<p>The first weekend of September offers two dazzling lunar shows, depending on where you live. Across parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, the skies will host a total lunar eclipse.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For more than five hours, Earth will line up perfectly between the Sun and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-is-the-black-moon-in-2025-and-why-does-it-occur/">Moon</a>, casting a deep shadow across the lunar surface.&nbsp;</p>



<p>During totality, which will last 82 minutes, only red light will filter through Earth’s atmosphere and reach the Moon. That’s what gives the lunar face its striking copper hue, earning the name “blood moon.”</p>



<p>Here in the United States, the eclipse will stay below the horizon. The wait won’t be long, though. According to <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, the next blood moon lunar eclipse that will be visible from America will occur on March 3, 2026. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-final-full-moon-of-summer">Final full moon of summer</h2>



<p>On Sunday, September 7, the Corn Moon will reach its peak illumination at 2:09 p.m. EDT. That moment takes place below the horizon for U.S. viewers, but the full moon will climb into the eastern sky, glowing bright and round by nightfall.</p>



<p>The Old Farmer’s Almanac notes that the Moon will look nearly full on both the nights before and after September 7. For sky watchers, that means an extended window to catch a glimpse.</p>



<p>Near the horizon, the Moon may appear golden or orange for a while, but as it rises higher, the glow will shift to a clearer white.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-it-called-the-corn-moon">Why is it called the Corn Moon?</h2>



<p>The name Corn Moon traces back to the Algonquin tribes in the northeastern United States. </p>



<p>Late summer was the time to gather their staple crops of corn, beans, pumpkins, squash, and wild rice.&nbsp;The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wildlife-vehicle-collisions-surge-during-full-moon-nights/">full moon</a> served as a seasonal marker for this period of abundance and labor.</p>



<p>European traditions gave their own names to the September moon. Some called it the Fruit Moon, marking the ripening of orchard crops.</p>



<p>Others referred to it as the Barley Moon in recognition of the grain harvest. Each name reflects a calendar rooted in the cycles of planting and gathering.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-harvest-moon-is-next">The Harvest Moon is next</h2>



<p>It’s tempting to confuse the Corn Moon with the better-known Harvest Moon, but the two aren’t the same.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Harvest Moon is the full moon that falls closest to the autumn equinox. In 2025, that moment comes on October 7, which also happens to be the first supermoon of the year.</p>



<p>By contrast, the Corn Moon always comes in September. It marks the bridge between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/this-weekends-sturgeon-moon-marks-a-turning-point-in-summer/">summer</a> and fall, when fields in the Northern Hemisphere are still heavy with late crops, but the days are growing shorter.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-lunar-calendar-of-2025">The lunar calendar of 2025</h2>



<p>This year’s lunar calendar is a busy one. September’s Corn Moon is the ninth full moon of 2025.</p>



<p>There will be 12 full moons in total, including three supermoons. Two of those full moons will coincide with total lunar eclipses, offering the dramatic blood moon display.</p>



<p>The calendar has long served as a guide for both farmers and sky watchers. Each name tells a story about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seasonal-timing-can-change-quickly-over-short-distances/">season</a> - what’s ripening, what’s ready, and what’s just around the corner.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-seasonal-marker-in-the-sky">A seasonal marker in the sky</h2>



<p>For the Algonquin and other Native American tribes, September’s full moon was more than a sign of the corn harvest. Some called it the Corn Maker Moon or Corn Harvest Moon.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These names reflected not only the practical importance of gathering food but also the deep connection between community life and the cycles of nature.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The moon served as both a calendar and a cultural marker, guiding traditions that tied the sky to the land.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symbolic-meaning-of-the-corn-moon">Symbolic meaning of the Corn Moon </h2>



<p>Beyond the fields, the Corn Moon has taken on symbolic meaning. Some traditions frame it as a time of reflection and release - a moment to let go of stagnant energy and welcome change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>September’s full moon is also viewed as a time to embrace growth and intuition as the seasons shift.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Corn Moon returns each year as summer fades into fall. It serves as a reminder of how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-one-side-of-the-moon-still-glows-from-within/">Moon</a> has always been more than just a light in the night sky - it’s a companion through the seasons.</p>



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This weekend's Corn Moon marks farewell to summer

The first weekend of September offers two dazzling lunar shows, depending on where you live. Across parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, the skies will host a total lunar eclipse.&nbsp; For more than five hours, Earth will line up perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a deep shadow across the lunar surface.&nbsp; During totality, which will last 82 minutes, only red light will filter through Earth’s atmosphere and reach the Moon. That’s what gives the lunar face its striking copper hue, earning...

<p>Gravitational wave detectors LIGO and Virgo have detected a population of massive black holes, whose origin remains one of the biggest mysteries in modern astronomy. According to one hypothesis, these black holes may have formed in the early universe and could compose dark matter.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, a team of scientists from the <a href="https://ogle.astrouw.edu.pl/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OGLE survey</a> at the Astronomical Observatory of the <a href="https://en.uw.edu.pl/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Warsaw</a> has found that such massive black holes can comprise at most a few percent of dark matter. </p>



<p>This discovery suggests that other explanations are needed for the sources of gravitational waves detected by LIGO and Virgo.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The results of the study are published in two articles - one in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07704-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a> and the other in <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/1538-4365/ad452e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>The Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series</em></a>.</p>



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



<p>Astronomical observations indicate that ordinary matter, which we can see or touch, constitutes only 5% of the universe's total mass and energy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For every kilogram of ordinary matter in the Milky Way, there are 15 kilograms of “dark matter,” which does not emit light and interacts only through gravity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The nature of dark matter remains a mystery. Most scientists think it is composed of unknown elementary particles,” said Przemek Mróz, an astronomer at the University of Warsaw. Despite extensive research efforts, no experiment has yet identified particles that could account for dark matter.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-holes-in-the-early-universe-nbsp">Black holes in the early universe&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Since the first detection of gravitational waves from a merging pair of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-black-holes-become-supermassive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black holes</a> in 2015, LIGO and Virgo have identified over 90 such events. </p>



<p>Intriguingly, the black holes detected by these experiments are significantly more massive (20-100 solar masses) than those previously known in the Milky Way (5-20 solar masses).&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Explaining why these two populations of black holes are so different is one of the biggest mysteries of modern astronomy,” Mróz said.</p>



<p>One theory suggests that LIGO and Virgo have uncovered a population of primordial black holes, possibly formed in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-like-galaxies-were-present-in-the-early-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early universe</a>. This idea was first proposed over 50 years ago by Stephen Hawking and Yakov Zeldovich. </p>



<p>“We know that the early universe was not ideally homogeneous - small density fluctuations gave rise to current galaxies and galaxy clusters,” Mróz explained. These density fluctuations could collapse and form black holes if they exceed a critical density.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-holes-and-dark-matter">Black holes and dark matter</h2>



<p>Increasingly more scientists have speculated that such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supermassive-binary-black-holes-secrets-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primordial black holes</a> could constitute a significant fraction of dark matter. </p>



<p>Fortunately, this hypothesis can be tested through astronomical observations. If dark matter in the Milky Way were composed of black holes, we should be able to detect them despite their lack of light emissions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This is possible through gravitational microlensing, a phenomenon predicted by Einstein’s theory of general relativity, where light is bent and deflected by the gravitational field of massive objects.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Microlensing occurs when three objects - an observer on Earth, a source of light, and a lens - virtually ideally align in space,” said Andrzej Udalski, the principal investigator of the OGLE survey.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microlensing-events-nbsp">Microlensing events&nbsp;</h2>



<p>During a microlensing event, the source’s light is deflected and magnified, resulting in a temporary brightening.</p>



<p>The duration of this brightening depends on the mass of the lensing object. Microlensing events caused by solar mass objects typically last several weeks, while those caused by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-holes-may-talk-to-galaxies-through-energetic-winds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black holes</a> 100 times more massive than the Sun could last several years. </p>



<p>The idea of using microlensing to study dark matter dates back to the 1980s, and was proposed by Polish astrophysicist Bohdan Paczyński. This inspired the start of three major experiments: the Polish OGLE, the American MACHO, and the French EROS.</p>



<p>The new study in the <em>Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series</em> presents the results of nearly 20 years of photometric monitoring of almost 80 million stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This data set provides the longest, largest, and most accurate photometric observations of stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud in the history of modern astronomy,” Udalski said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-holes-cannot-account-for-dark-matter">Black holes cannot account for dark matter</h2>



<p>If all dark matter in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/milky-way-galaxy-is-surrounded-by-massive-magnetic-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a> were composed of black holes with 10 solar masses, 258 microlensing events should have been detected. For black holes with 100 solar masses, 99 events would be expected, and for 1,000 solar masses, 27 events. </p>



<p>However, OGLE astronomers found only 13 microlensing events. Detailed analysis suggests these can be explained by known stellar populations rather than black holes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“That indicates that massive black holes can compose at most a few percent of dark matter,” Mróz said. Specifically, black holes of 10 solar masses may comprise at most 1.2% of dark matter, 100 solar mass black holes up to 3.0%, and 1,000 solar mass black holes up to 11%.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-enduring-mystery">An enduring mystery</h2>



<p>“Our observations indicate that primordial black holes cannot comprise a significant fraction of the dark matter and, simultaneously, explain the observed black hole merger rates measured by LIGO and Virgo,” Udalski said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Other explanations for the massive black holes detected by LIGO and Virgo include their formation from the evolution of massive, low-metallicity stars or from mergers of less massive objects in dense stellar environments. “Our results will remain in astronomy textbooks for decades to come,” he concluded.</p>



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Black holes are not the secret source of dark matter

Gravitational wave detectors LIGO and Virgo have detected a population...

<p>Strong friendships during adolescence may offer more than just companionship and fun. Recent research suggests that these bonds could have a lasting impact on our resilience and the ability to cope with life's challenges well into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/loneliness-drops-in-middle-adulthood-but-then-grows-with-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adulthood</a>.</p>



<p>A study by researchers at the <a href="https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Birmingham</a> has shed light on this intriguing connection.</p>



<p>The team, led by Dr. Maria Dauvermann of the University's School of Psychology and Institute for Mental Health, explored how the quality of friendships at age 14 relates to resilience in early adulthood, particularly for those who have experienced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-trauma-can-cause-muscle-decline-adult-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">childhood trauma</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilience-more-than-just-bouncing-back">Resilience: More than just bouncing back</h2>



<p>Resilience is the ability to adapt and recover from adversity, challenges, or trauma. It involves maintaining or regaining mental, emotional, and behavioral balance despite difficult experiences. </p>



<p>Resilient individuals use coping strategies, social support, and personal strengths to navigate tough times. This dynamic process can be strengthened through positive relationships, self-awareness, and a supportive environment, enabling better management of life's ups and downs.</p>



<p>"We would expect that everyone will have some problems with their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-maltreatment-fuels-mental-health-crisis-in-australia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a> after any kind of stressful experience, at least in the short term," said Dr. Dauvermann.</p>



<p>"By using the definition of resilient functioning, we are taking a more sophisticated and dynamic approach that takes into account a whole range of different behavioural measures at different time points and in relation to the particular trauma severity that has been experienced."</p>



<p>This nuanced view of resilience considers an individual's social, emotional, and behavioral functioning in relation to their past trauma. </p>



<p>It's not just about "bouncing back" but about how well a person navigates life's challenges given their unique experiences.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teenage-friendships-to-adult-resilience">Teenage friendships to adult resilience</h2>



<p>The researchers conducted a longitudinal study, following a group of individuals from age 14 to 24. At age 14, study participants completed the Cambridge Friendship Questionnaire. </p>



<p>The initial survey included 1,238 participants, with 436 completing the final survey at age 24. Out of these remaining participants, 62 volunteers were recruited for a brain imaging study.</p>



<p>The experts used functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) to observe participants' neural responses during a simulated social exclusion activity. This involved a virtual ball-throwing game with two avatars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-friendship-resilience-link">Friendship-resilience link</h2>



<p>The results of this decade-long study were illuminating. The researchers found that better friendship quality at age 14 was strongly linked to better resilient functioning at age 24.</p>



<p>The study also revealed that participants with higher resilient functioning exhibited more positive responses to social inclusion in the brain imaging experiment.</p>



<p>According to the experts, the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex - an area associated with emotion generation and regulation - showed notable activity during the experiment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complexity-of-social-exclusion">Complexity of social exclusion</h2>



<p>Interestingly, the relationship between resilient functioning and responses to social exclusion was less clear-cut. </p>



<p>"Mental health among young people is a complex and nuanced area. One of the things we hope to achieve through research programs like this one is to increase both awareness and understanding that will empower young people to seek support when they need it," noted Dr. Dauvermann.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harnessing-the-power-of-friendship">Harnessing the power of friendship</h2>



<p>This study opens up new avenues for understanding and potentially improving mental health outcomes for young people. </p>



<p>The researchers suggest that further investigation is needed to understand how adolescent friendships contribute to resilient functioning in early adulthood.</p>



<p>Exploring the potential of enhanced peer support as an intervention for young people with mental health difficulties could be a promising direction for future research.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-enduring-value-of-teenage-bonds">The enduring value of teenage bonds</h2>



<p>While the complexities of mental health and resilience require further study, this research underscores the profound importance of fostering strong, supportive friendships during adolescence. These early bonds may well be laying the groundwork for lifelong resilience and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-daily-conversation-with-a-friend-can-boost-wellbeing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">well-being</a>.</p>



<p>As we continue to unravel the mysteries of human resilience, one thing becomes clear: the friends we make in our teenage years may be doing more than just sharing our journey - they could be shaping our ability to navigate life's challenges for years to come.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://academic.oup.com/scan/advance-article/doi/10.1093/scan/nsae044/7696830" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience</a></em>.</p>



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Strong teen friendships build lasting resilience

Strong friendships during adolescence may offer more than just companionship...

<p>If you're a conscientious carnivore who's been eyeing those <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-meat-less-protein-lacks-certain-nutrients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based burgers</a> with a mix of curiosity and skepticism, you're not alone. The debate over whether plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) are truly <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diet-linked-to-lower-covid-19-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthier</a> than their animal-derived counterparts has been heating up. </p>



<p>A recent review article dives into the sizzling details, leaving us with food for thought - and perhaps a few adjustments to our shopping lists.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rise-of-the-plant-based-patty">Rise of the plant-based patty</h2>



<p>Plant-based meats have exploded in popularity in recent years, filling supermarket shelves with everything from "bleeding" burgers to chicken-less nuggets. </p>



<p>As more and more people embrace these alternatives, questions about their long-term health effects, especially on our tickers, have become increasingly relevant.</p>



<p>The review article, led by Dr. Matthew Nagra, aimed to address this knowledge gap by analyzing decades of research on PBMAs, their nutritional profiles, and their impact on heart health. The findings are a mixed bag, offering both good news and a few caveats for those considering a plant-based swap.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sodium-in-plant-based-meat-alternatives">Sodium in plant-based meat alternatives</h2>



<p>One of the key takeaways from the review is that plant-based meat alternatives tend to have a more heart-healthy nutritional profile than meat, on average. This is primarily due to their lower saturated fat content and higher fiber content. </p>



<p>However, before you ditch your steak for a soy-based substitute, it's important to note that not all PBMAs are created equal. Some are surprisingly high in sodium, which can be a concern for those with blood pressure issues.</p>



<p>Despite the sodium caveat, the review found that PBMAs have been shown to improve certain cardiovascular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diets-lower-the-risk-of-major-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">risk factors</a>, including cholesterol levels. </p>



<p>In several randomized controlled trials, people who consumed PBMAs experienced a significant reduction in total cholesterol, LDL ("bad") cholesterol, and triglycerides, while also boosting their HDL ("good") cholesterol levels.</p>



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



<p>While the short-term benefits of PBMAs on heart health are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-meat-and-dairy-alternatives-will-dramatically-transform-the-global-food-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">promising</a>, the long-term effects remain a mystery. </p>



<p>"The lack of research on cardiovascular outcomes as of 2023 is shocking, given that there are randomized controlled trials evaluating risk factors dating back to 1990," noted Dr. Nagra.</p>



<p>This means we don't yet know for sure whether switching to PBMAs will actually reduce your risk of heart attacks or strokes in the long run.</p>



<p>Another surprising finding from the review is the lack of research on vital wheat gluten (seitan), a primary protein source in many PBMAs. </p>



<p>"The near-complete lack of research on vital wheat gluten and cardiovascular risk factors is surprising," said Dr. Nagra. This highlights the need for more studies to fully understand the impact of all PBMA ingredients on our hearts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-verdict-on-plant-based-meat-alternatives">Verdict on plant-based meat alternatives</h2>



<p>So, where does this leave us? Should we be embracing PBMAs as the holy grail of heart health, or should we be sticking to our tried-and-true animal proteins?</p>



<p>The answer, as with most things in nutrition, isn't black and white. If you're looking to reduce your meat intake, especially red meat, replacing it with PBMAs could be a heart-healthy move. </p>



<p>However, if you already eat a balanced diet with limited meat, PBMAs can still be a part of a healthy lifestyle, but choose options lower in saturated fat and sodium.</p>



<p>"For those looking to reduce their meat intake, especially if it's red meat, replacing that with PBMAs is likely a heart-healthy choice," noted study senior author Dr. Ehud Ur.</p>



<p>"For those who already limit their meat intake, PBMAs can be incorporated into a healthy dietary pattern as an excellent protein source; however, it may be beneficial to choose options that are lower in saturated fat and sodium if consuming them regularly."</p>



<p>Ultimately, the best <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diets-lower-the-risk-of-major-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet</a> for your heart is one that's rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources, whether they come from plants or animals. PBMAs can be a part of this healthy eating pattern, but they're not a magic bullet. </p>



<p>Remember, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle are the key ingredients for a happy heart.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0828282X23018822" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Canadian Journal of Cardiology</em></a>.</p>



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Are plant-based meat alternatives the key to a healthier heart?

If you're a conscientious carnivore who's been eyeing those plant-based...

<p>Iceland, known for its breathtaking landscapes and geothermal wonders, is facing a new era of volcanic activity that could reshape its southwestern region for years to come.</p>



<p>Recent research suggests that the ongoing eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula may continue intermittently for decades, posing significant challenges to the country's most populated area and critical infrastructure.</p>



<p>A team of international scientists, including researchers from the <a href="https://www.uoregon.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oregon</a>, Uppsala University in Sweden, University of Iceland, <a href="https://www.avcr.cz/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Czech Academy of Sciences</a>, and UC San Diego, published their findings in the journal <em>Terra Nova</em> on June 26.</p>



<p>The study builds upon earlier research published in <em>Nature Communications</em> that examined the initial Reykjanes eruptions in 2021.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-reykjanes-peninsula-awakens">The Reykjanes Peninsula awakens</h2>



<p>The Reykjanes Peninsula, home to 70% of Iceland's population, its only international airport, and several vital geothermal power plants, had been dormant for 800 years. </p>



<p>However, since 2021, the region has experienced a series of eight eruptions, forcing authorities to declare a state of emergency and evacuate residents and tourists multiple times.</p>



<p>"Almost all of Iceland's island is built from lava," noted Professor Ilya Bindeman, a volcanologist involved in the study.</p>



<p>Binderman explained that Iceland's unique position on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/major-volcanic-events-linked-to-the-slowing-of-tectonic-plates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tectonic plates</a> are drifting apart, is the primary cause of its volcanic activity.</p>



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



<p>To understand the nature and potential duration of Iceland's eruptions, the researchers employed advanced techniques to analyze the magma's composition and origin.</p>



<p>Bindeman, specializing in isotopic analysis, described the process: "In the air we breathe, there's a mixture of these oxygen isotopes and we don't feel the difference. Their differences are usually not important for chemical reactions but are important to recognize as their relative abundances in magma can differentiate one magma source from another."</p>



<p>By examining lava rock samples from different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-captures-eruption-of-icelands-svartsengi-volcano-from-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanoes</a> on the peninsula, the team discovered similar "fingerprints," suggesting a shared magma storage zone beneath the region. </p>



<p>Seismic imaging further supported this theory, revealing a reservoir about 5.5 to 7.5 miles deep in the Earth's crust.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-nature-of-iceland-s-eruptions">Unique nature of Iceland's eruptions </h2>



<p>The unique nature of Iceland's eruptions provides scientists with a rare opportunity to study active volcanic processes up close. Bindeman described the experience as both "astonishing and chilling."</p>



<p>"When you witness a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underwater-volcanic-eruptions-are-more-harmful-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic eruption</a>, you can feel that these are the massive forces of nature, and you yourself are very small," he said. "These events are ordinary from the geological scale, but from the human scale, they can be devastating."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-the-unpredictable">Predicting the unpredictable</h2>



<p>While the research offers valuable insights into the current <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-research-enhances-predictions-on-volcanic-eruptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a>, precise predictions remain challenging.</p>



<p>Bindeman emphasized the inherent irregularity of natural phenomena. "Nature is never regular. We don't know how long and how frequently it will continue for the next ten or even hundred years. A pattern will emerge, but nature always has exceptions and irregularities."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-to-a-new-volcanic-reality">Adapting to a new volcanic reality</h2>



<p>As Iceland faces this new chapter in its geological history, communities and authorities must prepare for potential long-term disruptions. </p>



<p>The recurring eruptions threaten economic stability and force evacuated residents to face uncertain futures.</p>



<p>Scientists are now discussing plans to safely drill into the volcanic sites, hoping to gain deeper insights into the geological processes driving these eruptions. </p>



<p>This research could prove crucial in developing better prediction models and mitigation strategies for the years to come.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iceland-s-fiery-future-of-eruptions">Iceland's fiery future of eruptions </h2>



<p>As Iceland's volcanic landscape continues to evolve, the world watches with a mix of awe and concern.</p>



<p>The Reykjanes Peninsula's awakening serves as a powerful reminder of our planet's dynamic nature and the need for resilience in the face of geological change.</p>



<p>"Our findings are important in light of the threat to human settlements and vital infrastructure from volcanic activity as there is a need for an improved understanding of the magma supply system that feeds the ongoing eruptive events," noted the study authors.</p>



<p>While challenges lie ahead, this unprecedented event also offers a unique opportunity for scientific discovery and a deeper understanding of Earth's powerful forces.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ter.12733" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Terra Nova</a></em>.</p>



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Iceland's volcanic eruptions may continue for decades

Iceland, known for its breathtaking landscapes and geothermal wonders, is...

<p>Today's artificial intelligence (AI) reads, talks, and processes vast amounts of data, aiding in business decision-making and more. Despite these impressive capabilities, AI still faces significant brain-related limitations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-physical-world-challenge">The physical world challenge</h2>



<p>Modern AI technologies, like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/infant-learning-mirrors-chatgpts-training/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ChatGPT</a>, interact with the physical world in limited ways. They require billions of training examples to perform tasks such as solving math problems or writing essays effectively.</p>



<p>Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (<a href="https://www.cshl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSHL</a>) NeuroAI Scholar Kyle Daruwalla has been exploring unconventional methods to overcome these computational obstacles.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-inspired-by-the-human-brain">AI inspired by the human brain</h2>



<p>Kyle Daruwalla identified that modern computing's high energy consumption is largely due to data movement. In <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-neural-networks-learn-better-when-they-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial neural networks</a>, data frequently travels long distances, consuming substantial amounts of energy. </p>



<p>This inefficiency motivated Daruwalla to seek inspiration from one of the most efficient computational systems known: the human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neuromorphic-computing-where-ai-meets-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a>. </p>



<p>Unlike artificial systems, the human brain processes information with remarkable energy efficiency. Its neurons and synapses manage data locally, reducing the need for extensive data transfer. By studying these biological processes, Daruwalla developed a new method for AI algorithms to move and process data more efficiently. </p>



<p>His approach mimics the brain's strategy, allowing individual AI "neurons" to receive feedback and adjust in real-time. This innovation not only addresses the issue of energy consumption but also enhances the responsiveness and learning capabilities of AI systems. </p>



<p>"In our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-invent-computer-that-operates-just-like-the-human-brain/">brains</a>, our connections are changing and adjusting all the time," noted Daruwalla. "It's not like you pause everything, adjust, and then resume being you."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-working-memory-and-learning">Bridging working memory and learning</h2>



<p>This innovative machine-learning model supports an unproven theory which links working memory with learning and academic performance.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pupils-enlarge-dilate-when-working-memory-engaged-focused-on-task/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Working memory</a>, the cognitive system enabling us to stay on task while recalling stored knowledge, plays a crucial role in learning.</p>



<p>"There have been theories in neuroscience about how working memory circuits could facilitate learning. But there wasn't a concrete rule tying these concepts together until now. Adjusting each synapse individually required working memory alongside it," said Daruwalla.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-generation-of-ai">A new generation of AI</h2>



<p>The innovative design could pioneer a new generation of AI that learns more like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-outperforms-humans-in-creativity-tests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">humans</a>, making the technology more efficient and accessible.</p>



<p>This development represents a significant step forward for neuroAI, a field where neuroscience has long provided valuable data to artificial intelligence methods like machine learning. Soon, it seems, AI may return the favor.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advantages-of-ai-design">Advantages of AI design</h2>



<p>The new brain-inspired AI design offers several advantages. One major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neuromorphic-computing-where-ai-meets-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">benefit</a> is its increased energy efficiency, reducing operational costs and environmental impact. This makes AI applications more sustainable and accessible. </p>



<p>The real-time adjustment capability enhances responsiveness, allowing AI systems to adapt quickly to new information and changing conditions, which is crucial for dynamic environments like autonomous vehicles or smart cities. </p>



<p>This approach also improves the scalability of AI systems, as efficient data processing reduces the need for extensive computational resources. </p>



<p>Furthermore, the model's ability to mimic human learning processes can lead to more intuitive and user-friendly AI interfaces, improving user experience and adoption rates. </p>



<p>Enhanced learning capabilities enable AI to perform complex tasks with greater accuracy, which is particularly beneficial in fields requiring high precision, such as healthcare and finance.</p>



<p>Overall, these advantages position the new AI design as a transformative technology with broad applicability and significant impact.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-of-brain-inspired-ai">Potential of brain-inspired AI</h2>



<p>The new brain-inspired AI design has a range of potential applications across various fields. In healthcare, it can enhance diagnostic tools, enabling more accurate and efficient data analysis for medical imaging and patient records. </p>



<p>In education, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/using-ai-writing-illustration-drastically-reduces-carbon-footprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI systems</a> can provide personalized learning experiences, adapting in real-time to students' needs and improving academic outcomes.</p>



<p>In robotics, the improved energy efficiency and real-time adjustments can lead to more autonomous and adaptive robots, capable of performing complex tasks with minimal human intervention. </p>



<p>The technology can also benefit environmental monitoring by processing vast amounts of ecological data more efficiently, leading to better insights and quicker responses to environmental changes. </p>



<p>Additionally, in finance, this AI model could improve algorithmic trading and risk assessment by quickly adapting to market fluctuations. Overall, this innovative AI approach opens up new possibilities for smarter, more responsive, and energy-efficient applications across diverse industries.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><em><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/computational-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fncom.2024.1240348/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience</a></em></em>.</p>



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Can AI systems learn like the human brain?

Today's artificial intelligence (AI) reads, talks, and processes vast amounts...

<p>Wood surfaces play a crucial role in the transmission of viruses, including the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.</p>



<p>Contaminated surfaces can pass <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/viruses-can-either-help-or-harm-their-hosts-immune-systems/">viruses</a> from person to person, raising the question: can certain surfaces naturally reduce this risk?</p>



<p>New research from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Chemical Society</a> has found that wood possesses natural antiviral properties, which can decrease the duration viruses remain infectious on its surface.</p>



<p>Interestingly, some types of wood are more effective than others in reducing viral infectivity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wood-s-antiviral-properties">Wood's antiviral properties</h2>



<p>Enveloped viruses, such as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-virus-can-remain-in-sperm-months-after-infection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coronavirus</a>, can survive on surfaces for up to five days, while nonenveloped viruses, including those responsible for the common cold, can persist for weeks - even on disinfected surfaces.</p>



<p>Wood is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a popular choice for cutting boards. However, its ability to inactivate viruses has not been thoroughly explored until now.</p>



<p>Researchers studied the antiviral effects of six types of wood: Scots pine, silver birch, gray alder, eucalyptus, pedunculate oak, and Norway spruce. </p>



<p>They aimed to determine how long enveloped and nonenveloped viruses remained infectious on these surfaces.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virus-activity-on-wood-surfaces">Virus activity on wood surfaces</h2>



<p>To assess viral activity, the researchers periodically flushed the wood surfaces with a liquid solution and introduced this solution to cultured cells in petri dishes. By measuring cell infection rates, they evaluated the antiviral efficacy of each wood type.</p>



<p>For enveloped coronavirus, pine, spruce, birch, and alder surfaces completely reduced the virus's infectivity within one hour. Eucalyptus and oak required two hours. Pine showed the fastest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/willow-bark-may-contain-life-saving-antiviral-medications/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antiviral</a> action, starting after just five minutes, followed by spruce, which significantly reduced infectivity within ten minutes.</p>



<p>In the case of non-enveloped enterovirus, oak and spruce surfaces rendered the virus noninfectious within approximately an hour, with oak acting in 7.5 minutes and spruce in 60 minutes. Pine, birch, and eucalyptus took four hours to reduce the virus's infectivity, while alder showed no antiviral effect.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-wood-s-chemical-composition">Role of wood's chemical composition</h2>



<p>The researchers concluded that the chemical composition of a wood's surface is primarily responsible for its antiviral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-linked-to-elevated-risk-of-severe-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">properties</a>.</p>



<p>While further study is needed to pinpoint the exact chemical mechanisms, these findings highlight wood as a promising candidate for natural, sustainable antiviral materials.</p>



<p>This research opens up new possibilities for using wood in environments where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/virus-lifespan-and-transmission-boosted-by-high-co2-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viral transmission</a> is a concern, potentially leading to safer public spaces and homes.</p>



<p>As we continue to seek ways to combat viruses, wood's natural antiviral properties may offer an effective and eco-friendly solution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minimizing-virus-activity-with-wood">Minimizing virus activity with wood</h2>



<p>The discovery of wood's antiviral properties opens numerous applications across various sectors. In healthcare, wood can be used for furniture, hospital bed rails, and countertops to reduce viral spread in hospitals and clinics. </p>



<p>In public spaces, incorporating wood in high-touch areas such as handrails, benches, and tables can enhance hygiene. Schools and daycare centers can use wood for desks and play areas, offering a safer environment for children. </p>



<p>The food industry can benefit by using wooden cutting boards and surfaces, reducing the risk of viral contamination. Additionally, wood can be integrated into office spaces, gyms, and transportation hubs to promote healthier environments. </p>



<p>This eco-friendly solution provides a sustainable alternative to chemical disinfectants, aligning with growing environmental concerns. </p>



<p>As research advances, wood's antiviral properties might lead to innovative products and designs, significantly impacting how we manage viral transmission in our daily lives.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beneficial-properties-of-wood">Beneficial properties of wood</h2>



<p>Wood boasts several beneficial properties beyond its antiviral capabilities. It is renowned for its antibacterial and antifungal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/476000-year-old-ancient-woodworking-discovery-rewrites-early-human-history/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">qualities</a>, making it a popular choice for kitchen utensils, cutting boards, and food storage containers. </p>



<p>Wood is also a natural insulator, providing excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, which is ideal for building construction and interior design. </p>



<p>Its high strength-to-weight ratio makes wood both durable and lightweight, suitable for a variety of structural applications. Additionally, wood has aesthetic appeal, offering a natural, warm, and timeless look that enhances interior spaces. </p>



<p>It is a renewable resource, making it an environmentally friendly option compared to synthetic materials. Wood also has the ability to regulate humidity by absorbing and releasing moisture, contributing to healthier indoor air quality. </p>



<p>Furthermore, wood can be easily shaped and modified, allowing for versatility in design and construction. These properties make wood a valuable material in numerous industries and applications.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsami.4c02156" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Applied Materials &amp; Interfaces</a></em>. </p>



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Wood surfaces can naturally reduce virus transmission

Wood surfaces play a crucial role in the transmission of...

<p>The search for extraterrestrial life has captivated our imaginations for centuries.&nbsp;Now,&nbsp;a study from the University of California,&nbsp;Riverside (<a href="https://www.ucr.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCR</a>) suggests a tantalizing possibility:&nbsp;we may be able to detect alien activity and civilizations by identifying artificial greenhouse gases they use to terraform planets.</p>



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



<p>Terraforming, a concept popular in science fiction, involves transforming a planet's environment to make it hospitable for life as we know it. This process aims to alter various aspects of a planet to create conditions that are suitable for human habitation or for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-hellish-planet-venus-can-help-us-find-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth-like organisms</a> to thrive. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-altering-the-atmosphere">Altering the atmosphere</h3>



<p>One of the primary goals of terraforming is to modify the planet's atmosphere. This could mean increasing or decreasing the levels of certain gases to create a breathable environment. </p>



<p>For instance, adding oxygen and reducing harmful gases like carbon dioxide or methane could make the air safe for humans. Another aspect could involve creating a stable climate by controlling greenhouse gases to regulate the planet's temperature.</p>



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



<p>Adjusting the planet's temperature is crucial for making it habitable. This could involve warming a planet that is too cold or cooling one that is too hot. </p>



<p>Techniques might include introducing greenhouse gases to trap heat and raise temperatures or installing reflective materials to reduce heat from the sun. The goal is to reach a temperature range where liquid water can exist, as water is essential for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extraterrestrial-life-moons-planets-detected-single-grain-ice-floating/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surface-topography-changes">Surface topography changes</h3>



<p>Terraforming may also involve altering the planet's surface topography. This could include creating bodies of water, such as lakes or oceans, and modifying landforms to support vegetation and human infrastructure. </p>



<p>The addition of soil and nutrients to barren landscapes could enable the growth of plants, which in turn could help produce oxygen and stabilize the environment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-suitable-conditions-for-life">Creating suitable conditions for life</h3>



<p>The overarching aim of terraforming is to create conditions similar to those on Earth. This involves ensuring the right balance of atmospheric pressure, gravity, and radiation levels. </p>



<p>By mimicking Earth's environment, terraformers hope to establish a stable ecosystem where humans and other Earth-like organisms can live and thrive.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gases-signal-alien-activity">Gases signal alien activity</h2>



<p>UCR astrobiologist Edward Schwieterman and his team have identified five specific greenhouse gases that could serve as technosignatures,&nbsp;or indicators of technological activity,&nbsp;on distant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-identified-85-new-exoplanets-that-could-harbor-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exoplanets</a> (planets outside our solar system).&nbsp;</p>



<p>These gases are fluorinated versions of methane,&nbsp;ethane,&nbsp;and propane,&nbsp;along with gases made of nitrogen and fluorine or sulfur and fluorine.&nbsp;They are primarily used in industrial processes on Earth,&nbsp;such as manufacturing computer chips.</p>



<p>"For us,&nbsp;these gases are bad because we don't want to increase warming.&nbsp;But they'd be good for a civilization that perhaps wanted to forestall an impending ice age or terraform an otherwise-uninhabitable planet in their system,&nbsp;as humans have proposed for Mars," explained Schwieterman.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-planet-gases-indicate-alien-life">Why do planet gases indicate alien life?</h2>



<p>These fluorinated gases offer several advantages as potential terraforming agents:</p>



<p><strong>Potent greenhouse effect:</strong>&nbsp;They are incredibly effective at trapping heat,&nbsp;with some having thousands of times the warming power of carbon dioxide.&nbsp;This means a relatively small amount could significantly raise the temperature of a cold planet.</p>



<p><strong>Longevity:</strong> The gases are remarkably long-lived, persisting in Earth-like atmospheres for tens of thousands of years. This reduces the need for frequent replenishment to maintain a habitable climate.</p>



<p><strong>Ozone-friendly:</strong>&nbsp;Unlike some other proposed technosignature gases,&nbsp;like CFCs,&nbsp;these fluorinated gases are chemically inert and wouldn't harm the ozone layer,&nbsp;which is essential for protecting life from harmful ultraviolet radiation.</p>



<p><strong>Detectable infrared signatures:</strong> The gases absorb infrared radiation, creating unique signatures that could be detected by space telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope or future observatories.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-linking-alien-activity-and-planet-gases">Linking alien activity and planet gases</h2>



<p>The researchers simulated a scenario in which these gases were present on a planet in the TRAPPIST-1 system,&nbsp;located about 40 light-years away.&nbsp;TRAPPIST-1 is home to seven known rocky planets and is a prime target for studying exoplanetary atmospheres.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The simulations showed that even tiny concentrations of the gases - as little as one part per million - could be detectable with current or planned technology.</p>



<p>Schwieterman noted that searching for these technosignatures wouldn't require any additional effort if telescopes are already examining a planet's atmosphere for other reasons. </p>



<p>"You wouldn't need extra effort to look for these technosignatures, if your telescope is already characterizing the planet for other reasons," he said. "And it would be jaw-droppingly amazing to find them."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-in-the-search-for-alien-life">New era in the search for alien life</h2>



<p>This research not only opens up a novel avenue for detecting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finding-alien-life-searching-for-color-purple-not-green/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extraterrestrial</a> intelligence but also highlights the remarkable capabilities of our current and future telescopes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Our thought experiment shows how powerful our next-generation telescopes will be. We are the first generation in history that has the technology to systematically look for life and intelligence in our galactic neighborhood," said Daniel Angerhausen, a collaborator from the <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swiss Federal Institute of Technology</a>.</p>



<p>While the odds of finding these technosignatures in the near future remain uncertain,&nbsp;the possibility of detecting alien <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extremophiles-and-the-quest-for-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">civilizations</a> through their planetary engineering efforts is both exciting and thought-provoking.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As our technology advances,&nbsp;we may be on the cusp of answering one of humanity's most profound questions:&nbsp;Are we alone in the universe?</p>



<p>The study is published in <em><a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/1538-4357/ad4ce8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal</a></em>.</p>



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Greenhouse gases can help detect alien life on distant planets

The search for extraterrestrial life has captivated our imaginations for...

<p>A recent study reveals unexpected effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on early language development in infants.</p>



<p>The researchers found that infants exposed to cannabis in the womb showed improved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/talking-to-babies-in-parentese-boosts-their-language-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">language development</a> by their first birthday.</p>



<p>This discovery highlights an intriguing aspect of early childhood neurodevelopment, though experts caution against cannabis use during pregnancy due to known risks and unknown long-term effects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cannabis-use-among-parents">Cannabis use among parents</h2>



<p>Cannabis use during pregnancy has become a topic of concern as its prevalence rises. Common reasons for prenatal cannabis use include alleviating morning sickness, anxiety, and chronic pain. </p>



<p>Despite these potential benefits, medical experts strongly advise against cannabis use during pregnancy due to various health risks, such as low <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-exposure-during-pregnancy-significantly-reduces-birth-weight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birth weight</a>, premature birth, and developmental issues, including attention deficit/hyperactivity problems.</p>



<p>Awareness about these risks varies. Many users believe cannabis is a natural remedy and safer than pharmaceuticals, leading to its continued use. </p>



<p>Public health campaigns aim to increase awareness about the dangers of prenatal cannabis use to infants, but misinformation and varying state laws complicate these efforts. </p>



<p>Medical professionals continue to stress the importance of avoiding cannabis during pregnancy to ensure the health and safety of the developing fetus.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prenatal-cannabis-and-infant-development">Prenatal cannabis and infant development</h2>



<p>A research team from the <a href="https://www.avera.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Avera Research Institute</a> in South Dakota aimed to understand the impact of prenatal cannabis exposure on infants. They recruited 207 pregnant individuals and their 12-month-old infants from The Safe Passage Study, a large prospective study conducted from 2007 to 2015.</p>



<p>"With cannabis legalization on a steady rise, the prevalence of prenatal cannabis use has increased drastically. The incidence of use by pregnant individuals has increased from 3.4 percent in 2002 to 7 percent in 2017 with a large spike coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic to 25 percent," noted the researchers.</p>



<p>Using the Mullen Scale of Early Learning, which assesses <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabinol-could-be-key-to-preventing-brain-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive</a> development in children, the experts evaluated the infants' gross motor skills, fine motor skills, expressive language, receptive language, and visual reception. Higher scores on this scale indicate more comprehensive development.</p>



<p>Prenatal cannabis exposure data were collected through self-reporting, with participants categorized based on early (first trimester) or late (second or third trimester) exposure, and compared with unexposed participants.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-language-gains-in-cannabis-exposed-infants">Language gains in cannabis-exposed infants</h2>



<p>Surprisingly, infants exposed to cannabis later in pregnancy scored higher in both expressive and receptive language areas compared to those who were not exposed. </p>



<p>Infants exposed early in pregnancy exhibited better gross motor skills, though there were no differences in fine motor skills and visual reception.</p>



<p>“Preclinical studies have shown abnormal brain connectivity in offspring exposed to cannabis affecting emotional regulation, hyperactivity, and language development. Results from this study link [prenatal cannabis exposure] to altered early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-mothers-mood-influences-newborn-language-development/">language development</a> within the first year of life," the authors noted.</p>



<p>"Exposed infants demonstrated increased expressive and receptive language scores at 12 months of age, which can translate to better performance in school. However, further research is needed to determine the implications of these results later in childhood.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-limitations-and-risks">Limitations and risks</h2>



<p>Despite these surprising findings, the study has limitations. The data on cannabis use were self-reported, lacking details on frequency, mode, and quantity of use. Additionally, the study did not account for potential postnatal cannabis exposure.</p>



<p>Compounds like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can cross the placenta and impact fetal brain development. Medical organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, recommend avoiding cannabis during pregnancy based on a broad review of available evidence on infant health.</p>



<p>Given these concerns, pregnant women should avoid cannabis to protect their child's overall health and development. The potential benefits observed in one aspect of development do not outweigh the known and unknown risks associated with prenatal cannabis exposure.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-risks-to-infants">Additional risks to infants</h2>



<p>Studies have also linked prenatal cannabis exposure to developmental issues, such as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and learning disabilities. THC can impair fetal brain development, potentially causing long-term cognitive and behavioral problems. </p>



<p>Additionally, infants exposed to cannabis in the womb may face increased risks of respiratory problems and weakened immune systems. Experts stress that the potential harms outweigh any perceived benefits, urging pregnant women to avoid cannabis to protect their infants' health and development.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><em><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pediatrics/articles/10.3389/fped.2023.1290707/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Pediatrics</a></em></em>.</p>



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Prenatal cannabis exposure has unexpected effects on infant language

A recent study reveals unexpected effects of prenatal cannabis exposure...

<p>We've all experienced that "gut feeling" – an intuitive sense that guides us through decisions and challenges. But what if that gut feeling isn't just intuition? What if it's a direct line to your mental resilience and stress management?</p>



<p>Recent research from the UCLA <a href="https://www.uclahealth.org/departments/medicine/gastro/microbiome" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goodman-Luskin Microbiome Center</a> suggests a fascinating link between the health of our gut bacteria and our ability to cope with stress. </p>



<p>It seems the microorganisms residing in our digestive system may play a significant role in our mental well-being, offering a whole new perspective on stress management and resilience.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-brain-connection">Gut-brain connection</h2>



<p>The gut-brain connection isn't a new concept. We know our gut sends signals to our brain about hunger, satiety, and even cravings. But this latest study suggests a more profound relationship, one that delves into the realms of our emotional and mental health.</p>



<p>The researchers examined over 100 adults without mental health conditions, assessing their resilience levels through surveys and MRI scans. They also analyzed stool samples to get a snapshot of each participant's gut <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-bacteria-linked-to-younger-colon-cancer-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbiome</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-microbiome-and-stress">Gut microbiome and stress</h2>



<p>The results were intriguing. Individuals with higher resilience scores, meaning they were better equipped to handle stress and adversity, also had healthier gut microbiomes. </p>



<p>Their gut bacteria produced chemicals linked to lower inflammation and a stronger gut barrier, essential for absorbing nutrients and blocking toxins.</p>



<p>"Resilience truly is a whole-body phenomenon that not only affects your brain but also your microbiome and what metabolites that it is producing," noted study senior author Dr. Arpana Gupta.</p>



<p>The researchers believe this connection stems from the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication system between the two. A healthy gut can positively influence brain function, while stress and negative emotions can disrupt the gut microbiome, creating a vicious cycle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personalized-mental-health-care">Personalized mental health care</h2>



<p>This research opens up exciting possibilities for personalized mental health care. By understanding the specific gut bacteria associated with resilience, we could potentially develop targeted interventions to boost mental well-being.</p>



<p>"We have this whole community of microbes in our gut that exudes these therapeutic properties and biochemicals, so I'm looking forward to building upon this research," said Dr. Desiree Delgadillo, a study author.</p>



<p>Imagine a future where personalized probiotics or dietary interventions could enhance our resilience and help us better cope with stress. It's a tantalizing prospect, one that could revolutionize how we approach mental health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-a-stress-free-mind-and-gut">Building a stress-free mind and gut</h2>



<p>While this study specifically examined individuals without diagnosed mental health conditions, the findings have broader significance. They emphasize the importance of a comprehensive approach to mental well-being that encompasses both psychological and physical health. </p>



<p>This research suggests that maintaining a healthy gut microbiome through a balanced diet, effective stress management <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-gut-brain-communication-affect-emotional-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">techniques</a>, and possibly personalized probiotics could be essential components in enhancing resilience and improving mental health overall. </p>



<p>It serves as a reminder that the gut's role extends beyond digestion, playing a crucial role in our overall health and well-being.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-the-gut-microbiome">Improving the gut microbiome</h2>



<p>Improving your gut microbiome involves incorporating diverse, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-fat-diets-cause-high-anxiety-through-changes-in-gut-bacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fiber</a>-rich foods into your diet. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria. </p>



<p>Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi introduce probiotics, which are good bacteria that aid digestion and boost immunity. Limit processed foods and high-sugar items, as they can harm your gut flora. </p>



<p>Staying hydrated and managing stress also support a healthy gut. Regular exercise promotes digestive health by increasing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-bacteria-have-very-clever-ways-of-supporting-human-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microbial diversity</a>. Consider taking a high-quality probiotic supplement, but consult a healthcare professional first to find the best option for you.</p>



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



<p>As with any remarkable research, there are limitations. The study didn't include participants with mental health conditions, and further research is needed to confirm the findings in a broader population.</p>



<p>However, the potential of this research is undeniable. It sheds light on a previously underestimated aspect of our mental health and opens up new avenues for exploration and intervention.</p>



<p>"If we can identify what a healthy resilient brain and microbiome look like, then we can develop targeted interventions to those areas to reduce stress," noted Dr. Gupta.</p>



<p>The journey to understanding the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/resilience-is-surprisingly-linked-to-gut-and-brain-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut-brain connection</a> is ongoing, but one thing is clear: our gut feeling might be more than just a feeling. It could be a reflection of our mental resilience, a hidden strength waiting to be harnessed.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44220-024-00266-6.epdf?sharing_token=d7tnr1iH4wYyb9klreuBRtRgN0jAjWel9jnR3ZoTv0O3gE_rnHYKQBao0SogNg-0qklrgPyZtDg8CO775Mle9BpWbQLlf50Xl_waLYmNIMA_0OQP46z5W2iLZ9pS04zfOCqGVlmntaLiE78jhiSbJvxz5v0l6wFELHLU7ObTPnq9oCSd3UZ11Qvbp5Bk6p6Vz195ae7okFEwqz3vGz4QeyZKxguB8JHZG4edTBNkKttUMNL_xWVUCAurRwDMBxTYrYkEHyFMuYIuc1jRgQ_owSEHCWK05omJW8_vplR8Uw0773IHwvw-rp62pX8XWJGYH3WOuf8R8xHZvc4ryIZ-iA%3D%3D&amp;tracking_referrer=www.npr.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Mental Health</em></a>.</p>



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



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Gut bacteria may be a secret weapon against stress

We've all experienced that "gut feeling" – an intuitive sense...

<p>Twin stars have emerged from the hidden realms of the universe, where the building blocks of stars are only visible in wavelengths beyond the human eye's reach. </p>



<p>Recently, astronomers made an unexpected discovery using two powerful telescopes, revealing twin disks and jets erupting from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secret-origins-of-young-star-clusters-traced-to-three-families/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">young stars</a> in a multiple star system.</p>



<p>This discovery - notable for the age, size, and chemical makeup of the stars, disks, and jets - is particularly thrilling due to its location in a well-studied part of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/newly-discovered-stars-milky-way-are-old-as-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-twin-stars">What are twin stars?</h2>



<p>Twin stars, also known as binary stars, are two stars that orbit around a common center of mass. This system is bound by their mutual gravitational attraction. Binary star systems can vary widely in their characteristics, with the stars differing in size, brightness, and distance from each other. </p>



<p>There are several types of binary stars, including visual binaries, where the two stars can be seen separately through a telescope, and spectroscopic binaries, where the stars are too close to be distinguished visually but can be identified through their spectral lines.</p>



<p>These systems are important in astronomy because they allow scientists to calculate stellar masses, which are crucial for understanding star formation and evolution.</p>



<p>Additionally, the study of binary stars provides insights into the dynamics of stellar interactions and the processes leading to phenomena such as supernovae or the formation of neutron stars and black holes. Twin stars thus play a vital role in advancing our knowledge of the universe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-twin-star-discovery">Twin star discovery</h2>



<p>In this remarkable research, astronomers utilized the U.S. <a href="https://www.nsf.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Science Foundation</a>'s Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (<a href="https://www.eso.org/public/teles-instr/alma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ALMA</a>) and NASA's James Webb Space Telescope’s (<a href="https://webb.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JWST</a>) Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI). These telescopes observe different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum.</p>



<p>Combining their observations allowed the discovery of twin stars hidden in radio and infrared wavelengths within WL20. This star system is located in the nearby rho Ophiuchi molecular cloud complex, over 400 light-years away from Earth.</p>



<p>"What we discovered was absolutely wild," said astronomer Mary Barsony. "We've known about star system WL20 for a long time. But what caught our attention is that one of the stars in the system appeared much younger than the rest." </p>



<p>"Using MIRI and ALMA together, we actually saw that this one star was two stars right next to each other. Each of these stars was surrounded by a disk, and each disk was emitting jets parallel to the other."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disks-and-jets-uncovered">Disks and jets uncovered</h2>



<p>ALMA detected the disks, while MIRI revealed the jets. Study co-author Valentin J.M. Le Gouellec of NASA-ARC retrieved and analyzed ALMA archival data, revealing the disks' composition.</p>



<p>ALMA's high-resolution observations of the disks surrounding the newly observed twin stars revealed their structure.</p>



<p>Lukasz Tychoniec of Leiden Observatory provided high-resolution images, showing the disks' massive size - approximately 100 times the distance between Earth and the Sun.</p>



<p>Martijn L. van Gelder provided additional resources to process the data collected by MIRI, uncovering the chemical makeup of the jets.</p>



<p>"So if it weren’t for MIRI, we wouldn’t even know that these jets existed, which is amazing," said Barsony.</p>



<p>"Someone looking at this ALMA data not knowing there were twin jets would think, oh, it’s a large edge-on disk with a central hole, instead of two edge-on disks and two jets. That’s pretty remarkable."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-fortunate-accident">A fortunate accident</h2>



<p>Another remarkable aspect of this discovery is the chance it had to occur. "A lot of the research about binary protostars focuses on a few nearby star-forming regions," said Michael Ressler, a scientist from JPL.</p>



<p>"I had been awarded some observing time with JWST and decided to study binaries in the Perseus star-forming region."</p>



<p>"However, I had been studying WL20, which is in the rho Ophiuchus region in nearly the opposite part of the sky, for nearly 30 years, and I thought, ‘why not sneak it in? I’m never going to get another chance, even if it doesn’t quite fit with the others.’ We had a very fortunate accident with what we found, and the results are stunning."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-insights-into-star-formation">New insights into star formation</h2>



<p>While twin stars are not a new phenomenon, the recent discovery of twin disks and jets in the young star system WL20 is unique. It reveals unprecedented details about the formation processes of such systems. </p>



<p>This discovery is significant because it involves observing the early stages of star formation with high-resolution data, showing parallel disks and jets.</p>



<p>By combining multi-wavelength data from ALMA and JWST, these new findings illuminate the complex processes involved in the formation of multiple <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exoplanet-found-in-the-habitable-zone-of-a-binary-star-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star systems</a>.</p>



<p>The astronomers plan to utilize ALMA’s future upgraded capabilities, such as the Wideband Sensitivity Upgrade, to continue unraveling the mysteries surrounding the birth of stars and planetary systems.</p>



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Wild discovery: Twin stars with parallel disks and jets

Twin stars have emerged from the hidden realms of the...

<p>Giant lizards known as heath goannas could potentially save Australian sheep farmers millions each year by controlling blowfly populations.</p>



<p>A recent study from the <a href="https://www.zoo.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> reveals that heath goannas, a species of scavenging lizards, serve as natural cleanup crews by removing maggot-infested carcasses from the environment.</p>



<p>This activity significantly reduces the number of blowflies, which are known to lay eggs on sheep, leading to the costly and devastating disease known as 'fly strike.'</p>



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



<p>"Human-induced environmental change has caused widespread loss of species that support important functions for ecosystems and society," noted the study authors.</p>



<p>"For example, vertebrate scavengers contribute to the functional health of ecosystems and provide services to agricultural landscapes by removing carcasses and associated pests." </p>



<p>"Widespread extirpation of native Australian mammals since the arrival of Europeans in Australia has removed many scavenging species from landscapes, while scavenging mammals such as European red foxes (<em>Vulpes vulpes</em>) have been introduced."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heath-goannas-vs-european-invaders">Heath goannas vs. European invaders </h2>



<p>The study was conducted at 18 sites across the Marna Banggara Rewilding Project area on Australia's southern Yorke Peninsula. </p>



<p>The results highlight the effectiveness of heath goannas in controlling blowfly populations compared to introduced European species.</p>



<p>“We found that Australia’s native scavengers like heath goannas are much more effective in removing blowflies from the landscape than invasive scavengers like European foxes and cats," said Tom Jameson, a PhD researcher in the University of Cambridge’s Department of Zoology.</p>



<p>The impact of blowflies on sheep farming is severe, costing the industry an estimated $280 million annually.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-fly-strike">What is fly strike?</h2>



<p>Fly strike, also known as myiasis, is a condition where flies lay their eggs on an animal's skin or in wounds. When these eggs hatch, the larvae (maggots) burrow into the skin, feeding on the animal's tissue. This can cause severe irritation, pain, and secondary infections. </p>



<p>Fly strike is particularly common in sheep and rabbits, but it can affect any animal with open wounds or soiled fur. Warm, humid conditions and poor hygiene increase the risk. </p>



<p>When blowfly maggots burrow into sheep, in particular, the results include painful wounds, decreased market value, reduced breeding success, and often death.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scavenging-activities-of-various-species">Scavenging activities of various species</h2>



<p>Jameson's research involved comparing the scavenging activities of various animals in southern Australia.</p>



<p>Hundreds of dead rats were placed at feeding stations equipped with camera traps. After five days, the remaining carcasses were examined for blowfly maggots. </p>



<p>The footage revealed that native <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scavengers-clean-up-wetlands-and-boost-their-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scavengers</a> consumed more carcasses and maggots than their European counterparts.</p>



<p>“It was disgusting – we were counting maggots. After five days we’d find over 1,000 maggots in one rat if a scavenger hadn’t found it. Those maggots produce blowflies that can spread up to 20 kilometers in a week, putting local sheep flocks at risk of fly strike,” noted Jameson.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heath-goannas-and-ecosystem-restoration">Heath goannas and ecosystem restoration</h2>



<p>The study underscores the importance of boosting populations of native large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/past-climate-change-drove-the-rapid-evolution-of-reptiles/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reptiles</a> like heath goannas for ecosystem restoration.</p>



<p>“The results suggest that conservation work in southern Australia to remove <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/invasive-species-have-racked-up-390-billion-bill-in-australia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invasive species</a> should also focus on boosting the population of heath goannas and other native species because they’re really important for the wider ecosystem,” said Jameson.</p>



<p>Besides benefiting native wildlife, this approach could provide significant advantages for the agricultural industry and attract more wildlife tourism.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-heath-goannas-nbsp">More about heath goannas&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The heath goanna, also known as the Rosenberg's monitor, is a species of monitor <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-lizards-have-evolved-to-resist-deadly-snake-venom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lizard</a> found in southern Australia. It primarily inhabits heathlands, woodlands, and grasslands, often preferring sandy or rocky areas where it can dig burrows. </p>



<p>This reptile is known for its distinctive appearance, featuring a long neck, a robust body, and a powerful tail, which it uses for balance and defense.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Heath goannas are carnivorous, feeding on a variety of prey, including insects, small mammals, birds, and other reptiles. They are also known to scavenge carrion.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Active during the day, these lizards are skilled hunters and climbers, using their sharp claws and strong limbs to navigate their environment. Reproduction involves laying eggs, which are typically deposited in burrows or other protected sites.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Heath goannas are currently endangered. As one of Australia's largest remaining native scavengers, conserving them is crucial for ecosystem health and local agriculture.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ece3.11535" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecology and Evolution</a></em>.</p>



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How lizards are saving Australian sheep farms

Giant lizards known as heath goannas could potentially save Australian...

<p>We've all seen the surreal footage of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/five-new-hydrothermal-vents-discovered-in-the-pacific-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrothermal vents</a> on the frigid ocean floor, spewing black plumes of super-hot water and teeming with life.</p>



<p>A new study suggests that lower-temperature vents, common across Earth's seafloor, may create life-supporting conditions on "ocean worlds" in our solar system.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-ocean-worlds">What are ocean worlds?</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-finds-17-exoplanets-that-have-oceans-and-possibly-alien-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ocean worlds</a> are planets and moons that have, or had, liquid oceans. Often, these oceans lie beneath an icy shell or within their rocky interiors.</p>



<p>In our solar system, several of Jupiter's and Saturn's moons are ocean worlds. Their existence has inspired academic studies, spacecraft missions, and even popular movies like <em>The Europa Report</em>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-and-hydrothermal-circulation">Heat and hydrothermal circulation</h2>



<p>Research suggests that some ocean worlds generate enough internal heat to drive hydrothermal circulation under their seafloors. This heat is produced by radioactive decay and tidal forces.</p>



<p>On Earth's seafloor, hydrothermal systems were discovered in the 1970s, revealing ecosystems around vents that discharge heat, particles, and chemicals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simulating-hydrothermal-life-on-earth">Simulating hydrothermal life on Earth</h2>



<p>In this new study, researchers from the <a href="https://www.ucsc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Santa Cruz</a> used a complex computer model based on Earth's hydrothermal circulation.</p>



<p>By altering variables such as gravity, heat, rock properties, and fluid-circulation depth, they found that hydrothermal vents could be sustained under a wide range of conditions. </p>



<p>If these flows occur on ocean worlds like Jupiter’s moon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-evidence-jupiter-moon-europa-deep-ocean-shifting-icy-shell/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europa</a>, the chances of life existing there increase.</p>



<p>"This study suggests that low temperature hydrothermal systems could have been sustained on ocean worlds beyond Earth over timescales comparable to that required for life to take hold on Earth," said Andrew Fisher, the study's lead author and a distinguished professor of Earth and planetary sciences at UC Santa Cruz.</p>



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



<p>The seawater-circulation system that the team modeled is based on a 3.5 million-year-old seafloor in the northwestern Pacific Ocean. </p>



<p>There, cool bottom water flows through an extinct volcano, travels underground for about 30 miles, and emerges warmer with different chemistry. </p>



<p>"The water gathers heat as it flows and comes out warmer than when it flowed in, and with very different chemistry," explained PhD candidate Kristin Dickerson, the second author of the paper.</p>



<p>This flow is driven by buoyancy, as water becomes less dense when heated and more dense when cooled</p>



<p>The system, termed a "hydrothermal siphon," continues as long as heat is supplied and the rock allows fluid circulation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-for-life-on-ocean-worlds">Potential for life on ocean worlds</h2>



<p>High-temperature vent systems on Earth are driven mainly by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/venus-may-have-far-more-volcanic-activity-than-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanic activity</a>, but a larger volume of fluid flows at lower temperatures, driven by Earth's "background" cooling.</p>



<p>This low-temperature venting discharges as much water as all the rivers and streams on Earth combined, accounting for about a quarter of Earth's heat loss.</p>



<p>Previous studies of hydrothermal circulation on Europa and Saturn's moon Enceladus focused on high-temperature fluids. </p>



<p>However, lower-temperature flows are just as likely. "Lower-temperature flows are at least as likely to occur, if not more likely," noted study co-author Donna Blackman, an EPS researcher.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-longevity-of-hydrothermal-systems">Longevity of hydrothermal systems</h2>



<p>One exciting result from the computer simulations showed that under very low gravity - like that on Enceladus - circulation can continue with low to moderate temperatures for millions or billions of years.</p>



<p>This finding helps explain how small ocean worlds can have long-lived fluid-circulation systems below their seafloors, even with limited heating.</p>



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



<p>Planetary scientists are looking to satellite mission observations to determine the conditions on ocean worlds. The authors of the study plan to attend the launch of the Europa Clipper spacecraft later this fall, a mission aimed at exploring these fascinating environments.</p>



<p>Directly observing the seafloors of ocean worlds for active hydrothermal systems remains challenging due to their distance from Earth and physical characteristics. Thus, it is essential to maximize available data, much of it collected remotely, and leverage decades of detailed studies of Earth's analog systems.</p>



<p>This study opens new possibilities for understanding life-supporting conditions on other planets and moons, suggesting that the potential for life beyond <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">Earth</a> is greater than we once thought.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em> <em><a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023JE008202" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Geophysical Research: Planets</a></em></em>.</p>



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Hydrothermal vents could support life on Jupiter's moons

We've all seen the surreal footage of hydrothermal vents on...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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