<p>Think about sipping a sugar-free drink that still tastes sweet. Many of us have puzzled over this illusion. Now scientists at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden reveal how our brains transform smell into taste.</p>



<p>The research, published in <em>Nature Communications</em>, shows that the brain encodes certain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/your-dna-may-explain-why-you-love-or-hate-certain-smells/">aromas</a> as if they were flavors themselves.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-flavor-and-smell-form">How flavor and smell form</h2>



<p>Flavor is more than taste. It comes from a combination of gustatory signals and retronasal odors, those aromas drifting from the mouth to the nose. </p>



<p>The insula, known as the taste cortex, was found to integrate these signals earlier than expected. This means the brain does not wait for higher regions to combine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-your-brain-decides-what-smells-good-or-bad/">taste</a> and smell but merges them immediately into one experience.</p>



<p>Study lead author Putu Agus Khorisantono is a researcher in the Department of Clinical Neuroscience at <a href="https://ki.se/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Karolinska Institutet</a>. </p>



<p>“We saw that the taste cortex reacts to taste-associated aromas as if they were real tastes,” explained Khorisantono. "The finding provides a possible explanation for why we sometimes experience taste from smell alone, for example in flavored waters." </p>



<p>"This underscores how strongly odors and tastes work together to make food pleasurable, potentially inducing craving and encouraging overeating of certain foods.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-brain-links-flavor-and-smell">How the brain links flavor and smell</h2>



<p>The researchers tested 25 adults. First, participants learned to identify sweet and savory flavors through combinations of taste and smell. </p>



<p>Later, inside a scanner, they received either tasteless odors or odorless tastes. Algorithms trained on brain responses to actual tastes were then tested on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/radio-waves-can-boost-our-sense-of-smell-without-contact/">odors</a> alone. The surprising outcome was that odours mimicked the brain’s taste responses.</p>



<p>The study revealed that sweet or savory odors activated the same neural patterns as the corresponding tastes.</p>



<p>This overlap was strongest in the ventral anterior insula, a region connected to olfactory areas. Importantly, the researchers ruled out simple pleasure ratings as the cause. Instead, the brain genuinely encoded odors in a way that matched taste perception.</p>



<p>“This shows that the brain does not process taste and smell separately, but rather creates a joint representation of the flavor experience in the taste cortex,” said senior researcher Janina Seubert. </p>



<p>“This mechanism may be relevant for how our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-sense-of-smell-and-different-odors-can-influence-how-we-see-colors/">taste</a> preferences and eating habits are formed and influenced.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-flavor-and-smell-matter">Why flavor and smell matter</h2>



<p>The findings highlight the insula as a hub for flavor integration. They also reveal that taste representations can drift over time. Neural patterns of taste identity were less stable across days, echoing results seen in rodent studies. </p>



<p>This suggests that our flavor experiences are dynamic, adapting with exposure, context, and internal states such as hunger, mood, or attention. </p>



<p>A flavor that feels vivid and distinct one day may blur or even shift the next, depending on what the brain has recently learned or anticipated.</p>



<p>This fluid quality points to a system designed not for rigid coding but for flexibility, helping us adjust to changing diets, environments, and cultural influences on taste.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-flavor-identity-and-reward-value">Flavor identity and reward value</h2>



<p>The study also observed cross-modal decoding in other regions, such as the orbitofrontal cortex, which is known to encode the value of food. </p>



<p>The researchers propose that the insula forms a shared flavor identity, while the orbitofrontal cortex evaluates its reward value. This dual process could explain why certain odors make foods irresistible and shape long-term eating habits.</p>



<p>The team now wants to test external smells, or orthonasal odors. These are the scents we encounter before eating, like walking past bread or pastries.</p>



<p>“We want to find out whether the activation pattern in the brain’s taste cortex changes from salty to sweet when we walk from the cheese aisle to the pastries in the supermarket,” said Khorisantono. “If so, this could have a significant impact on the foods we choose to consume.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-flavor-and-smell-affect-health">How flavor and smell affect health</h2>



<p>This research reframes flavor as a deeply integrated brain process. Smell and taste are not separate streams but overlapping codes that can trick the brain into tasting without tasting.</p>



<p>Beyond solving everyday mysteries like sweet-tasting flavored water, the work raises questions about cravings, overeating, and how our diets are shaped by environments filled with powerful aromas. </p>



<p>The research also suggests that everyday exposure to food-related smells in supermarkets, restaurants, offices, and even advertising spaces may influence us more than we realize.</p>



<p>These aromas may prime the brain to expect certain tastes, creating a loop where scent alone can nudge us toward food choices we might not otherwise make. </p>



<p>Over time, this subtle influence could shape eating habits, nutritional patterns, and even health outcomes, revealing how deeply our sensory world directs behavior long before conscious decisions take place.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-63803-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.</em></p>



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How smell tricks the brain into tasting flavors

Think about sipping a sugar-free drink that still tastes sweet. Many of us have puzzled over this illusion. Now scientists at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden reveal how our brains transform smell into taste. The research, published in Nature Communications, shows that the brain encodes certain aromas as if they were flavors themselves. How flavor and smell form Flavor is more than taste. It comes from a combination of gustatory signals and retronasal odors, those aromas drifting from the mouth to the nose. The insula, known as the...

<p>Most people are fond of talking and sometimes, that talk is about other people. This "gossip" is often seen as just chatter or guilty pleasure. Scientists have been wondering for ages why gossip sticks around. Now, researchers from <a href="https://umd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maryland</a> and <a href="https://www.stanford.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a> have some answers.</p>



<p>Gossiping, which involves exchange of personal information about people who are not present, can offer a "social benefit," as stated by the experts. They found it is like a secret weapon against people who try to cheat or take advantage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-designing-a-computer-simulation">Designing a computer simulation</h2>



<p>The researchers designed a simulation to understand how gossip influences real-world behavior. They created "agents" in the simulation who could cooperate, compete, and even spread rumors about each other.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By adjusting the rules of this virtual world, like how easily information spreads, the researchers could observe how gossip affected <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bonobos-cooperation-challenges-beliefs-about-human-evolution/">cooperation</a>. This allowed them to explore the link between communication, reputation, and social interaction.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gossiping-as-an-evolutionary-advantage">Gossiping as an evolutionary advantage</h2>



<p>The study proposed that gossip isn't just harmless chatter, but a tool with evolutionary advantages. People who gossip gain an edge over those who don't, due to several key reasons.</p>



<p>First, gossip discourages bad <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pandemic-restrictions-had-a-lasting-effect-on-behavior-patterns/">behavior</a>. Knowing their actions might be spread through gossip, people are less likely to act selfishly. Since cooperation is generally valued in groups, gossiping helps keep people on their toes and encourages good behavior.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“If other people are going to be on their best behavior because they know that you gossip, then they're more likely to cooperate with you on things,” explained study co-author Dana Nau.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The fact that you gossip ends up providing a benefit to you as a gossiper. That then inspires others to gossip because they can see that it provides a reward."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gossipers-form-more-social-connections">Gossipers form more social connections</h2>



<p>More than just chatty individuals, "social butterflies" often excel at gossiping due to their extensive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secret-social-lives-pandas-have-their-own-version-of-facebook/">social networks</a>. These connections grant access to information, support, and opportunities to build new relationships. By gossiping, they further solidify their standing as influential figures in their communities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This elevated social status brings not only a sense of belonging but also opens doors to new circles and collaborative opportunities. In short, these individuals leverage their connections and communication skills to navigate and thrive within their social environments.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gossiping-is-a-part-of-cooperation">Gossiping is a part of cooperation</h2>



<p>Humans are naturally inclined to talk about each other's behavior, and this chatter can surprisingly promote cooperation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>When people share positive experiences about helpful actions, it sets a social norm and encourages others to act similarly to maintain their reputation. As cooperation becomes more prevalent, the conversation around it naturally increases, helping manage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-symbiotic-relationships-evolve-between-species/">relationships</a> and ensure everything runs smoothly.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“When people are interested in knowing if someone is a good person to interact with, if they can get information from gossiping - assuming the information is honest - that can be a very useful thing to have,” explained Dr. Nau.</p>



<p>The increased communication itself further fuels cooperation, creating a self-reinforcing cycle. This dynamic has woven gossip into the fabric of human societies across cultures and time periods, solidifying its role as a tool for social connection and collaboration.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In essence, our tendency to talk about each other, both good and bad, has evolved alongside our desire to work together, creating a unique symbiosis that shapes our social landscape.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Positive and negative gossip are both important because gossip plays an important role in sharing information about people’s reputations,” said study first author Professor Xinyue Pan.</p>



<p>“Once people have this information, cooperative people can find other good people to cooperate with, and this is actually beneficial for the group. So gossiping is not always a bad thing. It can be a positive thing.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gossiping-should-have-boundaries">Gossiping should have boundaries</h2>



<p>While the study mainly focuses on the positive aspects of gossip, the experts acknowledge the possibility of its downsides.</p>



<p>Gossip can be used to spread lies or half-truths to gain an advantage over someone or hurt them. This can lead to arguments, misunderstandings, and a breakdown of trust within groups.</p>



<p>It can also be used to exclude people from social circles, making existing social hierarchies stronger and making those excluded feel isolated and marginalized.</p>



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



<p>Humans have always used gossip to navigate the social world. Sharing information about others helps us build bonds, trust, and cooperation. However, gossip can be used for good or bad. It's important to be mindful of its potential downsides.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Spreading rumors, causing conflict, or excluding others are negative consequences of using gossip irresponsibly. To maintain trust and healthy social connections, we need to ensure gossip stays truthful and avoids malicious intent.</p>



<p>The key lies in promoting positive communication practices. When we gossip with honesty, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sports-coaches-are-more-effective-when-they-lead-with-empathy/">empathy</a>, and respect, we create a culture of transparency and understanding. This helps us reap the benefits of gossip while minimizing the potential harm.</p>



<p>So, the next time you hear someone whispering, remember, it might be more important than you think!</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2214160121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America</em></a>.</p>



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Gossiping may actually be beneficial to society

Most people are fond of talking and sometimes, that talk...

<p>The air we breathe, the weather we play in, the world we know – it's all changing fast. Unfortunately, kids are the first to feel it. Climate change is the culprit behind this rapid shift in the wellbeing of children. </p>



<p>To understand how it impacts children's health, researchers at the <a href="https://www.uwa.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Western Australia</a> embarked on an innovative study.</p>



<p>The team took a massive data dive, scouring scientific databases for connections between any type of climate change and any kind of health concern in children under 18.</p>



<p>“We’ve crunched the data to show how certain types of future weather events will worsen particular medical issues in the population,” explained study co-author Professor Corey Bradshaw of Flinders University.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-children-and-climate-change">Studying children and climate change</h2>



<p>The study reveals a worrying 60% surge in the risk of preterm birth associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ticks-are-highly-resilient-to-extreme-temperatures/">temperature extremes</a>. Preterm birth, occurring before 37 weeks, is not only a leading cause of infant death, but also carries lifelong health and developmental repercussions for children.</p>



<p>This isn't just a personal tragedy, it's a societal one. Premature births translate to higher healthcare costs, longer hospital stays, and a cascade of challenges for families and communities.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-air-pollution-nbsp">Impact of air pollution&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Children are more vulnerable to air pollution from climate change than adults. Their developing bodies, especially their lungs, are affected by the harmful effects of air pollution. This study shines a light on the invisible dangers lurking in car fumes, factory smoke, and even dust, revealing a devastating impact on young lives.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nitrogen-oxides">Nitrogen oxides</h3>



<p>Nitrogen oxides, spewed by vehicles and factories, top the list of culprits. These invisible gases inflame delicate lung airways and worsen asthma. For children, this translates to stunted growth and a lifetime of breathing difficulties.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-smoke-and-fine-dust">Smoke and fine dust</h3>



<p>The study also exposes the silent threat of fine dust, a ubiquitous enemy that triggers infections, exacerbates asthma, and throws a wrench into lung development. Smoke from burning materials, another common foe, adds to the misery, causing bronchitis and further hindering young lungs.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifetime-of-health-challenges-nbsp">Lifetime of health challenges&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The message is clear: air pollution, in all its forms, is a silent menace for children. It's not just about coughs and wheezes; it's about stolen breaths, stunted growth, and a lifetime of health challenges. We can't afford to ignore this invisible enemy any longer.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ticks-are-highly-resilient-to-extreme-temperatures/">Extreme temperatures</a>, both hot and cold, pose a significant threat to children's health, according to the study. Hospital and emergency room admissions for children spiked during these periods, which were instigated by climate change. Tragically, extreme temperatures are also claiming the lives of children. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-immediate-action-is-needed">Immediate action is needed</h2>



<p>Moreover, children from low-income families face a heightened risk of illness due to temperature fluctuations. This exposes them to greater vulnerability in the face of climate change's impacts on health.</p>



<p>Children, particularly those in poverty-stricken nations, bear the brunt of climate change's burden. The study reveals a troubling research gap in poorer regions, suggesting that the true impact on children's health might be significantly worse than what we currently know.</p>



<p>Climate change acts as a health inequity amplifier, jeopardizing the well-being of young lives. The researchers are calling for immediate global action to mitigate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-outrun-the-flood-risks-of-climate-change/">climate change</a> and prioritize support for vulnerable children.</p>



<p>“Our research recognizes some important areas where children are most vulnerable to climate change,” said Dr. Lewis Weeda, who led the study. “The development of public health policies to counter these climate-related diseases, alongside efforts to reduce anthropogenic climate change, must be addressed if we are to protect current and future children.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-un-sustainable-development-goals-nbsp">UN Sustainable Development Goals&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The research makes it clear: we absolutely need to put the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the top of our list if we want to protect children from the adverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fear-and-anxiety-the-mental-health-impacts-of-wildfires/">health effects</a> of climate change.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These goals, created by the UN, were designed to make the world a better place by 2030, a world without <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/satellite-imagery-used-to-map-global-poverty/">poverty</a> that is filled with peace and good things for everyone.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To make this big dream come true, they created a plan with 17 connected goals that tackle the hardest problems everyone faces.</p>



<p>Some of the SDGs include:</p>



<ul>
<li>Zero Hunger<strong>:</strong> Ending hunger, achieving food security, and promoting sustainable agriculture are crucial because climate change disrupts food production and availability, directly impacting children's nutrition and health.</li>



<li>Good Health and Well-being<strong>:</strong> Guaranteeing healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages is essential, as research confirms the detrimental effects of climate change on children's health, including increased respiratory illnesses, higher mortality rates, and more hospitalizations.</li>



<li>Clean Water and Sanitation<strong>:</strong> Ensuring access to clean water and sustainable sanitation for all is paramount for preventing diseases worsened by climate change.</li>



<li>Decent Work and Economic Growth<strong>:</strong> Sustainable, inclusive economic growth, full employment, and decent work for all are key to providing the infrastructure and healthcare services needed to mitigate the impacts of climate change on children.</li>



<li>Sustainable Cities and Communities<strong>:</strong> Building inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and human settlements is crucial. Urban planning and infrastructure development that consider climate change impacts can protect children in urban areas.</li>



<li>Responsible Consumption and Production<strong>:</strong> Achieving sustainable consumption and production patterns is vital. This highlights the need to reduce the environmental footprint of human activities that contribute to climate change.</li>



<li>Climate Action<strong>: </strong>Taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts is essential. This directly addresses the need to protect vulnerable populations, including children, from the effects of climate change.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-new-insights-on-children-and-climate-change">Critical new insights on children and climate change</h2>



<p>“We identified many direct links between climate change and child health, the strongest of which was a 60% increased risk on average of preterm birth from exposure to temperature extremes. Respiratory diseases, mortality, and morbidity, among others, were also made worse by climate change,” noted Professor Bradshaw.</p>



<p>“The effects of different air pollutants on children’s health outcomes were smaller compared to temperature effects, but most pollutants still had an effect of some type, so the news is concerning. The children’s health issues we identified depend on weather extremes - cold extremes give rise to respiratory diseases, while drought and extreme rainfall can result in stunted growth for a population.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-climate-change-s-impact-on-children">Broader implications of climate change's impact on children</h2>



<p>The study emphasizes the urgent need to understand the far-reaching effects of climate change on children's health. It seeks to measure the extent of this impact, pinpoint areas most vulnerable to climate-related illnesses, and establish a framework for identifying risks specific to different populations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Given that climate influences childhood disease, social and financial costs will continue to rise as climate change progresses, placing increasing pressure on families and health services. For example, asthma has been estimated to cost as much as US$1.5 billion due to a single fire season in the future, while another study estimated the costs of a single case of childhood asthma at up to US$23,573 in the coming years,” said Professor Bradshaw.</p>



<p>The analysis forms a crucial step in tackling this ecological and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-climate-change-and-biodiversity-loss-are-one-indivisible-global-health-crisis/">health crisis</a>. By providing evidence-based insights, it paves the way for effective interventions and policies to safeguard child health amidst a changing climate.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170944" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science of the Total Environment</em></a>.</p>



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Climate change takes a major toll on children's health

The air we breathe, the weather we play in, the...

<p>Researchers at <a href="https://duke.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duke University</a>'s Department of Biomedical Engineering have made a significant breakthrough in understanding how antibiotic resistance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/river-plastics-may-harbor-antimicrobial-resistance-genes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genes</a> spread among pathogens and contribute to the development of resistance against new antibiotics. </p>



<p>This critical research, led by Professor Lingchong You and the team working in his lab, has identified a direct correlation between the exposure of bacteria to antibiotics and the increase in identical copies of resistance genes within their genomes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-antibiotic-resistant-bacteria">Studying antibiotic resistant bacteria</h2>



<p>The study reveals that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-bacteria-has-an-ally-lurking-in-our-guts/">bacteria</a> in environments with high antibiotic usage tend to possess numerous copies of antibiotic resistance genes. </p>



<p>These genes are often associated with transposons, or "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-fungus-has-become-more-deadly-thanks-to-jumping-genes/">jumping genes</a>," that facilitate their transfer across different bacterial strains. </p>



<p>This not only enables the rapid dissemination of resistance traits but also sets the stage for the evolutionary adaptation of bacteria to resist new antibiotics.</p>



<p>Previously, the You lab demonstrated that 25% of bacterial pathogens could spread antibiotic resistance through horizontal gene transfer.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, they found that the presence of antibiotics did not accelerate this gene transfer, suggesting an alternate mechanism at play for the proliferation of resistance genes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rapid-evolutionary-adaptation-nbsp">Rapid evolutionary adaptation&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Rohan Maddamsetti, a postdoctoral fellow in You's lab, likened the duplication of certain genes to a "fingerprint" that indicates rapid evolutionary adaptation under antibiotic pressure.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"We hypothesized that bacteria under attack from antibiotics would often have multiple copies of protective resistance genes, but until recently we didn’t have the technology to find the smoking gun,” he said.</p>



<p>Advancements in long-read genome sequencing over the past five years have now made it possible to identify these genetic repetitions, revealing that bacteria from environments with prevalent antibiotic use - such as in humans and livestock - are more likely to have these gene duplications.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In contrast, such duplications are seldom found in bacteria from natural settings like wild plants, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amazon-animals-will-suffer-as-the-rainforest-turns-into-savanna/">animals</a>, soil, and water.</p>



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



<p>The study also highlighted that the duplication of resistance genes is even more pronounced in clinical settings, where antibiotic use is common.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This suggests that the overuse of antibiotics not only promotes the spread of existing resistance but also enhances the bacteria's capability to evolve resistance against newly developed treatments.</p>



<p>"Constantly creating copies of genes for resistance to penicillin, for example, may be the first step toward being able to break down a new kind of drug. It gives evolution more rolls of the dice to find a special mutation," Maddamsetti explained.</p>



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



<p>Professor You underscored the broader implications of the findings, critiquing the prevailing approach to the antibiotic resistance crisis, which often focuses on developing new drugs. He argued for more efficient and effective use of antibiotics, especially in <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/global-land-for-agriculture">agriculture</a>, where the majority of antibiotics in the U.S. are utilized.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"The majority of antibiotics used in the United States are not used on patients, they’re used in agriculture," You remarked, highlighting the significant role the livestock industry plays in perpetuating antibiotic resistance.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“So this is an especially important message for the livestock industry, which is a major driver of why antibiotic resistance is always out there and becoming more serious.”</p>



<p>The research not only advances our understanding of bacterial adaptation but also calls for a reevaluation of antibiotic usage practices to combat the growing threat of antibiotic resistance more effectively.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-bacterial-antibiotic-resistance">More about bacterial antibiotic resistance</h2>



<p>As discussed above, bacterial antibiotic resistance represents one of the most daunting challenges in the medical field today. It occurs when bacteria evolve mechanisms to resist the effects of antibiotics, making standard treatments ineffective and infections harder to control. </p>



<p>This resistance emerges from the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in both human medicine and agriculture.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-bacteria-develop-resistance">How bacteria develop resistance</h3>



<p>Bacteria develop resistance through several mechanisms. One common method is through genetic mutations. These spontaneous changes in their DNA allow some bacteria to survive exposure to antibiotics, which they then pass on to their offspring. </p>



<p>Additionally, bacteria can acquire resistance genes from other bacteria through horizontal gene transfer, a process that allows them to share genetic material, including resistance genes, even between different species.</p>



<p>The impact of antibiotic resistance on public health is profound. It leads to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and an increased mortality rate. Infections that were once easily treatable, such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and gonorrhea, are becoming more difficult to manage and cure. This resistance crisis threatens to undermine decades of progress in fighting bacterial infections.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-combating-antibiotic-resistance">Combating antibiotic resistance</h3>



<p>One of the key strategies to combat antibiotic resistance is the implementation of antibiotic stewardship programs. These programs aim to optimize the use of antibiotics in hospitals and clinics, ensuring they are prescribed only when necessary and in the right dosages. </p>



<p>By doing so, they help minimize the unnecessary exposure of bacteria to antibiotics, slowing down the development of resistance.</p>



<p>There's a pressing need for ongoing research and development of new antibiotics and alternative treatments. </p>



<p>As many pharmaceutical companies have deprioritized antibiotic development due to low financial returns, governments and private sectors are encouraged to invest in research to discover novel antibiotics and develop alternative therapies, such as bacteriophage therapy and the use of probiotics.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-awareness-and-education">Public awareness and education</h3>



<p>Increasing public awareness and education about the proper use of antibiotics is crucial. Patients and healthcare providers must understand the importance of using antibiotics responsibly. </p>



<p>This includes not pressuring healthcare providers for antibiotics for viral infections, such as the common cold or flu, against which antibiotics are ineffective.</p>



<p>In summary, bacterial antibiotic resistance poses a significant threat to global health, with the potential to turn treatable infections into deadly diseases. It requires a concerted effort from governments, the healthcare sector, and the public to tackle this issue. </p>



<p>Through stewardship programs, research, and education, we can slow the spread of resistance and protect the efficacy of antibiotics for future generations.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-45638-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Bacteria in livestock are major drivers of human antibiotic resistance

Researchers at Duke University's Department of Biomedical Engineering have made...

<p>In a significant technological breakthrough, scientists have unveiled a pioneering technology, named PSiFI, capable of recognizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-can-decipher-every-possible-facial-expression-outperforming-therapists/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human emotions</a> in real-time. </p>



<p>This development from Professor Jiyun Kim and his team from the Department of Material Science and Engineering at <a href="https://www.unist.ac.kr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNIST</a> is set to transform a variety of sectors by integrating emotion-based services into next-generation wearable devices, enhancing how we interact with technology on a profound level.</p>



<p>Historically, accurately discerning emotional states has been a formidable challenge due to the inherently abstract and multifaceted nature of human emotions, moods, and feelings. </p>



<p>Addressing this challenge, Professor Kim's team has introduced a cutting-edge multi-modal human emotion recognition system. This system uniquely merges verbal and non-verbal cues, offering a holistic approach to understanding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/27-different-human-emotions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human emotions</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psifi-the-heart-of-emotion-recognition">PSiFI: The heart of emotion recognition</h2>



<p>At the heart of this innovative system is the Personalized Skin-Integrated Facial Interface (PSiFI) system. Distinguished by its self-sufficiency, simplicity, flexibility, and transparency, the PSiFI system incorporates a <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/emotion-recognition-system_illustration_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bidirectional triboelectric strain and vibration sensor</a>. </p>



<p>This sensor is pivotal in concurrently capturing and processing both verbal and non-verbal expressions. Coupled with a sophisticated data processing circuit, the system facilitates seamless wireless data transfer, enabling the instantaneous recognition of emotions.</p>



<p>Empowered by machine learning algorithms, the technology showcases remarkable efficiency in recognizing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/goats-can-recognize-human-emotions-in-the-sound-of-a-voice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human emotions</a> accurately and promptly, even in scenarios where individuals wear masks. </p>



<p>Its practical application has already been demonstrated in a digital concierge service within a virtual reality (VR) environment, underscoring its versatility and potential for widespread adoption.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-psifi-ai-technology">Science behind the PSiFI AI technology</h2>



<p>The foundation of this PSiFI AI technology lies in the phenomenon of friction charging, which generates power through the separation of charges upon friction, eliminating the need for external power sources or intricate measurement devices. </p>



<p>Professor Kim elaborated on the development process, highlighting the use of a semi-curing technique for creating a transparent conductor crucial for the friction charging electrodes. </p>



<p>“Based on these technologies, we have developed a skin-integrated face interface (PSiFI) system that can be customized for individuals," Kim explained.</p>



<p>A personalized mask, crafted using a multi-angle shooting technique, ensures the system's adaptability, combining flexibility, elasticity, and transparency seamlessly.</p>



<p>Jin Pyo Lee, the lead author of the study, expressed optimism about the system's capability to facilitate real-time <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-deprivation-has-a-big-impact-on-emotional-well-being/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotion</a> recognition with minimal learning steps and without the necessity for complex equipment. </p>



<p>“With this developed system, it is possible to implement real-time emotion recognition with just a few learning steps and without complex measurement equipment," Lee said. </p>



<p>"This opens up possibilities for portable emotion recognition devices and next-generation emotion-based digital platform services in the future.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-possibilities-and-applications">Future possibilities and applications</h2>



<p>This breakthrough heralds the advent of portable emotion recognition devices and paves the way for future emotion-based digital platforms.</p>



<p>The team's experiments in real-time <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/should-robots-be-programmed-to-have-human-consciousness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotion</a> recognition, involving the collection of multimodal data like facial muscle deformation and voice, demonstrated high accuracy with minimal training. The PSiFI system's wireless, customizable nature promises easy wearability and convenience.</p>



<p>Expanding its application to VR environments, the system acts as a digital concierge in various settings such as smart homes, private movie theaters, and smart offices. </p>



<p>By identifying individual emotions, it offers personalized recommendations for music, movies, and books, showcasing its potential to create more intuitive and personalized user experiences.</p>



<p>Professor Kim emphasized the crucial role of Human-Machine Interface (HMI) devices in facilitating effective interactions between humans and machines. </p>



<p>“For effective interaction between humans and machines, human-machine interface (HMI) devices must be capable of collecting diverse data types and handling complex integrated information," says Kim. </p>



<p>"This study exemplifies the potential of using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-womens-tears-decreases-aggression-in-men/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotions</a>, which are complex forms of human information, in next-generation wearable systems.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-psifi-steps-harmonizing-humanity-and-technology">Next PSiFI steps: Harmonizing humanity and technology</h2>



<p>In summary, Professor Jiyun Kim and his team at UNIST have propelled us into a new era of technological intimacy with their pioneering emotion recognition technology. </p>



<p>By seamlessly integrating verbal and non-verbal cues through the innovative PSiFI system, they've unlocked the potential for machines to understand human emotions in real-time, making it possible for more empathetic and personalized digital interactions. </p>



<p>This fascinating technology marks a significant leap in human-machine interfaces and opens the door to a future where technology can adapt to our emotional states, enhancing our daily lives in ways we've only begun to imagine. </p>



<p>As we stand on the brink of this exciting frontier, the possibilities for deepening our connection with the digital world are limitless, promising a future where technology truly understands us.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-44673-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a></em>.</p>



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Wearable "PSiFI" AI tech device interprets emotions of any human nearby

In a significant technological breakthrough, scientists have unveiled a pioneering...

<p>Every decision, big or small, good or bad, starts somewhere in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-learning-how-the-brain-stores-new-information/">brain</a>. But how does it reach that final conclusion?</p>



<p>Deep within the brain lies a decision-making powerhouse: the posterior parietal cortex (PPC). It's not just a control center, but a network of neurons. <a href="https://www.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard</a> researchers have unlocked some of the secrets of how these neurons work together, giving us a better understanding of how we make decisions. </p>



<p>“How the brain is organized to help make decisions is a big, fundamental question, and the neural circuitry - how neurons are connected to one another - in brain areas that are important for decision-making isn’t well understood,” said&nbsp;</p>



<p>Study co-author Wei-Chung Allen Lee is an associate professor of Neurobiology in the <a href="https://hms.harvard.edu/research/blavatnik-institute" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Blavatnik Institute</a> at Harvard Medical School. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-observation-in-a-maze">Observation in a maze</h2>



<p>The researchers studied decision-making processes in the brains of mice by observing their behavior in a maze. Trained to turn left or right depending on visual cues, the mice provided behavioral data on how they make decisions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To peek inside the brains (specifically PPC) of these decision-makers, the researchers used a technique called 2-photon calcium imaging. This allowed them to observe activity patterns of individual neurons in the PPC, essentially witnessing how different brain cells "voted" during each choice.</p>



<p>Next, the team analyzed how the neurons were "wired" together, uncovering excitatory connections that boost activity and inhibitory connections that dampen it.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decision-making-inside-the-mice-brain">Decision-making inside the mice brain</h2>



<p>The researchers found that when a mouse explores a maze, it chooses a direction beforehand, like turning left. This activates groups of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-impacts-the-brain-through-inflammation-not-infection/">nerve cells</a> in its brain that process that decision. The active groups become stronger, making the chosen path seem more attractive the next time.</p>



<p>Other nerve cells, groups that favored a different option like turning right, were silenced. This helps the mouse stick to its chosen path.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“As the animal is expressing one choice, the wiring of the neuronal circuit may help stabilize that choice by suppressing other choices,” said Dr. Lee. “This could be a mechanism that helps an animal maintain a decision and prevents ‘changes of mind’.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-brain-makes-clear-decisions">How the brain makes clear decisions</h2>



<p>The study suggests a clear pattern in the PPC. When you decide something, like what to eat for dinner, two teams of brain cells battle it out. These are “excitatory” and “inhibitory” neurons.</p>



<p>When you start leaning towards one option, say pasta, the PPC sends out signals to reinforce that choice. The signals are amplified by excitatory <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-cell-origins-traced-to-creatures-that-lived-800-million-years-ago/">neurons</a>. They excite and activate other neurons, making your chosen meal seem more appealing and solidifying your decision in your mind.</p>



<p>But the PPC doesn't just boost your preferred choice. It also actively suppresses signals related to options that are not “pasta.” This suppression comes from inhibitory neurons. They slow down or even stop other neurons from sending messages related to the alternative meal, preventing confusion and helping maintain balance in the decision-making process. This ensures that only one meal wins out, ultimately leading to a clear and focused decision.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-decision-making-process">The decision-making process</h2>



<p>Several factors influence which neurons get activated during decision-making:</p>



<p>What you sense<strong>: </strong>Your eyes, ears, skin, and nose send information about your surroundings and yourself to your brain. This information, like seeing paths in a maze, triggers specific neurons related to navigation and choosing.</p>



<p>What you've learned<strong>: </strong>Past experiences and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rewriting-negative-memories-by-activating-positive-ones/">memories</a> shape how your brain reacts to situations. Neurons involved in remembering and connecting things might activate based on what you've learned in similar situations before.</p>



<p>What you need to do<strong>: </strong>What you're trying to achieve influences which neurons get involved. Neurons related to planning, taking action, and getting rewards might light up depending on your goal and the likely outcomes of your choices.</p>



<p>How you're feeling<strong>: </strong>Interestingly, hunger, thirst, tiredness, or excitement can all affect your brain activity and decisions. Neurons that manage these internal states might activate to guide your choices towards fulfilling your needs.</p>



<p>How neurons talk<strong>:</strong> Brain cells don't work alone. They send signals to each other, exciting or calming each other down. This creates groups of active neurons representing different parts of the decision-making process.</p>



<p>So, when you're making a choice, your brain has a lot to consider. This complex interplay determines which neurons activate and ultimately guides your decision.</p>



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



<p>The study shows brain cells in mice activate in a specific order, and those representing "wrong" choices get suppressed as the decision becomes clear. Understanding this process in mice helps us understand how decisions "solidify" in humans.</p>



<p>By learning how animals make decisions, we can learn more about disorders like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diet-plays-a-major-role-in-preventing-alzheimers-disease/">Alzheimer's</a>, schizophrenia, and addiction, where people struggle to make good choices. This knowledge might lead to better treatments for these conditions.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07088-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a>.</p>



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Brain cells communicate to support decision-making

Every decision, big or small, good or bad, starts somewhere...

<p>Across Southeast Asia's lush rice fields, a hidden drama unfolds. Cultivated rice, our staple food, faces a persistent challenger: the "weedy rice," a wild relative that thrives where it shouldn't.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A study from <a href="https://wustl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Washington University in St. Louis</a> has cracked the code of this rebellious rice. By studying the DNA of various rice types, they've uncovered the secrets behind its resilience. The findings revealed how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-capture-plant-communication-on-video/">plants</a> adapt and survive, even when we try to control them.</p>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-the-study">Importance of the study</h1>



<p>Weedy rice, the wild cousin of cultivated rice, has been growing alongside its domesticated relative for so long that it's picked up some unwanted traits, making it a tough competitor in rice fields.</p>



<p>Understanding how weedy rice evolved is not just interesting science, it's crucial for farmers. By knowing its tricks, they can develop better ways to control it and protect their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tackling-malnutrition-new-satellite-can-monitor-nutrients-in-crops-from-space/">crops</a>, ensuring food security for millions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-types-of-rice">Types of rice</h2>



<p>Rice has a fascinating family tree. There are three main types:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wild-rice">Wild rice</h3>



<p>Think of wild rice as the original, untamed versions of the rice we eat. They thrive naturally in marshes and rivers, unlike their farm-grown cousins. These are the ancestors of cultivated rice, boasting diverse genetic traits and contributing to natural balance. While not directly harvested, they offer valuable genes for improving future crops.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-weedy-rice">Weedy rice</h3>



<p>Weedy rice is the unwanted guest. This "rebel" cousin shares similar roots with cultivated rice but wreaks havoc in farm fields. They steal resources from the good rice, making it grow worse and giving less food. Its resilience, with easy-spreading seeds and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-herbicides-linked-to-diminished-brain-functioning-in-young-adults/">herbicide</a> resistance, adds to the frustration.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cultivated-rice">Cultivated rice</h3>



<p>Cultivated rice is the rice we all know and love, carefully grown for us to eat. Through thousands of years of careful selection, farmers nurtured desired traits like higher yields, specific grain types, and reduced seed shattering. From fluffy white rice to nutty basmati, it's a staple food for half the world.</p>



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



<p>The researchers investigated the genetic interactions between wild rice, cultivated rice, and weedy rice in Southeast Asia. They collected 217 samples from the region, combining new data with existing information.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Farmers in mainland Southeast Asia - including Thailand, Myanmar and Vietnam - and most of the island regions of Indonesia, Philippines and parts of Malaysia grow a wide range of lowland and upland rice varieties,” said B.K. Song, a Malaysian weedy rice researcher and corresponding author of the study. “These include modern elite varieties and traditional landraces.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>DNA was extracted and sequenced from the rice types to create a detailed picture of their genetic makeup. The researchers then analyzed the data in several steps. They built a "family tree" to understand how the different rice types are related and also looked for signs of mixing between wild and cultivated rice, and how this might have contributed to the evolution of weedy rice.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This involved searching for specific regions in the rice genome that showed evidence of past adaptations and selection.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-similarities-and-variations-nbsp">Similarities and variations&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The analysis showed that weedy rice shares a lot of its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-can-now-collect-human-dna-from-water-air-and-basically-everywhere/">DNA</a> with wild rice, suggesting recent "breeding" between the two. This explains why weedy rice is so good at competing with crops.</p>



<p>The researchers found specific wild rice genes in weedy rice that help it thrive in harsh environments and spread easily, like genes that make seeds fall off the plant easily.</p>



<p>The study also revealed that weedy rice in different regions has adapted in unique ways. Some have picked up genes from wild rice that make them resistant to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-technology-can-detect-plant-diseases-from-above/">diseases</a>, while others have genes that help them survive in stressful conditions.</p>



<p>The research paints a picture of a complex relationship between cultivated rice, wild rice, and weedy rice. Their genes get mixed up, creating new and sometimes troublesome forms of rice.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-weedy-rice-thrive">How the weedy rice thrive</h2>



<p>The study reveals that these weeds haven't followed a single path, but rather evolved in unique ways depending on their environment and human farming practices.</p>



<p>The researchers found that weedy rice has undergone intense selection, leading to specific regions in their DNA linked to beneficial traits like faster growth and stress resistance. These adaptations have allowed them to thrive in different conditions than their domesticated cousins.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-new-insights-nbsp">Critical new insights&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Even more interesting, the researchers found genes associated with weedy lifestyles, including resistance to diseases and harsh weather. This explains their ability to survive and spread, becoming major agricultural headaches.</p>



<p>But this knowledge can be used as a weapon. By understanding how these weeds tick, scientists can develop strategies to fight back. This could involve breeding rice varieties less susceptible to invasion or even creating targeted weed control methods that exploit the weaknesses of specific weedy rice populations.</p>



<p>“Our study highlights how adaptive introgression - in other words, gene flow - from wild species can contribute to agricultural weed evolution,” said Olsen. “We’ve known that this process occurs for some time. But this is the first study to provide a detailed genomic characterization of the phenomenon.</p>



<p>“It’s important to recognize that crop domestication is an incremental evolutionary process, and not a single-step event,” he said. “Likewise, I think we run the risk of oversimplifying the picture by categorizing every rice plant as wild or weed or crop. The true dynamics are much more complex.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-for-agriculture-and-conservation">Benefits for agriculture and conservation</h2>



<p>Weed management<strong>:</strong> Studying weedy rice's DNA and how it evolves can help farmers fight it better. This could involve creating crops resistant to specific weed killers or planting different crops in rotation to reduce its spread.</p>



<p>Conserving wild rice<strong>:</strong> By understanding how weedy rice adapts and spreads, scientists can better protect wild rice species. This could prevent the loss of valuable genetic diversity for both wild and cultivated rice.</p>



<p>Improving rice crops<strong>: </strong>Studying how weedy rice survives harsh conditions can help breeders develop new rice varieties that are more resistant to drought, disease, and poor soil.</p>



<p>Keeping ecosystems healthy<strong>: </strong>Understanding how weedy rice interacts with other plants and its environment can help farmers manage their land sustainably. This includes maintaining healthy soil and protecting other species that share the same habitat.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-45447-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Communications</em></a>.</p>



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DNA study reveals secrets of weedy rice invasion

Across Southeast Asia's lush rice fields, a hidden drama unfolds....

<p>Feeling like there's never enough time to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-may-actually-be-the-fountain-of-youth/">exercise</a>? You're not alone. Between work, family, and everything else, fitting in regular workouts can be tough.&nbsp;</p>



<p>But what if there's a secret weapon? Some people go all-out on the weekends, cramming their exercise into one or two intense sessions. Is it possible that this "weekend warrior" approach could be as effective as daily workouts for weight loss? </p>



<p>A new study from the <a href="https://www.imm.ac.cn/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences</a> investigates this surprising idea, challenging traditional exercise advice and offering hope for busy individuals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-widespread-issue-of-obesity-nbsp">Widespread issue of obesity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study draws attention to the widespread problem of obesity, impacting a staggering 650 million adults globally. This excess <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-health-benefits-of-weight-loss-persist-for-years/">weight</a> brings about significant health challenges like diabetes and heart problems, various cancers, and even osteoarthritis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, the location of the excess weight matters. People with belly fat (central obesity) have a higher risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/high-caffeine-levels-reduce-the-risk-of-diabetes/">diabetes</a> and heart trouble compared to those with fat on their hips and thighs.</p>



<p>Exercise is undoubtedly a powerful tool in managing weight and overall health. It burns calories, boosts metabolism, and promotes muscle growth, which in turn helps burn more calories even at rest.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To delve deeper into the impact of exercise frequency, the researchers carried out this interesting study.</p>



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



<p>The researchers looked at how different exercise patterns affect belly fat and overall fat in 9,629 adults aged 20-59 in the USA. They analyzed data from a big national survey called NHANES from 2011 to 2018.</p>



<p>The experts focused on people who did not have any limitations on exercise. The participants answered questions about how much light, moderate, and hard exercise they did each week for fun, at work, or while traveling.</p>



<p>The researchers then grouped the people into 3 categories based on their total exercise minutes:</p>



<ul>
<li>Not active at all (less than 150 minutes per week)</li>



<li>Weekend warriors (at least 150 minutes in 1 or 2 sessions)</li>



<li>Regularly active (at least 150 minutes in more than 2 sessions)</li>
</ul>



<p>Belly fat and overall fat were measured using specialized scans, along with traditional indicators like weight and waist circumference.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-results">Surprising results</h2>



<p>The study shows that how you fit exercise into your week might not be as important as you think, especially when it comes to fighting weight gain. Whether you cram your workouts into the weekend ("weekend warrior") or spread them out throughout the week ("regularly active"), you'll likely see benefits like less belly fat, smaller waist size, and lower overall weight.</p>



<p>This is big news because it means more people can find an exercise routine that fits their life. You can forget the strict "every day" rule - any movement is better than none.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The weekend warrior pattern is worth promoting in individuals who cannot meet the recommended frequency in current guidelines,” explained study co-author Lihua Zhang.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fat-reduction">Fat reduction</h2>



<p>The study shows promise in fighting abdominal adiposity through both weekend warrior and regular exercise.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The data tells a great story: people in both groups saw big improvements in all measures of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-kimchi-helps-shed-belly-fat-and-improves-overall-health/">belly fat</a>. The measures include hidden fat around organs, fat under the skin, and total belly fat.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-waistline-and-bmi">Waistline and BMI</h2>



<p>The experts dug deeper, looking beyond abdominal adiposity and found good news for both "weekend warriors" and regular exercisers. Their waistlines got smaller and their Body Mass Index (BMI) went down compared to those who didn't exercise at all.</p>



<p>Waist size is a simple way to measure belly fat, which is linked to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/excessive-smartphone-usage-linked-to-health-issues-in-adolescents/">health problems</a>. Smaller waist size and lower BMI reduce the risk of diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and other issues linked to being overweight.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-takeaways-nbsp">Key takeaways&nbsp;</h2>



<p>For many, the structured demands of the work week create a yearning for unstructured time. A flexible approach allows you to embrace physical activity as a fun escape on weekends, not just a chore.</p>



<p>Staying active, even when your schedule changes, can boost your confidence. Feeling good about your progress helps you keep going, instead of getting discouraged and giving up completely.</p>



<p>Exercise can also naturally relieve stress by releasing feel-good hormones and calming your body down. When you feel tense, taking a quick walk or a relaxing swim can help you feel better and take charge of your mood.</p>



<p>Eventually, moving your body will make you happier. Maybe it's enjoying the sun on a bike ride, having fun with others in a fitness class, or just feeling good about being active - whatever it is, exercise can really lift your spirits.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-recommendations">WHO recommendations</h2>



<p>The World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines recommend that adults aiming to mitigate obesity risks should engage in at least:</p>



<ul>
<li>150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity (PA) like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming per week. This translates to roughly 30 minutes most days of the week.</li>



<li>75 minutes of vigorous-intensity PA like running, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), or sports games. This equates to 15 minutes three times a week.</li>



<li>A combination of both moderate and vigorous activity to suit your preferences and fitness level.</li>
</ul>



<p>Remember, every body is different, so find what works best for you and celebrate the joy of movement. Whether you're a busy parent or a professional with long hours, you can still see major health benefits.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/oby.23986" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Obesity</em></a>.</p>



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Weekend warriors can lose as much weight as daily exercisers

Feeling like there's never enough time to exercise? You're not...

<p>A scoping review has brought to light five key ways in which the health of homeless <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pet-owners-are-happier-than-people-who-dont-have-pets/">pet owners</a> and their animals can be significantly improved.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite the fact that around 10% of homeless individuals have pets, detailed information on how to effectively support their health has been scarce. These pets often serve as the sole source of unconditional love and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-live-longer-and-happier-lives-when-they-get-to-socialize-often/">companionship</a> for their owners.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-interventions">Critical interventions</h2>



<p>The research, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1079/hai.2024.0002" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Human-Animal Interactions</em></a>, outlines critical interventions for supporting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-mammals-in-zoos-are-now-living-longer-healthier-lives/">healthier lives</a> for homeless individuals and their pets. </p>



<p>These include providing access to free veterinary clinics, establishing joint human/animal clinics, efforts aimed at reducing stigma, fostering interdisciplinary relationships, and ensuring the availability of pet-friendly lodging options.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-promising-avenues-nbsp">Promising avenues&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Dr. Michelle Kurkowski and Dr. Andrew Springer, the study's lead authors, emphasized the diversity found in research on this subject. They highlight the urgent need for further program interventions that are necessary to recommend intervention best practices.</p>



<p>Exploring promising avenues for intervention and health improvement, the study suggests that joint human/animal clinics and interdisciplinary partnerships are some of the most promising avenues for evaluating interventions and improving health outcomes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-healthcare-for-pets">Healthcare for pets</h2>



<p>One notable finding from a study by Ramirez et al (2022) involving 44 homeless pet owners in Seattle, USA, revealed a strong interest in healthcare for pets over personal healthcare, with a significant portion expressing willingness to attend a joint veterinary/human health clinic due to its convenience.</p>



<p>Dr. Kurkowski, previously a researcher at the University of Texas Health Science Center at <a href="https://sph.uth.edu/campuses/houston" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston School of Public Health</a>, is now a Veterinary Medical Officer for the US Department of Agriculture’s <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service</a>,</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lack-of-safe-places-nbsp">Lack of safe places&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Dr. Kurkowski said: "Research has shown that companion animals are a source of friendship and physical safety, and homeless persons with pets report significantly lower rates of depression and loneliness compared to non-pet owners."</p>



<p>However, the review also uncovers the less-discussed challenges faced by homeless pet owners, such as the tough choice between accessing shelter and keeping their pets with them.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Similarly, our review reveals that this group is less likely to utilize needing assistance, such as healthcare or career services, potentially due to difficulty using public transportation or lack of safe places to leave pets,” she added.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interventions-are-desperately-needed">Interventions are desperately needed</h2>



<p>Dr. Kurkowski and Dr. Springer believe that while the literature on the benefits and needs of homeless pet owners is growing, interventions specifically designed to address their unique challenges are still lacking.</p>



<p>“Our purpose was to describe the study designs, measurements, and outcomes of relevant primary research studies to identify knowledge gaps in the body of literature on this topic," Springer explained.</p>



<p>Ultimately, the researchers advocate for a comprehensive and effective care package for homeless individuals and their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pets-did-not-improve-emotional-well-being-during-the-pandemic/">pets</a>, emphasizing the need for a collaborative effort among healthcare providers, social workers, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-poses-a-multi-faceted-threat-to-animal-welfare/">animal welfare</a> workers, and both governmental and nonprofit organizations to create innovative solutions for this underserved population.</p>



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Homeless pet owners need better options to protect their animals

A scoping review has brought to light five key ways...

<p>Imagine growing up surrounded by fear and uncertainty. Your neighborhood echoes with sirens, and news headlines scream of violence. Sadly, this is a reality for countless teenagers living in disadvantaged communities. But the impact goes deeper than emotional scars – it affects the very structure of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brains-bend-time-to-adapt-to-lifes-rhythm/">brains</a>.</p>



<p>A new study from the <a href="https://umich.edu/">University of Michigan</a> delves into this critical issue, exploring how community violence, family life, and even brain activity itself intertwine.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-brain-region">Key brain region</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-the-brain-identify-rewards-and-punishments/">amygdala</a> is a small but important part of your brain located in the temporal lobe. It plays a crucial role in processing emotions and managing reactions to your environment.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The amygdala helps you understand emotions, both yours and those of others. It analyzes situations and triggers emotional responses like fear, happiness, or anger.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotionally-charged-memories-nbsp">Emotionally charged memories&nbsp;</h2>



<p>When you experience something scary, the amygdala remembers it. This helps you learn what to avoid in the future, keeping you safe from potential threats.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Strong emotions can make memories more vivid and lasting. The amygdala plays a part in storing these emotionally charged memories for later recall.</p>



<p>By understanding the amygdala's functions, we can better understand how people react to emotional experiences and challenging situations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disadvantage-gets-under-the-skin">Disadvantage gets under the skin</h2>



<p>“Decades of research has shown that growing up in neighborhoods with concentrated disadvantage can predict negative academic, behavioral and mental health outcomes in children and teens," said study co-author Dr. Luke W. Hyde.</p>



<p>"And recent research is beginning to show that one way it does that is by impacting the developing brain. However, less is known about how neighborhood disadvantage ‘gets under the skin’ to impact brain development."</p>



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



<p>The experts set out to investigate the link between neighborhood disadvantage and brain activity related to emotional processing. Using advanced imaging techniques, they monitored the amygdala as participants aged 7-19 viewed pictures of faces expressing various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psifi-wearable-device-interprets-emotions-of-people-near-you/">emotions</a> and shapes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers used brain scans to see how active the amygdala was when teens saw different pictures. They looked at:</p>



<ul>
<li>Emotional faces: Showing fear or anger (threats)</li>



<li>Neutral faces: Not showing any emotion (unclear)</li>



<li>Shapes: Not linked to emotions (neutral)</li>
</ul>



<p>The experts also considered factors like community violence exposure, parental support, and participant demographics.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-new-insights-nbsp">Critical new insights&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study revealed that the amygdala was especially active when people looked at pictures of scared or angry faces. These faces are often signs of danger in the real world.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For teens who have been exposed to violence in their community, the amygdala was even more active. This suggests that their brains may have changed to be more alert and ready for danger.</p>



<p>The amygdala was also more active when teens looked at pictures of faces with no clear emotion. These faces don't usually tell you anything about whether someone is scared or angry.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, for people who have been exposed to violence, even these uncertain faces might seem like they could be dangerous. This could mean that their brains are generally more on guard when it comes to reading other people's faces, possibly as a way to stay safe in dangerous environments.</p>



<p>“This makes sense as it’s adaptive for adolescents to be more in tune to threats when living in a more dangerous neighborhood,” said Dr Hyde.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-specificity-of-brain-activity">Specificity of brain activity</h2>



<p>The scientists also studied how the violence affects the amygdala. They found different parts of the amygdala react differently. Some parts seem tuned to specific noise, especially those that might signal danger.</p>



<p>Using scans, they pinpointed which tiny areas ("voxels") in the amygdala are most active after people experience violence. This showed that violence doesn't affect the whole amygdala equally, it's more specific. Certain areas are more sensitive and react stronger, suggesting they handle different types of emotional and social clues.</p>



<p>The connection shows our brains are amazing at adapting. After violence, specific parts of the amygdala become more alert to better detect threats, like a survival mechanism. But this heightened sensitivity can also lead to stress and anxiety in violent environments.</p>



<p>Knowing which parts of the amygdala are affected helps us create targeted support for people to manage the emotional impact of violence.</p>



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



<p>The researchers found that when teenagers who have seen violence get good support from their parents, their brains react less strongly to danger.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This support from parents acts like a shield. By creating a safe and loving environment, parents can help their children manage their feelings better. This makes them less likely to overreact to things that seem scary, which can help prevent anxiety and stress problems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resilience-in-the-face-of-adversity">Resilience in the face of adversity</h2>



<p>“Despite living in a disadvantaged neighborhood, children with more nurturing and involved parents were not as likely to be exposed to community violence, and for those who were exposed, having a more nurturing parent diminished the impact of violence exposure on the brain,” said study co-author Gabriela L. Suarez, a graduate student in Developmental Psychology at the University of Michigan.</p>



<p>“These findings really highlight how nurturing and involved parents are helping to support their children’s success, even in potentially harsh environments, and offer clues as to why some youth are resilient even when facing adversity.”</p>



<p>The knowledge can help kids in two ways. First, it helps them feel less stressed and anxious right away. Second, it helps them learn healthier ways to cope with difficult situations. This can have lasting benefits, making them less likely to struggle with emotional problems later in life.</p>



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



<p>The study shows how violence in communities hurts teenagers' brains and development. It affects everything from how governments make decisions to what schools teach.</p>



<p>We need programs to help reduce violence, especially in areas with high risk. This could involve funding programs that make communities safer and less violent. We also need to address the root causes of violence, such as poverty and lack of access to education and healthcare.</p>



<p>“Parents may be an important buffer against these broader structural inequalities, and thus working with parents may be one way to help protect children -- while we also work on policies to reduce the concentration of disadvantage in neighborhoods and the risk for exposure to violence in the community,” said study co-author Dr. Alex Burt.</p>



<p>Programs that teach parents how to support their children emotionally are crucial. This could involve workshops, counseling, and resources to help them manage stress. Schools and community centers can offer programs that teach parents and children how to build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and deal with stress.</p>



<p>Schools can teach children and teens about the effects of violence and how to cope with them. This may include lessons on managing emotions, resolving conflicts, and dealing with stress. Schools in high-risk areas may need special programs to help students who have experienced violence, such as counseling and mental health support.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1037/dev0001712" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Developmental Psychology</em></a>.</p>



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Exposure to violence may rewire teenage brains

Imagine growing up surrounded by fear and uncertainty. Your neighborhood...

<p>Our cities are full of life, bustling with traffic and daily activities. But hidden in the air is a danger we can't see: tiny particles called <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heatwaves-and-air-pollution-may-double-fatal-heart-attack-risk/">PM2.5</a>, mostly from car exhaust.&nbsp;</p>



<p>We know air pollution hurts our lungs and hearts, but new research from <a href="https://www.emory.edu/home/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emory University</a> suggests something even scarier: it might raise the risk of Alzheimer's disease, a brain illness affecting millions of people.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-tissue-markers">Brain tissue markers</h2>



<p>This study looked at the possible link between air pollution and brain changes related to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/diet-plays-a-major-role-in-preventing-alzheimers-disease/">Alzheimer's</a> disease. The researchers examined brain tissue from 224 individuals with confirmed Alzheimer's disease who had donated their brains after passing away.</p>



<p>They checked for signs of Alzheimer's disease by looking for specific markers in the brain tissue, like neuritic plaques. This helped them assess the severity of the disease.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-pollution-exposure">Air pollution exposure</h2>



<p>The experts estimated how much <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-composition-of-us-air-pollution-has-changed-over-time/">air pollution</a> people were exposed to based on where they lived and traffic patterns. Different timeframes (1 year, 3 years, 5 years) were considered before the person passed away.</p>



<p>The researchers used statistical models to see if there was a connection between air pollution exposure and the severity of Alzheimer's disease markers. They also considered whether a specific gene, Apolipoprotein E (APOE), influenced this connection.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increase-in-neuritic-plaques">Increase in neuritic plaques</h2>



<p>The researchers found that higher exposure to PM2.5 was associated with higher levels of neuritic plaques in the brain. These are protein clumps considered a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.</p>



<p>The more PM2.5 someone was exposed to, the higher their risk of having more plaques. People with higher PM2.5 exposure were nearly twice as likely to have higher plaque levels compared to those with lower exposure.</p>



<p>The link was stronger when looking at PM2.5 exposure in the year before death. This suggests a potentially shorter-term impact of air pollution on Alzheimer's brain changes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“These results add to the evidence that fine particulate matter from traffic-related air pollution affects the amount of amyloid plaque in the brain,” said study author Anke Huels from Emory University in Atlanta. “More research is needed to investigate the mechanisms behind this link.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-influence-nbsp">Genetic influence&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The team explored whether the link between air pollution and Alzheimer's brain changes were influenced by genetics. The study was specifically focused on the APOE gene, which is known to increase Alzheimer's risk.</p>



<p>The analysis revealed that people without the APOE gene seemed more affected by air pollution in terms of Alzheimer's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-screen-time-changes-the-brain-based-on-23-years-of-research/">brain changes</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For those without the gene, higher air pollution exposure was linked to a more than two-fold higher risk of having more plaques.</p>



<p>“This suggests that environmental factors such as air pollution could be a contributing factor to Alzheimer’s in patients in which the disease cannot be explained by genetics,” Dr Huels said.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-environmental-factors">Environmental factors</h2>



<p>The study shows that things in our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cigarette-butts-leak-thousands-of-deadly-toxins-into-the-environment/">environment</a>, like air pollution, can affect our chances of getting Alzheimer's disease. This means we can potentially prevent Alzheimer's by paying attention to the environment and keeping it healthy.</p>



<p>Air pollution has been linked to changes in the brain that are similar to those seen in Alzheimer's. This suggests that stricter rules are needed to limit air pollution, especially PM2.5, which comes from car exhaust and other sources. Lowering these limits in cities and factories could help protect people's health.</p>



<p>The study also suggests that cities could be designed differently to reduce air pollution from traffic. This could involve making it easier and safer for people to walk, bike, or use public transportation, instead of driving cars.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-health-implications">Global health implications</h2>



<p>People with lower incomes and those living in certain areas are often exposed to more air pollution. The findings suggest that reducing these differences in how much pollution people are exposed to could be important for preventing Alzheimer's disease.</p>



<p>Air pollution is a major threat to public health around the world, and so is Alzheimer's disease. This means that the findings are important for everyone. By cleaning up the air we breathe, we could help prevent Alzheimer's disease in many different communities around the world.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0000000000209162" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Neurology</em></a>.</p>



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Traffic-related air pollution linked to increased Alzheimer's risk

Our cities are full of life, bustling with traffic and...

Oxygen,Pressure,Chamber,Is,Being,Treated.,Treatment,Of,Pneumonia,And

Hyperbaric oxygen chambers have seemingly magical healing powers

Imagine being told that there exists a method to reverse...

<p>As the world faces the growing threat of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indisputable-evidence-of-human-caused-climate-change/">climate change</a>, finding ways to reduce greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) is more important than ever. Planting trees across large areas, known as forestation, has been suggested as a solution. </p>



<p>While it seems simple, the impact of widespread forestation on our planet is more complicated than we might think.</p>



<p>A recent study from the <a href="https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sheffield</a> has explored this complexity in detail. The researchers used advanced models to examine how adding large amounts of trees to Earth would affect the climate. While <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-forests-are-unexpected-heroes-of-carbon-capture/">forestation</a> is known to absorb CO2 and cool the planet, the study reveals other, less obvious consequences.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-impact-of-large-scale-forestation">Potential impact of large-scale forestation</h2>



<p>The experts used two advanced climate models to simulate how the planet's climate and weather would change if there were a lot more trees in suitable areas around the world.</p>



<p>A key part of their study was creating a scenario where forests covered much more land than they do now. This scenario helped them understand the biggest possible impact that forests could have on climate.</p>



<p>The researchers looked at both the well-known benefits of forests, like storing carbon dioxide, and lesser-known effects, like how forests influence the chemicals in the air and how much <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-sunlight-enhances-libido/">sunlight</a> Earth reflects back into space.</p>



<p>They found that these chemical and reflective effects are linked: <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/americas-forests-are-in-a-race-against-climate-change/">forests</a> release chemicals that affect clouds and the air, and the amount of sunlight Earth reflects depends on how much forest cover there is. This link is important because it can influence how much Earth warms or cools.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-effects-on-atmospheric-composition">Effects on atmospheric composition</h2>



<p>Planting more trees can have both cooling and warming effects on the climate. The good news: When forests grow, they release more biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs). These compounds react with other chemicals in the air to form tiny particles called organic aerosols.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The aerosols act like tiny mirrors, reflecting sunlight back into space and cooling the Earth. This cooling effect can help counteract the warming caused by other factors, like reduced reflectivity of the Earth's surface.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Professor Dominick Spracklen of the University of Leeds, who was not involved in the study, said: "This study highlights the amazingly complex role of forests in our climate system. Through calculating how forests alter atmospheric composition, this study provides one of the most comprehensive assessments of the climate impacts of large-scale forestation."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-positive-radiative-forcing-nbsp">Positive radiative forcing&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Planting trees can make the ground absorb more sunlight, and this is particularly the case in areas with a lot of snow. This is because forests are generally darker than snow and reflect less sunlight back into space.</p>



<p>The absorption of sunlight warms the planet. This effect is called positive radiative forcing. The effect is stronger in places farther north where there's more contrast between the dark forests and reflective snow.</p>



<p>The study suggests that this warming effect can reduce the benefit of forests storing carbon dioxide, which helps cool the planet. This is especially true if we plant a lot of trees in high-latitude regions. Therefore, where we plant trees to fight climate change matters.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planting-trees-and-proper-planning">Planting trees and proper planning</h2>



<p>Dr. Stephanie Roe, WWF Global Climate and Energy Lead Scientist, and co-author of the study said: “We know that forests are critically important for biodiversity, water, ecosystem services, and the climate. What this research shows is that the effectiveness of reforestation for climate mitigation declines significantly in higher latitudes and unless paired with deep emission reductions which reduces air pollution.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“It underscores the importance of properly planning reforestation efforts and adequately accounting for biophysical and future climate impacts in different latitudes and regions. Importantly, the study finds that preventing deforestation, when compared to reforestation efforts, is a far more efficient way to mitigate climate change.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-excessive-tree-planting-can-cause-problems">Excessive tree planting can cause problems</h2>



<p>Planting more trees seems like a no-brainer for fighting climate change. But there's a twist: forests can also release other gases that contribute to warming, like methane and ozone.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-methane">Methane</h3>



<p>This gas comes from rotting plants and wet areas, both common in forests. It's much more potent than carbon dioxide at trapping heat, so even small amounts matter. Planting trees in wetlands could increase methane emissions, potentially negating some of the carbon storage benefits.</p>



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



<p>This gas is a pollutant found in smog, not the good kind high up in the atmosphere. Trees emit chemicals that react with other pollutants to create ozone. While ozone protects us from harmful sun rays high up, it's bad for us and the climate at ground level. More trees could mean more ozone, adding another wrinkle to the climate puzzle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-warming-effect-of-trees">The warming effect of trees</h2>



<p>The study examines the effectiveness of planting trees as a way to fight climate change by removing CO2 from the air. However, it finds that this benefit may be partially offset by other factors, like changes in how sunlight and heat interact with the Earth.</p>



<p>In a scenario where global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lakes-are-struggling-to-maintain-oxygen-as-temperatures-rise/">temperatures</a> rise significantly (4°C), up to a third of the cooling effect from planting trees could be canceled out by changes in the atmosphere.</p>



<p>On the contrary, if we limit warming to 2°C (like the Paris Agreement aims for), the negative effects are smaller, and planting trees is more effective.</p>



<p>So, what does this mean? Planting trees definitely helps, but it's not a magic bullet. We need to consider all their effects, good and bad, when planning big planting projects. Balancing their carbon-storing power with other factors is key to effectively tackling climate change.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-tree-planting-strategies">Comparing tree planting strategies</h2>



<p>The researchers also compared the different tree-planting strategies (planting new forests, restoring old ones, and thickening existing ones) to see how well they remove carbon dioxide from the air and fight climate change.</p>



<p>Planting new forests on land that was not previously forested (afforestation) seems to be the most effective strategy, followed by restoring old forests (reforestation) and making existing forests denser (enhancement).&nbsp;</p>



<p>But planting too many trees can have unintended consequences, like making the land darker and absorbing less sunlight (warming it up) or releasing gases that affect the atmosphere in complex ways.</p>



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



<p>The study emphasizes that planting trees isn't a simple solution and needs to be done carefully. Dr James Weber, from the University of Sheffield’s School of Biosciences, said: “The public are bombarded with messages about climate change, and the suggestion that you can plant trees to offset your carbon emissions is widespread. Many businesses now offer to plant a tree with a purchase, and some countries plan to expand, conserve, and restore forests.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Trees can help tackle climate change, but we need to be careful about relying on them. We need to evaluate forestation, and other climate change mitigation strategies, in detail. This will help identify limitations and unintended consequences so these can be minimized where possible.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adg6196" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science</em></a>.</p>



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Planting too many trees could spoil the planet

As the world faces the growing threat of climate change,...

<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>



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

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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<p>—–</p>

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>



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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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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" 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 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>



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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