<p>Inside our bodies, countless decisions play out silently at the cellular level. Some cells divide, some die, and others are forced out when they no longer serve their purpose. </p>



<p>A study from <a href="https://www.kcl.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">King’s College London</a> and the <a href="https://www.crick.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Francis Crick Institute</a> reveals that epithelial cells use electricity to spot weak neighbors and remove them. This breakthrough offers fresh insight into how diseases like cancer and stroke arise when energy balance within cells is disturbed.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cells-renew-constantly">Cells renew constantly</h2>



<p>Epithelial <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hemifusome-newly-discovered-organelle-inside-human-cells-with-immense-potential/">cells</a> form the barrier that lines organs, renewing rapidly to stay protective. Their balance depends on extrusion, the process of ejecting damaged or excess cells. This keeps tissues tightly packed and efficient. </p>



<p>If extrusion falters, cell numbers become chaotic, creating openings for disease. Without this constant regulation, unhealthy cells may linger, disrupt organ integrity, and interfere with critical signaling pathways. </p>



<p>Over time, these disturbances can weaken the protective barrier, encourage unchecked growth, and increase vulnerability to conditions such as cancer, chronic inflammation, or infections that compromise overall tissue health and resilience.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-electricity-targets-weak-cells">Electricity targets weak cells</h2>



<p>Earlier work showed that overcrowding forces some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-did-the-first-cells-life-form-on-earth-scientists-think-they-finally-figured-it-out/">cells</a> to be squeezed out mechanically. The latest discovery goes further. It shows that extrusion is not random but targets energy-poor cells. Crowding pushes sodium into cells through specialized ion channels, altering their electrical signals. </p>



<p>Healthy cells restore balance, but weak ones cannot, triggering shrinkage and eventual extrusion. This reveals a precise surveillance system where tissues actively monitor cellular energy, ensuring only the strongest cells remain. </p>



<p>Such control preserves organ stability, while defects in this mechanism may promote disease progression and unchecked cellular growth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cells-sense-crowding-with-electricity">Cells sense crowding with electricity</h2>



<p>The researchers noticed a striking prelude to extrusion: cells briefly shrank before being expelled. This stage, termed homeostatic early shrinkage, reflects water leaving the cell. </p>



<p>Roughly 70 percent of extruding cells undergo this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cells-vomit-waste-to-speed-up-healing-in-our-body/">shrinkage</a>. It is not caused by contractile forces but by ion channels regulating water movement. Key players include the potassium channels Kv1.1 and Kv1.2, and the chloride channel SWELL1.</p>



<p>The study revealed that an epithelial sodium channel, ENaC, senses crowding. It acts as a tension detector, letting sodium rush in when cells press against one another.</p>



<p>If a cell has enough ATP, it pumps sodium back out and stabilizes. If not, depolarization occurs, potassium and chloride exit, water follows, and the cell shrinks, crossing the threshold that triggers extrusion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-low-energy-as-a-trigger">Low energy as a trigger</h2>



<p>Time-lapse experiments revealed that cells destined for extrusion show falling ATP levels before they depolarize and shrink. When ATP levels were artificially lowered, extrusion increased. </p>



<p>This shows energy deficiency directly selects <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-space-changes-our-cells-insights-from-the-iss/">cells</a> for removal. In essence, epithelial tissue runs a built-in fitness test: cells unable to maintain their electrical balance are expelled.</p>



<p>"We see this sodium channel acting as a sensor, exposing cells with the least amount of energy and targeting those cells for death," noted study lead author Dr. Saranne Mitchell. </p>



<p>"This mechanism gives epithelia a constant surveillance system to rapidly detect weak cells and remove them. It's like an electrical quality-control check, keeping tissues robust and functional."</p>



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



<p>The study highlights how epithelial tissues are not passive layers but dynamic communities constantly testing their members. By identifying weaker cells early, they can preserve strength and protect organ function.</p>



<p>"By revealing that cells with low energy are targeted for extrusion, our work also adds a new layer into how metabolism can impact many diseases," said Professor Jody Rosenblatt.</p>



<p>"This new insight could suggest how overconsumption, through eating more and consuming more calories, might override this 'low energy trigger' for extrusion and prevent the elimination of defective cells, allowing them to accumulate into cancers." </p>



<p>"It might also reveal how energy deprivation following a stroke, caused by impacted blood supply, could lead to excess extrusion and organ damage."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cells-use-electricity-effectively">Cells use electricity effectively</h2>



<p>This model highlights energy sufficiency as a deciding factor in cell survival. Much like how mitochondria regulate apoptosis, epithelial extrusion uses energy balance as a checkpoint. </p>



<p>The findings also connect to conditions like cystic fibrosis and cancer, where ion channel malfunctions are common. By linking ion flow, energy, and crowding, this study reframes how tissues maintain integrity.</p>



<p>The discovery paints epithelia as more than static barriers. They are dynamic, electrically sensitive tissues constantly probing their members for weakness. </p>



<p>Cells that cannot meet the energy demands are removed for the greater good of the tissue. Even the faintest electrical flicker within these cellular communities can tip the balance between health and disease.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09514-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: CC0 Public Domain</p>



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Body tissues use electricity to expel weak cells

Inside our bodies, countless decisions play out silently at the cellular level. Some cells divide, some die, and others are forced out when they no longer serve their purpose. A study from King’s College London and the Francis Crick Institute reveals that epithelial cells use electricity to spot weak neighbors and remove them. This breakthrough offers fresh insight into how diseases like cancer and stroke arise when energy balance within cells is disturbed. Cells renew constantly Epithelial cells form the barrier that lines organs, renewing rapidly to...

<p>Why do large <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evolutionary-mystery-why-are-mammals-the-only-vertebrates-to-have-only-one-lower-jawbone/">mammals</a> tend to have much longer faces compared to smaller closely related species? A new study suggests that this phenomenon, known as Craniofacial Evolutionary Allometry (CREA), can be explained by feeding adaptations.</p>



<p>The research, led by Dr. Rex Mitchell from <a href="https://www.flinders.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flinders University</a>, represents a major step in understanding the evolution of mammal skulls. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-skull-shape-evolution-nbsp">Skull shape evolution&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"The patterns behind the diversity of mammalian morphology have been a core interest of western science for centuries. Of particular interest for most of this venerable history has been the evolution of the mammalian cranium (the skull without the lower jaw), which reflects the diversity of mammals like no other part of the skeleton," wrote the researchers.</p>



<p>"Crania incorporate the brain and the majority of an animals' sensory apparatus, such as the eyes, nose, and ears. Perhaps more importantly, their role in the ingestion of food makes the functional adaptation of the cranium a matter of day-to-day survival, so that cranial morphology offers insights into a given mammal's feeding ecology and behavior."</p>



<p>"The patterns of mammalian cranial shape evolution have thus become a shorthand for understanding how mammalian diversity has evolved."&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mammalian-cranial-diversity">Mammalian cranial diversity</h2>



<p>The researchers explained that recent advances in technology have revolutionized our capacity to characterize mammalian cranial diversity patterns.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In a comprehensive review of mammalian skull evolution, the team discovered that feeding adaptations are a key driver behind the varying face lengths observed in different mammal species.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-crea-pattern-nbsp">The CREA pattern&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"The CREA pattern is observed in a diverse range of mammals, from cats to mice, antelopes to baboons, and deer to kangaroos, yet its cause remained elusive until now," said Dr. Mitchell.</p>



<p>Study senior author Professor Vera Weisbecker noted the complexity of this pattern, citing exceptions among certain mammals.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Confusingly, there are also many mammals where the rule does not hold up or is even reversed," said Professor Weisbecker. "Australian carnivorous marsupials are a great example. We found that their largest living member, the Tasmanian devil, has an exceptionally short face compared to other species."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-naturally-strong-bite">Naturally strong bite</h2>



<p>Dr. Emma Sherratt from The University of Adelaide said that the team went back to basic "lever mechanics" to explain both the rule of the long face and its exceptions.</p>



<p>The analysis revealed that larger mammals generally possess a naturally stronger bite due to their larger muscles. This strength reduces their reliance on short faces for effective feeding.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By contrast, smaller mammals benefit from shorter faces, which enable them to exert more bite force, crucial for consuming the same types of food as their larger counterparts.</p>



<p>"Closely related mammals tend to eat similar foods. For example, different kangaroos species all eat grass or leaves and different species of wolves and foxes all eat meat. However, bigger animals of a group have a naturally stronger bite because their skull, teeth and jaw muscles are simply bigger," explained Dr. Sherratt.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drastic-dietary-shifts-nbsp">Drastic dietary shifts&nbsp;</h2>



<p>However, the team also noticed significant deviations from this trend linked to diet changes. In cases where smaller mammals have longer faces than their larger relatives, a drastic shift in dietary habits is often observed.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Our analyses of 22 mammal families show that there is almost always a radical change in diet when smaller mammals have longer faces than their larger relatives," said Professor Weisbecker.</p>



<p>"For example, Tasmanian devils are known to crush bones, and the short-snouted orcas feed on much larger prey than their fish-eating dolphin relatives. These behaviors need higher bite forces."</p>



<p>"But this also works the other way around. For example, the tiny honey possum has a much longer snout than would be expected for any possum, but it also mostly licks nectar from deep inside flowers and does not need to bite hard."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-humans-are-the-main-exception">Humans are the main exception</h2>



<p>The researchers agree that humans are probably an exception among exceptions when it comes to cranium evolution.</p>



<p>"Humans do not use their snouts as a primary means of obtaining food. They use their hands and tools to manipulate can soften their food through cooking," said Dr. Mitchel. "This means that the evolution of the human face is probably more influenced by other things than their ability to bite."</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/brv.13032" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Biological Reviews</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Skull evolution: Why some mammals have long faces

Why do large mammals tend to have much longer faces...

<p>The universe has its own festive display in the form of NGC 2264, also known as the "Christmas Tree Cluster" or the "Cosmic Christmas Tree." This celestial marvel, situated approximately 2,500 light-years away in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxies-like-our-own-milky-way-are-not-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Milky Way</a>, is a cluster of young stars. These stars, varying in age from one to five million years, create a cosmic tableau reminiscent of a Christmas tree.</p>



<p>In this unique cosmic cluster, stars of various sizes coexist. Some are diminutive, with less than a tenth of the Sun's mass, while others are more massive, boasting up to seven times the mass of our Sun. This diversity in size contributes to the cluster's unique appearance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-the-cosmic-christmas-tree-image">Enhancing the "Cosmic Christmas Tree" image</h2>



<p>The recent composite image of NGC 2264 enhances its resemblance to a holiday tree. This effect is achieved through specific choices in color and rotation. </p>



<p>In this vibrant depiction, young stars twinkle in hues of blue and white, their X-rays captured by NASA’s <a href="https://chandra.harvard.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chandra X-ray Observatory</a>. These X-rays, which blink in the animated version of the image, add a dynamic quality to the view of the "Cosmic Christmas Tree."</p>



<p>Complementing the Chandra data, optical observations from the National Science Foundation’s <a href="https://www.wiyn.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WIYN</a> 0.9-meter telescope at Kitt Peak contribute to the image’s color palette. These observations highlight the <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/christmas-tree-cluster_ngc2264_static_Chandra_1medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula's gas in green</a>, akin to the pine needles of a Christmas tree. </p>



<p>Additionally, infrared data from the <a href="https://irsa.ipac.caltech.edu/Missions/2mass.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Two Micron All Sky Survey</a> reveals foreground and background stars in a contrasting white.</p>



<p>To achieve the desired Christmas tree appearance, the image has been rotated about 160 degrees clockwise from the standard astronomical orientation. This rotation positions the tree’s apex towards the top of the image, enhancing its festive resemblance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-nature-of-young-stars-in-ngc-2264">The nature of young stars in NGC 2264</h2>



<p>The stars within NGC 2264 are characterized by their volatile nature. They experience intense flares in X-rays and other variations across different types of light. </p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/christmas-tree-cluster_ngc2264_blinking_Chandra_1medium.gif" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animated image</a>, with its coordinated, blinking variations, is an artistic interpretation to emphasize the X-ray emitting stars and draw parallels to a twinkling Christmas tree. However, it's important to note that in reality, these stellar variations are not synchronized.</p>



<p>These observed variations stem from various processes. Some are related to magnetic field activity, leading to powerful flares, akin to those seen on our Sun but on a much grander scale. </p>



<p>Additionally, these stars exhibit hot spots and dark regions on their surfaces, which become visible or hidden as the stars rotate. Changes in the obscuring gas's thickness and the amount of material falling onto the stars from surrounding gas disks also contribute to these variations.</p>



<p>In summary, NGC 2264, the "Cosmic Christmas Tree," presents a fascinating blend of astrophysical phenomena and natural artistry, reminding us of the universe's ability to mirror Earth's festive traditions in a grand cosmic scale.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-chandra-and-the-cosmic-christmas-tree">More about Chandra and the "Cosmic Christmas Tree"</h2>



<p>As mentioned above, the Chandra X-ray Observatory stands as a testament to human ingenuity in exploring the cosmos. Launched by NASA in 1999, it operates as a sophisticated space telescope designed to detect X-ray emissions from very hot regions of the universe, such as exploded stars, clusters of galaxies, and matter around black holes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mission-and-capabilities-of-chandra">The mission and capabilities of Chandra</h3>



<p>Chandra's primary mission involves delving into the mysteries of the universe through X-ray eyes. It offers a unique perspective, enabling astronomers to observe phenomena such as supernovae, the regions surrounding black holes, and the hot gas permeating the vast clusters of galaxies. Its high resolution allows it to capture images fifty times finer than previous X-ray telescopes, revealing the universe in unprecedented detail.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technological-marvels-of-chandra">Technological marvels of Chandra</h3>



<p>Equipped with four very sensitive mirrors, Chandra can observe X-rays from sources billions of light-years away. The mirrors, nested inside each other, focus X-rays onto its detectors. This intricate design is a significant advancement in X-ray astronomy, allowing for clearer and more detailed observations than ever before, as seen above in the image of the "Cosmic Christmas Tree." </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chandra-s-contribution-to-astronomy">Chandra's contribution to astronomy</h3>



<p>Over the years, Chandra has contributed significantly to our understanding of the cosmos. It has provided invaluable insights into the structure and evolution of the universe, helping to confirm the existence of dark matter and study the nature of dark energy. Chandra's observations have also been crucial in studying the effects of black holes and mapping the distribution of dark matter in galaxy clusters.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-window-to-the-x-ray-universe">A window to the x-ray universe</h3>



<p>The Chandra X-ray Observatory continues to be a vital tool in astronomy, offering a unique window into the X-ray universe. Its discoveries have not only expanded our knowledge of the cosmos but have also challenged and refined existing theories about the nature of the universe. </p>



<p>As it continues its journey through space, Chandra remains a beacon of exploration, shedding light on the most mysterious corners of our universe.</p>



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Cosmic "Christmas Tree Cluster" captured by NASA’s Chandra Observatory

The universe has its own festive display in the form...

<p>Researchers at the <a href="https://www.wfu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wake Forest University</a> School of Medicine have revealed new insights into the role of dopamine, a key neurotransmitter, in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-share-many-of-the-same-behaviors-as-animals-that-live-nearby/">human behavior</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts investigated dopamine's role in learning from both positive and negative experiences. This research marks a significant advancement in understanding how dopamine influences decision-making and behavioral adaptation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reward-and-punishment-nbsp">Reward and punishment&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Dopamine, a neurotransmitter produced in the brain, has long been associated with positive emotions and functions like movement, cognition, and learning.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, this study sheds light on its comprehensive role, emphasizing its crucial involvement in processing both reward and punishment prediction errors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This suggests that dopamine's function extends beyond the realm of positive emotions, playing a pivotal role in learning from negative experiences as well.</p>



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



<p>"Previously, research has shown that dopamine plays an important role in how animals learn from 'rewarding' (and possibly 'punishing') experiences. But, little work has been done to directly assess what dopamine does on fast timescales in the human brain," said lead author Dr. Kenneth Kishida.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"This is the first study in humans to examine how dopamine encodes rewards and punishments and whether dopamine reflects an 'optimal' teaching signal that is used in today's most advanced artificial intelligence research."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted">How the research was conducted</h2>



<p>For the investigation, Dr. Kishida's team used a combination of fast-scan cyclic voltammetry and machine learning to measure dopamine levels at an impressive rate of 10 measurements per second. This technique, however, is limited to invasive procedures like deep-brain stimulation (DBS) surgeries, commonly used to treat Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and epilepsy.</p>



<p>In collaboration with neurosurgeons Dr. Stephen B. Tatter and Dr. Adrian W. Laxton from Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, the researchers inserted a carbon fiber microelectrode deep into the brains of participants undergoing DBS for essential tremor.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While awake in the operating room, these participants engaged in a computer game that involved making choices with monetary consequences, allowing the researchers to monitor dopamine responses to rewards and punishments.</p>



<p>Dopamine levels were measured continuously, once every 100 milliseconds, throughout each of the three stages of the game.</p>



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



<p>The study revealed that dopamine signals both positive and negative experiences in an optimal manner for learning outcomes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"We found that dopamine not only plays a role in signaling both positive and negative experiences in the brain, but it seems to do so in a way that is optimal when trying to learn from those outcomes. What was also interesting, is that it seems like there may be independent pathways in the brain that separately engage the dopamine system for rewarding versus punishing experiences," said Dr. Kishida.</p>



<p>"Our results reveal a surprising result that these two pathways may encode rewarding and punishing experiences on slightly shifted timescales separated by only 200 to 400 milliseconds in time."</p>



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



<p>Dr. Kishida believes that this research may lead to a better understanding of how the dopamine system is affected in humans with psychiatric and neurological disorders. He noted that additional research is needed to understand how this signaling is altered in psychiatric and neurological disorders.</p>



<p>"Traditionally, dopamine is often referred to as 'the pleasure neurotransmitter,"' said Dr. Kishida. "However, our work provides evidence that this is not the way to think about dopamine. Instead, dopamine is a crucial part of a sophisticated system that teaches our brain and guides our behavior."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"That dopamine is also involved in teaching our brain about punishing experiences is an important discovery and may provide new directions in research to help us better understand the mechanisms underlying depression, addiction, and related psychiatric and neurological disorders."</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adi4927" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science Advances</em></a>.&nbsp;</p>



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Dopamine helps us learn from positive and negative experiences

Researchers at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine have...

French,Dessert,Called,Yule,Log,Or,Bûche,De,Noël,With

<p>Scientists at <a href="https://www.ncl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Newcastle University</a> are providing insights on how a traditional Christmas dinner can be more than just a delicious feast - it can also be beneficial to our health.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study highlights how certain cooking methods and ingredients can be added to holiday meals to contribute to our overall well-being.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brussels-sprouts">Brussels sprouts</h2>



<p>Steaming Brussels sprouts is the best method to retain beneficial compounds that may help combat chronic diseases like diabetes and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/holy-grail-molecule-can-kill-all-types-of-solid-cancer-tumors/">cancer</a>.</p>



<p>Brussels sprouts, part of the cruciferous vegetable family, are rich in glucosinolates. These molecules play a role in repairing damaged DNA and can trigger the death of cancerous cells.</p>



<p>Dr. Kirsten Brandt, a senior lecturer at Newcastle University, emphasized the superiority of steaming over boiling or roasting Brussels sprouts.</p>



<p>“If you boil the Brussels sprouts then you lose a lot of the important compounds into the water," said Dr. Brandt. “If you roast them, they are being broken down during the cooking, so steaming is the one that gives most of these tasty and healthy compounds in the final product.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carrots-and-cancer-reduction">Carrots and cancer reduction</h2>



<p>The experts determined that the regular consumption of carrots, a popular side dish, is associated with a significant reduction in cancer risk.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehensive-review-nbsp">Comprehensive review&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The researchers conducted a comprehensive review and meta-analysis involving nearly 200 studies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They found that eating five servings of carrots weekly can lower the risk of developing any type of cancer by 20 percent. Even a single weekly serving of carrots was associated with a four percent reduction in cancer risk.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polyacetylenes">Polyacetylenes</h3>



<p>Unlike previous studies that concentrated on beta-carotene, this research looked at the broader spectrum of compounds in carrots, particularly polyacetylenes, which lack color but exhibit strong anti-cancer properties.</p>



<p>“Many researchers have noticed the benefits of carrots previously, and this is a reason why there was so much data for us to analyze. However, most of the previous studies focused on beta-carotene, one of the orange carotenoid phytochemicals, which give the orange carrots their color," said PhD student Charles Ojobor, who led the study.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-insights">Key insights</h3>



<p>“Unfortunately, beta-carotene did not show much beneficial effect on cancer in controlled experiments."</p>



<p>“As a result, we studied carrots due to their content of a different type of phytochemicals, polyacetylenes, which are colorless but have strong effects on cancer.</p>



<p>“For our study, we looked at different types of cancer and our analysis showed that people who eat five portions of carrots per week had a 20% reduced risk of developing the disease.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-perfect-potatoes-nbsp">Perfect potatoes&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Newcastle team studied more than 250 varieties of potatoes, looking at different qualities from tuber characteristics to their ability to resist disease and climate stress.</p>



<p>According to the researchers, preparing potatoes in the air fryer is the healthiest way to cook them to a golden crisp for holiday meals.</p>



<p>“Rooster potatoes are perfect for making the best roast potato," explained PhD student Sophia Long. "They have a nice red skin and, when peeled, they reveal a lovely golden color underneath – perfect for your roasties on Christmas day.”</p>



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



<p>The research provides a new perspective on festive eating, suggesting that indulgence and health benefits can coexist in a well-prepared holiday meal.</p>



<p>"Carrot consumption was consistently negatively associated with cancer incidence across a wide range of geographical regions, exposure types and cancer types, which provided robust statistical power to quantify associations precisely," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"These findings provide enhanced support for safe and cost-effective public health recommendations and interventions to increase carrot intake, as part of the overall consumption of fruit and vegetables, in order to reduce the risk of cancer and other diet-related diseases."</p>



<p>"The results also highlight the need to investigate the roles of a wider range of vegetable phytochemicals, specifically polyacetylenes and isocoumarins, in pre-clinical studies regarding cancer-related effects."</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2023.2287176" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition</em></a>. </p>



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Holiday meals: Indulgence and health benefits can coexist

Scientists at Newcastle University are providing insights on how a...

The Running Chicken Nebula

<p>As the festive season brings an array of traditional feasts around the world, the European Southern Observatory (<a href="https://www.eso.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESO</a>) introduces a cosmic delicacy: the Running Chicken Nebula. </p>



<p>This celestial wonder, captured in an astounding 1.5-billion-pixel image by the VLT Survey Telescope (<a href="https://www.eso.org/public/teles-instr/paranal-observatory/surveytelescopes/vst/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VST</a>) at ESO's Paranal site in Chile, offers a visual feast that rivals any holiday table.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-running-chicken-nebula-s-location">Running Chicken Nebula's location</h2>



<p>Nestled in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/water-detected-where-giant-planets-like-earth-may-be-forming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">constellation Centaurus</a>, approximately 6500 light-years from Earth, this <a href="https://www.eso.org/public/archives/images/publicationjpg/eso2320b.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vast stellar nursery</a> is a cradle of young stars. These nascent stars emit intense radiation, illuminating the surrounding hydrogen gas in a mesmerizing pink hue, reminiscent of festive lights.</p>



<p>The nebula, which spans an area equivalent to about 25 full moons in the sky, is not just a singular entity but a complex of several regions, each with its own story. The most prominent area, IC 2948, is often humorously debated as either the chicken's head or rear. </p>



<p>Here, the pastel-toned gas and dust create a surreal, ethereal landscape. At the heart of the nebula, marked by a striking, bright, vertical structure, lies IC 2944, where Lambda Centauri shines the brightest -- a star visible to the naked eye but much closer to us than the nebula itself.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stars-in-the-running-chicken-nebula">Stars in the Running Chicken Nebula</h2>



<p>Yet, within IC 2948 and IC 2944, numerous young stars shine with a ferocity that is anything but merry. Their intense radiation sculpts the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-reveal-the-ring-nebula-as-it-has-never-been-seen-before/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nebula</a> in a manner akin to a chicken pecking at its environment. </p>



<p>Amidst this turbulent space, Bok globules stand resilient. These small, dense pockets of dust and gas withstand the onslaught of ultraviolet radiation, appearing as dark specks when zoomed into the image.</p>



<p>The image also showcases other regions like Gum 39, 40, and 41. Amidst these nebulae, a myriad of orange, white, and blue stars sparkle, evoking a celestial fireworks display. </p>



<p>The depth and breadth of wonders in this image are truly inexhaustible -- each zoom and pan reveals more for the eyes to feast upon.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technical-aspects-of-the-image">Technical aspects of the image</h2>



<p>This remarkable image is a mosaic of hundreds of individual frames, meticulously pieced together. The frames were captured through filters that isolated different light colors, later combined to form the final image. This intricate process highlights the varied hues and features of the nebula.</p>



<p>The observations were made using the <a href="https://www.eso.org/sci/facilities/paranal/instruments/omegacam.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OmegaCAM</a> on the VST, a telescope operated by the National Institute for Astrophysics in Italy (INAF) and hosted by ESO in Chile's Atacama Desert. This location is ideal for mapping the southern sky in visible light. </p>



<p>The data for this mosaic were collected as part of the VST Photometric Hα Survey of the Southern Galactic Plane and Bulge (VPHAS+), an endeavor aimed at unraveling the life cycle of stars.</p>



<p>This holiday season, as we partake in our earthly traditions, the Running Chicken Nebula stands as a reminder of the universe's vastness and beauty -- a cosmic feast for the eyes, inviting us to explore the mysteries of star formation and the intricate tapestry of the cosmos.</p>



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The "Running Chicken Nebula" captured just in time for your holiday feast

As the festive season brings an array of traditional feasts...

<p>Christmas can be a dangerous time for cats, so experts at <a href="https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/cats/behaviour/understanding-cats/christmas-safety-for-cats" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Purina</a> have published some safety guidelines to help cat owners prepare for a safe and stress-free holiday.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Christmas is such an exciting time of year, but unfortunately all the twinkling lights and merriment can be hazardous for your cat," wrote the Purina team.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"From climbing the Christmas tree to the stress of visiting family members and hazardous treats that may turn out to be harmful, cats and Christmas can sometimes be a real recipe for disaster. But it doesn’t need to be! When managed with a bit of extra care, the holidays can be a time of fun and happiness for both you and your four-legged friend."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climbing-the-tree">Climbing the tree</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-are-better-at-expressing-emotions-than-cats-except-for-anger/">Cats</a> are natural climbers, and Christmas trees often become unintended challenges for them. The risk of your ambitious cat toppling the tree is real.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To prevent such mishaps, the experts recommend using a heavy base or tethering the tree to a wall or ceiling for stability.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dangling-dangers">Dangling dangers</h2>



<p>Shiny, dangling Christmas decorations are irresistible to cats but can be dangerous.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Glass ornaments may break and harm your cat, while tinsel and angel hair pose choking hazards. Opt for cat-safe decorations that are securely attached and out of paw's reach.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beware-of-wires">Beware of wires</h2>



<p>The allure of Christmas light wires can be dangerous for cats who might chew them. Covering wires and opting for battery-powered lights when you're not around to supervise can mitigate these risks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-toxic-trees">Toxic trees</h2>



<p>Fir trees can be mildly toxic to cats, causing mouth and stomach irritation. Fallen needles pose a risk of puncturing the gastrointestinal system. Consider a non-drop variety or an artificial tree to reduce these risks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-dangers">Additional dangers</h2>



<p>Live, potted Christmas trees may contain fertilizers that are harmful to cats. Changing the soil and covering it can prevent your cat from mistaking it for a litter tray.</p>



<p>Some snow globes contain toxic antifreeze, and broken pieces can be hazardous. Be cautious with festive plants like poinsettia, holly, and mistletoe, as they are poisonous to cats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-christmas-food">Christmas food</h2>



<p>The experts say to be mindful of Christmas foods that are toxic to cats, such as onions, garlic, raisins, chocolate, and alcohol. Also, beware of meat strings from roasts, which can cause choking.</p>



<p>In addition, the kitchen itself can be hazardous to cats. "There’s always plenty of cooking going on during the festive period and this poses new threats to your pet. From cooking oil, hot stoves to clanging pots and pans, it’s a good idea to keep cats out of the kitchen at Christmas," wrote the Purina team.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-create-a-safe-space-nbsp">Create a safe space&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Cats thrive on routine and familiarity. Christmas upheavals, like decoration changes and guest visits, can be stressful. Keep your cat's environment as unchanged as possible, offering them a safe, familiar space.</p>



<p>Create a safe space by using a stair gate to keep cats away from unfamiliar guests and hectic areas. Ensure your cat has access to their essentials in a quiet part of the house.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cleaning-products">Cleaning products</h2>



<p>Excessive cleaning can disrupt the comforting scents in your home, causing anxiety in cats. Clean lightly, maintaining a scent environment that is familiar to your cat.</p>



<p>"While you are going to want to make sure your house looks its best if you are inviting family around, don't go too crazy with the cleaning, polishing and air fresheners," said the experts.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prioritize-cat-time">Prioritize cat time</h2>



<p>"Most importantly, take an hour or two out of your festive celebrations just to have some ‘cat time’ - doing the things you know your cat enjoys."&nbsp;</p>



<p>"That might be playing with interactive hunting toys, it might be grooming, or it might just be spending quiet time together. This is the best present you can give your cat for Christmas." </p>



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



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How to keep cats safe this Christmas, from toxic trees to dangling dangers

Christmas can be a dangerous time for cats, so experts...

Ukraine,,Kiev,-,January,04,,2020:,Coca,Cola,Soft,Drinks

<p>Cola, a beverage often associated with the festive Christmas season, has garnered a reputation for its supposed ability to alleviate a blocked esophagus, when food gets stuck in your throat. </p>



<p>However, recent research conducted by <a href="https://www.amsterdamumc.org/en/about/organization/about-amsterdam-umc.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amsterdam UMC</a> has undermined this widely held belief. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-study-cola-and-throat-blockages">Why study cola and throat blockages?</h2>



<p>Elise Tiebie is an emergency physician and the driving force behind this study. She discovered numerous online sources, including tip websites, Wikipedia, and even a British newspaper anecdote about paramedics relying on cola to save lives. </p>



<p>Professor Arjan Bredenoord, a renowned authority in Gastroenterology at Amsterdam UMC and the lead author of the study, expressed his surprise. He said, "I've even heard doctors recommending it." </p>



<p>Consequently, Bredenoord and his team sought to investigate the veracity of these claims, ultimately dispelling this long-standing myth.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-esophageal-blockages">Understanding esophageal blockages</h2>



<p>Sometimes, after swallowing, a piece of food can become lodged in the narrow passage of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/esophagus-accumulates-mutations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">esophagus</a>, resulting in a distressing sensation of pressure. In severe cases, individuals may struggle to even swallow their saliva. </p>



<p>This obstruction is typically caused by a constricted esophagus, which may be due to scars resulting from previous inflammations or a narrowing caused by a tumor. </p>



<p>Bredenoord emphasizes the potential dangers of this condition, stressing the importance of seeking appropriate medical treatment. </p>



<p>"This can be really dangerous, so it's important that people get the correct treatment. That's why we wanted to check if this works,” adds Bredenoord.  </p>



<p>With this imperative in mind, the researchers set out to assess the efficacy of cola in resolving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-humans-have-shockingly-different-digestive-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">esophageal blockages</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treatment-options-and-the-role-of-cola">Treatment options and the role of cola</h2>



<p>In some instances, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chewing-food-thoroughly-may-help-manage-weight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">food particles</a> dislodge on their own, naturally relieving the blockage. However, such spontaneous resolution is not guaranteed, necessitating a visit to the emergency room. </p>



<p>In cases where there is a suspicion that the obstruction persists, an emergency endoscopy is usually performed. During this procedure, a camera is introduced through the mouth into the esophagus to remove the stuck food using a net or forceps.</p>



<p>Previous suggestions have proposed that cola may aid in dislodging throat blockages, potentially averting the need for emergency endoscopy. </p>



<p>To investigate this claim, Bredenoord and his team conducted a comprehensive study across five Dutch hospitals, meticulously evaluating the safety and effectiveness of cola in dissolving esophageal obstructions.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-cola-and-throat-blockages">Studying cola and throat blockages</h2>



<p>51 patients, awaiting endoscopy, were divided into two groups. Half were given small sips of cola in the emergency room, while the other half waited without consuming cola. </p>



<p>If patients still experienced difficulty swallowing saliva, an emergency endoscopy was performed to remove the blockage.</p>



<p>The study's findings definitively demonstrate that cola does not possess the purported ability to alleviate food blockages in the esophagus. </p>



<p>In both groups, whether they received cola or not, there was an improvement in 61% of patients. Furthermore, no side effects or complications were observed with the use of cola.</p>



<p>"There was no improvement when using cola to loosen stuck food in the esophagus, often the food dislodged on its own after a while and otherwise, we performed an endoscopy. Hopefully this put this myth to rest,” concludes Bredenoord.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-and-advice">Implications and advice</h2>



<p>In summary, this research debunks the popular perception surrounding the efficacy of cola in this context, while also underscoring the importance of seeking appropriate medical intervention for esophageal blockages.</p>



<p>This is especially true during this time of year when dietary excesses are common. Let us celebrate the holiday season with accurate information and prioritized health.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/383/bmj-2023-077294" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The BMJ</a></em>.</p>



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Holiday advice: Drinking cola won’t help if food sticks in your throat

Cola, a beverage often associated with the festive Christmas season,...

Elegant,Girl,Buys,A,Christmas,Tree.,Woman,In,A,White

<p>Each holiday season, nearly 30 million American households celebrate with a live Christmas tree, embracing not only the visual splendor but also the delightful scent that permeates their homes. </p>



<p>This scent, evocative of the holiday spirit, originates from volatile organic compounds (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-household-cleaning-products-release-hundreds-of-toxic-chemicals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VOCs</a>). Despite their ubiquity during the season, the extent of these emissions and their potential health impacts remain largely uncharted.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-christmas-tree-scent-and-vocs">Christmas tree scent and VOCs</h2>



<p>Dustin Poppendieck, an environmental engineer at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (<a href="https://www.nist.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIST</a>), emphasizes the significance of understanding these emissions. </p>



<p>“Our nose is a good chemical sensor,” said Poppendieck. “We know that these trees are emitting something, and the question then becomes: How big of a source is it? We wanted to explore which chemicals are emitted and how much, and to put that into the context of other sources of chemicals in a house,” he said. </p>



<p>Poppendieck and his team embarked on a journey to decode the type and quantity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-household-products-expose-people-to-dangerous-chemicals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemicals</a> emitted by Christmas trees, seeking to contextualize this within the broader spectrum of household chemical sources.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-capturing-the-essence-of-christmas-trees">Capturing the essence of Christmas Trees</h2>



<p>The NIST researchers selected a Douglas fir, a popular Christmas tree choice, for their study. They enclosed it in a sealed chamber to accurately measure the type and quantity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indoor-air-quality-influences-creativity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VOCs</a> released over 17 days. </p>



<p>A critical part of their investigation included understanding how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-increases-the-risk-of-non-lung-cancers-too/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VOCs</a> interacted with other indoor air components, potentially forming new compounds.</p>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10335385/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monoterpenes</a>, a group of VOCs, are the primary contributors to the Christmas tree's signature smell. These compounds are also present in various everyday items, like air fresheners and personal care products. </p>



<p>Although their effects on outdoor air quality, due to emissions from conifers, are known, the impact of indoor emissions, especially from freshly cut trees, is less understood.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-christmas-trees-ozone-and-scent">Christmas trees, ozone, and scent</h2>



<p>The interaction between monoterpenes and ozone, a ground-level pollutant known for causing respiratory issues, was a focal point of the study. </p>



<p>The researchers simulated a typical home environment, complete with holiday lights and a day-night cycle, in their controlled chamber. </p>



<p>Using advanced techniques, they monitored the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fungal-networks-that-help-trees-communicate-determine-the-nature-of-forests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree's VOC</a> emissions, particularly focusing on the effects of introducing ozone into the environment.</p>



<p>The most abundant VOC emitted was monoterpenes, peaking on the first day and significantly diminishing thereafter. </p>



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



<p>Initially, their concentration was on par with a plug-in air freshener or a newly constructed house, but it rapidly decreased to nearly a tenth of its original level. In total, 52 distinct types of monoterpenes were identified.</p>



<p>When ozone was introduced, it reacted with the monoterpenes, forming byproducts like formaldehyde and other reactive chemicals. While the monoterpene concentration decreased further, formaldehyde levels increased. </p>



<p>However, the formaldehyde concentration remained relatively low, at around 1 part per billion, compared to typical household levels of 20-30 parts per billion.</p>



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



<p>For individuals sensitive to VOCs, the initial period after bringing a Christmas tree indoors could cause mild symptoms like watery eyes or a runny nose. </p>



<p>To mitigate this, Poppendieck suggests keeping a window open near the tree or leaving the tree outside or in a garage for three days before bringing it indoors, as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-from-farming-and-wildfires-is-more-likely-to-cause-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VOC emissions</a> naturally decline over time.</p>



<p>Nevertheless, Poppendieck reassures, "For most people, this shouldn't be a major concern. I'm still planning to have a Christmas tree in my house."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-water-your-christmas-tree-to-keep-the-scent">Water your Christmas tree to keep the scent</h2>



<p>Apart from air quality considerations, it's vital to water your Christmas tree daily. The most significant risk stems from a dried-out tree, which can pose a serious fire hazard in your home.</p>



<p>Through this study, we gain a deeper understanding of the air quality dynamics associated with live Christmas trees, empowering us to make informed decisions while still enjoying this cherished holiday tradition.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.nist.gov/fire/why-you-should-water-your-christmas-tree" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIST has safety tips available here</a>.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2950362023000024?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Indoor Environments</a></em>.</p>



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How Christmas trees produce that fresh, festive scent

Each holiday season, nearly 30 million American households celebrate with...

<p>Using the powerful NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have captured a dazzling image of the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A (Cas A), providing new insights into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stunning-image-of-cassiopeia-a-supernova-reveals-new-details/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">violent explosion</a> that occurred centuries ago.</p>



<p>The image, taken by the Near-Infrared Camera (<a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/content/observatory/instruments/nircam.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIRCam</a>) of the Webb telescope, offers an unprecedented resolution and reveals intricate details of the expanding shell of material colliding with the gas ejected by the star prior to its explosion. </p>



<p>This high-resolution view showcases the violent nature of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronomers-discover-a-new-way-that-stars-die/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">explosion</a>, which was previously out of reach to astronomers studying Cas A at these wavelengths.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cassiopeia-a-is-well-studied">Cassiopeia A is well-studied</h2>



<p>Cas A is among the most extensively studied <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supernova-explosions-could-damage-distant-planets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> remnants in existence. Through the combined efforts of ground-based and space-based observatories, including the iconic NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, astronomers have gradually assembled a multiwavelength understanding of the remnants left behind by this cataclysmic event.</p>



<p>With the advent of the Mid-Infrared Instrument (<a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/content/observatory/instruments/miri.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIRI</a>) on the Webb telescope in April 2023, scientists have entered a new phase of studying Cas A. </p>



<p>The MIRI has uncovered unexpected features within the inner shell of the supernova remnant. However, many of these intriguing features remain invisible in the new NIRCam image, prompting astronomers to investigate the reasons behind this discrepancy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-invisible-infrared-light">Decoding invisible infrared light</h2>



<p>Given that infrared light is invisible to the human eye, scientists use visible colors to represent these wavelengths. In this latest image of Cassiopeia A, colors have been assigned to the different filters of NIRCam, each color hinting at distinct activities occurring within the object. </p>



<p>Although the NIRCam image may appear less colorful than the <a href="https://www.esa.int/var/esa/storage/images/esa_multimedia/images/2023/12/cas_a_miri_image/25356068-1-eng-GB/Cas_A_MIRI_image.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIRI image</a>, the difference lies in the specific wavelengths emitted by the material in the object.</p>



<p>Prominently featured in the new image are clumps of bright orange and light pink, constituting the inner shell of the Cas A supernova remnant. The exceptional resolution of the Webb telescope enables the detection of minute gas knots composed of sulfur, oxygen, argon, and neon originating from the star itself. </p>



<p>Embedded within this gas are dust particles and molecules that will eventually play a crucial role in the formation of new stars and planetary systems.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mysteries-lie-within-the-infrared-spectrum">Mysteries lie within the infrared spectrum</h2>



<p>When compring the new near-infrared view of Cas A with the mid-infrared view, the inner cavity and outermost shell appear devoid of color in the former. The deep orange and red hues observed in the MIRI image transform into smoky shades reminiscent of a campfire in the NIRCam image. </p>



<p>This transformation occurs due to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/largest-known-cosmic-explosion-has-been-visible-for-three-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> blast wave colliding with the surrounding circumstellar material. The dust within this material emits light in the mid-infrared but remains undetectable at near-infrared wavelengths.</p>



<p>According to researchers, the white color seen in the NIRCam image originates from synchrotron radiation generated by charged particles moving at exceptionally high speeds along magnetic field lines. </p>



<p>This type of radiation is visible not only in the bubble-like shells within the lower half of the inner cavity but also in the white and purple outlines surrounding the circular holes in the MIRI image. These holes represent ionized gas sculpted and pushed through by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasas-x-ray-telescope-discovers-the-ghostly-cosmic-hand/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">supernova</a> debris.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-green-monster-and-baby-cas-a">The 'Green Monster' and Baby Cas A</h2>



<p>The NIRCam image does not reveal the loop of green light observed within the central cavity of Cassiopeia A in the mid-infrared view. This distinctive feature, aptly named the Green Monster by the research team, poses a significant challenge to researchers seeking to understand its nature. </p>



<p>Nevertheless, the near-infrared remnants in this region provide valuable insights. The circular holes visible in the MIRI image, faintly outlined in white and purple emission in the NIRCam image, are believed to result from the supernova debris interacting with the gas left behind by the star's explosion.</p>



<p>In the bottom right corner of <a href="https://www.esa.int/var/esa/storage/images/esa_multimedia/images/2023/12/cas_a_nircam_image/25355020-1-eng-GB/Cas_A_NIRCam_image.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIRCam's field of view</a>, researchers were astonished to uncover a large, striated blob, resembling an offspring of the main supernova - an echo of light known as Baby Cas A. This striking feature arises from the long-ago <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronomers-find-a-planet-named-halla-that-shouldnt-exist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">explosion of the star</a>, which has now reached and heated distant dust, causing it to emit a glow as it cools down. </p>



<p>The intricate dust pattern in this light echo, coupled with Baby Cas A's seemingly close proximity to the supernova remnant itself, presents an intriguing puzzle for scientists. Remarkably, Baby Cas A is situated roughly 170 light-years behind the main supernova remnant.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-captivating-portrait-of-light-echoes">Captivating portrait of light echoes</h2>



<p>Webb's new image of Cassiopeia A also includes several smaller light echoes scattered throughout the composition, further enriching our understanding of the dynamics within the remnant.</p>



<p>The Cas A supernova remnant resides approximately 11,000 light-years away in the constellation Cassiopeia. This cataclysmic event, estimated to have occurred about 340 years ago from our perspective, continues to captivate scientists and inspire new avenues of exploration.</p>



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



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

Shiny Christmas ornament in space: The "Cassiopeia A" supernova

Using the powerful NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have...

<p>A recent study led by <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a> scientists and published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adg6794" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science Advances</em></a> reveals new insights into how water shapes <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-do-mountains-form-new-theories-for-an-age-old-mystery/">mountainous</a> terrain over geological time. </p>



<p>Using drone technology, the team’s research in central Taiwan has identified a critical link between the size of river boulders and river steepness, shedding light on the relationship between underground tectonic processes and surface landscape changes.</p>



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



<p>“Over the course of a mountain belt developing, we’re seeing differences in how rivers incise, or cut down into the bedrock, in the younger and older sections. It means that as a mountain belt evolves, erosion is changing at the surface,” explained lead author Julia Carr, a 2022 Ph.D. graduate in Geosciences from Penn State.</p>



<p>The study focuses on the process of uplift, where tectonic plate collisions push previously buried rocks to the surface, leading to variations in rock properties. These properties, including rock hardness and the orientation of fractures, impact how these rocks erode when exposed to surface elements.</p>



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



<p>In Taiwan, the researchers observed that the main indicator of rock strength in the mountains was the size of boulders in rivers, with larger and stronger boulders found where rocks had been buried deeper in the Earth’s crust.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“When the boulders in the channels are larger, the river needs to steepen to be able to erode at the same rate,” said co-author Roman DiBiase, an associate professor of Geosciences at Penn State.</p>



<p>This study also sheds light on the challenges of accounting for rock strength in erosion models.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Determining the controls on river incision into rock is important for understanding how mountain ranges evolve over geologic time,” DiBiase added.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comprehensive-survey">Comprehensive survey</h2>



<p>The researchers utilized drones to navigate the challenging terrain and collect extensive data on river channel morphology and boulder measurements.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Carr notes the uniqueness of this approach, emphasizing that such a comprehensive survey reveals patterns that would be missed by conventional field surveys.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ideal-study-setting">Ideal study setting</h2>



<p>The central mountain range of Taiwan, one of the steepest and most erosion-prone landscapes on Earth, provided an ideal setting for this study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The systematic burial depth patterns in this region, resulting from millions of years of tectonic activity, offer valuable insights into the connection between a rock’s subsurface history and its surface properties.</p>



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



<p>“If we apply this, it implies this primary rock strength signal controlling boulder size is setting river incision in the landscape. And that matches with the local steepness of the rivers,” Carr explained.</p>



<p>This study not only advances our understanding of how mountains evolve but also has broader applications in developing erosion models for other mountain ranges, enhancing our comprehension of Earth’s dynamic landscape.</p>



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Drone study reveals how water shapes mountains over time

A recent study led by Penn State scientists and published...

<p>A recent study from the <a href="https://www.gu.se/en">University of Gothenburg</a> sheds new light on the relationship between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/circadian-rhythms-persist-during-bear-hibernation/">circadian rhythms</a> and cardiovascular health. The study reveals a startling correlation between late-night habits and the risk of coronary artery calcification, a critical factor in the development of atherosclerosis.</p>



<p>"Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Approximately 49 million people in the European Union live with CVD, which accounts for 37% of all deaths in the region," wrote the study authors.</p>



<p>The research, involving 771 people aged 50 to 64, is part of the larger <a href="https://www.scapis.org/">SCAPIS</a> population study. It meticulously assessed the degree of artery calcification in the heart's coronary arteries using computer tomography. </p>



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



<p>Participants self-reported their chronotype - whether they were extreme morning types, moderate morning types, intermediate types, moderate evening types, or extreme evening types.</p>



<p>The results were striking. Among those who classified themselves as extreme morning types, only 22.2% exhibited pronounced artery calcification.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By contrast, the extreme evening types showed a significantly higher prevalence, with 40.6% having severe coronary artery calcification.</p>



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



<p>Atherosclerosis involves the accumulation of fatty deposits inside arteries, impeding blood flow. This disease develops over an extended period, often going unnoticed until causing severe conditions like angina, heart attacks, or strokes.</p>



<p>Previous studies have linked late-night habits with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, this is the first research to specifically connect circadian rhythms to artery calcification, an early stage of cardiovascular disease.</p>



<p>"Our results indicate that extreme evening chronotype may be linked not only to poorer cardiovascular health in general, but also more specifically to calcification in the coronary arteries calcification and atherosclerosis," said study first author Mio Kobayashi Frisk, a doctoral student at Sahlgrenska Academy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contributing-factors">Contributing factors</h2>



<p>In assessing the risk of atherosclerosis, the study accounted for various factors, including blood pressure, blood lipids, weight, physical activity, stress level, sleep quality, and smoking habits.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"As well as the previously known factors, the individual circadian rhythm also appears to be an important risk factor for atherosclerosis. We interpret our results as indicating that circadian rhythms are more significant early in the disease process. It should therefore particularly be considered in the preventive treatment of cardiovascular diseases," said study co-author Ding Zou.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-reported-chronotypes">Self-reported chronotypes</h2>



<p>An interesting aspect of the study is the reliance on self-reported chronotypes. While this could be seen as a limitation, it provides valuable insight into personal sleep patterns and their impact on health. The study excluded individuals who had experienced a heart attack, focusing on a healthier subset of the general population.</p>



<p>Chronotypes represent the average time when half of the night's sleep has passed. For extreme morning types, this occurred around 02:55 AM, whereas for extreme evening types, it was around 04:25 AM.</p>



<p>The results highlight the need for further research into how our internal clocks influence our overall health, particularly concerning life-threatening conditions like atherosclerosis.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2023.11.004" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Sleep Medicine</em></a>.</p>



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Late-night habits of "night owls" raise the risk of heart disease

A recent study from the University of Gothenburg sheds new...

Young,Smiling,Friends,Toasting,Red,Wine,At,Restaurant,Pub,At

<p>While it's well-known that excessive alcohol consumption harms many organs, including the liver, brain, and heart, a paradox exists. About 50 years ago, studies began to suggest that moderate drinking might be beneficial for the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/every-move-counts-even-minimal-activity-can-boost-heart-health/">heart</a>.</p>



<p>Moderate drinking is quantified as one to two drinks per day for a man, and one drink per day for a woman. Here, a "drink" is defined as either a shot (1.5 ounces) of spirits, a 5-ounce glass of wine, or a 12-ounce bottle of beer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-and-health-benefits">Heart and health benefits</h2>



<p>The notion of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heavy-drinking-increases-the-buildup-of-ectopic-fat-around-the-heart-and-liver/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart</a> benefits from moderate drinking emerges from observational research involving hundreds of thousands of participants. These studies have closely monitored individuals' drinking patterns and health over several decades. </p>



<p>Participants were classified as non-drinkers, moderate drinkers, and more-than-moderate drinkers. Over time, it was observed that moderate drinkers had lower rates of coronary artery disease, including fewer heart attacks, compared to the other groups.</p>



<p>"That makes sense, since other studies have found that moderate drinking causes 'good' cholesterol to rise and blood to clot a bit less easily - both of which could explain a lower rate of heart attacks," explained Dr. Anthony Komaroff, an internal medicine specialist and editor-in-chief of the <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/is-moderate-drinking-heart-healthy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard Health Letter</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studies-of-moderate-drinking">Studies of moderate drinking</h2>



<p>However, observational studies are not without limitations. If such a study finds that moderate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/drinking-alcohol-has-a-significant-negative-impact-on-a-fathers-sperm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drinkers</a> have a lower incidence of heart disease, it doesn't necessarily imply that moderate drinking is the direct cause. There could be other, unmeasured variables involved. </p>



<p>For instance, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moderate-alcohol-consumption-does-not-increase-risk-of-early-death/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moderate</a> drinkers may engage in other unknown heart-healthy practices, or non-drinkers might possess a gene that increases their risk of heart disease and also affects their alcohol tolerance.</p>



<p>"Good observational studies do their best to take account of all the factors that might affect an outcome," said Dr. Komaroff. "Unfortunately, they can't be done perfectly, and they can't take account of risk factors that have not yet been discovered."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-randomized-controlled-trials">Randomized controlled trials</h2>



<p>To definitively prove the benefits of any treatment or practice, including moderate <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-temperatures-may-amplify-alcohol-and-drug-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drinking</a>, randomized controlled trials are needed. These trials involve randomly assigning participants to different groups to isolate the effect of the treatment or practice. </p>



<p>However, it is challenging to conduct trials on nutritional practices like moderate drinking due to difficulties in participant adherence and long-term monitoring.</p>



<p>Recent studies have cast doubt on the evidence that moderate drinking reduces the risk of heart disease. This doesn't negate past studies, but adds complexity to the existing body of research.</p>



<p>As it stands, the evidence suggests that while moderate drinking may offer some heart benefits, it should not be recommended solely for achieving these potential benefits. On the contrary, excessive drinking is undeniably harmful, causing multiple health issues, including heart problems.</p>



<p>"We all wish science could provide definitive and permanent answers to important questions, but that is rarely the case," said Dr. Komaroff. "The best that we can do is give you our current assessment of how we weigh the sometimes-conflicting evidence. Stay tuned!"</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recent-moderate-drinking-research">Recent moderate drinking research</h2>



<p>In a separate report, researchers at <a href="https://www.massgeneral.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Massachusetts General Hospital</a> have made a breakthrough in understanding why light to moderate alcohol consumption might be beneficial for heart health.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Published in the <a href="https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2023.04.015" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of the American College of Cardiology</em></a>, the study reveals a link between alcohol consumption and reduced stress signaling in the brain, which may lower the risk of heart disease.</p>



<p>This impact appeared to significantly account for the reductions in heart disease risk seen in light to moderate drinkers participating in the study, noted the researchers.</p>



<p>"We are not advocating the use of alcohol to reduce the risk of heart attacks or strokes because of other concerning effects of alcohol on health,” said study senior author and cardiologist Ahmed Tawakol.</p>



<p>“We wanted to understand how light to moderate drinking reduces cardiovascular disease, as demonstrated by multiple other studies. And if we could find the mechanism, the goal would be to find other approaches that could replicate or induce alcohol’s protective cardiac effects without the adverse impacts of alcohol.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-substantial-risk-reduction">Substantial risk reduction</h2>



<p>The research involved over 50,000 participants from the Mass General Brigham Biobank. The results showed that light to moderate drinking is linked to a substantial reduction in cardiovascular disease risk. This finding persisted even after adjusting for genetic, clinical, lifestyle, and socioeconomic factors.</p>



<p>A subset of 754 individuals underwent PET/CT brain imaging, primarily for cancer surveillance, to examine the effect of light/moderate alcohol consumption on stress-related neural network activity. </p>



<p>The imaging revealed reduced stress signaling in the amygdala - a brain region associated with stress responses - in light to moderate drinkers compared to those who abstained or drank little.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"When the amygdala is too alert and vigilant, the sympathetic nervous system is heightened, which drives up blood pressure and increases heart rate, and triggers the release of inflammatory cells,” explained Tawakol. </p>



<p>“If the stress is chronic, the result is hypertension, increased inflammation, and a substantial risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-interventions">New interventions</h2>



<p>The experts also discovered that while light to moderate drinking lowered the risk for cardiovascular disease, any amount of alcohol increased the risk of cancer. Furthermore, excessive drinking (more than 14 drinks a week) raised heart attack risk and decreased overall brain activity, potentially affecting cognitive health.</p>



<p>Given these findings, Tawakol and his team propose that future research should focus on new interventions that reduce brain stress activity without alcohol's harmful effects.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team is currently exploring the impact of exercise, stress-reduction techniques like meditation, and pharmacological therapies on stress-associated neural networks, aiming to induce similar cardiovascular benefits.</p>



<p>The research was supported by the <a href="https://www.nih.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institutes of Health</a>.</p>



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Heart benefits of moderate drinking may be hidden in the brain

While it's well-known that excessive alcohol consumption harms many organs,...

<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>



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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>



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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>



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



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

Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<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>



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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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<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

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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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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