<p>Not everything in the universe is what it seems. Some things, like tiny red objects captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), might look like stars or galaxies. But new research suggests they could be something else entirely - something we’ve never seen before.</p>



<p>The objects, called “little red dots,” were first spotted when Webb returned its initial pictures in 2022. The dots appeared where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-galaxy-shows-us-what-the-early-milky-way-looked-like/">young galaxies</a> would be alone, 500 to 700 million years after the Big Bang. But they were too bright and too big to be galaxies that early in the universe. Something wasn’t adding up.</p>



<p>For a while, researchers thought they had discovered ancient, mature galaxies that somehow formed way faster than expected - so fast they started calling them “universe breakers.” But after digging deeper, a new idea started to form. Maybe these weren’t <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/thousands-of-galaxies-revealed-in-a-single-webb-image/">galaxies</a> at all.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-star-that-s-hiding-a-black-hole">A star that's hiding a black hole</h2>



<p>In a recent study, scientists proposed a bold theory: the red dots might be something called a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/free-floating-black-hole-appears-to-be-feeding-on-a-star/">black hole</a> star. Picture a huge sphere of gas that looks like a cold, low-energy star - but inside, it’s hiding a growing supermassive black hole.</p>



<p>Instead of getting its energy from fusion like a normal star, this object feeds off matter falling into the black hole at its core. That process generates energy and gives off light, creating the bright signal scientists saw.</p>



<p>“Basically, we looked at enough red dots until we saw one that had so much atmosphere that it couldn't be explained as typical stars we’d expect from a galaxy,” said Joel Leja, an associate professor of astrophysics at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a>. </p>



<p>“It’s an elegant answer really, because we thought it was a tiny galaxy full of many separate cold stars, but it’s actually, effectively, one gigantic, very cold star.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cold-stars-that-shine-strangely">Cold stars that shine strangely</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/video/earth-humans-and-all-living-creatures-are-made-from-stars/">Stars</a> that are cold emit very little visible light. They glow mainly in the red or near-infrared part of the spectrum - a type of light our eyes can’t see. These stars are usually small and faint, which makes them hard to find.</p>



<p>But these red dots stood out. The light they gave off wasn’t from a hot, bright region like we usually see near black holes. Instead, it came from very cold gas, similar to what’s found around low-mass stars.</p>



<p>Webb was built to pick up exactly this kind of ancient, stretched-out infrared light. Its infrared sensors can see light that traveled across the universe for over 13 billion years. That makes it perfect for spotting objects from the very early days of the cosmos.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-most-extreme-red-dot">The most extreme red dot</h2>



<p>Between January and December 2024, the team gathered spectra - a kind of light fingerprint - from 4,500 galaxies. Spectra can tell scientists how bright something is across different wavelengths, which helps them figure out what it’s made of and how massive it is.</p>



<p>One of these objects stood out. Nicknamed “The Cliff,” it turned out to be the most extreme of all the red dots. It was so far away that its light took about 11.9 billion years to reach Earth.</p>



<p>“The extreme properties of The Cliff forced us to go back to the drawing board, and come up with entirely new models,” said Anna de Graaff, a researcher for the <a href="https://www.mpia.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Astronomy</a>.</p>



<p>Spectral analysis showed that The Cliff wasn’t made up of countless tiny stars. It was a single, massive object - a black hole pulling in gas so fast that it wrapped itself in a glowing shell of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-star-forming-hydrogen-cloud-discovered-surprisingly-close-to-earth-eos/">hydrogen</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-are-black-hole-stars-a-missing-link">Are black hole stars a missing link?</h2>



<p>Black holes are found at the center of most galaxies. Some of them are enormous - millions or even billions of times more massive than our sun. But no one knows exactly how they got that big, or how they formed in the first place.</p>



<p>“No one's ever really known why or where these gigantic black holes at the center of galaxies come from,” said Leja. “These black hole stars might be the first phase of formation for the black holes that we see in galaxies today - <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supermassive-black-holes-are-much-more-common-in-the-universe-than-believed/">supermassive black holes</a> in their little infancy stage.”</p>



<p>That idea could help solve a major puzzle in astronomy. If these red dots are actually black hole stars, then maybe they’re the missing link - the early-stage objects that grow into the supermassive black holes we see in today’s galaxies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-following-clues-from-the-universe">Following clues from the universe </h2>



<p>The team plans to keep studying these black hole star candidates, especially by looking at how dense the gas is and how strong the light output is. That might help confirm whether they’re really seeing a new type of object.</p>



<p>“This is the best idea we have and really the first one that fits nearly all of the data, so now we need to flesh it out more,” said Leja. </p>



<p>“It's okay to be wrong. The universe is much weirder than we can imagine and all we can do is follow its clues. There are still big surprises out there for us.”</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2025/09/aa54681-25/aa54681-25.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astronomy and Astrophysics</a></em>.</p>



<p>Image Credit: T. Müller/A. de Graaff/Max Planck Institute for Astronomy</p>



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Mystery objects in the early universe may be black hole stars

Not everything in the universe is what it seems. Some things, like tiny red objects captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), might look like stars or galaxies. But new research suggests they could be something else entirely - something we’ve never seen before. The objects, called “little red dots,” were first spotted when Webb returned its initial pictures in 2022. The dots appeared where young galaxies would be alone, 500 to 700 million years after the Big Bang. But they were too bright and too...

Drinking,Wine,Alone.,Sad,Mature,Woman,Being,Alone,At,Home

<p>Red wine, a popular choice for festive occasions like Thanksgiving, is known for its rich flavor and potential health benefits. However, it also brings an unpleasant experience for some – the dreaded "red wine headache." </p>



<p>A recent study by scientists at the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a>, delves into the reasons behind this phenomenon, particularly in individuals who do not experience headaches from other alcoholic drinks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quercetin-and-red-wine-headaches">Quercetin and red wine headaches</h2>



<p>The research focuses on a specific flavanol found in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/muscadine-wine-improves-elasticity-in-aging-skin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">red wine</a> -- quercetin. Commonly present in various fruits and vegetables, quercetin is a celebrated antioxidant, even available as a dietary supplement. </p>



<p>However, its interaction with alcohol in the bloodstream can cause issues. Wine chemist Andrew Waterhouse is a professor emeritus at UC Davis’s Department of Viticulture and Enology. He explains, “When it gets in your bloodstream, your body converts it to a different form called quercetin glucuronide. In that form, it blocks the metabolism of alcohol.”</p>



<p>The study's lead author is Apramita Devi, a postdoctoral researcher at UC Davis. Devi points out that this interference leads to the accumulation of acetaldehyde, a well-known toxin. </p>



<p>“Acetaldehyde is a well-known toxin, irritant and inflammatory substance,” said Devi. “Researchers know that high levels of acetaldehyde can cause facial flushing, headache and nausea.”</p>



<p>These symptoms are similar to the effects experienced by individuals taking disulfiram, a medication prescribed to deter alcohol consumption.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetics-and-red-wine-headaches">Genetics and red wine headaches</h2>



<p>Co-author Morris Levin, a neurology professor and director of the <a href="https://www.ucsfhealth.org/clinics/headache-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Headache Center</a> at the University of California, San Francisco, suggests a link between these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/red-wine-gut-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">red wine</a> headaches and genetic factors. Approximately 40% of the East Asian population possesses an enzyme less effective at breaking down acetaldehyde, increasing their vulnerability to these symptoms.</p>



<p>“We postulate that when susceptible people <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wine-drinking-in-the-americas-traced-back-to-the-15th-century/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consume wine</a> with even modest amounts of quercetin, they develop headaches, particularly if they have a preexisting migraine or another primary headache condition,” said Levin. “We think we are finally on the right track toward explaining this millennia-old mystery.&nbsp; The next step is to test it scientifically on people who develop these headaches, so stay tuned.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wine-production-and-grape-cultivation">Wine production and grape cultivation</h2>



<p>Waterhouse notes that quercetin levels in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/foods-rich-in-flavanols-can-help-burn-excess-fat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">red wine</a> can vary significantly, influenced by factors like grape exposure to sunlight and wine production methods. For example, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/red-wine-grapes-have-unexpected-gut-health-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grapes</a> grown with exposed clusters, as in Napa Valley cabernets, tend to have higher quercetin levels.</p>



<p>“Quercetin is produced by the grapes in response to sunlight,” Waterhouse said. “If you grow grapes with the clusters exposed, such as they do in the Napa Valley for their cabernets, you get much higher levels of quercetin. In some cases, it can be four to five times higher.”</p>



<p>A small human clinical trial, funded by the <a href="https://www.winespectator.com/tags/wine-spectator-scholarship-foundation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wine Spectator Scholarship Foundation</a> and led by UCSF, is in the pipeline. This trial aims to test the red wine headache theory on people, comparing wines with high and low quercetin levels.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unanswered-questions">Unanswered questions</h2>



<p>Despite these findings, several questions remain. The exact reason why some individuals are more prone to red wine headaches than others is still unclear. Researchers are uncertain whether it's the individual's enzymes being more susceptible to quercetin's effects or a higher sensitivity to acetaldehyde buildup.</p>



<p>In summary, this study marks a significant step in unraveling the mystery behind red wine headaches. As Waterhouse concludes, “If our hypothesis pans out, then we will have the tools to start addressing these important questions.” </p>



<p>The research not only sheds light on a long-standing enigma but also paves the way for more personalized approaches to enjoying red wine without the fear of headaches.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-46203-y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a></em>.</p>



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Why red wine gives some people a headache

Red wine, a popular choice for festive occasions like Thanksgiving,...

<p>Scientists have discovered a unique mating behavior in serotine bats (Eptesicus serotinus). Unlike typical mammalian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/male-moths-use-an-aphrodisiac-during-mating-to-feel-macho/">mating</a> practices that involve penetration, serotine bats engage in a rare form of non-penetrative sex. This study marks the first instance where such behavior has been documented in mammals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strange-anatomy-nbsp">Strange anatomy&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The peculiar anatomy of serotine bats plays a crucial role in their mating process. The researchers observed that the bats' penises are about seven times longer than the females' vaginas and possess a "heart-shaped" head that is seven times wider than the vaginal opening.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Such dimensions make penetration post-erection unfeasible. Instead, the bats utilize their oversized penises, not for penetration but as an extra limb to maneuver the female's tail sheath, facilitating contact mating. This behavior closely resembles "cloacal kissing" seen in birds.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-oversized-penises-nbsp">Oversized penises&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Nicolas Fasel, the first author of the study from the <a href="https://www.unil.ch/central/en/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lausanne</a>, shared their initial curiosity about the bats' disproportionately long penises. “By chance, we had observed that these bats have disproportionately long penises, and we were always wondering ‘how does that work?’"</p>



<p>"We thought maybe it's like in the dog where the penis engorges after penetration so that they are locked together, or alternatively maybe they just couldn't put it inside, but that type of copulation hasn’t been reported in mammals until now.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clear-evidence">Clear evidence</h2>



<p>The researchers collaborated with a Ukrainian bat rehabilitation center and Dutch citizen scientist Jan Jeucken. The team analyzed 97 mating events captured through video recordings.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The recordings provided clear evidence of the non-penetrative nature of the bats' mating, with no penetration observed during any of the mating events.</p>



<p>Remarkably, the male bats were seen grasping their partners by the nape and positioning their pelvises and fully erect penises in a probing manner until contact was made with the female's vulva.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These interactions, sometimes lasting up to 12.7 hours, ended with the female bats' abdomens appearing wet. This hints at the possibility of semen transfer, but further research is needed for confirmation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genital-morphology-nbsp">Genital morphology&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Additionally, the researchers conducted detailed studies of the bats' genital morphology. They measured the erect penises of live serotine bats and performed necropsies on deceased bats, confirming the significant size disparity between the male and female genitalia.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts also noted the unusual length of the female bats' cervixes, which could play a role in sperm selection and storage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mating-strategies-nbsp">Mating strategies&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study suggests that the evolution of the serotine bats' oversized penises might be a mechanism to bypass the females' tail membranes, which are typically used for protection against males. This finding sheds light on the complex and diverse mating strategies in the animal kingdom</p>



<p>“Bats use their tail membranes for flying and to capture the insects, and female bats also use them to cover their lower parts and protect themselves from males, but the males can then use these big penises to overcome the tail membrane and reach the vulva," explained Fasel.</p>



<p>Looking ahead, the researchers aim to explore bat mating behaviors in more natural settings and examine penis morphology and mating habits in other bat species. “We are trying to develop a bat porn box, which will be like an aquarium with cameras everywhere,” said Fasel.</p>



<p>Image Credit: Alona Shulenko</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2023.09.054"><em>Current Biology</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Peculiar anatomy: Serotine bats have oversized penises that are not used for penetration 

Scientists have discovered a unique mating behavior in serotine bats...

<p>A new study suggests that an increase in visceral abdominal fat in middle age could be linked to the onset of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-link-between-sex-hormones-and-alzheimers-disease/">Alzheimer’s disease</a>. This fat, which surrounds internal organs in the belly, has been associated with brain changes that occur up to 15 years before Alzheimer’s disease’s earliest memory loss symptoms.</p>



<p>According to the Alzheimer’s Association, over six million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s, and this number is expected to rise to nearly 13 million by 2050. The disease disproportionately affects women, with one in five women and one in ten men likely to develop it in their lifetime.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-alzheimer-s-risks-nbsp">Early Alzheimer’s risks&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Researchers aimed to identify early Alzheimer’s risks by assessing the association between brain MRI volumes, amyloid and tau uptake on positron emission tomography (PET) scans, and factors like body mass index (BMI), obesity, insulin resistance, and abdominal fat in a cognitively normal midlife population. Amyloid and tau are proteins believed to disrupt communication between brain cells.</p>



<p>“No prior study has linked a specific type of fat to the actual Alzheimer’s disease protein in cognitively normal people,” said study author Mahsa Dolatshahi, M.D., M.P.H., a post-doctoral research fellow at the <a href="https://www.mir.wustl.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology</a> (MIR) at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. </p>



<p>“Similar studies have not investigated the differential role of visceral and subcutaneous fat, especially in terms of Alzheimer’s amyloid pathology, as early as midlife.”</p>



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



<p>For the cross-sectional study, researchers analyzed data from 54 cognitively healthy participants, aged 40 to 60 years, with an average BMI of 32. They underwent various tests, including glucose and insulin measurements, glucose tolerance tests, and abdominal MRI to measure the volume of subcutaneous and visceral fat.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Brain MRI measured cortical thickness in regions affected by Alzheimer’s, and PET scans examined disease pathology in 32 participants.</p>



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



<p>The study found that a higher visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio was associated with increased amyloid PET tracer uptake in the precuneus cortex, a region affected early by Alzheimer’s.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This relationship was more pronounced in men than in women. Researchers also found that higher visceral fat measurements relate to an increased burden of inflammation in the brain.</p>



<p>“Inflammatory secretions of visceral fat - as opposed to potentially protective effects of subcutaneous fat - may lead to inflammation in the brain, one of the main mechanisms contributing to Alzheimer’s disease,” explained Dr. Dolatshahi.</p>



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



<p>Senior author Dr. Cyrus A. Raji is an associate professor of Radiology and Neurology, and director of neuromagnetic resonance imaging at the Mallinckrodt Institute. Dr. Raji noted the implications of these findings for early diagnosis and intervention.</p>



<p>“This study highlights a key mechanism by which hidden fat can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease,” he said. “It shows that such brain changes occur as early as age 50, on average - up to 15 years before the earliest memory loss symptoms of Alzheimer’s occur.”</p>



<p>Dr. Raji suggested that targeting visceral abdominal fat could be a potential method to modify the risk of future brain inflammation and dementia.</p>



<p>“By moving beyond body mass index in better characterizing the anatomical distribution of body fat on MRI, we now have a uniquely better understanding of why this factor may increase risk for Alzheimer’s disease,” he concluded.</p>



<p>The study will be presented next week at the <a href="https://www.rsna.org/annual-meeting">annual meeting</a> of the <a href="https://www.rsna.org/">Radiological Society of North America</a> (RSNA).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-visceral-abdominal-fat-nbsp">Visceral abdominal fat&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Visceral abdominal fat, often referred to as visceral fat, is a type of body fat that's stored within the abdominal cavity. It's located near several vital organs, including the liver, stomach, and intestines, which makes its presence more concerning than subcutaneous fat, the fat that's found under the skin.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-primary-concerns">Primary concerns</h3>



<p>One of the primary reasons visceral fat is a health concern is due to its active nature. Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat functions almost like an organ itself, releasing hormones and substances that can affect your body negatively. These secretions can lead to inflammation and can negatively impact insulin sensitivity, potentially leading to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes.</p>



<p>Moreover, high levels of abdominal fat are associated with a greater risk of serious health issues, such as heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. It's also linked to a higher risk of metabolic disorders and conditions like sleep apnea.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-exercise-nbsp">Diet and exercise&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Interestingly, visceral fat is also more responsive to diet and exercise than subcutaneous fat. This means that lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity and a healthier diet, can be quite effective in reducing visceral fat levels.&nbsp;</p>



<p>People often see improvements in their visceral fat levels and related health risks with weight loss, particularly when it's achieved through a combination of diet and exercise.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-controlling-visceral-fat-nbsp">Controlling visceral fat&nbsp;</h3>



<p>It's important to note that while body mass index (BMI) is a common measure of body fat, it doesn't differentiate between types of fat. Therefore, someone with a normal BMI could still have a high level of abdominal fat, making it important to focus on overall health and lifestyle rather than just weight or BMI numbers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management are key factors in controlling visceral fat levels.</p>



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Hidden abdominal fat linked to Alzheimer’s disease

A new study suggests that an increase in visceral abdominal...

<p>Using a cutting-edge, minimally invasive technique, researchers are on the brink of a breakthrough in treating <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/long-covid-is-not-a-single-condition-but-a-spectrum-of-evolving-symptoms/">long COVID</a> patients who have lost their sense of smell. This promising development will be presented at the upcoming annual meeting of the <a href="https://www.rsna.org/annual-meeting" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Radiological Society of North America</a> (RSNA).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-post-covid-parosmia">Post-COVID parosmia</h2>



<p>Parosmia, a condition that disrupts the normal functioning of smell, has emerged as a prevalent symptom among COVID-19 sufferers. Recent studies reveal that up to 60 percent of COVID-19 patients experience this condition.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While many recover their olfactory senses over time, a subset of long COVID patients continues to struggle with these symptoms for an extended period, impacting their appetite and overall quality of life.</p>



<p>“Post-COVID parosmia is common and increasingly recognized,” said lead author Adam C. Zoga, M.D., M.B.A., a professor of Musculoskeletal Radiology at <a href="https://www.jeffersonhealth.org/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jefferson Health</a> in Philadelphia. “Patients can develop a distaste for foods and drinks they used to enjoy.”</p>



<p>In addition to a distorted sense of smell, some affected individuals may experience phantosmia, where they perceive smells that are not present in their environment.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stellate-ganglion-block-nbsp">Stellate ganglion block&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The researchers focused on the effectiveness of CT-guided stellate ganglion block as a potential remedy for persistent post-COVID parosmia. The stellate ganglia, part of the autonomic nervous system, are nerve clusters located on each side of the neck, playing a role in sending signals to various parts of the upper body.</p>



<p>In their approach, the team employed a stellate ganglion block, a procedure involving the injection of anesthetic directly into the ganglion to activate the regional autonomic nervous system. This quick, minimally invasive technique requires no sedation or pain relief.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Previously, stellate ganglion block has been applied in treating diverse conditions like cluster headaches, phantom limb pain, Raynaud’s and Meniere’s syndromes, angina, and cardiac arrhythmia.</p>



<p>“Parosmia has previously been reported as a rare disorder occurring after brain trauma, brain surgery, stroke, viral syndromes, and with some head and neck tumors,” Zoga explained. The team was initially uncertain about the procedure’s efficacy for parosmia.</p>



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



<p>In the study, 54 patients with at least six months of persistent post-COVID parosmia, unresponsive to conventional treatments, were referred for the procedure. Using CT guidance, the researchers accurately positioned a spinal needle at the neck base for the injection. They included a corticosteroid dose with the anesthetic, hypothesizing that COVID-19 might trigger nerve inflammation.</p>



<p>“The initial patient had a tremendously positive outcome, almost immediately, with continued improvement to the point of symptom resolution at four weeks,” Zoga said. The trial witnessed significant outcomes, including near-total resolution of phantosmia in some patients.</p>



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



<p>Among the 37 patients (65 percent) followed up, 22 (59 percent) reported symptom improvement within a week post-injection. Of these, 18 (82 percent) experienced substantial ongoing improvement a month after the procedure. At three months, these 22 patients noted an average 49 percent symptom improvement.</p>



<p>A second injection was administered to 26 patients on the opposite neck side after a six-week gap. While ineffective for those unresponsive to the first injection, 86 percent of those who had initial improvement reported further progress post-second injection. No complications or adverse events were reported.</p>



<p>“Other treatments have failed to date. This injection is working,” Zoga concluded.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-long-covid">More about long COVID</h2>



<p>Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), refers to a range of symptoms that continue for weeks or even months after the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection has resolved.</p>



<p>This phenomenon has been observed in a subset of individuals who have contracted the COVID-19 virus, caused by SARS-CoV-2.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-symptoms">Symptoms</h3>



<p>Long COVID can affect nearly any organ system. Symptoms include fatigue, brain fog or cognitive impairment, shortness of breath, chest pain, joint or muscle pain, depression or anxiety, fever, loss of taste or smell, and more. These symptoms may fluctuate or relapse over time.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unknown-cause">Unknown cause</h3>



<p>While the exact cause of long COVID was not yet known, it’s thought to be a combination of factors. These include direct damage caused by the virus, a prolonged inflammatory response, an autoimmune response, or persistent presence of low-level virus.</p>



<p>The probability of developing long COVID does not necessarily correlate with the severity of the initial infection. Even individuals with mild or asymptomatic COVID-19 can experience these prolonged symptoms.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-health-concern">Public health concern</h3>



<p>Long COVID has been increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern. For some individuals, this condition can significantly impact the quality of life and ability to perform daily activities or work.</p>



<p>There is ongoing research into long COVID, including its causes, risk factors, and potential treatments. Care for patients involves managing symptoms and supportive treatments.</p>



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Simple treatment restores sense of smell in long COVID patients

Using a cutting-edge, minimally invasive technique, researchers are on the...

<p>Researchers at <a href="https://www.osu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ohio State University</a> have analyzed ice cores from Nevado Huascarán, the world's highest tropical <a href="https://www.earth.com/search-results/?search=mountain&amp;start=0">mountain</a>, located in the central Peruvian Andes. </p>



<p>This research, which is the first of its kind to examine ice cores from the summit of this mountain, provides unprecedented insights into the climate history of the Amazon Basin over the past six decades.</p>



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



<p>The study was focused on the analysis of four ice core samples. Two of these were from the mountain col, the lowest point between two ridges, and two were from the summit itself - nearly 7,000 meters above sea level.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team compared the oxygen-stable isotope records found in glacial ice at different elevations on the mountain.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Oxygen-stable isotopes are used by scientists as proxies to deduce temperature changes over time. However, interpreting these records in tropical regions can be particularly challenging due to the complexity of the area's climate.</p>



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



<p>The findings revealed that the isotope records have a statistically significant relationship with sea surface temperatures in the Pacific and rainfall over tropical South America.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Notably, the isotopes from the summit showed a heightened sensitivity to large-scale changes in tropical Pacific sea surface temperature, compared to those at lower elevations. This difference is crucial as it indicates that isotope records at varying elevations might depict different aspects or mechanisms of the region's climate history.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research suggests an increasing influence of tropical Pacific climate on the summit isotope records, likely due to the rapid climate changes in recent times.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-el-nino-years">El Niño years</h2>



<p>“From a paleo-climate perspective, the data tells us that these cores may be useful for looking at the history of El Niño in the tropics,” said Austin Weber, lead author of the study and a PhD student at the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center. “And we don’t really have very good histories of that because there are not many observational data sets or historical records for the tropics.”</p>



<p>El Niño years, characterized by anomalously warm sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific, impact the Amazon Basin by weakening trade winds and reducing rainfall. These climatic changes in turn affect the way isotopes fractionate.</p>



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



<p>The study also highlights the impact of climate change on the region. Over the last 60 years, rising temperatures have significantly contributed to the accelerated retreat of ice on Nevado Huascarán.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This ice retreat is concerning, as Lonnie Thompson, co-author of the study and a senior research scientist at the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, pointed out.&nbsp;</p>



<p>He said that tropical ice core samples can act as important proxies for understanding Earth’s intricate ocean-atmosphere system.</p>



<p>“The beauty of these ice cores is that they give you a perspective into what the natural variability was before humans started altering the climate system,” said Thompson.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historic-achievement">Historic achievement</h2>



<p>The retrieval of these ice cores in July 2019 marked a historic achievement, overcoming decades of challenges posed by avalanches and hidden snow-lined crevasses.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team successfully reached the summit of the mountain’s South Peak and recovered a total of 471 meters of glacial ice cores, both from the col drill site (6,050 meters above sea level) and the summit (6,768 meters above sea level).&nbsp;</p>



<p>“It’s a very difficult and dangerous place to recover ice cores and that expedition probably won’t be repeated,” said Thompson. “This paper is the first research to be published of what I believe will be a whole series of papers on what are probably the most unique collection of ice cores collected in my entire career.”</p>



<p>This work was supported by the National Science Foundation. The findings are published in the <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023JD039006" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Journal of Geophysical Research</em></a>.</p>



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Ice cores from highest tropical peak reveal new climate clues

Researchers at The Ohio State University have analyzed ice cores...

<p>Bivalve mollusks, often overlooked in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-identified-anti-aging-drugs-using-ai-technology/">aging</a> research, may hold clues to longevity, according to a new study led by researchers from the <a href="https://www.unibo.it/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bologna</a>.</p>



<p>The study has revealed a network of genes that evolve differently in long-lived and short-lived bivalves, many of which are associated with longevity in other animals.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The team explored the long lifespans of bivalve mollusks, including clams, mussels, oysters, and scallops.</p>



<p>Remarkably, these creatures have lifespans ranging from a single year to over 500 years, offering a unique window into the secrets of longevity.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cellular-damage">Cellular damage</h2>



<p>Historically, research on aging and longevity has primarily focused on humans and certain model animals, examining the accumulation of cellular damage over time.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Cellular damage manifests at the genomic level as mutations in nucleic acids, changes in nuclear architecture, and telomere shortening. At the proteomic level,  cellular damage is associated with the loss of proteases and errors affecting protein folding. These types of damage have been the primary culprits in aging. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exceptional-longevity-nbsp">Exceptional longevity&nbsp;</h2>



<p>"It always fascinated me that some bivalve species live extremely long lives," said co-first author Mariangela Iannello.</p>



<p>"When I realized that nobody had ever investigated this exceptional longevity within a molecular evolution framework, I knew that we had to start studying longevity in these animals."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-molecular-framework-for-longevity">Molecular framework for longevity</h2>



<p>The researchers used transcriptomic resources from 33 bivalve species, focusing on four with exceptionally long lifespans: Arctica islandica, Margaritifera margaritifera, Elliptio complanata, and Lampsilis siliquoidea.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The team discovered that genes related to DNA damage response, cell death regulation, responses to abiotic stimuli, and hypoxia tolerance showed convergent patterns of evolution in long-lived species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These findings suggest that there is a shared molecular framework for longevity across various animal lineages.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-longevity-genes">Longevity genes</h2>



<p>“What I find the most exciting is that many genes in this network had been previously associated with longevity in other species," said Iannello.</p>



<p>"An important implication of this finding is that an extension of lifespan may involve common genetic factors in very distantly related species.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exciting-possibilities-nbsp">Exciting possibilities&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The study not only highlights known longevity genes but also uncovers new candidates - particularly those involved in proteostasis. This indicates a link between efficient handling of damaged or misfolded proteins and extended lifespans. </p>



<p>"We believe that these genes are new and exciting candidates to be tested for a role in increasing lifespan, not only in bivalves, but also in other species," said Iannello.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advancing-aging-research-nbsp">Advancing aging research&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The researchers plan to expand their investigations to explore longevity in more species. </p>



<p>Despite the challenges posed by the complexity of longevity, the increasing availability of genomics data promises new opportunities to study previously unconsidered species, potentially revolutionizing aging research.</p>



<p>"The results obtained in this work made us thrilled to explore longevity in more species. In particular, we would like to investigate if the evolutionary signals in genes with a potential role in longevity are somehow shared across long-lived species from different taxonomic groups,” said Iannello.</p>



<p>“A complex and multifactorial process such as longevity is definitely challenging to analyze, requiring deep manipulation of big data and multiple complementary, integrative approaches."</p>



<p>“On the other hand, the increasing availability of omics data will allow us to explore species that have never been considered in this context before, and that would greatly help advance aging research.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learning-from-the-natural-world">Learning from the natural world</h2>



<p>In a related study from Genome Biology and Evolution, researchers at University College Dublin analyzed genes associated with human longevity across various placental mammals, finding a correlation between longer lifespans and the duplication of longevity genes. </p>



<p>While some may question the relevance of findings across such diverse species, Iannello emphasized the broader significance.</p>



<p>"Science has a long history of research focused on the most disparate taxa that has profoundly impacted our understanding of human biology," said Iannello. "I think that, particularly in the aging field, we have a lot to learn from the natural world around us.”</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/gbe/evad159" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Genome Biology and Evolution</em></a>.</p>



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Bivalve mollusks may hold the secrets of longevity

Bivalve mollusks, often overlooked in aging research, may hold clues...

<p>Researchers from the Department of Ethology at <a href="https://ethology.elte.hu/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eötvös Loránd University</a> have made a significant breakthrough in understanding how dogs perceive and process information. Their recent study delves into the phenomenon of spatial bias, comparing the reactions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/national-dog-day-celebrating-all-the-ways-that-dogs-make-life-better/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> to that of toddlers in response to gestures.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-phenomenon-of-spatial-bias">Phenomenon of spatial bias</h2>



<p>Spatial bias refers to interpreting information based on location, space, or distance, often overlooking the object's characteristics. </p>



<p>Ivaylo Iotchev, the first author of the study, elaborates on this concept. He said, ""This is manifested, for example, in the way <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-live-longer-and-happier-lives-when-they-get-to-socialize-often/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> and children react to gestures when we show them the position of an object. Very early on, children interpret the gesture as pointing to the object, while dogs take the pointing as a directional cue."</p>



<p>Lotchev continues, "In other words, regardless of the intention of the person giving the cue, the meaning for children and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-small-dogs-live-longer-than-large-breeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> is different. This phenomenon has previously been observed in dogs using a variety of behavioral tests, ranging from simple associative learning to imitation, but it had never been studied per se."</p>



<p>This difference in interpretation between dogs and children is at the heart of the research.</p>



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



<p>In their investigation into spatial bias, the researchers conducted two separate behavioral experiments with a group of 82 dogs. </p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/dog-learning-new-space_credit-Eniko-Kubinyi_1medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first experiment</a> required dogs to react and determine, across up to 50 attempts, if a treat was consistently placed on a plate either to their right or left, thus focusing on location learning. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/dog-learning-new-space_credit-Eniko-Kubinyi_2medium.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">second experiment</a> involved two distinct plates: one white and round, the other black and square, both centrally placed. </p>



<p>Each dog was consistently fed from only one type of plate but encountered both types in a semi-random order, teaching them to recognize plate characteristics. The speed at which a dog reacted and identified and ran to the correct plate was used as a measure of learning. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-and-spatial-bias">Dogs and spatial bias</h2>



<p>The results showed a clear preference in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-new-evidence-that-dogs-have-self-awareness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> for spatial bias, choosing information over object characteristics. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/petting-dogs-and-cats-dramatically-reduces-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dogs</a> reacted and learned faster when the task involved spatial cues (left or right) compared to discerning between the two types of plates. This 'spatial bias' was measured by the speed difference in learning about place versus object features.</p>



<p>The research also investigated whether spatial bias is a sensory or cognitive phenomenon. Zsófia Bognár, a co-author, explains, "The visual abilities of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-dog-breeds-are-better-at-learning-by-observing-humans-than-others/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dog breeds</a> differ from each other, which indirectly results from their head shape. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/modern-dogs-have-larger-brains-than-ancient-dog-breeds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dogs</a> with shorter heads - scientifically known as brachycephalic - develop human-like vision."</p>



<p>Bognár continues, "The structure of their retina implies sharper and more focused vision than their longer-headed counterparts. This has allowed us to use a measure of head shape (the so-called "cephalic index") as an approximate measure of the quality of vision in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/typical-american-dog-knows-18-words-and-love-is-at-the-top-of-the-list/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a>. It is calculated by dividing the width of the skull by the length of the skull. The shorter the head, the higher the number." </p>



<p>Additionally, the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-and-humans-process-social-information-in-surprisingly-similar-ways/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> underwent cognitive tests to assess memory, attention, and perseverance.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conclusions-and-future-study">Conclusions and future study</h2>



<p>The study concludes that spatial bias in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-dogs-prefer-food-or-toys-scientists-conducted-a-study-to-find-out/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a> is not merely sensory but also cognitive. Eniko Kubinyi is the head of the <a href="https://mta.hu/english/mta-lendulet-momentum-programme-20192024-109327" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MTA- ’Lendület’</a> Momentum Companion Animal Research Group. He adds, "We found that dogs with better cognitive performance linked information to objects as easily as to places." </p>



<p>The research suggests that 'smarter' <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-facial-markings-influence-how-they-bond-with-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a>, those with better visual acuity and cognitive abilities, show a smaller spatial bias and can overcome learning challenges more resiliently.</p>



<p>This eye-opening research opens up new avenues for understanding canine cognition and perception. It provides valuable insights into the differences and similarities between human and canine information processing. The findings have implications for dog training, welfare, and our broader understanding of animal intelligence.</p>



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



<p>As mentioned above, spatial bias is a cognitive phenomenon where individuals interpret information primarily in relation to space, location, or distance, often at the expense of other relevant details. This concept is crucial in understanding how different species, including humans, process and respond to environmental cues.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-spatial-bias">Role of spatial bias</h3>



<p>Spatial bias plays a significant role in learning and perception. It influences how individuals navigate their environment, remember locations, and interact with objects around them. This bias is not just about preferring spatial information; it's about how the brain prioritizes and processes these cues over other types of information.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spatial-bias-in-different-species">Spatial bias in different species</h3>



<p>Research shows that spatial bias varies across species. For instance, dogs often demonstrate a strong spatial bias, responding more to location cues than to the specific features of an object. In contrast, humans, especially as they develop from infancy, tend to focus more on the attributes of the object rather than just its location.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-spatial-bias">Implications of spatial bias</h3>



<p>Understanding spatial bias has significant implications. In animals, it affects training and behavior modification strategies. For humans, it influences how we design learning environments and aids in understanding developmental and cognitive disorders where spatial processing might be affected.</p>



<p>In summary, continued research into spatial bias can enhance our understanding of cognitive processing in both humans and animals. It holds the key to unlocking more effective learning techniques, improving animal training practices, and potentially aiding in the treatment of certain cognitive disorders.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <em><a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1111/eth.13423" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ethology</a></em>.</p>



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Seeing the world through the eyes of a dog

Researchers from the Department of Ethology at Eötvös Loránd University...

<p>Researchers at <a href="https://www.vt.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virginia Tech</a> and Arizona State University have made a significant breakthrough in increasing adoption rates for shelter <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-behavioral-journey-of-recently-adopted-shelter-dogs/">dogs</a>. Supported by a $1.7 million grant from Maddie’s Fund, the study reveals that short-term fostering programs greatly enhance the chances of shelter dog adoption.</p>



<p>Time spent out of the kennel and in a foster caregiver’s home can reduce physiological measures of stress in shelter dogs. The research team, led by Erica Feuerbacher and Lisa Gunter, explored the impact of brief outings and overnight fostering on adoption outcomes.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>The results showed that brief outings increased the likelihood of adoption by five times, while temporary fostering boosted the chances of adoption by more than 14 times.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to the researchers, these programs were more successful when a greater proportion of community members were providing outings and stays to the shelters’ dogs as well as when these programs were carried out by shelters with more resources.</p>



<p>“Our data show that these programs can help the dogs not only have an improved experience in the shelter, but also dramatically increase their likelihood of adoption, and for the shelters that get their communities involved in brief outings and temporary fostering stays, better performing programs,” said Gunter.</p>



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



<p>Over the course of four years, 85 shelter partners helped the research team carry out studies on brief outings, temporary stays, foster caregiving during the pandemic, weeklong fostering, and safety net fostering for pets whose owners were experiencing hardship.</p>



<p>The team analyzed data from 51 animal shelters across the United States, involving 1,955 dogs in fostering interventions and 25,946 control dogs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The data revealed that four percent of people involved in foster outings adopted the dog, and this number jumped to about 12 percent for overnight stays.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-community-engagement-nbsp">Community engagement&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Significantly, the majority of adopters were not the foster caregivers, indicating the broader community engagement fostered by these programs.</p>



<p>“We saw that the majority of people adopting the dogs weren’t the caregivers that were taking the dogs on outings or letting them stay in their homes. These dogs were being seen in the community, meeting new people, and caregivers were sharing their stories,” Gunter said. “This increased exposure likely helped the dogs find their adopters.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dual-benefits">Dual benefits</h2>



<p>Feuerbacher noted the dual benefits of fostering programs: reducing stress and increasing adoption rates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"It’s a really exciting finding. Our prior work showed how beneficial sleepovers were for reducing dogs’ stress,” said Feuerbacher. “It’s wonderful to know that it also helps them get adopted.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-welfare">Dog welfare</h2>



<p>The research also suggests that these programs are especially beneficial for dogs that require more assistance in finding homes. Clive Wynne, who led the project at Arizona State University, highlighted the ease of implementation for shelters and the significant impact on dog welfare and adoption rates.</p>



<p>“It’s great news that even short-term fostering has positive impacts on shelter dogs’ welfare and helps them get adopted because there are so many dogs in shelters in the United States and even the best shelters are not good places for dogs to be living,” said Wynne.</p>



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



<p>The findings emphasize the need for resources and education for shelters to effectively implement fostering programs.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“These kinds of fostering programs can save the lives of dogs in shelters,” said Gunter. “Currently, shelters are struggling with dog adoptions, and we have evidence that these programs support placement into homes, which in turn can help shelters help more dogs.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shelter-dogs">Shelter dogs&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Shelter dogs come from a variety of backgrounds, each with a unique story. Many are strays or lost pets, discovered wandering or brought in by concerned citizens.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Others are surrendered by their owners due to personal or financial hardships, lifestyle changes, or health issues. In some cases, these dogs are rescued from situations of neglect or abuse, requiring special care and rehabilitation.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-and-behavior-nbsp">Health and behavior&nbsp;</h3>



<p>When it comes to their health and behavior, shelter dogs often face several challenges. Many arrive with medical problems, ranging from minor concerns like fleas and ticks to more serious health conditions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Behavioral challenges are also common, as past traumas or a lack of socialization can lead to a range of issues. Shelters work diligently to address these problems, often providing medical treatment and behavioral training to prepare dogs for adoption.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges">Challenges</h3>



<p>Shelters are home to dogs of all ages, from playful puppies to serene seniors, each with its own specific needs and charms. The life in a shelter can be stressful for dogs due to the unfamiliar environment, the presence of many other animals, and the lack of consistent human companionship.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Despite these challenges, shelter staff and volunteers work tirelessly to provide care, love, and attention, helping these dogs become ready for their forever homes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-awareness-nbsp">Public awareness&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The role of shelters is not just to house these animals but to rehabilitate and rehome them. This includes conducting assessments to understand each dog's personality and needs, ensuring a good match with potential adopters.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Public awareness and adoption campaigns are critical in finding these dogs new homes, as is community support through volunteering, donations, and fostering programs.</p>



<p>Shelter dogs often come with a story of resilience and hope. With the right support and strategies, they can find loving homes and enrich the lives of their adopters. By adopting a shelter dog, people not only save a life but often find a loyal and grateful companion.</p>



<p>The research is published in the journal <em>Animals</em>.</p>



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Fostering programs greatly enhance shelter dog adoptions

Researchers at Virginia Tech and Arizona State University have made...

<p>Researchers at the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Cambridge</a> have made a significant breakthrough in the field of renewable energy and water purification. They have developed a solar-powered device capable of transforming contaminated water or seawater into clean hydrogen fuel and drinkable water. </p>



<p>This innovation holds immense potential, particularly for resource-limited or off-grid areas, as it can function with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-technology-can-purify-water-as-it-is-collected-from-fog/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">any open water</a> source without requiring external power.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mimicking-photosynthesis-for-clean-energy">Mimicking photosynthesis for clean energy</h2>



<p>The technology is inspired by photosynthesis, the natural process by which plants <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/breakthrough-technology-uses-sunlight-to-purify-water/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">convert sunlight</a> into energy. However, this device, an advanced version of the '<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-leaves-may-be-a-future-source-of-green-fuel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial leaf</a>', is unique in its ability to operate using polluted or seawater sources while simultaneously producing potable water. Earlier models of such devices were limited to using clean water sources to produce green hydrogen fuel.</p>



<p>Extensive tests have demonstrated the device's ability to purify water from various sources, including highly polluted water, seawater, and even water from the River Cam in Cambridge. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-technical-challenges-and-solutions">Technical challenges and solutions</h2>



<p>"Bringing together solar fuels production and water purification in a single device is tricky," explains Dr. Chanon Pornrungroj, co-lead author of the study. </p>



<p>Traditional solar-driven water splitting involves breaking down water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. It requires completely pure water as contaminants can impede the process.</p>



<p>Co-lead author Ariffin Mohamad Annuar highlights the device's significance in remote or developing regions, where access to clean water and purification infrastructure is limited. <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/solar-powered_clean-water_electricity_credit-Chanon-Pornrungro_Ariffin-Mohamad-Annuar_2medium-scaled.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The device</a> not only splits water to produce <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-tech-uses-chicken-feathers-to-generate-clean-electricity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clean fuel</a> but also generates drinkable water, addressing two critical challenges simultaneously.</p>



<p>The device's design was conceptualized by Pornrungroj, Mohamad Annuar, and their team in Professor Erwin Reisner’s research group. It features a photocatalyst deposited on a nanostructured carbon mesh. </p>



<p>This mesh absorbs light and heat, generating water vapor used in hydrogen production. Additionally, the carbon mesh is treated to repel water, ensuring it floats and remains uncontaminated by the water below.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-energy-produces-clean-water-and-energy">Solar energy produces clean water and energy</h2>



<p>The team has innovatively expanded the device's ability to harness solar energy. Mohamad Annuar points out that traditional light-driven processes for making solar fuels utilize only a small portion of the solar spectrum. </p>



<p>In contrast, their device includes a white, UV-absorbing layer on top for hydrogen production, while the rest of the solar spectrum is used to vaporize water at the bottom of the device. Pornrungroj notes, "This way, we’re truly mimicking a real leaf, incorporating the process of transpiration."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-real-world-implications">Real-world implications</h2>



<p>This device has far-reaching implications for addressing global energy and water crises. For instance, replacing 'dirty' fuels like kerosene, responsible for over three million deaths annually due to indoor air pollution, with green hydrogen could significantly reduce this number. Moreover, with 1.8 billion people worldwide lacking safe drinking water at home, this device offers a beacon of hope.</p>



<p>"It’s such a simple design: in just a few steps, we can build a device that works well on water from a wide variety of sources," says Mohamad Annuar. Pornrungroj adds, "It’s so tolerant of pollutants, and the floating design allows the substrate to work in very cloudy or muddy water. It’s a highly versatile system."</p>



<p>Professor Reisner, who led the research, views this device as a critical step towards a sustainable and circular economy. </p>



<p>"The climate crisis and issues around pollution and health are closely related, and developing an approach that could help address both would be a game-changer for so many people," he concludes. </p>



<p>While currently a proof of concept, the device represents the type of innovative solutions needed to tackle the intertwined challenges of climate change, pollution, and health.</p>



<p>The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44221-023-00139-9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Water</em></a>.</p>



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This solar-powered device produces both clean water and clean energy

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have made a significant...

<p>A new study conducted by <a href="https://www.cornell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell University</a> has shown promising results in using cannabinoids, compounds naturally found in hemp plants, as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pesticides-travel-far-and-wide-endangering-aquatic-ecosystems/">pesticides</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research reveals a direct relationship between higher concentrations of cannabinoids in hemp leaves and reduced damage from insect larvae, suggesting these compounds might have evolved as a defense mechanism against pests.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-previous-studies">Previous studies</h2>



<p>"In the decades since the first cannabinoids were identified by scientists, research has focused almost exclusively on the function and capacity of cannabinoids as medicines and intoxicants for humans and other vertebrates," wrote the study authors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Very little is known about the adaptive value of cannabinoid production, though several hypotheses have been proposed including protection from ultraviolet radiation, pathogens, and herbivores."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-defensive-compounds-nbsp">Defensive compounds&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Larry Smart is a professor in the School of Integrative Plant Sciences at Cornell and the senior author of the study.</p>



<p>“It has been speculated that they are defensive compounds, because they primarily accumulate in female flowers to protect seeds, which is a fairly common concept in plants,” said Professor Smart.</p>



<p>“But no one has put together a comprehensive set of experimental results to show a direct relationship between the accumulation of these cannabinoids and their harmful effects on insects."</p>



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



<p>Study first author George Stack, a postdoctoral researcher in Smart’s lab, said the research provides insight into how cannabinoids function in natural systems and can help us develop new THC-compliant hemp cultivars that maintain these natural built-in defenses against herbivores.</p>



<p>The researchers tested the efficacy of hemp plants with varying concentrations of cannabinoids. Smart said the team saw heavy insect damage in the absence of cannabinoids, and much less damage in the presence of cannabinoids.</p>



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



<p>"In the field, foliar cannabinoid concentration was inversely correlated with chewing herbivore damage," wrote the researchers. </p>



<p>"On detached leaves, Trichoplusia ni larvae consumed less leaf area and grew less when feeding on leaves with greater concentrations of cannabinoids."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-further-research-is-needed-nbsp">Further research is needed&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The Cornell program cannot work with high THC plants due to federal mandate, so THC was not tested as a pesticide in this research, noted Smart.</p>



<p>Further research is needed to understand how effective cannabinoid-based pesticides may be for use on house plants.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The potential use of cannabinoids as a pesticide is an exciting area for future research, but there will certainly be regulatory barriers due to pharmacological activity of the compounds, and more studies are needed to understand what pests cannabinoids will be effective against,” explained Stack.</p>



<p>The research was funded by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets through Empire State Development.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/hr/uhad207" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Horticulture Research</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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Cannabinoids as pesticides: Study reveals potential of hemp compounds

A new study conducted by Cornell University has shown promising...

Tropical,Blue,Ocean,With,White,Sand,And,Stones,Underwater,In

<p>In river mouths flowing into the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, every aquatic species is contaminated with microplastic pollution, according to an alarming new study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mollusk-shells-reveal-new-clues-about-past-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mollusks</a>, especially mussels and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/self-repairing-oyster-reefs-will-help-protect-coastlines/">oysters</a>, are the most affected. This is because mollusks are filter feeders that process large volumes of water to obtain food.</p>



<p>The study was conducted as part of the International Project "i-plastic" led by the Institute of Environmental Science and Technology of the <a href="https://www.uab.cat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona</a> (ICTA-UAB). Universities in Italy, Portugal, Brazil and Spain have also participated in the project, which was funded by <a href="https://jpi-oceans.eu/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPI-Oceans</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-microplastic-pollution">Studying microplastic pollution</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-inhale-the-equivalent-of-a-credit-card-in-microplastics-each-week/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a> range in size from 5 to 0.0001 mm, and even smaller nanoplastics. They are a significant source of pollution, particularly in estuaries which act as hotspots for their accumulation. </p>



<p>These particles are hazardous as they can capture harmful chemicals and enter the food web, leading to bioaccumulation in higher trophic levels, including commercially valuable species.</p>



<p>The i-plastic team analyzed the presence of micro- and nanoplastics in estuaries and their adjacent coasts.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-alarming-results">Alarming results</h2>



<p>The results are highly concerning: 85% of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-freshwater-mussels-are-threatened-by-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mussels</a> and 53% of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/self-repairing-oyster-reefs-will-help-protect-coastlines/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">oysters</a> were found to have ingested microplastics. </p>



<p>In addition, 75% of estuarine-dependent marine fishes contained <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/upper-ocean-layer-contains-24-trillion-pieces-of-microplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> or synthetic microfibers in their gut. Furthermore, over 85% of species in coastal regions are affected by estuarine outflow, such as European hake and Norwegian lobster.</p>



<p>Nanoplastics, due to their smaller size, pose an even greater risk as they can <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-embedded-in-tissues-of-whales-and-dolphins/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">penetrate cellular membranes</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ubiquitous-issue">Ubiquitous issue</h2>



<p>"Pollution is ubiquitous in estuaries and their adjacent coasts, in the Mediterranean, and in tropical and temperate zones," said Patrizia Ziveri, an oceanographer at ICTA-UAB and the project coordinator.</p>



<p>She noted that the amount of accumulated particles in sediments has increased in recent decades at the same rate as global plastic production. In addition, since 2000, the particles deposited on the seafloor have tripled. This pollution extends to coral reef systems, causing a reduction in their growth and posing a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/arctic-sea-ice-algae-heavily-contaminated-with-microplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global threat</a>. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-signature-of-human-pollution-nbsp">Signature of human pollution&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The experts found that areas near urban centers and wastewater treatment plants are particularly polluted with microfibers. This is the most common type of microlitter. When these particles are trapped on the seafloor, they do not degrade due to lack of erosion, oxygen and light. </p>



<p>"Plastics from the 1960s still remain on the seabed, leaving the signature of human pollution," said Michael Grelaud, oceanographer at ICTA-UAB and coordinator of this project.</p>



<p>Particles that are not deposited on the seabed can be transported by ocean currents and tides hundreds of kilometers in just a few months. "A microplastic from the Ebro estuary in the Northwestern Mediterranean Sea can reach Sicily, in Italy, in six months," said Ziveri.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bioremediation-of-microplastic-pollution">Bioremediation of microplastic pollution</h2>



<p>The researchers emphasize that bioremediation -- the use of living organisms to remove pollutants from water -- is one of the few viable options available for reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-found-in-clouds-may-be-affecting-the-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastic</a> pollution in coastal marine environments. </p>



<p>Laboratory experiments showed that filter-feeder communities could remove nearly 90% of microplastics from surrounding waters. This presents a potentially very effective method to mitigate this environmental crisis.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fish-and-microplastic-pollution">Fish and microplastic pollution</h2>



<p>As discussed above, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastic-exposure-linked-to-changes-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastic</a> pollution, involving tiny plastic particles less than five millimeters in diameter, poses a severe threat to marine life, especially fish. </p>



<p>These plastics come from various sources, such as decomposing larger plastic waste, cosmetic products, and synthetic fibers from clothing. They accumulate in water bodies, creating a significant environmental hazard.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-infiltrating-marine-ecosystems">Microplastics infiltrating marine ecosystems</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-is-driving-the-surge-of-microplastics-found-in-the-arctic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a> make their way into marine ecosystems through runoff water, rivers, and direct ocean dumping. In the ocean, these particles blend with the natural habitat, making them almost indistinguishable from the surrounding environment. Fish, mistaking microplastics for food, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consumption-of-microplastics-cant-be-avoided-and-they-damage-gut-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">consume</a> these particles, leading to direct health consequences.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastic-pollution-impact-on-fish">Microplastic pollution impact on fish</h3>



<p>When fish ingest microplastics, the particles can cause physical blockages and internal injuries. More insidiously, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-have-a-new-method-to-estimate-the-age-of-microplastics-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> often carry toxic substances. These include industrial chemicals and pollutants, which can accumulate in the tissues of marine organisms. This accumulation not only affects the health and reproductive capabilities of fish but also poses a risk to predators higher up the food chain, including humans who consume fish.</p>



<p>Recent research has consistently found microplastics in various fish species, both in wild and farmed populations. These studies highlight the pervasiveness of microplastic pollution across different marine environments. Researchers are actively studying the long-term impacts of microplastics on fish health, growth, and reproduction, with initial findings pointing towards various negative outcomes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-to-combat-microplastic-pollution">Strategies to combat microplastic pollution</h3>



<p>Addressing the issue of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/citizen-scientists-uncover-microplastics-in-the-remote-arctic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a> in our oceans requires both preventive and corrective measures. Prevention involves reducing overall plastic use, improving recycling, and banning microbeads in consumer products. Corrective measures include cleaning up existing plastic pollution and enhancing wastewater treatment processes to capture microplastics before they reach the ocean.</p>



<p>In summary, the presence of microplastics in fish is a critical environmental issue that requires immediate attention. It calls for a collective effort from individuals, industries, and governments worldwide to reduce plastic pollution and safeguard our marine ecosystems. Consumers can contribute by reducing their plastic footprint and supporting eco-friendly initiatives.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-in-estuaries-nbsp">Microplastics in estuaries&nbsp;</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-contaminate-all-lakes-and-freshwater-environments-around-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a> in estuaries present a significant environmental concern. Estuaries, being transitional zones between river environments and maritime seas, are crucial ecosystems that often bear the brunt of pollution from both marine and terrestrial sources. The impact of microplastics in estuaries is multifaceted:</p>



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



<p>Estuaries are rich in biodiversity, hosting various species of fish, birds, and plants. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-linger-in-riverbeds-for-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microplastics</a> can be ingested by marine organisms, leading to physical harm and potential toxicological effects. This ingestion can occur directly or through the food chain, affecting a wide range of organisms.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-contamination">Chemical contamination</h3>



<p>Microplastics often contain or absorb harmful chemicals. When ingested by aquatic life, these chemicals can bioaccumulate, posing health risks to the organisms and potentially transferring these risks up the food chain, including to humans.</p>



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



<p>Accumulation of microplastics can alter the physical properties of estuarine habitats, affecting the growth and health of various aquatic plants and animals.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-health-risks">Human health risks</h3>



<p>As humans consume seafood from these estuaries, there's a potential risk of ingesting microplastics and associated chemicals, which can have unknown health implications.</p>



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



<p>Estuaries provide important ecosystem services such as water filtration, flood control, and as nurseries for fish. The presence of microplastics can compromise these services, affecting both the environment and human populations that depend on these services.</p>



<p>Addressing the microplastics issue in estuaries requires a combination of approaches, including reducing plastic use and waste, improving waste management systems, public education, and conducting further research to understand the full impact of microplastics on these vital ecosystems.</p>



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Microplastic pollution found in every aquatic species tested

In river mouths flowing into the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic...

<p>Contrary to the widespread practice of social distancing in humans, house finches exhibit an increased tendency to socialize when they are <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-may-be-isolating-too-long-for-covid-19-infection/">sick</a>, particularly during feeding times. This is the conclusion of a recent study led by Marissa Langager, a PhD student in the Department of Biological Sciences at <a href="https://www.vt.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Virginia Tech</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-distancing">Social distancing</h2>



<p>While most social animals tend to isolate when sick, house finches behave differently. They show an increased inclination to be around their healthy flock mates. A notable aspect of their behavior is their preference to eat in the company of their flock, more so when they are unwell.</p>



<p>“The recent pandemic years of isolating and quarantining have shown us that social distancing to avoid getting sick can also have detrimental aspects for group living animals,” said Langager.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The costs of going solo may be particularly high for sick animals especially if they rely on their healthy groupmates to help them find food or avoid predators. Ultimately, this might be the reason that finches become even more social when sick, inadvertently putting their healthy flock mates at risk because bird feeders, where house finches like to gather to feed, are a major means of spreading disease.”</p>



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



<p>The study is one of the first to directly examine how acute infections caused by contagious pathogens influence social preferences. Langager noted that this research sheds light on how social animals behave when sick and can inform other studies in the field.</p>



<p>“Since all social animals - including humans - get sick, it is important to understand the costs and benefits of group living more broadly,” said Langager.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We may be able to use this information to predict disease spread in social animals. And it can also help us understand when and where we might expect healthy animals to evolve the ability to avoid sick groupmates who remain in the group at risk to their healthy groupmates. "</p>



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



<p>Intrigued by the unexpected results, Langager plans to delve deeper into the reasons behind sick finches' preference for social eating in her doctoral dissertation. She aims to understand why sick birds exert energy to maintain social connections, hypothesizing significant benefits to this behavior.</p>



<p>Langager is designing experiments to assess how group dynamics influence a sick bird's response to predators and their foraging success.</p>



<p>“Maintaining social relationships can take a lot of energy for the birds I study," said Langager. "So if these birds are putting forth the energy to keep hanging around their social groups even when they are sick, it is most likely because of the benefit to them."</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-house-finches">House finches</h2>



<p>House finches are small, colorful songbirds known for their vibrant plumage and melodious songs. They display a variety of interesting characteristics and behaviors.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-appearance">Appearance</h3>



<p>Males typically display bright red, orange, or yellowish plumage on their heads, necks, and chests, creating a striking contrast against their more brownish-gray feathered bodies.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By contrast, female house finches have brownish-gray feathers with subtle streaks, exhibiting a more subdued appearance compared to the males.</p>



<p>These birds are about the size of a house sparrow but are more slender in build. They possess a strong, cone-shaped beak that is slightly curved, an adaptation that allows them to efficiently crack open seeds, which form a significant part of their diet.</p>



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



<p>House finches are quite adaptable and are often found in settled areas such as city parks and residential backyards. They are known to build nests in various urban structures, including chimneys, attics, and dryer vents. Social creatures by nature, they typically travel in pairs or small groups and are monogamous.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-behavior-nbsp">Social behavior&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Their social behavior extends to their feeding habits. During the day, they can be seen perching on trees or power lines, and at night, they roost in small groups in trees. The loud, warbling song of the house finch is a familiar sound, particularly after sunrise and just before sunset during the breeding season.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finch-family">Finch family</h3>



<p>House finches are closely related to the Cassin’s Finch and the Purple Finch, all of which are part of the taxonomic genus Haemorhous, sometimes collectively referred to as American Rosefinches. Originally native to the Southwest, these adaptable and cheery-voiced birds have expanded their range and are now common across the United States.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ece3.10627" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Ecology and Evolution</em></a>.&nbsp;</p>



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House finches become more social when they're sick

Contrary to the widespread practice of social distancing in humans,...

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHHxOej4QfE
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Researchers found a correlation between Alzheimer's disease and traffic pollution.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E0mn5mTvhQ
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">'Death Star' moon Mimas conceals a 15-million-year-old ocean that scientists never expected.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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>



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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