<p>For a century, Western water forecasts have leaned on a simple idea: more mountain snow means more water in rivers in the spring. But where you measure that snow matters as much as how much you measure.</p>



<p>A new analysis of more than two decades of data across 390 snow-fed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planning-for-an-uncertain-future-in-the-colorado-river-basin/">river basins</a> in 11 Western states shows that placing new instruments at strategically chosen “hotspots” consistently delivers better water supply forecasts than trying to blanket an entire basin with broad surveys.</p>



<p>In those basins, adding hotspot sites improved forecast skill by about 11–14 percent on average. By comparison, doing comprehensive basin-wide snow mapping nudged forecasts up by only about 4 percent on average. </p>



<p>The takeaway is surprisingly straightforward: measuring snow in the right places can help far more than measuring snow everywhere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-snow-matters-most">Where snow matters most</h2>



<p>Hotspots are small areas within a watershed where snow conditions punch above their weight in predicting how much water will actually reach streams months later. </p>



<p>Think of ridgelines, aspects, or elevations where snow tends to persist or melt in patterns that strongly control downstream flow.</p>



<p>Because most existing ground stations sample a tiny fraction of a basin, there’s room to improve forecasts by adding just a few stations - if they’re placed where the snow signal matters most for runoff.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-putting-snow-sites-to-the-test">Putting snow sites to the test</h2>



<p>Researchers sifted through more than 20 years of snow estimates and streamflow records, comparing two expansion strategies for monitoring: adding targeted hotspot gauges, or rely on basin-wide mapping (from aircraft or satellites) to capture total snow volume. </p>



<p>They tested both approaches against the current network of ground stations that operational forecasters use today. </p>



<p>The team treated streamflow forecasting the way a water manager would, asking how much each strategy improved the year-to-year predictive power for seasonal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-global-greening-could-drain-earths-water-supply/">water supply</a>.</p>



<p>Because different basins respond differently, they repeated the analysis for hundreds of watersheds, from the Cascades and Sierra Nevada to the Rockies and the Great Basin. </p>



<p>Across that breadth of climates and terrains, the pattern held - focused hotspot measurements typically outperformed broad coverage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-airborne-snow-measuring-has-tradeoffs">Airborne snow measuring has tradeoffs</h2>



<p>Basin-wide surveys are undeniably powerful. Airborne campaigns can directly estimate a basin’s total snow volume, and satellites help paint the big picture over vast, remote areas. The catch is cost and cadence.</p>



<p>Airborne surveys are expensive and can’t fly everywhere all the time. Satellite products are improving quickly but still struggle with forests, clouds, and complex terrain, and they need ground truth to keep forecasts anchored in reality.</p>



<p>By contrast, a handful of well-placed ground sensors can run all season, in all weather, at a fraction of the price. </p>



<p>The new study shows those stations can deliver similar - and often better - forecast gains precisely because they target the parts of a basin that control when and how snowmelt becomes streamflow.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snowmelt-and-a-warming-west">Snowmelt and a warming West</h2>



<p>On average, about half of the water in Western U.S. streams comes from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alpine-spring-begins-earlier-speeding-up-plant-growth/">snowmelt</a>. Cities plan reservoir releases and farmers schedule irrigation based on spring forecasts issued months ahead of peak demand.</p>



<p>But warming winters are shrinking mountain snowpacks and making melt timing jumpier, which raises the stakes for every improvement in prediction.</p>



<p>With budgets tightening, the findings offer a practical roadmap: expand monitoring, yes - but do it surgically. In many basins, adding a few instruments at hotspot locations will deliver more value than trying to map the whole watershed every time snow falls.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-water-managers-can-do-now"><a></a>What water managers can do now</h2>



<p>One of the most useful outcomes of the study is a framework for identifying where new measurements will help the most. </p>



<p>Rather than guessing, agencies can now screen a basin to find untapped areas whose snow signals are especially predictive of downstream flow and focus new stations there.</p>



<p>The same framework highlights where basin-wide mapping will add value - for example, in large, highly variable basins where total snow volume swings widely from year to year.</p>



<p>In short, there isn’t a single “best” strategy for every watershed. But there is a smarter sequence: start by asking where a new measurement would most improve the forecast, then pick the tool - a ground station, an aircraft flight, or satellite data - that fits the need and the budget.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-as-snowlines-shift">Adapting as snowlines shift</h2>



<p>Hotspot monitoring isn’t a magic wand. Some basins still benefit from periodic aerial surveys to capture the full snow picture, especially after major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-soil-moisture-can-predict-severe-storms/">storms</a> or in places with complex rain-snow transitions.</p>



<p>Satellites remain essential for regional situational awareness. As climate change pushes snowlines higher, the locations of the most informative hotspots may shift, requiring the network to adapt.</p>



<p>The encouraging news is that the ingredients for better forecasts already exist: decades of streamflow records, a century of snow-station data, rapidly improving remote sensing, and now a tested way to combine them so that each new measurement counts.</p>



<p>The study also shows that many forecasters are closer than they might think to an optimally balanced network - one that blends a few carefully placed new stations with occasional basin-wide snapshots to keep tabs on the big swings.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-what-matters-most">Measuring what matters most</h2>



<p>Snowmelt will remain the West’s water engine, even as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/">climate change</a> makes it less predictable. This work suggests a practical, budget-savvy way to squeeze more certainty out of the same mountains: measure the snow where it matters most.</p>



<p>When every acre-foot counts, a handful of well-chosen hotspots can do more for tomorrow’s water plan than trying to see everything everywhere all at once.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02660-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications: Earth and Environment</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Measuring snow in the right places can greatly improve water forecasts

For a century, Western water forecasts have leaned on a simple idea: more mountain snow means more water in rivers in the spring. But where you measure that snow matters as much as how much you measure. A new analysis of more than two decades of data across 390 snow-fed river basins in 11 Western states shows that placing new instruments at strategically chosen “hotspots” consistently delivers better water supply forecasts than trying to blanket an entire basin with broad surveys. In those basins, adding hotspot sites...

<p>Space-based data centers are poised to revolutionize how we manage and process satellite-generated information. </p>



<p>As the number of entities operating in orbit continues to rise, and the quantity of data collected by satellites surges, the challenge of efficiently transmitting this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/voyager-1-resumes-sending-data-to-earth-from-interstellar-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data from space to Earth</a> becomes more pressing. </p>



<p>But what if the data processing could happen in space itself? This is the potentially game-changing idea being explored by <a href="https://www.ibm.com/us-en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IBM</a>, <a href="https://kplabs.space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">KP Labs</a>, and the European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forecasting-the-future-of-technology">Forecasting the future of technology</h2>



<p>The thought of space-based data centers is a bold concept requiring the foresight to navigate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neuromorphic-computing-where-ai-meets-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">future of technology</a>. The collection of data from space remains a crucial part of space activities, expanding our knowledge beyond earthly confines.</p>



<p>Typically, this data is gathered by satellites, then transmitted to the ground for processing, in order to draw new conclusions. </p>



<p>Yet, the transmission of data, especially large quantities, presents its own set of challenges that when mitigated could dramatically improve our capabilities in space. </p>



<p>Reflecting on this, the team began to question the potential uses of advanced technologies, like increasingly powerful data-processing units and image processing components, on-board satellites.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-space-based-data">Future of space-based data</h2>



<p>An interesting idea was conceived: What if, in the near future, massive computing and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-perseverance-rover-now-uses-ai-search-minerals-life-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a> become pivotal elements of the satellite space ecosystem? </p>



<p>This would mean that the need for downloading raw data could be reduced, and instead, data processing could take place in space, sending only the final results to Earth.</p>



<p>"It has been a visionary project," noted ESA Earth Observation Data Scientist, Nicolas Longépé, who led the project. "We tried to predict how technology will be in 10 years to make space data centres reality."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-based-data-transmission-latency">Space-based data transmission latency</h2>



<p>One of the primary obstacles is latency – the time taken to send data from space to Earth. As Nicolas further explains, the need for a fast response, especially in case of natural events, urges a reduction in this time.</p>



<p>The concept of space-based data centers could mitigate the challenges associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-data-transmission-speed-record-set-by-scientists-using-optical-cables/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data transmission</a> and decrease latency. </p>



<p>Instead of sending raw data back to Earth, satellites would send it to other satellites serving as data centers. Here, data would be processed and only the most relevant insights sent back to Earth.</p>



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



<p>While space-based data centers could become a reality in the next couple of decades, we are left with a burning question: How will technology evolve in the next 10 years? This uncertainty was one of the main challenges faced by the project team.</p>



<p>Nicolas explained the constraints they had to consider, "satellites have to be small, compatible with radiation, and thermal dissipation, or with power constraints." </p>



<p>So the team was tasked with imagining how they could integrate the most suitable technologies to have the most impactful data-processing capabilities on board a Space Data Center.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-three-possible-scenarios">Three possible scenarios</h2>



<p>To truly delve into this visionary concept, the team explored three different potential scenarios. </p>



<p>The first involved two satellites in the same orbit, with one serving as a data collector and the other as a space data center. </p>



<p>In the second scenario, data from a Low Earth orbit <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-data-could-revolutionize-weather-forecasts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">satellite</a> would be transferred to a geostationary space data center. </p>



<p>Lastly, they imagined a lunar lander functioning as a space data center, gathering, processing and storing exploration data, sending only key findings back to Earth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-space-based-data-centers">Implications of space-based data centers</h2>



<p>In their research, the team sought to understand the technical and economic challenges of space-based data centers and pinpoint the required key technologies. </p>



<p>They developed a simulation tool to assess progress over time, incorporating predicted advancements in technology and adjusting features according to different requirements.</p>



<p>The potential of processing and storing data in space is incredibly promising and exciting. </p>



<p>As we look to the future, and the possible reality of space-based data centers, our understanding of the universe may be on the verge of an enormous leap forward.</p>



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



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Space-based data centers could transform satellite capabilities

Space-based data centers are poised to revolutionize how we manage...

<p>Wildfires serve as a stark reminder of the world’s profound interconnectedness, where an event in one region can ripple across borders and manifest tangible repercussions elsewhere. </p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-wildfires-have-doubled-in-the-last-20-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate-driven wildfires</a> in Canada are transferring toxic chemicals through the air, reaching as far as the Northeastern U.S., thereby affecting air quality and raising significant health concerns. This alarming phenomenon was Investigated by researchers at <a href="https://sph.rutgers.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rutgers School of Public Health</a>.</p>



<p>The experts assessed the physical and chemical characteristics of wildfire-related particulate matter, marking the first such characterization from a climate-driven wildfire event in the densely populated Northeast region.</p>



<p>“Particulate matter is a leading environmental factor in the global burden of disease, with climate-driven wildfires being a major source,” said Professor Jose Guillermo "Memo" Cedeño Laurent. “In the U.S., climate change-driven wildfires are reversing decade-long improvements in ambient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/twenty-years-of-air-quality-improvement-erased-by-wildfires/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a>.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildfires-unleash-toxic-chemicals">Wildfires unleash toxic chemicals </h2>



<p>The findings of the study are momentous, to say the least. The researchers used advanced physicochemical analysis to discover that the particulate matter transferred by these wildfires is packed with high molecular weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) -<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-may-trigger-lung-cancer-in-non-smokers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer-causing</a> organic compounds.</p>



<p>These toxic substances, especially during the peak of the incident on June 7, were found in concentrations nearly ten times larger than the national air quality standards.</p>



<p>“We found very large concentrations of ultrafine and fine particulate matter during the peak of this wildfire, surpassing almost 10 times the national air quality standards and any previous record in more than five decades of air quality monitoring in the U.S. Northeast,” said Cedeño Laurent.</p>



<p>Study senior author Professor Philip Demokritou emphasized the gravity of these findings: “Such small particles have the ability to penetrate deep in the lung and can cause adverse health effects, as recently reported in the New York City area by epidemiological studies.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invisible-threats-of-wildfires">Invisible threats of wildfires</h2>



<p>Particulate matter is no ordinary pollution. The researchers confirmed that these particles have the capability to infiltrate deep into the lungs, causing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildfire-smoke-is-an-underestimated-threat-to-public-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adverse health effects</a>.</p>



<p>In fact, the study showed that a 72-hour exposure to particulate matter (PM10) resulted in more than 9 micrograms of particles being deposited in the lungs.</p>



<p>This high concentration of ultrafine particles and their substantial PAH content are now guiding several ongoing mechanistic studies.</p>



<p>“Our findings on the extremely high concentrations of ultrafine particles and their significant PAH content are proving to be invaluable in guiding several ongoing mechanistic studies at NAMC,” noted Cedeño Laurent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-effects-of-particulate-matter">Unraveling the effects of particulate matter</h2>



<p>The experts are not stopping at identifying the presence of these particles; they are delving into their impact on various organs. Ongoing studies are investigating the effects on the lungs, heart, brain, and reproductive system.</p>



<p>Reynold Panettieri and Joseph Jude<strong> </strong>at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and Bruce Levy and Yohannes Tesfaigzi at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston are investigating the effects of particulate matter on the lungs.</p>



<p>Studies on the heart impacts are being led by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s cardiovascular program, while the brain impacts are being analyzed by David Leong at the National University of Singapore.</p>



<p>Furthermore, Shuo Xiao and Andrew Gow at the Rutgers Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy are studying the effects of these pollutants on the reproductive system.</p>



<p>“Findings will advance our understanding of the physical and chemical characteristics of wildfire smoke and its impact on human health,” noted Cedeño Laurent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-need-for-new-air-quality-strategies">Urgent need for new air quality strategies</h2>



<p>The researchers believe that their data highlights the need for further investigation into the physical and chemical processes of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-farming-and-wildfires-is-more-likely-to-cause-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wildfire-related air pollution</a> compared to non-wildfire pollution.</p>



<p>This will enable public health assessors to evaluate risks better and develop strategies to mitigate these risks for communities, especially those already compromised by air pollution.</p>



<p>“Results from our study can be used by public health assessors to evaluate risk and develop strategies to help our communities, especially those in areas already compromised by air pollution to adapt to the increasing wildfire phenomena," said Demokritou.</p>



<p>Additionally, the researchers noted that their results offer novel insights into the evolving composition of particulate matter.</p>



<p>The analysis of the particulate matter’s optical properties will be featured in a companion study led by Georgios Kelesidis, a Rutgers School of Public Health affiliate. The research will examine the effect that particulate matter from wildfires has on the Earth’s temperature and its further influence on climate change in densely populated cities.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.4c02016" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Science &amp; Technology</a></em>.</p>



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

Climate-driven wildfires worsen U.S. air quality and health

Wildfires serve as a stark reminder of the world’s profound...

<p>This weekend, Mother Nature presents a fascinating celestial spectacle. Earth is set to encounter powerful solar storm events that will bring auroras to mid-to-lower regions of the U.S., accompanied by fireballs from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/august-nights-perseid-meteor-shower-peaks-this-weekend/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Perseid meteor shower</a>.</p>



<p>The NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center (<a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SWPC</a>) has issued warnings about significant geomagnetic storms anticipated from August 9 to August 11.</p>



<p>These geomagnetic storms could potentially disrupt our technology, including <a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/news/r3-strong-radio-blackout-observed-08-aug" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">radio blackouts</a> and power grid disruptions at northern latitudes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-trifecta">Cosmic trifecta</h2>



<p>The Sun has put on an impressive show recently, climaxing with three coronal mass ejections (CMEs) aimed our way. The first two were kids stuff, coming from M-class solar flares on August 7.</p>



<p>The third one, hailing from an X1.3-class solar flare on August 8, is the showstopper. It burst out of sunspot AR3777, currently one of the Sun's most active areas, as documented by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (<a href="https://sdo.gsfc.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SDO</a>).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-primer-on-coronal-mass-ejections-cmes">Primer on coronal mass ejections (CMEs)</h2>



<p>Wondering what coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are? These fascinating phenomena are colossal outbursts of solar wind and magnetic fields that burst forth from the Sun's outer atmosphere, known as the corona.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/noaa-issues-severe-geomagnetic-storm-watch-first-time-since-2005/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CMEs</a> can release massive amounts of energy and plasma, often displacing billions of tons of charged particles into space, with some of them directed straight towards Earth.</p>



<p>When these high-energy particles collide with our planet's magnetic field, they can interfere with Earth's magnetosphere, leading to a range of effects known as geomagnetic storms.</p>



<p>These storms can disrupt satellite communications, cause fluctuations in power grids, and even produce stunning auroras near the poles. </p>



<p>Understanding CMEs is crucial for predicting space weather and safeguarding our technology against potential disruptions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-noaa-storm-classification-system">NOAA storm classification system</h2>



<p>Geomagnetic storms touch our everyday life, meddling with GPS systems, radio communications, and even power grids depending on their intensity.</p>



<p>NOAA <a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/noaa-scales-explanation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">classifies these storms</a> from G1 (minor nuisance) to G5 (stop-everything-you're-doing-and-pay-attention).</p>



<p>The current storm watch is set at a middleweight G2, but the combined effect of all these solar events might level it up to a heavyweight G3.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flipside-skywatchers-delight">Flipside: Skywatchers' delight</h2>



<p>There's a silver streak to these potentially problematic storms -- auroras. These ethereal light shows, better known as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aurora-borealis-seen-as-far-south-as-the-equator-after-largest-known-solar-storm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northern and Southern Lights</a>, stick to the polar regions under normal circumstances. But during strong geomagnetic storms, they venture southwards.</p>



<p>For instance, during a past G1 storm, amazing auroras painted the skies across the U.S and Canada. If predictions of G2 or G3 storms come true, mid-latitude viewers in the U.S. and Europe might bear witness to a grand celestial spectacle.</p>



<p>As we anticipate these solar events, understanding their potential impact becomes important. Mariners, ham radio buffs, or anyone reliant on satellite-based systems should stay abreast of updates and plan accordingly.</p>



<p>While auroras are a delightful side-effect of solar activity, the geomagnetic storms that cause them can disrupt communication and navigation systems.</p>



<p>NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center is keeping a close watch. Their forecasts suggest that while we're likely to spot auroras, disruptions aren't entirely off the table if storm levels hit G3.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-rhythms-and-the-bigger-picture">Cosmic rhythms and the bigger picture</h2>



<p>The upswing in solar activity we're observing fits into a broader pattern. The Sun dances to an 11-year rhythm of solar activity, with periods of quiet and frenzy.</p>



<p>We're currently <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/suns-next-solar-cycle-26-has-already-begun/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heading towards a solar maximum</a>, which means more frequent and intense flares and CMEs. The recent solar flares from sunspot AR3777 are a testament to the Sun's growing restlessness.</p>



<p>Space weather experts keep a keen eye on these solar shenanigans. Each of these events remind us of the immense forces pulsing through our solar system.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gearing-up-for-the-show">Gearing up for the show</h2>



<p>In the next few days, we'll witness the dynamic interplay of solar energy against <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's magnetosphere</a>. While disruptions are a possibility, so is the chance to view one of nature's most breathtaking light displays.</p>



<p>Whether you're a skywatcher eagerly awaiting a peek at the auroras or someone reliant on tech, knowledge and readiness are your best allies against the coming solar storms.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-noaa-spaceweather-and-solar-storm-forecast">NOAA spaceweather and solar storm forecast</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-activity-in-past-24-hours">Solar activity in past 24 hours</h3>



<p>The Sun has been all active and spunky in the last 24 hours, throwing out three M-Class and one X-Class solar flares. </p>



<p>These solar showstoppers are classified by their intensity, with M-Class being the medium-sized ones and X-Class topping the charts. Interestingly, these solar flares took birth in specific regions on the Sun, namely Region 3781 and Region 3777. </p>



<p>The X-Class flare deserves special mention for its occurrence at 19:35 UTC on August 8, which heralds an upswing in solar activity impacting space weather. </p>



<p>Following the flare's path, we also noticed a transformation in Region 3777 -- a sort of preparation for what's to follow.</p>



<p>Meanwhile, a faint but critical event, a partial halo Coronal Mass Ejection (CME), was observed on August 8. This CME, triggered by an M1.3 flare, is likely to touch base with Earth between August 10 and 11. Another CME is under analysis and expected to greet us on August 12.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energetic-particles">Energetic particles</h3>



<p>The solar activity is likely to maintain its moderate to high intensity, meaning we can expect some more M-Class flares and potential X-Class editions. These flares are typically associated with Sun's regions that bear complex magnetic blueprints, especially the ones with delta traits.</p>



<p>The last 24 hours have seen a lull with normal proton and electron levels. However, regions 3777 and 3774, the magnetically complex areas, have moved to a position that might send their effects Earth's way. Therefore, brace yourselves for possible minor radiation storms until August 11.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-wind-and-geospace">Solar wind and geospace</h3>



<p>The solar winds, a stream of charged particles from the Sun and key architects of space weather, have remained stable for the last 24 hours. However, starting August 9, the solar wind parameters are set to spike owing to the incoming CMEs.</p>



<p>The Earth's magnetic field has enjoyed a tranquil period in the past day, with no remarkable geomagnetic activity. </p>



<p>However, this peace is short-lived as minor to moderate geomagnetic storms are expected between August 9 and 11. The storms, stirred up by the incoming CMEs, might disrupt satellite communications and power grids.</p>



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



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Solar storm alert: Auroras and radio blackouts expected this weekend

This weekend, Mother Nature presents a fascinating celestial spectacle. Earth...

<p>Looking at photos, sunspots might seem small or insignificant amidst the immense backdrop of the Sun. However, sunspot activity is anything but insignificant. They've had scientists scratching their heads for centuries and still do so today.</p>



<p>What implications does this peak in sunspot activity hold for our understanding of solar phenomena and their impact on Earth?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-setting-new-sunspot-activity-records">Setting new sunspot activity records</h2>



<p>Solar Cycle 25 appears to have reached an impressive milestone, potentially achieving its highest sunspot number to date -- at least 299.</p>



<p>Notably, the Space Weather Prediction Center (<a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SWPC</a>) provided a non-official estimated daily sunspot number of 337 for August 8th, a figure not seen since March 2001.</p>



<p>However, it is essential to note that the official sunspot number (SSN) is determined by the World Data Center - Sunspot Index and Long-Term Solar Observations (WDC-SILSO) and its Solar Influences Data Center (<a href="https://www.sidc.be/SILSO/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SIDC</a>), located at the Royal Observatory in Belgium.</p>



<p>Their preliminary daily estimate for August 8th stands at 299, with the official count set to be released by September 1st.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-tattoos-understanding-sunspots">Solar tattoos: Understanding sunspots</h2>



<p>Picture this: a massive, swirling, glowing orb of gases with a surface that sizzles at about 5,500 degrees Celsius. Now, imagine parts of this surface cooling down to around 3,500 degrees Celsius, creating darker areas.</p>



<p>These are sunspots, the cooler, more mysterious siblings of the Sun's otherwise scalding surface. They may look different, but they're <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunspot-region-ar3664-blasted-earth-mars-may-2024-still-very-active/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hotbeds for intense magnetic activity</a>.</p>



<p>Think of them as places where the Sun's magnetic field decides to play Twister, twisting and turning into knots and resulting in these darker spots.</p>



<p>What makes sunspots so fascinating is how they are born. At the heart of their formation lies the Sun's complex, ever-changing magnetic field. Picture the Sun's magnetic field as a giant spiderweb, invisible yet sprawling across its surface.</p>



<p>Occasionally, these lines get entangled, pushing concentrated magnetic fields to the surface. These intersections create cooler areas, our beloved sunspots, which may last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the magnetic hullabaloo going on there.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunspot-activity-and-the-sun-s-mood-swings">Sunspot activity and the Sun's mood swings</h2>



<p>Did you know the Sun has its own mood swings? It follows an approximately 11-year cycle, alternating between periods of high and low solar activities, known as solar maximum and minimum. Currently, the Sun is nearing the end of Solar Cycle 25, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/suns-next-solar-cycle-26-has-already-begun/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">entering Solar Cycle 26</a>.</p>



<p>During a solar maximum, sunspots have a field day, becoming more frequent and noticeable. But during a solar minimum, these spots become less prominent and play hide and seek.</p>



<p>Sunspots might look harmless at first glance, but they actually have a big impact on our planet.</p>



<p>How does that work? The intense magnetic activity associated with sunspots can spark solar storms, kind of like the Sun having a sneezing fit, releasing radiation and charged particles into space.</p>



<p>When these solar emissions hit Earth, they can mess with communication systems, disrupt power grids, and even pose risks to astronauts up in orbit.</p>



<p>By keeping an eye on sunspots, scientists can predict when solar activity will ramp up and take steps to protect our important infrastructure.</p>



<p>So, sunspots act like a natural early warning system, giving us valuable info about the Sun's upcoming behavior.</p>



<p>Understanding this connection not only shows us the intricate relationship between our star and Earth but also makes us think about how solar activity impacts our everyday lives.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-sunspot-study-and-solar-cycle-25">Future of sunspot study and Solar Cycle 25</h2>



<p>As we advance technologically, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sun-covered-with-moss-peculiar-structure-sunspot-groups/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our understanding of the Sun</a> and its sunspots deepens in intriguing ways. Space observatories, such as NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO), offer remarkable insights into the Sun, giving scientists the ability to monitor sunspots with unprecedented detail.</p>



<p>In addition, researchers are crafting models to predict solar activity with greater precision, a development that aids in anticipating and managing the risks associated with solar storms.</p>



<p>While these phenomena may not be directly visible or felt in our daily lives, they are integral to our connection with the intricacies of solar dynamics.</p>



<p>Sunspots not only enrich our comprehension of the Sun but also provide insights into its fluctuations, informing us about potential solar storms.</p>



<p>So, the next time you encounter the term "sunspot," consider this: it represents more than just a shadow on our star. It's a vital link to our luminous powerhouse and a testament to the dynamic nature of the universe.</p>



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NOAA: The Sun now has highest number of sunspots seen since 2001

Looking at photos, sunspots might seem small or insignificant amidst...

Young,Woman,Drinking,From,A,Bottle,With,Stationary,Plastic,Cap.

<p>Have you ever taken a moment to consider the plastic items in your close vicinity? Plastic objects are quite ubiquitous, fulfilling various roles; from the bags we fill with food supplies to the water bottles we use to maintain our hydration. </p>



<p>However, there could be more to these everyday items than just their utility and environmental concerns.</p>



<p>Hot on the trail of this fascinating research is a team from the Department of Medicine at <a href="https://www.dp-uni.ac.at" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Danube Private University</a> in Austria. </p>



<p>Their recent investigations suggest that the ordinary habit of drinking water from plastic bottles could be a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-every-semen-sample-tested/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contributor to a concerning health issue</a> – high blood pressure.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invisible-threats-in-plastic-bottles">Invisible threats in plastic bottles</h2>



<p>It turns out that microplastics from our bottles could gain access to our bloodstream, leading to a rise in our blood pressure levels. </p>



<p>The surprise doesn't end here. These microplastics aren't exclusive to plastic containers; they've been detected in glass bottles as well.</p>



<p>As the study progressed, the researchers observed a drop in blood pressure when the participants switched from drinking from both glass and plastic bottles to consuming tap water. </p>



<p>This revelation makes us question the indirect yet serious health threats posed by these microplastics. After all, high blood pressure is a primary contributor to heart diseases.</p>



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



<p>Microplastics -- tiny plastic particles measuring less than 5mm -- are infiltrating our daily lives more than we might realize. These particles stem from various sources, including the wear and tear of car tires, the breakdown of larger plastic waste, and even the washing of synthetic clothing. </p>



<p>Alarmingly, these minuscule plastics are making their way into our food, water, and the air we breathe, leading to unintentional ingestion and inhalation regularly.</p>



<p>The implications of microplastics on human health are still somewhat unclear; however, preliminary research raises significant red flags. Studies have detected microplastics in our bloodstream, organs, and even in the placenta of unborn babies. </p>



<p>This prompts us to ask: what are the potential health risks? </p>



<p>Concerns include inflammation, hormonal disruption, and other complications. While the long-term effects remain largely unknown, the idea that we may be becoming repositories for plastic is indeed troubling.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-the-plastics-maze">Navigating the plastics maze</h2>



<p>"We concluded, after extensive research, that beverages packaged in plastic bottles should be avoided," warns the Austrian team. They discovered significant patterns as they navigated the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-linked-to-risk-of-stroke-and-heart-attack/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">complexities of plastics</a>. </p>



<p>A decrease in plastic usage, they found, could potentially lower blood pressure due to a reduction in the number of plastic particles in the bloodstream. The implications of this discovery are not just significant; they could be a matter of life and death.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-in-plastic-bottles">Microplastics in plastic bottles</h2>



<p>Microplastics are tiny fragments of plastic typically resulting from the breakdown of plastic due to exposure to UV rays or physical friction. </p>



<p>These tiny particles are present everywhere – in our saliva, heart tissue, liver, kidneys, and even the placenta. Numerous studies have reported high levels of microplastics in bottled water.</p>



<p>The study suggests that these microplastics could be a hidden trigger for cardiovascular risks. "The changes we observed in blood pressure suggest that reducing the intake of plastic particles could lower cardiovascular risk," noted the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tap-water-vs-bottled-water">Tap water vs. bottled water</h2>



<p>For the investigation, the scientists asked eight volunteers to fulfill their daily fluid needs from tap water, steering clear of any drinks from plastic or glass bottles.</p>



<p>The results were quite eye-opening, showing a significant decline in diastolic blood pressure – the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats - after two weeks.</p>



<p>Simply put, their findings propose that "plastic particles present in the bloodstream could contribute to increased blood pressure."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wider-impact-of-microplastic-exposure">Wider impact of microplastic exposure</h2>



<p>As we probe into the effects of microplastic exposure, it becomes increasingly clear that the issue isn't limited to hypertension. </p>



<p>The emerging body of research indicates that these tiny particles could impact other bodily systems as well. The potential for microplastics to disrupt endocrine functions, incite inflammation, and induce oxidative stress are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-microplastic-ingestion-levels-mapped-across-109-countries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">serious worries</a> for our overall health. </p>



<p>These reactions trigger a series of biological processes that can exacerbate existing conditions or even kickstart new health problems, which emphasizes the urgent need for further research into the effects of plastic consumption on human physiology.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-our-bond-with-plastics">Rethinking our bond with plastics</h2>



<p>The insights unveiled by the Austrian team's innovative research call for a critical reassessment of our reliance on plastic products, especially in how we consume beverages. </p>



<p>Individuals are encouraged to consider eco-friendly alternatives to plastic packaging, such as stainless steel or glass containers, which, apart from preserving taste and quality, also promote a healthier lifestyle. </p>



<p>Policymakers can also play a crucial role by driving educational campaigns about plastic pollution, backing laws that curb plastic production, and promoting recycling efforts. </p>



<p>The time has come to reconsider our dependence on plastics and its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-migrate-from-the-gut-to-other-organs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plausible effects on our health</a>. The convenience we hold dear might be coming at a high cost. So, the next time you reach out for that plastic or glass bottled drink, bear in mind: tap water might be a healthier option.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2673-8929/3/3/26" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a></em>.</p>



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Plastic bottles linked to high blood pressure

Have you ever taken a moment to consider the plastic...

<p>Let's talk about an unusual kind of pollution that's slowly infiltrating our daily lives known as "forever chemicals." These organofluorine compounds are found in our drinking water, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pfas-forever-chemicals-sent-to-land-ocean-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oceans</a>, and even in our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forever-chemicals-are-easily-absorbed-through-skin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bloodstream</a>.</p>



<p>The potential threat that forever chemicals pose to both the environment and human health is a major cause for concern. But now, a promising breakthrough is set to change the course of this issue.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-mystery-of-forever-chemicals">Unraveling the mystery of forever chemicals</h2>



<p>A group of researchers at <a href="https://www.utexas.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The University of Texas at Austin</a> have now developed a way to fingerprint forever chemicals. This new method could assist authorities in tracing the chemicals back to their source, whether they end up in waterways, aquifers, or soil.</p>



<p>The team has achieved this by passing samples through a strong magnetic field, then recording the burst of radio waves emitted by their atoms. This process unravels the composition of carbon isotopes in the molecule, hence creating a unique chemical fingerprint.</p>



<p>But why is this significant? It's the first time that such a feat has been accomplished with forever chemicals. </p>



<p>"Ultimately we will be able to trace molecules and see how they move,” said Cornelia Rasmussen, a research assistant professor at the University of Texas Institute for Geophysics.</p>



<p>Rasmussen is also a co-developer of the forever chemical tracing technique, which heralds a new age in tracking the spread of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollutants-from-fossil-fuels-are-embedded-in-coral-skeletons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollutants</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sturdy-molecular-bonds">Sturdy molecular bonds</h2>



<p>What makes these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-pollution-is-a-global-threat-that-needs-to-be-monitored/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemicals</a> so resilient? It all comes down to their sturdy molecular bonds, which make them ideal for use in many products ranging from nonstick surfaces to slow-release drugs.</p>



<p>However, these same bonds prevent the chemicals from disintegrating in the environment. As a result, they accumulate in soil and organic material.</p>



<p>This has prompted the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to strategize regulation plans for the chemicals and initiate efforts to eradicate most of them from drinking water.</p>



<p>But forever chemicals are evasive. Traditional chemical fingerprinting, which involves fragmenting molecules in a mass spectrometer, struggles with their hardy bonds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-the-origin-of-forever-chemicals">Tracing the origin of forever chemicals </h2>



<p>The researchers utilized a method called nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. This technology identifies a molecule's structure and isotopes without having to break it apart.</p>



<p>Forever chemicals are formed by bonding carbon isotopes to fluorine, a pairing that rarely occurs in nature. When these molecular bonds form, they are virtually indestructible.</p>



<p>The research team's method links the NMR instrument with computational tools to discern the blend of carbon isotopes at each position in the molecule. </p>



<p>This unique mix of carbon isotopes bonding to each fluorine atom reveals information about how the chemical was manufactured. The data can then be used like a fingerprint to trace the chemical's origin.</p>



<p>"It's like a built-in barcode for molecules," said study co-author David Hoffman, an associate professor in the Department of Molecular Biosciences at UT’s College of Natural Sciences.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-charting-new-territory">Charting new territory</h2>



<p>The researchers have tested their technique on pharmaceuticals and a common pesticide. They are now exploring the method's applicability to pollutants found in urban wastewater and creeks. If successful, this method could be a crucial tool for agencies looking to trace <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epa-reveals-new-evidence-of-forever-chemicals-in-drinking-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water-borne forever chemicals</a>.</p>



<p>Rasmussen said that the work has opened up a new layer of isotope information in organic chemistry that could find many applications beyond tracking forever chemicals, such as detecting counterfeit drugs or astrobiology. </p>



<p>"It’s given us a whole range of possibilities to learn really interesting things about metabolism on early Earth,” said Rasmussen. "It could even tell us whether organics on Mars are the last remnants of some ancient Martian life."</p>



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



<p>As we learn more about the environmental and health impacts of forever chemicals, effective mitigation becomes crucial. Addressing this pollution requires a combined effort of regulation, innovation, and public awareness.</p>



<p>Governments, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, are pushing for stricter regulations to limit the production and use of these hazardous substances. These measures aim to reduce public exposure and environmental contamination through better disposal guidelines and water monitoring.</p>



<p>Innovative solutions are also emerging. Researchers are developing advanced filtration systems like activated carbon and ion exchange technologies to capture forever chemicals. </p>



<p>New methods to safely break down these resilient molecules are under investigation, potentially reducing their environmental impact.</p>



<p>Public awareness plays a key role as well. Educating communities about the risks and encouraging responsible consumer behavior can drive demand for safer alternatives.</p>



<p>Though the challenge is significant, continued research, regulation, and public engagement can lead us toward a cleaner and safer environment. By staying vigilant and proactive, we can better protect our planet and our health from the threat of forever chemicals.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.4c02250" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Science &amp; Technology</a></em>.</p>



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Scientists can now trace 'forever chemicals' back to their sources

Let's talk about an unusual kind of pollution that's slowly...

<p>AI is driving a transformation in climate-conscious farming, particularly in the livestock sector, where reducing emissions is critical.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In 2020, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-carbon-footprint-urban-farms-and-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural activities</a> were responsible for releasing 16 billion tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, with cattle-related meat and milk production contributing around 3.8 billion tons.</p>



<p>Increasing the efficiency and output of cattle grazing without enlarging its environmental footprint has become an essential goal in emission reduction.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-ai-approaches-in-farming">Innovative AI approaches in farming</h2>



<p>In a comprehensive research paper titled "Pixels to pasture: Using machine learning and multispectral remote sensing to predict biomass and nutrient quality in tropical grasslands," a team of dedicated researchers from the <a href="https://www.gla.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Glasgow</a> and the <a href="https://alliancebioversityciat.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT</a> offers a unique approach. </p>



<p>This involves the use of information from satellites and predictive modeling to assess grazing pastures both in terms of quantity (biomass) and quality (protein, digestibility, and ash content).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-and-satellites-for-farming">AI and satellites for farming</h2>



<p>According to plant eco-physiologist Juan Andrés Cardoso Arango, evaluating all the factors determining pasture quantity and quality has been traditionally challenging.&nbsp;</p>



<p>He explains that the use of a small drone could only cover nine hectares at best, and handheld tools would cover even less.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This is where the research team's "scale-neutral" system shines. It is capable of <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/satellite-data-helps-prevent-excessive-irrigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gathering data via satellite</a> over multiple square kilometers at a time, yet suitable for a farmer with just one-hectare of land.</p>



<p>The system leverages freely available satellite imagery databases and technological advances in AI processing - considerably accelerating the analysis speed. </p>



<p>"When I started in 2018, nobody knew about machine learning, now you can have this information faster than before," noted Arango.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-at-the-helm">AI at the helm</h2>



<p>Diana María Gutiérrez Zapata, a senior research associate and data analysis specialist, points out that predicting pasture productivity and quality using remote sensing has always been difficult due to numerous influencing factors and data restrictions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, by better characterizing productive systems and capturing more accurate data, there is significant potential to develop high-performance predictive models.</p>



<p>These models, as Zapata explains, can lead to digital tools for strategic decision-making, enabling farmers to optimize pasture management and better manage risks within their production systems.</p>



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



<p>The team envisions a future where a farmer can easily locate their farm on a platform (similar to Google Maps) and check the quantity and quality of their forage.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, this system stands to be an invaluable tool in a changing climate, where timely information about expected pasture production or quality is crucial for risk management.</p>



<p>Accelerating the data acquisition process for farmers would not only improve resource utilization but also positively impact the environment by reducing emissions and waste - a step directly aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.</p>



<p>According to Brian Barrett, an associate professor from the University of Glasgow, the ultimate goal is to develop better strategies for estimating available forage resources and how pastures would react under different management and climate scenarios. </p>



<p>With&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-technology-can-detect-plant-diseases-from-above/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advanced technology</a>&nbsp;like AI and satellite data, the potential to achieve more efficient and profitable farming, as well as enhanced food system sustainability, is very much within reach.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-considerations">Challenges and considerations</h2>



<p>While the integration of AI and satellite technology in farming presents exciting opportunities, it also comes with a unique set of challenges.</p>



<p>One major hurdle is the accessibility and cost of technology for small-scale farmers who may lack the resources to adopt these innovations. Additionally, there is a need for training and education to help farmers effectively utilize AI tools and interpret data accurately. </p>



<p>Moreover, concerns around data privacy and ownership in agricultural practices must be addressed to foster trust among farmers. </p>



<p>As the industry evolves, collaboration among stakeholders will be essential to ensure that the benefits of AI-driven solutions are broadly shared and that challenges are collectively tackled.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborating-for-sustainable-farming">Collaborating for sustainable farming</h2>



<p>Successful integration of AI and satellite technologies in climate-conscious farming requires collaboration among researchers, tech companies, farmers, and policymakers. By working together, these stakeholders can create a supportive ecosystem for adopting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unleashing-the-potential-of-nanotechnology-in-agriculture/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">innovative tools in agriculture</a>.</p>



<p>Engaging farmers and communities is essential. Educational programs and workshops can demystify AI, helping farmers see how these technologies can optimize their operations.</p>



<p>Policy support is also key. By offering incentives like subsidies or grants, policymakers can encourage farmers to adopt sustainable practices, making it easier for them to embrace new technologies.</p>



<p>Through collaboration, we can build a sustainable agricultural landscape that meets the challenges of climate change while ensuring food security for the future.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2352938524001460" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Remote Sensing Applications Society and Environment</em></a>.</p>



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AI paves the way for climate-conscious farming

AI is driving a transformation in climate-conscious farming, particularly in...

<p>ESA's <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Gaia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gaia mission</a>, fabulous in its own right as a star surveyor, has recently spotted potential moons around more than 350 asteroids. </p>



<p>This extraordinary discovery is detailed in a new study led by Luana Liberato of Observatoire de la Côte d’Azur in France.</p>



<p>“<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-dart-spacecraft-images-reveal-more-about-near-earth-binary-asteroids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Binary</a> asteroids are difficult to find as they are mostly so small and far away from us,” says Liberato.</p>



<p>“Despite us expecting just under one-sixth of asteroids to have a companion, so far we have only found 500 of the million known asteroids to be in binary systems. But this discovery shows that there are many asteroid moons out there just waiting to be found.”</p>



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



<p>Asteroids have always been intriguing - not just because they hurtle through space at unthinkable speeds - but also because these celestial bodies hold unique insights into the formation and evolution of the solar system.</p>



<p>Gaia has been an asteroid explorer since its launch in 2013. The spacecraft is known for its all-sky scanning capabilities, which have led to a number of remarkable asteroid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-asteroid-collision-detected-in-nearby-star-system-beta-pictoris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">discoveries</a>.</p>



<p>What makes this recent discovery even more riveting is that it almost doubles our tally of known asteroids with moons - leaping from 500 to a whopping 852 potential binary asteroid candidates.</p>



<p>Gaia goes beyond simply locating asteroids; it has assembled the largest collection of asteroid "reflectance spectra" to date. These light curves play a vital role in uncovering an asteroid's color and composition, providing valuable insights into their characteristics.</p>



<p>By analyzing this data, scientists can better understand the nature and evolution of these celestial bodies, enhancing our knowledge of the solar system and the processes that shape it.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-insights-from-binary-asteroids">Unique insights from binary asteroids </h2>



<p>In Gaia's third data release, scientists successfully pinpointed the positions and motions of more than 150,000 asteroids. They even zeroed in on asteroid orbits so accurately that it became possible to identify asteroids exhibiting a "wobble" - a characteristic sign of a nearby companion.</p>



<p>The discovery of potential moons around these asteroids could revolutionize our understanding of the dynamics within asteroid systems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moons may provide clues about the history and formation of these celestial bodies, shedding light on the processes that have governed their development over billions of years. </p>



<p>Additionally, studying these moon-asteroid pairs could enhance our knowledge of the gravitational interactions that influence their orbits and stability, potentially leading to more accurate models of solar system evolution.</p>



<p>"Binary asteroids have attracted the attention of the scientific community due to their interesting properties and the significant impact they have on our understanding of the solar system," noted the study authors. </p>



<p>"Unlike single asteroids, binary systems offer unique insights into many fundamental processes, including the formation and evolution of planetary bodies, collision dynamics, and gravitational interactions."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-lies-ahead">What lies ahead?</h2>



<p>As we look to the future, the advancements brought about by Gaia's findings pave the way for even more profound explorations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Upcoming missions, such as spacecraft targeting asteroids for direct observation, aim to gather even more data and samples.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Enhanced technology and methodologies will allow scientists to delve deeper into the mysteries of asteroids, their compositions, and their potential for mining resources.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The continued collaboration of observatories and space agencies worldwide will undoubtedly propel us toward more exciting discoveries that await among the stars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-upcoming-exploration-of-binary-asteroids">Upcoming exploration of binary asteroids</h2>



<p>With ESA's forthcoming Hera mission, the exploration of binary asteroids is going to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-would-happen-small-asteroid-hit-earth-nasa-ai-simulation-found-out/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reach a new pinnacle</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Hera will follow up on NASA’s DART mission, which had a rendezvous with Dimorphos, a moonlet orbiting the asteroid Didymos. The mission will also provide a post-impact survey of Dimorphos, marking another first for mankind - a probe rendezvous with a binary asteroid system.</p>



<p>“Gaia has proven to be an outstanding asteroid explorer, and is hard at work revealing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-test-simulation-shows-earth-not-prepared-prevent-large-asteroid-strike/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">secrets of the cosmos</a> both within and beyond the solar system,” says Timo Prusti, project scientist for Gaia at ESA. </p>



<p>“This finding highlights how each Gaia data release is a major step up in data quality, and demonstrates the amazing new science made possible by the mission.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2024/08/aa49122-23/aa49122-23.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Astronomy &amp; Astrophysics</em></a>.</p>



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Gaia reveals moons around hundreds of asteroids

ESA's Gaia mission, fabulous in its own right as a star...

<p>Have you ever wondered how butterflies remain firmly attached to branches during their fascinating transformation, known as metamorphosis? The answer springs from the world of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-love-pretty-butterflies-and-that-complicates-data-for-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiny yet mighty creatures</a>, revealing a remarkable testament to nature's ingenuity.</p>



<p>Researchers Qingyou Xia and Zhaoming Dong have explored the familiar yet enigmatic realm of butterfly metamorphosis. The team made some unexpected discoveries about their ability to stay anchored during this critical period of life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-silk-s-role-in-the-metamorphosis-of-butterflies">Silk's role in the metamorphosis of butterflies </h2>



<p>While we may often associate silk with the industrious silkworm, our fluttering friends – the butterflies - also play their part in this web of life. </p>



<p>In their caterpillar stage, the future butterflies leverage silk for many purposes: to build safety nets that protect them from falls, to create ingenious hiding spots within leaf bundles, and to craft silk carpets that play a crucial role during metamorphosis.</p>



<p>When it's time for a caterpillar to morph into a chrysalis, it utilizes a unique structure known as a cremaster. This arm-like feature grips onto the spun silk carpet, anchoring the chrysalis to a branch and providing a stable base for the miraculous transformation about to unfold.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strength-of-the-silk">Strength of the silk</h2>



<p>The researchers raised caterpillars of two species of butterflies – Danaus chrysippus, also known as the Plain Tiger, and Papilio polytes, or Common Mormon – along with two species of silkworms in controlled environments. They then measured the diameter and tensile strength of the silk threads spun by these creatures.</p>



<p>The results showed that despite its utility, butterfly silk, surprisingly, was thinner and weaker compared to that spun by silkworms.</p>



<p>When the experts analyzed the primary structural proteins in the silks, they found that butterfly silk had a lesser number of beta sheet structures, explaining its relative weakness.</p>



<p>Butterflies, however, are not daunted by the weakness of their silk. Instead, they employ <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/butterflies-use-static-electricity-to-catch-pollen-without-touching/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unique and intricate strategies</a> to maximize their silk's efficiency. They use the cremaster in a hook and loop mechanism, much like a Velcro fastener, to attach themselves firmly to the silk carpet.</p>



<p>Some species even spin a safety tether around their thorax for added security. It's this ingenious application of relatively weak silk that ensures the chrysalis stays put until it's time for the butterfly to emerge.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chrysalis-stage-of-butterfly-metamorphosis">Chrysalis stage of butterfly metamorphosis</h2>



<p>The chrysalis stage is not just a transitional phase; it is vital for the development of a butterfly's body. During this period, the caterpillar's cells undergo a remarkable transformation, reorganizing into newly formed tissues and organs essential for the adult butterfly.</p>



<p>This complex process is known as histolysis, where the caterpillar tissues break down, and histogenesis, where new structures develop. </p>



<p>The resilience of the chrysalis, which protects the delicate developing butterfly within, highlights the importance of a secure anchoring system that comes from the silk and cremaster interplay, ensuring the transformation can occur without disturbance.</p>



<p>After days or weeks of transformation, the moment arrives for the butterfly to break free from its chrysalis. With tremendous energy, the freshly emerged butterfly struggles to escape, often taking several minutes to fully unfurl its damp wings. </p>



<p>This process is crucial, as it not only strengthens the wings but also helps pump fluid into them, allowing for proper expansion and eventual flight. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-silk-seatbelt-in-butterfly-metamorphosis">Silk seatbelt in butterfly metamorphosis</h2>



<p>When forming their protective "seatbelts," caterpillars can spin together nearly 20 different strands into a rope-like form, multiplying its strength eight-fold. This illustrates that these creatures are not mere victims of their circumstances but active agents who make the best of what they have.</p>



<p>The diligent work of researchers like Xia, Dong, and their team provides us with an enlightening peek into these marvelous strategies that caterpillars use to remain safe and secure until they take flight in their final, radiant butterfly forms.</p>



<p>This study was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the National Key Research and Development Program of China, the Natural Science Foundation of Chongqing, and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities. </p>



<p>So, the next time you see a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-learn-about-butterflies-day-an-enchanting-world-awaits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">butterfly fluttering by</a>, take a moment to appreciate its remarkable journey. Against all odds, it has managed to stick to branches, overcome its limitations, and transform into the absolute beauty we behold.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00237" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Biomaterials Science &amp; Engineering</a>.</em></p>



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



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

Butterflies create silk 'seatbelts' to strap in for metamorphosis

Have you ever wondered how butterflies remain firmly attached to...

<p>Antarctica, the land of ice and snow, holds more life than you might imagine. A recent study that mapped plant life across the continent for the first time unveils surprising insights.</p>



<p>Covering mosses, lichens, and algae, the research uncovers a wealth of greenery expanding even in areas previously believed to be barren. These findings are set to steer conservation initiatives in the region, taking them to new frontiers.</p>



<p>The high-tech survey of Antarctica's plant life involved the use of a satellite belonging to the European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>).</p>



<p>Together with data from several summer seasons' worth of field measurements, the survey discovered almost 45 square <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-is-experiencing-rapid-plant-growth-concerning-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kilometers of vegetation</a>.</p>



<p>That's approximately equivalent to triple the size of Lake Windermere in the UK's Lake District.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plant-life-of-antarctica">Plant life of Antarctica</h2>



<p>A group of international researchers discovered that over 80% of the vegetation discovered thrives in the Antarctic Peninsula and neighboring islands.</p>



<p>Despite the extensive exploration, the team found that the vegetation accounts for a minuscule 0.12 percent of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/melting-glaciers-unleash-invasive-species-into-unexpected-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctica’s non-icy area</a>. </p>



<p>This highlights the need for focused monitoring of areas abundant in vegetation, as these are inadequately shielded by the existing Antarctic Specially Protected Area (ASPA) system, according to experts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-silent-warriors-of-antarctica">Silent warriors of Antarctica</h2>



<p>Plant life in Antarctica, mainly mosses and lichens, has developed remarkable adaptations to withstand the region's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/record-low-antarctic-sea-ice-and-rapid-melting-pace-stuns-climate-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">harsh polar conditions</a>. </p>



<p>Each plant serves a critical function in the recycling of carbon and nutrients at a local level. Before this study, the extent and distribution of these resilient greens across the continent were largely uncharted.</p>



<p>The exceptional environmental sensitivity of Antarctica’s flora can serve as a reliable measure of regional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-fish-are-increasingly-threatened-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a>. </p>



<p>Monitoring these plants within the untouched landscapes of Antarctica might offer insights on the response of similar vegetation in other fragile regions around the world, like some areas of the Arctic.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-mosses-and-lichens">Understanding mosses and lichens</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/plant-encyclopedia/bryophytes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mosses</a> and lichens are tough, tiny organisms that make a big difference in the world. Mosses are small and soft. They usually grow in thick, green patches in damp or shady spots. </p>



<p>Without roots, they soak up water and nutrients directly through their leaves. Mosses help keep the soil in place, hold moisture, and create homes for small creatures.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hundreds-of-plant-and-lichen-species-are-overlooked-victims-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lichens</a> are a bit different. They are a team made up of a fungus and an alga or cyanobacterium. The fungus offers support and shelter, while the algae or cyanobacteria make food through photosynthesis. </p>



<p>This teamwork lets lichens survive in some of the harshest places on Earth, like icy tundras or bare rock surfaces. Lichens also help turn rocks into soil and provide food for various animals.</p>



<p>Both mosses and lichens are vital for the health of ecosystems, especially in tough environments where few other plants can live.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influence-of-antarctica-s-plant-diversity">Influence of Antarctica's plant diversity </h2>



<p>"Our continent-wide map reveals crucial details about vegetation in remote, seldom-visited areas," said Charlotte Walshaw, a PhD researcher at the University of Edinburgh's <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk/geosciences" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of GeoSciences</a>. </p>



<p>"This will significantly enhance our understanding of vegetation distribution across the continent and the factors that shape it," she concluded.</p>



<p>"Lichens and mosses in Antarctica face the planet's harshest conditions every day. Only the toughest organisms survive there," said Dr. Claudia Colesie, a researcher at the University of Edinburgh's School of GeoSciences. "With this knowledge, we can now focus on targeted conservation efforts to protect their future."</p>



<p>“Remote sensing approaches such as this are low impact methods to study Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem as well as monitor changes to its vegetation in the future,” noted Dr Andrew Gray from the <a href="https://www.nina.no/english/Home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian Institute for Nature Research</a>, who jointly led the study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-technology-in-ecological-research">Role of technology in ecological research</h2>



<p>As our understanding of ecosystems deepens, the integration of advanced technology in ecological research has become increasingly vital. </p>



<p>The recent aerial survey of Antarctica's plant life exemplifies how innovative tools can enhance our ability to gather data in remote and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-has-lost-3000-billion-tons-of-ice-in-25-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">harsh environments</a>.</p>



<p>Technologies such as satellite imagery and remote sensing not only allow researchers to map vegetation efficiently but also provide a broader perspective on ecological changes over time. </p>



<p>These methods enable scientists to monitor shifts in plant distributions, assess the health of ecosystems, and identify areas at risk from climate change or human activity.</p>



<p>The use of drones with imaging technology is also transforming ecological studies by navigating challenging terrains and capturing detailed imagery. This allows rapid data collection and timely conservation strategies adaptable to a changing climate.</p>



<p>Combining satellite data, field measurements, and drone technology expands our understanding of remote regions. These tools help unveil hidden ecosystems and enhance biodiversity protection. </p>



<p>Embracing technology in ecological research is vital for effective future conservation and management.</p>



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



<p>The majority of the research team hailed from the <a href="https://www.ed.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Edinburgh</a>, along with the <a href="https://www.nina.no/english/Home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian Institute for Nature Research</a>, <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a>, and <a href="https://www.sams.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scottish Association for Marine Science</a>.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-024-01492-4">Nature Geoscience</a></em>.</p>



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



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

Antarctica hosts more plant life than scientists expected to find

Antarctica, the land of ice and snow, holds more life...

<p>Populations of squaretail grouper are facing an uncertain future as new research reveals that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-fleets-hidden-industrial-fishing-activity-exposed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishing</a> targeting their spawning sites is causing males to repeatedly flee from their territories during their brief mating periods. </p>



<p>This disruption leads to significant challenges in courtship and mating behaviors, posing potential long-term consequences for the survival of these fish populations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-squaretail-grouper-spawning-sites">Squaretail grouper spawning sites</h2>



<p>A study led by scientists at <a href="https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lancaster University</a> indicates that the impacts of fishing at squaretail grouper spawning sites extend beyond the fish that are caught. </p>



<p>The study shows widespread behavioral changes among those left behind, affecting their ability to reproduce. With disrupted mating, fewer offspring are likely to be produced, potentially jeopardizing the population's future.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crucial-reproduction-opportunities-nbsp">Crucial reproduction opportunities<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Squaretail grouper gather at specific spawning aggregation sites for only a few days, a handful of times each year, during the new and full moons between December and March.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Male groupers arrive at these sites a few days before the lunar phases and establish mating territories to attract females. Females arrive a day before the new moon, and the fish attempt to pair and spawn in synchrony with the moon's cycles before the females leave.</p>



<p>These gatherings are crucial as they may be the only opportunities for these populations to reproduce.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, fisheries, particularly spearfishing and hook and line fishing, which involve free-diving, have begun targeting these gatherings intensively to ensure catches while the fish are distracted.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-in-squaretail-grouper-behavior-nbsp">Changes in squaretail grouper behavior<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>In India’s Lakshadweep archipelago, located north of the Maldives, increased fishing at some grouper spawning sites over the last five years has led to a sharp decline in aggregation densities, with a 70% drop in a decade due to year-round targeting by fisheries.</p>



<p>The marine scientists who conducted the research had studied these sites more than a decade ago and noticed a significant change in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-use-collective-behavior-to-reduce-energy-costs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish behavior</a> when they attempted to replicate their earlier study. </p>



<p>“We discovered that we couldn’t film or study the fish as easily at the aggregation sites as we could in the past,” said lead author Rucha Karkarey, a biologist at Lancaster.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We couldn’t get as close to them, they would swim away as though we were predators. It was obvious to us that there was a difference in their behavior and we realized that the major thing that had changed in the decade since our previous study was the start of fishing at the site.”</p>



<p>The researchers compared male squaretail grouper behavior at both fished and unfished spawning sites, as well as data from their earlier studies.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-squaretail-grouper-fear-responses-nbsp">Squaretail grouper fear responses<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The team analyzed the fish's fear responses by simulating a threat, with divers swimming towards spawning groupers to see how close they could get before the fish fled, and measuring the time the fish spent defending territory and courting in the absence of a direct threat.</p>



<p>Although males who had already partnered with females at the fished sites took greater risks during courtship - fleeing later and returning earlier - the study found that single males at fished sites were twice as likely to flee and took two and a half times longer to return to territories than fish at unfished sites.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Fewer than half of the single males returned to their territories at the fished sites, compared to two-thirds at the unfished sites.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lost-mating-opportunities-nbsp">Lost mating opportunities<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>While escaping early can ensure individual survival, it also means lost <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-mating-calls-protect/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mating</a> opportunities. Squaretail groupers, which can live up to 12 years, may exhibit this behavior change due to their experiences with fishing.</p>



<p>“Our findings suggest that the stresses caused by fishing are making the fish more nervous and on guard,” explained Karkarey. “In turn, this is reducing the opportunities for single male groupers to find a mate and reproduce because they are being more vigilant and compromising territorial defense by fleeing.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers noted that paired males, who are fitter and more successful at reproducing, are the ones being fished, which can have consequences for the fitness of this population in the future. “If a spawning aggregation event only lasts for a short period of time then every hour counts,” said Karkarey.</p>



<p>The researchers also found that male groupers at fished sites spent significantly less time and energy aggressively defending their territories from rivals.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduced-aggression-at-fished-sites">Reduced aggression at fished sites</h2>



<p>At the fished sites, males engaged in nearly ten times less <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/color-patterns-influence-aggression-among-reef-fish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aggressive behavior</a> compared to those at the unfished sites. </p>



<p>This change could be due to various factors, including females becoming less choosy in high-risk situations or bolder fish being removed from the population by fishers, though this aspect was not specifically studied.</p>



<p>“Decreased aggression can hold significant evolutionary implications in mating aggregations, specifically through a relaxation in sexual selection, which could have implications for mate choice, population fitness, and long-term resilience,” said co-author Sally Keith from Lancaster University.</p>



<p>“This study is the first of its kind in these atoll reef islands, and the findings can play an important role in fishery resource management in this archipelago,” added Idrees Babu from the Department of Science and Technology at UT Lakshadweep.</p>



<p>The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2024.0292" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Biology Letters</em></a>, highlights the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts to protect squaretail grouper populations from the adverse impacts of fishing on their reproductive behaviors.</p>



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



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h--0">-----</h3>

Frightened fish are fleeing from their spawning sites

Populations of squaretail grouper are facing an uncertain future as...

<p>In the grand scheme of life’s relentless pursuit, microbes have proven themselves to be among the most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-microbes-from-earth-could-survive-the-conditions-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adaptable organisms</a> on Earth. </p>



<p>Since the Industrial Revolution, these resilient microorganisms have colonized novel habitats, from marine oil spills and floating plastics in the oceans to industrial brownfields and even the interior of the International Space Station. </p>



<p>Now, another unexpected habitat has been uncovered: our very own microwave ovens. This discovery, reported for the first time by researchers from Spain, not only raises questions about hygiene but also hints at potential biotechnological applications.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microwaves-the-new-frontier-for-microbes">Microwaves: The new frontier for microbes</h2>



<p>Scientists have unearthed a specialized community of highly adapted, radiation-resistant microbes dwelling in microwaves. </p>



<p>"Our results reveal that domestic microwaves have a more 'anthropized' microbiome, similar to kitchen surfaces, while laboratory microwaves harbor bacteria that are more resistant to radiation," said study co-author Daniel Torrent, a researcher at Darwin Bioprospecting Excellence SL in Paterna, Spain.</p>



<p>Torrent and his team embarked on an expedition to sample <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-life-may-exist-on-one-of-jupiters-moons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial life</a> inside 30 microwaves: 10 from single-household kitchens, another 10 from shared domestic spaces such as corporate centers, scientific institutes, and cafeterias, and 10 from molecular biology and microbiology laboratories. </p>



<p>The aim was to determine if these microbial communities are influenced by food interactions and user habits. </p>



<p>To inventory the microbial diversity, the experts used next-generation sequencing alongside the cultivation of 101 strains on five different media.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-biodiverse-microwave-microbiome">A biodiverse microwave microbiome </h2>



<p>The researchers discovered a total of 747 distinct genera within 25 bacterial phyla. The most frequently encountered phyla were <em>Firmicutes</em>, <em>Actinobacteria</em>, and particularly <em>Proteobacteria</em>.</p>



<p>Interestingly, the composition of the microbial community showed partial overlap between shared and single-household domestic microwaves, while laboratory microwaves housed a distinctly different set of species. The diversity was lowest in single-household microwaves and highest in laboratory ones.</p>



<p>"Some species of genera found in domestic microwaves, such as <em>Klebsiella</em>, <em>Enterococcus</em>, and <em>Aeromonas</em>, may pose a risk to human health. However, it is important to note that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-microbes-can-tell-us-about-global-changes-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial population</a> found in microwaves does not present a unique or increased risk compared to other common kitchen surfaces," noted Torrent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-evolution-of-household-ecosystems">The evolution of household ecosystems</h2>



<p>Microbes are not just passive residents in our homes; they actively shape and change the ecosystems within our living spaces.</p>



<p>In the context of microwaves, the discovery of resilient microbial communities prompts a deeper examination of how household ecosystems are influenced by our daily habits.</p>



<p>These microbes interact with food residues, surfaces, and even the electromagnetic environment within microwaves. Understanding these interactions could offer valuable insights into the factors that drive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-life-soil-planet-warming-global-carbon-cycle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial diversity</a> in our homes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-extreme-environments">Insights from extreme environments</h2>



<p>Interestingly, the researchers found parallels between the microbial communities in microwaves and those found in industrial environments, such as solar panels. </p>



<p>The constant thermal shock, electromagnetic radiation, and desiccation in these highly irradiated environments appear to have repeatedly selected for highly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-increases-threat-antimicrobial-resistance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resistant microbes</a>, much like those found in microwaves. </p>



<p>The exclusive presence of <em>Nonomuraea</em> bacteria in laboratory microwaves, alongside other genera like <em>Delftia</em>, <em>Micrococcus</em>, and <em>Deinocococcus</em>, highlights the resilience and adaptability of these organisms.</p>



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



<p>As we uncover the hidden microbial communities within our microwaves, the discoveries open up exciting opportunities for future research and biotechnological innovations.</p>



<p>Understanding how these microbes thrive in such extreme conditions could pave the way for new applications in various fields, including waste management, bioremediation, and even food safety. </p>



<p>"For both the general public and laboratory personnel, we recommend regularly disinfecting microwaves with a diluted bleach solution or a commercially available disinfectant spray," said Torrent. </p>



<p>"It's also important to wipe down the interior surfaces with a damp cloth after each use to remove any residue and clean up spills immediately to prevent the growth of bacteria."</p>



<p>Our microwaves, once considered mere kitchen tools, are now revealing themselves to be a source of inspiration for sustainable and innovative solutions that could benefit both people and the planet. </p>



<p>Embracing this microbial diversity not only enhances our understanding of life’s adaptability but also encourages a more harmonious relationship with the microscopic residents that share our spaces.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2024.1395751/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Microbiology</a></em>.</p>



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



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Microbes have become immune to radiation and live in microwaves

In the grand scheme of life’s relentless pursuit, microbes have...

<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>



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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<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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