<p>The night sky often dazzles with brief explosions of unimaginable power. Gamma-ray bursts are among the most intense, usually marking the catastrophic end of stars. These bursts vanish within seconds or minutes, leaving astronomers with little more than fleeting traces.</p>



<p>But a recent observation broke every rule. One gamma-ray burst not only lasted far longer than usual but also repeated in a pattern that has never been recorded before.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-astronomers-stunned-by-burst">Astronomers stunned by burst</h2>



<p>The burst, labeled GRB 250702B, was reported in <em>The Astrophysical Journal Letters</em>. Dr. Antonio Martin-Carrillo and colleagues used the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope to study the phenomenon.</p>



<p>“This event is unlike any other seen in 50 years of GRB observations,” said Dr. Martin-Carrillo of the <a href="http://www.ucd.ie" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College Dublin</a>. “GRBs are catastrophic events, so they are expected to go off just once because the source that produced them does not survive the dramatic explosion."</p>



<p>"This event baffled us not only because it showed repeated powerful activity but also because it seemed to be periodic, which has never seen before.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-collapse-or-black-hole">Star collapse or black hole?</h2>



<p>Theories about its origin vary. One possibility involves the collapse of a star many times more massive than the Sun. In such a case, some material could have continued feeding the central engine, extending its activity.</p>



<p>Another explanation suggests a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-cosmic-explosion-changes-what-we-know-about-space/">tidal disruption event</a>, where a star is torn apart by a black hole. </p>



<p>For this burst, the data hint that a white dwarf might have been shredded by an intermediate-mass black hole - a long-hypothesized but rarely seen type.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-burst-that-wouldn-t-end">A burst that wouldn’t end</h2>



<p>Most gamma-ray bursts last milliseconds to minutes. This one endured about a day - hundreds of times longer than the norm. </p>



<p>Professor Andrew Levan of <a href="https://www.ru.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Radboud University</a> noted that it was 100 to 1,000 times longer than most GRBs.</p>



<p>The unusual length led astronomers to compare it with ultralong bursts and even with rare tidal disruption events. </p>



<p>However, GRB 250702B showed distinct bursts at intervals that seemed close to integer multiples, hinting at possible periodic behavior.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pinpointing-the-source">Pinpointing the source</h2>



<p>Initial detections came from NASA’s Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope and the <a href="https://english.cas.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Sciences</a>’ Einstein Probe. </p>



<p>Both caught early signals but could not locate the source precisely. The Very Large Telescope provided sharper data, showing the event was located outside of our galaxy.</p>



<p>“The event seemed to have originated from within our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-clues-about-the-brightest-gamma-ray-burst-of-all-time/">galaxy</a> due to its proximity to the galactic plane. The VLT fundamentally changed that paradigm,” Professor Levan noted.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-host-galaxy-revealed">Host galaxy revealed</h2>



<p>The HAWK-I camera on the VLT revealed an extremely red infrared counterpart, suggesting a heavily dust-obscured source. </p>



<p>Follow-up imaging with the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/35-years-of-hubble-the-telescope-that-changed-our-view-of-the-universe/">Hubble Space Telescope</a> confirmed the host galaxy’s structure. Observations showed the galaxy had a complex, asymmetric shape, possibly with dust lanes. Such dust could explain the unusually red afterglow.</p>



<p>“What we found was considerably more exciting - the fact that this object is extragalactic means that it is considerably more powerful,” said Dr. Martin-Carrillo.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collision-explains-the-glow">Collision explains the glow</h2>



<p>The afterglow in X-ray, infrared, and radio wavelengths appeared consistent with models in which relativistic jets collide with surrounding material.</p>



<p>Yet the details pointed to an unusually narrow jet angle and significant dust extinction, unlike most known bursts.</p>



<p>Despite these differences, the afterglow fit within the broader family of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/recent-gamma-ray-burst-was-70-times-brighter-than-any-cosmic-explosion/">GRB</a> models, strengthening the case for either a rare stellar collapse or a tidal disruption event involving a black hole.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-sparks-new-theories">Mystery sparks new theories</h2>



<p>The researchers outlined four possible scenarios. First, it may have been a relativistic tidal disruption event, most likely a white dwarf consumed by an intermediate-mass black hole.</p>



<p>The second possibility is a nonstandard stellar collapse involving unusual progenitors or environments. Third, the event may have been echoes caused by the scattering of gamma rays through dense dust shells.</p>



<p>A fourth possibility is that the burst came from a very distant, high-redshift source and was brightened by gravitational lensing. Each theory presents challenges, but the first two currently align best with the data.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clarifying-the-gamma-ray-burst">Clarifying the gamma-ray burst</h2>



<p>“We are still not sure what produced this or if we can ever really find out but, with this research, we have made a huge step forward towards understanding this extremely unusual and exciting object,” said Dr. Martin-Carrillo.</p>



<p>Future monitoring with instruments like the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-detects-signs-of-life-on-exoplanet-k2-18b/">James Webb Space Telescope</a> may offer more clues. Continued X-ray and radio tracking could reveal whether the burst’s jet shuts down like those in tidal disruption events or follows the path of an unusual star’s collapse.</p>



<p>Either way, GRB 250702B has already reshaped what astronomers thought they knew about cosmic explosions.</p>



<p>The study is published in <em><a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/adf8e1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal Letters</a>.</em></p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA, ESA and M. Kornmesser</p>



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Gamma-ray burst explodes in an unusual pattern never seen before

The night sky often dazzles with brief explosions of unimaginable power. Gamma-ray bursts are among the most intense, usually marking the catastrophic end of stars. These bursts vanish within seconds or minutes, leaving astronomers with little more than fleeting traces. But a recent observation broke every rule. One gamma-ray burst not only lasted far longer than usual but also repeated in a pattern that has never been recorded before. Astronomers stunned by burst The burst, labeled GRB 250702B, was reported in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. Dr. Antonio...

<p>Medium-sized dog breeds are more prone to cancer than both the smallest and the largest breeds, according to a recent study led by the <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/">University of California, Riverside</a>.</p>



<p>These findings challenge the multistage model of cancer, which associates increased size within a single species to a heightened risk of cancer due to more frequent cellular mutations as cells divide and replicate.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size-and-cancer-risk">Size and cancer risk</h2>



<p>“The question that arises is why, then, don't we get more cancer than a mouse? We don't. There is no increase in cancer risk as animals increase in size from species to species,” explained Leonard Nunney, a UC Riverside evolutionary biologist and the study's author.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The paradox lies within species where size appears to correlate with cancer risk, as seen in humans, where taller individuals have about a 10% increase in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/you-can-reduce-your-risk-of-cancer-with-just-4-5-minutes-of-daily-activity/">cancer risk</a> for every 10 centimeters in height.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-and-cancer-risk">Dogs and cancer risk</h2>



<p>To delve deeper into these relationships, Nunney looked at dogs - a species with significant size variation - to understand how size impacts cancer risk.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Testing this in dogs is even better because you can compare a tiny chihuahua to a great Dane. That's a 35-fold difference in size, and people can't come close to that,” he explained.&nbsp;</p>



<p>His findings showed that smaller dogs like Pomeranians, miniature pinschers, and chihuahuas have approximately a 10% chance of dying from cancer, while some larger breeds like Bernese mountain dogs exhibit more than a 40% chance.</p>



<p>However, the research also identified outliers, such as flat-coated retrievers and Scottish terriers, which exhibit higher cancer rates than typical for their size. Despite these anomalies, the study generally supports the multistage model’s assertion that larger size within a species may increase <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cigarette-smoke-exposure-elevates-cancer-risk-in-dogs/">cancer risk</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifespan-and-cancer-risk">Lifespan and cancer risk </h2>



<p>Surprisingly, the study also found that the very largest breeds, like Great Danes, actually show lower cancer rates compared to medium-sized breeds. This is attributed to their shorter life spans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“For every pound increase in typical breed size you lose about two weeks of life. A very big dog, you're lucky if they live past nine years, whereas small dogs can go about 14,” Nunney said. Since cancer is predominantly an affliction of older age, these reduced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-small-dogs-live-longer-than-large-breeds/">lifespans</a> in larger dogs correlate with decreased cancer risk.</p>



<p>These insights suggest that size and life expectancy within species are significant factors in cancer risk, aligning closely with the multistage model of cancer. “I was surprised how well dogs fit the model,” Nunney said. “But that doesn't happen when you compare a mouse to an elephant or a human to a whale. So, does that undermine the model in some way?”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-prevention-mechanisms-nbsp">Cancer prevention mechanisms&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Nunney proposes that larger species have evolved more sophisticated cancer prevention mechanisms. “My argument is that preventing cancer is an evolving trait, so a whale will have more ways of preventing cancer than a mouse does,” he explained. </p>



<p>This evolutionary perspective is supported by observations of elephants, which rarely suffer from cancer despite their size and longevity.</p>



<p>The broader implications of this research extend beyond veterinary science to potential insights into cancer prevention in humans. Understanding the natural mechanisms that larger species use to protect themselves from cancer could lead to breakthroughs in human cancer treatments and prevention strategies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-in-dogs-nbsp">Cancer in dogs&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Cancer in dogs is a significant health concern and one of the leading causes of death in older dogs, though it can also affect younger ones. The disease occurs when cells grow uncontrollably, forming masses or invading tissues throughout the body.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-types">Cancer types</h3>



<p>Different types of cancer in dogs include lymphoma, melanoma, bone cancer, and mammary gland cancer, among others. Symptoms vary widely depending on the type of cancer, but common signs include abnormal swelling, sores that don't heal, weight loss, and changes in appetite.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diagnosis-of-cancer-in-dogs">Diagnosis of cancer in dogs</h3>



<p>Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical exams, blood tests, imaging like X-rays and ultrasound, and biopsies. </p>



<p>Treatment options are similarly varied, depending on the stage and type of cancer, and can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. These treatments aim to remove or kill cancer cells while minimizing damage to normal cells.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-outcomes">Outcomes</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-should-you-begin-cancer-screening-for-your-dog/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Early detection</a> and treatment can significantly improve outcomes, which is why regular veterinary check-ups are important. Advances in veterinary medicine have improved the management of cancer in dogs, leading to better quality of life and longer survival rates for many dogs diagnosed with the disease. </p>



<p>The approach to treating canine cancer often involves a team of specialists, including veterinarians who specialize in oncology.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsos.231356" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Royal Society Open Science</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Medium-sized dogs have a greater risk of developing cancer

Medium-sized dog breeds are more prone to cancer than both...

<p>Did you know that the choices you make in the supermarket aisle might have more consequences than you think? A new study sheds light on nanoparticles, tiny ingredients in many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-household-products-expose-people-to-dangerous-chemicals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">household</a> products, and the potential risks they might pose to your health.</p>



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



<p>Nanoparticles are astonishingly tiny fragments of a material, measuring approximately one billionth of a meter in size. Due to their extraordinarily small size, nanoparticles can exhibit unique and surprising properties that differ significantly from those of the same material in its everyday, bulk form. </p>



<p>For instance, bulk gold typically displays a familiar yellow hue. However, when gold is reduced to the nanoscale, it exhibits a surprising change in color based on its size and the shape of the nanoparticles. Smaller gold nanoparticles may appear red, while larger particles can shift towards purple or even blue. These distinctive and often unexpected properties make nanoparticles incredibly valuable for integration into a vast array of products. </p>



<p>Nanoparticles are utilized across a variety of industries due to their unique properties. In cosmetics, they are added to improve the smoothness of products and enhance sun protection, making creams and lotions more effective against UV rays. </p>



<p>Similarly, in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harmful-chemicals-found-household-dust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">household</a> cleaning solutions, nanoparticles are used to increase the germ-fighting capabilities of these products. This allows for more efficient cleaning and disinfecting processes. The versatility of nanoparticles enables them to be a beneficial additive in numerous consumer products.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nanoparticle-danger-zone-in-household">Nanoparticle danger zone in household</h2>



<p>A new study from <a href="https://www.rutgers.edu/">Rutgers University</a> has shed light on a hidden consequence of using everyday household products containing nanoparticles. These products, commonly found in sunscreens, cleaning solutions, and even cosmetics, release tiny nanoparticles when sprayed. The cause for concern lies not just in the initial release, but in the particles' lingering presence.</p>



<p>Unlike typical dust or larger particles that might settle and remain relatively stationary, nanoparticles don't simply disappear after leaving the spray can. Instead, they act more like microscopic hitchhikers. They cling to surfaces like carpets and floors, creating a potential reservoir of airborne particles. The truly unsettling aspect comes into play with our everyday activities. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-settled-household-nanoparticles">Settled household nanoparticles</h2>



<p>"If an adult is walking in a room, and steps on some of these deposited particles, we found that the particles will be re-suspended in the air and rise as high as that person's breathing zone," said Gediminas Mainelis, a professor at Rutgers.</p>



<p>The very act of walking across a recently sprayed room can disturb these settled nanoparticles in household. This disturbance acts like a microscopic dust storm, kicking the particles back up into the air. The issue arises because the resuspension zone of nanoparticles overlaps with our breathing zone in household. This overlap raises concerns about the potential for inhalation of these particles. </p>



<p>Prolonged inhalation could pose risks to our respiratory systems. The long-term health effects of such exposure to nanoparticles remain a significant concern. These effects are still under investigation, highlighting the need for caution and further research.</p>



<p>Children are potentially at even greater risk. Since they play on the floor and are closer to the ground, their exposure to these particles may be much higher.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-the-exposure-matter">Why does the exposure matter?</h2>



<p>The long-term health effects of exposure to nanoparticles remain a subject of intense scientific investigation. The minuscule size of nanoparticles is at the heart of this uncertainty. </p>



<p>When a material is scaled down to the nanoscale, its properties can shift dramatically from the way it acts in bulk form. This means standard methods for understanding and predicting a material's safety may not apply fully. </p>



<p>Consequently, it's difficult to say with absolute certainty how nanoparticles will interact with the human body over extended periods of time. The concern among scientists is the possibility of our bodies responding to these microscopic particles in negative and surprising ways. </p>



<p>These reactions might take years or even decades to manifest, making long-term studies and careful monitoring essential to uncover the full picture. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-you-do">What can you do?</h2>



<p>While it's alarming to think about an invisible hazard in your home, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure to nanoparticles:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-be-a-responsible-shopper">Be a responsible shopper</h3>



<p>When shopping for household items and personal care products, pay attention to their labeling. Some products might specifically mention "nano-free" or "does not contain nanoparticles" on their packaging. </p>



<p>The "nano-free" designation on products is crucial. It confirms that the product does not contain engineered nanoparticles. These nanoparticles are typically added to enhance product features, such as clarity, strength, or sun protection in sunscreens. </p>



<p>By choosing products labeled as nano-free, you can reduce your exposure to nanoparticles in households. This reduction is important because some studies suggest there could be health risks associated with nanoparticle exposure.</p>



<p>However, it's important to understand that such labeling does not guarantee complete avoidance of all nano-sized particles naturally present in the environment, but it does help in reducing exposure from engineered sources.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choose-ventilation">Choose ventilation</h3>



<p>Effective ventilation is crucial when using products that may release nanoparticles, such as aerosol sprays, paints, or other pressurized goods. To facilitate the rapid dissipation of these particles, open windows or use an exhaust fan to increase airflow in the area where the products are used. </p>



<p>This not only helps in reducing the concentration of nanoparticles that you might inhale but also minimizes overall indoor air <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indoor-air-pollution-india/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a>. Increased airflow can significantly lower the duration these particles remain airborne, thereby reducing the likelihood of respiratory exposure.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mask-up">Mask up</h3>



<p>For individuals who are either particularly sensitive to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-forever-chemicals-costs-billions-in-the-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemicals</a> or concerned about potential health risks from nanoparticles, wearing a protective mask can be a beneficial precaution. Masks, especially those rated N95 or higher, can filter out a significant portion of nano-sized particles. </p>



<p>This preventive measure is particularly recommended when using sprays or other products in confined or poorly ventilated spaces. By wearing a mask, you can protect your respiratory system from inhaling nanoparticles that might be suspended in the air during and after the application of such products.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-read-the-labels">Read the labels</h3>



<p>Regularly checking and understanding the ingredient lists on products can be a very effective way to control your exposure to nanoparticles. Many consumer products, such as sunscreens, cosmetics, and household cleaning sprays, may contain nanoparticles for their beneficial properties. </p>



<p>Manufacturers often use ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide in nanoparticle form in sunscreens for their UV protection properties. Similarly, they might include silver nanoparticles for their antimicrobial effects.</p>



<p>By reading labels, you can make informed choices about avoiding products with these ingredients if you are concerned about the potential health impacts. This habit also helps you become more aware of the chemical contents in your everyday products, fostering better consumer awareness and safety practices.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-awareness-on-household-nanoparticles-is-key">Awareness on household nanoparticles is key</h2>



<p>We don't have all the answers about the long-term consequences of nanoparticle exposure. But researchers like those at Rutgers are drawing attention to a potential problem lurking right under our noses. "At this point, it's more about increasing awareness so that people know just what they are using," said Mainelis.</p>



<p>By knowing what these products contain, we can make informed choices about how to protect the health of ourselves and our families.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969724016000?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a></em>.</p>



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Household sprays release dangerous nanoparticles that linger in the home

Did you know that the choices you make in the...

<p>Recent findings presented at the <a href="https://www.eccmid.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESCMID Global Congress</a> in Barcelona reveal a concerning level of contamination in UK hospital <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flushing-toilets-eject-virus-containing-droplets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toilets</a>, highlighting significant differences among various toilet types.</p>



<p>The research, led by Professor Stephanie Dancer, delves into the proliferation of microbes, particularly in areas frequently used by patients, revealing a potential risk for hospital-acquired infections.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-presence-across-hospital-toilets">Microbial presence across hospital toilets</h2>



<p>Professor Dancer and her team conducted a meticulous study in three general hospitals, swabbing ten different surfaces within six toilet types, including staff and patient facilities as well as gender-neutral options. </p>



<p>Patient toilets exhibited a higher concentration of multi-<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-compound-can-kill-drug-resistant-bacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drug resistant bacteria</a>, underscoring a significant hygiene challenge in hospital settings.</p>



<p>The research revealed that while cleaning crews often thoroughly cleaned hand-touch surfaces like taps and door handles, they left floors and high surfaces such as air vents and door tops with higher microbial loads.</p>



<p>Notably, male toilets showed a higher presence of microbes compared to female toilets, with female staff toilets being the cleanest. This discrepancy may stem from more frequent handwashing practices observed among women.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aerosolization-a-hidden-threat-in-toilet-hygiene">Aerosolization: A hidden threat in toilet hygiene</h2>



<p>One intriguing aspect of the study is the role of aerosolization during toilet flushing. Aerosolization is the process of converting substances into very fine particles or droplets, often tiny enough to become airborne. In the context of toilets, it refers to the spraying of microorganisms into the air during flushing, which can spread bacteria and viruses.</p>



<p>"The only logical explanation for finding Gram-negative pathogens like E.coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae on ceilings and air vents as well as on floors is that flushing aerosolizes contents from the toilet bowl, sending microbes airborne," explained Professor Dancer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gender-neutral-hospital-toilets">Gender-neutral hospital toilets</h2>



<p>The transition from single-sex toilets to unisex facilities in some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-hospital-infections-have-a-mysterious-trigger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hospitals</a> has brought unexpected challenges. The study revealed that unisex and disabled toilets, often used by a broader demographic, presented the highest levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-dryers-spread-germs-to-surfaces-beyond-the-restroom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contamination</a>. </p>



<p>"The move to convert traditional male and female facilities to unisex facilities raises concern that people might be exposed to higher risks of contamination," noted Professor Dancer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recommendations-for-improved-hygiene-practices">Recommendations for improved hygiene practices</h2>



<p>The research has provided critical insights into microbial contamination in hospital toilets, resulting in several actionable recommendations aimed at improving hospital hygiene. The key suggestions include:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-cleaning-frequencies">Increasing cleaning frequencies</h3>



<p>Professor Dancer stresses the need for hospitals to clean patient toilets more often. Given that these areas showed higher levels of contamination, including drug-resistant bacteria, more frequent and thorough cleaning could significantly reduce the risk of infections spreading.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-installing-toilet-lids">Installing toilet lids</h3>



<p>To combat the risk of airborne contamination through aerosolization during flushing, the installation of toilet lids is recommended. This measure would help contain the spread of microorganisms, keeping them confined within the toilet bowl and reducing the potential for them to settle on nearby surfaces or become inhaled by patients and staff.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-hand-hygiene-practices">Enhancing hand hygiene practices</h3>



<p>Emphasizing the importance of hand hygiene, Professor Dancer calls for better enforcement of handwashing protocols. Proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of infections in hospital settings, and reinforcing these practices can lead to significant improvements in overall cleanliness and safety.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maintaining-single-sex-hospital-toilets">Maintaining single-sex hospital toilets</h3>



<p>Based on the finding that female toilets are generally cleaner, Professor Dancer suggests that keeping single-sex toilets might help in reducing the overall microbial burden. This approach could leverage the better hygiene practices observed in different groups to minimize cross-contamination risks.</p>



<p>These recommendations aim to address specific issues identified in the study, offering practical steps that hospitals can implement to improve sanitation and reduce the incidence of hospital-acquired infections.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hygiene-education-and-infrastructure">Hygiene education and infrastructure</h2>



<p>Professor Dancer concluded her presentation with a call for better education on hand hygiene and a reevaluation of toilet designs, including the potential benefits of windows in hospital toilets for natural ventilation.</p>



<p>Her insights not only shed light on current <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harmful-microbes-persist-on-hospital-surfaces-after-disinfection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hygiene</a> practices but also suggest paths forward that could benefit hospitals globally. As hospitals continue to combat the spread of infectious diseases, these findings underscore the critical need for targeted hygiene interventions and infrastructure improvements to safeguard patient health.</p>



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Hospital toilets are contaminated with drug resistant 'superbugs'

Recent findings presented at the ESCMID Global Congress in Barcelona...

<p>The Earth harbors hidden geological marvels, and among the most enigmatic are blue holes. These enormous underwater sinkholes, often teeming with marine life, provide a glimpse into our planet's history. </p>



<p>A recent discovery in Mexico has redefined our understanding of these structures, with the identification of the deepest blue <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colossal-black-hole-found-in-our-galaxy-is-33-times-the-suns-mass/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hole</a> ever recorded: Taam Ja'.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-blue-holes-and-how-are-they-formed">What are blue holes and how are they formed?</h2>



<p>Blue holes are large marine caverns or sinkholes, typically formed in limestone or other carbonate rock beds. They stand out dramatically as dark blue water-filled pits, contrasting sharply with the lighter blue of surrounding shallow waters.</p>



<p>The formation of blue holes typically involves several natural processes:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Dissolution of limestone:</strong> Initially, rainwater, which is slightly acidic, percolates through fractures in limestone or other soluble rock, gradually dissolving the rock and forming a void or cavern.</li>



<li><strong>Collapse of surface rock:</strong> Over time, as more rock dissolves, the ceiling of the cavern can no longer support its own weight. This can lead to a collapse, creating a sinkhole that opens directly to the surface.</li>



<li><strong>Sea level changes:</strong> During ice ages, when much of Earth's water was locked up in glaciers, sea levels were much lower, and many of these caverns or sinkholes were dry or contained freshwater. As ice caps melted at the end of ice ages, sea levels rose, flooding these structures with marine water.</li>
</ul>



<p>Blue holes are often deep and isolated from one another. Located in both inland and shallow coastal waters, they feature unique environmental conditions that can lead to high levels of biodiversity. </p>



<p>Blue holes are renowned for their clarity and depth. This makes them popular hotspots for advanced divers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-deepest-blue-hole">Earth's deepest blue hole</h2>



<p>Situated in Chetumal Bay off the southeastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, Taam Ja', which translates to "deep water" in the Mayan language, has recently claimed the title of the world's deepest blue hole, surpassing the Dragon Hole located in China. </p>



<p>Recent exploratory measurements have confirmed that Taam Ja' reaches a remarkable depth of 1,380 feet (about 420 meters). This new finding has excited the scientific community, as it suggests that the blue hole could extend even deeper than currently verified, potentially holding further secrets beneath its dark waters. </p>



<p>This revelation not only highlights the blue hole's significant geological and ecological importance but also underscores the need for continued exploration to fully understand its dimensions and the marine life it supports.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-the-depths">Investigating the depths</h2>



<p>The initial depth estimate for Taam Ja' was approximately 900 feet (274 meters). This measurement was obtained using echo sounder mapping, a technique that uses sound waves to determine the distance to the ocean floor. </p>



<p>However, for a more accurate assessment, recent investigations employed a CTD (conductivity, temperature, and depth) profiler. This specialized instrument consists of a suite of sensors attached to a frame. </p>



<p>A cable lowers it into the depths of the blue hole, collecting precise data on water conductivity, temperature, and pressure to directly calculate depth. These measurements provide a significantly more precise understanding of the true dimensions of Taam Ja'.</p>



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



<p>Blue holes represent unique and highly complex ecosystems. They provide habitat for a wide variety of marine organisms, encompassing a range of species from corals and sponges to mollusks, sea turtles, and even sharks. These ecosystems thrive in the unique light and nutrient conditions found within blue holes. </p>



<p>However, due to their significant depth and limited accessibility for traditional research methods, our understanding of these environments remains incomplete. The challenges posed by depth and access hinder our ability to fully document the biodiversity and ecological processes within blue holes.</p>



<p>The discovery of Taam Ja' highlights the vastness and complexity of our planet's underwater landscapes. Its unprecedented depth presents both scientific opportunities and challenges. The researchers emphasize the need for "further exploration, monitoring, and scientific inquiry" to unlock the secrets held within Taam Ja'.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-notable-blue-holes">Other notable blue holes</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dragon-hole-china-nbsp">Dragon hole (China)&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The Dragon Hole in China was once believed to be the world's deepest blue hole, reaching a depth of 987 feet (300 meters). Known locally as Longdong, it set the standard for blue hole measurements and intrigued scientists and divers with its depth and potential mysteries.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-great-blue-hole-belize">Great blue hole (Belize)</h3>



<p>The Great Blue Hole in Belize, celebrated and widely recognized due to the explorations and promotions by famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, is another renowned marine sinkhole. </p>



<p>This iconic blue <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/map-belizes-great-blue-hole/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hole</a> plunges to a depth of 407 feet (about 124 meters) and is a top destination for scuba divers from around the world. Visitors are drawn by its striking circular shape and diverse aquatic ecosystem.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dean-s-blue-hole-bahamas">Dean's blue hole (Bahamas)</h3>



<p>Dean's Blue Hole in the Bahamas, with its depth of approximately 662 feet (about 202 meters), is a pivotal location for the sport of freediving. It has hosted numerous freediving competitions, challenging divers to reach its depths without the use of scuba gear, highlighting its importance in both recreational and competitive diving circles.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dahab-blue-hole-egypt">Dahab blue hole (Egypt)</h3>



<p>The Dahab Blue Hole in Egypt extends to a depth of 426 feet (130 meters). Vibrant coral reefs, renowned for encircling the hole, enhance its beauty. This blue hole attracts divers eager to explore the colorful marine life thriving in its unique underwater landscape. It serves as an important site for ecological studies and eco-tourism.</p>



<p>Blue holes are captivating reminders of our planet's geological history and the rich biodiversity they harbor. The discovery of Taam Ja' and its exceptional depth highlights the fascinating process of scientific exploration and the enduring allure of the underwater world.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2024.1387235/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.</p>



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



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World's deepest blue hole discovered in Mexico

The Earth harbors hidden geological marvels, and among the most...

<p>Marijuana's place in American law has been fiercely debated for decades. But now, in a remarkable move, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has announced plans to reclassify <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frequent-marijuana-use-linked-with-increased-risk-of-heart-attack/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marijuana</a>. This decision marks a major turning point in how many Americans perceive this complex plant and its place in society. </p>



<p>“Today, the Attorney General circulated a proposal to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III,” Justice Department director of public affairs <a href="https://politics.georgetown.edu/profile/xochitl-hinojosa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Xochitl Hinojosa</a> said in a statement. “Once published by the Federal Register, it will initiate a formal rulemaking process as prescribed by Congress in the Controlled Substances Act.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reclassifying-marijuana-to-schedule-iii">Reclassifying marijuana to Schedule III</h2>



<p>The DEA is suggesting a significant policy shift by proposing the removal of marijuana from Schedule I. Since its classification in the early 1970s, marijuana has been placed in the same category as highly dangerous drugs such as heroin and LSD. </p>



<p>This classification suggests that these substances have a high potential for abuse and no recognized medical benefits. However, the new proposal aims to change this longstanding stance.</p>



<p>Under the proposed changes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-strongly-linked-to-mental-disorders-in-a-new-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marijuana</a> would be reclassified to Schedule III. This category includes drugs like ketamine and some anabolic steroids, which are considered to have a lower potential for abuse than Schedule I or II substances. </p>



<p>The shift of marijuana to Schedule III would acknowledge its medicinal benefits. Recent medical studies have increasingly recognized these benefits. It would also show that marijuana is less addictive and less dangerous compared to more strictly regulated drugs. </p>



<p>This reclassification demonstrates a deeper understanding of marijuana's effects. It highlights its potential for treatment in various medical contexts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-reclassifying-marijuana-mean">What does reclassifying marijuana mean?</h2>



<p>The reclassification has several implications:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Shifting public opinion</h3>



<p>The transformation in public perception of marijuana is remarkable, with an increasing majority now favoring its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-legalization-does-not-increase-youth-substance-abuse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">legalization</a>, a sentiment particularly strong among younger demographics. This broad support has spurred politicians, including President Joe Biden, to respond to these changing tides. </p>



<p>President Biden recognizes the need for policy reform regarding marijuana. He has advocated for expunging criminal records related to marijuana offenses. Additionally, he has initiated reviews of existing national drug policies. </p>



<p>These actions reflect a societal move towards a more lenient stance on marijuana. They acknowledge its broad acceptance and the unfair consequences of previously stringent laws.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Medical potential</h3>



<p>As research continues to evolve, the medical applications of marijuana are becoming more evident. Although it is not a panacea, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marijuana-use-may-change-brain-structure-in-adolescents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marijuana</a> has been found effective in managing chronic pain, controlling epileptic seizures, and alleviating the adverse side effects of chemotherapy. </p>



<p>The proposed move of marijuana to Schedule III could potentially reduce the regulatory barriers that currently impede scientific research. This change would enable more thorough and expansive studies on marijuana. </p>



<p>As a result, it may lead to the discovery and validation of new medical applications for this previously stigmatized plant.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Burgeoning cannabis industry </h3>



<p>The economic implications of marijuana's reclassification are profound, particularly for the burgeoning cannabis industry. Currently experiencing rapid growth, this sector could see an alleviation of heavy tax burdens. </p>



<p>Additionally, such a move could make the industry more appealing to banks and financial institutions, which have historically been hesitant to engage with cannabis businesses due to its Schedule I status. The potential influx of banking support and reduced taxation could significantly stimulate further growth and stability in the cannabis market, making it a more integral part of the national economy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legal-status-of-recreational-marijuana">Legal status of recreational marijuana </h2>



<p>“While this rescheduling announcement is a historic step forward, I remain strongly committed to continuing to work on legislation like the SAFER Banking Act as well as the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act, which federally deschedules cannabis by removing it from the Controlled Substances Act,” Senate Majority Leader Sen. <a href="https://www.schumer.senate.gov/about/biography" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chuck Schumer</a> of New York said. </p>



<p>“Congress must do everything we can to end the federal prohibition on cannabis and address longstanding harms caused by the War on Drugs.”</p>



<p>The shift primarily recognizes marijuana's medical benefits rather than endorsing its recreational use. While this reclassification opens doors for medical research and treatment, the legal status of recreational marijuana use continues to be a complex and separate debate. This distinction is important for understanding the limits and implications of the DEA's proposed changes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-outlook-on-reclassifying-marijuana">Future outlook on reclassifying marijuana</h2>



<p>The process of reclassifying marijuana involves several key steps, including a period for public comment and a thorough review process. Due to these requirements, the exact timeline for when these changes will be implemented remains uncertain.</p>



<p>The interaction between state and federal laws concerning marijuana might become even more complex with this reclassification. States have their own varied laws regarding marijuana use, and changes at the federal level could either harmonize or further complicate this legal landscape.</p>



<p>There are concerns among some critics that reclassifying marijuana could lead to unintended negative consequences. As this change unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor its impacts to fully understand its effects on society and the legal system. The complete range of these outcomes will only become clear with time.</p>



<p>The DEA's proposed shift in marijuana policy reflects changing public attitudes, potential benefits to medical research, and a burgeoning industry. While full-scale legalization isn't on the immediate horizon, this proposal marks a significant step in a long and complex journey reshaping the United States' relationship with marijuana.</p>



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



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U.S. plans to reclassify marijuana and ease restrictions

Marijuana's place in American law has been fiercely debated for...

Beautiful,Red,Planet,Mars,With,Craters,With,Dawn,Light,Sun.

<p>As the Sun enters a period of peak activity known as solar maximum, scientists are gearing up to study how solar storms could impact future space exploration, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-solar-outburst-detected-simultaneously-at-earth-the-moon-and-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particularly on Mars</a>. </p>



<p>According to Shannon Curry, principal investigator for NASA's <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/maven/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MAVEN</a> (Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN) orbiter, this rare opportunity will provide valuable insights into the effects of solar radiation on the Red Planet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-solar-storms-and-their-impact-on-mars">Understanding solar storms and their impact on Mars</h2>



<p>Solar maximum, which occurs roughly every 11 years, is a time when the Sun is especially prone to throwing fiery tantrums in the form of solar flares and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-sunspot-may-soon-disrupt-earths-power-grids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coronal mass ejections</a>. These events launch radiation deep into space, and when a series of them erupts, it's called a solar storm.</p>



<p>While <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's magnetic field</a> largely shields our home planet from the effects of these storms, Mars is more vulnerable due to the absence of a global magnetic field. </p>



<p>Curry, whose research is managed by NASA's <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Space Flight Center</a> in Greenbelt, Maryland, expressed her desire to witness a large solar event on Mars this year.</p>



<p>"For humans and assets on the Martian surface, we don't have a solid handle on what the effect is from radiation during solar activity," Curry said. "I'd actually love to see the 'big one' at Mars this year — a large event that we can study to understand solar radiation better before astronauts go to Mars."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maven-and-curiosity-are-nasa-s-dynamic-duo">MAVEN and Curiosity are NASA's dynamic duo</h2>



<p>To study the impact of solar activity on Mars, <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> relies on two spacecraft: the MAVEN orbiter and the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/msl-curiosity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Curiosity rover</a>. MAVEN observes radiation, solar particles, and more from high above Mars, while Curiosity's Radiation Assessment Detector (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/msl-curiosity/science-instruments/#hds-sidebar-nav-19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RAD</a>) measures the radiation that reaches the planet's surface.</p>



<p>Don Hassler, RAD's principal investigator from the Southwest Research Institute in Boulder, Colorado, explained the importance of studying both the quantity and energy of solar particles. </p>



<p>"You can have a million particles with low energy or 10 particles with extremely high energy," Hassler said. "While MAVEN's instruments are more sensitive to lower-energy ones, RAD is the only instrument capable of seeing the high-energy ones that make it through the atmosphere to the surface, where astronauts would be."</p>



<p>When MAVEN detects a big solar flare, the orbiter's team alerts the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasas-curiosity-rover-records-a-martian-day-from-dawn-to-dusk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Curiosity</a> team so they can watch for changes in RAD's data. </p>



<p>The two missions can even assemble a time series measuring changes down to the half-second as particles arrive at the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-may-have-once-been-a-cradle-for-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian atmosphere</a>, interact with it, and eventually strike the surface.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-spacecraft-and-astronauts">Protecting spacecraft and astronauts</h2>



<p>MAVEN also leads an early warning system that lets other Mars spacecraft teams know when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-microbes-from-earth-could-survive-the-conditions-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">radiation levels</a> begin to rise. </p>



<p>This heads-up enables missions to turn off instruments that could be vulnerable to solar flares, which can interfere with electronics and radio communication.</p>



<p>Beyond helping to keep astronauts and spacecraft safe, studying solar maximum could also lend insight into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-has-a-water-reservoir-two-miles-deep-enough-to-fill-earths-red-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">why Mars changed</a> from being a warm, wet Earth-like world billions of years ago to the freezing desert it is today.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-storms-and-the-mystery-of-mars-lost-water">Solar storms and the mystery of Mars' lost water</h2>



<p>Scientists are particularly interested in studying the potential connection between global dust storms and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-vanishing-water-mystery-new-insights-curiosity-rover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">loss of water on Mars</a>. </p>



<p>Some researchers theorize that <a href="https://youtu.be/wRaGAA0jFFA" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">during solar storms</a>, global dust storms could help eject water vapor high into the atmosphere, where it gets stripped away.</p>



<p>If a global dust storm were to occur at the same time as a solar storm, it would provide an opportunity to test this theory. </p>



<p>However, global dust storms are rare occurrences, and scientists are aware that the chances of this happening during the current solar maximum are slim.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-mars-exploration-and-solar-storm-protection">Future of Mars exploration and solar storm protection</h2>



<p>As NASA prepares for future human missions to Mars, understanding the effects of solar radiation on the planet is crucial. </p>



<p>The data collected by MAVEN and Curiosity during this solar maximum will help space agencies determine the level of radiation protection astronauts will require on the Red Planet.</p>



<p>With the Sun at its most active and Mars at its closest point to our star, the coming months will be an exciting time for scientists studying the Red Planet. </p>



<p>The insights gained from this rare opportunity could not only help protect future astronauts but also shed light on the mysterious history of Mars and its once-abundant water.</p>



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Mars missions prepare for intense solar storms on the Red Planet

As the Sun enters a period of peak activity known...

<p>A new study has revealed that a rare genetic condition, known as growth hormone receptor deficiency (GHRD) or Laron syndrome, may protect against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease</a>. </p>



<p>The body’s ineffective use of its own growth hormone characterizes this condition, leading to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-at-high-altitudes-increases-stunting-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stunted growth</a>. Researchers have long observed in mice that this mutation significantly increases lifespan and reduces age-related diseases; however, only recently have they begun to understand its impact on human cardiovascular health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-laron-syndrome">What is Laron Syndrome?</h2>



<p>Laron Syndrome is a rare genetic condition that primarily affects growth due to a defect in the growth hormone receptor. This defect disrupts the normal action of growth hormone, a critical regulator of growth, metabolism, and body composition. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Genetic basis</h3>



<p>Laron Syndrome is caused by mutations in the GHR gene, which encodes the growth hormone receptor. These mutations lead to either a malformed receptor that does not function properly or to a significantly reduced number of receptors available for hormone binding. </p>



<p>The condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning a child needs to inherit two copies of the mutated gene (one from each parent) to develop the disorder.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Characteristics and symptoms</h3>



<p>Individuals with Laron Syndrome are characterized by:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Severely stunted growth</strong>, noticeable from infancy.</li>



<li><strong>Proportional body structure</strong>, despite short stature.</li>



<li><strong>Facial features</strong> that may include a prominent forehead, underdeveloped nasal bridge, and a blue tinge to the whites of the eyes.</li>



<li><strong>High levels of circulating growth hormone</strong> with low levels of IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1), which normally mediates many of the effects of growth hormone.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Treatment</h3>



<p>There is no cure for Laron Syndrome, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Growth hormone therapy</strong> is ineffective due to the body's resistance to it. Instead, <strong>IGF-1 therapy</strong> has been used to promote growth in children with this condition.</li>



<li>Regular monitoring and management of potential complications, such as delayed puberty and metabolic abnormalities, are recommended.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rare genetic condition and age-related disease </h3>



<p>Laron Syndrome continues to be an area of interest for research, not only to improve management strategies for those affected but also to understand its implications for aging and chronic diseases in the general population. </p>



<p>The unique characteristics of those with Laron Syndrome can provide insights into the aging process and the development of age-related diseases, offering potential pathways for developing new therapeutic approaches.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-insights-into-laron-syndrome">Genetic insights into Laron syndrome</h2>



<p>Valter Longo, a professor at the <a href="https://gero.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC</a> Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, and Jaime Guevara-Aguirre, an endocrinologist at the <a href="https://www.usfq.edu.ec/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universidad San Francisco de Quito</a> in Ecuador, published their findings in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/med/abstract/S2666-6340(24)00134-X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Med</a></em> on April 26, 2024.</p>



<p>For nearly 20 years, these researchers have been studying the health and aging impacts of the GHR mutation in Laron syndrome, predominantly found among a small population of Ecuadorians descended from exiles of the Spanish Inquisition.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-impacts-of-laron-syndrome">Health impacts of Laron syndrome</h2>



<p>The research focused on 51 individuals, comprising 24 with Laron syndrome and 27 of their relatives without the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genetic-mutation-may-explain-how-humans-lost-their-tails/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mutation</a>. By conducting comprehensive assessments of cardiovascular function, damage, and risk factors both in Los Angeles and Ecuador, the team gathered significant data. </p>



<p>The subjects with Laron syndrome exhibited lower blood sugar levels, decreased insulin resistance, and reduced blood pressure when compared to their non-mutant relatives. </p>



<p>Additionally, they had smaller heart dimensions and exhibited lower carotid artery thickness despite having similar arterial stiffness.</p>



<p>Interestingly, even though individuals with Laron syndrome had elevated levels of LDL cholesterol, known as "bad cholesterol," they showed a lower incidence of carotid artery atherosclerotic plaques (7% compared to 36% in the control group).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-insights-from-the-study">Valuable insights from the study</h2>



<p>"These findings suggest that individuals with Laron syndrome have normal or improved levels of cardiovascular disease risk factors compared to their relatives," stated Professor Longo, the senior author of the study. </p>



<p>He further noted that although the sample size is small, the human data, when combined with previous animal studies, offer valuable insights into the potential health benefits of growth hormone receptor deficiency.</p>



<p>The implications of this research extend beyond just understanding the rare genetic condition of Laron syndrome. They also open up possibilities for new therapeutic strategies that mimic the effects of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-live-long-genetic-mutations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic mutation</a>. </p>



<p>Potential interventions could include drugs or dietary adjustments aimed at replicating the mutation's protective effects, thereby potentially reducing disease incidence and extending human longevity.</p>



<p>As this body of research grows, it continues to illuminate the complex interactions between genetics and disease, providing hope for future breakthroughs in medical science.</p>



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



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Rare genetic condition may offer protection from heart disease

A new study has revealed that a rare genetic condition,...

Wild,Blueberries,In,A,Canadian,Forest.

<p>The image of a spear-wielding mammoth hunter might be the classic symbol of early humans, but it's becoming clear that reality was much less meat-obsessed. A new study has overturned the idea that our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-tooth-ancient-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient</a> ancestors were all about the hunt for their diets. </p>



<p>As it turns out, long before anyone thought of planting wheat, North African hunter-gatherers had become surprisingly skilled plant chefs. They were even introducing their babies to a taste of the wild with mashed nuts and berries, completely changing our picture of prehistoric parenting.</p>



<p>The remarkable study was conducted by an international team of scientists from the <a href="https://www.eva.mpg.de/index/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology</a> (Leipzig, Germany), <a href="https://www.get.omp.eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Géoscience et Environnement Toulouse</a> (Toulouse, France), and the Institut National des Sciences de l’Archéologie et du Patrimoine (Rabat, Morocco),</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iberomaurusians-and-their-ancient-diets">Iberomaurusians and their ancient diets</h2>



<p>The people in this study are known as the Iberomaurusians, who called Morocco's Taforalt Cave home thousands of years ago. </p>



<p>Until recently, the assumption was that people like them mostly tracked animals, ignoring the plant life around them. But by diving deep into their teeth and bones, researchers found these cave dwellers were more like adventurous omnivores:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-main-course">The main course</h3>



<p>The Iberomaurusians had a diet much richer in plant material than previously thought. Researchers discovered a significant reliance on acorns, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-gives-pine-trees-fresh-scent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pine nuts</a>, and wild pulses (which are similar to the beans and lentils we know today). This indicates a surprisingly diverse and well-rounded diet drawing on the local, Mediterranean environment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baby-s-first-bites">Baby's first bites</h3>



<p>Analysis of infant remains indicates early introduction of solid foods in the Iberomaurusian population. Babies and young children likely consumed acorns, pine nuts, and pulses. These staples mirrored adult diets but were mashed for easier consumption by the young.</p>



<p>"Our findings not only provide insights into the dietary practices of pre-agricultural human groups but also highlight the complexity of human subsistence strategies in different regions," says Zineb Moubtahij, who led the study.</p>



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



<p>The researchers in this study employed a range of advanced analytical techniques to uncover the dietary practices of the Iberomaurusians. This went well beyond the traditional examination of artifacts like bones or tools.</p>



<p>Isotopic analysis of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-provides-insights-into-the-lives-of-neanderthals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tooth enamel</a> revealed specific chemical signatures. These signatures are directly linked to the types of foods a person consumed regularly, providing a detailed dietary record.</p>



<p>Further analysis of skeletal remains focused on specific elements like carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur. The ratios of these elements offer insights into the balance of different food sources in an individual's diet.</p>



<p>To gain a broader understanding of the available food resources, the scientists also analyzed the bones of animals discovered in the cave. This helped determine the position of humans within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-americans-split-reconverging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient</a> food web and identify potential sources of protein.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-the-hunter-gatherer-label">Rethinking the "hunter-gatherer" label</h2>



<p>For decades, the prevailing image of "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-humans-used-to-eat-their-ancestral-relatives-practicing-cannibalism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hunter-gatherer</a>" societies has been one heavily centered on the pursuit and consumption of animals. This study challenges the traditional view that diets in pre-agricultural times predominantly consisted of meat. </p>



<p>It shows that plant-based foods were significantly important. Although meat was part of their diet, the findings reveal a complex strategy that utilized a diverse array of resources.</p>



<p>This new perspective forces us to question several long-held assumptions about pre-agricultural people:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Limited diet:</strong>&nbsp;The idea that hunter-gatherers were constrained by a monotonous and protein-heavy diet is undermined by evidence of diverse plant consumption. This points to more resourceful and adaptable dietary practices.</li>



<li><strong>Foraging skills:</strong>&nbsp;The ability to successfully identify, gather, and potentially process various plant foods reveals a deeper knowledge of the environment and its resources than often attributed to these early communities.</li>



<li><strong>Survival strategies:</strong>&nbsp;The emphasis on plants suggests a broader range of survival techniques employed by pre-agricultural people beyond just hunting. This includes sophisticated foraging strategies, seasonal exploitation of resources, and potentially even rudimentary food preservation methods.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-ancient-diets">Significance of ancient diets</h2>



<p>Ultimately, this study highlights the remarkable adaptability of early human communities and their intimate relationship with their surroundings. </p>



<p>These groups were not limited by a lack of agriculture. They ingeniously utilized available resources to ensure survival. This resourcefulness also helped complex social structures to emerge.</p>



<p>If these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earliest-human-footprints-ever-found-are-believed-to-be-300000-years-old/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient</a> people had access to so much yummy plant food, why didn't agriculture emerge in North Africa sooner? </p>



<p>This discovery of a surprisingly plant-based diet among the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-human-ancestor-footprints/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient</a> Iberomaurusians raises a perplexing question: If access to plentiful and diverse wild food resources was possible, why didn't the transition to agriculture occur earlier in North Africa?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conventional-wisdom-turned-upside-down">Conventional wisdom turned upside down</h2>



<p>The conventional understanding of agricultural development suggests that it arose in response to resource scarcity, population pressure, or unpredictable food availability. </p>



<p>These factors are thought to have pushed hunter-gatherer groups toward the domestication of plants and animals for greater dietary stability.</p>



<p>The findings of this study suggest an alternative scenario. Perhaps North Africa's abundant wild resources provided enough comfort and food security to delay the adoption of labor-intensive farming. Foraging and gathering may have provided a perfectly sustainable, if nomadic, lifestyle.</p>



<p>It's also important to consider the potential impact of climatic shifts. The end of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-age-data-analysis-reshapes-climate-future-lowers-warming-estimates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">last Ice Age</a> triggered significant environmental changes. </p>



<p>These changes may have altered the availability and distribution of wild food resources. This shift could have created the pressure necessary for the eventual transition to agriculture.</p>



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



<p>This study highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of the factors that led to the emergence of agriculture in different regions of the world. It prompts us to investigate several aspects. </p>



<p>A closer examination of plant remains in North Africa could shed light on the changing availability and types of wild food sources over time and how they may have influenced subsistence strategies.</p>



<p>Analyzing climate records and evidence of environmental change could reveal whether shifts in resource availability played a role in the eventual adoption of agriculture.</p>



<p>Examining the timing and trajectory of agricultural development in other regions with rich wild resources could offer insights into the unique circumstances of North Africa.</p>



<p>This discovery acts like a key, unlocking a whole new world of prehistoric diets in Africa. Imagine what else we might learn about how our ancestors ate, the challenges they faced, and the surprising ways they adapted to survive. More studies like this one have the potential to rewrite whole chapters of human history.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02382-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</em></a>.</p>



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



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Ancient diets of early humans were richer in plants than expected

The image of a spear-wielding mammoth hunter might be the...

<p>The Horsehead Nebula, a celestial icon, has been captured in the sharpest infrared images to date by the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope. </p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Horsehead-Nebula_telescope-comparisons_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">These observations</a>, taken by an international team of astronomers, reveal the complexity of this distinctive object with unprecedented spatial resolution, showcasing a part of the nebula in a whole new light.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-iconic-horsehead-nebula">The iconic Horsehead Nebula</h2>



<p>Residing roughly 1,300 light-years away in the constellation Orion (The Hunter), the Horsehead Nebula, also <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horsehead-nebula-captured-in-first-batch-photos-from-the-euclid-mission/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">known as Barnard 33</a>, rises from turbulent waves of dust and gas on the western side of the Orion B molecular cloud. </p>



<p>The nebula formed from a collapsing interstellar cloud of material and glows due to illumination from a nearby hot star. </p>



<p>While the surrounding gas clouds have already dissipated, the jutting pillar remains intact, composed of thick clumps of material that are more resistant to erosion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-countdown-the-horsehead-s-finite-future">Cosmic countdown: The Horsehead's finite future</h2>



<p>Astronomers estimate that the Horsehead Nebula has about five million years left before it, too, disintegrates. </p>



<p>Webb's new view focuses on the illuminated edge of the top of the nebula's distinctive dust and gas structure, providing a glimpse into its finite future.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secrets-of-photon-dominated-regions">Secrets of photon-dominated regions</h2>



<p>The Horsehead Nebula is a well-known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-features-found-in-the-heart-of-milky-way-galaxy/">photon-</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-features-found-in-the-heart-of-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">d</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-features-found-in-the-heart-of-milky-way-galaxy/">ominated</a> region (PDR), where ultraviolet light from young, massive stars creates a mostly neutral, warm area of gas and dust between the fully ionized gas surrounding the massive stars and the clouds in which they are born. </p>



<p>As the most important source of heat, this ultraviolet radiation strongly influences the gas chemistry of these regions.</p>



<p>PDRs occur where interstellar gas is dense enough to remain neutral but not dense enough to prevent the penetration of far-ultraviolet light from massive stars. </p>



<p>The light emitted from PDRs provides a unique tool for astronomers to study the physical and chemical processes that drive the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-jets-cannibals-neutron-stars-explosions-contain-life-elements/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interstellar matter</a> in our galaxy and throughout the Universe, from the early era of vigorous star formation to the present day.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-horsehead-nebula-as-the-ideal-cosmic-laboratory">Horsehead Nebula as the ideal cosmic laboratory</h2>



<p>Due to its proximity and nearly edge-on geometry, the Horsehead Nebula is an ideal target for astronomers to study the physical structures of PDRs. </p>



<p>Horsehead is also perfect for studying the evolution of the chemical characteristics of the gas and dust within their respective environments, as well as the transition regions between them. It is considered one of the best objects in the sky to study how radiation interacts with interstellar matter.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revealing-small-scale-structures-and-dust-particles">Revealing small-scale structures and dust particles</h2>



<p>Thanks to Webb's MIRI and NIRCam instruments, the international team of astronomers has revealed, for the first time, the small-scale structures of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Horsehead-Nebula_Webb-NIRCam_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">illuminated edge of the Horsehead</a>. </p>



<p>They have also detected a network of striated features extending perpendicular to the PDR front, containing dust particles and ionized gas entrained in the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Webb/Webb_captures_iconic_Horsehead_Nebula_in_unprecedented_detail" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photo-evaporative flow of the nebula</a>.</p>



<p>The observations have allowed astronomers to investigate the effects of dust attenuation and emission and to better understand the multidimensional shape of the nebula. </p>



<p>Webb's new view focuses on the illuminated edge of the top of the nebula's distinctive dust and gas structure.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spectroscopic-analysis-and-next-steps">Spectroscopic analysis and next steps</h2>



<p>Moving forward, astronomers intend to study the spectroscopic data that have been obtained of the nebula to evidence the evolution of the physical and chemical properties of the material observed across the nebula. This will provide further insights into the complex processes occurring within this iconic cosmic masterpiece.</p>



<p>As another team member remarked, "These observations show a part of the iconic nebula in a whole new light, capturing its complexity with unprecedented spatial resolution."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-s-tribute-to-the-horsehead-nebula-is-a-cosmic-masterpiece">Webb’s tribute to the Horsehead Nebula is a cosmic masterpiece</h2>



<p>In summary, the James Webb Space Telescope has once again demonstrated its unparalleled capabilities by capturing the sharpest infrared images of the iconic Horsehead Nebula to date. </p>



<p>These observations showcase the nebula's complexity and beauty and provide astronomers with valuable insights into the physical and chemical processes that shape the evolution of interstellar matter. </p>



<p>As researchers continue to study the spectroscopic data obtained from the nebula, they will undoubtedly uncover more secrets about this cosmic equestrian masterpiece. </p>



<p>The Webb telescope's infrared gaze will keep illuminating the mysteries of the Universe, allowing us to appreciate the wonders that surround us and deepening our understanding of the cosmos.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the <a href="https://www.aanda.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">journal <em>Astronomy &amp; Astrophysics</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Horsehead Nebula captured in jaw-dropping detail by Webb

The Horsehead Nebula, a celestial icon, has been captured in...

<p>An international team of researchers has harnessed the power of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope to unravel the mysteries of distant worlds. The telescope's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-discovers-what-powered-the-reionization-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">precise measurements</a> and advanced capabilities have allowed scientists to map the weather on WASP-43 b, a hot gas-giant exoplanet located trillions of miles away.</p>



<p>The study, published in <em>Nature Astronomy</em>, was led by Taylor Bell, a researcher from the <a href="https://baeri.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bay Area Environmental Research Institute</a>. </p>



<p>The team's findings suggest the presence of thick, high clouds on the planet's nightside, clear skies on the dayside, and powerful equatorial winds that mix atmospheric gases at speeds of up to 5,000 miles per hour.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wasp-43-b-is-a-planet-of-extremes">WASP-43 b is a planet of extremes</h2>



<p>WASP-43 b, discovered in 2011, is a "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-glory-lights-effect-seen-exoplanet-wasp-76b-baffling-astronomers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hot Jupiter</a>" type of exoplanet. Similar in size to Jupiter and composed primarily of hydrogen and helium, this world orbits its star at an incredibly close distance of just 1.3 million miles. </p>



<p>As a result, the planet is tidally locked, with one side perpetually facing the star and the other shrouded in eternal darkness.</p>



<p>"With Hubble, we could clearly see that there is water vapor on the dayside. Both Hubble and Spitzer suggested there might be clouds on the nightside," explained Taylor Bell. </p>



<p>"But we needed more precise measurements from <a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Webb</a> to really begin mapping the temperature, cloud cover, winds, and more detailed atmospheric composition all the way around the planet," Bell continued.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-temperature-and-inferring-weather-patterns">Mapping temperature and inferring weather patterns</h2>



<p>By employing phase curve spectroscopy, the researchers measured tiny changes in the brightness of the star-planet system as WASP-43 b completed its 19.5-hour orbit. </p>



<p>Using Webb's Mid-Infrared Instrument (<a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/content/observatory/instruments/miri.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIRI</a>), the team collected light measurements every 10 seconds for more than 24 hours, enabling them to calculate the temperature of different sides of the planet as they rotated into view.</p>



<p>The measurements revealed a stark contrast between the planet's dayside and nightside temperatures. The dayside, with an average temperature of nearly 2,300 degrees Fahrenheit (1,250 degrees Celsius), is hot enough to forge iron. </p>



<p>In comparison, the nightside is significantly cooler at 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit (600 degrees Celsius). The data also helped locate the planet's hottest spot, which is slightly shifted eastward due to supersonic winds that move heated air in that direction.</p>



<p>"The fact that we can map temperature in this way is a real testament to Webb's sensitivity and stability," remarked Michael Roman, a co-author from the <a href="https://le.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leicester</a> in the U.K.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-missing-methane-and-high-speed-winds-on-wasp-43-b">Missing methane and high-speed winds on WASP-43 b</h2>



<p>The broad spectrum of mid-infrared light captured by Webb also allowed the researchers to measure the abundance of water vapor (H2O) and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-is-letting-out-mysterious-methane-burps-but-why/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane (CH4)</a> in the planet's atmosphere. </p>



<p>While water vapor was detected on both the dayside and nightside, the data revealed a surprising absence of methane.</p>



<p>"The fact that we don't see methane tells us that WASP-43 b must have wind speeds reaching something like 5,000 miles per hour," explained Joanna Barstow, a co-author from the <a href="https://www.open.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Open University</a> in the U.K. </p>



<p>"If winds move gas around from the dayside to the nightside and back again fast enough, there isn't enough time for the expected chemical reactions to produce detectable amounts of methane on the nightside," she concluded.</p>



<p>The team believes that this wind-driven mixing results in a uniform atmospheric chemistry throughout the planet, a finding that was not apparent from previous observations using the Hubble and Spitzer space telescopes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-of-exoplanet-science">New era of exoplanet science</h2>



<p>The James Webb Space Telescope has opened a new frontier in exoplanet science, enabling researchers to map the weather patterns and atmospheric composition of distant worlds like never before. </p>



<p>By revealing the extreme temperature variations, thick clouds, and supersonic winds on WASP-43 b, this study demonstrates the telescope's extraordinary capabilities and sets the stage for a new era of exploration. </p>



<p>As scientists continue to leverage Webb's advanced instruments and precise measurements, they will undoubtedly uncover more fascinating insights into the diverse and captivating worlds that populate our universe, bringing us closer to understanding the complexity and potential habitability of planets beyond our solar system.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-024-02230-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Astronomy</a></em>.</p>



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Webb predicts the weather forecast on exoplanet WASP-43 b

An international team of researchers has harnessed the power of...

<p>Geologists have uncovered ancient rocks in Greenland that bear the oldest remnants of Earth's early <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a>. These exceptionally pristine rocks, preserved for billions of years, provide a glimpse into the planet's early conditions that may have helped life take hold.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extending-the-age-of-earth-s-magnetic-field">Extending the age of Earth's magnetic field</h2>



<p>Claire Nichols, a former <a href="https://www.mit.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a> postdoc and now an associate professor of the geology of planetary processes at <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford University</a>, along with her colleagues, determined that the rocks are about 3.7 billion years old. </p>



<p>More importantly, they retain signatures of a magnetic field with a strength of at least 15 microtesla, similar in magnitude to the Earth's magnetic field today. </p>



<p>The findings, appearing in the <em>Journal of Geophysical Research</em>, potentially extend the age of the Earth's magnetic field by hundreds of millions of years.</p>



<p>"The magnetic field is, in theory, one of the reasons we think Earth is really unique as a habitable planet," says Nichols. "It's thought our magnetic field protects us from harmful radiation from space, and also helps us to have oceans and atmospheres that can be stable for long periods of time."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-life-s-emergence">Implications for life's emergence</h2>



<p>The discovery of a magnetic field dating back to 3.7 billion years ago has significant implications for the emergence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ancient-ocean-water-shaped-early-life-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life on Earth</a>. </p>



<p>“That’s important because that’s the time when we think life was emerging,” says Benjamin Weiss, the Robert R. Shrock Professor of Planetary Sciences in MIT’s Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences (<a href="https://eaps.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EAPS</a>). </p>



<p>“If the Earth’s magnetic field was around a few hundred million years earlier, it could have played a critical role in making the planet habitable," Weiss continued.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-isua-supracrustal-belt">Exploring the Isua Supracrustal Belt</h2>



<p>In 2018, Nichols and her team embarked on an expedition to the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isua_Greenstone_Belt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Isua Supracrustal Belt</a> in southwest Greenland, a remote location accessible only by helicopter. </p>



<p>The area is known for having the oldest preserved rocks on Earth, which have been extensively studied to answer scientific questions about Earth's ancient conditions.</p>



<p>"It's about 150 kilometers away from the capital city, and you get helicoptered in, right up against the ice sheet," Nichols says. "Here, you have the world's oldest rocks essentially, surrounded by this dramatic expression of the ice age. It's a really spectacular place."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-banded-iron-formations">Analyzing banded iron formations</h2>



<p>The team collected <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/earth-magnetic-field_oldest-rock_Isua-Supracrustal-Belt_MIT_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">samples of banded iron formations</a>, rocks that appear as stripes of iron-rich and silica-rich rock. The iron-oxide minerals found in these rocks can act as tiny magnets that orient with any external magnetic field. </p>



<p>The researchers suspect that these rocks were originally formed in primordial oceans prior to the rise in atmospheric oxygen around 2.5 billion years ago.</p>



<p>"Back when there wasn't oxygen in the atmosphere, iron didn't oxidize so easily, so it was in solution in the oceans until it reached a critical concentration, when it precipitated out," Nichols explains. "So, it's basically a result of iron raining out of the oceans and depositing on the seafloor."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-determining-the-strength-of-the-ancient-magnetic-field">Determining the strength of the ancient magnetic field</h2>



<p>Through a careful process of remagnetization, the team concluded that the rocks likely harbored an ancient, 3.7-billion-year-old <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mesopotamian-bricks-reveal-anomaly-in-earths-magnetic-field-3000-years-ago/">ma</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mesopotamian-bricks-reveal-anomaly-in-earths-magnetic-field-3000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">g</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mesopotamian-bricks-reveal-anomaly-in-earths-magnetic-field-3000-years-ago/">netic field</a>, with a magnitude of at least 15 microtesla, half the strength of today's field but of the same order of magnitude.</p>



<p>"The fact that it's similar in strength as today's field implies whatever is driving Earth's magnetic field has not changed massively in power over billions of years," Nichols says.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-earth-s-evolution-and-habitability">Implications for Earth's evolution and habitability</h2>



<p>The results raise questions about how the ancient Earth could have powered such a robust magnetic field, as it's thought that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solid-metal-ball-discovered-within-earths-inner-core/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inner core</a>, which powers today's field, had not yet formed so early in the planet's evolution.</p>



<p>"It seems like evidence for whatever was generating a magnetic field back then was a different power source from what we have today," Weiss says. </p>



<p>"And we care about Earth because there's life here, but it's also a touchstone for understanding other terrestrial planets. It suggests planets throughout the galaxy probably have lots of ways of powering a magnetic field, which is important for the question of habitability elsewhere," he concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-chapter-in-the-history-of-earth-s-magnetic-field">New chapter in the history of Earth’s magnetic field</h2>



<p>In summary, the discovery of 3.7 billion-year-old rocks in Greenland bearing signatures of Earth's ancient magnetic field opens a new chapter in our understanding of the planet's evolution and habitability. </p>



<p>This find challenges our current knowledge of Earth's magnetic field and its role in supporting life. As geologists continue to unravel the secrets hidden within these ancient rocks, we move closer to comprehending the complex interplay between Earth's magnetic field, its early conditions, and the emergence of life on our planet. </p>



<p>This research reshapes our understanding of Earth's history and provides valuable insights into the potential habitability of other terrestrial planets throughout the galaxy.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the <em><a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023JB027706" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Geophysical Research Solid Earth</a></em>.</p>



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



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

Earth’s magnetic field is much older than previously believed

Geologists have uncovered ancient rocks in Greenland that bear the...

<p>A team of researchers led by the <a href="https://www.pcom.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine</a> (PCOM) has recently described a remarkable species of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extinct-giant-salmon-teeth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salmon</a>, known as <em>Oncorhynchus rastrosus</em>, which lived in the North American Pacific Northwest millions of years ago and boasted an unusual pair of protruding front teeth resembling tusks.</p>



<p>“In the Pacific Northwest, <em>Oncorhynchus</em> is the most celebrated and species-rich salmonine subclade, yet the twelve living species represent only a portion of their clade’s historical diversity,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spike-toothed-salmon">Spike-toothed salmon</h2>



<p>Previously, researchers believed that the large front teeth of <em>O. rastrosus</em>, which earned it the nickname "saber-toothed salmon," pointed backward into its mouth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, recent CT scans and thorough analyses of various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossils-capture-a-turning-point-in-the-evolution-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossils</a> have found that these teeth extended sideways out of the mouth, akin to the tusks of a warthog. Based on these findings, the researchers suggested renaming the species to "spike-toothed salmon."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-purpose-of-tusk-like-salmon-teeth-nbsp">Purpose of tusk-like salmon teeth&nbsp;</h2>



<p>While the actual function of these distinctive teeth remains a matter of debate, the researchers argued that they could have been used for combat with other members of their species or for defense against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-ocean-predators-thrived/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a>. </p>



<p>Another possibility is that the teeth served a practical purpose in nest-building during the spawning season. It is unlikely that the teeth were used for capturing prey, as <em>O. rastrosus</em> is believed to have been a filter-feeder, primarily consuming plankton.</p>



<p>“The discoveries like ours show they probably weren't gentle giants,” said lead author Kerin Claeson, a paleontologist at the PCOM. “These massive spikes at the tip of their snouts would have been useful to defend against predators, compete against other salmon, and ultimately build the nests where they would incubate their eggs.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-both-males-and-females-had-protruding-teeth">Both males and females had protruding teeth</h2>



<p>Senior author Edward Davis, an associate professor of Earth Sciences at the University of Oregon and director of the <a href="https://mnch.uoregon.edu/collections-galleries/condon-collection" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Condon Collection</a> at the UO’s Museum of Natural and Cultural History, expressed enthusiasm about the new insights: “I’m delighted that we have been able to put a new face on the giant spike-toothed salmon, bringing knowledge from the field in Oregon to the world.”</p>



<p>“We also stress that females and males alike possessed enormous, tusk-like teeth. Therefore, the sexes were equally fearsome,” added co-author Brian Sidlauskas, an expert in ichthyology <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>. This feature highlights the potentially aggressive and competitive nature of both male and female spike-toothed salmon.</p>



<p>“Because male and females possess hypertrophied premaxillae and lateral premaxillary spikes, the former common name “Sabertoothed Salmon” no longer reflects our understanding of the species’ morphology. Accordingly, we redub <em>O. rastrosus</em> the Spike-Toothed Salmon and postulate that its spikes were multifunctional, serving as defense against predators, in agonism against conspecifics, and as a practical aid to nest construction,” the authors concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-salmon-teeth">More about salmon teeth</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decline-in-atlantic-salmon-linked-to-humans-and-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Salmon</a> have a set of teeth that are well-adapted to their diet and lifestyle, primarily suited for grabbing and holding onto prey. These teeth are small but sharp, lining the jaws, and in some species, they can also be found on the roof of the mouth. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-function-of-salmon-teeth">Function of salmon teeth</h3>



<p>The primary function of these teeth is not for chewing but for ensnaring slippery prey like fish and insects, which is crucial since <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-unpredictable-effects-on-salmon-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salmon</a> are predominantly carnivorous.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structure">Structure</h3>



<p>Interestingly, the structure and robustness of salmon teeth can vary among species and even change throughout the life stages of the fish. For example, when young salmon (smolts) transition from freshwater to the ocean, their diet changes, and this can be reflected in the development of their teeth to better suit their new food sources.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spawning">Spawning</h3>



<p>Additionally, during the spawning phase, some male salmon develop what's called a "kype," which is a pronounced curvature of the jaws and teeth. This feature helps them in fights for dominance and the right to mate.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Overall, the teeth of salmon are integral to their survival and reproductive strategies, emphasizing their role as effective predators within their aquatic environments.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0300252" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>PLoS ONE</em></a>.</p>



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



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Giant prehistoric salmon had fearsome, tusk-like teeth

A team of researchers led by the Philadelphia College of...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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



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



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



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



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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