<p>Life needs proteins for almost everything, from cell repair to immune defense. Scientists have long asked how the first proteins were formed before cells had complex machinery.</p>



<p>A new study reports a simple, water-friendly reaction that links early ingredients into the first steps toward protein-making. </p>



<p>The project was led by Professor Matthew Powner at University College London (<a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCL</a>), a chemist whose lab explores prebiotic chemistry.</p>



<p>"At life’s functional core, there is a complex and inseparable interplay between nucleic acids and proteins, but the origin of this relationship remains a mystery," wrote the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-molecules-that-build-proteins">Molecules that build proteins</h2>



<p>The team showed that RNA - a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-discovery-water-molecules-will-force-chemistry-textbooks-to-be-rewritten/">molecule</a> that stores and transfers genetic information and can catalyze reactions - can become chemically linked to amino acids. </p>



<p>These small molecules build proteins, and the linkage occurs under mild conditions in water.</p>



<p>The researchers changed amino acids into a more reactive form that holds extra energy, then linked those energized amino acids to RNA at a specific spot in the molecule, all without needing enzymes.</p>



<p>The reaction preferred the end of a double stranded RNA over interior positions, which avoids random chemistry that would scramble sequences. </p>



<p>The experts also reported strong yields for several amino acids, including arginine linked to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forgotten-chemical-reactions-offer-clues-to-lifes-origins/">adenosine</a> at up to 76 percent.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sulfur-chemistry-drives-origins">Sulfur chemistry drives origins</h2>



<p>A thiol is a sulfur-containing compound common in metabolism, and thioesters made from thiols power many reactions in modern cells. </p>



<p>Using thioesters makes chemical sense for early Earth because they react in water without falling apart quickly, helping drive protein-related chemistry.</p>



<p>Earlier work from the same community showed that pantetheine, the active fragment of Coenzyme A that forms many biological thioesters today, can form under prebiotic conditions in water. </p>



<p>That work supports the idea that the same types of sulfur chemistry existed before life began.</p>



<p>This new result connects that energy-rich chemistry to RNA handling of amino acids. It links metabolism- like reactions to information carriers, which is exactly the bridge origin of life research has needed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-molecules-found-in-all-living-cells">Molecules found in all living cells</h2>



<p>The team uncovered a switch that controls two different steps. In step one, thioesters favor attaching the amino acid to RNA, creating aminoacyl RNA in water at neutral pH. </p>



<p>In step two, converting to thioacids and adding a mild oxidant pushed peptide bond formation, which produced peptidyl RNA in very high yields.</p>



<p>Peptides are short chains of amino acids, usually two to 50 units long, while larger folded chains are proteins. </p>



<p>Making peptidyl RNA shows that RNA-bound amino acids can be extended into short chains, a necessary move toward protein-like function.</p>



<p>“What is groundbreaking is that the activated amino acid used in this study is a thioester, a type of molecule made from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/key-compound-suggests-that-life-beyond-earth-could-be-common/">Coenzyme A</a>, a chemical found in all living cells," said Dr. Jyoti Singh of UCL Chemistry. "This discovery could potentially link metabolism, the genetic code, and protein building,”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neutral-waters-spark-proteins">Neutral waters spark proteins</h2>



<p>The chemistry works in water at near neutral pH, which points to pools, lakes, or wet shorelines rather than the open ocean. </p>



<p>Concentrations would have been higher in small bodies of water, and minerals could have helped organize the molecules.</p>



<p>Freeze concentrate cycles also help. The researchers observed effective aminoacylation under eutectic ice conditions near 19°F. </p>



<p>In this environment, ice excludes salt and concentrates solutes into brines, which speed reactions without harsh reagents.</p>



<p>“It seems pretty probable that this reaction would have been occurring on early Earth,” said Professor Powner. That assessment reflects the mild requirements and the water compatibility of the chemistry.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-chemistry-and-biology">Bridging chemistry and biology</h2>



<p>Modern cells make proteins with the ribosome, a ribonucleoprotein machine that reads messenger RNA and couples amino acids with the help of transfer RNAs. </p>



<p>The new chemistry provides a path for RNA to handle amino acids without proteins, easing the chicken or egg problem.</p>



<p>An earlier study proposed an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rna-breakthrough-sheds-light-on-the-beginning-of-life/">RNA</a> peptide world in which RNA and short peptides co-evolved, forming chimeric molecules that could grow and select function. </p>



<p>The present result shows a plausible way for RNA to acquire and extend amino acids in water.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-modern-genetic-code">The modern genetic code</h2>



<p>The genetic code is the set of rules that maps RNA triplets to amino acids. </p>



<p>By preferring attachment at RNA termini and operating under duplex control, this chemistry hints at how sequence specific pairing could later become coded instruction.</p>



<p>The researchers point to the need for sequence preferences that pair specific RNA sequences with specific <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lifes-building-blocks-may-have-formed-near-newborn-stars-and-planets/">amino acids</a>. That would move from chemistry that charges RNA to chemistry that begins to encode.</p>



<p>Success there would show how early RNA could use simple rules to shape peptide sequences, with later evolution building the fully fledged ribosome and the modern code.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09388-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a>.</p>



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Scientists think they discovered the origin of life on Earth

Life needs proteins for almost everything, from cell repair to immune defense. Scientists have long asked how the first proteins were formed before cells had complex machinery. A new study reports a simple, water-friendly reaction that links early ingredients into the first steps toward protein-making. The project was led by Professor Matthew Powner at University College London (UCL), a chemist whose lab explores prebiotic chemistry. "At life’s functional core, there is a complex and inseparable interplay between nucleic acids and proteins, but the origin of this relationship...

<p>Bees and other pollinators, such as butterflies, bats, and hummingbirds, are increasingly under threat due to human activities. Pollination is vital for the survival of ecosystems, with nearly 90% of wild flowering plant species and over 75% of food crops relying on animal pollination.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, pollinators are also crucial for food security and biodiversity conservation. To highlight their importance, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-bee-day-highlights-urgent-need-to-protect-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UN designated</a> May 20 as World Bee Day. The aim is to enhance measures to protect pollinators, thereby addressing global food supply issues and reducing hunger, especially in developing countries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-getting-young-people-involved">Getting young people involved</h2>



<p>World Bee Day 2024 focuses on the theme “Bee engaged with Youth,” emphasizing the involvement of young people in beekeeping and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saving-pollinators-wild-bees-boosts-food-supply-income/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinator conservation</a>. This year's campaign seeks to raise awareness among youth and other stakeholders about the critical role of pollinators in agriculture, ecological balance, and biodiversity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Engaging young people in beekeeping activities, educational initiatives, and advocacy can inspire future environmental leaders and empower them to make a positive impact.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-severe-threats-to-bees-worldwide-nbsp">Severe threats to bees worldwide&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Immediate action is necessary as bees face severe threats, with species extinction rates 100 to 1,000 times higher than normal due to human impacts. Nearly 35% of invertebrate pollinators, like bees and butterflies, and 17% of vertebrate pollinators, such as bats, are at risk of extinction globally.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The continuation of this trend could lead to the replacement of nutritious crops with staple crops like rice, corn, and potatoes, resulting in an imbalanced diet.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Intensive farming practices, land-use changes, monocropping, pesticides, and climate change-related higher temperatures all pose significant threats to bee populations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prioritizing-conservation-nbsp-on-world-bee-day-nbsp">Prioritizing conservation&nbsp;on World Bee Day&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Recognizing the pollination crisis, the <a href="https://www.cbd.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Convention on Biological Diversity</a> has prioritized the conservation and sustainable use of pollinators. The <a href="https://www.pollinator.org/international" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Pollinator Initiative</a> (IPI), established in 2000, aims to monitor pollinator decline, address the lack of taxonomic information, assess the economic value of pollination, and protect pollinator diversity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.fao.org/home/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations</a> (FAO) coordinates the IPI and provides technical assistance on issues such as queen breeding, artificial insemination, and sustainable honey production and export marketing.</p>



<p>The decline of pollinators affects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/food-production-is-one-of-the-biggest-drivers-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global food production</a>, as their role in pollinating food crops is indispensable.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By fostering diverse agricultural systems and reducing reliance on toxic chemicals, we can facilitate increased pollination, improving food quality and quantity. This benefits human populations and the ecosystem as a whole. Moreover, pollinators also play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and ensuring the resilience of ecosystems.</p>



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



<p>There are numerous national and international initiatives dedicated to the protection of pollinators. These efforts are essential for safeguarding our food supply and maintaining healthy ecosystems. </p>



<p>By promoting sustainable agricultural practices and protecting pollinator habitats, we can help reverse the decline of these vital species and ensure their survival for future generations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-can-we-help-improve-bee-conservation">How can we help improve bee conservation?</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-individually">Individually:</h3>



<ul>
<li>Plant diverse native plants that flower throughout the year.</li>



<li>Purchase raw honey from local farmers.</li>



<li>Support sustainable agricultural products.</li>



<li>Avoid using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticides-have-become-increasingly-toxic-to-insects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pesticides</a>, fungicides, or herbicides in gardens.</li>



<li>Protect wild bee colonies when possible.</li>



<li>Sponsor a beehive.</li>



<li>Create a bee water fountain by placing a water bowl outside.</li>



<li>Help sustain forest ecosystems.</li>



<li>Raise awareness by sharing information within communities and networks.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-as-beekeepers-or-farmers">As beekeepers or farmers:</h3>



<ul>
<li>Reduce or modify pesticide use.</li>



<li>Diversify crops and plant attractive crops around fields.</li>



<li>Create hedgerows.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-as-governments-and-decision-makers">As governments and decision-makers:</h3>



<ul>
<li>Enhance local community participation in decision-making, especially indigenous peoples.</li>



<li>Implement strategic measures and provide financial incentives.</li>



<li>Foster collaboration among national and international organizations, and academic networks to monitor and evaluate pollination services.</li>
</ul>



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



<p>Beyond the critical ecological roles they play in our world, bees are truly fascinating creatures. There are over 20,000 known species of bees, and they come in diverse sizes, colors, and behaviors. Not all bees live in hives; many are solitary and make their nests in the ground or in hollow stems.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigation-nbsp">Navigation&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Bees have an exceptional sense of direction which allows them to navigate and find their way back to their hive, even over long distances. They use landmarks, the position of the sun, and even magnetic fields to orient themselves.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thermoregulation-nbsp">Thermoregulation&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Honeybees can regulate the temperature of their hive. During the winter, they generate heat by shivering, and to cool the hive during hot conditions, they collect water and distribute it throughout the hive, fanning their wings to evaporate it and cool the air.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-queen-bee">The Queen bee</h3>



<p>In many bee species, the queen can live for several years, whereas worker bees may only live for a few weeks. Queens are the only females in the hive to reproduce, spending their lives laying eggs, sometimes up to 2,000 a day in peak season.</p>



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



<p>Bees <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bee-communication-is-hindered-by-human-activity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communicate</a> with each other using a "waggle dance" to convey information about the direction and distance to sources of food. This dance includes various movements that can inform other bees precisely where to find nectar and pollen.</p>



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World Bee Day 2024: Bee engaged with youth

Bees and other pollinators, such as butterflies, bats, and hummingbirds,...

Happy,Young,Woman,Choosing,Meat,From,Glass,Cabinet,In,Grocery

<p>In the bustling world of consumer food choices, the factors that influence our purchasing decisions are as diverse as they are complex. </p>



<p>Recent research dives into the intricate web of considerations that shape our selections when it comes to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/12-of-americans-are-responsible-for-over-half-of-all-u-s-beef-consumption/">meat and d</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/12-of-americans-are-responsible-for-over-half-of-all-u-s-beef-consumption/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/12-of-americans-are-responsible-for-over-half-of-all-u-s-beef-consumption/">iry products</a>, revealing a thought-provoking hierarchy of priorities.</p>



<p>The study was conducted across five countries -- Czechia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the UK. It was led by Dr Andy Jin from the <a href="https://www.port.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Portsmouth</a>. Jin, along with his colleagues, sought to identify the attributes that hold the most sway over consumers as they navigate the grocery aisles.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hierarchy-of-importance">Hierarchy of importance</h2>



<p>In an online survey, 3,192 participants were asked to rate the importance of 18 different factors on a scale from 1 (not at all important) to 5 (extremely important). </p>



<p>These factors encompassed a wide range of attributes, including freshness, quality/taste, healthy eating, nutrition, price, processing, special offers, convenience of use/preparation, and familiarity of brand.</p>



<p>Interestingly, the study found that across all surveyed countries, consumers consistently prioritized freshness, quality/taste, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-welfare-concerns-more-people-than-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal welfare</a> as the most important attributes. </p>



<p>"Our study highlights the complex interplay of factors that influence consumer behavior when buying meat and dairy products," Dr. Jin explained. </p>



<p>"Consumers indicated that information related to animal welfare, food safety, and health and nutrition was considered more important than environmental sustainability when making food choices," he continued.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-food-choices-and-the-sustainability-conundrum">Food choices and the sustainability conundrum</h2>



<p>While environmental factors such as food miles, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-diets-offer-health-benefits-and-lower-carbon-footprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon footprint</a>, and organic production were deemed less important in influencing purchasing decisions, sustainability labels were still perceived as helpful among consumers. </p>



<p>This finding suggests that while consumers may not prioritize sustainability as highly as other factors, they still value the information provided by these labels.</p>



<p>The implications of this research extend beyond the realm of consumer behavior. Policymakers, producers, and retailers in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-must-change-if-nations-hope-to-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food industry</a>, who are striving to meet evolving consumer demands for more sustainable products, can glean valuable insights from these findings.</p>



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



<p>When it comes to food, consumers play a crucial role in promoting sustainability through their purchasing decisions and eating habits. By making informed choices, individuals can support environmentally friendly practices, reduce waste, and contribute to a more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-is-unsustainable-and-must-be-transformed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainable food system</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Making eco-friendly food choices</h3>



<p>Consumers can opt for products that have a lower <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-meat-and-dairy-alternatives-will-dramatically-transform-the-global-food-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental impact</a>, such as:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Organic produce</strong>: Organic farming methods avoid the use of synthetic pesticides and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nitrogen-pollution-from-food-production-could-be-halved/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fertilizers</a>, promoting healthier soil and ecosystems.</li>



<li><strong>Sustainably sourced seafood</strong>: Choosing seafood from well-managed fisheries or responsible aquaculture farms helps prevent overfishing and protect marine habitats.</li>



<li><strong>Products with minimal packaging</strong>: Selecting items with reduced or eco-friendly packaging minimizes waste and reduces the demand for single-use plastics.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Local and seasonal food choices</h3>



<p>Buying <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/home-food-production-helped-combat-hunger-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">local and seasonal</a> produce offers several sustainability benefits:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Reduced transportation emissions</strong>: Local food travels shorter distances, cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions from transportation.</li>



<li><strong>Supporting local economies</strong>: Purchasing from local farmers and producers helps maintain a thriving local economy and preserves agricultural land.</li>



<li><strong>Minimizing food waste</strong>: Seasonal produce is more likely to be consumed before spoiling, reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reducing-food-waste-greater-food-security-less-environmental-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food waste</a>.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Adopting plant-based diets</h3>



<p>Shifting towards a more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/increasing-plant-based-food-production-would-have-extremely-positive-impact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant-based diet</a> can significantly reduce an individual's environmental footprint:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Lower greenhouse gas emissions</strong>: Plant-based foods generally require less land, water, and energy to produce compared to animal-based products.</li>



<li><strong>Reduced deforestation</strong>: Animal agriculture is a major driver of deforestation, habitat destruction, and biodiversity loss.</li>



<li><strong>Improved resource efficiency</strong>: Plant-based diets use resources more efficiently, as crops are directly consumed rather than being used as animal feed.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Minimizing waste through food choices</h3>



<p>Consumers can adopt practices that minimize food waste, such as:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Proper meal planning</strong>: Planning meals in advance and buying only what is needed helps reduce food waste at home.</li>



<li><strong>Storing food correctly</strong>: Proper storage techniques extend the shelf life of food, reducing the likelihood of spoilage.</li>



<li><strong>Composting</strong>: Composting food scraps and other organic waste diverts waste from landfills and creates nutrient-rich soil for gardening.</li>
</ul>



<p>By making sustainable food choices, consumers send a powerful message to producers, retailers, and policymakers. As more people prioritize <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/agricultural-technologies-can-reverse-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustainability</a> in their purchasing decisions, it creates a demand for more environmentally friendly products and practices, ultimately driving positive change throughout the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seed-systems-will-play-a-key-role-in-future-food-security/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food system</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-the-gap-from-attitudes-to-behavior">Bridging the gap: From attitudes to behavior</h2>



<p>Dr Jin emphasizes that labels alone are not sufficient to change behavior, particularly for consumers who have low or no behavioral intention to buy sustainable meat or dairy products. </p>



<p>He suggests, "These results should be translated into additional policy measures, such as nudges or behavioral interventions, helping individuals translate their attitudes into behavior and facilitating the choice of sustainably produced products."</p>



<p>The study underscores the need for a multi-faceted approach to promoting sustainable food choices. </p>



<p>While labels play a crucial role in providing information, they must be accompanied by targeted marketing strategies and policy initiatives that address the complex interplay of factors influencing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-human-diets-pose-many-risks-health-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consumer decisions</a>.</p>



<p>As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of food choices, it is clear that the path to sustainability is not a straightforward one. </p>



<p>By understanding the hierarchy of priorities that guide consumer behavior, we can work towards developing more effective strategies to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices in the meat and dairy industry.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0950329324000818?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food Quality and Preference</a></em>.</p>



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Animal welfare is the biggest concern for people when making food choices

In the bustling world of consumer food choices, the factors...

<p>In an unprecedented feat of cosmic observation, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has revealed the most distant black hole merger ever observed.</p>



<p>Astronomers utilized this advanced observatory to detect an ongoing <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/galaxy-system-ZS7_black-hole-merger_closeup_JWST_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">merger of two galaxies</a>, along with their central <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-map-of-supermassive-black-holes-unveiled/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supermassive black holes</a>, dating back to when the universe was a mere 740 million years old.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spectacular-black-hole-merger">Spectacular black hole merger</h2>



<p>Historically, supermassive black holes have been identified in the majority of the massive galaxies in the local universe, including our own <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>.</p>



<p>These astronomical phenomena are believed to have significantly influenced the development of their host galaxies. Despite our extensive knowledge, the rapid and early growth of these black holes remains a mystery. </p>



<p>The new findings, published in the <em>Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society</em>, suggest that these growth processes began much earlier and progressed much faster than previously believed.</p>



<p>The recent observations by the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Webb" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JWST</a> provide a glimpse into the early universe, showcasing the merger of two galaxies identified as <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/galaxy-system-ZS7_black-hole-merger_JWST_1.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">system ZS7</a>. </p>



<p>This event is critical because it supports the theory that black holes experienced significant growth very early in the history of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-precise-measurement-of-our-expanding-universe-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universe</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-the-depths-of-space">Insights from the depths of space</h2>



<p>The distinctive spectrographic features of massive, matter-accreting black holes have allowed astronomers to pinpoint them even in the distant universe. </p>



<p>"We found evidence for very dense gas with fast motions in the vicinity of the black hole, as well as hot and highly ionized gas illuminated by the energetic radiation typically produced by black holes in their accretion episodes," said lead author Hannah Übler of the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> in the UK. </p>



<p>She highlighted the role of Webb's sharp imaging capabilities, which enabled the team to spatially separate the two black holes involved in the merger.</p>



<p>Roberto Maiolino, another team member, noted the challenges in measuring the masses of these distant objects. He explained that while one of the black holes has a confirmed mass of 50 million times that of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/see-the-sun-in-exquisite-detail-in-rare-solar-orbiter-video/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the sun</a>, estimating the mass of the second, which is shrouded in dense gas, is more complex.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-impact-of-early-black-hole-mergers">Broader impact of early black hole mergers</h2>



<p>These findings also hint at the role of mergers in the rapid growth of black holes during the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-discovers-what-powered-the-reionization-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic dawn</a>. "Our findings suggest that merging is an important route through which black holes can rapidly grow, even at <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-black-hole-ever-discovered-dates-back-to-the-dawn-of-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic dawn</a>," Übler explained. </p>



<p>This observation is supported by other discoveries of active, massive black holes in the distant universe, underscoring the significant impact these entities have had on galaxy evolution from the beginning.</p>



<p>Pablo G. Pérez-González, another key researcher on the team, compared the stellar mass of the studied system to that of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/starburst-spikes-seen-exploding-from-nebula-n79-are-1630-light-years-long/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Large Magellanic Cloud</a>, offering a perspective on the potential evolutionary paths of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-hubble-image-captures-two-merging-galaxies-in-arp-107/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">merging galaxies</a> hosting supermassive black holes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunting-black-holes-with-lasers">Hunting black holes with lasers</h2>



<p>The study also anticipates the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-cosmic-object-detected-gravitational-wave-signal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravitational waves</a> that will be produced once the black holes complete their merger. </p>



<p>Such events will be observable by future gravitational wave observatories, including the upcoming space-based Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (<a href="https://lisa.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LISA</a>). </p>



<p>"Webb's results are telling us that lighter systems detectable by LISA should be far more frequent than previously assumed," shared LISA Lead Project Scientist Nora Luetzgendorf of the European Space Agency. "It will most likely make us adjust our models for LISA rates in this mass range. This is just the tip of the iceberg."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-s-cycle-3-program">Webb's Cycle 3 program</h2>



<p>The team has recently been awarded a new Large Programme in Webb's Cycle 3 of observations, to study in detail the relationship between massive black holes and their host galaxies in the first billion years. </p>



<p>An important component of this program will be to systematically search for and characterize black hole mergers. This effort will determine the rate at which black hole merging occurs at early cosmic epochs. </p>



<p>In addition, it will assess the role of merging in the early growth of black holes and the rate at which gravitational waves are produced from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visible-matter-dark-matter-evolved-together-big-bang/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">big bang</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-continuing-the-quest-to-understand-black-hole-mergers">Continuing the quest to understand black hole mergers</h2>



<p>In summary, the discovery of the earliest known black hole merger, made possible by the Webb Telescope, marks a significant milestone in our understanding of the early Universe and the growth of supermassive black holes. </p>



<p>This fascinating find highlights the rapid evolution of these cosmic giants while paving the way for future research into the relationship between black holes and their host galaxies. </p>



<p>As astronomers continue to explore the mysteries of the cosmos, this discovery serves as a reminder of the incredible potential for new knowledge and the importance of pushing the boundaries of scientific inquiry. </p>



<p>With the promise of future gravitational wave observations and ongoing studies using cutting-edge technology like the JWST, we stand on the brink of a new era in our understanding of the Universe and its most enigmatic inhabitants.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/mnras/article/531/1/355/7671512?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society</em></a>.</p>



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



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Most distant black hole merger ever witnessed found by Webb

In an unprecedented feat of cosmic observation, the James Webb...

<p>The gut microbiota -- a diverse ecosystem of bacteria, viruses, and fungi within our digestive tract -- plays a crucial role in our health, influencing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-microbiome-trillions-of-bacteria-unique-like-your-fingerprint/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more than just digestion</a>. Recent research has revealed our microbiome's significant impact on cognitive functions, emotions, sense of fairness, and even our social behaviors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-microbiota-and-social-behavior">Gut microbiota and social behavior</h2>



<p>Studies involving animals have provided compelling insights. For example, mice raised in sterile conditions, free of microbial life, exhibit difficulties in social interactions. This finding hints at a profound, essential link between our gut microbiota and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-dance-of-dopamine-and-serotonin-influences-social-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social behavior</a>.</p>



<p>However, applying these animal-based findings to human health is complex. Researchers are still exploring the specific neuronal, immune, and hormonal pathways that enable the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-discover-how-our-gut-instincts-reach-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut microbiota</a> to communicate with the brain. </p>



<p>Although a correlation between the composition of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hunger-hormones-in-the-gut-can-change-our-eating-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut microbiota</a> and fairness has been noted, the exact mechanisms remain unclear, leaving scientists to continue unraveling this intricate relationship.</p>



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



<p>Hilke Plassmann of <a href="https://www.sorbonne-universite.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sorbonne University</a> and <a href="https://www.insead.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Insead</a>, leading the Control-Interoception-Attention Team at the Paris Brain Institute, sheds light on potential pathways for this interaction. </p>



<p>"The intestinal ecosystem communicates with the central nervous system via various pathways, including the vagus nerve," Plassmann notes. </p>



<p>This communication might also involve biochemical signals that prompt the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-meditation-transforms-gut-microbes-for-optimal-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crucial for brain health</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fairness-and-decision-making-from-the-gut">Fairness and decision-making from the gut</h2>



<p>To explore whether the human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-gamers-help-advance-gut-microbiome-research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut microbiota</a> directly influences decision-making, Plassmann and her team turned to the "ultimatum game," a behavioral test that measures responses to fairness. </p>



<p>In this game, one player divides a sum of money between themselves and another player, who can reject the offer if it feels unfair, leaving both players with nothing. </p>



<p>This scenario tests "altruistic punishment," where rejecting an unfair offer serves to uphold equality over personal gain.</p>



<p>The study involved 101 participants, split into two groups over seven weeks. One group received dietary supplements containing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/beer-may-be-better-for-your-gut-than-probiotics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">probiotics and prebiotics</a>, while the other received a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/placebos-work-even-when-people-know-what-they-are-taking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">placebo</a>. Both groups played the ultimatum game at the start and end of the study period.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhanced-fairness-through-gut-health">Enhanced fairness through gut health</h2>



<p>The findings were compelling. By the study's conclusion, the supplemented group significantly rejected more unequal offers, demonstrating an enhanced sensitivity to fairness, compared to the placebo group, which showed no change in behavior. </p>



<p>Biological assessments provided further intrigue. Participants who initially had a greater bacterial imbalance showed the most pronounced changes in their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mothers-hardships-are-reflected-in-their-childs-gut-microbiome/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut microbiota</a> and the highest sensitivity to fairness after supplementation. </p>



<p>Notably, these participants also exhibited a decrease in tyrosine levels, a precursor to dopamine, suggesting a potential biological mechanism at play.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-and-challenges-of-microbiota">Potential and challenges of microbiota</h2>



<p>While it's premature to claim that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gut-bacteria-of-infant-boys-can-enhance-cognitive-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut bacteria</a> can alter our rationality and openness to social considerations, Plassmann remains optimistic about the research directions. "These new results clarify which biological pathways we must look at," she remarks. </p>



<p>The idea that dietary modifications could influence our decision-making and fairness by altering our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-gut-microbiome-is-shaped-by-what-we-eat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gut microbiota</a> opens up exciting possibilities for future research, emphasizing the need for careful exploration in this field.</p>



<p>This burgeoning area of study not only highlights the complexity of human biology but also points to innovative ways we might someday enhance our social interactions and mental health through dietary choices, guided by an understanding of our microbiota. </p>



<p>The journey to fully understand the influence of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/appetite-control-intermittent-fasting-alters-gut-brain-communication/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">internal ecosystems</a> on our behavior and decision-making continues, promising intriguing insights and potential interventions in the realms of psychology and neuroscience.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-on-gut-microbiota">More on gut microbiota </h2>



<p>Beyond decision making and fairness, the gut microbiota has been linked to numerous health conditions and diseases. Studies show it influences obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular health. </p>



<p>An imbalance in gut bacteria, known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/christensenella-minuta-gut-bacteria-linked-obesity-different-men-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dysbiosis</a>, is associated with autoimmune diseases like Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Emerging evidence suggests a role in cancer development and response to therapies. </p>



<p>Additionally, gut microbiota impacts mental health, with links to anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorders. Diet, antibiotics, and lifestyle significantly affect the gut microbiome. </p>



<p>Ongoing research aims to harness this knowledge for personalized medicine, probiotics, and dietary interventions to promote overall health and prevent disease.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://academic.oup.com/pnasnexus/article/3/5/pgae166/7667795">PNAS Nexus</a></em>.</p>



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



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Gut bacteria influence our social behavior and sense of fairness

The gut microbiota -- a diverse ecosystem of bacteria, viruses,...

<p>Researchers have made significant strides in the field of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spatial-hearing-how-humans-know-where-sounds-come-from/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spatial</a> computing and holograms, developing cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) glasses -- a prototype headset that look and feel like a typical pair of glasses.</p>



<p>This device combines holographic imaging and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lawless-superintelligence-zero-evidence-ai-control-possible/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence (AI)</a> to project full-color, 3D images directly onto the lenses, creating a vivid augmented experience that is both lightweight and stylish, suitable for continuous wear.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Big step for spatial computing</h2>



<p>The technology was detailed in a recent study published in the journal<em> Nature.</em> Gordon Wetzstein, an associate professor of electrical engineering and a pioneer in spatial computing, spearheaded the project at the <a href="https://www.computationalimaging.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford Computational Imaging lab</a>. </p>



<p>He described the AR glasses as a pair of everyday glasses that opens up a vibrant, enriched world for the wearer. </p>



<p>"Our headset appears to the outside world just like an everyday <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-wear-glasses-smarter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pair of glasses</a>, but what the wearer sees through the lenses is an enriched world overlaid with vibrant, full-color 3D computed imagery," Wetzstein noted.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ar-glasses-have-potential-in-many-industries">AR glasses have potential in many industries</h2>



<p>Although still in the prototype stage, this technology has the potential to revolutionize numerous fields, from entertainment and gaming to educational training. </p>



<p>Imagine playing video games where characters and environments <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-dead-people-have-the-right-to-forbid-their-digital-resurrection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">come to life</a> in your living room, creating an immersive experience like never before. </p>



<p>Students could benefit from interactive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/real-life-star-trek-holodeck-created-for-robots-using-chatgpt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">educational tools</a>, learning complex subjects with visual aids that make lessons more engaging and easier to understand.</p>



<p>In professional settings, the impact could be profound. Envision a surgeon planning intricate procedures with enhanced visual guidance, allowing for more precise and safer operations. </p>



<p>With AR glasses, they could see detailed, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/top-ten-scientific-breakthroughs-in-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">real-time 3D images</a> of the patient's anatomy overlaid on their view, aiding in navigation and decision-making during surgery.</p>



<p>Similarly, an airplane mechanic could train on the latest engines through immersive AR. Instead of relying solely on manuals or static images, mechanics could see step-by-step instructions and 3D models overlaid on the actual engine, improving training efficiency and accuracy. </p>



<p>This hands-on, visual approach could reduce errors and increase the speed of learning new procedures.</p>



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



<p>The development team overcame significant engineering challenges to create these AR glasses, achieving a balance of form and function. </p>



<p>Previous attempts at AR solutions often resulted in bulky headsets or poor 3D visuals that could cause eye strain or nausea. </p>



<p>Gun-Yeal Lee, a postdoctoral researcher in the project, emphasized the uniqueness of their design, saying, "There is no other augmented reality system out there now with comparable compact form factor or that matches our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-ever-3d-map-of-human-brain-created-by-harvard-and-google/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">3D image</a> quality."</p>



<p>Traditional AR systems generally do not allow for direct viewing of the real world. Instead, they rely on external cameras to capture real-time images, which are then merged with digital content. </p>



<p>"The user sees a digitized approximation of the real world with computed imagery overlaid. It’s sort of augmented virtual reality, not true augmented reality," explained Lee.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-holography-and-ai">Role of holography and AI</h2>



<p>The breakthrough in developing these AR glasses came from utilizing holography, a technique known for its potential in creating 3D visuals since the 1940s but limited by its depth cues, often resulting in an underwhelming experience. </p>



<p>The team's integration of AI improved these cues significantly, which, along with advancements in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-leap-making-light-waves-stand-still-photonic-crystals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nanophotonics</a> and waveguide display technology, allowed them to project holograms directly onto the lenses of the AR glasses. </p>



<p>These holograms are generated by small displays mounted on the sides of the glasses and are then channeled through nanometer-scale etchings on the lenses to the wearer's eyes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhanced-realism-and-comfort">Enhanced realism and comfort</h2>



<p>The dual approach of stereoscopic and holographic imaging not only enhances the 3D effect but also increases the overall life-like quality of the images. </p>



<p>"With holography, you also get the full 3D volume in front of each eye increasing the life-like 3D image quality," explained Brian Chao, another doctoral student involved in the project.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-ar-glasses">Future of AR glasses</h2>



<p>In summary, the improved realism and comfort of this AR technology mark a significant step forward in the development of AR glasses. </p>



<p>Holographic displays have been touted as the pinnacle of 3D techniques for decades, yet commercial success has been elusive. </p>



<p>Wetzstein remains optimistic about the future, suggesting that this innovation could be the breakthrough needed. </p>



<p>"Holographic displays have long been considered the ultimate 3D technique, but it’s never quite achieved that big commercial breakthrough. Maybe now they have the killer app they’ve been waiting for all these years," Wetzstein reflected.</p>



<p>This novel approach could pave the way for widespread adoption of augmented reality in everyday life, offering an immersive experience without the drawbacks of previous systems.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07386-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a></em>.</p>



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New AR glasses offer immersive 3D hologram experience

Researchers have made significant strides in the field of spatial...

Modern,And,Harmonious,Couple,Prepares,Their,Favorite,Recipe,And,Shares

<p>A recent study from the prestigious Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2021 reveals an encouraging trend: global life expectancy is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/women-in-the-us-now-live-6-years-longer-than-men-as-life-expectancy-gap-widens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expected to rise</a> by nearly five years by 2050, despite various global challenges. </p>



<p>According to the findings published in <em>The Lancet</em>, life expectancy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-expectancy-drop-men-in-the-u-s-die-six-years-before-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">for males</a> is projected to increase by 4.9 years and for females by 4.2 years from 2022 to 2050.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-the-health-divide-global-progress-in-life-expectancy">Bridging the health divide: global progress in life expectancy</h2>



<p>This increase in global life expectancy is most significant in regions currently experiencing lower <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/women-in-the-us-now-live-6-years-longer-than-men-as-life-expectancy-gap-widens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life expectancies</a>, indicating a potential convergence in health outcomes worldwide. </p>



<p>The study attributes this positive shift to effective public health initiatives that have significantly curtailed the spread and impact of diseases such as cardiovascular conditions and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/life-expectancy-continues-to-decline-due-to-covid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID-19</a>, along with communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional diseases (CMNNs).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ncds-and-their-impact-on-global-health">NCDs and their impact on global health</h2>



<p>However, the study also highlights a concerning shift in the global disease burden from CMNNs to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. </p>



<p>This transition, influenced by factors like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/severe-childhood-obesity-can-cut-life-expectancy-in-half/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a>, high blood pressure, suboptimal diets, and smoking, poses significant challenges for future healthcare systems. </p>



<p>As people live longer, the years they spend in poor health are also expected to increase. Despite a projected rise in global life expectancy to 78.1 years by 2050, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-quality-sleep-increases-life-expectancy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy life expectancy</a> (HALE) is only expected to reach 67.4 years, reflecting an increase of 2.6 years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings">Key findings</h2>



<p>The study's comprehensive analysis covers global life expectancy, healthy life expectancy, cause-specific mortality, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and more across 204 countries and territories from 2022 through 2050. </p>



<p>Dr. Chris Murray, Chair of <a href="https://depts.washington.edu/healthms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Health Metrics Sciences</a> at the University of Washington explained health inequalities between the rich and poor regions will persist, albeit to a lesser extent. </p>



<p>"In addition to an increase in life expectancy overall, we have found that the disparity in life expectancy across geographies will lessen," said Dr Murray. "This is an indicator that while <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breathing-less-oxygen-could-extend-your-lifespan-by-50-or-more/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health inequalities</a> between the highest- and lowest-income regions will remain, the gaps are shrinking, with the biggest increases anticipated in sub-Saharan Africa."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-opportunities-for-policy-interventions">Opportunities for policy interventions</h2>



<p>Dr. Murray also emphasizes the potential for policy interventions to expedite the reduction of global disease burdens by addressing behavioral and metabolic risk factors. Strategic actions targeting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/public-perception-of-old-age-has-shifted-to-later-in-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyle choices</a> and health conditions can make a huge difference. </p>



<p>For example, policies that promote <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plant-based-diets-lower-the-risk-of-major-diseases/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthier diets</a>, increased physical activity, and smoking cessation can reduce the prevalence of obesity, hypertension, and other chronic conditions.</p>



<p>Improving access to healthcare and preventive services, like regular screenings and vaccinations, can also help identify and manage risk factors early. </p>



<p>Governments can implement regulations to reduce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-air-pollution-makes-people-lazy-resulting-in-poor-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollution</a> and promote safer environments, further reducing health risks.</p>



<p>Such strategic actions could significantly influence the trajectory of global health, offering a brighter outlook for populations worldwide. </p>



<p>By prioritizing these interventions, we can lower the incidence of non-communicable diseases, improve quality of life, and increase global healthy life expectancy. This approach can lead to more equitable health outcomes and a stronger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global health system</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-alternative-scenarios">Exploring alternative scenarios</h2>



<p>The study further explores alternative scenarios that demonstrate the possible impacts of various public health interventions. </p>



<p>Dr. Stein Emil Vollset, who leads the GBD Collaborating Unit, notes that interventions aimed at improving behavioral and metabolic risks could lead to a 13.3% reduction in the global disease burden by 2050 compared to the reference scenario. </p>



<p>Additional scenarios focusing on safer environments and enhanced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-children-healthy-diets-can-be-very-challenging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">childhood nutrition</a> and vaccination also show promising reductions in disease burdens.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-health-and-longer-life-expectancy">Global health and longer life expectancy</h2>



<p>Amanda E. Smith, Assistant Director of Forecasting at IHME, underscores the importance of continued progress and resource allocation in key areas such as environmental safety and childhood health. </p>



<p>This focus is crucial not only for improving overall health but also for extending life expectancy in vulnerable populations. </p>



<p>The study serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing need to address and mitigate health risks that are increasingly prevalent due to behavioral and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eight-healthy-lifestyle-habits-could-extend-your-life-by-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyle</a> factors.</p>



<p>The GBD 2021 study not only provides a comprehensive overview of future health trends but also offers a roadmap for potential interventions that could dramatically improve global health outcomes. </p>



<p>By understanding and acting on these insights, global health leaders can better prepare for a future where longevity is accompanied by improved quality of life.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(24)00685-8/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Lancet</a></em>.</p>



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Global life expectancy is projected to increase by 5 years by 2050

A recent study from the prestigious Global Burden of Disease...

<p>Have you ever wondered what goes on inside the mind of a sleepwalker? What thoughts, if any, occupy the consciousness of those with parasomnia as they navigate the world in a state between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/while-in-deep-sleep-humans-can-subconsciously-respond-to-verbal-communication/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep and wakefulness</a>? </p>



<p>These are the complex questions that researchers at the <a href="https://nin.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience</a> have begun to explore in a recent study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parasomnia-and-the-waking-dreamscape">Parasomnia and the waking dreamscape</h2>



<p>Led by Francesca Siclari, head of the dreams lab, the research team dove into the experiences and brain activity patterns of patients with parasomnia, a type of abnormal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/light-color-has-no-impact-on-our-internal-clocks-or-sleep-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleeping behavior</a> that can include sleepwalking. </p>



<p>While most of us may imagine sleepwalkers as individuals wandering around with closed eyes and outstretched arms, the reality is usually <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-we-sleep-study-reveals-new-clues-behind-this-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">much more complex</a>. </p>



<p>Sleepwalkers typically have their eyes open and can engage in elaborate interactions with their environment, from sitting up in bed and appearing confused to moving around or even screaming with a fearful expression.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prevalence-and-impact-of-sleepwalking">Prevalence and impact of sleepwalking</h2>



<p>Although parasomnias are more common among children, they still affect approximately 2-3% of adults on a regular basis. </p>



<p>These episodes can be distressing for both the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sleep-day-2024-the-quest-for-a-well-rested-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleeper</a> and their bedpartner. </p>



<p>"Affected individuals can hurt themselves or others during episodes and may later feel deeply embarrassed for what they did," Siclari explains.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inside-the-sleepwalking-brain-during-parasomnia">Inside the sleepwalking brain during parasomnia</h2>



<p>To better understand what occurs in the brain during parasomnias, Siclari and her team have conducted a study focusing on patients who experience these episodes during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strange-dreams-help-us-organize-our-experiences/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">non-REM sleep</a>. </p>



<p>"It was commonly believed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/two-genes-control-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dreams</a> only occur in one sleep stage: REM sleep. We now know that dreams can happen in other phases too," Siclari notes. </p>



<p>"Those who experience parasomnias during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sleep-helps-us-process-our-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">non-REM sleep</a> sometimes report having dream-like experiences and sometimes appear completely unconscious (i.e., on automatic pilot)," she continued.</p>



<p>Measuring brain activity during a parasomnia episode is no easy task, as it requires the patient to fall asleep, experience an episode, and have their brain activity recorded while moving around. </p>



<p>However, with the use of multiple electrodes and specific analysis techniques, Siclari's team has managed to obtain clean signals even when patients are in motion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-triggering-parasomnias-in-the-lab">Triggering parasomnias in the lab</h2>



<p>To study parasomnia episodes, Siclari's team employs a two-night recording process. On the first night, the patient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consistent-sleep-slows-down-aging-at-a-cellular-level/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleeps normally</a>. </p>



<p>The second night, the patient is kept awake and only allowed to sleep the following morning. During this recording, a loud sound is played when the patient enters the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-may-be-the-best-strategy-to-boost-your-immune-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deep-sleep stage</a>, which can sometimes trigger a parasomnia episode. </p>



<p>After the episode, the patient is asked about their mental state during the event.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dreamscapes-and-blank-slates">Dreamscapes and blank slates</h2>



<p>The study revealed that in 56% of the episodes, patients reported <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dreams-keep-the-brain-from-becoming-too-familiar-with-everyday-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dreaming</a> during the parasomnia. </p>



<p>"It was often about an impending misfortune or danger. Some reported that they thought the ceiling was going to come down," Siclari explains. </p>



<p>"One patient thought they'd lost their baby and was searching through the bedsheets, and stood up in bed to try to save ladybugs from gliding down the wall and dying," she noted</p>



<p>In contrast, 19% of the patients reported no experience at all, seemingly acting in a trance-like state. A small portion of patients mentioned having an experience but being unable to recall the details.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-activity-patterns-and-their-implications">Brain activity patterns and their implications</h2>



<p>By comparing the measured brain activities across these three categories, Siclari's group found clear parallels. </p>



<p>Patients who reported <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/meaningful-dream-experiences-can-boost-your-work-productivity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dreaming</a> during the episode showed activations similar to those previously associated with dreaming, both immediately before and during the episode, when compared to patients who did not experience anything.</p>



<p>Siclari suggests that the patient's state at the moment of brain activation determines whether they will be completely unconscious or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-dreams-influence-our-perceptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">experience a dream</a>. </p>



<p>"If we activate the brain while they're likely already dreaming, they appear to be able to 'make something' of the activation, while when their brain is largely 'inactivated', simple behaviors seem to occur without experience," she explains. </p>



<p>Interestingly, patients rarely mention the sound that triggered the parasomnia episode, instead focusing on some other form of impending danger.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-home-and-away-the-future-of-parasomnia-research">Home and away: The future of parasomnia research</h2>



<p>While this study represents a significant first step, there is still much to be explored in the field of parasomnia research. </p>



<p>Siclari and her team hope to set up a system that allows more people to record their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-reset-sleep-restores-the-balance-between-order-and-chaos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep at home</a>, where they may experience more complex and frequent episodes. </p>



<p>They also plan to conduct similar studies on individuals who experience parasomnias during REM sleep.</p>



<p>By measuring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-does-the-brain-do-while-we-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain activity</a>, the researchers aim to better understand the neural systems involved in different types of parasomnias. </p>



<p>This knowledge could eventually lead to more specific drug interventions, as current treatments often involve unspecific sleeping drugs that can have negative side effects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-parasomnias-and-sleepwalking">Understanding parasomnias and sleepwalking</h2>



<p>Siclari's work not only provides valuable insights into the complex world of parasomnias but also offers relief to those who experience these episodes. </p>



<p>"These experiences are very real to the patients and most already felt relieved to be sharing them with us," she notes. "Similar to previous studies, our research clarifies what they are experiencing, which is educationally valuable."</p>



<p>As research in this field continues, we can look forward to a deeper understanding of the mysterious realm that lies between sleep and wakefulness, and the potential for more effective treatments for those who find themselves navigating this liminal space.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-48337-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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



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Awake in a dream: Exploring the depths of the sleepwalking mind

Have you ever wondered what goes on inside the mind...

<p>A fascinating discovery was made recently in the vast expanse of our universe: a giant cosmic butterfly, officially known as IRAS 23077+6707, is fluttering through space about 1,000 light-years away from Earth. </p>



<p>While it was initially spotted in 2016, its true nature remained a mystery for years. However, thanks to new research using advanced telescopes, this cosmic enigma has now been revealed as the largest <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-winds-from-planet-forming-discs-seen-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planet-forming disk</a> ever observed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-enigmatic-cosmic-butterfly">The enigmatic cosmic butterfly</h2>



<p>When Ciprian T.&nbsp;Berghea from the <a href="https://www.cnmoc.usff.navy.mil/usno/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S.&nbsp;Naval Observatory</a> first observed IRAS 23077 through the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (<a href="https://outerspace.stsci.edu/display/PANSTARRS/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pan-STARRS</a>),&nbsp;its unique appearance,&nbsp;resembling a giant butterfly,&nbsp;captured his imagination.&nbsp;However,&nbsp;the true nature of this celestial wonder remained elusive.</p>



<p>"After finding out about this possible planet-forming disk from Pan-STARRS data,&nbsp;we were keen to observe it with the SMA,&nbsp;which allowed us to understand its physical nature," said Kristina Monsch,&nbsp;an astrophysicist who led the Submillimeter Array (<a href="https://lweb.cfa.harvard.edu/sma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SMA</a>) campaign.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The SMA,&nbsp;an array of telescopes in Hawaii,&nbsp;can detect millimeter wavelengths,&nbsp;a type of radio wave that is key to understanding the composition of cosmic objects like IRAS 23077.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planet-forming-disk">Planet-forming disk</h2>



<p>What the SMA revealed was astounding. This giant cosmic butterfly isn't just a beautiful sight; it is a massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pre-planetary-nebula-formation-captured-at-ll-pegasi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">protoplanetary disk</a>, a swirling cloud of dust and gas where planets are born. </p>



<p>"What we found was incredible -- evidence that this was the largest planet-forming disk ever discovered. It is extremely rich in dust and gas, which we know are the building blocks of planets,” noted Monsch.</p>



<p>Protoplanetary disks are essentially nurseries for planets, where rocky planets like Earth and Mars, as well as giant planets like Jupiter and Saturn, form around young stars. </p>



<p>These disks are abundant in dust and gas and rotate with a signature that astronomers can use to determine their sizes and the masses of their central stars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ingredients-of-the-cosmic-butterfly">Ingredients of the cosmic butterfly</h2>



<p>The observations of IRAS 23077 have revealed a wealth of information about this unique protoplanetary disk.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The data from the SMA offer us the smoking-gun evidence that this is a disk, and coupled with the estimate of the system’s distance, that it is rotating around a star likely two to four times more massive than our own sun," explained Monsch. </p>



<p>This information provides crucial insights into the formation of planets in these extreme environments.</p>



<p>Additionally, the SMA data allowed researchers to estimate the amount of dust and gas in this planetary nursery, revealing that it contains enough material to form multiple giant planets. </p>



<p>This finding raises intriguing questions about the potential for planetary systems in the early stages of formation.</p>



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



<p>The discovery of IRAS 23077 opens up exciting possibilities for future research in the field of astrophysics. </p>



<p>"Just how many more of these objects have we missed?" asked Joshua Bennett Lovell, an astrophysicist and SMA Fellow.</p>



<p>"Further study of IRAS 23077 is warranted to investigate the possible routes to form planets in these extreme young environments, and how these might compare to exoplanet populations observed around <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-stars-shape-planetary-systems-like-ours-with-ultraviolet-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distant stars</a> more massive than our sun," Lovell explained.</p>



<p>The research team is optimistic about the potential for further discoveries. "In addition to gaining brand new data on IRAS 23077, we must also continue the hunt for other similar objects if we are to unlock the story of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/warm-jupiter-spotted-in-a-four-billion-year-old-star-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extrasolar planetary</a> systems develop in their earliest years," said co-author Jeremy Drake.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quirky-names-of-the-cosmic-butterfly">Quirky names of the cosmic butterfly</h2>



<p>As a final touch of whimsy,&nbsp;Ciprian Berghea initially nicknamed IRAS 23077 “Dracula’s Chivito.” This playful name was inspired by Berghea's upbringing in the Transylvania region of Romania,&nbsp;close to where Vlad Dracula lived.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However,&nbsp;in a nod to the famous object “Gomez’s Hamburger,” another edge-on protoplanetary disk,&nbsp;they adopted the suggestion of co-author Ana Mosquera and renamed it after her country's national dish,&nbsp;the "chivito," a hamburger-like sandwich from Uruguay.</p>



<p>In summary, the discovery of the largest planet-forming disk in the form of a giant cosmic butterfly is a remarkable achievement in astronomy. </p>



<p>The ongoing study of IRAS 23077, along with the search for other similar objects, promises to revolutionize our understanding of planet formation and the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planetary-migration-model-explains-super-earths-and-sub-neptunes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planetary</a> systems. This is a giant leap forward in our quest to uncover the secrets of the universe.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad3bb0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal Letters</a></em>.</p>



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



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'Cosmic butterfly' discovery flips what we know about planet formation

A fascinating discovery was made recently in the vast expanse...

Photo,Collage,Of,Sunset,And,Solar,Panel,,Photovoltaic,,Alternative,Electricity

<p>In a remarkable shift away from fossil fuels, researchers have developed a method with thermal mapping to achieve temperatures over 1,800°F (1,000 degrees Celsius) using solar energy -- a significant leap toward <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-power-has-won-the-prize-to-become-earths-main-source-of-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clean energy solutions</a> for heavy industries like steel and cement production. </p>



<p>Typically reliant on carbon-intensive fossil fuels, these sectors could see a transformation as this solar technology promises a sustainable alternative for high-temperature processes essential to modern civilization.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pushing-solar-energy-to-new-heights">Pushing solar energy to new heights</h2>



<p>The concept, which has been detailed in a recent study from a team in Switzerland, revolves around the use of synthetic quartz to trap solar energy effectively at extremely high temperatures. </p>



<p>This innovative approach utilizes a semitransparent quartz rod paired with an opaque silicon disk, which serves as the energy absorber. </p>



<p>When exposed to an intense light equivalent to that from 136 suns, the setup not only reached but maintained a remarkable temperature of 1,922°F (1,050°C) at the absorber plate, while the opposite end of the quartz rod remained significantly cooler at 1,112°F (600°C). </p>



<p>This striking temperature differential underscores the efficiency and potential of the thermal-trap effect in practical applications.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-game-changer">Potential game-changer</h2>



<p>Emiliano Casati of <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a>, the study's corresponding author, explains that the significance of this technology extends beyond its impressive temperature achievements. </p>



<p>Previous attempts at harnessing solar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underground-climate-change-silent-hazard-is-destroying-our-buildings-from-beneath/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">thermal energy</a> struggled with efficiency, particularly at temperatures necessary for industrial applications. </p>



<p>"Previous research has only managed to demonstrate the thermal-trap effect up to 170°C (338°F)," notes Casati. "Our research showed that solar thermal trapping works not just at low temperatures, but well above 1,000°C (1,800°F). This is crucial to show its potential for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/light-can-drive-water-evaporation-without-heat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">real-world industrial applications</a>."</p>



<p>Further simulations conducted by the team showcased that the thermal trapping could achieve these target temperatures at lower concentrations with the same performance, or at higher thermal efficiency for equal concentration. </p>



<p>For instance, a conventional unshielded receiver, which typically has an efficiency of 40% at 2,192°F (1,200°C) with a concentration of 500 suns, is markedly outperformed by the receiver shielded with 300 mm of quartz, which achieves a 70% efficiency at the same conditions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Solar energy tech and sustainability</h2>



<p>With the foundational research now laid, Casati and his team are focusing on refining this technology and exploring new applications. </p>



<p>Their ongoing experiments with different materials, such as various fluids and gases, have already demonstrated the ability to reach even higher temperatures. </p>



<p>This versatility highlights the potential of semitransparent materials in absorbing not just <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/magnetic-field-solar-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar radiation</a> but possibly other forms of light and radiation as well.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Getting governments and the public onboard</h2>



<p>Raising public awareness and educating industry stakeholders about solar thermal energy technology is crucial for its widespread adoption. Educational initiatives play a significant role in this effort. </p>



<p>Programs designed to inform the public about the benefits of solar thermal technology can help demystify the science and highlight its potential to reduce carbon emissions and enhance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/epa-awards-20-billion-in-grants-for-clean-energy-projects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy efficiency</a>. </p>



<p>Workshops, seminars, and online courses are effective ways to spread knowledge about how solar thermal systems work and their environmental and economic advantages.</p>



<p>Community programs also contribute to promoting sustainable energy solutions. These programs can include <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-increase-the-value-of-solar-panels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">local solar power</a> projects, where communities come together to install and maintain solar thermal systems. </p>



<p>Such initiatives not only provide clean energy but also foster a sense of collective responsibility and empowerment. They can include demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and informational sessions that illustrate the practical applications of solar thermal technology.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Harnessing the power of the Sun for a greener tomorrow</h2>



<p>"Energy issue is a cornerstone to the survival of our society," Casati asserts. "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-technology-heat-cool-air/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Solar</a> energy is readily available, and the technology is already here. To really motivate industry adoption, we need to demonstrate the economic viability and advantages of this technology at scale."</p>



<p>By harnessing the power of the sun and minimizing heat loss, this innovative technology paves the way for a more sustainable future. </p>



<p>As researchers continue to optimize the process for large-scale implementation, the potential for solar energy to replace <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-fossil-fuels-kills-5-million-people-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuels</a> in challenging industrial applications grows ever closer. </p>



<p>This breakthrough serves as a reminder that, with ingenuity and dedication, we can find solutions to even the most daunting challenges posed by climate change and create a cleaner, greener world for generations to come.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/device/fulltext/S2666-9986(24)00235-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Device</a></em>.</p>



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



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New tech melts steel and concrete using only solar energy

In a remarkable shift away from fossil fuels, researchers have...

<p>Wind farms, often celebrated for their minimal environmental impact, now have new data to underscore their efficiency and sustainability. A recent study reveals that a typical wind farm can balance out its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wind-farms-require-far-less-land-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon emissions</a> within a brief two-year period -- a striking contrast to its 30-year operational lifespan.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Energy payback in wind farms</h2>



<p>The research, centered on the Harapaki onshore wind farm in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, demonstrates that within just six months, a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-living-near-wind-turbines-have-an-effect-your-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wind turbine</a> at a wind farm can generate the equivalent energy used over its entire lifecycle. </p>



<p>This finding, while specific to Harapaki, is likely applicable to wind farms on a global scale due to the uniformity of wind turbine technology.</p>



<p>"The technology we use here in New Zealand mirrors that used globally," explains Isabella Pimentel Pincelli, the study's lead author from the Sustainable Energy Systems research group, Wellington Faculty of Engineering, at <a href="https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington</a>. </p>



<p>She notes that although the extent of carbon offset can vary depending on the type of older technology being replaced, similar results are expected for wind farms worldwide.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wind-farms-impact-on-carbon-footprint">Wind farms impact on carbon footprint</h2>



<p>The study, published in the <em>Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand</em>, not only reviewed existing literature but also incorporated actual construction data from wind farms. </p>



<p>This comprehensive approach included all stages -- from manufacturing individual turbine parts, transporting them, and eventually decommissioning the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-how-wind-farms-interact-with-wind-can-optimize-their-power/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wind</a> farm, which consists of 41 turbines.</p>



<p>Findings indicate that Harapaki’s carbon footprint is remarkably low at 10.8 grams of CO2 equivalent per kilowatt-hour. This translates to a greenhouse gas payback time of approximately 1.5 to 1.7 years for replacing combined cycle gas turbines at wind farms, with an energy payback time of just about four to six months.</p>



<p>Professor Alan Brent, a co-author and Chair in Sustainable Energy Systems, highlights the alignment of onshore wind plants with sustainable development principles. However, he acknowledges that there is room for improvement, particularly in the manufacturing process.</p>



<p>"The environmental impacts of the installation and transportation phases are notable, accounting for nearly 10% of the total emissions," Brent points out. </p>



<p>He emphasizes the importance of ongoing efforts to minimize negative environmental effects while maximizing positive contributions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-manufacturing-to-reduce-carbon-emissions">Manufacturing to reduce carbon emissions</h2>



<p>The primary environmental load comes from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-how-wind-farms-interact-with-wind-can-optimize-their-power/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">turbine</a> manufacturing process, pinpointing a vital area for targeted mitigation strategies. </p>



<p>In response, the research team suggests developing a recycling process for turbine blades, which are currently disposed of in landfills due to economic constraints. </p>



<p>Proposing both mechanical and chemical recycling options, they estimate that this could reduce emissions significantly.</p>



<p>Moreover, the team advises regular research updates in this field to keep pace with rapid technological advancements, ensuring that findings remain relevant and can effectively inform decision-making processes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Scope of wind farms</h2>



<p>Despite its strengths, the study acknowledges certain limitations. It primarily focuses on energy intensity and carbon emissions during the lifecycle of the wind farm, leaving out other environmental impacts such as ozone depletion and human toxicity. </p>



<p>Additionally, it does not cover social, wildlife, or economic impacts, which are equally crucial in the broader context of sustainability.</p>



<p>This research underlines the pivotal role that onshore wind farms play in our energy transition and their significant potential in reducing carbon footprints. </p>



<p>With targeted improvements in the manufacturing and disposal processes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/advancing-technology-wind-energy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wind energy</a> can continue to be a cornerstone of sustainable energy strategies globally.</p>



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



<p>Wind farms generate clean energy with no direct emissions, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels. Over their lifespan, wind farms offset the carbon produced during their manufacturing, installation, and maintenance phases. </p>



<p>Large-scale wind energy deployment could cut global CO2 emissions by 30% by 2050. Wind energy uses a renewable resource, avoiding environmental degradation from mining or drilling. Economic benefits include job creation and stimulating local economies. </p>



<p>Technological advancements aim to improve turbine efficiency and recyclability, further lowering environmental impacts. Recycling turbine blades addresses disposal issues, enhancing wind energy's sustainability and global potential.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/03036758.2024.2344785" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand</a></em>.</p>



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

Wind farms quickly neutralize carbon footprint left behind after construction

Wind farms, often celebrated for their minimal environmental impact, now...

<p>Recent PhD research conducted at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean has revealed new insights into the potential impacts of deep-sea mining on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/underwater-upheaval-the-ecological-impact-of-deep-sea-mining/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a>. </p>



<p>Marine geologist Sabine Haalboom's findings illustrate that while much of the debris from mining activities -- referred to as 'dust clouds' -- settles relatively close to its source, a notable portion spreads far into the water. </p>



<p>This research, carried out in the Clarion Clipperton Zone, provides a crucial understanding of how mining operations could affect these pristine environments. Haalboom defended her dissertation on this topic at <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utrecht University</a>, highlighting significant concerns for deep-sea ecosystems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Deep-sea mining and marine life</h2>



<p>The depths of the ocean harbor unique ecosystems, with conditions and life forms that remain largely mysterious to scientists. These ecosystems are often fragile and sensitive to changes in their environment. </p>



<p>Deep-sea mining, particularly the extraction of valuable metals like manganese nodules, disturbs the ocean floor's silt. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dangers-of-deep-sea-mining-could-soon-be-realized/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">This process</a> can create extensive dust clouds, clouding the water over vast areas and potentially impacting these pristine habitats.</p>



<p>Given our limited understanding of deep-sea life, these disturbances could have unforeseen effects on the delicate underwater communities. The organisms living in these depths rely on specific environmental conditions for survival. Any alteration, even minor, could disrupt their way of life, leading to unknown consequences.</p>



<p>The potential impact of deep-sea mining on biodiversity and marine ecosystem functions remains a significant concern. Therefore, deep-sea mining's environmental footprint needs careful consideration. </p>



<p>Researchers stress the importance of thorough studies to understand the full implications before engaging in large-scale mining operations in these unexplored and vulnerable areas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deep-sea-mining-s-environmental-footprint">Deep-sea mining's environmental footprint</h2>



<p>Haalboom utilized various instruments to measure the quantity and size of suspended particles in the ocean water. Her experiments took place in the Clarion Clipperton Zone, an area rich in manganese nodules. </p>



<p>She dragged a 500-kilogram grid of steel chains across a 500-meter stretch of the seabed. This action stirred up a significant amount of sediment, resulting in immediate murkiness in the water.</p>



<p>Initially, most of this stirred-up material settled quickly, within a few hundred meters of the disturbance site. This quick settling suggested that the immediate impact of mining activities might be localized. However, further observations revealed a different aspect. </p>



<p>A small fraction of the sediment did not settle quickly and remained suspended in the water. This suspended sediment was visible even hundreds of meters away from the initial disturbance.</p>



<p>These findings highlight the potential for deep-sea mining activities to affect broader areas of the marine environment, emphasizing the need for thorough research before large-scale mining operations proceed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-persistent-clouds">Persistent clouds</h2>



<p>Further studies have shown that these "dust clouds" can travel up to five kilometers from the original mining site. This persistence poses a potential threat to the clarity of the water, which is typically crystal clear and vital for the survival of local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-mining-has-deadly-consequences-for-marine-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine life</a>. </p>



<p>The scarce food available in these clear waters is crucial for the organisms that inhabit the deep sea, making even small changes to their environment potentially impactful.</p>



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



<p>Deep-sea mining poses additional risks. It can disrupt habitats, leading to the loss of biodiversity. The noise and vibrations from mining equipment can affect marine life, particularly species reliant on echolocation. </p>



<p>Deep-sea mining activities can release toxic substances trapped in seabed sediments, contaminating the water and harming marine organisms. The physical removal of substrate can destroy slow-growing deep-sea corals and sponges, critical for ecosystem health. </p>



<p>Additionally, the increased human activity could introduce invasive species, further threatening native marine life. These potential impacts underscore the need for cautious, well-informed approaches to deep-sea mining.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-research-in-deep-sea-mining">Need for research in deep-sea mining</h2>



<p>Haalboom's co-promoter, NIOZ oceanographer Henko de Stigter, has expressed concern over the rapid commercial interest in deep-sea mining. He argues that the initial findings of quick sediment settling do not capture the full potential impact of these mining activities on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-sea-mining-damage-ecosystems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">deep-sea ecosystems</a>. </p>



<p>The long-term effects of even minimal sediment dispersal are still unknown, prompting both Haalboom and De Stigter to advocate for more extensive research before proceeding with large-scale mining operations.</p>



<p>In conclusion, while deep-sea mining presents a tempting opportunity to extract valuable resources, the potential risks to unknown marine ecosystems and the broader environmental impacts demand careful consideration. </p>



<p>The call for further study is clear: we must fully understand the consequences of our actions in these remote, unexplored parts of our planet before making irreversible decisions.</p>



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



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

Deep-sea mining forms 'dust clouds' that devastate marine life

Recent PhD research conducted at the bottom of the Pacific...

3d,Abstract,Illustration,Of,Colorful,Human,Brain

<p>Colors are an integral part of our daily lives, from the vibrant red of a ripe strawberry to the deep brown of a child's eyes. However, have you ever stopped to wonder how our brains process the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-perception-we-see-the-world-based-on-what-we-expect-to-see/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sensory information</a> that allows us to perceive these colors? </p>



<p>A recent study by neuroscientists at <a href="https://www.columbia.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia University</a> has shed new light on this fascinating topic, identifying for the first time the brain-cell circuitry in fruit flies that converts raw sensory signals into color perceptions.</p>



<p>Led by Dr. Rudy Behnia, a principal investigator at Columbia's Zuckerman Institute, the research team published their intriguing findings in the prestigious journal <em>Nature Neuroscience</em>. </p>



<p>"Many of us take for granted the rich colors we see every day," said Dr. Behnia, the corresponding author on the paper. "But those colors do not exist outside of our brains."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-s-role-in-color-perception">Brain's role in color perception</h2>



<p>As Dr. Behnia explains, colors are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-perception-changes-with-our-walking-rhythm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perceptions</a> that the brain constructs as it makes sense of the longer and shorter wavelengths of light detected by the eyes. </p>



<p>This process of turning sensory signals into perceptions about the world is crucial for the survival and well-being of organisms.</p>



<p>"To ask how we perceive the world seems like a simple question, but answering it is a challenge," added Dr. Behnia. "My hope is that our efforts to uncover <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-retinal-cells-explain-complex-color-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neural principles</a> underlying color perception will help us better understand how brains extract the features in the environment that are important for making it through each day."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-hue-selective-neurons">Discovering hue-selective neurons</h2>



<p>In their study, the research team discovered specific networks of neurons, a type of brain cell, in fruit flies that respond selectively to various hues. </p>



<p>Hue denotes the perceived colors associated with specific wavelengths, or combinations of wavelengths of light, which themselves are not inherently colorful. These hue-selective neurons lie within the optic lobe, the brain area responsible for vision.</p>



<p>The neurons respond to hues that people would perceive as violet, as well as others that correspond to ultraviolet wavelengths, which are not detectable by humans. </p>



<p>Detecting UV hues is important for the survival of some creatures, such as bees and perhaps fruit flies, as many plants possess ultraviolet patterns that can help guide insects to pollen.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neural-mechanisms-behind-hue-selectivity">Neural mechanisms behind hue selectivity</h2>



<p>While scientists had previously reported finding neurons in animals' brains that respond selectively to different colors or hues, no one had been able to trace the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emotions-sensory-perception-brain-fascinating-interplay/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neural mechanisms</a> making this hue selectivity possible. This is where the recent availability of a fly-brain connectome proved invaluable.</p>



<p>The connectome, an intricate map detailing how some 130,000 neurons and 50 million synapses in a fruit-fly's poppy seed-sized brain are interconnected, served as a reference for the researchers. </p>



<p>Using their observations of brain cells, they developed a diagram they suspected represents the neuronal circuitry behind hue selectivity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mathematical-models-and-recurrent-connectivity">Mathematical models and recurrent connectivity</h2>



<p>To better understand the complexities of these brain cells and their interconnections, the scientists portrayed the circuits as mathematical models, simulating and probing the circuits' activities and capabilities.</p>



<p>"The mathematical models serve as tools that enable us to better understand something as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blinking-plays-crucial-role-vision-human-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">messy and complex</a> as all of these brain cells and their interconnections," said Dr. Matthias Christenson, a co-first author on the paper and a former member of Dr. Behnia's lab. "With the models, we can work to make sense of all of this complexity."</p>



<p>The modeling not only revealed that these circuits can host activity required for hue selectivity but also pointed to a type of cell-to-cell interconnectivity, known as recurrence, without which hue-selectivity cannot happen. In a neural circuitry with recurrence, outputs of the circuit circle back in to become inputs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confirming-the-role-of-recurrent-connectivity">Confirming the role of recurrent connectivity</h2>



<p>To further validate their findings, the researchers conducted an additional experiment. "When we used a genetic technique to disrupt part of this recurrent connectivity in the brains of fruit flies, the neurons that previously showed hue-selective activity lost that property," said Dr. Álvaro Sanz-Diez, a postdoctoral researcher in Dr. Behnia's lab and the other co-first author of the paper. "This reinforced our confidence that we really had discovered <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visual-perception-speed-varies-greatly-among-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain circuitry</a> involved in color perception."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-understanding-color-perception">Implications of understanding color perception</h2>



<p>This research by Dr. Behnia and her team has provided new insights into how the brain's wiring enables the construction of a perceptual representation of color. </p>



<p>"Now we know a little more about how the brain's wiring makes it possible to build a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-sense-of-smell-can-change-the-colors-we-see/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perceptual representation</a> of color," said Dr. Behnia. "My hope is that our new findings can help explain how brains produce all kinds of perceptions, among them color, sound and taste."</p>



<p>This study advances our understanding of color perception and paves the way for future research into the neural mechanisms behind other sensory perceptions. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of the brain, we move closer to comprehending the complex processes that shape our experience of the world around us.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41593-024-01640-4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Natural Neuroscience</a></em>.</p>



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



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How the brain turns light waves into rich colors and experiences

Colors are an integral part of our daily lives, from...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

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<p>Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.</p>



<p>The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."</p>



<p>"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."</p>



<p>"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."</p>



<p>The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&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>



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Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

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<p>Today's <strong>Video of the Day</strong> from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes the first comprehensive estimate of carbon density in the Saharan, Sahel, and Sudanian zones of Africa. In an effort to measure the amount of carbon stored across these drylands, a team of scientists used high-resolution satellite images and artificial intelligence to map nearly 10 billion individual trees. </p>



<p>"The high spatial resolution (50 cm) combined with AI and field measurements used in this study is key to improving tree inventories in drylands," said Pierre Hiernaux, a French researcher working for NASA. "The ever-increasing availability of very high-resolution satellite imagery will make it possible to assess carbon pools and their dynamics at the individual tree level on a global scale."</p>



<p>"This study is exceptional because it is pioneering a type of approach that will revolutionize the monitoring of trees and forests on a global scale: in the short term, it will be possible to map the world's trees from the centre of the Amazon to our schoolyards," said <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en">INRAE</a> researcher Jean-Pierre Wigneron.</p>



<p>"Many fields of application will become much more efficient and accurate, such as tracking carbon stocks, biodiversity, monitoring logging and protection against illegal forest degradation, in near real time.”</p>



<p><em>Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;</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>



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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