fueled intense speculation about our future. We can't replicate the self-fertilizing mechanism found in some reptiles due to the critical genes in sperm that only fathers can provide.</p>



<p>The potential end of the Y chromosome could spell disaster for us, leading to the extinction of the human race. However, the new research offers an alternate possibility - we could evolve a new sex determining gene. </p>



<p>But it's a double-edged sword; it could also lead to the separation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/non-human-primate-chromosomes-mapped-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new species</a>, driven by different sex determination systems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-strange-possibility">A strange possibility</h2>



<p>Fast forward 11 million years into the future, and an alien traveler could encounter a vastly different Earth. They might find no trace of humans, or perhaps discover multiple human species, each evolved with unique sex determination systems. </p>



<p>Imagine the diversity of life forms that could exist, shaped by millennia of adaptation to changing environments and challenges. This scenario sparks curiosity about our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mitochondria-fling-dna-into-our-brain-cells-making-us-age-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> and the potential paths it could take. </p>



<p>The alien observer would witness not just remnants of humanity, but a rich tapestry of variations, raising questions about survival, adaptation, and the essence of what it means to be human.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-adaptability-and-evolution">Human adaptability and evolution</h2>



<p>The notion of the Y chromosome disappearing may seem alarming, but there is hope in science. </p>



<p>Throughout millions of years, humanity has shown remarkable adaptability and evolution, and this applies to our sex determination mechanisms as well. While the future remains uncertain, it's crucial to recognize that change is a natural part of life.</p>



<p>This perspective reminds us to stay optimistic about scientific advancements and our ability to adapt to new realities. By embracing ongoing research and understanding the complexities of genetics, we can find reassurance in the resilience of our species.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2211574119" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>PNAS</em></a>.</p>



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Humans need to evolve a new sex gene as the Y chromosome is slowly vanishing

It seems the Y chromosome, the crucial marker of male...

<p>Everyone knows Mars as the red planet, but lately, it’s been capturing our imaginations as a wet planet, too. Recently, scientists stunned the world with reports of massive bodies of liquid water hidden beneath Mars' rocky crust, as well as a rock on Mars containing yellow sulfur crystals.</p>



<p>These incredible revelations open a floodgate of possibilities, not least of all, the probability of verifying the existence of life on Mars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-on-mars-suggests-alien-life">Water on Mars suggests alien life</h2>



<p>Mars, as we know it, could be wearing a mask, with its true face hidden miles below the surface. The true story of Mars lies in the secrets buried deep within its rocky crust, where vast bodies of water exist, according to data from NASA’s Mars Insight Lander.</p>



<p>After monitoring over 1,300 Marsquakes over a span of four years, scientists led by Vashan Wright, a geophysicist at UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography, were able to peel back the layers of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/perseverance-rover-finds-best-evidence-yet-life-on-mars-cheyava-falls-rock/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intriguing planet</a>.</p>



<p>Wright's findings suggest substantial volumes of water locked up in rocks between 7.1- 12.4 miles down on Mars, painting a different picture from the barren desert that is its surface.</p>



<p>"If they are correct," says Karen Lloyd, a subsurface microbiologist at the <a href="https://www.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern California</a> in Los Angeles, "I think this is a game-changer."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wonders-beneath-the-surface">Wonders beneath the surface</h2>



<p>To understand the implications of water on Mars, we can look at life on our home planet. Over the past 30 years, scientists have uncovered evidence of vibrant life thriving deep under our Earth. </p>



<p>These subsurface lifeforms consist mainly of bacteria and archaea, two of the oldest known forms of life, predating even plants and animals.</p>



<p>The subsurface world, though challenging, offers an incredibly resilient and diverse biosphere. Lloyd emphasizes that these organisms are not dependent on sunlight. Instead, they rely on chemosynthesis, performing diverse chemical reactions using chemicals from rocks and water for their survival.</p>



<p>Earth's underground world teems with such life. A glance at the numbers reveals an astounding 2 to 6 x 10<sup>29</sup> cells of life beneath Earth's continents, greatly overshadowing the 10<sup>24</sup> stars in the observable universe. In fact, 70% of all bacteria and archaea on Earth reside underground.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-search-for-life-and-water-on-mars">Search for life and water on Mars</h2>



<p>As researchers delve deeper into the mysteries of Mars, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-curiosity-rover-makes-surprising-find-under-martian-rock-sulfur-crystals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quest for life</a> on the planet becomes increasingly tantalizing. </p>



<p>The detection of liquid water beneath the surface raises numerous questions about the potential for microbial life to exist in these hidden aquifers. </p>



<p>Drawing parallels with Earth’s subsurface ecosystems, scientists speculate about the types of extremophiles - organisms that thrive in extreme environments - that might inhabit Mars.</p>



<p>This line of inquiry not only drives astrobiology forward but also informs our understanding of life's adaptability across varying planetary conditions. If life is discovered, it could reshape our understanding of biology and the unique conditions that support it, opening a dialogue about life beyond Earth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-missions-to-mars">Future missions to Mars</h2>



<p>The implications of the newfound Martian water resources extend beyond academic curiosity; they also set the stage for future exploratory missions.</p>



<p>NASA and other space agencies now face the challenge of developing missions focused not just on exploring factors like water but also on researching the feasibility of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-may-have-once-been-a-cradle-for-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustaining life</a> on Mars.</p>



<p>Proposals for colonization efforts have sparked discussions about terraforming - a speculative idea of altering Mars’ environment to make it more hospitable.</p>



<p>Meanwhile, the scientific community is keenly aware of the ethical considerations involved in exploring and potentially altering another planet, underscoring a need for careful deliberation in our quest to understand the cosmos. </p>



<p>As we stand on the precipice of a new era in planetary science, the findings about Mars challenge us to ponder not only our role in the universe but also the nature of life itself.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-martian-microbes">Martian microbes</h2>



<p>With Earth as a model, Wright's findings open up the possibility of subsurface life on Mars, bringing us a step closer to answering the big question – Is there life on Mars? While we are yet to get solid proof, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-perseverance-rover-now-uses-ai-search-minerals-life-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the signs are promising</a>.</p>



<p>For instance, plumes of methane found in Martian air have piqued scientists' interest. On Earth, methane is often a byproduct of microbial activity - could this also be true for Mars?</p>



<p>However, life doesn't just need water, it needs energy and a suitable habitat on Mars. Exploring these aspects of the Martian subsurface gives us our next steps in the search for extraterrestrial life.</p>



<p>The task ahead is immense. Digging down 6.2 miles or more on a planet without breathable air or running water is beyond our current reach. However, evidence of life on Mars could be looming just beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered.</p>



<p>While the journey is long and the challenges significant, regardless of the outcome, we'll come away with a deeper understanding of Mars and potentially, life beyond Earth. This journey may take decades, but each step brings us closer to answering one of the most intriguing questions in science – are we alone in the universe?</p>



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Insights about alien life on Mars gained from studying extreme life on Earth

Everyone knows Mars as the red planet, but lately, it’s...

<p>NASA has decided that it’s too risky to bring two astronauts back to Earth using Boeing’s troubled new Starliner capsule, opting instead for them to return with SpaceX next year. </p>



<p>What was originally planned as a weeklong test flight has now extended into an eight-month space mission for the pair.</p>



<p>The two <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-kidneys-may-not-survive-a-roundtrip-to-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronauts</a>, who have been at the International Space Station since early June, encountered multiple issues with their Starliner capsule, including thruster failures and helium leaks. </p>



<p>These complications left them in a holding pattern while engineers worked to determine the best course of action for their return.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-starliner-capsule-will-return-without-astronauts">Starliner capsule will return without astronauts </h2>



<p>After nearly three months of deliberation, NASA’s top officials made the final decision: Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams will return to Earth in a SpaceX capsule in February. </p>



<p>Their Starliner capsule, now empty, is scheduled to undock in early September and attempt an autopilot landing in New Mexico’s desert.</p>



<p>As the designated test pilots for Starliner, Wilmore and Williams were originally supposed to oversee this crucial part of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spacex-sending-four-civilians-dangerous-private-space-mission-polaris-dawn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mission</a>.</p>



<p>“A test flight by nature is neither safe nor routine,” <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> Administrator Bill Nelson said. He added that the decision is a result of a commitment to safety.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-learned-from-the-past-nbsp">Lessons learned from the past<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>According to Nelson, lessons learned from past space shuttle accidents played a significant role in their approach this time, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue.</p>



<p>“This has not been an easy decision, but it is absolutely the right one,” added Jim Free, NASA’s associate administrator.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-issues-should-have-been-caught-sooner-nbsp">Issues should have been caught sooner<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>This development is a setback for Boeing, which had hoped that Starliner’s first crewed mission would revive confidence in its spacecraft program after years of delays and rising costs. </p>



<p>The company had been confident in Starliner’s safety, based on recent thruster tests both in space and on the ground.</p>



<p>Boeing did not participate in NASA’s Saturday news conference but issued a statement: “Boeing continues to focus, first and foremost, on the safety of the crew and spacecraft,” and is “preparing the spacecraft for a safe and successful return.”</p>



<p>Jan Osburg, a senior engineer at <a href="https://www.rand.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rand Corporation</a> who specializes in aerospace and defense, supported NASA's decision. </p>



<p>“But the U.S. is still left with egg on its face due to the Starliner design issues that should have been caught earlier,” he said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uncertainties-of-space-missions-nbsp">Uncertainties of space missions<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Wilmore, 61, and Williams, 58, both retired Navy captains with extensive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-travel-takes-a-greater-toll-on-astronauts-brains-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spaceflight</a> experience, had prepared their families for the uncertainties of space missions long before their June 5 launch from Cape Canaveral.&nbsp;</p>



<p>During a news conference from orbit last month, the astronauts expressed confidence in the ongoing thruster testing and noted that they had no complaints, enjoying their time assisting with space station tasks.</p>



<p>Flight operations director Norm Knight reported that he spoke with the astronauts on Saturday, and they fully support the decision to delay their return.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limited-options-to-return-the-astronauts">Limited options to return the astronauts</h2>



<p>The available options for bringing them home were limited. The SpaceX capsule currently docked at the ISS is reserved for four astronauts who have been aboard since March, and their return in late September will be delayed by a month due to the Starliner situation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>NASA determined that it would be unsafe to add two more passengers to the SpaceX capsule, except in an emergency.</p>



<p>The docked Russian Soyuz capsule, designed to carry only three people, was also not a viable option.</p>



<p>As a result, Wilmore and Williams will wait for SpaceX’s next crew rotation in late September, which will launch with two astronauts instead of the usual four to make room for them on the return flight in late February.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-erring-on-the-side-of-caution">Erring on the side of caution</h2>



<p>NASA dismissed the idea of asking SpaceX for an emergency rescue mission. Last year, the Russian Space Agency had to send a replacement Soyuz capsule after the original was damaged by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-space-exploration-could-be-shut-down-by-orbiting-debris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space debris</a>, extending the mission of its crew to over a year.</p>



<p>Former Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield supported NASA’s cautious approach on X. </p>



<p>“Good to err on the side of caution for astronaut lives,” he said, adding that long missions are what astronauts work their entire career for. “I’d take it in a heartbeat!”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-issues-arose-before-the-space-mission">Issues arose before the space mission</h2>



<p>Starliner’s troubles began well before its current mission. Software issues plagued the first uncrewed test flight in 2019, leading to a redo in 2022.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Further complications arose, including a helium leak in the capsule’s propellant system, which delayed a launch attempt in May. </p>



<p>Although the leak was considered minor, more leaks and thruster failures emerged after liftoff, raising additional concerns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-trouble-with-the-starliner-s-thrusters">Trouble with the Starliner’s thrusters</h2>



<p>All but one of the small thrusters eventually restarted during the flight. However, engineers were puzzled by ground tests that revealed a thruster seal swelling and obstructing a propellant line.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts speculated that the seals might have expanded in orbit and then returned to their normal size. This uncertainty marked a turning point as concerns deepened.</p>



<p>“There was too much risk for the crew,” NASA’s commercial crew program manager, Steve Stich said.</p>



<p>These 28 thrusters are essential not only for rendezvous with the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-initiates-ambitious-plan-to-bring-iss-back-to-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space station</a> but also for keeping the capsule correctly oriented during reentry, a critical step to avoid disaster.</p>



<p>With the memory of the Columbia disaster still fresh -- when the shuttle broke apart during reentry in 2003, killing all seven crew members -- NASA made a special effort to ensure open debate about Starliner’s reentry capability.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-starliner-will-fly-again">The Starliner will fly again</h2>



<p>Despite the setback, NASA is not giving up on Boeing. Nelson, for instance, said that he is “100% certain that Starliner will fly again.”</p>



<p>NASA’s commercial crew program originally envisioned two U.S. companies providing astronaut transportation in the post-shuttle era. </p>



<p>Boeing secured the larger contract, worth more than $4 billion, compared to SpaceX’s $2.6 billion.</p>



<p>While SpaceX successfully completed its first of nine astronaut flights in 2020, Boeing has struggled with design flaws that have cost the company over $1 billion. </p>



<p>NASA officials remain hopeful that Starliner’s issues can be resolved in time for another crewed flight in the next year or so.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA</p>



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Starliner astronauts are stuck in space until Elon rescues them in 2025

NASA has decided that it’s too risky to bring two...

<p>In the fascinating world of dinosaurs, theropods from the Mesozoic Era hold a special place. These large creatures, predecessors of modern birds, are comparable to the predatory beasts of our era.</p>



<p>The colossal Tyrannosaurus and the fierce Allosaurus are much like the lions and tigers of our time. Just as lions are primarily found in Africa and tigers are exclusive to Asia, theropods also had their niches.</p>



<p>For instance, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jurassic-jaws-predatory-secrets-of-carnivorous-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Allosaurus</a> resided mainly in North America and southwest Europe during the Jurassic period, while Asia saw the evolution of the large but less familiar Metriacanthosaurs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alpkarakush-kyrgyzicus"><em>Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus</em></h2>



<p>However, a piece of the evolutionary puzzle has been missing. No <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-were-not-the-only-animals-that-grew-fast-during-the-mesozoic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">large Jurassic predatory dinosaurs</a> were previously known from the vast area between central Europe and East Asia.</p>



<p>Now, a study from Staatliche Naturwissenschaftliche Sammlungen Bayerns (<a href="https://snsb.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SNSB</a>) details the discovery of a new theropod dinosaur in the rocky desert region near Tashkumyr in western Kyrgyzstan.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Alpkarakush-kyrgyzicus_size-comparison_alexandra-fernandez_credit-SNSB_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Alpkarakush-kyrgyzicus_size-comparison_alexandra-fernandez_credit-SNSB_1s.webp" alt="The anatomically correctly arranged skeletal parts of Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus with excavation participant Alexandra Fernandez as a size comparison. Credit: Oliver Rauhut, SNSB" class="wp-image-1942832"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>The anatomically correctly arranged skeletal parts of Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus with excavation participant Alexandra Fernandez as a size comparison. Credit: Oliver Rauhut, SNSB</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>Named <em>Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus</em>, this dinosaur is the first of its kind to be discovered in the country. The initial remains of the fossil were found quite a while back, in 2006, by Kyrgyz palaeontologist Aizek Bakirov.</p>



<p>However, the years that followed witnessed several excavation campaigns. </p>



<p>The digs uncovered <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-habits-shaped-the-skulls-of-humans-and-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skull bones</a>, dorsal and pelvic vertebrae, fragments of the shoulder girdle and forelimbs, and almost the entire pelvic girdle and hind limbs of a predator measuring eight to nine meters in length.</p>



<p>The findings were traced back to the Middle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-species-of-jurassic-pterosaur-found-on-the-isle-of-skye/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jurassic</a> period, approximately 165 million years ago.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-features-of-alpkarakush-kyrgyzicus">Unique features of <em>Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus</em></h2>



<p>What sets <em>Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus</em> apart are its unique, unexplored characteristics. </p>



<p>One such attribute is an impressively <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Alpkarakush-kyrgyzicus_t-rex-cousin_illustration_credit-SNSB_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protruding "eyebrow"</a> on the postorbital bone, pointing to the existence of a horn at that location. Other distinguishing features were discovered on the dorsal vertebrae and the femur.</p>



<p>After comparisons with several other theropod dinosaurs, it was determined that <em>Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus</em> belongs to the Metriacanthosauridae family, relatives of the large predatory dinosaurs of East Asia.</p>



<p>"Although the affiliation of Alpkarakush with the metriacanthosaurids is not necessarily a surprise, this discovery closes a huge gap in our knowledge of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/megaraptor-species-named-fujianipus-yingliangi-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jurassic theropods</a>," said study lead author Professor Oliver Rauhut.</p>



<p>The research has enhanced our understanding of the evolution and biogeography of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaur-carcasses-a-key-food-source-for-jurassic-predators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">theropods</a>. The discovery site also yielded the remains of a second, slightly smaller specimen of <em>Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus</em>.</p>



<p>An investigation into the internal bone structure revealed that the larger specimen was almost an adult, at least seventeen years old and sexually mature, while the smaller one was a juvenile, hinting at a possible scenario of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pterosaurs-had-good-parenting-skills-but-only-the-larger-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parent dinosaur</a> roaming with its offspring 165 million years ago.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digital-revolution-in-dinosaur-research">Digital revolution in dinosaur research</h2>



<p>Digital photogrammetric 3D models of all pertinent bones have been generated and made available online for further research and 3D printing. </p>



<p>This provides a valuable resource for researchers worldwide, noted Dr. Oliver Wings, director of the <a href="https://snsb.de/en/naturkunde-museum-bamberg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bamberg Natural History Museum</a>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Alpkarakush-kyrgyzicus-dinosaur_animals-of-balabansai-formation_credit-SNSB_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Alpkarakush-kyrgyzicus-dinosaur_animals-of-balabansai-formation_credit-SNSB_1s.webp" alt="Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus and the animals of the Balabansai Formation, Middle Jurassic, Kyrgyzstan. Credit: Joschua Knüppe" class="wp-image-1942835"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus and the animals of the Balabansai Formation, Middle Jurassic, Kyrgyzstan. Credit: Joschua Knüppe</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>The species is named after Alpkarakush, a giant bird from the Kyrgyz "Manas" epic, and the species name "kyrgyzicus" honors its origin. The first original dinosaur skeleton will be exhibited in Kyrgyzstan, which is bound to attract global attention.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shedding-light-on-jurassic-ecosystems">Shedding light on Jurassic ecosystems</h2>



<p>The discovery of <em>Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus</em> offers invaluable insights into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jurassic-extinction-may-hold-clues-about-our-oceans-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jurassic</a> ecosystems of Central Asia.</p>



<p>As a top predator, this dinosaur would have played a crucial role in the food chain, influencing the populations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/isle-of-wight-fossils-suggest-that-europe-had-unique-plant-eating-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">herbivorous dinosaurs</a> and other species in its environment.</p>



<p>Its presence fills a significant gap in our understanding of the distribution and evolution of theropods during the Jurassic period, highlighting the diversity of life that existed across different regions. </p>



<p>By studying <em>Alpkarakush kyrgyzicus</em> and its adaptations, paleontologists can better understand the ecological dynamics and biogeographical patterns of the time, shedding light on how these ancient ecosystems functioned and evolved.</p>



<p>The paleontological feat was a collaborative effort of the M.M. Adyshev Institute of Geology of the <a href="https://naskr.gov.kg/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Academy of Sciences of the Kyrgyz Republic</a>, the Bavarian Natural History Collections, and the Friedenstein Foundation Gotha.</p>



<p>Supported by the <a href="https://www.dfg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">German Research Foundation</a>, the research highlights the significant strides made in the field of paleontology and geology.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://academic.oup.com/zoolinnean/article/201/4/zlae090/7736730" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society</a></em>.</p>



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



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

New dinosaur was a T. rex cousin and has a protruding 'eyebrow'

In the fascinating world of dinosaurs, theropods from the Mesozoic...

<p>Think about the word "love." It is used in a diverse array of contexts, including the adoration of a significant other, the innate love of a child, or even an unconditional affection for nature. However, have you ever wondered about the science behind this myriad of emotions?</p>



<p>Using cutting-edge brain imaging technology, researchers from <a href="https://www.aalto.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aalto University</a> have unraveled some of the mysteries associated with love. The researchers found that different types of love light up different parts of the brain</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-experiencing-love-the-brain-s-response">Experiencing love: The brain's response</h2>



<p>“You see your newborn child for the first time. The baby is soft, healthy, and hearty - your life’s greatest wonder. You feel love for the little one.”</p>



<p>The above statement was one of several simple scenarios presented to 55 parents, all of whom were in a loving relationship.</p>



<p>The researchers utilized functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to measure <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-does-love-look-like-in-the-brain-a-rush-of-dopamine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain activity</a> while subjects pondered brief love-related stories spanning six different types of love.</p>



<p>“We now provide a more comprehensive picture of the brain activity associated with different types of love than previous research,” said Pärttyli Rinne, who coordinated the study. </p>



<p>“The activation pattern of love is generated in social situations in the basal ganglia, the midline of the forehead, the precuneus, and the temporoparietal junction at the sides of the back of the head.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-many-shades-of-love">The many shades of love</h2>



<p>Interestingly, the experts found that love for one’s children generated the most intense brain activity, closely followed by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spending-time-with-a-romantic-partner-can-improve-your-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">romantic</a> type.</p>



<p>“In parental love, there was activation deep in the brain's reward system in the striatum area while imagining love, and this was not seen for any other kind of love,” said Rinne.</p>



<p>The study explored love for romantic partners, friends, strangers, pets, and nature. Brain activity was influenced not just by the closeness of the object of love, but also by its nature.</p>



<p>Compassionate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-enjoy-deep-conversations-with-strangers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">love for strangers</a>, unsurprisingly, was found to be less rewarding and elicited less brain activation compared to love in more intimate relationships. </p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/peoples-love-of-nature-is-both-learned-and-inherited-genetically/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Love for nature</a> was found to stimulate the brain's reward system and visual zones but did not activate the social brain areas typically associated with human love.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pet-owners-and-brain-activity">Pet owners and brain activity</h2>



<p>One of the unforeseen discoveries was the distinguishable brain activity of pet owners. </p>



<p>“When looking at <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heartache-from-dog-theft-is-as-intense-as-losing-a-loved-one/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">love for pets</a> and the brain activity associated with it, brain areas associated with sociality statistically reveal<strong> </strong>whether or not the person is a pet owner. When it comes to the pet owners, these areas are more activated than with non-pet owners,<strong>”</strong> said Rinne.</p>



<p>Scenarios involving pets, such as a pet cat curling up next to its owner, activated areas in pet owners that were less active in non-pet owners. This represents a unique neural response linked to having a furry companion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-research-efforts">Ongoing research efforts </h2>



<p>The study is part of an ongoing effort by Rinne and his team to deepen our scientific understanding of human emotions.</p>



<p>In past studies, the researchers focused on mapping subjects' bodily experiences of love, finding that close interpersonal relationships often evoke the strongest physical sensations of love.</p>



<p>Understanding the neural mechanisms of love does more than just shed light on philosophical debates about the nature of love, consciousness, and human connection. It holds promise for practical applications as well. </p>



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



<p>The research highlighted the significant role of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strong-social-bonds-promote-healthy-behaviors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional bonds</a> and their impact on brain activity. Strong connections, such as those between parents and children, showed the highest levels of neural activation, particularly within regions associated with reward processing.</p>



<p>This suggests that deeply ingrained emotional ties evoke more profound responses in the brain's reward centers.</p>



<p>Interestingly, the study also revealed that interactions with different entities, whether humans, animals, or nature, led to varying patterns of brain activation. </p>



<p>While bonds with other humans consistently engaged social cognition areas, the affinity for pets showed a unique pattern. For pet owners, brain regions linked to social behavior were more responsive, reflecting the importance of their relationship with their animal companions.</p>



<p>The findings extend beyond understanding emotional responses, offering potential applications in improving mental health. </p>



<p>By mapping how the brain reacts to various types of emotional connections, researchers aim to develop more targeted interventions for conditions like depression and attachment disorders. </p>



<p>This understanding could pave the way for more effective therapies that strengthen emotional well-being and strengthen personal relationships.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://academic.oup.com/cercor/article/34/8/bhae331/7741043" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cerebral Cortex</a></em>.</p>



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



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Where does love live in the brain?

Think about the word "love." It is used in a...

<p>In our quest to understand the universe, one mysterious substance has consistently evaded direct detectors -- dark matter.</p>



<p>Despite being practically invisible, it carries the weight of 85% of the universe's mass, influencing the formation of galaxies and the universe's overall structure.</p>



<p>But the veil of this elusive entity may be lifting, thanks to the relentless efforts of dedicated scientists and the world's most sensitive dark matter detector.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-matter-detector-at-lux-zeplin-lz">Dark matter detector at LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ)</h2>



<p>This mission is led by stellar personnel from the LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) collaboration. Spearheading the project from a cavern deep beneath the earth's surface at the <a href="https://sanfordlab.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sanford Underground Research Facility</a> in South Dakota is Professor Chamkaur Ghag from University College London (<a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCL</a>).</p>



<p>He, along with over 250 scientists from around the globe, is on the hunt for weakly interacting massive particles, or WIMPs, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-matter-stars-conspiracy-theory-may-have-been-officially-put-to-rest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prime candidate</a> for dark matter.</p>



<p>“These are new world-leading constraints by a sizable margin on dark matter and WIMPs,” explained Ghag.</p>



<p>He noted that the detector and analysis techniques are performing even better than the collaboration expected.</p>



<p>“If <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-stars-scientists-discover-a-new-type-of-star-powered-by-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WIMPs</a> had been within the region we searched, we’d have been able to robustly say something about them. We know we have the sensitivity and tools to see whether they’re there as we search lower energies and accrue the bulk of this experiment’s lifetime," Ghag continued.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digging-deep-for-invisible-treasure">Digging deep for invisible treasure</h2>



<p>The latest results from the LZ experiment are a watershed moment in our search for WIMPs. Using data collected over 280 days, the team scoured the darkest recesses of the universe, only to come back empty-handed.</p>



<p>There was no evidence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/theory-gravity-exists-without-mass-so-dark-matter-does-not-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WIMPs</a> above a mass of 9 gigaelectronvolts per square centimeter (GeV/c²). But don't be mistaken, this isn't bad news. The findings help researchers rule out a swath of potential WIMP models.</p>



<p>As Scott Kravitz, LZ’s deputy physics coordinator from the <a href="https://www.utexas.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas at Austin</a>, compares, the pursuit for dark matter is reminiscent of a treasure hunt, with LZ digging almost five times deeper than previous efforts.</p>



<p>“If you think of the search for dark matter like looking for buried treasure, we’ve dug almost five times deeper than anyone else has in the past,” Kravitz noted. “That’s something you don’t do with a million shovels -- you do it by inventing a new tool.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lz-dark-matter-detector-is-a-tech-marvel">LZ dark matter detector is a tech marvel</h2>



<p>The profound sensitivity of LZ lies at the intersection of innovative analysis techniques and advanced technology. The detector is a modern marvel, designed to minimize external noise and track particle interactions.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the LZ team uses an intriguing "salting" approach, intermixing fake WIMP signals within the data, to safeguard against bias.</p>



<p>This ensures the data's integrity, as Scott Haselschwardt, the LZ physics coordinator from the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a>, emphasizes the need to keep bias out of the equation when entering a new realm of analysis.</p>



<p>“We’re pushing the boundary into a regime where people have not looked for dark matter before,” said Haselschwardt. “There’s a human tendency to want to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-holes-are-not-the-secret-source-of-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">see patterns in data</a>, so it’s really important when you enter this new regime that no bias wanders in. If you make a discovery, you want to get it right.” </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dark-matter-in-the-grand-scheme">Dark matter in the grand scheme</h2>



<p>Despite its phantom presence, dark matter plays a vital role in the stability and formation of galaxies. Without it, the universe would be unrecognizable.</p>



<p>While LZ's advancements may exclude certain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primordial-black-holes-may-be-shifting-earths-orbit/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WIMP possibilities</a>, they also pave the way for further inquiries. Apart from the WIMP search, LZ's detector also scans for other exotic physics phenomena.</p>



<p>Amy Cottle, UCL assistant professor and WIMP search effort leader, is excited for what's next.</p>



<p>“We’ve demonstrated how strong we are as a WIMP search machine, and we’re going to keep running and getting even better -- but there’s lots of other things we can do with this detector,” Cottle enthused.</p>



<p>“The next stage is using these data to look at other interesting and rare physics processes, like rare decays of xenon atoms, neutrinoless double beta decay, boron-8 neutrinos from the sun, and other beyond-the-<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-spooky-action-at-a-distance-persists-between-top-quarks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Standard-Model physics</a>. And this is in addition to probing some of the most interesting and previously inaccessible dark matter models from the last 20 years," she concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sweat-grind-and-more-research">Sweat, grind, and more research</h2>



<p>LZ's journey is a stirring tale of international cooperation. With contributors from across the globe, the project harnesses a pool of multifaceted expertise.</p>



<p>The team is also planning upgrades to the LZ detector and eyeing a next-generation dark matter detector, the XLZD. </p>



<p>Scott Kravitz sums up the spirit and aspiration of this ambitious venture, stating, "Our ability to search for dark matter is improving at a rate faster than Moore’s Law. Just wait until you see what comes next.”</p>



<p>The pursuit of dark matter is much like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microscopic-primordial-black-holes-may-explain-all-dark-matter-in-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climbing an endless mountain</a>; we may not have reached the peak yet, but each ascent takes us a step closer. The LZ team's tireless endeavors have narrowed the path forward, paving the way for future revelations.</p>



<p>Who knows, the day may not be too far when we finally unveil the secrets of dark matter, transforming it from an enigma to a cornerstone of our cosmic comprehension. Until then, as we delve deeper and more precisely into the mysteries of the universe, the exhilarating odyssey continues.</p>



<p>The new results were presented at two physics conferences on August 26: <a href="https://indico.uchicago.edu/event/427/contributions/1325/">TeV Particle Astrophysics 2024</a> in Chicago, Illinois, and <a href="https://indico.cern.ch/event/1390649/contributions/6061507/">LIDINE 2024</a> in São Paulo, Brazil. A scientific paper will be published in the coming weeks.</p>



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Unending search for elusive dark matter sets a new record

In our quest to understand the universe, one mysterious substance...

Drawing,In,A,Cave,Painted,By,An,Ancient,Man,On

<p>An uncharted area in the foothills of the Southern Pyrenees in Spain is shedding new light on a little-understood period of Neanderthal history, offering clues that may help archaeologists unravel the mystery of their eventual extinction.</p>



<p>This research centers on the site of Abric Pizarro, one of the few locations worldwide that dates back to the period known as MIS 4, which spans from approximately 100,000 to 65,000 years ago. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sophisticated-survival-and-hunting-strategies-nbsp">Sophisticated survival and hunting strategies<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>According to a new study conducted by the <a href="https://www.anu.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian National University</a> (ANU), scientists have unearthed hundreds of thousands of artifacts at this site, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/400000-year-old-stone-tools-show-technological-adaptations-of-prehistoric-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stone tools</a>, animal bones, and other significant evidence. </p>



<p>These artifacts provide invaluable data about the Neanderthal way of life during a time that has largely remained a blank in human history until now.</p>



<p>The findings reveal that Neanderthals were highly adaptable to their environment, challenging their longstanding reputation as sluggish, primitive beings. </p>



<p>Instead, the research sheds light on their sophisticated survival and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-tools-hunt-distance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hunting strategies</a>.</p>



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



<p>Neanderthals inhabited Europe and parts of Asia between 400,000 and 40,000 years ago. They had robust, muscular bodies and a stocky build. These adaptations enabled them to thrive in cold climates by effectively retaining heat.</p>



<p>Their distinct facial features included a prominent brow ridge, a large, wide nose, and a sloping forehead, contributing to a powerful appearance.</p>



<p>Their skulls were elongated with a slightly lower forehead than modern humans, but their brains were comparable in size. This fact suggests that they possessed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mystery-solved-how-neanderthal-dna-got-diluted-in-europe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">similar cognitive abilities</a>.</p>



<p>Neanderthals were physically strong, with thick bones and well-developed muscles, which equipped them for the demanding tasks of hunting and surviving in challenging environments.</p>



<p>Additionally, they exhibited a unique adaptation in their hands and fingers, which were shorter and broader, providing a powerful grip essential for tool-making and other manual tasks.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-dna-is-more-common-in-people-with-autism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA evidence shows</a> that they interbred with early Homo sapiens, which contributes to the genetic makeup of non-African populations today. This interbreeding hints that the two species coexisted for a while and might have shared knowledge and culture.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-knowledge-of-their-surroundings-nbsp">Deep knowledge of their surroundings<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Dr. Sofia Samper Carro, the lead author of the study and an archaeologist at ANU, explained that the discoveries at Abric Pizarro demonstrate the Neanderthals’ <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-and-neanderthals-may-belong-to-the-same-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deep knowledge of their surroundings</a> and their resilience in the face of harsh climatic conditions.</p>



<p>“Our surprising findings at <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/files/Articles/1405535/fearc-03-1405535-HTML/image_m/fearc-03-1405535-g001.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Abric Pizarro</a> show how adaptable Neanderthals were. The animal bones we have recovered indicate that they were successfully exploiting the surrounding fauna, hunting red deer, horses, and bison, but also eating freshwater turtles and rabbits, which imply a degree of planning rarely considered for Neanderthals,” said Dr. Samper Carro.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/neanderthal-discovery_Abric-Pizarro-archaeological-site_evidence-intelligence_extinction-mystery_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/neanderthal-discovery_Abric-Pizarro-archaeological-site_evidence-intelligence_extinction-mystery_1s.webp" alt="ANU archaeologist Sofia Samper Carro says that the findings at Abric Pizarro challenge the widespread belief that Neanderthals only hunted large animals. Credit: Sofia Samper Carro" class="wp-image-1942804"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>ANU archaeologist Sofia Samper Carro says that the findings at Abric Pizarro challenge the widespread belief that Neanderthals only hunted large animals. Credit: Sofia Samper Carro</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>These insights challenge the widespread belief that Neanderthals exclusively hunted large animals, such as horses and rhinoceroses.</p>



<p>“Through the bones that we are finding, which display cut marks, we have direct proof that Neanderthals were capable of hunting small animals,” Samper Carro added.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-led-to-the-extinction-of-neanderthals">What led to the extinction of Neanderthals?</h2>



<p>The well-preserved bones at Abric Pizarro clearly show how Neanderthals processed and butchered their prey. </p>



<p>Additionally, the analysis of stone artifacts from the site indicates a wide variety of tools, further demonstrating the Neanderthals' ability to utilize the available resources effectively.</p>



<p>Understanding this critical transitional period brings archaeologists closer to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthals-extinct-declining-fertility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solving the long-standing mystery</a> of what ultimately led to the Neanderthals’ extinction. </p>



<p>The researchers believe that discovering sites like Abric Pizarro, which date from this specific and previously under-recorded period, offers valuable information about how Neanderthals lived when modern humans had not yet arrived in the region, revealing that they were thriving at that time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-humans-and-neanderthal-extinction-nbsp">Modern humans and Neanderthal extinction<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>“The unique site at Abric Pizarro gives a glimpse of Neanderthal behavior in a landscape they had been roaming for hundreds of thousands of years,” explained Dr. Samper Carro. </p>



<p>“Neanderthals disappeared around 40,000 years ago. Suddenly, we modern humans appear in this region of the Pyrenees, and the Neanderthals disappear."</p>



<p>However, before that, Neanderthals had been living in Europe for almost 300,000 years. They clearly knew what they were doing. They knew the area and how to survive for a long time.”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/neanderthal-discovery_Abric-Pizarro-pollen-sample-layers_evidence-intelligence_extinction-mystery_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/neanderthal-discovery_Abric-Pizarro-pollen-sample-layers_evidence-intelligence_extinction-mystery_1s.webp" alt="Photograph showing the location where the pollen samples were collected from (white rectangles) and the correlation with the archaeological units identified and sterile (i.e. no cultural material recovered) phases. Credit: Sofia Samper-Carro et al." class="wp-image-1942806"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Photograph showing the location where the pollen samples were collected from (white rectangles) and the correlation with the archaeological units identified and sterile (i.e. no cultural material recovered) phases. Credit: Sofia Samper-Carro et al.</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>One of the most intriguing aspects of Abric Pizarro is that it provides unique insights into a time when Neanderthals were living alone in Europe, facing challenging conditions, and yet thriving before the arrival of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-humans-300000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modern humans</a>.</p>



<p>Thanks to advanced excavation techniques, Abric Pizarro and other nearby Neanderthal sites are yielding detailed data that help researchers understand Neanderthal behavior more precisely.</p>



<p>“We 3D plot every single remain found larger than one to two centimeters. This makes our work slow, and we have been excavating some of these sites for over 20 years, but it turns into a uniquely precise recording of the sites,” Samper Carro said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neanderthal-life-and-extinction">Neanderthal life and extinction </h2>



<p>The meticulous excavation process allows archaeologists to connect different pieces of evidence - such as stone tools, bones, and hearths - providing a clearer picture of how Neanderthals lived and how long they occupied specific areas.</p>



<p>“It's not only the individual materials that give us clues, but also where exactly they are found in relation to other materials on the site that helps us understand how and when Neanderthals were visiting these sites. Were they settled there or just passing through?”</p>



<p>These detailed findings from Abric Pizarro are helping to build a more comprehensive understanding of Neanderthal life during a crucial period in prehistory, bringing researchers one step closer to understanding the factors that contributed to their eventual disappearance.</p>



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



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Neanderthal discovery adds new layer of mystery to what caused their extinction

An uncharted area in the foothills of the Southern Pyrenees...

<p>Isabella Pires first noticed what she calls the “gradual apathy pandemic” when she was in eighth grade. She saw that only a few classmates signed up for service projects she organized at her Massachusetts school, and even fewer actually participated. When she started high school last fall, Isabella found the problem had worsened. Spirit Week was lackluster, and in her classes, students rarely spoke up.</p>



<p>In some ways, it's as if students “just care less and less about what people think, but also somehow care more,” said Isabella, who is now 14. She observed that some teens no longer care about appearing disengaged, while others are so worried about ridicule that they keep to themselves. She attributes this to social media and the lingering effects of post-<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/loneliness-was-widespread-during-the-second-wave-of-covid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID</a> isolation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cell-phone-addiction-and-less-engaged-students">Cell phone addiction and less engaged students</h2>



<p>Educators are finding that their traditional lesson plans are no longer sufficient to keep students engaged, especially in light of declining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-benefits-of-nature-cannot-be-prescribed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a>, shortened attention spans, reduced attendance, and worsening academic performance. </p>



<p>At the center of these challenges is cell phone addiction. Now, adults are trying new approaches to combat this disengagement.</p>



<p>While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/technoference-smartphones-sleep-productivity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cell phone</a> bans are becoming more common, many believe they aren't enough. They advocate for alternative forms of stimulation, such as encouraging outdoor activities or extracurriculars to occupy time that might otherwise be spent online. </p>



<p>Additionally, they emphasize the need for safe spaces where students can discuss sensitive topics without the fear of being “canceled” on social media.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enforcing-school-bans-on-devices">Enforcing school bans on devices</h2>



<p>“To get students engaged now, you have to be very, very creative,” said Wilbur Higgins, lead English teacher at Dartmouth High School, where Isabella will be a sophomore this fall.</p>



<p>Cell phone pouches, lockers, and bins are increasingly being used to enforce device bans.</p>



<p>John Nguyen, a chemistry teacher in California, developed a pouch system after becoming distressed by bullying and fights on phones during class, often without adult intervention. According to Nguyen, many teachers are hesitant to confront students using phones during lessons, and some have given up trying altogether.</p>



<p>At Nguyen's school, students lock their phones in neoprene pouches during classes or even for the entire day. The pouches can only be unlocked by a teacher or principal using a magnetic key.</p>



<p>“There's nothing that can compete with the cell phone,” no matter how dynamic the lesson, Nguyen, who teaches at Marina Valley High School and now markets the pouches to other schools, said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-competing-with-cell-phones-after-hours">Competing with cell phones after hours</h2>



<p>Some schools are also locking up smartwatches and wireless headphones, but the pouches lose their effectiveness once the school day ends.</p>



<p>In Spokane, Washington, schools are enhancing extracurricular activities to compete with phones after hours.</p>



<p>A new initiative, “Engage IRL” - in real life - aims to provide every student with something to look forward to after the school day, whether it's a sport, performing arts, or a club.</p>



<p>“Isolating in your home every day after school for hours on end on a personal device has become normalized,” said Superintendent Adam Swinyard.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extra-incentive-to-keep-students-engaged">Extra incentive to keep students engaged </h2>



<p>Students can create clubs around interests like board games and knitting or join neighborhood basketball leagues. Teachers will help students plan their involvement during back-to-school conferences, according to the district.</p>



<p>“From 3 to 5:30 you are in a club, you're in a sport, you're at an activity,” instead of on a phone, Swinyard said. The district has a new ban on phones during class, but will allow them after school.</p>



<p>At a time when absenteeism is high, Swinyard hopes these activities will give students an extra incentive to attend school. A Gallup poll conducted last November found that only 48% of middle and high school students felt motivated to go to school, and only 52% felt they did something interesting every day.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limited-reach-of-after-school-activities-nbsp">Limited reach of after-school activities<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Vivian Mead, a rising senior in Spokane, said that while more after-school activities help, they won't appeal to everyone. “There's definitely still some people who just want to be alone, listen to their music, do their own thing, or, like, be on their phone,” said Vivian, 17.</p>



<p>Her 15-year-old sister, Alexandra, noted that morning advisory sessions have improved participation in the drama club that keeps the sisters busy. “It forces everyone, even if they don't want to get involved, to have to try something, and maybe that clicks,” she said.</p>



<p>Thirteen middle schools in Maine have taken a similar approach, bringing students outdoors for a combined 35,000 hours during a selected week in May.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-with-nature-instead-of-cell-phones">Connecting with nature instead of cell phones</h2>



<p>Tim Pearson, a physical education and health teacher, believes it's empowering for students to connect with each other in nature, away from screens. His students at Dedham School participated in the statewide “Life Happens Outside” challenge.</p>



<p>Teachers adapted their lessons to be taught outdoors, and students bonded during lunch and recess in the open air. At night, about half of Dedham's students camped out, encouraged by the promise of a pizza party. Some students even camped out again after the challenge.</p>



<p>“Whether they had phones with them or not, they're building fires, they're putting up their tents,” Pearson said. “They're doing things outside that obviously are not on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spending-less-time-on-social-media-improves-your-mental-health/">social media</a> or texting.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cell-phone-habits-start-at-home">Cell phone habits start at home</h2>



<p>Some teachers argue that parents also need to adjust their family's cell phone habits. At home, Ohio teacher Aaron Taylor bans cell phones when his own children have friends over.</p>



<p>He also believes that parents shouldn't distract their kids with check-in texts during the school day.</p>



<p>“Students are so tied to their families,” said Taylor, who teaches at Westerville North High School near Columbus. “There's this anxiety of not being able to contact them, rather than appreciating the freedom of being alone for eight hours or with your friends.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fear-of-being-canceled">The fear of being canceled</h2>



<p>Others believe that the divisive political climate, amplified by cell phone use, is a significant factor in teen disengagement. Some students are reluctant to participate in class discussions, fearing that anything they say could quickly spread through messaging apps and lead to them being “canceled.”</p>



<p>For instance, Taylor's high school English students have told him they don't speak up in class because they fear being “canceled” - a term used for public figures who are silenced or boycotted after expressing offensive opinions or speech.</p>



<p>“I'm like, 'Well, who's canceling you? And why would you be canceled? We're talking about 'The Great Gatsby,' not some controversial political topic,” Taylor said.</p>



<p>Students “get very, very quiet” when topics such as sexuality, gender, or politics come up in novels, said Higgins, the Massachusetts English teacher. “Eight years ago, you had hands shooting up all over the place. Nobody wants to be labeled a certain way anymore or to be ridiculed or to be called out for politics.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-anonymous-online-engagement-for-students">Anonymous online engagement<strong> </strong>for students </h2>



<p>To address this, Higgins uses websites like Parlay that allow students to engage in online discussions anonymously. While the services are costly, Higgins believes the increased class engagement justifies the expense.</p>



<p>“I can see who they are when they're responding to questions and things, but other students can't see,” Higgins said. “That can be very, very powerful.”</p>



<p>Alarmed by her peers' disengagement, Isabella, Higgins' student, wrote an opinion piece for her school's newspaper.</p>



<p>“Preventing future generations from joining this same downward cycle is up to us,” she wrote.</p>



<p>However, a comment on the post highlighted the challenge and what's at stake. “All in all,” the commenter wrote, “why should we care?”</p>



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



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Schools are in a battle with cell phones to keep students engaged

Isabella Pires first noticed what she calls the “gradual apathy...

<p>National Dog Day, celebrated every year on August 26th, honors the unconditional love and companionship that dogs provide, while also raising awareness about the plight of dogs in need of rescue.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Established in 2004 by animal advocate Colleen Paige, National Dog Day aims to encourage adoption from shelters, promote responsible pet ownership, and draw attention to the issues of dog overpopulation and mistreatment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“National Dog Day celebrates all dogs, mixed breed and pure,” states the official <a href="https://www.nationaldogday.com/about1#:~:text=WHY%20AUGUST%2026TH%3F,Colleen%20was%2010%20years%20old." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">website</a>. “Our mission is to help galvanize the public to recognize the number of dogs that need to be rescued each year and acknowledges family dogs and dogs that work selflessly each day to save lives, keep us safe and bring comfort.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-celebrating-man-s-best-friend">Celebrating man's best friend</h2>



<p>The phrase "man's best friend" is commonly used to describe dogs, and for good reason. Dogs have been by our side for thousands of years. Their loyalty, companionship, and unique bond with people have earned them this title.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unconditional-loyalty-nbsp-of-dogs">Unconditional loyalty<strong>&nbsp;</strong>of dogs</h3>



<p>Dogs are known for their unwavering loyalty to their owners. They form strong bonds with their human families and often remain by their side through thick and thin.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-connection-nbsp">Emotional connection<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h3>



<p>Dogs have an incredible ability to sense human emotions. They can comfort us when we're sad, provide companionship when we're lonely, and share in our happiness.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protectiveness">Protectiveness</h3>



<p>Dogs often display protective behaviors toward their owners, making them reliable guardians. They can alert us to danger and provide a sense of security.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptability-of-dogs">Adaptability of dogs</h3>



<p>Dogs are incredibly adaptable to human environments. Whether living in a small apartment or a large farm, dogs can adjust and thrive, making them versatile companions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shared-history-with-dogs">Shared history with dogs</h3>



<p>The relationship between humans and dogs dates back tens of thousands of years. Over time, dogs have evolved alongside humans, learning to understand our behaviors, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/typical-american-dog-knows-18-words-and-love-is-at-the-top-of-the-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a>, and needs better than almost any other animal.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-assistance-and-service">Assistance and service</h3>



<p>Beyond companionship, dogs play critical roles as service animals, helping people with disabilities, providing emotional support, and even aiding in search and rescue operations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-benefits-for-dog-owners">Health benefits for dog owners</h2>



<p>Research shows that dogs can significantly enhance both mental and physical well-being. From <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/petting-dogs-and-cats-dramatically-reduces-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reducing stress</a> and anxiety to encouraging regular physical activity, dogs offer numerous benefits that contribute to a healthier lifestyle.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-support-and-companionship">Emotional support and companionship</h3>



<p>Dogs are known for their loyalty and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-explores-the-mystery-of-why-dogs-wag-their-tails/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">affection</a>. They provide companionship, which can reduce feelings of loneliness and depression. Their presence alone can boost your mood and sense of well-being.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-health-benefits-nbsp">Physical health benefits<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h3>



<p>Owning a dog often encourages more physical activity. Regular walks, playtime, and outdoor activities can improve cardiovascular health, maintain a healthy weight, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-health-improvements">Mental health improvements</h3>



<p>Interacting with dogs has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of PTSD. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/petting-a-dog-even-when-its-not-your-own-can-boost-your-health-for-months/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Petting a dog</a> can release oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and stress relief.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-connection">Social connection</h3>



<p>Dogs can help facilitate social interactions. Walking a dog or attending pet-related events can lead to conversations with other dog owners, promoting a stronger sense of community.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sense-of-purpose">Sense of purpose</h3>



<p>Caring for a dog provides a daily routine and a sense of responsibility, which can be particularly beneficial for people living alone or those who need structure in their lives.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safety-and-security">Safety and security</h3>



<p>Many people feel safer with a dog in their home. Dogs can be protective and alert their owners to potential dangers, such as intruders or fire.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-importance-of-adopting-shelter-dogs">The importance of adopting shelter dogs</h2>



<p>Adopting dogs from shelters is a crucial act of compassion and responsibility that not only transforms the lives of animals in need but also benefits society as a whole. Shelters are often overcrowded, with countless dogs waiting for a second chance at a loving home.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Millions of dogs enter shelters every year, and many face the risk of euthanasia due to overcrowding.</p>



<p>Furthermore, adopting from shelters helps reduce the demand for dogs bred by puppy mills or irresponsible breeders, which contributes to pet overpopulation and poor animal welfare conditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-best-friends-animal-society">Best Friends Animal Society </h2>



<p>Animal welfare organization <a href="https://bestfriends.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Best Friends Animal Society</a> is working to end the killing of cats and dogs in America’s shelters. The group recently released data showing that over 207,000 dogs were killed in shelters last year, simply because they didn’t have a place to call home.</p>



<p>“Despite saving 83% of dogs that entered U.S. shelters in 2023, the number of dogs unnecessarily dying increased by 30 percent,” said Best Friends CEO Julie Castle.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Roughly 7 million people in America are planning to acquire a pet this year, and if just 6 percent more people chose to adopt versus purchase their pets, we would end the killing of dogs and cats in our nation’s shelters.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-honoring-all-dogs-nbsp">Honoring all dogs<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>National Dog Day seeks to honor all dogs - whether family pets, working dogs, or strays - while advocating for their well-being and protection. It is an important reminder of our responsibility to protect and care for dogs.</p>



<p>This occasion also serves as a profound reminder of the deep bond between humans and dogs. From providing emotional support and assistance to those in need to offering unwavering loyalty and friendship, dogs have a remarkable impact on our well-being.&nbsp;</p>



<p>National Dog Day offers a platform to promote animal welfare, encourage adoption, and express gratitude for the countless ways dogs enhance our lives, making it a meaningful occasion for both reflection and action.</p>



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



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National Dog Day 2024: Honoring man's best friend

National Dog Day, celebrated every year on August 26th, honors...

<p>A recent study has revealed that major water reservoirs across the continental United States are facing longer, more severe, and increasingly variable periods of low storage compared to several decades ago.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The most significant issues are occurring in the western and central regions, though reservoirs in the eastern and southeastern U.S. are also affected. According to the experts, these reservoirs are now less reliable and more vulnerable to the impacts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tackling-the-worlds-climate-driven-water-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> than they were in the past.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-water-storage-trends">Insights into water storage trends</h2>



<p>The findings, which offer updated insights into water storage trends, are expected to enhance water forecasting capabilities. This improvement could help water managers at all levels - national, regional, and local - make better-informed decisions about the timing and volume of water release.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As natural <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/parts-of-asia-face-irreversible-declines-in-freshwater-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water storage</a> sources like snowpack, rivers, and groundwater become less dependable, reservoirs are becoming increasingly critical. </p>



<p>However, disruptions to their normal operations can lead to widespread water availability problems. For example, low storage levels in Lakes Mead and Powell from 2000 to 2021 - during the region's driest 22-year period in 1,200 years - led to widespread water-use restrictions across the southwestern United States.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-storage-capacity-in-water-reservoirs-nbsp">Storage capacity in water reservoirs<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Reservoir storage capacity is influenced by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-drought-crisis-un-warns-of-unprecedented-emergency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drought</a>, water withdrawals, and sediment buildup behind dams. Each of these factors has been changing, often pushing reservoirs beyond the conditions for which they were originally designed.</p>



<p>“Reservoirs are a key component of the modern water cycle, and they're a part that water managers can influence,” said Caelan Simeone, a hydrologist at the U.S. Geological Survey's <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/centers/oregon-water-science-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon Water Science Center</a>, who led the study. </p>



<p>“We know that reservoirs are changing, and that reservoirs were designed for historical water conditions. So now there's uncertainty about how or whether reservoirs will be able to adapt.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nationwide-perspective-on-water-reservoirs-nbsp">Nationwide perspective on water reservoirs<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Much of the existing research on reservoirs is local or regional, limiting the broader understanding of how climate and human activities are affecting water storage on a national scale.</p>



<p>“Water reservoir managers could benefit from having that knowledge,” Simeone said. “It would enable them to consider larger, national trends in water as well as more local patterns.”</p>



<p>To gain a nationwide perspective, Simeone and colleagues analyzed water levels in 250 large reservoirs from 1981 to 2020, focusing on changes in baseline, maximum, and minimum water levels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers also compared these water levels to management practices and climate, seeking patterns that could explain any observed changes. The study did not include data from the U.S. Northeast due to a lack of available information.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reservoirs-across-various-regions">Reservoirs across various regions</h2>



<p>Reservoirs in the more arid western and central United States experienced longer, more severe, and more variable periods of low storage. This was somewhat expected, as these reservoirs are designed to handle variable annual runoff and drought conditions. However, current drought conditions are pushing these reservoirs to their limits.</p>



<p>Surprisingly, the study found that reservoirs in wetter regions like the Southeast and Pacific Northwest, as well as arid areas, showed a decline in annual maximum storage levels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Out of the 250 reservoirs studied, 169 experienced declining maximum storage, with 89 showing significant drops. Across all reservoirs, the median decline in maximum water storage relative to the mean was 2.2%; for those with significant declines, the median decrease was 8.1%.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-declining-maximum-water-levels">Declining maximum water levels</h2>



<p>Simeone did not anticipate such widespread reductions. “The reduction of maximum annual storage was widespread, which really surprised us,” he said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Many reservoirs just aren't filling to the levels they once did. Overall, we're getting this picture of declining maximum water levels across the United States. This was the case even in places that were not seeing more low storage periods.”</p>



<p>Increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reforestation-needed-to-save-coral-reefs-from-sediment-run-off/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sediment</a> and changing hydroclimatic conditions are likely driving the observed variability in water storage and overall decreases in water levels.</p>



<p>Reservoir managers are attempting to adapt to these changing conditions, but this is challenging given that many reservoirs were designed decades ago with the assumption that climate and societal conditions would remain relatively stable. Most of the reservoirs and dams in the study were constructed between roughly 1930 and 1970.</p>



<p>“There was an assumption that conditions would be more or less stationary. Climate change interrupted that. Now, managers need to try to mitigate the hydrologic shifts we're seeing,” Simeone concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1029/2024GL109476" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Geophysical Research Letters</em></a>.</p>



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Water reservoirs are shrinking and becoming less reliable

A recent study has revealed that major water reservoirs across...

<p>If you've ever gazed at the night sky, there's no doubt you've set your sights on the North Star, also called Polaris. This impressive luminary has been a celestial guide for travel-weary navigators for centuries.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Now, new research led by researchers at Georgia State University's Center for High Angular Resolution Astronomy (<a href="https://www.chara.gsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CHARA</a>) Array shines fresh light on this stellar beacon, uncovering fascinating details about its size, appearance, and rather unusual behavior.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polaris-star-an-astronomical-marvel">Polaris star: An astronomical marvel</h2>



<p>Found in the constellation of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ursa_Minor" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ursa Minor,</a> Polaris is not an average star. This celestial titan is the brightest member of a triple-star system and also a pulsating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/betelgeuse-one-of-our-brightest-stars-will-vanish-from-sight-next-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">variable star</a>. </p>



<p>In a literal blink of an eye, Polaris can alternate between being brighter and fainter. This stellar light show stems from the star's diameter swelling and shrinking over a four-day cycle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polaris-cepheid-variable-star">Polaris: Cepheid variable star</h2>



<p>Adding another feather to its cap, Polaris also happens to be a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universes-expansion-rate-hubble-tension-puzzles-astronomers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cepheid variable star</a> -- one of the many standard candles of the universe. </p>



<p>These stars are of immense value to astronomers as their true brightness is linked to their pulsation period. </p>



<p>Simply put, the brighter stars pulsate slower than their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-sun-like-stars-with-secret-companions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fainter counterparts</a>. This information helps astronomers calculate the distances to galaxies and, more intriguingly, decipher the universe's expansion rate.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polaris-investigation">Polaris investigation</h2>



<p>The investigation, led by the phenomenal Nancy Evans at the <a href="https://www.cfa.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Center for Astrophysics</a> at Harvard &amp; Smithsonian, employed the CHARA optical interferometric array of six telescopes at Mount Wilson, Calif. </p>



<p>Their prime objective? Map the orbit of the faint companion star that orbits Polaris every 30 years.</p>



<p>"The small separation and large contrast in brightness between the two <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-detects-awe-inspiring-newborn-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> makes it extremely challenging to resolve the binary system during their closest approach," Evans expressed the complexities of the task.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-mysteries">Decoding the mysteries</h2>



<p>The team's research efforts were not in vain. Combining the light from the six telescopes at the historic Mount Wilson Observatory, the CHARA Array allowed the team to spot the elusive faint companion star as it passed Polaris.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These scientific strides were made possible by the MIRC-X camera, designed by astronomers at the <a href="https://umich.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> and <a href="https://www.exeter.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Exeter University</a> in the U.K. The device proved instrumental in capturing intricate details of stellar surfaces.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/north-star-polaris_analysis_charra-array_credit-Georgia-State-University_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/north-star-polaris_analysis_charra-array_credit-Georgia-State-University_1m.webp" alt="CHARA Array false-color image of Polaris from April 2021 that reveals large bright and dark spots on the surface. Polaris appears about 600,000 times smaller than the full moon in the sky. Credit: Georgia State University / CHARA Array" class="wp-image-1942772" style="width:302px;height:auto"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>CHARA Array false-color image of Polaris from April 2021 that reveals large bright and dark spots on the surface. Polaris appears about 600,000 times smaller than the full moon in the sky. Credit: Georgia State University / CHARA Array</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>The images procured unveiled intriguing details about Polaris, the North Star. This study revealed that Polaris has a mass five times greater than that of our sun, making it a colossal celestial body. </p>



<p>Additionally, its diameter is an astonishing 46 times larger than our solar powerhouse, showcasing its immense scale and prominence in the universe. </p>



<p>Understanding such characteristics helps astronomers gain insights into stellar evolution and the dynamics of our galaxy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-findings">Surprising findings</h2>



<p>Other revelations about Polaris were also eyebrow-raising. "The CHARA images revealed large bright and&nbsp;dark spots&nbsp;on the surface of Polaris that changed over time," said Gail Schaefer, director of the CHARA Array.&nbsp;This was never seen before on a Cepheid variable star.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to Gail Schaefer, director of the CHARA Array, these spots and the star's rotation might be tied to a 120-day change in the star's measured velocity.</p>



<p>"We plan to continue imaging Polaris in the future," said John Monnier, an astronomy professor at the University of Michigan. "We hope to better understand the mechanism that generates the spots on the surface of Polaris."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-polaris-star-research">Implications of Polaris star research</h2>



<p>Understanding Polaris extends beyond mere academic curiosity; it holds vital implications for the broader field of astronomy and our comprehension of the universe.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The discoveries surrounding its size, luminosity, and peculiar surface characteristics enhance our understanding of stellar evolution and the dynamics of binary star systems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, the insights gleaned from Polaris bolster the calibration of Cepheid variables as distance indicators across the cosmos.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As researchers continue to refine their imaging techniques and unravel the complex behaviors of such stars, we inch closer to solving fundamental questions about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-sized-exoplanet-orbiting-ultracool-dwarf-star-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe's expansion</a>, its structure, and ultimately, our place within the vast astronomical tapestry.</p>



<p>So, while Polaris continues to serve as a light in the night sky, the celestial curiosity it sparks in scientific minds is far from over. After all, where there's a star, there's a way.</p>



<p>The study is published in&nbsp;<a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/1538-4357/ad5e7a" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>The Astrophysical Journal</em></a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



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North star 'Polaris' found to be covered in large dark spots

If you've ever gazed at the night sky, there's no...

<p>A recent study led by the University of Arizona has discovered a clear link between the body temperature of animals and their likelihood of evolving into herbivores.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research offers insights into the evolution of dietary habits among tetrapods, which include land dwelling vertebrates such as amphibians, birds, reptiles and mammals. The surprising results have the potential to significantly challenge existing beliefs about how animal diets evolve over time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-body-temperature-and-herbivory">Body temperature and herbivory</h2>



<p>By analyzing data from 1,712 species, the experts discovered a consistent trend: animals with higher body temperatures are more prone to evolving into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/herbivores-ecosystems-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">herbivores</a>. This trend was observed across all major groups of land vertebrates.</p>



<p>John Wiens, a professor of ecology and evolutionary biology at the <a href="https://www.arizona.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona</a> and the senior author of the study, explained that the connection between body temperature and herbivory is linked to the specific digestive challenges of a plant-based diet.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-certain-species-are-herbivores">Why certain species are herbivores</h2>



<p>Wiens suggested that higher body temperatures might be essential for supporting the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-bacteria-have-very-clever-ways-of-supporting-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut bacteria</a> that break down cellulose, the primary component of plant cell walls.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to Wiens, the connection between an animal's body temperature and its gut microbiome could be essential to understanding why certain species are more capable of adopting and sustaining herbivorous diets.</p>



<p>“We were specifically interested in body temperature because it is one of the most widespread and comparable factors that might determine diet across different groups of animals,” added&nbsp;</p>



<p>lead author Kristen Saban, who began the research as a sophomore majoring in ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Arizona.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-that-influence-diet-evolution-nbsp">Factors that influence diet evolution<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The research team also considered other factors that could influence diet evolution, such as body size and the animal's activity patterns, whether diurnal or nocturnal. Despite these considerations, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/koalas-can-predict-hot-days-and-adjust-their-body-temperature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">body temperature</a> emerged as the most significant predictor of an herbivorous diet.</p>



<p>“What we found was that body temperature is somewhat of a requirement to evolve an herbivorous diet. We really didn't see any herbivores that don't have a high body temperature. Typically, the body temperature was more than 86 degrees Fahrenheit,” Saban said.</p>



<p>While previous research has examined how an herbivorous diet might affect the evolution of body temperature, this study took a different approach by investigating what factors influence the evolution of herbivory.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-of-herbivores">Evolution of herbivores</h2>



<p>The research also provides insights into the evolutionary timeline of herbivory. Although plant-eating animals are now common, Wiens pointed out that herbivory appears to be a relatively recent development in evolutionary history.&nbsp;</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-reveals-early-tetrapods-lived-within-the-antarctic-circle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tetrapods</a> originally had carnivorous diets; for example, lizards were traditionally meat-eaters, whereas iguanas have evolved to become herbivores. Notably, the herbivorous groups that exist today have all emerged within the last 110 million years, despite tetrapods having existed for 350 million years.</p>



<p>This timeline coincides with the rise of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-investigate-the-mysterious-origin-of-flowering-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowering plants</a> (known as angiosperms), which became dominant around 110 million years ago and now constitute 90% of all plant species.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-instability-of-herbivory-over-time">Instability of herbivory over time<strong> </strong></h2>



<p>Another intriguing discovery from the study is the evolutionary instability of herbivory. The researchers observed that many species reverted from herbivory back to carnivory.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Wiens cited Latin American singing mice as an example, noting that these animals evolved from herbivorous ancestors but now primarily consume insects. According to the study, these reversals were as frequent as the initial shifts to herbivory. In Saban’s view the reasons behind this instability remain unclear.</p>



<p>“Once it evolves, it doesn't necessarily stick around very long,” Wiens said. “It's possible that some of the groups that are herbivores today will evolve species that feed on animals again.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-body-temperature-and-herbivory-evolution">Body temperature and herbivory evolution</h2>



<p>“Using phylogenetic logistic regression, we support the hypothesis that higher body temperature helps explain the evolution of herbivory across tetrapods and within birds, mammals, lepidosaurs and turtles,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Phylogenetic path analyses suggest that body temperature generally drives the evolution of herbivory, and not vice versa. Our analyses also suggest that body temperature is more important for the evolution of herbivory than large body size or diurnal diel activity, which are both significant predictors of herbivory in some cases.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/geb.13900" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Global Ecology and Biogeography</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Animals with high body temperatures often become herbivores

A recent study led by the University of Arizona has...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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