<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>



<p>-----</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>Social psychologists have long noticed that, many times, some of the most meaningful human <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-symbiotic-relationships-evolve-between-species/">relationships</a> grow from the briefest of connections, involving for instance whether another person likes or dislikes the same thing that we do, such as a music band or a snack. This phenomenon - characterized by the fact that we generally tend to like people who are like us - is known as the “similarity-attraction effect.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>To test the conditions that shape whether we feel attracted to - or turned off by each other - researchers from <a href="https://www.bu.edu/">Boston University</a> (BU) conducted a series of experiments, and discovered that a crucial factor behind the similarity-attraction effect was what psychologists call “self-essentialist reasoning,” where people believe they have a deep inner core or essence shaping who they are.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Thus, when people think that an essence drives their interests, likes, and dislikes, they usually assume the same for others and, if they find someone with as little as one – often minor – interest, they reason that person will share their broader worldview too.</p>



<p>“If we had to come up with an image of our sense of self, it would be this nugget, an almost magical core inside that emanates out and causes what we can see and observe about people and ourselves,” explained study lead author Charles Chu, an assistant professor of Management and Organizations at BU.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“We argue that believing people have an underlying essence allows us to assume or infer that when we see someone who shares a single characteristic, they must share my entire deeply rooted essence, as well.”</p>



<p>To come to this conclusion, Chu devised four experiments. In the first one, participants were told about a fictional person, Jaime, who held either complementary or contradictory attitudes to them on topics such as abortion, capital punishment, animal testing, gun ownership, and physician-assisted suicide.&nbsp;</p>



<p>After being asked to describe their sense of identity to measure their affinity with self-essentialist reasoning, participants had to state how they felt about Jaime. The experiment revealed that the more a participant believed their worldview was shaped by an essential core, the more connected they felt with the Jaime who shared their views on a specific issue.</p>



<p>In a second experiment, the scientists assessed whether this effect persisted when the target topics were less substantial. To test this, they asked participants to estimate the number of blue dots on a page and categorized them – along with the fictional Jaime – as either under- or over-estimators. Even in the case of such a slim connection, those who believed they had an inner core felt closer to the Jaime who was similar to them.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“I found that both with pretty meaningful dimensions of similarity as well as with arbitrary, minimal similarities, people who are higher in their belief that they have an essence are more likely to be attracted to these similar others as opposed to dissimilar others,” Chu reported.</p>



<p>Finally, in other two experiments, the researchers attempted to disrupt the influence of self-essentialist reasoning, by either telling participants that attributes such as liking a paining were either essential or nonessential, or by trying to convince them that using their essence to judge others could lead to inaccurate results.</p>



<p>“It breaks this essentialist reasoning process, it cuts off people’s ability to assume that what they’re seeing is reflective of a deeper similarity. One way I did that was to remind people that this dimension of similarity is actually not connected or related to your essence at all; the other way was by telling people that using their essence as a way to understand other people is not very effective,” Chu explained.</p>



<p>These attempts to disrupt self-essentialist reasoning emerged from Chu’s conviction that embracing an indefinable, fundamental similarity with someone based on a small number of shared interests may be inherently flawed, and could restrict who we can form meaningful connections with.</p>



<p>“When you hear a single fact or opinion being expressed that you either agree or disagree with, it really warrants taking an additional breath and just slowing down. Not taking that single piece of information and extrapolating on it, using this type of thinking to go to the very end, that this person is fundamentally good and like me or fundamentally bad and not like me,” he argued.</p>



<p>Since self-essentialist reasoning often structures how people behave with one other in a variety of social spheres, such as the business world, politics, or even the way society distributes resources - with some people receiving funding, for instance, based not on their merits, but on the similarity-attraction effect – Chu advocates a more balanced approach to others that takes into account their complexity.</p>



<p>“There are ways for us to go through life and meet other people, and form impressions of other people, without constantly referencing ourselves. If we’re constantly going around trying to figure out,&nbsp;<em>who’s like me, who’s not like me?,</em>&nbsp;that’s not always the most productive way of trying to form impressions of other people. People are a lot more complex than we give them credit for,” he concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/pspi0000425"><em>Journal of Personality and Social Psychology</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 Eric Ralls and Earth.com.</p>

Which factors drive interpersonal attraction?

Social psychologists have long noticed that, many times, some of...

<p>Since <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horses-with-a-trusted-owner-remain-calm-in-new-situations/">horses</a> in the wild had to be continuously alert for predators that might attack them, even domestic horses are now hardwired to be alert of potential dangers and often scare easily. </p>



<p>Unfortunately, such “startle response” or “spooking” is reflexive, and many times horses cannot distinguish between real threats and events in their environment that are not dangerous, such as a plastic bag floating by a riding arena.&nbsp;</p>



<p>When horses overreact to perceived threats by rearing, bolting, or bucking, they can create dangerous situations for owners and riders.</p>



<p>In an attempt to overcome such issues, a team of researchers led by the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/">University of Florida</a> is currently working to identify genes that structure such horses’ tendency to overreact. In the future, the identification of such genes could help selecting or breeding horses for the types of temperaments their owners prefer.</p>



<p>To better understand startle responses, the researchers equipped several horses with heart-rate monitors and let them loose in a round pen. Occasionally, they opened an umbrella quickly within the horses’ perceptual field and analyzed their behavior and heart rate during and after their initial startle reaction.</p>



<p>“We can’t read their minds,” said senior author Samantha Brooks, an associate professor of Equine Genetics at UF. “Their heart rate tells us what is going on inside that we cannot see from reading their body language alone. It was interesting to see the stories their heart rates told us.”</p>



<p>This experiment helped scientists identify two types of horses: one that was startled by the umbrella opening, had a spike in heart rate, and maintained a hyper-alert state, spending more time looking and moving away from the umbrella; and another that startled just as easily and experienced a spike in heart rate, but calmed quickly afterwards. While these animals were also startled by the stimulus, they did not go through the pattern of fear and avoidance as the other horses.</p>



<p>“Horses have adapted over thousands of years to live with people. Some of those changes include a reduction in startle response and are really helpful to better understand the horses we work with today,” Brooks explained.</p>



<p>By using these findings, the scientists plan to design a new study to differentiate the genetic components structuring how horses respond to perceived threats, in order to help owners find their right fit. For instance, while an easily spooked horse may not be the best choice for children learning to ride, it could be a good fit for high-energy “jobs” such as show jumping.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Understanding each horse’s genetic makeup will help you understand the type of animal you need,” Brooks said. “If we learn early on what this animal’s natural tendencies are most likely to be, we can make educated decisions on training and future careers to give the horse the best shot to grow into their potential, rather than becoming a problem or danger.”</p>



<p>Moreover, clarifying a horse’s reaction to an uncomfortable situation could make a difference in transportation or veterinary practices too.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“It doesn’t matter if the horse is a racehorse, therapy animal or driving a carriage, an unplanned startle response is generally a problem. We are just beginning to scratch the surface of this. It might take us 10 years or more to really have a clear understanding, but it is worth the effort,” Brooks concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/genes14030593"><em>Genes</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<h2 id="h-how-horses-express-their-emotions">How horses express their emotions</h2>



<p>Horses, like many animals, do have a range of emotions that they can express, and these can often be seen through their behavior and body language. It's important to remember that while we can observe and interpret these signs, we can't fully understand a horse's emotional experience in the same way we understand human emotions.</p>



<h3 id="h-here-are-some-commonly-recognized-emotions-in-horses">Here are some commonly recognized emotions in horses:</h3>



<h4 id="h-happiness">Happiness</h4>



<p>A relaxed horse with ears forward and a calm tail usually indicates a happy horse. A soft, gentle eye also suggests contentment. Happy horses often engage in social grooming with other horses and appear generally calm and at ease.</p>



<h4 id="h-fear">Fear</h4>



<p>When a horse is scared, it might raise its head high, prick its ears forward, and widen its eyes. In some cases, a scared horse may also show the whites of its eyes. Horses are flight animals, so a fearful horse may also try to run away from whatever is causing its fear.</p>



<h4 id="h-anger-aggression">Anger/Aggression</h4>



<p>An angry or aggressive horse may pin its ears back flat against its head. It might also show its teeth, swish its tail, or even try to bite or kick. These are all warning signs that should be taken seriously to avoid injury.</p>



<h4 id="h-stress-anxiety">Stress/Anxiety</h4>



<p>Horses can also show signs of stress or anxiety. These may include pacing, excessive sweating, increased heart rate, or other signs of restlessness. They might also show repetitive behaviors known as stereotypies, such as cribbing (biting on fences or stalls) or weaving (swaying side to side).</p>



<h4 id="h-sadness-depression">Sadness/Depression</h4>



<p>Although it's harder to identify than some of the other emotions, horses can also show signs of sadness or depression, particularly if they're kept in poor conditions or are socially isolated. These may include lack of interest in surroundings, low energy, changes in eating or drinking habits, and generally appearing 'down'.</p>



<h4 id="h-relief">Relief</h4>



<p>Horses can show signs of relief, usually through sudden relaxation or a return to normal behaviors after a stressful event.</p>



<h4 id="h-curiosity">Curiosity</h4>



<p>A horse showing curiosity will often have pricked ears, a high head, and a focused gaze. It may approach or inspect new objects, smells, or sounds with caution but interest.</p>



<p>These are just some examples of horse emotions, as interpreted through their behavior and body language. Understanding a horse's emotions can be incredibly helpful in promoting good welfare and positive interactions.</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>

Scientists aim to breed less “spooky” horses

Since horses in the wild had to be continuously alert...

<p>The past half a century has witnessed an increased exodus of human populations from rural to urban areas, with over 55 percent of the world’s population currently living in cities (a percentage expected to rise to 68 percent by 2050). A major effect of this gradual decrease in rural populations is that the land they leave behind leads to a significant increase in abandoned fields and pastures, forestry areas, factories, mines, or even entire human settlements.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A new perspective piece published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.adf1099"><em>Science</em></a><em> </em>has recently investigated how biodiversity is affected by land abandonment and what this entails for ecology and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/protected-areas-are-highly-effective-for-wildlife-conservation/">conservation</a>.</p>



<p>“The factors that drive depopulation and consequently also land abandonment are intensifying due to issues like climate change and the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape,” said study lead author Gergana Daskalova, a research fellow in Biodiversity, Ecology, and Conservation at the <a href="https://iiasa.ac.at/">International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis</a> (IIASA).&nbsp;</p>



<p>“The Russian invasion of Ukraine, for example, has already created new abandonment hotspots. Abandonment is a globally important process. The scale at which this is happening around the world urged us to put the spotlight on the places people have left behind as a potential source of future solutions for conservation, while also protecting human livelihoods.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Although the precise amount of abandoned land around the globe is unknown, scientists estimate that it could comprise up to 400 million hectares (nearly half the size of Australia). Most of this land is in the Northern Hemisphere, with 117 million ha in the former Soviet Union alone.</p>



<p>According to the experts, the effects such abandoned areas have on biodiversity are complex, and can be both positive and negative. For instance, in abandoned areas that were previously intensively farmed and where biodiversity was low, plant life, birds, and invertebrates which can easily survive in disturbed ecosystems have a new chance to thrive.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, if the abandonment of such crop fields is coupled with people leaving the region or with wildlife reintroductions, major rewilding can occur, with the possible return of large herbivores and carnivores. However, not all abandoned land can recover without help, and some of the land that used to be intensively farmed may never fully recover.</p>



<p>The researchers emphasize that land abandonment can also have negative consequences for biodiversity. For example, in areas previously used for low-intensity, or subsistence farming for extended periods of time, the close ties between the people and the land have often created interdependent ecosystems that break down after people depart, possibly leading to the loss of locally rare species or the proliferation of only one or two species at the expense of others.</p>



<p>Moreover, any gains in biodiversity on abandoned land can be quickly reversed if land is recultivated or repurposed, as it currently happens with finding new industrial uses for abandoned land, such as large-scale bioenergy, wind, and solar energy production.</p>



<p>Thus, finding the best use for abandoned land needs to balance conservation benefits, human livelihoods, and sustainability. To identify the most efficient ways of balancing these factors, biodiversity changes on abandoned lands should be included in regional and global assessments, policies, and scenarios. Finally, in cases where abandoned land is reused, economic needs should be carefully balanced with restoration and conservation goals.</p>



<p>“It is important for future models and scenarios aimed at predicting the positive versus negative effects of abandonment on biodiversity to take into account whether the land is likely to remain abandoned and what the feedbacks between abandonment, biodiversity, human values, and livelihoods entail," said Daskalova.</p>



<p>As global conversations around this topic continue, we can look to abandoned lands as the product of centuries of interactions between people and nature, and create incentives not just for conservation, but also for land stewardship and the preservation of both social and ecological values."</p>



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



<p>Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms and ecosystems on Earth, including plants, animals, microorganisms, and the ecological processes that support them. It encompasses the genetic, species, and ecosystem levels of biological organization. Here are some key points about biodiversity:</p>



<h3 id="h-importance-of-biodiversity">Importance of Biodiversity</h3>



<p>Biodiversity is crucial for the health and stability of ecosystems and provides numerous benefits to humans. It supports the functioning of ecosystems, such as nutrient cycling, pollination, and soil formation. </p>



<p>Biodiversity also contributes to essential ecosystem services like clean air and water, climate regulation, and natural disaster mitigation. Additionally, it has aesthetic, cultural, and recreational value and serves as a source of food, medicine, and other resources.</p>



<h3 id="h-levels-of-biodiversity">Levels of Biodiversity</h3>



<p>Biodiversity is often described at three levels: genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity.</p>



<h4 id="h-genetic-diversity">Genetic Diversity</h4>



<p>This refers to the variety of genes within a species. Genetic diversity enables populations to adapt to changing environments, enhances resistance to diseases, and improves overall species resilience.</p>



<h4 id="h-species-diversity">Species Diversity</h4>



<p>This refers to the variety of different species present in a particular region or on Earth as a whole. Higher species diversity generally indicates a healthier ecosystem.</p>



<h4 id="h-ecosystem-diversity">Ecosystem Diversity</h4>



<p>This refers to the range of different ecosystems in a given area or across the planet. Ecosystem diversity encompasses various habitats, such as forests, grasslands, wetlands, coral reefs, and deserts.</p>



<h3 id="h-threats-to-biodiversity">Threats to Biodiversity</h3>



<p>Biodiversity is facing significant threats, primarily due to human activities. Some of the major drivers of biodiversity loss include habitat destruction, deforestation, pollution, climate change, invasive species, overexploitation of natural resources, and unsustainable agricultural practices. </p>



<p>These factors can lead to species extinctions, disrupt ecosystems, and have cascading effects on the overall functioning of the planet.</p>



<h3 id="h-conservation-of-biodiversity">Conservation of Biodiversity</h3>



<p>Protecting and conserving biodiversity is crucial for the well-being of both ecosystems and human societies. </p>



<p>Conservation efforts involve the establishment of protected areas, habitat restoration, sustainable land and resource management practices, wildlife conservation initiatives, and international agreements and conventions. Public awareness, education, and participation are also essential for promoting biodiversity conservation.</p>



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



<p>Biodiversity hotspots are regions that are exceptionally rich in species but also highly threatened. These areas contain a significant number of endemic species (species found nowhere else) and have experienced significant habitat loss. Examples of biodiversity hotspots include the Amazon rainforest, the Coral Triangle, the Western Ghats of India, and the Cape Floristic Region in South Africa.</p>



<h3 id="h-role-of-indigenous-peoples-and-local-communities">Role of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities</h3>



<p>Indigenous peoples and local communities often have profound traditional knowledge and practices that contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. Recognizing and involving these communities in conservation efforts can lead to more effective and equitable outcomes.</p>



<p>Preserving and restoring biodiversity is crucial for ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of our planet. It requires collective global efforts, policy interventions, and individual actions to protect and conserve the Earth's rich natural heritage.</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>

How does land abandonment affect biodiversity?

The past half a century has witnessed an increased exodus...

<p>A team of astronomers led by the <a href="https://www.arizona.edu/">University of Arizona</a> has recently used NASA’s <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/lift-off-the-james-webb-telescope-is-headed-to-space/">James Webb Space Telescope</a> (JWST) to examine the warm dust surrounding Fomalhaut – a nearby young star located in the southern constellation of Piscis Austrinus.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The goal was to study the first asteroid belt ever observed outside of our solar system in infrared light. Surprisingly, the images revealed that these dusty structures are much more complex than the so-called Kuiper dust belts from our solar system.</p>



<p>The experts found three nested belts extending out to 14 billion miles (150 times the distance of Earth from the Sun), with the scale of the outermost belt being about twice that of our solar system’s Kuiper belt of small bodies and cold dust beyond Neptune.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The dusty belts are formed by the debris originating from collisions of larger bodies similar to asteroids or comets and are usually described as “debris discs.”</p>



<p>“I would describe Fomalhaut as the archetype of debris disks found elsewhere in our galaxy, because it has components similar to those we have in our own planetary system,” said lead author András Gáspár, an astronomer at Arizona.</p>



<p>“By looking at the patterns in these rings, we can actually start to make a little sketch of what a planetary system ought to look like – if we could actually take a deep enough picture to see the suspected planets.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Although Fomalhaut’s dust ring was first discovered in 1983 in observations made by NASA’s Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS), and later on the Hubble Space Telescope, the Herschel Space Observatory, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) have already taken sharp images of the outermost belt, none of them managed to identify the inner belts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Now, due to JWST’s capacity of observing infrared light, the researchers finally succeeded to get a fuller picture of Fomalhaut’s dust belts.</p>



<p>“Where Webb really excels is that we’re able to physically resolve the thermal glow from dust in those inner regions. So you can see inner belts that we could never see before,” explained co-author Schuyler Wolff, an expert in planet formation processes at Arizona.</p>



<p>“With Hubble and ALMA, we were able to image a bunch of Kuiper Belt analogs, and we’ve learned loads about how outer disks form and evolve. But we need Webb to allow us to image a dozen or so asteroid belts elsewhere. We can learn just as much about the inner warm regions of these disks as Hubble and ALMA taught us about the colder outer regions.”</p>



<p>According to the scientists, these belts are most probably created by the gravitational forces produced by unseen planets, just as, in our solar system, the outer edge of the Kuiper belt is likely to be sculpted by unseen bodies beyond it that we could not yet identify.</p>



<p>“The belts around Fomalhaut are kind of a mystery novel: Where are the planets?” said co-author George Rieke, the U.S. science lead for JWST’s <a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/content/observatory/instruments/miri.html">Mid-Infrared Instrument</a> (MIRI), which made these observations. “I think it’s not a very big leap to say there’s probably a really interesting planetary system around the star.”</p>



<p>“We definitely didn’t expect the more complex structure with the second intermediate belt and then the broader asteroid belt,” Wolff added. “That structure is very exciting because any time an astronomer sees a gap and rings in a disk, they say, ‘There could be an embedded planet shaping the rings!’”</p>



<p>Finally, JWST also imaged what Gáspár calls “the great dust cloud,” which may be proof of a collision between two icy protoplanetary bodies in Fomalhaut’s outer ring that gave rise to an expanding cloud of very fine dust particles.</p>



<p>Further observations are needed to clarify the structure and origins of Fomalhaut’s belts and to possibly locate the planets that influence their formation. The research is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41550-023-01962-6"><em>Nature Astrology</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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



<p>Dust belts, also known as debris disks or asteroid belts, are rings of dust and debris that circle around a star. The debris in these belts is often the result of collisions between asteroids, comets, and other celestial objects, or leftover material from the formation of the star system.</p>



<p>These belts are frequently found in star systems that may also contain planets. For example, in our solar system, we have the Asteroid Belt located between Mars and Jupiter, and the Kuiper Belt beyond the orbit of Neptune. These belts consist of countless small bodies, remnants from the early solar system.</p>



<p>Dust belts are of interest to scientists for several reasons. First, they can provide clues about the formation and evolution of the star system. The composition and distribution of the dust and debris can tell us about the types of materials that were present when the system formed and how those materials have changed over time.</p>



<p>Second, dust belts are often associated with planetary systems. The presence of a dust belt around a star can suggest that there might also be planets in orbit. Additionally, the patterns and gaps in the dust distribution can potentially indicate the presence of planets that are influencing the belt through their gravitational effects.</p>



<p>Lastly, studying dust belts can also give us insights into the potential for life in other star systems. For instance, the ingredients necessary for life as we know it - water, organic molecules, and so on—might be found within these belts.</p>



<p>Astronomers detect and study dust belts using a variety of methods, including direct imaging with telescopes, spectroscopy (which can reveal the composition of the dust), and the detection of infrared radiation, which dust emits as it is warmed by the star.</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, A. Gáspár (University of Arizona). Image processing: A. Pagan (STScI).</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>

James Webb reveals the complexity of Fomalhaut's dust belts

A team of astronomers led by the University of Arizona...

<p>In a surprising revelation that adds a new dimension to our understanding of marine biology, a recent study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.add4445"><em>Science</em></a> suggests that hammerhead sharks have a unique way of maintaining their body temperature while hunting in deep, chilly waters - they "hold their breath."</p>



<p>This unexpected finding, reminiscent of thermoregulation strategies employed by marine mammals, raises intriguing possibilities about similar tactics being prevalent among other deep-diving fish species.</p>



<p>As a scientific journalist, it's my pleasure to dive into the details of this fascinating discovery and shed light on the complexities of life beneath the surface of our oceans.</p>



<p>Most fish, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-activities-threaten-australian-tiger-sharks/">sharks</a>, are ectothermic, which means that their body temperatures are largely determined by the environment around them. This poses a physiological conundrum for large predators, who need to maintain a specific body temperature to operate efficiently, yet venture into cold, deep waters in search of food.</p>



<p>Take, for instance, the scalloped hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna lewini). These formidable predators, which dwell in warm surface waters of temperate and tropical coastal regions, are known to undertake frequent deep dives, sometimes exceeding 800 meters. In such depths, water temperatures can plummet to a frigid four degrees Celsius.</p>



<p>The question that puzzled scientists was how these sharks managed to maintain their body temperature in such icy waters, given their lack of specific morphological or vascular adaptations to conserve body heat actively.</p>



<p>To unravel this enigma, Mark Royer and his team developed cutting-edge remote biologgers. These devices, implanted internally in adult sharks, recorded an array of data including depth, ambient water temperature, activity rates, body movements, and, crucially, internal body temperature.</p>



<p>The team discovered that the hammerhead sharks maintained a body temperature significantly elevated - up to 20 degrees Celsius above the surrounding water temperatures - throughout the deepest part of each dive. Intriguingly, the sharks only began to lose body heat rapidly when they started their return journey to the surface.</p>



<p>The researchers proposed a compelling explanation for this phenomenon. They suggest that the sharks effectively "hold their breath" while diving by closing their mouths and/or gill slits. This action reduces the flow of cold water across their gills, thereby minimizing heat loss that would typically occur due to the respiration process in cold water.</p>



<p>The swift body heat loss during the sharks' ascent to warmer waters is likely a result of the gill slits reopening, leading to convective heat transfer. While this finding is a significant leap in our understanding, the authors caution that more research is needed to confirm this thermoregulation strategy.</p>



<p>Mark Meekan and Adrian Gleiss, in a related perspective, write, “Given the effectiveness of breath holding and the strong selective forces that shape behavioral and physiological thermoregulation, this strategy could be widespread among other epipelagic and teleost fishes.”</p>



<p>This innovative study offers a fascinating glimpse into the adaptive strategies of one of nature's most intriguing predators, potentially opening doors to better comprehend the survival mechanisms of other marine species.</p>



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



<p>Hammerhead sharks are a group of sharks that belong to the family Sphyrnidae. As their name suggests, these sharks are best known for their distinctive head shape, which is flattened and laterally extended into a "hammer" shape called a cephalofoil. There are nine recognized species of hammerhead sharks. Here's what we know about them:</p>



<h3 id="h-distinctive-appearance">Distinctive Appearance</h3>



<p>Apart from their unique hammer-shaped heads, these sharks are typically gray-brown to olive-green on their dorsal (upper) side and lighter on their ventral (lower) side. Their size can range from 0.9 to 6 meters (3 to 20 feet), depending on the species. The great hammerhead is the largest species, while the bonnethead and the scoophead are among the smallest.</p>



<h3 id="h-cephalofoil">Cephalofoil</h3>



<p>The hammer-shaped head, or cephalofoil, provides several advantages. It increases the shark's sensory perception by spreading the sensory organs over a larger area, enhancing its ability to find prey. The wide head also allows for better maneuverability and the ability to scan larger areas of the ocean floor for food.</p>



<h3 id="h-diet-and-feeding">Diet and Feeding</h3>



<p>Hammerhead sharks are carnivorous and feed on a variety of prey, including fish, squid, octopus, crustaceans, and other sharks. The great hammerhead has a particular taste for stingrays.</p>



<h3 id="h-sensory-systems">Sensory Systems</h3>



<p>Like all sharks, hammerheads have electroreceptive sensory organs known as ampullae of Lorenzini. These allow them to detect the electric fields created by other animals, which is particularly useful when hunting for prey. Their wide-set eyes give them a better visual range than most other shark species.</p>



<h3 id="h-reproduction">Reproduction</h3>



<p>Hammerhead sharks are viviparous, meaning they give birth to live young. The embryos are initially sustained by a yolk sac, and once this is depleted, the yolk sac transforms into a structure similar to a mammalian placenta through which the mother provides nutrition.</p>



<h3 id="h-behavior">Behavior</h3>



<p>Hammerhead sharks are known for their schooling behavior. Large schools, primarily composed of females, can be seen in the open ocean during the day. At night, the sharks disperse to hunt.</p>



<h3 id="h-conservation">Conservation</h3>



<p>Many species of hammerhead sharks, including the scalloped hammerhead (Sphyrna lewini), are considered endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to overfishing and demand for their fins, which are highly prized in the shark fin trade.</p>



<h3 id="h-habitat-and-distribution">Habitat and Distribution</h3>



<p>Hammerhead sharks are found in warm waters along coastlines and continental shelves. They're present in various oceans worldwide, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.</p>



<h3 id="h-deep-diving-abilities">Deep Diving Abilities</h3>



<p>Some species, like the scalloped hammerhead, are known to make frequent deep dives, sometimes exceeding 800 meters. They're known to maintain an elevated body temperature in these frigid waters, potentially by "holding their breath" to reduce the flow of cold water across their gills - a phenomenon that's currently being studied.</p>



<p>Please note that research is ongoing and our understanding of these remarkable creatures is continually evolving.</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>

Discovery: Hammerhead sharks hold their breath to stay warm

In a surprising revelation that adds a new dimension to...

<p>A recent study that casts light on early human species' adaptation to varying landscapes and diverse food resources has been published in journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.abq1288"><em>Science</em></a>. The research indicates that such adaptations may have boosted our ancestors' resilience to past climate shifts.</p>



<p>Our genus, Homo, has evolved over the past three million years, a timeline marked by increasingly intense fluctuations between warm and cold <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/body-type-influences-athletic-performance-in-different-climates/">climates</a>. Yet, the mechanisms by which early human species adapted to intensifying climate extremes, ice ages, and large-scale shifts in landscapes and vegetation have remained a mystery.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Did our ancestors evolve to cope with local environmental changes over time, or did they migrate to environments that were more stable and rich in food resources? What influenced human evolution more – temporal changes in climate or the spatial characteristics of the environment?</p>



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



<p>Aiming to answer these fundamental questions on human evolution and adaptation, the research team used a vast compilation of over 3,000 well-dated human fossil specimens and archeological sites. These sites represent six different human species and are combined with accurate climate and vegetation model simulations covering the past three million years.</p>



<p>Elke Zeller is a Ph.D. student from the <a href="https://ibsclimate.org/">IBS Center for Climate Physics</a> at Pusan National University, South Korea and the lead author of the study. "For the archeological and anthropological sites and corresponding ages, we extracted the local biome types from our climate-driven vegetation model. This revealed which biomes were favored by the extinct hominin species H. ergaster, H. habilis, H. erectus, H. heidelbergensis, and H. neanderthalensis and by our direct ancestors - H. sapiens," explained Zeller.</p>



<p>Biomes – geographical regions defined by similar climates, plants, and animal communities, like the savannah, rainforest, or tundra – were at the center of the scientists' analysis.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Their findings suggest that earlier African groups had a preference for open environments such as grassland and dry shrubland. However, when hominins like H. erectus and later H. heidelbergensis and H. neanderthalensis migrated into Eurasia around 1.8 million years ago. There, they developed higher tolerances to other biomes, including temperate and boreal forests.</p>



<p>Study co-author Professor Pasquale Raia from the Università di Napoli Federico II noted: "To survive as forest-dwellers, these groups developed more advanced stone tools and likely also social skills."&nbsp;</p>



<p>This adaptation culminated with the emergence of H. sapiens approximately 200,000 years ago in Africa. Unlike any other species before, our direct ancestors proved to be mobile, flexible, and competitive, surviving in harsh environments such as deserts and tundra.</p>



<p>The experts found a significant clustering of early human occupation sites in regions with increased biome diversity.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Professor Axel Timmermann, director of the IBS Center for Climate Physics, explained: "What that means is that our human ancestors had a liking for mosaic landscapes, with a great variety of plant and animal resources in close proximity." This highlights the pivotal role ecosystem diversity played in human evolution.</p>



<h2 id="h-why-this-study-is-important">Why this study is important</h2>



<p>For the first time on continental scales, the authors demonstrated this preference for mosaic landscapes and proposed a new Diversity Selection Hypothesis: Homo species, especially H. sapiens, were uniquely equipped to exploit heterogeneous biomes.</p>



<p>"Our analysis shows the crucial importance of landscape and plant diversity as a selective element for humans and as a potential driver for socio-cultural developments," said Zeller.</p>



<p>The study offers a unique perspective into human prehistory and survival strategies, showing how vegetation shifts have influenced human sustenance.</p>



<p>The comprehensive climate and vegetation model simulations, which span the Earth's history of the past 3 million years, were carried out on Aleph, one of South Korea's fastest science supercomputers. The research emphasizes the integral role of supercomputing in evolutionary biology and anthropology.</p>



<p>"Supercomputing is now emerging as a key tool in evolutionary biology and anthropology," said Timmermann.</p>



<p>The study, therefore, not only elucidates how our ancestors adapted and thrived in shifting environments but also underlines the importance of cutting-edge technology in revealing the intricacies of human evolution.</p>



<p>Overall, the research offers unprecedented insights into how our ancestors adapted to the world around them. By understanding our past, we can better comprehend our present and future as a species.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study also serves as a stark reminder of the deep and enduring connection between humans and their environment, a connection that continues to shape our lives today. The more we learn about our past, the better equipped we are to navigate the challenges of the future.</p>



<h2 id="h-what-earth-was-like-3-million-years-ago">What Earth was like 3 million years ago</h2>



<p>Three million years ago, during the Pliocene Epoch, which spans from about 5.3 to 2.6 million years ago, Earth was significantly different from what it is today. Here's a summary of the key characteristics of that period:</p>



<h4 id="h-climate">Climate</h4>



<p>The Pliocene was a time of global warmth compared to the periods preceding and following it. Average global temperatures were estimated to be about 2 to 3 degrees Celsius higher than today, and the Arctic, in particular, was significantly warmer, potentially by as much as 10 degrees Celsius. This led to smaller polar ice caps and higher global sea levels, possibly up to 25 meters higher than present day.</p>



<h4 id="h-flora-and-fauna">Flora and Fauna</h4>



<p>The warmer Pliocene climate supported a diverse array of life forms. On land, coniferous forests and grasslands were widespread. This was also the time when grasslands and savannas started to become more common, especially in Africa, which had a significant impact on the evolution of early human ancestors.</p>



<p>Marine life was also diverse, with the warmer seas supporting a range of species. However, towards the end of the Pliocene, as the Earth started to cool, there was a major extinction of marine species.</p>



<h4 id="h-geography">Geography</h4>



<p>The continents were roughly in the positions we know them to be today, but they were still moving into their present locations. The Isthmus of Panama, for example, was newly formed, connecting North and South America and significantly altering ocean currents and the global climate.</p>



<h4 id="h-early-hominins">Early Hominins</h4>



<p>This was a significant period for human evolution. In Africa, our early hominin ancestors were becoming more adept at walking upright. Species like Australopithecus afarensis show evidence of bipedalism.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The development of stone tool technology also possibly began during this time, although the oldest definitive evidence of tool use is from about 2.6 million years ago, towards the very end of the Pliocene.</p>



<p>Please note that our understanding of geological epochs is continually refined as new evidence comes to light, so future research may alter our understanding of the Pliocene.</p>



<p><em>Image Credit: Institute for Basic Science</em></p>



<p>—-</p>



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Human ancestors preferred mosaic landscapes with diverse ecosystems

A recent study that casts light on early human species'...

<p>In famous triathlons epitomizing human endurance, such as Ironman or Norseman, competitors are undertaking nearly 150 minutes of running, swimming, and cycling in grueling conditions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By analyzing almost 200 Ironman participants over two decades, Ryan Calsbeek – a professor of Biological Sciences at <a href="https://home.dartmouth.edu/">Dartmouth College</a> and former Ironmen contestant himself - has found that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-fatigue-impairs-athletic-performance/">performance</a> in such competitions is not only driven by training and resilience, but also by how athletes’ physiques are adapted to shedding or retaining heat in specific climates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to Calsbeek, taller and leaner runners with long limbs tended to excel in Ironman events held in warmer climates, while athletes with stockier builds and shorter limbs were more likely to fare better in colder climates. Interestingly, these physiological links were detected in men, but not in women.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This study is among only a few connecting human physiology to what are known as Bergmann’s and Allen’s rules (named for the 19<sup>th</sup> century biologists Carl Bergmann and Joseph Asaph Allen), which argue that the overall body size of animals, along with the length and thickness of their limbs, correspond to climatic particularities.&nbsp;</p>



<p>More specifically, the rules state that, while cold-adapted species tend to be burlier with thicker and shorter limbs to avoid heat loss, species adapted to hotter climates are sleeker with thinner and longer limbs that help them keep cool efficiently.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Although these rules are generally accepted in the case of animals, research studying them in humans has been scarce, with only a few studies from mid-20<sup>th</sup> century suggesting a link between human physiology and climate.</p>



<p>In the current study, Calsbeek examined 171 triathletes who competed in at least two Ironmen events – one in a hot and one in a cold climate – during the past two decades. The wealth of available photos of these events allowed him to use software to measure competitors’ morphology based on pictures from the cycling part of the competition.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, since swimming and cycling are not evolutionary adaptations in humans, participants’ performance in these events could be weighed against their aptitude to running – an evolutionary adaptation – to clarify the influence of body type on performance.</p>



<p>“A triathlon is a great human system to study because there is one event, running in particular, that we know to be important in the evolution of humans and two events - swimming and cycling -&nbsp;that are not, so there’s a great natural control. Male triathletes exhibited the most significant difference in performance based on physiology and the effect was most prominent in the run,” Calsbeek explained.</p>



<p>In his view, the lack of a significant influence of physiology on the performance of women could be explained by evolution. “This effect is likely seen only in males because natural selection acted on running performance in males to be persistence hunters.”</p>



<p>These findings, published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0283282"><em>PLOS ONE</em></a>, suggest that aspiring endurance male athletes should consider venues in climates for which their physiology is more naturally attuned.</p>



<p>“This study included a broad sample of athletes to account for motivation and training, but the link between performance and physiology was statistically significant in spite of those factors. People attempting a personal best time can think about race locations and average temperatures to pick a venue based on how their body type is adapted to perform,” Calsbeek concluded.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-have-humans-adapted-to-different-climates">How have humans adapted to different climates?</h2>



<p>Humans have adapted to different climates and environments over thousands of years through both biological and cultural adaptations. Here are some examples:</p>



<h3 id="h-biological-adaptations">Biological Adaptations</h3>



<p>These are physical changes in the human body that have evolved over generations to better suit particular environments.</p>



<h4 id="h-skin-pigmentation">Skin Pigmentation</h4>



<p>Darker skin, which has more melanin, provides protection against strong UV radiation prevalent in equatorial regions. Lighter skin, found in populations in higher latitudes, allows for more UVB absorption, which is necessary for the production of vitamin D, especially in regions with less sunlight.</p>



<h4 id="h-body-shape-and-size">Body Shape and Size</h4>



<p>The Bergmann's Rule and Allen's Rule suggest that populations living in colder climates tend to have larger body masses and shorter limbs to minimize heat loss, while those in warmer climates have slimmer bodies and longer limbs to facilitate heat dissipation.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For instance, the Inuit people in the Arctic regions have stockier builds to conserve heat, while groups in the hot, arid climates of Africa and Australia have leaner bodies to stay cool.</p>



<h4 id="h-genetic-adaptations">Genetic Adaptations</h4>



<p>Some populations have developed specific genetic traits to survive in certain environments. For example, some Tibetan people have genes that help them live at high altitudes, where oxygen levels are lower.</p>



<h4 id="h-cultural-adaptations">Cultural Adaptations</h4>



<p>These include behavioral changes, inventions, and technologies that have enabled humans to survive in different climates.</p>



<h4 id="h-clothing">Clothing</h4>



<p>In cold climates, people developed clothing using animal skins and fur for insulation. In hot, sunny climates, loose and light-colored clothing is often used to reflect sunlight and allow air circulation.</p>



<h4 id="h-housing">Housing</h4>



<p>In hot desert climates, people have built houses with thick walls and small windows to keep out the heat, often from materials like mud-brick that have good insulating properties. In contrast, in colder climates, houses are designed to retain heat, such as the igloos of the Inuit people.</p>



<h4 id="h-food-procurement">Food Procurement</h4>



<p>People in different climates have adapted to utilize the resources available to them. In Arctic climates, people rely heavily on hunting and fishing, while in fertile regions, agriculture is common.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Some societies, such as those in desert climates, developed nomadic lifestyles, moving from place to place in search of resources.</p>



<h4 id="h-technology">Technology</h4>



<p>From the development of fire and tools to modern heating, air conditioning, and transportation, technological advancements have allowed humans to live in a wide range of climates.</p>



<p>These adaptations have enabled humans to populate almost every corner of the earth, from the hottest deserts to the coldest polar regions.</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>

Body type influences athletic performance in different climates

In famous triathlons epitomizing human endurance, such as Ironman or...

<p>Playing video games has become a daily occurrence for millions of Americans. While online <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/online-gaming-may-enhance-career-prospects/">gaming</a> can provide entertainment and relaxation, excessive play may also lead to isolation, addiction, and changes in mood or behavior. Moreover, the effects of gaming on social connectivity can vary, and anxiety and depression caused by such activities are growing public health concerns.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In a recent study led by the <a href="https://public-health.tamu.edu/">Texas A&amp;M University School of Public Health</a>, experts have suggested that social connectivity and support are critical for online gamers. </p>



<p>The researchers used social network analysis to examine the social structure of an online football simulation gaming site to assess how social support, a sense of community, and symptoms of depression affect social connections over time. In the game, participants played as the head coaches of football teams, competing against other members of the site for 10 months.</p>



<p>“We wanted to showcase the community building and informal relationships built through these online settings,” said study lead author Tyler Prochnow, an expert in social network analysis and health at Texas A&amp;M. </p>



<p>“Many people feel a sense of community, support, and comfort through online gaming, and I think we need to do a better job measuring these connections and fostering them to improve mental health in today’s digital age.”</p>



<p>Prochnow and his colleagues collected data on demographic factors, members’ hours spent on the gaming site and playing other video games, as well as their depressive symptoms, perceived ability to talk to someone about problems, and important people in their lives that they communicate with on the site and in real life.</p>



<p>The analysis revealed that social support, sense of community, and depressive symptoms played significant roles in changes to the game’s social structure over time. For instance, people who reported more social support online and less real-life support were more likely to reach out to other members of the site.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, communication ties were more likely to form when communications were reciprocated or transitive (involving three people groups or clusters), with players who spent more time on the site and reported feeling a greater sense of community being more likely to develop such ties over time.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These findings highlight the importance of social connectivity and support on online gaming platforms, particularly for socially isolated communities in times such as the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, the researchers warn that members who report greater depressive symptoms may need more formal support, including telehealth mental health care options. Further research in this area could inform interventions to improve social connectivity and mental health for online gamers.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00380237.2023.2199171"><em>Sociological Focus</em></a><em>.</em></p>



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



<p>Online gaming refers to any type of game that can be played via the internet. This can include a wide variety of games, from simple card and word games to complex multi-player online role-playing games (MMORPGs). Here are a few key aspects of online gaming:</p>



<h3 id="h-types-of-games">Types of Games</h3>



<h4 id="h-mmorpgs-massively-multiplayer-online-role-playing-games">MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games)</h4>



<p>These are games where thousands of players interact in a virtual world. Players often take on roles or characters in a fantasy or science fiction setting. Examples include World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy XIV.</p>



<h4 id="h-first-person-shooters-fps">First-Person Shooters (FPS)</h4>



<p>These games often involve combat scenarios where players view the game from the first-person perspective. Examples include Call of Duty, Battlefield, and Counter-Strike.</p>



<h4 id="h-real-time-strategy-rts">Real-Time Strategy (RTS)</h4>



<p>These games require strategic thinking and quick decision-making. Players often control entire armies or civilizations. Examples include StarCraft and Age of Empires.</p>



<h4 id="h-mobas-multiplayer-online-battle-arenas">MOBAs (Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas)</h4>



<p>These games involve teams of players who work together to defeat the opposing team. Examples include Dota 2 and League of Legends.</p>



<h4 id="h-casual-games">Casual Games</h4>



<p>These are simple games that can be played in short bursts, often on mobile devices or in web browsers. Examples include Candy Crush Saga and Words with Friends.</p>



<h4 id="h-battle-royale-games">Battle Royale Games</h4>



<p>These games involve numerous players who compete until only one is left standing. They often involve elements of survival, exploration, and scavenging. Examples include Fortnite and PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG).</p>



<h3 id="h-platforms">Platforms</h3>



<p>Online games can be played on various platforms including PCs, consoles (like PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch), and mobile devices (smartphones and tablets).</p>



<h3 id="h-social-aspect">Social Aspect</h3>



<p>Online gaming has a significant social aspect. Many games include chat features, allowing players to communicate with each other. Online gaming can also foster a sense of community, with players forming guilds or teams and working together to achieve common goals.</p>



<h3 id="h-esports">eSports</h3>



<p>eSports, or electronic sports, refer to competitive online gaming. Professional gamers compete in tournaments for prizes, which can reach millions of dollars. Popular eSports games include Dota 2, League of Legends, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.</p>



<h3 id="h-business-models">Business Models</h3>



<p>Online games can be free to play, with optional in-game purchases (freemium games), or they can require an upfront purchase. Some games also operate on a subscription model.</p>



<h3 id="h-issues-and-concerns">Issues and Concerns</h3>



<p>Online gaming also has its share of issues and concerns. These can include addiction, cyberbullying, privacy concerns, and the potential for predatory behavior. Many games also feature in-game purchases, which can lead to overspending.</p>



<p>As technology continues to evolve, online gaming is likely to become even more popular and diverse. Developments in virtual reality and augmented reality technologies, for example, are likely to provide new and immersive gaming experiences.</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>

Could online gaming improve social connectivity?

Playing video games has become a daily occurrence for millions...

Whales in the Southern Ocean are losing weight due to global warming

As the chill of winter sets in during June in...

<p>Since utilities in the United States receive limited federal or state investment to cover the costs of infrastructure, treatment, operations, and maintenance, they largely rely on fees charged to households or businesses using their services. Unfortunately, these fees have steadily risen over the past few decades, causing many people significant affordability problems.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For instance, according to a recent study led by <a href="https://duke.edu/">Duke University</a>, in 787 communities served by the country’s largest utilities, 17 percent of households currently struggle to afford basic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cities-evaporation-water-supply/">water</a> services, with 28.3 million people spending more than one day each month working to pay for water and sanitation services.</p>



<p>“Safe, reliable water services are essential for everyone to thrive, but a substantial number of Americans may be finding them difficult to afford,” said lead author Lauren Patterson, a senior fellow in Energy, Environment, and Sustainability at Duke. “When costs rise faster than incomes, it strains the budgets of a wide swath of U.S. households already struggling to make ends meet, as well as utilities trying to adequately serve their customers.”</p>



<p>For their analyses, Patterson and her colleagues assumed 6,000 gallons of water per month to be sufficient to meet the basic water needs of an average U.S. household, defined water services as affordable if they cost less than 4.6 percent of monthly income (equal to a day’s worth of work at minimum wage), and focused primarily on utility systems serving over 100,000 people.&nbsp;</p>



<p>When they repeated the analysis for smaller utility systems serving less than 10,000 people, they discovered that the average customer paid even more each month, making unaffordability even more pervasive.</p>



<p>“If anything, our estimates of the breadth of water unaffordability are on the conservative side,” explained co-author Sophia Bryson, an environmental scientist at <a href="https://www.limno.com/">LimnoTech</a>, a water science and environmental engineering company.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“No matter how strictly we set the parameters, we found households struggling to pay their water bills in every single community in our sample. This is a systemic issue for the water sector that is not limited to a specific region, nor strictly urban or rural communities.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>According to the scientists, many factors play a role in this problematic situation, including low household incomes, increased regulatory and energy costs, aging infrastructure, population loss, climate change, and the increasing costs of capital associated to finance.&nbsp;</p>



<p>To immediately help households unable to pay their bills, utility customer assistance programs and other safety net measures are urgently needed. Over the longer term though, larger approaches incorporating finance, governance, and equity, and spanning from the local to the state and federal scale are necessary to reduce utility costs and income inequality.</p>



<p>“Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act in 1974 after a nationwide survey showed 14&nbsp;percent of households were getting drinking water that didn’t meet basic public health guidelines. If that was enough to draw nationwide attention to water quality, then perhaps a similar focus on water affordability is warranted now,” concluded co-author Martin Doyle, a professor of River Science and Policy at Duke.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pwat.0000123"><em>PLOS Water</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>

Many Americans cannot afford basic water services

Since utilities in the United States receive limited federal or...

<p>A recent study led by the <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/patient-visitor-guide/minnesota">Mayo Clinic</a> in Rochester, Minnesota has found that people who have sleep apnea and spend less time in deep <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lack-of-sleep-makes-people-more-selfish-and-less-generous/">sleep</a> may have brain biomarkers that have been previously associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive decline, and stroke.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts examined the association between sleep factors and two types of biomarkers that provide insights into the health of the brain’s white matter (a network of nerve fibers playing a major role in connecting different areas of the brain). One of these biomarkers - known as “white matter hyperintensities” - represents tiny lesions visible on brain scans, which become more common with age or uncontrolled high blood pressure, while the other one measures the integrity of axons, which form the nerve fibers connecting neurons.</p>



<p>“These biomarkers are sensitive signs of early cerebrovascular disease,” said study lead author Diego Z. Carvalho, a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic. “Finding that severe sleep apnea and a reduction in slow-wave sleep are associated with these biomarkers is important since there is no treatment for these changes in the brain, so we need to find ways to prevent them from happening or getting worse.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study involved 140 individuals with an average age of 73 who were diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, a disorder characterized by repeated episodes of complete or partial blockage of the upper airway during sleep, which leads to a reduction or cessation of breathing.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Among these individuals, 34 percent had mild, 32 percent had moderate, and 34 percent had severe sleep apnea. None of the participants had neurodegenerative disorders before or at the end of the experiment, which consisted of a brain scan and an overnight study in a sleep lab.</p>



<p>The sleep study investigated how long participants spend in slow-wave sleep, which is also known as “non-REM stage 3 sleep” and is considered to be one of the best markers of sleep quality.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The results revealed that, for every 10-point decrease in the percentage of slow-wave sleep, there was an increase in the amount of white matter hyperintensities similar to the effect of being 2.3 years older, and a reduced axonal integrity similar to the effect of being three years older.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Moreover, participants with severe sleep apnea had a higher volume of white matter intensities and more reduced axonal integrity in the brain than those with mild or moderate cases.</p>



<p>Regardless of these statistically significant associations, the researchers stressed that the results do not yet prove a clear causality between sleep disturbances and brain health.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“More research is needed to determine whether sleep issues affect these brain biomarkers or vice versa. We also need to look at whether strategies to improve sleep quality or treatment of sleep apnea can affect the trajectory of these biomarkers,” Carvalho concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://n.neurology.org/content/early/2023/05/10/WNL.0000000000207392"><em>Neurology</em><em><sup>®</sup></em></a>.</p>



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



<p>Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. These interruptions in breathing can last for a few seconds to minutes and may occur multiple times throughout the night. Sleep apnea can disrupt the normal sleep cycle and lead to various health issues if left untreated.</p>



<h3 id="h-there-are-three-main-types-of-sleep-apnea">There are three main types of sleep apnea:</h3>



<h4 id="h-obstructive-sleep-apnea-osa">Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)</h4>



<p>This is the most common form of sleep apnea. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open, despite efforts to breathe. The airway becomes partially or completely blocked, leading to loud snoring, gasping, or choking sounds as the person struggles to breathe.</p>



<h4 id="h-central-sleep-apnea-csa">Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)</h4>



<p>This condition is less common and occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Unlike OSA, there is no physical blockage in the airway. People with CSA may not snore as much, but they may experience shortness of breath or difficulty initiating and maintaining sleep.</p>



<h4 id="h-complex-mixed-sleep-apnea">Complex/Mixed Sleep Apnea</h4>



<p>This type of sleep apnea is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea. It initially starts as central sleep apnea, but eventually, the condition progresses to include obstructive episodes as well.</p>



<h3 id="h-common-symptoms-include">Common symptoms include:</h3>



<h4 id="h-loud-chronic-snoring">Loud, chronic snoring</h4>



<p>Snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea, particularly in cases of OSA. The snoring is often loud and may be interrupted by periods of silence when breathing stops.</p>



<h4 id="h-gasping-or-choking-during-sleep">Gasping or choking during sleep</h4>



<p>People with sleep apnea may experience sudden awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking sensations as they struggle to breathe.</p>



<h4 id="h-excessive-daytime-sleepiness">Excessive daytime sleepiness</h4>



<p>Sleep apnea disrupts the normal sleep cycle, preventing restful sleep. As a result, individuals with this disorder often feel excessively sleepy during the day, regardless of how much sleep they get at night.</p>



<h4 id="h-morning-headaches">Morning headaches</h4>



<p>Waking up with a headache is a common symptom of sleep apnea. It is typically caused by the oxygen deprivation that occurs during sleep apnea episodes.</p>



<h4 id="h-fatigue-and-daytime-drowsiness">Fatigue and daytime drowsiness</h4>



<p>Due to the disrupted sleep patterns, individuals with sleep apnea may feel fatigued and excessively sleepy during the day, which can impact their ability to concentrate and perform daily tasks.</p>



<h4 id="h-difficulty-concentrating-and-memory-problems">Difficulty concentrating and memory problems</h4>



<p>Sleep apnea can impair cognitive function, leading to difficulties with concentration, memory problems, and decreased alertness.</p>



<h4 id="h-irritability-and-mood-changes">Irritability and mood changes</h4>



<p>Sleep disorders can contribute to irritability, mood swings, and even depression. The lack of quality sleep can significantly impact a person's emotional well-being.</p>



<h4 id="h-frequent-nighttime-urination">Frequent nighttime urination</h4>



<p>Sleep apnea has been associated with increased nighttime urination, known as nocturia. The frequent awakenings due to breathing difficulties can disrupt the normal sleep pattern and trigger the need to urinate.</p>



<p>Treatment options vary depending on the severity and type of sleep apnea. Lifestyle changes such as weight loss, regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol and sedatives can help in mild cases.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is the most common treatment for moderate to severe cases. It involves wearing a mask over the nose or mouth during sleep, which delivers a constant flow of air to keep the airway open.</p>



<p>Other treatment options may include oral appliances that help keep the airway open, positional therapy, and surgery in certain cases.</p>



<p>If you suspect you or someone you know may have sleep apnea, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.</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>

Sleep apnea may lead to worse brain health

A recent study led by the Mayo Clinic in Rochester,...

<p>In a new study, experts suggest that a healthy diet may be directly associated with increased physical fitness, especially among middle-aged adults. The research is published in the <em>European Journal of Preventive Cardiology</em>, a leading publication of the <a href="https://www.escardio.org/">European Society of Cardiology</a>.</p>



<p>The study sheds light on the intricate relationship between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/proper-nutrition-in-the-first-1000-days-of-life-is-crucial/">nutrition</a> and physical health, providing some of the most comprehensive and persuasive data to date.</p>



<p>Dr. Michael Mi, a pivotal member of the research team from <a href="https://www.bidmc.org/">Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center</a>, emphasized the significance of the findings. “This study provides some of the strongest and most rigorous data thus far to support the connection that better diets may lead to higher fitness.”&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-how-diet-impacts-cardio-fitness">How diet impacts cardio fitness</h2>



<p>Dr. Mi further highlighted the scale of improvement noticed in participants who followed healthier diets, stating that it was comparable to the effect of adding an extra 4,000 steps to their daily routine.</p>



<p>Cardiorespiratory fitness, a key parameter in this study, is essentially the body’s ability to sufficiently supply and utilize oxygen during physical exertion. It is an indicator of the health of numerous organ systems including the heart, lungs, blood vessels, and muscles. It has been widely recognized as a powerful predictor of health and longevity.</p>



<p>While regular exercise is known to improve cardiorespiratory fitness, the study also explored why, among individuals who exercise consistently, there are variances in fitness levels. This led them to examine whether diet, which is already known to have numerous health benefits, also plays a significant role in determining fitness levels.</p>



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



<p>The research was conducted among a cohort of community-dwelling adults, comprising of 2,380 individuals from the Framingham Heart Study. The participant group was balanced, with an average age of 54 years.</p>



<p>Physical fitness was evaluated using a maximum effort cardiopulmonary exercise test on a cycle ergometer, which measures peak VO2 - a gold-standard assessment indicating the quantity of oxygen used during maximum intensity exercise.</p>



<p>Dietary intake was assessed using the Harvard semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, which examined consumption of 126 dietary items over the past year.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The data gathered was used to score the diet quality based on the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) and the Mediterranean-style Diet Score (MDS), both of which are associated with heart health.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Higher scores, indicating a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, legumes, fish, and healthy fats, and limited in red meat and alcohol, were seen as indicative of a better quality diet.</p>



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



<p>The study results were controlled for various factors such as age, sex, total daily energy intake, body mass index, smoking status, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, diabetes, and routine physical activity level.&nbsp;</p>



<p>On average, participants scored 66.7 on the AHEI and 12.4 on the MDS. Findings revealed that an increase of 13 points on the AHEI and 4.7 on the MDS corresponded to a 5.2% and 4.5% greater peak VO2, respectively.</p>



<p>Discussing the findings, Dr. Mi said: “In middle-aged adults, healthy dietary patterns were strongly and favorably associated with fitness even after taking habitual activity levels into account. The relationship was similar in women and men, and more pronounced in those under 54 years of age compared to older adults.”</p>



<p>To unravel the potential underlying mechanism that connects diet and fitness, the researchers dove deeper, examining the relationship between diet quality, fitness, and metabolites - substances produced during digestion and released into the blood during exercise.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The experts analyzed 201 metabolites in blood samples collected from a subset of 1,154 study participants, finding that 24 of these metabolites were associated with either poor diet and fitness, or with favorable diet and fitness. This association remained significant even after adjusting for the same factors considered in the previous analyses.</p>



<p>Dr. Mi elaborated on these results, stating: “Our metabolite data suggest that eating healthily is associated with better metabolic health, which could be one possible way that it leads to improved fitness and ability to exercise.”</p>



<h2 id="h-many-questions-left-unanswered">Many questions left unanswered</h2>



<p>Despite the promising outcomes of the research, Dr. Mi cautioned against interpreting the results as strictly causal. “This was an observational study and we cannot conclude that eating well causes better fitness, or exclude the possibility of a reverse relationship, i.e., that fit individuals choose to eat healthily.”</p>



<p>In conclusion, Dr. Mi emphasized the importance of a high-quality diet for overall health and fitness. “There are already many compelling health reasons to consume a high-quality diet, and we provide yet another one with its association with fitness. A Mediterranean-style diet with fresh, whole foods and minimal processed foods, red meat and alcohol is a great place to start.”</p>



<p>This study serves to underscore the potential benefits of a healthier diet, not just for the prevention of diseases, but also as a way to improve physical fitness and, ultimately, quality of life.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The relationship between diet and fitness, while complex, is becoming clearer through research like this, highlighting the need for greater public health initiatives focused on promoting healthier dietary habits.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-nutrition-and-physical-health">More about nutrition and physical health</h2>



<p>Nutrition plays a critical role in maintaining physical health, improving fitness levels, and preventing a variety of diseases. The food and drink we consume is our body's primary source of energy and nutrients, which are needed to perform various bodily functions, from cellular regeneration and repair to maintaining a healthy immune system.</p>



<h3 id="h-here-are-some-key-ways-nutrition-is-interconnected-with-physical-health">Here are some key ways nutrition is interconnected with physical health:</h3>



<h4 id="h-energy-levels">Energy Levels</h4>



<p>Our bodies break down the food we eat into glucose, which is used by our cells for energy. Consuming a balanced diet that includes the right amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats ensures that we have a consistent energy supply throughout the day. Conversely, a diet lacking in essential nutrients can lead to low energy levels, fatigue, and decreased physical performance.</p>



<h4 id="h-physical-growth-and-development">Physical Growth and Development</h4>



<p>Nutrients like proteins, fats, and certain vitamins and minerals are essential for physical growth and development. This is especially true in children and adolescents, but also continues into adulthood as our bodies constantly regenerate and repair cells and tissues.</p>



<h4 id="h-body-weight">Body Weight</h4>



<p>Consuming a diet that is balanced in calories - meaning you're burning roughly the same number of calories as you consume—can help maintain a healthy body weight. Overeating, especially foods high in fats and sugars, can lead to weight gain and obesity, which increase the risk of a variety of health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.</p>



<h4 id="h-bone-health">Bone Health</h4>



<p>Minerals like calcium and phosphorus, along with vitamin D, are necessary for maintaining strong, healthy bones. A deficiency in these nutrients can lead to bone-related health issues like osteoporosis.</p>



<h4 id="h-heart-health">Heart Health</h4>



<p>Eating a diet low in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium can help maintain heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.</p>



<h4 id="h-digestive-health">Digestive Health</h4>



<p>Dietary fiber, found in foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, helps promote a healthy digestive system by adding bulk to the diet and aiding in regular bowel movements. It also helps to maintain a healthy weight and lower the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.</p>



<h4 id="h-brain-health">Brain Health</h4>



<p>Certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and B vitamins, have been linked to brain health. A diet rich in these nutrients can support cognitive function, memory, and mood.</p>



<h4 id="h-immune-system">Immune System</h4>



<p>Certain nutrients, including proteins, vitamins A, C, and E, and zinc, are needed to support the immune system and help the body fight off disease.</p>



<h4 id="h-muscle-strength-and-function">Muscle Strength and Function</h4>



<p>Protein is needed to build and repair muscle tissue, especially important after physical activity. Moreover, nutrients like potassium and magnesium are critical for muscle function, helping to avoid muscle cramps and fatigue.</p>



<p>In summary, a nutritious, balanced diet is a cornerstone of overall physical health. It provides the body with the necessary nutrients for energy production, tissue repair, immune function, and more. Combined with regular exercise, adequate sleep, and other healthy lifestyle habits, good nutrition is part of a holistic approach to maintaining health and wellness.</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 study proves that you really are what you eat

In a new study, experts suggest that a healthy diet...

<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>



<p>Like what you saw and read?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/subscribe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe to our newsletter</a>&nbsp;for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.</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>



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<p>—–</p>

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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What caused the planet's longest ice age

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p>—–</p>

Greenland's ground rises while coasts worldwide face higher seas

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p id="block-1f9a227a-ec37-4140-81b8-ffa4a7cc6689">-----</p>



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



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

AI agent training boosts mental health and profits

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Revolutionizing agriculture through microbiome engineering

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p></p>

Social modeling affects our food choices

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Earth's oldest forest found in the United States

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists discover we age in bursts

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Scientists solve the mystery of tickling

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p></p>



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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...

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</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

The environmental problem we actually solved

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

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



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



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https://youtu.be/Ug657J67iEo?si=w96YjGMsg939LD_3
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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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<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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