<p>Strength training often brings to mind toned arms and powerful legs. But new research suggests that the benefits extend much further. Lifting weights may also reshape the trillions of microbes living in our gut, which influence everything from metabolism to immunity.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/studies-learn-the-exact-amount-of-time-you-should-spend-training-to-build-muscle/">gut</a> microbiome is closely linked to both health and aging. Inside of it are microbes like <em>Faecalibacterium, Akkermansia, </em>and<em> Roseburia hominis</em>. These tiny organisms produce short-chain fatty acids that strengthen the gut lining and ease inflammation.</p>



<p>Endurance activities like running or cycling are known to boost these helpful microbes. But when it comes to resistance training, the picture has remained far less clear.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conflicting-past-studies">Conflicting past studies</h2>



<p>Until recently, research painted a mixed picture. Some trials found that weight training shifted microbial communities, while others reported almost no changes. </p>



<p>Matthieu Clauss of the <a href="https://www.nih.no/english/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian School of Sport Sciences</a> in Oslo noted that the existing research remains limited.</p>



<p>To settle this uncertainty, Sven Nahnsen and colleagues at the <a href="https://uni-tuebingen.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tübingen</a> studied 150 sedentary adults. Participants engaged in an eight-week resistance program using advanced machines that adjusted loads in real time and tracked every lift.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-strength-and-gut-microbes">Tracking strength and gut microbes</h2>



<p>This digital system created detailed performance records while ensuring progressive, individualized training. Stool samples collected before, during, and after the program allowed researchers to map microbial changes.</p>



<p>When researchers looked at the whole group, they saw no clear changes in microbial diversity. The story shifted, however, once strength gains came into focus. </p>



<p>Participants who made the biggest improvements showed noticeable rises in <em>Faecalibacterium</em> and <em>Roseburia hominis</em>. In fact, these microbes were especially abundant in individuals who gained far more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strength-training-may-be-the-best-exercise-for-insomnia/">strength</a> than everyone else.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbes-differ-in-strong-lifters">Microbes differ in strong lifters</h2>



<p>The study revealed clear differences between high and low responders. The strongest gains were linked with distinct changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/natures-sweet-remedy-honey-is-a-microbial-marvel/">microbial</a> composition.</p>



<p>High performers also showed enrichment of members of the Lachnospiraceae family, many of which are linked to anti-inflammatory effects.</p>



<p>Notably, an amplicon sequence variant classified as <em>Roseburia hominis</em> showed the most significant increase in high responders by week eight.</p>



<p>Other enriched microbes included <em>Bacteroides massiliensis</em> and certain <em>Prevotellaceae</em>. Meanwhile, taxa like <em>Lachnoclostridium</em> and <em>Oscillospiraceae</em> declined.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-shifts-depend-on-training-progress">Gut shifts depend on training progress</h2>



<p>Why do only some people experience these changes? <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/weight-training-shields-the-aging-brain-from-dementia/">Training</a> compliance was similar, and diet surveys showed no clear differences. </p>



<p>This suggests factors beyond effort or food intake. One possibility is that microbial shifts themselves supported muscle gains by increasing production of short-chain fatty acids, which enhance energy metabolism and recovery.</p>



<p>Resistance training did not increase overall microbial richness (alpha diversity), unlike endurance training, but it did remodel microbial composition (beta diversity) in high responders. </p>



<p>This points to a dose-response effect: only when strength improvements cross a certain threshold do microbiome shifts emerge.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifting-and-running-converge">Lifting and running converge</h2>



<p>Despite differences between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-running-can-help-you-move-think-and-feel-better/">running</a> and lifting, both exercise types seem to converge on similar microbial outcomes. </p>



<p>Enriched short-chain fatty acid producers like <em>Faecalibacterium</em> and <em>Roseburia</em> suggest common pathways that support gut integrity, regulate glucose, and reduce systemic inflammation.</p>



<p>The changes occurred without dietary modification, meaning resistance training alone can act as a driver of gut remodeling. This highlights its role not only for musculoskeletal health but also for metabolic and immune regulation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exercise-benefits-are-clear">Exercise benefits are clear</h2>



<p>Some mysteries remain. Stool metabolomics showed no significant changes, which may indicate that functional shifts were subtle, localized, or required longer adaptation. </p>



<p>The study also lacked a non-exercising control group, leaving room for further confirmation.</p>



<p>Even so, outside experts remain hopeful. The results suggest that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-reduces-depression-and-anxiety-in-children-and-teens-with-mental-health-issues/">exercise</a> of any kind can benefit gut health. They also point to the possibility that resistance training sparks unique, health-related shifts in the microbiome.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strength-training-as-gut-medicine">Strength training as gut medicine</h2>



<p>From a public health perspective, resistance training may offer far more than toned muscles. It could serve as a non-drug approach to improving gut health, especially for people facing chronic inflammation or the challenges of aging.</p>



<p>The changes happening inside the gut are striking. Beneficial microbes increase, the gut lining becomes stronger, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fasting-helps-the-body-fight-inflammation-and-chronic-diseases/">inflammation</a> settles down. These microbes also help regulate blood sugar and energy use, lowering the risk of long-term conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and digestive problems.</p>



<p>What makes this especially interesting is that participants did not need to change their diets. The exercise itself appeared to reshape the gut community, suggesting that strength training works as its own form of medicine.</p>



<p>For many, this shifts how we think about working out. Exercise is not only about muscles or appearance - it is about keeping the body resilient from within. Regular resistance training might help people recover faster, age more gracefully, and carry less risk of disease throughout life.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.08.13.670057v1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bioRxiv</a></em>.</p>



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Strength training can boost healthy gut bacteria

Strength training often brings to mind toned arms and powerful legs. But new research suggests that the benefits extend much further. Lifting weights may also reshape the trillions of microbes living in our gut, which influence everything from metabolism to immunity. The gut microbiome is closely linked to both health and aging. Inside of it are microbes like Faecalibacterium, Akkermansia, and Roseburia hominis. These tiny organisms produce short-chain fatty acids that strengthen the gut lining and ease inflammation. Endurance activities like running or cycling are known to...

<p>Nature often mirrors the masterpieces of art. Yet, it's rare to see art hiding within nature itself. A recent discovery brings art and nature together, showcasing a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colorful-new-gecko-found-in-the-forests-of-india/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unique gecko</a> species, <em>Cnemaspis vangoghi</em>, that brings to mind Van Gogh's iconic 'The Starry Night'.</p>



<p>True to its name, the "Starry Night" gecko sports a mesmerizing pattern that instantly brought the iconic artwork to the minds of its discoverers.</p>



<p>This stunning creature, now officially named <em>Cnemaspis vangoghi</em>, is one of two new gecko species recently discovered in the Southern Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cnemaspis-vangoghi-new-gecko-family-member"><em>Cnemaspis vangoghi</em>: New gecko family member</h2>



<p>A <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/geckos-can-recognize-their-own-scent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gecko</a> is a small to medium-sized lizard belonging to the family Gekkonidae. Geckos are unique for their remarkable ability to climb smooth surfaces, thanks to specialized toe pads that allow them to adhere to even vertical walls and ceilings. </p>



<p>They are found in warm climates throughout the world and are known for their vocalizations, which they use for communication. </p>



<p>Many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eight-new-species-of-gecko-discovered-in-madagascar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gecko</a> species are nocturnal, and they have large, sensitive eyes that help them see in low light conditions. </p>



<p>Moreover, geckos are also famous for their ability to regenerate lost tails, a defense mechanism against predators.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-van-gogh-inspires-the-name-cnemaspis-vangoghi">Van Gogh inspires the name <em>Cnemaspis vangoghi</em></h2>



<p>"<em>Cnemaspis vangoghi</em> is named for Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh (1853–1890) as the striking colouration of the new species is reminiscent of one of his most iconic paintings, The Starry Night," explains Ishan Agarwal, part of the team that discovered and described the new lizard.</p>



<p>The male "Starry Night" <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-gives-gecko-feet-their-grip/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">geckos</a> boast a bright yellow head and forebody contrasted by dazzling blue spots along their backs. They make their home among rocks and occasionally venture onto buildings or trees in their native habitat.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lizard-hunters-and-artistic-inspiration">Lizard hunters and artistic inspiration</h2>



<p>A team of dedicated researchers from the Thackeray Wildlife Foundation, including Ishan Agarwal, Akshay Khandekar, and Tejas Thackeray, made the incredible find during an arduous expedition in April of 2022. Their search took them through the rich biodiversity of Tamil Nadu.</p>



<p>"Tamil Nadu is an exceptionally biodiverse state, and we expect to name well over 50 new species of lizards by the time we are done!" says Agarwal. </p>



<p>He adds, "I also had more than 500 tick bites during that summer trip, with the highest densities in the low-elevation, dry forests of Srivilliputhur, where the new species are found." Clearly, these scientists go the extra mile (and endure the extra itch!) for their passion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-the-other-gecko-in-town">Meet the (other) gecko in town</h2>



<p>The Van Gogh gecko shares the spotlight with a fellow discovery, <em>Cnemaspis sathuragiriensis</em>, named after the Sathuragiri Hills where it dwells. </p>



<p>Both are small-bodied <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-species-of-leaf-tailed-gecko-discovered-in-madagascar/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">geckos</a>, reaching lengths of only about 3.4 cm. They primarily reside in the rocky, low-elevation forests near Srivilliputhur and are most active in the cooler morning and evening hours.</p>



<p>"The two new species are distributed in low elevation (250–400 m asl.), deciduous forests of Srivilliputhur, and add to the five previously known endemic vertebrates from Srivilliputhur-Megamalai Tiger Reserve, Tamil Nadu, India,” Ishan Agarwal explains.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-geckos-beyond-van-gogh">Importance of geckos beyond Van Gogh</h2>



<p>While their range might seem limited, these geckos highlight a fascinating phenomenon called micro-endemism. </p>



<p>“The two new species are distributed in low elevation (250–400 m asl.), deciduous forests of Srivilliputhur, and add to the five previously known endemic vertebrates from Srivilliputhur-Megamalai Tiger Reserve, Tamil Nadu, India,” Ishan Agarwal explains. </p>



<p>"They are diurnal and mainly active during the cool hours of the early morning and evening, found largely on rocks. So far, they have only been found in very restricted localities, “an interesting case of micro-endemism in low-elevation species,” he notes.</p>



<p>Their limited distribution might make them seem less significant. But, understanding and protecting even the most localized creatures is vital for a healthy ecosystem. Every species, no matter how small, plays a role in the delicate balance of nature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-bright-future-for-discovery">A bright future for discovery</h2>



<p>The discovery of <em>Cnemaspis vangoghi</em> is a thrilling reminder that our planet is a vast, ever-surprising gallery of natural wonders. </p>



<p>Who knows what other hidden masterpieces might be waiting to be found within the lush landscapes of Tamil Nadu, or indeed, across the globe? </p>



<p>The spirit of discovery burns bright, fueled by scientists who aren't afraid of a few tick bites and the promise of uncovering nature's extraordinary works of living art.</p>



<p>The full study is published in <a href="https://zookeys.pensoft.net/article/117947/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>ZooKeys</em></a>.</p>



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New gecko species discovered in India named after Van Gogh

Nature often mirrors the masterpieces of art. Yet, it's rare...

<p>A recent study by <a href="https://www.yorku.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">York University</a> reveals that astronauts are surprisingly good at "flying," even without the familiar pull of Earth's gravity. They accurately judge how far they travel and can react quickly in emergencies. </p>



<p>This study, a collaboration with the Canadian Space Agency (<a href="https://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSA</a>) and <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>, opens new realms of understanding in space safety and human balance, potentially shedding light on aging processes on Earth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-astronauts-challenge-of-flying-without-gravity">Astronauts challenge of flying without gravity</h2>



<p>Our sense of balance and movement has evolved on Earth, where gravity is always present. This force plays a crucial role in how we understand which way is up and how to keep from falling over. </p>



<p>Without gravity, our inner ear system, which usually helps us sense balance and orientation, can get confused. This begs the question: how do astronauts function in the microgravity environment of the ISS, where Earth's gravity is mostly canceled out?</p>



<p>Professor Laurence Harris, a vision and motion perception expert from York University, has been studying this very phenomenon. </p>



<p>"We've had a steady presence for close to a quarter-century in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronaut-perspective-earth-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a>, and with space efforts only increasing as we plan to go back to the moon and beyond, answering health-and-safety questions only becomes more important," said Professor Harris. </p>



<p>"Based on our findings it seems as though humans are surprisingly able to compensate adequately for the lack of an Earth-normal environment using vision." Understanding how humans adapt to space is critical for long-term missions to the moon and beyond.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-astronauts-put-to-the-test">Astronauts put to the test</h2>



<p>Professor Harris and his team worked with a dozen <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-will-melt-lunar-dust-to-build-roads-on-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronauts</a> – six men and six women – on board the ISS. Their research compared astronauts' sense of motion and distance before, during, and after their long-duration missions. </p>



<p>The study wasn't without its challenges. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-spacesuits-will-keep-astronauts-clean-on-the-moon-and-beyond/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Space</a> missions are packed with tasks, and sometimes the ISS has to perform emergency maneuvers to avoid small objects hurtling through space.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-astronauts-superpower-of-space-adaptation">Astronauts superpower of space adaptation</h2>



<p>So, did the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-travel-takes-a-greater-toll-on-astronauts-brains-than-previously-thought/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">astronauts</a> struggle in space? Surprisingly, not much. The researchers found that the astronauts' ability to accurately judge how far they traveled in space remained largely intact. </p>



<p>"It has been repeatedly shown that the perception of gravity influences perceptual skill," Harris explained. "The most profound way of looking at the influence of gravity is to take it away, which is why we took our research into space."</p>



<p>What does this adaptability reveal? Scientists think humans can compensate remarkably well for the lack of gravity by relying primarily on their vision. This challenges previous assumptions about how important our inner ear balance system is for accurate movement.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-so-how-exactly-do-astronauts-fly">So, how exactly do astronauts fly?</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-report-space-headaches-during-long-missio/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronauts</a> "fly" in space through a combination of microgravity conditions and their own movements</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microgravity-environment">Microgravity environment</h3>



<p>In space, especially in orbit around Earth like on the International Space Station (ISS), astronauts experience microgravity. This doesn't mean there's no gravity at all, but the gravitational pull is much weaker than on Earth's surface. This state is often described as weightlessness.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-movement-in-microgravity">Movement in microgravity</h3>



<p>In this environment, astronauts don't walk as they do on Earth. Instead, they push off surfaces to move. A gentle push from a wall, ceiling, or other surface sends them floating across the cabin. They use their hands and feet to grab onto handrails or other fixtures to steer themselves or to stop.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlled-motions">Controlled motions</h3>



<p>Because of the lack of resistance, movements in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moon-is-shrinking-moonquakes-potential-problems-for-astronauts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microgravity</a> must be more deliberate. Sudden or forceful movements can send an astronaut spinning or bumping into objects or walls. Learning to fly or move efficiently in space involves mastering the art of gentle, controlled pushes and grabs.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-to-microgravity">Adapting to microgravity</h3>



<p>New astronauts spend a significant amount of time adjusting to this way of moving. They learn how to control their speed and direction and how to perform tasks while floating. This adaptation is crucial for their safety and effectiveness aboard spacecraft.</p>



<p>In essence, astronauts fly in space by leveraging the unique conditions of microgravity, using surfaces to propel and direct themselves, and mastering the art of movement without the familiar pull of Earth’s gravity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-from-space-to-aging">Implications: From space to aging</h2>



<p>The study has implications far beyond space travel. The ISS is a potentially hazardous environment, and the research shows that astronauts maintain the ability to move quickly and precisely in emergencies.</p>



<p> "On a number of occasions during our experiment, the ISS had to perform evasive maneuvers," recalls Harris. "Astronauts need to be able to go to safe places or escape hatches on the ISS quickly and efficiently in an emergency. So, it was very reassuring to find that they were actually able to do this quite precisely."</p>



<p>Perhaps even more intriguing, the research offers insights into how aging affects our perception and movement here on Earth. As we get older, our sense of balance often declines, leading to a greater risk of falls. </p>



<p>The study suggests that those problems may not solely stem from the inner ear system's deterioration, as previously thought. Maybe, as we age, the connection between how far we perceive we've moved and how our bodies actually react to maintain balance weakens – an area worth investigating further.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-astronauts-flying-in-space-and-beyond">The future of astronauts flying in space and beyond</h2>



<p>The York University study is just the beginning. Professor Harris and his team plan to investigate other space-related changes in perception. This work paves the way for safer, more successful space exploration on future missions to the Moon and Mars. </p>



<p>It also sheds light on health concerns here on Earth, helping us understand the mysteries of aging and how to live better, longer lives. Isn't it amazing how reaching for the stars can improve life right here on the ground?</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41526-024-00376-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NPJ Microgravity</a></em>.</p>



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Astronauts are surprisingly good at 'flying' in space

A recent study by York University reveals that astronauts are...

<p>In a galaxy far, far away, something peculiar has caught the eye of astronomers - a supermassive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-closest-black-hole-has-been-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole</a> with what seems like a case of cosmic hiccups. Every 8.5 days, this celestial giant emits a plume of gas before returning to its usual silent vigil. </p>



<p>This discovery, presented by a team from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (<a href="https://www.mit.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a>), turns our understanding of black holes on its head. It reveals a universe even stranger and more dynamic than we ever imagined.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-david-and-goliath-blackholes">David and Goliath blackholes</h2>



<p>Astronomers from MIT and around the globe have discovered that this supermassive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/powerful-magnetic-fields-may-be-key-features-of-black-holes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole</a> isn't the quiet, predictable type. It's a new and puzzling behavior never observed in black holes before.</p>



<p>Scientists believe the most likely explanation lies in a cosmic game of David and Goliath. A smaller black hole, the cosmic David, orbits the Goliath - a supermassive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-black-hole-ever-discovered-dates-back-to-the-dawn-of-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole</a> situated at the galaxy's heart. This interaction throws cosmic material out, causing the observed "hiccups."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-possible-explanation-of-cosmic-hiccups">Possible explanation of cosmic hiccups</h2>



<p>The smaller black hole orbits the supermassive black hole. As it moves, it traverses the larger black hole's accretion disk, which is a vast, swirling plane of gas and dust that feeds into the larger black hole.</p>



<p>Each time the smaller <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/runaway-black-hole-creates-a-trail-of-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">black hole</a> passes through the accretion disk, it disturbs the disk's material. Imagine a spoon stirring through coffee, creating whirls and ripples. Similarly, the smaller black hole's gravity pulls on the disk's gas and dust, dragging some of this material along with it.</p>



<p>This disruption leads to the ejection of gas from the accretion disk. The material slung out by the smaller black hole's gravitational influence is thrown into space, creating a plume or burst of gas. This is akin to splashing water as you quickly pull your hand through a calm pond.</p>



<p>These ejections of material happen periodically, correlating with the smaller black hole's orbit around the supermassive black hole. Every time the smaller black hole completes an orbit and passes through the accretion disk, another "hiccup" occurs, causing a new burst of gas.</p>



<p>From our vantage point, these periodic bursts of gas appear as fluctuations in the light coming from the galaxy - brightening when the gas is ejected and then dimming back to its normal state. These fluctuations are what scientists have termed cosmic hiccups.</p>



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



<p>This remarkable discovery challenges our standard view of black hole accretion disks. We used to envision these disks as fairly uniform clouds of gas. The hiccuping black hole tells us the story might be much more chaotic. Accretion disks could be riddled with stars, remnants, and even other black holes.</p>



<p>"We thought we knew a lot about black holes, but this is telling us there are a lot more things they can do," said study co-author Dheeraj “DJ” Pasham. "We think there will be many more systems like this, and we just need to take more data to find them."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-did-we-spot-cosmic-hiccups">How did we spot cosmic hiccups?</h2>



<p>This cosmic oddity first came to light thanks to ASAS-SN, a network of automated telescopes scanning the skies for unusual events. In December of 2020, these cosmic eyes spotted a galaxy that had suddenly grown a thousand times brighter.</p>



<p>Intrigued, scientists turned to <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s X-ray telescope, NICER, to take a closer look. NICER's observations revealed the mysterious dips in energy – the telltale sign of the smaller black hole punching through.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-hiccups-triggered-by-a-star">Cosmic hiccups triggered by a star</h2>



<p>How did this dynamic duo come into being? Scientists think it all started with a hapless star wandering too close. Intense gravity ripped the star to shreds (scientists call this a "tidal disruption event"). </p>



<p>Shards of the star were gobbled up by the supermassive black hole, fueling a temporary feeding frenzy. This flare-up allowed scientists to witness the smaller black hole making its disruptive orbit around its giant companion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-black-holes">Understanding the black holes</h2>



<p>"This is a different beast," said Pasham. "It doesn't fit anything that we know about these systems. We're seeing evidence of objects going in and through the disk, at different angles, which challenges the traditional picture of a simple gaseous disk around black holes. We think there is a huge population of these systems out there."</p>



<p>Overall, this cosmic hiccup has painted a far more dynamic and chaotic picture of the lives of black holes. This serves as a compelling reminder of the universe's complexity. Even amidst the vast, tranquil expanse of space, countless hidden dramas unfold. These celestial events patiently linger, poised to overturn our established beliefs and alter our grasp of the cosmos.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-interesting-phenomenon-beyond-cosmic-hiccups">Other interesting phenomenon beyond cosmic hiccups</h2>



<p>Apart from cosmic hiccups, several other phenomena associated with black holes captivate scientists and the public alike:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spaghettification">Spaghettification </h3>



<p>The event horizon is the boundary around a black hole beyond which nothing can escape, not even light. Objects approaching a black hole get stretched into long, thin shapes like spaghetti due to the extreme gravitational differences across their length. This process is whimsically termed "spaghettification."</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accretion-disks">Accretion disks</h3>



<p>These are hot, glowing disks of gas and dust that spiral into black holes. The intense gravity of the black hole pulls in material, which heats up and emits X-rays and other radiation, often observable with space telescopes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gravitational-lensing">Gravitational lensing </h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-map-of-supermassive-black-holes-unveiled/">Black holes</a> can bend light around them, acting like a natural lens. This phenomenon, predicted by Einstein's theory of general relativity, can magnify and distort the light from stars and galaxies behind the black hole, allowing astronomers to observe objects otherwise too distant or faint.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hawking-radiation">Hawking radiation</h3>



<p>Proposed by Stephen Hawking, this theoretical process suggests that black holes can emit radiation due to quantum effects near the event horizon. Over incredibly long timescales, this radiation could lead to the evaporation and disappearance of black holes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-binary-black-hole-mergers">Binary black hole mergers </h3>



<p>When two black holes orbit each other closely, they can eventually spiral in and merge, releasing vast amounts of energy in the form of gravitational waves. LIGO and other observatories have detected these ripples in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spin-of-a-new-black-hole-is-unlocking-galactic-mysteries/">spacetime</a>, opening up a new way to observe the universe.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quasars-and-active-galactic-nuclei-agn">Quasars and active galactic nuclei (AGN) </h3>



<p>Some supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies are incredibly active, pulling in vast amounts of material. This process can create quasars and AGN, some of the brightest and most energetic objects in the universe, visible across cosmic distances.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-hole-jets">Black hole jets </h3>



<p>Some black holes eject massive jets of particles at nearly the speed of light. These jets can extend for thousands of light-years and are thought to be powered by the black hole's spin and the magnetic fields of the accretion disk.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-hole-shadows">Black hole shadows</h3>



<p>The Event Horizon Telescope captured the first image of a black hole's "shadow" in 2019, providing direct visual evidence of a supermassive black hole's existence. The shadow is caused by the bending of light by the black hole's immense gravity.</p>



<p>Each of these phenomena provides a unique window into the nature of black holes and the extreme conditions that prevail in their vicinity, offering insights into the laws of physics under conditions unattainable on Earth.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adj8898" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a></em>. </p>



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



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Small black hole disrupts a bigger one, causing 'cosmic hiccups'

In a galaxy far, far away, something peculiar has caught...

<p>Coral bleaching, a growing crisis worsened by climate change, doesn't just leave reefs looking faded – the damage goes much deeper. </p>



<p>New research reveals that bleaching can harm a coral reef's reproduction ability, slowing down <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-coral-reefs-and-why-are-they-important/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reef</a> recovery and jeopardizing their long-term survival.</p>



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



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-reefs-in-some-parts-of-the-world-actually-benefit-from-warming-el-nino-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Corals</a> might look like colorful rocks, but they are actually colonies of tiny animals called polyps. These polyps have a mutually beneficial relationship with algae that live inside their tissues. The algae provide food for the coral through photosynthesis and give them their beautiful colors. </p>



<p>However, rising ocean temperatures stress corals, causing them to expel this vital algae, leaving them bleached. While some corals can survive bleaching, it's a traumatic experience, like weathering a serious illness. Even if the coral appears to recover its color, hidden damage often lingers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coral-bleaching-s-impact-on-reproduction">Coral bleaching's impact on reproduction</h2>



<p>A study by experts at the <a href="https://www.aims.gov.au/">Australian Institute of Marine Science</a> on the Great Barrier Reef is shedding light on the hidden consequences of coral bleaching. Scientists focused on a common and hardy coral species known as Acropora millepora. </p>



<p>Despite showing signs of recovery after a bleaching event, these corals produced a shocking 21% fewer eggs during their reproductive cycle.</p>



<p>"Coral bleaching isn't always a death sentence for every <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellites-discover-huge-expanse-of-earths-coral-reefs-that-were-previously-unknown/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral</a>," explained Nico Briggs, the study's lead author. "But our research shows there is a price to pay for recovery in terms of a coral's reproductive capacity, which is a critical driver of replenishing coral reefs after major disturbances."</p>



<p>Think of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-study-provides-answers-to-how-coral-reefs-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coral</a> reproduction as crucial for reseeding and expanding a reef after a damaging event like bleaching. When corals produce fewer eggs, it's like having fewer seeds to plant a new forest – recovery will be much slower.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-worsens-coral-bleaching">Climate change worsens coral bleaching</h2>



<p>The Great Barrier Reef is currently facing its fifth mass bleaching event since 2016. This alarming frequency underscores the devastating impact of climate change on coral reefs worldwide. </p>



<p>Briggs warns that these stressful events put surviving coral populations in an uphill battle. While some corals might endure, their ability to fully recover and replenish the reef is seriously compromised.</p>



<p>Dr. Cathie Page, one of the study's co-authors, highlights a small glimmer of hope. Some corals in the study area showed more <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/restored-coral-reefs-can-bounce-back-in-just-four-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resilience</a> after the 2020 bleaching, likely due to favorable environmental factors like cooler water currents. </p>



<p>"Their resilience is partly to do with environmental conditions in the region, with tides and currents helping to reduce water temperatures, provide sun protection and deliver extra food," Page explained.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conservation-of-coral-reproduction">Conservation of coral reproduction</h2>



<p>The study demonstrates why understanding the full scope of coral bleaching is crucial for conservation efforts. We cannot assume that corals will simply keep bouncing back indefinitely. It's a wake-up call to address the root causes of this crisis and support the resilience of reef ecosystems.</p>



<p>"The best chance for coral reefs to persist into the future requires a strong reduction in global greenhouse emissions to stabilize temperatures, best practice management of local pressures, and the development of innovative interventions to help boost climate tolerance and resilience for coral reefs," said Briggs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impacts-beyond-coral-reproduction">Impacts beyond coral reproduction</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deepest-known-coral-reef-bleaching-discovered-alarming-scientists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coral bleaching</a> affects coral reefs in several critical ways beyond just hampering reproduction:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-biodiversity-loss">Biodiversity loss</h3>



<p>Coral reefs are home to a vast array of marine life. When corals bleach and potentially die, it leads to a loss in biodiversity, affecting species that depend on coral reefs for food, shelter, and nursery grounds.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ecosystem-services">Ecosystem services</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/coral-growth-cannot-keep-pace-with-rising-sea-levels/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coral</a> reefs provide valuable services including coastal protection from storms and erosion, fisheries, and tourism. Bleaching events compromise these services, affecting human communities and economies.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-altered-species-composition">Altered species composition</h3>



<p>Bleaching can lead to shifts in the species composition of reefs. More resilient species may dominate, altering the ecological balance and functions of reef ecosystems.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decreased-food-web-efficiency">Decreased food web efficiency</h3>



<p>Coral bleaching disrupts the base of the reef food web. Reduced coral cover means less food and habitat for herbivores, which affects the entire food chain.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-habitat-structure-loss">Habitat structure loss</h3>



<p>Bleached corals can die, leading to the loss of the complex three-dimensional structure of reefs. This structure is crucial for many marine species for breeding, feeding, and protection.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-vulnerability-to-diseases">Increased vulnerability to diseases</h3>



<p>Stressed and bleached corals are more susceptible to diseases, which can further reduce coral cover and affect reef health.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reduced-resilience-to-other-stressors">Reduced resilience to other stressors</h3>



<p>Bleaching diminishes a reef's ability to cope with other stressors like pollution, overfishing, and acidification, making recovery more difficult.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-economic-impacts">Economic impacts</h3>



<p>Many economies rely on coral reefs for tourism, fisheries, and coastal protection. Bleaching events can lead to significant economic losses in these sectors.</p>



<p>Addressing the multifaceted impacts of coral bleaching requires comprehensive strategies including global action on climate change, local conservation efforts, and innovative research into coral resilience and recovery.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-you-do-to-help-in-coral-reproduction">What can you do to help in coral reproduction?</h2>



<p>Protecting coral reefs might seem like a daunting task, but every action counts. Here's how you can help:</p>



<ul>
<li>Reduce your carbon footprint: Drive less, use energy-efficient appliances, eat less meat, and support renewable energy sources.</li>



<li>Support sustainable businesses<strong>:</strong> Choose products and services that prioritize reef health and avoid those that contribute to pollution or overfishing.</li>



<li>Spread the word<strong>:</strong> Share what you've learned about coral bleaching and inspire others to protect our precious oceans.</li>
</ul>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s00338-024-02483-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coral Reefs</a></em>.</p>



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



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Coral bleaching hinders reproduction in popular reef species

Coral bleaching, a growing crisis worsened by climate change, doesn't...

<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hubble-finds-a-water-rich-planet-with-a-steamy-atmosphere-named-gj-9827d/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hubble Space Telescope</a> has captured an awe-inspiring image of a cosmic jet bursting from a cloud of gas and dust, marking the dramatic entrance of a newborn star into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dark-matter-does-not-exist-universe-27-billion-years-old-study/">universe</a>. </p>



<p>This observation was made as Hubble focused on FS Tau, a young multi-star system nestled within the Taurus-Auriga constellation, roughly 450 light-years away from Earth. This area is a cradle of <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/barred-spiral-galaxy-ngc-1559-is-a-hotspot-for-star-formation/">star formation</a>, filled with dark, dense molecular clouds that are birthing grounds for newborn stars and their more mature counterparts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-pair-of-nascent-stars">A pair of nascent stars</h2>



<p>In this particular nebula, aged 2.8 million years, astronomers have identified a duo of nascent stars known as FS Tau A (also referred to as Haro 6-5A) and a newly detected star, FS Tau B.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These stellar infants are enveloped in glowing clouds of gas and dust, remnants of the dense material from which they condensed and began their celestial journey.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-transition-to-a-newborn-star">Transition to a newborn star</h2>



<p>The imagery of FS Tau B reveals it partially hidden behind a stark, vertical column of dust, indicative of the rim of a protoplanetary disk. This disk, rich in gas and dust, circles the young star and is expected to eventually merge to form planets.&nbsp;</p>



<p>FS Tau B, still in the protostar phase, is in the midst of collecting mass from its environment. Upon reaching a critical mass, the core pressure will trigger nuclear fusion, converting hydrogen to helium, signifying the transition to a fully-fledged star.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fast-energetic-particle-stream">Fast, energetic particle stream</h2>



<p>Despite not yet initiating nuclear fusion, FS Tau B, like other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-features-found-in-the-heart-of-milky-way-galaxy/">protostars</a>, radiates light due to the warmth generated from the initial collapse of its birth cloud and subsequent material accretion.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Newborn stars frequently exhibit jets - fast, energetic particle streams - and FS Tau B exemplifies this with its notable, though uneven, double-sided jet. The jet's unevenness, visible as a luminous blue streak, might stem from the star shedding mass at varying rates.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bright-patches-of-nebulosity-associated-with-newborn-stars">Bright patches of nebulosity associated with newborn stars</h2>



<p>FS Tau B is also categorized as a Herbig-Haro object, defined by the visible, glowing areas formed when jets from newborn stars collide with surrounding gas and dust at high velocities. These collisions illuminate the nebulae that cradle protostars.</p>



<p>Transitioning from its current phase, FS Tau B will evolve into a T Tauri star, a precursor to becoming a main-sequence star, similar to the Sun in its youthful stage some 4.6 billion years ago.</p>



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



<p>Newborn stars, often referred to as protostars, are born in the vast, cold expanse of molecular clouds, also known as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/starburst-spikes-seen-exploding-from-nebula-n79-are-1630-light-years-long/">stellar nurseries</a>. These clouds, rich in gas and dust, provide the essential ingredients for star formation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The process begins when a part of a cloud starts to collapse under its own gravity, which may be triggered by external forces such as the shock waves from nearby supernovae or the collision of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/james-webb-captures-galaxies-that-are-too-old-to-exist/">galaxies</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-initial-star-formation">Initial star formation</h3>



<p>As the cloud collapses, it fragments into smaller, denser regions where individual stars begin to form. The material at the center of each fragment starts to heat up due to gravitational compression, forming a hot core.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This core is the heart of a protostar, the very early stage of a star's life cycle. Despite being stars in the making, protostars are not yet hot enough at their cores to initiate nuclear fusion, the process that powers stars and produces light and heat.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-accumulation-of-mass">Accumulation of mass</h3>



<p>Over time, the protostar continues to accrete material from its surrounding cloud, growing in mass and density. This period of accretion is tumultuous, marked by intense jets of gas being ejected from the poles of the protostar, clearing away the surrounding material and revealing a young star in the making.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-birth-of-a-stable-star">Birth of a stable star</h3>



<p>When the core temperature finally reaches about 10 million degrees Celsius, hydrogen atoms begin to fuse into helium, releasing vast amounts of energy. This marks the end of the protostar stage and the birth of a main sequence star, like our Sun. The star will spend the majority of its life in this stable phase, converting hydrogen to helium and shining brightly in the cosmos.</p>



<p>The process of star formation is both beautiful and complex, highlighting the delicate balance between gravity and pressure, material accretion and loss, and ultimately, the transformation of dust and gas into the luminous beacons we see scattered across the night sky.</p>



<p>Image Credit: NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope</p>



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



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Hubble captures an awe-inspiring newborn star

The Hubble Space Telescope has captured an awe-inspiring image of...

Untitled design - 1

<p>Think back to a truly vivid memory. Maybe it was a special birthday, a terrifying accident, or a life-changing adventure. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/understanding-memory-how-we-remember-traumatic-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memories</a> stick in your brain – the sights, sounds, maybe even smells – far longer than the everyday details of your life. But how does your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spacing-effect-spaced-learning-long-term-impact-on-memory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain decide</a> what to keep and what to let fade?</p>



<p>Scientists at the <a href="https://einsteinmed.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Albert Einstein College of Medicine</a> believe the answer lies in something surprising and slightly unsettling: controlled DNA damage and inflammation within your brain cells. It sounds scary, but it might be the secret to how we form lasting memories.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inflammation-is-not-always-the-enemy">Inflammation is not always the enemy</h2>



<p>"Inflammation of brain neurons is usually considered to be a bad thing, since it can lead to neurological problems such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/magnetic-particles-in-air-pollution-may-lead-to-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alzheimer's</a> and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dopamine-plays-an-unexpected-role-in-movement-and-parkinsons-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parkinson's disease</a>," explains Dr. Jelena Radulovic, the neuroscientist who led the study. "But our findings suggest that inflammation in certain neurons in the brain's hippocampal region is essential for making long-lasting memories."</p>



<p>The hippocampus, a seahorse-shaped structure, nestles deep within your brain, serving as the central command post for memory formation. Now, Dr. Radulovic's team has revealed a fascinating mechanism at work within this structure.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-shocks-dna-damage-and-building-a-memory">Brain shocks, DNA damage, and building a memory</h2>



<p>The researchers focused on mice, giving them brief, mild shocks. This created a memory of the unpleasant event, known as an episodic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lack-of-sexual-satisfaction-linked-to-rapid-memory-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a>. </p>



<p>Analyzing the mice's brains, the scientists discovered something striking – genes involved in an important inflammatory pathway had been activated within the hippocampus.</p>



<p>This pathway, called Toll-Like Receptor 9 (TLR9), is normally part of our immune response. It's designed to detect bits of foreign DNA from viruses or bacteria, triggering our defenses. But here, it seems to play a different role.</p>



<p>The mild shock caused small breaks in the DNA within certain hippocampal neurons. This kind of routine DNA damage and repair happens all the time. However, in these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/daily-multivitamins-slow-cognitive-aging-and-improve-memory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a>-forming neurons, the damage seemed more significant and long-lasting. </p>



<p>The cell's nucleus released the broken bits of DNA and other resulting molecules, activating the TLR9 pathway.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-s-rewiring-station-of-memories">Brain's "rewiring station" of memories</h2>



<p>This inflammation response then triggered a cascade of events: DNA repair complexes moved to an unusual location – the centrosomes. </p>



<p>Centrosomes are tiny structures in the cell, usually responsible for helping cells divide. But neurons don't divide, so what are they doing here?</p>



<p>Dr. Radulovic's team believes this is where the memory magic happens. The centrosomes, activated by inflammation, become centers for extensive DNA repair. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-memory-assembly-process">Memory assembly process</h2>



<p>This repair process seems to link these neurons together, creating a '<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-breathing-impacts-memory-formation-during-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory assembly</a>' dedicated to storing that experience.</p>



<p>"Cell division and the immune response have been highly conserved in animal life over millions of years," Dr. Radulovic says. </p>



<p>"It seems likely that over the course of evolution, hippocampal neurons have adopted this immune-based <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flavanols-a-key-to-slowing-age-related-memory-loss-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> mechanism by combining the immune response’s DNA-sensing TLR9 pathway with a DNA repair centrosome function to form memories without progressing to cell division," she continued.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-new-memories-in-the-brain">Protecting new memories in the brain</h2>



<p>Here's another intriguing part: when these memory-encoding neurons are busy with this inflammatory repair process, they temporarily resist new information. </p>



<p>This makes sense – imagine trying to focus on building something complicated while someone's constantly interrupting you.</p>



<p>"This is noteworthy," said Dr. Radulovic, "because we’re constantly flooded by information, and the neurons that encode memories need to preserve the information they’ve already acquired and not be ‘distracted’ by new inputs."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dark-side-of-inflammation">The dark side of inflammation</h2>



<p>It's important to note: messing with the brain's inflammatory pathways is risky business. These scientists discovered that if they fully blocked the TLR9 pathway, it stopped long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-breathing-impacts-memory-formation-during-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> formation, and also led to genomic instability – that's when DNA damage gets out of control.</p>



<p>"Genomic instability is considered a hallmark of accelerated aging as well as cancer and psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s," Dr. Radulovic warns.</p>



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



<p>This discovery, though still in its early stages, sheds a brilliant light on a previously unexplored avenue for understanding and potentially treating memory disorders. </p>



<p>It paints a hopeful picture of fighting back against diseases known for robbing us of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memories</a> with a new arsenal of therapies one day.</p>



<p>Our understanding of the immune system has evolved. This research suggests that inflammation, carefully controlled and channeled, might hold unexpected power as a collaborator in the complex dance of memory formation and storage.</p>



<p>The implications stretch far and wide. Imagine a future where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wasabi-linked-to-substantial-boost-in-memory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memory</a> faltering isn't a foregone conclusion. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-tlr9-pathway-is-linked-to-brain-and-memories">How the TLR9 pathway is linked to brain and memories</h2>



<p>Our body has a special system called the immune system that helps us fight off germs like bacteria and viruses. As mentioned previously, one important part of this system is the Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) pathway, which helps our body recognize and respond to certain types of DNA found in these germs.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-tlr9-and-where-is-it-found">What is TLR9 and where is it found?</h3>



<p>TLR9 is like a special detector that our body uses to find bad germs. It's found mainly in two types of immune cells: plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) and B cells. These cells keep TLR9 inside them until they need to use it to detect germs.</p>



<p>TLR9 looks for specific patterns in the DNA of bacteria and viruses. These patterns are called unmethylated CpG motifs, which are like fingerprints that help TLR9 identify the bad germs. When TLR9 finds these patterns, it grabs onto the DNA and gets ready to sound the alarm.</p>



<p>Once TLR9 grabs onto the germ's DNA, it recruits a helper called MyD88. MyD88 then calls in more helpers, forming a team that works together to send out signals to other parts of the immune system. These signals are like messages that tell our body to start fighting the germs.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fighting-germs-and-maintaining-balance">Fighting germs and maintaining balance</h3>



<p>When the immune system gets the messages from TLR9 and its helpers, it starts making special proteins called cytokines and interferons. These proteins are like soldiers that help our body fight off the germs. </p>



<p>They do this by activating other immune cells, such as macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells, and T cells, which work together to get rid of the germs.</p>



<p>Our body has to be careful not to overreact to germs, or it might start attacking itself. That's why the TLR9 pathway has to be well-controlled. </p>



<p>Sometimes, when this control doesn't work properly, it can lead to problems like autoimmune diseases, where the body starts attacking its own cells.</p>



<p>The TLR9 pathway is like a special alarm system in our body that helps us detect and fight off bad germs. By understanding how this system works, scientists can develop new ways to help our body fight infections and stay healthy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps-in-brain-and-memory-research">Next steps in brain and memory research</h2>



<p>Of course, transforming all of this knowledge into tangible help for those with memory problems requires years of careful research and clinical trials. This discovery is not the finish line but a promising start. </p>



<p>It has laid a vital foundation for exploring the intricate connection between the immune system and the brain – a connection that might hold the key to safeguarding our most precious memories.</p>



<p>This work, and what scientists build upon it, could open doors to entirely new classes of treatments. It's a future where we might not just slow down memory-stealing diseases, but potentially restore some of what has been lost.</p>



<p>The full study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07220-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.</em></p>



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



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

Lasting memories come at a cost – DNA and brain cell damage

Think back to a truly vivid memory. Maybe it was...

3d,Brain,And,Heart,Representing,Emotional,Intelligence

<p>Did you know that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart problems</a> can secretly cause changes in your brain? It may sound scary, but these changes can put you at an increased risk for serious health issues like stroke and dementia. </p>



<p>While your heart health might be the focus, don't let your brain health fall to the wayside.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-blood-vessels-change-after-heart-issues">Brain blood vessels change after heart issues</h2>



<p>A new study by the <a href="https://www.georgeinstitute.org.in" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">George Institute for Global Health</a> reveals a surprising connection between heart disease and unseen changes in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/household-chemicals-linked-to-neurological-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain</a> blood vessels. </p>



<p>The implications are a little frightening: these changes make deciding on safe treatments for heart patients complicated and may raise their risk of complications like brain bleeds.</p>



<p>"Although people with heart disease are two to three times more likely than the general population to have changes in their brain’s vascular system, they’re often overlooked, because these patients don’t routinely undergo brain imaging unless they have suffered a stroke,” said Dr. Zien Zhou, the study's lead author.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signs-of-brain-changes-due-to-heart-disease">Signs of brain changes due to heart disease</h2>



<p>So, what are these sneaky changes we should look out for? Here's a rundown:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Silent brain infarctions (SBIs)</h3>



<p>Silent Brain Infarctions, or SBIs, are essentially "silent strokes." They occur when there is a disruption in the blood flow to a part of the brain, causing tissue damage. </p>



<p>Unlike typical strokes, SBIs often go unnoticed because they don't cause any immediate, noticeable symptoms. Over time, however, they can accumulate, leading to cognitive decline and increasing the risk of future strokes. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD)</h3>



<p>Cerebral Small Vessel Disease encompasses a range of conditions affecting the small blood vessels in the brain, including the arterioles, capillaries, and venules. </p>



<p>These vessels can become damaged or blocked over time, leading to reduced blood flow to various parts of the brain. </p>



<p>CSVD is a common cause of stroke and dementia, particularly in older adults. It can also contribute to the development of white matter lesions and lacunes.</p>



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



<p>Lacunes are small, cavity-like spaces that form in the brain as a result of brain tissue death, usually due to a lack of blood supply related to small vessel disease. </p>



<p>These cavities can be considered a subtype of silent infarcts but are specifically linked to chronic damage from high blood pressure and other vascular risk factors. </p>



<p>Lacunes bring a range of clinical effects into play, ranging from being asymptomatic to causing cognitive and motor impairments.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">White matter lesions</h3>



<p>White matter lesions (WMLs) are areas of damage or degeneration in the brain's white matter, where the myelin sheath covering nerve fibers is compromised. </p>



<p>This damage disrupts the normal transmission of electrical signals between different parts of the brain and between the brain and the rest of the body. </p>



<p>WMLs are associated with aging, hypertension, and vascular risk factors, and their presence can predict a higher risk of stroke, dementia, and physical disability.</p>



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



<p>Microbleeds are tiny areas of bleeding within the brain tissue, often found in association with cerebral small vessel disease. </p>



<p>They are considered markers of blood vessel pathology and can be indicative of an increased risk of larger brain hemorrhages. </p>



<p>Microbleeds can be symptomatic of an underlying vulnerability in the brain's vascular system and are linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of stroke.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Brain atrophy</h3>



<p>Brain Atrophy refers to a reduction in brain volume, which can result from the loss of neurons (brain cells) and the synaptic connections between them. </p>



<p>This process can be part of the natural aging process but may also accelerate due to neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, or as a consequence of chronic cerebral small vessel disease. </p>



<p>Brain atrophy can lead to significant cognitive and functional impairments, depending on which areas of the brain are affected.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-changes-and-heart-disease-risk">Brain changes and heart disease risk</h2>



<p>This study paints a clear picture. Here's what it found in people with heart diseases like atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and others:</p>



<ul>
<li>About one-third had SBIs.<br></li>



<li>One-quarter had lacunes.<br></li>



<li>Two-thirds had white matter lesions.<br></li>



<li>One-quarter had evidence of microbleeds.<br></li>



<li>Over half had brain atrophy.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-causing-these-dangerous-brain-changes">What's causing these dangerous brain changes?</h2>



<p>Scientists think the causes lie in the shared risk factors between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finasteride-regrows-hair-heals-prostate-boosts-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart disease</a> and brain problems like:</p>



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



<p>Scientists pinpoint aging as a primary factor that contributes to both heart disease and brain changes. As we age, our bodies undergo various physiological changes that can affect the health of our blood vessels. </p>



<p>These changes can lead to a reduced capacity of the vessels to supply blood efficiently to the heart and brain, increasing the risk of conditions like silent brain infarctions and cerebral small vessel disease. </p>



<p>The natural wear and tear on the body over time make aging a significant risk factor for these health issues.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">High blood pressure</h3>



<p>High blood pressure, or hypertension, is identified as a critical cause of both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-heart-evolved/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart</a> conditions and adverse brain changes. It exerts extra force against the walls of your arteries, leading to damage over time. </p>



<p>This damage can restrict blood flow to the heart and brain, contributing to the development of conditions such as white matter lesions and microbleeds. </p>



<p>Hypertension is especially notorious for its role in exacerbating cerebral small vessel disease, making it a key area of concern for researchers.</p>



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



<p>Diabetes, particularly type 2, plays a substantial role in the onset of heart disease and brain alterations. High levels of glucose in the blood can lead to damage in both large and small blood vessels, impairing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/simple-blood-test-can-now-predict-risk-of-heart-attack-within-six-months/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart</a> and brain. </p>



<p>This can accelerate the process of brain atrophy and increase the risk of silent brain infarctions. The metabolic disturbances caused by diabetes further exacerbate the vulnerability of the brain's vascular system.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">High cholesterol</h3>



<p>High cholesterol is another shared risk factor that contributes to dangerous changes in both the heart and brain. Cholesterol buildup can lead to the formation of plaques in the arteries, narrowing them and making it harder for blood to flow through. </p>



<p>This can decrease the blood supply to the brain, leading to conditions like lacunes and contributing to the overall risk of stroke and dementia. Managing cholesterol levels is thus crucial for preventing both heart disease and the associated brain changes.</p>



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



<p>Smoking is a well-established risk factor for a multitude of health problems, including heart disease and brain changes. </p>



<p>The chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis (the buildup of fatty substances in the arteries) and an increased risk of blood clots. </p>



<p>This damage can significantly impair blood flow to the brain, contributing to the development of silent brain infarctions, cerebral small vessel disease, and other vascular changes. </p>



<p>Quitting smoking is one of the most effective steps individuals can take to reduce their risk of these conditions.</p>



<p>Dr. Zhou explains, "It’s possible that a gradual decline in cardiac output in some patients with heart disease might affect how much blood is reaching the brain tissue, contributing to vascular changes and cognitive dysfunction in these patients." Tiny blood clots forming in the heart and traveling to the brain are another possible culprit.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treating-brain-changes-linked-to-heart-disease">Treating brain changes linked to heart disease</h2>



<p>“It can make them more susceptible to the risk of brain bleeds from medications commonly used to treat or prevent blood clots – intracranial hemorrhage is a life-threatening complication with no proven treatment and a survival rate of less than 50 percent,” warns Dr. Zhou.</p>



<p>This leaves doctors in a dilemma – the very medications that protect the heart could be dangerous to the brain.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-link-in-heart-and-brain-changes">Addressing the link in heart and brain changes</h2>



<p>The study emphasizes the urgent need to understand exactly how and why these brain changes are triggered by heart disease. </p>



<p>More importantly, can we find ways to safely manage the risks in these patients?</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>MRI Scans:</strong>&nbsp;Should it be routine to perform MRI scans on people with heart disease before starting blood thinners? Right now, it's a question that needs answering.</li>
</ul>



<p>Your heart and brain are an intricately linked duo. If you have heart disease, understanding how it affects your brain health is crucial for making safe, informed treatment decisions. </p>



<p>The full study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000209204" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Neurology</em></a>.</p>



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



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

Hidden brain changes discovered in people with heart disease

Did you know that heart problems can secretly cause changes...

Quantum,Mechanics,And,Energy,Subatomic,Levels,Concept,Quark-,Gluon,Quantum

<p>In what could turn out to be a revolutionary discovery, a team of scientists has presented the first experimental evidence of collective excitations with spin called chiral graviton modes (CGMs) in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-entanglement-discovery-is-a-revolutionary-step-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> material.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-searching-for-gravitons-in-the-quantum-realm">Searching for gravitons in the quantum realm</h2>



<p>CGMs appear to be similar to gravitons, hypothetical elementary particles that are believed to give rise to gravity, one of the fundamental forces in the universe. </p>



<p>Despite their crucial role in our understanding of the universe, gravitons have yet to be discovered, and the ultimate cause of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/gravity-measured-in-the-quantum-realm-for-the-first-time-ever/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gravity</a> remains a mystery. </p>



<p>The ability to study graviton-like particles in the lab could help <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radical-new-theory-finally-unites-gravity-spacetime-and-the-quantum-realm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bridge the gap</a> between quantum mechanics and Einstein's theories of relativity, solving a major dilemma in physics and expanding our understanding of the universe.</p>



<p>"Our experiment marks the first experimental substantiation of this concept of gravitons, posited by pioneering works in quantum gravity since the 1930s, in a condensed matter system," said Lingjie Du, a former Columbia postdoc and senior author on the paper.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-cgms-in-fractional-quantum-hall-effect-liquids">Discovering CGMs in fractional quantum hall effect liquids</h2>



<p>The team discovered the particle in a type of condensed matter called a fractional quantum Hall effect (FQHE) liquid. </p>



<p>These liquids are systems of strongly interacting electrons that occur in two dimensions at high magnetic fields and low temperatures. </p>



<p>They can be theoretically described using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-realm-controlled-at-room-temperature-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> geometry, which are emerging mathematical concepts that apply to the minute physical distances at which quantum mechanics influences physical phenomena.</p>



<p>Electrons in an FQHE are subject to a quantum metric that had been predicted to give rise to CGMs in response to light. </p>



<p>However, in the decade since the quantum metric theory was first proposed for FQHEs, limited experimental techniques existed to test its predictions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-on-a-legacy-of-quantum-research">Building on a legacy of quantum research</h2>



<p>The late Columbia physicist Aron Pinczuk spent much of his career studying the mysteries of FQHE liquids and developing experimental tools to probe such complex <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traditional-computers-verify-errors-made-by-quantum-computers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum systems</a>. </p>



<p>His lab and its alumni across the globe have continued his legacy, including article authors Ziyu Liu, Lingjie Du, and Ursula Wurstbauer.</p>



<p>"Aron pioneered the approach of studying exotic phases of matter, including emergent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bridging-quantum-classical-physics-nanoparticle-entanglement/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum phases</a> in solid state nanosystems, by the low-lying collective excitation spectra that are their unique fingerprints," commented Wurstbauer, a co-author on the current work. </p>



<p>"I am truly happy that his last genius proposal and research idea was so successful and is now published in <em>Nature</em>. However, it is sad that he cannot celebrate it with us. He always put a strong focus on the people behind the results," he concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-techniques-to-reveal-cgm-properties">Adapting techniques to reveal CGM properties</h2>



<p>One of the techniques Pinczuk established was called low-temperature resonant inelastic scattering, which measures how light particles, or photons, scatter when they hit a material, thus revealing the material's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lasers-make-quantum-materials-reveal-their-hidden-properties/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underlying properties</a>. </p>



<p>Liu and his co-authors adapted the technique to use circularly polarized light, in which the photons have a particular spin. </p>



<p>When the polarized photons interact with a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-ping-pong-game-played-by-two-atoms-controlling-photons/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particle</a> like a CGM that also spins, the sign of the photons' spin will change in response in a more distinctive way than if they were interacting with other types of modes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-international-collaboration-in-search-for-quantum-gravitons">International collaboration in search for quantum gravitons</h2>



<p>The new paper was an international collaboration. Using samples prepared by Pinczuk's long-time collaborators at Princeton, Liu and Columbia physicist Cory Dean completed a series of measurements at Columbia. </p>



<p>They then sent the sample for experiments in low-temperature optical equipment that Du spent over three years building in his new lab in China.</p>



<p>They observed physical properties consistent with those predicted by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secure-quantum-communication-one-step-closer-reality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> geometry for CGMs, including their spin-2 nature, characteristic energy gaps between its ground and excited states, and dependence on so-called filling factors, which relate the number of electrons in the system to its magnetic field.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-subfields-of-physics-with-cgms">Connecting subfields of physics with CGMs</h2>



<p>CGMs share those characteristics with gravitons, a still-undiscovered particle predicted to play a critical role in gravity. </p>



<p>Both CGMs and gravitons are the result of quantized metric fluctuations, explained Liu, in which the fabric of spacetime is randomly pulled and stretched in different directions.</p>



<p>The theory behind the team's results can therefore potentially connect two subfields of physics: high energy physics, which operates across the largest scales of the universe, and condensed matter physics, which studies materials and the atomic and electronic interactions that give them their unique properties.</p>



<p>"For a long time, there was this mystery about how long wavelength collective modes, like CGMs, could be probed in experiments," Liu explained. </p>



<p>"We provide experimental evidence that supports quantum geometry predictions," said Liu. "I think Aron would be very proud to see this extension of his techniques and new understanding of a system he had studied for a long time," he concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-continuing-the-search-for-cgms-and-gravitons-in-quantum-materials">Continuing the search for CGMs and gravitons in quantum materials</h2>



<p>The groundbreaking discovery of chiral graviton modes (CGMs) in a semiconducting material opens up new avenues for exploring the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-gravity-search-south-pole-neutrinos-experiment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mysteries of gravity</a>. </p>



<p>This discovery could eventually, in essence, bridge the gap between quantum mechanics and Einstein's theories of relativity. </p>



<p>By adapting established techniques and collaborating across international borders, this team of brilliant scientists has provided the first experimental evidence supporting quantum geometry predictions. </p>



<p>This study honors the legacy of the late physicist Aron Pinczuk and paves the way for future research that could potentially connect high energy physics and condensed matter physics, leading to a deeper understanding of the universe and its fundamental forces.</p>



<p>The research, conducted by experts from <a href="https://www.columbia.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Columbia</a>, <a href="https://www.nju.edu.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanjing University</a>, <a href="https://www.princeton.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Princeton</a>, and the <a href="https://www.uni-muenster.de/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Munster</a>, was recently published in the prestigious journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07201-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a></em>.</p>



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



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

Graviton-like particle observed in quantum material for the first time

In what could turn out to be a revolutionary discovery,...

<p>During holiday celebrations, pets face unfamiliar dangers due to changes in their environment, the introduction of hazardous decorations and plants, and the presence of foods that may be toxic to them. Just ahead of the holiday, <a href="https://manypets.com/us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ManyPets</a> is sharing some useful tips for keeping pets safe around common Easter treats. </p>



<p>Dr. Jennifer Coates is a writer, editor, and consultant for ManyPets with experience in veterinary medicine and animal welfare. She has answered the most popular questions for cat and dog owners in the United States.</p>



<p>According to Dr. Coates, the main <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/easter-holiday-brings-more-than-double-the-risk-of-dog-poisonings/">hazards</a> to pets this weekend include eating chocolate, spring flowers, and candy wrappers - which can all result in serious illness.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-chocolate-toxic-to-dogs-and-cats-and-how-much-will-affect-them">Is chocolate toxic to dogs and cats, and how much will affect them?</h3>



<p>“Chocolate can be very dangerous, particularly to dogs, since they’re more likely to eat a lot of it. Determining how much chocolate is unsafe depends on the pet’s size and the type of chocolate they eat. Dark and unsweetened chocolate contains higher concentrations of toxic methylxanthines (theobromine and caffeine) than milk chocolate,” said Dr. Coates.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-should-pet-owners-do-if-their-dog-or-cat-eats-chocolate">What should pet owners do if their dog or cat eats chocolate?</h3>



<p><em>“</em>If your dog or cat has eaten chocolate, a chocolate toxicity calculator can help you determine how dangerous the situation might be. Potential problems can include hyperactivity, diarrhea, vomiting, a fast heart rate, abnormal heart rhythms, seizures, pancreatitis, and even death. It’s always safest to talk to a veterinarian if you have any concerns about your pet’s well-being.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-flowers-or-plants-are-toxic-to-pets">What flowers or plants are toxic to pets?</h3>



<p>“Many flowers and plants can be toxic to pets (the ASPCA maintains a great list), but Easter lilies are a big concern this time of year. Easter lilies are incredibly toxic to cats and can quickly lead to kidney failure and death. All parts of the plant are toxic, including the leaves, flowers, pollen, and even the water inside the vase.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-any-other-hazards-pet-owners-need-to-be-aware-of-over-the-easter-period">Any other hazards pet owners need to be aware of over the Easter period?</h3>



<p>“Almost any type of Easter treat can pose a risk to pets,” said Dr. Coates. “For example, candy wrappers can lead to obstructions if they are swallowed. Xylitol, a sugar substitute, is very dangerous to dogs because it can lead to potentially fatal low blood sugar levels and liver damage. Make sure to keep Easter treats away from pets.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-holiday-dangers-to-pets-nbsp">More about holiday dangers to pets&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Here are some specific dangers that pet owners should be aware of during various holidays:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-toxic-foods">Toxic foods</h3>



<p>Holidays often involve feasting on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/which-thanksgiving-leftovers-are-safe-to-give-your-dog/">foods</a> that are toxic to pets. Chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and foods containing the sweetener xylitol are particularly harmful and can lead to serious health issues or even death. Even foods that aren't toxic can cause gastrointestinal upset or pancreatitis due to their high fat content.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decorations">Decorations</h3>



<p>Many holiday decorations pose risks to pets. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/toxic-trees-and-dangling-dangers-how-to-keep-cats-safe-this-christmas/">Ornaments</a> can be swallowed, causing intestinal blockage or even toxicity. Tinsel and ribbons, if ingested, can lead to severe gastrointestinal issues that might require surgery. Lights and electrical cords offer a risk of electrical shock if chewed.</p>



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



<p>Common holiday plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, and Christmas cactus are toxic to pets and can cause various symptoms from mild irritation to severe gastrointestinal or cardiovascular problems.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-and-anxiety">Stress and anxiety</h3>



<p>The increased activity, noise, and presence of strangers during holiday celebrations can be stressful and anxiety-inducing for pets, leading to behavior problems or escape attempts.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cold-weather">Cold weather</h3>



<p>For holidays occurring during colder months, pets can be at risk of cold-related issues such as hypothermia or frostbite, especially if they're not accustomed to the cold or are left outside for too long.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fireworks-and-noise">Fireworks and noise</h3>



<p>Holidays like the Fourth of July or New Year's Eve that traditionally involve fireworks or loud celebrations can be terrifying for pets, leading to anxiety, stress, or even escape attempts as they try to flee from the noise.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lost-pets">Lost pets</h3>



<p>With guests entering and leaving, pets have more opportunities to slip out unnoticed. Holidays see an increase in lost pet reports, so it's crucial to ensure pets are properly identified with tags and microchips.</p>



<p>To mitigate these risks, pet owners should:</p>



<ul>
<li>Keep harmful foods, plants, and decorations out of pets' reach.</li>



<li>Create a quiet, comfortable retreat where pets can escape the hustle and bustle.</li>



<li>Monitor pets closely around potential hazards and when guests are present.</li>



<li>Keep pets indoors and in a safe, escape-proof area during fireworks or loud celebrations.</li>



<li>Ensure pets have proper identification in case they get lost.</li>
</ul>



<p>Being proactive and vigilant can help ensure that holiday celebrations are safe and enjoyable for both pets and their owners.</p>



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



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

Holiday dangers: Keeping your pets safe on Easter weekend

During holiday celebrations, pets face unfamiliar dangers due to changes...

<p>Don't be fooled by its name. The grassland earless dragon isn't a mythical beast. It's a real, albeit peculiar, little <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lizards-rely-on-trees-so-what-happens-when-they-disappear/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lizard</a> fighting for its life in Australia's wild grasslands. </p>



<p>These unique creatures are only found amongst Australia's grasslands, making them an irreplaceable piece of the country's natural heritage.</p>



<p>Here's the alarming part: the wild grassland earless dragon population is on the verge of collapse. A few years ago, there were hundreds; now, just 11. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dwindling-population-of-the-earless-dragon">Dwindling population of the earless dragon</h2>



<p>In some parts of Australia, they haven't been seen for decades. While 11 might seem like a small number on its own, for a wild population, it's a critical warning sign. </p>



<p>This puts the grassland earless dragon on the brink of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/its-too-late-the-6th-mass-extinction-is-here/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction</a>. It's time to unravel the mystery behind their disappearance.</p>



<p>Earless dragons face a barrage of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/endangered-lizard-faces-an-unexpected-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">threats</a>. Australia's unique wildlife, home to an incredible variety of reptiles, is battling climate change, invasive species, and habitat destruction. </p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/australian-bushfires-triggered-rare-multi-year-la-nina/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">devastating bushfires</a> of 2019 ravaged millions of hectares, wreaking havoc on delicate ecosystems. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-needs">Environmental needs</h3>



<p>These diminutive lizards, known for their distinct lack of external ears and relatively small size, require specific habitat conditions to thrive. </p>



<p>They inhabit temperate grasslands, a biome increasingly rare due to human activities such as urban development and agricultural expansion. </p>



<p>The precise environmental requirements of the earless dragons make them particularly vulnerable to the broad-scale environmental changes that are occurring across Australia. </p>



<p>Their struggle is emblematic of the broader crisis impacting Australia's biodiversity, highlighting the urgent need for concerted conservation efforts.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breeding-programs-for-earless-dragons">Breeding programs for earless dragons</h2>



<p>Dedicated scientists, like Professor Bernd Gruber at the <a href="https://www.canberra.edu.au" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Canberra</a>, are in a race against time. Gruber told the AFP recently, "If we properly manage their conservation, we can bring them back." </p>



<p>But it's not easy. Breeding programs are our best hope, but the path is fraught with unique challenges.</p>



<p>Breeding programs offer a glimmer of hope. While they are essential, lizard matchmaking is no simple affair. </p>



<p>Female earless dragons are picky, and scientists need to introduce them to several potential partners before finding a good match. </p>



<p>Moreover, researchers need to conduct genetic analysis to ensure healthy, diverse offspring, preventing the problems that can arise in populations with limited genetic variety.</p>



<p>Professor Gruber's current project involves caring for over 20 newly hatched dragons. "There is a sense of hope looking over them," he shares. It's a delicate and painstaking process, but every single hatchling represents a step towards rebuilding the population.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-fragile-ecosystem">A fragile ecosystem</h2>



<p>Grassland earless dragons aren't just cute; they play a vital role in their ecosystem. Experts think they help manage insect populations and aerate the soil. Imagine how different Australia's grasslands would look without them.</p>



<p>The fight isn't just about saving one species "They are highly specialized to live in their habitat but they will not adapt quickly to change," explains Peta Bulling of the <a href="https://www.acf.org.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Australian Conservation Foundation</a>. We need to protect their homes to give these reintroduced lizards a fighting chance.</p>



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



<p>As discussed above, earless dragons, belonging to the genus <em>Tympanocryptis</em>, are a group of lizards that are highly unique to Australia, particularly noted for their absence of external ear openings. </p>



<p>These reptiles, often camouflaged against the grasslands they inhabit, have evolved a fascinating set of characteristics that distinguish them from other lizard species.</p>



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



<p>An adult earless dragon can grow to about 15 centimeters in length, roughly the size of a US dollar bill, making them relatively small compared to other reptilian fauna. </p>



<p>Their bodies are slender, and their coloration, typically a blend of light brown with distinctive white stripes or patterns along their sides, helps them blend into their grassy surroundings. </p>



<p>This camouflage is crucial for avoiding predators and successful hunting of their insect prey.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Habitat and distribution</h3>



<p>Earless dragons prefer temperate grassland habitats, a biome that has faced significant reduction across Australia due to urban expansion, agriculture, and other forms of land use change. </p>



<p>These habitats are critical not only for the dragons but also for a host of other species, including various invertebrates and plants, forming a complex ecosystem that has existed for thousands of years.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Diet and behavior</h3>



<p>Primarily insectivorous, earless dragons feed on a variety of insects and arthropods found within their grassland homes. </p>



<p>Their hunting strategy is largely opportunistic, relying on their ability to remain unseen until the perfect moment to strike. </p>



<p>The breeding behavior of these dragons is fascinating, involving complex rituals that ensure the selection of the strongest and most genetically diverse mates.</p>



<p>There's still hope for the earless dragon, but urgent action is needed. Whether it's supporting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/texas-project-aims-to-save-horned-lizards/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a>, reducing our environmental impact, or simply spreading awareness, each of us can play a small part in ensuring these unique lizards get a second chance. </p>



<p>Let's make sure their story doesn't end in extinction.</p>



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



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

Saving the last 11 wild 'earless dragons' remaining on Earth

Don't be fooled by its name. The grassland earless dragon...

<p>The vast expanse of space surrounding our solar system is far from empty. It's a dynamic region where the Sun's influence creates a giant, protective bubble known as the heliosphere. </p>



<p>This bubble is permeated by a steady stream of charged particles emitted by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/for-the-very-first-time-a-spacecraft-has-touched-the-sun/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sun</a>, known as the solar wind. It also encompasses the Sun's vast magnetic field, extending as the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/voyager-2-approaches-interstellar-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interplanetary</a> magnetic field. </p>



<p>Together, they form a protective shield around our solar system, guarding it against the intense radiation that fills our galaxy. Yet, the precise size, shape, and boundaries of this crucial shield remain shrouded in mystery.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-cosmic-environment-through-heliosphere">Understanding cosmic environment through heliosphere</h2>



<p>To grasp the environment within our solar system and our place within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uma3-u1-faintest-star-system-found-orbiting-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way galaxy</a>, we must decode heliosphere. Scientists have developed various models to describe its possible shape. </p>



<p>Some envision it as a sphere, others as a stretched teardrop, while some suggest a more complex crescent form. However, without venturing beyond its boundaries, a definitive answer remains elusive.</p>



<p>An interstellar probe, a spacecraft specifically designed for an unprecedented journey, would offer the unique opportunity to observe the heliosphere from the outside in. </p>



<p>This external perspective would unlock the secrets of its true shape and properties, transforming our understanding of our cosmic neighborhood.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-charting-the-ideal-trajectory">Charting the ideal trajectory</h2>



<p>An analysis conducted by researchers at the <a href="https://umich.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> aims to guide the optimal flight path for such a mission. Sarah A. Spitzer, a researcher at U-M, emphasizes the critical need for this perspective. </p>



<p>"Without such a mission, we lack the perspective necessary to fully comprehend the heliosphere and its boundaries," Spitzer explained.</p>



<p>Understanding the heliosphere's true form is essential for protecting future space travelers and life on Earth from harmful radiation. </p>



<p>As Marc Kornbleuth, a scientist from <a href="https://www.bu.edu">Boston University</a>, notes: “We want to know how the heliosphere protects astronauts and life in general from harmful galactic radiation, but that is difficult to do when we still don't even know the shape of our shield."</p>



<p>While many mission concepts focus on a path aimed towards the "nose" of the heliosphere (the region where it meets interstellar space head-on), the University of Michigan study suggests a potentially more insightful trajectory. </p>



<p>The research suggests aiming the interstellar probe towards the side and specifically the tail region of the heliosphere.</p>



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



<p>The tail end of the heliosphere is a particularly intriguing region. Theoretical models suggest that this is where material from interstellar space can directly interact with the heliosphere. </p>



<p>This zone of dynamic interaction could enable an interstellar probe to collect samples of the interstellar medium in its untouched state. This offers a rare opportunity to peek into the space that lies beyond our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-delicate-balance-of-our-solar-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar system</a>.</p>



<p>To maximize the scientific return of this ambitious mission, the study outlines specific measurements an interstellar probe should prioritize. </p>



<p>These include detailed mapping of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-solar-wind-which-creates-beautiful-auroras-on-earth-is-now-less-mysterious/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solar wind</a>, its magnetic fields, and the distribution of various particles and elements. </p>



<p>These observations would be key to building more accurate models of the heliosphere.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-voyager-to-a-new-generation">From voyager to a new generation</h2>



<p>Launched in 1977, the Voyager missions offered crucial initial discoveries about the heliosphere. However, their age and the technology onboard limit what they can achieve today.</p>



<p>In contrast, a specialized interstellar probe would be tailor-made for such explorations. It would be equipped to venture farther, gather more comprehensive data, and function over a significantly extended period.</p>



<p>"This analysis took a lot of persistence. It started small and grew into a great resource for the community," highlights Susan Lepri, a professor at U-M, who participated in the study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A journey of persistence and collaboration</h2>



<p>This research, described as a product of persistence of researchers at U-M, underscores the collaborative effort of over 1,000 scientists. </p>



<p>The mission concept discussed envisages a 50-year journey intended to travel around 400 astronomical units, potentially extending to 1,000 astronomical units. </p>



<p>This venture promises an unprecedented glimpse of our heliosphere and the interstellar medium beyond, marking a monumental stride in our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ongoing-solar-storms-spectacular-auroras-and-radio-blackouts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic exploration</a>.</p>



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



<p>The sun, our life-giving star, constantly emits a stream of charged particles known as the solar wind. As the solar wind rushes outward from the sun, it creates a bubble-like region in space called the heliosphere. </p>



<p>As discussed previously in this article, this cosmic shield protects Earth and other planets in our solar system from the harmful effects of galactic cosmic rays.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-wind-shapes-the-heliosphere">Solar wind shapes the heliosphere</h3>



<p>The solar wind, composed primarily of protons and electrons, travels at speeds ranging from 300 to 800 kilometers per second. </p>



<p>As it expands into space, the solar wind pushes against the interstellar medium, the gas and dust that exist between stars. This interaction shapes the heliosphere, creating a boundary known as the heliopause.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heliosphere-s-structure">Heliosphere's structure</h3>



<p>The heliosphere consists of several distinct regions:</p>



<p><strong>The termination shock</strong>: This is the point where the solar wind slows down to subsonic speeds as it encounters the interstellar medium.</p>



<p><strong>The heliosheath</strong>: This region lies between the termination shock and the heliopause, where the solar wind becomes turbulent and compressed.</p>



<p><strong>The heliopause</strong>: The outer boundary of the heliosphere, where the solar wind's pressure balances with that of the interstellar medium.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-earth-from-cosmic-rays">Protecting Earth from cosmic rays</h3>



<p>One of the heliosphere's crucial roles is to shield Earth from galactic cosmic rays. These high-energy particles originate from distant supernovae and other energetic events in the universe. </p>



<p>The heliosphere deflects and attenuates these cosmic rays, reducing their impact on Earth's atmosphere and life on our planet.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-heliosphere">Studying the heliosphere</h3>



<p>Scientists use various spacecraft and instruments to study the heliosphere and its interactions with the interstellar medium. </p>



<p>NASA's Voyager 1 and 2 probes, launched in 1977, have crossed the heliopause and entered interstellar space, providing valuable data about the heliosphere's boundaries and the conditions beyond.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heliosphere-s-role-in-earth-s-habitability">Heliosphere's role in Earth's habitability</h3>



<p>The heliosphere's protective nature plays a vital role in maintaining Earth's habitability. By shielding our planet from the full intensity of galactic cosmic rays, the heliosphere helps to preserve Earth's atmosphere and protect life from the harmful effects of high-energy radiation.</p>



<p>As we continue to study the heliosphere and its interactions with the interstellar medium, we gain a deeper understanding of the cosmic environment that surrounds our solar system and the importance of this cosmic shield for life on Earth.</p>



<p>The full study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fspas.2023.1163519/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Frontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences</em></a>.</p>



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



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How space probes could safely leave the comfort of our heliosphere

The vast expanse of space surrounding our solar system is...

Milky,Way,Arc,And,Stars,Over,Mountains

<p>A team of astronomers have made an astonishing discovery -- UMa3/U1 -- the faintest star system ever observed orbiting our galaxy, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-stars-shakti-shiva-shaped-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>. </p>



<p>Dubbed Ursa Major III / UNIONS 1 (UMa3/U1), it's an incredibly dim and ancient group of stars located 30,000 light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major (which contains the Big Dipper).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uma3-u1-hiding-in-plain-sight">UMa3/U1 hiding in plain sight</h2>



<p>According to the research team from <a href="https://www.yale.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale University</a> and the <a href="https://www.uvic.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Victoria</a>, UMa3/U1 was invisible for so long because it's incredibly faint and small. We're talking a mere 60 stars spanning just about 10 light-years across. </p>



<p>For comparison, a single light-year is nearly 6 trillion miles. Even with powerful telescopes, it would be like trying to spot a handful of dust motes floating by a spotlight. </p>



<p>Despite its small size, this little cosmic neighbor is actually quite close, a mere 30,000 light-years from Earth. It resides in the constellation Ursa Major (which contains the Big Dipper).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-uma3-u1-a-galaxy-or-a-star-cluster">Is UMa3/U1 a galaxy or a star cluster?</h2>



<p>The key question astronomers have is this: Is UMa3/U1 a true dwarf galaxy, or is it a star cluster? The answer might come down to a mysterious, invisible substance – <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/large-amount-of-dark-matter-may-be-missing-from-the-milky-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dark matter</a>.</p>



<p>Galaxies are thought to be held together by the gravitational pull of dark matter – a type of matter we can't see directly but that scientists know exists due to its gravitational effects. </p>



<p>On the other hand, gravity alone usually binds together the stars in star clusters, often without the assistance of dark matter. </p>



<p>Yet, the surprising spread of UMa3/U1's stars hasn't led to their disintegration by the Milky Way's gravitational forces. Could the dark matter be the unseen glue holding this cosmic relic together? </p>



<p>"The object is so puny that its long-term survival is very surprising," explains Will Cerny, a Yale University graduate student involved in the study. "One might have expected the harsh tidal forces from the Milky Way's disk to have ripped the system apart by now, leaving no observable remnant."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uma3-u1-as-a-galaxy">UMa3/U1 as a galaxy</h2>



<p>Firstly, UMa3/U1 might be a genuine dwarf galaxy, an entity with an incredibly low amount of visible matter compared to what we typically observe in such <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stars-at-the-edge-of-our-milky-way-galaxy-travel-more-slowly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxies</a>.&nbsp; </p>



<p>This characteristic makes it an intriguing subject of study, as it suggests that UMa3/U1 could be predominantly composed of dark matter.&nbsp; </p>



<p>If UMa3/U1 is indeed a dwarf galaxy rich in dark matter, it could provide invaluable insights into the role of dark matter in galaxy formation and evolution.&nbsp; </p>



<p>It could support the theory that many such dark matter-dominated galaxies exist but remain hidden from our view, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of the universe's structure.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-star-cluster">Star cluster</h2>



<p>Alternatively, UMa3/U1 could be a star cluster on the brink of disintegration. This perspective portrays UMa3/U1 as a cosmic anomaly, a cluster of stars that has stayed bound together for billions of years and is now possibly in its final stages of disintegration due to the Milky Way's gravitational forces.</p>



<p>Observing such a disintegration in real-time would offer a unique opportunity to study the life cycle of star clusters and the dynamic processes involved in their evolution and dissolution.</p>



<p>If scenario one turns out to be true, it would be thrilling evidence supporting our current leading theory of how the universe works – the Lambda Cold Dark Matter (LCDM) model. </p>



<p>This model suggests that when our galaxy formed, it pulled in hundreds of smaller satellite systems that should still orbit it today.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uma3-u1-cosmic-ghost-hunting">UMa3/U1 cosmic ghost hunting</h2>



<p>"Whether future observations confirm or reject that this system contains a large amount of dark matter, we're very excited by the possibility that this object could be the tip of the iceberg -- that it could be the first example of a new class of extremely faint stellar systems that have eluded detection until now," says Cerny.</p>



<p>The team used powerful telescopes in Hawai'i, like the <a href="https://www.keckobservatory.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">W. M. Keck Observatory</a> and the Canada-France-Hawai'i Telescope (<a href="https://www.cfht.hawaii.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CFHT</a>), to zero in on this celestial mystery. </p>



<p>Now, more observations are needed to reveal the true nature of UMa3/U1.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-our-milky-way-galaxy">More about our Milky Way galaxy</h2>



<p>Our home, the Milky Way, is a majestic spiral galaxy spanning over 100,000 light-years across. It contains an estimated 200 to 400 billion stars, including our own Sun.</p>



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



<p>The Milky Way boasts a distinct structure, with spiral arms extending from a central bulge. These arms, named Perseus, Sagittarius, Centaurus, and Cygnus, contain a mix of young, hot stars and older, cooler ones. The galaxy's disk also houses vast clouds of gas and dust, serving as the birthplaces for new stars.</p>



<p>At the heart of the Milky Way lies a supermassive black hole named <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/powerful-magnetic-fields-may-be-key-features-of-black-holes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sagittarius A*</a>. This cosmic behemoth, with a mass of over 4 million Suns, exerts a powerful gravitational influence on the surrounding stars and gas. </p>



<p>Astronomers study this region intensely to better understand the nature of black holes and their role in galaxy evolution.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-our-solar-system-s-neighborhood">Our solar system's neighborhood</h3>



<p>The Sun resides in a relatively quiet corner of the Milky Way, about 27,000 light-years from the galactic center. The solar system is part of a local stellar neighborhood called the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Local Bubble</a>, a region of space characterized by a lower density of gas and dust compared to other parts of the galaxy.</p>



<p>The Milky Way contains a diverse array of stars, ranging from ancient, metal-poor stars in the halo to younger, metal-rich stars in the disk. Astronomers classify these stars into different populations based on their age, chemical composition, and location within the galaxy. Studying these populations helps us understand the galaxy's formation and evolution.</p>



<p>The Milky Way is not alone in the cosmic void. It is part of the Local Group, a collection of over 50 galaxies bound together by gravity. </p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/ngc-604-is-home-to-hundreds-of-hot-massive-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andromeda galaxy</a>, our largest galactic neighbor, is on a collision course with the Milky Way. In about 4.5 billion years, these two galaxies will merge, reshaping the cosmic landscape.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fascination-of-the-unknown">Fascination of the unknown</h2>



<p>"This discovery may challenge our understanding of galaxy formation and perhaps even the definition of a 'galaxy'," explains Simon Smith, an astronomy graduate student at the University of Victoria and lead researcher on the study.</p>



<p>Whether a dwarf galaxy or a star cluster, UMa3/U1 reminds us of the vast secrets hiding in the cosmic darkness. And the excitement of discovery? Well, that shines as bright as ever.</p>



<p>The study is published in&nbsp;<em><a href="https://doi.org/10.3847/1538-4357/ad0d9f" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal</a></em> and&nbsp;<a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2311.10134" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ArXiv.org</a>.</p>



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



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<p>‌</p>

New star system discovered orbiting our Milky Way galaxy

A team of astronomers have made an astonishing discovery --...

<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=lHHxOej4QfE
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Researchers found a correlation between Alzheimer's disease and traffic pollution.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-invisible-threat-in-urban-air"><strong>Invisible threat in urban air</strong></h2>



<p>City dwellers face an unseen danger with every breath. New findings from Emory University researchers suggest that fine particulate matter from <a href="http://earth.com/news/traffic-related-air-pollution-might-increase-alzheimers-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vehicle emissions may significantly elevate the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease</a>. The study examined brain tissue samples from 224 individuals who had confirmed diagnoses and volunteered their brains for scientific research.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disturbing-connections-emerge"><strong>Disturbing connections emerge</strong></h2>



<p>Scientists analyzed neuritic plaques — protein clusters that characterize Alzheimer's — while mapping each participant's exposure to PM2.5 particles based on residential location and surrounding traffic density. The correlation proved more alarming than anticipated. Individuals experiencing higher pollution exposure showed nearly double the likelihood of elevated plaque accumulation in brain tissue.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-matters"><strong>Timing matters</strong></h2>



<p>The research team discovered that pollution exposure during the final year before death demonstrated the strongest association with brain changes. This timeline suggests relatively rapid impacts from environmental toxins on neural health. The connection remained robust even after accounting for various demographic and health factors.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-vulnerability-patterns"><strong>Genetic vulnerability patterns</strong></h2>



<p>Perhaps most concerning, people lacking the APOE gene—which naturally predisposes individuals to Alzheimer's — exhibited more than twice the susceptibility to pollution-related brain damage. Study author Dr. Anke Huels noted this indicates environmental elements like air contamination could trigger the disease in cases where hereditary factors don't explain.</p>



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



<p>These findings, published in <em><a href="https://www.neurology.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neurology</a></em>, underscore the critical importance of air quality regulations in urban planning. The research suggests that implementing stricter emission controls and promoting alternative transportation could serve as powerful tools in Alzheimer's prevention.</p>



<p>As cities worldwide grapple with growing traffic congestion and aging populations, this study highlights an urgent need for comprehensive approaches to environmental health that protect both our lungs and our minds.</p>



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHHxOej4QfE Researchers found a correlation between Alzheimer's disease and traffic...

<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=2E0mn5mTvhQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hidden-waters-beneath-ancient-craters">Hidden waters beneath ancient craters</h2>



<p>Scientists have made a startling discovery that challenges everything we thought we knew about <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/saturn-moon-mimas-has-remarkably-young-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saturn's moon Mimas</a>. Beneath the heavily cratered surface that earned it the nickname "Death Star" lies a global ocean that formed just 5 to 15 million years ago—a remarkably young age by cosmic standards.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cassini-data-reveals-orbital-secrets">Cassini data reveals orbital secrets</h2>



<p>The discovery, led by Dr. Valéry Lainey of the <a href="https://observatoiredeparis.psl.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Observatoire de Paris</a>, emerged from careful analysis of <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>'s Cassini spacecraft data. By studying subtle irregularities in Mimas's orbit around Saturn, researchers detected the gravitational signature of liquid water hidden 20 to 30 kilometers beneath the moon's icy shell.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unlikely-ocean-world">An unlikely ocean world</h2>



<p>At only 400 kilometers in diameter, Mimas seemed like the least likely candidate to harbor a subsurface ocean. Unlike other ocean moons such as Europa and Enceladus, which show clear surface signs of internal activity, Mimas displays no obvious hints of the liquid water beneath its ancient, crater-scarred exterior.</p>



<p>"Mimas is a small moon, and its heavily cratered surface gave no hint of the hidden ocean beneath," explained Dr. Nick Cooper from <a href="https://www.qmul.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Queen Mary University of London</a>, a study co-author.</p>



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



<p>The ocean's recent formation makes Mimas a prime target for studying how oceans develop and potentially support life. This discovery adds another member to the exclusive club of ocean worlds in our solar system, each offering unique insights into the conditions necessary for habitability.</p>



<p>The research, published in <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a></em> journal, demonstrates how advanced orbital analysis can reveal hidden features of celestial bodies, opening new possibilities for understanding ocean formation throughout the cosmos.</p>



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Scientists discover unexpected young ocean on Saturn's cratered moon Mimas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ 'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that...

<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=K0DuSr87SHY
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">57 million-year ice age mystery solved by Australian scientists.</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-earth-became-a-frozen-wasteland">When Earth became a frozen wasteland</h2>



<p>Imagine Earth as a giant snowball, frozen solid from the North Pole to the equator. This wasn't the plot of a science fiction movie – it was our planet's reality 700 million years ago during an extreme ice age that has puzzled scientists for decades.</p>



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



<p>Australian researchers from the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sydney</a> have finally cracked one of geology's greatest mysteries: what caused the Sturtian glaciation and why it persisted for an unprecedented 57 million years. This period occurred long before dinosaurs roamed the Earth, when no complex plants or multicellular animals existed.</p>



<p>Dr. Adriana Dutkiewicz, the study's lead author, describes a world completely unlike today's climate. "Imagine the Earth almost completely frozen over," she explained. "The planet was blanketed in ice from poles to equator, and temperatures plunged."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-combination-of-climate-factors">The combination of climate factors</h2>



<p>The research team discovered that this massive freeze resulted from a "double whammy" of geological events. First, plate tectonic activity reduced volcanic carbon dioxide emissions to historically low levels. Volcanic activity typically releases CO2 into the atmosphere, creating a greenhouse effect that keeps Earth warm.</p>



<p>Simultaneously, weathering of volcanic rocks in what is now Canada actively absorbed atmospheric CO2, further reducing greenhouse gas concentrations. When atmospheric carbon dioxide levels dropped below 200 parts per million – less than half of today's levels – glaciation engulfed the entire planet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modern-climate-implications">Modern climate implications</h2>



<p>Published in the journal <em><a href="https://pubs.geoscienceworld.org/geology" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geology</a></em>, this research provides crucial insights into Earth's climate system. While geological climate changes occur over millions of years, the study emphasizes that human-induced climate change is happening at a pace ten times faster than previously observed natural changes, highlighting the urgent need to understand our planet's delicate climate balance.</p>



<p>—–</p>



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0DuSr87SHY 57 million-year ice age mystery solved by Australian scientists....

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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>



<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...

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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

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