<p>Astronomers have caught a nearby stellar duo in a dramatic act. A super-dense white dwarf star is siphoning material from its larger companion at a pace never seen before.</p>



<p>The system, known as V Sagittae (V Sge), sits about 10,000 light-years away and orbits so tightly that the two stars whirl around each other every 12.3 hours. </p>



<p>As the white dwarf feeds, the pair blazes far brighter than similar systems - a century-old mystery that a new study says it has finally cracked.</p>



<p>Led by Pasi Hakala from the <a href="https://www.utu.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Turku</a> in Finland, the team used the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope in Chile to probe V Sge’s extreme behavior. The results point to a runaway case of “stellar cannibalism.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-white-dwarf-in-a-feeding-frenzy">White dwarf in a feeding frenzy</h2>



<p>White dwarfs are the ultra-compact embers left behind when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-forming-disks-surrounding-stars-often-last-much-longer-than-expected/">sun-like stars</a> exhaust their fuel. On their own, they glow faintly. Paired with a close companion, they can become voracious, as gravity from the white dwarf pulls gas - mostly hydrogen - off the neighboring star.</p>



<p>As that gas piles up, it heats to extraordinary temperatures and ignites thermonuclear burning on the dwarf’s surface. </p>



<p>The study concludes that V Sge’s famous overbrightness comes from this very process operating at ferocious rates. It turns the white dwarf’s outer layers into a sustained, nuclear-powered beacon.</p>



<p>The V Sge system has baffled astronomers since its discovery in 1902 because it outshines its peers so dramatically. The study argues the system is in a “feeding frenzy,” with mass transfer exceeding what the white dwarf can absorb.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-luminous-halo-signals-instability">Luminous halo signals instability </h2>



<p>One of the team’s most striking finds is a broad ring of gas - a luminous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breathtaking-photo-shows-an-ice-halo-forming-around-the-sun/">halo</a> encircling both stars. That ring appears to be the overflow. </p>



<p>The system rips material from the companion that the white dwarf can’t accrete and flings it outward to form a circumbinary shroud.</p>



<p>The sheer energy released in the process, the researchers say, is also jostling the system, contributing to the erratic, “wild” motion seen in monitoring data.</p>



<p>That halo isn’t just window dressing. It’s a clue that V Sge is being pushed toward instability. When the inflow of fuel momentarily overwhelms the white dwarf’s ability to burn it steadily, pressure can build until the surface layers detonate in a thermonuclear flash.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-rare-outburst-on-the-horizon">A rare outburst on the horizon</h2>



<p>The team warns that V Sge is primed for a classic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-coronae-borealis-nova-explosion-nearby-star-light-up-earths-skies/">nova</a> - a powerful, but non-destructive outburst triggered when accumulated hydrogen ignites on the white dwarf’s surface. </p>



<p>If that happens in the coming years, the system could brighten enough to be visible to the naked eye. It would be a rare treat for skywatchers.</p>



<p>Farther down the line, the endgame could be even more spectacular. As the stars spiral inward and the white dwarf gains mass, they may collide or reach a catastrophic limit.</p>



<p>In that scenario, V Sge would explode as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernovae-explosions-seem-to-have-altered-earths-climate-in-the-past-and-could-do-so-again-at-any-time/">supernova</a> - an event so luminous it would be visible even in daylight. That fate isn’t guaranteed, and it may be centuries away. But the current feeding rate and the presence of the gas ring suggest this binary is on a dangerous trajectory.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-star-system-in-real-time">A star system in real time</h2>



<p>For decades, astronomers struggled to explain why V Sge was the brightest system of its kind. </p>



<p>By tying its glare to sustained thermonuclear burning driven by extreme mass transfer - and by revealing the telltale, system-wide gas ring - the new study provides a coherent picture of how this oddball works.</p>



<p>It also offers a living laboratory where scientists can study how close binaries evolve and how novae trigger. It may even explain how some white dwarfs cross the threshold into supernovae.</p>



<p>Most of the time, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-star-redefines-our-understanding-of-stellar-evolution/">stellar evolution</a> plays out slowly, across eons. V Sagittae is a rare exception: a nearby, rapidly changing system writing its next chapter in real time. Keep an eye on the southern sky. The next burst from this hungry white dwarf could be bright enough for all of us to see.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <em><a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2507.22637" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society</a></em>. </p>



<p>Image Credit: University of Southampton</p>



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White dwarf star devours its companion in record feeding frenzy

Astronomers have caught a nearby stellar duo in a dramatic act. A super-dense white dwarf star is siphoning material from its larger companion at a pace never seen before. The system, known as V Sagittae (V Sge), sits about 10,000 light-years away and orbits so tightly that the two stars whirl around each other every 12.3 hours. As the white dwarf feeds, the pair blazes far brighter than similar systems - a century-old mystery that a new study says it has finally cracked. Led by Pasi Hakala...

<p>Did you know you can read a chicken's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-can-now-decipher-the-emotional-states-of-chickens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a>? It turns out our feathered friends have a surprising way of showing their feelings - their faces blush a deeper red when they're distressed. </p>



<p>A revolutionary study has confirmed this, opening up new ways to understand how chickens feel and build better relationships with them.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-do-chickens-express-their-emotions">How do chickens express their emotions?</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chicken-psychology-birds-smart-complex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chickens</a>, like many animals, experience a spectrum of emotions ranging from joy and excitement to frustration and fear. However, their ways of expressing these emotions differ from ours. They don't rely on facial expressions like smiling or frowning to communicate how they feel.</p>



<p>Instead, changes in chickens' facial coloration offer clues about their inner state. The skin around their faces, including the comb and wattle, is particularly sensitive. These areas maintain a lighter red hue when chickens are relaxed and content. </p>



<p>When chickens experience negative emotions, the blood flow to these areas increases significantly. This causes a visible change as their faces become flushed with a much brighter scarlet shade.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-do-chickens-blush">Why do chickens blush?</h2>



<p>Researchers from <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INRAE</a> (France's National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment) embarked on a detailed investigation to decipher how a chicken's blush reveals its emotions. They focused on Sussex hens, a popular breed of laying chickens. </p>



<p>To ensure accuracy, the research team employed advanced camera technology and specialized software. This allowed them to precisely measure and analyze subtle changes in facial redness.</p>



<p>The researchers exposed hens to various stimuli and carefully documented the changes in coloration. When presented with appetizing feed such as mealworms, the hens did get a bit red but their entire face became scarlet red during negative experiences such as capture. This demonstrated a clear connection between the hens' emotional state and the intensity of their flushing.</p>



<p>Intriguingly, the study also shed light on how chickens perceive humans. Hens who had been gradually accustomed to the presence of a friendly researcher over time showed a reduced stress response. </p>



<p>This was evident in their calmer demeanor and the less intense flushing of their faces in the researcher's presence. In comparison, hens without this positive exposure exhibited a more pronounced stress response when near humans.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotions-in-chickens-and-humans">Emotions in chickens and humans</h2>



<p>The ability to accurately interpret chicken emotions provides invaluable insights for farmers, animal scientists, and veterinarians. Using this knowledge, they can tailor environments and care practices to promote positive emotional states in chickens. </p>



<p>This includes minimizing stressful situations, providing opportunities for enrichment, and fostering a sense of security. Such changes in animal management can lead to improvements in overall chicken well-being and health.</p>



<p>While chickens and humans may seem worlds apart, this study highlights a shared emotional language. By learning to recognize the subtle cues chickens use to express their feelings, we can develop greater empathy and understanding towards them. </p>



<p>This awareness can promote more respectful and compassionate interactions, potentially transforming our relationship with these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/zebra-finches-use-both-calls-and-vision-to-coordinate-flight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> even in backyard settings or small-scale farming.</p>



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



<p>The study serves as a springboard for numerous exciting avenues of future research. Scientists are keen to delve deeper into the diverse ways chickens might communicate their emotions.</p>



<p>Beyond facial flushing, changes in the position or movement of head feathers could hold clues to a chicken's emotional state. For instance, during moments of excitement, a hen might rapidly raise and lower her head feathers. </p>



<p>Conversely, fear or stress might be signaled by flattened or ruffled feathers. Careful observation and analysis are needed to decode this potential new emotional language.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-tech-uses-chicken-feathers-to-generate-clean-electricity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chickens</a> live within complex social structures, often with clear dominance relationships. Researchers want to understand how emotional signals play a role in these interactions. </p>



<p>For example, a dominant hen might display specific feather patterns or facial coloration changes to assert her position, while a subordinate hen might exhibit different signals to indicate submission. Understanding these nuances could unlock secrets about chicken communication and social dynamics.</p>



<p>The next time you see a chicken, take a good look at its face. Is it pale, relaxed, and content? Or is it flushed, indicating the chicken might be feeling stressed or worried?</p>



<p>Remember, our awareness and empathy can make all the difference in the lives of animals around us, even backyard chickens.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159124001163?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applied Animal Behaviour Science</a></em>.</p>



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Chickens' faces change color depending on their emotions

Did you know you can read a chicken's emotions? It...

<p>Historically, heavy rainfall has been considered the primary culprit for introducing contaminants into coastal waters. However, a recent study underscores the changing dynamics of water quality. Researchers found that "sunny day <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seeking-ways-to-prevent-flooding-caused-by-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a>," driven by rising sea levels, can also lead to increased levels of fecal bacteria, prompting a re-evaluation of water safety protocols.</p>



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



<p>Sunny day flooding, also known as nuisance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-floods-what-turns-a-rainstorm-into-a-catastrophe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a> or high-tide flooding, occurs when high tides – often influenced by the moon's gravitational pull – rise higher than usual and inundate low-lying coastal areas. </p>



<p>This can include streets, storm drains, and even some properties. The key point here is that this flooding happens on days with clear skies and no rain.</p>



<p>The moon's gravitational pull exerts a significant influence on Earth's oceans, causing them to bulge outwards on the side closest to the moon and on the opposite side. These bulges create high tides, while the regions between them experience low tides. </p>



<p>Twice a month, during new and full moons, the gravitational forces of the sun and moon align, leading to particularly strong high tides known as spring tides.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frequency-of-sunny-day-floods">Frequency of sunny day floods</h2>



<p>Sea levels are rising due to climate change, primarily caused by the burning of fossil fuels. This rising water level effectively raises the baseline for the ocean, meaning that even on days with normal high tides, water levels can reach higher than before, inundating areas that previously remained dry. This is why sunny day <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/100-year-floods-will-likely-be-annual-events-by-the-end-of-the-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a> events are becoming more frequent and severe.</p>



<p>While they may not be the dramatic, raging floods we typically picture, sunny day flooding events can still have significant consequences, as this study demonstrates. The floodwaters can overwhelm storm drains, leading to backups of potentially contaminated water.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contamination-from-sunny-day-flooding">Contamination from sunny day flooding</h2>



<p>The new study by <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a> found that "sunny day <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-makes-some-plants-resistant-to-flooding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flooding</a>" isn't just an inconvenience. These events introduce a range of contaminants into coastal waters, most notably fecal bacteria, raising concerns about potential health risks.</p>



<p>While these elevated bacteria levels typically dissipate within a few hours, scientists caution that the situation warrants attention. With rising sea levels, sunny day flooding is expected to become a more frequent and widespread issue, potentially leading to longer periods of water contamination. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-this-happen">How does this happen?</h2>



<p>“Historically we see the highest levels of fecal bacteria contamination in coastal waterways after it rains, because the rain washes contaminants into the waterways,” said Dr. Natalie Nelson, a lead researcher on the study.</p>



<p>Rising sea levels create a surprising issue: street flooding even on perfectly sunny days. High tides push water back up through stormwater systems. This causes shallow, contaminated puddles that are often dismissed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sunny-day-flood-bacteria">Sunny day flood bacteria</h2>



<p>To track just how bad these sunny day floods are, Dr. Nelson's team spent two summer months collecting daily water samples in coastal North Carolina. They were particularly interested in what happened during the "perigean spring tides" – super-strong tides due to the moon's position.</p>



<p>Sure enough, the floodwaters were contaminated. “We found that the floodwaters themselves had relatively high levels of fecal bacteria,” said Dr. Nelson. </p>



<p>The impact on larger coastal areas was not as clear. Sometimes the receding tide seemed to cause a spike in bacteria, but other times it didn't; and the spikes usually fizzled out within a few hours.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-health-and-safety">Public health and safety</h2>



<p>While your beach vacation likely isn't in jeopardy, there's still cause for concern. This study focused on a specific coastline, and water conditions can indeed vary. However, the fact that sunny day flooding led to any increase in bacteria highlights a potential risk that scientists like Dr. Nelson want to further investigate.</p>



<p>“Sea levels are going to continue rising for the foreseeable future. So we are definitely going to see more sunny day flooding, and those floods will be getting worse," said Dr. Nelson.</p>



<p>"We need to continue studying the impact that these tidal floods have on our water quality, because the more we understand, the better able we will be to make informed decisions about public health and safety.”</p>



<p>The next time you see street flooding on a sunny day, don't think "just seawater." Be mindful that the water is probably more polluted than it looks, especially for a few hours after the tide goes out. </p>



<p>While scientists are still figuring out the exact risks, it's good practice to avoid letting kids play in this water, and thoroughly rinse off any gear (or yourself) that comes into contact with it. </p>



<p>The study is yet another reminder of the complex ways that climate change can affect our everyday lives.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024GH001020" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GeoHealth</a></em>.</p>



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Sunny day flooding increases fecal bacteria in coastal waters

Historically, heavy rainfall has been considered the primary culprit for...

<p>While many parents of preschool and elementary-aged children aim to provide balanced, nutritious <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-with-vegetarian-diets-maintain-similar-growth-and-nutrition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diets</a>, certain strategies intended to promote healthy eating may not always produce the desired outcomes, according to insights from the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital <a href="https://mottpoll.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Poll on Children’s Health</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accommodation-to-children-s-diet-preferences">Accommodation to children’s diet preferences</h2>



<p>A significant finding from the report indicates that three in five parents will prepare different meals if their child rejects the family's meal choice, demonstrating a high level of accommodation to children’s preferences.</p>



<p>Additionally, the poll reveals that one in eight parents enforces a rule requiring children to finish everything on their plate.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthy-diets-for-children">Healthy diets for children</h2>



<p>Moreover, despite recognizing that the standard American diet, rich in saturated fats and sugars, is not ideal for children, only a small proportion of parents have explored alternative, potentially healthier diets at home.</p>



<p>“Feeding young children can be challenging due to general pickiness, hesitancy to try unfamiliar foods, and constantly evolving food preferences,” said Mott Poll co-director and Mott pediatrician Susan Woolford, M.D., emphasizing the crucial nature of early childhood as a period for establishing lifelong healthy eating patterns.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Parents’ concern about whether their child is eating enough or if they’re getting the nutrients they need may lead them to adopt practices that actually sabotage their efforts to get kids to have healthy eating habits in the short and long term.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-standard-american-diet-and-children-nbsp">Standard American diet and children&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The poll, based on responses from 1,083 parents of children aged 3-10 surveyed in February, provided a broad overview of parental beliefs and practices concerning their children's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-have-nutritional-wisdom-we-eat-what-our-body-needs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nutrition</a>.</p>



<p>The results revealed that a third of parents believe the standard American diet is healthy compared to half who rank the Mediterranean higher in nutritional value. However, few have tried alternative diets for their child.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-excess-intake-of-calories">Excess intake of calories</h2>



<p>“Parents may recognize the standard diet in the U.S. includes high amounts of saturated fats, added sugars, sodium, and refined carbohydrates, which can generate an excess intake of calories beyond nutritional needs and contribute to health problems,” Woolford said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“However, despite this recognition and evidence suggesting that other diet options may help avoid many illnesses, only about 9% have tried the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mediterranean-diet-keeps-the-brain-sharp-even-in-old-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mediterranean diet</a> for their children and fewer have tried giving their children a vegetarian diet.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-balanced-approach-to-children-s-diets">Balanced approach to children’s diets</h2>



<p>In addition, Woolford stressed the importance of ensuring that children receive sufficient nutrition when experimenting with diets that exclude certain food groups. For instance, diets that limit animal products need to incorporate alternative protein sources like meat substitutes, tofu, or legumes.</p>



<p>The poll also explored family dining rules, which can either promote or hinder a child's healthy diet. About fifteen percent of parents enforce a rule that children must finish what’s on their plate, potentially encouraging overconsumption, particularly if portion sizes are too large.</p>



<p>Woolford advocates for a more balanced approach: “Requiring children to eat everything on their plate, or withholding dessert unless all other foods are eaten, can lead to overconsumption, especially if portion sizes are too large for the child’s age.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-offering-a-healthy-range-of-foods">Offering a healthy range of foods</h2>



<p>Instead, she supports a model where “parents provide, and the child decides.” This strategy involves parents offering a range of healthy foods and letting children decide which to eat and how much, thus respecting their natural hunger cues and preferences.</p>



<p>According to Woolford, sixty percent of parents prepare separate meals if their children reject what's served at mealtime, which often results in less nutritious alternatives.</p>



<p>“Rather than allowing the child to choose an alternate menu, parents should provide a balanced meal with at least one option that their child is typically willing to eat,” she advised.</p>



<p>Woolford also emphasizes the importance of parental modeling in dietary habits, noting that children often emulate the behaviors they observe. Moreover, avoiding snacks between meals is also likely to help children have a better <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/disadvantaged-stimulate-appetite/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">appetite</a> and increase their willingness to eat offered foods.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biggest-challenges-faced-by-parents-nbsp">Biggest challenges faced by parents&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The survey confirmed that parents often face significant challenges when it comes to ensuring their children eat a healthy diet. Key issues include dealing with picky eaters, the higher cost of nutritious food, and concerns about food waste. A smaller number of parents reported that time constraints make it difficult to prepare healthy meals.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-introducing-vegetables-nbsp">Introducing vegetables&nbsp;</h3>



<p>According to survey data, nearly all parents have attempted at least one strategy to encourage their children to eat vegetables, which includes daily servings, preparing vegetables in a way that appeals to their children, introducing new vegetables, and allowing children to choose vegetables during shopping.</p>



<p>Some parents also engage their children in the preparation of vegetables, incorporate vegetables into other dishes, or offer rewards for eating vegetables.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Unsurprisingly, parents said pickiness and getting kids to eat veggies were among major challenges during mealtimes,” Woolford said. “Parents should try to include children in meal decisions, avoid pressuring food consumption and provide a variety of healthy options at each meal so kids feel more control.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-portion-control">Portion control</h3>



<p>Portion control presents another difficulty for many parents, as properly sizing meals is crucial for preventing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-rates-spiked-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">childhood obesity</a>. </p>



<p>The survey revealed that nearly 70% of parents serve their children slightly smaller portions than those given to adults, while others let children decide their portion sizes, rely on pre-measured portions, or serve children adult-sized portions.</p>



<p>To aid in appropriate portion sizing, Woolford recommends utilizing resources like the U.S. Department of Agriculture's “<a href="https://www.myplate.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MyPlate</a>,” which offers visual guidelines for balancing food groups and managing portion sizes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-identifying-unhealthy-food-options-at-the-grocery-store">Identifying unhealthy food options at the grocery store</h2>



<p>Grocery shopping is a critical starting point for healthy eating. Parents in the survey indicated that they limit their children's intake of foods with added sugars and processed ingredients. However, identifying unhealthy options can be challenging due to deceptive marketing.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Parents should read labels, avoiding the marketing on the front of packages and focusing instead on the details on the back. They should pay particular attention to nutrition information and ingredient lists - especially if they’re long with unrecognizable items - as well as sodium, added sugars, and fat,” Woolford advises.</p>



<p>She also suggests making grocery shopping an educational and engaging activity for children. “Have them help in the process of choosing the healthiest options, not ones that necessarily directly advertise to children, but foods that they are willing to try that are lower in sugar, fat and salt,” she said.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Spend most of the time in the produce section and try to make it fun by maybe selecting new options from different parts of the world that they haven't tried before.” This approach not only promotes healthy eating but also encourages children to explore and enjoy a variety of foods.</p>



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Feeding children healthy diets can be very challenging

While many parents of preschool and elementary-aged children aim to...

<p>In the Solomon Islands, a team of scientists led by the <a href="https://www.unimelb.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Melbourne</a> has identified a swift and unusual type of evolutionary change among local <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutionary-secrets-how-bat-teeth-adapted-to-their-diverse-diets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bat</a> populations. The experts suggest that two distinct groups of leaf-nosed bats, initially thought to be different species due to their significant size differences, are actually proof of a rare case of parallel evolution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-sizes-similar-dna">Different sizes, similar DNA</h2>



<p>Although these two species share the same environment, they have independently developed similar traits. The smaller species, <em>Hipposideros diadema</em>, is widespread, inhabiting not only the Solomon Islands but also regions in Southeast Asia, Papua New Guinea, and northern Australia. In contrast, the larger species, named <em>Hipposideros dinops</em> or the Fierce Leaf-Nosed Bat in 1905, is exclusive to the Solomon Islands.</p>



<p>“Although they are very different sizes, the bats’ DNA is very similar. They use very different sonar frequencies, they probably eat different food, and even when they live in the same cave together they don’t interbreed. That is why no one has ever really questioned whether they were different species,” explained lead author Tyrone Lavery, a mammalogist at the University of Melbourne.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-evolution-of-larger-bodied-bats">Rapid evolution of larger-bodied bats</h2>



<p>According to the scientists, despite their independent origins, each group of larger bats has evolved to look the same, averaging more than double the weight of the small bat. “Our research suggests the rapid and repeated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vampire-bats-live-blood/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">evolution</a> of larger bodied bats from smaller bats, each happening independently on separate islands,” said Lavery.</p>



<p>“When we created family trees using the bats’ DNA, we found that what we thought was just one species of large bat in the Solomon Islands was actually a case where bigger bats had evolved from the smaller species multiple times across different islands.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-parallel-bat-evolution-nbsp">Parallel bat evolution&nbsp;</h2>



<p>This phenomenon of parallel evolution, where separated populations of the same species evolve similar traits in similar environments, is exceedingly rare and seldomly observed in real-time, especially among mammals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts suggest that these larger bats might be evolving to exploit food sources not accessible to their smaller counterparts, although they are theoretically capable of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/interbreeding-survival-early-elephants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interbreeding</a>.</p>



<p>“Something very strong is pushing or selecting for these big bats, and it is strong enough for it to happen multiple times on different islands. We think these larger bats might be evolving to take advantage of prey that the smaller bats aren’t eating. Although they could probably interbreed, they don’t for some reason,” Lavery said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diverse-dietary-preferences-nbsp">Diverse dietary preferences&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The differences in sonar frequencies between the groups suggest diverse dietary preferences, with the larger bats likely targeting bigger prey such as larger insects or even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-frog-day-addressing-environmental-threats-to-frogs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">frogs</a>. </p>



<p>The study, which included measuring 103 bat specimens from various international museums, confirmed no overlap in body size between the two groups, reinforcing their distinct developments despite genetic similarities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-islands-and-bat-evolution">Islands and bat evolution</h2>



<p>According to Lavery, this pattern of parallel evolution in leaf-nosed bats has been observed in the Solomon Islands on Guadalcanal and in the Western Province, but more research is needed to see if the same pattern occurs on other islands.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We may think of evolution as a very slow process, but it can happen rapidly when the conditions are right and two groups are separated and stop interbreeding. They can begin to evolve on different pathways,” he said.</p>



<p>“Islands are famous for helping us to observe and understand the processes for how species evolve in real time. They’re also places that are very vulnerable to the types of disturbance that humans create. It’s important that we look after these incredible landscapes in Solomon Islands before we lose these stories even before we find them,” he concluded.</p>



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



<p>Bats represent a remarkable example of mammalian evolution, having developed unique adaptations that allow them to thrive across diverse environments globally. The evolution of bats is particularly notable for their development of flight and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bats-share-social-information-through-echolocation-calls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">echolocation</a>, which have played crucial roles in their ability to occupy ecological niches that other mammals cannot.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-bats">Early bats</h3>



<p>The fossil record suggests that bats first appeared at least 50 million years ago during the Eocene epoch. These early bats already possessed the wing structures necessary for flight, indicating that their ability to fly evolved quite rapidly in evolutionary terms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This quick adaptation to flight is believed to have significantly contributed to their global spread and diversification.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-echolocation">Echolocation</h3>



<p>Echolocation, the ability to navigate and find food using sound waves, is another key evolutionary development in bats, although it is not universal among all bat species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Echolocation likely developed after flight, with different bat species evolving this ability independently. This suggests a strong evolutionary pressure to optimize feeding strategies in dark environments, like night skies or dense forests.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-convergent-evolution">Convergent evolution</h3>



<p>Molecular studies have provided insights into bat phylogeny, showing that bats are divided into two main suborders: the largely <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-fruit-bats-suffer-no-consequences-from-their-high-sugar-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fruit-eating</a> megabats and the echolocating microbats. </p>



<p>Interestingly, some megabats have also developed echolocation, albeit through different mechanisms than microbats, showcasing convergent evolution - where different species independently evolve similar traits.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-morphological-changes-and-diet">Morphological changes and diet</h3>



<p>Bats have also adapted to a wide range of dietary preferences, from insects and fruit to vertebrates and blood, each adaptation allowing bats to exploit new or underserved ecological niches. </p>



<p>These dietary adaptations are accompanied by morphological changes, such as tooth and jaw structure, digestive enzymes, and flight adaptations, enabling them to specialize and thrive.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/evolut/qpae039" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Evolution</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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



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Rare type of parallel evolution found in island bats

In the Solomon Islands, a team of scientists led by...

<p>For the first time since November 2023, <a href="https://voyager.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA’s Voyager 1</a> spacecraft has started transmitting useful data back to Earth about the status and functionality of its onboard systems. </p>



<p>The mission team is now preparing for the spacecraft to resume sending back scientific data. Voyager 1, along with its sibling Voyager 2, are the only spacecraft to venture into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-received-laser-communication-from-10-million-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interstellar space</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-malfunction-in-voyager-s-computers">Malfunction in Voyager's computers</h2>



<p>Voyager 1 had ceased transmitting intelligible science and engineering data on November 14, 2023. Although the spacecraft appeared to be receiving instructions and operating as expected, the data it sent back was unreadable.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In March, the engineering team at NASA’s <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jet Propulsion Laboratory</a> (JPL) in Southern California diagnosed the problem as being related to a malfunction in one of the spacecraft’s three onboard computers, specifically the flight data subsystem (FDS). This system is responsible for organizing the science and engineering data before it is sent to Earth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resurgence-of-voyager-data">Resurgence of Voyager data</h2>



<p>The resurgence of data transmission in April 2024 was met with celebrations by the Voyager team at JPL. The malfunction was traced back to a single memory chip within the FDS that had failed.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This chip was crucial as it held part of the FDS's memory, including segments of its software code, essential for processing the data sent to Earth.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With the chip non-functional and irreplaceable, the team attempted to reassign the code to different parts of the FDS memory. However, no single section of the memory was sufficiently large to accommodate the entire code.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-process-of-retrieving-the-voyager-data">Process of retrieving the Voyager data</h2>



<p>The solution involved fragmenting the code into smaller segments and reallocating these across several memory locations. This intricate process required adjustments to ensure the fragmented code could operate seamlessly as a whole. This also involved updating references to the code’s location in the FDS memory.</p>



<p>The focus initially was on the segment of the code responsible for collating the spacecraft’s engineering data. This was successfully relocated within the FDS memory on April 18. Given Voyager 1's immense distance - over 15 billion miles (24 billion kilometers) from Earth - it takes about 22 ½ hours for a signal to travel from Earth to the spacecraft and another 22 ½ hours for the response to return.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enduring-missions">Enduring missions</h2>



<p>When communications were reestablished on April 20, the team confirmed that the adjustments were successful, marking the first time in five months that they could verify the spacecraft's operational health and status.</p>



<p>In the upcoming weeks, the Voyager team plans to reposition and modify the remaining sections of the FDS software, which are crucial for resuming the transmission of scientific data.</p>



<p>Meanwhile, <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/voyager/voyager-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Voyager 2</a> remains fully functional. Launched more than 46 years ago, the Voyager spacecraft - both Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 - are the most enduring and farthest-traveling spacecraft ever launched. Prior to entering interstellar space, each spacecraft conducted flybys of Jupiter and Saturn, with Voyager 2 also visiting Uranus and Neptune.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-voyager-mission">More about the Voyager mission</h2>



<p>The NASA Voyager mission consists of two spacecraft, Voyager 1 and Voyager 2, which were launched in 1977 to explore the outer solar system and beyond. The primary goal of the mission was to take advantage of a rare planetary alignment that allowed for a grand tour of the outer planets - Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This alignment occurs only once every 176 years, and the mission's timing capitalized on this to extend our knowledge of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alien-worlds-unraveling-the-mysteries-of-exoplanets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distant worlds</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voyager-1">Voyager 1</h3>



<p>Voyager 1's trajectory took it past Jupiter in March 1979 and Saturn in November 1980, providing detailed images and data on the planets and their moons. After its encounter with Saturn, Voyager 1's path was adjusted so it would pass close to Saturn's moon Titan and then head out of the solar system.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-voyager-2">Voyager 2</h3>



<p>Voyager 2, on a longer trajectory, passed Jupiter in July 1979, Saturn in August 1981, Uranus in January 1986, and Neptune in August 1989. Each flyby yielded significant scientific discoveries, including the first detailed images of these planets' atmospheres, magnetic fields, rings, and numerous moons.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interstellar-space">Interstellar space</h3>



<p>After completing their primary missions, both Voyagers continued into the heliosheath - the outermost layer of the heliosphere where the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-solar-wind-which-creates-beautiful-auroras-on-earth-is-now-less-mysterious/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar wind</a> is slowed by the pressure of interstellar gas. Voyager 1 entered interstellar space in August 2012, making it the first human-made object to do so. Voyager 2 followed into interstellar space in November 2018.</p>



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



<p>Despite their vast distance from Earth, the Voyagers continue to communicate with the NASA Deep Space Network to send back scientific data.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This enduring mission has expanded our understanding of the heliosphere and provides unique insights into the nature of the interstellar space beyond our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-delicate-balance-of-our-solar-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a>. </p>



<p>The spacecraft carry a golden record containing sounds and images selected to portray the diversity of life and culture on Earth, intended as a message for any intelligent extraterrestrial life that might find them.</p>



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



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Voyager 1 "wakes up" and resumes sending data to Earth from interstellar space

For the first time since November 2023, NASA’s Voyager 1...

<p>Despite its extreme conditions, featuring surface temperatures that can melt lead, volcanoes that spew lava, and thick clouds of sulfuric acid, Venus provides <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/venus-secret-past-may-have-implications-for-earths-future/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invaluable insights</a> into the search for life on other planets, according to a new study from <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UC Riverside</a>.</p>



<p>“We often assume that Earth is the model of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-habitability-of-a-planet-is-affected-by-the-location-of-its-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">habitability</a>, but if you consider this planet in isolation, we don’t know where the boundaries and limitations are,” said lead author Stephen Kane, a professor of planetary astrophysics at UCR. “Venus gives us that.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-venus-as-a-reference-point-for-life">Venus as a reference point for life</h2>



<p>The experts gathered extensive data on both Earth and Venus, and positioned Venus as a crucial reference point for better understanding the conditions that might preclude life on other planets.</p>



<p>Despite having an atmosphere that would crush a human instantly, Venus shares many similarities with Earth, such as comparable mass and radius. Given their closeness, it raises the question of why Earth's fate was so different.</p>



<p>Many scientists believe the significant amount of solar energy Venus receives caused its atmosphere to become a runaway greenhouse - a hypothesis that Kane challenges. </p>



<p>“If you consider the solar energy received by Earth as 100%, Venus collects 191%. A lot of people think that’s why Venus turned out differently,” he said. “But hold on a second. Venus doesn’t have a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-now-leads-the-solar-system-moon-race-with-145/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moon</a>, which is what gives Earth things like ocean tides and influenced the amount of water here.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-missions-to-venus-are-needed">More missions to Venus are needed</h2>



<p>The paper also emphasizes the need for more missions to Venus to answer unresolved questions about its core size, rotation rate, magnetic field changes, and atmospheric chemistry.</p>



<p>“Venus doesn’t have a detectable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-shifts-ten-times-faster-than-expected/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a>. That could be related to the size of its core,” Kane explained. “Core size also gives us information about how a planet cools itself. Earth has a mantle circulating heat from its core. We don’t know what’s happening inside Venus.”</p>



<p>Understanding the inner workings of Venus is vital because a planet’s interior dynamics greatly affect its atmosphere. This is evident on Earth, where the atmosphere is largely influenced by volcanic activity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-upcoming-nasa-missions">Upcoming NASA missions</h2>



<p>NASA's upcoming missions, <a href="https://ssed.gsfc.nasa.gov/davinci/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DAVINCI</a> and <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/veritas/">VERITAS</a>, will further explore these aspects. The DAVINCI mission will analyze the planet's thick atmosphere, and VERITAS will focus on the planet's surface without landing.</p>



<p>“DAVINCI will measure the atmosphere all the way from the top to the bottom. That will really help us build new climate models and predict these kinds of atmospheres elsewhere, including on Earth, as we keep increasing the amount of CO2,” Kane said.</p>



<p>According to the scientists, these missions will not only improve our understanding of Venus but also refine our assessments of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dinosaurs-are-helping-astronomers-in-the-search-for-extraterrestrial-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extraterrestrial life</a> possibilities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-venus-to-preserve-life">Studying Venus to preserve life</h2>



<p>“The sobering part of the search for life elsewhere in the universe is that we’re never going to have in situ data for an exoplanet. We aren’t going there, landing, or taking direct measurements of them,” Kane said. “If we think another planet has life on the surface, we might not ever know we’re wrong, and we’d be dreaming about a planet with life that doesn’t have it. We are only going to get that right by properly understanding the Earth-size planets we can visit, and Venus gives us that chance.”</p>



<p>“One of the main reasons to study Venus is because of our sacred duties as caretakers of this planet, to preserve its future. My hope is that through studying the processes that produced present-day Venus, especially if Venus had a more temperate past that’s now devastated, there are lessons there for us. It can happen to us. It’s a question of how and when,” Kane concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intriguing-facts-about-venus">Intriguing facts about Venus</h2>



<p>Venus, often dubbed Earth's "sister planet" due to its similar size and proximity, holds a variety of intriguing characteristics that set it apart in our solar system:</p>



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



<p>Venus has an incredibly thick atmosphere composed mostly of carbon dioxide, with clouds of sulfuric acid, making it inhospitable. This atmosphere creates a runaway greenhouse effect, leading to surface temperatures hot enough to melt lead - about 900 degrees Fahrenheit (475 degrees Celsius).</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crushing-pressure">Crushing pressure</h3>



<p>The surface pressure on Venus is about 92 times that of Earth, equivalent to the pressure found at about 3,000 feet (900 meters) underwater on Earth. This extreme pressure would crush most human-made objects.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-retrograde-rotation">Retrograde rotation</h3>



<p>Venus rotates on its axis in the opposite direction to most planets in the solar system, including Earth. This means the Sun rises in the west and sets in the east on Venus. Additionally, a day on Venus (one complete rotation on its axis) is longer than its year (one complete orbit around the Sun). It takes about 243 Earth days to rotate once, but only about 225 Earth days to complete an orbit.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-volcanic-landscape">Volcanic landscape</h3>



<p>Venus is covered with numerous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/volcanoes-cover-nearly-the-entire-surface-of-venus/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">volcanoes</a> and has a surface dominated by volcanic plains. It has more volcanoes than any other planet in the solar system, with over 1,600 major volcanoes, many of which are believed to still be active.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-water-vapor">Lack of water vapor</h3>



<p>Despite being similar to Earth in size and composition, Venus has almost no water vapor in its atmosphere, and its surface is a dry, desert-like landscape. Any water that might have been present in the past likely evaporated due to the intense heat.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brightest-planet">Brightest planet</h3>



<p>Venus is the brightest planet in our solar system and is often visible from Earth with the naked eye. It can appear as a bright star-like object in the morning or evening sky, which is why it's sometimes called the Morning Star or Evening Star.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysterious-wind-patterns">Mysterious wind patterns</h3>



<p>Despite the slow rotation on its axis, the atmosphere of Venus rotates much faster than the planet itself, a phenomenon known as super-rotation. Winds in the upper atmosphere can reach speeds up to 220 miles per hour (360 kilometers per hour).</p>



<p>These unique and extreme conditions make Venus an interesting subject of study to understand planetary processes and atmospheric dynamics in our solar system.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/link_gateway/2024arXiv240308830K/doi:10.48550/arXiv.2403.08830" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Astronomy</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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How the ‘hellish’ planet Venus can help us find alien life

Despite its extreme conditions, featuring surface temperatures that can melt...

<p>Influenza is viewed by infectious disease specialists as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/time-traveling-pathogens-from-melting-permafrost-pose-great-risk-to-the-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pathogen</a> with the highest pandemic potential, according to findings unveiled at a major global congress in Barcelona.</p>



<p>A survey conducted by the VACCELERATE Consortium revealed that 57% of the experts ranked influenza at the top of the list of pandemic threats. This highlights the persistent threat of influenza to global health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-top-pandemic-threats">Exploring the top pandemic threats</h2>



<p>The survey reached out to a broad spectrum of experts from 57 countries, garnering 187 responses that provide a snapshot of the global perspective on infectious threats. </p>



<p>Influenza emerged as the primary pandemic concern due to its ability to mutate and spread widely each season. </p>



<p>Disease X - an undefined pathogen representing emerging diseases - and SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind the recent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/low-iron-may-be-a-key-driver-of-long-covid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID-19</a> pandemic, followed closely.</p>



<p>In their study, the experts evaluated a variety of pathogens, including those listed in the World Health Organization’s R&amp;D Blueprint for Action to Prevent Epidemics. </p>



<p>The blueprint serves as a proactive measure to identify and prioritize research on diseases that pose significant public health risks due to their infectivity, transmissibility, and potential for severe impact.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prioritizing-pathogens-with-pandemic-potential">Prioritizing pathogens with pandemic potential</h2>



<p>Besides influenza, the survey highlighted other critical threats. Disease X, a placeholder for potential future pathogens, was ranked highest by 21% of respondents, underscoring the constant vigilance needed against unknown viruses.</p>



<p>Respondents also noted the significant impact of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shock-discovery-cats-play-a-role-in-spreading-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SARS-CoV-2</a> and its predecessor, SARS-CoV, which caused the 2002-03 outbreak.</p>



<p>A smaller fraction of experts recognized lesser-known but equally concerning pathogens like the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus and the Ebola virus, noting their deadly outbreaks.</p>



<p>Conversely, experts ranked viruses such as Hantavirus, Lassa virus, Nipah virus, henipavirus, and Rift Valley fever virus lower in terms of immediate pandemic potential, suggesting they pose a lesser immediate threat, yet emphasizing the ongoing need for monitoring and research.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-influenza-s-pandemic-threat">Influenza’s pandemic threat</h2>



<p>Dr. Jon Salmanton-García commented on the findings: “Each winter we have an influenza season. One could say that this means that every winter there are little pandemics. They are more or less controlled because the different strains are not virulent enough.” </p>



<p>“Yet, every season the strains involved change, that is the reason why we can get influenza several times in life and vaccines change year to year. In case a new strain becomes more virulent, this control could be lost.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-from-the-covid-19-pandemic">Insights from the COVID-19 pandemic</h2>



<p>The recent experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic have significantly shifted the landscape of pandemic preparedness.</p>



<p>Dr. Salmanton-García explained that the global response to COVID-19 has enhanced our approach to managing respiratory viruses, improving practices in social distancing, hand hygiene, mask usage, and vaccination strategies.</p>



<p>“In the COVID-19 pandemic, we have learned many things on how to approach a respiratory virus pandemic. This includes social distancing, hand cleaning, face masks, a renewed focus on vaccination, and trust in healthcare institutions. In parallel, institutions have also learned a lot. Preparedness and surveillance are now, vitally, better-funded,” said Dr. Salmanton-García.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-pandemic-threats">Understanding pandemic threats</h2>



<p>The study paints a clear picture of the infectious disease landscape, identifying influenza, Disease X, and coronaviruses among the top concerns for global health security. </p>



<p>The findings emphasize the need for continued vigilance, research, and preparation to mitigate the impact of potential future pandemics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More about pandemic threats</h2>



<p>Pandemic threats are often caused by novel <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/viruses-have-eyes-and-ears-on-their-hosts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">viruses</a> or bacteria to which the general population has little to no immunity. The severity and spread of these diseases can be influenced by various factors, including the pathogen's transmissibility, virulence, and the availability of effective treatments or vaccines.</p>



<p>Modern global connectivity through travel and trade, along with urbanization and environmental changes, can exacerbate the spread of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-infectious-disease-landscape-is-changing-and-we-must-prepare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infectious diseases</a>, making pandemics more likely.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The impact of a pandemic can be profound, not only causing widespread health crises but also affecting economies, social structures, and daily life. Governments and international organizations work to monitor and manage these risks through surveillance, preparedness plans, and public health interventions aimed at controlling the spread of diseases and minimizing their impact on society.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Effective response strategies often include measures such as vaccination campaigns, travel restrictions, quarantine, and public education about hygiene practices.</p>



<p>The research will be presented at the <a href="https://www.escmid.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases</a>' (ESCMID) Global Congress in Barcelona later this month.</p>



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



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Influenza is considered the biggest pandemic threat

Influenza is viewed by infectious disease specialists as the pathogen...

<p>Understanding how students learn is becoming crucial, particularly as school attendance decreases and the need for additional student support grows amidst a slew of examinations. </p>



<p>In today's challenging educational environment, the process of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/students-learn-better-when-their-brain-waves-are-in-sync/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a> has become increasingly complex. </p>



<p>Education expert Alex Quigley emphasizes the critical need to shift our focus from merely what students are learning to how they are learning, to effectively overcome these challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reevaluating-educational-techniques">Reevaluating educational techniques</h2>



<p>Quigley points out that while there has been considerable emphasis on refining curricula, perhaps not enough attention has been given to the actual <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">process of learning</a>. He believes that understanding and adapting to the learning needs of students can significantly enhance their educational success.</p>



<p>In his recent book "<a href="https://www.routledge.com/Why-Learning-Fails-And-What-To-Do-About-It/Quigley/p/book/9781032648767#:~:text=%22Why%20Learning%20Fails%20sets%20out,unreliability%20of%20learning%20necessitates%20failure." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Why Learning Fails</a>," the expert draws from the latest research to provide practical advice for maximizing student engagement and retention. </p>



<p>“In focusing so hard on curriculum – and considering what teachers teach – have we given sufficient attention to how pupils learn? Have we considered pupils’ motivations and emotions as much as their prior knowledge and memory capacity?”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-complexity-of-learning">The complexity of learning</h2>



<p>Quigley explains that a high-quality curriculum is essential, but it needs to be paired with a deep understanding of the diverse learning profiles students bring into the classroom. </p>



<p>“When we focus on creating the conditions for how pupils learn best, we recognize that pupils attend school with different levels of prior knowledge (and misconceptions), different motivations and interests,” he says. “Different beliefs about themselves and what they can learn also play a crucial role."</p>



<p>Moreover, Quigley delves into the myriad ways learning can falter, suggesting that by understanding these pitfalls, teachers can better support their students. </p>



<p>Among the challenges are the constraints of working memory, gaps in foundational knowledge, and the distractions that lead to wandering focus.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-working-memory-limitations">Addressing working memory limitations</h2>



<p>Alex Quigley also discusses the critical role of working memory in learning, noting its limitations and the impact on student performance. </p>



<p>“A problem for many teachers is that they don’t have a strong understanding of working memory – its limits, factors that inhibit its functioning, along with practical supports.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-for-effective-learning">Strategies for effective learning</h2>



<p>To combat these challenges, Quigley recommends strategies that cater to the inherent limits of working memory. </p>



<p>Engaging students through emotive storytelling, chunking information into manageable segments, and employing worked examples are just a few techniques that can enhance learning. </p>



<p>Reiterating information multiple times also helps in reinforcing and correcting misconceptions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-focus-and-planning">Enhancing focus and planning</h2>



<p>The expert further suggests methods to improve student concentration and planning skills, which are vital in a world full of digital distractions.</p>



<p>“Pupils can struggle for focus and concentration in a world of mass distraction. Successful teaching becomes a complex matter of making the curriculum ‘clever and vivid’ for pupils,” explains Quigley.</p>



<p>Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of explicit modeling in teaching students how to manage their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-robots-can-help-students-stay-focused/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">attention</a> effectively.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-empowering-teachers-through-adaptive-expertise">Empowering teachers through adaptive expertise</h2>



<p>Ultimately, the effectiveness of these strategies depends on the support systems available to teachers.</p>



<p>Quigley argues that to convert educational challenges into successes, teachers need extensive support, including time, training, and appropriate tools.</p>



<p>“Crucially, teachers need ample support – time, training, and tools – to move from experienced teachers to adaptive experts,” he states.</p>



<p>Furthermore, adapting teaching methods to accommodate the varied and complex needs of students is essential for overcoming the current challenges in education. </p>



<p>By focusing on how students learn and providing teachers with the necessary tools and knowledge, we can foster a more effective and engaging learning environment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methods-used-to-help-students-learn">Methods used to help students learn</h2>



<p>Education systems often use a variety of methods to help students learn. These methods cater to the diverse needs of students, ensuring a more effective and comprehensive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/school-field-trips-linked-to-better-student-performance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning experience</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Visual learning</h3>



<p>Visual learning involves observing pictures, diagrams, videos, and demonstrations. Visual aids can help clarify concepts and provide memorable references.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Auditory learning</h3>



<p>Students learn by listening to explanations, discussions, lectures, and audio recordings. This method is effective for those who process information better when they hear it.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reading/writing</h3>



<p>Students also learn by reading textbooks, articles, and writing notes or essays. This approach benefits those who learn best through written words and structured information.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Kinesthetic learning</h3>



<p>Many children benefit from engaging in physical activities rather than watching or listening. This could include hands-on experiments, building models, or using manipulatives. It's particularly effective for those who need to "do" to understand.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Interactive learning</h3>



<p>Interactive learning includes group activities, class discussions, and collaborative projects, which enhance understanding through social interaction.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reflective learning</h3>



<p>Reflective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/students-brains-sync-learning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learning</a> involves thinking about and analyzing what has been learned. Reflective practices can deepen understanding and help integrate knowledge with personal experiences.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Technology-enhanced learning</h3>



<p>Digital tools and platforms like educational software, online courses, and virtual simulations help to reinforce and facilitate learning experiences.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Problem-based learning</h3>



<p>This learning method is focused on tackling real-world problems or scenarios, encouraging critical thinking and application of knowledge in practical contexts.</p>



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



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

Understanding how students learn is key to helping them succeed

Understanding how students learn is becoming crucial, particularly as school...

<p>Pyrrolizidine alkaloids, complex and toxic compounds produced by various plant species, have historically posed significant risks to cattle due to their lethal nature. Despite their toxicity and the clear signals from plants that contain these alkaloids discouraging consumption, bella <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moths-may-struggle-to-move-in-response-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moths</a> (<em>Utetheisa ornatrix</em>) have uniquely adapted to not only consume these substances but also utilize them as a defense mechanism and a means to attract mates.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-adaptations-of-bella-moths-nbsp">Genetic adaptations of bella moths&nbsp;</h2>



<p>In a new study led by the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>, scientists have explored the genetic adaptations that allow bella moths to thrive on a diet rich in these dangerous compounds.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research, which involved sequencing the bella moth genome and analyzing genetic data from over 150 museum specimens, some over a century old, aimed to discover the evolutionary origins of bella moths and their close relatives, as well as the development of their distinctive <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/butterflies-wing-patterns-colors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wing patterns</a>.</p>



<p>“We’ve managed to show that you can use museum specimens to answer genetic questions that normally require complicated laboratory techniques,” explained study co-author Andrei Sourakov, collections coordinator at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/mcguire/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity</a>. Sourakov, who has dedicated 15 years to studying bella moths, emphasized the significance of genome sequencing in advancing our understanding of these resilient insects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-survival-strategy-of-bella-moths">Unique survival strategy of bella moths</h2>



<p>The findings reveal that bella moths, which inhabit regions across eastern North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, exhibit a unique survival strategy by being conspicuously visible during the day instead of hiding from predators.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-deterring-predators-nbsp">Deterring predators&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Their vibrant wing colors serve as a warning about their toxicity, effectively deterring potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/predators-help-prevent-biodiversity-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a> such as spiders and birds.</p>



<p>“Banana spiders will cut them out of their webs,” Sourakov said, adding that wolf spiders and birds will avoid them. “When caught, they produce foaming liquid that tastes bad made almost entirely out of alkaloids.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-attracting-mates">Attracting mates</h3>



<p>This defense mechanism is further found during <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-moths-use-an-aphrodisiac-during-mating-to-feel-macho/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mating</a>, where females emit a plume of alkaloid-rich aerosols to attract males.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The mating process involves the male moth transferring not only sperm but additional alkaloids to the female, which she uses to protect her eggs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-evolutionary-process-nbsp">Complex evolutionary process&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study not only sheds light on the unique dietary adaptations of bella moths but also underscores the broader implications of their survival tactics. The discovery that bella moths possess multiple copies of the gene responsible for their alkaloid detoxification enzyme suggests a complex evolutionary process that may have involved gene duplication, a phenomenon observed in various other species as well.</p>



<p>According to the researchers, the interaction with pyrrolizidine alkaloids could be a key factor behind the bella moth’s unusually long lifespan, as the stress imposed by these toxins may activate biological mechanisms that contribute to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/certain-stress-boost-longevity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">longevity</a>.</p>



<p>“Certain types of stress on biological systems result in a longer lifespan. It could be that the interaction bella moths have with alkaloids is not only the reason why it makes sense for them to live long lives, but also one of the mechanisms behind it,” Sourakov speculated.</p>



<p>This study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2319726121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em></a><em>,</em> both deepens our understanding of the complex interplay between bella moths and their toxic environment and opens new avenues for research into how other species adapt to and exploit toxic substances within their ecosystems.</p>



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



<p>Bella moths are strikingly colored moths found primarily in the Americas. Their vibrant wings are a mix of pink, white, and yellow hues with black spots, serving as a warning to predators about their toxicity. This toxicity is derived from their larval diet of plants in the Crotalaria genus, which contain poisonous alkaloids that the larvae retain into adulthood.</p>



<p>The bella moth's life cycle is closely intertwined with its host plants. The female moth lays eggs on the underside of leaves, which hatch into larvae that feed on the toxic leaves, gaining their own chemical defenses against predators. This adaptation showcases a fascinating example of coevolution between the bella moth and the plants it depends on.</p>



<p>In addition to their ecological role, bella moths contribute to their ecosystem by participating in pollination. Their bright coloring not only warns predators but also attracts the attention of researchers and nature enthusiasts, making them a subject of interest in studies of evolutionary biology and ecology.</p>



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



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Some moths use lethal toxins to deter predators and attract mates

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids, complex and toxic compounds produced by various plant...

<p>While causing significant disruptions across various aspects of life, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasal-cells-protect-children-against-severe-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID-19 </a>pandemic led to only "modest" developmental delays among infants and children up to five years old. This is the conclusion of a new study led by the <a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/johns-hopkins-childrens-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins Children’s Center</a>.</p>



<p>The experts closely examined the potential correlation between pandemic-induced changes in daily life and children’s developmental outcomes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evaluating-child-development">Evaluating child development </h2>



<p>The researchers utilized data from the <a href="https://www.site.chadis.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Comprehensive Health and Decision Information System</a> (CHADIS) - a web-based platform where caregivers report on child development across over 5,000 pediatric practices in 48 U.S. states.</p>



<p>The study was based on the Ages and Stages Questionnaire-3 (ASQ-3). This caregiver-completed assessment forms a routine part of pediatric care, evaluating child development in areas such as communication, problem-solving, and personal-social skills, along with fine and gross motor skills.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-developmental-delays-in-children-nbsp">Developmental delays in children&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The findings suggested slight decreases in communication, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/encouragement-helps-dogs-improve-at-problem-solving-tasks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">problem-solving</a>, and personal-social skills, yet no notable changes were observed in the motor skills domains.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We found, overall, that while there are some changes, the sky is not falling, and that is a really important and reassuring finding,” said corresponding author Sara Johnson, the&nbsp; director of the <a href="https://ralescenter.hopkinschildrens.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rales Center for the Integration of Health and Education</a> at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center.</p>



<p>The backdrop of the research is the extensive disruption wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic and related <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-improved-mental-health-of-children-during-lockdown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lockdowns</a>, which upended routines for families globally - shuttering schools, moving work to homes, and reducing social and physical activities. This led to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and social isolation, impacting both physical and mental health across all age groups.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pandemic-linked-to-modest-developmental-delays">Pandemic linked to modest developmental delays</h2>



<p>Despite broader concerns, the research team, upon analyzing developmental data from 50,205 children aged between 0 and 5 years, noted only modest developmental delays, primarily in communication and problem-solving skills.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These effects were consistent across age groups, from infants to older children, suggesting that increased caregiver time at home may have mitigated more significant impacts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pandemic-related-stress-over-developmental-delays">Pandemic-related stress over developmental delays </h2>



<p>Additionally, the study explored whether pandemic-related stresses led caregivers to worry more about their children’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poverty-impacts-brain-development-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development</a>, finding only a slight increase in concerns during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic times.</p>



<p>While the findings provide some reassurance about children's resilience to profound disruptions, the long-term implications of these modest developmental delays remain uncertain.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“It is important for us to continue to keep an eye on kids of all ages in terms of development, so we can understand whether these changes have longer-term implications for children or if new challenges emerge as children age,” explained Johnson.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-study">Broader implications of the study</h2>



<p>Looking forward, the insights from this study are pivotal for preparing for future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-alone-in-america-an-escalating-public-health-crisis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">public health crises</a>. They underscore the necessity of enhancing the clinical infrastructure to support developmental and behavioral pediatric services, ensuring that children's developmental needs are adequately met both now and in the future.</p>



<p>The study acknowledges certain limitations, such as excluding variables like prenatal substance abuse and the exclusion of preterm infants, which might skew the understanding of the pandemic’s full impact on developmental outcomes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, the potential for selection bias among participating healthcare providers in the CHADIS database could affect the generalizability of the findings. These factors underscore the need for continued research to fully ascertain the developmental consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on young children.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-did-the-pandemic-impact-children-s-lives">How did the pandemic impact children's lives?</h2>



<p>The pandemic highlighted and often exacerbated existing disparities in access to resources, support, and opportunities for children, influencing their developmental trajectories in profound ways.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-education">Education</h3>



<p>School closures and the shift to remote learning disrupted traditional educational experiences, leading to learning losses for many children. This was especially pronounced in communities with limited access to technology or where students received less support at home.</p>



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



<p>With social distancing measures and lockdowns, many children missed out on crucial aspects of social development. The lack of in-person interactions with peers during critical developmental periods affected their social skills and emotional intelligence.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mental-health">Mental health</h3>



<p>The pandemic has been linked to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues in children. The isolation, uncertainty, and changes in routine contributed to stress and emotional distress.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-health">Physical health</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childrens-inactivity-remains-a-problem-after-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical activity</a> levels dropped for many children due to restrictions on outdoor play and sports. This change has implications for physical health, including increased rates of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-obesity-rates-spiked-during-the-pandemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a> and related health conditions.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-safety-and-abuse">Safety and abuse</h3>



<p>For some children, staying at home meant an increased risk of exposure to domestic violence and abuse. The protective environments provided by schools and community programs were less accessible.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nutritional-access">Nutritional access</h3>



<p>Many children rely on schools for nutritious meals. School closures impacted their access to these critical resources, increasing food insecurity among vulnerable populations.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="https://www.jpeds.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of Pediatrics</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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



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COVID-19 pandemic led to ‘modest’ developmental delays in children

While causing significant disruptions across various aspects of life, the...

<p>Mars may be a cold, desolate place, but it's a planet packed with secrets. One of the most intriguing mysteries of Mars has been swirling around the puzzling presence of methane gas. This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-mission-has-surpassed-expectations-in-tracking-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gas</a>, mostly produced by living organisms on Earth, has NASA's Curiosity rover sniffing around in Mars' Gale Crater.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mars-methane-behavior">Mars methane behavior</h2>



<p>This <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-search-for-signs-of-life-on-mars-continues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian</a> methane has an erratic, unpredictable behavior that defies current scientific understanding. It appears at night within Gale Crater, only to vanish during the Martian day. Additionally, its levels fluctuate dramatically with the seasons – sometimes surging, sometimes remaining undetectable. </p>



<p>To make matters even more perplexing, spacecraft orbiting Mars, equipped with sensitive instruments specifically designed to detect methane, can't find any trace of it in the wider atmosphere. This contradictory evidence and lack of a clear pattern of origin have left scientists puzzled.</p>



<p>“It’s a story with a lot of plot twists,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://science.jpl.nasa.gov/people/vasavada/">Ashwin&nbsp;Vasavada</a>, Curiosity’s project scientist at <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (<a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPL</a>) in Southern California, which leads Curiosity’s mission.</p>



<p>While the tantalizing possibility of methane as a sign of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-finds-the-building-blocks-of-life-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life</a> (current or ancient) remains, most scientists believe geological processes occurring deep beneath the Martian surface are the more likely culprits. </p>



<p>However, even those theories fail to fully explain the variability and inconsistency of methane detections. This mystery demands a deeper and more nuanced understanding, motivating scientists to investigate and explore all potential explanations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salt-a-methane-trap-on-mars">Salt: A methane trap on Mars?</h2>



<p>NASA researchers have recently proposed a fascinating explanation for the methane's disappearing act. They suggest that the methane might be temporarily stored beneath a hardened seal of salt within the Martian soil.</p>



<p>To understand this, imagine the Martian soil as a mixture of frozen water and various salts – much like a very salty ice cube. This mixture is likely a result of Mars' past when it might have had liquid water. Scientists theorize that as temperatures fluctuate, some of this salty ice may melt slightly. </p>



<p>However, in the thin Martian atmosphere, this meltwater quickly evaporates, leaving behind a concentrated, hardened layer of salt on the surface. This salty crust could potentially act as a temporary barrier, trapping any methane gas produced below.</p>



<p>The really intriguing part of the theory is how this methane might escape. The researchers suggest that these salty seals aren't permanent. Fluctuations in temperature or disturbances – even something like a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-may-have-once-been-a-cradle-for-life/">Mars</a> rover driving over the surface – could potentially cause cracks or breaks in the salt crust. </p>



<p>These openings could allow the trapped methane to release in sudden bursts, creating a "methane burp" detectable by Curiosity. This would explain the localized, sporadic nature of the methane detections.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-martian-regolith-and-salt">Martian regolith and salt</h2>



<p>This hypothesis isn't simply speculation. A research team led by NASA scientist Alexander Pavlov has conducted a series of controlled experiments to test its validity. They meticulously recreated Martian environmental conditions within a laboratory setting. </p>



<p>This involved using samples of Martian regolith (soil) with varying salt concentrations, mimicking the presence of perchlorates commonly found on Mars. The samples were then subjected to temperature and pressure fluctuations that mirrored those experienced on the Martian surface.</p>



<p>Significantly, the experiments yielded promising results. Under specific conditions, particularly with a specific range of salt concentration, the researchers observed the formation of a hardened surface crust within the simulated Martian soil. </p>



<p>This finding supports the theory that such a salty seal could indeed form on Mars. Furthermore, the experiments demonstrated that the presence of this crust effectively trapped gas beneath its surface, lending credence to the idea that methane could be temporarily stored in this way. </p>



<p>These laboratory results provide a strong foundation for the salty seal theory, suggesting it may be a viable explanation for the methane's puzzling behavior on Mars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-study-methane-on-mars">Why study methane on Mars?</h2>



<p>Methane matters on Mars for several compelling reasons. Primarily, its presence and behavior offer crucial clues in the ongoing investigation into whether the Red Planet could have ever harbored the conditions necessary for life to exist. Here's why:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methane-as-a-potential-biosignature">Methane as a potential biosignature</h3>



<p>On Earth, a significant portion of methane is produced by biological processes – the activity of living organisms. While non-biological processes can also produce methane, its detection on Mars raises the tantalizing possibility of either current microbial life or the remnants of ancient life that once thrived on the planet.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-martian-geochemistry">Martian geochemistry</h3>



<p>Even if methane on Mars proves to be entirely geological in origin, studying its source and how it disappears provides valuable insights into the planet's geological activity and history. These processes could shed light on the presence of subsurface water, past volcanic activity, or other unique Martian phenomena.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-astrobiology-and-beyond">Astrobiology and beyond</h3>



<p>The implications of methane's presence and its potential origins extend beyond Mars. Determining whether life could have existed on our neighboring planet helps us understand the broader question of whether life might exist elsewhere in the universe. It could inform the search for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/habitable-worlds-new-strategy-to-identify-planets-that-may-host-life/">habitable environments</a> on other planets and moons within and beyond our solar system.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-thrill-of-the-unknown">Thrill of the unknown</h3>



<p>Beyond its significance for astrobiology, the mystery of Martian methane represents a captivating scientific puzzle. Its unpredictable behavior challenges our current understanding of the planet's chemistry and geology, driving scientists to develop innovative theories, conduct rigorous experiments, and push the boundaries of exploration.</p>



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



<p>While the salty crust hypothesis offers a potential explanation for methane's behavior, it necessitates further rigorous testing and validation. Researchers need to investigate whether other salt compounds prevalent on Mars exhibit similar properties and could form temporary seals capable of trapping methane. </p>



<p>To gain a comprehensive understanding of methane dynamics on Mars, dedicated instruments capable of continuous, widespread methane monitoring are crucial. Unfortunately, the Curiosity rover's current capabilities allow for only intermittent methane measurements, limiting the ability to track real-time fluctuations and spatial variations across the Martian surface.</p>



<p>"Some of the methane work will have to be left to future surface spacecraft that are more focused on answering these specific questions," Vasavada said.</p>



<p>Until then, the Martian methane mystery keeps us guessing. Who knows what further surprises the Red Planet holds?</p>



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



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Methane "burps" discovered on Mars could be signs of life

Mars may be a cold, desolate place, but it's a...

<p>Since the 1930s, the <a href="https://www.farmersalmanac.com/">Old Farmers' Almanac</a> has been publishing names for the full moons, drawing from what were termed “Indian” names that have since become widely recognized and utilized. </p>



<p>The full moon of April, which occurs tonight, is often called the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-pink-moon-will-shine-brightly-in-the-skies-tonight/">Pink Moon</a>, a name attributed to the herb moss pink or creeping phlox - also known as moss phlox, mountain phlox, and creeping phlox - which is native to the eastern United States and one of spring's earliest widespread flowers. </p>



<p>Other names for this April moon include the “Sprouting Grass Moon,” the “Egg Moon,” and the “Fish Moon,” the latter being used by coastal tribes to mark the time when shad fish move upstream to spawn.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-return-of-navigable-waterways">The return of navigable waterways</h2>



<p>Moreover, the names "Breaking Ice Moon" (Algonquin) and "Moon When the Streams Are Again Navigable" (Dakota) capture the thawing of ice and the return of navigable waterways typical of early spring. </p>



<p>The "Budding Moon of Plants and Shrubs" (Tlingit) and "Moon of the Red Grass Appearing" (Oglala) highlight the imminent surge in plant life as spring progresses.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-reemergence-of-life-in-april">The reemergence of life in April</h2>



<p>Additional names reflect the reemergence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-moonlight-affects-the-circadian-clocks-of-animals/">wildlife</a> during this season, such as the "Moon When the Ducks Come Back" (Lakota), "Moon When the Geese Lay Eggs" (Dakota), and "Frog Moon" (Cree), each indicating the return or increased activity of these species.</p>



<p>Similarly, the "Sucker Moon" (Anishinaabe) marks the period for harvesting sucker fish, which migrate to streams or shallow lake areas to spawn. </p>



<p>According to cultural lore, during this time, the sucker fish returns from the spirit world to cleanse the waterways and the life within them. </p>



<p>This name is sometimes used for the February Moon as well, to honor the sucker fish's role in sustaining the Anishinaabe people through the winter by providing a crucial food source.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultural-observances-and-april-s-full-moon">Cultural observances and April's full moon </h2>



<p>This moon also corresponds with significant cultural and religious observances in various parts of the world. It aligns with the Jewish festival of Pesach, or Passover, which in 2024 will begin at sundown on April 22 and conclude at nightfall on April 30. </p>



<p>The celebration starts in the middle of the Hebrew month of Nisan, with the Seder feasts taking place on the first two nights.</p>



<p>In the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which varies by region, this full <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tonights-worm-moon-marks-the-beginning-of-spring/">moon</a> typically coincides with Hanuman Jayanti, the celebration of the birth of Lord Hanuman.</p>



<p>For Buddhists in Sri Lanka, this full moon is known as Bak Poya and commemorates the Buddha's visit to Sri Lanka, where he averted a war by settling a dispute between chiefs.</p>



<p>This lunar event falls near the middle of Shawwāl, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar, and during the third month of the Chinese Year of the Dragon.</p>



<p>In light of these diverse celebrations, people all over the world&nbsp; are encouraged to wear festive celestial attire in honor of the full <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timeless-mystery-solved-scientists-uncover-what-is-inside-the-moons-core/">moon</a>. </p>



<p>It’s a time to enjoy the burgeoning <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spring-has-arrived-in-the-northern-hemisphere/">spring</a>, acknowledge these various cultural celebrations, set an extra seat at the table in a spirit of inclusivity, and importantly, strive for peace and not war.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-april-s-full-moon">More about April's full moon</h2>



<p>April’s full moon will reach its brightest point at 7:49 P.M. on Tuesday, April 23. Astronomically, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-pink-moon-will-shine-brightly-in-the-skies-tonight/">Pink Moon</a> signifies the time when the moon is fully illuminated by the sun as seen from Earth, appearing fully round.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Like Earth, the Moon has a day side and a night side, which change as the Moon rotates,” explained <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/">NASA</a>. “The Sun always illuminates half of the Moon while the other half remains dark, but how much we are able to see of that illuminated half changes as the Moon travels through its orbit.”</p>



<p>The timing of the full moon varies slightly due to the lunar cycle averaging about 29.5 days. This leads to some variation in the date and time of the full moon each month.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-astrological-significance-of-the-pink-moon">Astrological significance of the Pink Moon</h2>



<p>In 2024, the Pink Moon falls on April 25th, during the sun’s transit through Taurus. This placement is quite significant astrologically for several reasons:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Taurus Sun Scorpio Moon opposition</h3>



<p>The Pink Moon will be in the opposite sign of Scorpio, creating a full moon in Scorpio. This opposition highlights the balance between Taurus and Scorpio themes - material security and stability versus emotional depth and transformation. </p>



<p>It’s a potent time for delving into psychological matters, addressing issues of trust, and managing resources in relationships.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Intensity and transformation</h3>



<p>Scorpio is a sign associated with intensity, depth, transformation, and the unseen. A full moon in Scorpio can bring to the surface deep-seated emotions and hidden truths. </p>



<p>This is a powerful time for healing, as it provides an opportunity to confront and release old wounds, secrets, or things that have been repressed.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Financial and emotional investments</h3>



<p>Given Taurus’s influence on possessions and Scorpio’s on investments and shared resources, this full moon could highlight issues around finances, particularly what is owned individually versus jointly. It can prompt decisions about investments, loans, inheritances, or other financial matters.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Enhanced intuition</h3>



<p>Scorpio’s watery, intuitive energy combined with the illuminating power of the full moon can enhance psychic abilities and deepen intuitive insights. This period may be particularly potent for those who practice divination or other metaphysical activities.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Transformation and rebirth</h3>



<p>Scorpio is the sign of death and rebirth, so this full moon might signal a time of significant personal transformation. It can be an excellent period for ending unhealthy patterns or relationships and for beginning anew with a fresh perspective or renewed purpose.</p>



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



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April's full "Pink Moon" tonight signifies the reemergence of life 

Since the 1930s, the Old Farmers' Almanac has been publishing...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<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>



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<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Designing crops that can beat the heat

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



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



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



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



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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Santiago, Chile in South America

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