<p>Rising temperatures are reshaping life in ways that go far beyond melting ice or shifting habitats. They are reaching into the most intimate biological process of all - how genes are shuffled and passed to the next generation.</p>



<p>New research shows that heat and cold can alter the genetic machinery that produces sperm and eggs in reptiles, even tilting the odds of embryos developing as one sex or the other. These subtle shifts strike at the foundation of fertility and evolutionary change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperature-tests-reptile-fertility">Temperature tests reptile fertility</h2>



<p>A team from the <a href="https://www.uab.cat/en/ibb" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona</a> (UAB) tested the effect in a small Madagascan lizard, the Guibé’s ground gecko. The experts tracked recombination - the exchange of DNA between paired chromosomes that fuels genetic diversity.</p>



<p>To measure this, the researchers analyzed 1,169 sperm cells from 12 male geckos kept at six different temperatures for a week. The results revealed a U-shaped response: recombination events rose at both cooler (68°F) and warmer (86°F) conditions compared to a mid-range 82°F.</p>



<p>"Our findings show the presence of hyper-CO spermatocytes in individuals exposed to both high and low temperatures," said Laura González Rodelas, lead author of the study. </p>



<p>The study also noted shorter chromosome axes and more lingering double-strand breaks at the extremes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-recombination-matters">Why recombination matters</h2>



<p>Crossover events are needed for chromosomes to separate cleanly during meiosis. Too few, or too many in the wrong places, can reduce fertility or alter which gene combinations survive.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/three-new-gecko-species-discovered-after-eight-years-of-searching/">gecko</a> study found that long chromosomes soaked up most of the extra crossovers at hot and cold settings. </p>



<p>It also detected weaker crossover interference, the spacing rule that normally keeps events apart along the synaptonemal complex.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-flips-reptile-chromosomes">Heat flips reptile chromosomes</h2>



<p>Some reptiles go a step further, pairing sex chromosomes with heat and cold cues, which can cause temperature-induced sex reversal under hot incubation.</p>



<p>"This is the first report of reptile sex reversal in the wild," said geneticist Clare Holleley. Her fieldwork on the Australian central bearded dragon reported male to female sex reversal in the wild at high egg temperatures.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Understanding that switch needs high quality genomes that resolve both Z and W sex <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/y-chromosome-is-disappearing-may-already-be-causing-problems-for-men/">chromosomes</a>. One study delivered a near telomere to telomere assembly from a female ZW bearded dragon.</p>



<p>Researchers created a complete, high-quality map of the bearded dragon’s genome, covering both of its sex chromosomes. </p>



<p>The team found that the genome contains about 1.75 billion DNA bases, and they were able to piece together the Z and W chromosomes in full, giving scientists a clearer view of how sex is determined in this species.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-reptile-sex-genes">Mapping reptile sex genes</h2>



<p>Having a full <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genome-mapping-completed-for-dozens-of-common-animals/">genome map</a> lets researchers track genes linked to reproduction, growth, and disease. It also provides a baseline for comparing different reptiles and understanding how sex chromosomes evolve over time. </p>



<p>These insights can help identify which genes respond to environmental stress and which ones remain stable. For conservation, this kind of data can guide breeding programs and population management. </p>



<p>By knowing the genetic makeup of males and females, scientists can predict how changes in temperature might affect sex ratios in the wild, an issue that becomes more urgent as global warming accelerates.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-geckos-echo-plant-findings">Geckos echo plant findings</h2>



<p>A plant genetics study showed the same U-shaped recombination response in <em>Arabidopsis</em>, from a low point near 64°F to higher rates at cooler and warmer settings. </p>



<p>The pattern suggests organisms often keep recombination low in comfortable conditions, then shift upward under stress.</p>



<p>Mechanisms are still being worked out. A yeast paper connects temperature, DNA supercoiling, and weaker interference, offering one plausible route for how heat can ripple through meiotic structure.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetics-under-climate-strain">Genetics under climate strain</h2>



<p>These changes land where evolution does its work. When environments move quickly, extra recombination can speed the shuffle of gene combinations that selection can test.</p>



<p>There is a tradeoff. If crossover placement and interference are distorted for long periods, fertility and chromosome stability could suffer in some lineages.</p>



<p>For reptiles that already face <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/top-marine-predators-may-suffer-massive-habitat-loss-by-2100/">habitat loss</a> and pollution, this genetic sensitivity adds a quiet risk.  Protecting reptile nesting sites from extreme heat, shading exposed sand, and buffering water temperatures can safeguard early development.</p>



<p>Captive breeding programs can monitor incubation ranges that avoid persistent sex bias. They can also track genetic health when recombination patterns drift from physiological norms.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genes-maps-and-temperature">Genes, maps, and temperature</h2>



<p>The gecko result is not a vague <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-behavior-productivity-being-directly-impacted-by-climate-change/">climate</a> story. It rests on direct cell counts, such as the increase in crossover markers at 68°F and 86°F relative to 82°F.</p>



<p>The bearded dragon work is not only about embryos. It gives a map of the Z and W regions, including candidate sex genes, which anchors future tests of how temperature interacts with sequence.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosgenetics/article?id=10.1371/journal.pgen.1011772" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>PLOS Genetics</em></a>.</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



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



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

Extreme heat is scrambling reptile reproduction

Rising temperatures are reshaping life in ways that go far beyond melting ice or shifting habitats. They are reaching into the most intimate biological process of all - how genes are shuffled and passed to the next generation. New research shows that heat and cold can alter the genetic machinery that produces sperm and eggs in reptiles, even tilting the odds of embryos developing as one sex or the other. These subtle shifts strike at the foundation of fertility and evolutionary change. Temperature tests reptile fertility A...

<p>For the first time, a team of researchers measured the heart rate of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-bats-navigate-noisy-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bats</a> over several days in the wild, including full flight recordings.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study involved attaching heart rate transmitters weighing less than one gram to male common noctule bats. </p>



<p>The bats were tracked while they flew in search of food, with scientists following in an airplane for more than an hour at times.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-consumption-of-annuals">Energy consumption of annuals</h2>



<p>The findings, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2024.0855" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the Royal Society B</em></a>, reveal significant insights into the energy consumption and survival strategies of bats.</p>



<p>The study was led by researchers at the <a href="https://www.ab.mpg.de/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior</a> (MPI-AB) and the <a href="https://www.uni-konstanz.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Konstanz</a>. The goal was to understand the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-brain-energy-weight-gain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy expenditure</a> of male common noctule bats throughout the year.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Understanding how animals meet their daily energy requirements is critical in our rapidly changing world,” wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>“Small organisms with high metabolic rates can conserve stored energy when food availability is low or increase energy intake when energetic requirements are high, but how they balance this in the wild remains largely unknown.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-budgets-of-bats">Energy budgets of bats</h2>



<p>Study lead author Lara Keicher, an ecologist at Max Planck, noted that bats are fascinating animals that often share their habitat with us humans.</p>



<p>“But bats are still shrouded in mystery. We don't yet have a clear answer to simple questions such as: How much food do they need and can they find enough of it in different seasons to survive?”</p>



<p>To gather data, scientists fitted bats with heart rate transmitters weighing only 0.8 grams.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“To understand and accurately quantify energy budgets of bats in different stages of their life cycle, we studied free-ranging male common noctule bats, <em>Nyctalus noctula</em>, in southern Germany,” wrote the researchers.</p>



<p><em>“Nyctalus noctula</em> is a representative insectivorous temperate-zone bat species with an annual life cycle characterized by periods of torpor and hibernation that are timed around different stages of the annual reproductive cycle and seasonal insect availability.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-the-bats-heart-rates-nbsp">Tracking the bats’ heart rates<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The transmitters, which the bats wore for a few days, emitted audio signals of the bats' heartbeats, recorded using a radio receiver. This method allowed the researchers to track the bats' heart rates within a few hundred meters. </p>



<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="W9Rf1fPcLu-3729306-12187" type="single"]</div>



<p>During the day, the recordings were straightforward as bats rested in tree caves or bat boxes. However, nighttime tracking required the researchers to fly a small airplane to follow the bats during their hour-long flights.</p>



<p>The researchers found that bats' heart rates could reach around 900 beats per minute during flight. “It sounded like a single high-pitched tone to our ears,” Keicher said.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-conservation-strategies-of-bats">Energy conservation strategies<strong> </strong>of bats</h2>



<p>The study revealed that male common noctule bats use different energy conservation strategies depending on the season.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In spring, the bats enter a state of torpor, reducing their heart rates to as low as six beats per minute to save energy. “We saw that bats in spring could ramp up their heart rates when they wake up, reaching the top speed of 900 beats per minute within only a few minutes,” Keicher added.</p>



<p>Interestingly, the team discovered that male bats do not use torpor during the summer.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“In the warmer months, when food is plentiful, males stay awake during the day to invest energy in sperm production in order to be ready for <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/male-bats-have-a-secret-mating-weapon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mating</a> in the autumn,” she explained.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To compensate for the energy expended, male bats hunt twice as long in summer, consuming up to 33 June beetles or over 2500 mosquitoes in one night.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energetic-challenges-faced-by-bats-nbsp">Energetic challenges faced by bats<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The findings highlight the energetic challenges faced by bats and their survival strategies. This understanding is crucial for predicting how bats will be affected by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-is-waking-bats-up-too-early-from-hibernation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate change</a> and changes in food availability.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“All bat species are protected in Germany and some are threatened with extinction. Basic research that investigates the behavior of the animals and their adaptations to the environment can help us develop protective measures,” concluded senior author Dina Dechmann, a biologist at Max Planck.</p>



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



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



<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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

Bats can ramp up their heart rate to 900 beats per minute

For the first time, a team of researchers measured the...

<p>Polar regions are warming at a much faster rate compared to lower latitudes, a phenomenon referred to as “polar amplification.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change</a> (IPCC) has reported a ~5 °C rise in Arctic temperatures over the 20th century, with the highest rates of ~1 °C per decade since the 1980s. </p>



<p>This rapid warming not only impacts the ecosystems of these regions but also has significant global consequences.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vicious-cycle-of-ice-melt">Vicious cycle of ice melt</h2>



<p>Ice and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-reveals-that-co2-is-rising-at-the-fastest-rate-in-50000-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea ice</a> in both the Arctic and Antarctic play a crucial role in regulating climate through ice-albedo feedback. Ice reflects incoming solar radiation, helping to maintain cooler temperatures and preserve ice masses. </p>



<p>As global temperatures rise, ice melts, exposing darker land and sea surfaces that absorb more solar radiation. This absorption warms the environment further, leading to more ice melt and perpetuating the cycle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-atmospheric-moisture-and-cloud-cover">Atmospheric moisture and cloud cover</h2>



<p>While the ice-albedo feedback is a significant concern, it is not the only mechanism that could lead to an ice-free world. Changes in atmospheric moisture and cloud cover can also affect radiation levels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The exact contributions of albedo and atmospheric processes to polar amplification remain uncertain, making it difficult to predict the extent of future polar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-polar-regions-changing-fundamental-alarming-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">warming</a> and ice melt accurately.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-driving-force-of-warming-polar-regions">Driving force of warming polar regions</h2>



<p>To gain more insight, scientists examine Earth's geological past, particularly the Eocene epoch (~48–56 million years ago), a period when the planet was ice-free. This period helps isolate atmospheric processes as the driving force behind polar amplification, excluding large ice-albedo changes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Research published in <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.5194/cp-20-1303-2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Climate of the Past</em></a> has now quantified polar amplification during the Eocene, particularly during short-lived warming events known as hyperthermals, such as the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (~56 Ma) and the Eocene Thermal Maximum 2 (~54 Ma).</p>



<p>“At present, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-amplification-is-destabilizing-the-delicate-balance-of-the-ecosystem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polar amplification</a> is a key uncertainty in predictions of future climate warming, with latest IPCC model estimates ranging from factor two to four. Polar warming has global consequences, because ice sheet melting causes sea level rise, but also because permafrost thaw can release large quantities of carbon dioxide,” said Chris Fokkema, a doctoral researcher at Utrecht University.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-past-climate-of-polar-regions">Past climate of polar regions</h2>



<p>The researchers used cell membrane lipid biomarkers from Nitrososphaera microorganisms to reconstruct sea surface temperatures during the Eocene.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This method, known as the TEX86 paleothermometer, involves analyzing the membrane lipids of archaea, which produce more rings in their lipid molecules at higher temperatures to maintain membrane rigidity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The lipid molecules are well-preserved in sediments, allowing scientists to extract and analyze them from ancient marine sediments.</p>



<p>“This method is based on analyzing the membrane lipids of archaea that live near the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/citizens-should-help-determine-the-future-of-our-oceans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean</a> surface. The simple principle behind this method is that these archaea produce relatively more rings in their membrane lipid molecules at higher ambient temperatures, to retain their membrane rigidity,” Fokkema explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-orbital-forcing-nbsp">The role of orbital forcing<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The team analyzed sediments from Ocean Drilling Program cores in the tropical Atlantic Ocean off the coast of North Africa.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They found that temperature variability in the tropics was time-equivalent with that at high latitudes during hyperthermals and across Milankovitch cycles, suggesting global temperature changes driven by variations in Earth's orbit.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The scientists attribute these changes to orbital forcing, which affects the carbon cycle by influencing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-weaker-ocean-will-release-more-carbon-into-the-atmosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon</a> dioxide levels in the atmosphere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-models-underestimate-polar-warming">Climate models underestimate polar warming<strong> </strong></h2>



<p>High latitude ocean temperatures during hyperthermals varied about twice as much as tropical surface oceans, indicating strong atmospheric feedbacks.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This finding suggests that current climate models may underestimate polar amplification, implying that future warming in the Arctic and Antarctic could be greater than predicted.</p>



<p>“Our new study shows that the current warming is already on the same scale as some of these hyperthermals, which strongly impacted climate and oceans. By comparing this new record to previously published open ocean bottom water temperatures we were able to calculate polar amplification on short timescales during multiple orbitally-forced global temperature changes,” said Fokkema.</p>



<p>“We found a polar amplification factor of ±2. Interestingly, this is slightly larger than the polar amplification that climate models predict in an ice-free, early Eocene world, which may imply that climate models underestimate polar warming for the future.”</p>



<p>Understanding polar amplification is crucial for predicting how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/abrupt-permafrost-thaw-releases-more-co2-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">permafrost thawing</a> and ice sheet melting will impact sea level rise and the global carbon cycle. </p>



<p>The insights gained from studying the Eocene period provide valuable information for refining climate models and improving our predictions of future climate change.</p>



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



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



<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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

Polar regions are rapidly warming with global consequences

Polar regions are warming at a much faster rate compared...

<p>Prejudices are something we've all heard of through the age-old adage, "Monkey see, monkey do." </p>



<p>Some may see it as a joke, but recent research suggests there's more truth to it than we may realize, specifically when it comes to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discrimination-speeds-up-aging-molecular-level/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forming prejudices</a>.</p>



<p>The way we view people and the biases we develop might not necessarily be a product of our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/self-serving-bias-distorting-beliefs-about-others-feel-better/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experiences</a> but rather a reflection of the prejudice we witness.</p>



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



<p>So, what exactly is happening? According to this groundbreaking study helmed by psychologists from the University of Amsterdam (<a href="https://www.uva.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UvA</a>), our prejudices can be unconsciously formed simply by observing others' interactions. It's a phenomenon we may not be aware of, making it difficult for us to control.</p>



<p>"What we found in our research is that prejudice can form by merely observing other people's social interactions," said study co-author David Amodio.</p>



<p>"When an observer views a prejudiced person's interaction with a group member, they unconsciously form the same prejudice. Moreover, because observers are unaware that they picked up this bias, they go on to act with prejudice in their own behavior."</p>



<p>This unconscious bias extends beyond just forming an opinion. It can significantly impact our behavior as well. </p>



<p>We can pick up this bias without realizing it and then act based on this prejudice in our own behavior. It's a subtle yet powerful way that prejudice can spread.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observational-prejudices-and-modern-living">Observational prejudices and modern living</h2>



<p>As potent as this mechanism is, it becomes even more of a concern when we consider our exposure to prejudiced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/students-names-unfairly-impact-grades-due-to-alphabetical-bias/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavior</a> through multiple channels in this digital age.</p>



<p>A simple scroll through social media or a casual evening spent watching TV can expose us to numerous biased interactions that can subconsciously influence our biases.</p>



<p>This mechanism helps to explain how societal prejudices spread so easily, for example, through the viewing of TV programs, YouTube, or other social media where biased interactions with certain groups take place.</p>



<p>By merely observing those interactions, vicariously and with no direct contact, people may take on the same prejudices.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlled-experiments-reveal-bias-formation">Controlled experiments reveal bias formation</h2>



<p>The study carried out controlled experiments where participants watched an actor interact with two different groups. </p>



<p>During the experiments, a research participant viewed interactions between an actor and members of two different groups. </p>



<p>Across participants, the actor varied in prejudice, but the behavior of group members was always identical.</p>



<p>As predicted, the observers developed a preference aligned with the actor's prejudice, showing how easily we can internalize biases we see in others.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deceptive-nature">Deceptive nature</h2>



<p>What's even more alarming is how deceptive this mechanism can be. </p>



<p>The study found that "observers were unaware that they were influenced by the prejudiced actor; instead, they misperceived worse behavior from group members who interacted with a prejudiced actor, when in fact, members of both groups acted the same."</p>



<p>"A troubling implication is that, because the observer believes that their preference is based on objective evidence, they have no reason to question it or control it," said Amodio.</p>



<p>In other words, we can grow convinced that our prejudice is based on personal observation and rightful judgement, making it harder to recognize our bias and change our behavior. </p>



<p>Knowledge of this mechanism, as brought to light by these researchers, is a first step towards understanding and combating the unconscious formation of prejudices in society.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mitigating-unconscious-prejudice">Mitigating unconscious prejudice</h2>



<p>Given the insidious nature of observational bias, the next logical step is developing strategies to mitigate its impact. </p>



<p>One potential avenue is educational programs focused on awareness and critical thinking. Educating individuals about the existence and influence of unconscious prejudice can empower them to question their assumptions and the sources from which they derive their judgments.</p>



<p>Another promising approach involves promoting diverse and inclusive environments. By exposing individuals to a wide range of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/income-inequality-and-carbon-emissions-have-a-complicated-relationship/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perspectives</a> and interactions, we can dilute the effects of observed prejudiced behavior. </p>



<p>Encouraging media literacy and critical consumption of digital content can also help individuals recognize and filter biased portrayals they encounter.</p>



<p>Ultimately, while unconscious prejudice formed through observational learning presents a daunting challenge, understanding its mechanisms provides a pathway to fostering a more equitable society. </p>



<p>By acknowledging the hidden ways in which biases are formed and actively working to counteract them, we can take significant steps towards reducing prejudice and promoting inclusivity.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adk2030" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a></em>.</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



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



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

Prejudice can form unconsciously by observing others' bias

Prejudices are something we've all heard of through the age-old...

<p>We exist, thrive, and ponder upon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-much-life-has-inhabited-earth-since-the-very-first-cell-scientists-found-out/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a>, but when it comes to understanding its beginnings, we've always found ourselves at a crossroads. Where did we come from? What did the world look like when life first emerged? A recent paper from <a href="https://www.ucr.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Riverside</a> is now helping us piece together this complex puzzle using microbes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-life-on-earth">Early life on Earth</h2>



<p>The research project, led by Christopher Tino, a Ph.D. candidate at UCR at the time of the study, and Timothy Lyons, a UCR distinguished professor of biogeochemistry, delves into unknown territories of Earth's biological history. </p>



<p>The study fuses decades of research, breakthroughs, and data to tell a story about microbes, their evolution, and their impact on our planet.</p>



<p>Many studies have explored signs of early life preserved in ancient rocks, but this paper, weaves together this data with genomic studies of modern organisms and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-other-planets-collected-first-water-from-unexpected-source-planetesimals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolving chemistry</a> of early oceans, continents, and atmosphere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-and-early-life-forms">Microbes and early life forms</h2>



<p>The paper reveals how primary life forms - O2-producing bacteria and methane-producing archaea - significantly influenced and were influenced by their surroundings. So, Earth, air, water, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rna-world-unraveling-mysteries-life-origin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a> – they all evolved hand-in-hand, like a natural symphony.</p>



<p>“The central message in all of this is that you can't view any part of the record in isolation,” said Lyons. “This is one of the first times that research across these fields has been stitched together this comprehensively to uncover an overarching narrative.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-journey-of-microbes">Journey of microbes</h2>



<p>The paper also takes us on a journey of early life forms - how they survived, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/origin-of-life-on-earth-may-have-been-found-in-ancient-hot-springs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adapted</a>, and finally, flourished. As microbes gained in numbers, they began to shape their world around, most notably by producing oxygen via photosynthesis.</p>



<p>The research explores how microbial life consumed, transformed, and dispersed key nutrients like nitrogen, iron, manganese, sulfur, and methane across Earth. This biological evolution unfolded as Earth’s surface experienced significant changes, including the rise of continents and an increase in atmospheric oxygen.</p>



<p>How did these tiny organisms impact the planet's development? By understanding their role, we can better appreciate the intricate balance of life and the environment.</p>



<p>Microbes have been pivotal in shaping Earth’s biogeochemical cycles. This highlights their critical influence, inviting us to ponder the profound connections between life and our planet's history.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-and-ancient-life">Microbes and ancient life</h2>



<p>The researchers have also explored the trails of ancient life forms hidden in rocks billions of years old. The researchers used the chemistry of these rocks and the genomes of living relatives to get a comprehensive view of ancient life.</p>



<p>The study challenges the long-held assumption that life forms became dominant soon after their appearance on Earth. The journey from existence to prominence often took hundreds of millions of years. </p>



<p>"Microbes that at first eked out an existence in narrow niches would later have their turn to be the big kids on the block," said Lyons.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-than-just-a-fossil-hunt">More than just a fossil hunt</h2>



<p>While this research feeds our curiosity about our origin, it also paints a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbial-life-soil-planet-warming-global-carbon-cycle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">broader picture</a>. The study offers insights on how life and environments may respond to climate change, both in the immediate and distant future.</p>



<p>Moreover, the insights derived from this research could prove instrumental in our search for life beyond Earth. If we are ever going to find evidence for life beyond Earth, it will very likely be based on the processes and products of microorganisms, such as methane and O2.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-study-significance">Study significance</h2>



<p>Our understanding of life's early days is exponentially increasing, thanks to the relentless work of scientists like Christopher Tino, Timothy Lyons, and their team.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“In essence, we are describing Earth’s first flirtations with microbes capable of changing the global environment,” said Lyons.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“You need to understand the whole picture to fully grasp the who, what, when, and where as microbes graduated from mere existence to having a significant effect on the environment.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>So, whether you're pondering about our beginnings or wondering about extraterrestrial life, remember - it all starts with microbes and their remarkable journey. Isn't it amazing to consider how these tiny life forms have shaped, and continue to shape, the world we live in?</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41579-024-01044-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Reviews Microbiology</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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



<p>Like what you read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and Earth.com.</p>



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

Microbes laid the foundation for early life on Earth

We exist, thrive, and ponder upon life, but when it...

<p>Ever wondered if we truly know all there is to know about our animal companions on planet Earth? Well, the reality might leave you surprised. From amphibians to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-urban-spaces-support-bird-diversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a>, and reptiles to mammals, the vast biodiversity of four-footed animals is stunning. Yet, recent research shows that the world of tetrapods – animals with four feet – is filled with more mysteries than we thought.</p>



<p>This intriguing discovery is brought to us by Mario Moura, from the <a href="https://www.unicamp.br" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universidade Estadual de Campinas</a>, Brazil, and Walter Jetz of <a href="https://www.yale.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale University</a>. The study sheds light on the dark corners of our understanding of the tetrapod biodiversity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tetrapodtraits-a-game-changer">TetrapodTraits: A game-changer</h2>



<p>The team created TetrapodTraits, a massive database compiling vital traits of over 33,000 species, including body size, habitat, geographic location, and whether each <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiktaalik-fossil-discovery-sheds-light-on-how-fish-walked-onto-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> is under threat from human activities. </p>



<p>Tetrapods are typically well-documented and form models in global biodiversity studies. Yet, recurring gaps in species' data and inconsistencies, even down to shifting scientific names, can skew our understanding of biodiversity. </p>



<p>This, in turn, could lead to false conclusions about the ecosystem's function and the extinction risk of a species.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-findings">Unexpected findings</h2>



<p>While assembling TetrapodTraits, the researchers made some eye-opening discoveries. Data specific to certain species, such as small-bodied animals or those active during the night, are missing more often than not. Similarly, tropical regions seem to be an enigma for researchers.</p>



<p>Acknowledging these gaps, the team managed to predict the missing data based on existing observations. Their completion of the database led to a reevaluation of biodiversity <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/island-bird-communities-are-changing-in-unexpected-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns</a>, in turn, influencing our knowledge about species distribution.</p>



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



<p>While the TetrapodTraits database represents a significant advancement in tetrapod research, the authors stress the importance of continuous data collection to boost its accuracy and comprehensiveness. </p>



<p>Why is this additional data crucial? It will help refine the database, making it an even more valuable resource for scientists. Imagine future studies yielding less biased and more reliable results when examining the ecology, behavior, and conservation of various tetrapod species. </p>



<p>This could lead to more informed decisions and effective conservation strategies, benefitting biodiversity and ecosystem health.</p>



<p>Continual data enrichment will only enhance the utility of TetrapodTraits, driving more precise and impactful scientific discoveries. Even in its current state, the use of TetrapodTraits in research holds promise for significant contributions to the scientific community.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-data-accuracy">Importance of data accuracy</h2>



<p>Accurate data is paramount when studying biodiversity. Reliable data ensures that researchers can draw meaningful conclusions about species distribution, ecological roles, and conservation statuses. </p>



<p>Any inaccuracies or inconsistencies within the dataset can thus lead to erroneous conclusions, potentially undermining conservation efforts. </p>



<p>For instance, mismatches in species' scientific names or errors in documented geographic locations could conflate or segment populations, distorting our understanding of their true range and threat levels. </p>



<p>Therefore, the TetrapodTraits database not only compiles vast quantities of information but also emphasizes the standardization and verification of data to minimize such discrepancies.</p>



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



<p>Technological advancements play a crucial role in modern biodiversity research. The use of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, as demonstrated in the TetrapodTraits project, can help identify patterns, predict missing data, and uncover biases within large datasets. </p>



<p>These technologies enhance our capacity to handle vast amounts of complex data and offer novel insights that might otherwise remain hidden. </p>



<p>Furthermore, remote sensing technologies, such as satellite imagery and drones, allow for better monitoring of habitats and species, particularly in remote or less accessible regions. </p>



<p>This blend of field research and technology-driven analysis paves the way for a more thorough and nuanced understanding of global biodiversity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-of-tetrapod-biodiversity">Conservation of tetrapod biodiversity</h2>



<p>The refined understanding of tetrapod biodiversity provided by TetrapodTraits has significant implications for conservation. By identifying regions and species with incomplete data, the database highlights critical areas for future research and targeted conservation efforts. </p>



<p>Accurate data about species' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-mammals-play-a-vital-role-in-maintaining-forest-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological roles</a> and distribution can aid in creating more effective conservation strategies, ensuring that resources are allocated where they are needed most. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-and-tetrapod-biodiversity">AI and tetrapod biodiversity</h2>



<p>So, it's evident that our understanding of tetrapod species is not as complete as we once thought. But fret not, advancements like TetrapodTraits are paving the way to fill these knowledge gaps.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Our research utilizes artificial intelligence to uncover biases in biodiversity data and offer guidance for enhancing the effectiveness of field research and sampling strategies," noted the study authors.</p>



<p>As we continue to explore these mysteries, let's appreciate the richness of our planet's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-geographic-isolation-shaped-global-species-habitat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a>. After all, it's in understanding and preserving this diversity that we ensure a vibrant future for coming generations.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pbio.3002658" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>PLoS Biology</em></a>.</p>



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



<p>Like what you read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and Earth.com.</p>



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

We know far less about four-footed animals than expected

Ever wondered if we truly know all there is to...

<p>In these modern times, we often take the stability of our world for granted. However, an academic revelation suggests we are in the midst of a change so drastic that it feels as if the very ground beneath our feet is shifting. Well, at least the ground 3,220 miles beneath our feet, in Earth's inner core.</p>



<p>Research spearheaded by Dr. John Vidale, Dean’s Professor of Earth Sciences at the <a href="https://www.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Southern California</a>’s <a href="https://dornsife.usc.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences</a>, has confirmed a slow deceleration of Earth's inner core rotation to the point where it is moving backwards. This perplexing shift may have profound implications for our planet.</p>



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



<p>Our Earth holds a secret deep within. Discovered by Danish seismologist Inge Lehmann in 1936, the earth’s inner core is a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solid-metal-ball-discovered-within-earths-inner-core/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solid metal ball</a>, somewhat akin to an inscrutable top whirling independently inside our spinning planet.</p>



<p>Despite its elusive nature, the inner core has drawn the interest of the scientific community for its peculiar characteristics, primarily its rotation speed and direction. </p>



<p>The persistent debates have finally led to the assertion that our inner core’s spin is not constant; instead, it might be slowing down.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seismic-waves">Seismic waves</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-inner-core-rotation-is-slowing-down-making/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Understanding the rotation</a> of the inner core is a bit like trying to read a book in the dark. The inner core is out of reach for direct observation or sampling. </p>



<p>Scientists have relied on examining the seismic waves from large earthquakes and their interaction with the core to gain insights.</p>



<p>“Differential rotation of the inner core was proposed as a phenomenon in the 1970s and ’80s, but it wasn’t until the ‘90s that seismological evidence was published,” said Dr. Lauren Waszek, a senior lecturer of physical sciences at <a href="https://www.jcu.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Cook University</a> in Australia.</p>



<p>However, interpreting these findings has been contentious due to limitations in observing and collecting accurate data.</p>



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



<p>One hypothesis, proposed in 2023, suggested that the inner core, which had once spun faster than Earth, was now spinning slower. </p>



<p>At one point, the scientists reported, the core’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-rotation-is-shifting-toward-a-25-hour-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rotation</a> matched Earth’s spin, and then it began to decelerate more, moving backward relative to the fluid layers around it.</p>



<p>This proposition has been strengthened by recent research, which not only confirms the core slowdown but also corroborates the idea that this deceleration is part of a decades-long pattern of varying speeds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cycle-of-earth-s-inner-core">Cycle of Earth's inner core</h2>



<p>The new study led by Dr. Vidale, reveals that changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-timekeeping-climate-change-has-slowed-earths-rotation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rotational</a> speed follow a 70-year cycle. </p>



<p>“We’ve been arguing about this for 20 years, and I think this nails it,” Vidale said. “I think we’ve ended the debate on whether the inner core moves, and what’s been its pattern for the last couple of decades.”</p>



<p>Despite such confidence, not everyone is convinced that the matter is settled. </p>



<p>The implications of the internal core slowdown and how it might affect us remain a perplexing puzzle -- though some link it to Earth's magnetic field.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magnetic-phenomenon">Magnetic phenomenon</h2>



<p>The interplay of Earth's magnetic field, forces of gravity, the flow of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/surface-water-can-penetrate-earths-deep-interior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fluid</a> outer core, and mantle produce variations in the core's rotational speed. </p>



<p>This "push and pull" influence the solidity and positioning of our inner core.</p>



<p>A slower-spinning core, studies suggest, could potentially affect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/magnetic-field-solar-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's magnetic field</a>, a protective shield safeguarding the planet from deadly solar radiation. It could also fractionally shorten the length of a day.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-magnetic-field-and-its-inner-core">Earth's magnetic field and its inner core</h2>



<p>Picture Earth as a giant magnet, its magnetic field extending from the heart of our world into the vastness of space. This mighty shield is born from a dance deep below our feet, where molten iron and nickel swirl and tumble in Earth's outer and inner cores.</p>



<p>As they move, they give birth to electric currents, naming life to their very own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/desert-ants-use-earths-magnetic-field-for-navigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic fields</a>. When these fields get together, they create a larger, intricate magnetic layer that envelops the Earth, reaching into the cosmos and forming what we call the magnetosphere.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protection-from-cosmic-rays">Protection from cosmic rays</h3>



<p>The magnetosphere is our world’s silent guardian, standing firm against the solar wind and cosmic radiation. Imagine a stream of charged particles, hurled our way from the Sun. </p>



<p>It sounds scary, right? But fear not. This stream could strip away our atmosphere if not for our shield -- the magnetosphere. </p>



<p>Instead of causing destruction, our magnetic field reroutes these particles, eventually causing the beautiful dance of Northern and Southern Lights near the poles. Nature's own light show! </p>



<p>The protection that the magnetosphere provides is like a safety blanket, keeping Earth as the perfect haven for all life.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-constantly-evolving-like-earth-s-inner-core">Constantly evolving like Earth's inner core</h3>



<p>Earth's magnetic field isn't set in stone. It's alive, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mesopotamian-bricks-reveal-anomaly-in-earths-magnetic-field-3000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experiencing changes</a> and even pole reversals -- the magnetic north and south trading places. This hasn't happened for a few hundred thousand years, but who knows when it might occur again.</p>



<p>Why does this matter? Understanding these shifts and shakes is crucial for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-is-shifting-and-putting-navigation-at-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">our navigation systems</a>, and also gives us exciting clues to the geological history etched into the Earth's rocks.</p>



<p>Finally, and most importantly, what impact will the changing rotation of Earth's inner core have on our protective magnetic field?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-delving-deeper-into-core-matters">Delving deeper into core matters</h2>



<p>Unraveling the mysteries of the spin of our inner core -- though imperceptible to us -- holds significant potential. </p>



<p>This research offers an exciting look into how Earth's deep interior formed and how activity across all the planet's subsurface layers is interconnected.</p>



<p>For instance, seismic waves produced by earthquakes at different times reveal changes in the core rotation over the years. </p>



<p>Deducing from their calculations, Dr. Vidale and his team predict that the core should start accelerating again in about five to 10 years.</p>



<p>As interesting as that sounds, it still leaves us on the incline of this scientific roller coaster. "We need more data and improved interdisciplinary tools to investigate this further," Dr. Waszek advises.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-towards-an-uncharted-territory">Towards an uncharted territory</h2>



<p>As we plunge deeper into the enigmas of our Earth's inner core, we unlock numerous possibilities. </p>



<p>The boundary where the liquid outer core envelops the solid inner core is a region where "liquid and solid meet," as Dr. Vidale puts it, "filled with potential for activity".</p>



<p>This interplay between the inner core’s rotation and the movement in the outer core helps power Earth’s magnetic field. Yet, the inner core’s exact role needs further probing. </p>



<p>One thing's for sure; we stand on the precipice of a new frontier in our understanding of our Earth. As we dig deeper into the mysteries of our planet, we might just unearth a new worldview.</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



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



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

Earth’s inner core rotation has begun moving backwards

In these modern times, we often take the stability of...

3d,Illustration,Of,Earth,Planet,In,Fire.,Explosion,Of,Planet.

<p>Ever wonder how our seemingly dry, fireball Earth got its first water during the early days of our planet? Well, some recent findings might just quench your thirst for knowledge.</p>



<p>Thanks to the age data obtained from certain meteorite classes, we now have fresh insights into the birth of water-rich cosmic bodies in the primordial solar system.</p>



<p>These mini astronomical structures, or planetesimals as they're scientifically known, played the role of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-discovery-about-earths-formation-raises-probability-of-finding-life-on-other-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic delivery service</a>, continually bringing in materials for planet construction – including our own Earth, which initially had little water to begin with.</p>



<p>Enter Professor Dr. Mario Trieloff, the director of the Klaus Tschira Laboratory for Cosmochemistry at Heidelberg University's <a href="https://www.uni-heidelberg.de/en/study/all-subjects/earth-sciences" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Institute of Earth Sciences</a>.</p>



<p>He explains, "These small bodies did not just supply the building materials for the planets." They are, in reality, the very source of Earth's water, Trieloff adds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-putting-the-puzzle-pieces-together">Putting the puzzle pieces together</h2>



<p>These planetesimals themselves emerged at cooler temperatures in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-discovery-earths-building-blocks-contained-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">outer solar system</a>, where ice existed as solid-state water. </p>



<p>This is in stark contrast to other celestial bodies that formed earlier in the solar system's history, which were too hot and too close to the sun to harbor ice.</p>



<p>The early-forming bodies experienced intense thermal conditions, preventing the accumulation or retention of volatile substances <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-origins-of-water-on-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">such as water</a>.</p>



<p>By meticulously analyzing age data and utilizing sophisticated computational models, an international research team, including distinguished earth scientists from Heidelberg University, was able to trace the thermal evolution of the parent bodies of these planetesimals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-isotopes-and-earth-s-first-water">Isotopes and Earth's first water</h2>



<p>Their research involved examining isotopic compositions and conducting simulations to understand the heat dynamics and material composition of these early solar system objects.</p>



<p>The team discovered that some planetesimals <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-may-have-learned-how-earth-got-its-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">formed extremely rapidly</a>, in less than two million years. These swift-forming bodies experienced such intense heating that they melted completely, thereby losing all their volatile elements, including water.</p>



<p>The rapid heating was likely due to the decay of short-lived radioactive isotopes, which released substantial amounts of heat.</p>



<p>A second group of planetesimals, as revealed in the current study, formed later at cooler temperatures in the outer reaches of the solar system.</p>



<p>These planetesimals benefited from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oceans-of-water-vapor-may-be-involved-in-planet-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lower thermal environment</a>, which allowed them to preserve their water content.</p>



<p>This water was trapped within crystalline structures, enabling these bodies to retain their volatile elements despite forming at later stages of the solar system's development.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-for-earth-s-first-water-size-does-matter">For Earth's first water, size does matter</h2>



<p>Scientists found that the ability of planetesimals to form continually, even during the later phases of the solar system, was due to several delaying effects. </p>



<p>These delaying effects were crucial in allowing the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/birth-sun-like-star-hp-tau-captured-by-hubble-space-telescope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">building blocks of planets</a> to persist over extended periods.</p>



<p>Essentially, they observed that frequent collisions between dust agglomerates - the raw materials for planetesimals - obstructed the rapid growth of small planets.</p>



<p>These agglomerates, made up of tiny particles, would collide and stick together, but the chaotic environment of the early solar system caused these formations to frequently break apart.</p>



<p>This constant cycle of collision and fragmentation slowed the formation process, enabling planetesimals to continue forming over <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">much longer timescales</a>.</p>



<p>Dr. Wladimir Neumann, who led the research conducted at several institutions including Heidelberg University, highlighted the crucial role of certain celestial bodies in Earth's formation.</p>



<p>He explained, "Thanks to these smaller, water-rich planets or their fragments in the form of asteroids or meteorites, Earth was able to avoid becoming a bone-dry, life-hostile planet during its growth process."</p>



<p>The study suggests that these water-bearing objects were instrumental in shaping our planet into a habitable world, contributing significantly to its water content during its early stages of development.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-not-just-earth-s-story">Not just Earth's story</h2>



<p>Could it be that Earth's story of acquiring water is not unique? Since the birth of planetesimals in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trappist-1-has-seven-earth-like-planets-that-may-support-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extrasolar planetary systems</a> operates on the same physical laws as our solar system, the research team postulates that there could be Earth-like planets elsewhere in the cosmos.</p>



<p>According to Professor Trieloff, if these planets have also received water from smaller bodies over their evolutionary journey, they could potentially fulfil the prerequisites for the origin of life. </p>



<p>Could this be the beginning of a new understanding of life's possibilities in the universe? Only time will tell. Despite this being still a theory, it does make us appreciate our water sources a bit more, doesn't it? </p>



<p>After all, life, as we know it, owes a lot to these small, fascinating planetesimals. Isn't it amazing where a little cosmic dust can lead us?</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-63768-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a></em>.</p>



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



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



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



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

Earth and other planets got their first water from an unexpected source

Ever wonder how our seemingly dry, fireball Earth got its...

<p>Strawberries are undoubtedly one of the most beloved berries in the world. Their tantalizing flavors and health-enriching ingredients are due to complex biochemical compounds, or as scientists call them, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blood-biomarkers-predict-dementia-onset-15-years-in-advance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biomarkers</a>.</p>



<p>Previous identification of such compounds required the expertise of seasoned scientists and complex analysis.</p>



<p>However, recent advancements in technology have revolutionized the process of identifying biomarkers, making it more accessible and efficient. </p>



<p>This high-tech approach will ultimately make it possible to produce strawberry varieties that are not only delicious, but also as rich in nutrients as possible.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-deep-dive-into-the-world-of-strawberries">A deep dive into the world of strawberries</h2>



<p>In a breakthrough study, scientists from <a href="https://tu-freiberg.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TU Bergakademie Freiberg</a>, along with experts from Serbia, conducted a thorough analysis of various strawberry varieties using ultra-high resolution mass spectrometry.</p>



<p>The team scrutinized how biomarkers are distributed within the fruit. This analysis led them to a significant discovery - most of the biomarkers are concentrated in the strawberries' red skin.</p>



<p>"Sensory experience in humans is principally driven by sugars and organic acids in a combined effect with volatile/aroma compounds providing the final perception," wrote the researchers. "Fruit taste quality is often related to internal attributes, primarily the concentration of individual sugars and their ratio."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potent-antioxidant-in-strawberry-skin">Potent antioxidant in strawberry skin</h2>



<p>A crucial discovery was the identification of a biomarker named pelargonidin-3-O-malonyglucoside within the strawberry skin, explained Dr. Jan Zuber, a research associate at the Institute of Analytical Chemistry at TU Bergakademie Freiberg.</p>



<p>This compound boasts antioxidant effects, binding free radicals in the human body, thereby exhibiting anti-inflammatory and vasoprotective benefits.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-sweetness-behind-the-taste">The sweetness behind the taste</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/super-sized-fruit-strawberries-weigh-60-percent-more-than-they-did-12-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">strawberry varieties</a> possessed other biomarkers as well, including organic acids like citric acid, or sugars such as glucose.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-strawberry-flavor-for-foods-from-a-fungus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flavor</a> and nutritional quality of a strawberry variety are largely determined by the concentration and ratio of these biomarkers, the majority of which are located within the skin.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-highly-innovative-research-method">Highly innovative research method</h2>



<p>You might be curious about how these scientists managed to precisely detect the biomarker concentration within the fruit. </p>



<p>The answer lies within a high-tech tool known as the ultra-high-resolution mass spectrometer. This device is used to inspect thin slices of strawberries. </p>



<p>The biomarkers are first transformed into charged particles or ions via a laser and are subsequently separated based on their mass and charge number.</p>



<p>With this highly innovative approach, the researchers were able to differentiate between various biomarkers with masses differing only at the sixth decimal place. </p>



<p>The findings were represented by a colored image of the strawberry slice's measured signals, which revealed a high concentration of taste and quality relevant biomarkers within the skin.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strawberry-breeding-with-precision">Strawberry breeding with precision</h2>



<p>Using this method, the researchers examined 25 new strawberry varieties. This new understanding of the location and concentration of biomarkers can guide strawberry breeding efforts, focusing on high-yielding and nutrient-rich varieties.</p>



<p>The strawberry slice used for analysis is incredibly thin, only a few micrometers in thickness. It is prepared for measurement in the mass spectrometer using a specialized cutting device known as a cryo-microtome. </p>



<p>The thin disk is then coated with a UV-active matrix essential for turning the biomarkers into corresponding ions.</p>



<p>A measurement grid is placed over this sample, with each point set to be excited by the mass spectrometer’s laser. </p>



<p>The resulting ions are detected and any minute differences in mass between the ions can be detected and used for differentiation. </p>



<p>The final step is the evaluation and visualization of the information using distribution images that reveal where certain biomarkers can be found within the thin sections.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-science-and-agriculture">Food science and agriculture</h2>



<p>This innovative approach to analyzing strawberries' biochemical composition has far-reaching implications beyond just breeding new varieties. It opens up potential advancements in food science and agriculture. </p>



<p>By understanding the precise distribution and concentration of beneficial biomarkers, researchers can explore methods to enhance the nutrient profiles of various fruits and vegetables. This could lead to producing foods with higher antioxidant levels, better flavors, and improved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strawberries-promote-cardiometabolic-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health benefits</a>.</p>



<p>Furthermore, this technology can be extended to other crops, helping to improve food security and nutritional quality on a global scale.</p>



<p>The knowledge gained from such studies could also assist in developing targeted agricultural practices that optimize the growth conditions and yield of nutrient-dense crops.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><em><a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/12/12/2238" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wiley Analytical Science</a></em></em>.</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



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



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

Strawberries of the future will be even more healthy and delicious

Strawberries are undoubtedly one of the most beloved berries in...

<p>A recent study reveals that while some seabirds are scrambling to avoid tropical cyclones, others are actually chasing these storms for days at a time.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Desertas petrels, scientifically known as <em>Pterodroma deserta</em>, are seabirds found primarily in the North Atlantic. According to the researchers, these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seabirds-need-ocean-wide-protection-to-survive-human-impacts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> engage in unique foraging behaviors during the hurricane season. </p>



<p>The experts discovered that Desertas petrels exploit the dynamic conditions of intense tropical cyclones for their benefit.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-riding-the-wind-nbsp">Riding the wind&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Study lead author Francesco Ventura is a postdoc investigator in biology at the <a href="https://www.whoi.edu/who-we-are/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution</a> (WHOI). </p>



<p>"Initial studies suggested that seabirds either circumnavigate cyclones or seek refuge in the calm eye of the storm. However, the Desertas petrels we tracked did neither; instead, one-third of them followed the cyclone for days, covering thousands of kilometers,” said Ventura.</p>



<p>“When we saw the data, we nearly fell off our chairs. This is the first time we have observed this behavior.”</p>



<p>“It’s striking how well the birds know how to exploit the large-scale wind conditions over the North Atlantic for their travels,” said Caroline Ummenhofer, associate scientist at WHOI. “When you overlay the petrels’ foraging trips on top of average winds, it’s a very close match.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wings-on-the-run">Wings on the run</h2>



<p>Desertas petrels make their nests on Bugio Island in Portugal, just off the western coast of North Africa. This island is special because it's the only place in the world where these pigeon-sized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nearly-all-seabirds-have-ingested-microplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">seabirds</a> are known to nest. There are fewer than 200 pairs, and they live on a plateau surrounded by steep cliffs.</p>



<p>During their six-month breeding season, Desertas petrels embark on incredible foraging trips. They can spend weeks at sea, flying up to 7,500 miles across the Atlantic to find food. These birds belong to the genus Pterodroma, which fittingly translates to "wings on the run."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seabirds-chasing-cyclones">Seabirds chasing cyclones</h2>



<p>Ventura said the team correlated the birds' locations with intensifying storm conditions, including waves up to 8 meters high and wind speeds of 100 kilometers per hour.</p>



<p>“Upon encountering strong winds, the birds reduced ground speed, likely by spending less time in flight to avoid injury to their wings,” noted Ventura.</p>



<p>“In addition, the wakes of the storms provided predictably favorable wind conditions with higher tailwind support than alternative routes. Impressively, none of the birds we tracked were harmed by the storms and there was no incidence of nest desertion.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cyclone-wakes-improve-foraging-conditions-nbsp">Cyclone wakes improve foraging conditions&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The diet of the Desertas petrel consists mainly of squid, fish, and crustaceans, which they catch by surface seizing. Because the birds cannot dive to great depths, they hunt at nightfall when their prey moves within reach.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“As we’ve now discovered, Desertas Petrels follow hurricanes where prey have accumulated closer to the surface in the wakes of the storms,” said Ummenhofer.</p>



<p>The experts found that cyclone wakes improve foraging conditions for the petrels. Enhanced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/summer-storms-stir-oxygen-into-the-deep-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean mixing</a> and productivity seem to boost prey abundance and accessibility.</p>



<p>“One of the interesting aspects of the interaction of a tropical cyclone and the ocean is the intense vertical mixing in the upper ocean layers caused by very strong winds and huge breaking seas,” noted study co-author Philip Richardson, an expert in physical oceanography at WHOI.</p>



<p>“The cyclonic winds can cause a divergence in the upper layer that moves cooler, deeper water toward the surface.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-fresh-perspective-on-seabirds-and-cyclones">A fresh perspective on seabirds and cyclones </h2>



<p>Ventura explained that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fast-moving-tropical-cyclones-are-becoming-more-powerful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cyclones</a> present a highly valuable foraging opportunity for Desertas petrels because the storms churn up mesopelagic prey from deep within the vertical column, giving the seabirds an easy meal at the surface. </p>



<p>“While storms are typically seen as destructive, particularly in coastal areas, our research reveals that functional perturbance driven by storms can create new opportunities. We’re advancing our understanding of how petrels navigate the open ocean to find food.”</p>



<p>“We now have a fresh perspective on hurricanes' impact on marine ecosystems through the eyes of an apex predator,” said Ummenhofer. “This study provides valuable insights into the resilience and foraging strategies of pelagic seabirds in the face of extreme weather events.”</p>



<p>The research is providing new insights into the impact of cyclones on open ocean marine life.</p>



<p>Despite their destructive nature onshore, cyclones may have positive net effects on the demography of many mid-latitude pelagic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seabirds-have-different-strategies-to-survive-storms/">seabirds</a> and, likely, other marine top-predators, concluded the researchers.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2024.06.022" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Current Biology</em></a>. </p>



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



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



<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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

Riders on the storm: Why some seabirds chase cyclones

A recent study reveals that while some seabirds are scrambling...

<p>From the moment we learn to talk, we also learn about honesty and the possibility of telling lies. A recent study has shown that the tendency for children to lie or tell the truth strongly correlates with their social environment and upbringing.</p>



<p>This revelation challenges our preconceptions about childhood innocence and raises important questions about the development of moral behavior in young minds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-influencing-honesty-in-children">Factors influencing honesty in children </h2>



<p>An international team of economists led an intriguing investigation with surprising findings. It turns out, children from higher socio-economic households are more likely to be honest than their counterparts growing up in precarious conditions. </p>



<p>Factors such as compassionate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hands-off-approach-to-parenting-is-better-for-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parenting</a> and a high level of trust within the household are also linked to honesty.</p>



<p>The good news? The propensity to lie isn't unalterable, it can be influenced and changed by factors such as participation in a mentoring program at the elementary school level, which can encourage a higher level of honesty that lasts years after the program has ended.</p>



<p>This groundbreaking research sheds light on the complex interplay between socioeconomic factors, family dynamics, and the development of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-consider-their-own-past-actions-before-judging-others/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moral behavior</a> in children.</p>



<p>The study challenges the notion that honesty is purely an innate trait and suggests that environmental factors play a crucial role in shaping a child's tendency to tell the truth or lie.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-child-development-and-social-policy">Child development and social policy </h2>



<p>The research team included economists Fabian Kosse from the <a href="https://www.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/university/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Würzburg</a>, Johannes Abeler from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a>, and Armin Falk from the <a href="https://www.uni-bonn.de/en/university/university" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bonn</a>.</p>



<p>The collaboration between these renowned institutions underscores the significance of the study and its potential impact on our understanding of child development and social policy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-honesty-experiment-among-children">An honesty experiment among children </h2>



<p>Curious about how they uncovered these truths about honesty? The researchers implemented a simple yet effective experiment involving a dice roll. </p>



<p>Child participants were asked to predict the outcome of their dice roll - if their prediction matched the result, they received a small reward. The catch? The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/who-do-children-trust-more-robots-or-humans-scientists-found-out/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">children</a> were left unsupervised, giving them the perfect opportunity to lie without fear of being caught.</p>



<p>As you might expect, if everyone were honest, roughly 16.7% would guess right, says Abeler. However, the results were far from this ideal, with over 60% claiming to have correctly predicted the dice roll. This unexpected outcome strongly suggests a considerable proportion of the participants were not truthful.</p>



<p>Differences in honesty started to emerge when the researchers examined the social backgrounds of the child participants. </p>



<p>"Our evaluations clearly show that children from richer households are more honest. Additionally, we find a higher degree of honesty in children who experience a warmer parenting style and a higher degree of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sharing-dark-secrets-can-build-trust-in-relationships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trust</a> in their family environment," noted Abeler.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gleaning-truth-from-numbers">Gleaning truth from numbers</h2>



<p>The researchers had over 700 participating families for the study, all from Cologne and Bonn. </p>



<p>They collected an array of data, including income level, education level, and family structure. The team also conducted surveys on parenting styles and familial behavior.</p>



<p>A subset of 212 children from socially or educationally disadvantaged families were invited to take part in a mentoring program. The control group included 378 children who grew up under comparable conditions but did not participate in the program.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fostering-honesty-in-children">Fostering honesty in children</h2>



<p>The Balu und Du program, as Falk describes, involves volunteer mentors spending one afternoon per week with the children and engaging in various social activities.</p>



<p>The goal of the program is to provide children with a warm, trusting environment, which can significantly impact their development of honesty by helping them recognize the long-term benefits of telling the truth.</p>



<p>The program was found to have a substantial impact on the children's honesty.</p>



<p>"Children who took part in the mentoring program were more honest overall," noted Kosse. Only 44% of the treatment group lied during the dice experiment, compared to 58% of the control group.</p>



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



<p>The study demonstrated that early interventions not only enhance a child's academic performance but can also significantly influence their social and moral behavior.</p>



<p>The power of honesty can indeed be cultivated, offering hope for creating a more truthful future generation.</p>



<p>The study is published in <em><em><a href="https://academic.oup.com/ej/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/ej/ueae044/7679994?redirectedFrom=fulltext&amp;login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Economic Journal</a></em></em>.</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



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



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

Why do some children tell lies, while others prefer honesty?

From the moment we learn to talk, we also learn...

<p>Peering into the captivating world of newborn chicks, a team of researchers from the <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a> has unveiled something truly remarkable. In a recent study, led by the insightful Dr. Elisabetta Versace, the team has revealed fascinating insights into the world of learning and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chicks-play-to-prepare-for-challenges-in-adulthood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intelligence</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chicks-the-masters-of-fast-learning">Chicks: The masters of fast learning</h2>



<p>Dr. Versace, a senior lecturer at the <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/sbbs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences</a>, refers to these diminutive creatures as "the masters of fast learning."</p>



<p>"Chicks learn the features of their mother hen in just a few minutes, and then can recognize them from different points of view and under different lights conditions with no training required," said Dr. Versace.</p>



<p>The basis of this precocious learning is a mechanism called "imprinting," where chicks, as it appears from her research, show a bias for "mothers" of certain colors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chicks-color-conundrum">Chicks’ color conundrum</h2>



<p>In this extensive study, 587 fresh, domestic chick eggs incubated in darkness were hatched under carefully controlled conditions.</p>



<p>On hatching, and after determining their sex, each chick was placed into its individual cage, exposed to a 16:8 hour light-dark cycle. The team then observed their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chicks-can-identify-an-object-just-by-touching-it-even-in-the-dark/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">behavior</a> in rectangular enclosures fitted with high-frequency monitors that displayed circular stimuli of varying colors.</p>



<p>During this imprinting phase, each chick was exposed to a single moving stimulus for 16 hours. Following this, on either the second or sixth day after hatching, the chicks were presented with the imprinting stimulus and various test stimuli on separate screens.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chicks-bias-in-learning-speed">Chicks' bias in learning speed</h2>



<p>What the team discovered next was truly astounding. The chicks' learning speed showcased a color-dependent bias. </p>



<p>Chicks who were exposed to a deep blue mother learned the features significantly faster compared to those who were exposed to mothers of different colors.</p>



<p>Interestingly, chicks raised by a green mother took a longer time to distinguish their mother from similar test stimuli.</p>



<p>These findings serve as a testament to the fact that chicks are predisposed to learn faster based on specific color cues - a fascinating showcase of the influence of both past experiences and innate preferences on learning efficiency.</p>



<p>"What stimuli are chicks prepared to learn faster?" asks Dr. Versace. The answer is intriguing - colors that are rare in their environment but frequent on their mothers, namely, red and blue.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-the-findings">Implications of the findings</h2>



<p>These revelations harbor the prospects of a thrilling journey into understanding how our own brains learn new information and respond to different stimuli. The potential of this breakthrough is not limited to the fauna alone.</p>



<p>The ripple effect might well touch upon the development of faster and more efficient learning AI, potentially reducing errors and training by embedding meaningful priors (expectations) in artificial neural networks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-chicks-to-infant-learning">From chicks to infant learning</h2>



<p>While the rapid learning mechanisms of chicks might seem to be an avian peculiarity, the principles underlying these processes bear striking similarities to early learning in human infants. </p>



<p>Like chicks, human babies exhibit significant plasticity in their early developmental stages, a phenomenon that allows them to quickly recognize and discriminate various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chicken-domestication-humans-timeline-silk-road-evidence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stimuli</a> in their environment. </p>



<p>Studies have shown that infants also have an inherent bias towards certain colors and shapes, which can enhance their learning efficiency. </p>



<p>By investigating these cross-species parallels, experts can glean invaluable insights into the fundamental structure of learning and cognitive development. Such research highlights the evolutionary continuities and divergences that shape intelligence across the animal kingdom.</p>



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



<p>As this area of study unfolds, several avenues for future research emerge, each promising to deepen our understanding of learning processes. </p>



<p>Potential investigations might explore the genetic underpinnings of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chickens-faces-change-color-depending-on-their-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">color</a> biases, examining how certain genes influence learning predispositions in chicks and other animals.</p>



<p>Moreover, the ethical considerations of such research must not be overlooked. Ensuring humane treatment and minimizing distress for the chicks involved in these experiments is of paramount importance. </p>



<p>Additionally, as these findings potentially inform AI development, the ethical deployment of such technologies warrants rigorous scrutiny to prevent misuse. This careful balance between discovery and ethical responsibility ensures that progress in cognitive science can proceed both thoughtfully and innovatively.</p>



<p>Ultimately, this study provides a fresh perspective. It leaves us marveling at the intriguing potential of color, extending far beyond aesthetics - spiraling into the realm of learning and cognition, across species, and potentially into the realm of artificial intelligence.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/iscience/fulltext/S2589-0042(24)01420-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>iScience</em></a>.</p>



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



<p>Like what you read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.&nbsp;</p>



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



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

Chicks learn faster when their mothers are red or blue

Peering into the captivating world of newborn chicks, a team...

<p>The escalating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-crisis-global-supply-chains-face-25-trillion-in-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate crisis</a>, marked by frequent extreme weather events, highlights the significant role companies, especially high-emission industries, play in global carbon emissions. Many businesses are now proactively taking action against climate change by reducing their carbon footprint and transparently sharing their environmental strategies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disclosing-climate-related-data">Disclosing climate-related data </h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.fsb-tcfd.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures</a> (TCFD) provides a framework for companies to disclose climate-related financial information, helping them navigate climate change risks and opportunities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Support for TCFD has grown, with Japan leading in such disclosures. However, the tangible benefits of TCFD disclosures on a company's financial performance remain underexplored.</p>



<p>To address this, a research team from <a href="https://www.kyushu-u.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kyushu University</a> analyzed data from about 2,100 Japanese listed companies over five years (2017-2021). Published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/csr.2853" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management</em></a>, this study is one of the first to use comprehensive TCFD and corporate data in Japan.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-promoting-a-lower-carbon-economy-nbsp">Promoting a lower carbon economy&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“A segment of investors is strategically directing funds towards companies that develop green innovation and energy transformation with the aim of promoting a low-carbon economy,” wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>“Consequently, numerous companies must fundamentally overhaul their business models and strategies, transitioning towards practices that effectively reduce GHG emissions, including process improvements, emissions reduction planning, increased green investments, and the production of climate-friendly goods.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-corporate-climate-action">Corporate climate action</h2>



<p>The researchers examined the impact of corporate climate actions, including carbon performance, climate-related disclosures, and corporate commitments, on the cost of capital - the expenses a company incurs to finance operations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The findings indicate that higher <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-carbon-dioxide-emissions-hit-a-record-high-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions</a> result in higher borrowing and fundraising costs. However, companies adhering to TCFD guidelines and transparently sharing climate data benefit from lower capital costs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Simply pledging climate action does not significantly affect financial costs, as stakeholders prioritize actual deeds over promises.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-risks-create-uncertainties-nbsp">Climate change risks create uncertainties&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Key findings reveal that high greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions increase climate change risks, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-will-climate-change-affect-extreme-weather-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extreme weather events</a> and regulatory changes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These risks create uncertainties, leading investors and lenders to demand higher returns, thus raising the cost of equity (CoE) and debt (CoD). CoE is the return investors expect for buying company stock, while CoD is the fee a company pays to borrow money.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transparency-in-climate-data-nbsp">Transparency in climate data&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Transparency in climate data is crucial for reducing these uncertainties, allowing investors to make informed decisions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“When companies share climate-related data, it gives investors and consumers a clearer picture of their environmental efforts, making them more likely to invest,” said study co-author Siyu Shen, a graduate student at Kyushu University.</p>



<p>“We found that this kind of openness is particularly important in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/continuous-clean-energy-scientists-are-pulling-power-out-of-thin-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy</a> sectors like electricity and oil, where climate change is a major issue.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-action-can-lower-debt">Climate action can lower debt</h2>



<p>While TCFD guidelines effectively reduced CoE, they did not significantly impact CoD, possibly due to Japan's negative interest rate policy during the study period. This policy, which ended in March 2024, kept borrowing costs low.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With rising interest rates in the Japanese bond market, sustainable linked loans for decarbonizing energy transitions at low rates are becoming popular. Moving forward, corporate climate actions in Japan may lower the cost of debt.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-disclosures-and-capital-costs-nbsp">Climate disclosures and capital costs&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Although this study focuses on Japan, it offers insights for global investors, companies, and policymakers by highlighting the connection between climate disclosures and capital costs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Since 2022, companies listed in Japan's prime markets must follow TCFD guidelines. As more companies engage in climate action, they should consider additional strategies to enhance their carbon performance.</p>



<p>Environmental economic studies, including this one, have led Kyushu University’s Professors Shunsuke Managi and Alexander Ryota Keeley to establish <a href="https://aiesg.co.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aiESG</a>, a startup utilizing AI to analyze global supply chain sustainability.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supporting-companies-to-take-climate-action">Supporting companies to take climate action</h2>



<p>The research team plans to expand their analysis globally to understand how regional regulations and cultural differences impact the relationship between climate change, carbon performance, and capital costs.</p>



<p>“Given that investors are increasingly attentive to firms' environmental activities, elucidating how investors respond to firms' climate change mitigation actions is imperative,” noted the researchers.</p>



<p>Collaboration among investors, companies, academics, and policymakers is crucial for addressing the global climate crisis and achieving carbon neutrality.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We hope our research provides the scientific evidence needed to support companies in developing new strategies, changing behaviors, and ultimately reducing emissions,” concluded corresponding author Hidemichi Fujii, a professor at Kyushu University's Faculty of Economics.</p>



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



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



<p>Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-ralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



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

Companies gain trust and lower costs through climate action

The escalating climate crisis, marked by frequent extreme weather events,...

<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>



<p>Like what you saw and read? <a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a> for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</p>



<p>—–</p>



<p>Check us out on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth.com</a>.</p>



<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p id="block-43e218f4-0391-477c-8396-eb777c8c80a3">Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>



<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>



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



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



<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>



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<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>



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



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



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

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<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>



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



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



<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>



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



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<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>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



<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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



<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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



<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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



<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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="iuA5mpp3jv-1641775-12187" type="single"]</div>



<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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QGPzYnXEtN-1712599-12187" type="single"]</div>



<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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



<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?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



<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

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

News coming your way