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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Body tissues use electricity to expel weak cells

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

<p>In an ambitious new partnership, researchers from the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/english/">University of Copenhagen</a> and Aarhus University are teaming up with several industry partners to create a sustainable co-production model for fish, shrimp, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seaweed-superfood-could-help-ease-global-food-crisis/">seaweed</a>. The innovative project, called "SeaFree," aims to revolutionize the aquaculture industry over the next four years.</p>



<p>The heart of SeaFree is an advanced, land-based closed cycle that cleverly uses residual nutrients and carbon dioxide from fish and shrimp farming. These waste products will be repurposed to cultivate high-value seaweed, creating an eco-friendly system that benefits both the food and healthcare sectors.</p>



<h2 id="h-the-goals-of-the-seafree-project">The goals of the SeaFree project</h2>



<p>Professor Marianne Thomsen from the Department of Food Science at the University of Copenhagen explained the project's key goals: "The project aims to use seaweed production to absorb and convert emissions from land-based aquaculture into a high-value product."</p>



<p>The seaweed, rich in umami flavor and health benefits, will be used in dietary supplements to prevent diabetes and fuel sustainable food innovations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"In addition to capturing emissions that would have otherwise been emitted into the atmosphere and aquatic environment, the seaweed produced is both healthy and rich in umami flavor," said Thomsen.</p>



<p>SeaFree's budget of DKK 14.4 million (€1.9m) is generously provided by Innovation Fund Denmark. The project is a collective effort, featuring partnerships with companies including Pure Algae, DryingMate, Food Diagnostics, Sigrid Therapeutics, XOventure GmbH/Rigi Care, KOST, SOF Odden Caviar, and HanseGarnelen.</p>



<h2 id="h-seafree-only-requires-a-40-foot-container">SeaFree only requires a 40-foot container</h2>



<p>The operational nucleus of the project is a 40-foot container fitted with eight one-thousand-liter tanks. This cutting-edge Plug’n’Play technology unit, brimming with export potential, combines salt water, CO2, nutrients, and LED lights to grow a full batch of seaweed in just one week - an astoundingly short harvest period.</p>



<p>Thomsen explains the technology's potential impact on the aquaculture industry: "SeaFree represents the latest in recycling technology for land-based shrimp and fish farming. Besides capturing emissions, the system also recirculates surplus heat from the plants to the Plug'n'Play technology."&nbsp;</p>



<p>She further explained that the project incorporates an innovative technology that uses surplus heat to dry the seaweed for the healthcare industry, making SeaFree a model of sustainable and efficient production.</p>



<p>The result of this groundbreaking project is a set of climate-friendly products: fish, shrimp, and sea lettuce—a nutrient-dense seaweed species packed with fiber and protein. Sea lettuce, apart from being used in various dietary supplements, also serves as a healthy side dish to seafood meals.</p>



<h2 id="h-next-steps-take-this-global">Next steps – take this global</h2>



<p>According to Thomsen, part of SeaFree's mission is to raise public awareness of seaweed as a key ingredient in delicious home-cooked meals. She is also optimistic about the global potential of farming fish and seaweed as envisioned by SeaFree. Implementing this method across all the world's land-based shrimp and fish farms could drastically reduce the carbon footprint of global food systems.</p>



<p>The fusion of aquaculture and seaweed cultivation in closed systems, as per the SeaFree model, holds promise as a significant new Danish export market.</p>



<p>Professor Thomsen underscores the global applicability of the SeaFree technology, marketed as "SeaFree Synergy Solutions."&nbsp;</p>



<p>She noted that they are already in discussions with South Korea, a country showing keen interest in the technology and the project’s development. "On a global level, it will be possible to implement the technology anywhere in the world. As for the technology’s environmental benefits, they are unequivocal."</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-aquaculture">More about aquaculture</h2>



<p>Aquaculture, also known as aquafarming, is the practice of farming aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and aquatic plants. It involves cultivating freshwater and saltwater populations under controlled conditions, and is an alternative to harvesting wild marine life.</p>



<p>Aquaculture comes in many forms, and each type has different requirements and impacts on the environment.</p>



<h3 id="h-marine-aquaculture">Marine Aquaculture</h3>



<p>Also known as mariculture, it involves the cultivation of species that live in the ocean. This can range from shellfish like oysters and mussels to seaweed and fish species like salmon. Marine aquaculture can take place in the open ocean, or in ponds or tanks on land.</p>



<h3 id="h-freshwater-aquaculture">Freshwater Aquaculture</h3>



<p>This involves the rearing of aquatic organisms in freshwater environments. These can include ponds, lakes, man-made reservoirs, and tanks. The species cultivated can range from freshwater fish like tilapia and catfish to crustaceans and plants.</p>



<h3 id="h-algaculture">Algaculture</h3>



<p>A form of aquaculture that involves the farming of algae. Algae are incredibly diverse and can be used for a variety of purposes, including food, biofuel, and as a means to mitigate carbon emissions.</p>



<h3 id="h-integrated-multi-trophic-aquaculture-imta">Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA)</h3>



<p>This is a practice in which the waste produced by one species serves as food for another. For example, fish waste can provide nutrients for plants or shellfish. This creates a system where waste is minimized, mirroring natural ecosystem interactions.</p>



<p>Aquaculture has both benefits and drawbacks. On the positive side, it can contribute to food security by providing a growing global population with a reliable source of high-quality protein. It also plays a part in economic growth, particularly in developing countries, by creating jobs and improving balance of trade.</p>



<p>However, if not managed properly, aquaculture can also have negative environmental impacts. These can include water pollution, habitat destruction, and the spread of diseases to wild fish populations. Intensive farming can also lead to problems with fish welfare and can contribute to the overfishing of certain species, used as feed for farmed fish.</p>



<p>In recent years, sustainable practices in aquaculture have been promoted to mitigate these issues. These include better management of fish health, reducing the reliance on wild-caught fish for feed, and developing systems like the one in the SeaFree project, where waste is recycled and used to grow other valuable products.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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SeaFree: New technology turns waste from fish farming into seaweed

In an ambitious new partnership, researchers from the University of...

<p><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activities-threaten-australian-tiger-sharks/">Sharks</a>, the ocean's top predators, have held our fascination for centuries. Their impressive teeth and lower jaws, which allow them to devour a wide variety of prey, are among their most distinctive traits. But how has the jaw shape of these fascinating creatures changed over their long evolutionary journey?&nbsp;</p>



<p>An international team of researchers, spearheaded by Faviel A. López-Romero of the <a href="https://www.univie.ac.at/en/">University of Vienna</a>, has dived into this question, revealing some intriguing findings about these marine predators.</p>



<p>The study, recently published in the renowned journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s42003-023-04882-3"><em>Communications Biology</em></a>, highlights that the jaw shape of the most widespread shark species has shown surprisingly little variation over millions of years. Intriguingly, the most significant jaw diversity was observed among deep-sea sharks.</p>



<p>Sharks' ability to feast on a diverse array of prey is evident in the corresponding adaptations they have acquired over the course of their evolution. These evolutionary advancements have enabled them to colonize almost all marine habitats, with some species even daring to venture into freshwater.</p>



<p>An international, multidisciplinary team of scientists embarked on this research journey. Alongside López-Romero from the University of Vienna, scholars from Imperial College London, Muséum national d'histoire naturelle in Paris, Christian-Albrechts-University in Kiel, and the Naturalis Museum in Leiden also participated.</p>



<p>The research findings underscore the significance of prey, position in the marine food webs, and habitat in relation to the diversity of jaw shapes among shark species. This crucial insight helps decipher the evolutionary triggers behind the differences in jaw morphology associated with various habitats.</p>



<h2 id="h-first-evidence-of-sharks-dates-back-to-180-million-years-ago">First evidence of sharks dates back to 180 million years ago</h2>



<p>With an evolutionary lineage extending back to nearly 180 million years, today's sharks have consistently been key components in the marine realm and its food chains, primarily occupying the roles of meso and top predators. Over these vast spans of time, sharks have adopted a plethora of lifestyles and forms, including bottom dwellers, swift swimmers in the open sea, and even small species inhabiting the deep sea.</p>



<p>The research team conducted a detailed quantitative analysis to examine the possible correlation between jaw morphology and sharks' lifestyle. They used X-ray computed tomographic scans of the jaws of 90 shark species, preparing 3D reconstructions to estimate the evolution of shark jaw shape over time.</p>



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-found">What the researchers found</h2>



<p>One of the surprising results was that species-rich groups like requiem sharks displayed low variation in jaw shape, despite being one of the most widely distributed shark groups. Conversely, the most variability in jaw shape was found among deep-sea dwelling species.</p>



<p>"Although sharks from the deep sea are not as extensively represented in the data as reef sharks, they display the most disparate forms seen in our analysis," explained López-Romero, the study's first author from the Department of Palaeontology at the University of Vienna.</p>



<p>Deep-sea sharks showcase an array of adaptations, including bioluminescence and a wide variety of feeding strategies, ranging from large bites out of whales to a diet consisting of eggs or cephalopods. Meanwhile, the feeding choices of reef-dwelling species and large top predators in the open sea seem more restricted, mainly preying on fish and even other shark species.</p>



<p>"Of course, many sharks in these environments feed on a large variety of prey with only a few having adapted to a single, specific prey, such as the bonnethead shark, Sphyrna tiburo, which preys almost entirely on hard-shelled crabs, while shrimps and fish are only captured occasionally," noted Jürgen Kriwet from the University of Vienna.</p>



<p>The evolution of jaw shape also allowed the team to reconstruct the historical changes in jaw morphology over time.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Remarkable changes occurred in carpet, sleeper, and dogfish sharks. These changes were probably concomitant with the clear distribution of these sharks in reefs and the deep sea, which noticeably distinguishes them morphologically from other species with larger jaws as seen in the top predators in the open sea,” said López-Romero.</p>



<h2 id="h-sharks-living-in-the-deep-showed-most-variation">Sharks living in the deep showed most variation</h2>



<p>Deep-sea sharks, despite their underrepresentation in the data, presented the most diverse jaw shapes, noted López-Romero. Such diversity likely reflects the diverse feeding strategies of these creatures, which span from chomping down on whales to dining on eggs or cephalopods. As such, their jaws have evolved to be incredibly versatile and adapt to their unique environmental needs.</p>



<p>By contrast, the choices of most reef-dwelling species and the large top predators in the open sea are more limited. These predators mainly feed on fish and occasionally other shark species, restricting the evolution of their jaw morphology.</p>



<p>However, this doesn't mean that all sharks in these environments have limited diets. "Many sharks in these environments feed on a wide variety of prey, with only a few having adapted to a single, specific prey," explained Kriwet.</p>



<p>He cited the bonnethead shark, Sphyrna tiburo, as an example, which preys almost exclusively on hard-shelled crabs, with shrimps and fish only occasionally captured.</p>



<p>The research team's study of the evolution of shark jaw shape provided an opportunity to reconstruct the historical changes in this crucial morphological feature. López-Romero noted that "remarkable changes occurred in carpet, sleeper, and dogfish sharks."&nbsp;</p>



<p>He suggested that these changes likely coincided with the clear distribution of these sharks in reefs and the deep sea, distinguishing them from other species with larger jaws found among the top predators in the open sea.</p>



<p>The findings provide an insightful snapshot of shark evolution, illuminating the intriguing link between jaw morphology, habitat, and prey diversity. As scientists continue to delve into the evolutionary history of these captivating creatures, each discovery brings us one step closer to understanding their long-standing dominance in the world's oceans.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-sharks">More about sharks</h2>



<p><br>Sharks are a group of elasmobranch fish characterized by a cartilaginous skeleton, five to seven gill slits on the sides of the head, and pectoral fins that are not fused to the head.</p>



<p>They are a diverse group with over 500 known species ranging from the small dwarf lanternshark, a species of only 17 centimeters in length, to the whale shark, the largest fish, which can grow up to 12 meters in length.</p>



<h3 id="h-here-are-some-key-points-about-sharks">Here are some key points about sharks:</h3>



<h4 id="h-evolution-and-classification">Evolution and Classification</h4>



<p>Sharks have a long evolutionary history dating back to at least 420 million years. They are divided into eight orders, which include the well-known great white shark, tiger shark, and hammerhead shark, among others.</p>



<h4 id="h-anatomy-and-physiology">Anatomy and Physiology</h4>



<p>Sharks have a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body that enables them to swim swiftly through the water. They have a cartilaginous skeleton, which is lighter and more flexible than bone. They are equipped with multiple rows of teeth, and when they lose a tooth, another one slides forward to replace it.</p>



<p>Sharks have several adaptations for sensing their environment. They possess a network of special cells that can detect electricity (called the ampullae of Lorenzini) which they use to detect the electrical fields that all living things produce. This helps them locate prey. Sharks also have an extraordinary sense of smell.</p>



<h4 id="h-diet-and-feeding">Diet and Feeding</h4>



<p>Most sharks are carnivorous. They can be top predators, feeding on smaller fish and invertebrates, or they can be filter feeders, like the whale shark and basking shark, which sieve tiny plankton from the water.</p>



<h4 id="h-reproduction">Reproduction</h4>



<p>Sharks have diverse modes of reproduction. Some species lay eggs (oviparity), while others give live birth. In the latter group, some have a placenta-like organ (viviparity), while others do not and the young feed on yolk or other siblings in the womb (ovoviviparity).</p>



<h4 id="h-behavior">Behavior</h4>



<p>Sharks exhibit a wide range of behaviors. Some are solitary, while others, like the scalloped hammerhead, can be found in large schools. Some species migrate over great distances to feed or reproduce.</p>



<h4 id="h-conservation">Conservation</h4>



<p>Many shark species are threatened by human activities. Overfishing, both targeted and incidental, is the primary threat to sharks, with millions killed annually for their meat, fins, and liver oil. Habitat degradation and climate change also pose significant threats. As a result, many species are now listed as endangered or critically endangered.</p>



<h4 id="h-sharks-and-humans">Sharks and Humans</h4>



<p>While sharks are often portrayed as dangerous to humans, in reality, shark attacks are rare and typically the result of mistaken identity. Sharks play a crucial role in the ecosystem by maintaining the species below them in the food chain and serving as an indicator for ocean health. They help remove the weak and the sick, and maintain balance with competitors, ensuring species diversity.</p>



<p>As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, ongoing research continues to provide new insights into the biology, behavior, and ecology of sharks. They remain a fascinating group of animals that are critical to the health of the world's oceans.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Jaws of most shark species show little variation over millions of years

Sharks, the ocean's top predators, have held our fascination for...

<p>In the world of gummy candies, texture may just trump taste. The disappointment of biting into a rock-hard, stale gummy, despite its lingering sweetness, is a sensation most of us know all too well.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The secret to maintaining the ideal gummy texture is a complex dance between the formulation of the candy and its storage conditions - factors that significantly influence how the candy's molecules link together.</p>



<p>Recently, researchers from <a href="https://www.ozyegin.edu.tr/en">Ozyegin University</a> and Middle East Technical University delved into the depths of gummy-making, conducting a series of experiments that examined the impact of changing key components of the process on the final product.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their research, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/5.0146761"><em>Physics of Fluids</em></a>, also explored how gummy candies responded to different storage temperatures.</p>



<p>The researchers' goal? To determine the most shelf-stable formulation for gummy candies.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-the-study-was-done">How the study was done</h2>



<p>In their pursuit of the perfect gummy, the researchers adjusted a range of variables in the candy-making process. They tweaked everything from the ratio of glucose syrup to sucrose, to the concentrations of starch and gelatin. They wanted to grasp how these modifications influenced various features of the candies, including their texture, moisture content, and pH levels.</p>



<p>The team then analyzed the features of the candies, both pre and post-storage. The storage conditions for these candies varied, ranging from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius over a 12-week period or 15 to 22 C for an entire year.</p>



<p>The sheer variety of procedures and combinations, however, presented significant challenges. Suzan Tireki, one of the authors of the study, explained, "A high number of parameters was the main challenge in our study. We had eight different candy formulations, four different temperature conditions, and two different storage times. Another challenge was to try to find a common model for all these eight formulations, as each of them behaved differently.”</p>



<p>Addressing these variables, the researchers employed a statistical model. This model helped describe how each combination influenced the quality parameters of the gummy. They honed in on the chemical crosslink distances - the length of bonds between the molecules in the candy.</p>



<p>“The most innovative part of our study was investigating the texture of the gummy candies by estimating the average crosslink distances using the hardness data coming from texture profile analysis,” Tireki noted.</p>



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned</h2>



<p>Some significant findings emerged. The moisture content and pH of the candies relied heavily on the glucose syrup-to-sucrose ratio. On the other hand, the gelatin content influenced the crosslink distances. However, one surprising discovery stood out. "Our most surprising finding was that hardness and average crosslink distance were not affected by the amount of starch,” Tireki revealed.</p>



<p>Such revelations are more than just sweet science. They have practical applications too. Identifying the most stable combinations for gummies can extend their shelf life and enhance their quality, making them more enjoyable in varying climates and contributing to improvements across the food industry.</p>



<p>Looking to the future, the researchers plan to delve deeper into the gummy mystery. They aim to investigate the role of plant-based formulations, the effect of different mold shapes, and the impact of various packaging types on the beloved gummy candy.</p>



<h2 id="h-the-history-of-gummy-candy">The history of gummy candy</h2>



<p>The history of gummy candy stretches back to the early 20th century, with a confectioner in Germany named Hans Riegel laying the groundwork for this chewy treat. Riegel was the founder of the Haribo company, and in 1922 he invented the "Dancing Bear" – a fruit-flavored gum candy that was the predecessor of today's gummy bear.</p>



<p>Riegel's creation was inspired by the trained bears seen at street festivities and markets in Europe through to the 19th century. His Dancing Bears were larger than the gummy bears we're familiar with today and were initially made by hand. However, the shape, texture, and basic recipe were similar to current gummy candies.</p>



<p>Gummy candy became popular in Germany and began to spread across Europe. However, it wasn't until several decades later that gummy candies made their way to the United States. It is believed that American soldiers stationed in Germany during World War II discovered the candies and brought them back home after the war ended.</p>



<h3 id="h-popularity-booms-in-the-u-s">Popularity booms in the U.S.</h3>



<p>The gummy bear's popularity in the U.S. skyrocketed in the 1980s, partly due to the founding of the American-based Haribo of America Inc. in 1982. Another company, Trolli, also introduced a new gummy candy around this time – the gummy worm. Designed to shock parents and delight children, the gummy worm added to the demand for gummy candies.</p>



<p>Today, gummy candies come in a dizzying array of shapes, sizes, and flavors. While they were originally fruit-flavored, you can now find gummies in flavors ranging from sour to sweet, in forms from worms to bears to nearly anything else you can imagine. There are even vitamins and supplements available in gummy form.</p>



<p>Despite all the changes and developments in the gummy candy world, the basic recipe has remained largely the same: sugar, glucose syrup, starch, flavoring, food coloring, citric acid, and gelatin.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The last ingredient, gelatin, is what gives gummy candy its signature chewy texture. It's made by boiling animal tissues, typically from pigs, and has been the subject of much of the modern innovation in gummy candy, with companies seeking vegetarian and vegan alternatives to traditional gelatin.</p>



<p>Gummy candy has certainly come a long way since its humble beginnings in a small German kitchen, and its popularity doesn't seem to be waning anytime soon.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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The secrets of gummy bears: What it takes to make the perfect batch

In the world of gummy candies, texture may just trump...

<p>Clam leases are designated aquatic areas in which individuals or businesses can cultivate and harvest clams of all sizes, from littlenecks to chowders. However, unwanted marine intruders such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nearly-two-thirds-of-coral-reef-sharks-and-rays-face-extinction/">rays</a> often endanger clam production or aquaculture.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For instance, in the Indian River Lagoon along Florida’s Atlantic coast, clam fisherman have frequently reported seeing rays and suspect that their interactions could lead to damaged aquaculture gear and crushed clams.</p>



<p>Now, a team of researchers led by <a href="https://www.fau.edu/">Florida Atlantic University</a> (FAU) has used passive acoustic telemetry to better understand the interactions between two highly mobile species of rays – the whitespotted eagle rays (<em>Aetobatus narinari</em>) and the cownose rays (<em>Rhinoptera&nbsp;</em>spp.) – over two years in two clam leases and four other sites in Sebastian, including the Sebastian Inlet and the Saint Sebastian River mouth.</p>



<p>“We wanted to understand how often and when rays visited these clam leases, how long they stayed there, and if it was seasonal or year-round,” said&nbsp;senior author Matt Ajemian, an associate research professor of Fisheries Ecology and Conservation at FAU. “We tagged them, set them on their way, and logged 17,014 unique visits to the leases derived from 38 different rays.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>The investigation revealed that, although rays spent even more time in the clam leases sites than fisherman reported, these places were not necessarily where they preferred to roam. In fact, white spotted eagle rays spent only 6.2 percent of their time near clam leases, and cownose rays 13.2 percent.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Nevertheless, both species exhibited longer visits at clam lease sites than at other locations, with the longest continuous duration spent at the northern and southern clam leases being 387.5 and 207.1 minutes, respectively. The extended periods of time spent in these areas suggest that they may possibly interact with and even forage upon clams.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Since 84 percent of all visits were from whitespotted eagle rays and their visits were significantly longer at night, this information suggests that observed interactions with the clam leases are potentially underestimated, given most clamming operations occur during daytime,” said lead author Brianna Cahill, a graduate student in Marine Science and Oceanography at FAU.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Results from our study justify the need to continue monitoring mobile predators in the region, including more studies to assess their behaviors, such as foraging at the clam lease sites.”</p>



<p>However, since both ray species tend to be highly mobile, their impact on clams may be limited. “Additional good news for clammers is that rays did not use the clam lease sites year-round, and their visits varied seasonally, with substantially fewer detections and visits during the summer months. This suggests that clammers need only deploy anti-predator protections against rays, if needed, for a portion of the year,” Ajemian explained.</p>



<p>These findings highlight the need to clarify if specific clam leases are situated within rays’ natural foraging habitats and if rays are actively interacting with the clams or are attracted by other organisms nearby.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“It’s possible that rays may be feeding on other organisms that are attracted to the clams in the clam lease sites, as bivalve aquaculture farms have been known to change community structure and attract a wide variety of predatory snails, which may be an alternative attractant for cownose and whitespotted eagle rays given their diets,” Cahill concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0285390"><em>PLoS ONE</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>—-</p>



<p><em>By </em><a href="mailto:andrei.ionescu5891@gmail.com"><em>Andrei Ionescu</em></a><em>, </em><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><em>Earth.com</em></a><em> Staff Writer</em></p>



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

Clam production possibly threatened by migrating rays

Clam leases are designated aquatic areas in which individuals or...

<p>The cultural shift towards cannabis acceptance and its increased recreational use have led to an interesting, if not concerning, trend: cannabis, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marijuana-smokers-may-have-more-lung-damage/">marijuana</a>, is often suggested by dispensaries to pregnant women as a remedy for pregnancy symptoms, particularly morning sickness.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the implications of this advice are yet to be fully understood, as current research presents a somewhat murky picture of marijuana's impact on prenatal development.</p>



<p>In an attempt to shed light on this issue, a team of researchers embarked on a study to explore how the timing of cannabis exposure during pregnancy affects fetal development.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to the findings, even marijuana use restricted to the first trimester of pregnancy resulted in a noteworthy decrease in birth weight - over 150 grams on average.</p>



<p>Dr. Beth Bailey, professor and director of population health research at <a href="https://www.cmich.edu/">Central Michigan University</a> and senior author of the study, commented: “We show that even when marijuana use occurred only in the first trimester of pregnancy, birth weight was significant reduced, by more than 150g on average.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>She further revealed that if cannabis use extended into the second trimester, it resulted in a significant reduction in newborn head circumference as well.</p>



<p>Dr. Phoebe Dodge, the study’s lead author, emphasized the importance of these findings, stating: “These findings are important as newborn size is one of the strongest predictors of later child health and development.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Dr. Dodge, a recent graduate from the <a href="https://www.cmich.edu/academics/colleges/college-of-medicine">Central Michigan University College of Medicine</a> and an incoming pediatric resident at University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, adds her voice to a growing chorus of experts calling for more scrutiny of cannabis use during pregnancy.</p>



<p>The study builds upon previous research demonstrating a strong correlation between cannabis use and reduced newborn size. “Size deficits were largest among newborns exposed to marijuana throughout gestation," said Bailey.</p>



<p>In this context, babies born to mothers who used cannabis throughout their pregnancy weighed nearly 200 grams less and had almost one cm smaller head circumference compared to unexposed newborns. However, this study did not identify a significant correlation between cannabis use and newborn length.</p>



<p>The findings, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fped.2023.1103749"><em>Frontiers in Pediatrics</em></a>, also provide insight into patterns of cannabis use during pregnancy. The research suggests that even occasional use - such as taking marijuana to alleviate first trimester morning sickness - could inhibit fetal growth in a manner similar to continuous use throughout pregnancy. The same holds true for individuals who unknowingly use cannabis in early pregnancy.</p>



<p>However, the researchers also underscored some limitations to their research. Specifically, they did not have detailed data on the frequency or volume of cannabis use among participants. Their findings relied solely on whether or not participants used marijuana at certain stages of pregnancy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As a result, the study could not conclusively establish whether heavy cannabis use would lead to more severe impacts on newborn growth.</p>



<p>The researchers stressed the need for further studies to unravel the complex relationship between the timing or amount of cannabis use and its effects on newborn size. Dr. Dodge concluded the study with a clear message: “The best recommendation is that women should be advised to quit marijuana use prior to becoming pregnant.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Nonetheless, quitting as soon as possible after discovering a pregnancy is a close second, potentially mitigating long-term adverse health and developmental outcomes. “There are some benefits of quitting among those who begin pregnancy using marijuana,” Dodge added.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-the-health-benefits-and-harms-of-cannabis">More about the health benefits and harms of cannabis</h2>



<p>Cannabis, often referred to as marijuana, has been used for centuries for its medicinal and recreational properties. While it can provide several health benefits, it also has potential health risks that users should be aware of.</p>



<h3 id="h-health-benefits-of-cannabis">Health Benefits of Cannabis:&nbsp;</h3>



<h4 id="h-pain-management">Pain Management</h4>



<p>Cannabis contains cannabinoids, active compounds that can alleviate pain by binding to brain receptors. It's often used to treat conditions causing chronic pain like arthritis, migraines, endometriosis, and fibromyalgia.</p>



<h4 id="h-mental-disorders">Mental Disorders</h4>



<p>Medical marijuana is sometimes prescribed for mental health disorders, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and depression. It's also used to manage anxiety in some patients, although the evidence on this is mixed.</p>



<h4 id="h-neurological-and-movement-disorders">Neurological and Movement Disorders</h4>



<p>Cannabis may help treat symptoms of neurological and movement disorders, including Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and Huntington's disease. The FDA has approved Epidiolex, a CBD-based drug, for treating certain types of severe epilepsy.</p>



<h4 id="h-nausea-and-vomiting">Nausea and Vomiting</h4>



<p>Cannabis, particularly the compound THC, can effectively alleviate nausea and vomiting. It's especially useful for patients undergoing chemotherapy who don't respond to other anti-nausea medications.</p>



<h4 id="h-appetite-stimulation">Appetite Stimulation</h4>



<p>THC can also stimulate appetite, beneficial for individuals with conditions like HIV or cancer who struggle with weight loss or lack of appetite.</p>



<h3 id="h-health-risks-of-cannabis">Health Risks of Cannabis:&nbsp;</h3>



<h4 id="h-mental-health-issues">Mental Health Issues&nbsp;</h4>



<p>Regular or heavy use of cannabis, especially at a young age, may contribute to mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, other psychoses, and social anxiety disorders. It can also lead to an increased risk of suicidal thoughts.</p>



<h4 id="h-dependency-and-addiction">Dependency and Addiction</h4>



<p>Over time, chronic use can lead to cannabis use disorder, which is characterized by dependency and addiction. This could lead to difficulties in daily life and withdrawal symptoms during cessation.</p>



<h4 id="h-lung-health">Lung Health</h4>



<p>Similar to tobacco smoke, cannabis smoke contains harmful chemicals that could irritate your lungs and throat and could potentially increase the risk of bronchitis, lung infections, or even lung cancer, although more research is needed on this aspect.</p>



<h4 id="h-cognitive-impairment">Cognitive Impairment</h4>



<p>Cannabis can cause cognitive impairment affecting attention, memory, and learning, both in the short term and potentially the long term.</p>



<h4 id="h-cardiovascular-health">Cardiovascular Health</h4>



<p>Smoking cannabis can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure, and there is some evidence that it may increase the risk of a heart attack.</p>



<h4 id="h-prenatal-development-risks">Prenatal Development Risks</h4>



<p>As discussed in your previous question, cannabis use during pregnancy may have adverse effects on the baby's development.</p>



<p>It's important to note that while cannabis can offer health benefits, it doesn't come without risks. If you're considering using cannabis for medicinal purposes, consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it's the right choice for you. They can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how cannabis could interact with your current health situation and any other medications you're taking.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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

Cannabis exposure during pregnancy significantly reduces birth weight

The cultural shift towards cannabis acceptance and its increased recreational...

<p>Imagine strolling along a beach, splashing in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/discovery-ancient-ocean-floor-surrounds-the-earths-core/">ocean</a>, or even floating through the air. Now, imagine that you're leaving traces of your DNA behind everywhere you go. As unlikely as it sounds, a new study from the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/">University of Florida</a> suggests that's exactly what's happening.</p>



<p>Everywhere we go, from a muggy day in Florida to the chilly climes of Ireland, we're shedding our DNA. We're coughing it, spitting it, and even flushing it into countless environments. It's not just in the obvious places like the beach or the ocean, either.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This human genetic material can be found in riverways, in the air, and in almost every corner of the globe, excluding only the most isolated islands and remote mountaintops.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-the-study-was-conducted">How the study was conducted</h2>



<p>The researchers found our DNA's ubiquity to be both a scientific gift and an ethical conundrum.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They sequenced this widespread DNA and found it of such high quality that they could identify disease-associated mutations and determine the genetic ancestry of nearby populations. In some cases, they could even match genetic information to individual participants who had voluntarily offered their DNA for recovery.</p>



<p>Professor David Duffy, who spearheaded the project, believes that these environmental DNA samples, if handled ethically, could yield significant benefits for various fields from medicine and environmental science to archaeology and criminal forensics.</p>



<p>"Researchers could track cancer mutations from wastewater or uncover hidden archaeological sites by looking for human DNA," Duffy suggested. He added that detectives could even identify suspects from the DNA floating in the air at a crime scene.</p>



<p>But the extraction of this level of personal information requires extreme caution. Scientists and regulators are now facing the ethical dilemmas associated with inadvertently, or intentionally, gathering human genetic information from unexpected sources like sand, water, or even a person’s breath.</p>



<h2 id="h-results-of-the-study-call-for-ethical-safeguards">Results of the study call for ethical safeguards</h2>



<p>The team's paper, published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/natecolevol/"><em>Nature Ecology and Evolution</em></a>, highlights the ease with which they collected human DNA from almost every location they explored.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Professor Duffy expressed his surprise at the amount and quality of human DNA they discovered. "In most cases, the quality is almost equivalent to if you took a sample from a person.”</p>



<p>The potential to identify individuals through these means underlines the need for ethical safeguards in this area of research. This study had the approval of the University of Florida's institutional review board, which ensures that research adheres to ethical guidelines.</p>



<p>“It’s standard in science to make these sequences publicly available. But that also means if you don’t screen out human information, anyone can come along and harvest this information," said Professor Duffy.</p>



<p>"Do you need to get consent to take those samples? Or institute some controls to remove human information?”</p>



<h2 id="h-success-stories-for-wildlife-preservation">Success stories for wildlife preservation</h2>



<p>The team has successfully applied environmental DNA, or eDNA, to study endangered sea turtles and their susceptibility to viral cancers at UF's Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience and Sea Turtle Hospital. They retrieved useful DNA from turtle tracks in the sand, a technique that greatly expedited their research.</p>



<p>The researchers expected to find human eDNA in their turtle samples and many other places they explored. With modern genetic sequencing technology, it's now relatively easy to sequence the DNA of every organism in an environmental sample.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The question was, how much human DNA would be present, and would it be intact enough to yield useful information?</p>



<p>Their research took them to the ocean and rivers near the Whitney Lab, sand from isolated beaches, and even a remote island where people had never set foot. In a test conducted in collaboration with the National Park Service, they were able to retrieve DNA from the footprints of voluntary participants in the sand and sequence parts of their genomes, all with their consent.</p>



<p>Professor Duffy also tested the technique in his native Ireland. Along a river that meanders through a town and out to sea, he discovered human DNA at every point, except for the remote mountain stream where the river originates, far from human settlement.</p>



<h2 id="h-indoor-testing-works-as-well-as-outdoor">Indoor testing works as well as outdoor</h2>



<p>The research wasn't limited to outdoor locations. They also collected air samples from a veterinary hospital, managing to recover DNA matching the staff, the animal patient, and even common animal viruses.</p>



<p>The evidence is clear: human eDNA can be easily sampled from a multitude of environments. Duffy believes it's now time for policymakers and the scientific community to address issues of consent and privacy, and weigh them against the potential benefits of studying this unintentional DNA trail.</p>



<p>"Any time we make a technological advance, there are beneficial things that the technology can be used for and concerning things that the technology can be used for. It’s no different here," Duffy said. He wants to bring these issues to light early, giving policymakers and society the time they need to develop appropriate regulations.</p>



<p>This groundbreaking research from the University of Florida has illuminated the potential of environmental DNA as a tool for scientific discovery.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, as we leave traces of ourselves in the sand, the water, and even the air, the question of how to protect our genetic privacy becomes increasingly pertinent. As we move forward, the balance between scientific progress and ethical responsibility will be crucial.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-dna">More about DNA&nbsp;</h2>



<p>DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that carries the genetic instructions used in the growth, development, functioning, and reproduction of all known living organisms and many viruses. Here's a more in-depth look at its various characteristics and importance:</p>



<h3 id="h-structure">Structure</h3>



<p>DNA is made up of two long, twisted strands that form a double helix structure. Each strand is composed of repeating units called nucleotides. Every nucleotide is made up of three parts: a sugar molecule (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases — adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G).</p>



<p>In the DNA double helix, the two strands are held together by hydrogen bonds between the bases. Adenine always pairs with thymine, and cytosine always pairs with guanine. This complementary base pairing enables the base pairs to be copied accurately during DNA replication.</p>



<h3 id="h-replication">Replication</h3>



<p>DNA replication is the process by which DNA makes a copy of itself during cell division. The double helix is unwound by enzymes, and each strand of the original DNA molecule serves as a template for the production of the complementary strand. This replication process allows genetic information to be passed from cell to cell and from parents to offspring.</p>



<h3 id="h-genes-and-chromosomes">Genes and Chromosomes</h3>



<p>DNA is organized into structures called chromosomes. Humans typically have 46 chromosomes (23 from each parent) in each cell. Segments within these chromosomes are known as genes. Each gene serves as a blueprint for making a specific protein. Proteins, in turn, perform a vast array of functions within the organism, from catalyzing metabolic reactions to responding to stimuli to providing structure to cells and organisms.</p>



<h3 id="h-dna-sequencing-and-genetic-code">DNA Sequencing and Genetic Code</h3>



<p>The precise order of the bases in a stretch of DNA - known as the DNA sequence - forms the genetic code, which carries the instructions for building an organism's cells and for running those cells. The Human Genome Project, completed in 2003, sequenced the entire human genome for the first time, revealing around 20,500 genes.</p>



<h3 id="h-role-in-heredity-and-variation">Role in Heredity and Variation</h3>



<p>One of the key roles of DNA is in heredity. Offspring inherit their DNA from their parents. This inheritance is why offspring resemble their parents, both in physical traits and in susceptibility to certain diseases. But DNA also allows for variation, through mutations (changes in the DNA sequence). While many mutations are harmful, some can be beneficial, driving evolution and species diversity.</p>



<h3 id="h-dna-technology">DNA Technology</h3>



<p>DNA technology has a wide range of applications. In medicine, it's used for genetic testing and personalized treatment. In forensics, DNA fingerprinting can identify individuals. In biotechnology, genetic engineering can modify organisms' DNA to produce desirable traits.</p>



<h3 id="h-ethical-considerations">Ethical Considerations</h3>



<p>The use of DNA technology raises various ethical considerations. Issues include privacy (in terms of DNA data), consent (for genetic testing), and potential misuse of genetic engineering (such as in creating "designer babies").</p>



<p>In summary, DNA is a complex molecule that plays a central role in life as we know it. It carries the instructions for building and maintaining organisms, and its study has revolutionized fields from medicine to ecology.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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

Scientists can collect human DNA from water, air, and basically everywhere

Imagine strolling along a beach, splashing in the ocean, or...

<p>Monitoring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tourist-photographs-wildlife-monitoring-data/">wildlife</a> is one of the most expensive and challenging aspects of conservation, often depending on long-term observations of individual species. However, according to a recent study published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2211288120"><em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em></a>, a new and effective method relying on small-scale wildlife surveys could be used to reveal the health of entire ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Unlike traditional approaches, this one focuses on interactions between species, such as birds feeding on plants or insects pollinating flowers. It starts with the assumption that, when environmental conditions change, interactions between species frequently change too, and can thus provide an early indicator of wider problems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As a result, a small snapshot of interactions can often be a reliable indicator of the status of an entire community of species, offering critical information regarding the risks some species currently face.</p>



<p>“All communities of plants and animals are supported by an underlying network of interactions between species,” said co-author Christopher Kaiser-Bunbury, a senior lecturer in Conservation and Ecology at the University of Exeter.</p>



<p>“Our study – which combines theory, statistics, and real-world data – shows that examining a few of these interactions can provide ‘big picture’ conclusions about ecosystem health. This information is essential for policymakers, scientists, and societies, as we try to tackle the global biodiversity crisis.”</p>



<p>This method allows scientists to identify patterns more quickly than traditional conservation monitoring – which is vital, considering the rapid changes that human activities cause in a variety of ecosystems worldwide.</p>



<p>“Using minimal resources, we can rapidly assess both the persistence of entire ecological networks and the expected success of restoration,” said co-author Benno Simmons, an ecologist and conservationist at Exeter. “Our method is especially effective at identifying when an ecological community is not persistent – allowing for rapid detection of extinction risk.”</p>



<p>More about wildlife surveys</p>



<p>Wildlife surveys are an important part of wildlife management, conservation efforts, and ecological research. They provide vital data about the population sizes, distribution, behaviors, and health of various species in a particular area. Here are a few key points about wildlife surveys:</p>



<h3 id="h-types-of-wildlife-surveys">Types of Wildlife Surveys</h3>



<p>These can be broadly categorized into two types: direct and indirect surveys. Direct surveys involve directly observing animals in their habitat, often counting individuals or groups. Indirect surveys, on the other hand, rely on signs of an animal's presence, such as tracks, nests, scat, or vocalizations.</p>



<h3 id="h-methods-used">Methods Used</h3>



<p>There are a number of different methods used for wildlife surveys, including:</p>



<h3 id="h-line-transect-surveys">Line Transect Surveys</h3>



<p>In this method, surveyors walk along a predetermined path, or transect, and record the number of animals seen or heard.</p>



<h3 id="h-point-counts">Point Counts</h3>



<p>This is a method often used for bird surveys. Observers stay in one place for a set period of time and count the number of individuals of each species that they see or hear.</p>



<h3 id="h-camera-trapping">Camera Trapping</h3>



<p>Cameras with motion sensors are set up in the wild to automatically take photos or videos when an animal passes by. This is a great way to study elusive, nocturnal, or rare species.</p>



<h3 id="h-aerial-surveys">Aerial Surveys</h3>



<p>These are often used for large or difficult-to-reach areas, such as for counting large herds of mammals in savannas or tracking marine life.</p>



<h3 id="h-data-analysis-and-interpretation">Data Analysis and Interpretation</h3>



<p>Once the data is collected, it's analyzed to derive useful information, such as population estimates, distribution patterns, and changes over time. This requires statistical analysis and can be quite complex, particularly because imperfect detection (i.e., the fact that not every animal present will be seen or heard during a survey) must be accounted for.</p>



<h3 id="h-importance">Importance</h3>



<p>Wildlife surveys are critical for conserving biodiversity, managing wildlife resources, and making informed decisions regarding land use and policy. They provide the data needed to assess the status of a species or a habitat, which can guide conservation efforts and policy decisions.</p>



<h3 id="h-challenges">Challenges</h3>



<p>There are many challenges involved in conducting wildlife surveys. These can include logistical difficulties, such as reaching remote areas, the potential for bias in observation or counting, and the need for significant resources and expertise. Additionally, there are always ethical considerations to ensure that surveys do not unduly disturb or harm the animals being studied.</p>



<p>Technological advancements, such as the use of drones, acoustic recorders, and satellite imagery, are helping to overcome some of these challenges and are providing new ways to monitor wildlife populations.</p>



<p>—-</p>



<p><em>By </em><a href="mailto:andrei.ionescu5891@gmail.com"><em>Andrei Ionescu</em></a><em>, </em><a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/"><em>Earth.com</em></a><em> Staff Writer</em></p>



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

Small scale wildlife surveys can reveal the health of entire ecosystems

Monitoring wildlife is one of the most expensive and challenging...

<p>A fascinating new study has emerged that challenges the common belief across various species - from humans to horses to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hybridization-among-wild-baboons-comes-with-hidden-costs/">baboons</a> - that early life adversity results in a higher likelihood of experiencing hardship later in life.</p>



<p>This groundbreaking research was conducted by a team from the <a href="https://gorillafund.org/">Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund</a> and the <a href="https://umich.edu/">University of Michigan</a> who decided to investigate this question in gorillas, unsure of what they might discover.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/1x8JsN172-1000x662.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1917767"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">image Credit: Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund </figcaption></figure>



<p>Previous studies conducted by the Fossey Fund showed that young gorillas displayed an incredible resilience after losing their mothers - a stark contrast to other species. However, the loss of a mother is only one form of adversity that young animals can face.</p>



<p>Senior author on the study, Stacy Rosenbaum, an anthropologist from the University of Michigan, remarked: "Assuming that you survive something that we consider early life adversity, it's often still the case that you will be less healthy or you will have fewer kids or your lifespan will be shorter - no matter what species you are."&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-how-the-research-was-conducted">How the research was conducted</h2>



<p>Rosenbaum noted that there is a wide range of negative impacts that early life adversity can have on adulthood.</p>



<p>The researchers, however, were surprised to find that gorillas who survived past the age of six were largely unaffected by the hardships they faced as infants or juveniles. This crucial finding has been published in the prestigious journal, <a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/home"><em>Current Biology</em></a>.</p>



<p>Rosenbaum compared this phenomenon to humans, who also experience early life adversity that can lead to issues in adulthood, such as health complications or a shortened lifespan.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, in human studies, it's a challenge to determine whether these outcomes are directly due to early life adversity, or if they stem from a combination of behavioral, environmental, and cultural factors.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Studying these events in non-human species, such as gorillas, may provide valuable insights to help understand and mitigate these effects in humans.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/eCpcMmNU-1000x667.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-1917768"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">image Credit: Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund </figcaption></figure>



<p>Robin Morrison, a researcher with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and the lead author on the study, described the benefits of studying animals in this context.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"When you look at animals, you remove a lot of the variation that we have in humans. For example, they are all eating similar diets, they all get exercise as part of their daily lives, they don't have the opportunity to engage in behaviors with negative health outcomes like smoking," explained Morrison.</p>



<p>Despite this, most species still suffer negative effects in adulthood from early adversity, suggesting an underlying biological mechanism that is not yet fully understood. The differing pattern observed in gorillas, however, indicates that it's possible to overcome these adversities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Morrison believes that understanding how this resilience works could have important implications for our own species.</p>



<h2 id="h-why-use-gorillas-for-the-study">Why use gorillas for the study?</h2>



<p>The researchers chose gorillas for this study as they, like humans, have a long lifespan and invest heavily in a small number of offspring. The research team analyzed 55 years of long-term data collected on 253 wild mountain gorillas - 135 males and 118 females - living in Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. These gorillas have been under the continuous observation of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund for over five decades.</p>



<p>The study identified six different types of early life adversity, including losing a parent, experiencing the death of a group member through infanticide, social group instability, having few age-mates in the social group, and having a sibling born soon after them. The data showed how many of these adversities each gorilla faced and at what age, as well as their lifespan.</p>



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-discovered">What the researchers discovered</h2>



<p>The researchers found that gorillas who experienced more adversities before the age of six were more likely to die as juveniles. However, if they survived past their juvenile stage, their lifespan was not shortened, regardless of how many adversities they faced.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Surprisingly, gorillas who faced three or more adversities actually lived longer, with a 70 percent reduction in the risk of death in adulthood. This intriguing trend was primarily seen in males, leading researchers to theorize that it may be linked to a phenomenon known as viability selection.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In essence, this means that a gorilla robust enough to endure tough early life events might be a "higher-quality individual" and consequently more likely to enjoy a longer lifespan.</p>



<p>"I was expecting to see that these gorillas would have short lifespans and would not do very well as adults," said Rosenbaum.</p>



<p>"We found that these events are definitely associated with a much higher risk of death when you're young. But if you survive to age 6, there's no evidence that those shorten your lifespan at all. This is quite different from what we see in other species."</p>



<h2 id="h-mountain-gorillas-exhibit-incredible-resilience">Mountain gorillas exhibit incredible resilience</h2>



<p>The team has a few theories to explain the extraordinary resilience of these mountain gorillas. For one, gorillas live in very close-knit social groups, and previous studies have shown that when a young gorilla loses its mother, other group members step in to fill the void in social companionship.</p>



<p>"The youngster actually increases its time near other gorillas after the loss of its mom and in particular the highest-ranking adult male, even if he isn't their biological father," said Morrison.</p>



<p>"These strong networks might provide critical social buffering, as has been shown in humans. The quality of our social relationships is a very important predictor of our health and longevity - in some cases, more important than genetics or lifestyle."</p>



<p>Another factor contributing to their resilience may be the resource-rich environment mountain gorillas inhabit, which is a luxury many other wild primates don't enjoy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"For comparison, savanna baboons - who were the inspiration for this analysis - live in this highly seasonal environment where they go through extreme droughts," said Rosenbaum. "They sometimes will have to walk miles to get to a water hole. They're often struggling for every single calorie they take in." She contrasted this with the world of mountain gorillas, which she described as a "giant salad bowl."</p>



<h2 id="h-conclusion">Conclusion</h2>



<p>The findings from this research suggest that species closely related to humans can exhibit significant resilience to early life adversity. It also raises intriguing questions about the biological roots of sensitivity to early experiences and the protective mechanisms that contribute to resilience in gorillas.</p>



<p>"I don't think we should assume that the long-term negative effects of early life adversity are universal," said Rosenbaum.</p>



<p>She challenged the ubiquity of this belief, emphasizing that the data is much more complex for humans and other animals. "I actually think that that's a hopeful story," Rosenbaum added, indicating a silver lining to the challenges faced in early life.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This research opens up new avenues for understanding and potentially mitigating the impacts of early life adversity across species, including our own.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-mountain-gorillas">More about mountain gorillas</h2>



<p>Mountain gorillas are a critically endangered species of great ape, and one of the two subspecies of the eastern gorilla. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, there were only about 1,000 mountain gorillas left in the wild.</p>



<h3 id="h-here-s-what-you-should-know-about-mountain-gorillas">Here's what you should know about mountain gorillas:</h3>



<h4 id="h-habitat-and-distribution">Habitat and Distribution</h4>



<p>Mountain gorillas live in the high-altitude cloud forests of central Africa, specifically in two isolated regions. One population can be found within the Virunga volcanic mountain range, which stretches across Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, Uganda's Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The other population resides in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.</p>



<h4 id="h-physical-characteristics">Physical Characteristics</h4>



<p>Mountain gorillas are large and powerfully built, with long, strong arms and a broad chest. Adult males, known as silverbacks due to the characteristic patch of silver hair on their back and hips, typically weigh between 300 and 400 pounds and stand about 4 to 6 feet tall when upright. Females are typically smaller, weighing between 150 and 200 pounds. Mountain gorillas have a robust build with a large head, a prominent brow ridge, and a long, muscular arms.</p>



<h4 id="h-behavior-and-social-structure">Behavior and Social Structure</h4>



<p>Mountain gorillas are highly social animals, living in stable groups that usually consist of one dominant silverback, multiple females, and their offspring. Groups may also include younger subordinate males, known as blackbacks. Silverbacks lead the group, making decisions about feeding, nesting, and movement.</p>



<p>Mountain gorillas are diurnal, spending most of their day foraging for food and resting. They build new nests from foliage each night.</p>



<h4 id="h-diet">Diet</h4>



<p>Mountain gorillas are primarily herbivorous. They eat a variety of plant species, including leaves, stems, roots, vines, and fruits. They are also known to eat small invertebrates. Their diet varies by season and depends on what food is available.</p>



<h4 id="h-reproduction-and-lifespan">Reproduction and Lifespan</h4>



<p>Female mountain gorillas typically start to breed in their late teens, while males start in their early teens. The gestation period is about 8.5 months, and infants are cared for by their mothers for several years.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Mountain gorillas have a slow rate of reproduction which, along with other factors, has contributed to their status as a critically endangered species. In the wild, mountain gorillas can live to be over 40 years old.</p>



<h4 id="h-threats-and-conservation">Threats and Conservation</h4>



<p>Mountain gorillas face numerous threats, including habitat loss due to agriculture and human settlement, disease (including diseases transmitted by humans), poaching, and civil conflict. Conservation efforts have included anti-poaching patrols, veterinary care, community education, and ecotourism. These efforts have led to a slow increase in their numbers, but mountain gorillas remain critically endangered.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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

Does early life adversity in gorillas lead to hardship as adults?

A fascinating new study has emerged that challenges the common...

<p>A significant event transpired about 100 million years ago: a faction of innovative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-moths-are-more-efficient-pollinators-than-bees/">moths</a> began to fly during the day, as opposed to night, favoring the nectar-laden flowers that had evolved alongside bees.&nbsp;This singular event sparked the evolution of butterflies, a fascinating transformation that scientists have been studying for decades.</p>



<p>In 2019, scientists were able to pinpoint the timing of this evolution through a comprehensive DNA analysis. This groundbreaking research debunked the previously held theory that butterflies evolved due to pressure from bats, following the extinction of dinosaurs.</p>



<p>Today, scientists have unearthed new exciting revelations concerning the geographical origins of the first butterflies and their dietary preferences.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-the-discovery-was-made">How the discovery was made</h2>



<p>This discovery was not easy to come by. It necessitated the collaborative efforts of researchers from across the globe, who worked tirelessly to construct the world's most extensive butterfly tree of life. This complex structure comprised DNA from over 2,000 butterfly species, representing every butterfly family and 92 percent of all genera.</p>



<p>The researchers utilized this tree as a roadmap, tracing the butterflies' journey and dietary patterns through time, a monumental task akin to solving a four-dimensional puzzle. The puzzle's solution pointed to North and Central America as the origin of the first butterflies, a finding recently published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41559-023-02041-9"><em>Nature Ecology and Evolution</em></a>.</p>



<p>For Akito Kawahara, the lead author of the study and the curator of lepidoptera at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/">Florida Museum of Natural History</a>, this project was the culmination of a lifelong dream.</p>



<p>“This was a childhood dream of mine,” said Kawahara. “It’s something I’ve wanted to do since visiting the American Museum of Natural History when I was a kid and seeing a picture of a butterfly phylogeny taped to a curator’s door. It’s also the most difficult study I’ve ever been a part of, and it took a massive effort from people all over the world to complete.”</p>



<h2 id="h-how-to-trim-down-a-100-million-year-history-from-19-000-species">How to trim down a 100-million-year history from 19,000 species</h2>



<p>The study's enormity is reflected in the sheer number of butterfly species - about 19,000. Stitching together their 100 million-year history required a deep understanding of their modern distributions and host plants. Unfortunately, before this study, such data was not readily available in one location.</p>



<p>“We often had to rely on field guides that hadn’t been digitized and were written in various languages,” Kawahara explained.</p>



<p>The lack of an existing database did not deter the researchers. They embarked on the painstaking process of creating a publicly accessible database, translating and digitizing information from books, museum collections, and scattered web pages.</p>



<p>A crucial component of their analysis was 11 rare butterfly fossils. These fossils, preserved despite the delicate nature of butterfly wings and fine hairs, served as calibration points on the genetic trees. They enabled the researchers to record the timing of key evolutionary events.</p>



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned</h2>



<p>The results revealed a dynamic narrative of rapid diversifications, intermittent advancements, and unlikely dispersals. Some butterfly groups covered vast distances, while others remained stationary, seemingly indifferent to the shifting continents, mountains, and rivers around them.</p>



<p>The first butterflies, the study found, appeared in Central and western North America. During this period, North America was split in two by a vast seaway, and Mexico was connected in a long arc with the United States, Canada, and Russia. The Isthmus of Panama had not yet joined North and South America, but butterflies managed to cross the strait between them with ease.</p>



<p>The migration pattern of butterflies was intriguing. Despite the relative proximity of South America and Africa, butterflies took a circuitous route, journeying to Asia across the Bering Land Bridge. Once there, they rapidly dispersed, spreading into Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the Horn of Africa. Incredibly, they also reached India, which was then an isolated island surrounded by miles of sea.</p>



<p>Their arrival in Australia, which was still connected to Antarctica, the last remnants of the supercontinent Pangaea, was even more astounding. It’s plausible that butterflies thrived in Antarctica when global temperatures were warmer, traversing the northern edge of the continent into Australia before the landmasses eventually separated.</p>



<p>Interestingly, butterflies lingered on the outskirts of western Asia for nearly 45 million years before finally venturing into Europe. The cause of this extended pause remains unclear, but its effects are still visible today.</p>



<p>“Europe doesn’t have many butterfly species compared to other parts of the world, and the ones it does have can often be found elsewhere," explained Kawahara. "Many butterflies in Europe are also found in Siberia and Asia, for example.”</p>



<h2 id="h-butterfly-species-diversification-begins">Butterfly species diversification begins</h2>



<p>Once butterflies had established themselves, they diversified rapidly alongside their plant hosts. By the time the dinosaurs met their end 66 million years ago, almost all modern butterfly families had emerged. Each family seemed to have a specific preference for certain groups of plants.</p>



<p>“When we looked at this association over an evolutionary timescale, we found that in pretty much every family of butterflies, bean plants appeared to be the ancestral hosts,” Kawahara said. “This was true for the ancestor of all butterflies as well.”</p>



<p>While bean plants have since broadened their pollinators to include various bees, flies, hummingbirds, and mammals, butterflies have also diversified their tastes.</p>



<p>Study co-author Pamela Soltis, a Florida Museum curator and distinguished professor, points out that the symbiotic relationships butterflies developed with plants were instrumental in their evolution from a minor moth offshoot to one of the largest insect groups on Earth.</p>



<p>“The evolution of butterflies and flowering plants has been inexorably intertwined since the origin of the former, and the close relationship between them has resulted in remarkable diversification events in both lineages,” she stated.</p>



<p>This intricate, vibrant history of butterflies demonstrates the profound interconnectedness of life on Earth, the perpetual dance of evolution and adaptation, and the mystery that continues to envelop the natural world.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study underscores the importance of cross-disciplinary and international collaboration in expanding our knowledge about the origin and evolution of species. The journey of these tiny creatures over millions of years offers invaluable insights into the dynamism and resilience of life, and the ongoing saga of evolution.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-butterflies">More about butterflies</h2>



<p>Butterflies are much more than just beautiful creatures that flutter around our gardens. They play several essential roles in ecosystems and contribute significantly to the overall health of the environment.</p>



<h3 id="h-pollination">Pollination</h3>



<p>Like bees, butterflies are important pollinators. As they move from flower to flower in search of nectar, they inadvertently pick up and transfer pollen grains. This cross-pollination is crucial for the fertilization and propagation of many plant species, including those that humans depend on for food.</p>



<h3 id="h-bioindicators">Bioindicators</h3>



<p>Butterflies are considered sensitive bioindicators, meaning their presence, absence, or population trends can tell us a lot about the health of an ecosystem. Because butterflies are highly sensitive to changes in habitat quality and climate, a decline in butterfly populations can serve as an early warning sign of environmental problems.</p>



<h3 id="h-biodiversity">Biodiversity</h3>



<p>Butterflies contribute to biodiversity both as pollinators and as a food source for other species. Their caterpillars are a primary food source for birds and some insects. A healthy butterfly population can indicate overall biodiversity and ecosystem health.</p>



<h3 id="h-nutrient-recycling">Nutrient Recycling</h3>



<p>Butterfly larvae (caterpillars) play a role in nutrient recycling. They consume plant leaves, aiding in the decomposition process and contributing to the nutrient cycle. When they metamorphose into butterflies, their discarded pupal cases provide nutrients for the soil.</p>



<h3 id="h-plant-growth-and-evolution">Plant Growth and Evolution</h3>



<p>Some butterfly species have co-evolved with specific plant species, leading to mutual benefits. For example, the plant may rely on the butterfly for pollination, while the butterfly relies on the plant as a food source for its larvae. This relationship can drive the evolution of both species.</p>



<h3 id="h-human-wellbeing">Human Wellbeing</h3>



<p>The aesthetic value of butterflies also contributes to human wellbeing. Their beauty encourages people to spend time outdoors, engage with nature, and appreciate biodiversity, which has numerous mental health benefits.</p>



<h3 id="h-education-and-research">Education and Research</h3>



<p>Butterflies, due to their wide variety, availability, and the fascinating process of metamorphosis they undergo, serve as excellent subjects for educational purposes and scientific research. Observing butterflies can provide insights into biological processes like metamorphosis, behavior, and ecological interactions.</p>



<p>However, it's essential to note that butterfly populations are declining globally due to habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and the use of pesticides.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The loss of these creatures can have cascading effects on ecosystems and biodiversity, underscoring the need for conservation efforts. Protecting and restoring butterfly habitats, reducing pesticide use, and planting butterfly-friendly plants can all help to support butterfly populations.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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

Mystery solved: When butterflies evolved and what plants they used for food

A significant event transpired about 100 million years ago: a...

<p>At the <a href="https://uwaterloo.ca/">University of Waterloo</a>, a team of pioneering engineers has found an innovative way to program robots that could significantly aid people struggling with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/watching-tv-increases-risk-of-dementia-in-seniors/">dementia</a>. These robots are designed to help individuals locate essential items - such as medicine, eyeglasses, or phones - that they often misplace.</p>



<p>The implications of this technology extend beyond aiding those with dementia. This technology could revolutionize the way anyone finds lost items, potentially turning a frantic search into a quick, effortless task.</p>



<p>"The long-term impact of this is really exciting," Dr. Ali Ayub, a post-doctoral fellow in electrical and computer engineering at the University of Waterloo, enthuses.&nbsp;</p>



<p>He envisions a future where users interact not just with any companion robot but with a personalized companion robot. "A user can be involved... with a personalized companion robot that can give them more independence," he asserts.</p>



<h2 id="h-inspired-by-concern-for-rising-number-of-dementia-cases">Inspired by concern for rising number of dementia cases</h2>



<p>Ayub, alongside three of his colleagues, was inspired by the rising number of individuals coping with dementia. This debilitating condition can limit brain function, causing confusion, memory loss, and disability. These symptoms often lead to a decreased quality of life as individuals frequently forget the location of everyday objects, adding stress to their caregivers.</p>



<p>The engineers propose a novel solution to this problem - a companion robot equipped with its own form of episodic memory. They utilized artificial intelligence to create a new type of artificial memory, a feature they believe could be a game-changer.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-the-robots-were-created">How the robots were created</h2>



<p>The research began with a Fetch mobile manipulator robot, equipped with a camera to perceive its surroundings. The team then programmed the robot using an object-detection algorithm, enabling it to detect, track, and maintain a memory log of specific objects within its field of vision.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This memory log was created using stored video. The robot, now capable of distinguishing one object from another, records the time and date when objects come into or leave its view.</p>



<p>The engineers also developed a graphical interface to enhance user experience. Users can select objects they want the robot to track.&nbsp;</p>



<p>After typing in the names of the objects, users can then search for them using a smartphone app or computer. The robot, in response, can indicate when and where it last saw the specified object.</p>



<p>The system has proven to be highly accurate in tests. Ayub acknowledges that while the technology might be daunting for some individuals with dementia, caregivers could readily use it to assist in their duties.</p>



<p>As they move forward, the research team plans to conduct user studies with people without disabilities, followed by tests with individuals living with dementia. This exciting development points to a future where personalized companion robots could make a significant difference in the lives of those dealing with dementia, and anyone else who's ever misplaced something important.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-dementia">More about dementia</h2>



<p>Dementia is a general term for a range of conditions associated with a decline in brain function that impacts daily life. It's not a specific disease but rather a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, problem-solving, language, and perception.</p>



<p>There are various types of dementia, and some people may have a combination of types. The most common type is Alzheimer's disease, accounting for 60-80% of cases. Other types include vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, and frontotemporal dementia.</p>



<p>Dementia is characterized by a number of symptoms. The most well-known is memory loss, especially the difficulty remembering recent events (short-term memory loss). Other symptoms can include challenges with thinking and problem-solving, difficulty with language and communication, changes in mood, confusion and disorientation, and difficulties carrying out daily activities.</p>



<p>It's important to note that dementia is not a normal part of aging. While it's true that the likelihood of developing dementia increases with age, many older adults never develop it. In addition, dementia can also affect younger people, a condition known as early-onset dementia.</p>



<p>Risk factors for dementia include age, family history, certain genetic mutations, and lifestyle factors like smoking and alcohol use. Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol may also increase the risk of dementia.</p>



<p>As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, there is no cure for dementia, but there are treatments that can slow its progression and improve the quality of life for those affected. These typically involve medication, cognitive training, therapy, and lifestyle changes.</p>



<p>Research is ongoing to better understand dementia, find effective treatments, and ultimately discover a cure. This includes the development of new technologies and approaches, such as the companion robot for individuals with dementia described in your earlier question.</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: University of Waterloo&nbsp;</em></p>



<p>—-</p>



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

New robots can help you find objects that you’ve lost or misplaced

At the University of Waterloo, a team of pioneering engineers...

Beautiful,View,Of,Sea,Life

<p>In a recent study, scientists have discovered that the light pollution generated by coastal cities is damaging coral reefs and leading <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-coral-reefs-crackle-with-the-sounds-of-busy-inhabitants/">reefs</a> to spawn outside their ideal reproduction times. </p>



<p>The research offers compelling evidence that coastal artificial light at night (ALAN) is tampering with the delicate balance of coral spawning events. These events, typically tied to lunar cycles, are crucial for the survival and recovery of coral reefs, especially in the aftermath of mass bleaching and other similar disturbances.</p>



<h2 id="h-the-alice-project">The ALICE project</h2>



<p>The findings are part of the Artificial Light Impacts on Coastal Ecosystems (ALICE) project, which is under the funding umbrella of the Natural Environment Research Council. Coral spawning events are typically triggered by lunar cycles, leading to the release of eggs on specific nights of the year.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research team used light pollution data combined with spawning observations to demonstrate an alarming trend that is damaging coral reefs. They found that corals exposed to artificial light at night are now spawning one to three days nearer to the full moon compared to their counterparts on reefs unlit by artificial light.</p>



<p>This change in spawning times could have serious repercussions on the survival of coral reefs. If coral eggs are released on different nights, the chances of them being fertilized and surviving to become adult corals are drastically reduced. Adult corals play a vital role in helping the reefs recover after bleaching events and other disturbances.</p>



<p>The ALICE project's research builds on a study published in December 2021, which identified the ocean areas most impacted by light pollution. This study found that about 1.9 million square kilometers of coastal ocean, at a depth of one meter, are exposed to biologically significant ALAN. This represents around 3.1% of the global Exclusive Economic Zones.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-the-study-was-done">How the study was done</h2>



<p>For this latest study, the researchers married the data from the 2021 study with a global dataset containing 2,135 coral spawning observations from the 21st century. This allowed them to propose a novel idea: ALAN could be advancing the triggers for spawning by creating an illusory period of minimum illuminance between sunset and moonrise on nights following the full moon.</p>



<p>Dr. Thomas Davies, a Lecturer in Marine Conservation at the <a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/">University of Plymouth</a>, led this study. He also serves as the principal investigator of the ALICE project.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research, published in <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-38070-y"><em>Nature Communications</em></a>, represents a significant contribution to our understanding of the profound effects of artificial light pollution on marine ecosystems.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-what-the-scientists-learned-about-damaging-coral-reefs">What the scientists learned about damaging coral reefs</h2>



<p>According to Dr. Davies, the study's findings could have major implications for the future survival of our planet's coral reefs and the impact of damaging coral reefs.</p>



<p>“Corals are critical for the health of the global ocean, but are being increasingly damaged by human activity. This study shows it is not just changes in the ocean that are impacting them, but the continued development of coastal cities as we try and accommodate the growing global population," said Dr. Davies.</p>



<p>"If we want to mitigate against the harm this is causing, we could perhaps look to delay the switching on of night-time lighting in coastal regions to ensure the natural dark period between sunset and moonrise that triggers spawning remains intact. That would potentially raise a number of economic and safety issues, but is something we potentially need to consider to ensure our coral reefs are given the best chance of survival.”</p>



<p>Dr. Tim Smyth, head of Science for Marine Biogeochemistry and Observations at Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the study’s senior author, added: “This study further emphasizes the importance of artificial light pollution as a stressor of coastal and marine ecosystems, with the impacts on various aspects of biodiversity only now being discovered and quantified. A critical first step along that path was enabled with our global in-water light pollution atlas which highlighted for the first time the true extent of the problem, which hitherto had gone unrecognized.”</p>



<p>The researchers looked at coastal regions all over the world, but coral reefs in the Red Sea and Persian Gulf are particularly affected by light pollution. These are areas where coastlines have been heavily developed in recent years and where coral reefs are both close to the shore and at particular risk.</p>



<p>“The Red Sea and the Gulf of Eilat/Aqaba are heavily impacted by Artificial Light at Night (ALAN) due to urbanization and the proximity of the reefs to the coastline. Despite the challenges posed by ALAN, corals in the Gulf of Eilat/Aqaba are known for their thermal tolerance and ability to withstand high temperatures. However, a disturbance in the timing of coral spawning with the moon phases can result in a decline in new coral recruits and a reduction in the coral population," said study co-author Professor Oren Levy, who heads the Laboratory for Molecular Marine Ecology at Bar-Ilan University in Israel.</p>



<p>"It is crucial that we take immediate action to reduce the impact of ALAN on these fragile marine ecosystems. By implementing measures to limit light pollution, we can protect these vital habitats and safeguard the future of the world's oceans. It's our responsibility to ensure that we preserve the biodiversity of our planet and maintain a healthy and sustainable environment for generations to come.”</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-coral-reefs-and-importance-to-ecosystems">More about coral reefs and importance to ecosystems&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Coral reefs, often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea," are among the most biodiverse and productive ecosystems on Earth. They provide a multitude of vital services that contribute to the well-being of the environment and humankind. That is why humans must stop damaging coral reefs.</p>



<h3 id="h-biodiversity-hotspots">Biodiversity hotspots&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Firstly, coral reefs are biodiversity hotspots. They occupy less than 0.1% of the world's ocean area, yet they provide a home for at least 25% of all marine species, including fish, mollusks, worms, crustaceans, echinoderms, sponges, tunicates, and other cnidarians.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This biodiversity is not only a critical resource for scientific research and potential medical discoveries but also plays a vital role in maintaining the overall health of our oceans.</p>



<p>In addition to their incredible biodiversity, coral reefs also have immense economic value. They are the backbone of many local economies, especially in developing countries, due to their importance in the tourism industry and for local fisheries. It's estimated that millions of people around the world directly rely on the resources from coral reefs for their livelihoods and food security.</p>



<p>Coral reefs also play a crucial role in protecting coastlines from the damaging effects of wave action and tropical storms. They serve as natural barriers, reducing the impact of waves, thereby preventing erosion, property damage, and loss of life.</p>



<p>Moreover, reefs play a crucial role in the carbon and nitrogen cycles. They facilitate carbon dioxide removal from the atmosphere, helping mitigate the impacts of climate change. By damaging coral reefs, they can no longer provide these benefits.</p>



<h3 id="h-coral-reefs-need-our-protection">Coral reefs need our protection&nbsp;</h3>



<p>However, despite their importance, coral reefs face severe threats from various factors including climate change, ocean acidification, pollution, overfishing, destructive fishing practices, and disease.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These threats have led to significant reef degradation globally, and there's an urgent need for effective management and conservation measures.</p>



<p>Protecting and restoring coral reefs is not just about preserving these beautiful and diverse ecosystems for future generations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It's also about the survival of countless marine species and the sustenance of economic activities that depend on these ecosystems. Indeed, the health of our planet's coral reefs is a bellwether for the overall health of the world's oceans.</p>



<h3 id="h-impact-of-climate-change-on-coral-reefs">Impact of climate change on coral reefs</h3>



<p>Climate change poses a significant threat to coral reefs, impacting them in several ways. The primary threats are from increasing sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and more intense storm events.</p>



<h4 id="h-rising-sea-temperatures">Rising Sea Temperatures</h4>



<p>One of the most immediate threats of climate change is the increase in sea surface temperatures. Warmer water temperatures can lead to coral bleaching, a stress response in which corals expel the symbiotic algae living within their tissues, known as zooxanthellae.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These algae provide corals with food through photosynthesis and give them their vibrant colors. Without them, corals turn white (hence the term 'bleaching') and, if the high temperatures persist, the coral may die.</p>



<h4 id="h-ocean-acidification">Ocean Acidification</h4>



<p>The burning of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere, a significant portion of which is then absorbed by the oceans. When CO2 dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid, leading to a process called ocean acidification.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This process reduces the amount of available carbonate ions, a key building block for corals and other marine organisms to build their skeletons and shells. Lower carbonate ion levels can slow down coral growth and even dissolve existing skeletal structures, leading to weaker reefs.</p>



<h4 id="h-sea-level-rise">Sea Level Rise</h4>



<p>Rising sea levels due to melting polar ice can also impact coral reefs. Although corals can grow to keep up with slow sea-level rise, rapid increases may submerge them too deeply, reducing the sunlight they receive, which is essential for the photosynthetic processes of their symbiotic algae.</p>



<h4 id="h-more-intense-storms">More Intense Storms</h4>



<p>Climate change is predicted to increase the intensity of tropical storms, which can cause physical damage to coral reefs. Strong storms can break apart the coral's rigid structure, causing large-scale reef destruction.</p>



<h4 id="h-changes-in-ocean-currents">Changes in Ocean Currents</h4>



<p>Climate change can also alter ocean currents, which may disrupt the delivery of nutrients to reef ecosystems, further affecting their health and resilience.</p>



<p>The loss and degradation of coral reefs due to climate change not only impact the multitude of species that depend on them but also the human communities that rely on those species for food, income, and coastal protection. Thus, efforts to mitigate climate change and to develop strategies to help coral reefs adapt to changing conditions are vital for the survival of these critical ecosystems.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Discovery: Light pollution from coastal cities is damaging coral reefs

In a recent study, scientists have discovered that the light...

<p>In an exciting leap forward in understanding the life cycle of microplastics, a team of researchers from <a href="https://www.kyushu-u.ac.jp/en/">Kyushu University</a> and Asahi Kasei Corporation has unveiled a novel method to discern the age of these minute pollutants prevalent in our oceans.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The methodology makes use of an innovative mix of oxidation analysis of the plastics, along with a consideration of environmental factors such as exposure to UV rays and the surrounding <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-temperature-has-been-steadily-rising-since-the-1850s/">temperature</a>.</p>



<p>The team ventured out to field test their method, focusing their efforts on microplastics found in the North Pacific Ocean, both near the shore and offshore.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The results, recently published in the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/marine-pollution-bulletin"><em>Marine Pollution Bulletin</em></a>, indicated that the microplastics in nearshore regions were as young as fresh to a maximum of five years old, while those in offshore regions were a little older, ranging from one to three years.</p>



<h2 id="h-defining-microplastics">Defining microplastics</h2>



<p>Microplastics, fragments of plastic waste that are smaller than 5mm, have taken over marine environments from lakes to oceans as the leading type of pollutant. As larger plastic waste endures the elements, it breaks down into these smaller particles.</p>



<p>"Microplastic pollution is recognized as a global problem. We found in a previous study that there are about 24 trillion grains of microplastics floating on the ocean's surface layer," said study lead author Professor Atsuhiko Isobe from Kyushu University's Research Institute for Applied Mechanics.</p>



<p>"Despite this, our knowledge about the impact of microplastics on the environment or living organisms is still scarce. A pressing question we are grappling with is the duration microplastics spend drifting through the ocean."</p>



<h2 id="h-how-the-study-was-done">How the study was done</h2>



<p>To answer this, Isobe's team set out to first determine how to measure the age of microplastics. Rie Okubo, a researcher at Asahi Kasei Corporation and the study's first author, explained that polyethylene is the most common material in plastic.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"As it interacts with the environment, it oxidizes and degrades. We can measure this degradation level using the change in the material's molecular weight and the carbonyl index. In simple terms, as polyethylene degrades, its carbonyl index rises, and molecular weight drops."</p>



<p>But the team didn't stop there. They recognized that microplastics are exposed to the elements, which means temperature and UV radiation also play a role in their degradation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To understand this, the team conducted a series of exposure experiments on polyethylene material, collecting data on how different combinations of UV and temperature affected the material's molecular weight and carbonyl index.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The results showed that ultraviolet erythemal radiation (UVER) - a measure of ground-level UV radiation - and seawater temperature were the prime contributors to plastic degradation. Armed with this data, the team then turned to their collected microplastic samples, all drawn from the upper ocean, up to one meter from the water surface.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"We collected microplastics from a range of areas. Some samples were from nearshore to Japan, ranging from 10 to 80 km off the coast. Others were from offshore, in the middle of the North Pacific Ocean and the Philippine Sea," said Okubo.</p>



<h2 id="h-what-the-researchers-learned">What the researchers learned</h2>



<p>With their new method, the researchers could estimate the age of each sample. Nearshore microplastics varied from 0 to 5 years old, while offshore samples were between 1 and 3 years old.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Nearshore microplastics range from 0 to 5 years because they are frequently washed ashore and 'survive' for a longer time. Offshore microplastics take longer to reach that part of the ocean, explaining why we didn't find microplastics over 3 years old. These offshore microplastics likely settle deeper into the waters, removing them from the upper oceans," explained Okubo.</p>



<p>The researchers believe their new method will provide greater insights into the generation and dispersal of microplastics in the environment. The valuable data gathered could aid in creating more accurate simulations to track the journey of microplastics across the ocean.</p>



<p>"Our understanding of microplastics is still in its infancy, and this data provides us with a slightly clearer picture of the basic science surrounding these tiny pollutants. Our next move is to explore how mechanical stimuli such as ocean waves and currents can degrade plastics, allowing us to gather even more accurate data," said Isobe.</p>



<p>Thus, this breakthrough could potentially be a game changer in comprehending the mysterious journey of microplastics, from creation to degradation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The pioneering work of the team at Kyushu University and Asahi Kasei Corporation promises to shed more light on the environmental hazards posed by these minute pollutants, and could be instrumental in devising more effective strategies to combat this global issue.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-microplastics">More about microplastics</h2>



<p>Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size, roughly the size of a sesame seed. These particles are either intentionally manufactured at a small size, often used in personal care products, or they result from the breakdown of larger plastic items due to exposure to the elements over time. As of my last training data in September 2021, microplastics are a significant source of environmental pollution, impacting both land and oceans.</p>



<h3 id="h-sources-of-microplastics">Sources of Microplastics</h3>



<h4 id="h-primary-microplastics">Primary Microplastics</h4>



<p>These are directly released into the environment as small particles. Examples include microbeads in cosmetics and personal care products, plastic pellets used in industrial processes, and fibers from synthetic clothing that are released during washing.</p>



<h4 id="h-secondary-microplastics">Secondary Microplastics</h4>



<p>These originate from the degradation of larger plastic items, such as water bottles, bags, and fishing nets. These items can break down into microplastics due to physical processes (like abrasion) and environmental conditions (such as UV radiation and heat).</p>



<h3 id="h-impact-on-oceans">Impact on Oceans&nbsp;</h3>



<p>Microplastics have made their way into every corner of the world's oceans, from the surface to the deepest trenches. They can be carried by winds, rivers, and ocean currents across vast distances. Here are some ways they affect marine ecosystems:</p>



<h4 id="h-ingestion-by-marine-life">Ingestion by Marine Life</h4>



<p>Microplastics can be mistaken for food by marine animals, from small plankton to larger mammals. Ingesting these particles can lead to physical harm, including blockage of the digestive tract or a false sense of satiety, which can result in starvation.</p>



<h4 id="h-toxic-chemicals">Toxic Chemicals</h4>



<p>Microplastics can absorb and concentrate harmful chemicals from the surrounding environment. When ingested by marine creatures, these toxins can be released and cause harm.</p>



<h4 id="h-bioaccumulation-and-biomagnification">Bioaccumulation and Biomagnification</h4>



<p>As smaller organisms containing microplastics are consumed by larger ones, the concentration of microplastics and associated toxins can increase up the food chain, potentially reaching humans.</p>



<h3 id="h-impact-on-land">Impact on Land&nbsp;</h3>



<p>The impact of microplastics isn't confined to oceans. They can also accumulate in terrestrial environments, including agricultural lands.</p>



<h4 id="h-soil-health">Soil Health</h4>



<p>Microplastics can alter the physical properties of soil, affecting its structure, porosity, and permeability, which could potentially impact plant growth.</p>



<h4 id="h-organisms-and-biodiversity">Organisms and Biodiversity</h4>



<p>Microplastics can be ingested by terrestrial animals and soil-dwelling organisms, impacting their health and potentially leading to a decrease in biodiversity.</p>



<h4 id="h-food-safety">Food Safety</h4>



<p>Microplastics can enter the human food chain directly through consumption of crops grown in contaminated soil or indirectly through the consumption of animals that have ingested microplastics.</p>



<h3 id="h-mitigation-efforts">Mitigation Efforts&nbsp;</h3>



<p>As of 2021, strategies to mitigate the impact of microplastics include:</p>



<h4 id="h-legislation">Legislation</h4>



<p>Some countries have banned the use of microbeads in personal care products.</p>



<h4 id="h-recycling-and-waste-management">Recycling and Waste Management</h4>



<p>Improving waste management systems and recycling rates can help reduce the amount of plastic that breaks down into microplastics.</p>



<h4 id="h-public-awareness">Public Awareness</h4>



<p>Education about the dangers of plastic pollution can encourage more responsible consumer behavior, such as reducing, reusing, and recycling plastic products.</p>



<h4 id="h-research">Research</h4>



<p>More research is needed to fully understand the impact of microplastics on both human health and the environment, and to develop innovative solutions for plastic waste management.</p>



<p>Microplastic pollution is a complex and global issue that requires collaborative efforts from governments, industries, scientists, and individuals to address effectively.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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

Experts develop a new method to estimate the age of microplastics in the ocean

In an exciting leap forward in understanding the life cycle...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

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

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

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0DuSr87SHY
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">57 million-year ice age mystery solved by Australian scientists.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<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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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>



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Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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



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



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



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



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



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



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



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<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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