<p>A new study reports microbial DNA preserved inside woolly and steppe mammoth remains that are older than one million years. The team shows that some bacteria were living with these animals while they were alive, not just invading after death.</p>



<p>Researchers analyzed DNA from 483 specimens and sequenced 440 of them for the first time. From a steppe mammoth that lived about 1.1 million years ago, they even pieced together parts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-buried-for-millions-of-years-may-guide-search-for-alien-life/">bacterial</a> genomes that once infected or inhabited the animal.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-microbes-in-mammoths">Ancient microbes in mammoths</h2>



<p>The work was led by Benjamin Guinet, a postdoctoral fellow at the Centre for Palaeogenetics in Stockholm (<a href="https://palaeogenetics.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CPG</a>). The Centre is a collaboration between Stockholm University and the Swedish Museum of Natural History (<a href="https://www.nrm.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NRM</a>).</p>



<p>"Our results push the study of microbial DNA back beyond a million years, opening up new possibilities to explore how host-associated microbes evolved in parallel with their hosts," said Guinet. </p>



<p>The project involved an international team of experts working across multiple collections and labs.</p>



<p>The researchers used strict lab protocols, computational filters, and DNA damage checks to separate life stage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-found-alive-sealed-inside-rock-after-2-billion-years/">microbes</a> from postmortem contaminants. That approach helped them focus on organisms that were likely part of the mammoth’s own internal community.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inside-mammoth-dna">Inside mammoth DNA</h2>



<p>The scientists kept finding the same six types of bacteria in mammoth remains from different times and places, including close relatives of <em>Actinobacillus</em>, <em>Pasteurella</em>, <em>Streptococcus</em>, and <em>Erysipelothrix</em>. </p>



<p>This pattern suggests that these microbes had a long history with mammoths, sticking with them through environmental changes and population shifts.</p>



<p>The scientists distinguished host-associated microbes, meaning those living in or on a host while it was alive, from environmental bacteria that entered after burial. </p>



<p>They used metagenomics, a method that reads all DNA in a sample at once, then identified ancient damage patterns to authenticate the oldest material.</p>



<p>From the 1.1 million year steppe mammoth, the team reconstructed partial genomes of <em>Erysipelothrix</em> that likely came from an infection during life. This is the oldest authenticated host-associated microbial DNA ever reported, and it extends the range for studying ancient host <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microbes-aquificales-discovered-in-hot-springs-breathe-oxygen-and-sulfur-at-same-time/">microbe</a> interactions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-ancient-microbes-matter">Why ancient microbes matter</h2>



<p>This result builds on earlier work that recovered genome scale data from mammoth teeth more than one million years old, demonstrating that DNA can survive when conditions are right. </p>



<p>The previous <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-021-03224-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> established methods and expectations for data quality at this extreme age.</p>



<p>Ancient DNA is fragile and breaks into tiny pieces, and chemical changes accumulate over time. By tracking these signatures, scientists can tell ancient sequences from modern contamination and avoid false signals.</p>



<p>"As microbes evolve fast, obtaining reliable DNA data across more than a million years was like following a trail that kept rewriting itself," said study senior author Tom van der Valk.</p>



<p>"Our findings show that ancient remains can preserve biological insights far beyond the host genome, offering us perspectives on how microbes influenced adaptation, disease, and extinction in Pleistocene ecosystems."</p>



<p>The Pleistocene was a period from about 2.6 million years ago to 11,700 years ago that included repeated ice ages.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-linked-to-mammoth-health">Microbes linked to mammoth health</h2>



<p>One bacterium in the dataset is closely related to a <em>Pasteurella</em> species implicated in lethal outbreaks among African elephants. That connection is supported by a 2023 <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37880229/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">paper</a> that identified a Pasteurella relative as the likely cause of fatal septicemia in elephants in Zimbabwe.</p>



<p>The new study reports several putative <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2646308/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">virulence factors</a>, which are gene features tied to disease-causing ability, in some clades. The authors are careful about cause and effect because ancient DNA is incomplete and infections leave mixed traces.</p>



<p><em>Erysipelothrix</em> is also known to sicken Arctic wildlife today, including muskoxen during unusual mortality events. That pattern has been documented in a Canadian Veterinary <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4431149/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal</a> that found <em>Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae</em> associated with widespread deaths in the Canadian Arctic.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mammoth-survival-and-microbes">Mammoth survival and microbes</h2>



<p>Microbes that stayed with mammoths for hundreds of thousands of years hint at stable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breathing-without-oxygen-how-ancient-microbes-powered-early-life/">relationships</a> shaped by diet, climate, and social behavior. The persistence of these lineages across far flung regions points to deep coevolution.</p>



<p>The last woolly mammoths survived on Wrangel Island until about 4,000 years ago, long after mainland populations vanished. Genetic work on that relict group links their late survival to small population size and accumulating harmful mutations.</p>



<p>"This work opens a new chapter in understanding the biology of extinct species. Not only can we study the genomes of mammoths themselves, but we can now begin to explore the microbial communities that lived inside them," said Love Dalén, professor of evolutionary genomics at the CPG. </p>



<p>Ultimately, the data help connect health, ecology, and extinction risks in a single picture.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-this-research-can-go-next">Where this research can go next</h2>



<p>Reconstructing ancient microbiomes can help set baselines for living elephant microbiomes. That matters because health, diet, and stress are all reflected in the microbiome, the community of microbes that live in and on an organism.</p>



<p>Ancient pathogen signals can also clarify whether outbreaks played a role in population declines. Learning which bacteria carried disease associated genes in the past could inform surveillance and treatment strategies for modern elephants.</p>



<p>Finally, the same tools can be applied to other Ice Age species to test whether long-lived microbial partners were the rule rather than the exception. Careful sampling, clean labs, and independent checks will keep new claims on firm ground.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/cell/abstract/S0092-8674(25)00917-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Cell</em></a>.</p>



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Million year-old mammoth microbes reveal new clues about disease

A new study reports microbial DNA preserved inside woolly and steppe mammoth remains that are older than one million years. The team shows that some bacteria were living with these animals while they were alive, not just invading after death. Researchers analyzed DNA from 483 specimens and sequenced 440 of them for the first time. From a steppe mammoth that lived about 1.1 million years ago, they even pieced together parts of bacterial genomes that once infected or inhabited the animal. Ancient microbes in mammoths The work...

<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-smell-attacker-approaching/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goldenrod</a> can detect nearby plants by sensing far-red light ratios reflected off leaves, allowing it to adapt its responses to herbivores based on its surroundings. According to a new study led by <a href="https://www.cornell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a>, this adaptability might indicate plant intelligence, if intelligence is defined as solving problems based on environmental information. </p>



<p>Goldenrod, for example, emits chemicals to repel pests and signals neighboring plants to activate their defenses. Thus, plants may function as superorganisms, with each cell contributing to overall intelligence without central coordination.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-information-processing-among-intelligent-plants-nbsp">Information processing among intelligent plants<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>“There are more than 70 definitions that are published for intelligence and there is no agreement on what it is, even within a given field,” said lead author Andre Kessler, a chemical ecologist at Cornell.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Many people think intelligence needs a central nervous system that uses electrical signals to process information. Some plant biologists liken plant vascular systems to central nervous systems, suggesting plants have a centralized entity for information processing and response. However, Kessler disagrees with this notion.</p>



<p>“There is no good evidence for any of the homologies with the nervous system, even though we clearly see electrical signaling in plants, but the question is how important is that signaling for a plant’s ability to process environmental cues?” he said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants-can-change-their-own-behavior-nbsp">Plants can change their own behavior<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>To argue for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant intelligence</a>, Kessler and his doctoral student Michael Mueller defined it simply as “the ability to solve problems, based on the information that you get from the environment, toward a particular goal.”</p>



<p>Kessler’s earlier research demonstrated that goldenrod emits volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to signal neighboring plants when attacked by herbivores, prompting them to produce their own defenses. This response changes depending on the presence of nearby plants, indicating that goldenrod adapts its behavior based on environmental cues.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Depending on the information it receives from the environment, the plant changes its standard behavior,” Kessler explained. This ability to predict the future presence of herbivores and act accordingly is a key aspect of what the authors describe as plant intelligence.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decentralized-model-of-plant-intelligence-nbsp">Decentralized model of plant intelligence<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Furthermore, Kessler is intrigued by the idea proposed by mathematicians in the 1920s, suggesting plants function more like beehives, where each cell operates independently but contributes to a collective response. “The brain in the plant is the entire plant without the need of central coordination,” he said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Plants use chemical signaling, rather than electrical, to communicate and trigger collective responses. This decentralized model of intelligence emphasizes the sophisticated sensory capabilities of individual plant cells, which can detect specific volatile compounds and light spectra to coordinate their behavior.</p>



<p>According to the experts, considering plants as intelligent entities can generate new hypotheses about their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-disrupts-communication-among-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemical communication</a> mechanisms and broaden our understanding of intelligence itself. This perspective is particularly relevant in the context of artificial intelligence, as it challenges traditional notions of problem-solving and goal-oriented behavior.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-makes-plants-intelligent">What makes plants intelligent?</h2>



<p>The concept of plant intelligence revolves around the idea that plants exhibit complex behaviors and responses to their environment that resemble intelligent actions. Here are several factors that contribute to this notion:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-communication-nbsp">Communication<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h3>



<p>Plants can communicate with each other through chemical signals. For example, when a plant is attacked by herbivores, it can release chemicals that warn nearby plants of the danger, prompting them to produce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-reprogram-their-cells-to-fight-pathogens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defensive compounds</a>.</p>



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



<p>Some plants have been shown to remember and learn from past experiences. For instance, the Mimosa pudica plant, known for its rapid leaf folding response to touch, can learn to ignore harmless stimuli over time.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-problem-solving-nbsp">Problem-solving<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h3>



<p>Plants can adapt to changing conditions and optimize resource use. Their roots can navigate through the soil to find water and nutrients, and they can adjust their growth patterns to maximize light exposure.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sensing-and-responding">Sensing and responding</h3>



<p>Plants have sophisticated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-can-sense-when-something-touches-them-despite-not-having-nerves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensory systems</a> that detect changes in their environment, such as light, gravity, water, and chemical signals. They can then alter their growth and development in response to these stimuli.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symbiotic-relationships-nbsp">Symbiotic relationships<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h3>



<p>Plants engage in mutually beneficial relationships with other organisms, such as mycorrhizal fungi, which help them absorb nutrients, or nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their roots.</p>



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



<p>Plants exhibit behaviors that can be considered complex, such as opening and closing flowers, orienting leaves and stems toward light, and even moving leaves to capture insects in carnivorous plants.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15592324.2024.2345985" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Plant Signaling &amp; Behavior</em></a>.</p>



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Plants are intelligent problem solvers that know how to adapt

Goldenrod can detect nearby plants by sensing far-red light ratios...

<p>We all love a good underdog story, and it turns out that the key to helping shelter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-communication-what-is-your-pet-trying-to-tell-you/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> find their forever homes might be simpler than we thought. Interestingly, a recent <a href="https://www.vt.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virginia Tech</a> study suggests that the solution to their stress might lie in a surprisingly simple intervention: companionship. </p>



<p>Research indicates that pairing shelter dogs with compatible companions significantly reduces their stress levels and expedites their adoption process, demonstrating the profound impact of social connection on their well-being and prospects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lonely-life-and-stress-of-a-shelter-dog">Lonely life and stress of a shelter dog</h2>



<p>Transitioning from a familiar home environment to the unfamiliar, often chaotic atmosphere of an animal shelter can be a jarring experience for a dog. </p>



<p>The sudden loss of routine, coupled with the constant noise, unfamiliar smells, and lack of personal space, can lead to significant stress and anxiety in these animals. </p>



<p>This heightened stress can manifest in various ways, from behavioral issues to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-explores-the-mystery-of-why-dogs-wag-their-tails/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical</a> ailments, making it harder for them to adjust and ultimately find a new home.</p>



<p>"Despite being a social species, dogs are often housed alone in shelters to reduce disease transmission and possible injury from inter-dog conflict. But this social isolation can work against dogs’ behavioral <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-neutering-linked-to-serious-health-risks-in-some-dog-breeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a> and adoptability," said Erica Feuerbacher, the lead researcher behind this remarkable study.</p>



<p>Each year, nearly 4 million dogs find themselves in shelters across the United States, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. These dogs often face chronic stress due to factors like noise, confined spaces, and limited social interaction.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-two-dogs-are-better-than-one">Two dogs are better than one</h2>



<p>But what if the solution to easing this stress and improving their chances of adoption was as simple as giving them a friend? Feuerbacher's team set out to test this idea at the Humane Society of Western Montana.</p>



<p>Half of the 61 dogs in the study were paired with carefully matched companions, while the other half stayed in their kennels alone. Researchers closely observed both groups, recording stress behaviors (like lip-licking, whining, and pinned-back ears) and measuring stress hormones in their urine.</p>



<p>The results were striking. The dogs who had a roommate showed fewer signs of stress and, perhaps most importantly, were adopted an average of <em>four days faster</em> than their solo counterparts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-win-win-for-dogs-and-shelters">Win-win for dogs and shelters</h2>



<p>"Dogs housed together not only showed fewer stress behaviors, but they also were adopted, on average, four days sooner than single-housed dogs," noted Feuerbacher.</p>



<p>Implementing cohousing programs could revolutionize shelter operations, addressing issues like overcrowding and resource constraints. By reducing stress and improving well-being, this approach not only benefits the dogs but also streamlines the adoption process. </p>



<p>When potential adopters witness positive interactions between canine companions, they gain valuable insights into the dog's temperament and social skills, leading to more informed and successful adoptions. </p>



<p>This approach could create a virtuous cycle, where improved animal welfare leads to increased adoption rates, further alleviating the burden on shelters and ultimately improving the lives of countless dogs.</p>



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



<p>While this study focused on short-term shelter stays, Feuerbacher and her team hope to explore the benefits of pairing in longer-term scenarios as well. They also want to delve deeper into the types of interactions that lead to successful pairings.</p>



<p>"Clearly exhibiting that a dog can successfully interact with other dogs might highlight those dogs as good matches - leading to more successful adoptions,” said Feuerbacher.</p>



<p>The next time you visit a shelter, don't be surprised to see a few <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dog-barks-can-be-translated-using-human-speech-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> sharing a kennel. It's not just about saving space - it could be the key to finding these furry friends their forever families.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0301137" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS ONE</a></em>.</p>



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Pairing up shelter dogs could be the key to reducing their stress

We all love a good underdog story, and it turns...

<p>Wild <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/african-elephants-choose-paths-leading-to-their-favorite-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">African elephants</a> use name-like calls to address each other, a rare behavior among nonhuman animals. This remarkable behavior was observed by scientists from <a href="https://www.colostate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorado State University</a> (CSU), in collaboration with <a href="https://www.savetheelephants.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Save the Elephants</a> and <a href="https://www.elephantvoices.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ElephantVoices</a>. </p>



<p>The researchers used machine learning to analyze elephant calls, revealing that elephants respond affirmatively to calls specifically directed at them.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elephants-use-names-just-like-humans">Elephants use names just like humans</h2>



<p>“Dolphins and parrots call one another by 'name' by imitating the signature call of the addressee,” said lead author Michael Pardo, a&nbsp; postdoctoral researcher at CSU and Save the Elephants.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“By contrast, our data suggest that elephants do not rely on imitation of the receiver's calls to address one another, which is more similar to the way in which human names work.”</p>



<p>The ability to produce new sounds, necessary for identifying individuals by name, is uncommon among animals. Arbitrary communication, where a sound represents an idea without imitating it, greatly expands <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-ways-animals-communicate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communication</a> capability and is considered a next-level cognitive skill. </p>



<p>“If all we could do was make noises that sounded like what we were talking about, it would vastly limit our ability to communicate,” said co-author George Wittemyer, a professor at CSU’s Warner College of Natural Resources.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-social-interactions-nbsp">Complex social interactions<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Elephant evolution diverged from human evolution tens of millions of years ago, yet both species have developed complex social networks and communication systems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Researchers propose that the development of arbitrary vocal labeling in both species may have been driven by similar social pressures. “It's probably a case where we have similar pressures, largely from complex social interactions,” Wittemyer said.</p>



<p>Elephants communicate using a broad range of vocalizations that convey identity, age, sex, emotional state, and behavioral context. Their calls, which span a wide frequency spectrum including infrasonic sounds, can coordinate group movements over long distances.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subtle-calls-reveal-elephant-names">Subtle calls reveal elephant names</h2>



<p>The study's novel signal processing technique, developed by Kurt Fristrup at CSU, detected subtle differences in call structure, revealing that elephants use arbitrary sonic labels, suggesting the potential existence of other labels or descriptors in their calls.</p>



<p>When researchers played back recorded calls, elephants responded energetically to calls directed at them, demonstrating recognition of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephants-may-be-the-first-non-human-animals-to-call-each-other-by-names/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">names</a>. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elephants-respond-to-their-names-nbsp">Elephants respond to their names<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Pardo, now at <a href="https://www.cornell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a>, noted that elephants did not react to calls meant for others, indicating selective responsiveness to their specific calls. </p>



<p>The experts also observed that elephants are more likely to address each other by name over long distances or when adults are communicating with calves.</p>



<p>During four years of research, including 14 months of intensive fieldwork in Kenya, researchers recorded 470 distinct calls from 101 unique callers corresponding with 117 unique receivers in Samburu National Reserve and Amboseli National Park. This extensive data collection allowed for a detailed analysis of elephant communication patterns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strengthening-conservation-efforts-nbsp">Strengthening conservation efforts<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>The researchers believe that understanding elephant communication and cognition can strengthen conservation efforts. Elephants are classified as endangered due to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poaching-has-long-term-impacts-on-elephants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poaching</a> and habitat loss, and effective communication could aid in their protection. “I'd like to be able to warn them, ‘Do not come here. You're going to be killed if you come here,” Wittemyer said.</p>



<p>Further research is needed to isolate the names within the calls and explore whether elephants name other things they interact with, such as food, water, and places. Despite the challenges in collecting data, the study provides new insights into elephant behavior and the importance of social reinforcement in their communication.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-elephant-communication-nbsp">More about elephant communication<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>



<p>Elephants communicate using a rich array of vocalizations, gestures, and chemical signals. They produce a range of sounds, from low-frequency rumbles that can travel over long distances to higher-pitched trumpets and roars.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>These low-frequency rumbles, often below the range of human hearing, play a crucial role in maintaining social bonds and coordinating movements, especially within their herds.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-body-language-nbsp">Body language<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h3>



<p>In addition to vocal sounds, elephants use <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elephants-have-heartwarming-ways-to-greet-their-friends/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">body language</a> to convey information and emotions. They flap their ears, raise their trunks, and make specific postures to signal aggression, submission, or excitement. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-touch-nbsp">Physical touch<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h3>



<p>Physical touch is also important; elephants often greet each other by entwining trunks, and they use trunk touches to reassure and comfort one another.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-communication-nbsp">Chemical communication<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h3>



<p>Chemical communication is another vital aspect of elephant interaction. Elephants have highly developed olfactory senses and use scent to convey information about reproductive status, individual identity, and emotional states.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They can detect pheromones in urine, dung, and secretions from glands located near their eyes and feet, which help them communicate over long distances.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41559-024-02420-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</em></a>.</p>



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Elephants use specific names to address each other

Wild African elephants use name-like calls to address each other,...

<p>Procrastination is a common struggle for many people that is often associated with feelings of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-protects-against-work-stress-burnout/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> and frustration. However, a recent study reveals that an optimistic outlook on the future can significantly reduce severe procrastination. The research was led by Saya Kashiwakura, a graduate student at the <a href="https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/ja/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tokyo</a>.</p>



<p>"It has been shown that procrastinators consistently disregard the future more than low procrastinators do and that this tendency is one of the central antecedents of procrastination," noted the researchers.</p>



<p>"Why do procrastinators disregard the future in the first place? Although the phenomenon of future disregard has been reported in numerous studies, the underlying factors have not been clarified until now."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-link-between-optimism-and-procrastination">The link between optimism and procrastination</h2>



<p>Kashiwakura, along with Professor Kazuo Hiraki, proposed that severe procrastinators might have a more pessimistic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/optimism-appears-to-help-women-live-longer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">outlook</a>. To investigate, they surveyed 296 participants in their 20s, focusing on their views on stress and well-being over a 20-year period.</p>



<p>"In this study, we introduced new indices to treat procrastinators' views of time (especially their impressions of the future) as quantitatively as possible: the chronological stress view and chronological well-being view," noted the researchers.</p>



<p>"In these indices, stress and well-being were asked at various time points in the past, present, and future."</p>



<p>The results of the analysis showed that people who anticipate a decrease in future stress levels are less likely to severely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-procrastination-negativity-and-task-delay/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">procrastinate</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personal-struggles-spark-research">Personal struggles spark research</h2>



<p>Kashiwakura's personal battle with procrastination inspired her to investigate its relationship with one's perspective on time, particularly the future.</p>



<p>“I have struggled with procrastination since childhood. I would clean my room when I needed to study for a test and prioritize aikido practice over my postgraduate research. This habit of putting off important tasks has been a constant challenge.”</p>



<p>Previous studies indicated that procrastinators often disregard the future or struggle to connect present actions with future outcomes. However, the underlying reasons remained unclear. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-procrastination-with-a-positive-outlook">Reducing procrastination with a positive outlook </h2>



<p>The researchers categorized participants into four groups based on their expectations for future stress levels and divided each group into severe, middle, and low procrastinators. </p>



<p>“Our research showed that optimistic people - those who believe that stress does not increase as we move into the future - are less likely to have severe procrastination habits," said Kashiwakura.</p>



<p>This insight helped Kashiwakura adopt a more light-hearted perspective on the future, ultimately reducing her own procrastination.</p>



<p>Interestingly, the researchers found no significant relationship between procrastination and negative views on personal well-being or life goals. It was the changing perception of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-eats-away-our-brains-cognitive-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> over time that played a crucial role in influencing procrastination habits.</p>



<p>"No relationship was found between the chronological well-being view and procrastination. This result suggests that people who are relatively optimistic about the future based on the chronological stress view are less likely to be severe procrastinators," wrote the study authors.</p>



<p>"This may suggest the importance of having a hopeful prospect in the future to avoid procrastinating on actions that should yield greater rewards in the future."</p>



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



<p>Building on these findings, the research team aims to develop strategies to foster a more optimistic mindset, particularly in educational settings. </p>



<p>Kashiwakura hopes that their findings will help students understand and manage their procrastination tendencies scientifically, rather than blaming themselves.</p>



<p>“We believe that students will achieve better outcomes and experience greater well-being when they can comprehend their procrastination tendencies scientifically and actively work on improving them,” said Kashiwakura.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-procastination">Overcoming procastination</h2>



<p>Looking ahead, the team plans to explore various approaches to help individuals cultivate the right mindset for a happier and more fulfilling life. </p>



<p>“Thoughts can change with just a few minutes of watching a video or be shaped by years of accumulation. Our next step is to investigate which approach is appropriate this time, and how we can develop the ‘right’ mindset,” said Kashiwakura.</p>



<p>Ultimately, the results of the study show that an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/optimistic-people-experience-less-stress-and-healthier-old-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">optimistic outlook</a> on the future can significantly reduce procrastination. By understanding and addressing our perspectives on stress and time, we can develop healthier habits and lead a more fulfilling life.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-61277-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a></em>.</p>



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An optimistic outlook can break the vicious cycle of procrastination

Procrastination is a common struggle for many people that is...

<p>The discovery of a <em>T. rex</em> fossil could only be described as monumental. On a family outing in the Hell Creek badlands of North Dakota, three young fossil hunters - brothers Liam and Jessin Fisher, aged 7 and 10, and their cousin, 9-year-old Kaiden Madsen - stumbled upon what they initially thought was a common <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-oviraptor-dinosaur-species-weighed-as-much-as-a-human-female/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaur</a> relic.</p>



<p>However, this casual find on July 31, 2022, turned out to be anything but ordinary. The large fossilized leg bone belonged to a teenage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-change-their-minds-about-tyrannosaurus-rex-dinosaur-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Tyrannosaurus rex</em></a> - a find rare enough to potentially rewrite the chapters of prehistoric life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teen-rex-unearthed-after-67-million-years">Teen Rex unearthed after 67 million years </h2>



<p>A photo of the fossil, innocently sent to a family friend, turned out to be the first step in a thrilling scientific adventure.</p>



<p>Dr. Tyler Lyson, Associate Curator of Vertebrate Palaeontology at the <a href="https://www.dmns.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Museum of Nature &amp; Science</a> and a native of Marmarth, quickly organized an excavation.</p>



<p>The dig included the young discoverers and their older sister, Emalynn Fisher, along with a team of paleontology volunteers and experts.</p>



<p>Within a mere 11 days, they unearthed the T. rex, affectionately named “Teen Rex,” after its 67 million years underground.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spectacular-journey-from-earth-to-exhibit">Spectacular journey from Earth to exhibit</h2>



<p>Transporting the Teen Rex fossil to the Denver Museum of Nature &amp; Science was no small feat. It required a Black Hawk helicopter to airlift the giant plaster jackets housing the remains.</p>



<p>The museum now invites the public to the “Discovering Teen Rex Prep Lab” to witness the ongoing preparation of the fossil, adding a real-time educational layer to this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/koleken-inakayali-dinosaur-arms-smaller-than-t-rex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extraordinary find</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-documenting-the-discovery-of-teen-rex">Documenting the discovery of Teen Rex</h2>



<p>The intrigue of this discovery attracted more than just paleontologists. An award-winning documentary crew was embedded with the expedition, capturing every significant moment in stunning 8K.</p>



<p>The resulting film, “T. REX,” narrated by actor Sir Sam Neill from the Jurassic Park series, offers an immersive view into the thrill of the discovery and the meticulous process of excavation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-juvenile-t-rex-fossil">Significance of the juvenile T. rex fossil</h2>



<p>“Juvenile rex specimens are extremely rare,” explained Dr. Lyson, who found his first dinosaur in the same region at just 6 years old. Teen Rex's tibia measured 82 centimeters, suggesting it died when it was about 13 to 15 years old, roughly two-thirds the size of a fully grown adult T. rex.</p>



<p>This specimen could provide invaluable insights into the growth and behavior of one of history's most formidable predators.</p>



<p>Dr. Thomas Holtz, a vertebrate paleontologist and renowned T. rex authority from the <a href="https://umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland</a>, highlighted the broader implications of the find.</p>



<p>“This discovery is crucial for understanding the T. rex’s life stages, especially its dramatic growth spurts,” noted Dr. Holtz.</p>



<p>"Scientists can really only speculate on how ‘Teen Rex’ might have lived and behaved, so discoveries like this one have the potential to provide important new information about those earlier life stages, when fastest growth likely occurred.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspiration-from-t-rex-fossil">Inspiration from T. rex fossil</h2>



<p>"Helping these kids experience the thrill of their discovery and inspiring them with science is incredibly rewarding," said Dr. Lyson, reflecting on his role in mentoring the next generation of scientists.</p>



<p>The story extends beyond the dig site. The T. REX film and an accompanying graphic novel created by Rextooth Studios are set to bring this thrilling discovery to a broader audience. </p>



<p>The film will premiere in select theaters worldwide starting June 21, and promises to bring the prehistoric world to life on the giant screen.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scientific-and-cinematic-innovation">Scientific and cinematic innovation</h2>



<p>Behind the scenes, a consortium of paleontologists, several of the world’s leading natural history museums, and top visual effects artists have collaborated to ensure the documentary offers not just a spectacle but an accurate portrayal of T. rex and its ecosystem.</p>



<p>This cinematic venture stands as a testament to the fusion of science, education, and media. As Teen Rex begins its new journey in the public eye, it continues to inspire wonder and curiosity.</p>



<p>For those involved, from the youngest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossils-highlight-dinosaur-diversity-in-prehistoric-patagonia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil</a> hunters to the seasoned paleontologists, this adventure has been more than a discovery - it's been a doorway to the past, opened wide for all to explore.</p>



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



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Three boys find rare "Teen Rex" dinosaur fossil in North Dakota

The discovery of a T. rex fossil could only be...

<p>By using data from NASA’s NuSTAR X-ray telescope, a team of researchers from <a href="https://msu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michigan State University</a> (MSU) has recently made groundbreaking discoveries about the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supermassive-black-hole-at-the-center-of-our-galaxy-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supermassive black hole</a> at the center of our Milky Way galaxy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Black holes, known for their immense gravity that even light cannot escape, are typically studied by observing their effects on nearby stars and gas clouds. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamic-environment-at-the-heart-of-our-galaxy">Dynamic environment at the heart of our galaxy </h2>



<p>Grace Sanger-Johnson and Jack Uteg, led by Shuo Zhang, an assistant professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, have innovatively used decades of X-ray data from space-based telescopes to further understand these cosmic entities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Grace and Jack’s contributions are a source of immense pride,” Zhang said. “Their work exemplifies MSU’s commitment to pioneering research and fostering the next generation of astronomers.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This research is a prime example of how MSU scientists are unlocking the universe’s secrets, bringing us closer to comprehending the nature of black holes and the dynamic environment at the heart of our galaxy.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flares-from-the-milky-way-s-black-hole">Flares from the Milky Way’s black hole</h2>



<p>Sanger-Johnson analyzed ten years of data looking for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-fury-nasa-captures-x2-8-flare-earth-braces-for-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">X-ray flares</a> from Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*), the Milky Way’s central black hole, discovering nine previously unnoticed flares. These high-energy flares offer a unique opportunity to study the black hole’s immediate environment, a region usually invisible due to its gravity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We are sitting in the front row to observe these unique cosmic fireworks at the center of our own Milky Way galaxy. Both flares and fireworks light up the darkness and help us observe things we wouldn’t normally be able to,” noted Zhang.</p>



<p>“That’s why astronomers need to know when and where these flares occur, so they can study the black hole’s environment using that light.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gaining-insights-from-the-x-ray-flares">Gaining insights from the x-ray flares</h2>



<p>Sanger-Johnson meticulously reviewed a decade’s worth of X-ray data collected from 2015 to 2024 by NuSTAR. Each of the nine newly discovered flares provides invaluable data for understanding the black hole’s environment and activities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We hope that by building up this bank of data on Sgr A* flares, we and other astronomers can analyze the properties of these X-ray flares and infer the physical conditions inside the extreme environment of the supermassive black hole,” she said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-echoes-of-ancient-light">Echoes of ancient light</h2>



<p>While Sanger-Johnson focused on the flares, Uteg used a different approach, examining the black hole’s activity by analyzing nearly 20 years of data targeting a giant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-the-perseus-cloud/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">molecular cloud</a> known as “the bridge” near Sgr A*.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Unlike stars, these clouds of gas and dust in interstellar space don’t generate their own X-rays,” explained Uteg. “The brightness we see is most likely the delayed reflection of past X-ray outbursts from Sgr A*.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We first observed an increase in luminosity around 2008. Then, for the next 12 years, X-ray signals from the Bridge continued to increase until it hit peak brightness in 2020.”</p>



<p>This “echo” light from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supermassive-binary-black-holes-secrets-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole</a>, traveling for hundreds of years from Sgr A* to the molecular cloud and another 26,000 years to Earth, allows scientists to reconstruct a timeline of the black hole’s past activity.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-brightness-of-the-black-hole">Historical brightness of the black hole</h2>



<p>Uteg’s analysis, using data from NuSTAR and the European Space Agency’s X-ray Multi-Mirror (XMM) Newton space observatory, helps understand the black hole’s historical brightness.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“One of the main reasons we care about this cloud getting brighter is that it lets us constrain how bright the Sgr A* outburst was in the past,” said Uteg.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-mysteries-at-the-center-of-the-milky-way-nbsp">Unraveling mysteries at the center of the Milky Way&nbsp;</h2>



<p>From their calculations, the team determined that about 200 years ago, Sgr A* was approximately five orders of magnitude brighter in X-rays than it is today.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This is the first time that we have constructed a 24-year-long variability for a molecular cloud surrounding our supermassive black hole that has reached its peak X-ray luminosity. It allows us to tell the past activity of Sgr A* from about 200 years ago," said Zhang.</p>



<p>"Our research team at MSU will continue this ‘astroarchaeology game’ to further unravel the mysteries of the Milky Way’s center."</p>



<p>While the exact mechanisms triggering X-ray flares and the precise <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supermassive-black-holes-are-very-messy-eaters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life cycle</a> of black holes remain mysterious, the experts are confident their findings will spark further investigation and potentially revolutionize our understanding of these enigmatic objects.</p>



<p>The findings were presented at the <a href="https://aas.org/meetings/aas244" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">244th meeting of the American Astronomical Society (AAS)</a> on June 11.&nbsp;</p>



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‘Flares’ shed light on the Milky Way’s supermassive black hole

By using data from NASA’s NuSTAR X-ray telescope, a team...

<p>In a remarkable discovery, researchers have unearthed a previously unknown species of great ape, <em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em>, that inhabited the region approximately 11.6 million years ago during the late Miocene Epoch.</p>



<p>This discovery sheds light on the diversity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-early-humans-learned-to-walk-from-an-ancestor-called-lufengpithecus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient apes</a> in Europe and provides insights into their ecological interactions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-buronius-manfredschmidi-a-new-great-ape"><em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em>: A new great ape</h2>



<p>This new species, <em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em>, is distinguished by its relatively diminutive stature, with an estimated body weight of just about 10 kilograms, making it the smallest known great ape.</p>



<p>The partial remains include two teeth and a patella (knee cap), each showcasing unique characteristics that set <em>Buronius</em> apart from its contemporaries, including the larger-bodied <em>Danuvius</em>, another ape species from the same site.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/hominid-new_small_Buronius-manfredschmidi_bones_credit-MBohme_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/hominid-new_small_Buronius-manfredschmidi_bones_credit-MBohme_1s.jpg" alt="Buronius manfredschmidi was a tiny great ape that lived in Germany 11 million years ago. Credit: MBohme" class="wp-image-1936336"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Buronius manfredschmidi was a tiny great ape that lived in Germany 11 million years ago. Credit: MBohme</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>The structure of <em>Buronius's</em> teeth and patella suggests that it was an adept climber with a diet primarily consisting of soft foods like leaves.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coexistence-without-competition">Coexistence without competition</h2>



<p>The presence of two distinct ape species in the same stratigraphic layer at the Hammerschmiede fossil site in Bavaria, Germany is particularly intriguing. </p>



<p>It indicates that <em>Buronius</em> and <em>Danuvius</em> managed to coexist by occupying different ecological niches.</p>



<p>This phenomenon, known as syntopy, is observed today in species such as gibbons and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/orangutans-can-produce-two-different-sounds-simultaneously/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orangutans</a>, which share habitats in Southeast Asia without direct competition for food resources.</p>



<p><em><em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em></em>, with its leaf-based diet, and <em>Danuvius</em>, which had a more varied diet including tougher foods, demonstrate a similar pattern of resource partitioning.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-great-apes-and-the-evolution-of-european-ecosystems">Great apes and the evolution of European ecosystems</h2>



<p>This find marks the first known instance of hominid syntopy in Europe's fossil record. It challenges previous notions that no Miocene site in Europe hosted more than one species of fossil ape.</p>



<p>The authors of the study suggest that further examinations of similar sites might reveal more instances of such cohabitation, potentially rewriting parts of our understanding of ancient ape <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/did-humans-first-evolve-in-europe-ape-skull-sparks-new-debate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communities</a>.</p>



<p>The lead researchers, Madelaine Böhme from Eberhard Karls <a href="https://www.utoronto.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tübingen</a>, Germany, and David R. Begun from the <a href="https://www.utoronto.ca/">University of Toronto</a>, Canada, emphasize the significance of this discovery. </p>



<p>"The new great ape from Hammerschmiede, <em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em>, is not only the smallest known crown ape, but it also attests to the first case of hominid syntopy for Europe," they remark.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-buronius-manfredschmidi-find">Implications of <em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em> find</h2>



<p>While the research on <em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em> primarily focuses on its discovery and characteristics, there are additional intriguing aspects and implications beyond this.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecological-and-evolutionary">Ecological and evolutionary</h3>



<p><em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em>'s small size and unique dietary preferences suggest it may have occupied a specific ecological niche, potentially similar to modern small primates like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-groups-of-skywalker-gibbons-found-through-their-love-songs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gibbons</a> or some monkeys. </p>



<p>This adaptation might indicate a broader range of primate diversity and specialization during the Miocene Epoch in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/did-humans-first-evolve-in-europe-ape-skull-sparks-new-debate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Europe</a>.</p>



<p>The discovery of <em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em> provides valuable information about the evolutionary pathways of great apes. </p>



<p>Its presence in Europe adds to the evidence that great apes were once widespread across the continent, contrasting with the current distribution mainly in Africa and Southeast Asia. </p>



<p>This distribution shift likely resulted from climatic and environmental changes over millions of years.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparative-anatomy-of-buronius-manfredschmidi">Comparative anatomy of <em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em></h3>



<p>The anatomical features of <em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em>, such as its teeth and patella, offer comparative data for studying the evolution of locomotion and diet in primates. </p>



<p>Comparing these features with other fossil and extant species can help scientists understand the evolutionary pressures and adaptations that shaped primate development.</p>



<p>The discovery of <em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em> also underscores the importance of advanced paleontological techniques, such as high-resolution imaging and micro-CT scanning, which allow for detailed analysis of small and delicate fossils. </p>



<p>These technologies can reveal minute details about ancient species that were previously inaccessible, opening new windows into the past.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-the-mysteries-of-ape-evolution">Unraveling the mysteries of ape evolution</h2>



<p>Future research on <em>Buronius manfredschmidi</em> may involve exploring other fossil sites for additional specimens, which could provide a more comprehensive picture of its biology and ecology. </p>



<p>Genetic studies, if feasible, could also offer insights into the evolutionary relationships between <em>Buronius</em> and other great apes.</p>



<p>This new finding enriches our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/apes-may-have-begun-walking-upright-to-eat-leaves-not-fruits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ape evolution</a> and highlights the complex dynamics within ancient ecosystems.</p>



<p>As we continue to unearth and study these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-recreate-the-face-of-pierolapithecus-a-12-million-year-old-ape/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient relics</a>, each discovery brings us closer to comprehending the intricate web of life that once thrived on our planet.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0301002" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS ONE</a></em>.</p>



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Tiny great ape species discovered that lived 11 million years ago

In a remarkable discovery, researchers have unearthed a previously unknown...

<p>The concept of evolution and evolvability has long intrigued scientists since Charles Darwin introduced his revolutionary idea that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolution-is-not-as-random-as-we-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species evolve over time</a>.</p>



<p>However, the question remains: can the principles of microevolution, which describes evolutionary changes within a species over a few generations, apply to macroevolution, the broader evolutionary changes that occur over thousands to millions of generations?</p>



<p>A recent study published in the journal <em>Science</em> addresses this question by exploring evolvability, which is the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quick-species-adaptability-shapes-long-term-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ability</a> of populations to adapt and evolve over short periods -- and its implications for understanding evolutionary processes over extended timescales.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolvability-bridges-the-micro-macro-gap">Evolvability bridges the micro/macro gap</h2>



<p>Researchers have compiled extensive data from both current species and fossil records to analyze evolvability. </p>



<p>They looked at various traits such as bird beak size, the number of offspring, and plant flower size, and measured these traits' evolvability by examining how they diverge among <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bee-evolution-occurred-tens-of-millions-of-years-earlier-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">populations and species</a> over periods up to one million years.</p>



<p>The study reveals that populations with high evolvability can rapidly evolve in response to their environments, leading to significant differences in traits over short durations. </p>



<p>This short-term evolution, surprisingly, does not accumulate linearly over time. Instead, the long-term diversity between species depends more on their short-term evolutionary capabilities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossils-and-evolvability">Fossils and evolvability</h2>



<p>The research also delved into fossil records, analyzing morphological traits across 150 different lineages over time spans ranging from a decade to 7.6 million years. </p>



<p>Traits that exhibited higher evolvability showed greater divergence in both current populations and across successive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extinction-of-large-prey-drove-evolutionary-changes-in-early-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil samples</a>, suggesting a strong link between evolvability and trait variability over time.</p>



<p>Conversely, traits with lower evolvability showed minimal changes, highlighting the importance of genetic variation in evolution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-environment-in-evolutionary-changes">Role of environment in evolutionary changes</h2>



<p>Christophe Pélabon, a professor at <a href="https://www.ntnu.edu/biology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NTNU's Department of Biology</a> and senior author of the paper, emphasizes that environmental factors are crucial in driving evolutionary changes.</p>



<p>Fluctuating conditions such as temperature and food availability cause populations to adapt continually. </p>



<p>Traits that are highly evolvable respond quickly to these changes, showing significant fluctuations and divergence.</p>



<p>This responsiveness to environmental fluctuations means that populations separated geographically, and thus experiencing different environmental changes, will show variations in trait values based on their evolvability.</p>



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



<p>The findings suggest that historically, environmental conditions and selection pressures have been relatively stable. </p>



<p>However, with the current pace of climate change, environments are shifting more rapidly and in a more unidirectional manner than in the past. </p>



<p>This shift could profoundly impact how species adapt to new environmental optima, potentially affecting biodiversity even over <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wood-frogs-achieved-significant-biological-evolution-25-years-salt-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">short timescales</a>.</p>



<p>By linking microevolutionary processes with macroevolutionary outcomes, this research provides a deeper understanding of how species have evolved over millennia and how they might continue to adapt in a rapidly changing world.</p>



<p>The implications of this study are crucial for predicting future biodiversity patterns and preparing for the environmental challenges of tomorrow.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-benefits-of-evolvability">Additional benefits of evolvability</h2>



<p>Evolvability extends beyond the findings of this recent research. It impacts species in several beneficial ways.</p>



<p>On a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fish-evolution-takes-place-in-decades-not-millions-of-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microevolutionary scale</a>, evolvability enhances a species' ability to respond to environmental changes rapidly. This rapid adaptation is crucial for survival in dynamic ecosystems.</p>



<p>For instance, insects developing resistance to pesticides or bacteria evolving antibiotic resistance showcase how evolvability allows species to thrive despite human interventions.</p>



<p>In a broader <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/missing-law-of-nature-explains-the-evolution-of-everything-that-exists-in-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">macroevolutionary context</a>, evolvability contributes to the emergence of new species. High evolvability facilitates significant trait divergence over extended periods, leading to the creation of distinct species.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolvability-and-speciation">Evolvability and speciation</h2>



<p>This process, known as speciation, increases biodiversity and enables ecosystems to become more resilient. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-great-balancing-act-nature-is-adapting-to-human-influence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diverse ecosystems</a> can better withstand environmental changes and disturbances, ensuring long-term stability and productivity.</p>



<p>Moreover, evolvability can drive innovation in biological functions. For example, the evolution of complex traits such as the vertebrate eye or bird flight required high evolvability. </p>



<p>These innovations provide competitive advantages and open up new ecological niches, further promoting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-evolution-may-be-the-biggest-roadblock-to-solving-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species diversification</a>.</p>



<p>Overall, evolvability is a fundamental driver of evolutionary success. It equips species with the tools to navigate and adapt to ever-changing environments, fostering resilience, diversity, and long-term survival across the tree of life.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adi8722" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a></em>.</p>



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



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

'Evolvability' of a species can be predicted over long periods of time

The concept of evolution and evolvability has long intrigued scientists...

<p>In 1975, the binary star system HM Sagittae (HM Sge) experienced an extraordinary event. The system grew 250 times brighter, captivating astronomers worldwide. Unlike <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-novae-star-explosion-may-be-origin-phosphorus-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">typical novae</a> that fade within months or years, HM Sge's brightness persisted for decades.</p>



<p>Recent observations using NASA's <a href="https://hubblesite.org/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble Space Telescope</a> and the retired Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/sofia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SOFIA</a>) have unveiled surprising details about an enigmatic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star system</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hm-sagittae-and-symbiotic-star-systems">HM Sagittae and symbiotic star systems</h2>



<p>A nova occurs when a white dwarf star ingests gas from its companion, causing a sudden increase in brightness. </p>



<p>Symbiotic stars, such as HM Sge, consist of a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-dwarf-stars-may-be-billions-of-years-older-than-estimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">white dwarf</a> and a giant companion star in an eccentric orbit around each other.</p>



<p>In this system, the white dwarf consumes gas from the giant star. This process creates a hot disk of material around the white dwarf. </p>



<p>When the hydrogen gas from the giant star accumulates on the white dwarf's surface, it can reach a critical density, igniting in a thermonuclear <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-coronae-borealis-blaze-star-explosion-visible-one-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">explosion</a>.</p>



<p>These interactions between the stars provide valuable insights into the processes of stellar evolution and the dynamics of binary <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>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hubble-captures-hm-sagittae-system">Hubble captures HM Sagittae system</h2>



<p>HM Sge's 1975 outburst transformed it from an obscure star into a focal point for astronomers. </p>



<p>"In 1975 HM Sge went from being a nondescript star to something all astronomers in the field were looking at," noted Ravi Sankrit of the Space Telescope Science Institute (<a href="https://www.stsci.edu/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">STScI</a>). </p>



<p>Unlike typical novae, HM Sge's brightness did not diminish rapidly. Instead, it maintained its luminosity for decades, puzzling scientists.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/nova-system-HM-Sagittae_symbiotic-star-Mira-HM-Sge_Hubble_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/nova-system-HM-Sagittae_symbiotic-star-Mira-HM-Sge_Hubble_1s.jpg" alt="Symbiotic star Mira HM Sge in nova system HM Sagittae. Credit: NASA" class="wp-image-1936324"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Symbiotic star Mira HM Sge in nova system HM Sagittae. Credit: NASA</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>In 2021, Steven Goldman of STScI, Sankrit, and collaborators revisited HM Sge using Hubble and SOFIA. They found that the system had become hotter but paradoxically dimmer. </p>



<p>The new ultraviolet (UV) <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-detects-awe-inspiring-newborn-star/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data from Hubble</a> revealed a strong emission line of highly ionized magnesium, absent in earlier spectra from 1990.</p>



<p>This indicated an increase in temperature from less than 400,000 degrees Fahrenheit in 1989 to over 450,000 degrees Fahrenheit now. </p>



<p>"When I first saw the new data, I went – 'wow this is what Hubble UV spectroscopy can do!' – I mean it's spectacular, really spectacular," said Sankrit.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hubble-and-sofia-reveal-binary-star-secrets">Hubble and SOFIA reveal binary star secrets</h2>



<p>SOFIA's observations provided a deeper look into the complex environment around HM Sagittae. </p>



<p>Infrared spectral data indicated that the giant companion star, the source of the outflowing gas and dust, quickly recovered from the nova-like explosion, resuming its normal activity within a few years. </p>



<p>However, it has mysteriously dimmed in recent times, posing another enigma for astronomers to unravel.</p>



<p>One of the most intriguing findings from SOFIA is the detection of water molecules moving at a remarkable speed of 18 miles per second. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/nova-system-HM-Sagittae_40-years-ago_still-bright_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/nova-system-HM-Sagittae_40-years-ago_still-bright_NASA_1s.jpg" alt="Star HM Sagittae pulling material from its red giant companion star. Credit: NASA" class="wp-image-1936321"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Star HM Sagittae pulling material from its red giant companion star. Credit: NASA</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>This rapid motion is likely indicative of the swirling accretion disk surrounding the white dwarf, where the gas from the giant star accumulates and fuels the system's activity.</p>



<p>The immense scale of this stellar interaction is highlighted by SOFIA's data, revealing that the gaseous bridge connecting the giant star and the white dwarf stretches an astonishing 2 billion miles across. </p>



<p>These findings underscore the dynamic and intricate nature of HM Sagittae and the complex processes at play within this extraordinary binary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mini-neptune-toi-4633c-habitable-zone-binary-star-system-puzzles-astronomers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">system</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-collaborations">Additional collaborations</h2>



<p>The team also collaborated with the American Association of Variable Star Observers (<a href="https://www.aavso.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AAVSO</a>) and amateur astronomers worldwide. Their continued monitoring revealed changes that had not been detected since the 1975 outburst.</p>



<p>"Symbiotic stars like HM Sge are rare in our galaxy, and witnessing a nova-like explosion is even rarer. This unique event is a treasure for astrophysicists spanning decades," said Goldman.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-future-research">Implications and future research</h2>



<p>The findings from HM Sge offer valuable insights into the physics of binary star systems. The team's research and Sankrit's presentation at the 244th meeting of the <a href="https://aas.org/meetings/aas244" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Astronomical Society</a> highlight the importance of continuous observation.</p>



<p>The Hubble Space Telescope, a project of international cooperation between NASA and European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>), has been instrumental in these discoveries.</p>



<p>HM Sagittae's story is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of the universe. From its unexpected outburst in 1975 to the recent discoveries of its increasing temperature and changing dynamics, HM Sge continues to captivate astronomers. </p>



<p>The study is published in <em><a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/1538-4357/ad12c9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal</a>.</em></p>



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



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Star exploded into a brilliant nova 40 years ago and has still not dimmed

In 1975, the binary star system HM Sagittae (HM Sge)...

<p>The Weddell Sea, the largest marginal sea in the Southern Ocean, is a rich ecosystem teeming with life. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emperor-penguins-will-not-survive-the-current-rate-of-sea-ice-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emperor penguins</a> and seals raise their young here, while krill attract fish, whales, and seabirds. </p>



<p>The seafloor hosts millions of icefish and gardens of sponges, anemones, and sea squirts, showcasing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-biodiversity-problem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity</a> comparable to tropical reefs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baseline-for-monitoring-long-term-changes-nbsp">Baseline for monitoring long-term changes&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Eleven institutes from eight countries have joined forces in the <a href="https://wobec.aq/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Weddell Sea Observatory of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Change</a> (WOBEC). Over the next three years, these researchers will assess the current state of the biotic community in the Weddell Sea to establish a baseline for long-term monitoring of the transforming Southern Ocean ecosystem. </p>



<p>WOBEC is part of the European Union’s BiodivMon flagship program, under the European Biodiversity Partnership, <a href="https://www.biodiversa.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biodiversa+</a>. The program will commence in April with a Kick-off Meeting in Tallinn, Estonia. National partners have allocated 1.9 million euros for WOBEC, with significant contributions from the <a href="https://www.awi.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research</a> (AWI).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-biodiversity-of-the-weddell-sea-nbsp">Unique biodiversity of the Weddell Sea&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“The Weddell Sea constitutes a largely untouched, and therefore extremely valuable, habitat. Not only does it have a high aesthetic value; it is also characterized by unique biodiversity. This biological diversity is also the source of important ecosystem services, like the storage of carbon in the deep sea through ice algae and the remains of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plankton-help-predict-ocean-biodiversity-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plankton</a> sinking to the bottom,” explained Hauke Flores, a marine biologist at AWI and coordinator of the EU project. </p>



<p>“However, climate change has long-since spread to the southern polar region: In the past few years, we’ve witnessed an unexpectedly rapid <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-ice-levels-in-antarctica-have-reached-an-unprecedented-low/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decline in sea ice</a>. We don’t know how, or if, the region’s organisms can adapt to the changed environmental conditions. In order to assess this aspect, we need to first gain a better grasp of the ecosystem’s status quo and urgently need to begin systematic data collection.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observations-of-marine-biodiversity-are-lacking">Observations of marine biodiversity are lacking</h2>



<p>The focus of the project is on observing potential long-term changes in biodiversity in the eastern Weddell Sea. Although countries like Germany, Norway, and South Africa have been conducting research in the region for decades, systematic studies on its massive ecosystem are lacking.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to Flores, there is a significant gap: for thousands of kilometers to the east and west of WOBEC’s target area, there have been no long-term observations of marine biodiversity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-upcoming-expedition-in-the-weddell-sea-nbsp">Upcoming expedition in the Weddell Sea&nbsp;</h2>



<p>An expedition with the icebreaker Polarstern along the Prime Meridian and into the southern Weddell Sea, coordinated by the <a href="https://www.uni-rostock.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Rostock</a>, is planned for 2026. During this journey, researchers aim to explore the Maud Rise seamount and build on previous investigations of the benthic biotic communities at Cape Norvegia, to the west of Germany’s Neumayer Station III.</p>



<p>In addition to collecting new data, the experts will delve into archives and make previously unreleased and hard-to-find results publicly accessible.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“On the basis of historical and current data alike, our goal is to create a strategy for long-term environmental monitoring in the Weddell Sea with the aid of autonomous observatories, satellite-based remote sensing, and ship-based sampling,” Flores said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The process will involve stakeholders from political, business, and nature conservation communities, in close collaboration with the <a href="https://www.ccamlr.org/en/organisation/home-page" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources</a> (CCAMLR).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proposal-for-a-marine-protected-area">Proposal for a marine protected area</h2>



<p>For years, the EU and other CCAMLR members have advocated for the protection of large areas of the Weddell Sea. With contributions from AWI, a protection concept was developed and initially submitted to CCAMLR in 2016.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The proposed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-fall-short-on-2030-biodiversity-targets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marine Protected Area</a> currently consists of two regions in the western and eastern Weddell Sea, parts of which are within WOBEC’s target area,” explained Katharina Teschke, a marine ecologist and head of the MPA project at AWI. The planned MPA aims to preserve an untouched marine region as a refuge for cold-adapted species, allowing them to adapt to changing conditions as Earth warms.</p>



<p>“So far, the proposal for a new Marine Protected Area has failed to pass because the vote has to be unanimous, and the current geopolitical situation makes CCAMLR negotiations even tougher. However, the ratification of the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (<a href="https://bbnj-mgr.fas.harvard.edu/bbnj-treaty" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BBNJ Treaty</a>) last year is a promising development,” Teschke said.</p>



<p>“It’s a positive signal that could help stimulate the process of declaring a Marine Protected Area in the Weddell Sea under CCAMLR. WOBEC will give us the opportunity to create a science-based strategy for assessing biodiversity within the Marine Protected Area and its future changes,” she concluded.</p>



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



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How is sea ice loss affecting biodiversity in the Weddell Sea?

The Weddell Sea, the largest marginal sea in the Southern...

<p>Space, the final frontier. It's a captivating expanse that has drawn human curiosity and exploration for decades. Yet, as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-astronauts-exercise-stay-fit-healthy-space-missions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronauts</a> venture beyond Earth's atmosphere, they encounter a unique set of challenges, one of which is the profound impact that space <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/curvature-propulsion-warp-drive-krasnikov-tube-future-intergalactic-space-travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">travel</a> has on the immune system and human body.</p>



<p>Researchers from the <a href="https://www.buckinstitute.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buck Institute for Research on Aging</a> have unveiled insights into how the lack of gravity affects the immune system, offering potential solutions for astronauts and potentially even those of us who remain Earthbound.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-immune-system">Human immune system</h2>



<p>To fully appreciate the impact of this research, it's essential to have a foundational understanding of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-may-be-the-best-strategy-to-boost-your-immune-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immune system</a>.</p>



<p>Our bodies possess a remarkable defense mechanism, a complex and interconnected network of cells, tissues, and organs that tirelessly work to safeguard us from a constant barrage of external threats. </p>



<p>These threats, in the form of bacteria, viruses, and parasites, are always seeking opportunities to invade our bodies and cause harm.</p>



<p>Our immune system, however, is not a passive bystander. It's an active and dynamic force that constantly monitors our internal environment, identifies potential dangers, and launches targeted responses to neutralize them. </p>



<p>Key players in this defense system are lymphocytes and monocytes, immune cells that circulate in our blood.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-immune-system-of-astronauts-in-space">Immune system of astronauts in space</h2>



<p>Throughout the history of space exploration, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-microbiome-health-is-crucial-to-future-space-exploration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronauts</a> have consistently reported a range of immune-related complications during and after their missions. </p>



<p>These complications include a heightened susceptibility to infections, where astronauts become more prone to illnesses caused by various pathogens.</p>



<p>Additionally, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-microbiome-health-is-crucial-to-future-space-exploration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronauts</a> have experienced the reactivation of latent viruses, such as the varicella-zoster virus responsible for chickenpox and shingles. </p>



<p>Furthermore, heightened skin sensitivity, manifesting as rashes or irritations, has also been observed.</p>



<p>Disturbingly, these immune-related issues can arise even during short-duration spaceflights, underscoring the rapid and significant impact that microgravity has on the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vegan-and-keto-diets-rapidly-transform-the-immune-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immune system</a>.</p>



<p>The fact that even brief exposures to space can trigger these complications emphasizes the urgency of understanding and mitigating these risks for the well-being of astronauts venturing beyond Earth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microgravity-s-effects">Microgravity's effects</h2>



<p>Prior research had provided evidence suggesting that microgravity, the condition of near-weightlessness experienced in space, could negatively impact the function of immune cells. </p>



<p>However, the specific biological mechanisms responsible for this impairment remained unclear.</p>



<p>To address this knowledge gap, the research team at the Buck Institute, spearheaded by Dr. David Furman and Dr. Daniel Winer, initiated a study to investigate the effects of simulated microgravity on human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/viruses-can-either-help-or-harm-their-hosts-immune-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immune cells</a>.</p>



<p>Their goal was to uncover the underlying processes that contribute to immune dysfunction in microgravity environments, with the ultimate aim of developing strategies to protect astronauts' health during space missions.</p>



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



<p>Using a device developed by <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> to mimic the near-weightlessness of space, the researchers exposed immune cells from healthy volunteers to simulated microgravity for 25 hours.</p>



<p>Through advanced techniques like sequencing and super-resolution microscopy, they captured a detailed picture of how the cells' functions were altered in this unique environment.</p>



<p>What they discovered was both fascinating and unexpected. The changes observed in the immune cells of astronauts during spaceflight mirrored those seen in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-certain-odors-pheromones-speeds-up-aging-process/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging process</a> here on Earth.</p>



<p>This revelation suggests a potential link between microgravity and immune aging, opening up new avenues for research into both space medicine and strategies to combat age-related immune decline.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-mechanisms-and-immune-system">Space mechanisms and immune system</h2>



<p>Dr. Winer, an expert in mechanoimmunology (the study of how environmental forces affect immune cell function), highlighted the crucial role of mechanical forces in orchestrating immune responses. </p>



<p>"Interestingly, changes in mechanical forces appear to orchestrate immune cell function," said Winer. Parts of astroimmunology. </p>



<p>The study of immune system changes in space, are related to mechanoimmunolgy paving the way to better understand how to help the immune system survive in space.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seeking-solutions-space-nutraceuticals">Seeking solutions: Space nutraceuticals</h2>



<p>Armed with a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind immune dysfunction in microgravity, the researchers turned their attention to potential countermeasures. </p>



<p>Leveraging machine learning technology, they identified numerous compounds that could potentially protect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-changes-our-understanding-of-the-immune-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immune cells</a>.</p>



<p>One compound, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-red-wine-gives-some-people-a-headache/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quercetin</a>, a natural plant pigment found in various fruits and vegetables, emerged as a promising candidate. </p>



<p>Quercetin was shown to reverse a significant portion of the changes caused by microgravity and shield immune cells from damage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-on-space-travel-and-immune-system">Future research on space travel and immune system</h2>



<p>The Buck Institute team's findings have far-reaching implications. </p>



<p>"These findings define hallmarks of immune cell alteration in simulated microgravity, with correlation to spaceflight exposures in mice and humans. This work helps define avenues for future research in mechanoimmunology and astroimmunology and provides opportunities to develop countermeasures to maintain normal cellular function in space,” Dr. Winer emphasized.</p>



<p>Dr. Furman added that this study serves as a valuable resource for the scientific community, providing a comprehensive atlas of human biology in the extreme environment of space. </p>



<p>The research also opens doors to explore the parallels between spaceflight-induced immune changes and those associated with aging, potentially leading to interventions that could reverse age-related immune dysfunction.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-final-frontier">Beyond the final frontier</h2>



<p>As humanity continues its journey into space, understanding and mitigating the health risks associated with space travel becomes increasingly critical. </p>



<p>This research not only paves the way for protecting astronauts' immune systems but also offers potential benefits for people on Earth, particularly in the realm of aging research. </p>



<p>The cosmos, it seems, holds clues not just to the mysteries of the universe but also to the intricacies of our own biology.</p>



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



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

Space travel weakens astronauts' immune system, similar to aging

Space, the final frontier. It's a captivating expanse that has...

<p>The vibrant melodies of birds have filled our skies and enriched our world for millennia. But now, a shadow looms over this natural symphony. A recent study has painted a stark picture of North America's <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/the-12-endangered-birds-most-at-risk-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">avian</a> future, with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-population-north-america-dramatic-decline-lost-3-billion-birds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fewer birds</a> gracing our skies by the century's end. The culprit? The ever-encroaching specter of climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birds-in-peril-due-to-climate-change">Birds in peril due to climate change</h2>



<p>Imagine a world where the dawn chorus is muted, where the vibrant flashes of migratory birds become rare sights. This is a potential reality highlighted by the new research.</p>



<p>Study co-author Luoye Chen is an assistant professor at the <a href="https://hkust.edu.hk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hong Kong University of Science and Technology</a>.</p>



<p>"Many studies try to attribute causes like climate or land use change to bird population decline based on field-level observation. However, there has been no large-scale statistical analysis that puts together historical data on biodiversity and climate for North America," said Professor Chen.</p>



<p>This study, unlike previous ones, is the first to combine a vast trove of historical data on bird populations and climate across North America. It's a continental-scale analysis that paints a comprehensive picture of the avian crisis unfolding around us.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unseen-hand-of-climate-change">Unseen hand of climate change</h2>



<p>While factors like pesticides, pollution, and habitat loss are known threats to birds, this study points a finger at a less obvious culprit: climate change.</p>



<p>"Even after controlling for a lot of other things, we see that climate change has a significant negative impact on birds," noted study co-author Madhu Khanna, a professor at the <a href="https://illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign</a>. "This is just one more reason we need to make serious efforts to mitigate climate change as soon as possible."</p>



<p>The study reveals that climate change is like an unseen hand, subtly manipulating the delicate balance of bird populations. It's not just about rising temperatures; it's about disruptions to food chains, shifts in migration patterns, and the loss of suitable habitats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-generalists-and-specialists">Generalists and specialists</h2>



<p>Not all birds are affected equally by climate change. The study draws a distinction between generalist and specialist species.</p>



<p>Generalist birds, like sparrows, are adaptable and can thrive in various environments. While they have experienced a decline, their future doesn't look as bleak as their specialist counterparts.</p>



<p>Specialist birds, such as the spotted owl and the red-cockaded woodpecker, are more vulnerable. Their specialized diets and habitat requirements make them less adaptable to a changing climate. The study predicts a steeper decline for these birds, with potential losses of up to 16% by 2099.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-migratory-birds-and-climate-change">Migratory birds and climate change</h2>



<p>Migratory birds, like the majestic whooping crane, face a unique set of challenges. While they have the ability to move in response to environmental changes, their migration patterns are finely tuned to specific cues and timings.</p>



<p>"These birds have generations-long patterns of migration. They're going to migrate no matter what, and they don't know what's waiting at the other end. It may be too hot or dry for them," explained Khanna.</p>



<p>Climate change disrupts these patterns, leading to mismatches between migration timing and food availability, potentially causing significant harm to migratory bird populations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hope-of-adaptation">Hope of adaptation</h2>



<p>Can birds adapt to a warming climate? It's a question that has puzzled researchers for years. While some small-scale studies have hinted at potential adaptive behaviors, this new research paints a less optimistic picture.</p>



<p>"Previous small-scale field studies showed potential adaptive behaviors in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-feeding-benefits-people-as-much-as-birds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> responding to climate change," said Chen. "Unfortunately, we didn't find evidence to support adaptation over time. In the long term, we still found significant reductions."</p>



<p>This suggests that even if birds can adapt in the short term, the long-term effects of climate change are too overwhelming for them to cope with.</p>



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



<p>The numbers may seem small - a decline of 2% to 16% - but the impact goes far beyond statistics. Birds play crucial roles in ecosystems, from pollination to pest control. A <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/why-are-birds-endangered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decline in their numbers</a> has a ripple effect throughout the natural world.</p>



<p>"Many of the specialist birds really are quite special. Some are endangered species, and others are endemic to very small areas," noted Professor Chen. "We can’t afford to lose any of them, given their crucial roles in ecosystems."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-our-feathered-friends">Protecting our feathered friends</h2>



<p>The research serves as a wake-up call. It's a stark reminder that climate change is not just an abstract threat; it's a present danger that is already affecting the vibrant life around us.</p>



<p>The decline of North American bird populations is a canary in the coal mine, a warning sign of the ecological disruptions that lie ahead. It's a call to action, urging us to protect these feathered friends and the ecosystems they inhabit.</p>



<p>By mitigating climate change, preserving habitats, and supporting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-birds-diving-petrels-return-home-island-conservation-efforts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a>, we can ensure that the skies above us remain filled with the vibrant colors and songs of birds for generations to come. It's not just about saving birds; it's about preserving the delicate balance of our planet.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2950138524000044?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Environmental Change Advances</a></em>.</p>



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Most birds are at great risk from climate change

The vibrant melodies of birds have filled our skies and...

<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>



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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>



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<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<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>



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<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

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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>



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<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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