<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>Ever heard how sometimes the smallest things can make the biggest difference? Well, let's talk about the microscopic organism living blissfully inside a mother's gut - the bacterium known as Bifidobacterium breve. Could a mother's gut health be a secret collaborator in the brain development of her baby?</p>



<p>Researchers at the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a>, led by Dr. Jorge Lopez-Tello, set out to explore this question. The team conducted a fascinating study comparing fetal brain development in mice whose mothers were devoid of any <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-bacteria-influence-our-social-behavior-and-sense-of-fairness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut bacteria</a> and those whose mothers ingested Bifidobacterium breve during pregnancy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-the-gut-microbiome-benefit-the-brain">Can the gut microbiome benefit the brain?</h2>



<p>Published in the journal <em>Molecular Metabolism</em>, the study's results were nothing short of amazing. The findings showcased an increased nutrient transport to the fetal brain in mothers who ingested Bifidobacterium breve.</p>



<p>The "good bacteria," more commonly known for its gut-benefitting nature, appeared to bring about beneficial changes in other growth-related cellular processes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-microbiome-and-baby-health">Gut microbiome and baby health</h2>



<p>Picture this: stress, obesity - these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mothers-hardships-are-reflected-in-their-childs-gut-microbiome/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aren't just personal issues</a>. For pregnant women, these factors can seriously disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to fetal growth abnormalities. </p>



<p>Babies of up to 10% of first-time mothers with such health conditions could face low birth weights or growth restriction. These early complications can spiral into long-term concerns like cerebral palsy, anxiety, depression, autism, and schizophrenia.</p>



<p>So, here's a question: Could a tiny wee bacterium be the key to a solution? </p>



<p>“Our study suggests that by providing ‘good bacteria’ to the mother we could improve the growth and development of her baby while she’s pregnant,” said Dr Lopez-Tello.</p>



<p>“This means future treatments for fetal growth restriction could potentially focus on altering the gut microbiome through probiotics, rather than offering pharmaceutical treatments - with the risk of side effects - to pregnant women.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-maternal-gut-health">Improving maternal gut health</h2>



<p>The idea of using Bifidobacterium breve supplements during pregnancy seems immensely promising. Imagine swapping out pharmaceutical solutions with probiotics for healthier fetal development. An alternative that can minimize side effects from regular treatments sounds like a call for celebration.</p>



<p>Professor&nbsp;Amanda Sferruzzi-Perri is a researcher in the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Trophoblast Research and senior author of the report.</p>



<p>“The design of therapies for fetal growth restriction are focused on improving blood flow pathways in the mother, but our results suggest we’ve been thinking about this the wrong way - perhaps we should be more focused on improving maternal gut health,” said Professor Sferruzzi-Perri.</p>



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



<p>While this research was conducted on mice, there’s hope for similar implications in humans. The next steps on this scientific journey? Monitor the development of offspring post-birth and explore how Bifidobacterium breve interacts with other gut bacteria in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-bacteria-may-be-a-secret-weapon-against-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural situations</a>.</p>



<p>"Although further research is needed to understand how these effects translate to humans, this exciting discovery may pave the way for clinical studies that explore the critical role of the maternal microbiome in supporting healthy brain development before birth," explained study co-author Professor Lindsay Hall from the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-health-and-baby-development">Gut health and baby development </h2>



<p>This isn’t the first instance in which our beneficial bacterium has taken center stage. Previous studies conducted by the same research team revealed that administering Bifidobacterium breve to pregnant mice led to significant improvements in both the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/resilience-is-surprisingly-linked-to-gut-and-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">structure and functionality</a> of the placenta. </p>



<p>This finding reinforces the growing body of evidence that highlights the crucial connection between gut health and fetal development.</p>



<p>A healthy gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as vital for not only maternal health but also for ensuring optimal conditions for the developing fetus. Such insights could pave the way for new dietary or probiotic interventions that support healthy pregnancies.</p>



<p>This inquiry sheds new light on the importance of our microbiome in prenatal health. It reminds us of those unseen collaborators, like Bifidobacterium breve, that quietly work behind the scenes. </p>



<p>Who would have thought that gut bacteria could wield such significant power over prenatal development? It just goes to show - big things indeed often come in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/phagosome-crucial-overlooked-player-in-our-microbiome-gut-bacteria-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">small packages</a>.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212877824001352?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Molecular Metabolism</em></a>.</p>



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Mother’s gut health shapes the brain development of her baby

Ever heard how sometimes the smallest things can make the...

<p>Cockroach infestations are a persistent problem for many households, but a recent study reveals that commonly used sprays are not as effective as consumers believe.</p>



<p>The study sheds light on the limited efficacy of these popular products, particularly against the notorious German cockroach, raising concerns about their role in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-pest-control-the-hidden-power-of-aloe-vera-peels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pest control</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cockroach-residual-insecticides">Cockroach residual insecticides</h2>



<p>The premise behind residual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterfly-decline-in-american-midwest-linked-to-insecticides/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insecticides</a> is simple. Spray them onto surfaces where cockroaches are expected, and the toxic residue would poison them once they traverse the treated areas.</p>



<p>However, a new study published in the <em>Journal of Economic Entomology</em> paints a different picture.</p>



<p>Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uky.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Kentucky</a> and <a href="https://www.auburn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Auburn University</a> found that these residual insecticides were largely futile against German cockroaches (Blattella germanica), a notorious species globally known for infesting homes and buildings. </p>



<p>Laboratory testing revealed that liquid and aerosol sprays using pyrethroid insecticides killed less than 20% of German cockroaches exposed to sprayed surfaces for 30 minutes. </p>



<p>Even when confined to sprayed areas, most products took between eight and 24 hours to kill the cockroaches, with some requiring up to five days.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-problem-with-pyrethroids">The problem with pyrethroids</h2>



<p>The results were derived from cockroaches collected from real-world infestations, where the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-insect-decline-what-are-the-causes-and-consequences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insects</a> have evolved resistance to pyrethroids, the primary ingredient in these sprays.</p>



<p>"Due to the frequent use of pyrethroid-based residual products, it is very likely that German cockroaches inside of homes will have some degree of pyrethroid resistance," noted study lead author Johnalyn Gordon, a postdoctoral associate at the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Florida</a>.</p>



<p>"To the best of our knowledge, a pyrethroid-susceptible German cockroach population has not been documented from the field in decades."</p>



<p>Gordon conducted the study while a graduate research assistant at the University of Kentucky in the lab of Professor Zach DeVries, the study's senior author.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-effective-cockroach-sprays">Lack of effective cockroach sprays</h2>



<p>The research highlights a significant issue. "If residents do not have access to effective professional pest control or consumer solutions, they continue to be impacted by the effects of an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fir-trees-are-severely-threatened-by-an-unwelcome-insect-guest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infestation</a>, including the health risks associated with cockroach allergens. Home is where people should be able to relax and feel comfortable," explained Gordon.</p>



<p>Despite this alarming revelation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently does not require insecticide products to be tested on field-collected cockroaches or those demonstrating insecticide resistance. </p>



<p>"Hopefully studies like this one can drive changes in product testing and evaluation, so that labels accurately reflect the level of control these products can provide," Gordon continued.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stricter-standards-for-cockroach-sprays">Stricter standards for cockroach sprays</h2>



<p>Along with the ingredient composition, other factors might contribute to the faltering efficiency of these sprays, such as surface type and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cockroaches-became-global-pests-cleverly-hitching-rides-with-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cockroach behavior</a>.</p>



<p>Additional testing on painted drywall, ceramic tile, and stainless steel surfaces revealed that the sprays were significantly less effective on drywall. </p>



<p>"Given common applications of residual insecticides along baseboards, reduced efficacy on painted drywall was a particularly striking finding," noted Gordon.</p>



<p>Even in populations without resistance to pyrethroids, the residual sprays had minimal effects on painted drywall. </p>



<p>This suggests that the porous nature of a surface may significantly impact product efficacy. Furthermore, cockroaches are unlikely to remain on insecticide-treated surfaces for extended periods, either because they are always on the move or actively avoid them.</p>



<p>A separate study from DeVries' lab, published in 2023, found that resistant German cockroaches avoid pyrethroid-treated surfaces when given the choice. Combined, these factors paint a dim picture for cockroach control via insecticide sprays.</p>



<p>"Based on our results, pyrethroid-based DIY products are likely to fail against German cockroaches inside the home, especially if they are being used as residual products," said Gordon.</p>



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



<p>These findings cast a dismal shadow on the use of DIY insecticide sprays for cockroach control. Yet, other more promising DIY alternatives exist, such as gel or liquid baits that lure roaches with a food source laced with slow-acting insecticides.</p>



<p>Ideally, consumers could also have access to affordable professional pest-control services that take a multipronged approach known as integrated pest management (IPM). </p>



<p>However, this is often not the case for residents of low-income, multi-family housing, where cockroach infestations are stubbornly persistent. </p>



<p>"There is a strong base of knowledge and research on how we can control cockroaches, but there are numerous economic and procedural barriers that mean that this control is not occurring in these areas, arguably where it is the most needed," said Gordon.</p>



<p>Targeting improved technologies that can close these management gaps is critical to achieving accessible pest management, whether that is through different active ingredients and modes of action, formulations, or product-deployment strategies.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://academic.oup.com/jee/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/jee/toae158/7731102?redirectedFrom=fulltext&amp;login=false">Journal of Economic Entomology</a></em>.</p>



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Cockroaches have evolved and developed resistance to common insect sprays

Cockroach infestations are a persistent problem for many households, but...

<p>A comprehensive study examining U.S. youth sports participation over the past 60 years reveals a significant rise in the number of children engaging in organized sports, particularly among families with higher socioeconomic status and education levels. </p>



<p>According to the experts, about 70% of Americans born in the 1990s and reaching age 18 by 2015-16 participated in organized sports through recreational, school, or club teams. This marks a steady increase in participation compared to earlier generations, with just over half of those born in the 1950s reporting similar involvement.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-class-differences-in-youth-sports-participation-nbsp">Class differences in youth sports participation<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>However, the study also highlights notable generational disparities in who gets to participate in these activities. For children born in the 1950s, there were no significant class differences in sports participation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In contrast, by the 1990s, a pronounced gap had emerged, with children of college-educated parents being 24 percentage points more likely to play organized sports than those whose parents did not have a college education.</p>



<p>“Childhood <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-higher-social-class-overconfidence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social class</a> matters when it comes to whether you have the opportunity to participate in organized sports, something which is a relatively recent development,” said Chris Knoester, lead author of the study and a professor of sociology at the <a href="https://www.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ohio State University</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We found that privileged families seem to be leveraging their advantages to strategically and intentionally invest in organized sports participation. That can give their children big benefits.”</p>



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



<p>One of the study's key contributions is its detailed review of how youth sports participation patterns have evolved over six decades.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers utilized data from the <a href="https://nsass.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Sports and Society Survey</a>, conducted in 2018 and 2019 by Ohio State, which included responses from 3,935 adults across the country about their childhood sports experiences.</p>



<p>The study showed that youth from privileged backgrounds increasingly dominate organized sports, reflecting the growing privatization of youth sports, the enhanced reliance on parental involvement, and the rapid expansion of club sports.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“There has been a dramatic decrease in public support for extracurricular activities in schools that started in the '80s, including sports,” said co-author Chris Bjork, an expert in education at <a href="https://www.vassar.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vassar College</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“One result has been the growth of club sports, which can be very expensive, and not all parents are in the position to afford that for their kids.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-concerns-about-equity-and-access">Concerns about equity and access</h2>



<p>According to <a href="https://projectplay.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Project Play</a> by the Aspen Institute, the average family spent $883 annually on one child’s primary sport in 2022.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For many privileged families, investing in organized and private club sports is viewed as a way to help their children excel, potentially leading to college scholarships and other life opportunities. However, the expense of such opportunities raises concerns about equity and access.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-participation-of-girls-nbsp">Increasing participation of girls<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The study also documented a positive trend: the increasing participation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sports-activities-are-particularly-beneficial-for-young-girls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">girls</a> in youth sports. In the 1950s, only about 45% of girls participated in organized sports, lagging significantly behind boys.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By the 1990s, that number had risen to about 70%, matching the participation rates of boys. This shift is largely attributed to Title IX, the 1972 federal law that prohibited sex-based discrimination in education, including sports.</p>



<p>“It resulted in a dramatic increase in the number of girls taking part in sports,” Knoester said. This increase in female participation was notably reflected in the recent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/watching-the-olympics-can-help-you-lose-weight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Olympic Games</a> in Paris, where U.S. women won 67 of the country's 126 medals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Title IX and the increase in girls playing sports really set the stage for what we saw in Paris this summer, with the domination of U.S. women,” Knoester added.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dropout-rate-in-youth-sports">Dropout rate in youth sports</h2>



<p>Another significant finding of the study is the rise in the proportion of children who start playing organized sports but then drop out.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Among those born in the 1950s, just over 50% of those who began playing organized sports dropped out before turning 18. For those born in the 1990s, that dropout rate increased to over 70 percent.</p>



<p>Knoester and colleagues previously found that many children drop out of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/kids-who-play-sports-have-more-grit-to-succeed-as-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sports</a> because they aren't having fun or feel they aren't good enough. The current study suggests that this issue has worsened for recent generations. </p>



<p>The increase in dropouts may be linked to the pressures associated with club sports and the high expectations placed on young athletes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dramatic-shift-in-youth-sports">Dramatic shift in youth sports</h2>



<p>“Underlying all of this is the dramatic shift from sports being seen as a way to have fun and make friends and learn life lessons to sports being a way to get ahead in life,” Bjork said.</p>



<p>Knoester said that there is a pressing need to return to the original promise of youth sports as a positive and inclusive force in society, helping all children achieve health goals, make friends, and learn teamwork.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We need to find ways to keep kids involved and positive on the fields and courts, without the hyper-competitive, high-pressure, expensive culture that seems to predominate today,” he concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14927713.2024.2366177" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Leisure/Loisir</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Youth sports are more accessible to privileged families

A comprehensive study examining U.S. youth sports participation over the...

<p>Many airline passengers naturally worry about flying. However, commercial air travel continues to become increasingly safe on a global scale, according to a new study led by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).</p>



<p>The study has revealed that the risk of a fatality from commercial air travel between 2018 and 2022 was one per every 13.7 million passenger boardings worldwide.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This is a significant improvement from the risk of one per 7.9 million boardings in the period from 2008 to 2017, and a remarkable advancement compared to the one per every 350,000 boardings that occurred between 1968 and 1977.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-travel-safety-is-constantly-improving">Air travel safety is constantly improving</h2>



<p>“Aviation safety continues to get better,” said Arnold Barnett, an <a href="https://www.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a> expert in air travel safety and operations and co-author of the study.</p>



<p>“You might think there is some irreducible risk level we can’t get below. And yet, the chance of dying during an air journey keeps dropping by about seven percent annually, and continues to go down by a factor of two every decade.”</p>



<p>Of course, there are no guarantees of perpetual improvement; recent near-collisions on U.S. runways have garnered attention, underscoring that airline safety requires continuous effort.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-pandemic-reduced-the-melting-rate-of-himalayan-glaciers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Covid-19</a> pandemic may have introduced a temporary new risk associated with flying. The study examines this risk separately from the long-term safety trends, which focus on accidents and deliberate attacks on aviation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-travel-safety-has-nearly-doubled-each-decade">Air travel safety has nearly doubled each decade</h2>



<p>Barnett likens the long-term improvements in air safety to “Moore’s Law,” the principle that computing power roughly doubles every 18 months. In this case, commercial air <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/travelers-are-ready-for-more-affordable-eco-friendly-options/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">travel</a> has become about twice as safe with each passing decade since the late 1960s.</p>



<p>“Here we have an aerial version of Moore’s Law,” said Barnett, who has contributed to refining air travel safety statistics for many years.</p>



<p>In terms of per-boarding risk, passengers today are approximately 39 times safer than they were during the 1968-1977 period.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-avian-safety-during-the-pandemic-nbsp">Avian safety during the pandemic<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The study also includes a separate finding about the impact of Covid-19, focusing on the transmission of the virus by airline passengers during the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This analysis is not part of the main data, which evaluates airline incidents during normal operations. Nonetheless, Barnett believed it was important to investigate the specific case of viral transmission during the pandemic.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-covid-19-transmission-on-passenger-planes">Covid-19 transmission on passenger planes</h3>



<p>The study estimates that between June 2020 and February 2021, before <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-vaccination-reduces-mortality-risk-but-only-for-6-months/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vaccines</a> were widely available, around 1,200 deaths in the U.S. were associated, directly or indirectly, with Covid-19 transmission on passenger planes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Most of these fatalities likely involved people who contracted the virus from others who had been infected during air travel.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-covid-deaths-linked-to-air-travel">Covid deaths linked to air travel</h3>



<p>Additionally, the study estimates that globally, from March 2020 through December 2022, about 4,760 deaths were linked to Covid-19 transmission on airplanes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These estimates are based on available data regarding transmission rates and daily death rates, taking into account the age distribution of air passengers during the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Interestingly, older Americans did not seem to fly less during the pandemic, even though their risk of death from infection was higher than that of younger travelers.</p>



<p>“There’s no simple answer to this,” Barnett said. “But we worked to come up with realistic and conservative estimates, so that people can learn important lessons about what happened. I believe people should at least look at these numbers.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fatalities-outside-of-the-pandemic-nbsp">Fatalities outside of the pandemic<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>To study fatalities during normal airline operations, the researchers used data from the <a href="https://flightsafety.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flight Safety Foundation</a>, the <a href="https://www.worldbank.org/en/home">World Bank</a>, and the <a href="https://www.iata.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Air Transport Association</a>.</p>



<p>To assess air travel risks, various metrics have been used, including deaths per billion passenger miles and fatal accidents per 100,000 flight hours.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, Barnett argues that deaths per passenger boarding is the most “defensible” and understandable statistic, as it directly answers the question: If you have a boarding pass for a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-airplanes-are-worse-for-the-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flight</a>, what are your odds of dying? This statistic also accounts for incidents that might occur in airport terminals.</p>



<p>Having previously developed this metric, Barnett has updated his findings multiple times, creating a comprehensive view of air safety over time:</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-commercial-air-fatalities-per-passenger-boarding">Commercial air fatalities per passenger boarding:</h2>



<p>1968-1977: one per 350,000</p>



<p>1978-1987: one per 750,000</p>



<p>1988-1997: one per 1.3 million</p>



<p>1998-2007: one per 2.7 million</p>



<p>2007-2017: one per 7.9 million</p>



<p>2018-2022: one per 13.7 million</p>



<p>As Barnett’s data shows, these improvements are not just incidental but represent a long-term trend. While the new paper is more focused on empirical outcomes than on explaining them,&nbsp;</p>



<p>Barnett suggests several contributing factors, including technological advances like collision avoidance systems in planes, extensive training, and rigorous work by organizations such as the <a href="https://www.faa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Federal Aviation Agency</a> and the <a href="https://www.ntsb.gov/Pages/home.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Transportation Safety Board</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disparities-in-air-travel-safety-nbsp">Disparities in air travel safety<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>However, there are still disparities in air travel safety across the globe. The study categorizes countries into three tiers based on their commercial air safety records.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In the third tier, the fatality rate per passenger boarding during the 2018-2022 period was 36.5 times higher than in the top tier. This highlights that air travel safety varies significantly depending on the region.</p>



<p>The first tier of countries includes the United States, European Union countries, other European states like Norway and Switzerland, as well as Australia, Canada, China, Israel, Japan, and New Zealand.</p>



<p>The second tier comprises nations such as Brazil, India, Mexico, South Africa, and South Korea, where the death risk per boarding was about one per 80 million over 2018-2022.</p>



<p>The third tier encompasses all other countries. While air travel fatalities per boarding in these countries were cut roughly in half during the 2018-2022 period, Barnett notes that while it’s positive they are improving, they could potentially accelerate their progress by learning from the leading countries.</p>



<p>“The remaining countries continue to improve by something like a factor of two, but they’re still behind the top two groups,” Barnett observed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impressive-rate-of-improvement-nbsp">Impressive rate of improvement&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Overall, Barnett points out that, despite the challenges posed by Covid-19, and considering accident avoidance, particularly in countries with the lowest fatality rates, it is remarkable that air safety continues to improve.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Progress is never guaranteed in this area, but the leading countries in air safety, along with their government officials and airlines, consistently find ways to enhance flight safety.</p>



<p>“After decades of sharp improvements, it’s really hard to keep improving at the same rate. And yet they do,” Barnett concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jairtraman.2024.102641" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of Air Transport Management</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Flying has never been safer, and continues to improve

Many airline passengers naturally worry about flying. However, commercial air...

<p>Spiders have long been known for their cunning hunting strategies, but recent research has uncovered a new level of deceit when it comes to firefly signals. </p>



<p>In the captivating world where bioluminescent signals light up the night, communication is everything. Male fireflies from the species <em>Abscondita terminalis</em> use multi-pulse flashes from dual lanterns to attract females, who respond with single-pulse flashes from a single lantern.</p>



<p>However, an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spiders-use-their-webs-to-detect-sounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orb-weaving spider</a> has been found to manipulate these signals, using them to lure unsuspecting fireflies into its deadly web.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unmasking-the-orb-weaving-spider-s-trap">Unmasking the orb-weaving spider’s trap</h2>



<p>Scientists from <a href="https://www.hzau.edu.cn/en/HOME.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Huazhong Agricultural University</a> in China were intrigued when they uncovered evidence of a spider skillfully twisting this bioluminescent communication to its advantage.</p>



<p>The research shows that the orb-weaving spider (Araneus ventricosus) cunningly manipulates male fireflies trapped in its web to mimic the flashes of a female. This deceptive practice ultimately lures more male fireflies into the fatal web, cunningly expanding the spider's menu.</p>



<p>"Drawing from extensive field observations, we propose that Araneus ventricosus practices deceptive interspecific communication by first ensnaring firefly males in its web and then predisposing the entrapped male fireflies to broadcast <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bioluminescence-emerged-in-animals-540-million-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bioluminescent signals</a> that deviate from female-attracting signals typically made by A. terminalis males and instead mimic the male-attracting signals typically made by females," noted the researchers.</p>



<p>The spider's act of false signals deceives other male fireflies, who unknowingly fly straight into the deadly trap.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiders-manipulate-firefly-signals">Spiders manipulate firefly signals </h2>



<p>The revelation came to light when Xinhua Fu, the lead author of the study, observed multiple male fireflies ensnared in the webs of orb-weaving spiders. However, the absence of female fireflies in these webs was notably unusual.</p>



<p>This observation sparked a theory that the crafty spiders might be influencing the fireflies' flashing behavior to allure males to their webs.</p>



<p>To validate this hypothesis, behavioral ecologists Daiqin Li and Shichang Zhang from Hubei University, along with Fu, engaged in field experiments that closely monitored the spiders' behavior and the shifted fireflies’ signals. </p>



<p>The team discovered that male fireflies were more frequently trapped in the spiders' web when the spider was present.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiders-deceptive-strategy-using-firefly-signals">Spiders' deceptive strategy using firefly signals </h2>



<p>After a deep inspection, the researchers found that male fireflies trapped in the spider-infested webs exhibited signals similar to free females.</p>



<p>Strikingly, these males used single-pulse signals from a single lantern, contrary to their normal dual lantern, multi-pulse signals. When these trapped males were alone in the web, they rarely attracted other males.</p>



<p>From the data gathered, it was clear that the male fireflies were not altering their signals as a distress call. Rather, it was the spiders that were manipulating the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-hints-at-a-secret-musical-battle-between-fireflies-and-bats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fireflies' communication</a>.</p>



<p>"Upon detecting the bioluminescent signals of ensnared male fireflies, the spider deploys a specialized prey-handling procedure involving repeated wrap-bite attacks," explained Li.</p>



<p>The researchers believe that this research has opened a window into how predators can use indirect yet dynamic signaling to target a specific category of prey. </p>



<p>They propose that many more examples could exist in nature, where predators use mimicry to manipulate prey behavior. The research continues to explore whether the spider’s venom or its bite influences the changes in the ensnared males’ flashing pattern.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-study">Broader implications of the study </h2>



<p>This newly uncovered deception strategy of the orb-weaving spider highlights the complexity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/danger-zones-climate-change-is-altering-predator-prey-dynamics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator-prey</a> interactions in nature.</p>



<p>Understanding these interactions is crucial for ecological research, as it can provide insights into the adaptive strategies species develop for survival. </p>



<p>Furthermore, the discovery emphasizes the importance of bioluminescence in ecological communication and the potential vulnerabilities it creates for certain species.</p>



<p>For conservationists, this finding emphasizes the intricate balance within ecosystems and the potential impact human activities could have on these delicate dynamics.</p>



<p>Preserving natural habitats is essential to maintain the diversity of interactions that contribute to ecosystem stability. By studying these interactions, conservation efforts can be better informed to protect not just individual species, but the complex web of life.</p>



<p>As researchers continue to uncover more about mimicry and deception in nature, the knowledge gained can drive more effective conservation policies and practices.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(24)00914-X?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS096098222400914X%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a></em>.</p>



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Spiders mimic firefly signals to lure prey

Spiders have long been known for their cunning hunting strategies,...

<p>Cozying up to Earth's inner core, beneath a formidable expanse of soil and rock, lies an enigmatic layer of ancient ocean floor that holds secrets from a time long past.</p>



<p>This hidden layer, formed millions of years ago, is composed of sediment and minerals that tell the story of the Earth’s geological history.</p>



<p>Imagine the pressure and heat it endures, creating a unique environment <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ringwoodite-mineral-confirms-vast-ocean-exists-400-miles-under-earths-crust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">where unusual minerals thrive</a>. Amazed? Well, that's just the tip of the iceberg.</p>



<p>The mysteries of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-inner-core-rotation-has-begun-moving-backwards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our planet’s depths</a> continue to intrigue scientists, hinting at what else might be lurking beneath the surface.</p>



<p>This serendipitous discovery comes courtesy of <a href="https://geo.ua.edu/people/samantha-hansen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Samantha Hansen</a>, a seasoned geophysicist from the <a href="https://www.ua.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Alabama</a> and the lead author of the study that's shining a new light on the underbelly of our world.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-earth-s-interior-structure">Understanding Earth's interior structure</h2>



<p>The Earth's core is a fascinating structure made up of two distinct layers: the outer core and the inner core. Located beneath the Earth's mantle, the outer core is a swirling mass of molten iron and nickel. </p>



<p>This liquid layer is extraordinarily hot, with temperatures soaring between 4,500 and 6,000 degrees Celsius. Have you ever wondered how this intense heat contributes to our planet's magnetic field? </p>



<p>The movement of these molten metals in the outer core generates Earth's magnetic field through a process known as the geodynamo. </p>



<p>This dynamic layer is crucial for shielding our planet from harmful solar radiation, constantly in motion and creating magnetic forces that influence everything from compass directions to the behavior of charged particles in the atmosphere.</p>



<p>Beneath this fiery outer core lies the solid inner core -- a dense sphere of iron and nickel. Interestingly, even though temperatures here can also reach up to 6,000 degrees Celsius, the immense pressure keeps these metals from melting, ensuring the core remains solid. </p>



<p>Spanning approximately 1,220 kilometers in radius -- about the size of the Moon -- this inner core grows slowly as the Earth cools over time. It, too, plays a role in generating Earth’s magnetic field, although scientists are still uncovering the details of its influence.</p>



<p>Together, these two cores form the heart of our planet, driving many processes that sustain life on Earth. As we explore these layers, we can appreciate the complexity and wonder of our planet's inner workings. Isn’t it intriguing to think about how such dynamics impact our daily lives?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-the-long-lost-ocean">Discovering the long-lost ocean</h2>



<p>Imagine the Earth's beefy crust as a colossal jigsaw puzzle of tectonic plates moving, colliding, and sinking into the belly of our planet. </p>



<p>Over the years, some of these submerged plates -- once remnants of the ocean floor -- settled at the core-mantle boundary, forming what scientists have now recognized as an ultra-low velocity zone (ULVZ). </p>



<p>Albeit only tens of kilometers thick, this ULVZ layer is significantly denser than the surrounding mantle.</p>



<p>"As seismic investigators," Dr. Hansen explains, "Our work is like a high-resolution snapshot of the Earth's inner structure, and boy, is it more complex than we ever thought!"</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-core-mantle-boundary">Earth's core-mantle boundary</h2>



<p>The peculiar activity at the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-breaking-hole-drilled-into-earths-mantle-scientific-goldmine-magma-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">core-mantle boundary</a> has baffled scientists for decades. Seismic waves, the audacious trespassers they are, slow to a crawl upon hitting this region. </p>



<p>However, the breadth and intricacy of these zones remained elusive until Dr. Edward Garnero, a geophysicist at <a href="https://www.asu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona State University</a>, and his team analyzed a whopping number of seismic recordings from Antarctica.</p>



<p>This high-definition imaging led to a staggering discovery: gigantic 'mountains' at the core, some towering up to five times the height of Mount Everest. </p>



<p>Mind you, these aren't your garden-variety mountains. They're clusters of ancient oceanic crust compacted and densified over the ages. This dense material slows down passing seismic waves, hence the term 'ultra-low velocity zone.'</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-earth-s-submerged-ocean">Implications of Earth's submerged ocean</h2>



<p>What does this mean for our understanding of the Earth? For starters, it offers a crucial glance into our planet's heat escape mechanisms -- pivotal for <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">operating its magnetic field</a>. </p>



<p>The subducted ocean floors, now forming ULVZs, might be playing a significant role in this heat regulation.</p>



<p>Moreover, these layers could be instrumental in forming mantle plumes or columns of hot rock rising from the core-mantle boundary to the Earth's surface. </p>



<p>Predicting future volcanic activity could become a cakewalk if we understand these plumes' origin and their interaction with subducted material. </p>



<p>Dr. Garnero champions the cause of continued research, stating, "It's incredible how much we can unravel about our Earth by simply listening to the whispers of earthquakes."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-core-is-a-furnace-of-activity">Earth's core is a furnace of activity</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-map-shows-75-percent-of-the-u-s-at-risk-of-damaging-earthquakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seismic imaging advancements</a> equipping scientists to eavesdrop on the Earth's interior deserve a round of applause here.</p>



<p>The seismic waves, born from earthquakes and travelling at varying speeds, offer a wealth of data about our Earth and its innards.</p>



<p>The three-year data haul from Antarctic seismic stations, analyzed using high-resolution imaging techniques, revealed the complex structure of the core-mantle boundary.</p>



<p>Our Earth's core, a marvel of iron and nickel, is home to a solid inner core and a liquid outer core. The scorching 10,800 degrees Fahrenheit <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solid-metal-ball-discovered-within-earths-inner-core/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature at the core</a>, coupled with the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-ice-caps-changing-earths-rotation-need-negative-leap-second/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's rotation</a>, conjures the Earth's magnetic field, our invisible shield against harmful cosmic particles.</p>



<p>Understanding how the core's heat traverses the Earth is integral to decoding geological processes, such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-deep-earth-research">Future of deep Earth research</h2>



<p>This revelation has certainly blown open the doors of deep earth research but we're far from knowing it all. The exact composition of the ULVZs and their rapport with the surrounding mantle is an area that needs further investigation.</p>



<p>As technology makes strides forward, expect to peer even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/theia-ancient-planet-buried-inside-of-earth-may-be-the-origin-of-our-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deeper into the Earth's interior</a>, revealing more breathtaking discoveries. </p>



<p>The undercurrent of interdisciplinary research -- combining geophysics, seismology, and geology -- bolsters the complexity of our planet's structure.</p>



<p>So, as we venture deeper into our planet, brace yourself for more surprises and revelations. The Earth, an ever-changing canvas, continues to astound us. </p>



<p>The ancient ocean floors resting at the core-mantle boundary only serve to remind us of the planet's nuanced and enthralling history.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.add4838" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a></em>.</p>



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Ancient sunken ocean discovered beneath our feet at Earth's core

Cozying up to Earth's inner core, beneath a formidable expanse...

<p>What happens when we try to brew beer in the challenging and unfamiliar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-and-space-share-some-common-physical-laws/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environment of space</a>? The fermentation process that has been perfected on Earth faces new variables in microgravity, raising intriguing questions about the future of brewing beyond our planet.</p>



<p>Beer has been a staple of human culture for thousands of years, playing a significant role in social, religious, and economic contexts across various civilizations.</p>



<p>A recent study by <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Florida</a> (UF) researchers sheds light on how beer yeast might behave when fermented in outer space, revealing insights that could have far-reaching applications not only for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trouble-brewing-for-beer-decline-in-hop-production-causes-beer-shortages-and-bad-taste/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brewing</a> but for a range of fermentation-based industries.</p>



<p>Published in the journal <em>Beverages</em>, this pioneering research is a collaborative effort between UF's Food Science and Human Nutrition Department and the Horticultural Sciences Department, bringing together expertise from multiple fields to explore the possibilities of space fermentation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-outcomes-of-space-fermentation">Potential outcomes of space fermentation</h2>



<p>Fermentation is a critical process in creating various food products like bread, yogurt, and kombucha, as well as biofuels and pharmaceuticals. </p>



<p>The researchers focused on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elusive-ancestor-of-lager-yeast-found-in-ireland/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beer yeast</a> fermentation due to its extensive history and established knowledge base.</p>



<p>"We are absolutely going to be conducting fermentations under microgravity in the future, as we continue space exploration, and there are going to be outcomes that will be very difficult for us to predict," said Andrew MacIntosh, a UF/IFAS associate professor of food science. </p>



<p>"It's essential that we look at what some of those outcomes may be now, so we can decide which processes are going to be the first ones we perform under microgravity, how we adapt them, and how we can take advantage of the changes we see."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-experiment-beer-yeast-in-microgravity">The experiment: Beer yeast in microgravity</h2>



<p>The study, led by undergraduate researcher Pedro Fernandez Mendoza, involved mashing barley grown in Live Oak, Florida, to create wort. This liquid was then <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fermented-foods-combat-depression-and-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fermented</a> using Saccharomyces pastorianus, the yeast species used for brewing lagers.</p>



<p>The researchers divided the wort into six identical samples, three of which were fermented under simulated microgravity using a clinostat.</p>



<p>Contrary to initial concerns, the experts found that microgravity did not reduce yeast cell viability. Instead, the fermentation rate increased, likely due to the constant suspension of yeast cells that maximized nutrient availability.</p>



<p>However, yeast exposed to microgravity produced fewer esters - compounds responsible for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/belgian-microbiologists-improve-the-flavor-of-beer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beer flavors</a> - suggesting potential for a higher-quality product.</p>



<p>The reduction in ester production may be linked to lower expression of a yeast gene regulating this process.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-first-step-in-space-fermentation-research">The first step in space fermentation research</h2>



<p>"This study is definitely the first piece in the puzzle, and I'm excited to do more," MacIntosh said, emphasizing that this research marks the beginning of exploring how microgravity could enhance everyday products.</p>



<p>The practice of brewing beer dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of beer production found in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China. </p>



<p>Throughout history, beer has not only served as a beverage but also as a staple food source and a means of preserving grains. The evolution of brewing techniques has led to the vast array of beer styles we enjoy today.</p>



<p>As humanity looks toward space exploration and the potential for off-Earth colonies, understanding how traditional processes like fermentation will adapt to new environments becomes increasingly important. </p>



<p>This study’s focus on beer yeast offers a unique glimpse into how age-old traditions might evolve in the future.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-fermentation-beyond-beer">Space fermentation beyond beer</h2>



<p>While the study focuses on beer yeast, the findings could have broader implications for other fermentation-based industries. For example, pharmaceuticals and biofuels rely on similar fermentation processes.</p>



<p>Understanding how microgravity affects fermentation could lead to new methods of producing essential medicines or alternative energy sources in space. </p>



<p>Additionally, as space tourism and potential colonization efforts progress, the ability to produce familiar products like beer and fermented foods could play a crucial role in maintaining morale and quality of life for those living beyond Earth. </p>



<p>The research conducted by UF not only advances our understanding of beer fermentation in space but also opens the door to future innovations in a variety of industries.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2306-5710/10/2/47" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Beverages</a></em>.</p>



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



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Brewing beer in space: The future of fermentation

What happens when we try to brew beer in the...

<p>A team over at the European Space Agency (ESA) are on a mission to Jupiter with their spacecraft 'Juice'. </p>



<p>Juice will pass by Earth at 5:57 p.m. ET on August 20. The European Space Agency will provide animated tracking of the spacecraft, <a href="https://juicept.esac.esa.int/where/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">accessible here</a>.</p>



<p>For enthusiasts in Southeast Asia equipped with binoculars or telescopes, there may be a unique opportunity to observe Juice as it traverses the sky directly overhead.</p>



<p>Yet, curious minds have been scratching their heads wondering why it's taking so long? Shouldn’t we be there by now? </p>



<p>And why is Juice returning back home and flying past Earth again today after launching on April 14, 2023... over 16 months ago?</p>



<p>As per the flight dynamics experts at ESA’s Mission Control, it’s a tad more convoluted than hopping on a straight flight from New York to London. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-juice-flies-by-earth-en-route-to-jupiter">Juice flies by Earth en route to Jupiter</h2>



<p>This marks a significant milestone in space exploration -- a double world first. We are witnessing the inaugural lunar-Earth flyby and the first-ever double gravity assist maneuver.</p>



<p>This daring feat will adjust Juice’s speed and trajectory as it navigates through space; however, precision is critical. Even the slightest miscalculation could divert Juice from its intended path, jeopardizing the mission's success.</p>



<p>Following Juice’s launch in April 2023, this flyby represents the initial step in the spacecraft's intricate journey through the Solar System, ultimately aiming for Jupiter.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Juice-spacecraft_moon-flyby_ESA_082024_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Juice-spacecraft_moon-flyby_ESA_082024_1s.webp" alt="Juice spacecraft snaps a photo as it zooms past Earth and the moon on August 20, 2024. Credit: ESA" class="wp-image-1942160"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Juice spacecraft snaps a photo as it zooms past Earth and the moon on August 20, 2024. Credit: ESA</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>During the flyby, Earth's gravitational influence will alter Juice’s course, effectively 'braking' it and setting the stage for a subsequent flyby of Venus in August 2025.</p>



<p>This pivotal moment will initiate a series of energy boosts, as Juice harnesses momentum from Venus and then twice from Earth -- analogous to consuming three consecutive espressos in the realm of space exploration.</p>



<p>How does this complex maneuvering contribute to our understanding of celestial bodies, and what implications does it hold for future missions?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-can-t-juice-travel-straight-to-jupiter">Why can't Juice travel straight to Jupiter?</h2>



<p>When Juice launched from Earth, the spacecraft was travelling at a speed of about 30 km/s, just like our planet does around the Sun. </p>



<p>Simply put, it’s already got quite a bit of ‘orbital energy’. But, if we decide to take a straight flight path from Earth to Jupiter, it would require a big rocket and a lot of fuel. </p>



<p>Then, we’d need even more fuel to slow down and enter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-jupiter-exoplanet-eps-ind-ab-directly-imaged-webb-near-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter</a>'s orbit, rather than zipping past it.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=1942078&amp;action=edit#:~:text=https%3A//cff2.earth.com/uploads/2024/08/20083204/Juice_journey%2Dto%2Djupiter_infographic_ESA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Juice_journey-to-jupiter_infographic_ESA_1s.webp" alt="ESA’s Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (Juice) will return to Earth on August 19-20, 2024, with flight controllers guiding the spacecraft first past the Moon and then past Earth itself. This ‘braking’ manoeuvre will take Juice on a shortcut to Jupiter via Venus. Credit: ESA" class="wp-image-1942113"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>ESA’s Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (Juice) will return to Earth on August 19-20, 2024, with flight controllers guiding the spacecraft first past the Moon and then past Earth itself. This ‘braking’ manoeuvre will take Juice on a shortcut to Jupiter via Venus. Credit: ESA</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>Did you know that astronomical distances between planets aren’t fixed? For instance, the shortest distance between Earth and Jupiter (when both are on the same side of the Sun) is close to 600 million kilometers. But as they move in their separate orbits, this distance changes constantly.</p>



<p>So, engineers have to calculate the launch time based on where Jupiter will be when the spacecraft arrives. It’s a bit like passing a baton in a relay race, where both the giver and the receiver are in motion.</p>



<p>To stay in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-life-on-europa-co2-discovery-by-webb-increases-the-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter</a>'s orbit and study the gas giant up-close, a spacecraft needs to decelerate. This slowdown maneuver requires a lot of fuel. So, what do we do when we want to save up on fuel? We take the most suitable route.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-juice-jupiter-and-rockets">Juice, Jupiter, and rockets</h2>



<p>The ESA’s Juice weighs just over 6000 kg, it’s one of the heaviest interplanetary probes ever launched, packed with a suite of scientific instruments to study Jupiter. </p>



<p>So, a massive rocket like Ariane 5 is needed to launch it, but even that isn’t enough to send Juice straight to Jupiter in a couple of years.</p>



<p>To further optimize the journey, flights to outer planets use gravity-assist maneuvers, essentially using the gravity of one celestial body to get a boost in speed. Think of it as using a trampoline to perform an impressive jump that you couldn't do otherwise.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-juice-stealing-orbital-energy">Juice stealing orbital energy </h2>



<p>Here's some Physics 101. To get into orbit around another planet, you need to match its orbital energy. So, Juice, the spacecraft, needs to increase its orbital energy to reach Jupiter. And how does it do that? By stealing it from Earth, Venus, and Mars!</p>



<p>Once Juice reaches Jupiter in July 2031, the real challenge begins. To get a closer look at the Jovian moons, Juice will perform an extraordinary 35 flybys of the Galilean moons - Europa, Ganymede, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-moons-are-warming-each-other-up/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Callisto</a>. But all that space acrobatics requires precision. A wrong move and you could be lost in space!</p>



<p>The most crucial maneuver will be slowing Juice down by about 1 km/s just 13 hours after a Ganymede gravity assist, before it enters the Jupiter system.</p>



<p>This maneuver is a delicate dance of speed, angle, timing, direction, and the size of the maneuver. Blow any of these, and Juice can find itself off track, forcing it to expend fuel to correct its course.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-final-countdown-to-exploration">Final countdown to exploration</h2>



<p>As we inch closer to Juice's arrival at Jupiter, excitement builds within the scientific community. This mission not only aims to unveil the mysteries of the gas giant but also seeks to understand the intriguing dynamics of its moons, particularly the potential habitability of Europa. </p>



<p>The intricate algorithms and models designed by the ESA ensure that every maneuver is executed with pinpoint accuracy, paving the way for discoveries that could shape our understanding of the solar system and beyond.</p>



<p>Each successful phase of this journey brings us nearer to unraveling the enigmatic secrets that Jupiter holds.</p>



<p>So, are we ready to find out what secrets lie beneath the frozen oceans of Ganymede, Callisto or Europa? Through the marvel of flight dynamics, by trading energy with the Universe, we will find out... in time.</p>



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



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Juice spacecraft is zooming by Earth and the moon today on its way to Jupiter

A team over at the European Space Agency (ESA) are...

<p>Every so often in the world of scientific discovery, a finding like the DdrC protein emerges with the potential to revolutionize various fields of life.</p>



<p>Researchers at <a href="https://www.uwo.ca/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Western University</a> have identified this remarkable molecule, which could ultimately form the basis for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spider-silk-can-help-human-cells-kill-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer vaccines</a> and climate-resilient crops.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-resilient-dna-defense-trooper">The resilient DNA defense trooper</h2>



<p>The experts at Western University discovered the DNA Damage Repair Protein C (DdrC) in the bacterium <em>Deinococcus radiodurans</em>.</p>



<p>This particular bacterium has the incredible ability to survive conditions that would normally be catastrophic to DNA, thriving even under 5,000 to 10,000 times the radiation that would wipe out an ordinary human cell.</p>



<p>Lead researcher Robert Szabla, a graduate student in Western's Department of Biochemistry, noted that <em>Deinococcus</em> also excels in repairing DNA that has already been damaged. The study has now revealed that DdrC is a crucial player in this repair process.</p>



<p>"It's as if you had a player in the NFL who plays every game without a helmet or pads. He'd end up with a concussion and multiple broken bones every single game, but then miraculously make a full recovery overnight in time for practice the next day," said Szabla.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-remarkable-capabilities-of-the-ddrc-protein">The remarkable capabilities of the DdrC protein </h2>



<p>Every cell in the body is equipped with a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-the-immortal-jellyfish-teach-us-how-to-reverse-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA repair</a> mechanism to rectify damage. "With a human cell, if there are any more than two breaks in the entire billion base pair genome, it can't fix itself and it dies," said Szabla. "But in the case of DdrC, this unique protein helps the cell to repair hundreds of broken DNA fragments into a coherent genome."</p>



<p>The team further analyzed the structure of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chaotic-protein-that-fuels-75-of-cancers-can-be-controlled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protein</a> using the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the University of Saskatchewan. This process helped them comprehend the protein’s "superpower" to counteract DNA damage.</p>



<p>"The Canadian Light Source was instrumental in that," said Szabla. "It's the most powerful X-ray source in Canada."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scanning-for-dna-damage">Scanning for DNA damage</h2>



<p>The function of DdrC is likened to a mousetrap, scanning for breaks in the DNA and snapping shut when one is detected. </p>



<p>This, according to Szabla, has two key functions: "It neutralizes it (the DNA damage) and prevents the break from getting damaged further. And it acts like a little molecular beacon. It tells the cell 'Hey, over here. There's damage. Come fix it.'"</p>



<p>Unlike most proteins, DdrC operates as a lone ranger, needing no other proteins to carry out its powerful function. </p>



<p>The researchers were curious whether this protein might serve as an add-on for other DNA repair systems. To test this, they introduced DdrC to E.<em> </em>coli, and surprisingly, it made the bacterium over 40 times more resistant to UV radiation damage.</p>



<p>"This seems to be a rare example where you have one protein and it really is like a standalone machine," noted Szabla.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-boundless-potential-of-the-ddrc-protein">The boundless potential of the DdrC protein</h2>



<p>In theory, the DdrC gene can be inserted into any organism, boosting the DNA repair efficiency of that organism's cells. </p>



<p>"The ability to rearrange and edit and manipulate DNA in specific ways is the holy grail in biotechnology," said Szabla. </p>



<p>"What if you had a scanning system such as DdrC patrolling your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-cells-could-be-used-to-slow-down-or-even-reverse-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cells</a> and neutralizing damage when it happened? This might form the basis of a potential cancer vaccine."</p>



<p>According to Szabla, further exploration of DdrC and <em>Deinococcus</em> is needed "DdrC is just one of hundreds of potentially useful proteins in this bacterium," he noted.</p>



<p>"The next step is to prod further, look at what else this cell uses to fix its own genome - because we're sure to find many more tools where we have no idea how they work or how they're going to be useful until we look."</p>



<p>The experts at Western University are just beginning to unravel the mysteries and potential of <em>Deinococcus</em> and its unique protein, DdrC.</p>



<p>Their pioneering work has opened up new possibilities in DNA research, heralding an era of advancements that may reshape our world for the better.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://academic.oup.com/nar/advance-article/doi/10.1093/nar/gkae635/7717837?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nucleic Acids Research</a></em>.</p>



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<p></p>

Protein that halts DNA damage may lead to cancer vaccines

Every so often in the world of scientific discovery, a...

<p>For a long time, scientists have relied on a straightforward model to understand planetary composition: Earth has an iron core, a mantle made of silicate bedrock, and water on its surface. This model has also been commonly applied when studying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-identified-85-new-exoplanets-that-could-harbor-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanets</a> - planets that orbit stars outside of our solar system.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, recent research has begun to show that planets are more complex than this model suggests, particularly those located close to their stars. These exoplanets are often extremely hot, featuring oceans of molten magma rather than solid silicate mantles like Earth’s.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In such molten conditions, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-other-planets-collected-first-water-from-unexpected-source-planetesimals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water</a> can dissolve much more easily compared to gases like carbon dioxide, which tend to escape into the atmosphere.</p>



<p>“It is only in recent years that we have begun to realize that planets are more complex than we had thought,” said Caroline Dorn, an astronomer at <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-water-distribution-in-distant-planets">Exploring water distribution in distant planets</h2>



<p>Dorn, along with Haiyang Luo and Jie Deng from <a href="https://www.princeton.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princeton University</a>, has been investigating how water is distributed within these molten exoplanets, focusing on its interaction with their iron cores.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research, recently published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41550-024-02347-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Astronomy</em></a>, used model calculations based on fundamental physical laws to explore these processes.</p>



<p>“The iron <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-inner-core-rotation-is-slowing-down-making/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">core</a> takes time to develop. A large share of the iron is initially contained in the hot magma soup in the form of droplets,” Dorn explained. As these iron droplets descend to form the planet's core, they bring water with them. “The iron droplets behave like a lift that is conveyed downwards by the water,” she added.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-large-planets-have-more-water-in-their-core">Large planets have more water in their core</h2>



<p>Previously, this behavior had only been observed under the moderate pressures found inside Earth. However, this new study shows that in larger planets with higher internal pressures, the phenomenon is even more pronounced.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The larger the planet and the greater its mass, the more the water tends to go with the iron droplets and become integrated in the core,” noted Dorn. In such conditions, the iron can absorb up to 70 times more water than silicates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Due to the immense pressure at the core, the water doesn't remain as H2O molecules but instead breaks down into hydrogen and oxygen.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-may-have-80-more-oceans-worth-of-water">Earth may have 80 more oceans’ worth of water</h2>



<p>The study was partly inspired by earlier research on Earth’s own water content, which produced a surprising discovery four years ago: the water in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-oceans-blue-green/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth’s oceans</a> represents only a small fraction of the planet’s total water.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Simulations suggested that the equivalent of more than 80 Earth oceans could be stored within the planet’s interior. This idea aligns with seismological measurements and experimental data, providing a new understanding of how water is stored within planets.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planets-are-more-water-abundant-than-expected">Planets are more water-abundant than expected</h2>



<p>These new findings have significant implications for how astronomers interpret data from exoplanets. When astronomers measure an exoplanet’s mass and size using telescopes, they often create mass-radius diagrams to infer the planet’s composition.&nbsp;</p>



<p>If the distribution and solubility of water aren’t accounted for, the amount of water present can be underestimated by as much as tenfold. “Planets are much more water-abundant than previously assumed,” Dorn said.</p>



<p>The distribution of water within a planet is crucial for understanding its formation and evolution. Water that has sunk into a planet’s core remains trapped there permanently.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, water that is dissolved in the molten mantle can rise to the surface as the planet cools. “So if we find water in a planet’s atmosphere, there is probably a great deal more in its interior,” she added.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-molecules-in-the-atmosphere-of-exoplanets">Molecules in the atmosphere of exoplanets </h2>



<p>The James Webb Space Telescope, which has been operational for two years, is helping scientists explore these mysteries by detecting molecules in the atmospheres of exoplanets.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Dorn’s research group is particularly interested in connecting the data on atmospheric composition with the internal structures of these distant planets.</p>



<p>Among the exoplanets of interest is TOI-270d, where evidence suggests interactions between the planet’s internal magma ocean and its atmosphere.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Evidence has been collected there of the actual existence of such interactions between the magma ocean in its interior and the atmosphere,” Dorn said. Another planet of interest is K2-18b, which has gained attention due to the potential for life to exist there.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitability-of-water-rich-super-earths-nbsp">Habitability of water-rich “Super-Earths”&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Water is considered essential for life, and there has been much speculation about the habitability of water-rich “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-earth-discovered-in-the-habitable-zone-of-its-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super-Earths</a>” - planets larger than the Earth and potentially covered by deep, global oceans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Some previous studies suggested that an excess of water could be detrimental to life because a thick layer of high-pressure ice could form, preventing the exchange of essential nutrients between the ocean and the planet’s mantle.</p>



<p>However, Dorn’s new research challenges this view. The study suggests that planets with extensive surface water layers may actually be rare.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Instead, much of the water on these Super-Earths is likely trapped within the planet’s core, not on the surface as previously thought.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This leads the scientists to conclude that even planets with a high water content might still have Earth-like conditions that could support life.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, Dani Player (STScI)</p>



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Planets are hiding much more water than we thought

For a long time, scientists have relied on a straightforward...

<p>Participants in a self-directed dietary education program who experienced the most success in weight loss over a 25-month period were those who consumed higher amounts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-too-much-protein-greatly-increases-heart-disease-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protein</a> and fiber, according to a recent study. </p>



<p>Personalization and flexibility were also crucial factors that helped these dieters stick to their plans over time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effective-weight-loss-plans">Effective weight loss plans</h2>



<p>At the one-year mark, 41% of the participants who were considered successful had lost an average of 12.9% of their body weight, while the rest of the study group lost just over 2% of their starting weight, as reported in a paper published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/osp4.764" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Obesity Science and Practice</em></a>.</p>



<p>The participants were involved in the Individualized Diet Improvement Program (iDip), which uses data visualization tools and intensive dietary education to enhance dieters’ understanding of key nutrients.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This knowledge enables them to create personalized, safe, and effective weight-loss plans, explained Manabu T. Nakamura, a professor of nutrition at the <a href="https://illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a> and the study's lead researcher.</p>



<p>“Flexibility and personalization are key in creating programs that optimize dieters’ success at losing weight and keeping it off,” Nakamura said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Sustainable dietary change, which varies from person to person, must be achieved to maintain a healthy weight. The iDip approach allows participants to experiment with various dietary iterations, and the knowledge and skills they develop while losing weight serve as the foundation for sustainable maintenance.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protein-fiber-and-weight-loss-nbsp">Protein, fiber, and weight loss<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The iDip program is built on three main pillars: increasing protein and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-diet-rich-in-fiber-and-protein-can-help-overweight-dogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fiber</a> intake while limiting daily calorie consumption to 1,500 calories or less.</p>



<p>To assist participants, the iDip team developed a unique two-dimensional quantitative data visualization tool based on dietary guidelines from the Institutes of Medicine. This tool plots the protein and fiber densities of foods per calorie and provides target ranges for each meal.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Starting with foods they were already familiar with, participants tailored their diet plans, aiming to consume about 80 grams of protein and 20 grams of fiber each day.</p>



<p>The researchers tracked participants' eating habits and weight using Wi-Fi-enabled scales, finding a strong inverse correlation between the percentages of protein and fiber consumed and the amount of weight lost.</p>



<p>“The research strongly suggests that increasing protein and fiber intake while simultaneously reducing calories is required to optimize the safety and efficacy of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/getting-more-sleep-can-boost-weight-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight loss</a> diets,” said Mindy H. Lee, the study's first author and a then-graduate student at the University of Illinois, who also served as a registered dietitian-nutritionist for the iDip program.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-muscle-and-bone-loss">Preventing muscle and bone loss</h2>



<p>Nakamura emphasized the importance of preserving lean body mass during weight loss, particularly when using weight-loss medications.</p>



<p>“Recently, the popularity of injectable weight loss medications has been increasing,” he said. “However, using these medications when food intake is strongly limited will cause serious side effects of muscle and bone loss unless protein intake is increased during weight loss.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-health-and-weight-loss">Mental health and weight loss</h2>



<p>The study involved 22 participants - nine men and 13 women - most of whom were between the ages of 30 and 64. These individuals had made two or more previous attempts to lose weight and reported various comorbidities: 54% had high cholesterol, 50% had skeletal issues, and 36% had hypertension and/or sleep apnea. Some participants were also diagnosed with diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, cancer, and depression.</p>



<p>One notable finding was that the seven participants who reported a diagnosis of depression lost significantly less weight - about 2.4% of their starting weight - compared to those without depression, who lost 8.39% of their initial weight.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Weight loss did not differ significantly among participants with other comorbidities or between different age groups, nor did it vary significantly between men and women.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weight-loss-through-fat-reduction">Weight loss through fat reduction</h2>



<p>Body composition analysis revealed that participants maintained their lean body mass, losing an average of 7.1 kilograms of fat mass with minimal muscle loss at the six-month mark. Among those who lost more than 5% of their starting weight, 78% of the weight loss was attributed to fat reduction.</p>



<p>Overall, participants reduced their fat mass from an average of 42.6 kilograms at the beginning of the program to 35.7 kilograms at the 15-month mark. They also saw a reduction in waist circumference by about 7 centimeters at six months and by a total of 9 centimeters at 15 months.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-dietary-changes">Sustainable dietary changes</h2>



<p>Tracking dieters’ protein and fiber intake further underscored the strong correlation between these nutrients and weight loss at both three and twelve months.</p>



<p>“The strong correlation suggests that participants who were able to develop sustainable dietary changes within the first three months kept losing weight in the subsequent months, whereas those who had difficulty implementing sustainable dietary patterns early on rarely succeeded in changing their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-healthy-diet-can-reduce-brain-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a> in the later months,” Nakamura said.</p>



<p>The researchers hypothesized that this correlation might also be linked to the early weight loss success experienced by some dieters, which could have enhanced their motivation and adherence to their program.</p>



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



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

Want to lose weight? Try eating more protein and fiber

Participants in a self-directed dietary education program who experienced the...

Water,Pollution,And,Global,Warming,Concept,,Microplastics,In,Food,And

<p>An invisible enemy is gradually threatening the health of our water, our planet, and all of its residents -- one that many of us may not even be aware of: nanoplastics.</p>



<p>Far tinier than an average human hair, these minuscule plastics are far too small for the naked eye to detect. </p>



<p>Alarmingly, they have been linked to various cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and are accumulating steadily in our water sources.</p>



<p>Here lies the crux of the fight against nanoplastics. A cost-effective, efficient solution is needed to remove these almost invisible particles from water while leaving it clean.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-removing-nanoplastics-from-water">Removing nanoplastics from water</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://missouri.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Missouri</a>, recognized as Mizzou, is making significant strides in this battle. A team of researchers there recently developed a liquid-based solution with unprecedented efficiency. </p>



<p>This innovative method eliminates more than 98% of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-in-oceans-often-go-undetected-due-to-their-tiny-size/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiny plastic</a> particles, offering promising new possibilities for water purification.</p>



<p>One of the team members, Piyuni Ishtaweera, said, "Nanoplastics can disrupt <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-pollution-found-in-every-aquatic-species-tested/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aquatic ecosystems</a> and enter the food chain, posing risks to both wildlife and humans. In layman's terms, we're developing better ways to remove contaminants such as nanoplastics from water."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wonder-of-the-liquid-solution">Wonder of the liquid solution</h2>



<p>Unlike conventional methods, this new approach uses water-repelling solvents made from natural ingredients. </p>



<p>These solvents designed by the scientists themselves, act like plastic magnets, absorbing the nanoplastics from a significant volume of water.</p>



<p>Initially, the solvent sits on the water's surface the way oil floats on water. Once the solvent is mixed with the water and then separated again, it floats back to the surface, but now carrying the nanoplastics within its molecular structure.</p>



<p>In the laboratory, the execution is straightforward: the nanoplastic-laden solvent is simply removed using a pipette, leaving behind clean, plastic-free water.</p>



<p>"We aim to determine the maximum capacity of the solvent," said Gary Baker, an associate professor in Mizzou's Department of Chemistry and the study's corresponding author. "Additionally, we will explore methods to recycle the solvents, enabling their reuse multiple times if necessary."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nanoplastics-and-water-contamination">Nanoplastics and water contamination</h2>



<p>Notably, this new method works with both fresh and saltwater, showing its universal applicability.</p>



<p>Moreover, because these solvents are manufactured from safe, non-toxic components that repel water, they prevent further <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-drinking-water-often-contains-unsafe-levels-of-toxic-contaminants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contamination of water</a> sources.</p>



<p>The capability to deal with diverse water sources reflects the high sustainability of this solution. </p>



<p>"From a scientific perspective, creating effective removal methods fosters innovation in filtration technologies, provides insights into nanomaterial behavior, and supports the development of informed environmental policies," said Ishtaweera.</p>



<p>Their results tower over those of previous studies. The Mizzou team tested five different sizes of polystyrene-based nanoplastics, a common type of plastic used in the production of Styrofoam cups.</p>



<p>This contrasts with earlier work that only focused on a single size of plastic particles.</p>



<p>With this breakthrough, the researchers at the University of Missouri are on the vanguard of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-develop-an-eco-friendly-material-to-purify-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water purification</a> technology, heralding a more hopeful future in the fight against nanoplastic water contamination.</p>



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



<p>As the urgency surrounding environmental issues continues to mount, the implications of Mizzou's breakthrough extend far beyond the laboratory. </p>



<p>The innovative solvent technology not only heightens the effectiveness of water purification but also paves the way for a new wave of research and development within the field of nanomaterial assessment and contamination mitigation. </p>



<p>With growing awareness of the pervasive nature of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-contaminate-all-lakes-and-freshwater-environments-around-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastics in our ecosystems</a>, this method serves as a model for future innovations in environmental technology.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the potential for scalability cannot be overlooked. To effectively combat <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-water-resources-are-becoming-increasingly-polluted/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water pollution at a global level</a>, mechanisms for deploying this solvent-based technology in various settings -- from municipal water treatment facilities to remote communities -- must be explored.</p>



<p>Engaging policymakers and stakeholders early in the development process will be crucial to ensure that these findings are translated into practical applications that can benefit diverse populations. </p>



<p>Thus, as researchers continue to refine their methods and explore avenues for wider implementation, the hope for cleaner water, free from the threats posed by nanoplastics, grows stronger.</p>



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



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

New solution removes over 98% of nanoplastics from water

An invisible enemy is gradually threatening the health of our...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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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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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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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

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.</p>



<p>“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. </p>



<p>The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.</p>



<p>“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”</p>



<p>The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois</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>

Designing crops that can beat the heat

[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Carl...

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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> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?</p>



<p>One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: ACS Reactions</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>

How does salt makes things taste better?

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