<p>When a bone is shattered or a tumor leaves a sizable void, surgeons have two broad choices: pack the space with graft (bone taken from the patient or a donor) or plug it with a synthetic scaffold that encourages new bone to grow.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Custom 3D-printed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-implant-may-allow-people-to-communicate-through-their-thoughts/">implants</a> have been a big advance, but they take time. Scanning, design, fabrication, and sterilization often take a week or more. That’s fine for planned procedures. It’s a problem when seconds count, like in trauma surgery.</p>



<p>A team led by Jung Seung Lee at <a href="https://www.skku.edu/eng/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sungkyunkwan University</a>, South Korea, asked a disarmingly simple question: what if the scaffold could be made on the spot, shaped by the surgeon in minutes, and still meet the biological requirements for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-long-necked-dinosaurs-struggled-with-fatal-bone-disease/">bone</a> regeneration?&nbsp;</p>



<p>The answer looks a lot like something you’d find in a craft drawer: a hot glue gun - reengineered for the operating room - and a bioactive “glue” designed to become new bone.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bone-mineral-meets-glue-gun">Bone mineral meets glue gun </h2>



<p>The cartridge inside their gun isn’t glue. It’s a blend of hydroxyapatite (HA) - the calcium-phosphate mineral that makes up about half of real bone by volume - and polycaprolactone (PCL), a biodegradable thermoplastic widely studied for medical use.&nbsp;</p>



<p>HA brings osteoconductivity, meaning it’s the right mineral for bone cells to grow on. PCL brings melt-and-set workability and a gentle degradation profile over months to years, giving the body time to swap the scaffold for living bone.</p>



<p>Standard hot glue guns run well above 100 °C - too hot for tissue. The team modified the gun so the melt temperature sits near 60 °C, around the melting point of PCL. </p>



<p>That’s still warm, but brief, localized contact at that temperature is routinely managed in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/srt-h-robot-performs-surgery-without-a-human-controlling-its-hands-for-the-first-time-ever/">surgery</a> (think electrocautery), and the material cools and hardens quickly once extruded.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-it-s-used-in-surgery">How it’s used in surgery</h2>



<p>In their proof-of-concept, surgeons would debride and clean the defect, then “draw” with the gun, layering the HA–PCL filament directly into the void.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Because the material extrudes as a thin bead and sets within seconds, the surgeon can sculpt to fit the irregular geometry of real fractures - no waiting for a lab to print, ship, and sterilize a custom implant.&nbsp;</p>



<p>If needed, the filament can be pre-loaded with drugs. The group demonstrated vancomycin and gentamicin embedded in the material, releasing slowly over weeks to bathe the surgical site and help suppress <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/skin-may-play-a-hidden-role-in-ebola-infection/">infection</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happened-in-living-bone">What happened in living bone</h2>



<p>To test whether the on-demand scaffold actually supports regeneration, the team created centimeter-long defects in rabbits’ femurs - a challenging gap size that doesn’t reliably heal on its own.&nbsp;</p>



<p>After 12 weeks, the animals treated with the “glue gun” showed no separation at the bone-implant interface and no obvious adverse reactions. Quantitatively, bone volume within the defect was more than twice that of controls filled with traditional bone cement. </p>



<p>That’s an important point: standard cements (like PMMA) are structural fillers but biologically inert; they don’t invite bone to grow in and replace them. The HA–PCL composite, by contrast, is designed to be colonized by bone cells and resorbed over time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-repairing-bones-with-a-glue-gun">Repairing bones with a glue gun</h2>



<p>Orthopedic infections can turn a routine repair into a months-long ordeal. Because the scaffold is heat-molded at the point of care, the team could simply mix antibiotics into the filament beforehand.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In their tests, vancomycin and gentamicin loaded into the composite leached out gradually and directly into the defect bed. This delivery path avoids high systemic drug levels and targets the microbes where they live - on hardware and within the healing bone.</p>



<p>Speed and fit are the headline advantages. In trauma, tumor surgery, or revision cases with irregular voids, being able to fill and contour in minutes is a big deal. </p>



<p>The material choice is sensible: HA for bioactivity, PCL for processability and a degradation timetable that lines up with bone remodeling.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remaining-challenges-and-questions">Remaining challenges and questions</h2>



<p>There are open questions before a craft-gun-turned-medical-tool goes mainstream. Heat exposure must be managed carefully near delicate structures. </p>



<p>Mechanical strength is likely adequate for non- or partial-load-bearing zones, but long-bone defects under high stress may still require plates, rods, or staged reconstructions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Surgeons will want more data on long-term remodeling: does the scaffold resorb at a rate that matches new bone formation, and what happens in larger animals and humans?&nbsp;</p>



<p>And then there’s regulation - turning commodity hardware into a sterile medical device, with validated temperatures, flow rates, cartridges, and cleaning protocols, is its own development path.</p>



<p>It’s a fair challenge: imaging and printing are getting faster, and customized implants will keep improving. The right answer may be to use printing for planned, complex reconstructions, and keep a bone-safe “glue gun” on the back table for the cases that can’t wait.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-simple-tool-for-surgery">A simple tool for surgery</h2>



<p>What makes this approach intriguing is less the gadget itself and more the workflow it enables. </p>



<p>In one trip to the OR, a surgeon could clear debris, rebuild a defect to fit, deliver local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-rivers-are-highly-saturated-with-human-antibiotics-helping-bacteria-develop-resistance/">antibiotics</a>, and leave behind a scaffold the body recognizes - all without couriering scans or scheduling a second procedure. </p>



<p>The materials are inexpensive and familiar, and the technique builds on skills orthopedic and maxillofacial surgeons already have.</p>



<p>There’s also room to grow. The same platform could accept filaments tuned for different jobs - stiffer or more porous, faster or slower to resorb, with growth factors, even with living cells for future applications.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-surgical-glue-guns">The future of surgical glue guns</h2>



<p>As faster point-of-care imaging and planning tools enter the OR, “draw-to-fit” reconstruction could be guided by intraoperative scans, blending the best of custom design with the immediacy of a handheld device.</p>



<p>For now, the takeaway is straightforward. By lowering the melt temperature and swapping craft glue for a bone-friendly composite, researchers turned a ubiquitous tool into a surgical instrument that can fill irregular defects, support bone growth, and deliver local antibiotics - all in minutes. </p>



<p>In emergencies and hard-to-plan repairs, that kind of speed could be the difference between patching a void and truly regenerating bone.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/device/fulltext/S2666-9986(25)00186-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Device</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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



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Hot glue gun turned surgical tool can rebuild broken bones

When a bone is shattered or a tumor leaves a sizable void, surgeons have two broad choices: pack the space with graft (bone taken from the patient or a donor) or plug it with a synthetic scaffold that encourages new bone to grow.&nbsp; Custom 3D-printed implants have been a big advance, but they take time. Scanning, design, fabrication, and sterilization often take a week or more. That’s fine for planned procedures. It’s a problem when seconds count, like in trauma surgery. A team led by Jung Seung...

<p>Researchers have discovered a significant connection between supermassive black holes (SMBHs) and dark matter particles, potentially resolving the longstanding “final parsec problem” in astronomy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This discovery, detailed in an article published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.133.021401" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Physical Review Letters</em></a>, suggests that previously overlooked behaviors of dark matter particles facilitate the merging of SMBH pairs into a single larger black hole.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-final-parsec-problem-nbsp">Final parsec problem&nbsp;</h2>



<p>In 2023, astrophysicists detected a pervasive “hum” of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gravitational-waves-dark-matter-big-bang-breakthrough/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravitational waves</a> throughout the universe. They hypothesized that this background signal emanated from millions of merging SMBH pairs, each billions of times more massive than our Sun.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, theoretical simulations indicated a stall in the approach of these colossal objects when they were approximately a parsec apart (about three light years), preventing a merger.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This “final parsec problem” conflicted with the theory that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-map-of-supermassive-black-holes-unveiled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">merging SMBHs</a> were the source of the gravitational wave background and that SMBHs grow from the merger of less massive black holes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interaction-of-dark-matter-particles-nbsp">Interaction of dark matter particles&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Study co-author Gonzalo Alonso-Álvarez is a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Physics at the <a href="https://www.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Toronto</a> and the Department of Physics and Trottier Space Institute at <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGill University</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We show that including the previously overlooked effect of dark matter can help supermassive black holes overcome this final parsec of separation and coalesce,” said Alonso-Álvarez. “Our calculations explain how that can occur, in contrast to what was previously thought.”</p>



<p>The research was led by Professor James Cline from McGill University and the <a href="https://home.cern/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Organization for Nuclear Research</a> (CERN) Theoretical Physics Department in Switzerland and Caitlyn Dewar, a master of science student in physics at McGill.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team developed a new model showing that dark matter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/existence-of-dark-matter-confirmed-by-new-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particles</a> interact with each other in such a way that they are not dispersed. </p>



<p>This interaction maintains the density of the dark matter halo, allowing the SMBHs to continue spiraling inward and eventually merge.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-merger-of-supermassive-black-holes-nbsp">Merger of supermassive black holes&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Supermassive black holes are thought to reside at the centers of most <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>. When two galaxies collide, the SMBHs fall into orbit around each other. </p>



<p>As they revolve, the gravitational pull of nearby stars tugs at them, slowing them down and causing them to spiral inward.&nbsp;</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/theory-gravity-exists-without-mass-so-dark-matter-does-not-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Previous models showed</a> that when the supermassive black holes approached within a parsec, they began interacting with the dark matter cloud or halo, dispersing the dark matter particles and halting the energy draw from the pair, thereby stalling their mutual orbits.</p>



<p>Contrary to these models, the new findings reveal that dark matter particles' interactions prevent their dispersion, maintaining the halo's density and enabling the SMBHs' orbits to degrade further.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modeling-the-behavior-of-dark-matter-particles-nbsp">Modeling the behavior of dark matter particles&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“The possibility that dark matter particles interact with each other is an assumption that we made, an extra ingredient that not all dark matter models contain,” noted Alonso-Álvarez. “Our argument is that only models with that ingredient can solve the final parsec problem.”</p>



<p>The background hum detected by the Pulsar Timing Array, which measures minute variations in signals from pulsars, provides <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-matter-does-not-exist-universe-27-billion-years-old-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">indirect evidence</a> supporting this new model.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“A prediction of our proposal is that the spectrum of gravitational waves observed by pulsar timing arrays should be softened at low frequencies,” explained Cline. </p>



<p>He noted that the current data already hint at this behavior, and new data may be able to confirm it in the next few years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-nature-of-dark-matter-nbsp">Mysterious nature of dark matter&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The research not only offers insights into SMBH mergers and the gravitational wave background but also sheds light on dark matter's nature. </p>



<p>“Our work is a new way to help us understand the particle nature of dark matter,” said Alonso-Álvarez.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts found that the evolution of black hole orbits is highly sensitive to dark matter's microphysics, suggesting that observations of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-map-of-supermassive-black-holes-unveiled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supermassive black hole</a> mergers can enhance our understanding of dark matter particles.</p>



<p>For instance, the interactions modeled between dark matter particles also explain the shapes of galactic dark matter halos.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distribution-of-dark-matter-on-galactic-scales-nbsp">Distribution of dark matter on galactic scales&nbsp;</h2>



<p>According to Alonso-Álvarez, the team found that the final parsec problem can only be solved if dark matter particles interact at a rate that can alter the distribution of dark matter on galactic scales.</p>



<p>The discovery is particularly exciting as it bridges processes occurring on vastly different physical scales, providing a new perspective on the interplay between dark matter and cosmic structures.</p>



<p>This breakthrough offers a profound understanding of the microphysics of dark matter and its role in cosmic phenomena.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We found that the evolution of black hole orbits is very sensitive to the microphysics of dark matter, and that means we can use observations of supermassive black hole mergers to better understand these particles,” said Alonso-Álvarez.</p>



<p>This research provides a significant step forward in resolving the complexities of dark matter interactions and their impact on the cosmos.</p>



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



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Dark matter might be the driving force behind black hole mergers

Researchers have discovered a significant connection between supermassive black holes...

<p>Salicornia, commonly known as “sea asparagus,” is at the forefront of an agricultural revolution aimed at addressing the world's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/potassium-depletion-in-agricultural-soils-threatens-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food security</a>&nbsp;challenges in the face of climate change.</p>



<p>Led by Dr. Vanessa Melino from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newcastle.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Newcastle</a>, a team of researchers is exploring the remarkable capabilities of Salicornia to develop crops that thrive in salty conditions.</p>



<p>With almost 30% of farmable land worldwide at risk from saltwater intrusion, this research gives hope for keeping agriculture productive.</p>



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



<p>Salicornia is a plant with an extraordinary capacity for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-leaf-diversity-shape-plant-survival/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival</a>, thriving in saline areas across central Asia, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Northern Africa.</p>



<p>Unlike other plants, Salicornia can accumulate high concentrations of sodium in its active shoots without suffering ion toxicity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Our research reveals how salt-tolerant plants function on a molecular level to cope in extreme environments. We can use this information to breed crops that can be cultivated with saline groundwater or even seawater," noted Dr. Melino.</p>



<p>Salicornia’s ability to store sodium within its cells through specialized transporters is a key to its survival in extreme conditions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This knowledge could pave the way for breeding crops capable of thriving in salt-laden soils. It offers a viable solution to the salinization problem - an issue that affects vast swathes of arable land.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salicornia-s-secret-to-salt-tolerance">Salicornia's secret to salt tolerance</h2>



<p>Dr. Melino has spent years developing pure breeding lines of Salicornia, particularly while working at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (<a href="https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">KAUST</a>) in Saudi Arabia.</p>



<p>In a recent study, her team revealed new insights into the molecular mechanisms behind Salicornia's high salinity tolerance.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"This suggests that Salicornia has highly efficient processes to store sodium in compartments within cells through the action of specialized transporters," said Dr. Melino.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diversifying-agricultural-horizons">Diversifying agricultural horizons</h2>



<p>Salicornia’s unique traits extend beyond survival.&nbsp;Known for its crisp, juicy, and salty taste, it is already enjoyed as a delicacy in several countries.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Dr. Melino sees potential in developing Salicornia as a source of vegetable oil and high-quality protein.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"By focusing on fats (oil) and protein, we are trying to develop products that can be transported easily and are more sustainable than other sources - using seawater for irrigation instead of relying on limited <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/freshwater-habitats-help-to-protect-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">f</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/freshwater-habitats-help-to-protect-biodiversity/">reshwater</a> resources," noted Dr. Melino.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-wild-plant-to-profitable-crop">From wild plant to profitable crop</h2>



<p>Despite its impressive qualities, Salicornia remains a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/billions-of-people-depend-on-wild-plant-and-animal-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wild pla</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/billions-of-people-depend-on-wild-plant-and-animal-species/">nt</a>, and transforming it into a profitable crop is a painstaking process.</p>



<p>Dr. Melino and her team are employing modern genomic and genetic tools to speed up this domestication.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"With modern genomic and genetic tools, we can select and introduce traits that are desirable for cropping," said Dr. Melino.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This innovative approach aims to help farmers cultivate food crops in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/soil-salinity-disrupts-the-development-of-wheat-seedlings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">saline soils</a>&nbsp;using seawater or brackish water, offering a sustainable solution to increasing salinization.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-australian-cousin-the-samphire">Australian cousin: The Samphire</h2>



<p>The research is already branching out, and while still focused on Salicornia, another species native to Australia called Samphire has also piqued the interest of the researchers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Samphire thrives under high-salinity conditions and could potentially be another solution to the salinization of farmland.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-opportunities-for-coastal-communities">New opportunities for coastal communities</h2>



<p>Beyond their agricultural potential, salt-tolerant crops like Salicornia and Samphire also present significant socio-economic opportunities for coastal communities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These plants can be cultivated on coastal lands that are otherwise unsuitable for traditional farming, turning these regions into productive agricultural hubs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This not only helps in diversifying the local economy but also provides new employment opportunities, fosters sustainable development, and reduces the reliance on freshwater resources.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Coastal farming initiatives could transform the landscape of agricultural production, making it more inclusive and resilient in the face of climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salicornia-cultivating-coastal-prosperity">Salicornia: Cultivating coastal prosperity</h2>



<p>With over 2 million hectares of Australian farmland plagued by salt, there’s a clear need and opportunity for developing salt-tolerant crops.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Domesticating the Samphire plant could offer an alternative solution to this issue, potentially transforming this salty pasture into a potent source of oilseeds and alternative protein.</p>



<p>With the right breeding strategies and ongoing research, we could see a new era in farming. In the near future, it is possible that saltwater will not be the enemy, but the ally, of crops. This research could ultimately pave the way toward a more stable and resilient agricultural future.</p>



<p>The study was published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-48595-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a>.</p>



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Salty plants can teach us how to grow crops with seawater

Salicornia, commonly known as “sea asparagus,” is at the forefront...

<p>There's a powerful tool to combat age-related dementia; it's as simple as putting down your Google-enabled device and taking a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-afternoon-naps-impact-our-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nap</a>. </p>



<p>This surprising wisdom is delivered by esteemed Canadian academic, Professor Mohamed I. Elmasry, in his groundbreaking book, "iMind: Artificial and Real Intelligence."</p>



<p>The professor argues that we've become so smitten with artificial intelligence (AI) that we've neglected to nurture our organic (real) intelligence (RI). </p>



<p>However, the brain, like our handheld devices, contains hardware, software, and apps of its own. </p>



<p>With proper care, exercise, and mental stimulation, the brain can prove more powerful and enduring than any AI-powered gadget.</p>



<p>By focusing on maintaining our cognitive health through activities such as brain games, mindfulness, and rest, we can enhance the capabilities and longevity of our minds, ensuring that our natural intelligence remains sharp and resilient throughout our lives.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coping-with-dementia">Coping with dementia</h2>



<p>Professor Elmasry, a renowned figure in the realms of microchip design and AI, has lost loved ones to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. These personal tragedies ignited his passion to explore the marvels and potential of the human mind.</p>



<p>Dismissing the notion that smart devices are becoming increasingly smarter, he contends that they pale in comparison with our brains.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-ever-3d-map-of-human-brain-created-by-harvard-and-google/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human brain</a>, Elmasry asserts, has an unparalleled capacity for storage, longevity, energy efficiency, and self-healing. It outperforms any smartphone, which typically has a lifespan of about 10 years, while a well-kept brain may function optimally for more than a century.</p>



<p>"Your brain-mind is the highest-value asset you have, or will ever have. Increase its potential and longevity by caring for it early in life, keeping it and your body healthy so it can continue to develop," writes Elmasry.</p>



<p>To this end, he advocates for daily brain workouts, such as "brain games," for keeping our minds sharp.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-swap-screens-for-cognitive-scenes">Swap screens for cognitive scenes</h2>



<p>Professor Elmasry shares how reliance on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-ai-systems-learn-like-the-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a> smartphone apps has replaced the use of real intelligence among younger generations.</p>



<p>In a telling example, he recounts an episode where his grandchildren, after spending a week in Cuba, couldn't recall the capital of the country without resorting to a search engine. </p>



<p>“A <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/daily-multivitamins-slow-cognitive-aging-and-improve-memory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy memory</a> goes hand-in-hand with real intelligence. Our memory simply can't reach its full potential without RI,” says Elmasry.</p>



<p>His book, published by <a href="https://www.routledge.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Routledge</a>, delves into the evolution of microchip design, machine learning, and AI. He also compares the functionality of the human mind and brain with AI-based systems like smartphones and ChatGPT.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-narrowing-the-ai-divide">Narrowing the AI divide</h2>



<p>Through "iMind: Artificial and Real Intelligence," Elmasry aspires to bridge the understanding gap between real and artificial intelligence, while also addressing ongoing debates and controversies surrounding AI. </p>



<p>He delves into the nuances of how AI can complement rather than replace our natural cognitive abilities, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to technology.</p>



<p>Moreover, he hopes to inspire researchers to discover new treatments for degenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and cancer. By highlighting the untapped potential of our brains, Elmasry aims to shift focus towards nurturing our mental faculties alongside advancing AI technologies.</p>



<p>By promoting a deeper understanding of how our brains function compared to AI systems, Elmasry aims to encourage innovations that leverage the strengths of both real and artificial intelligence, ultimately leading to breakthroughs in medical research and therapeutic approaches for these debilitating diseases. </p>



<p>This comprehensive perspective not only seeks to advance scientific knowledge but also to foster a holistic approach to cognitive health and technological development.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-napping-and-other-dementia-prevention-techniques">Napping and other dementia prevention techniques</h2>



<p>Elmasry asserts that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-secret-ingredient-to-healthy-aging-your-midlife-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy aging</a> deserves as much attention as climate change, even though it doesn’t receive as much publicity. He proposes a series of reforms to promote active aging, such as transforming bingo halls into vibrant learning centers.</p>



<p>The professor also offers practical advice to strengthen our Real Intelligence. Napping, for instance, can refresh our memory and other brain functions.</p>



<p>Research on the relationship between napping and dementia prevention is ongoing. Some studies suggest that short naps can be beneficial for brain health by improving cognitive function, mood, and memory. </p>



<p>Professor Elmasry recommends building an "associative" memory by attaching new information to what we already know.</p>



<p>His other techniques include integrating a day of complete rest into the week, evaluating lifestyle habits from as early as your 20s or 30s, adhering to a healthy diet, and moderating or avoiding alcohol to lower dementia risk.</p>



<p>By cultivating these habits and fostering mindfulness, we can ensure that our "brain apps" continue to run smoothly, enriching our lives and empowering us into an age of real intelligence.</p>



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



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

Stop googling, start napping to reduce dementia risk

There's a powerful tool to combat age-related dementia; it's as...

<p>Blushing, that sudden warmth and redness in your cheeks during embarrassing or shy moments, is a uniquely human expression.&nbsp;Charles Darwin even called it "the most peculiar and most human of all&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-decipher-every-possible-facial-expression-outperforming-therapists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expressions</a>."&nbsp;</p>



<p>But what exactly causes us this? What are the underlying mechanisms behind this intriguing phenomenon?&nbsp;</p>



<p>To understand why we blush, we need to look at how our emotions, brain, and social interactions work together.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-karaoke-study-reveals-insights">Karaoke study reveals insights</h2>



<p>To unravel these mysteries, researchers from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uva.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Amsterdam</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://en.unich.it/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Chieti</a>, under the supervision of the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, embarked on an innovative study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They employed a creative and unconventional approach, using karaoke as a tool to evoke and study responses in a controlled environment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This inventive method allowed the researchers to observe and measure the physiological and neurological aspects of blushing in real-time, providing new insights into this unique&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-robots-read-your-mind-this-one-can-anticipate-your-smile/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human expression</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychology-behind-blushing">Psychology behind blushing</h2>



<p>“There’s this idea in psychology that dates back to Darwin, who said that blushing occurs when we think about what other people think of us, which involves relatively complex cognitive skills,” noted developmental psychologist Milica Nikolic.</p>



<p>To embark on this journey of unraveling the mysteries of blushing, the researchers skilfully used a karaoke setting.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Female adolescents, known for being particularly sensitive to social judgement and therefore more susceptible to blushing, were chosen as the study participants.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-novel-approach-to-investigation">Novel approach to investigation</h2>



<p>The participants were invited to the lab for two separate sessions. In the first session, they were asked to sing difficult karaoke songs to evoke a potential blushing response. </p>



<p>In the second session, they watched their own&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-were-drawn-to-certain-singing-voices-a-scientific-insight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">singing</a>&nbsp;performances while their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-emotions-linked-to-unique-brain-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain activity</a>&nbsp;and physiological responses, including cheek temperature as an indicator of blushing, were measured.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Adding an extra layer of intrigue, the participants were told they would watch their recordings in the presence of an audience, and were also shown recordings from another participant and a professional singer disguised as a participant.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neurobiology-of-blushing">Neurobiology of blushing</h2>



<p>Predictably, the researchers discovered that the participants blushed more often while watching their own performances.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Fascinatingly, the brain areas that were activated during these moments were not the ones traditionally known to play a role in understanding oneself or others' mental states.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Blushing was associated with increased activity in the cerebellum, a brain region widely recognized for its role in movement and coordination, and also in the early visual areas.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Lately, there has been a lot of research suggesting its involvement in emotional processing,” said Nikolic.</p>



<p>“Based on this we concluded that thinking about others’ thoughts may not be necessary for blushing to occur. Blushing may be a part of the automatic arousal you feel when you are exposed and there is something that is relevant to the self.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-into-the-human-psyche">Insights into the human psyche</h2>



<p>“The next step would be to look at blushing under different conditions, or perhaps, even explore the phenomenon in younger children, before they have developed the cognitive skills to think about other people’s thoughts,” Nikolic noted.</p>



<p>Recognizing blushing as a universal phenomenon, Nikolic points out its relevance in understanding&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-discovery-social-anxiety-can-be-targeted-in-the-gut/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social anxiety</a>disorder and everyday human interaction.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In understanding the nuances of blushing, we gain new insights into the human psyche and its complex emotional machinery.</p>



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



<p>Blushing may not just be a social cue but could also serve evolutionary purposes. From an evolutionary standpoint, displaying vulnerability through blushing may signal honesty or submission, fostering social bonds and cooperation within groups. </p>



<p>By revealing one’s emotional state, individuals could elicit empathy and support from others, which could have been critical for survival in early human communities. </p>



<p>This perspective aligns with the idea that blushing has been naturally selected as an adaptive trait, helping to maintain social harmony among individuals who share group dynamics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-perspectives-on-blushing">Cultural perspectives on blushing</h2>



<p>Blushing is not only a fascinating psychological and physiological phenomenon but also a cultural one.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Different cultures perceive and react to blushing in varied ways. In some Eastern cultures, blushing is seen as a sign of humility and modesty. These traits are highly valued. In contrast, Western cultures often interpret blushing as a sign of guilt or embarrassment.</p>



<p>These cultural differences highlight the complex interplay between biology and societal norms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Understanding these cultural perspectives can provide us with a richer, more nuanced view of why we blush and how it's interpreted by others around the world.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rspb.2024.0958" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences</em></a>.</p>



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



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What causes people to blush?

Blushing, that sudden warmth and redness in your cheeks during...

<p>World leaders must seize a crucial opportunity to develop an integrated approach to tackle climate change and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-biodiversity-crisis-is-actually-worse-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity loss</a>, according to scientists from the <a href="https://www.zsl.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zoological Society of London</a> (ZSL) and <a href="https://www.yorku.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">York University</a>. Failure to do so could result in efforts to address one crisis inadvertently hindering progress on the other.</p>



<p>A paper from the international conservation charity ZSL and researchers at York University, titled “The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the Paris Agreement need a joint work program for climate, nature, and people,” outlines how a unified program between the <a href="https://unfccc.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change</a> (UNFCCC) and the <a href="https://www.un.org/en/observances/biological-diversity-day/convention" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity</a> (CBD) could be established.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nature-and-climate-crises-are-intrinsically-linked">Nature and climate crises are intrinsically linked</h2>



<p>The paper emphasizes the necessity of this joint program, highlighting the challenges it must address and offering recommendations for successful implementation. Such a political tool is deemed essential to meet international commitments under both the Paris Agreement and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.</p>



<p>“We urgently need a global approach that addresses the nature and climate crises together - because they are intrinsically connected,” said co-author Nathalie Pettorelli, a researcher at ZSL’s Institute of Zoology.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The UNFCCC and CBD are incredible platforms for providing the evidence to, and guiding the way through the changes we need, but higher levels of integration between the biodiversity and climate change agendas are needed to plug implementation gaps.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stabilize-the-climate-to-restore-nature">Stabilize the climate to restore nature</h2>



<p>Pettorelli noted that the upcoming Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC and CBD present a clear policy window for the two conventions to introduce a formal governance structure that brings together ideas, people, organizations and processes necessary for joining the dots on how to both stabilize our climate and recover our nature.</p>



<p>Later this year, world leaders will convene for two global conventions to separately address <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-are-still-fighting-climate-change-against-all-odds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> and biodiversity loss. In October, the CBD will meet in Columbia for the 16th United Nations Biodiversity conference (COP16). Following this, the UNFCCC will meet in Azerbaijan for the 29th United Nations Climate Change conference (COP29) in November.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bold-and-transformative-action-is-needed">Bold and transformative action is needed</h2>



<p>Nathalie emphasized the importance of this opportunity: “With the closely related policy agendas of the upcoming UNFCCC and CBD's COPs, negotiators have a key opportunity to take coordinated, bold and transformative action to deliver a new, more integrated and coherent approach to addressing the entwined nature and climate crises.”</p>



<p>According to Nathalie, the urgency is such that both conventions need to work together now, and take advantage of the many potential synergies we highlighted between climate change and biodiversity policies to change humanity’s course towards a sustainable future.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harmony-between-humans-and-nature">Harmony between humans and nature</h2>



<p>At COP16, government representatives will review the state of implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted in 2022, which aims for humanity to live in harmony with nature by 2050.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Goals include halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030. Discussions at COP29 will be critical for progress towards the Paris Agreement's objective of limiting global temperature increases to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.</p>



<p>“The world is currently at a crossroads,” said co-author Idil Boran, a researcher at York University's Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies. “World leaders have signed international treaties that commit them to take action to address these two crises - but there is currently a massive gap in the tools available to ensure this action is unified.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-dual-crises-nbsp">Addressing the dual crises&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Boran said a program is needed to fill these gaps - identifying areas where climate actions may harm biodiversity, providing clear recommendations, and developing methods to monitor progress on shared goals.</p>



<p>Without this program, actions to address one crisis might create setbacks for the other, noted Boran. For instance, replacing natural grasslands with forests might help capture <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-capture-technology-faces-uncertainty-despite-heavy-investment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon </a>dioxide but would harm the ecosystems and wildlife that previously thrived there.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-based-solutions-improve-coastal-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature-based Solutions</a> (NbS) are emphasized as effective strategies that address both climate change and biodiversity loss while benefiting people.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For example, restoring mangroves helps with carbon storage, protects endangered species like the Bengal tiger and the Philippine cockatoo, and provides resources for local communities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-funding-imbalance-for-climate-and-nature-nbsp">Funding imbalance for climate and nature&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The paper also calls for reallocating resources to address the funding imbalance between climate change and biodiversity loss efforts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Pettorelli highlighted the broader need for nature to be central to decision-making, stressing that functioning ecosystems are vital for addressing rapid climate change and essential aspects of human life, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungal-infections-are-threatening-global-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food security</a> and clean water access.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We need these to be recognized and conservation to receive the resources needed for it to be part of the solution towards tackling climate change and championing human well-being,” she said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-should-guide-our-decisions-nbsp">Science should guide our decisions&nbsp;</h2>



<p>From restoring vast areas of mangrove forests to advocating for urban rewilding to protect against climate change impacts, this call is part of ZSL’s global efforts to push for and implement urgent actions to build a better future for people and the planet. ZSL believes that nature can recover and that conservation driven by science is the most effective approach.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts advocate for science to guide all global environmental and biodiversity decisions, aiming to build a healthier future for wildlife, people, and the planet.</p>



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



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Tackling the dual crises of climate and nature

World leaders must seize a crucial opportunity to develop an...

<p>Our dogs know when we are happy, sad, or even stressed. Yet, we always wondered: how do <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cracking-canine-cognitive-code-everyday-dog-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">they know</a>? Scientists at the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a> might have found the answer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-can-dogs-smell-human-stress">Can dogs smell human stress?</h2>



<p>Our story starts in a lab, led by Dr. Nicola Rooney, senior lecturer in wildlife and conservation at <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/vet-school/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bristol Veterinary School</a>. Together with her team, Dr. Rooney set out to explore an intriguing question: Can dogs smell human stress?</p>



<p>The Bristol Veterinary School researchers focused on how the smell of a stressed person might influence the emotions and choices of those around them. Humans, it turns out, subconsciously react to the smell of a stressed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-imitate-human-actions-from-2d-videos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">individual</a>. But what about dogs?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-affects-dogs-emotions">Stress affects dogs' emotions</h2>



<p>To test this theory, the research team enlisted the help of 18 dog-owner partnerships. The dogs were trained to associate a food bowl’s location with the presence or absence of a treat. Once they figured out this arrangement, the dogs were faster to approach the bowl location with a treat than an empty one.</p>



<p>The researchers then introduced an element of uncertainty: the bowl placed in new, ambiguous locations between the original two bowls. A quick approach meant the dogs were "optimistic" about the food's presence - a sign of a positive emotional state. A slow approach indicated 'pessimism' and negative emotion.</p>



<p>When the dogs were exposed to the smell of stress - human sweat and breath samples after an arithmetic test - they became slower to approach the ambiguous bowl location nearest the empty bowl's trained location.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This "pessimistic" response wasn't observed when dogs were exposed to relaxed smells - samples from humans listening to calming soundscapes.</p>



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



<p>The findings suggest that the smell of human stress affects the dogs' expectation and decisions. "Understanding how human stress affects dogs' well-being is an important consideration for dogs in kennels and when training companion dogs and dogs for working roles such as assistance dogs," explained Dr. Rooney.</p>



<p>Indeed, this research shows that the odor of a stressed human, even an unfamiliar one, can affect a dog's emotional state, perception of rewards, and learning ability.</p>



<p>The stress smell seemed to make dogs act more cautiously, as if expecting disappointment. It might be a way for the dog to conserve energy and avoid potential unpleasant surprises.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-helping-our-canine-companions">Helping our canine companions</h2>



<p>Interestingly, the team also noticed that dogs kept improving their understanding about the presence or absence of food based on the bowl locations. They even seemed to learn faster when the stress smell was present.</p>



<p>This research has the potential to change how we approach not only dog training, but also the care of rescue, therapy, and service dogs. Knowing that dogs can be sensitive to our stress through smell, we can manage our stress better for their sake, especially in high-stress environments.</p>



<p>Understanding the impact of human stress on our dogs not only enhances their training but also contributes to their overall well-being and happiness in everyday environments, allowing for deeper bonds between humans and canines.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-step-forward-in-canine-research">Step forward in canine research</h2>



<p>Dr. Zoe Parr-Cortes, a PhD student at Bristol Veterinary School and primary researcher on the project, expressed her gratitude to everyone involved in the study, especially the participants and dog owners.</p>



<p>This research, while still in its initial stages, provides fascinating insights into dogs’ emotional states and decision-making processes. It offers a deeper understanding of our connection with them and how their perceptions of their environment are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-provide-insight-into-human-cognition-and-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influenced by us</a>.</p>



<p>The 18 dogs involved in this study ranged from eight months to ten years old and included an interesting mix of breeds. Eight of these dogs were registered as teaching dogs at the University of Bristol.</p>



<p>The study is the first step towards a better understanding of our unspoken bond with our dogs, opening up a new world of possibilities for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/medium-sized-dogs-have-a-greater-risk-of-developing-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">compassionate care</a> and effective training.</p>



<p>So, the next time you're stressed, remember: your dog might be sniffing it out. And who knows, a calm breath might just be what both you and your furry friend need.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-66147-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Scientific Reports</em></a>.</p>



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



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

Dogs can smell human stress and it makes them feel gloomy

Our dogs know when we are happy, sad, or even...

<p>On July 24, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a geomagnetic storm warning due to heightened solar activity.</p>



<p>The trigger was a coronal mass ejection (CME) – a plume of plasma and magnetic field – that left the sun on July 21, now hurtling toward Earth.</p>



<p>In addition, the NOAA has extended a geomagnetic storm warning for <a href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/products/goes-proton-flux" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proton 100MeV Integral Flux</a> above 1 pfu. Originally valid until 01:40 UTC on July 23, the warning now extends to 23:59 UTC on the same day. This extension suggests persistent conditions.</p>



<p>This increase in energetic solar radiation poses heightened risks to astronauts and passengers on high-latitude, high-altitude flights.</p>



<p>Additionally, satellite systems could face increased susceptibility to single event effects. It's crucial to consider this information along with current Solar Radiation Storm conditions when assessing potential impacts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cmes-and-geomagnetic-storms">CMEs and geomagnetic storms</h2>



<p>A CME transports electrically charged particles, known as ions. When these ions interact with Earth's magnetosphere, they incite geomagnetic storms.</p>



<p>These storms manifest as the stunning northern lights (aurora borealis) in the Northern Hemisphere and the southern lights (aurora australis) in the Southern Hemisphere.</p>



<p>Geomagnetic storms are classified on a G-scale by NOAA, ranging from G1 (minor) to G5 (extreme). The current watch is for a G2-class storm, denoting moderate intensity. </p>



<p>As July 24 approaches, forecasts will become more refined, providing enhanced insights into the storm's arrival and potential impacts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recent-solar-activity">Recent solar activity</h2>



<p>In the past 24 hours, solar activity has remained high. The most significant event was an M3.9/Sn flare (R1-Minor) at 04:04 UTC on July 22.</p>



<p>This flare originated from Region 3762 (S13E37, Eai/beta-gamma-delta), which showed only minor changes throughout the day.</p>



<p>Two new regions have been numbered near the eastern limb: Region 3763 (N03E70, Hsx/alpha) and Region 3764 (S03E76, Hsx/alpha).</p>



<p>Other active regions on the visible disk were mostly stable or in gradual decay. No Earth-directed Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) have been observed in the latest coronagraph images.</p>



<p>A Type II radio sweep was recorded at 09:26 UTC, with an estimated speed of 536 km/s. This event was linked to an eruption off the eastern limb, which is not expected to impact Earth.</p>



<p>Solar activity is expected to be moderate (R1-R2, Minor-Moderate) from July 23 to July 25. There is a slight chance of stronger X-class flares (R3, Strong) during this period.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energetic-particles-update">Energetic particles update</h2>



<p>In the last 24 hours, the greater than 2 MeV electron flux was at normal to moderate levels, while the greater than 10 MeV proton flux remained at background levels.</p>



<p>The greater than 2 MeV electron flux is expected to stay at normal to moderate levels from July 23 to July 25. There is a slight chance of reaching S1 (Minor) storm levels during this time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-wind-conditions">Solar wind conditions</h2>



<p>Solar wind parameters were slightly enhanced. The Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) and plasma measurements suggest close proximity to the current sheet. The total magnetic field strength peaked at 10 nT around 17:30 UTC on July 22.</p>



<p>The Bz component was consistently southward, ranging between -3 to -7 nT. Solar wind speeds remained low, between approximately 280-310 km/s. The phi angle was mostly oriented in the positive sector.</p>



<p>Solar wind parameters are expected to remain at current levels through late July 23. The influence of a CME that left the Sun on July 21 is anticipated to enhance conditions from July 24 to July 25.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geospace-conditions">Geospace conditions</h2>



<p>The geomagnetic field reached unsettled levels due to the sustained southward Bz in the IMF.</p>



<p>The geomagnetic field is likely to remain quiet to unsettled on July 23. Minor to moderate (G1-G2) storm levels are expected on July 24 due to the arrival of a CME that left the Sun on July 21.</p>



<p>Active conditions are likely on July 25 as the CME's influence diminishes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-the-geomagnetic-storm-arrival">Timing the geomagnetic storm arrival</h2>



<p>Predicting the precise arrival time of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/more-severe-extreme-geomagnetic-solar-storms-expected-tonight-tomorrow/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coronal Mass Ejection</a> (CME) is inherently challenging. Current forecasts indicate a potential impact in the early hours of July 24, though uncertainties persist. </p>



<p>Space weather physicist Tamitha Skov wittily remarked on X, "The storm will likely be fashionably late, due to slow solar wind 'traffic' and an additional glancing storm blow ahead of it."</p>



<p>While aurora enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the CME for its potential to produce spectacular light displays, the event carries significant risks for our technological infrastructure.</p>



<p>CMEs can induce power surges leading to blackouts, disrupt radio communications, and cause ionospheric static. Satellites in low Earth orbit are also at risk, facing potential damage from high-energy particles.</p>



<p>Stay informed and prepared for these solar activities and their potential impacts. For more detailed information, refer to the NOAA Space Weather Scale descriptions at <a href="http://www.swpc.noaa.gov/noaa-scales-explanation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NOAA Space Weather Scale Explanation</a>.</p>



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



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Geomagnetic storm warning issued for astronauts and auroras

On July 24, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)...

<p>If you snooze away the alarm regularly, it might be comforting for you to know that your consistent sleep pattern could act as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-deprivation-linked-type-2-diabetes-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protective shield</a> against Type 2 diabetes.</p>



<p>Researchers at <a href="https://www.brighamandwomens.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brigham and Women's Hospital</a> have unlocked a significant finding - middle-aged to older adults running on irregular sleep cycles carry a higher risk of developing diabetes compared to their counterparts who never miss out on their beauty sleep.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-diabetes-connection">Sleep-diabetes connection</h2>



<p>The study was led by Dr. Sina Kianersi, a research fellow in the Channing Division of Network Medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital.</p>



<p>"Our study identified a modifiable lifestyle factor that can help lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes," said Dr. Kianers. "Our findings underscore the importance of consistent sleep patterns as a strategy to reduce type 2 diabetes."</p>



<p>The research team discovered adults displaying the most irregular sleep patterns woke up to a 34 percent higher diabetes risk than the regular sleepers. This eye-opening correlation emphasizes the pivotal role of regular sleep in keeping diabetes at bay.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risks-of-inconsistent-sleep">Risks of inconsistent sleep</h2>



<p>Type 2 diabetes is a buzzing health alert that affects nearly half a billion people across the globe. No surprises then, it bags a spot in the dreaded top 10 list of leading causes of death and disability.</p>



<p>With forecasts painting a grim picture of the affected number doubling by 2050, the research holds high relevance as an innovative strategy for diabetes prevention.</p>



<p>The team of investigators delved into accelerometry data from over 84,000 participants from the UK Biobank Study, aiming to draw a parallel between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleeping-less-than-seven-hours-high-blood-pressure-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inconsistent sleep duration</a> and diabetes. Participants, averaging 62 years, wore devices used to monitor movement for a week.</p>



<p>The research pivoted around two key questions - the possibility of irregular sleep durations instigating diabetes through circadian disruption and sleep disturbances, and whether any variations arise across genetic predispositions to diabetes.</p>



<p>Despite considering a wide array of risk factors, the findings confirmed a higher diabetes risk with more inconsistent sleep patterns. The link seemed to tighten in those who were more prone to sleep for longer durations or carried a lower genetic risk for diabetes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-link-with-diabetes">Sleep link with diabetes</h2>



<p>Compared to their "regular sleep" counterparts, participants showing irregular sleep (day-to-day sleep varying by over 60 minutes on average) were found to carry a 34% higher risk of developing diabetes.</p>



<p>Even after considering variables like lifestyle habits, family diabetes history, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-sex-differences-in-sleep-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">co-morbidities</a> and obesity indicators, the risk was persistent, albeit at a smaller scale.</p>



<p>The research, though comprehensive, had its share of limitations. The lifestyle data analyzed for the study had been gathered up to 5 years prior, which might have influenced the accuracy of the findings.</p>



<p>Furthermore, a 7-day <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/micro-naps-in-the-brain-some-regions-sleep-while-others-stay-awake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep duration</a> assessment might not accurately represent long-term sleep patterns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-to-improve-diabetes-prevention">Potential to improve diabetes prevention </h2>



<p>The researchers are keen to extend their study to younger participants and more racially diverse groups. The reasons behind sleep irregularity amplifying the risk of diabetes is their next exploration zone.</p>



<p>"Our findings have the potential to improve diabetes prevention on multiple levels," said Dr. Kianersi.</p>



<p>"Clinically, they might inform better patient care and treatment plans. Public health guidelines could promote regular sleep patterns. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanism and confirm the results in other populations."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-research-team-and-funding">Research team and funding</h2>



<p>Besides Sina Kianersi, the BWH authors included Heming Wang, Tamar Sofer, and Susan Redline, with contributions from Raymond Noordam, Andrew Phillips, Martin K. Rutter, and Tianyi Huang (formerly at BWH).</p>



<p>The study received funding from the National Institutes of Health (grant number R01HL155395) and the UKB project 85501. Kianersi was supported by the American Heart Association Postdoctoral Fellowship.</p>



<p>Give yourself the gift of sound sleep and keep diabetes at a distance. Does this call for adapting to a regular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/insufficient-sleep-increases-diabetes-risk-in-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep pattern</a> starting tonight? </p>



<p>Remember, consistency is key when it comes to sleep. By making small changes and sticking to them, you can significantly improve your overall health in the long run. </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<em><a href="https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article-abstract/doi/10.2337/dc24-0213/156955/Association-Between-Accelerometer-Measured?redirectedFrom=fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diabetes Care</a></em>.</p>



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Irregular sleep cycles linked to greater diabetes risk

If you snooze away the alarm regularly, it might be...

<p>In the rapidly evolving world of digital games, a surprising new player has emerged: electronic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/e-cigarettes-linked-to-increased-risk-of-heart-failure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cigarettes</a>.</p>



<p>Once simple nicotine delivery devices, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frequent-vaping-exposes-teens-to-toxic-metals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vape devices</a> are now being equipped with sophisticated touch screens, animated displays, and even embedded games, marking a potentially concerning trend in both the tech and gaming industries.</p>



<p>This technological evolution transforms vaping into an interactive experience that may attract more young users, inadvertently coupling the risks of nicotine addiction with those of gaming disorder.</p>



<p>As electronic cigarettes become more enticing and multifunctional, the lines between recreational gaming and nicotine consumption blur, raising significant public health concerns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-new-draw-of-electronic-cigarettes">The new draw of electronic cigarettes</h2>



<p>Researchers from the <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Riverside</a> are sounding the alarm on these new tech-savvy products.</p>



<p>The heightened concern lies in the possible expansion of the electronic cigarette market to include young people who previously had no interest in nicotine products. This could simultaneously reinforce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vaping-epidemic-half-of-students-who-try-e-cigs-get-hooked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nicotine addiction</a> among existing users.</p>



<p>"Our lab is constantly monitoring the electronic cigarette market for new devices, especially ones that target youth and young adults," said study first author Man Wong.</p>



<p>The team flagged devices such as the Craftbox V-Play, which can host games like Pac-Man, Tetris, and F22.</p>



<p>Other concerning products include vapes with built-in games encouraging users to vape, those boasting animations changing as users puff, and devices that enable customization with personal photos and offer celebrity-endorsed promotional trading cards.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-issue-of-disposable-vapes">Growing issue of disposable vapes</h2>



<p>Disposable vapes, which were relatively simple devices two years ago, now resemble smartphones with handheld gaming device features, making them increasingly attractive to young users.</p>



<p>Tech-forward improvements have shifted these items from being mere nicotine delivery devices to potential triple-threat addictions: nicotine dependence, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gaming-addiction-mental-health-disorder/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gaming disorder</a>, and screen time obsession.</p>



<p>The researchers were taken aback by the discovery of smart vapes sporting games that required <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/teen-vaping-rates-surge-despite-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vaping</a> to advance levels. An example of this was the URSA Pocket, a refillable pod-system with three built-in games. One game features a virtual pet fed with coins earned through puffing.</p>



<p>The scientists further voiced their concern about the affordability of such devices, often priced around $15-20, which makes them accessible to young audiences who might be enticed to purchase and use them.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgent-call-for-regulation">Urgent call for regulation</h2>



<p>Given the potential risks, the researchers argue for a closer monitoring and regulation of these devices. </p>



<p>They propose that heightening awareness of how quickly vapes can evolve may enhance surveillance and encourage swift removal of youth-targeted products from the market. </p>



<p>The researchers offer potential solutions such as imposing stricter regulation to restrict certain vape features and advocating for a complete ban on disposable vapes - an approach adopted by several countries.</p>



<p>But it's not just an addiction problem, it is an environmental issue too. Disposable vapes, being one-time-use products, generate considerable waste, exacerbated by the addition of screens, Bluetooth, and digital storage to these devices.</p>



<p>The research, funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences of the National Institutes of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Center for Tobacco Products, provides valuable insights for future regulation and public health policies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electronic-cigarettes-integrated-with-gaming">Electronic cigarettes integrated with gaming</h2>



<p>The integration of gaming and vaping not only raises concerns about addiction but also about the long-term health impacts on young users. </p>



<p>Nicotine is known to affect brain development, particularly in adolescents, potentially leading to cognitive impairments, mood disorders, and a higher likelihood of addiction to other substances. </p>



<p>The lure of integrated gaming features could exacerbate these issues by increasing the frequency and duration of vaping sessions.</p>



<p>Moreover, the combination of prolonged screen time and nicotine use can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, contributing to obesity, cardiovascular problems, and other health issues. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-parents-and-educators">The role of parents and educators</h2>



<p>Parents and educators play a crucial role in combating this emerging trend. By raising awareness about the dangers of combined vaping and gaming, they can help prevent young individuals from falling into these harmful habits. </p>



<p>Open conversations about the risks, coupled with monitoring and guidance, can significantly reduce the appeal of these devices.</p>



<p>Educational programs that emphasize the importance of healthy habits and the risks associated with nicotine and prolonged screen time are essential. Schools should consider integrating such programs into their health curriculums to equip students with the knowledge and strategies to resist these temptations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intersection-of-gaming-and-vaping">Intersection of gaming and vaping</h2>



<p>The intersection of vaping and gaming presents a multifaceted challenge that requires a coordinated effort from researchers, policymakers, parents, and educators.</p>



<p>As we navigate the evolving landscape of digital innovation, we must prioritize the health and well-being of our youth. </p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.bmj.com/wp-signup.php?new=tobaccocontrol" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tobacco control</a></em>.</p>



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



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Electronic cigarettes with games: A dangerous innovation

In the rapidly evolving world of digital games, a surprising...

<p>Jelly batteries are at the forefront of a technological revolution, promising to transform <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-creatures-of-the-past-inspire-the-future-of-soft-robots/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soft robotics</a>, wearable devices, and neurology with their unique properties and potential applications.</p>



<p>These innovative power sources, inspired by the natural world, offer a new approach to creating flexible, durable, and biocompatible electronics that could significantly impact various industries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turning-to-nature-for-tech-inspiration">Turning to nature for tech inspiration</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/electric-eels-can-genetically-modify-other-creatures-by-shocking-them/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Electric eels</a> have always captivated biologists through their unique ability to stun their prey using specialized cells known as electrocytes. </p>



<p>These fascinating creatures have now spurred a remarkable scientific achievement, inspiring researchers to harness the principles of their natural electrical systems.</p>



<p>Researchers from the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> have found a way to mimic the layered structure of electrocytes and develop similar conductive, sticky, and stretchable materials, essentially creating "jelly batteries."</p>



<p>These innovative materials not only emulate the eel's natural abilities but also hold the potential to revolutionize a wide range of applications in electronics and bioengineering.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-breakthrough-in-material-science">A breakthrough in material science</h2>



<p>In a revelation that combines stretchability and conductivity in a singular material for the first time, these jelly batteries could be stretched to over ten times their original length without affecting conductivity. </p>



<p>The batteries are made from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-hydrogel-device-turns-hot-summer-air-into-drinkable-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrogels</a>, which are 3D networks of polymers that contain over 60% water, held together by reversible on/off interactions controlling their mechanical properties. </p>



<p>The primary challenge was creating a material that was highly stretchable with conductive properties.</p>



<p>"It's difficult to design a material that is both highly stretchable and highly conductive, since those two properties are normally at odds with one another," explained first author Stephen O'Neill, an expert in Cambridge's Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry. "Typically, conductivity decreases when a material is stretched."</p>



<p>The solution came by charging these polymers, thus making them conductive. Additionally, the salt component in each gel could be altered to make them sticky and layer them, building up energy potential.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reshaping-the-future-of-electronics">Reshaping the future of electronics</h2>



<p>This revolution in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fire-ants-can-teach-us-how-to-create-stronger-materials/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">material science</a> is a significant departure from the traditional, rigid metallic materials used in conventional electronics, which rely on electrons as charge carriers. By adopting a more flexible and adaptable approach, jelly batteries offer a novel solution that aligns more closely with the needs of modern, dynamic technologies.</p>



<p>Instead, these jelly batteries take a page out of nature's book, using ions to carry charge, emulating the natural electrical systems of electric eels. This ion-based conduction not only enhances flexibility but also opens up new possibilities for creating soft, stretchable, and resilient electronic devices.</p>



<p>The key to this innovation is the use of barrel-shaped molecules called cucurbiturils, which act as molecular handcuffs, forming reversible bonds between the different layers of the material. This unique adhesion mechanism allows the jelly batteries to stretch significantly without the layers separating or losing conductivity, maintaining their functionality and integrity even under stress.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jelly-batteries-and-biomedical-implants">Jelly batteries and biomedical implants</h2>



<p>With their softness and resilience, these hydrogel batteries hold immense promise for biomedical implants as they can be customized to match the mechanical properties of human tissue. </p>



<p>Free from rigid components such as metal, hydrogel implants are less likely to be rejected by the body or induce scar tissue.</p>



<p>Moreover, these hydrogels are surprisingly tough, maintaining their form even when squashed, and able to self-heal when damaged.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-the-future-hold-for-jelly-batteries">What does the future hold for jelly batteries?</h2>



<p>Expansion in this area of research is already planned, with tests on living organisms to evaluate their suitability for various medical applications. </p>



<p>This work is being carried out by distinguished members from the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry and the Department of Engineering at the University of Cambridge. </p>



<p>The research was funded by the European Research Council and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).</p>



<p>The intersection of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harvesting-electricity-with-nature-inspired-techniques/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nature</a> and technology has once again proven its potential to steer the future of tech and medical science, with jelly batteries promising to lead the charge in a new era of biocompatible and flexible electronics.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adn5142" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a></em>.</p>



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Electric eels inspire wearable tech with 'jelly batteries'

Jelly batteries are at the forefront of a technological revolution,...

<p>Just imagine, a world where vaccines must be administered only once for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/universal-vaccine-may-be-effective-against-any-variant-of-any-virus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifetime immunity</a>. Well, thanks to groundbreaking research led by the Oregon Health &amp; Science University (<a href="https://www.ohsu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OHSU</a>), we're witnessing the dawn of a “one and done” vaccine promising lifetime protection against the ever-evolving influenza <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/raw-milk-may-transmit-bird-flu-virus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virus</a>.</p>



<p>Dr. Jonah Sacha, a senior co-author of the study and head of the Division of Pathobiology at OHSU’s Oregon National Primate Research Center (<a href="https://www.ohsu.edu/onprc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ONPRC</a>), is the brain behind this research.</p>



<p>“It’s exciting because in most cases, this kind of basic science research advances the science very gradually; in 20 years, it might become something,” said Dr. Sacha. “This could actually become a vaccine in five years or less.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-sets-this-research-apart">What sets this research apart?</h2>



<p>“The problem with influenza is that it’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/avian-influenza-h5n1-marine-mammals-spreading-worldwide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">not just one virus</a>,” said Dr. Sacha. “Like the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-flu-may-be-more-harmful-to-the-brain-than-covid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SARS-CoV-2 virus</a>, it’s always evolving the next variant and we’re always left to chase where the virus was, not where it’s going to be.”</p>



<p>Study co-senior author Dr.&nbsp;Simon Barratt-Boyes, professor of infectious diseases, microbiology and immunology at Pitt, noted that the inhalation of aerosolized H5N1 influenza virus causes a cascade of events that can trigger respiratory failure.</p>



<p>“The immunity induced by the vaccine was sufficient to limit virus infection and lung damage, protecting the monkeys from this very serious infection," said Dr. Barratt-Boyes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-the-influenza-vaccine">Creating the influenza vaccine</h2>



<p>The novelty lies in the unconventional approach used for the research. Instead of fighting the contemporary H5N1 virus, the experts immunized primates against the infamous influenza virus of 1918, the one that brought the world to its knees.</p>



<p>What did the researchers find? A robust immune response.</p>



<p>The experiment involved inoculating 11 nonhuman primates against the century-old nemesis, and exposing them to the deadly H5N1. Six of them lived, while the control group of six unvaccinated primates did not survive.</p>



<p>“It worked because the interior protein of the virus was so well preserved,” explained Dr. Sacha. “So much so, that even after almost 100 years of evolution, the virus can’t change those critically important parts of itself.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-universal-influenza-vaccine">Universal influenza vaccine</h2>



<p>Traditional vaccines focus on the exterior surface proteins of viruses, which mutate faster than Usain Bolt runs. This often leaves us trying to hit a moving target. The wizards at OHSU took a different route. They focused on the internal structural proteins, which remain relatively stable over time.</p>



<p>This translates into a stationary target for our body’s T cells to destroy, regardless of whether the virus is an old nemesis or a new variant. Using a century-old template for their experiment and achieving success is a testament to this novel approach.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-life-applications">Real-life applications</h2>



<p>Dr. Sacha believes that the platform could be effective against other mutating viruses including SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.</p>



<p>The same vaccine platform is currently being used in a clinical trial against HIV, another formidable virus. Moreover, a recent publication by the same scientists suggests possible applications in targeting specific cancer cells.</p>



<p>As this research progresses, there are numerous implications for public health and disease management. A universal influenza vaccine could significantly reduce the global burden of seasonal flu epidemics and pandemic outbreaks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-can-we-get-the-influenza-vaccine">When can we get the influenza vaccine?</h2>



<p>According to Dr. Sacha, a one-shot solution for influenza could be a reality in five to 10 years. We might be on the brink of a revolution in how we address infectious diseases.</p>



<p>The research was made possible thanks to support from the Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation Grand Challenges grant awards and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the National Institutes of Health, among other contributors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-toward-a-healthier-future">Toward a healthier future</h2>



<p>“It’s a massive sea change within our lifetimes,” said Dr. Sacha. “There is no question we are on the cusp of the next generation of how we address infectious disease.”</p>



<p>This research isn't just about fighting influenza - it's about our journey toward a healthier future. It's about the evolution of medical science and our relentless <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-flu-is-killing-thousands-of-seals-and-sea-lions-globally/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pursuit of solutions</a>.</p>



<p>And above all, it's about hope for a world where one shot is all we need to stay safe from the ceaseless mutations of deadly viruses. Could the era of “one and done” vaccines be just around the corner? Only time will tell.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-50345-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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Universal influenza vaccine could offer lifetime immunity

Just imagine, a world where vaccines must be administered only...

<p>Venus grooved to the beats of hip-hop for the first time as lyrics from Missy Elliott’s iconic song “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” enveloped the Venusian atmosphere, creating a surreal and historic moment in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/music-from-stars-can-be-used-to-measure-distances-in-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">music</a> and space exploration.</p>



<p>This unprecedented event was meticulously orchestrated by NASA's <a href="https://eyes.nasa.gov/dsn/dsn.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Deep Space Network</a>, which successfully transmitted the song lyrics from the Goldstone complex, a staggering 158 million miles (254 million kilometers) away, bridging the gap between Earth and Venus through the power of music.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-space-network-blasts-music-to-venus">Deep Space Network blasts music to Venus</h2>



<p>The Deep Space Network is not just another radio station. This is the most substantial and sensitive telecommunication service of NASA’s Space Communications and Navigation program.</p>



<p>It bolsters an array of colossal radio antennas that allow missions to track, send instructions, and receive data from spacecraft exploring the moon and farther.</p>



<p>Elliott's song stands as the second ever to be broadcasted into space, marking a first both for the hip-hop genre and <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.</p>



<p>Brittany Brown, the director of the Digital and Technology Division at NASA Headquarters, perfectly encapsulated the connection, stating: “Both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-sent-pet-photos-to-the-space-station-using-lasers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space exploration</a> and Missy Elliott’s art have been about pushing boundaries.”</p>



<p>The collaboration was indeed fitting, considering Missy's history of incorporating space-centric narratives and futuristic visuals in her music videos.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-missy-elliott-s-music-travels-to-venus">Missy Elliott's music travels to Venus</h2>



<p>The lyrical transmission journeyed around 158 million miles, from Earth to Venus, which happens to be the artist's favorite planet. </p>



<p>Transmitted at the speed of light, the signal took nearly 14 minutes to reach its destination. </p>



<p>The 34-meter-wide Deep Space Station 13, fittingly nicknamed Venus, facilitated this intergalactic musical endeavor.</p>



<p>Missy Elliott, whose career spans over 30 years, expressed her excitement and disbelief over her music transcending earthly barriers. </p>



<p>For Elliott, Venus symbolizes "strength, beauty, and empowerment," making it the perfect extraterrestrial recipient of her art.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-nasa-missions-and-collaborations">Future NASA missions and collaborations</h2>



<p>Following in the footsteps of the musical transmission, two NASA missions are marked to explore Venus and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-received-laser-communication-from-10-million-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">relay the data</a> using the Deep Space Network.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-hellish-planet-venus-can-help-us-find-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DAVINCI and VER</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-hellish-planet-venus-can-help-us-find-alien-life/">ITAS</a>, set to launch in the coming decade, will provide significant insights into Venus.</p>



<p>Furthermore, a partnership with the European Space Agency's Venus mission Envision, featuring the Venus Synthetic Aperture Radar developed by a team at JPL, will add another layer of understanding to the mysterious planet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-network-spanning-the-globe">A network spanning the globe</h2>



<p>Since its inception in 1963, NASA SCaN's Deep Space Network has been growing steadily, with an extensive infrastructure spanning across the globe. </p>



<p>With strategically placed ground stations in California, Madrid, and Canberra, it ensures around-the-clock coverage of space, facilitating continuous communication with distant spacecraft.</p>



<p>This extraordinary incident, where art and science intersected, is a testament to the limitless potential that arises when traditional boundaries are pushed. </p>



<p>The universe becomes a vast canvas for innovation and creativity, showcasing the remarkable achievements that can be made when the worlds of music and space exploration unite.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-resonance-of-space-and-music">Cultural resonance of space and music</h2>



<p>Music transcending earthly confines into the cosmos reflects a profound confluence of cultural expression and scientific achievement. </p>



<p>This remarkable event, where Missy Elliott's "The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” permeated Venusian skies, underscores the universal language of music and its capability to bridge the gap between art and science. </p>



<p>Historically, humanity has always looked to the stars for inspiration, with celestial themes pervading literature, visual arts, and, of course, music. </p>



<p>Elliott’s intergalactic broadcast echoes the tradition of intertwining <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-receives-deep-space-laser-message-psyche-mission-140-million-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a> and sound, highlighting both the boundless human imagination and the expanding technological frontiers.</p>



<p>The intersection of space exploration and musical artistry posits intriguing questions about the role of creativity in the scientific domain. As music invades new realms, it invites a re-examination of how art influences scientific discourse and vice versa. </p>



<p>Furthermore, this symbolic transmission into space serves as an emblem of cultural outreach, potentially sparking curiosity and inspiration among diverse audiences about the mysteries of the universe. </p>



<p>As we advance technologically, the fusion of these disciplines may pave the way for new forms of communication and expression that transcend traditional boundaries, inviting us all to imagine the harmonies of the cosmos.</p>



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



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NASA sends Missy Elliott's hip-hop music to Venus

Venus grooved to the beats of hip-hop for the first...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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



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Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
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<p>Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. </p>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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<p>Today’s <strong>Video of the Day</strong> from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?</p>



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



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



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



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



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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