<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>



<p>-----</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>Farming has always embodied innovation and adaptation, and with gene editing, the future of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gene-editing-burger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agriculture</a> is poised to be more vibrant than ever. Through this advanced technique, scientists are proposing a revolutionary method to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bioengineering-improve-rice-crop-yields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bioengineer crops</a> with unique colors and leaf shapes.</p>



<p>This approach could transform the way we identify cultivated crops from their wild, weedy counterparts. Additionally, it streamlines the weeding process to make it less labor-intensive and more accurate.</p>



<p>By integrating gene editing, this initiative promises to redefine agricultural practices, enhancing precision in crop management.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gene-editing-enhances-crop-visibility">Gene editing enhances crop visibility</h2>



<p>At the heart of this progressive strategy lies the concept of modifying the composition of crops with gene editing to generate natural pigments such as anthocyanins and carotenoids. These pigments are naturally occurring compounds that give blueberries their rich blue hue and carrots their bright orange color. </p>



<p>This genetic alteration not only aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal of crops but also facilitates their identification during mechanical weeding processes.</p>



<p>The scope of this bioengineering initiative extends beyond merely changing colors. It also encompasses the alteration of the structural characteristics of plant leaves. By modifying leaf shapes and textures, this technique aids in the clear distinction between cultivated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-rooted-crops-can-significantly-improve-soil-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crops</a> and their wild, weedy counterparts. Such distinct physical identifiers are crucial for the next phase of agricultural technology.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weeding-robots">Weeding robots</h2>



<p>Leveraging these genetic modifications, the approach integrates the deployment of sophisticated weeding robots. These robots are equipped with machine learning capabilities that allow them to discern between crops and weeds effectively. </p>



<p>Trained to recognize specific color and shape attributes engineered into the crops, these robots can selectively target and eradicate weeds without harming the valuable plants. This advanced method of weed removal not only enhances crop yields but also reduces the need for chemical herbicides, leading to more sustainable farming practices.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-agriculture-and-gene-editing">Modern agriculture and gene editing</h2>



<p>The concept of domesticating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gene-editing-tool-color-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plants</a> isn't new; it has been a human endeavor for thousands of years, involving careful selection and breeding. </p>



<p>However, the advent of gene editing technologies can significantly accelerate the process. By pinpointing and modifying genes responsible for specific desirable traits, scientists can develop new or 'de novo' crops much faster than through traditional methods.</p>



<p>Additionally, these genetically engineered plants could potentially be more resilient to climate change due to enhanced tolerance to environmental stressors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eco-friendly-farming-futures">Eco-friendly farming futures</h2>



<p>The primary goal of this research, led by plant and environmental scientist Michael Palmgren from the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a>, is not only to simplify weed management but also to promote the cultivation of environmentally sustainable and yield-rich crops.</p>



<p>This method avoids the controversial use of herbicides, offering a more eco-friendly alternative to current weeding technologies.</p>



<p>“The ultimate objective is to cultivate a novel range of crops that are environmentally sustainable, high-yielding, and conducive to eco-friendly agricultural practices,” explained the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dual-benefits-of-modified-agriculture-via-gene-editing">Dual benefits of modified agriculture via gene editing</h2>



<p>The benefits of these genetically modified crops extend beyond ease of weeding. For instance, anthocyanins, used to color the crops, enhance plant resistance to various environmental threats, such as pests and diseases.</p>



<p>Similarly, carotenoids play a critical role in photosynthesis and human nutrition, providing essential provitamins. “Manipulating these pivotal genes would significantly enhance the accuracy of discriminating between newly domesticated crops and their wild counterparts,” the researchers noted.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-innovations-in-crop-engineering">Challenges and innovations in crop engineering</h2>



<p>Despite the promising aspects of this innovative gene editing approach, there are still many challenges and questions in agriculture that need addressing. For instance, the impact of these genetic modifications on the plants' overall health and photosynthesis needs thorough investigation. </p>



<p>Researchers also need to refine remote sensing technologies and optimize the training of weeding robots to recognize these new crop traits effectively.</p>



<p>In conclusion, while more research is needed to fully realize and refine this technology, the potential benefits for agriculture and the environment make it a fascinating field of study. By merging the strengths of genetic science and artificial intelligence, we are stepping towards a future where <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/step-into-the-future-urban-farming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">farming</a> is not only more efficient but also more in tune with the natural world.</p>



<p>The full study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/trends/plant-science/fulltext/S1360-1385(24)00057-8?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS1360138524000578%3Fshowall%3Dtrue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trends in Plant Science</a></em>.</p>



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



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Boosting crop colors with gene editing can improve weed control

Farming has always embodied innovation and adaptation, and with gene...

<p>Landslides rank among the most catastrophic natural phenomena worldwide, responsible for immense economic losses and tragic fatalities each year. A new study led by a global team of scientists has significantly advanced the methods used for landslide predictions, offering a perspective that could revolutionize how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natural-disasters-are-on-the-rise-but-hazard-plans-are-inadequate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disasters</a> are predicted and managed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landslide-patterns-and-predictions">Landslide patterns and predictions</h2>



<p>This breakthrough stems from a collaborative effort involving Kamal Rana, a <a href="https://www.rit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rochester Institute of Technology</a> PhD student specializing in imaging science, Nishant Malik, an assistant professor at the same institution, and Kushanav Bhuyan, a lead co-author from the University of Padova and the Machine Intelligence and Slope Stability Laboratory.</p>



<p>The research introduces a new way of examining landslide types and their failure mechanisms, which has been a blind spot in traditional predictive models.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-prediction-accuracy-for-landslides">Enhancing prediction accuracy for landslides</h2>



<p>Historically, the challenge in accurately predicting landslides has stemmed from a significant gap in detailed data concerning the different failure types of landslides. This lack of granularity has rendered many predictive models less effective, as they couldn't adequately differentiate between the various mechanisms and triggers of landslide occurrences.</p>



<p>To address this deficiency, the research team employed a method that combined aerial imagery and elevation data from known landslide sites. This approach allows for a comprehensive analysis of the terrain and geological conditions before and after landslides, providing critical insights into how and why they occur. </p>



<p>By integrating these data with advanced machine learning techniques, the team could train algorithms to recognize and predict landslide patterns more accurately.</p>



<p>This methodology has led to a substantial increase in the accuracy of landslide predictions, achieving rates between 80 and 94 percent. Such high accuracy is particularly notable because it has been consistent across a diverse range of geographical locations and geological settings, including Italy, the United States, Denmark, Turkey, and China.</p>



<p>The diversity of these locations highlights the robustness and broad applicability of the findings across different regions and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-climate-change-unlikely-to-impact-landslide-frequency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climatic conditions</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-prediction-models">Improving prediction models</h2>



<p>The goal of the research is to provide crucial information that can be used by those in the field to improve existing <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/scientists-work-to-improve-fire-prediction-models/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prediction models</a>.</p>



<p>"Our algorithm is not predicting landslides," stated Nishant Malik. "But the people who are in the business of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predict-landslides/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predicting landslides</a> need to know more information about them, like what caused them and what mechanisms they were."</p>



<p>The depth of analysis into slides, flows, and failures revealed distinct patterns that are vital for refining how risks are assessed.</p>



<p>"It was quite exhilarating when we saw the success numbers. We got the results, which are really good, but we need to be able to connect this to reality,'" said study co-lead author Kushanav Bhuyan from the <a href="https://www.unipd.it/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Padova</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landslides-through-the-lens-of-experience">Landslides through the lens of experience</h2>



<p>The research holds personal significance for Kamal Rana, one of the lead authors, who comes from the Himalayan region of India - a place frequently marred by landslides.</p>



<p>Rana shared his personal experiences, noting the severe impact landslides have on local communities. "I have seen so many cases when landslides have occurred. The roads are blocked for two or three weeks. There is no communication from the cities to the villages. It blocks people from going to their jobs or students going to school," said Rana.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hazard-assessments-via-landslide-predictions">Hazard assessments via landslide predictions</h2>



<p>By delving into the specific mechanisms of landslide failures, the research team aims to significantly improve the precision and dependability of existing models that assess hazards and risks associated with such natural disasters. This deeper insight allows for more accurate predictions, which are crucial for timely evacuations and preparedness measures.</p>



<p>The primary objective of these advancements is to safeguard human lives and reduce the widespread disruption and destruction caused by landslides. By lessening the severity of these impacts, communities can recover more quickly and sustain less economic damage.</p>



<p>This recent study represents a major advancement in the ongoing global efforts to lessen the adverse effects of natural disasters. By enhancing predictive technologies, the research provides a beacon of hope for building communities that are more capable of withstanding and rebounding from the challenges posed by such catastrophic events.</p>



<p>The full study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-46741-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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Landslide predictions could become 94 percent more accurate

Landslides rank among the most catastrophic natural phenomena worldwide, responsible...

<p>Scientists have an impressive new trick for robots: using the invisible force of air to manipulate objects. A recent study from <a href="https://www.aalto.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aalto University</a> showcases a unique method of controlling objects from a distance. This technique has the potential to revolutionize how we think about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/household-robots-now-with-added-common-sense-and-ability-to-self-correct/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robotics</a>, manufacturing, and even everyday tasks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspired-by-nature">Inspired by nature</h2>



<p>The fundamental concept behind this innovation is quite simple. Air, although invisible, is a physical substance with the ability to exert force. This force can cause objects within its flow to move. The key challenge was understanding and controlling those movements. </p>



<p>Researchers achieved this by carefully studying the interaction between air currents and objects of various shapes and sizes. With this knowledge, they were able to develop techniques to direct and manipulate airflow in a way that allows for precise control over the movement of objects.</p>



<p>"Airflow or wind is everywhere in our living environment, moving around objects like pollen, pathogens, droplets, seeds and leaves. Wind has also been actively used in industry and in our everyday lives – for example, in leaf blowers to clean leaves. But so far, we can’t control the direction the leaves move – we can only blow them together into a pile," said Professor Quan Zhou from Aalto University, who led the study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-robots-using-air-manipulation">Robots using air manipulation</h2>



<p>To master the behavior of objects within an airflow, the scientists conducted a rigorous experimental phase. They exposed numerous objects to controlled air currents, meticulously recording their movements. This extensive dataset allowed them to identify relationships between the shape of an object and how it reacts to different airflow conditions. </p>



<p>Surprisingly, even within seemingly random airflow, the researchers discovered consistent patterns. These patterns became the building blocks for a control system capable of precisely directing airflow, enabling them to move objects in specific ways – even against the flow of the wind itself.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-robot-s-air-jet-control-algorithm">Robot's air jet control algorithm </h2>



<p>The unique algorithm at the center of this technology serves as the "brain" for the entire system. Its primary role is to calculate and execute the precise movements of the air jet nozzle to achieve the desired object manipulation. Here's how it achieves this:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-input">Input</h3>



<p>The algorithm requires several pieces of information to work:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Object characteristics:</strong>&nbsp;Data about the object's shape, size, and possibly its material, derived from previous research on object-airflow interactions.</li>



<li><strong>Starting position:</strong>&nbsp;The object's initial location on the surface.</li>



<li><strong>Desired path:</strong>&nbsp;The trajectory (straight, curved, complex shapes, etc.) along which the object needs to be moved.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-motors-and-nozzle-control">Motors and nozzle control</h3>



<p>The algorithm controls two motors that govern the air jet nozzle:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Motor 1</strong>: Regulates the nozzle's angle. Altering the angle changes the direction of the airflow hitting the object.</li>



<li><strong>Motor 2:</strong>&nbsp;Adjusts the nozzle's position (e.g., closer to or farther from the object). This influences the force and concentration of the air jet.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aiming-the-airflow">Aiming the airflow</h3>



<p>The algorithm strategically aims the air jet to manipulate the object. The nozzle's positioning, along with the air pressure, dictates how the object will react within the airflow.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-time-adjustments">Real-time adjustments</h3>



<p>Crucially, this process isn't static. The algorithm continuously receives feedback on the object's position. It compares this to the intended path and makes micro-adjustments to the nozzle's angle and position. This dynamic control enables the object to be guided along even complex trajectories.</p>



<p>In summary, the algorithm acts as a tireless conductor. It analyzes object data, sets the initial nozzle position, and then orchestrates a series of continuous airflow changes to nudge the object along the desired path.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remarkable-precision">Remarkable precision</h2>



<p>One of the most surprising findings involved the wide range of shapes the system could manipulate effectively. Our intuition might suggest that a formless force like airflow would have limited control over objects, especially complex ones. However, the researchers discovered a remarkable level of versatility in their technique.</p>



<p>Regardless of the object placed under the air jet, whether it was a precisely defined geometric shape or a completely crumpled piece of paper, the system could successfully guide its movement. This adaptability suggests a deeper understanding of airflow dynamics and object interaction than previously anticipated. </p>



<p>It opens doors for potential applications in scenarios where manipulating objects with traditional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/robosapiens-ai-project-making-industrial-robots-more-free-thinking-adaptable/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robotic</a> grippers might be impractical due to their delicate or irregular shapes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-robots-air-flow-and-ethereal-fingers">Robots, air flow and "ethereal fingers"</h2>



<p>While the technology is still being perfected, its potential applications are vast and promising. Professor Zhou imagines robots equipped with this innovative system, replacing traditional physical grippers with what he describes as "ethereal fingers." </p>



<p>These are essentially directed currents of air that can manipulate objects from a distance. This would be particularly useful for handling delicate items that cannot withstand direct contact, such as sensitive electronic components, which could be damaged by conventional mechanical touch.</p>



<p>In everyday scenarios, this technology could transform how machines operate in common environments. For example, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-robots-read-your-mind-this-one-can-anticipate-your-smile/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">robots</a> could utilize this air manipulation technique to gather scattered debris, such as leaves or trash, or to sort objects based on size or type without ever physically touching them. </p>



<p>The range of potential applications is extensive, especially in situations where traditional physical interaction could be problematic or potentially damaging. This could include environments that are sensitive, hazardous, or where contamination needs to be minimized, showcasing the technology's adaptability and utility in various fields and circumstances.</p>



<p>With additional research, the precision and efficiency of this contactless manipulation could skyrocket, opening up even more exciting applications for this natural, invisible force.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aisy.202400174" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Advanced Intelligent Systems</a></em>.</p>



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Robots can use air to move objects

Scientists have an impressive new trick for robots: using the...

<p>A groundbreaking study has brought new insights into the factors impacting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/summertime-fireflies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">firefly</a> populations across North America. By leveraging extensive citizen science data and advanced analytics, the experts unpacked the environmental and human influences on these beloved insects.</p>



<p>The study was conducted by researchers at the <a href="https://www.uky.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Kentucky</a>, <a href="https://www.bucknell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bucknell University</a>, the <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pennsylvania State University</a>, and the <a href="https://www.usda.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Department of Agriculture</a> (USDA).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-threats-to-firefly-populations-nbsp">Identifying threats to firefly populations&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“As insect populations decline in many regions, conservation biologists are increasingly tasked with identifying factors that threaten insect species and developing effective strategies for their conservation. One insect group of global conservation concern are fireflies (Coleoptera: Lampyridae),” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Although quantitative data on firefly populations are lacking for most species, anecdotal reports suggest that some firefly populations have declined in recent decades.”</p>



<p>“Researchers have hypothesized that North American firefly populations are most threatened by habitat loss, pesticide use, and light pollution, but the importance of these factors in shaping firefly populations has not been rigorously examined at broad spatial scales.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-integrating-large-scale-data-sets-nbsp">Integrating large scale data sets&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The research, utilizing over 24,000 surveys from the <a href="https://www.massaudubon.org/programs-events/community-science/firefly-watch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Firefly Watch</a> citizen science initiative, represents the first comprehensive effort to apply a data-driven approach to understand firefly population dynamics across a vast geographic scale. </p>



<p>“Subtle changes in climate patterns, especially related to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/past-temperatures-are-revealed-by-the-size-of-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temperature</a>, are significantly impacting firefly breeding cycles and habitat quality,” said study lead author Darin McNeil, an assistant professor of wildlife ecology and management at the University of Kentucky.</p>



<p>“In this study, we integrated large scale data sets on species abundance, land use, soil type, weather and climate using machine learning models to precisely model and predict firefly abundance patterns at the local scale across the eastern U.S. We were very fortunate to have a multi-year citizen science data set that spanned more than 24,000 observations,” noted study senior author Christina Grozinger, a professor of entomology at Penn State.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-light-pollution-and-agriculture-nbsp">Climate change, light pollution, and agriculture&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The findings highlight the vulnerability of fireflies to climatic variables such as temperature and precipitation. Since fireflies thrive in temperate conditions, with wet and warm summers providing ideal breeding environments and cold winters supporting the survival of immature stages, climate changes are likely to be highly challenging.</p>



<p>Moreover, the scientists found that urban growth and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-pollution-disrupts-entire-ecological-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light pollution</a> can negatively impact this species. “Artificial lights at night could disrupt firefly populations, possibly affecting both adult and larval stages,” McNeil said. “Firefly larvae, which live in the soil, are particularly vulnerable to changes in light exposure and artificial light could alter their developmental cycles and survival rates.”</p>



<p>The researchers also investigated the impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/developing-climate-smart-agricultural-practices/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural practices</a>. While they did not find a direct pesticide effect, they discovered that certain agricultural areas supported some of the highest firefly densities, possibly due to practices like livestock grazing that create favorable meadow-like conditions. However, the scientists cautioned against the intensification of agriculture that could diminish the organic debris and moist environments essential for firefly larvae.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-trends-in-firefly-populations-nbsp">Long-term trends in firefly populations&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“As the study concludes, further research is encouraged, particularly in exploring the long-term trends of firefly populations and the efficacy of various conservation strategies. Moving forward, focused studies that survey particular firefly species, rather than the firefly community as a whole, will be important,” McNeil said.</p>



<p>“Each individual species has its own habitat requirement and things it needs to succeed. With the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/citizen-scientists-rare-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">citizen science</a> data in this study, we’re looking at fireflies in the aggregate, but we would like people in citizen science getting more training in species identification. If we can get species-level information, we can provide more specifics on species living in a particular area and how best to protect them,” added co-author Sarah Lower, an assistant professor of biology at Bucknell University.</p>



<p>To gather comparable data for different firefly species, the research team is utilizing technology and artificial intelligence to establish automated monitoring systems. This initiative is part of an NSF-funded <a href="https://insectnet.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INSECT NET</a> graduate training program designed to enhance the precision and reach of ecological studies.</p>



<p>For individuals keen on understanding the land use, weather, and climate specifics of their areas, Penn State offers the <a href="https://pollinators.psu.edu/bee-health/beescape" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Beescape tool</a>. This online resource delivers tailored habitat quality scores for pollinators, helping users assess and improve local conditions for these vital creatures.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172329" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science of the Total Environment</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Firefly populations face multiple threats across North America

A groundbreaking study has brought new insights into the factors...

<p>Ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations have reached an agreement to close all their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coal-use-is-not-declining-fast-enough-to-slow-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coal</a> plants by 2035, as announced by a UK minister on Monday. This decision marks a major climate policy breakthrough that could potentially encourage other countries to follow suit. </p>



<p>The commitment to set a definitive end date for coal usage, which is the most climate-polluting fossil fuel, was a significant point of contention in past international climate discussions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historic-agreement-on-coal-plants">Historic agreement on coal plants</h2>



<p>“We do have an agreement to phase out coal in the first half of the 2030s,” said Andrew Bowie, a UK minister at the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-energy-security-and-net-zero" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Department for Energy Security and Net Zero</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This is, by the way, a historic agreement, something that we weren’t able to achieve at <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cop28-agreement-marks-the-beginning-of-the-end-of-fossil-fuels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COP28</a> in Dubai last year. So, to have the G7 nations come around the table to send that signal to the world - that we, the advanced economies of the world are committed to phasing out coal by the early 2030s - is quite incredible.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coal-is-on-its-way-out-in-the-u-s">Coal is on its way out in the U.S.</h2>



<p>This agreement is particularly important as it aligns with recent regulatory actions by the <a href="http://v/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Protection Agency</a>, which require coal-fired power plants to significantly reduce their climate pollution or shut down by 2039.</p>



<p>“Coming just days after the EPA released proposed new rules that will essentially lead to an accelerated phaseout schedule for most coal plants, this G7 commitment is a further confirmation from the US that coal is on its way out sooner rather than later,” said Katrine Petersen, a senior policy advisor at climate think tank <a href="https://www.e3g.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">E3G</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-journey-to-phase-out-coal-plants">Long journey to phase out coal plants</h2>



<p>The commitment also represents a major step for Japan, which was the only G7 country without a clear commitment to transition away from coal, and where coal constituted 32% of its electricity generation in 2023. Many of the other G7 nations have already put plans in place to phase out <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-in-five-premature-deaths-tied-to-fossil-fuel-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuel</a>, with coal accounting for about 16% of the G7’s electricity.</p>



<p>“This is another nail in the coffin for coal,” said Dave Jones, the <a href="https://ember-climate.org/insights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ember’s Global Insights</a> program director. “The journey to phase out coal power has been long: it’s been over seven years since the UK, France, Italy, and Canada committed to phase out coal power, so it’s good to see the United States and especially Japan at last be more explicit on their intentions.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-failure-to-establish-an-end-date">Failure to establish an end date</h2>



<p>Despite the international agreement achieved at the COP28 climate talks in Dubai to transition away from fossil fuels, the failure to establish a specific end date for coal usage was viewed as a significant oversight. The ongoing meetings in Turin, involving energy, environment, and climate ministers, are expected to conclude on Tuesday.</p>



<p>The G7, which consists of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with the European Union having a special status, often sets the tone for global climate policy. Their decisions not only impact the broader G20, which includes major emitters like China and India and major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/un-report-current-fossil-fuel-plans-will-shatter-1-5c-climate-goal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossil fuel</a> producers such as Saudi Arabia and Russia, but also set precedents that influence global environmental strategies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-of-coal-fired-power-plants">Impacts of coal-fired power plants</h2>



<p>Coal plants are considered harmful for several reasons, primarily due to their significant impact on the environment and human health.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution">Air pollution</h3>



<p>Coal plants emit a variety of harmful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollutants</a> into the air, including sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and mercury. These pollutants can lead to respiratory problems, heart disease, and other serious health issues in humans. They also contribute to the formation of acid rain and smog.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-greenhouse-gas-emissions">Greenhouse gas emissions</h3>



<p>Coal plants are major sources of carbon dioxide (CO2), a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming and climate change. Coal-burning power plants are one of the largest sources of carbon emissions worldwide.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-pollution">Water pollution</h3>



<p>The process of burning coal and disposing of coal ash (the residue left after coal is burned) can lead to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-water-resources-are-becoming-increasingly-polluted/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">water pollution</a>. Contaminants such as heavy metals can leach into groundwater and surface water, affecting both aquatic life and human populations who rely on these water sources.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-land-degradation">Land degradation</h3>



<p>Coal mining, which supplies the coal plants, often results in significant environmental impacts, including deforestation, soil erosion, and habitat destruction. The disposal of coal ash can also contaminate landscapes and ecosystems.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-impact-on-communities">Health impact on communities</h3>



<p>Communities near coal plants and coal mines often experience disproportionate health problems due to their exposure to pollutants and toxic substances. This can lead to increased rates of lung diseases, heart conditions, and other health issues.</p>



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Climate breakthrough: G7 commits to close coal plants by 2035

Ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations have reached...

<p>Asteroids are cosmic time capsules that hold secrets about the formation and evolution of our solar system. A recent study examined the effects of space weathering on Ryugu, an asteroid explored by the Hayabusa2 spacecraft. The findings unveil a compelling narrative of transformation and resilience.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asteroids-as-ancient-artifacts">Asteroids as ancient artifacts </h2>



<p>Professor Yuki Kimura and his team from <a href="https://www.global.hokudai.ac.jp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hokkaido University</a> approach <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-dart-mission-proves-humanity-can-be-saved-from-asteroid-collision/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroids</a> not just as geological specimens, but as ancient artifacts. Their mission is to uncover the stories these objects can tell us about the history of the solar system.</p>



<p>Electron holography functions like a supercharged microscope. Instead of just seeing the surface, it allows scientists to analyze the patterns formed by electrons that pass through a sample. This reveals the object's internal structure at an incredibly small scale, including details about mineral arrangement and magnetic properties.</p>



<p>The solar wind is a flow of charged particles constantly streaming from the sun. Micrometeoroids are tiny bits of space debris - some no larger than a grain of sand. Over vast stretches of time, these forces bombard the surface of asteroids, causing subtle but significant changes to their composition.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/asteroid-bennu-hints-at-the-possibility-of-life-on-an-ancient-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Asteroids</a> formed in the early solar system, a time when magnetic fields were more dynamic. Some materials can retain a trace of that ancient magnetism. Analyzing any remaining magnetic signatures offers insights into how the environment of our solar system changed over billions of years.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-asteroid-ryugu-and-space-weathering">Asteroid Ryugu and space weathering</h2>



<p>“The signatures of space weathering we have detected directly will give us a better understanding of some of the phenomena occurring in the solar system,” explained Professor Kimura. </p>



<p>Framboids are spherical clusters of microscopic mineral crystals, often containing magnetite, a magnetic form of iron oxide. The discovery of these demagnetized framboids indicates a powerful impact event. Micrometeoroids, though very small, can strike the asteroid at incredibly high speeds. </p>



<p>The research suggests that these impacts disrupted the magnetic properties of certain minerals within the asteroid Ryugu. Further studies will help scientists understand the thresholds at which impacts can erase magnetic records.</p>



<p>The effects of space weathering aren't uniform across an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-rocks-nasa-dart-asteroid-deflection-mission-may-impact-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">asteroid's</a> surface. By analyzing changes in mineral composition and magnetic properties in different locations, scientists can create a map of weathering intensity. Areas exposed to the solar wind for longer periods would show more pronounced change. </p>



<p>This process creates a relative age map of the asteroid's surface. Scientists can reconstruct a timeline of events from this map. Events might include asteroid collisions, changes in its rotational axis, or close encounters with other solar system bodies.</p>



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



<p>“Although our study is primarily for fundamental scientific interest and understanding, it could also help estimate the degree of degradation likely to be caused by space dust impacting robotic or manned spacecraft at high velocity,” concluded Kimura.</p>



<p>As we envision longer space voyages and potential asteroid outposts, understanding space weathering becomes crucial. It's the difference between building a house that crumbles or a protective shelter that endures. Asteroid Ryugu's story informs the design of future spacecraft and helps ensure the safety of astronauts venturing into the vast cosmic unknown.</p>



<p>The asteroid Ryugu samples are a gift that keeps on giving. Scientists worldwide will continue to scrutinize this precious extraterrestrial material, pushing the boundaries of our knowledge about our solar system's past and the practical challenges of spacefaring. Perhaps these studies will even illuminate how early asteroids delivered the ingredients for life to a young Earth, igniting our own story.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-asteroid-ryugu">More about Asteroid Ryugu</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-finds-the-building-blocks-of-life-in-sample-returned-from-asteroid-bennu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Asteroid</a> Ryugu, officially known as 162173 Ryugu, is a fascinating object in our solar system that has garnered significant attention from the scientific community, particularly for its potential to reveal secrets about the early solar system. Here’s a bit more about Ryugu beyond the specific research discussed:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Origin and classification of asteroid Ryugu</h3>



<p>Ryugu is classified as a near-Earth object and a potentially hazardous asteroid. It belongs to the Apollo group of asteroids and is a C-type (carbonaceous) asteroid. This classification indicates that it contains a high amount of carbon in addition to rocks and minerals. </p>



<p>C-type asteroids are especially valuable for study because they are believed to be relics of the early solar system, containing primordial material that has remained relatively unchanged.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Physical characteristics</h3>



<p>Ryugu has a somewhat spinning-top shape, which is characteristic of some small asteroids that have undergone rapid rotation. </p>



<p>The asteroid measures approximately one kilometer in diameter. Its surface is covered with boulders and appears very dark, indicating that it absorbs a lot of light, which is typical for C-type asteroids. </p>



<p>The roughness of the surface and the presence of large boulders make landing and sample collection missions quite challenging.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Scientific interest and missions</h3>



<p>The primary reason Ryugu is of immense scientific interest is its ancient, unaltered chemical makeup, which offers a snapshot of the solar system's conditions billions of years ago. Understanding its composition can provide clues about the origin of water and organic molecules on Earth, which are essential for life.</p>



<p>The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s (JAXA) Hayabusa2 mission, which launched in 2014 and reached Ryugu in 2018, is the most notable mission associated with this asteroid. </p>



<p>Hayabusa2 collected samples from Ryugu's surface and subsurface through a series of touch-and-go maneuvers and then returned these samples to Earth in December 2020. This mission is critical because it's the first time subsurface material, which is less affected by space weathering, has been collected from an asteroid.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Future studies and impact</h3>



<p>The ongoing analysis of the samples returned by Hayabusa2 will likely continue to provide new insights into the composition and history of Ryugu for years to come. </p>



<p>This research has implications not only for our understanding of asteroids but also for broader topics such as planetary formation, the distribution of organic compounds throughout the solar system, and even the potential for asteroid mining in the future.</p>



<p>Ryugu remains a key focus in the study of asteroids, with its samples expected to reveal more about our cosmic neighborhood’s past and the fundamental processes that shaped the inner solar system.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-47798-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.</p>



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Asteroid Ryugu holds secrets about our early solar system

Asteroids are cosmic time capsules that hold secrets about the...

<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-ice-shelves-melting-faster-due-to-ocean-currents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctic</a> ozone hole, a significant thinning in the Earth's protective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarcticas-ozone-hole-is-now-one-of-the-largest-on-record/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ozone</a> layer, has long worried scientists and environmentalists. Despite global efforts to curb ozone-depleting substances, a concerning trend has emerged from recent studies. </p>



<p>Researchers now report that the ozone hole is remaining open for longer periods than previously observed. This extended duration poses a heightened risk to the unique wildlife of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/this-natural-process-is-making-antarcticas-ice-melt-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctica</a>, exposing them to increased levels of harmful ultraviolet radiation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ozone-layer">The ozone layer</h2>



<p>High up in the Earth's atmosphere, roughly 15 to 35 kilometers above our heads, lies a vital shield called the ozone layer. Unlike the familiar layers of the atmosphere that define temperature and weather patterns (troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, etc.), the ozone layer isn't defined by temperature but by the presence of a specific gas: ozone (O3). </p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-ozone-holes-have-re-emerged-over-antarctica/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ozone</a> is a special three-molecule form of oxygen, where a regular oxygen molecule (O2) bonds with an extra oxygen atom. While oxygen is plentiful in our atmosphere, making up about 21% of the air we breathe, ozone is a much rarer gas. However, its concentration in the stratosphere is crucial for life on Earth.</p>



<p>The ozone layer acts like a giant sunscreen for our planet. It absorbs a significant portion of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly the harmful UVB and UVC rays. These high-energy rays can damage living cells, causing sunburn, premature aging of the skin, and even contribute to the development of skin cancer. </p>



<p>While some UV radiation (UVA) reaches the Earth's surface and plays a role in vitamin D production, UVB and UVC rays are much more potent and pose significant health risks.</p>



<p>The ozone layer's protective function extends to all living things on Earth. Plants and animals, just like humans, are susceptible to UV damage. Excessive UV exposure can harm plant growth, disrupt ecosystems, and weaken the immune systems of animals. The ozone layer plays a critical role in safeguarding the delicate balance of life on our planet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dynamics-of-the-antarctic-ozone-hole">Dynamics of the Antarctic ozone hole</h2>



<p>The term "ozone hole" can be a bit misleading. It doesn't mean there's a complete absence of ozone over Antarctica. Instead, it refers to a vast area where the concentration of ozone drops dramatically compared to normal levels. This depletion is so severe that scientists refer to it as a "hole," even though there's still some ozone present.</p>



<p>It forms annually due to a complex interplay of factors, including human-made chemicals (particularly now-banned chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs) and the extreme cold and atmospheric conditions over Antarctica. The hole normally begins to open in August, reaches its peak around October, and then closes by late November as temperatures in the stratosphere warm.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-worrying-trend-the-hole-s-delayed-closing">A worrying trend: The hole's delayed closing</h2>



<p>A previously reliable pattern has broken down in Antarctica. The ozone hole above <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctica-is-experiencing-rapid-plant-growth-concerning-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Antarctica</a>, which typically starts to close in late November, has been persisting well into December in recent years. The prolonged presence of the ozone hole delays the natural healing processes of the ozone layer. </p>



<p>As a result, the diverse wildlife in Antarctica is exposed to the sun's harmful UV rays for extended periods. This increased exposure heightens the risk to these lifeforms, making them more vulnerable to health issues like sunburn and other UV-related damages.</p>



<p>This creates dangerous conditions because the December timeframe coincides with the Antarctic summer when protective snow and ice melts. Wildlife, especially young animals lacking developed fur or feathers, and delicate plant life freshly emerged from under the snow become incredibly vulnerable to UV damage. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-ozone-hole-threatens-antarctic-wildlife">How the ozone hole threatens Antarctic wildlife</h2>



<p>The increased persistence of the ozone <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ozone-hole-smallest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hole</a> affects several species combined:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seals-and-penguins">Seals and penguins</h3>



<p>While adult seals and penguins have some protection from UV thanks to their fur or feathers, their young are highly susceptible. Sunburns, potential eye damage, and a greater risk of skin cancer in the future are all possible consequences. These impacts can reduce their chances of survival in the harsh Antarctic environment.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plants">Plants</h3>



<p>Antarctic mosses, grasses, and lichens are vital parts of the ecosystem. Increased UV forces some species to produce their own "sunscreen" compounds for protection. However, this adaptation comes with a trade-off, as it can potentially stunt their growth and decrease overall plant productivity.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-krill">Krill</h3>



<p>These tiny crustaceans are the foundation of the Antarctic food web. They respond to high UV levels by diving deeper, making them less accessible to penguins, seals, whales, and other marine life that depend on them for sustenance. This disruption can have cascading effects up the food chain.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-factors-contributing-to-the-antarctic-ozone-hole">Factors contributing to the Antarctic ozone hole</h2>



<p>The increased persistence of the ozone hole is likely due to a combination of factors:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lingering-cfcs">Lingering CFCs</h3>



<p>As discussed, although the production of most ozone-depleting CFCs has been banned, these chemicals linger in the atmosphere for an exceptionally long time. Their lifespan can stretch into decades, meaning the damage done in the past continues to impact the ozone layer today. </p>



<p>As CFCs slowly migrate upwards into the stratosphere, they continue to break down and release ozone-destroying chlorine, slowing the ozone layer's healing process.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extreme-events">Extreme events</h3>



<p>Major events like the devastating 2019-2020 Australian bushfires and the powerful eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano in Tonga demonstrate the interconnectedness of our planet. The smoke, ash, and gases released by these events can reach the stratosphere, altering the chemical balance and leading to reactions that accelerate ozone depletion. </p>



<p>Such large-scale disruptions serve as a reminder that human activities and natural phenomena far from Antarctica can have unforeseen consequences for the ozone layer.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-and-antarctica-ozone-hole">Climate change and Antarctica ozone hole</h3>



<p>The wide-ranging effects of climate change introduce further complexity into ozone layer recovery. Shifting global temperatures and weather patterns, like the recurring La Niña events, can influence conditions within the stratosphere. </p>



<p>These changes might disrupt the natural processes that allow the ozone layer to regenerate. Researchers are continuously working to understand how global warming could make the ozone hole less predictable, potentially prolonging its recovery time or even intensifying future depletion.</p>



<p>Scientists are actively studying how this longer-lasting ozone hole will play out. Understanding the scale of the problem requires monitoring for the full ecological impact of increased UV exposure. </p>



<p>Further research will be vital in determining if this is a temporary anomaly or a worrying new trend for Antarctica. The situation emphasizes the ongoing need for vigilance not only in reducing ozone-depleting chemicals but also in mitigating the broader impacts of climate change.</p>



<p>The study is&nbsp;published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/gcb.17283" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Change Biology</a>.</p>



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Antarctic ozone hole exposes wildlife to harmful UV radiation

The Antarctic ozone hole, a significant thinning in the Earth's...

<p>Artificial Intelligence (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-intelligence-proves-very-useful-to-doctors-when-diagnosing-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a>) is no longer just a tool for automating tasks but has evolved into a pivotal aid in healthcare, significantly enhancing collaboration between physicians and nurses. This leap in healthcare technology is exemplified by a recent study that explores AI's role not merely as an assistant but as a critical facilitator of efficient and effective patient care.</p>



<p><a href="https://med.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford Medicine</a> conducted a study that showcases an AI-based model currently in use at Stanford Hospital. This model is designed to predict patient deterioration and notify both physicians and nurses. Thereby, it fosters timely and effective clinical interventions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revolutionizing-patient-care-with-ai">Revolutionizing patient care with AI</h2>



<p>Study senior author Dr. Ron Li, a clinical associate professor of Medicine, illustrates the core functionality of the AI system. </p>



<p>Developed in collaboration with Dr. Robert Gallo, an informatics postdoctoral scholar, and other key team members, this AI model significantly reduces the likelihood of patient deterioration escalating to critical levels that require intensive care.</p>



<p>"The alert system helps clinicians connect more efficiently and effectively as well as intervene to prevent patients from deteriorating and landing in the intensive care unit," noted Dr. Li.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-s-patient-deterioration-prediction">AI's patient deterioration prediction</h2>



<p>The AI model operates by continuously monitoring various patient data points. These include vital signs, electronic health records, and laboratory results.</p>



<p>Subsequently, it updates this data roughly every 15 minutes to calculate a risk score for patient deterioration. When a patient's data suggests potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-intelligence-detect-premature-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a> decline, the model promptly alerts the care team, enabling immediate and coordinated action.</p>



<p>"This model is powered by AI, but the action it triggers, the intervention, is essentially a conversation that otherwise may not have happened," noted Dr. Lisa Shieh, a clinical professor of Medicine involved in the study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-system-in-patient-monitoring-and-care">AI system in patient monitoring and care</h2>



<p>The benefits of such an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/powerful-ai-algorithm-can-predict-a-persons-attitude-towards-vaccines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI system</a> in a hospital setting are manifold. Beyond monitoring patient data, the model also serves to standardize and enhance communication among medical staff. This is crucial in the fast-paced, often unpredictable hospital environment.</p>



<p>"Once the alert comes into the nurse and physician simultaneously, it initiates a conversation about what the patient needs to ensure they don’t decline to the point of requiring a transfer to the ICU," said Jerri Westphal, a nursing informatics manager.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-s-role-in-healthcare-improvement">AI's role in healthcare improvement</h2>



<p>The implementation and evaluation of this AI model involved significant adjustments and direct engagement from the nursing team. </p>



<p>"We adjusted the model to focus on predicting ICU transfers and other indicators of health decline. We wanted to ensure the nursing team was heavily involved and felt empowered to initiate conversations with physicians about adjusting a patient’s care," said Margaret Smith, the director of operations for primary care and population health.</p>



<p>The evaluation of the AI model at Stanford Hospital showed a significant reduction in health deterioration events, with a 10.4% decrease among patients flagged as high-risk by the system. </p>



<p>This decline indicates that the AI's predictive capabilities are effectively identifying patients who are most likely to require urgent medical attention, thereby allowing medical staff to intervene proactively. </p>



<p>The substantial decrease in such events confirms that the model operates successfully in practical, real-world healthcare settings, enhancing patient outcomes and demonstrating the tangible benefits of integrating AI technology into hospital care protocols.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-advancing-ai-in-healthcare">Challenges and advancing AI in healthcare</h2>



<p>Although AI has significantly improved hospital operations, concerns like alert fatigue remain since not all alerts indicate a real decline. Nonetheless, the accuracy of the AI model - and the consequential discussions it provokes - are deemed sufficient to justify its use.</p>



<p>"With that said, we want to improve the accuracy; you need to do that to improve trust. That’s what we’re working on now," said Dr. Li. This pioneering integration of AI in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-beats-doctors-in-clinical-reasoning-but-is-more-error-prone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthcare</a> exemplifies the potential for technology to not only support but significantly enhance patient care through improved collaboration and communication among medical professionals. </p>



<p>As <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-identified-anti-aging-drugs-using-ai-technology/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI technology</a> continues to evolve, its integration into healthcare systems promises even greater advancements in patient care and medical outcomes.</p>



<p>The full study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/2816758" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Internal Medicine</a></em></p>



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AI can predict health deterioration in hospital patients

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a tool for...

<p>An analysis from several comprehensive long-term studies led by an international team of scientists has revealed that a healthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eight-healthy-lifestyle-habits-could-extend-your-life-by-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifestyle</a> may counteract the life-shortening effects of certain genes by more than 60 percent. </p>



<p>The findings of the study underscore the combined influence of genetics and lifestyle on lifespan, where an unhealthy lifestyle alone is associated with a 78-percent increased risk of premature death, regardless of genetic background.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifestyle-factors-and-lifespan">Lifestyle factors and lifespan</h2>



<p>The studies employed a polygenic risk score (PRS) to assess each individual's genetic risk of having a shorter or longer lifespan, factoring in multiple genetic variants.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, diet quality, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleeping-less-than-seven-hours-high-blood-pressure-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep duration</a>, and physical activity levels also played a crucial role.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthy-lifestyle-versus-genetics-nbsp">Healthy lifestyle versus genetics&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The researchers aimed to quantify how much a healthy lifestyle could potentially offset the genetic risk of a shortened lifespan. They utilized data from 353,742 adults enrolled in the <a href="https://www.ukbiobank.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UK Biobank</a> between 2006 and 2010, tracking their health until 2021. </p>



<p>The participants were divided based on their PRS into groups indicating long (20%), intermediate (60%), and short (20%) lifespan risks, derived from the LifeGen cohort study data.</p>



<p>Lifestyle scores were assigned based on criteria including non-smoking status, moderate alcohol consumption, regular physical activity, healthy body shape, sufficient sleep, and a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-children-healthy-diets-can-be-very-challenging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutritious diet</a>. These were categorized as favorable (23% of participants), intermediate (56%), and unfavorable (22%) using data from the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nhanes/index.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US NHANES</a> study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-risk-and-unhealthy-lifestyle-nbsp">Genetic risk and unhealthy lifestyle&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Over an average follow-up period of nearly 13 years, 24,239 participants passed away. The results of the analysis showed that individuals genetically predisposed to a shorter lifespan were 21 percent more likely to die early compared to those with a genetic predisposition to a longer life, irrespective of lifestyle.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, those with an unfavorable lifestyle had a 78 percent higher risk of premature death than those with a favorable lifestyle, regardless of genetic factors.</p>



<p>Participants facing both a high genetic risk and an unfavorable lifestyle were twice as likely to die early compared to those with a low genetic risk and a favorable lifestyle. Key components of a beneficial lifestyle included non-smoking, engaging in regular physical activity, getting adequate sleep, and maintaining a healthy diet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthy-lifestyle-mitigates-genetic-risk-nbsp">Healthy lifestyle mitigates genetic risk&nbsp;</h2>



<p>While this is an observational study with inherent limitations - such as assessing lifestyle at a single point and the exclusion of non-European ancestries - the findings suggest that a favorable lifestyle can substantially mitigate the genetic risk of a shortened <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extended-human-lifespans-could-be-catastrophic-for-our-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lifespan</a> by about 62 percent. </p>



<p>According to the experts, individuals at high genetic risk could potentially extend their life expectancy by nearly 5.5 years at the age of 40 through healthy living. They highlight the importance of establishing healthy habits early in life, given that lifestyle patterns tend to solidify before middle age.</p>



<p>“This study elucidates the pivotal role of a healthy lifestyle in mitigating the impact of genetic factors on lifespan reduction. Public health policies for improving healthy lifestyles would serve as potent complements to conventional healthcare and mitigate the influence of genetic factors on human lifespan,” the authors concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aspects-of-a-healthy-lifestyle">Aspects of a healthy lifestyle</h2>



<p>A healthy lifestyle is centered around habits that enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It generally includes a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains which provides the necessary nutrients and energy.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Regular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-boosts-health-and-lifespan-regardless-of-intensity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical activity</a>, whether it's through structured exercise like jogging or informal activities like walking, helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthens the heart, and boosts mood.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep">Sleep</h3>



<p>Good sleep is another pillar of a healthy lifestyle, with most adults benefiting from seven to nine hours per night. Sleep aids in recovery, cognitive function, and emotional regulation. Stress management through techniques such as meditation, yoga, or simply dedicating time to hobbies, helps maintain mental health and reduces the risk of various physical health issues.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthy-habits">Healthy habits</h3>



<p>Avoiding harmful habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use is also crucial. Instead, forming positive relationships that support a healthy lifestyle and seeking regular medical advice to monitor health conditions and prevent diseases are beneficial practices.</p>



<p>Overall, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is about making consistent, daily choices that lead to long-term benefits for both body and mind.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjebm-2023-112583" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>BMJ Evidence Based Medicine</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Lifespan is influenced more by lifestyle than genetics

An analysis from several comprehensive long-term studies led by an...

<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forests-rich-tree-diversity-adapt-better-changing-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Climate change</a> has already had a profound impact on Europe's forests, leading to the death of thousands of hectares of trees due to drought and bark beetle infestations. A recent study conducted by researchers from the <a href="https://www.univie.ac.at/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vienna</a> and the <a href="https://www.tum.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Technical University of Munich</a> (TUM) has explored the future of reforestation in light of these challenges. </p>



<p>The experts identified a limited number of tree species that are viable for future forests, emphasizing the importance of mixed forests for ecosystem <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reforestation-cannot-offset-carbon-emissions-from-harvesting-wood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilience</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enormous-decline-of-tree-species-nbsp">Enormous decline of tree species&nbsp;</h2>



<p>European forests, which traditionally feature a variety of tree species, have fewer types of trees compared to similar climatic regions in North America or East Asia. This diversity is expected to diminish further, as the research led by Johannes Wessely and Stefan Dullinger from the University of Vienna indicates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The findings suggest that between one-third and half of the current tree species may not be able to withstand future climatic conditions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This is an enormous decline, especially when you consider that only some of the species are of interest for forestry,” said lead author Wessely, an expert in conservation biology at Vienna.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-suitability-of-future-tree-species-nbsp">Suitability of future tree species&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study evaluated the resilience of the most common 69 out of over 100 European tree <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-species-diversity-makes-forests-more-productive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">species</a> against the backdrop of 21st-century climate projections. On average, only nine of these species per location are deemed suitable for future conditions, with even fewer (four) in the UK, where species like the English oak are considered viable. </p>



<p>The suitability of tree species for future climates varies significantly across different regions of Europe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustaining-species-rich-mixed-forests">Sustaining species-rich mixed forests</h2>



<p>The research highlights a significant concern: even with a selection of climate-adapted trees, the diversity is insufficient to sustain species-rich mixed forests, which are crucial for enhancing forest robustness against disturbances like bark beetles.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Mixed forests consisting of many tree species are an important measure to make forests more robust against disturbances such as bark beetles. In some places in Europe, however, we could run out of tree species to establish such colorful mixed forests,” explained Rupert Seidl, a professor of ecosystem dynamics and forest resilience at TUM.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-future-forests">Protecting future forests</h2>



<p>Furthermore, not all trees are equally capable of fulfilling essential forest functions such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mixed-forests-with-many-tree-species-are-more-effective-at-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon storage</a>, providing habitats or food for wildlife, or being used as timber. Only an average of three out of the nine suitable species can meet these needs.</p>



<p>These findings highlight the severe impact of climate change on forest vitality and the inadequacy of simply introducing a new mix of tree species as a solution.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Our work clearly shows how severely the vitality of forests is affected by climate change. We cannot rely solely on a new mix of tree species; rapid measures to mitigate climate change are essential for the sustainable protection of our forests,” Wessely concluded.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Forests of the future are anticipated to undergo significant transformations due to climate change, human activities, and technological advancements.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifting-tree-species">Shifting tree species</h3>



<p>As global temperatures rise, the distribution of various tree species is expected to shift. For instance, species adapted to cooler climates may move toward higher altitudes or latitudes, while those tolerant of warmer conditions could expand their range. This shift will alter forest biodiversity and could lead to new compositions of plant and animal communities.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pests-and-diseases-nbsp">Pests and diseases&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Additionally, forests are likely to face increased threats from pests and diseases, which can spread more rapidly in warmer conditions. This could result in higher <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-identify-the-cause-of-tree-mortality-in-the-amazon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree mortality</a> rates and altered forest landscapes. In response, forest management practices are expected to evolve. </p>



<p>Techniques such as assisted migration, where tree species are intentionally moved to areas where they are expected to thrive under future climatic conditions, could become more common.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shaping-future-forests">Shaping future forests</h2>



<p>Technological advancements will also play a crucial role in shaping the forests of the future. Innovations in drone technology and satellite imaging will improve monitoring of forest health and growth, enabling more precise and effective conservation strategies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, genetic engineering might be used to develop tree species that are more resistant to pests, diseases, and extreme weather conditions, helping to ensure the resilience of forest ecosystems.</p>



<p>The forests of the future will likely be quite different from those we know today, shaped by a combination of environmental changes, human interventions, and technological innovations. Their ability to adapt and thrive will be crucial for biodiversity conservation, climate regulation, and the myriad ecological services they provide.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41559-024-02406-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</em></a>.</p>



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Future forests: Which tree species can survive climate change?

Climate change has already had a profound impact on Europe's...

<p>A new study led by the <a href="https://www.unmc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Nebraska Medical Center</a> suggests that frequent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dangers-of-vaping-and-second-hand-vaping-are-greatly-underestimated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vaping </a>among teenagers could increase their exposure to toxic metals like lead and uranium, potentially endangering brain and organ development. These findings highlight the urgent need for regulatory and preventative measures aimed at this age group.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vaping-popularity">Vaping popularity</h2>



<p>Vaping has become increasingly popular among teenagers. In 2022, data showed that approximately 14% of U.S. high school students (around 2.14 million) and over 3% of middle school students (around 380,000) reported vaping in the previous month.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-toxic-metals-in-vaping-liquids">Toxic metals in vaping liquids</h2>



<p>The researchers note that certain metals, which are particularly harmful during developmental stages, have been found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/e-cigarettes-linked-to-increased-risk-of-heart-failure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">e-cigarette</a> aerosols and liquids. </p>



<p>Exposure to these metals is associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vaping-interferes-with-memory-focus-and-decision-making/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cognitive issues</a>, behavioral disturbances, respiratory problems, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases in children.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vaping-and-toxic-metal-exposure-nbsp">Vaping and toxic metal exposure&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study aimed to explore the relationship between the frequency of vaping, the choice of vape flavors, and the levels of potentially <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-may-remove-toxic-metals-from-soil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toxic metals</a>. </p>



<p>The researchers utilized data from the nationally representative Wave 5 (December 2018 to November 2019) of the <a href="https://www.icpsr.umich.edu/web/NAHDAP/studies/36231" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PATH Youth Study</a>, which included 1,607 teenagers aged 13 to 17. After certain exclusions, 200 vapers were analyzed.</p>



<p>Participants' urine samples were tested for cadmium, lead, and uranium. Vaping frequency was categorized into occasional (1–5 days/month), intermittent (6–19 days), and frequent (20+ days).&nbsp;</p>



<p>Additionally, vape flavors were classified into four groups: menthol or mint; fruit; sweet flavors like chocolate or desserts; and other flavors including tobacco, clove or spice, and alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lead-levels-among-vapers-nbsp">Lead levels among vapers&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Among the 200 exclusive vapers analyzed (63% female), the study found that lead levels were 40% higher in intermittent vapers and 30% higher in frequent vapers compared to occasional users.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Uranium levels were notably twice as high in frequent vapers as in those who vaped occasionally. Furthermore, vapers who preferred sweet flavors exhibited 90% higher uranium levels compared to those choosing menthol/mint flavors.</p>



<p>No significant differences were noted in urinary cadmium levels across different vaping frequencies or flavor types.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-metal-in-vaping-devices-varies-by-brand">Metal in vaping devices varies by brand</h2>



<p>While this is an observational study and definitive conclusions about the relationship between toxic metal levels and vaping habits cannot be made, the researchers caution that metal content in vaping devices can vary by brand and device type (tank, pod, mod).&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts also note that although urinary levels indicate chronic exposure, they only represent a single point in time. Additionally, uranium found in urine can come from various sources, including environmental exposure from natural deposits, industrial activities, and diet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-study-implications-nbsp">Broader study implications&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Nonetheless, these compounds are known to cause harm in humans. Of particular concern were the increased <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uranium-detected-in-two-thirds-of-u-s-drinking-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">uranium</a> levels found within the sweet flavor category,” noted the study authors. </p>



<p>“Candy-flavored e-cigarette products make up a substantial proportion of adolescent vapers, and sweet taste in e-cigarettes can suppress the harsh effects of nicotine and enhance its reinforcing effects, resulting in heightened brain cue-reactivity.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“E-cigarette use during adolescence may increase the likelihood of metal exposure, which could adversely affect brain and organ development. These findings call for further research, vaping regulation, and targeted public health interventions to mitigate the potential harms of e-cigarette use, particularly among adolescents.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vaping-health-concerns">Vaping health concerns</h2>



<p>Vaping, often considered as a less harmful alternative to smoking cigarettes, still raises significant health concerns. The practice involves inhaling vapor from electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), which use a liquid that contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lung-damage">Lung damage</h3>



<p>One major concern is that e-cigarettes can cause damage to the lungs. The inhalation of vapor can lead to conditions like e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVALI), which has been linked to serious lung damage and even deaths.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nbsp-heart-problems-nbsp">&nbsp;Heart problems&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Another issue is that the nicotine in e-cigarettes is highly addictive and can lead to sustained tobacco product use among younger people. It also poses other health risks such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, which could lead to cardiovascular problems.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harmful-substances-nbsp">Harmful substances&nbsp;</h3>



<p>In addition to the potential exposure to heavy metals, vaping is associated with potential exposure to other harmful substances like volatile organic compounds and carcinogenic chemical compounds that come from both the liquid itself and the heating elements of the devices.</p>



<p>Despite the potential for reduced exposure to some of the more harmful toxins present in cigarette smoke, the long-term health effects of vaping are still not fully understood, and research continues to uncover new risks. This ongoing uncertainty suggests a need for cautious evaluation before considering vaping a safe alternative to smoking.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/tc-2023-058554" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Tobacco Control</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Frequent vaping exposes teens to toxic metals

A new study led by the University of Nebraska Medical...

<p>In a recent development within the field of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traditional-computers-verify-errors-made-by-quantum-computers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">computer</a> science, researchers have identified two innovative types of cybersecurity threats. These threats exploit the conditional branch predictor in top-tier Intel processors, potentially compromising billions of devices.</p>



<p>The team, which includes experts from various prestigious institutions and industry giants, will share the findings at the prestigious 2024 ACM ASPLOS Conference. </p>



<p>The study focuses on what is known as the "Pathfinder" attack, which targets a specific component of the branch predictor - the Path History Register (PHR). </p>



<p>The register plays a pivotal role in modern computing by logging the sequence and addresses of branches. This allows for more nuanced insights than were previously possible with other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/are-our-pets-leaking-information-about-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">attacks</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cybersecurity-affecting-intel-processors">Cybersecurity affecting Intel processors</h2>



<p>The core of these new attacks centers on their ability to manipulate the branch predictor, which is essential for optimizing processor performance. This component predicts the future directions a program might take using historical data. </p>



<p>In the past, attackers had only a basic grasp of these pathways by examining entries in the predictor's tables. Conversely, the recent research takes advantage of the Path History Register's (PHR) comprehensive logging of the last 194 taken branches in the latest Intel architectures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-cybersecurity-threats-intel">Decoding cybersecurity threats Intel</h2>



<p>By developing techniques to access and decode the PHR's data, the researchers showcased their unique ability to trace the exact sequence of branch outcomes. This breakthrough allows them to uncover the complete order of processed branches. Such extensive access marks a significant advance over previous methods, permitting the capture of branch sequences that span tens of thousands.</p>



<p>"We successfully captured sequences of tens of thousands of branches in precise order, utilizing this method to leak secret images during processing by the widely used image library, libjpeg," explained Hosein Yavarzadeh, the study's lead author and a PhD student at the <a href="https://ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California San Diego</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spectre-reimagined">Spectre reimagined</h2>



<p>Further enhancing the cybersecurity threat landscape, the team introduced a sophisticated Spectre-style poisoning attack on Intel processors. This method allows for the precise control of branch predictions to force the execution of unintended code paths, thus leaking sensitive data.</p>



<p>"This manipulation leads the victim to execute unintended code paths, inadvertently exposing its confidential data," noted Professor Dean Tullsen, a key member of the research team. "We now have such precise control that we could misdirect the 732nd instance of a branch taken thousands of times."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-security-patches">Security patches </h2>



<p>The discovery of these cybersecurity threats has elicited swift reactions from leading industry players. In response, both Intel and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) have actively engaged in measures to address these vulnerabilities. </p>



<p>The companies are preparing to release comprehensive security updates and detailed bulletins that are designed to mitigate the risks associated with the vulnerabilities found in their processors. This proactive approach aims to safeguard devices and maintain user trust in their technology.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pathfinder-attack-and-future-cybersecurity-on-intel-processors">Pathfinder attack and future cybersecurity on Intel processors</h2>



<p>As we delve deeper into the implications of this research, it's clear that the "Pathfinder" attack represents a significant advancement in the realm of cybersecurity. </p>



<p>"Pathfinder can reveal the outcome of almost any branch in almost any victim program, making it the most precise and powerful microarchitectural control-flow extraction attack that we have seen so far," noted Kazem Taram, an assistant professor at <a href="https://www.purdue.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Purdue University</a>.</p>



<p>The collaborative effort, including contributions from UC San Diego, Purdue University, <a href="https://www.gatech.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Georgia Tech</a>, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Google, underscores the critical nature of cybersecurity research in today's digital age. </p>



<p>As processors become increasingly sophisticated, so do the methods of exploiting them, making ongoing research and collaboration across academia and industry essential to safeguard future computing environments.</p>



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



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

Cybersecurity threats hit Intel processors, impacting billions globally

In a recent development within the field of computer science,...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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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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...

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</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
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<p>Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. </p>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

[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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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