<p>For a century, Western water forecasts have leaned on a simple idea: more mountain snow means more water in rivers in the spring. But where you measure that snow matters as much as how much you measure.</p>



<p>A new analysis of more than two decades of data across 390 snow-fed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planning-for-an-uncertain-future-in-the-colorado-river-basin/">river basins</a> in 11 Western states shows that placing new instruments at strategically chosen “hotspots” consistently delivers better water supply forecasts than trying to blanket an entire basin with broad surveys.</p>



<p>In those basins, adding hotspot sites improved forecast skill by about 11–14 percent on average. By comparison, doing comprehensive basin-wide snow mapping nudged forecasts up by only about 4 percent on average. </p>



<p>The takeaway is surprisingly straightforward: measuring snow in the right places can help far more than measuring snow everywhere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-snow-matters-most">Where snow matters most</h2>



<p>Hotspots are small areas within a watershed where snow conditions punch above their weight in predicting how much water will actually reach streams months later. </p>



<p>Think of ridgelines, aspects, or elevations where snow tends to persist or melt in patterns that strongly control downstream flow.</p>



<p>Because most existing ground stations sample a tiny fraction of a basin, there’s room to improve forecasts by adding just a few stations - if they’re placed where the snow signal matters most for runoff.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-putting-snow-sites-to-the-test">Putting snow sites to the test</h2>



<p>Researchers sifted through more than 20 years of snow estimates and streamflow records, comparing two expansion strategies for monitoring: adding targeted hotspot gauges, or rely on basin-wide mapping (from aircraft or satellites) to capture total snow volume. </p>



<p>They tested both approaches against the current network of ground stations that operational forecasters use today. </p>



<p>The team treated streamflow forecasting the way a water manager would, asking how much each strategy improved the year-to-year predictive power for seasonal <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-global-greening-could-drain-earths-water-supply/">water supply</a>.</p>



<p>Because different basins respond differently, they repeated the analysis for hundreds of watersheds, from the Cascades and Sierra Nevada to the Rockies and the Great Basin. </p>



<p>Across that breadth of climates and terrains, the pattern held - focused hotspot measurements typically outperformed broad coverage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-airborne-snow-measuring-has-tradeoffs">Airborne snow measuring has tradeoffs</h2>



<p>Basin-wide surveys are undeniably powerful. Airborne campaigns can directly estimate a basin’s total snow volume, and satellites help paint the big picture over vast, remote areas. The catch is cost and cadence.</p>



<p>Airborne surveys are expensive and can’t fly everywhere all the time. Satellite products are improving quickly but still struggle with forests, clouds, and complex terrain, and they need ground truth to keep forecasts anchored in reality.</p>



<p>By contrast, a handful of well-placed ground sensors can run all season, in all weather, at a fraction of the price. </p>



<p>The new study shows those stations can deliver similar - and often better - forecast gains precisely because they target the parts of a basin that control when and how snowmelt becomes streamflow.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-snowmelt-and-a-warming-west">Snowmelt and a warming West</h2>



<p>On average, about half of the water in Western U.S. streams comes from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/alpine-spring-begins-earlier-speeding-up-plant-growth/">snowmelt</a>. Cities plan reservoir releases and farmers schedule irrigation based on spring forecasts issued months ahead of peak demand.</p>



<p>But warming winters are shrinking mountain snowpacks and making melt timing jumpier, which raises the stakes for every improvement in prediction.</p>



<p>With budgets tightening, the findings offer a practical roadmap: expand monitoring, yes - but do it surgically. In many basins, adding a few instruments at hotspot locations will deliver more value than trying to map the whole watershed every time snow falls.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-water-managers-can-do-now"><a></a>What water managers can do now</h2>



<p>One of the most useful outcomes of the study is a framework for identifying where new measurements will help the most. </p>



<p>Rather than guessing, agencies can now screen a basin to find untapped areas whose snow signals are especially predictive of downstream flow and focus new stations there.</p>



<p>The same framework highlights where basin-wide mapping will add value - for example, in large, highly variable basins where total snow volume swings widely from year to year.</p>



<p>In short, there isn’t a single “best” strategy for every watershed. But there is a smarter sequence: start by asking where a new measurement would most improve the forecast, then pick the tool - a ground station, an aircraft flight, or satellite data - that fits the need and the budget.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-as-snowlines-shift">Adapting as snowlines shift</h2>



<p>Hotspot monitoring isn’t a magic wand. Some basins still benefit from periodic aerial surveys to capture the full snow picture, especially after major <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-soil-moisture-can-predict-severe-storms/">storms</a> or in places with complex rain-snow transitions.</p>



<p>Satellites remain essential for regional situational awareness. As climate change pushes snowlines higher, the locations of the most informative hotspots may shift, requiring the network to adapt.</p>



<p>The encouraging news is that the ingredients for better forecasts already exist: decades of streamflow records, a century of snow-station data, rapidly improving remote sensing, and now a tested way to combine them so that each new measurement counts.</p>



<p>The study also shows that many forecasters are closer than they might think to an optimally balanced network - one that blends a few carefully placed new stations with occasional basin-wide snapshots to keep tabs on the big swings.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-measuring-what-matters-most">Measuring what matters most</h2>



<p>Snowmelt will remain the West’s water engine, even as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-earth-energy-imbalance-temperature-rise/">climate change</a> makes it less predictable. This work suggests a practical, budget-savvy way to squeeze more certainty out of the same mountains: measure the snow where it matters most.</p>



<p>When every acre-foot counts, a handful of well-chosen hotspots can do more for tomorrow’s water plan than trying to see everything everywhere all at once.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02660-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications: Earth and Environment</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Measuring snow in the right places can greatly improve water forecasts

For a century, Western water forecasts have leaned on a simple idea: more mountain snow means more water in rivers in the spring. But where you measure that snow matters as much as how much you measure. A new analysis of more than two decades of data across 390 snow-fed river basins in 11 Western states shows that placing new instruments at strategically chosen “hotspots” consistently delivers better water supply forecasts than trying to blanket an entire basin with broad surveys. In those basins, adding hotspot sites...

<p>We all know that when cities undergo gentrification – the process of wealthier residents moving into areas that attract new businesses and improve housing – it often pushes out those who lived there before. </p>



<p>But did you know that gentrification even affects the <em><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thousands-of-animal-species-will-soon-vanish-from-cities/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a></em> that live alongside us in urban spaces? A recent study underscores how gentrification alters the urban wildlife landscape, raising important questions about who gets to share in the benefits of nature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gentrification-factors">Gentrification factors </h2>



<p>Gentrification is a complex urban phenomenon that involves the transformation of neighborhoods as wealthier individuals or businesses move into historically less affluent areas. This process can bring about significant changes both socially and economically to the local environment. Here’s how gentrification typically unfolds and its various impacts:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Economic and physical changes</h3>



<ol>
<li><strong>Investment and development</strong>: It often starts with real estate investors and developers being attracted to underdeveloped or economically depressed areas due to lower property prices. They renovate and build homes, shops, and offices, which can lead to an increase in property values.</li>



<li><strong>Infrastructure improvements</strong>: As areas become more appealing and property values rise, local governments often increase their focus on these neighborhoods, leading to improved public services and infrastructure such as better roads, parks, and public transportation.</li>
</ol>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Social impacts</h3>



<ol>
<li><strong>Displacement of residents</strong>: As property values rise and neighborhoods become more 'desirable,' rent and living costs often increase as well. This can lead to the displacement of long-time residents who may no longer afford to live in their own neighborhoods. This displacement can affect renters more acutely, but homeowners may also feel pressure to sell due to rising property taxes or offers from developers.</li>



<li><strong>Cultural shifts</strong>: The incoming residents often bring different socio-economic backgrounds, lifestyles, and cultural preferences, which can alter the neighborhood's cultural makeup. This might include changes in the types of businesses, the architectural style of buildings, and even the social norms and values prevalent in the area.</li>
</ol>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Economic consequences</h3>



<ol>
<li><strong>Local economy</strong>: Gentrification can stimulate the local economy by attracting new businesses and increasing consumer spending in the area. This can lead to job creation, although the types of jobs created may not always be accessible to the original residents.</li>



<li><strong>Economic polarization</strong>: While some benefit from the influx of wealth and development, gentrification can also lead to greater economic disparity within the neighborhood. The gap between the affluent new residents and the poorer, often displaced population can widen, exacerbating social tensions.</li>
</ol>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Community dynamics</h3>



<ol>
<li><strong>Community fragmentation</strong>: As gentrification progresses, the original community may experience fragmentation, with longstanding social networks being disrupted by the influx of new residents who may not share the same historical or cultural ties to the neighborhood.</li>



<li><strong>Activism and resistance</strong>: In response to the pressures of gentrification, community groups and activists often organize to demand affordable housing policies, protections for renters, and preservation of the cultural heritage of the neighborhood.</li>
</ol>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gentrification-impact-on-wildlife">Gentrification impact on wildlife</h2>



<p>Researchers from Lincoln Park Zoo's <a href="https://www.lpzoo.org/conservation-science/science-centers/urban-wildlife-institute/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Urban Wildlife Institute</a> led a massive study across 23 major cities in the United States. They found that gentrified parts of a city tend to have about 13% greater species diversity than comparable areas that haven't been gentrified. That translates to an extra one or two species on average.</p>



<p>"When asking ‘in a city, who does and does not have easy access to nature?,’ we found that gentrification, which changes the demographic composition of people in neighborhoods, has consequences that extend to other species we share cities with. This leaves marginalized communities without meaningful access to nature, which is a problem," said Mason Fidino, Ph.D., Quantitative Ecologist at Lincoln Park Zoo and lead author on the study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wildlife-diversity">Wildlife diversity</h2>



<p>You might think "More wildlife species in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/city-life-plant-animal-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">city</a> must be good, right?" Well, it's more complicated than that. Increased biodiversity <em>is</em> generally good for the ecosystem, but the <em>types</em> of species also matter.</p>



<p>Would you rather have a few extra squirrels and birds in your neighborhood, or an increase in pest species like rats? The study found that the kind of wildlife attracted by gentrification varies by region, and some urban <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-trait-syndrome-common-characteristics-shared-by-city-dwelling-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> are simply more desirable neighbors than others.</p>



<p>The study further highlights a disturbing reality: the green spaces and improved habitats that often come with gentrification tend to benefit the wealthier newcomers, not the long-term, often marginalized residents of a neighborhood. This raises important questions about environmental justice – who deserves access to nature's benefits?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-it-s-not-just-about-gentrification">It's not just about gentrification</h2>



<p>Of course, city development in general greatly impacts wildlife habitats. The study confirmed that things like paved surfaces and dense buildings ("impervious cover") have a huge negative influence on which <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mammals-change-their-schedules-to-adapt-to-city-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animals</a> can thrive.</p>



<p>The tricky thing is that gentrification sometimes introduces more parks and green spaces into a neighborhood. While this sounds positive, it doesn't undo all the negative effects of urban development, and it can unfairly skew the benefits towards those with more resources.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-do-we-go-from-here">Where do we go from here?</h2>



<p>The fact that gentrification affects wildlife is a stark reminder that city planning decisions don't just affect people.</p>



<p>"My hope is that these results can be used to advocate for updated land development and management practices that prioritize social equity and access to nature spaces for all urban communities," said Fidino.</p>



<p>City planners should consider the needs of wildlife alongside humans when making decisions about parks and green spaces – prioritizing native species while supporting safe and enjoyable access for residents across all neighborhoods.</p>



<p>Can we introduce more wildlife-friendly green spaces to less-affluent areas alongside responsible development to increase biodiversity without pushing out vulnerable residents?</p>



<p>It's critical for wildlife advocates to have a seat at the table when cities make changes – animals are our urban cohabitants, and their needs matter too.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2318596121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a></em>.</p>



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Gentrification affects urban wildlife and community access

We all know that when cities undergo gentrification – the...

<p>The timing of exercise has a substantial influence on health outcomes, particularly among those who are managing obesity, according to recent study from the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/">University of Sydney</a>. </p>



<p>The experts found that evening exercise was linked to greater health benefits among obese individuals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evening-exercise-the-healthiest-choice">Evening exercise: The healthiest choice?</h2>



<p>For the investigation, researchers in the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/charles-perkins-centre/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Perkins Centre</a> analyzed data from nearly 30,000 participants. This analysis covered a span of almost eight years.</p>



<p>They focused on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/physical-activity-can-protect-mental-health-in-pre-teen-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">physical activities</a> tracked by wearable devices to determine whether the time of day affected health outcomes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-benefits-of-evening-exercise">Surprising benefits of evening exercise </h2>



<p>The study revealed significant findings about the timing of exercise. Moderate to vigorous exercise, which increases heart rate and breathing, proved particularly beneficial when performed in the evening.</p>



<p>The results showed that individuals who performed most of their aerobic moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) between 6 PM and midnight had the lowest risk of premature death. They also experienced a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.</p>



<p>Dr. Angelo Sabag, a lecturer in Exercise Physiology at the University of Sydney, emphasized the broader context of these findings. </p>



<p>"Around two in three Australians are affected by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-in-six-u-s-adult-deaths-linked-to-excess-weight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">excess weight</a> or obesity, which significantly increases the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and premature death. While exercise alone isn't the sole solution to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-the-obesity-crisis-linked-to-the-use-of-a-common-pesticide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity crisis</a>, our research suggests that timing it effectively may help mitigate some health risks," noted Dr. Sabag.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-the-gym-everyday-activities-count-too">Beyond the gym: Everyday activities count too</h2>



<p>The research did not limit itself to structured exercises; it also considered any continuous physical activity lasting three minutes or longer. </p>



<p>Dr. Matthew Ahmadi is a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Sydney and joint first author of the study. He clarified the scope of the activities that were monitored for the analysis. </p>



<p>“We didn’t discriminate on the kind of activity we tracked, it could be anything from power walking to climbing the stairs, but could also include structured exercise such as running, occupational labour or even vigorously cleaning the house,” said Dr Ahmadi.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rigorous-research-and-reliable-results">Rigorous research and reliable results</h2>



<p>The participants were all over the age of 40 years old and living with obesity. For one week at the start of the study, the individuals were monitored 24 hours a day using a wrist accelerometer.</p>



<p>Health outcomes were then tracked through data linked from the National Health Services and National Records of Scotland over nearly eight years. This tracking included recording numerous health events and mortalities.</p>



<p>To enhance the reliability of their findings, the researchers controlled for various variables such as age, sex, lifestyle habits, and baseline health conditions.</p>



<p>The researchers noted that while the length of the study follow-up and additional sensitivity analysis bolster the strength of their findings, they cannot completely rule out potential reverse causation, which is the possibility that some participants had lower aerobic activity levels due to underlying or undiagnosed disease.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wearable-technology-in-health-research">Wearable technology in health research</h2>



<p>Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis, director of the Mackenzie Wearables Research Hub at the Charles Perkins Centre and senior author on the paper, highlighted the potential of wearable technology in health research. He noted that the sophistication of studies in the wearables field is providing huge insights into the patterns of activity that are most beneficial for health.</p>



<p>“It is a really exciting time for researchers in this field and practitioners alike, as wearable device-captured data allow us to examine physical activity patterns at a very high resolution and accurately translate findings into advice that could play an important role in health care." </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-timing-and-obesity-interventions">Exercise timing and obesity interventions </h2>



<p>The research opens up new avenues for tailored health care interventions. For individuals battling obesity, evening exercise could be a valuable addition to their health management strategy.</p>



<p> “While we need to do further research to establish causal links, this study suggests that the timing of physical activity could be an important part of the recommendations for future obesity and Type 2 diabetes management, and preventive healthcare in general," said Professor Stamatakis.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/doi/10.2337/dc23-2448/154403/Timing-of-Moderate-to-Vigorous-Physical-Activity" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diabetes Care</a></em>.</p>



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Evening exercise can reduce major health risks of obesity

The timing of exercise has a substantial influence on health...

<p>Tropical forests, teeming with life, rely heavily on birds to recover naturally. <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/the-12-endangered-birds-most-at-risk-of-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Birds</a> like the collared araçari play a vital role in the growth of diverse young forests by dispersing seeds of various tree species. </p>



<p>Recent findings from the lab of Professor Thomas Crowther at <a href="https://ethz.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETH Zurich</a> shed light on a significant barrier to natural forest regeneration. In the Atlantic Forest of Brazil, where data was gathered, wild birds enhance carbon storage by up to 38%. This uplift is vital for the forest's health and our planet's climate.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-carbon-storage">What is carbon storage?</h2>



<p>Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas. This means it traps heat within Earth's atmosphere, contributing to the overall warming of our planet. Excessive amounts of CO2 lead to significant disruptions in weather patterns, rising temperatures, and other negative consequences of climate change.</p>



<p>Trees have an extraordinary ability to naturally remove CO2 from the atmosphere. During photosynthesis, they absorb CO2 and convert it into sugars for energy. The carbon from the CO2 is then stored within the tree's trunk, branches, leaves, and roots, helping the tree grow.</p>



<p>Large, healthy forests act as massive carbon sinks. This means they actively remove significant amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere. Reducing the levels of CO2 in our air helps mitigate the effects of climate change and protects the planet for future generations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seed-dispersal-in-forests-by-birds">Seed dispersal in forests by birds</h2>



<p>Birds play a crucial role in seed dispersal, particularly in maintaining the health and regeneration of forests. Many birds feed on fruits that contain seeds. As they eat, they ingest the seeds along with the fruit.</p>



<p>After eating, birds fly across various distances, carrying the seeds within them. This mobility allows seeds to be dispersed over a wider area than many other natural dispersal mechanisms.</p>



<p>Eventually, the seeds are excreted by the birds in different locations from where they were consumed. This dispersal through bird droppings introduces plant species into new areas.</p>



<p>The seeds, now in a new location and often mixed with natural fertilizers from the bird's droppings, can germinate and grow into new plants.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fragmented-forests-a-problem-for-birds-seeds-and-us">Fragmented forests: A problem for birds, seeds and us</h2>



<p>Deforestation doesn't just remove trees; it disrupts crucial ecological processes like seed dispersal by <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/why-are-birds-endangered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a>. Smaller birds tend to consume large quantities of seeds but favor smaller seeds from trees with limited carbon storage potential. </p>



<p>Larger birds, like the Toco toucan, target larger, carbon-rich seeds. However, they are less inclined to venture across the open spaces created by deforestation. This means fragmented forests lose out on the most effective carbon-storing trees that depend on large birds for seed dispersal.</p>



<p>The researchers identified a critical threshold for bird movement and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/forest-degradation-is-a-major-cause-of-bird-population-declines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest</a> recovery. Landscapes maintaining at least 40% forest cover, with distances between forest patches not exceeding 133 meters (around 435 feet), allow birds greater freedom of movement. This translates to increased seed dispersal and a better chance for the forest to regenerate.</p>



<p>"This crucial information enables us to pinpoint active restoration efforts - like tree planting - in landscapes falling below this forest cover threshold, where assisted restoration is most urgent and effective," explained Daisy Dent, lead scientist at the Crowther Lab.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bird-seed-dispersal-beyond-tree-planting">Bird seed dispersal beyond tree planting</h2>



<p>While planting trees is a crucial aspect of reforestation efforts, it doesn't guarantee a fully restored, functional forest ecosystem. This study emphasizes that successful forest regeneration goes beyond just the sheer quantity of trees.</p>



<p>Natural processes, like seed dispersal by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-heat-is-harder-on-birds-in-the-forest-than-in-the-city/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a>, have evolved over millennia. These processes ensure that the right mix of tree species thrives in a given environment. This leads to a more resilient and biodiverse forest with increased long-term benefits.</p>



<p>Sometimes, creating the right conditions is all it takes for nature to work its magic. Restoring forest connectivity and protecting key species, like fruit-eating birds, creates a space for natural regeneration to flourish. This approach recognizes that the most effective solutions often involve working in tandem with nature rather than trying to replace it.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-we-can-help-the-forests-and-birds-seed-dispersal">How we can help the forests and birds seed dispersal</h2>



<p>To ensure a balanced relationship between forests and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-reproduction-suffers-greatly-during-heat-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bird</a> seed dispersal, the following steps can be considered:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connect-the-fragments">Connect the fragments</h3>



<ul>
<li><strong>Wildlife highways:</strong>&nbsp;Forest corridors act like safe highways for birds, particularly those that are hesitant to venture into open areas. These can range from narrow strips of trees to wider "stepping stones" of vegetation depending on the needs of local bird species.</li>



<li><strong>Promoting diversity:</strong>&nbsp;Corridors not only allow for safe passage, but they expand the foraging range for birds. This increases the chances of seeds from a wider variety of plants being dispersed as birds move about.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fruit-feast">Fruit feast</h3>



<ul>
<li><strong>Supporting the seed spreaders:</strong>&nbsp;Native fruit trees fulfill the dietary needs of local bird populations, making them more likely to stay in the area and continue dispersing seeds. These trees are a vital food source, especially during times when other resources may be scarce.</li>



<li><strong>The right kind of fruit:</strong>&nbsp;Planting the native fruit trees that birds have co-evolved with ensures better success. These are the fruits the birds naturally recognize and prefer, making them more effective seed distributors for the local ecosystem.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-hunting-zones">No hunting zones</h3>



<ul>
<li><strong>Ecosystem balance:</strong>&nbsp;Poaching disrupts the natural balance by removing birds from their vital roles as seed dispersers. Protecting them maintains healthy populations that contribute directly to the forest's ability to regenerate.</li>



<li><strong>Beyond just birds:</strong>&nbsp;Often, anti-poaching measures and protected areas benefit a wide variety of wildlife, not just birds. These can have cascading effects on the health of the forest as a whole.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spread-the-word">Spread the word</h3>



<ul>
<li><strong>Changing perceptions:</strong>&nbsp;Many people might not understand the intricate relationship between birds, seeds and forests. Educational campaigns can shift this mindset and promote the appreciation for birds as more than just pretty creatures.</li>



<li><strong>Advocacy and action:</strong>&nbsp;Increased public awareness can lead to greater support for conservation policies, funding for restoration projects, and individual choices that have positive impacts on bird habitats.</li>
</ul>



<p>"By identifying the thresholds of forest cover in the surrounding landscape that allow seed dispersal, we can identify areas where natural regeneration is possible, as well as areas where we need to actively plant trees, allowing us to maximize the cost-effectiveness of forest restoration," explained study co-author Danielle Ramos.</p>



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



<p>"We have always known that birds are essential, but it is remarkable to discover the scale of those effects," said Professor Crowther. This study shows us that forests aren't just a bunch of trees - they're complex communities. </p>



<p>By protecting and restoring these habitats and the amazing creatures that call them home, we're not just saving birds, we're investing in our planet's future.</p>



<p>The study is published in <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41558-024-01989-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Climate Change</a>.</p>



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



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Birds increase forest recovery by dispersing seeds

Tropical forests, teeming with life, rely heavily on birds to...

<p>An international team of researchers, co-led by Ariadna Mechó from the <a href="https://www.bsc.es/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barcelona Supercomputing Center - Centro Nacional de Supercomputación</a> (BSC-CNS), has recently made an exciting discovery off the coast of Chile. During an expedition to the Salas y Gómez Ridge - a less explored stretch of underwater mountains extending from Chile to Rapa Nui - the experts observed 160 deep-sea species that were not known to inhabit the region. </p>



<p>Among the deep-sea species that were spotted, the researchers suspect that at least 50 might be entirely new to science. </p>



<p>The expedition, supported by the <a href="https://schmidtocean.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Schmidt Ocean Institute</a>, uncovered a variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/seven-surprising-secrets-of-the-deepest-sea-creatures/">deep-sea organisms</a> including corals, glass sponges, sea urchins, squids, fishes, molluscs, crabs, sea stars, and squat lobsters.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vulnerable-deep-sea-species">Vulnerable deep-sea species</h2>



<p>Mechó, part of the Climate Variability and Change group at the BSC's Earth Sciences Department, shared these findings at the <a href="https://oceandecade-conference.com/off-site-satellite-events.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ocean Decade MPA Forum: Progress, Obstacles and Solutions</a>, an event linked to the <a href="https://oceandecade-conference.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UN Ocean Decade Conference</a> in Barcelona from April 10-12, 2024.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The main results of this campaign are that we have found between 50 and 60 potentially new species at first sight, a number that is likely to increase as we have many samples to work on in the laboratory. We also found one of the deepest mesophotic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepest-known-coral-reef-bleaching-discovered-alarming-scientists/">corals</a> in the world, extending the distribution of this Polynesian fauna by several hundred kilometers. And at depth, we have found fields of sponges and corals, habitats that are considered vulnerable and in need of protection,” Mechó said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapa-nui-sea-council">Rapa Nui Sea Council</h2>



<p>The expedition team consisted of 25 scientists from 14 organizations across five countries (Chile, United States, Italy, Spain, Netherlands) and took place from February 24 to April 4. Notably, the team included Emilia Ra'a Palma Tuki, the first Rapa Nui marine biologist, a recent graduate from <a href="https://www.ucn.cl/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universidad Católica del Norte</a> in Chile.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The Rapa Nui Sea Council, or Koro Nui o te Vaikava, provided critical support and permits for the expedition, enhancing the project with local knowledge and a representative from the Rapa Nui community.</p>



<p>The discoveries made during this research will contribute significantly to the management and potential expansion of marine protected areas, particularly around Rapa Nui, one of the most unexplored regions on the planet. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-habitat-for-deep-sea-species-nbsp">Critical habitat for deep-sea species&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Salas y Gómez Ridge, spanning 2,900 kilometers and hosting over 200 seamounts, is a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountains-biodiversity-hotspots/">biodiversity hotspot</a> known for its unique ecosystems and high rate of endemism. It serves as a critical habitat for benthic organisms and an important migration corridor for various species, including over 80 that are threatened or endangered.</p>



<p>The region's rich cultural and maritime heritage, significant to both indigenous islanders and global communities, underscores the urgent need for international cooperation to protect these pristine environments from exploitation and the loss of biodiversity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-uncharted-territory-nbsp">Exploring uncharted territory&nbsp;</h2>



<p>In addition to field research, the BSC's role involves leveraging supercomputing to model climate scenarios that help predict the distribution of key species and understand how future changes might impact them.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“But first, we need to better understand the biodiversity and connectivity of the region to know which keystone species are found there and on which mountains exactly, as well as potential faunal breaks (where communities change or stop connecting with each other). Basically, it is a unique exploration in places where practically everything is unexplored,” Mechó explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-deep-sea-species-in-the-high-seas">Protecting deep-sea species in the high seas</h2>



<p>This research is crucial for advocating the designation of the Salas y Gomez Ridge as an ecologically and biologically significant marine area (EBSA) under the Convention on Biological Diversity, and as a “priority area” for international protection under the 2023 <a href="https://highseasalliance.org/treaty-negotiations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">High Seas Treaty</a>.</p>



<p>Further emphasizing the importance of this region, a previous campaign between January and February 2024 focused on the intersection of the Salas y Gomez and Nazca Ridges and the Desventuradas Islands. </p>



<p>Across both expeditions, more than 100 new deep-sea species were discovered, highlighting the necessity for a "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-pinpoint-blue-corridors-for-large-migratory-fish/">blue corridor</a>" that would establish one of the world's first high-seas <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-improve-well-being-in-coastal-communities/">marine protected areas</a>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: ROV SuBastian / Schmidt Ocean Institute</p>



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Dozens of deep-sea species discovered off the coast of Chile

An international team of researchers, co-led by Ariadna Mechó from...

<p>Historically, non-timber forest products (NTFPs) have played a significant role in shaping economies worldwide. Examples of NTFPs include items like mushrooms, berries, medicinal herbs, and bamboo.</p>



<p>From the Roman Empire, which significantly bolstered its revenues with customs taxes on spices like black pepper, to the Middle Ages when Europeans colonized Asia to dominate the spice trade, these products have consistently been economic stalwarts.</p>



<p>Yet, despite their substantial contributions to the economies of many countries, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-action-combat-illegal-timber-trade/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global trade</a> statistics, both in the EU and worldwide, often neglect these products today.</p>



<p>The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that non-<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timber-industries-carbon-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wood products</a> generate $88 billion annually for producers. Including processing and other value-added activities, their total economic impact reaches trillions of dollars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-undervalued-forest-products">Undervalued forest products</h2>



<p>Professor Carsten Smith-Hall from the <a href="https://ifro.ku.dk/english" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen’s Department of Food and Resource Economics</a> highlights the overlooked potential of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arbor-day-a-celebration-of-trees-and-their-unrivaled-importance-to-the-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NTFPs</a>. </p>



<p>"We estimate that roughly 30,000 different non-timber forest products are traded internationally, yet fewer than fifty are currently assigned a commodity code in global trade accounts," noted Smith-Hall. </p>



<p>This oversight renders these valuable products invisible in official statistics. Consequently, it deprives the communities that harvest these products of potential earnings and investment in local processing industries</p>



<p>"These goods play a significant role in food security, health, and employment, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. By underestimating these goods, we miss clear opportunities to combat poverty," said Smith-Hall.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-impact">Economic impact</h2>



<p>One striking example of the potential of NTFPs is caterpillar fungus (Ophiocordyceps sinensis), known as the "Viagra of the Himalayas." </p>



<p>Harvesters collect caterpillar fungus on the Tibetan plateau, where it is highly valued in China as an aphrodisiac and traditional medicine. It commands prices as high as €11,500 per kilogram.</p>



<p>"This trade significantly enhances the local economy, enabling communities to invest in education and housing," explained Smith-Hall. "Yet, its benefits are curtailed due to its exclusion from formal trade records."</p>



<p>"When these products are excluded from official trade accounts, they are also neglected in the development of industry policies and technology, missing out on crucial investment opportunities."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-non-timber-forest-products">Non-timber forest products</h2>



<p>Recognizing the enormity of the task, Smith-Hall suggests we prioritize and effectively manage economically significant products.</p>



<p>"By identifying and focusing on a concise list of key products, countries can better direct their research and investments towards developing cultivation techniques and enhancing local economies."</p>



<p>Additionally, the researchers advocate for systematic data collection on traded volumes and prices at all levels. They note that existing tools for this purpose could be more widely used.</p>



<p>"We have a huge untapped potential here that can contribute to tackling extreme poverty while conserving nature and biodiversity," said Smith-Hall. "We must broaden our focus beyond just <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/timber-innovation-offers-hope-industry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">timber</a> and recognize the value of all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-day-of-forests-2024-new-solutions-for-a-better-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forest resources</a>."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-forest-resources">Rethinking forest resources</h2>



<p>The critical role of NTFPs highlights the need to reevaluate how we value and manage forest resources. By incorporating these products into official trade statistics, we can unlock their potential. This would support sustainable development and aid in poverty alleviation.</p>



<p>Consequently, this shift not only promises economic benefits but also ensures the preservation of biodiversity and the enhancement of global food security and health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-properties-of-non-timber-forest-products">Properties of non-timber forest products</h2>



<p>Non-timber forest products encompass a broad array of resources harvested from forests that do not involve logging trees. These products hold immense ecological, economic, and cultural significance and are crucial for the biodiversity of their ecosystems. Characteristics and benefits of NTFPs include:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Ecological benefits</h3>



<p>NTFPs are key components of forest ecosystems, providing critical habitat, food sources, and maintaining ecological balances. They help in:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Pollination support</strong>: Many NTFPs such as fruits and flowers provide resources for pollinators, which are essential for the reproduction of many plant species.</li>



<li><strong>Soil enrichment</strong>: The harvesting of NTFPs like fallen leaves, seeds, and certain fungi contributes to nutrient cycling and soil fertility.</li>



<li><strong>Forest structure</strong>: The varied use of different forest layers for NTFPs helps maintain the complexity of forest structure, which is vital for diverse wildlife.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Economic importance</h3>



<p>NTFPs offer significant economic benefits, particularly in remote and rural areas where they serve as a primary source of income:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Trade and livelihoods</strong>: Local and international trade in non-timber forest products provides livelihoods for millions of people globally. Items like resins, essential oils, and decorative flowers have substantial markets.</li>



<li><strong>Micro-enterprises</strong>: Many NTFPs serve as the basis for small-scale industries at the community level, such as basket weaving, natural dyes, and artisan crafts.</li>



<li><strong>Tourism attraction</strong>: Eco-tourism and cultural tourism often promote the unique aspects of local NTFPs, attracting visitors interested in organic and native products.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cultural significance</h3>



<p>The cultural implications of NTFPs are profound and varied:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Traditional knowledge</strong>: Many communities have deep knowledge of the medicinal, nutritional, and spiritual properties of forest products, passed down through generations.</li>



<li><strong>Spiritual and religious use</strong>: Certain NTFPs enhance their value and the need for sustainable management by being used in spiritual or religious rituals.</li>



<li><strong>Cultural heritage</strong>: Crafts, folklore, and festivals often revolve around the collection and use of NTFPs, embedding these products into the cultural fabric of societies.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Health and nutrition</h3>



<p>NTFPs are vital sources of nutrition and medicinal benefits:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Medicinal plants</strong>: Many plants used as NTFPs have recognized medicinal properties, used in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine.</li>



<li><strong>Nutritional supplements</strong>: Forest foods such as nuts, berries, and edible mushrooms are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to food security and nutrition.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Challenges and management</h3>



<p>Despite their benefits, the sustainable management of NTFPs faces several challenges:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Overharvesting</strong>: Without proper management, some valuable NTFPs are at risk of overexploitation, which can lead to the depletion of resources.</li>



<li><strong>Legal and policy frameworks</strong>: In many regions, there is a lack of clear legal frameworks that regulate the sustainable harvesting and fair trade of NTFPs.</li>



<li><strong>Climate change impacts</strong>: Changes in climate patterns can affect the growth cycles and availability of certain NTFPs, requiring adaptive management strategies.</li>
</ul>



<p>Effective management of non-timber forest products requires an integrated approach that respects ecological balances, promotes fair economic benefits, and preserves cultural values. This necessitates policies that support sustainable practices, promote fair trade, and include local communities in conservation efforts.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><em><a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1389934123002009" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forest Policy and Economics</a></em></em>.</p>



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Non-timber forest products provide opportunities to reduce poverty

Historically, non-timber forest products (NTFPs) have played a significant role...

<p>A recent study led by researchers at the <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/">University College London</a> (UCL) and the <a href="https://www.sanger.ac.uk/">Wellcome Sanger Institute</a> has unveiled significant differences in the way nasal cells from young and elderly individuals respond to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This discovery provides new insights into why <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-play-an-unexpected-role-in-covid-19-transmission/">children</a> generally exhibit milder <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasal-vaccine-shows-potential-to-stop-covid-19-before-it-starts/">COVID-19</a> symptoms compared to older adults.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The findings shed light on the initial interactions between the virus and human nasal epithelial cells (NECs), which are among the first cells targeted by the virus.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-focus-of-the-study">Focus of the study</h2>



<p>“Children infected with SARS-CoV-2 rarely progress to respiratory failure. However, the risk of mortality in infected people over 85 years of age remains high,” wrote the study authors.</p>



<p>“Here we investigate differences in the cellular landscape and function of pediatric (&lt;12 years), adult (30–50 years) and older adult (&gt;70 years) ex vivo cultured nasal epithelial cells in response to infection with SARS-CoV-2.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analysis-of-nasal-cells-exposed-to-the-virus">Analysis of nasal cells exposed to the virus</h2>



<p>The researchers analyzed nasal cells donated by healthy individuals across all three age groups to the <a href="https://www.gosh.org/">Great Ormond Street Hospital</a> (GOSH), <a href="https://www.uclh.nhs.uk/our-services/our-hospitals/university-college-hospital">University College London Hospital</a> (UCLH), and the <a href="https://www.royalfree.nhs.uk/">Royal Free Hospital</a>.</p>



<p>The cells were cultured to regrow into the diverse cell types originally found in the nasal passages. Employing advanced single-cell RNA sequencing techniques, the researchers identified 24 distinct types of epithelial cells. Each age group’s cultures were then exposed to SARS-CoV-2 in controlled experiments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-children-s-nasal-cells-mounted-a-rapid-response-nbsp">Children’s nasal cells mounted a rapid response&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Three days post-infection, the results showed that children’s nasal cells mounted a rapid response by increasing the production of interferon, a critical component of the body’s initial antiviral defense, which effectively restricted viral replication. However, this robust antiviral response was found to diminish with age.</p>



<p>In elderly individuals, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/severity-of-covid-19-may-be-tied-to-nasal-cells/">NECs</a> not only produced more infectious virus particles but also exhibited increased cellular shedding and damage. This could explain the higher severity of COVID-19 symptoms and complications seen in older adults.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-age-related-changes-in-nasal-cells-nbsp">Age-related changes in nasal cells&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Our research reveals how the type of cells we have in our nose changes with age, and how this affects our ability to combat SARS-CoV-2 infection. This could be crucial in developing effective antiviral treatments tailored to different age groups, especially for the elderly who are at higher risk of severe COVID-19,” explained project leader Claire Smith, an associate professor in infection, immunity, and inflammation at UCL <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/child-health/great-ormond-street-institute-child-health-0">Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health</a>.</p>



<p>“By carrying out SARS-CoV-2 infections of epithelial cells in vitro and studying the responses with single-cell sequencing, we get a much more detailed understanding of the viral infection kinetics and see big differences in the innate immune response between cell types,” added co-senior author Kerstin Meyer, an expert in cellular genetics at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-age-is-the-single-greatest-risk-factor">Age is the single greatest risk factor</h2>



<p>Despite the advancements in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-vaccination-reduces-mortality-risk-but-only-for-6-months/">vaccination</a> and treatment options, the mortality risk remains high for those over 85 who contract the virus. This research emphasizes the importance of age as a critical factor in both the study and treatment of infectious diseases.</p>



<p>“Despite effective vaccines, age remains the single greatest risk factor for COVID-19 mortality. Children infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) rarely develop severe disease, while the mortality in infected people over 85 years is currently as high as 1 in 10,” noted the researchers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-age-specific-differences-in-our-body-s-response">Age-specific differences in our body’s response</h2>



<p>“It is fascinating that when we take away immune cells from nasal samples, and are only left with nasal epithelial cells grown in a dish, we are still able to identify age-specific differences in our body’s response to the SARS-CoV-2 between the young and elderly to explain why children are generally protected from severe COVID-19,” said co-senior author Marko Nikolic, a clinical scientist the UCL Division of Medicine.</p>



<p>“Understanding the cellular differences at the initiation of infection is just the beginning. We now hope to investigate the long-term implications of these cellular changes and test therapeutic interventions using our unique cell culture model. This ‘gold-standard’ system is only possible with the support of our funders and the willingness of participants to provide their samples,” Smith concluded.</p>



<p>The researchers suggest that future studies should explore how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/japanese-diet-puts-the-brakes-on-brain-aging/">aging</a> affects the body’s response to other viral infections, potentially leading to more age-specific medical strategies.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41564-024-01658-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Microbiology</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Nasal cells protect children against severe COVID-19

A recent study led by researchers at the University College...

<p>From a young age, individuals are taught the importance of being aware of their external environment, yet the significance of attuning to one’s internal environment often receives less attention. Neuroscientists are now increasingly exploring how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mindfulness-protects-against-work-stress-burnout/">mindfulness</a> training can impact a wide range of psychological aspects, from depression and memory to stress levels and aging.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The goal of ongoing research is to demystify the neural mechanisms that underlie these brain changes, providing clearer guidelines for individuals interested in incorporating mindfulness into their daily lives.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-short-cuts-in-mindfulness-training-nbsp">No short-cuts in mindfulness training&nbsp;</h2>



<p>“Attentional training is a mechanism by which you can train your brain,” said Erika Nyhus, a cognitive neuroscientist at <a href="https://www.bowdoin.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bowdoin College</a>, who is chairing a session on new research findings in mindfulness at the annual <a href="https://www.cogneurosociety.org/annual-meeting/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cognitive Neuroscience Society (CNS) meeting</a> in Toronto. </p>



<p>“Work to understand the neural mechanisms at play in this mindfulness training show potential pathways toward enhanced cognition but there are no short-cuts. It takes practice.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-predicting-mental-health-benefits-of-mindfulness-training-nbsp">Predicting mental health benefits of mindfulness training&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The researchers presenting their latest work at CNS 2024 are excited about the potential benefits that mindfulness training can offer not only to individual practitioners but also to the scientific community’s understanding of cognition. </p>



<p>Their collective research points to the idea that differences in sensory and cognitive processing within our brains can predict <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-crisis-half-of-the-worlds-population-will-be-affected-by-age-75/">mental health</a> outcomes and may be improved through novel technological training methods.</p>



<p>One crucial aspect of mindfulness training involves enhancing interoception - the perception of the body’s internal states - which is pivotal in managing mood disorders such as depression.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-acceptance-of-new-sensations-and-emotions">Acceptance of new sensations and emotions</h2>



<p>“Interoception matters in depression because our emotions are made up of both visceral body sensations and our cognitive appraisals of these sensations that help us make sense of those feelings and put them into context,” explained Norman Farb, a psychologist at the <a href="https://www.utm.utoronto.ca/">University of Toronto Mississauga</a>. </p>



<p>“For example, a fluttering in our belly could be judged as excitement or anxiety depending on our context and appraisal habits.”</p>



<p>Farb and his team are keen on deciphering how the brain processes these interoceptive signals. The findings suggest that mindfulness training focused on internal awareness can divert mental resources away from entrenched cognitive appraisal habits, facilitating the acceptance of new sensations and emotions. </p>



<p>This shift can significantly help individuals become unstuck from maladaptive self-perceptions and their interactions with the world.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-mental-resilience-nbsp">Improving mental resilience&nbsp;</h2>



<p>A landmark neuroimaging study on vulnerability to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/people-with-a-history-of-depression-tend-to-process-more-negative-information/">depression</a> relapse, published in the journal <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8978278/">NeuroImage Clinical</a>, provided significant insights. Farb and his colleagues identified a major predictor of depression trajectories: the extent to which individuals engage rather than inhibit sensory and motor processes.</p>



<p>“This result contrasts other neural indicators of depression as being driven by too much activity in regions supporting judgment and appraisal. And it points to the importance of maintaining sensation in times of stress as a sign of mental resilience,” Farb said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cognitive-control-and-appraisal">Cognitive control and appraisal</h2>



<p>Further research published in <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37316296/"><em>ENeuro</em></a> focused on the mindfulness practice of attention to the&nbsp; breath, which is a key aspect of mindfulness training. Farb and his team discovered that while attending to external senses activates specific brain regions like the visual cortex, focusing on one’s breath tends to reduce activity across the cerebral cortex, which is associated with cognitive control and appraisal.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“This suggests that mindfulness exercises may first help people to use their attention to stop doing so much with their brains, providing relief from rumination and judgment,” he said.  </p>



<p>“It also has a fascinating implication for how interoception differs from the external senses: interoceptive processing may be continuously represented in the brain to regulate biological processes such as the breath or heartbeat. To detect it, we just need to quiet down.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mindfulness-training-and-technology">Mindfulness training and technology</h2>



<p>On the technological front, David Ziegler, a cognitive neuroscientist at the <a href="https://www.ucsf.edu/">University of California, San Francisco</a> (UCSF), has been pioneering a digital meditation game called <a href="https://www.alternova.co/projects/meditrain-meditation-training-for-adults/">MediTrain</a>, which is rooted in the principles of internal attention. </p>



<p>This app is designed based on extensive research into neuroplasticity and how the brain compensates for attentional control deficits. “It’s a personalized experience for every individual at every point in their training,” Ziegler explained.</p>



<p>At CNS 2024, Ziegler is presenting data from several studies utilizing MediTrain across different demographics, including young adults, aging adults, and adolescents who have experienced childhood neglect. </p>



<p>Most notably, a new study published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-019-0611-9"><em>Nature Human Behavior</em></a>, involving healthy older adults found that the training not only improved attention but also reduced stress reactivity and lengthened telomeres, indicators of reduced cellular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aging-may-be-driven-by-genetic-imbalances/">aging</a>.</p>



<p>However, the researchers face the challenge of determining the optimal dosage of meditation needed to achieve beneficial effects - a question Ziegler believes technology is uniquely positioned to address. Plans are in motion for a large-scale, nationwide dose-response study of MediTrain that will assess its efficacy in thousands of older adults, utilizing the app's fully mobile digital platform.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-cognitive-function-nbsp">Enhancing cognitive function&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Both Nyhus and Farb, who are practitioners themselves, initially approached mindfulness with a degree of skepticism.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Nyhus, inspired to explore this field further after participating in an eight-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction course, will present findings from her research into the effects of mindfulness on episodic memory. “You see mindfulness training everywhere and don’t know if there is anything to it, but I was shocked to see the results we got in the lab,” she said.</p>



<p>By investigating the scientific underpinnings of mindfulness, these researchers hope to refine this practice and advocate for its use not only as a psychological tool but also as a means of enhancing overall cognitive function.</p>



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



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Mindfulness training improves mental resilience

From a young age, individuals are taught the importance of...

<p>Have you ever felt the urge to scream during a frustrating moment but somehow managed not to? This restraint is thanks to the sophisticated way our brains handle <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-cells-communicate-to-support-decision-making/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a>, which plays a crucial role in our daily interactions and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-cells-communicate-to-support-decision-making/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">decision-making processes</a>. </p>



<p>The brain regulates emotions through a network of brain regions, neurotransmitters, and hormones, primarily involving the limbic system.</p>



<p>Researchers at <a href="https://home.dartmouth.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dartmouth College</a> have conducted a pioneering study that sheds light on this complex process. The experts have distinguished between the neural activities involved in generating emotions and those involved in regulating them.</p>



<p>The research offers new perspectives on emotional flexibility and its significance for mental health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-brain-a-dartmouth-discovery">Decoding the brain: a Dartmouth discovery</h2>



<p>The Dartmouth-led team, including lead author Ke Bo, a postdoctoral researcher at the Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience Lab (<a href="https://sites.dartmouth.edu/canlab/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CANlab</a>), used advanced computational methods to analyze fMRI data.</p>



<p>The data had been previously collected by study co-author Peter Gianaros at the University of Pittsburgh, involving participants' responses to emotionally charged images. </p>



<p>Through this analysis, the researchers pinpointed specific brain regions active during emotional regulation - a process known in neuroscience as "reappraisal." The anterior prefrontal cortex and other higher-level cortical areas, which also play roles in abstract thinking and future planning, were identified as key to regulating emotions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-regions-involved-in-regulating-emotions">Brain regions involved in regulating emotions</h2>



<p>"As a former biomedical engineer, it was thrilling to identify <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-violence-may-rewire-teenage-brains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a> regions uniquely involved in regulating emotions," said Bo. "Our findings not only enhance our understanding of how emotion regulation works but also reveal potential clinical applications."</p>



<p>The ability to activate these specific regions correlates with greater resilience against negative experiences, highlighting a critical aspect of mental health.</p>



<p>Furthermore, these areas are also linked to resisting temptations and avoiding dependencies, such as drug addiction.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-amygdala-and-cortex-at-work">Amygdala and cortex at work</h2>



<p>The research also explored the role of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amygdala-experience-fear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">amygdala</a>, traditionally seen as a center for processing threats and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/managing-negative-emotions-may-prevent-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">negative emotions</a>. </p>



<p>The study confirmed that the amygdala consistently responds to negative experiences, regardless of attempts to lessen these emotions.</p>



<p>"It's really the cortex that is responsible for generating people's emotional responses, by altering our perceptions and meanings attached to events," explained Bo.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-connections-the-neurotransmitter-network">Chemical connections: The neurotransmitter network</h2>



<p>Further intriguing aspects of the study involved examining how neurochemicals like dopamine and serotonin influence these emotion-regulating networks. These chemical messengers are essential for communication within the brain and play a significant role in emotion regulation.</p>



<p>Comparing the emotion regulation brain maps with neurotransmitter binding maps from other studies highlighted significant overlaps.</p>



<p>"Our results showed that areas rich in receptors for cannabinoids, opioids, and serotonin, particularly the 5H2A receptor, are crucial for emotion regulation," noted Tor Wager, senior author and director of the Dartmouth Brain Imaging Center. </p>



<p>"This discovery is pivotal, especially considering the impact of drugs that target these receptors, shedding light on their potential long-term effects on our ability to manage emotions."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-therapeutic-implications">Therapeutic implications</h2>



<p>Serotonin's role is particularly well-known in the context of depression, with most antidepressants designed to inhibit its reuptake. </p>



<p>Serotonin is often called the "feel-good" neurotransmitter because it contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness. Low levels of serotonin in the brain are commonly linked to a depressed mood.</p>



<p>Additionally, the study highlights the significant effects of psychedelic drugs on these receptors. It suggests that the therapeutic benefits of such treatments depend on their ability to change our cognitive processes and emotional responses.</p>



<p>This underscores the necessity of combining psychological support with pharmaceutical treatments to effectively address mental health challenges.</p>



<p>"It's important to consider these connections that come from basic science," said Wager. "Understanding drug effects requires a deep knowledge of the involved brain systems and their cognitive functions."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-emotion-in-the-brain">Mapping emotion in the brain</h2>



<p>This research from Dartmouth provides groundbreaking insights into the neural underpinnings of emotion regulation and generation. </p>



<p>By identifying specific brain regions and their interactions with neurochemicals, the study has the potential to enhance mental health treatment, offering hope for more effective integration of psychological and pharmaceutical approaches.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41593-024-01605-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Neuroscience</a></em></em>.</p>



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



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Study pinpoints the brain regions that regulate emotions

Have you ever felt the urge to scream during a...

<p>We often admire skyscrapers as wonders of human engineering. But nature has its own architects, and they’ve been around much longer. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/termites-tropical-ecosystems-drought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Termites</a> can build enormous, complex nests that stand several meters tall. </p>



<p>Termites do not just construct random piles of dirt – they build intricate tunnels that even have natural air conditioning. But how do legions of these tiny creatures coordinate to create such impressive structures?</p>



<p>A new study by researchers at the <a href="https://www.imtlucca.it/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca</a> in Italy has cracked the mystery. It turns out, termites have a surprisingly simple, yet ingenious secret.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-termites-build-nests-without-a-blueprint">Termites build nests without a blueprint</h2>



<p>Picture a human construction project. Teams follow a detailed architectural plan, ensuring everything is in its designated place. But termites don't seem to have any grand designs drawn up. </p>



<p>In a fascinating experiment, researchers observed groups of termites (the species <em>Coptotermes gestroi</em>) as they built their way around small arenas with pre-built structures.</p>



<p>Scientists offered following theories to explain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/family-of-termites-has-been-adrift-at-sea-for-50-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">termite</a> coordination:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theory-1-pheromones">Theory 1: Pheromones</h3>



<p>Some insects, like ants, use chemicals called pheromones as signals. These scents can act like a "build here!" sign, guiding the actions of other insects in the colony.</p>



<p>If <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/termite-mounds-could-inspire-living-and-breathing-buildings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">termites</a> also relied on pheromones, we'd expect them to drop their building materials (clay pellets) somewhat randomly throughout the experimental space. However, the researchers observed a very different pattern. The termites focused their building efforts on specific spots.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theory-2-height-sensing">Theory 2: Height-sensing</h3>



<p>Perhaps <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/termite-mounds-brazil/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">termites</a> have a way to measure existing structures. If they preferred taller structures, it would suggest they're aiming to build upward as quickly as possible.</p>



<p>The termites didn't discriminate between tall and short pillars. They were equally interested in building upon structures regardless of their current height. This meant some other factor was influencing their behavior.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-termites-use-the-right-curve-while-building-nests">Termites use the 'right curve' while building nests</h2>



<p>What the scientists did notice was that termites were obsessed with...curvature. They consistently added their pellets to the most curved surfaces. Termites favored pillar tops, and even the sharp corners of little walls given to them. This led the researchers to a simple yet brilliant solution.</p>



<p>While the termites didn't stick to one spot or solely focus on height, the scientists discovered they had a clear preference. Termites consistently placed their clay pellets on surfaces with the most pronounced curve. Examples of this were the pointed tops of the pillars or the very sharp bends at the corners of the walls.</p>



<p>This focused building behavior led researchers to consider a new possibility. Since curved surfaces affect things like airflow and moisture differently than flat areas, it suggested that termites might be sensing and reacting to subtle environmental changes caused by the shape of the structures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-termites-sense-humidity-to-build-nests">Termites sense humidity to build nests</h2>



<p>Termites are super-sensitive to humidity. Unlike many insects, their soft skin makes them vulnerable to drying out. The researchers suspected the termites could sense subtle differences in humidity levels that are influenced by the shape of the structures they’re building.</p>



<p>Termites are much more delicate than many other insects. Their lack of a tough outer shell means they lose moisture quickly in dry environments, which can be dangerous. This led scientists to think that perhaps humidity plays a major role in termite building behavior.</p>



<p>The shape of a structure can change how air moves around it, which in turn affects how quickly moisture evaporates. Areas with high curvature might create little pockets where humidity remains higher compared to flatter surfaces. The researchers thought termites might be able to detect these subtle differences.</p>



<p>To test their theory, they pulled a clever trick. They repeated the experiment, but this time with clay mixed with a salt solution. As the water evaporated, tiny salt crystals formed – and guess where those crystals appeared? All the spots with high curvature favored by the termites.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-simplicity-of-termites">Simplicity of termites</h2>



<p>"What really surprised us was to discover that termites use such a simple solution to a very complex problem," said Andrea Perna, a professor in complex systems at the IMT School.</p>



<p>Characteristics of termites and their remarkable nest building:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humidity-sensor">Humidity Sensor</h3>



<p>As discussed, termites need a moist environment to survive. They have built-in sensors that help them detect even small differences in humidity levels within their surroundings. They are naturally drawn to areas where the air holds more moisture.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-build-and-change">Build and change</h3>



<p>Clearly, when a termite adds a clay pellet to a structure, it slightly alters its shape. This tiny change influences how air flows around it, and how quickly water evaporates from that spot. More evaporation means drier air, which might be less comfortable for termites.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chain-reaction">Chain reaction</h3>



<p>Even though a single termite isn't trying to communicate, their act of building changes the local humidity. Other termites, also seeking the most comfortable spots, sense this change. They become more likely to deposit their own clay pellets in that same area, further altering the structure and the moisture patterns around it.</p>



<p>Repeating this simple process results in incredibly intricate nests.&nbsp;This continuous feedback loop is the magic ingredient. Each termite simply responds to the immediate humidity levels. </p>



<p>Yet, over time, as thousands of termites make these tiny adjustments, elaborate nests emerge. These nests boast tunnels for travel, chambers optimized for airflow, and structures that help maintain the perfect internal humidity for the whole colony.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-termites">Lessons from termites</h2>



<p>Sometimes, the most amazing things can be built with simple rules. Think how a tiny drop of water, responding to gravity, can shape magnificent caves over time. The study demonstrates a fascinating truth:</p>



<p>"In our experiments, nest complexity emerges from just one simple mechanism: termites only need to add pellets of material depending on the local humidity, but the pellets that they add in turn change all the pattern of evaporation and humidity, inducing other termites to build at a different location, and so on, until very complex structures are produced," explained Perna.</p>



<p>Nature shows us that sometimes it's not about grand plans, but simply responding to your environment, one small step at a time. That's a lesson humans building their own communities might take to heart.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://elifesciences.org/articles/86843" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ELife</a>.</p>



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Termites are nature's architects, building well-ventilated nests

We often admire skyscrapers as wonders of human engineering. But...

<p>Did you know that enormous <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extinct-giant-kangaroo-discovered-in-papua-new-guinea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kangaroos</a>, larger than any alive today, once roamed Australia and New Guinea? Meet the remarkable <em>Protemnodon</em>, a genus of extinct megafauna a team of paleontologists has just spent years investigating. Their discoveries have rewritten how we understand these ancient giants, revealing even more fascinating details of their time on Earth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protemnodon-kangaroo"><em>Protemnodon</em> kangaroo</h2>



<p>Protemnodon <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extinction-fanged-kangaroos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kangaroos</a> were a diverse genus that lived from 5 million years ago up until about 40,000 years ago. These creatures showcased a considerable variation in physical size across different species. </p>



<p>While some of the Protemnodon species had body sizes that were comparable to today's grey kangaroos, others were substantially larger, reaching weights upwards of 350 pounds. </p>



<p>This weight is roughly double that of the heaviest red kangaroos known today, which typically weigh around 200 pounds. These larger Protemnodon species displayed a much stockier build, making them significantly bulkier and larger than any contemporary kangaroo species.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-the-fossil">Finding the fossil</h2>



<p>In 2013, with further discoveries in 2018 and 2019, scientists made a remarkable breakthrough at Lake Callabonna in South Australia. They unearthed multiple complete skeletons of <em>Protemnodon</em>.</p>



<p>This remarkable fossil collection ignited a comprehensive 5-year research project led by Dr. Isaac Kerr. The outcome of this investigation has fundamentally changed how scientists perceive these fascinating ancient creatures.</p>



<p>Kerr's team pored over hundreds of fossils, traveling the globe. They found significant differences in how <em>Protemnodon</em> species looked, lived, and even hopped. Some were built for speed in open deserts. Others, slow and stout, might have even walked on all fours.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-the-protemnodon-kangaroos">Meet the <em>Protemnodon</em> kangaroos</h2>



<p>Let's introduce three of the newly described <em>Protemnodon</em> kangaroos:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protemnodon-viator">Protemnodon viator</h3>



<p>This species, known as Protemnodon viator, weighed approximately 350 pounds and was uniquely adapted to the arid central Australian deserts, an environment similar to that inhabited by today’s red kangaroos. </p>



<p>With its long limbs and a more streamlined body compared to its relatives, Protemnodon viator was evidently designed for efficient, fast hopping across vast, open landscapes. The name "viator," which translates to "traveler" in Latin, aptly reflects its ability to cover large distances in search of food and water in its harsh desert habitat.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protemnodon-mamkurra">Protemnodon mamkurra</h3>



<p>Protemnodon mamkurra was a distinctive member of the Protemnodon genus, characterized by its thick bones and robust structure. Unlike the more gracile and agile <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-study-changes-our-understanding-of-mammal-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kangaroos</a> familiar today, mamkurra was likely more akin to a large, somewhat clumsy quokka, potentially adopting a mixed mode of locomotion that included walking on all fours at times. </p>



<p>In consultation with the Boandik people, native to southeastern South Australia, researchers named this species. The name they chose, "mamkurra," translates to "great kangaroo," reflecting both its impressive size and cultural significance.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protemnodon-dawsonae">Protemnodon dawsonae</h3>



<p>Among the newly described species, Protemnodon dawsonae remains somewhat enigmatic due to the limited fossil records available. What is known suggests that this species was likely a mid-speed hopper, conceptually similar in its locomotion to the modern swamp wallaby, which is capable of both fast movements and more measured, energy-conserving hops. </p>



<p>This species honors Dr. Lyndall Dawson, a renowned Australian paleontologist who made significant contributions to the study of kangaroo systematics and fossil analysis. The naming of this species recognizes her dedication and impact in the field of paleontology, particularly in enhancing our understanding of Australia's rich megafauna history.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kangaroo-mystery-why-did-protemnodon-disappear">Kangaroo mystery: Why did <em>Protemnodon</em> disappear?</h2>



<p>The big question surrounding the Protemnodon species is their sudden disappearance around 40,000 years ago. These kangaroos were notably robust and adaptable, thriving across a wide range of environments from the arid deserts of central Australia to the lush, high-rainfall forests of Tasmania and New Guinea. </p>



<p>Despite their ability to adapt to vastly different habitats and their physical robustness, all Protemnodon species became extinct, while their smaller, less specialized relatives such as wallaroos and grey kangaroos managed to survive.</p>



<p>Dr. Isaac Kerr and Professor Gavin Prideaux, among other researchers, are actively studying these extinct kangaroos to understand the factors behind their disappearance. The comprehensive study led by Dr. Kerr, which meticulously reviewed fossil records and other archaeological data, aims to provide insights into the life and eventual extinction of these creatures. </p>



<p>By analyzing aspects such as their bone structure, geographic distribution, and environmental adaptations, the research seeks to uncover whether changes in climate, habitat loss, increased predation, or human activity might have contributed to their extinction.</p>



<p>This investigation is part of a broader effort to piece together the puzzle of megafauna extinctions in Australia, which saw the disappearance of many large species. Understanding why Protemnodon vanished, despite their apparent advantages in size and adaptability, could provide crucial insights into the ecological dynamics and environmental shifts of their time. </p>



<p>The findings of this and future studies could potentially offer broader lessons about species survival and adaptation under changing environmental conditions.</p>



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



<p>“It’s great to have some clarity on the identities of the species of&nbsp;<em>Protemnodon</em>,” says Flinders Professor \ Prideaux, a co-author of the research.</p>



<p>While the numbers and measurements are fascinating, it's the image of these giants that's truly captivating. Imagine encountering a 350-pound, high-hopping marsupial on the plains.</p>



<p>Or witnessing a massive, bear-like roo ambling slowly through a prehistoric forest. Projects like Dr. Kerr's give us more than data; they fuel our imagination, bringing a bit of that long-lost world back to life.</p>



<p>“It feels so good to finally have it out in the world, after five years of&nbsp;research, 261 pages and more than 100,000 words. I really hope that it helps more studies of<em>&nbsp;Protemnodon</em>&nbsp;happen, so we can find out more of what these kangaroos were doing," explained Dr Kerr.</p>



<p>“Living kangaroos are already such remarkable animals, so it’s amazing to think what these peculiar giant kangaroos could have been getting up to.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.11646/megataxa.00.0.0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Megataxa</a></em>.</p>



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



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Protemnodon kangaroo fossils may explain their extinction

Did you know that enormous kangaroos, larger than any alive...

<p>We all know that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/this-exercise-routine-can-cut-your-risk-of-early-death-in-half/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a> is good for us. It strengthens our muscles, boosts our metabolism, and keeps our hearts healthy. But did you know your workouts also give your brain a major tune-up? A fascinating new study shows that physical activity can actually reduce stress-related brain signals, protecting your heart in the process.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-stress-on-the-body">Impact of stress on the body</h2>



<p>It's no secret that stress takes a toll on the body. When stress becomes chronic, our bodies release a surge of the stress hormone cortisol. This hormone is meant for short-term survival responses, but constant elevation leads to a cascade of problems. </p>



<p>Cortisol can contribute to high blood pressure, weight gain, and an increased risk of heart disease. But how does the brain play a role in this dangerous cycle?</p>



<p>Scientists are increasingly interested in how our brains handle the pressure of stress. Imagine your brain contains a tiny alarm system called the amygdala. When you're under stress, this alarm gets triggered and goes into overdrive, sending signals of danger throughout the body. </p>



<p>Fortunately, your brain also has a region called the prefrontal cortex. This area is responsible for logic, reasoning, and self-control. Think of it as the part of your brain that can calm the alarm down. Under normal circumstances, your prefrontal cortex can manage the amygdala's stress signals. </p>



<p>However, under chronic stress, the amygdala can become hyperactive, overwhelming your brain's ability to manage the response.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-benefits-the-brain-and-the-heart">Exercise benefits the brain and the heart</h2>



<p>Researchers at <a href="https://www.massgeneral.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Massachusetts General Hospital</a> reveal that physical activity quiets stress-related brain activity, especially giving that hardworking prefrontal cortex a boost.</p>



<p>"<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/women-achieve-greater-benefits-from-exercise-with-less-effort/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical activity</a> was roughly twice as effective in lowering cardiovascular disease risk among those with depression," explains Dr. Ahmed Tawakol, a cardiologist at MGH and the study's lead author. "Effects on the brains' stress-related activity may explain this novel observation."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-a-power-prescription">Exercise, a power prescription</h2>



<p>Researchers in this study carefully analyzed a massive amount of health data collected from over 50,000 individuals. This type of large-scale study gives scientists a much clearer picture of the real-world impact of physical activity. </p>



<p>Individuals who consistently met recommended physical activity guidelines (at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week) had a significant advantage. They had a 23% lower risk of developing heart disease compared to those who didn't get enough <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-reduces-aging-related-fat-buildup-in-tissues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exercise</a>.</p>



<p>Those who were physically active also showed a fascinating change: lower levels of stress-related activity within their brains. This suggests that exercise has a direct, calming effect on the areas of the brain that manage stress responses.</p>



<p>Importantly, this calming effect on the brain seemed to play a major role in protecting the heart. The researchers believe that the reduced stress response from exercise is a key reason why physically active people enjoy a lower risk of heart disease.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-for-depression-and-heart-health">Exercise for depression and heart health</h2>



<p>The study revealed a particularly encouraging discovery. Individuals who struggled with depression actually gained even more heart-healthy benefits from exercise than those without depression. This means that for people facing the challenges of chronic stress and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-all-types-proven-to-ease-depression-symptoms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a>, regular physical activity could be a particularly powerful tool in protecting their hearts. </p>



<p>The idea that those who might be feeling the most overwhelmed by stress could benefit the most from exercise is a remarkable and inspiring takeaway.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-in-daily-life">Exercise in daily life</h2>



<p>The study adds even more power to the simple recommendation to “get moving”. Here's what to keep in mind:</p>



<ul>
<li>Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (activities like brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (like running) each week, plus muscle-strengthening exercises twice a week.</li>



<li>Even short bursts of activity throughout the day can lower stress and improve your health.</li>



<li>Exercise can be a blast. Dance class, swimming, hiking – if it's fun, you're more likely to keep it up.</li>
</ul>



<p>While more research is needed, it's becoming clearer that exercise can change your brain in remarkable ways. Want a healthier heart <em>and</em> a calmer mind? Your sneakers are your new secret weapons!</p>



<p>Note: If you're new to exercise, have health concerns, or suffer from depression, always talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2024.02.02" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of the American College of Cardiology</a>.</p>



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



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Exercise significantly lowers heart disease risk by reducing stress

We all know that exercise is good for us. It...

<p>Coffee is the fuel that keeps the world running. Whether you prefer a bold espresso or a creamy cappuccino, the chances are that your favorite brew comes from a plant called <em>Coffea arabica</em>. Yet, behind the daily caffeine fix lies an incredible genome story spanning hundreds of thousands of years, continents, and even changing climates. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-history-of-coffee-genome">History of coffee genome</h2>



<p>You might not think about it as you sip your morning coffee, but within your cup lies a fascinating genetic story. Scientists at the University of Buffalo (<a href="https://www.buffalo.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UB</a>) have recently created an incredibly detailed map of the DNA of Arabica <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-stimulates-digestion-and-protects-against-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a>. This map, known as a genome, acts like a blueprint for the plant, revealing the complex ancestry of the coffee you enjoy.</p>



<p>“We’ve used genomic information in plants alive today to go back in time and paint the most accurate picture possible of Arabica’s long history, as well as determine how modern cultivated varieties are related to each other,” said study co-author Victor Albert, a professor in the <a href="https://arts-sciences.buffalo.edu/biological-sciences.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UB Department of Biological Sciences</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It turns out that Arabica coffee isn't the product of a single, isolated lineage. Instead, it's the result of a natural hybridization event between two different coffee species: <em>Coffea canephora</em> (commonly known as Robusta) and <em>Coffea eugenioides</em>. </p>



<p>This unusual event is called allopolyploidization. In this process, the two parent species contributed their full sets of chromosomes, resulting in Arabica inheriting a double set of genetic instructions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coffee-origin">Coffee origin</h2>



<p>The story of Arabica <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dedicated-coffee-drinkers-have-lower-blood-pressure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> becomes even more intriguing when we consider how it came to be. This remarkable merging of two coffee species wasn't the result of human manipulation in a laboratory or on a carefully controlled plantation. It was an entirely natural event that unfolded within the lush forests of Ethiopia.</p>



<p>Scientists harnessed the power of advanced computer modeling to trace the origins of Arabica <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-with-milk-has-powerful-anti-inflammatory-properties/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a>. These models allowed them to look back through time, pinpointing the birthplace of this unique coffee species. Their findings suggest that this extraordinary hybridization event, where two species became one, occurred an astonishing 600,000 to a million years ago.</p>



<p>To put that in perspective, this was long before the emergence of modern humans, let alone the development of coffee brewing techniques or the rise of coffee shops. Coffee was flourishing in its natural environment, completely independent of human influence.</p>



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



<p>The delicate aroma and smooth taste of Arabica <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-before-breakfast-has-a-negative-impact-on-metabolism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> disguise its surprisingly robust history. While we may think of it as a cultivated plant, Arabica comes from a long lineage that has successfully weathered dramatic environmental changes.</p>



<p>“A detailed understanding of the origins and breeding history of contemporary varieties are crucial to developing new Arabica cultivars better adapted to climate change,” explained Professor Albert.</p>



<p>Earth's climate has fluctuated significantly over the past millennia, experiencing periods of intense glaciation followed by warmer, wetter phases. Scientists studying the Arabica genome were able to trace how these climate shifts impacted the coffee plant populations. Their findings revealed a fascinating correlation between climate and Arabica's abundance.</p>



<p>During harsh periods, particularly extended droughts, the Arabica population numbers dwindled. These challenging times likely resulted in increased competition for resources and reduced breeding success. </p>



<p>However, when the climate shifted towards warmer and wetter conditions, Arabica populations experienced a boom. Favorable growing conditions allowed the plants to thrive and reproduce more readily.</p>



<p>This cyclical pattern of population decline and growth, linked directly to climate change, demonstrates the remarkable resilience of Arabica coffee over hundreds of thousands of years. It highlights the plant's remarkable ability to adapt and survive in a dynamic environment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coffee-ancestors">Coffee ancestors </h2>



<p>Coffee plants share an ancestral bond with Eastern Africa, specifically an expansive geological formation known as the Great Rift Valley. This region has served as a natural cradle for coffee's evolution. Interestingly, scientists have observed a distinct geographical divide between the wild coffee plants of the region and the specific varieties that humans have cultivated for our beloved beverages.</p>



<p>The cultivated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-great-coffee-debate-harmful-or-beneficial/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coffee</a> varieties that dominate global production all trace their origins to the eastern side of the Great Rift Valley, the region closer to Yemen. This geographical pattern provides strong support for the historical understanding that Yemen played a pivotal role in the initial domestication of coffee sometime around the 15th century. </p>



<p>It was from this starting point that coffee cultivation practices and the enjoyment of coffee spread outwards, eventually establishing the vibrant global coffee culture we experience today.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genome-mapping-reveals-coffee-future">Genome mapping reveals coffee future</h2>



<p>Despite its immense popularity, Arabica coffee faces significant threats. Centuries of selective breeding practices have led to a limited genetic diversity within Arabica populations. This lack of diversity leaves the species highly susceptible to devastating pests and diseases, such as the notorious coffee leaf rust. </p>



<p>Furthermore, the ongoing impacts of climate change, including unpredictable weather patterns and rising temperatures, pose additional challenges to the survival and productivity of Arabica coffee plants.</p>



<p>However, the recent mapping of the Arabica <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coffee-plants-fight-climate-change-with-a-genetic-weapon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a> offers a glimmer of hope. This intricate genetic blueprint allows scientists to delve deeper into the coffee plant's inner workings. By analyzing this map, researchers can identify specific genes that might be associated with resistance to diseases or the ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions. </p>



<p>This newfound knowledge is essential for developing strategies to safeguard the future of Arabica coffee production. It provides a roadmap for researchers seeking ways to breed more resilient coffee varieties, ensuring our continued enjoyment of this beloved beverage.</p>



<p>So, the next time you take a sip of your morning brew, remember this: your coffee carries within it a tale of natural wonder, ancient climates, and the enduring power of plants. From Ethiopia to your cup, the story of coffee is one to savor. </p>



<p>The study is published in <a href="https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.09.06.556570v2">BioR<em>xiv</em></a>.</p>



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Coffee genome adapted to climate changes over millennia

Coffee is the fuel that keeps the world running. Whether...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<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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