<p>Inside our bodies, countless decisions play out silently at the cellular level. Some cells divide, some die, and others are forced out when they no longer serve their purpose. </p>



<p>A study from <a href="https://www.kcl.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King’s College London</a> and the <a href="https://www.crick.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Francis Crick Institute</a> reveals that epithelial cells use electricity to spot weak neighbors and remove them. This breakthrough offers fresh insight into how diseases like cancer and stroke arise when energy balance within cells is disturbed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cells-renew-constantly">Cells renew constantly</h2>



<p>Epithelial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hemifusome-newly-discovered-organelle-inside-human-cells-with-immense-potential/">cells</a> form the barrier that lines organs, renewing rapidly to stay protective. Their balance depends on extrusion, the process of ejecting damaged or excess cells. This keeps tissues tightly packed and efficient. </p>



<p>If extrusion falters, cell numbers become chaotic, creating openings for disease. Without this constant regulation, unhealthy cells may linger, disrupt organ integrity, and interfere with critical signaling pathways. </p>



<p>Over time, these disturbances can weaken the protective barrier, encourage unchecked growth, and increase vulnerability to conditions such as cancer, chronic inflammation, or infections that compromise overall tissue health and resilience.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electricity-targets-weak-cells">Electricity targets weak cells</h2>



<p>Earlier work showed that overcrowding forces some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-the-first-cells-life-form-on-earth-scientists-think-they-finally-figured-it-out/">cells</a> to be squeezed out mechanically. The latest discovery goes further. It shows that extrusion is not random but targets energy-poor cells. Crowding pushes sodium into cells through specialized ion channels, altering their electrical signals. </p>



<p>Healthy cells restore balance, but weak ones cannot, triggering shrinkage and eventual extrusion. This reveals a precise surveillance system where tissues actively monitor cellular energy, ensuring only the strongest cells remain. </p>



<p>Such control preserves organ stability, while defects in this mechanism may promote disease progression and unchecked cellular growth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cells-sense-crowding-with-electricity">Cells sense crowding with electricity</h2>



<p>The researchers noticed a striking prelude to extrusion: cells briefly shrank before being expelled. This stage, termed homeostatic early shrinkage, reflects water leaving the cell. </p>



<p>Roughly 70 percent of extruding cells undergo this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cells-vomit-waste-to-speed-up-healing-in-our-body/">shrinkage</a>. It is not caused by contractile forces but by ion channels regulating water movement. Key players include the potassium channels Kv1.1 and Kv1.2, and the chloride channel SWELL1.</p>



<p>The study revealed that an epithelial sodium channel, ENaC, senses crowding. It acts as a tension detector, letting sodium rush in when cells press against one another.</p>



<p>If a cell has enough ATP, it pumps sodium back out and stabilizes. If not, depolarization occurs, potassium and chloride exit, water follows, and the cell shrinks, crossing the threshold that triggers extrusion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-energy-as-a-trigger">Low energy as a trigger</h2>



<p>Time-lapse experiments revealed that cells destined for extrusion show falling ATP levels before they depolarize and shrink. When ATP levels were artificially lowered, extrusion increased. </p>



<p>This shows energy deficiency directly selects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-space-changes-our-cells-insights-from-the-iss/">cells</a> for removal. In essence, epithelial tissue runs a built-in fitness test: cells unable to maintain their electrical balance are expelled.</p>



<p>"We see this sodium channel acting as a sensor, exposing cells with the least amount of energy and targeting those cells for death," noted study lead author Dr. Saranne Mitchell. </p>



<p>"This mechanism gives epithelia a constant surveillance system to rapidly detect weak cells and remove them. It's like an electrical quality-control check, keeping tissues robust and functional."</p>



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



<p>The study highlights how epithelial tissues are not passive layers but dynamic communities constantly testing their members. By identifying weaker cells early, they can preserve strength and protect organ function.</p>



<p>"By revealing that cells with low energy are targeted for extrusion, our work also adds a new layer into how metabolism can impact many diseases," said Professor Jody Rosenblatt.</p>



<p>"This new insight could suggest how overconsumption, through eating more and consuming more calories, might override this 'low energy trigger' for extrusion and prevent the elimination of defective cells, allowing them to accumulate into cancers." </p>



<p>"It might also reveal how energy deprivation following a stroke, caused by impacted blood supply, could lead to excess extrusion and organ damage."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cells-use-electricity-effectively">Cells use electricity effectively</h2>



<p>This model highlights energy sufficiency as a deciding factor in cell survival. Much like how mitochondria regulate apoptosis, epithelial extrusion uses energy balance as a checkpoint. </p>



<p>The findings also connect to conditions like cystic fibrosis and cancer, where ion channel malfunctions are common. By linking ion flow, energy, and crowding, this study reframes how tissues maintain integrity.</p>



<p>The discovery paints epithelia as more than static barriers. They are dynamic, electrically sensitive tissues constantly probing their members for weakness. </p>



<p>Cells that cannot meet the energy demands are removed for the greater good of the tissue. Even the faintest electrical flicker within these cellular communities can tip the balance between health and disease.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09514-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: CC0 Public Domain</p>



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Body tissues use electricity to expel weak cells

Inside our bodies, countless decisions play out silently at the cellular level. Some cells divide, some die, and others are forced out when they no longer serve their purpose. A study from King’s College London and the Francis Crick Institute reveals that epithelial cells use electricity to spot weak neighbors and remove them. This breakthrough offers fresh insight into how diseases like cancer and stroke arise when energy balance within cells is disturbed. Cells renew constantly Epithelial cells form the barrier that lines organs, renewing rapidly to...

<p>Ever taken a moment to consider the plastic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-production-increases-create-identical-plastic-pollution-increase/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predicament</a> our planet seems to be wrapped in? The presence of plastic is everywhere - in our parks, our oceans, even in the air we inhale and water we gulp down. It has managed to sneak into the crannies of our world, causing severe damage to our ecosystem. But what if the antidote to this monstrous issue was right beneath where we stand, growing in the form of plants?</p>



<p>Leading the charge on this groundbreaking research is Dr. Yuyi Yang from the <a href="https://www.nies.org/ywz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences</a>, MEE. Along with a dedicated group of individuals from the Hubei Key Laboratory of Wetland Evolution &amp; Ecological Restoration, Dr. Yang has unearthed a unique approach to handle the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fashion-industrys-plastic-waste-is-a-major-environmental-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic pollution crisis</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-plants-to-combat-plastic-pollution">Power of plants to combat plastic pollution</h2>



<p>So, what is phytoremediation? As it turns out, particular plants are capable of more than just soaking up sunlight. </p>



<p>They have mastered the art of absorbing, neutralizing and converting harmful pollutants - including microplastics - from our surroundings. </p>



<p>In combination with the conventional waste management measures, these "green warriors" might just be the key to a healthier, plastic-free planet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-detoxification-power-of-plants">Detoxification power of plants</h2>



<p>The concept of phytoremediation isn’t exactly a new kid on the block. Indigenous communities from different corners of the world have been leveraging the power of plants to detoxify their environment for eons. </p>



<p>The focus has now shifted towards understanding how these green heroes can assist us in winning the war against plastic pollution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-to-the-rescue-from-plastic-pollution">Plants to the rescue from plastic pollution</h2>



<p>Certain plants, fondly referred to as hyperaccumulators, have the unique ability to capture, confine and filter minute plastic particles. By doing this, they can remarkably decrease the amount of plastic contamination our environment is subjected to.</p>



<p>What if plants could turn plastic waste into something harmless or potentially useful? Through processes like phytoaccumulation, phytostabilization, and phytofiltration, these quiet warriors can recycle waste, completely transforming our relationship with plastic.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-is-key">Community is key</h2>



<p>Tackling plastic pollution is not a solo gig - it's a community-driven initiative. By actively involving local communities in phytoremediation efforts, not only can we foster a sense of environmental responsibility at the grassroots level but also create aesthetically pleasing spaces.</p>



<p>Your neighbourhood park could double as a green lab and a pollution-free haven, illustrating the potential of phytoremediation in beautifying urban landscapes.</p>



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



<p>Though the initial results seem promising, there is still a long journey ahead. More research is needed to discover new hyperaccumulating species and optimize their growing conditions.</p>



<p>Studying the long-term impact of these processes on soil health and biodiversity is important to strengthen the case for phytoremediation. </p>



<p>An integrative approach combining ecology, waste management, and community development can drive us further down this green path.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-perspective-on-plants-and-plastic-pollution">Global perspective on plants and plastic pollution</h2>



<p>As we examine the vast potential of phytoremediation, it's essential to appreciate its implementation on a global scale. Various countries have embraced this innovative approach, integrating local flora into their environmental remediation strategies. </p>



<p>For instance, in the Netherlands, researchers have successfully employed specific plant species to remediate heavy metal contamination, showcasing how tailored plant selections can play a pivotal role in restoring polluted sites. </p>



<p>Meanwhile, nations like India and Brazil are pioneering projects that utilize native plants to combat both plastic waste and ecological degradation. Such international efforts highlight the collaborative spirit needed to tackle plastic pollution and reinforce the notion that we are all stewards of our environment.</p>



<p>By fostering global partnerships and exchanging knowledge across borders, we can cultivate a robust shield against the encroaching threats of plastic waste, ultimately nurturing a healthier planet for future generations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planting-hope">Planting hope</h2>



<p>In a world strangled by the issue of plastic pollution, plants might be our ray of hope. "Phytoremediation isn't merely a technique; it's a sustainable revolution in our battle against plastic pollution," said Dr. Yuyi Yang.</p>



<p>"By harnessing plant-based solutions, we are able to lessen the environmental burden of plastics, turning waste into valuable resources and fostering a healthier planet."</p>



<p>So, the next time you quench the thirst of your indoor plant, remember, it isn’t just an ornamental piece in your living room. It has a larger role to play, possibly paving the way to a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lasers-may-completely-transform-the-future-of-plastic-recycling/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthier planet</a>.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772985024000292?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eco-Environment &amp; Health</a>.</em></p>



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Some plants can absorb and neutralize plastic pollution

Ever taken a moment to consider the plastic predicament our...

<p>Dogs have been <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-dogs-have-larger-brains-than-ancient-dog-breeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">man's best friend</a> for as long as most can remember, but would you believe the furry friends we adore were once embroiled in a cultural showdown centuries ago? It's a story of indigenous dog lineages that begins in the historical Jamestown colony, nestled by the Chesapeake Bay, once known by its Algonquian name, Tsenacomoco.</p>



<p>The study was led by Ariane Thomas, a recent anthropology PhD graduate from the University of Iowa, and researchers from the <a href="https://illinois.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a> and the <a href="https://uiowa.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Iowa</a>.</p>



<p>The team's pursuit was simple: unravel the mysterious disappearance of indigenous North American dog lineages, believed to have been replaced by European ones from 1492 onwards. Looking for answers, they turned to the expansive collection of canid remains at Jamestown.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-indigenous-dog-lineages">Indigenous dog lineages </h2>



<p>What stands out here is the shared bond between Europeans and Native Americans regarding their love for dogs. This companionship was not just a matter of having a pet; it was deeply intertwined with their cultural identities. </p>



<p>For both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dingoes-and-modern-dogs-share-very-little-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">groups</a>, dogs represented loyalty, companionship, and even status within their communities. However, this mutual affection also led to conflict, as each side sought to express their unique cultural values through their relationships with these animals. </p>



<p>The differing perspectives on dog ownership and their roles in society created friction, prompting questions about identity, belonging, and the impact of cultural exchange. </p>



<p>What happened next is a fascinating exploration of how these relationships evolved amidst changing dynamics and influence.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unleashing-questions-and-clues">Unleashing questions and clues</h2>



<p>“Previous studies had suggested that there were a lot of indigenous dogs in the continental United States and that they were eradicated," said Thomas. "We wanted to understand what that entailed: when it happened, were they culled, was it the competition with European dogs, or was it disease?”</p>



<p>The research team got to work, selecting 22 canid remains from the Jamestown colony for a deep-dive into their DNA. The findings were jaw-dropping.</p>



<p>Most of the Jamestown dogs, estimated on body size, weighed between 22-39 lbs, equivalent to our familiar beagles or schnauzers. More tellingly, traces of human-inflicted damage including burning and cut marks were found on many of the bones.</p>



<p>“The cut marks and other butchery marks we found on them show that some of these dogs were eaten. The colonists didn’t have enough food and they had to rely on the indigenous dogs in the area,” Thomas explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-endurance-of-indigenous-dog-breeds">Endurance of indigenous dog breeds </h2>



<p>But the story doesn't end there. Recent studies revealed fascinating insights into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dingoes-and-modern-dogs-share-very-little-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA sequences</a> of various dog breeds, showcasing that at least six dogs exhibited evidence of indigenous North American ancestry.</p>



<p>This discovery implies that indigenous dogs were able to endure and adapt, at least for a time, even after the arrival of Europeans in North America. These dogs likely played significant roles in the lives of Indigenous peoples, serving as companions, hunters, and protectors.</p>



<p>Their resilience highlights the deep connections between these dogs and the cultures they served, reminding us of the rich history and interwoven narratives of humans and dogs throughout time. </p>



<p>Understanding this heritage is crucial to appreciating the diverse roles that dogs have played in human societies.</p>



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



<p>While the colonists and Indigenous tribes likely engaged in the trade of dogs, researchers are also considering the intriguing possibility of interbreeding between these groups without an emphasis on maintaining pure lineages. </p>



<p>This concept introduces a fascinating new avenue for study, shedding light on the complexities of human-animal relationships during that period. Such interbreeding could have led to the diverse traits seen in dog breeds today. </p>



<p>The research team plans to broaden their scope by expanding to additional sites for further analysis, hoping to uncover more about the historical interactions between colonists, Indigenous tribes, and the canine companions they shared. </p>



<p>This exploration could significantly enhance our understanding of the evolution of domestic dogs and their roles in various cultures.</p>



<p>This pioneering research marks an important step in understanding the complex social history of dogs during the early colonial period. It could spark similar studies dealing with human-animal dynamics in other historical periods.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/american-antiquity/article/dogs-of-tsenacomoco-ancient-dna-reveals-the-presence-of-local-dogs-at-jamestown-colony-in-the-early-seventeenth-century/960B1D0EC96B492E0AFDA088CEB949E0">American Antiquity</a></em>.</p>



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Why did indigenous dog lineages of North America disappear?

Dogs have been man's best friend for as long as...

<p>Psyche, a tiny yet intriguing asteroid orbiting between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psyche-will-use-mars-to-slingshot-itself-deeper-into-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mars</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psyche-giant-metallic-asteroid-will-soon-reveal-secrets-of-our-solar-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter</a>, has recently unveiled surprising secrets that have captivated the attention of scientists and space enthusiasts alike.</p>



<p>Through the use of advanced data gathered by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, a research team led by the <a href="https://www.swri.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Southwest Research Institute</a> has confirmed the presence of hydroxyl molecules on Psyche’s surface, indicating the existence of hydrated minerals.</p>



<p>This discovery sheds light on the complex evolutionary history of Psyche. It also provides critical context for the NASA spacecraft currently making its long journey to the asteroid, with the promise of unlocking even more cosmic mysteries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-metal-marvel-in-the-asteroid-belt">A metal marvel in the asteroid belt</h2>



<p>At about 140 miles in diameter, Psyche stands out as one of the largest and most massive objects within the main <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/10-billion-mile-long-dust-belt-found-in-the-beta-pictoris-planetary-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroid belt</a>, a region teeming with celestial bodies.</p>



<p>Previous observations have suggested that Psyche could be a dense, largely metallic remnant of a planet's core, possibly left behind after a catastrophic collision that stripped away its outer layers, leaving only its metallic heart.</p>



<p>In October 2023, NASA embarked on an ambitious journey. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-receives-deep-space-laser-message-psyche-mission-140-million-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Psyche spacecraft</a> was launched on a 2.2-billion-mile voyage expected to culminate in a rendezvous with the asteroid in August 2029.</p>



<p>"Using telescopes at different wavelengths of infrared light, the SwRI-led research will provide different but complementary information to what the Psyche spacecraft is designed to study," said Dr. Tracy Becker, second author of the research published by the American Astronomical Society.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-history-of-the-solar-system">Unraveling the history of the solar system</h2>



<p>Dr. Stephanie Jarmak, the paper’s lead author and researcher at the Center for Astrophysics, conducted much of this research while at SwRI. She noted that the story of asteroids is, in many ways, the story of our solar system.</p>



<p>"Our understanding of solar system evolution is closely tied to interpretations of asteroid composition, particularly the M-class asteroids that contain higher concentrations of metal," said Dr. Jarmak.</p>



<p>"These asteroids were initially thought to be the exposed cores of differentiated planetesimals, derived from their spectral similarity to iron meteorites."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hydrated-minerals-clues-to-psyche-s-past">Hydrated minerals: Clues to Psyche's past</h2>



<p>One of the most intriguing findings from the Webb data was the evidence of hydroxyl on Psyche’s surface, hinting at the presence of water. </p>



<p>The source of this hydration could be external, possibly from impactors. But if the hydration is native or endogenous, this would indicate that Psyche has a different evolutionary history than what current models have suggested.</p>



<p>"Asteroids are leftovers from the planetary formation process, so their compositions vary depending on where they formed in the solar nebula," explained study co-author Dr. Anicia Arredondo.</p>



<p>"Hydration that is endogenous could suggest that Psyche is not the remnant core of a protoplanet. Instead, it could suggest that Psyche originated beyond the 'snow line' - the minimum distance from the Sun where protoplanetary disc temperatures are low enough for volatile compounds to condense into solids - before migrating to its current location in the outer main belt."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-surface-history-of-psyche">Complex surface history of Psyche </h2>



<p>Variability in the strength of the hydration features across observations implies a heterogeneous distribution of hydrated minerals on Psyche, representing a complex surface history.</p>



<p>This could potentially be explained by impacts from carbonaceous chondrite asteroids, which are known to be highly hydrated.</p>



<p>Understanding the composition and location of asteroids like Psyche not only informs us about the distribution and evolution of materials in our solar nebula but also provides insight into the presence and distribution of water in other solar systems.</p>



<p>Since water is essential for life, this research could help guide the search for potential life within our solar system and beyond.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hydration-is-widespread-in-the-asteroid-belt">Hydration is widespread in the asteroid belt</h2>



<p>"The detection of hydration features on Psyche contributes to the growing body of evidence that M-class asteroids are a diverse population and that hydration is more widespread in the asteroid belt than previously thought," concluded the researchers.</p>



<p>"This has significant implications for our understanding of water delivery to the inner solar system, potentially offering insights into the contribution of differentiated planetesimals."</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psyche-mission-paves-a-revolutionary-path-toward-deep-space-communication/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Psyche mission</a> is managed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and led by Arizona State University, with the Webb telescope developed in partnership with European and Canadian space agencies.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.3847/PSJ/ad66b9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Planetary Science</a></em>.</p>



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Webb telescope detects water on asteroid Psyche

Psyche, a tiny yet intriguing asteroid orbiting between Mars and...

<p>Without honey bees and other pollinators, life on Earth would be very different, and humans simply wouldn't exist... that's how vital they are to our planet and to humanity. On the third Saturday of August each year, World Honey Bee Day is celebrated to <a href="https://thebeeconservancy.org/#:~:text=The%20Bee%20Conservancy%20strives%20to,for%20bees%20and%20communities%20everywhere." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">raise awareness</a> about the importance of honey bees and other pollinators. </p>



<p>The ultimate goal of this occasion is to educate people about the crucial role of honey bees in our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-pollinators-wild-bees-boosts-food-supply-income/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food supply</a>. These remarkable creatures are responsible for pollinating about 70% of the crops that feed 90% of the world.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-world-honey-bee-day-a-global-event">World Honey Bee Day: A global event</h2>



<p>World Honey Bee Day began in 2009 as a grassroots movement in the United States, initiated by beekeepers to promote beekeeping and the importance of honey bees.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Since then, it has grown into a global event, with various activities such as educational workshops, beekeeping demonstrations, and community events that emphasize the conservation of bee habitats and the importance of supporting beekeeping.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-would-the-world-be-like-without-honey-bees">What would the world be like without honey bees?</h2>



<p>A world without honey bees would have profound effects on both the environment and the global food supply.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduced-crop-yields">Reduced crop yields</h3>



<p>Many fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds depend on honey bees for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-expansion-linked-to-global-decline-of-wild-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollination</a>. Without honey bees, these crops would have significantly lower yields, leading to food shortages and higher prices. For example, almonds, apples, blueberries, and cucumbers would become scarce.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decline-in-food-diversity">Decline in food diversity</h3>



<p>Honey bees pollinate a wide variety of crops, contributing to the diversity of our diets. Without them, many of these foods would become rare or disappear, leading to a more monotonous diet that relies heavily on wind-pollinated or self-pollinated plants like grains.</p>



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



<p>The agricultural industry relies heavily on honey bees for pollination services. A decline in honeybee populations would hurt farmers, particularly those growing high-value crops like almonds and berries. The economic ripple effect would extend to related industries, from food processing to retail.</p>



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



<p>Honey bees contribute to the health of ecosystems by helping plants reproduce. Their absence could lead to reduced plant diversity, which would affect entire ecosystems, including the animals that depend on these plants for food and shelter.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-reliance-on-other-pollination-methods">Increased reliance on other pollination methods</h3>



<p>In the absence of honey bees, farmers might need to resort to less efficient and more expensive pollination methods, such as hand pollination or relying on other insect species. This could increase the cost of food production and further strain resources.</p>



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



<p>The loss of honey bees would lead to a decline in biodiversity, as many plants that rely on bee pollination might fail to reproduce effectively. This could have cascading effects on wildlife that depend on these plants for survival.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-major-threats-to-honey-bees">Major threats to honey bees</h2>



<p>World Honey Bee Day also highlights the challenges that honey bees face, such as habitat loss, pesticides, climate change, and diseases, which have led to declining bee populations.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Exposure to certain pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, can be highly toxic to honeybees. These chemicals can impair their navigation, foraging behavior, and immune systems, leading to increased mortality.</p>



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



<p>The loss of natural habitats due to urbanization, agricultural expansion, and deforestation reduces the availability of food sources and nesting sites for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honeybees-can-shed-light-on-the-health-of-cities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honey bees</a>. Monoculture farming, which often lacks the diversity of flowering plants that bees need, exacerbates this issue.</p>



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



<p>Changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollinators-face-extinction-risk-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate patterns</a> affect the availability of food for bees by altering the blooming times of flowers. Extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, can also disrupt bee populations and their food sources.</p>



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



<p>These parasitic mites are a major threat to honeybee colonies. They feed on bee larvae and adults, weakening them and making them more susceptible to diseases. Varroa mites also transmit viruses that can decimate bee colonies.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diseases-and-pathogens">Diseases and pathogens</h3>



<p>Honey bees are vulnerable to various diseases, including American foulbrood, Nosema, and multiple viruses. The spread of these diseases is often exacerbated by weakened immunity due to stressors like pesticides and poor nutrition.</p>



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



<p>With the decline in diverse flowering plants, bees often suffer from poor nutrition. This lack of a varied diet can weaken their immune systems, making them more vulnerable to diseases and reducing their overall resilience.</p>



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



<p>The introduction of non-native species, such as the Asian hornet, poses a threat to honeybees. These invasive species can prey on bees, disrupt their habitats, or compete with them for food.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-colony-collapse-disorder-nbsp">Colony collapse disorder<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h3>



<p>In recent years, honeybee populations have been declining due to a phenomenon called colony collapse disorder, where worker bees abandon the hive. This has raised concerns about the impact on global agriculture.</p>



<p>These threats often interact synergistically, making the overall impact on honeybee populations more severe. Conservation efforts and sustainable agricultural practices are critical to addressing these challenges and supporting honeybee populations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascinating-facts-about-honey-bees">Fascinating facts about honey bees </h2>



<p>Honey bees are fascinating creatures with many interesting traits that highlight their complexity and importance to ecosystems.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-social-structure-nbsp">Complex social structure<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h3>



<p>Honey bees live in colonies with a highly organized social structure consisting of a single queen, many female worker bees, and a few male drones. Each bee has a specific role within the hive.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-queen-bee-nbsp">The queen bee<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h3>



<p>The queen bee is the only fertile female in the hive, and her primary role is to lay eggs. She can lay up to 2,000 eggs per day during peak season.</p>



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



<p>Worker bees, all of whom are female, perform various tasks throughout their life, including nursing the young, building and cleaning the hive, foraging for nectar and pollen, and guarding the hive.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-communication-through-dance">Communication through dance</h3>



<p>Honey bees communicate with each other using a "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-perform-waggle-dance-to-share-the-location-of-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">waggle dance</a>" to convey the direction and distance of food sources. This dance is a sophisticated form of communication that includes both movement and sound.</p>



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



<p>Honey bees build their hives using hexagonal cells made of beeswax. The hexagon shape is the most efficient for maximizing space and structural stability.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pollination-powerhouses-nbsp">Pollination powerhouses<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h3>



<p>Honey bees are critical pollinators, responsible for pollinating around 75% of the fruits, vegetables, and nuts we eat. Their pollination activities are vital for maintaining biodiversity and food security.</p>



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



<p>Honey bees have an exceptional memory, allowing them to remember the locations of flowers and navigate back to the hive from long distances.</p>



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



<p>Honey bees regulate the temperature of their hive by clustering together and vibrating their wing muscles to generate heat in cold weather, or by fanning their wings to cool the hive in hot weather.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-celebrate-world-honey-bee-day-nbsp">Celebrate World Honey Bee Day&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Planting native wildflowers, creating bee-friendly gardens, and protecting natural habitats can help support bee populations. </p>



<p>You can also purchase honey and other bee-related products from local beekeepers. This helps support sustainable beekeeping practices and the local economy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Promoting the use of bee-friendly pesticides and integrated pest management (IPM) practices can mitigate the impact of harmful chemicals.</p>



<p>Furthermore, encouraging organic farming and other sustainable practices can reduce the reliance on chemical inputs that harm bees.</p>



<p>Ongoing research to understand bee health, genetics, and behavior is essential for developing effective conservation strategies. Monitoring bee populations helps track changes and identify emerging threats.</p>



<p>Conserving honey bees is not just about protecting a single species; it's about preserving the intricate web of life that depends on them, including our own food systems.</p>



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



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

World Honey Bee Day 2024: Protecting our vital pollinators

Without honey bees and other pollinators, life on Earth would...

<p>Millions of American lives have been disrupted by the ongoing COVID-19 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-death-toll-of-covid-19-pandemic-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pandemic</a>, but what's even more striking are the repercussions of long COVID, a condition that continues to drain individuals even after they recover from the initial virus.</p>



<p>A recent study from <a href="https://www.yale.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale University</a> reveals a startling insight into the plight of those grappling with long COVID. Overall, 14 percent of study participants reported that they did not return to work in the months following their infection.</p>



<p>In the wake of the global pandemic, a long-term survey called the Innovative Support for Patients with SARS-CoV-2 Infections Registry (INSPIRE) was initiated in the fall of 2020, extending through the summer of 2022.</p>



<p>The extensive study had over 6,000 participants from various locations in the United States, including Illinois, Connecticut, Washington, Pennsylvania, Texas, and California.</p>



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



<p>Within the INSPIRE study, Yale researchers primarily focused on workplace responses from participants who had contracted the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-virus-can-remain-in-sperm-months-after-infection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virus</a>. Their return to work after infection and the frequency of workdays missed due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/paxlovid-helps-fight-covid-but-it-does-not-prevent-long-covid-symptoms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID-related symptoms</a> were key areas of interest.</p>



<p>The researchers also assessed how many symptoms participants experienced after COVID-19 infection.</p>



<p>Among the nearly 3,000 participants who were employed prior to the pandemic, almost 10% reported experiencing five or more symptoms three months post-infection. </p>



<p>Arjun Venkatesh is the lead author of the study and chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Yale School of Medicine.</p>



<p>"This number was important because we’ve shown in previous studies that the number of symptoms someone has after being infected with SARS-CoV-2 may be more indicative of how severe their long COVID is," said Venkatesh.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-implications-of-long-covid">Economic implications of long COVID</h2>



<p>The study unearthed a startling statistic: more than 7% of participants were absent from work for over 10 days in the three months succeeding their SARS-CoV-2 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-virus-lingers-body-two-years-after-infection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infection</a> due to COVID-19 symptoms. </p>



<p>Strikingly, nearly 14% of participants did not resume work within three months after COVID-19 infection. Those with five or more symptoms were more than twice as likely not to return to work compared to individuals with no symptoms.</p>



<p>“We found that having five or more symptoms three months after infection was strongly associated with not returning to work,” noted Venkatesh. “And when we compare the rates observed in this study to the national population, it could mean as many as 2 million people may be out of work because of post-COVID conditions.”</p>



<p>This finding is particularly alarming considering the average age of participants in this study was only around 40. </p>



<p>“This has big economic impacts,” said Venkatesh. “It also has impacts on those people individually in terms of their own income security and their ability to care for themselves and their families.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-need-for-supportive-measures">Addressing the need for supportive measures</h2>



<p>While economic relief measures were rapidly put in place at the beginning of the pandemic, the economic and personal costs of long COVID remain largely overlooked. </p>



<p>As public health officials and lawmakers weigh the long-term health and economic effects of COVID-19 and long COVID, Venkatesh emphasized the pressing need to reassess disability policy to support work transitions for people whose long COVID symptoms prevent them from getting back to their previous jobs.</p>



<p>“Given the millions of people who have had COVID-19 in the United States and the millions of people that report prolonged symptoms, this is not a small problem,” said Venkatesh. “So it does require big interventions.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-importance-of-awareness-about-long-covid">The importance of awareness about long COVID</h2>



<p>As we continue to navigate the aftermath of the COVID-19 <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-global-failures-to-control-the-covid-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pandemic</a>, raising awareness about long COVID is crucial. </p>



<p>Many individuals remain unaware of the potential long-term effects after recovery from the virus, which can include fatigue, brain fog, and respiratory issues. </p>



<p>Education campaigns aimed at both the public and healthcare providers can help ensure that the signs and symptoms of long COVID are recognized early. </p>



<p>This awareness can lead to timely interventions, support, and resources for those affected, ultimately fostering a better understanding of this condition and its impact on the workforce and society as a whole.</p>



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



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

Millions struggle to return to work amid long COVID crisis

Millions of American lives have been disrupted by the ongoing...

<p>Celestial events often captivate astronomers and ignite the imaginations of space enthusiasts and casual observers alike. A prime example of this is the supernova explosion SN 1987A.</p>



<p>Supernova SN 1987A erupted approximately 160,000 light-years away in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a satellite galaxy of our Milky Way, and is still visible today from Earth with the naked eye.</p>



<p>This spectacular explosion was especially intriguing because it gave us a unique chance to study the life cycle of stars and how they meet their end.</p>



<p>Fast forward to today, and we have exciting news from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (<a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JWST</a>) -- they’ve confirmed the existence of a neutron star hidden within the remains of SN 1987A.</p>



<p>This discovery is huge, as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neutron-stars-may-hold-the-key-to-understanding-dark-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron stars</a> are incredibly dense and act like laboratories for understanding the fundamental properties of matter under extreme conditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unpacking-supernova-sn-1987a">Unpacking supernova SN 1987a</h2>



<p>Supernovae are like cosmic fireworks marking the end of massive stars. They light up the universe with incredible energy and can shine brightly for months.</p>



<p>Here’s a fun fact about SN 1987A: it’s a core-collapse supernova, and it was the first one visible from Earth without a telescope in nearly 400 years.</p>



<p>Claes Fransson from <a href="https://www.su.se/cmlink/stockholm-university" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stockholm University</a> leads the latest SN 1987A study. He explains that theoretical models and a pre-explosion neutrino burst hinted at the formation of a neutron star or black hole.</p>



<p>"With this observatory, we've now found direct evidence for emissions triggered by the newborn compact object," Fransson states. He believes this object is most likely a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neutron-star-collisions-push-the-limits-of-extreme-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron star</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stellar-needle-in-a-cosmic-haystack">Stellar needle in a cosmic haystack</h2>



<p>Since this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-coronae-borealis-blaze-star-explosion-visible-one-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova explosion</a>, astronomers have been on the hunt for the compact object at its core, which is thought to be either a neutron star or a black hole.</p>



<p>This search has been tricky, but thanks to the Webb Telescope, which launched in July 2022, we now have the best evidence so far.</p>



<p>The team used the Medium Resolution Spectrograph (MRS) mode of Webb’s <a href="https://webbtelescope.org/contents/media/images/01FA0SZA5HPXKRKH8Y6PKB10V1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIRI</a> (Mid-Infrared Instrument), which members of the same team helped to develop. The MRS is a type of instrument known as an Integral Field Unit (<a href="https://webbtelescope.org/contents/media/videos/2018/37/1181-Video" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IFU</a>).</p>



<p>This instrument suggests there’s a highly energetic source, most likely the elusive neutron star that researchers have been trying to spot.</p>



<p>Fransson, a key player in this research, highlights the importance of these findings, saying, “To create these ions that we observed in the ejecta, it was clear that there had to be a source of high-energy radiation in the center of the SN 1987A remnant.”</p>



<p>He adds that the analysis led to the conclusion that only a few scenarios make sense here, and interestingly, all of them point to the existence of a newly born <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fastest-spinning-magnetar-reveals-secrets-of-neutron-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neutron star</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sn-1987a-bigger-ripple-in-the-space-pond">SN 1987A: Bigger ripple in the space pond</h2>



<p>JWST has fundamentally changed how we study the cosmos. Regarding SN 1987A, the telescope’s IFU allows scientists to simultaneously image the object while obtaining its spectrum, empowering us to understand the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-jets-cannibals-neutron-stars-explosions-contain-life-elements/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical processes</a> happening within the remnant.</p>



<p>So, what's the big deal about finding a neutron star in SN 1987A? For one, it helps us refine our models of how massive stars evolve and ultimately meet their end.</p>



<p>This could lead us to better understand extreme cosmic objects like neutron stars and black holes. Besides, findings from SN 1987A could assist astronomers in interpreting other <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/crab-nebula-the-brilliant-remains-of-a-massive-star-explosion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova remnants like the Crab Nebula</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-watching-stars-explode-in-real-time">Watching stars explode in real time</h2>



<p>The quest doesn't end with this discovery. Future observations using JWST and ground-based telescopes will help us understand the properties of this neutron star and how it came to be.</p>



<p>As we continue to study SN 1987A, we are essentially watching changes in real time, giving us a front-row seat to the complex dance of stellar death and rebirth.</p>



<p>Thanks to JWST, we now know a neutron star exists amidst the remains of SN 1987A, laying to rest a mystery that has intrigued astronomers for decades.</p>



<p>As research forges ahead, we can only anticipate more awe-inspiring discoveries, further enriching our understanding of the cosmos. So, next time you look up at the night sky, remember, there's a lot more going on than meets the eye.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adj5796" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a></em>.</p>



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



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

'String of pearls' found around supernova is visible from Earth with the naked eye

Celestial events often captivate astronomers and ignite the imaginations of...

<p>Despite the presence of numerous deadly creatures, Australia reigns supreme in terms of life expectancy among the anglophone nations for the past 30 years.</p>



<p>Other elite English-speaking nations saw significant improvements in their respective life expectancies, with Ireland leading the pack. </p>



<p>However, America, unfortunately, brings up the rear in this vital health parameter since the early nineties.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-achievable-gains-in-life-expectancy">Achievable gains in life expectancy </h2>



<p>A group of social researchers from <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State University</a> recently published their findings on this issue. The report, which delves into the comparative study of life expectancy among various countries, becomes an eye opener for America.</p>



<p>"One lesson we Americans can learn about life expectancy from looking at comparable countries is where the frontier of best performance lies,” said Jessica Ho, associate professor of sociology and demography at Penn State and senior author on the paper. </p>



<p>"Yes, we’re doing badly, but this study shows what can we aim for. We know these gains in life expectancy are actually achievable because other large countries have already done it.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-life-expectancy-data">Unraveling the life expectancy data</h2>



<p>Using data from the Human Mortality Database and the World Health Organization Mortality Database spanning from 1990 to 2019, the researchers compared life expectancy across six countries - the United States, Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.</p>



<p>The team meticulously analyzed data based on gender, age, and cause of death, including a variety of areas such as cancers, drug and alcohol related deaths, and fatalities from firearms and motor vehicle accidents.</p>



<p>Their effort also included examining the life expectancy within each country, revealing the geographical inequalities associated with it.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-australia-leads-and-america-trails">Australia leads and America trails</h2>



<p>The analysis showed Australians leading with the highest life expectancy at birth over the study period. Compared to Americans, Australian women were found to live nearly 4 more years, while Australian men averaged 5 more years.</p>



<p>Americans, however, had the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-expectancy-drop-men-in-the-u-s-die-six-years-before-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lowest life expectancy</a>, with women living an average of almost 81.5 years and men an average of nearly 76.5 years in 2019.</p>



<p>Geographical inequalities in life expectancy also seemed to be the worst in the United States. </p>



<p>The study reported the highest life expectancy rates for women and men in California and Hawaii, while the southeastern states reflected the lowest life expectancy for both genders.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-driving-shorter-american-lifespans">What is driving shorter American lifespans?</h2>



<p>"One of the main drivers of why American longevity is so much shorter than in other high-income countries is our younger people die at higher rates from largely preventable causes of death, like drug overdose, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-small-electric-vehicles-safe-rising-accident-rates-say-no/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">car accidents</a>, and homicide,” stated Ho, who is also affiliated to the Social Science Research Institute at Penn State. </p>



<p>Furthermore, in the age range of 45-64, high mortality rates were noted due to substance abuse and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/steep-rise-in-cardiovascular-disease-expected-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular diseases</a>.</p>



<p>Australia serves as a model for the United States, with the country's policies helping them climb to the top of the life expectancy rankings.</p>



<p>By controlling young adult mortality, reducing levels of gun deaths, drug and alcohol use, and improving chronic disease management, Australia significantly outperformed the U.S. in life expectancy.</p>



<p>The researchers suggest that adopting policies such as investing in public transit infrastructure, higher support for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smoking-fentanyl-has-become-disturbing-trend-united-states/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">substance abuse</a> treatment programs, and robust public health efforts can help the U.S. not only increase its life expectancy but also decrease geographical disparities related to it.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-path-to-a-healthier-america">A path to a healthier America</h2>



<p>To bridge the gap in life expectancy, America must prioritize a cultural shift towards <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-diet-can-lead-to-longer-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health and wellness</a>. This involves not only addressing immediate health concerns but also fostering a long-term mindset that values preventive care and healthy living.</p>



<p>Communities can play a crucial role by promoting physical activity, nutritious diets, and mental health awareness.</p>



<p>Engaging in local initiatives, like community fitness programs and health education workshops, can empower individuals to take charge of their health. Additionally, creating policies that ensure equitable access to healthcare resources is vital in reducing disparities.</p>



<p>By learning from Australia’s success and implementing these changes, the U.S. can pave the way for a healthier future and ultimately boost its life expectancy.</p>



<p>The study was part of a larger project supported by the National Institute on Aging of the National Institutes of Health and had contributions from other researchers, including a doctoral student from the University of Southern California.</p>



<p>The findings are published in the journal <em><em><a href="https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/14/7/e079365" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BMJ Open</a></em></em>.</p>



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



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

How Australia outpaces America in life expectancy

Despite the presence of numerous deadly creatures, Australia reigns supreme...

<p>On May 11, stargazers across the southern United States were treated to an unexpected display of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/northern-lights-activity-will-intensify-over-the-next-18-months/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">northern lights</a>, while, at the same time, a GPS-guided tractor in the Midwest failed to hit its target. What connects these seemingly unrelated events? </p>



<p>According to two newly published studies co-authored by <a href="https://www.vt.edu/">Virginia Tech</a>'s Scott England, both incidents were caused by an unusually powerful geomagnetic superstorm.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-atmospheric-impacts-of-the-geomagnetic-superstorm">Atmospheric impacts of the geomagnetic superstorm</h2>



<p>“The northern lights are caused by energetic, charged particles hitting our upper atmosphere, which are impacted by numerous factors in space, including the sun,” explained England, an associate professor in the Kevin T. Crofton Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“During solar geomagnetic storms, there’s a lot more of these energetic charged particles in the space around Earth, so we see a brightening of the northern lights, and the region over which you can see them spreads out to include places like the lower 48 states that usually don’t see this display.”</p>



<p>Using NASA's GOLD instrument, England and a team of collaborators from universities and industry tracked the upper atmospheric event on May 11. The research revealed that this geomagnetic storm was the most intense of its kind captured in the past 20 years.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-major-changes-in-the-upper-atmosphere-nbsp">Major changes in the upper atmosphere<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The findings, now published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1029/2024GL110506" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Geophysical Research Letters</em></a>, were detailed in two studies. </p>



<p>The first, led by Deepak Karan from the <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Colorado, Boulder</a>, documented unprecedented changes in the distribution of particles in the upper atmosphere caused by the geomagnetic superstorm. </p>



<p>The second study, led by Virginia Tech alumnus J. Scott Evans, focused on changes in atmospheric composition and temperature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observations-of-a-geomagnetic-superstorm-nbsp">Observations of a geomagnetic superstorm&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Among their observations, England noted witnessing some “delightful swirly patterns” for the first time and a dramatic movement of air away from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/steve-phenomenon-looks-like-an-aurora-acts-like-an-aurora-but-what-is-it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aurora</a>, leading to the formation of enormous vortices larger than hurricanes. </p>



<p>Specific observations included unpredictable shifts of low-energy charged particles from the equator toward the aurora.</p>



<p>The experts identified two types of charged particles: low energy and high energy, the latter posing risks to humans in space and to electronic devices.</p>



<p>The team also noted changes in temperature and pressure likely responsible for the swirling patterns and vortices observed.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Furthermore, there were alterations in the location and spread of low-energy particles, which can negatively impact GPS, satellites, and the electrical grid.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-was-this-geomagnetic-storm-different">Was this geomagnetic storm different?</h2>



<p>“As the aurora intensifies, you see more lights, but along with that, there’s more energy entering the atmosphere, so it makes the atmosphere near the poles very hot, which starts to push air away from the poles and towards the equator,” England explained.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This data poses a lot of questions like, did something really different happen during this geomagnetic storm than has happened previously, or do we just have better instruments to measure the changes?"</p>



<p>These questions have significant implications for the technology that orbits in the upper atmosphere, a region extending from about 60 to 400 miles above Earth’s surface, home to satellites and the International Space Station. This part of the atmosphere is dynamic, with charged particles creating an ionosphere that behaves like a constantly fluctuating electric blanket.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While the upper atmosphere's temperature and composition naturally vary, especially between day and night and across seasons, the influx of energy during geomagnetic storms causes more extreme changes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nearing-the-peak-of-the-solar-cycle">Nearing the peak of the solar cycle</h2>



<p>England noted that particles in Earth's atmosphere are influenced by numerous factors, including solar activity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>During a solar geomagnetic storm, an intense burst of radiation from the sun alters the composition and behavior of atmospheric particles. This explains why, in recent months, the northern lights have been visible in locations where they are rarely seen.</p>



<p>“The number of sunspots, flares, and storms changes with an 11-year cycle that we call the solar cycle,” England said. “The number of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sun-blasts-biggest-x-class-solar-flare-nineteen-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flares</a> we are seeing has been increasing gradually for the last couple of years as we move toward the peak of the solar cycle.”</p>



<p>Beyond the visual spectacle of the northern lights, geomagnetic storms can disrupt our technology. GPS and radio signals, which pass through the ionosphere, can be affected by these atmospheric fluctuations, leading to navigation and communication issues.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geomagnetic-superstorm-impact-on-technology">Geomagnetic superstorm impact on technology</h2>



<p>While many factors, from Earth's weather to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-weather-poses-significant-risks-to-railway-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space weather</a>, can influence this crucial atmospheric layer, much remains to be learned about the interactions between the upper and lower atmosphere and their broader impacts.</p>



<p>England noted that these storms can also increase electrical currents that flow around the Earth, which can impact technological devices that use very long wires.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“In recent years, there have been impacts to the power grid when too much current was flowing through the wires,” said England. “During the largest geomagnetic storm ever recorded, the Carrington Event in 1859, these currents caused telegraph systems - peak technology at that time -&nbsp; to catch on fire.”</p>



<p>Scientists believe that a storm similar to the 1859 Carrington Event could cause catastrophic disruptions if it occurred today, potentially leading to an “internet apocalypse” that could knock large numbers of people and businesses offline.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While the May 11 storm did not cause such drastic consequences, with the peak of the solar cycle expected to arrive in July 2025, we are still about a year away from fully understanding the potential effects.</p>



<p>“One reason we study geomagnetic storms is to try and build models to predict their impacts. Based on the solar cycle, we’d expect the conditions we’re seeing this year to be around for about the next two years,” England concluded.</p>



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



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Geomagnetic superstorm caused major changes in the atmosphere

On May 11, stargazers across the southern United States were...

Seed,Pods,On,A,Black,Bean,Tree,(castanospermum,Australe),Plant

<p>Who ever thought that bean-sized fossils could unravel a tale of ancient plant migration? Well, hold onto your hats. </p>



<p>Researchers from <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State University</a> have cracked an evolutionary puzzle regarding Southeast Asian and Australian rainforests using, you guessed it, giant fossil seeds!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unveiling-the-mysterious-beans">Unveiling the mysterious beans</h2>



<p>These aren't just any seeds. These are ancient fossils about the size of a lime, among the largest seeds ever found in the fossil record. </p>



<p>The scientists discovered that these fossils belonged to an extinct legume genus closely related to the modern Castanospermum, or black bean tree, which is only found today in the coastal rainforests of northern Australia and neighboring islands. </p>



<p>"Although some of the characteristics of these fossils are common across <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-legumes-and-their-symbiotic-bacteria-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">legumes</a>, there is no fossil or living legume group besides Castanospermum that has a combination of features closely matching the fossils," said Edward Spagnuolo, a doctoral student in the Department of Geosciences at Penn State and lead author of the study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discoveries-in-plant-migration">Discoveries in plant migration</h2>



<p>The trail of discovery began in Indonesian Borneo, where the team, including Peter Wilf, professor of geosciences at Penn State, unearthed fossils dating back 34 to 40 million years ago to the Eocene epoch. </p>



<p>These fossils imply that the predecessors of the black bean tree traveled from Asia to Australia during the tectonic-plate collision, which facilitated the exchange of plant and animal species between the continents. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/plant-migration_giant-bean-fossils_jantungspermum-gunnellii_credit-edward-spagnuolo_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/plant-migration_giant-bean-fossils_jantungspermum-gunnellii_credit-edward-spagnuolo_1s.webp" alt="Giant bean fossils of the newly described extinct legume Jantungspermum gunnellii were found in Indonesian Borneo. Credit: Provided by Edward Spagnuolo" class="wp-image-1941774"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Giant bean fossils of the newly described extinct legume Jantungspermum gunnellii were found in Indonesian Borneo. Credit: Provided by Edward Spagnuolo</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>"These fossil seeds suggest that the ancient relatives of Castanospermum migrated into Australia from Southeast Asia during the tectonic collision event and later went extinct in Asia," Spagnuolo added.</p>



<p>This groundbreaking revelation offers the first macrofossil evidence of a plant lineage moving from Asia to Australia after the Asia-Australia tectonic interaction. </p>



<p>Additionally, these seeds are the oldest definite fossil legumes from the Malay Archipelago and the first fossil record of plants related to the black bean tree.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-the-challenges-of-fossil-collection">Overcoming the challenges of fossil collection</h2>



<p>Digging up fossils in this part of the world is no mean feat. "It’s really hard to collect fossils in this part of the world," said Spagnuolo. </p>



<p>"Most surface rocks are destroyed by the heavy tropical rainfall or covered by vegetation, agriculture, and buildings, so there are few places to look for fossils other than mine and quarry exposures." </p>



<p>Yet, the team found a unique partner in Indonesian paleontologists at Institut Teknologi Bandung in Java, who made this work feasible.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treasure-trove-of-discoveries">Treasure trove of discoveries</h2>



<p>An international research team collected the fossils in 2014 from the seams of a coal mine in South Kalimantan, Indonesian Borneo. </p>



<p>Their collection includes three large beans, pollen samples, about 40 leaves, and other fascinating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossils-capture-a-turning-point-in-the-evolution-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossils</a>, including bird tracks, marine invertebrate traces, and fossil turtle remains. </p>



<p>Securing a spot among the largest in the fossil record, these seeds would have grown in a pod reaching up to 3 feet long and housing up to five seeds.</p>



<p>Following fieldwork, the fossils were loaned to Penn State University, where through CT scan imaging and taxonomy analysis, Spagnuolo and Wilf found that they most closely resembled modern Castanospermum, which has no previous fossil representatives. </p>



<p>The seeds were named <em>Jantungspermum gunnellii</em>, honoring the late Gregg Gunnell, a vertebrate paleontologist formerly of the Duke University Lemur Center.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legume-story-and-plant-migration">Legume story and plant migration</h2>



<p>Legumes are a diverse family of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-investigate-the-mysterious-origin-of-flowering-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flowering plants</a>, with about 20,000 species alive today, including many large tropical trees. </p>



<p>However, despite their abundance in modern ecosystems, these seeds are the only confirmed legume fossils from before the Neogene period, 2.6 million to 23 million years ago, in the Southeast Asian wet tropics. </p>



<p>"The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/over-half-of-the-worlds-vertebrates-reside-in-the-tropics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tropics</a> are the most diverse biome on Earth," said Wilf. "We know very little from the fossil record about how tropical ecosystems evolved, especially in Asia, even as extinction risks are rising quickly, and we lose vast areas every year to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-deforestation-crisis-how-can-we-stop-massive-forest-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deforestation</a>."</p>



<p>These findings plug a critical gap in the fossil record, confirming the presence of legumes in Southeast Asia. </p>



<p>"Our work highlights the neglected paleobotanical potential of this region and the need for more fossil sampling in the Malay Archipelago," Spagnuolo emphasized.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/730538" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Journal of Plant Sciences</a></em>.</p>



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



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

Ancient seeds reveal plant migration path from Asia to Australia

Who ever thought that bean-sized fossils could unravel a tale...

<p>Have you ever considered how your brain employs reasoning to draw connections between seemingly unrelated objects or concepts? Our cognitive abilities empower us to make these connections in often non-obvious ways.</p>



<p>For example, we can relate inclement weather to commuting delays, understanding that heavy rain or snow can lead to slower traffic and extended travel times.</p>



<p>Likewise, we recognize how environmental factors, such as temperature and habitat shifts, impact <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lungfish-genome-discovery-explains-how-fish-first-walked-onto-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species evolution over time</a>, resulting in adaptations crucial for survival.</p>



<p>This distinctive reasoning pattern, known as analogical thinking, enables us to infer relationships that significantly enhance our decision-making processes.</p>



<p>It allows us to navigate complex scenarios with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impressive adaptability</a>, whether we are adjusting our plans in response to unpredictable weather or contemplating the broader implications of climate change on biodiversity.</p>



<p>By refining this skill, we can boost our problem-solving capabilities and deepen our understanding of the world around us.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secrets-of-our-neurons">Secrets of our neurons</h2>



<p>A landmark study has offered enlightening data and insights that outline the neuronal workings of inferential reasoning. </p>



<p>"We are beginning to understand how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brain-is-constantly-working-to-learn-from-our-mistakes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain learns</a> and how we extract knowledge from what we experience," said Ueli Rutishauser, PhD, a co-corresponding author on the study and a professor of neuroscience, neurosurgery, and biomedical science at <a href="https://www.cedars-sinai.org/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cedars-Sinai Medical Center</a>.</p>



<p>The study, conducted as part of a multi-institutional consortium funded by the National Institutes of Health’s <a href="https://braininitiative.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BRAIN Initiative</a>, used electrical recordings from more than 3,000 neurons in 17 volunteers with epilepsy who were undergoing invasive monitoring in the hospital to locate the sources of their seizures.</p>



<p>Stefano Fusi, PhD, a principal investigator at <a href="https://zuckermaninstitute.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia's Zuckerman Institute</a> and the study’s other co-corresponding author, noted that this unique dataset allowed researchers to monitor how the brain’s cells represent a learning process critical for inferential reasoning.</p>



<p>"These individuals gave us the precious opportunity to learn something new about how all of our brains work," added Dr. Rutishauser.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inferential-reasoning-in-brain">Inferential reasoning in brain</h2>



<p>These breakthroughs aren't just for the scientific community but mirror our day-to-day inferences. The researchers challenged the participants with a simple inferential reasoning task.</p>



<p>Initially, the participants responded based on their previously understood associations, but they quickly learned to adapt to the new rules. </p>



<p>This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brains-bend-time-to-adapt-to-lifes-rhythm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neural adaptability</a> reflects the rationale we apply in navigating different environments—for instance, knowing which side of the road to check first when crossing in New York or London.</p>



<p>"If you live both in New York and in London, and you fly to the UK, you know that you have to look right when you want to cross a road," explained Dr. Fusi. </p>



<p>"Even if you visit places you have never been to in the UK, like the countryside in Wales, you infer that the new rules still apply there."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-giving-shape-to-brain-activity-and-reasoning">Giving shape to brain activity and reasoning</h2>



<p>The next question is, how can these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-imaging-method-will-unravel-mysteries-of-neural-processes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neural processes</a> be physically interpreted? </p>



<p>In a groundbreaking approach, scientists transformed the electrical brain activity of volunteers into geometric representations using complex mathematical tools. </p>



<p>These resulted in high-dimensional shapes that were visually unparalleled. The transformation revealed astonishing differences between situations when the subjects successfully made inferences versus those when they were unsuccessful. </p>



<p>"In certain neuronal populations during learning, we saw transitions from disordered representations to these beautiful geometric structures that were correlated with the ability to reason inferentially," Dr. Fusi observed.</p>



<p>The researchers observed these geometric structures primarily in the hippocampus, a brain area traditionally associated with spatial location. </p>



<p>This discovery shows that the hippocampus also plays a crucial role in functions like inference-making and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zombie-neurons-shed-new-light-on-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a>. </p>



<p>"This work elucidates a neural basis for conceptual knowledge, which is essential for reasoning, making inferences, planning, and even regulating emotions," said Daniel Salzman, MD, PhD, a coauthor of the study and a principal investigator at the Zuckerman Institute.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-of-verbal-instruction">Power of verbal instruction</h2>



<p>Yet another compelling discovery was the impact of verbal instruction on neural representations. "Verbal instruction is how we build knowledge about things that we have never actually experienced," added Dr. Rutishauser. </p>



<p>It was observed that participants who learned associations via verbal instruction structured neural representations in the hippocampus similar to those who learned through hands-on experience. </p>



<p>This observation underlines the power of verbal instruction in forming structured neural representations similar to experiential learning.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-valuable-volunteers-and-collaborators">The role of valuable volunteers and collaborators</h2>



<p>Credit is due to the brave volunteers, patients suffering from drug-resistant epilepsy. Their willingness to partake in this research allowed invaluable insights into brain functionality. </p>



<p>The data collected was utilized to locate each participant's seizure source, ultimately aiding in further treatment planning.</p>



<p>"This study provides new insights into how our brains allow us to learn and carry out tasks flexibly and in response to changing conditions and experiences," said Dr. Merav Sabri, program director for The BRAIN Initiative. </p>



<p>The study also highlights the critical contributions from collaborators like Dr. Taufik Valiante at the University of Toronto's <a href="https://www.uhn.ca/Research/Research_Institutes/Krembil" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Krembil Research Institute</a> and Division of Neurosurgery, as well as graduate student Hristos Courellis and postdoctoral researcher Juri Minxha, PhD, at Cedar-Sinai Medical Center and the <a href="https://www.caltech.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">California Institute of Technology</a>.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07799-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a></em>.</p>



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



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

How our brains connect unrelated concepts through reasoning

Have you ever considered how your brain employs reasoning to...

<p>Let's spend a few minutes time traveling back to the Devonian period, where we unravel the mysteries hidden within the lungfish genome -- the world's largest animal genome, and a treasure trove of information about one of evolution's most pivotal transitions. </p>



<p>Picture yourself at the edge of a shallow sea, sometime between 420 and 360 million years ago. Here, an extraordinary event unfolded: a lobe-finned fish, propelled by its robust pectoral fins, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-fish-from-tiktaaliks-time-chose-life-in-the-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hauled itself from the water onto dry land</a>.</p>



<p>This remarkable creature, equipped with lungs capable of extracting oxygen from air, marked a turning point in Earth's biological history. </p>



<p>It likely represents the first venture of a vertebrate onto land - a momentous step that paved the way for the diverse array of terrestrial vertebrates we see today, including amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals like ourselves.</p>



<p>But what gave these lobe-finned fishes their unique ability to conquer the challenges of a terrestrial environment? The answer lies hidden within their genetic code, waiting to be deciphered.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-legacy-of-our-ancestral-cousins">Genetic legacy of our ancestral cousins</h2>



<p>In an endeavor to solve this longstanding mystery, scientists have analyzed the genetic material of the closest existing relatives of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/worlds-newest-oldest-forest-recently-discovered-is-full-of-calamophyton-trees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Devonian</a> ancestor.</p>



<p>These relatives are the lungfish, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lungfish-provide-a-deeper-insight-into-brain-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">only three lineages</a> of which survive today: one in Africa, one in South America, and one in Australia.</p>



<p>These ancient "living fossils" bear an uncanny resemblance to their ancestors, providing a glimpse into evolutionary history. </p>



<p>To decode the lungfish genomes, knowledge of their complete sequences is critical, as DNA is made up of nucleobases and the order of these nucleobases carries the essential genetic information. </p>



<p>Even though it was known that lungfish genomes were enormous, the precise scale and what could be inferred from them weren't clear until now.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deciphering-lungfish-genome">Deciphering lungfish genome</h2>



<p>Decoding the genomes of lungfish posed significant challenges, both technically and bioinformatically. </p>



<p>However, an international team of researchers, led by biologist Dr. Axel Meyer from the <a href="https://www.uni-konstanz.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Konstanz</a> and biochemist Dr. Manfred Schartl from Würzburg, managed to completely sequence the genome of the South American lungfish and a member of the African lineage.</p>



<p>Dr. Meyer highlighted the nature of their findings. He noted that the South American lungfish species possesses an extraordinary genome.</p>



<p>"With over 90 gigabases (in other words, 90 billion bases), the DNA of the South American species is the largest of all animal genomes," he explained. This genetic blueprint is more than double the size of the previous record holder, the Australian lungfish. </p>



<p>Dr. Meyer went on to emphasize the sheer scale of this discovery, pointing out that "18 of the 19 chromosomes of the South American lungfish are each individually larger than the entire human genome." </p>



<p>To put this into perspective, he reminded us that the human genome contains nearly 3 billion bases, underscoring the immense complexity of the lungfish's genetic material.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unanticipated-lungfish-genome-expansion">Unanticipated lungfish genome expansion</h2>



<p>The expansive size of the lungfish genome is attributed to autonomous transposons, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cracking-the-code-of-life-the-secret-language-of-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> sequences that reproduce and change their location within the genome, leading to genome expansion. </p>



<p>Although common in other organisms, the researchers found that the expansion rate of the South American lungfish genome is the fastest on record. </p>



<p>Dr. Meyer stated, "Every 10 million years in the past, its genome has grown by the size of the entire <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/complete-sequencing-of-the-human-genome-reveals-new-findings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human genome</a>. And it continues to grow. We have found evidence that the transposons responsible are still active." </p>



<p>The team uncovered the underlying cause for the extraordinary expansion of this genome. Their research revealed that the massive growth is primarily attributed to a significantly reduced presence of piRNA. </p>



<p>This particular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rna-world-unraveling-mysteries-life-origin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">type of RNA</a> typically plays a crucial role in a molecular process that suppresses transposons. </p>



<p>However, with the scarcity of piRNA in this species, the usual silencing mechanism appears to be compromised, potentially allowing for unchecked genome expansion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stability-amidst-an-explosion-of-transposons">Stability amidst an explosion of transposons</h2>



<p>Despite the vast surplus of transposons and the contribution they make to genome growth, the researchers observed no correlation between the enormous transposon surplus and genome instability. </p>



<p>In fact, the lungfish genome was surprisingly stable, and the gene arrangement remarkably conservative, allowing the researchers to reconstruct the ancestral tetrapod's original chromosome framework from the lungfish species that are still alive today.</p>



<p>This new research also enabled the scientists to understand the genetic basis of the differences between the existing lineages. </p>



<p>For instance, the Australian lungfish still possesses the limb-like fins which once allowed its relatives to tread on land. </p>



<p>These fins, similar in structure to our arms, evolved back into filamentous fins over the last 100 million years or so in the other existing lungfish species from Africa and South America.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diving-deeper">Diving deeper</h2>



<p>To further investigate this evolution, the team conducted additional experiments. "In our research, we also used experiments with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crispr-gene-editing-gets-a-revolutionary-upgrade-with-new-tool/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CRISPR-Cas</a> transgenic mice to show that this simplification of the fins is attributable to a change in what is known as the Shh-signaling pathway," Dr. Meyer explained. This pathway plays a crucial role in embryonic development.</p>



<p>"During the embryonic development of mice, for example, the Shh-signalling pathway controls the number and development of the fingers, among other things," added Dr. Meyer. </p>



<p>These findings provide additional evidence of the evolutionary link between the ray fins of bony fish and the fingers of land vertebrates.</p>



<p>With the entire genome sequences of all current lungfish families now available, future comparative genomic studies will provide deeper insights into the lobe-finned ancestors of land vertebrates - potentially cracking the code of how vertebrates transitioned onto land.</p>



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



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

Lungfish genome discovery explains how fish first walked onto land

Let's spend a few minutes time traveling back to the...

<p>Sunflowers, often thought to be stationary and unchanging, hide a surprising world of intricate motion beneath their surface.</p>



<p>Though these subtle movements are too slow for the naked eye to detect, time-lapse footage reveals a fascinating and complex dance as the sunflower seedling emerges and sprouts from the soil.</p>



<p>Instead of simply growing straight upward, the seedling’s crown spins in graceful circles, twists like a tightly coiled corkscrew, and wiggles energetically as it embarks on its dynamic growth journey.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secret-motions-of-sunflowers">Secret motions of sunflowers </h2>



<p>The seemingly chaotic motion of sunflower seedlings, known as “circumnutations,” was at the heart of a study co-led by experts from the United States and Israel.</p>



<p>Driven by curiosity, research teams based at <a href="https://www.colorado.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CU Boulder</a> and Tel Aviv University embarked on an in-depth investigation to uncover the purpose and significance of these subtle plant movements.</p>



<p>By combining meticulous greenhouse experiments with advanced computer simulations, the researchers discovered that sunflowers strategically leverage circumnutations as an effective means to search for and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunflowers-use-multiple-light-response-systems-to-track-the-sun/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">maximize their exposure to sunlight</a> in their surroundings.</p>



<p>“A lot of people don't really consider the motion of plants because, as humans, we're usually looking at plants at the wrong frame rate," noted study co-author Orit Peleg.</p>



<p>The discovery opens up possibilities for farmers to devise new cultivation strategies for various crops, leading to more efficient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/developing-climate-smart-agricultural-practices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">farming practices</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-intriguing-concept-of-plant-mobility">The intriguing concept of plant mobility </h2>



<p>"Our team does a lot of work on social interactions in insect swarms and other groups of animals. But this research is particularly exciting because we’re seeing similar dynamics in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-why-plants-have-a-burst-of-activity-at-dawn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a>. They’re rooted to the ground," said lead author Chantal Nguyen, postdoctoral researcher at BioFrontiers.</p>



<p>Unlike animals, plants don't usually shift location yet they manage to move by growing in different directions over time.</p>



<p>This intriguing plant phenomenon had long captured the attention of none other than Charles Darwin, who became fascinated by it in the 1860s. </p>



<p>Despite suffering from health issues that limited his mobility, Darwin dedicated himself to observing and recording the daily movements of various plants, including cucumber plants and other species. </p>



<p>While he found this research both captivating and amusing, he struggled to explain the mysterious twisting of tendrils that he observed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subtle-sunflower-plant-wiggles">Subtle sunflower plant wiggles</h2>



<p>This very enigma later caught the interest of Yasmine Meroz, a physicist by training, who was inspired to investigate whether these subtle plant wiggles might actually be the driving force behind patterns in plant growth.</p>



<p>“For <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/woody-vines-strangle-trees-and-takeover-forests-as-temperatures-get-hotter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climbing plants</a>, it’s obvious that it’s about searching for supports to twine on," said Meroz, "But for other plants, it’s not clear why it’s worth it.”</p>



<p>In a carefully designed experimental setup, five one-week-old sunflower seedlings were planted in rows, with their movements meticulously mapped over the course of a week - echoing the methodical approach Darwin had employed in his own observations.</p>



<p>To delve deeper into the underlying patterns of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sunflowers-use-an-internal-clock-to-bloom-at-optimal-times/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sunflower growth</a>, a sophisticated computer program developed by Nguyen and Peleg was utilized to analyze the seedlings' behavior.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-order-in-the-chaos-of-sunflowers">Order in the chaos of sunflowers</h2>



<p>The digital simulations revealed that when the sunflowers didn’t wiggle at all, they would gradually lean away from each other in a uniform, straight line. </p>



<p>However, when the seedlings moved with an optimum level of randomness, they formed an intricate zig-zag pattern, which allowed each plant to maximize its access to sunlight, showcasing the strategic advantage of these seemingly chaotic movements.</p>



<p>"When you add a little bit of noise into the system, it allows the plant to explore its surroundings and settle into those configurations that allow each plant to find maximum light exposure," explained Nguyen.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-hidden-dynamics-of-plant-growth">Exploring the hidden dynamics of plant growth</h2>



<p>Through this study, plants are finally gaining recognition for their dynamic nature. The experts plan to conduct future experiments observing how sunflowers grow in more intricate arrangements.</p>



<p>The researchers hope to heighten awareness of these subtle plant movements, which may lead to a new appreciation of our stationary green friends. </p>



<p>“If we all lived at the same timescales as plants, you could walk down the street and see them moving,” said Meroz. “Maybe we’d all have plants as pets.”</p>



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



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

Why do sunflowers spin and wiggle as they grow?

Sunflowers, often thought to be stationary and unchanging, hide a...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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>



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



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



<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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