<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>A major international study has unveiled new insights into how bread <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wheat-prices-will-spike-as-climate-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wheat</a> played a pivotal role in transforming the ancient world, ultimately becoming the iconic crop that sustains a global population of eight billion today.</p>



<p>“Our findings shed new light on an iconic event in our civilization that created a new kind of agriculture and allowed humans to settle down and form societies,” said Brande Wulff, a wheat researcher at <a href="https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King Abdullah University of Science and Technology</a> (KAUST) and one of the lead authors of the study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-global-collaboration-nbsp">Importance of global collaboration<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Study co-author Cristobal Uauy, a group leader at the <a href="https://www.jic.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">John Innes Center</a>, said this work exemplifies the importance of global collaboration and sharing of data and seeds across countries. </p>



<p>“We can achieve so much by combining resources and expertise across institutes and across international boundaries,” said Uauy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secret-of-bread-wheat-s-success-nbsp">Secret of bread wheat’s success<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The research, conducted by the <a href="https://openwildwheat.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Open Wild Wheat Consortium</a> (OWWC), points to the genetic diversity of a wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/growing-perennial-grasses-could-help-curb-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grass</a> called <em>Aegilops tauschii</em> as the secret to bread wheat’s success. </p>



<p>Bread wheat is a hybrid of three wild grasses, containing three genomes (A, B, and D) within a single complex plant. <em>Aegilops tauschii</em>, an otherwise unremarkable weed, provided bread wheat with its D-genome when it hybridized with early cultivated pasta wheat in the Fertile Crescent between eight and eleven thousand years ago.</p>



<p>This chance hybridization near the southern Caspian Sea sparked an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bionic-leaf-agricultural-revolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bionic-leaf-agricultural-revolution/"> revolution</a>. The cultivation of bread wheat quickly spread across diverse climates and soils, as farmers eagerly adopted this dynamic new crop, known for its high gluten content that produces a more elastic and airy dough ideal for breadmaking.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-spread-of-bread-wheat-nbsp">Rapid spread of bread wheat<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The rapid spread of bread wheat across such a wide geographical range has long puzzled researchers. </p>



<p>Bread wheat does not exist in the wild, and the hybridization event that introduced the D genome into the plant’s existing A and B genomes created a genetic bottleneck, significantly reducing the new species' genetic diversity compared to the surrounding wild grasses. </p>



<p>Furthermore, wheat is an inbreeding species, meaning it self-pollinates, which would typically suggest that bread wheat might struggle to thrive outside its original Fertile Crescent environment. So how did it become so widely cultivated and globally dominant?</p>



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



<p>To solve this mystery, the international research team assembled a diversity panel of 493 unique accessions spanning the geographical range of <em>Aegilops tauschii</em>, from northwestern Turkey to eastern China.&nbsp;</p>



<p>From this panel, the researchers selected 46 accessions that reflected the species' traits and genetic diversity to create a Pangenome - a comprehensive genetic map - of <em>Aegilops tauschii</em>.</p>



<p>Using this Pangenome, they scanned 80,000 bread wheat landraces - locally adapted varieties - held by the <a href="https://www.cimmyt.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center</a> (CIMMYT) and collected from around the world. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-variability-of-wheat-bread">Genetic variability of wheat bread</h2>



<p>The data revealed that approximately 75% of the bread wheat D-genome is derived from a lineage (L2) of <em>Aegilops tauschii</em> that originates from the southern Caspian Sea. The remaining 25% of the D-genome comes from lineages across the species' range.</p>



<p>Simon Krattinger, co-lead author of the study, noted that this 25% influx of genetic material from other lineages of tauschii has contributed to and defined the success of bread wheat.</p>



<p>“Without the genetic variability that this diversity brings, we would most likely not eat bread on the scale we do today. Otherwise, bread wheat today would be a regional crop - important to the Middle East - but I doubt that it would have become globally dominant without this plasticity that enabled bread wheat to adapt,” said Krattinger.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distinct-lineage-of-aegilops-tauschii">Distinct lineage of <em>Aegilops tauschii</em></h2>



<p>A previous study by the OWWC had revealed the existence of a distinct lineage of <em>Aegilops tauschii</em>, known as L3, which is geographically restricted to present-day Georgia in the Caucasus region - about 500 kilometers from the Fertile Crescent. This L3 lineage is significant because it has contributed the best-known gene for dough quality to bread wheat.</p>



<p>In this study, the researchers hypothesized that if this gene was introduced to bread wheat in a manner similar to how Neanderthal DNA was integrated into the human genome, they would find landraces in the CIMMYT collections with a higher proportion of this L3 lineage.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Indeed, their data showed that wheat landraces collected from the Georgian region contained 7% L3 introgressions in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genome-sequence-wheat-crops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genomes</a> - seven times more than the bread wheat landraces collected from the Fertile Crescent.</p>



<p>“We used the L3 tauschii accessions as a guinea pig to track and trace the hybridizations using 80,000 bread wheat landraces,” Krattinger said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The data beautifully supports a picture where bread wheat emerges in the southern Caspian, then with migration and agricultural expansion it reached Georgia, where gene flow and hybridizations with the peculiar, genetically distinct and geographically restricted L3 accessions resulted in the influx of new genetic material.”</p>



<p>“This is one of the novel aspects of our study, and it confirms that using our new resources, we can trace the dynamics of these introgressions in bread wheat.”</p>



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



<p>Beyond solving this age-old biological mystery, the new <em>Aegilops tauschii</em> open-source Pangenome and germplasm made available by the OWWC are already being used by researchers and breeders worldwide.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The data will help experts discover new disease resistance genes that will protect wheat crops against long-standing agricultural threats like wheat rust. Researchers are also mining this wild grass species for climate-resilient genes that can be bred into elite wheat cultivars.</p>



<p>At the John Innes Center, researchers worked closely with colleagues from KAUST, employing bioinformatic approaches to track the levels of DNA contributed to bread wheat by the L3 lineage of <em>Aegilops tauschii</em>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The study highlights the importance of maintaining genetic resources such as the BBSRC-funded Germplasm Resources Unit here at the John Innes Center, which maintains historic collections of wild grasses that can be used to breed valuable traits such as disease resistance and pest resistance into modern wheat,” Uauy concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07808-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a>.</p>



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How bread and wheat gave rise to a civilization of 8 billion people

A major international study has unveiled new insights into how...

<p>Astronomers from the <a href="https://www.helsinki.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Helsinki</a> have recently discovered that the rotation of a nearby star, V889 Herculis, is markedly different from that of our Sun, offering new insights into fundamental stellar astrophysics. </p>



<p>This finding could help improve our understanding of solar activity, including the formation of sunspots and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-in-space-weather-forecasting-will-help-us-predict-solar-eruptions/">solar eruptions</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-theories-about-star-rotation-nbsp">Challenging theories about star rotation<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Unlike the Sun, which rotates fastest at the equator and slows down towards the poles, V889 Herculis - located about 115 light years away in the constellation of Hercules - exhibits its fastest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-rotation-is-shifting-toward-a-25-hour-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rotation</a> at a latitude of around 40 degrees. </p>



<p>Both the equator and polar regions of this star rotate more slowly. This unexpected rotational pattern has not been observed in any other star and challenges existing theories about stellar rotation, which has long been considered a well-understood physical property.</p>



<p>“We applied a newly developed statistical technique to data from a familiar star that has been studied at the University of Helsinki for years. We did not expect to see such anomalies in stellar rotation,” said Mikko Tuomi, who coordinated the research.</p>



<p>“The anomalies in the rotational profile of V889 Herculis indicate that our understanding of stellar dynamics and magnetic dynamos are insufficient.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-stellar-astrophysics-nbsp">Understanding stellar astrophysics<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>V889 Herculis shares many characteristics with a young Sun, offering clues about the Sun’s history and evolution. Understanding stellar astrophysics is crucial for predicting phenomena like sunspots and solar eruptions on our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/origin-of-the-suns-magnetic-field-discovered-after-400-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sun</a>. </p>



<p>Stars, including V889 Herculis, are spherical plasma structures composed of charged particles. Unlike planets, they lack solid surfaces and are dynamic entities, balancing the pressure from nuclear reactions in their cores against their own gravity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-rotation-patterns-of-stars">Fascinating rotation patterns of stars</h2>



<p>One of the fascinating aspects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> is their differential rotation, meaning that the rotation rate varies depending on the latitude. This effect is caused by the movement of hot plasma to the star's surface through a process called convection. </p>



<p>Convection interacts with the star’s angular momentum, leading to different rotational speeds at different latitudes - faster near the equator and slower near the poles.</p>



<p>However, various factors, including a star’s mass, age, chemical composition, rotation period, and magnetic field, influence these rotational dynamics, leading to variations in differential rotation profiles across different stars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-research-nbsp">Significance of the research<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Thomas Hackman, a docent of astronomy who participated in the research, highlighted the significance of this discovery.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The Sun has been the only star for which studying the rotational profile has been possible,” said Hackman. “Stellar differential rotation is a crucial factor that affects the magnetic activity of stars. The method we have developed opens a new window into the inner workings of other stars.”</p>



<p>The astronomers at the University of Helsinki’s Department of Particle Physics and Astrophysics applied a new statistical modeling technique to long-term brightness observations of nearby young stars.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This method allowed them to model the periodic variations in brightness by accounting for the differences in spot movement across various latitudes. By analyzing this spot movement, they could estimate the rotational profiles of these stars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-insights-from-long-term-data">Valuable insights from long-term data</h2>



<p>The study also examined a second star, LQ Hydrae, located in the constellation of Hydra. Unlike V889 Herculis, LQ Hydrae was found to rotate more like a rigid body, with little variation in rotation speed from the equator to the poles, indicating very small differences in rotational speed across latitudes.</p>



<p>The researchers based their findings on data collected from the <a href="https://www.fairborninstitute.org/astronomy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fairborn Observatory</a>, where the brightness of these stars has been monitored with robotic telescopes for about 30 years. This long-term data provides valuable insights into the behavior of the stars over extended periods.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observing-the-behavior-of-stars-nbsp">Observing the behavior of stars<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Mikko Tuomi expressed appreciation for the contributions of senior astronomer Gregory Henry from the <a href="https://tennessee.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tennessee</a>, who leads the observational campaign at Fairborn Observatory. </p>



<p>“For many years, Greg’s project has been extremely valuable in understanding the behavior of nearby stars. Whether the motivation is to study the rotation and properties of young, active stars or to understand the nature of stars with planets, the observations from Fairborn Observatory have been absolutely crucial,” said Tuomi.</p>



<p>“It is amazing that even in the era of great space-based observatories, we can obtain fundamental information on stellar astrophysics with small 40 cm ground-based telescopes.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-rotation-of-nearby-stars-nbsp">Rapid rotation of nearby stars<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Both V889 Herculis and LQ Hydrae are approximately 50 million years old and share several characteristics with a young Sun. They rotate rapidly, with rotation periods of about one and a half days.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Due to their rapid rotation, the long-term brightness observations contain many rotational cycles, allowing for detailed study. These stars were selected as targets for this study because of the extensive observational data available and because they have been actively studied at the University of Helsinki for many years.</p>



<p>This unexpected discovery of a unique rotational profile in V889 Herculis not only challenges our current understanding of stellar dynamics but also opens new avenues for research into the magnetic activity and evolution of stars.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/0004-6361/202449861" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Astronomy and Astrophysics</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>Image Credit: Jani Närhi, University of Helsinki</p>



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Unusual rotation of a nearby star has never been seen before

Astronomers from the University of Helsinki have recently discovered that...

<p>Here's to all those secret shower singers out there, your unheralded solos are sounding pretty good, according to new research. Chances are you are singing in perfect musical pitch more often than you think.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-replicating-earworms">Replicating earworms</h2>



<p>The study revolves around the concept of "earworms," those nagging bits of songs that get stuck in your head and loop incessantly. </p>



<p>To unravel this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/classical-music-orchestrates-a-mood-lifting-dance-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musical mystery</a>, psychologists from the <a href="https://www.ucsc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Santa Cruz</a> asked people to sing out any earworms they had at random points during the day, record them on their phones, and send the recordings for analysis.</p>



<p>The results were striking. Researchers found that a significant number of participants could replicate the pitch of the original song almost flawlessly. </p>



<p>Specifically, 44.7% of the recordings matched the original pitch perfectly, and 68.9% were within one semitone of the original song.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-musical-and-pitch-memory">Musical and pitch memory</h2>



<p>“This demonstrates that a surprising slice of the population has a kind of automatic, covert 'perfect pitch' capability," says Cognitive Psychology Ph.D. candidate Matt Evans from UC Santa Cruz, who spearheaded the study with support from Professor Nicolas Davidenko and undergraduate research assistant Pablo Gaeta.</p>



<p>However, Evans finds it intriguing that many of those with this accurate pitch memory doubted their own ability. </p>



<p>"They would be much less certain that they were singing in the right key, even though they had the melody right," Evans says. </p>



<p>This uncertainty could be because they lack the labeling ability that comes with the 'perfect pitch.'</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perfect-pitch-in-music">'Perfect pitch' in music</h2>



<p>True 'perfect pitch' refers to the ability to produce or identify a given <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-can-prevent-brain-aging-and-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musical note</a> on the first try, without any reference pitch. </p>



<p>It's a rare skill, with less than 1 in 10,000 people possessing this ability. Renowned musicians like Ludwig van Beethoven, Ella Fitzgerald, and Mariah Carey are among those few.</p>



<p>However, recent trends in scientific research show that pitch memory is much more widespread than previously believed. </p>



<p>One interesting observation is that participants can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-triggers-unique-prediction-zones-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sing a familiar song</a> from memory in the correct key at least 15% of the time, in laboratory conditions. This occurs much more frequently than what randomness would suggest.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recalling-pitch-in-music">Recalling pitch in music</h2>



<p>The researchers chose earworms for their study due to their involuntary nature. The team wanted to test whether pitch memory still holds when one is not consciously recalling the music, and their observations indicated a resounding yes.</p>



<p>"The brain usually captures the essence of long-term memories and takes shortcuts to represent information. One such shortcut could be forgetting the original key of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/live-music-can-synchronize-the-heartbeats-of-the-audience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a>. But our study shows that the brain does not discard this information," Professor Nicolas Davidenko explains. </p>



<p>"It suggests that musical memories are highly accurate representations, defying the typical gist formation common in other areas of long-term memory."</p>



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



<p>The findings from this study offer valuable insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-as-a-pain-reliever-the-power-of-your-playlist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music education</a> and how we might cultivate a better understanding of musical abilities among learners.</p>



<p>Given that a substantial portion of individuals possess an inherent capacity to recall pitch accurately, educators can harness this potential by implementing more engaging and supportive teaching methods. </p>



<p>Rather than discrediting their musical instincts, instructors should encourage students to embrace their auditory memories. </p>



<p>This approach could foster an environment where learners feel confident <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/similar-patterns-music-language-found-across-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exploring their musicality</a>, ultimately leading to richer musical experiences and growth.</p>



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



<p>As research continues to unravel the intricacies of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-causes-similar-emotional-experiences-and-sensations-in-all-cultures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">musical cognition</a>, further exploration is needed to understand the various factors that contribute to pitch memory and earworms.</p>



<p>Future studies could delve into the potential links between earworms and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-gives-rise-to-unique-physical-sensations-in-the-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional states</a>, examining how feelings might enhance or inhibit one's ability to recall melodies accurately.</p>



<p>Additionally, investigating the neural mechanisms at play within the brain during these processes could provide invaluable information that aids in the development of techniques for both music therapy and skill acquisition. </p>



<p>Ultimately, a more profound comprehension of musical memory and its impact on daily life can illuminate just how deeply music is woven into the human experience.</p>



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



<p>As we continue to delve into the mechanisms of musical memory, Evans hopes that these findings will encourage more people to engage in music. </p>



<p>He points out that none of the study participants were musicians or claimed to have a perfect pitch, and yet they had this hidden musical talent.</p>



<p>“Music and singing are uniquely human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/song-melodies-have-become-much-simpler-since-1950/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experiences</a> that many refrain from because they believe they can't, or they've been told they can't,” Evans says. </p>



<p>“But you don’t have to be Beyonce to engage with music. Your brain is doing some of it automatically and accurately, despite that part of you that believes you can't.”</p>



<p>So, next time you get an earworm, don't shy away from singing it out loud. You never know, you might just surprise yourself!</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.3758/s13414-024-02936-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Attention, Perception, &amp; Psychophysics</em></a>.</p>



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



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Most people have a hidden musical talent for singing on pitch

Here's to all those secret shower singers out there, your...

<p>Who would ever think that the cozy corners of your garden could harbor something deadly? Well, it's time to believe it. Researchers have stumbled upon a tenacious, life-threatening fungus taking cover in the soils of our home gardens. </p>



<p>This isn’t any typical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-fungi-diversity-can-be-pulled-out-of-thin-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">garden-variety intruder</a>, so to speak. It is a drug-resistant strain of Aspergillus fumigatus, a type of infectious fungus that packs a lethal punch.</p>



<p>The discovery was made by a team of diligent researchers at the <a href="https://www.uga.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Georgia</a>. In a shocking finding, certain gardening materials were found to contain this lethal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-all-fungi-matter-not-just-mushrooms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">variety of fungus</a>. What's more, it isn’t an isolated occurrence but has been found lurking in garden soils, composts, and even flower bulbs across America.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-fungus-strikes-in-gardens">How the fungus strikes in gardens</h2>



<p>Inhalation of A. fumigatus can introduce it into the lungs, causing an infection known as aspergillosis. This innocent-sounding infection could be a matter of life and death for people with compromised immune systems, including those living with lung disease or on chemotherapy.</p>



<p>Already a troublemaker in Europe, this strain resistant to antifungal treatments has knocked on American doors. </p>



<p>And if the statistics are anything to go by, it’s causing a global rampage with over 300,000 infections each year and a mortality rate fluctuating between a shocking 30 to 90 percent.</p>



<p>For immunocompromised patients, it's often a dead-end with a near 100% fatality rate without treatment or if the infection fights off antifungal drugs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symptoms-of-infection">Symptoms of infection </h2>



<p>This fungal tyrant manifests in frightening ways. Fever, coughing up blood or mucous plugs, and an exacerbation of asthma are among the symptoms. </p>



<p>However, with a strong immune system, it’s usually not a concern. "Our immune cells will gobble them up," said Dr. Michael Mansour, an infectious disease expert at <a href="https://www.massgeneral.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Massachusetts General Hospital</a>.</p>



<p>Researchers from the University of Georgia collected 525 samples from various plant products across American farms. Of these, 24 tested positive for the drug-resistant strain of A. fumigatus. It's a wakeup call, reminding us that what's underfoot is not always harmless.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-riskiest-areas-and-garden-fungus">Riskiest areas and garden fungus</h2>



<p>The study, while not explicitly identifying the specific types of compost that are most likely to harbor the drug-resistant strain of bacteria, did suggest a potential concern regarding imported flower bulbs. </p>



<p>This implication raises important questions about the practices surrounding the importation and cultivation of these bulbs. </p>



<p>Since flower bulbs are often sourced from various regions worldwide, it is crucial to understand how they may introduce or spread these harmful strains into new environments. </p>



<p>By highlighting this risk, the research emphasizes the need for stricter regulations and monitoring of imported agricultural products to safeguard public health and protect local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tipping-point-discovered-in-fungi-evolution-that-impacts-their-shape-and-growth-rate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecosystems</a> from the unintended consequences of introducing drug-resistant pathogens.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-fungus-among-us">The fungus among us</h2>



<p>This resistant strain of A. fumigatus is ubiquitous, particularly in compost and leaf piles where it thrives in the heat produced by decomposition. </p>



<p>It doesn't discriminate, either - it's commonly found in soil and can be easily disturbed and released into the air by gardeners. "It's pretty much everywhere in the environment," stated Marin Talbot Brewer, a professor of mycology and plant pathology.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vulnerable-victims">Vulnerable victims</h2>



<p>This fungal threat is especially risky for those with weakened immune systems, like individuals with chronic lung conditions, organ transplant recipients, and those undergoing chemotherapy. </p>



<p>When someone is vulnerable, aspergillosis can rapidly escalate, spreading from the lungs to other vital organs like the brain, heart, kidneys, or skin. </p>



<p>Unfortunately, this can lead to serious and often tragic outcomes. It's a reminder of how important it is to protect our health and stay informed about potential risks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-garden-fungus-growth">Preventing garden fungus growth</h2>



<p>As always, prevention is the best cure. Dr. Mansour suggests that regular gardeners and anyone participating in renovations involving dampness should wear masks and gloves as a precautionary measure.</p>



<p>The conclusions are clear - our gardens are not as safe as they seem. But with the right cautionary steps (and a little bit of help from science), we can continue to enjoy our love for gardening without fear.</p>



<p>The discovery of drug-resistant A. fumigatus isn't the end of gardening, but it is a call to be wiser, safer, and more aware. After all, knowledge is power, and this newfound knowledge might just save our lives.</p>



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



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Deadly fungus found in garden soils across America

Who would ever think that the cozy corners of your...

<p>New research is unfolding a fascinating story of pretend play in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visual-diets-of-infants-provide-the-building-blocks-of-human-vision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infants and toddlers</a>. It tells a tale of evolution, one that starts from the very first peek-a-boo to the imaginative exploits of being a pretend princess or a pseudo superman.</p>



<p>This captivating account comes courtesy of an extensive study led by Professor Elena Hoicka, a professor of psychology in education the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>. </p>



<p>“Our findings highlight how pretending is a complex, evolving process which begins very early on in life, helping their cognitive and social skills to advance," noted Professor Hoicka.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pretend-play-and-early-development">Pretend play and early development </h2>



<p>Pretending or pretend play, as it’s commonly known, is when children act out <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-need-quick-responses-to-their-babbling-to-learn-language/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">various roles and scenarios</a>. It's a critical aspect of their developmental process, fostering creativity, social skills, and cognitive growth.</p>



<p>This research is based on a comprehensive survey involving 900 parents from the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. The parents shared their observations about their children aged from birth to nearly four years old (47 months).</p>



<p>What is intriguing is that the youngest age when children demonstrated an understanding of pretending was as early as four months. Half of the children at 12 months displayed pretence, and the same proportion were regularly engaging in pretend games themselves.</p>



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



<p>Interestingly, the research identified 18 different types of pretending that emerge and evolve during early years. </p>



<p>“This then moves on to pretending one object is another, for instance, pretending a banana is a phone. This type of pretending really opens up their sense of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infants-show-creativity-skills-even-before-they-can-talk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">creative play</a> as they can now imagine any object they want to play with,” explained Professor Hoicka.</p>



<p>As children turn two, their pretence shows more abstract thought. They start to pretend about actions and scenarios beyond their everyday realm like zooming off in a rocket ship. With improving language skills, these tots start to create complex storylines in their pretend games.</p>



<p>At the age of three, children's creativity clocks the highest level. They start creating wild scenarios, sometimes even interacting with imaginary friends.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-benefits-of-pretend-play-nbsp">Additional benefits of pretend play&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The benefits of pretend play extend beyond cognitive learning. Many forms of pretending involve physical activity, which helps children develop their motor skills, coordination, and spatial awareness</p>



<p>Through pretend play, children explore different emotions and social roles, which helps them understand empathy, cooperation, and conflict resolution. It also allows them to experiment with social interactions in a safe environment, learning how to negotiate, share, and take turns.</p>



<p>Furthermore, pretend play often requires children to follow rules and stay within the boundaries of their imaginary scenarios, helping them develop self-control and the ability to manage their emotions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pretending-as-a-diagnostic-tool">Pretending as a diagnostic tool</h2>



<p>"With further research, the findings have the potential to be used as a diagnostic tool for developmental differences in early years. This could ultimately help parents, early years educators, and medical professionals better understand how to play with children at different stages of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/babies-hear-far-more-speech-at-home-than-music/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development</a>," said Professor Hoicka.</p>



<p>As parents and caregivers, creating a space that encourages pretend play can really boost our children's development. It doesn't take much - simple strategies can help kids go from just watching to actively participating in imaginative play.</p>



<p>Setting up a special play area with open-ended toys like blocks, dolls, costumes, and craft supplies invites children to explore their imaginations. Plus, when adults join in and show how everyday objects can turn into parts of fantastical stories, it sparks even more creativity. </p>



<p>Encouraging kids to play together with friends or siblings not only makes it more fun but also helps them develop social skills and empathy as they take on different roles in their adventures. Ultimately, engaging in pretend play nurtures creativity and builds important cognitive skills, laying a solid foundation for their future learning and relationships.</p>



<p>Imagine a world where a banana doubles as a telephone, and a toddler is your spaceship pilot. This is the world of children, and their teachers are their imagination and curiosity. </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/cognitive-development" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cognitive Development</a></em>.</p>



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



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Pretend play builds the foundation for learning and relationships

New research is unfolding a fascinating story of pretend play...

Mars,Insight,Lander,Mission,To,Study,Deep,Interior,Of,The

<p>Scientists have discovered what they believe to be a large underground <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-largest-lake-once-contained-an-enormous-amount-of-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reservoir</a> of liquid water on Mars. The study was made possible using data from NASA's InSight lander, the first&nbsp;robotic&nbsp;lander&nbsp;designed to study the deep interior of the planet.</p>



<p>The masterminds behind this research are Vashan Wright, a former UC Berkeley postdoctoral fellow who is now an assistant professor at UC San Diego’s <a href="https://scripps.ucsd.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scripps Institution of Oceanography</a>, and colleagues Michael Manga and Matthias Morzfeld.</p>



<p>The significance of the research lies in the compelling prospect of discovering life beyond Earth. Although we have much work ahead, the presence of water on Mars presents exciting new possibilities. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-discovery">Science behind the discovery</h2>



<p>Have you ever felt the Earth tremble beneath you during an earthquake? That shifting and shaking is due to seismic activity, which geophysicists used to probe Mars' interior. </p>



<p>Based on this data, the scientists estimate that the amount of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-curiosity-rover-makes-surprising-find-under-martian-rock-sulfur-crystals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">groundwater could cover the entire planet</a> to a depth of between 1 and 2 kilometers. That's roughly equivalent to a mile.</p>



<p>The catch? This water is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-vanishing-water-mystery-new-insights-curiosity-rover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">not easily accessible</a>. It's located in tiny cracks and pores in rock within the Martian crust, between 11.5 and 20 kilometers below the surface. This makes it a bit of a challenge to reach, much like drilling a hole a kilometer deep on Earth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-water-on-mars">Discovering water on Mars</h2>



<p>What's really exciting about this discovery is that it pinpoints another potential site to look for life on Mars. </p>



<p>Researchers believe that if they can figure out a way to probe this reservoir, it might answer some burning questions about the geological history of Mars and possibly even the existence of life outside our planet.</p>



<p>“Understanding the Martian water cycle is critical for understanding the evolution of the climate, surface,&nbsp;and interior,” noted Wright. “A useful starting point is to identify where water is and how much is there.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potentially-habitable-environment">Potentially habitable environment </h2>



<p>The researchers employed a mathematical model of rock physics, analogous to those utilized on Earth, and found that the seismic data from InSight are most effectively explained by a deep layer of fractured igneous rock containing liquid water. This intriguing finding invites further exploration and discussion.</p>



<p>"Establishing that there is a big reservoir of liquid water provides some window into what the climate was like or could be like," said Manga, a UC Berkeley professor of Earth and planetary science.</p>



<p>"And water is necessary for life as we know it. I don't see why (the underground reservoir) is not a habitable environment. It's certainly true on Earth — deep, deep mines host life, the bottom of the ocean hosts life. We haven't found any evidence for life on Mars, but at least we have identified a place that should, in principle, be able to sustain life."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-dynamics-of-the-martian-interior">Hidden dynamics of the Martian interior</h2>



<p>Advancements in technology have significantly contributed to our understanding of extraterrestrial environments. </p>



<p>NASA's InSight lander, equipped with sensitive seismometers and other cutting-edge instruments, has allowed scientists to gather precise data about Mars' geological structure.</p>



<p>These tools enable researchers to detect minute seismic waves, which are crucial to revealing the hidden dynamics of the Martian interior.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/mars_hidden-water_interior-cutout_mars-Insight_credit-VashanWright_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/mars_hidden-water_interior-cutout_mars-Insight_credit-VashanWright_1s.webp" alt="A cutout of the Martian interior beneath NASA's Insight lander. The top 5 kilometers of the crust appear to be dry, but a new study provides evidence for a zone of fractured rock 11.5-20 km below the surface that is full of liquid water. Credit: Vashan Wright/NASA" class="wp-image-1941610"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>A cutout of the Martian interior beneath NASA's Insight lander. The top 5 kilometers of the crust appear to be dry, but a new study provides evidence for a zone of fractured rock 11.5-20 km below the surface that is full of liquid water. Credit: Vashan Wright/NASA</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>"The mission greatly exceeded my expectations," said Manga. "From looking at all the seismic data that Insight collected, they've figured out the thickness of the crust, the depth of the core, the composition of the core, even a little bit about the temperature within the mantle."</p>



<p>Moreover, as technology continues to evolve, we can anticipate even greater insights into planetary processes, potentially leading to new discoveries that could reshape our understanding of Mars and, by extension, our own planet.</p>



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



<p>The exciting possibility of accessing water beneath Mars has sparked talks about future missions. </p>



<p>Researchers are looking into spacecraft and landers that could drill into the Martian surface to collect water samples. These missions would help us understand Mars' climate history and guide future human exploration. </p>



<p>By studying this water, we may find clues about potential life on Mars and learn more about the importance of water for life in the universe. The scientific community is eagerly anticipating what comes next.</p>



<p>While we're just scratching the surface, these findings provide an crucial direction for future exploration of Mars. </p>



<p>So, the next time you gaze up at the night sky, remember there's a lot more going on out there than meets the eye. What will we discover next? Only time will tell.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2409983121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.</em></p>



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Hidden water found on Mars would cover the planet over one mile deep

Scientists have discovered what they believe to be a large...

<p>In the brushlands of Western Australia, crocodiles are vital to the local culture and ecosystems. But they are also facing a fight for their survival.</p>



<p>A unique collaboration of science and Indigenous knowledge is driving an innovative conservation strategy aimed at saving these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-croc-day-embracing-the-mighty-reptile/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freshwater crocodiles</a> (Crocodylus johnstoni) from a deadly invasive species: the cane toad. </p>



<p>The crocodiles hold cultural significance and are part of the traditional owners’ Dreamtime stories, and their loss would disrupt the delicate balance of local ecosystems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborative-approach-to-protecting-crocodiles">Collaborative approach to protecting crocodiles</h2>



<p>Scientists from <a href="https://www.mq.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Macquarie University</a>, working alongside Bunuba Indigenous rangers and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) in Western Australia, have implemented a novel strategy aimed at shielding freshwater crocodiles from the devastating effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cane-toads-teach-australias-wildlife-to-avoid-their-poison/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cane toads</a>. </p>



<p>Lead author Dr. Georgia Ward-Fear from Macquarie University’s School of Natural Sciences and her co-author, Professor Rick Shine, documented the successful trial of a behavioral ecology method called conditioned taste aversion (CTA). </p>



<p>The team has demonstrated a method that significantly reduces freshwater crocodile death rates by teaching the crocodiles to associate cane toads with a bout of food poisoning.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-cataclysmic-impact-of-cane-toads">The cataclysmic impact of cane toads</h2>



<p>Since cane toads were imported from South America in the 1930s, they have left a trail of destruction across northern Australia, wiping out local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-crocodile-like-beast-was-a-terrifying-predator/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predator species</a> such as goannas, snakes, and freshwater crocodiles. </p>



<p>“Losing freshwater crocodiles to cane toads will mean that bottom feeders in our rivers will eat all the bait such as judembah (cherrabin, a large freshwater prawn) and lardy (boney bream, an estuarine fish), leaving no fish for the barramundi and stingray to eat,” explained Ranger coordinator Paul Bin Busu, emphasizing the broader ecological impact.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-they-did-it-baiting-the-baiters">How they did it: Baiting the baiters</h2>



<p>Between 2019 and 2022, Dr. Ward-Fear and Professor Shine worked with local rangers and DBCA staff to deploy doctored cane toad carcasses across four large gorge systems in the Kimberley region of north-western Australia. </p>



<p>The team collected hundreds of cane toads, removed the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-secret-that-protects-poisonous-animals-from-themselves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poisonous</a> parts, and injected the toad bodies with a nausea-inducing chemical. This ensured that freshwater crocodiles consuming the bait would experience temporary sickness but not death.</p>



<p>Control baits of chicken meat, without any nausea-inducing additives, were used to monitor the effectiveness of the conditioned taste aversion training.</p>



<p>“Being a part of the program on the ground doing the job was really good,” said Bin Busu. His team of rangers set up hundreds of bait stations along river banks, using canoes to hang and replace fresh baits while monitoring the crocodiles' responses.</p>



<p>“The first three days we noticed the crocodiles were taking the cane toads, then they would go away. Then we noticed they would smell the cane toad before eating, and on the last day, we noticed that it was mostly the chicken necks getting eaten," said Bin Busu. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greatly-reduced-crocodile-mortality-rates">Greatly reduced crocodile mortality rates</h2>



<p>Observation and surveillance tactics yielded compelling results. Using nocturnal "spotlighting" surveys and remotely triggered wildlife cameras, the team found that areas where the aversion trials took place had greatly reduced crocodile mortality rates compared to unbaited control sites.</p>



<p>“Our baiting completely prevented deaths in areas where cane toads were arriving and decreased deaths by 95% in areas where toads had been for a couple of years. Effects which continued in the years following,” noted Dr. Ward-Fear.</p>



<p>“These are really exciting results because it provides land managers with tools to use ahead of the invasion, but also behind the invasion front,” said Sara McAllister from DBCA. “Together we’ve shown that collaborations between academics, Indigenous rangers, and land management agencies can be really effective for conservation science.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-behavioral-ecology-for-crocodile-conservation">Behavioral ecology for crocodile conservation </h2>



<p>Bin Busu said that after the program, we seethe populations of the crocodiles are coming back, "which is a good thing to see." </p>



<p>The team had previously used a similar technique to protect yellow monitor lizards from invasive predators. </p>



<p>Professor Shine, a senior author on the study, affirms the potency of behavioral ecology as an effective tool against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/growing-threat-of-invasive-species-requires-immediate-action/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invasive species</a>, particularly in a globalized world. </p>



<p>“At a time when globalization has massively increased the spread of invasive species, behavioral ecology can protect vulnerable ecosystems,” said Professor Shine.</p>



<p>What started as a quirky experiment with an unpalatable dinner has now unfolded into a promising solution in the realm of conservation, proving that innovation and collaboration can indeed save a species.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2023.2507" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</a></em>.</p>



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'Naughty' meal strategy could save crocodiles

In the brushlands of Western Australia, crocodiles are vital to...

<p>In the world of digital data, and now quantum communication, security has always been a moving target, constantly evolving to meet new challenges. </p>



<p>As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, so do the threats that can compromise our confidential information, making it more crucial than ever to stay ahead of potential attacks.</p>



<p>The rise of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-computer-can-instantly-execute-a-task-that-would-normally-take-47-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum computing</a> represents a significant leap in computational power, bringing us to a critical juncture where traditional encryption methods -- once deemed robust -- are increasingly vulnerable to decryption by these advanced systems.</p>



<p>This vulnerability raises serious concerns for businesses and individuals alike, as our reliance on digital platforms grows. But fear not -- quantum key distribution (QKD) is here to revolutionize the way we safeguard our data.</p>



<p>This cutting-edge technology leverages the principles of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a> to create secure communication channels, ensuring that our information remains protected in ways that were once unimaginable.</p>



<p>By using QKD, we can stay one step ahead of cyber threats and maintain the integrity of our most sensitive data.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-of-quantum-communication">Heart of quantum communication</h2>



<p>Recently, an exciting experiment in Germany took quantum communication to new heights, representing a big step toward a secure quantum internet.</p>



<p>This achievement was led by Professor Fei Ding from <a href="https://www.uni-hannover.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Leibniz University</a> of Hannover, Professor Stefan Kück from the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (<a href="https://www.ptb.de/cms/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PTB</a>), and Professor Peter Michler from the <a href="https://www.uni-stuttgart.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Stuttgart</a>, along with their brilliant team of researchers.</p>



<p>At the core of this experiment lies a fascinating piece of technology: semiconductor quantum dots (QDs). Often described as "artificial atoms," these tiny structures hold immense potential in the quantum world, particularly in the realm of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-quantum-computers-just-got-easier-with-new-technique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum information technologies</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-50-mile-long-quantum-internet">50-mile long quantum internet</h2>



<p>For the first time, these quantum dots were utilized in an intercity QKD experiment, connecting the cities of Hannover and Braunschweig via optical fiber in what has been dubbed the "<a href="https://www.lnqe.uni-hannover.de/en/leibniz-research-centre/news-events/online-spotlights/news-detailed-view/news/bmbf-funds-first-quantum-communication-link-in-lower-saxony-with-2-million-euros" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Niedersachsen Quantum Link</a>."</p>



<p>“We work with quantum dots, which are tiny structures similar to atoms but tailored to our needs. For the first time, we used these ‘artificial atoms’ in a quantum communication experiment between two different cities," noted Professor Fei Ding, explaining the process.</p>



<p>This connection, stretching approximately 79 kilometers (50 miles), forms the first quantum communication link in Lower Saxony, Germany. It’s a crucial step towards the realization of a secure, long-distance quantum internet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-artificial-atom-qkd-experiment">Artificial atom (QKD) experiment</h2>



<p>The experiment commenced with Alice at Leibniz University of Hannover (LUH), where she prepared <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-photons-fascinating-behavior-in-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">single photons encrypted</a> in polarization.</p>



<p>These photons were transmitted through a fiber-optic channel to Bob at the PTB in Braunschweig, whose role was to decrypt the polarized photons using a passive polarization decoder.</p>



<p>This innovative setup successfully illustrated the stable and rapid transmission of secret keys, a crucial element in secure communication.</p>



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



<p>In an impressive advancement, researchers have confirmed positive secret key rates (SKRs) over distances of up to 144 kilometers, corresponding to a 28.11 dB loss in a controlled laboratory setting. </p>



<p>Over 35 hours, they successfully accomplished high-rate secret key transmission while keeping the quantum bit error ratio (QBER) remarkably low.</p>



<p>Dr. Jingzhong Yang highlighted the importance of this development, noting, “When compared to existing quantum key distribution (QKD) systems that utilize single-photon sources (SPS), the SKR achieved in this study outperforms all current SPS-based implementations.”</p>



<p>This significant success not only sets a new benchmark for QKD systems but also underscores the promising potential of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-quantum-revolution-will-impact-all-aspects-of-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum dots in various applications</a> within the emerging quantum internet. These include innovations such as quantum repeaters and distributed quantum sensing.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-we-need-a-quantum-internet">Why we need a quantum internet</h2>



<p>The quest for secure communication is intrinsic to human civilization, with its importance magnified in today’s digital landscape. As we navigate this era, the stakes have never been higher.</p>



<p>Enter quantum communication -- an incredible technological feat that harnesses the mind-bending <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/impossibility-paradox-calculating-incalculable-quantum-realm-particles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">properties of quantum physics</a> to deliver unparalleled security.</p>



<p>By utilizing single photons emitted from quantum dot devices, we can transmit information across vast distances with a level of assurance that any interception attempt will be swiftly detected.</p>



<p>“Some years ago, we only dreamt of using quantum dots in real-world quantum communication scenarios," Professor Ding enthused.</p>



<p>"Today, we are thrilled to demonstrate their potential for many more fascinating experiments and applications in the future, moving towards a ‘quantum internet’.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-road-ahead-for-the-quantum-internet">Road ahead for the quantum internet</h2>



<p>The successful demonstration of intercity quantum key distribution using semiconductor quantum dots is a glimpse into the future of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secure-quantum-communication-one-step-closer-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">secure communication</a>.</p>



<p>As we move closer to realizing a quantum internet, the implications for cybersecurity, data privacy, and information sharing are profound.</p>



<p>This experiment lays the groundwork for more extensive and more complex quantum networks that could span entire continents. The integration of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-realm-vibrating-atoms-tune-single-electron-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum dots</a> into these networks is just the beginning.</p>



<p>Researchers speculate that quantum dots could also play a pivotal role in developing quantum repeaters, which are essential for extending the reach of quantum communication networks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-communication-ushers-in-a-new-era">Quantum communication ushers in a new era</h2>



<p>As we approach a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-dance-entangled-photons-wave-functions-captured-real-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new era in communication</a>, the work of Professor Ding and his colleagues exemplifies the remarkable potential of innovation and collaboration.</p>



<p>The quantum internet, once a distant aspiration, is now an emerging reality that stands to transform our methods of connection, communication, and the safeguarding of sensitive information.</p>



<p>While the journey to realize the quantum internet is ongoing, each advancement brings us closer to a future where secure communication is not merely a possibility but a certainty.</p>



<p>Though quantum dots may be small, their influence on the future of communication is poised to be profoundly significant.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41377-024-01488-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Light: Science &amp; Application</a></em>.</p>



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



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'Artificial atoms' are revolutionizing how we maintain privacy and protect data

In the world of digital data, and now quantum communication,...

<p>New research reveals that work-related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-protects-against-work-stress-burnout/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> caused by job strain and an imbalance between efforts applied and rewards received can increase the risk of developing atrial fibrillation. This condition is characterized by an irregular (often rapid) heartbeat that commonly causes poor blood flow. </p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yoga-improves-mental-and-physical-health-among-patients-with-atrial-fibrillation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atrial fibrillation</a> (also known as AFib or AF) is the most frequent form of arrhythmia and can lead to stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular problems. Over 12 million people are projected to have atrial fibrillation in the United States by 2030.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-work-related-stress-and-atrial-fibrillation-nbsp">Work-related stress and atrial fibrillation<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Previous studies connected high job strain and effort-reward imbalance at work with an increased risk of coronary heart disease. However, this research is the first to investigate the adverse effect of these psychosocial stressors at work on atrial fibrillation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Study senior author Dr. Xavier Trudel is an occupational and cardiovascular epidemiologist and associate professor at Laval University in Canada.</p>



<p>“Our study suggests that work-related stressors may be relevant factors to include in preventive strategies,” said Dr. Trudel.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Recognizing and addressing psychosocial stressors at work are required to foster healthy work environments that benefit both individuals and the organizations where they work.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-job-strain-and-effort-reward-imbalance-nbsp">Job strain and effort-reward imbalance<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The experts examined the impact of job strain, which refers to a work environment in which employees struggle with high job demands, such as a heavy workload and tight deadlines, along with low control over their work and lack of decision-making in how they execute their work-related tasks.</p>



<p>Another factor assessed was the effort-reward imbalance. This phenomenon occurs when employees invest major efforts into their work but perceive the rewards they get for this work&nbsp; (such as salary, recognition, or job security) as or unequal to their performance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-impacts-of-work-related-stress-nbsp">Heart impacts of work-related stress<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>By examining medical database records for almost 6,000 adults in white-collar jobs in Canada, with 18 years of follow-up data, the researchers found that employees experiencing high job strain had an 83% higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation than workers unaffected by such stressors.</p>



<p>The experts also found that those who experienced an effort-reward imbalance had a 44% greater risk than workers who did not report this imbalance.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the study showed that combined experiences of high job strain and effort-reward imbalance were linked to a 97% increased risk of AFib.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed">Further research is needed</h2>



<p>According to Dr. Trudel, the effectiveness of workplace interventions to reduce psychosocial stressors that may also reduce the risk of AFib should be investigated in future research.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our research team previously conducted an organizational intervention designed to reduce psychosocial stressors at work, which was shown to effectively reduce blood pressure levels,” said Dr. Trudel.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Examples of organizational changes implemented during the intervention included slowing down the implementation of a large project to prevent increased workload; implementing flexible work hours; and holding meetings between managers and employees to discuss day-to-day challenges.”</p>



<p>Some of the limitations of this study include that all participants were white-collar workers in Canada, which means that the results may not apply to other types of workers or to workers in other countries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-details-and-background-nbsp">Study details and background<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The scientists collected data through the PROspective Quebec (PROQ) Study on Work and Health, which was initiated in the Quebec region in 1991-1993 and recruited white-collar workers from 19 public and semi-public organizations.</p>



<p>The analysis was focused on 5,926 workers (49% men, 51% women), with an average age of 45 at the beginning of the study (1999-2001) and 65 at the end of the follow-up (Dec. 2018), were included. Levels of work stress were assessed through self-reported questionnaires.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts controlled for a broad number of socioeconomic characteristics (sex, education), health risks (diabetes, high blood pressure) and lifestyle factors (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cigarette-smoking-among-teens-has-declined-dramatically/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smoking</a>, drinking alcohol).</p>



<p>Overall, the researchers identified 186 AFib cases. Among that group, 19% reported high job strain, 25% reported effort-reward imbalance, and 10% reported experiencing both of&nbsp; these stressors at the same time.</p>



<p>The study showed that over one third of all participants had been diagnosed with coronary heart disease or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hydration-reduces-the-risk-of-heart-failure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart failure</a> before developing AFib.</p>



<p>The research is published in the <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.123.032414" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of the American Heart Association</em></a>. </p>



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Work-related stress linked to serious heart condition

New research reveals that work-related stress caused by job strain...

<p>The merger of two black holes embodies a complex interplay of gravitational forces that twist, twirl, and ultimately collide, generating ripples and waves that resonate throughout the cosmos. </p>



<p>These ripples, known as gravitational waves, are subtle distortions so refined that detecting them necessitates extraordinary precision.</p>



<p>Since 2015, we have made significant strides in capturing these faint cosmic echoes, facilitated by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (<a href="https://www.ligo.caltech.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LIGO</a>). However, we now stand on the brink of a transformative advancement that promises to bring cosmic phenomena into the confines of a laboratory.</p>



<p>Enter <a href="https://groups.oist.jp/tqm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Professor Nic Shannon</a>, the head of the Theory of Quantum Matter Unit at the Okinawa Institute for Science and Technology (<a href="https://www.oist.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OIST</a>). He leads an exceptional team that has successfully replicated the behavior of these gravitational waves using cold atoms within a quantum condensate.</p>



<p>This innovative approach opens up a new frontier for exploring these elusive ripples in a controlled experimental environment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-particles-and-gravitational-waves">Quantum particles and gravitational waves</h2>



<p>Albert Einstein predicted the existence of gravitational waves in his <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">theory of general relativity</a>. These cosmic ripples transport vital information about their sources and the fabric of space-time itself. Imagine tuning into a cosmic symphony, with gravitational waves playing the keynotes.</p>



<p>That said, turning up the volume on this cosmic symphony is a formidable task. Only the mightiest of cosmic events -- <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-matter-might-be-driving-force-behind-black-hole-mergers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole mergers</a>, supernovae explosions -- can produce gravitational waves intense enough for our present detectors, like LIGO in the U.S. and the Virgo interferometer in Europe, to capture.</p>



<p>Professor Shannon, senior author of the study and head of the unit, explains that Einstein's theory of general relativity revolutionized our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/matter-spacetime-gravitational-waves-fabric-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space and time</a>.</p>



<p>"It taught us that space can bend to form a black hole and that it can vibrate, creating waves that travel across the universe at the speed of light," he says.</p>



<p>These gravitational waves hold crucial information about our universe, but they are extremely difficult to detect.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gravitational-waves-and-bec">Gravitational waves and BEC</h2>



<p>Professor Shannon and his team are taking a fresh approach, revisiting Earth-based phenomena that echo aspects of general relativity. They've introduced a novel way to examine gravitational waves without needing gigantic telescopes.</p>



<p>Their research, carried out with scholars from the <a href="https://www.tohoku.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tohoku</a> and the <a href="https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tokyo</a>, hinges on a quantum phenomenon involving ultracold atoms -- <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bose-einstein-condensate-bec-rare-form-quantum-matter-created-with-molecules/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC)</a>.</p>



<p>When the temperature of bosons, a type of quantum particle, is reduced to nearly absolute zero, they behave as a single quantum entity. This collective conduct paves the way for researchers to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trapped-atoms-forced-to-serve-as-transistors-quantum-network/">reproduce the conditions</a> that spawn gravitational waves.</p>



<p>Professor Han Yan from the University of Tokyo articulates why this novel approach matters, saying, "This result is important because it makes it possible to simulate and study gravitational waves in a much simpler experimental setting."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-a-spin-nematic-state">Creating a spin-nematic state</h2>



<p>At OIST, the research team is delving into a fascinating type of Bose-Einstein condensate (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-photons-fascinating-behavior-in-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BEC</a>) known as spin nematics. In this captivating spin-nematic state, quantum particles display unique behaviors that enable them to transmit energy throughout the system.</p>



<p>How do they accomplish this? By generating waves that strikingly resemble gravitational waves.</p>



<p>"We realized that the properties of the waves in the spin-nematic state are mathematically identical to those of gravitational waves," explained Professor Shannon.</p>



<p>These waves not only facilitate energy transfer but also pave the way for deeper understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum mechanics</a> and its potential applications in cutting-edge technologies.</p>



<p>The study of spin nematics holds the promise of uncovering insights into quantum phase transitions and the fundamental nature of matter, particularly at low temperatures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quantum-physics-and-gravitational-waves">Quantum physics and gravitational waves</h2>



<p>Bridging the study of gravitational waves and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coldest-quantum-detectors-in-the-world-enlisted-to-search-for-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum physics of cold atoms</a> has led to new possibilities.</p>



<p>Dr. Leilee Chojnacki, a lead author of the study, describes this as an opportunity to unite different branches of physics in a novel way.</p>



<p>She says, "It was very exciting for me to work on two very different branches of physics and bring them together in a way that hadn't previously been explored."</p>



<p>The ability to simulate gravitational waves in a laboratory ushers in a brand-new era. This method presents an opportunity to conduct experiments impossible with traditional gravitational wave detectors due to their sheer size and complexity.</p>



<p>The profound unity of nature shines through this research. Mathematical principles can explain both colossal cosmic phenomena and microscopic quantum interactions. It's a testament to the elegance and interconnectedness of our physical world.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-einstein-s-legacy-in-a-quantum-world">Einstein’s legacy in a quantum world</h2>



<p>The leap forward that Professor Shannon and his team have made in simulating gravitational waves in a lab has broadened our understanding of the universe. </p>



<p>Their work not only deepens our grasp of gravitational waves but also showcases the power of integrating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gravity-measured-in-the-quantum-realm-for-the-first-time-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">different scientific disciplines</a>.</p>



<p>Through bridging the cosmic and the quantum, they've unlocked new paths of exploration, illuminating some of the deepest mysteries of our universe. Indeed, when scientists dare to think differently, the boundaries of human knowledge expand, and new horizons open up.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://journals.aps.org/prb/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevB.109.L220407" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Review B</a></em>.</p>



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Quantum solution discovered for the gravitational wave mystery

The merger of two black holes embodies a complex interplay...

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-update-august-14-2024-12-44-pm-et">Update -- August 14, 2024, 12:44 PM ET</h2>



<p>The World Health Organization (WHO) has just labeled the mpox outbreaks in Congo and various parts of Africa as a global emergency. </p>



<p>The virus is on the rise, with cases popping up in both kids and adults across more than a dozen countries. Unfortunately, Africa is facing a serious vaccine shortage.</p>



<p>Earlier this week, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (<a href="https://africacdc.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Africa CDC</a>) declared it a public health emergency. With over 500 reported deaths, they're urgently asking for international help to curb the virus's spread. </p>



<p>“This should concern us all... The potential for further spread within Africa and beyond is very worrying,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mpox-surging-in-over-a-dozen-countries">Mpox surging in over a dozen countries</h2>



<p>According to the Africa CDC, mpox, or monkeypox, has been detected in 13 countries this year, with Congo accounting for more than 96% of all cases and fatalities. </p>



<p>In fact, cases have surged by 160% and deaths by 19% compared to last year. So far, there have been over 14,000 reported cases, leading to 524 deaths.</p>



<p>“We’re now at a point where mpox poses a risk to many more neighboring countries in and around central Africa,” said Salim Abdool Karim, a South African infectious diseases expert leading the Africa CDC emergency group. He pointed out that the new strain of mpox coming from Congo has a death rate of about 3-4%.</p>



<p>Back in 2022, the WHO declared mpox a global emergency after it spread to over 70 countries that hadn’t seen any cases before. That outbreak largely affected gay and bisexual men, with less than 1% of cases resulting in death.</p>



<p>Michael Marks, a professor of medicine at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (<a href="https://www.lshtm.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LSHTM</a>), supports the emergency declaration. “It’s a failure of the global community that things had to escalate to this extent to mobilize the necessary resources,” he said.</p>



<p>This situation raises important questions about global health preparedness and how interconnected our societies are. As we work to tackle these challenges, understanding the implications of mpox and promoting international cooperation is crucial.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-vigilance-declines">Public vigilance declines</h2>



<p>It's easy to forget about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/virus-lifespan-and-transmission-boosted-by-high-co2-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">public threats</a> that are no longer in the headlines, but when it comes to health, forgetting can be a deadly trap. Take mpox - a disease that's been shuffling in and out of the world's spotlight for years.</p>



<p>Today, two years after the World Health Organization (<a href="https://www.who.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHO</a>) triggered a global health alarm over an mpox outbreak, this notorious enemy has reemerged, this time spreading its lethal tendrils across African nations. </p>



<p>But as the stakes rise, public memory and understanding about this disease seem to have taken a nosedive.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-perceptions-about-mpox">Public perceptions about mpox</h2>



<p>The evidence for this public "out of sight, out of mind" mentality comes from none other than the respected Annenberg Public Policy Center of the <a href="https://www.upenn.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Pennsylvania</a>. </p>



<p>Under the leadership of Kathleen Hall Jamieson, the center has been closely monitoring public knowledge and perceptions about mpox. </p>



<p>Here's the truth: as media attention shifted, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/influenza-is-considered-the-biggest-pandemic-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">threat</a> of mpox didn't just pack up and leave. Instead, it quietly snuck into the shadows, covertly marching across the globe as a hidden potential health crisis.</p>



<p>“The speed with which the public learned needed information about mpox in the summer of 2022 was a tribute to effective communication by the public health community,” said Jamieson.</p>



<p>“That same expertise should now be deployed to ensure that those at risk remember mpox’s symptoms, modes of transmission, and the protective power of vaccination.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diving-into-the-data">Diving into the data </h2>



<p>The center's ASAPH survey conducted in July 2024 sheds light on some hard truths. For starters, only five percent of Americans are worried about contracting mpox in the next three months -- a huge drop from 21 percent back in August 2022. A mere nine percent are concerned about their families being hit by the disease.</p>



<p>The public's understanding that mpox is less contagious than Covid-19 has plummeted from 41 to 17 percent.</p>



<p>Knowledge that men who have sex with men are at a higher risk of infection has spiraled down from 63 to 34 percent. Furthermore,  recognition of the existence of an mpox vaccine has fallen from 61 to 45 percent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unmasking-mpox">Unmasking mpox</h2>



<p>Understanding a disease is often the first armor in our battle against it. Mpox, first identified in 1958, is a rare but deadly member of the orthopox virus family. It brings with it a medley of symptoms -- fever, chills, headaches, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and painful rashes.</p>



<p>The transmission of the disease is through contact with infected animals or close interaction with an infected person, including sexual contact and touching with contaminated materials.</p>



<p>Today's outbreak features a different face of mpox -- clade I. This strain is particularly relentless in its attack on infants and children under the age of 5. </p>



<p>A report from the WHO reveals this led to the unfortunate loss of 511 lives, with 62 percent of the deaths involving children under the age of 5 in the Democratic Republic of Congo.</p>



<p>While clade I currently resides within the boundaries of central and east Africa, clade II, seen in the 2022 outbreak in the U.S., is still lurking around. </p>



<p>The majority of these cases are found in individuals who didn't receive the vaccine or got only one of the two doses necessary.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vigilant-public-awareness-on-mpox">Vigilant public awareness on mpox</h2>



<p>In the face of resurfacing threats like mpox, fostering awareness and understanding among the public is not merely advisable; it is essential.</p>



<p>Public education campaigns must proactively combat misinformation and rekindle interest in health implications linked to mpox.</p>



<p>This strategy should focus on providing clear, accessible information about transmission, symptoms, and the importance of vaccination. </p>



<p>Engaging a diverse audience through trusted community leaders and health professionals can amplify the message, ensuring that individuals at higher risk understand the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wood-surfaces-can-naturally-reduce-virus-transmission/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">necessity of preventive measures</a>. </p>



<p>Furthermore, maintaining the momentum of the discussion around mpox - even when it fades from mainstream media - can help keep the public informed and alert, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes and preparedness.</p>



<p>The lessons learned from past outbreaks underscore the critical need for a well-informed populace that is prepared to respond to health threats as they present themselves.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inoculation-our-best-bet">Inoculation: Our best bet</h2>



<p>Hope, however, is on the horizon. The intention of people to get vaccinated against the disease still holds strong. </p>



<p>The CDC recommends the use of Jynneos, administered in two doses, four weeks apart, for those exposed to the mpox virus and those with risk factors, including men who have sex with men.</p>



<p>Time to kick out complacency and reignite our efforts. Let's dust off the cobwebs of forgetfulness and strengthen our understanding about mpox. In the face of a pandemic, knowledge is indeed our most powerful weapon.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.annenbergpublicpolicycenter.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annenberg Public Policy Center</a> continues its tireless efforts to illuminate the public and policy makers about significant health issues. </p>



<p>Their work is a beacon in the darkness, reminding us to remember, relearn, and react to keep the threat of mpox at bay.</p>



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



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<p>----</p>



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<p>----</p>

WHO Warning: Mpox cases are climbing rapidly with a much higher death rate

Update -- August 14, 2024, 12:44 PM ET The World...

<p>As the global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-is-the-epidemic-crisis-of-our-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity crisis</a> intensifies, researchers are increasingly turning to innovative solutions to combat this pressing health issue. </p>



<p>A cutting-edge project led by a team at the <a href="https://www.keri.re.kr/html/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute</a> (KERI) may offer a breakthrough in how we approach the management of metabolic syndrome, with a particular focus on obesity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-obesity-a-daunting-global-health-concern">Obesity: A daunting global health concern</h2>



<p>Metabolic syndrome is a complex of multiple metabolic abnormalities, including obesity, high blood pressure, and high triglycerides, often caused by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-linked-to-mothers-poor-dietary-choices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poor diet</a> and lack of exercise. </p>



<p>According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in eight people worldwide is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/being-overweight-makes-it-harder-for-brain-to-resist-unhealthy-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overweight</a>, making obesity treatment one of the most prominent markets.</p>



<p>Dr. Shin highlighted the challenge of treating obesity, as well as a possible solution using brain stimulation. </p>



<p>"Traditional obesity treatments, including drug injections and pharmaceuticals, often come with potential side effects when used long-term," said Dr. Shin.</p>



<p>"To address this, our team has proposed a novel approach: suppressing appetite by electrically stimulating the cerebral cortex through the scalp."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treating-obesity-with-brain-stimulation">Treating obesity with brain stimulation</h2>



<p>The official name of this electrical stimulation technique is transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS). Through years of research, Dr. Shin's team identified that appetite suppression could be induced through non-invasive electrical stimulation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex using tRNS technology.</p>



<p>"The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in executive functions such as planning, flexibility, and abstract thinking," noted Dr. Shin. "By targeting this area, we aim to influence the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-what-triggers-our-brains-to-overeat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain's control over appetite</a> and hunger."</p>



<p>The team has been working on three key technologies essential to this innovation:</p>



<ol>
<li>A technology that accurately delivers electrical stimulation to the specific area of interest,</li>



<li>An electrode technology that can penetrate the space between hairs to make contact with the scalp,</li>



<li>A monitoring technology that confirms that the electrical stimulation has been delivered to the target point and has triggered a change in brain activity.</li>
</ol>



<p>Dr. Shin’s team at KERI has advanced significantly in developing these technologies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clinical-trial-insights">Clinical trial insights</h2>



<p>To demonstrate the clinical utility of tRNS stimulation, KERI collaborated with Professor Hyung-jin Choi’s team at Seoul National University Hospital. </p>



<p>The clinical trial aimed to prove the effectiveness of tRNS in reducing appetite, involving 60 female volunteers - 30 in the tRNS group and 30 in the active sham group.</p>



<p>Over two weeks, participants underwent six sessions of electrical stimulation, with a barely perceptible current of 2 mA applied for 20 minutes per session.</p>



<p>The results were promising. "We observed that the tRNS treatment group showed significant reductions in appetite, willingness to eat, and hunger compared to the placebo group," said Dr. Shin. </p>



<p>"Moreover, the treatment appeared to address <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emotional-eating-by-teens-is-influenced-by-their-parents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional eating</a>, significantly reducing the urge to eat in response to stress, depression, anxiety, or joy."</p>



<p>While the short duration of the trial did not allow for confirmation of long-term weight loss, the participants reported significant appetite suppression.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-and-verification">Further research and verification </h2>



<p>Looking forward, Dr. Shin acknowledges that the technology is not yet complete and requires further research and verification. </p>



<p>"However, if commercialized, this electrostimulation treatment - with far fewer side effects than existing obesity treatments - could be used at home instead of hospitals, providing a simple method for daily appetite suppression management."</p>



<p>The research team plans to complete the first project phase by the end of this year and aims to validate the developed technology both academically and clinically in subsequent phases. </p>



<p>"Our ultimate goal is to transfer this technology to companies for mass production, which could revolutionize the way we approach <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/swallowing-a-vibrating-capsule-may-revolutionize-obesity-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity treatment</a>," said Dr. Shin.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-obesity-a-complex-challenge">Understanding obesity: A complex challenge</h2>



<p>Obesity is more than just a number on the scale; it's a complex health issue influenced by a variety of factors including genetics, environment, and lifestyle choices. </p>



<p>As societies evolve, sedentary lifestyles and the prevalence of high-calorie foods contribute to rising obesity rates. </p>



<p>Recognizing obesity as a multifaceted condition is crucial in developing holistic treatment approaches. Education about nutrition, physical activity, and emotional well-being could play a vital role in combating this epidemic.</p>



<p>Addressing obesity not only improves individual health outcomes but also reduces the economic burden on healthcare systems worldwide. </p>



<p>By combining innovative treatments like brain electrical stimulation with comprehensive lifestyle changes, we can take significant steps toward curbing obesity.</p>



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



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Brain stimulation may be the new frontier in obesity treatment

As the global obesity crisis intensifies, researchers are increasingly turning...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<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>



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



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

Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

[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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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;</p>



<p>'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."</p>



<p>"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.</p>



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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