<p>Evolution is often framed as a slow process encoded into our DNA. Yet some scientists argue we may be witnessing a shift of a different kind - one driven not by biology but by culture. This idea challenges traditional views of how our species adapts and survives.</p>



<p>At the <a href="https://umaine.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Maine</a>, researchers Timothy M. Waring and Zachary T. Wood believe culture is overtaking genetics as the main force of human evolution. Their work suggests that humanity may be experiencing a transition rivaling some of the greatest shifts in evolutionary history.</p>



<p>"We find that culture solves problems much more rapidly than genetic evolution," said Waring. "This suggests our species is in the middle of a great evolutionary transition.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-s-new-driving-force">Evolution’s new driving force</h2>



<p>From <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-neolithic-mountain-settlers-used-complex-farming-methods/">farming methods</a> to legal codes, cultural practices adapt far faster than biological evolution. These changes allow human groups to solve problems and adjust to environments in ways genetics cannot match. </p>



<p>Waring and Wood argue that this transition is not new but is accelerating and could define humanity for millennia. “Cultural evolution eats genetic evolution for breakfast,” said Wood. “It’s not even close.”</p>



<p>Modern life illustrates this vividly. Eyeglasses, surgery, and fertility treatments intervene in challenges once governed by natural selection. Hospitals, schools, and governments have become cultural infrastructures that determine survival more than genetic traits.</p>



<p>“Ask yourself this: what matters more for your personal life outcomes, the genes you are born with, or the country where you live?” Waring said. </p>



<p>“Today, your well-being is determined less and less by your personal biology and more and more by the cultural systems that surround you - your <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/community-sleep-health-predicts-success-among-children/">community</a>, your nation, your technologies. And the importance of culture tends to grow over the long term because culture accumulates adaptive solutions more rapidly.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-culture-moves-faster-than-dna">Culture moves faster than DNA</h2>



<p>Culture is not just personal; it thrives on shared practices. Evidence from history and anthropology shows that group-level cultural adaptation has long shaped humanity, from the rise of agriculture to the creation of states. </p>



<p>Health systems, sanitation, and education now contribute more to survival than individual intelligence or genetic luck.</p>



<p>The researchers suggest this reliance on shared systems means humans are evolving through culture to become more group-oriented and dependent. Our survival may hinge on cultural evolution and collective adaptation rather than individual genetic advantage.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-groups-evolve-beyond-genetics">Groups evolve beyond genetics</h2>



<p>Evolutionary history includes dramatic reorganizations of life, like single cells forming multicellular organisms or insects becoming highly cooperative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ant-colonies-behave-like-neural-networks-when-making-decisions/">colonies</a>. Waring and Wood argue humans could be undergoing a similar individuality transition.</p>



<p>“Cultural organization makes groups more cooperative and effective. And larger, more capable groups adapt - via cultural change - more rapidly,” said Waring. “It’s a mutually reinforcing system, and the data suggest it is accelerating.”</p>



<p>Societal complexity makes even genetic engineering possible, showing how culture controls biology itself. If this transition continues, future humans may resemble societal “super-organisms” shaped more by cultural systems than genetic evolution.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-putting-culture-to-the-test">Putting culture to the test</h2>



<p>The researchers stress that their theory is testable. They are developing mathematical models and long-term data collection to measure how quickly culture is overtaking <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tens-of-thousands-of-hidden-dark-genes-discovered-in-humans/">genes</a>. Importantly, they caution against viewing cultural evolution as inevitable progress.</p>



<p>“We are not suggesting that some societies, like those with more wealth or better technology, are morally ‘better’ than others,” Wood said. “Evolution can create both good solutions and brutal outcomes. We believe this might help our whole species avoid the most brutal parts.”</p>



<p>At the University of Maine’s Applied Cultural Evolution Laboratory, Waring’s team continues to expand this work, exploring how cultural patterns can inform humanity’s future.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-culture-and-evolution">Future of culture and evolution</h2>



<p>The implications are vast. If cultural inheritance keeps dominating, human destiny may rest less on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-dna-shows-what-really-spread-the-farming-revolution/">DNA</a> and more on the resilience of our communities, technologies, and institutions.</p>



<p>“If cultural inheritance continues to dominate, our fates as individuals, and the future of our species, may increasingly hinge on the strength and adaptability of our societies,” Waring noted.</p>



<p>In this view, evolution’s future may not be written in genes but in the shared systems and stories that bind us together, shaping our communities, guiding innovation, and influencing how societies survive, grow, and adapt.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/bioscience/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/biosci/biaf094/8230384?redirectedFrom=fulltext&amp;login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>BioScience</em></a>.</p>



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



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Culture is driving human evolution faster than our genes

Evolution is often framed as a slow process encoded into our DNA. Yet some scientists argue we may be witnessing a shift of a different kind - one driven not by biology but by culture. This idea challenges traditional views of how our species adapts and survives. At the University of Maine, researchers Timothy M. Waring and Zachary T. Wood believe culture is overtaking genetics as the main force of human evolution. Their work suggests that humanity may be experiencing a transition rivaling some of the greatest...

<p>In a groundbreaking study conducted at the <a href="https://www.ufl.edu/">University of Florida</a>, researchers have investigated how our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/our-brain-delays-visual-inputs-by-15-seconds-to-keep-us-stable/">brains</a> react to high-speed sports like table tennis and how these reactions differ when playing against a human or a machine.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The research, led by graduate student Studnicki and Professor Daniel Ferris, could provide valuable insights into sports training and the development of more naturalistic robotic companions.</p>



<p>The study involved participants wearing caps with electrodes, which were connected to a backpack, giving them a cyborg-like appearance. The participants played table tennis against either Studnicki or a ball-serving machine. The researchers aimed to understand the neurological reactions to the intense demands of a fast-paced sport and the difference a machine opponent makes.</p>



<p>Studnicki and Ferris found that the brains of table tennis players reacted very differently when playing against a human or a machine. When faced with a ball machine, players' brains displayed desynchronization, an indication of significant mental activity and anticipation of the next serve.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By contrast, when playing against a human opponent, their neurons worked in unison, seemingly confident of their next move. This suggests that training with a machine might not offer the same experience as playing against a real opponent.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Low-Res_Human-still.jpg.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1916683"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A participant plays table tennis against graduate student Amanda Studnicki while having his brain imaged via an EEG cap.<br>Image Credit: Frazier Springfield</figcaption></figure>



<p>According to Ferris, understanding our brains' response to robots could help improve the development of artificial companions. "Humans interacting with robots is going to be different than when they interact with other humans. Our long-term goal is to try to understand how the brain reacts to these differences," he said.</p>



<p>The research team has long studied the brain's response to visual cues and motor tasks. With Studnicki's tennis background, they decided to focus on table tennis as a complex, fast-paced action sport. The researchers doubled the number of electrodes in a typical brain-scanning cap to 240, allowing them to better account for the rapid head movements during a table tennis match.</p>



<p>The study focused on the parieto-occipital cortex, the brain region responsible for turning sensory information into movement. "We wanted to understand how it worked for complex movements like tracking a ball in space and intercepting it, and table tennis was perfect for this," said Studnicki.</p>



<p>After analyzing dozens of hours of play against both Studnicki and the ball machine, the researchers observed that when playing against another person, players' neurons worked in unison. However, when playing against a ball-serving machine, the neurons in their brains were not aligned with one another, displaying desynchronization.</p>



<p>Ferris explained the importance of synchronization in the brain, likening it to a crowd cheering in unison at a football stadium. Desynchronization, on the other hand, indicates the brain is doing a lot of calculations, as opposed to idling.</p>



<p>Despite the difference in brain activity, Studnicki still sees value in practicing with a machine. "But I think machines are going to evolve in the next 10 or 20 years, and we could see more naturalistic behaviors for players to practice against," she said. The team's research could pave the way for more advanced and realistic training machines, ultimately benefiting athletes and improving human-robot interactions.</p>



<h2 id="h-why-humans-interact-differently-with-robots">Why humans interact differently with robots</h2>



<p>Humans interact differently with robots than with other humans due to several factors:</p>



<ol>
<li>Nonverbal cues: Human communication involves nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions, body language, and eye contact. These cues play a significant role in conveying emotions, intentions, and social information. Robots typically lack the ability to fully mimic these nonverbal cues, which can result in less natural and less intuitive interactions.</li>



<li>Emotional connection: Humans are more likely to form emotional connections with other humans due to shared experiences, empathy, and the ability to understand each other's emotions. While some robots have been designed to simulate emotions or respond to human emotions, the connection is generally not as deep or genuine as it is between humans.</li>



<li>Social norms and expectations: Human interactions are governed by social norms, cultural practices, and expectations that have developed over time. When interacting with robots, these norms and expectations may not apply or may need to be adjusted, which can lead to a different type of interaction.</li>



<li>Cognitive processes: As mentioned in the table tennis study, human brains react differently when interacting with robots compared to humans. The lack of predictability and recognizable cues from robots can lead to increased cognitive demands and a different neural response in humans.</li>



<li>Trust and reliance: Trust plays a crucial role in human-human interactions. Humans may be more hesitant to trust robots, especially in situations where their well-being or safety is involved. This may lead to different patterns of reliance and collaboration between humans and robots compared to human-human interactions.</li>



<li>Adaptability and learning: Humans are highly adaptable and can learn from each other through observation, imitation, and feedback. While robots can be programmed to learn and adapt, their learning capabilities are often limited compared to those of humans, which can impact the dynamics of human-robot interactions.</li>
</ol>



<p>Overall, human-robot interactions are different from human-human interactions due to factors like nonverbal cues, emotional connections, social norms, cognitive processes, trust, and adaptability. As robotic technology advances and robots become more sophisticated, the gap between human-human and human-robot interactions may narrow, but fundamental differences are likely to remain.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Athletes respond differently to robotic and human opponents

In a groundbreaking study conducted at the University of Florida,...

<p>The quantity of dissolved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/which-types-of-fish-suffer-from-oxygen-starvation/">oxygen</a> in rivers is highly important for the survival of the plants and animals inhabiting them. However, the oxygen concentration varies substantially among rivers, depending on their temperature, light, and flow. </p>



<p>To clarify which of these factors has the largest impact on the concentration of dissolved oxygen, a team of scientists led by <a href="https://www.psu.edu/">Pennsylvania State University</a> used a deep learning model to analyze data from hundreds of rivers across the United States, and found that temperature is the most significant factor driving oxygen concentrations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The amount of oxygen dissolved in rivers is a critical measure of water quality since fish and other aquatic organisms rely on it to breathe. </p>



<p>“Studies have shown that three major factors — flow, temperature, and sunlight — influence the amount of dissolved oxygen found in a river or stream. We wanted to know, at the U.S. continental scale, which of these competing drivers was dominant,” said lead author Wei Zhi, an assistant professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Penn State.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Previous studies have argued that all the three factors are equally important, since how quickly a river flows impacts how fast atmospheric oxygen can dissolve in water, the level of sunlight shining into the water affects how much oxygen aquatic plants can produce on their own, and temperature affects how much oxygen the water can pull from air. </p>



<p>However, since there has been little consistency in how dissolved oxygen concentrations have been measured in different rivers, the Penn State team used 40 years of data from 580 rivers across the country to train a deep learning model that could clarify the relationship between weather conditions and dissolved oxygen.</p>



<p>“Traditionally, it has been very difficult to predict the dissolved oxygen levels on such a large scale, simultaneously with one model. But with a deep learning and big data approach, we can do that. Deep learning models enable large-scale systematic analysis of patterns and drivers,” explained senior author Li Li, a professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Penn State.</p>



<p>The analysis reveled that, at a continental scale, temperature significantly outweighed both light and stream flow in affecting the dissolved oxygen concentrations. While light was the second-important factor, stream flow appeared to have minimal influence.</p>



<p>“Temperature is the predominant driver of daily dissolved oxygen dynamics in U.S. rivers. Fairly accurate predictions of oxygen concentration can be made by temperature alone. Dissolved oxygen is declining in warming rivers, which has important implications for water security and ecosystem health in the future warming climate,” Zhi concluded.</p>



<p>The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s44221-023-00038-z"><em>Nature Water</em></a>.</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>



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Temperature is the main driver of oxygen in U.S. rivers

The quantity of dissolved oxygen in rivers is highly important...

<p>A recent study led by the <a href="https://web.musc.edu/">Medical University of South Carolina</a> (MUSC) has found that South Carolina residents were more hesitant than Americans in general to receive a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-associated-with-lower-covid-19-vaccine-responses/">Covid-19 vaccine</a> in the autumn of 2020. The two most important factors leading to this situation were low confidence in public health science and low levels of collective responsibility. Better understanding the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy could help inform public health with targeted and more effective response campaigns.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By using the <a href="https://mfour.com/">MFour Mobile Research Panel</a> – a large, nationwide sample of nearly two million adult smartphone users - the experts surveyed a national sample of 1,450 individuals and compared their attitudes towards Covid vaccines to those of 784 South Carolinians.</p>



<p>“The MFour Mobile Research Panel has several advantages for this type of research due to its large size and widespread coverage of South Carolina and the U.S. and the fact that the panel is constructed to closely match the demographic characteristics of the U.S. population,” said senior author Dean Kilpatrick, a professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at MUSC.</p>



<p>To assess the participants’ degrees of trust in vaccines and their intentions to receive it, the scientists used a multi-item measurement system known as the 5Cs, assessing the following factors:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>C</strong>onfidence: participants’ trust in vaccine science and their providers.</li>



<li><strong>C</strong>omplacency: participants’ opinion on the necessity of the vaccine for their health.</li>



<li><strong>C</strong>onstraints: participants’ perception of the affordability and availability of the vaccine.</li>



<li>Risk&nbsp;<strong>C</strong>alculation: participants’ perceived risk of getting Covid.</li>



<li><strong>C</strong>ollective Responsibility: participants’ opinion whether getting the vaccine would also help their wider community.</li>
</ul>



<p>The analysis revealed that, in the case of South Carolina, both confidence in science and collective responsibility were rather low, leading to increased vaccine hesitancy. Unfortunately, such problems are in fact much more widespread than just in South Carolina, and affect people’s attitudes toward a variety of vaccines.</p>



<p>“Globally, we’re really seeing that vaccine hesitancy is contributing to a rise in cases and mortality from diseases that we thought we had a handle on,” said lead author Caitlin Rancher, a postdoctoral fellow in Clinical Psychology at MUSC. “For example, here, even in the U.S., in 2019, there were several measles outbreaks, where governors were declaring states of emergency.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers hope that, by clarifying which factors lead to vaccine hesitancy, scientists and health providers could tailor vaccine and public-education efforts to overcome this problem and make society as a whole better prepared for future outbreaks or pandemics.</p>



<p>The study is published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.02.018"><em>Journal of Psychiatric Research</em></a>.</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 influence vaccine hesitancy?

A recent study led by the Medical University of South...

<p>In a groundbreaking investigation into the world of Luna moths, <em>Actias luna</em>, researchers have conducted two complementary studies to explore the role of the insects' tails in predation and sexual selection.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Previous studies have shown that Luna moths, along with other silkmoths, utilize their lengthy, trailing tails to evade bat attacks. These studies aimed to delve deeper into the potential benefits or hidden costs of these tails.</p>



<p>Juliette Rubin, a doctoral student at the <a href="https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/">Florida Museum of Natural History</a> and lead author of both studies, described the structure of Luna moth tails: "They have projections off the back of the hindwing that end in twisted, cupped paddles. From experimental work with bats and moths in a flight room, we’ve found that these structures seem to reflect bat sonar in such a way that bats often aim their attacks at the tails instead of the main body.”</p>



<p>Rubin's curiosity led her to question whether the twisted tails of Luna moths could serve additional purposes or come with hidden costs. This phenomenon, where traits evolve for one specific function and are then co-opted by natural selection for another, is not uncommon in nature.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Silkmoth tails, for instance, have evolved independently across three continents and vary significantly in length. The longer the tail, the more likely the moth is to successfully evade a hunting bat.</p>



<p>Yet, silkmoth tails are not simply utilitarian decoys for bats; they are often visually stunning, akin to decorative streamers trailing behind a kite. Many structures in the animal and plant kingdoms have dual functions, such as the vivid colors of strawberry poison dart frogs (Oophaga pumilio), which both deter predators and help males attract mates.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Similar dual-function traits can be found in male <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/white-tailed-deer-blood-neutralizes-lyme-disease/">deer</a> and other ungulates, which use their antlers for fighting off rivals and signaling their vigor to females. Even some moths that use clicks or chirruping sounds to disrupt bat echolocation use the same sounds during courtship.</p>



<h2 id="h-male-luna-moths-don-t-need-their-tails-to-charm-females">Male Luna moths don’t need their tails to charm females</h2>



<p>Luna moths, however, lack mouths to produce sound and ears to hear it. Instead, they rely on their sensitive eyes and powerful scent-detecting antennae. When female Luna moths are ready to mate, they emit a pheromone that triggers a response in the male antenna even at the molecular level. Males of the closely related Indian moon moths (Actias selene) can find females from over six miles away by following the pheromone plume to its source.</p>



<p>Rubin shared her thoughts on this process: “We don’t know how many males are traveling to a female each night. It’s entirely possible she’s able to call in multiple suitors and potentially have her pick.”</p>



<p>To test this hypothesis, Rubin conducted mating experiments involving a female Luna moth enclosed in a flight box with two males: one with normal hind wings and the other with its tails removed. Initial data suggested that females preferred males with intact wings.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, further controlled experiments showed that this preference was likely an incidental effect of tail removal. When both males had their wings clipped, and one had its tails glued back on, no difference in mating success was observed.</p>



<p>This fascinating research into the dual roles of Luna moth tails sheds light on the intricate world of these insects, revealing the interplay of predation and sexual selection in their evolution.</p>



<h2 id="h-do-luna-moth-tails-cause-same-confusion-for-birds">Do Luna Moth tails cause same confusion for birds?</h2>



<p>The long tails of these moths have previously been shown to effectively deflect bat attacks, but Luna moths also need to avoid visually oriented predators such as birds that hunt during the day. Their electric green tails with bright pink borders could potentially make them more noticeable to such predators.</p>



<p>Similar trade-offs are observed in other organisms, like fireflies, whose bioluminescent displays help males locate potential mates but also make them more visible to nocturnal predators such as frogs and geckos.</p>



<p>Juliette Rubin, a doctoral student at the Florida Museum of Natural History and lead author of both studies, noted the brief life span of Luna moths: “This creates a very intense period of adulthood, where surviving the night is of the utmost importance.” These moths have about a week to find a mate and reproduce after emerging from their cocoons.</p>



<p>During the day, Luna moths are mostly inactive, reducing their chances of being caught midair. However, if they fail to adequately conceal themselves, they risk not surviving until nightfall. Rubin sought to determine if the visually elaborate tails of Luna moths put them at a disadvantage in this high-stakes game of hide-and-seek.</p>



<p>To investigate this, Rubin and her colleagues created moth replicas by wrapping mealworms in pastry dough shaped like Luna moth bodies and attaching real wings, half of which had tails. They partially hid these replicas among branches and leaves in an aviary and introduced Carolina wrens (Thryothorus ludovicianus), recording how many of the snacks the birds located and ate.</p>



<p>According to Rubin, the results showed that the tails had no effect on the birds' ability to locate the fake moths. This may seem counterintuitive to humans as visually oriented animals, but there is evidence suggesting that birds might rely on search images when trying to distinguish food items from patterns in the background.</p>



<p>Rubin compared this process to humans searching for Waldo in a Where's Waldo puzzle, explaining that people often look for the characteristic red, horizontal lines of Waldo's shirt while scanning the page. It is possible that Luna moth tails don't match the typical moth and butterfly patterns that birds expect to see while foraging, akin to Waldo wearing a solid red shirt instead of his signature stripes.</p>



<p>The studies, which were published in the journals <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/beheco/arad019"><em>Biology Letters and Behavioral Ecology</em></a>, suggest that the complex structures of Luna moth tails evolved for a single function.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Rubin emphasized the importance of testing assumptions about conspicuous traits in animals: "A trait that's obvious to us, as visual creatures, might not stand out to the predators that hunt them, and the traits that we think are dynamic and alluring might not seem that way to a potential mate.”</p>



<p>Co-authors of the studies include Akito Kawahara of the Florida Museum of Natural History, and Nich Martin and Kathryn Sieving of the University of Florida.</p>



<h2 id="h-more-about-luna-moths">More about Luna moths</h2>



<p>Luna moths (Actias luna) are a striking and fascinating species of moth native to North America. They belong to the Saturniidae family, which is known for its large and beautifully colored moths. Here are some interesting facts about Luna moths:</p>



<ol>
<li>Appearance: Luna moths are known for their stunning appearance. They have a wingspan of 3 to 4.5 inches (7.6 to 11.4 cm) and display a unique lime-green color. Their hindwings have long, elegant tails, and both the forewings and hindwings exhibit eye-shaped spots, which are thought to deter predators by mimicking the eyes of larger animals.</li>



<li>Life cycle: Luna moths go through four life stages—egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (cocoon), and adult (moth). The entire life cycle lasts for approximately two months. Female Luna moths lay their eggs on the leaves of host trees, and the emerging caterpillars feed on these leaves. Caterpillars of Luna moths mainly feed on the leaves of walnut, hickory, and sweet gum trees. After a few weeks, the caterpillars spin silk cocoons around themselves, where they transform into adult moths.</li>



<li>Short adult life: Adult Luna moths have a remarkably short life span of about one week. They don't have functional mouthparts, which means they don't eat during their adult stage. Their sole purpose in this stage is to find a mate and reproduce.</li>



<li>Nocturnal behavior: Luna moths are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are active during the night. Their primary predators are bats, and their long tails have been shown to help them evade these predators by deflecting bat attacks.</li>



<li>Mating and pheromones: Female Luna moths release a pheromone to attract males when they are ready to mate. Males have large, feathery antennae that can detect these pheromones from miles away. Once a male locates a female, they mate, and the female lays her eggs shortly afterward.</li>



<li>Conservation status: Luna moths are not considered endangered or threatened, but they are becoming less common in some areas due to habitat loss and light pollution. As nocturnal creatures, they rely on the darkness of night to navigate and find mates, so increased artificial light can disrupt their natural behaviors.</li>
</ol>



<p>Overall, Luna moths are remarkable insects, admired for their beauty and unique adaptations. Their fascinating life cycle, nocturnal behavior, and captivating appearance make them a truly intriguing species to study and observe.</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/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>

Luna moth tails have only one purpose – evading bats

In a groundbreaking investigation into the world of Luna moths,...

<p>In a groundbreaking development, three engineers from the <a href="https://www.umass.edu/">University of Massachusetts Amherst</a> have successfully created a synthetic fabric that emulates the properties of polar bear fur, concluding an 80-year-long quest to develop such a textile.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The recent publication of their findings in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1021/acsami.2c23075"><em>ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces</em></a> marks a significant step forward in textile innovation, with potential applications in a variety of commercially available products.</p>



<p>Polar bears are known for their ability to withstand the brutally cold temperatures of the Arctic, often as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit. These creatures have numerous adaptations that enable them to thrive in such harsh conditions, but scientists have been particularly intrigued by the role their fur plays in maintaining warmth. Since the 1940s, researchers have been investigating how polar bear fur keeps them warm and how to replicate its properties in a synthetic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/material-identified-that-can-learn-like-the-human-brain/">material</a>.</p>



<p>Contrary to popular belief, insulation isn't the only way to stay warm in freezing weather. Over the past few decades, it has been discovered that many polar animals, including polar bears, actively utilize sunlight to maintain their body temperature. Polar bear fur is a prime example of this phenomenon, as it is incredibly effective at transmitting solar radiation towards the bears' skin.</p>



<p>Trisha L. Andrew is the paper's senior author and an associate professor of Chemistry at UMass Amherst. She explains that polar bear fur serves as a natural fiber optic, conducting sunlight down to their black skin, which then absorbs the light and warms the bear. Furthermore, the fur is remarkably efficient at preventing the heat from escaping, creating a self-warming blanket that retains warmth close to the skin.</p>



<p>Professor Andrew and her team have developed a bilayer fabric that mimics these properties. The fabric's top layer consists of threads designed to conduct visible light down to the lower layer, which is made of nylon and coated with a dark material called PEDOT.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Like polar bears' skin, PEDOT warms efficiently. As a result, a jacket made from this material is 30 percent lighter than a cotton counterpart, yet it can keep the wearer comfortable at temperatures 10 degrees Celsius colder, provided that there is sunlight or sufficient indoor lighting.</p>



<p>Study lead author Wesley Viola, who works at Andrew's startup Soliyarn, LLC, explained the potential sustainability benefits of this innovative fabric.</p>



<p>"Space heating consumes huge amounts of energy that is mostly fossil fuel-derived," said Viola. "While our textile really shines as outerwear on sunny days, the light-heat trapping structure works efficiently enough to imagine using existing indoor lighting to directly heat the body. By focusing energy resources on the 'personal climate' around the body, this approach could be far more sustainable than the status quo."</p>



<p>With support from the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/">National Science Foundation</a>, the research is already being applied in real-world contexts. Soliyarn has initiated production of the PEDOT-coated cloth, paving the way for an array of sustainable and energy-efficient products that harness the unique properties of polar bear fur.</p>



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



<p>Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are large carnivorous mammals that inhabit the Arctic regions, primarily found in countries like Canada, Russia, Greenland, Norway, and the United States (Alaska). They are well-adapted to survive in the harsh, cold environments of the Arctic, displaying several unique characteristics and behaviors.</p>



<ol>
<li>Physical adaptations: Polar bears have thick white fur that not only provides camouflage in the snowy surroundings but also helps in trapping and transmitting solar radiation to their black skin, which absorbs the heat. They have a dense layer of blubber (fat) underneath their skin, which further insulates them from the cold and serves as an energy reserve during lean hunting periods. Their large, wide paws distribute their weight on the ice, aiding in swimming and preventing them from breaking through thin ice.</li>



<li>Size: Polar bears are the largest land carnivores, with adult males weighing between 900 to 1,600 pounds (410 to 730 kilograms) and measuring 8 to 10 feet (2.4 to 3 meters) in length. Adult females are generally smaller, weighing between 330 to 650 pounds (150 to 295 kilograms) and measuring 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters) in length.</li>



<li>Diet: They are primarily seal hunters, relying on their excellent sense of smell to detect seals' breathing holes in the ice. Polar bears ambush seals by waiting patiently near the breathing holes or breaking into the seals' dens. They also occasionally feed on fish, birds, and carrion, but seals make up the majority of their diet.</li>



<li>Reproduction: Polar bears have a relatively slow reproductive rate. Mating occurs between April and June, and pregnant females prepare maternity dens in the snow during the fall. They give birth to one or two cubs between November and January, and the cubs remain with their mothers for about two and a half years, learning essential survival skills.</li>



<li>Habitat and threats: Polar bears are primarily dependent on sea ice for hunting, breeding, and denning. However, due to climate change and the resulting loss of sea ice, their habitats are shrinking, posing a significant threat to their survival. Other threats to polar bears include pollution, oil and gas development, and increased human activity in the Arctic.</li>
</ol>



<p>Polar bears are considered a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and are protected under various national and international laws and agreements. Conservation efforts focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting their habitats, and minimizing human-polar bear conflicts.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Scientists unravel the secrets of polar bear fur

In a groundbreaking development, three engineers from the University of...

<p>A recent study conducted by researchers at <a href="https://www.osu.edu/">The Ohio State University</a> reveals that urban light pollution may have a significant impact on the winter dormancy period, or diapause, of mosquitoes and mosquito biting season that transmit West Nile virus. This discovery carries both positive and negative implications for public <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heart-failure-is-influenced-by-gut-health/">health</a>.</p>



<p>On a positive note, the research suggests that if mosquitoes are unable to enter their diapause period and accumulate sufficient fat reserves, they may not survive the winter. However, the negative side of the equation is that the disruption of diapause could lead to mosquitoes remaining active and biting humans and animals later into the fall.</p>



<p>Study senior author Professor Megan Meuti explained the potential consequences of this disruption: “We see the highest levels of West Nile virus transmission in the late summer and early fall in Ohio. If you have mosquitoes postponing or delaying diapause and continuing to be active longer in the year, that’s at a time when the mosquitoes are most likely to be infected with West Nile virus and people could be at greatest risk of contracting it.”</p>



<p>The study is among the first to demonstrate the potential effects of artificial light at night on mosquito behavior. Interestingly, the researchers found that the impact of urban light pollution on mosquitoes is not entirely predictable, as the same light sources can produce varying effects depending on the season.</p>



<h2>How do you study mosquitoes</h2>



<p>For the study, which was recently published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/insects14010064"><em>Insects</em></a>, Meuti collaborated with study first author Matthew Wolkoff and Lydia Fyie, both PhD candidates in Entomology at Ohio State, </p>



<p>The research focused on the diapause of female Northern house mosquitoes (Culex pipiens), which is not a complete winter slumber but rather a period of dormancy during which the insects reside in semi-protected locations such as caves, culverts, and sheds. Before winter arrives, mosquitoes convert sugary substances like plant nectar into fat, which sustains them during diapause.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As the days grow longer, female mosquitoes begin searching for blood meals to enable egg production. Some of these mosquitoes become infected with West Nile virus after feeding on infected birds, subsequently transmitting the virus to humans, horses, and other mammals during subsequent feedings.</p>



<p>The study builds upon two earlier findings from Meuti's lab, including the discovery that circadian clock genes differ between diapausing and non-diapausing mosquitoes, strongly indicating that day length determines the onset of diapause. More recently, research led by Fyie revealed that female mosquitoes exposed to dim light at night averted diapause and became reproductively active, even when shorter days suggested they should be dormant.</p>



<h2 id="h-what-triggers-mosquitoes-to-start-biting">What triggers mosquitoes to start biting</h2>



<p>In a recent study led by Wolkoff, researchers have discovered that artificial light at night has a significant impact on mosquito behavior and nutrient accumulation. The findings, which could have implications for both humans and mosquito populations, shed new light on the complex relationship between insects and their environment.</p>



<p>To explore this relationship, the research team studied mosquitoes in two different laboratory settings: one simulating long days, which correspond to the insects' active season, and another with short days, inducing a period of dormancy called diapause. In each condition, mosquitoes were exposed to artificial light at night.</p>



<p>The study uncovered further evidence linking mosquito behavior to circadian patterns. During diapause, the insects' activity levels decreased, but their circadian rhythmicity remained consistent. This finding suggests that even in periods of dormancy, mosquitoes maintain a predictable pattern of activity.</p>



<p>However, the introduction of artificial light at night disrupted these patterns and influenced the mosquitoes' ability to accumulate nutrient reserves, which are crucial for surviving winter temperatures. For example, exposure to light pollution reduced the amount of water-soluble carbohydrates - a vital food source during winter - accumulated by mosquitoes in both long- and short-day conditions.</p>



<h2 id="h-other-factors-that-trigger-mosquito-bites">Other factors that trigger mosquito bites</h2>



<p>Additionally, the researchers found that the accumulation of glycogen, a type of sugar, was altered by exposure to artificial light at night. Under normal conditions, non-dormant mosquitoes had high levels of glycogen, while diapausing mosquitoes did not. But when subjected to light pollution, long-day mosquitoes accumulated less glycogen, and short-day mosquitoes saw an increase in glycogen accumulation.</p>



<p>In terms of activity, the researchers observed consistent trends when mosquitoes were exposed to artificial light at night. Dormant mosquitoes exhibited a slight increase in activity, while long-day mosquitoes showed slightly suppressed activity. Although these results were not statistically significant, Wolkoff believes the combined observations suggest that light pollution may disrupt diapause in mosquitoes by interfering with signals from their circadian clock.</p>



<p>"This could be bad for mammals in the short term because mosquitoes are potentially biting us later in the season, but it could also be bad for mosquitoes in the long term because they might be failing to fully engage in preparatory activities they need to survive the winter during diapause, and that might reduce their survival rate," explained Wolkoff.</p>



<p>The findings highlight the need for further research to better understand the complex relationship between urban light pollution, mosquito behavior, and the transmission of West Nile virus. Developing strategies to mitigate the potential risks associated with disrupted diapause could prove essential in protecting public health from the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus.</p>



<p>To confirm the validity of these lab results, the research team plans to conduct field studies to examine the effects of artificial light at night on mosquitoes in their natural environment. Such studies could provide valuable insights into the role of light pollution in altering mosquito behavior and survival, potentially impacting ecosystems and human health.</p>



<h2 id="h-other-recent-advances-in-the-war-against-mosquitoes">Other recent advances in the war against mosquitoes</h2>



<p>Over the years, researchers have made significant progress in understanding mosquito behavior, biology, and disease transmission, which has led to the development of various innovative strategies to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. Some notable advances include:</p>



<ol>
<li>Genetic modification: Scientists have developed genetically modified mosquitoes that can either suppress the population or reduce their ability to transmit diseases. For example, the release of genetically modified male mosquitoes carrying a self-limiting gene can result in offspring that do not survive to adulthood, eventually leading to a decline in the mosquito population.</li>



<li>Wolbachia bacteria: Introducing Wolbachia, a naturally occurring bacterium, into mosquito populations has shown promise in reducing disease transmission. Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes have a reduced ability to transmit viruses such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. The bacterium can be passed on to future generations, making it a sustainable approach to controlling disease spread.</li>



<li>Insecticide-treated bed nets: Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) are an effective method for preventing mosquito bites and reducing the transmission of malaria. These nets are treated with insecticides that repel or kill mosquitoes on contact, providing a physical and chemical barrier for individuals sleeping under them.</li>



<li>Spatial repellents: Researchers are developing spatial repellents, which can be used indoors or outdoors to create an area where mosquitoes are less likely to bite humans. These repellents typically contain chemicals that affect the mosquitoes' olfactory or gustatory systems, making it harder for them to locate human hosts.</li>



<li>Larval source management: This approach involves targeting mosquito larvae and reducing their breeding sites. Methods include environmental management, such as eliminating stagnant water sources or introducing predators that feed on mosquito larvae, and larviciding, which involves applying chemical or biological agents to kill larvae.</li>



<li>Vaccine development: Scientists are actively working on developing vaccines for mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria and dengue. Although progress has been made, vaccine development remains challenging due to the complex life cycles of these pathogens and their ability to evade the human immune system.</li>



<li>Improved surveillance and early warning systems: Advances in technology have enabled better monitoring of mosquito populations and disease outbreaks, allowing for early interventions and more targeted control measures. This includes the use of satellite data, drones, and machine learning algorithms to predict and track mosquito-borne disease outbreaks.</li>
</ol>



<p>These advances, along with continued research and collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and communities, have the potential to significantly reduce the impact of mosquito-borne diseases on global public health.</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/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.</p>

Mosquito biting season extended by light pollution

A recent study conducted by researchers at The Ohio State...

<p>When fungi are mentioned, most people's minds jump to images of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/edible-mushrooms-boost-nerve-growth-and-enhance-memory/">mushrooms</a> they gather in autumn or the yeast used for baking and winemaking.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For centuries, mycologists have been studying fungi for their applications in food and fermentation, as well as their roles in decay and disease. However, recent research has begun to challenge our traditional understanding of fungi and their behaviors.</p>



<p>Typically, we think of fungi as organisms that form physical structures, such as fruiting bodies, or yeast-like life forms that can be cultivated in our kitchens or laboratories. However, DNA sequencing studies conducted on environmental substrates like soil have revealed large groups of fungi that don't appear to form fruiting bodies and can't be grown in labs – yet they still exist.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These elusive groups of fungi are often referred to as "dark fungi," drawing a parallel with the concept of "dark matter" in astronomy. Both dark fungi and dark matter are known to be present but remain mostly unobservable.</p>



<p>A new study published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.96.102669"><em>MycoKeys</em></a> has compared the accumulation of fungal species recovered using traditional mycological methods to those recovered using environmental DNA sequencing over time.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The researchers found that species discovery through environmental sequencing has been growing at an increasingly rapid pace over the past five years. This study concludes that dark fungi are a defining feature of the fungal kingdom.</p>



<p>Lead author Henrik Nilsson of the <a href="https://www.gu.se/en">University of Gothenburg</a>, Sweden, explained the implications of these findings:&nbsp;</p>



<p>"Under the current rules of nomenclature, these fungi cannot be given scientific names – they cannot be described formally. And species and groups that cannot be named formally, well, they tend to fall between the cracks. They're typically not considered in nature conservation initiatives. They are often left out from efforts to estimate the evolutionary history of fungi, and their ecological roles and associations are largely overlooked when we try to figure out how mass and energy flow in ecosystems. They're essentially treated as if they didn't exist."</p>



<p>Study second author Martin Ryberg from the University of Uppsala added to this sentiment:&nbsp;</p>



<p>"And it's not like we're adding the few missing pieces to an otherwise nearly complete jigsaw puzzle. It seems to be the other way around. We're talking about tens of large groups of fungi – and thousands upon thousands of species, some of which seem to be so common that we have yet to find a soil sample from which they're absent. Indeed, we're talking about what could well prove to be the dominant lifestyle in the fungal kingdom."</p>



<h2 id="h-debating-the-fungal-rules">Debating the fungal rules</h2>



<p>The mycological community is currently engaged in a debate over whether the rules of fungal nomenclature should be modified to allow for the formal description of "dark fungi," a group of elusive organisms that have remained mostly unobservable. The issue has yet to be resolved, and scientists are pushing for change in this area.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"I think our study shows that it's time to stop that debate, like, right away," said Nilsson. "What we should be debating is how we should describe them. What criteria must be fulfilled for a dark fungus to be given a formal scientific name? Clearly, formation of a fruiting body or growth in the laboratory can't be part of those criteria."</p>



<p>Study co-author Alice Retter of the University of Vienna explainex the team's approach to addressing this issue: "We figured we'd kickstart the how debate by listing criteria that we think make sense – criteria that would be stringent enough to allow for only particularly well-vetted dark fungi to be described, upholding a high level of scientific rigor and reproducibility in the process."</p>



<p>"We blended our own observations with suggestions from the mycological community, culled from depositing a preprint of the manuscript at bioRxiv. We're certainly not claiming that our suggestions form the final word in the debate. It's more like they're the first. We're thinking that the mycological community will jointly be able to come up with a set of sound guiding principles on the matter – and here comes an initial set of well-meaning observations for nucleation."</p>



<h2>How researchers name fungi</h2>



<p>The researchers propose making gentle modifications to the nomenclatural rules governing the naming of fungi, allowing for the formal naming of the most well-documented species and groups of dark fungi. However, these suggested changes would still exclude many rare or less well-documented dark fungi from formal description.</p>



<p>Senior author Kessy Abarenkov of the Tartu Natural History Museum commented on the importance of establishing rules for describing dark fungi.&nbsp;</p>



<p>"By establishing rules for what's needed to describe dark fungi, and specifying when we'll have to refrain from describing such species at present, mycologists can do what they do best: doggedly gather enough research data to warrant naming of the dark fungi, group by group, and species by species," said Abarenkov. "It's what mycology has excelled at for hundreds of years. It's just the setting that's a bit new."</p>



<p>Sten Anslan from the University of Tartu elaborated on the potential consequences of not updating the current rules:</p>



<p>"Much is at stake, obviously. The current rules governing the naming of fungi have served mycology well for a long time. We don't want to upend or overthrow them. But we fear that if they're not updated in this particular regard, there's a risk that they grow increasingly obsolete over time. Having a book of rules that govern maybe only some few percent of the organisms it was originally conceived to govern – the fungal kingdom – would seem untenable in the long run."</p>



<p>Marisol Sanchez-Garcia of the Swedish Agricultural University expressed hope for the future. "The nomenclatural aspects of dark fungi will presumably be discussed at some length at next year's international mycological congress in Maastricht, the Netherlands," said Sanchez-Garcia.</p>



<p>"We're hopeful that the mycological community will reach meaningful agreement on integration of the dark fungi into the rules of nomenclature. After all, mycologists are used to negotiating and solving non-trivial questions on a day-to-day basis, and this one is hardly any different. Being part of tackling a huge, more or less unknown group of organisms where precious little is set in stone and where the rules will have to be adapted over time for the endeavor to stay attuned to recent developments, well, that’s what makes being a mycologist so interesting and rewarding in my eyes.”</p>



<p>This research highlights the need for a more comprehensive understanding of the vast and diverse world of fungi. Uncovering the mysteries of dark fungi could potentially lead to breakthroughs in various scientific fields, from ecology and evolution to nature conservation and ecosystem analysis. As we continue to explore this enigmatic domain, the full extent of fungi's influence on our world may soon be brought to light.</p>



<h2 id="h-the-importance-of-fungi-to-earth-s-ecosystems">The importance of fungi to Earth’s ecosystems</h2>



<p>Fungi play a critical role in Earth's ecosystems, contributing to various processes that maintain the health and balance of these environments. Some of the key functions of fungi in ecosystems include:</p>



<ol>
<li>Decomposition: Fungi are essential decomposers in ecosystems, breaking down dead organic matter such as leaves, wood, and other plant materials. By decomposing organic matter, fungi release nutrients back into the soil, making them available for uptake by plants and other organisms. This process helps recycle essential nutrients and maintain soil fertility.</li>



<li>Mutualistic relationships: Fungi form symbiotic relationships with plants and other organisms, providing benefits to both parties. One example of this is the association between fungi and plant roots, known as mycorrhizae. In this relationship, fungi help plants absorb nutrients and water from the soil more efficiently, while the plants provide the fungi with carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis.</li>



<li>Carbon cycling: Fungi play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle. They decompose organic matter, releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere. This process contributes to the regulation of atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and, subsequently, global climate patterns.</li>



<li>Food source: Fungi serve as a food source for various organisms, including insects, mammals, and other fungi. Their role in the food chain contributes to overall ecosystem stability and biodiversity.</li>



<li>Bioremediation: Some fungi possess the ability to break down environmental pollutants, such as heavy metals and chemicals. These fungi can help clean up contaminated environments through a process called bioremediation.</li>



<li>Production of bioactive compounds: Fungi produce a wide range of bioactive compounds, such as antibiotics, enzymes, and other molecules, which have potential applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry.</li>
</ol>



<p>Overall, fungi play a critical role in maintaining the health and balance of Earth's ecosystems. Their diverse functions contribute to nutrient cycling, soil fertility, symbiotic relationships, carbon cycling, and biodiversity, underscoring their importance in sustaining life on our planet.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Scientists: All fungi matter, not just mushrooms

When fungi are mentioned, most people's minds jump to images...

<p>In the age of AI-driven technology, how children interact with smart <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/digital-devices-can-actually-improve-our-memory-skills/">devices</a> has become a topic of concern and curiosity. A recent study conducted by developmental psychologists at <a href="https://duke.edu/">Duke University</a> delved into the perception and treatment of smart speakers like Amazon's Alexa by children, comparing their thoughts on its intelligence and sensitivity to that of the autonomous vacuum Roomba.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study, published on April 10 in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/dev0001524"><em>Developmental Psychology</em></a>, sought to understand how children aged four to eleven view these devices and their capabilities, as well as how they may treat them.</p>



<p>The inspiration behind the research came from lead author Teresa Flanagan's observations of human-robot interactions in popular media such as HBO's "Westworld."&nbsp;</p>



<p>Flanagan, a visiting scholar in the department of psychology &amp; neuroscience at Duke, explained: "In Westworld and the movie Ex Machina, we see how adults might interact with robots in these very cruel and horrible ways. But how would kids interact with them?"</p>



<p>To investigate this question, Flanagan and her team recruited 127 children visiting a science museum with their families. The children were shown a 20-second clip of both Alexa and Roomba in action, and then asked questions about each device.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Under the guidance of Dr. Tamar Kushnir, a Duke Institute for Brain Sciences faculty member and Flanagan's graduate advisor, the researchers analyzed the survey data and uncovered some intriguing results.</p>



<p>The experts found that, overall, children aged four to eleven attributed more human-like thoughts and emotions to Alexa than Roomba. Despite this perceived difference in intelligence, the majority of children believed that neither device should be yelled at or harmed. However, this conviction seemed to wane as children approached adolescence.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the survey data revealed that children generally believed that both Alexa and Roomba were incapable of experiencing physical sensations such as ticklishness or pain when pinched.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Nevertheless, they credited Alexa with mental and emotional capabilities, like the ability to think or feel upset after someone mistreats it. This attribution did not extend to Roomba.</p>



<p>"Even without a body, young children think the Alexa has emotions and a mind," Flanagan explained. "And it's not that they think every technology has emotions and minds - they don't think the Roomba does - so it's something special about the Alexa's ability to communicate verbally."</p>



<h2 id="h-treating-robots-and-ai-with-respect">Treating robots and AI with respect</h2>



<p>This study also investigated children's attitudes towards the ethical treatment of AI and machines, specifically Amazon's Alexa and the autonomous vacuum Roomba.</p>



<p>"Kids don't seem to think a Roomba has much mental abilities like thinking or feeling," Flanagan said. "But kids still think we should treat it well. We shouldn't hit or yell at it even if it can't hear us yelling."</p>



<p>The study found that, regardless of the perceived abilities of the two devices, children of all ages agreed it was wrong to hit or yell at the machines. Interestingly, as the children grew older, their views shifted slightly, indicating that attacking technology might become more acceptable.</p>



<p>"Four- and five-year-olds seem to think you don't have the freedom to make a moral violation, like attacking someone," Flanagan explained. "But as they get older, they seem to think it's not great, but you do have the freedom to do it."</p>



<p>These findings provide valuable insights into the evolving relationship between children and technology, raising important questions about the ethical treatment of AI and machines. They also prompt parents to consider whether they should model good behavior towards AI devices, such as expressing gratitude to Siri or its more sophisticated counterpart, ChatGPT.</p>



<p>Currently, Flanagan and her graduate advisor, Tamar Kushnir, are working to understand why children believe it is wrong to assault home technology. The researchers observed various responses from the participants, with one 10-year-old stating that yelling at the technology is not okay because "the microphone sensors might break if you yell too loudly." By contrast, another 10-year-old expressed that yelling is inappropriate because "the robot will actually feel really sad."</p>



<p>"It's interesting with these technologies because there's another aspect: it's a piece of property," Flanagan said. "Do kids think you shouldn't hit these things because it's morally wrong, or because it's somebody's property and it might break?"</p>



<p>This study highlights the unique way children perceive and interact with technology, particularly those that possess human-like communication abilities. As smart devices continue to pervade daily life, understanding these interactions may become increasingly important in shaping the design and implementation of future AI-driven technologies.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-children-and-ai-may-interact-in-the-future">How children and AI may interact in the future</h2>



<p>While it is difficult to predict the exact ways children will interact with AI in the future, scientists and researchers envision a world where AI plays a significant role in shaping children's experiences across various domains, including education, entertainment, healthcare, and social development.</p>



<ol>
<li>Education: AI-powered tools and platforms will likely be integrated into educational systems, offering personalized learning experiences that adapt to individual students' needs, strengths, and weaknesses. AI could help identify learning gaps, suggest tailored content, and provide immediate feedback to enhance the learning process.</li>



<li>Entertainment: AI-driven toys, games, and media will continue to evolve, offering more immersive and interactive experiences for children. These technologies could promote creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration while keeping children engaged and entertained.</li>



<li>Healthcare: AI could contribute to early detection and intervention for developmental disorders, mental health issues, and other health-related concerns in children. AI-powered monitoring and diagnostic tools could help track children's health and provide personalized recommendations for parents and caregivers.</li>



<li>Social Development: As AI becomes more advanced, children might develop relationships with AI-based companions, such as virtual friends or digital pets. These AI companions could provide emotional support, companionship, and even assist in teaching social skills and empathy.</li>



<li>Safety and Privacy: As children interact with AI technologies, scientists will need to address concerns related to safety, privacy, and ethics. Ensuring the responsible development and use of AI for children will be crucial to protect their well-being and privacy.</li>
</ol>



<p>Researchers and educators will need to consider the potential risks and benefits of AI integration in children's lives, ensuring that AI technologies are designed to promote healthy development, learning, and positive interactions. It will also be essential to monitor and study the long-term effects of AI on children's cognitive, emotional, and social development, as well as to establish guidelines and best practices for AI usage among children.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Kids vote: Is Alexa smarter than Roomba?

In the age of AI-driven technology, how children interact with...

<p>In a groundbreaking study, researchers at the <a href="https://www.earlham.ac.uk/">Earlham Institute</a> in Norwich have successfully engineered tobacco <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-have-a-fight-or-fix-response-to-injury/">plants</a> to function as solar-powered factories for the production of moth sex pheromones. By employing precision gene engineering techniques, the scientists have demonstrated that it is possible to efficiently manage the production of these complex molecules without interfering with the plant's normal growth process.</p>



<p>Pheromones are intricate chemical substances produced and released by organisms as a means of communication. They enable members of the same species to transmit signals to one another, including those related to mating. Farmers have long exploited this natural phenomenon by hanging pheromone dispersers among their crops to mimic the signals emitted by female insects, subsequently trapping or distracting males from finding a mate. While some of these molecules can be synthesized through chemical processes, traditional chemical synthesis can be costly and often results in the creation of toxic byproducts.</p>



<p>Dr. Nicola Patron, who spearheaded this innovative research and leads the Synthetic Biology Group at the Earlham Institute, is utilizing cutting-edge science to coax plants into producing these valuable natural products. Synthetic biology, which applies engineering principles to DNA, the building blocks of life, allows Dr. Patron and her team to construct genetic modules containing the instructions necessary for generating new molecules. This approach enables the researchers to transform plants, such as tobacco, into factories that require nothing more than sunlight and water to function.</p>



<p>"Synthetic biology can allow us to engineer plants to make a lot more of something they already produced, or we can provide the genetic instructions that allow them to build new biological molecules, such as medicines or these pheromones," Dr. Patron explained.</p>



<p>In their latest study, the researchers collaborated with scientists at the <a href="https://www.upv.es/entidades/IBMCP/index-en.html">Plant Molecular and Cell Biology Institute</a> in Valencia to engineer a species of tobacco, <em>Nicotiana benthamiana</em>, to produce moth sex pheromones. Notably, this same plant has been previously engineered to generate Ebola antibodies and even coronavirus-like particles for use in COVID-19 vaccines.</p>



<p>To achieve this remarkable feat, the Synthetic Biology Group designed new sequences of DNA in the laboratory to mimic moth genes. They also introduced a series of molecular switches to precisely regulate the expression of these genes, effectively turning the manufacturing process on and off as needed.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This cutting-edge research not only offers an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chemical synthesis, but also demonstrates the immense potential of synthetic biology in revolutionizing the production of valuable molecules such as medicines and pheromones.</p>



<h2 id="h-fine-tuning-pheromone-production">Fine-tuning pheromone production</h2>



<p>A critical aspect of the Earlham study is the fine-tuning of pheromone production in genetically engineered plants. Dr. Patron explained that compelling plants to continually produce these molecules can have negative consequences. "As we increase the efficiency, too much energy is diverted away from normal growth and development," she said. "The plants are producing a lot of pheromone but they’re not able to grow very large, which essentially reduces the capacity of our production line. Our new research provides a way to regulate gene expression with much more subtlety."</p>



<p>To address this challenge, the team focused on testing and refining the control of genes responsible for producing the specific molecules that mimic the sex pheromones of various moth species, including navel orangeworm and cotton bollworm moths.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Their experiments demonstrated that copper sulfate, a cheap and readily available compound already approved for agricultural use, could be employed to fine-tune the activity of these genes, enabling the researchers to control both the timing and level of gene expression.</p>



<p>The scientists even managed to precisely control the production of different pheromone components, allowing them to tailor the mixture to better suit specific moth species.</p>



<p>"We’ve shown we can control the levels of expression of each gene relative to the others," Dr. Patron said. "This allows us to control the ratio of products that are made. Getting that recipe right is particularly important for moth pheromones, as they’re often a blend of two or three molecules in specific ratios. Our collaborators in Spain are now extracting the plant-made pheromones and testing them in dispensers to see how well they compare to female moths."</p>



<p>The team envisions that their work will open the door to utilizing plants for the routine production of a wide array of valuable natural products. "A major advantage of using plants is that it can be far more expensive to build complex molecules using chemical processes," Dr. Patron noted. "Plants produce an array of useful molecules already, so we’re able to use the latest techniques to adapt and refine the existing machinery. In the future, we may see greenhouses full of plant factories - providing a greener, cheaper, and more sustainable way to manufacture complex molecules."</p>



<p>This innovative research is part of the SUSPHIRE project, which received support from ERACoBiotech funded by the Horizon 2020 research and innovation program and the UKRI Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).</p>



<h2 id="h-benefits-and-pitfalls-of-genetically-engineering-plants">Benefits and pitfalls of genetically engineering plants</h2>



<p>Genetically engineering plants has the potential to offer numerous benefits, but it also raises some concerns. Here, we discuss the potential ramifications and benefits of genetically engineering plants:</p>



<p>Benefits:</p>



<ol>
<li>Enhanced nutritional content: Genetic engineering can increase the nutritional value of plants by adding essential vitamins and minerals, which can help combat malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies in various populations.</li>



<li>Increased crop yield: Genetically modified (GM) crops can be engineered to be more resistant to pests, diseases, and adverse environmental conditions, such as drought or extreme temperatures, leading to increased crop yields and overall agricultural productivity.</li>



<li>Reduced pesticide use: GM crops that are pest-resistant can reduce the need for chemical pesticides, which can have harmful effects on the environment and human health.</li>



<li>Improved food shelf life: Genetic engineering can lead to the development of crops with extended shelf lives, reducing food spoilage and waste.</li>



<li>Biofortification: Genetically engineered plants can be developed to produce valuable substances, such as pharmaceuticals, biofuels, or industrial enzymes, providing an efficient and sustainable production method.</li>



<li>Environmental sustainability: GM crops can contribute to more sustainable agricultural practices by requiring fewer inputs (such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides) and reducing soil erosion through no-till farming techniques.</li>
</ol>



<p>Ramifications:</p>



<ol>
<li>Unintended consequences: Genetic engineering might have unforeseen effects on the ecosystem, as the introduction of novel genes into plants could potentially disrupt natural processes and interactions between species.</li>



<li>Gene flow and cross-contamination: The transfer of genes from GM crops to non-GM crops or wild relatives through cross-pollination may lead to the unintentional spread of engineered traits, potentially affecting biodiversity and creating "superweeds" resistant to herbicides.</li>



<li>Monoculture and loss of biodiversity: The widespread adoption of GM crops could lead to the dominance of a few crop varieties, reducing genetic diversity and making the agricultural system more vulnerable to pests, diseases, and climate change.</li>



<li>Ethical concerns: Genetic engineering raises ethical questions about the manipulation of life, the potential commodification of living organisms, and the ownership of genetic resources through patents and intellectual property rights.</li>



<li>Socioeconomic implications: The control of GM technology by a small number of large corporations could exacerbate economic inequality, as small-scale farmers might struggle to compete with large-scale, industrialized agriculture.</li>



<li>Allergenicity and food safety: Some individuals have concerns about the safety of GM foods, particularly the potential for new allergens or unexpected health effects.</li>
</ol>



<p>In summary, genetically engineering plants offers several benefits, such as increased crop yields, enhanced nutritional content, and reduced pesticide use. However, it also raises concerns about potential environmental, socioeconomic, and ethical ramifications. To maximize the benefits and minimize the risks, it is crucial to thoroughly evaluate each GM crop and its potential impacts through rigorous research, responsible regulation, and transparent communication with the public.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Modified plants produce pheromones to confuse pests

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at the Earlham Institute in...

<p>On a fateful journey to the island of Dominica, researchers from <a href="https://www.clemson.edu/">Clemson</a> and Harvard witnessed a landscape that seemed to have been ravaged by the merciless forces of nature. As they descended toward the airport, they gazed upon miles of forests filled with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-trees-are-vital-to-forest-survival/">trees</a> that resembled broken matchsticks. This was a mere nine months after Hurricane Maria, a Category 5 storm, had struck the West Indies island with devastating consequences.</p>



<p>However, upon closer inspection, the researchers discovered that while an overwhelming 89% of the trees had sustained damage, with 76% suffering major damage, a mere 10% were killed outright. Remarkably, many of the trees had already begun to resprout.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Benton Taylor, a former graduate student in the Clemson Department of Biological Sciences who is now an assistant professor in the Harvard University Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, commented on this extraordinary finding: “These hurricane-prone forests are, in many regards, incredibly resistant to even extremely powerful hurricanes. I don’t want to minimize the scale of damage that these forests received - it was immense - but the fact that 90% of the trees survived shows an impressive level of resistance.”</p>



<p>As the global climate continues to change, hurricanes have become more frequent and severe. This has serious implications for regions around the world that experience regular hurricane disturbances, as these areas often play crucial roles in carbon, water, and nutrient cycling and are considered global biodiversity “hotspots”.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Hurricane Maria made landfall on Dominica on September 18, 2017, with winds reaching an astonishing 160 mph, making it the strongest hurricane on record to strike the island. Only days later, Maria laid waste to the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico.</p>



<p>Supported by funding from the Clemson Caribbean Initiative, Saara DeWalt, the Department of Biological Sciences Chair, Benton Taylor, and Dominican researcher Elvis Stedman embarked on a mission to remeasure and assess the damage inflicted on trees in nine forest stands across Dominica. These plots were originally established in 2006 by DeWalt and former Clemson researcher Kalan Ickes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In addition to taking measurements, the team also analyzed the wood density and carbon content of the 44 most common tree species, which they paired with tree measurements to estimate biomass and determine how much carbon had been relocated from living to dead matter by the hurricane.</p>



<p>The researchers identified stem snapping (40% of trees) and major branch damage (26% of trees) as the most common types of damage. However, the types of damage that resulted in the highest mortality rates were uprooting and being crushed by neighboring trees, with 33% of uprooted trees and 47% of crushed trees perishing.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Surprisingly, as DeWalt pointed out, "snapping wasn’t as lethal as you might think."</p>



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



<p>The study also revealed that larger individual trees and species with lower wood density were more susceptible to snapping, uprooting, and mortality, while trees on steeper slopes were more prone to being crushed by neighboring trees.</p>



<p>DeWalt explained the potential implications of more frequent storms for forest composition in hurricane-prone regions: “Forests are adapted to this kind of disturbance, but we may see a shift in the types of species that are most common in these forests with increasing frequency of strong hurricanes. You might get more of the ‘live fast, die young’ species because you’re constantly resetting the forest.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>This shift towards smaller, high wood-density species could have significant consequences for wildlife, particularly those that rely on larger trees for habitat and nesting.</p>



<p>Benton Taylor, another researcher involved in the study, underscored the importance of understanding the impact of hurricanes on tree populations: “Larger trees tended to suffer more damage and mortality. These large trees store immense amounts of carbon, and in Dominica, many of these large trees create unique habitats for animals, such as the parrots. The data we obtained on how different species and sizes of trees experience damage from hurricanes can help us predict the future of these forests and the many services they provide.”</p>



<p>While the study sheds light on how hurricanes can affect forest ecosystems, Taylor cautions against drawing direct comparisons between the forests of small, mountainous tropical islands like Dominica and those in the coastal plains and piedmont regions of the southern United States.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“In a field where opportunities to study a phenomenon are rare - hurricanes themselves are rare events and it’s even rarer that one hits a forest plot that was measured before the hurricane hit - any additional data are useful,” he said. “That said, our study highlights that the effects of hurricanes can be very different based on the local topography and tree species that make up a forest. So comparing a small mountainous island populated by tropical rainforest trees to the forests of the coastal plains and piedmont regions of the southern United States should be approached with caution.”</p>



<p>The findings of this groundbreaking study were published in the March 2023 issue of the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2023.120833"><em>Forest Ecology and Management</em></a> in a paper titled “Widespread stem snapping but limited mortality caused by a category 5 hurricane on the Caribbean Island of Dominica.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Alongside DeWalt, Taylor, and Dominican researcher Elvis Stedman, the study was co-authored by Professor Skip Van Bloem of the Clemson Department of Forestry and Environment Conservation and Assistant Professor Stefanie Whitmire of the Clemson Department of Agricultural Sciences.</p>



<h2 id="h-why-some-trees-are-stronger-than-others">Why some trees are stronger than others</h2>



<p>Trees are a crucial part of the Earth's ecosystem, providing us with oxygen, stabilizing the soil, and serving as habitats for various wildlife. However, not all trees are created equal when it comes to their strength and resilience. Some trees are better suited to withstand adverse weather conditions and other environmental stressors than others. In this short-form article, we will explore what makes some trees stronger than others.</p>



<p>One of the key factors that determine a tree's strength is its wood density. Trees with higher wood density tend to be stronger and more resistant to environmental stressors such as wind, snow, and pests. For example, oak trees have a high wood density and are renowned for their strength and durability. In contrast, trees with lower wood density, such as pine, are more vulnerable to damage.</p>



<p>Another factor that contributes to a tree's strength is its root system. Trees with deep and extensive root systems are better able to withstand adverse weather conditions such as high winds and floods. Additionally, trees with a robust root system are better able to absorb nutrients and water from the soil, allowing them to grow strong and healthy.</p>



<p>The species of the tree also plays a significant role in determining its strength. Some tree species are naturally more resilient than others. For example, redwoods and sequoias are famous for their ability to withstand high winds and earthquakes. These trees have evolved to survive in their specific environments and are adapted to the challenges they face.</p>



<p>Finally, a tree's overall health is crucial in determining its strength. Trees that are stressed or unhealthy are more vulnerable to damage from environmental stressors. Factors such as water availability, nutrient availability, and disease can all affect a tree's overall health and strength.</p>



<p>In conclusion, a tree's strength is determined by a combination of factors, including wood density, root system, species, and overall health. By understanding these factors, we can better appreciate the resilience and importance of trees in our environment.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Trees are stronger and tougher in hurricane-prone areas

On a fateful journey to the island of Dominica, researchers...

<p>An estimated two million people worldwide reside above 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) in elevation, comparable to the heights of Mount Rainier, Mount Whitney, and numerous peaks in Colorado and Alaska. Intriguingly, these individuals have been observed to have lower rates of metabolic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-target-identified-to-prevent-age-related-diseases/">diseases</a>, such as diabetes, coronary artery disease, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity. Researchers supported by the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/">U.S. National Science Foundation</a> at Gladstone Institutes have recently made strides in understanding this phenomenon.</p>



<p>The scientists discovered that chronic exposure to low oxygen levels, as experienced at high altitudes, altered the way mice metabolized sugars and fats. The study, published in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/cell-metabolism/home"><em>Cell Metabolism</em></a>, offers insights into the metabolic differences in people living at high altitudes and suggests potential new treatments for metabolic diseases.</p>



<p>"When an organism is exposed to chronically low levels of oxygen, different organs reshuffle their fuel sources and their energy-producing pathways," explained Isha Jain, senior author of the study. "We hope these findings will help us identify metabolic switches that might be beneficial for metabolism even outside of low-oxygen environments."</p>



<p>At sea level, where a third of the global population resides, oxygen accounts for approximately 21% of the air we breathe. However, at elevations above 4,500 meters, oxygen makes up a mere 11% of the air. Despite these lower oxygen levels, known as hypoxia, people can adapt and thrive in these conditions.</p>



<h2 id="h-high-altitude-hypoxia-and-how-they-impact-the-body">High altitude, hypoxia, and how they impact the body</h2>



<p>Previous research on hypoxia's impact has often been limited to isolated cells or cancerous tumors, which are commonly oxygen-deficient. Jain's group aimed to investigate the long-term effects of hypoxia on organs throughout the body. They collaborated with colleagues at Gladstone and the University of California, San Francisco, to house adult mice in pressure chambers containing 21%, 11%, or 8% oxygen levels - all of which are survivable by humans and mice.</p>



<p>Over three weeks, the researchers monitored the mice's behavior, temperature, carbon dioxide levels, blood glucose levels, and used positron emission tomography (PET) scans to study nutrient consumption by different organs. In the initial days of hypoxia, mice in 11% or 8% oxygen environments exhibited reduced mobility and periods of complete stillness.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, by the end of the third week, their movement patterns normalized. Likewise, their blood carbon dioxide levels, which typically decrease when mice or humans breathe faster to compensate for low oxygen, initially dropped but returned to normal levels by the end of the study.</p>



<p>The animals' metabolism, on the other hand, appeared to be more permanently affected by hypoxia. Mice in hypoxic cages experienced decreases in blood glucose levels and body weight, with neither returning to pre-hypoxic levels.</p>



<p>These metabolic changes parallel those observed in humans living at high altitudes and are associated with a reduced risk of diseases, including cardiovascular disease. This understanding of hypoxia's contribution could pave the way for developing new drugs that replicate these beneficial effects, offering hope for those suffering from metabolic diseases.</p>



<h2 id="h-extending-the-human-lifespan">Extending the human lifespan</h2>



<p>There is a growing body of research focused on understanding the biological processes of aging and developing strategies to extend human lifespan. Some of the prominent areas of research include:</p>



<ol>
<li>Telomeres and Telomerase: Telomeres are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten as cells divide. When telomeres become too short, cells can no longer divide, leading to cellular senescence and aging. Researchers are investigating ways to activate or introduce telomerase, an enzyme that can lengthen telomeres, to extend the lifespan of cells and, potentially, humans.</li>



<li>Senescence and Senolytics: Cellular senescence is a state where cells stop dividing and accumulate in tissues, contributing to aging and age-related diseases. Senolytics are a class of drugs that selectively eliminate senescent cells, reducing inflammation and improving tissue function. Studies on senolytics in animal models have shown promising results in extending healthspan, and human clinical trials are underway.</li>



<li>Caloric Restriction and Intermittent Fasting: Caloric restriction and intermittent fasting have been shown to extend the lifespan and improve overall health in various organisms, including yeast, worms, flies, and mice. Researchers are studying the underlying molecular mechanisms and the potential benefits of these dietary interventions in humans.</li>



<li>Targeting mTOR Signaling Pathway: The mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in cell growth, metabolism, and aging. Inhibition of mTOR has been shown to extend lifespan in multiple species, and drugs like rapamycin are being investigated for their potential to increase human lifespan and healthspan.</li>



<li>Sirtuins and NAD+ Boosters: Sirtuins are a family of proteins that regulate cellular processes, including metabolism, DNA repair, and inflammation. NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme that declines with age and is essential for sirtuin function. Researchers are studying ways to increase NAD+ levels, such as with precursors like nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), to promote healthy aging and extend lifespan.</li>



<li>Gene Editing and Gene Therapy: Advances in gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR-Cas9, have opened new possibilities for manipulating genes associated with aging and age-related diseases. Researchers are working on developing gene therapies to target these genes and potentially extend human lifespan.</li>



<li>Stem Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine: As we age, our stem cells lose their regenerative capacity, leading to tissue dysfunction and aging. Researchers are exploring ways to rejuvenate stem cells and develop stem cell therapies to treat age-related diseases, promote tissue regeneration, and extend human lifespan.</li>
</ol>



<p>These research areas, along with many others, represent the ongoing efforts to unravel the complex biology of aging and develop interventions that can promote healthy aging and extend human lifespan.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Living at high altitude leads to longer life by changing metabolism

An estimated two million people worldwide reside above 4,500 meters...

<p>A groundbreaking study in the field of neuroscience has resulted in the most advanced and comprehensive brain map of an insect to date, bringing researchers one step closer to uncovering the elusive mechanism of thought.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The study, spearheaded by a team of scientists from <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> and the <a href="https://www.cam.ac.uk/">University of Cambridge</a>, focused on the larval fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, an important model organism in scientific research due to its significant genetic and behavioral similarities to humans.</p>



<p>The researchers' incredible achievement, published in the journal Science, was made possible through funding from the <a href="https://www.nsf.gov/">National Science Foundation</a>. The detailed connectome, or neural map, traced every connection between the 3,016 neurons found in the fruit fly's brain, resulting in a staggering 548,000 neural connections.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Study senior author Joshua Vogelstein emphasized the importance of understanding these connections: "If we want to understand who we are and how we think, part of that is understanding the mechanism of thought. And the key to that is knowing how neurons connect with each other."</p>



<h2>Mapping an entire brain</h2>



<p>The process of mapping an entire brain at the cellular level is a daunting task that requires advanced technology and an enormous amount of time. To achieve this feat, researchers must slice the brain into hundreds or thousands of individual tissue samples, then use electron microscopes to image each slice. Following this, they must painstakingly reconstruct the entire brain by piecing together each neuron in the correct position.</p>



<p>The larval fruit fly was chosen for this study due to its fundamental biological similarities to humans, including a comparable genetic foundation. Additionally, the fruit fly exhibits complex learning and decision-making behaviors, making it an ideal model organism for neuroscience research. The practical advantage of working with the fruit fly is its relatively small brain, which can be imaged and reconstructed within a manageable timeframe.</p>



<p>The research team meticulously charted and categorized each neuron by its role in the brain, discovering that the most active circuits were those connected to the learning center. The methods developed during this study can be applied to any brain connectome project.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Vogelstein even offered their code to other researchers attempting to map larger animal brains, predicting that scientists may take on the challenge of mapping a mouse brain within the next decade.</p>



<p>Edda Thiels, a program director in NSF's Division of Biological Infrastructure, highlights the far-reaching impact of this study: "Having connectomes, such as the fly brain connectome developed here, for diverse organisms will open the brain up to everyone - schoolchildren, citizen scientists, researchers, and others curious about the inner workings of the brain."&nbsp;</p>



<p>The completion of the most expansive map of an insect brain ever achieved marks a significant milestone in neuroscience and promises to inspire new developments in brain research and machine learning architectures.</p>



<h2>What scientists hope to gain by mapping the human brain</h2>



<p>Mapping the entire human brain has the potential to unlock an unprecedented understanding of the human mind and its functions. By generating a detailed connectome of the human brain, we can gain insights into various aspects of human cognition, behavior, and neurological disorders. Here are some areas where knowledge can be gained from mapping the entire human brain:</p>



<ol>
<li>Understanding brain function: A comprehensive map of the human brain would provide researchers with invaluable information on how different regions and neural circuits interact to produce complex cognitive functions, such as learning, memory, decision-making, and emotions.</li>



<li>Diagnosing and treating neurological disorders: With a complete map of the human brain, researchers could identify the specific neural circuits and connections implicated in various neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and autism. This knowledge could lead to more accurate diagnoses and the development of targeted therapies for these conditions.</li>



<li>Personalized medicine: By understanding the unique wiring of individual brains, personalized medicine could be developed to target specific neural circuits and connections, leading to more effective and individualized treatments for a wide range of neurological and psychiatric conditions.</li>



<li>Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs): A detailed understanding of the human brain's connectivity could pave the way for more advanced BCIs, which could have a wide range of applications, including assisting people with paralysis or amputations, enhancing cognitive performance, and even treating mental health disorders.</li>



<li>Artificial intelligence and machine learning: Insights gained from mapping the human brain could inform the development of more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms. By understanding how the human brain processes information and learns, AI researchers can develop more efficient and human-like AI systems.</li>



<li>Education and learning: A deeper understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying learning and memory could lead to the development of more effective educational strategies, tailored to individual learning styles and needs.</li>
</ol>



<p>In summary, mapping the entire human brain has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the human mind, improve our ability to diagnose and treat neurological disorders, and drive advancements in fields such as artificial intelligence, personalized medicine, and education. However, given the immense complexity of the human brain, achieving this goal remains a formidable challenge for neuroscience.</p>



<p>—-</p>



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Most advanced brain mapping yet reveals how we think

A groundbreaking study in the field of neuroscience has resulted...

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

Traffic fumes may trigger Alzheimer's

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>—–</p>



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<p>—–</p>

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

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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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>



<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>



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



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

Retired professor claims he solved time travel

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

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</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

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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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