Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy.



This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-yellowstone-aspens-and-elk">Yellowstone, aspens, and elk</h2>



In the 1920s, people <a href="https://www.yellowstone.org/wolf-project/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eliminated wolves in Yellowstone</a>. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right thing to do.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-wolves-to-dogs-did-domestication-begin-without-human-help/">Without wolves</a>, elk herds grew very large. Elk love to eat aspen shoots - the tender young growth is highly palatable to them.



For roughly 70 years, elk browsed aspen sprouts down to stub height, and the trees couldn't grow. 



If you had walked through Yellowstone in the 1980s, you would have seen many tiny aspen shoots covering the ground, but almost no young trees gaining height. 



The forest's regeneration was stalled. Old trees died, and no new ones replaced them.



In 1995 and 1996, park managers reintroduced wolves into the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstone-supervolcano-eruption-study-sparks-new-debate-on-where-and-when-it-will-erupt/">Yellowstone Park ecosystem</a>. Scientists hoped and wondered whether this would change anything for the trees.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-aspen-matter-to-yellowstone">Why aspen matter to Yellowstone</h2>



Aspen groves provide habitat for many species. Birds nest in them. Beavers eat the bark and use the wood for dams. Butterflies and moths lay eggs on the leaves. 



Their canopy admits enough light for wildflowers and shrubs to grow beneath. When it rains, aspen groves hold water in the soil better than some other forest types.



In short, when aspen return, dozens of other species benefit. More trees support more insects, which in turn support more birds, enriching the ecosystem.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-checking-the-trees-three-decades-later">Checking the trees three decades later</h2>



<a href="https://fwcs.oregonstate.edu/users/luke-painter" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luke Painter</a>, an ecologist at <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>, sought clear answers. His team returned to 87 aspen stands across Yellowstone that scientists had previously surveyed. 



They measured thousands of young trees, looked for bite marks, and counted how many stems were tall enough that elk could no longer reach the tips.



About a third of these stands now have many tall young aspens pushing toward the canopy. 



"About 26 of the 87 aspen stands we examined had large numbers of tall saplings throughout, a remarkable change from the 1990s when surveys found none at all," Painter said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-wolves-matter-to-yellowstone-aspens">Why wolves matter to Yellowstone aspens</h2>



Breaking it all down, the conclusions of this study are pretty simple. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wolves-move-pups-across-mountains-to-adapt-to-climate-pressure/">Wolves hunt elk</a>. When wolves came back, two things happened. First, elk numbers declined from unusually high levels. Second, elk changed their behavior. They spent less time in the same areas feeding.



With fewer elk and shorter feeding bouts, more aspen shoots survived long enough to exceed the browsing zone - about six to seven feet high. 



Once a sapling reaches that height, elk cannot easily reach the growing tip. The tree continues to grow.



"The reintroduction of large carnivores has initiated a recovery process that had been shut down for decades," Painter explained.



Scientists call this a <a href="https://www.nature.com/scitable/knowledge/library/trophic-cascades-across-diverse-plant-ecosystems-80060347/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trophic cascade</a> - when adding or removing one species causes changes that ripple through the whole system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-some-places-recover-others-don-t">Some places recover, others don't</h2>



Unfortunately, not every aspen stand has recovered yet. Some valleys still have many short, heavily browsed shoots, because it's not only elk eating them anymore. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/yellowstones-iconic-bison-have-merged-into-a-single-herd/">Bison herds have grown</a>, and bison browse on aspen as well. They are strong enough to break young trees. 



"Increasing numbers of bison may be emerging as a new constraint to aspen in some areas," Painter confirmed.



Additionally, winter snow depth varies; droughts stress trees; bears and mountain lions also hunt elk; and hunting outside the park influences elk distribution. 



All of these factors interact, which is why some sites show strong recovery, others show moderate recovery, and a few have changed very little.



The key pattern is that places with many tall saplings experience little browsing, and aspen groves that remain popular eating grounds today stay short. 



This fact is the strongest indication that tree recovery is linked directly to wolf presence, not solely to weather or soil conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proof-in-the-measurements">Proof in the measurements</h2>



Painter's team did not rely on casual observation. They used the same methods as earlier researchers, measuring the same plots. 



They counted recruitment - when young trees surpass browsing height and begin progressing toward maturity. This measure is crucial. Sprouts are insufficient if they never grow; without recruitment, the forest cannot replace itself.



The results are robust. After being stalled for most of a century, Yellowstone's aspens are increasing in height. In recovering stands today, you will see saplings - six, eight, or ten feet tall - that were not present in the 1990s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-yellowstone-s-aspens">The future of Yellowstone's aspens</h2>



"This is a remarkable case of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-viruses-found-in-yellowstones-hot-springs-may-be-near-the-root-of-all-life-on-earth/">ecological restoration</a>," Painter concluded. "Wolf reintroduction is yielding long-term ecological changes contributing to increased biodiversity and habitat diversity."



Trees grow slowly, so even with wolves restored, it will take decades for these young aspens to form a full-grown forest. 



Some areas might never fully recover if bison numbers continue to rise or if the climate becomes too hot and dry.



Thanks to the work of Painter and his team, scientists are now certain that restoring the Yellowstone predator has restarted aspen forest regeneration. Not everywhere and not perfectly, but enough to be measured, creating hope for the future.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112725004499?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forest Ecology and Management</a>.



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Yellowstone's aspen trees are growing again thanks to the reintroduction of wolves

Young aspen trees in Yellowstone are doing something they have not done in almost 100 years. Rather than sprouting and being eaten back to nubs by elk and bison, they're actually growing into tall, adult forest trees rising up towards the canopy. This matters more than it might seem, because it shows what happens when a missing piece of an ecosystem returns. Yellowstone, aspens, and elk In the 1920s, people eliminated wolves in Yellowstone. At the time, with limited scientific knowledge, managers believed it was the right...

A small mistake in a laboratory can sometimes lead to unexpected wonders. That is exactly what happened when a germanium wafer with evaporated metal films was left out overnight, and spiral patterns became etched into its surface.



The <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prmaterials/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevMaterials.9.035201" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers</a> who stumbled upon these strange patterns realized that chemical reactions, nudged by mechanical stress in the metal layer, could spontaneously carve stunning designs in the semiconductor.



The study was led by <a href="https://www.ucla.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCLA</a> doctoral student Yilin Wong and Giovanni Zocchi, a professor of physics.



The resulting images have already sparked conversations among experts who are curious about how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/liquid-metals-may-create-a-greener-future-for-chemical-production/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemistry</a> and force might work together in nature.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-self-forming-metal-patterns">Self-forming metal patterns</h2>



In the early days of pattern formation research, <a href="https://www.scirp.org/reference/referencespapers?referenceid=3243990" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientists</a> studied the <a href="http://www.scholarpedia.org/article/Belousov-Zhabotinsky_reaction" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Belousov-Zhabotinsky reaction</a> to see how chemical reactions could arrange themselves in repeating waves. 



That work inspired decades of experiments on <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-60853-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reaction-diffusion systems</a>, yet many setups still rely on older methods.



This new approach is the first significant addition to that research area since the 1950s, and it focuses on creating patterns not just through <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prmaterials/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevMaterials.9.035201" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemistry</a> but also through mechanical deformations.



By harnessing a stressed metal film on a germanium wafer, patterns that include spirals, flower-like shapes, and other forms arise over the course of a day or two.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-germanium-matters">Why germanium matters</h2>



<a href="https://irds.ieee.org/topics/semiconductor-materials" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Semiconductor materials</a> such as germanium have long been valued for electronics, thanks to their efficient pairing with thin films. 



In the right environment, their surfaces can be carefully etched, making them useful for controlled studies.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/spiral-patterns_logarithmic_yellow_nature_UCLA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/spiral-patterns_logarithmic_yellow_nature_UCLA_1s.webp" alt="A logarithmic spiral with a diameter of 500 μm, approximately half the diameter of a sewing needle. Credit: UCLA" class="wp-image-1963124"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A logarithmic spiral with a diameter of 500 μm, approximately half the diameter of a sewing needle. Credit: UCLA</figcaption></figure>



In this case, the wafer was topped with <a href="https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Chromium-HealthProfessional/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chromium</a> and gold, then exposed to a mild etching solution. 



Over time, the stressed metal began to lift in certain spots, leading to wrinkles that guided the etching into spiral paths.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-surprising-laboratory-mistake">A surprising laboratory mistake</h2>



One night, a sample was accidentally left with a drop of water on it. People usually rinse away water droplets or dry them off, to avoid letting them sit on surfaces.&nbsp;



“I was trying to develop a measurement technique to categorize biomolecules on a surface through breaking and reforming of the chemical bonds,” explained Wong.



The following day, that misstep revealed tiny dots that turned out to be chemical etch marks spiraling across the surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mechanical-strain-and-metal-patterns">Mechanical strain and metal patterns</h2>



When a thin metal layer is under stress, it can buckle or separate from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iron-meteorites-reveal-unexpected-metal-distribution-in-solar-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface</a> below. This can shape the way chemical reactions proceed at the interface.



The research team found that mechanical strain drove local deformations which, in turn, altered how the solution etched the wafer. As the reaction advanced, wrinkles formed, guiding the spiral shapes and other patterns.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/spiral-patterns_logarithmic_nature_UCLA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/spiral-patterns_logarithmic_nature_UCLA_1s.webp" alt="Two logarithmic spirals, each with a diameter of 260 μm, featuring a central etch pit in the shape of an inverted pyramid. Credit: UCLA" class="wp-image-1963125"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Two logarithmic spirals, each with a diameter of 260 μm, featuring a central etch pit in the shape of an inverted pyramid. Credit: UCLA</figcaption></figure>



Two processes united to create these designs. One was the straightforward etching reaction, and the other was the buildup of physical tension or compression in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/metals-have-doubled-in-streams-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">metal</a> coating.



The combination links <a href="https://www.energy.gov/science/doe-explainscatalysts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemical catalysis</a> with mechanical force, a phenomenon also seen in living systems where enzymes and tissues interact. This experiment is special because it captures both aspects in a non-living setup.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revisiting-turing-s-theory">Revisiting Turing’s theory</h2>



Mathematician <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rstb.1952.0012" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alan Turing</a> predicted that certain chemicals can spontaneously create stripes, spots, or other arrangements. His theory explained how basic processes could give rise to complex patterns without a guiding hand.



Turing’s theory now supports the formation of these spiral etchings. Physical stress joins reaction-diffusion dynamics in this system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-patterns-that-resemble-biological-structures">Patterns that resemble biological structures</h2>



Living organisms rely on enzymes to kick-start growth, and that expansion distorts tissues. These deformations then loop back to affect how cells continue to develop.



This current experiment mirrors that interaction, though on a simpler, inanimate level. Some shapes on the wafer even resemble what we see in natural tissues, according to Professor Zocchi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-electrified-edge">An electrified edge</h2>



The system forms what some describe as an <a href="https://eepower.com/capacitor-guide/types/electrolytic-capacitor/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electrolytic capacitor.</a> This was highlighted by Professor Zocchi after observing how ions move and accumulate under the metal film.



It ensures the process is not just about dissolving the wafer. Charge also shifts between layers, affecting the overall reaction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-steady-formation-of-metal-patterns">Steady formation of metal patterns </h2>



Typically, the patterns appear within a day or two once the chip is placed in a humid chamber with the solution. The reaction is mild but steady, leaving enough time for wrinkles to grow.



“The thickness of the metal layer, the initial state of mechanical stress of the sample, and the composition of the etching solution all play a role in determining the type of pattern that develops,” said Professor Zocchi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-metal-patterns-further">Exploring the metal patterns further</h2>



Some scientists see this method opening doors for advanced surface engineering. Others imagine it might shed light on how materials behave under stress or how nature sculpts itself.



For now, the lab mishap has sparked plenty of excitement. Every etched swirl is a reminder that major breakthroughs can come from unexpected moments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-beyond-the-lab">Looking beyond the lab</h2>



Researchers hope to adapt these patterns for <a href="https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/6-774-physics-of-microfabrication-front-end-processing-fall-2004/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microfabrication</a>, sensor design, or decorative coatings. The interplay between chemistry and mechanics could also inform new types of materials that self-organize.



“In the biological world, this kind of coupling is actually ubiquitous,” said Professor Zocchi, adding that it is refreshing to see it in a synthetic setting.



These designs may help science close the gap between theory and real-world structures, bridging the concepts introduced by Turing with next-generation technologies.&nbsp;



The study is published in <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prmaterials/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevMaterials.9.035201" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Review Materials</a>.



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Spiral patterns can spontaneously form on metal surfaces

A small mistake in a laboratory can sometimes lead to...

Untitled design - 12

The fear of public speaking affects millions of people worldwide. Whether they are delivering a presentation, speaking in a meeting, or addressing an audience, the fear of speaking in public can hold people back in their careers, education, and personal lives. 



While traditional methods like coaching and practice can help, they often fall short in providing the immersive experience needed to build real confidence.



A research team has now developed a new virtual reality platform that offers a free and highly effective solution. The platform helps users become skilled and confident public speakers through a combination of tailored training materials and immersive virtual environments. 



By simulating real-life speaking experiences, the technology allows users to practice in front of increasingly challenging audiences, thus boosting their confidence and reducing anxiety.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virtual-reality-transforms-public-speaking">Virtual reality transforms public speaking </h2>



The platform offers a variety of virtual environments that replicate real-world <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-our-brains-manage-speaking-and-breathing-at-the-same-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">speaking</a> conditions. Users can practice in small conference rooms, large auditoriums, or even high-pressure settings like television studios. 



The goal is to make public speaking feel natural, and help users adjust to different situations while managing nervousness.



The founder of the VR platform, Dr. Chris Macdonald, is the director of the Immersive Technology Lab at Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge.



“In physical reality, a user might be practicing a presentation alone in their bedroom but on the new virtual reality platform, they can experience the sensation of presenting to a wide range of increasingly challenging photorealistic audiences,” explained Dr. Macdonald.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-making-vr-accessible-to-everyone">Making VR accessible to everyone</h2>



One of the major barriers to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/emotionally-intelligent-vr-will-change-the-way-you-exercise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VR</a> training has been accessibility. Only a small percentage of households own a VR headset, and high-end models can cost thousands of dollars. 



To address this, the researchers developed a method that allows smartphones to function as VR headsets, using a simple and affordable device mount. With 99% of UK households owning a smartphone, this approach ensures that the platform can reach a wider audience. 



Whether users are using the latest VR headset or an older smartphone, they will have access to the same training experience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-confidence-quickly">Building confidence quickly</h2>



The effectiveness of the platform has been validated through clinical research. A study published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/virtual-reality/articles/10.3389/frvir.2024.1506938/full">Frontiers in Virtual Reality</a> found that most users experienced a significant increase in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-help-children-improve-their-confidence-and-social-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">confidence</a> after just one 30-minute session.



A sample of 1,000 students took part in the trial and 100% of them reported experiencing benefits in terms of their public speaking performance. These included feeling more prepared, adaptable, resilient, and less anxious.



Further findings will be presented at an upcoming international psychology conference, where researchers will discuss the platform’s potential impact on mental well-being and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/online-gaming-may-enhance-career-prospects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">career</a> development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-user-feedback-shapes-development">User feedback shapes development</h2>



To ensure the platform works in real-world conditions, the team at the Immersive Technology Lab used an iterative development process. More than 50,000 practice presentations have been hosted by remote beta users.



Additionally, in-person testing events were held in various settings, including science fairs, libraries, and community centers.



“I wanted to build something that is not only highly effective but that can and will be used by those who need it the most. As a result, it was essential to gather diverse user feedback from a variety of settings. The Lab cannot develop in a silo, it needs to work closely with end users," said Dr. Macdonald.



"Through constant public engagement, we can maximize our positive impact and ensure that we remain deeply grounded in public service."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-techniques-for-more-effective-training">New techniques for more effective training</h2>



The platform introduces innovative training methods, such as overexposure therapy, that are designed to help users build confidence in high-pressure situations.



Dr. Macdonald noted that students who use the VR platform can practice in a different venue every night to a wide range of highly distracting audiences and fear-inducing scenarios. 



"They can, for example, practice in a stadium in front of 10,000 animated spectators, with loud noises, stadium lights, and flashing cameras. Accordingly, a subsequent presentation to a small group can feel like a significant ‘step down,’" explained Dr. Macdonald.



"The data shows that this process not only increases confidence, adaptability, and resilience but also the enjoyment of public speaking." 



"Students are enjoying the challenge of pushing themselves and progressing to each new level. This increased enjoyment is highly encouraging because we know that fear and anxiety are maintained or worsened through avoidance."



Beyond standard presentations, the platform offers specialized training for scenarios like reading a teleprompter, job interviews, and media appearances. 



Users also have access to an AI coach that provides real-time feedback and script suggestions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eliminating-the-fear-of-public-speaking">Eliminating the fear of public speaking </h2>



The team behind the platform is collaborating with organizations that support individuals with speech anxiety, including children who stammer. They are also developing licensing options and an app for healthcare providers.



“Speech anxiety and the fear of public speaking impact most people, and it is becoming increasingly more common over time," said Dr. Macdonald.



"This is concerning because we know that it is detrimental to mental health, physical health, academic attainment, and career progression. Therefore, the problem is prevalent, it is getting worse, it is causing harm, and ultimately, it is capping human potential. However, this no longer needs to be the case." 



The platform’s creators are seeking funding to expand its features and reach more people. They believe that, with the right support, millions of individuals can overcome their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spiders-heights-or-public-speaking-each-fear-has-a-unique-place-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fear of public speaking</a> and unlock new opportunities.



“I set out with a simple but ambitious mission: make the most effective treatment for the most common fear and make it freely accessible to all. Today, with the launch of the free platform, I believe I have achieved that. Please do use it. It will transform your life and greatly expand your opportunities,” concluded Dr. Macdonald.



The research findings were published in <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/virtual-reality/articles/10.3389/frvir.2024.1506938/full">Frontiers in Virtual Reality</a>.



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Conquering the fear of public speaking with virtual reality

The fear of public speaking affects millions of people worldwide....

Many spiders of the species Tegenaria pagana live in caves with limited vision, while others inhabit brighter areas.



This variation has drawn scientists to examine how genes guide the development of vision in Tegenaria pagana, including Dr. Efrat Gavish-Regev of The National Natural History Collections at <a href="https://en.huji.ac.il/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Hebrew University of Jerusalem</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-cave-life-affects-spider-vision">How cave life affects spider vision</h2>



Organisms in dark environments often lose some or all of their eyesight. Some, like blind fish or amphibians, compensate with heightened senses, a theme that also surfaces among <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2570642/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">subterranean spiders</a>.



Scientists are intrigued by <a href="https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/264001-Tegenaria-pagana" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tegenaria pagana</a> because different populations display varying degrees of eye size. This makes it a helpful model for those who want to uncover the gene interactions that prompt vision changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gene-expression-and-eye-formation">Gene expression and eye formation </h2>



Eye development follows a genetic blueprint known as the <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5830122/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">retinal determination network</a>. In arthropods, this set of genes can activate when cells are instructed to form visual structures.



By comparing Tegenaria pagana with more typical spiders, researchers learn how shifts in gene expression affect eye formation. One crucial discovery is the <a href="https://www.sdbonline.org/sites/fly/neural/sineocul.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sine oculis gene</a>, which they say remains vital for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sydney-funnel-web-new-giant-species-of-worlds-most-dangerous-spider-identified/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spider</a> eyesight.



The <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13227-025-00238-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">team</a> used fluorescence staining and confocal microscopy to track growth from fertilization to hatching. They noticed that even minor changes in embryonic timing can shift how eyes and other organs develop.



Different <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/save-a-spider-day-protecting-our-connection-with-nature/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spider</a> species sometimes form their body segments at varying speeds. The researchers saw that Tegenaria pagana embryos progress in unique ways, suggesting evolution can tweak shared patterns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cave-species-reveal-shifts-in-vision">Cave species reveal shifts in vision</h2>



Studies on cave spiders add fresh insights to our understanding of underground habitats. Predators like Tegenaria pagana can reveal how animals cope with darkness and scarce food resources.



Some relatives of Tegenaria pagana show partial or total eye reduction, creating a range of vision abilities within the same genus. 



Researchers suggest that comparing these differences could clarify the step-by-step process that leads to eye loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-spiders-trade-vision-for-senses">How spiders trade vision for senses</h2>



One focus of this <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13227-025-00238-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a> involved scanning a suite of genes for signs of activity in forming eyes. Each gene has a job, and if one is missing, the spider’s vision may never fully develop.



Scientists note that several <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rethinking-arachnid-evolution-the-surprising-history-of-spiders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genes</a> contribute to shaping optical tissues. This offers a clue to why some cave spiders can still see to some extent while others become blind.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adapting-to-life-in-darkness">Adapting to life in darkness</h2>



Reduced vision can open opportunities for enhanced contact-sensitive hairs, odor detection, or other senses. Many cave dwellers prove that what is lost in one sense often appears elsewhere.



Such trade-offs draw evolutionary biologists to cave systems worldwide. Tegenaria pagana adds a spider’s perspective to these discussions, highlighting how genes adapt in areas where light is absent.



“This research provides an essential reference for understanding how developmental and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/slingshot-spiders-listen-for-the-right-moment-to-launch-their-webs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic factors</a> influence eye formation in spiders.” said Dr. Gavish-Regev.



She emphasized that several Tegenaria species in Israel have assorted vision traits. This variety lets researchers gauge how gene interactions shift in response to environments with little to no light.



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



The next research steps might involve tracking similar genes in spiders that have fully lost their eyes. Tests on <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/figure/List-of-troglomorphic-troglobitic-species-recorded-in-the-sampled-caves-in-the-Brazilian_tbl1_283984196" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">troglomorphic species</a> could lead to deeper insights into how certain genes shut down or reroute.



Findings from Tegenaria pagana may even relate to vision changes in <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gregor-Aljancic-2/publication/269463496_Biology_and_functional_morphology_of_Proteus_anguinus_Amphibia_Caudata/links/548c45060cf2d1800d7dc089/Biology-and-functional-morphology-of-Proteus-anguinus-Amphibia-Caudata.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other cave life</a>, such as crustaceans or amphibians that shed visual capacity over time.



The search for parallels across distant groups intrigues biologists who want to see if evolution follows similar scripts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dramatic-shifts-in-subterranean-spiders">Dramatic shifts in subterranean spiders</h2>



Lab-raised populations of Tegenaria pagana promise a clearer picture of how vision genes behave during each developmental stage. Eggs collected at different intervals let scientists catch gene signals before any tissue forms.



Future research could test if genetic tweaks at early phases can produce permanent vision defects. If so, we might begin to link gene events to the dramatic shifts seen in subterranean spiders.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-gene-changes-affect-vision">Small gene changes affect vision</h2>



Tegenaria pagana shows that minor changes in genes can have major effects on sight. These cave spiders add new angles to old questions about how organisms negotiate harsh, light-free habitats.



Experts plan to examine related species with fewer or missing eyes to see if the same genes come into play. This could clarify whether vision reduction follows similar routes in various caves.



Insights from Tegenaria pagana may guide future pest control strategies in human structures. By grasping how vision genes shift, we might refine ways to manage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-spiders-outsmart-predators-imitating-mimicking-ants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spiders</a> that thrive in dark corners.



Cave exploration groups can also benefit from this line of research, as understanding spider adaptations can provide insights into ecosystem health. If these spiders fail to maintain normal development, it might signal shifts in subterranean environments.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gregor-Aljancic-2/publication/269463496_Biology_and_functional_morphology_of_Proteus_anguinus_Amphibia_Caudata/links/548c45060cf2d1800d7dc089/Biology-and-functional-morphology-of-Proteus-anguinus-Amphibia-Caudata.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EvoDevo</a>.



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Spiders reveal how cave creatures lose their vision over time

Many spiders of the species Tegenaria pagana live in caves...

The unstoppable march of health issues has put extraordinary pressure on healthcare workers around the globe. Conflicts between nations also threaten collaborative efforts, making it harder to explore space-inspired solutions for global care.



A new publication suggests a surprising solution by looking to the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-says-the-international-space-station-is-too-clean-add-microbes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space sector</a>. The lead author is part of an international group that believes partnering with space agencies can help address healthcare challenges worldwide.



The project is led by Dr. Farhan Asrar, an associate professor with the University of Toronto and <a href="https://www.torontomu.ca/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Toronto Metropolitan University</a>.



The experts argue that strong partnerships among diverse groups can open a new chapter in medical progress.​



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bridging-space-and-healthcare">Bridging space and healthcare</h2>



"It looks at how international collaboration in outer space can drive innovation in healthcare and global cooperation on Earth," said Dr. Asrar, highlighting how shared missions in orbit can bring countries together for a common cause.



Experts at NASA have long recognized the importance of partnerships to explore <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/station/cooperation/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">low Earth orbit</a>. 



By way of example, teams from diverse nations operating on the International Space Station (<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/international-space-station/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ISS</a>) share resources, risks, and rewards to tackle complex challenges in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astronauts-may-need-to-jump-for-better-knee-health-in-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microgravity</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-health-in-a-crisis">Global health in a crisis</h2>



The <a href="https://www.who.int/emergencies/overview" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Organization</a> has stated that health emergencies are intensifying worldwide, and better cooperation is essential. Aging populations, chronic diseases, and infectious outbreaks test the limits of healthcare systems that often struggle with limited resources.



Political disagreements can slow progress, and bureaucratic hurdles can block new solutions. Lack of synergy between nations creates friction, wasting valuable time while communities face dire medical needs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-a-unified-approach">Benefits of a unified approach</h2>



"The need for international collaboration and cooperation becomes even more crucial with the latest geopolitical updates," explained Dr. Asrar.



Just as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-travel-has-unexpected-effects-on-gut-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a> programs thrive when scientists, governments, and companies share their findings, a similar path in healthcare could accelerate research and distribute knowledge more efficiently. 



By learning from astronauts’ ability to collaborate across national boundaries, doctors and public health agencies might gain new insights that save lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-tools-boost-healthcare-speed">Space tools boost healthcare speed</h2>



Satellites have proven invaluable in <a href="http://www.un-spider.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disaster monitoring</a>, which gives leaders real-time data to allocate medical help faster. These insights can also be used to track disease outbreaks, pinpoint resource gaps, and ensure vaccines reach areas in need.



Sharing this information across continents mirrors how space agencies swap technical know-how. Such cooperation has prompted breakthroughs that might never happen if nations worked alone.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cutting-through-red-tape">Cutting through red tape</h2>



Some people fear that collaborating across borders invites political complications. The <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/space-lettuce-nasas-plans-to-grow-nutritious-plants-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space</a> sector has navigated these issues for years by developing standardized protocols, clarifying funding responsibilities, and promoting dialogue among stakeholders.



Healthcare decision-makers could adopt these methods to streamline medical innovation. Borrowing this model might lower costs, reduce duplication, and encourage swift action during crises.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unlocking-fresh-opportunities">Unlocking fresh opportunities</h2>



The study points to a new era where medicine and space exploration could boost each other's goals. Co-authors from the United Nations, NASA, and the Brazilian Space Agency contributed insights into how global networks can act as catalysts for better healthcare outcomes.



Public–private ventures in space have transformed rocket launches and experiments into more accessible endeavors. If healthcare leaders follow a similar approach, they can connect specialists across regions and create stronger, more inclusive systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-shared-mission-for-better-health">A shared mission for better health</h2>



Widening the scope of healthcare collaboration to match space exploration’s breadth may help address emerging threats. As climate change intensifies diseases and supply shortages, uniting people and organizations could shape a stronger, more adaptable framework.



With every satellite launched and every astronaut trained, the potential for valuable cooperation grows. Healthcare stands to gain from these experiences by joining forces to tackle global challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-space-healthcare-ties">Future of space-healthcare ties</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-astronauts-exercise-stay-fit-healthy-space-missions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Space</a>-inspired cooperation reveals a hopeful path for regions in conflict or dealing with limited resources. By putting shared objectives above territorial concerns, partners can tackle health crises more effectively.



This approach may eventually shape policies at national and international levels. Governments, agencies, and communities can move forward with open communication and a willingness to learn from other sectors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-space-data-and-public-health-warnings">Space data and public health warnings</h2>



The One Health approach recognizes that human well-being is linked to the state of animals and the environment. Researchers apply this framework to see how space-based data on pollution or temperature changes might warn us of looming public health hazards.



This viewpoint urges people from veterinary science, ecology, and medicine to share ideas. By integrating satellite information with local knowledge, we could address health threats early and reduce future disasters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teamwork-among-health-organizations">Teamwork among health organizations </h2>



The private sector’s interest in space has led to miniaturized devices and advanced remote-sensing technology. Hospitals and clinics can benefit from spin-off innovations, such as tools for telemedicine and early disease detection.



Startups working on <a href="https://satsearch.co/products/categories/satellite/bus/nanosatellite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nano-satellite platforms</a> often collaborate with academic institutions to refine their designs. Health organizations could replicate this teamwork by bringing in diverse partners to tackle emerging issues with haste.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-continuing-the-conversation">Continuing the conversation</h2>



Education programs that unite space experts with medical students might spark novel ideas in patient care and global preparedness. People who once saw themselves as competitors can find common ground in shared responsibilities for population well-being.



The authors believe that encouraging more open dialogue across these sectors can keep healthcare in step with the rapidly shifting world. As we watch new rockets head for low Earth orbit, we might be witnessing the start of a broader transformation.



The study is published in <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/01410768241309767?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&amp;rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&amp;rfr_dat=cr_pub%20%200pubmed" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine</a>.



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How space agencies can help address healthcare challenges

The unstoppable march of health issues has put extraordinary pressure...

There’s something timeless about the way a puppy looks at you. Wide eyes, wagging tail, a little clumsy in its steps - that kind of innocence tugs at the heart. Puppies don’t ask for much, yet they give everything. They trust without question, love without conditions, and fill silence with soft breathing and happy barks. That’s why every year, on March 23, we celebrate National Puppy Day.



But while this day showers attention on wagging tails and floppy ears, it also carries a deeper purpose - one of compassion, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pandemic-puppy-owners-report-challenges-but-remain-committed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">awareness</a>, and responsibility.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-purpose-of-national-puppy-day">Purpose of National Puppy Day</h2>



1National Puppy Day began in 2006, thanks to <a href="https://www.colleenpaige.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colleen Paige</a>, an animal behaviorist and author. Her goal wasn’t just to fill the world with cute puppy pictures. She established this day to spotlight the rising concerns around puppy mills and animal homelessness.



With millions of puppies born into poor conditions every year, the world needed a day that reminded people to adopt, not shop.



Colleen Paige wanted the public to understand that many dogs in shelters wait for homes while puppies are bred for profit in overcrowded and inhumane facilities. Puppy mills often keep mother dogs in cages with barely enough space to turn around. 



These mothers are bred repeatedly until they are too old or sick, at which point they are discarded. Puppies from these mills often suffer from health problems due to poor breeding practices and lack of medical care.



National Puppy Day isn't just a feel-good moment. It’s a social movement wrapped in soft fur and bright eyes. By choosing to adopt from shelters instead of buying from pet stores or online breeders, people can disrupt this cycle of cruelty. 



Paige’s initiative has since gained worldwide recognition, sparking conversations about animal rights and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-people-experience-puppy-blues-with-a-new-pet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">responsible pet care</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-puppy-mill-problem">The puppy mill problem</h2>



Puppy mills are not rare. In the United States alone, there are an estimated 10,000 of these commercial breeding facilities. These mills collectively produce over 2 million <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/petting-a-dog-might-be-the-easiest-way-to-reduce-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">puppies</a> each year, many of which end up in pet shops or are sold online.



Meanwhile, nearly the same number of dogs are euthanized annually in overcrowded shelters. This staggering contrast reveals a harsh truth - there is no shortage of dogs in need of homes, only a shortage of awareness.



Puppy mills focus on quantity, not quality. Dogs are often kept in wire cages without proper bedding, food, or medical care. Their emotional needs are ignored. 



Mothers give birth repeatedly without rest, their bodies weakening over time. Puppies raised in these conditions may look healthy but often carry long-term health and behavioral issues.



By adopting, potential pet owners help break the cycle. Adoption gives homeless dogs a second chance and reduces the demand for mass breeding. National Puppy Day calls on people to educate themselves, their families, and their communities about the potentially cruel conditions in which many puppies are bred.



Change begins with knowing the truth, and this day is about more than just cuddles - it’s about making informed, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-suffer-from-the-january-blues-just-like-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">compassionate choices</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-make-national-puppy-day-count">Make National Puppy Day count</h2>



March 23 should be more than just a day to post photos. It should be a moment of reflection, kindness, and action. People can celebrate by visiting local shelters, spending time with the animals, and learning more about how they can help. 



Shelters often use this day to host special events, encouraging community members to meet adoptable puppies and learn about rescue work.



Even if adopting isn’t an option right now, there are other ways to support the cause. Volunteering time, donating supplies, or simply sharing information online can help shelters find loving homes for their animals. 



Raising awareness within your own network can lead to more adoptions, better understanding, and stronger support systems for animals in need.



For those with pets already, National Puppy Day is a lovely excuse to give them extra attention. A longer walk, a new toy, or a few more minutes of playtime can mean the world to a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-dogs-feel-smells-may-help-keep-us-safe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">puppy</a>. These small moments remind us why dogs are considered to be man’s best friend.



They bring loyalty, joy, and a kind of companionship that’s hard to find elsewhere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-puppy-facts-that-brighten-the-day">Puppy facts that brighten the day</h2>



Puppies may be young, but they have fascinating quirks that make them even more lovable. Most puppies sleep between 15 and 20 hours a day. This sleep fuels their rapid growth and development.



Dalmatians, known for their spots, are actually born without any. Their signature markings develop as they grow older. In rare cases, light-haired puppies are born with a green tint from a pigment in the womb - a color that fades within a few days.



The smallest adult dog ever recorded was just 3.8 inches (9.6 centimeters) tall. On the other end of the scale is the famous floral sculpture in Bilbao, Spain - a forty-foot-tall (12 meter) puppy covered in tens of thousands of fresh flowers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-day-to-celebrate-and-reflect">A day to celebrate and reflect</h2>



National Puppy Day 2025 is more than a celebration of cuteness. It’s a reminder that love comes with responsibility. 



Puppies are not toys. They are living beings who need time, patience, and care. Dogs deserve safe homes, not cages. They deserve kindness, not neglect.



Whether you have a dog, want one, or just love seeing them in your feed, March 23 is a day to pause and consider how we treat animals in general, and how we can do better.



So this year, take a moment to celebrate the joy of puppies. But also take a step toward change. Visit a shelter. Share a story. Adopt if you’re ready. Speak up when you see cruelty. Because behind every happy bark is a chance to build a more compassionate world. 



And every puppy, no matter where it starts, deserves that chance.



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National Puppy Day 2025: Where happiness meets responsibility

There’s something timeless about the way a puppy looks at...

Humans stand apart from many other primates by taking more time to mature, relying on a supportive network of parents, grandparents, and community members during a long period of childhood. 



This extended period of growth has long been considered crucial for acquiring the abilities required to thrive in a socially complex environment. 



For a while, scientists have connected this slow development to the considerable energy demands of a growing brain. Experts remain intrigued by these social patterns.



Yet, a near-adult fossil of early Homo from the Dmanisi site in Georgia suggests there could be another explanation.



The remains, dated to about 1.77 million years ago, shed light on the interplay between cultural learning and childhood length, raising the idea that the traditional “big brain - long childhood” concept may not be the full story. 



Christoph Zollikofer from the <a href="https://www.uzh.ch/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Zurich</a> played a central part in investigating the unexpected details that have come to light. This site reshaped views on early ancestry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracing-human-childhood-in-ancient-fossils">Tracing human childhood in ancient fossils</h2>



Researchers applied synchrotron imaging to examine dental microstructures. 



“Childhood and cognition do not fossilize, so we have to rely on indirect information. Teeth are ideal because they fossilize well and produce daily rings, in the same way that trees produce annual rings, which record their development,” explains Zollikofer. 



This approach allowed the team to chart growth phases with remarkable precision. Such approaches boost accuracy in fossil studies.



“Dental development is strongly correlated with the development of the rest of the body, including brain development," another specialist, Paul Tafforeau from the ESRF, remarks.



"Access to the details of a fossil <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-humans-thrived-on-plant-based-diets-not-meat-alone-780000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hominid's dental growth</a> therefore provides a great deal of information about its general growth.” 



The group’s effort began in 2005 and spanned about 18 years, benefiting from technological advances in synchrotron tomography. 



The first scans took place in 2006, followed by initial results in 2007. High-resolution scans now guide innovative anthropological work.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reconstructing-growth-from-dental-clues">Reconstructing growth from dental clues</h2>



The team discovered something that defied the usual categories. 



“We expected to find either dental development typical of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pierolapithecus-catalaunicus-recreating-face-of-an-ancient-human-ancestor/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early hominids</a>, close to that of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-gorilla-day-supporting-the-guardians-of-the-forest/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">great apes</a>, or dental development close to that of modern humans," explains Tafforeau.



"When we obtained the first results, we couldn't believe what we saw, because it was something different that implied faster molar crown growth than in any other fossil hominin or living great ape. It’s been a slow maturation, both technically and intellectually, to finally arrive at the hypothesis we are publishing today.” 



In addition, the high-quality scans allowed the scientists to track growth from birth to death without damaging the specimen. Incremental examination helped reveal unexpected growth patterns.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/child-teeth_fossil-skull_Dmanisi-dig-site_explains-long-homo-childhood_credit-ESRF_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/child-teeth_fossil-skull_Dmanisi-dig-site_explains-long-homo-childhood_credit-ESRF_1s.webp" alt="3D reconstruction of the fossil skull of the sub-adult early Homo from the Dmanisi site in Georgia. The green, orange and red colors represent the preserved teeth (imaged respectively with the synchrotron at 5um, with the synchrotron at 47um, and with an industrial scanner at 250um). The blue teeth are missing ones added by mirroring their symmetrical counterparts. The purple first lower incisors have not been recovered, and have been extrapolated form the second lower incisor. Credit: ESRF/Paul Tafforeau, Vincent Beyrand" class="wp-image-1963054"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">3D reconstruction of the fossil skull of the sub-adult early Homo from the Dmanisi site in Georgia. The green, orange and red colors represent the preserved teeth (imaged respectively with the synchrotron at 5um, with the synchrotron at 47um, and with an industrial scanner at 250um). The blue teeth are missing ones added by mirroring their symmetrical counterparts. The purple first lower incisors have not been recovered, and have been extrapolated form the second lower incisor. Credit: ESRF/Paul Tafforeau, Vincent Beyrand</figcaption></figure>



Alongside that surprise, the analysis revealed a specific timeline for this individual’s life. 



“The results showed that this individual died between 11 and 12 years of age, when his wisdom teeth had already erupted, as is the case in great apes at this age,” explains Vincent Beyrand, co-author of the study. 



The front teeth initially progressed more quickly, while the back teeth took longer to complete. Every tooth layer illuminated unique ancient development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-slower-development-in-human-childhood">Slower development in human childhood</h2>



Additional evidence highlights that youth in this early Homo likely depended on adults for an extended stretch. 



“This suggests that milk teeth were used for longer than in the great apes and that the children of this early Homo species were dependent on adult support for longer than those of the great apes,” explains Marcia Ponce de León from the University of Zurich and co-author of the study. 



“This could be the first evolutionary experiment of prolonged childhood.” 



One skeleton found at Dmanisi belonged to a much older individual who had lost all teeth but survived with help from others. Communal responsibilities likely shaped new social conventions.



According to David Lordkipadnize of the <a href="https://museum.ge/index.php?m=350&amp;lang=eng&amp;museum=54&amp;lng=eng" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Museum of Georgia</a>, “The fact that such an old individual was able to survive without any teeth for several years indicates that the rest of the group took good care of him.” 



The presence of multiple generations within the same community could have enabled knowledge to flow more freely. 



That knowledge might have included food processing strategies, tool use, or group coordination. Older guardians offered knowledge to younger members.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-all-of-this-mean">What does all of this mean?</h2>



Scientists propose that lengthening childhood in early humans might have come first, driving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-did-early-humans-first-start-wearing-clothes-and-why-parasites-lice/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cultural transmission</a> and social learning. 



Over time, this dynamic may have supported brain expansion, rather than the brain growing first and pushing for extended development. 



It appears that maturing slowly allowed young individuals to absorb a growing body of information from older members of the group. 



It also permitted older members to share their hard-earned expertise for a lengthier period. Continued support helped cultivate lasting cultural capacities.



Then, as the amount of information to be transmitted increased, evolution would have favored an increase in brain size and a delay in adulthood, allowing us both to learn more in childhood and to have the time to grow a larger brain despite limited food resources. 



By focusing on how children rely on social networks early in life, this fossil from Dmanisi emphasizes the possibility that extended childhood and intergenerational support played a decisive role in shaping the path toward modern Homo sapiens. 



Researchers are now poised to reexamine the conventional views on what sparked the long adolescence so familiar to us today. Ongoing research keeps clarifying childhood’s formative contribution to humanity.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08205-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Fossil teeth discovery may explain why humans have such long childhoods

Humans stand apart from many other primates by taking more...

Climate targets set by nations under the Paris Agreement outline voluntary commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These targets, known as Percentage Reduction Pledges (PRPs), reflect the commitments of individual countries to combating climate change. 



However, this does not necessarily reflect the willingness of citizens in these countries to contribute financially to climate action.



A recent study from the <a href="https://uol.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oldenburg</a> in Germany examines the question of how closely the PRPs represent citizen buy in, in terms of willingness to contribute financially. The research explores the relationship between national climate targets and the public's willingness to support <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-initiative-led-to-health-benefits-for-800-u-s-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate initiatives</a> financially. 



The findings reveal that, while higher-income countries tend to set more ambitious reduction goals, their populations are often less willing to contribute personally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-targets-and-public-willingness">Climate targets and public willingness</h2>



The experts analyzed climate pledges from 123 countries, and used data from nearly 130,000 individuals surveyed in 125 nations as part of the Global Climate Change Survey.



The findings highlight that, while 89% of respondents believe their governments should take stronger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/conservatives-liberals-unite-climate-action-despite-different-beliefs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate action</a>, only 69% expressed willingness to allocate 1% of their income toward climate mitigation.



The analysis uncovered key economic and environmental factors that influence both national pledges and individual contributions. Higher per-capita income and emissions correlated with more ambitious governmental targets. However, the same factors negatively influenced public willingness to contribute. 



In wealthier, high-emission nations, citizens were less inclined to accept personal financial sacrifices in support of climate initiatives.



Temperature trends further shaped responses. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brutal-effects-of-climate-change-have-already-arrived-in-the-uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Warmer countries</a> demonstrated higher individual willingness to contribute, whereas colder countries adopted stronger national targets. 



The study suggests that residents of colder regions may perceive climate change as a less immediate threat, making them less willing to engage in mitigation efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-public-support-of-climate-policies">Public support of climate policies </h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-flood-disaster-in-germany-raises-new-questions-about-extreme-precipitation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Germany</a> exemplifies this trend. It ranks among the top nations in climate pledges, committing to a 39.7% emissions reduction between 2019 and 2030. This places it 12th out of 123 countries in terms of its PRP.



Yet, despite its ambitious government targets, public willingness to contribute financially remains lower than in many other countries. Germany ranks 74th in this category, with 67.9% of its citizens agreeing to allocate a portion of their income toward climate action. 



Meanwhile, only 86% of German respondents supported stronger governmental climate policies, ranking the country 89th globally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ethical-and-political-dilemma">The ethical and political dilemma</h2>



The study interprets these findings as a reflection of a broader tension between climate policy and public perception. 



The United Nations’ principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities" emphasizes equity in climate action. However, individuals often prioritize economic considerations over ethical responsibility.



"People assume that the lower the temperatures in a country are, the less impact climate change will have there," explained Dr. Heinz Welsch, an environmental economist at the University of Oldenburg.



Additionally, individuals in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/industrialized-countries-owe-roughly-170-trillion-for-co2-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high-emission nations</a> worry about economic setbacks caused by strict climate regulations. 



"Cost-benefit calculations, therefore, make it likely that in colder, richer and more carbon-intensive countries there will be less willingness to contribute to climate protection," said Dr. Welsch.



Another layer to this issue is democratic satisfaction. The research highlights a notable pattern: when a government's climate targets exceed public willingness to contribute, citizens report lower satisfaction with democracy.



While the study does not establish causation, it suggests that climate policies requiring public sacrifices without broad support could create political challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solutions-for-bridging-the-gap">Solutions for bridging the gap</h2>



To bridge this gap, the report recommends policy strategies that minimize the economic cost of climate action for citizens. One such strategy can be a climate fund that recycles revenue from carbon taxes and uses it to benefit poorer citizens. 



These structures can make effective climate policies that are ambitious and also acceptable to people, so action is not undertaken at the risk of political destabilization.



The study underlines the complexity of climate policy. While governments might make firm commitments, public involvement is still necessary for significant progress.



To develop effective, long-lasting climate policies, understanding the determinants of both policy and individual willingness is vital.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-urgency-of-achieving-climate-targets">Urgency of achieving climate targets</h2>



Climate change is not an inevitable fate - it is a challenge that can be mitigated through decisive action.



Meeting climate targets is crucial to slowing global warming, reducing extreme weather events, and protecting ecosystems for future generations. 



Every degree of warming prevented means fewer droughts, wildfires and damaging storms, and less increase in sea level.



The window for meaningful action is closing, but success remains within reach if nations commit to real, enforceable solutions. The future depends on turning promises into progress before it’s too late.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921800925000035?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ecological Economics</a>.



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Wealthier nations set bold climate targets,  but citizens give less

Climate targets set by nations under the Paris Agreement outline...

Researchers have identified a measurable link between events in the earliest days of embryo development and a person’s long-term health. 



Many people don't think much about what happens right after conception, yet those first steps can influence how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/embryo-formation-is-shaped-by-electric-fields/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cells</a> stay strong over time.



In a recent study led by Professor Rebecca Robker from the <a href="https://www.adelaide.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Adelaide</a>, scientists analyzed key components of DNA called <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-57794-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">telomeres</a>, which act like protective ends on each chromosome.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-embryo-telomeres-protect-health">How embryo telomeres protect health</h2>



<a href="https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Telomere" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Telomeres</a> have a special <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCGENETICS.113.000485" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA sequence</a> that shields our genetic material whenever cells split. They tend to shrink a little with each cell division, which is why older individuals often have shorter telomeres.



“Telomeres are the parts of chromosomes that influence growth and rejuvenation of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/embryo-development-shows-how-evolution-had-many-options-to-choose-from/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tissues</a>,” said Professor Robker. 



Not only do they affect how efficiently our bodies manage cellular renewal, but telomeres also connect with how we handle stress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-looking-inside-embryo-growth">Looking inside embryo growth</h2>



“Reduced telomere length can be caused by embryonic cellular damage,” said study co-lead Dr. Yasmyn Winstanley. 



The researchers found that the body’s condition at conception seems to shape how well these chromosomal ends develop. 



“There are specific types of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hidden-viral-dna-may-control-human-embryonic-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cellular damage</a> during the very first days of embryo development which cause the defect in the telomeres of the embryo. The process is highly responsive to signals from the mother’s body,” explained Dr. Winstanley. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maternal-health-shapes-embryo-health">Maternal health shapes embryo health</h2>



Conditions such as obesity can raise the risk of having shorter telomeres <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27751173/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">at birth</a>. This has caught the attention of public health advocates because shorter telomeres in children can mean increased vulnerability to later challenges.



“Some babies are born with shorter telomeres than others, increasing their lifetime risk of chronic diseases associated with aging,” said Professor Robker. 



Offspring may inherit a greater susceptibility to problems linked to heart function and other metabolic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-kills-ocean-embryos-during-development/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">processes</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-possible-break-in-the-chain">A possible break in the chain</h2>



“Until now it has not been clear how the length of telomeres is determined before birth,” said Professor Robker. 



But her group has demonstrated that pre-conception factors set off cellular signals that change how these protective caps are established.



“We provide proof-of-concept that DNA resetting can be modulated in embryos where it is deficient, using currently available drugs,” said Professor Robker. 



The researchers tested strategies to repair such damage in the embryo’s early hours.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drugs-restore-embryo-telomere-health">Drugs restore embryo telomere health</h2>



Therapies that support healthy <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1201940" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mitochondria</a> inside eggs appear to help maintain or restore telomeres. Mitochondria drive cellular energy, and they also produce byproducts that can harm DNA when not balanced.



“Our identification of specific pharmaceutical compounds that can modulate telomeres during preconception and immediately following fertilization, means that there are therapeutic opportunities to optimise this biology,” explained Professor Robker.



The researchers are now working with <a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/search/organization/Vitaleon%2520Pharma" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vitaleon Pharma</a> to develop these findings for fertility specialists.



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



“These findings highlight that the health of women and girls should be a major focus of public health policies,” said Dr. Winstanley. 



Public awareness around maintaining a healthy weight, balanced nutrition, and a supportive environment may therefore be key.



For many, the best start comes from paying attention to signs of metabolic strain. Experts advise timely monitoring of overall wellness, especially in individuals aiming to have children.



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



Telomeres remain a vital puzzle in understanding why some people age well and others do not. 



Observing their behavior from the earliest stage can open possibilities to fine-tune approaches that offset <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shark-embryo-mortality-could-rise-by-71-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">damage</a> before a child is even born.



Continuing clinical trials may look at ways to guard or extend telomeres while an embryo forms. If the right interventions are offered in time, tomorrow’s children might enter life with robust cellular shields.



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



This research has added new perspectives to the study of early development. Scientists hope it will lead to targeted treatments that support mother and child, especially when metabolic challenges arise.



Clinics offering reproductive services may eventually add telomere-based checks to their methods. Getting a snapshot of <a href="https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?bookid=2977&amp;sectionid=254987027" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">maternal physiology</a> and egg health could help doctors suggest the next steps.



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



<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26561272/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Life spans</a> have been edging upward over the past century, but not all extra years are disease-free. As more people recognize the link between a healthy pregnancy and better aging, demand for interventions might grow.



Practitioners see value in including telomere monitoring for prospective parents. Early findings about these chromosome ends could spark new ways to promote healthier outcomes from infancy through adulthood.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-57794-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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Mom's health shapes how well an embryo develops

Researchers have identified a measurable link between events in the...

For centuries, people have wondered how humans differ from other primates, particularly in terms of brain characteristics. 



Recent scientific advancements suggest that some neural pathways in humans function with unique connections not seen in chimpanzees or macaques.



In a recent study, researchers examined these specialized <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/subtle-dna-changes-shaped-human-brain-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain circuits</a> and found potential links to emotional regulation, social intelligence, and language capabilities. 



The research was led by Rogier Mars from the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Oxford</a> and Katherine Bryant from <a href="https://www.univ-amu.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aix-Marseille University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-human-brains-process-emotions-uniquely">Human brains process emotions uniquely</h2>



Many <a href="https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rstb.2002.1099" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> have pointed to the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499919/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prefrontal cortex</a> as a major player in our capacity for focused attention, strategic thinking, and impulse control. 



The new data suggests that the neural regions governing emotions and interpersonal bonds also have remarkable features in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-genes-to-genius-what-makes-the-human-brain-unique/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">humans</a>.



Areas governing empathy, reading facial cues, and interpreting subtle social signals exhibit patterns of connectivity that appear notably different in our species. 



This could mean that group cooperation, moral reasoning, and emotional nuance are molded by unique brain pathways.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prefrontal-cortex-and-beyond">Prefrontal cortex and beyond</h2>



Peer-reviewed research has linked the prefrontal cortex to a variety of higher-order functions, including planning and problem-solving. 



For decades, scientists assumed that these executive tasks primarily distinguished us from other primates.



Now, evidence indicates that other networks, particularly those involved with emotional learning, may be equally pivotal to our advanced behavior. The interplay between cognition and emotion adds another layer to the conversation about what makes us <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dna-changes-supercharged-the-human-brain-but-at-a-cost/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-differences-in-human-and-chimp-brains">Differences in human and chimp brains</h2>



Chimpanzees share over 98% of our DNA, a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11170892/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fact</a> that highlights how closely related we are biologically.



Still, scans from a publicly accessible archive, which were collected prior to the 2015 guidelines by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Institutes of Health, reveal surprising differences in certain brain areas.



These structural distinctions include connections associated with communication, emotional depth, and social dynamics. By comparing chimpanzee, macaque, and human brains side by side, researchers can pinpoint pathways that might underlie our species’ unique traits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shifts-in-connectivity">Shifts in connectivity</h2>



Specialized circuits in the <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/16799-temporal-lobe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">temporal</a> and <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24628-parietal-lobe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parietal lobes</a> appear to handle processes such as combining sensory input, linking events to context, and supporting sophisticated language. 



By mapping these neural webs, scientists discover clusters of activity that seem exclusive to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-ai-systems-learn-like-the-human-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">humans</a>.



According to the researchers, these hotspots could account for our tendency to form complex social alliances, interpret subtle linguistic cues, and adapt to changing environments. 



When these findings are added to our understanding of the prefrontal cortex, the result is a bigger picture of how the human brain navigates everyday life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-networks-in-brain-set-humans-apart">Networks in brain set humans apart</h2>



Some neuroscience <a href="https://journals.physiology.org/doi/10.1152/physrev.00006.2011" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">investigations</a> relate language to specialized regions in the temporal lobe, where phonological and semantic processing occurs. 



This aspect of connectivity might underpin our ability to learn thousands of words, structure them into sentences, and convey intricate ideas with ease.



Strong language networks show how communication evolved beyond simple sounds. Researchers believe that these changes did not arise from a single “language gene” but from a reconfiguration of multiple interlinked neural systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-it-all-means">What it all means</h2>



“Our <a href="https://www.jneurosci.org/content/early/2025/02/23/JNEUROSCI.2017-24.2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">results</a> counter models that assign primacy to prefrontal cortex for human uniqueness,” wrote Bryant and colleagues. Human's social and emotional wiring might be as influential to our humanity as the well-studied prefrontal cortex.&nbsp;



This perspective broadens our view of what makes us tick, giving new weight to the roles of empathy, social signaling, and emotional interplay in setting our species apart. It also emphasizes that the human story is about more than just rational thinking.



In the future, scientists may examine how these specialized connections develop over a lifetime and whether they shift in different cultures. Such research could reveal how malleable our brains are and how our capacity for compassion, language, and community evolves.



Each study provides a stepping stone for deeper inquiries into the complexity of our neural wiring. Findings like these remind us that the human brain is not defined by a single region, but by a tapestry of linked networks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-another-perspective-on-evolution">Another perspective on evolution</h2>



Some anthropologists note that major shifts in diet, group size, and tool use likely influenced how certain networks in the brain matured over thousands of years. 



<a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/204350" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> of early human fossils, coupled with comparative genetics, help fill in the timeline of when these anatomical transitions took shape.



By connecting fossil evidence with modern brain imaging, researchers might trace how environmental pressures pushed these specialized connections to develop. 



Examining ancient cranial remains could reveal if the capacity for intricate social behaviors and language co-evolved alongside changes in skull shape and brain volume.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.jneurosci.org/content/early/2025/02/23/JNEUROSCI.2017-24.2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JNeurosci</a>.



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New brain pathways identified as being unique to humans

For centuries, people have wondered how humans differ from other...

Feathers did not arrive in nature as fully formed tools for flight. Their development began long before birds took to the sky. The fossil record tells a story that stretches back over 200 million years.



Now, with the help of genetic tools and carefully timed experiments, scientists can reawaken ancient traits inside of modern embryos.



This is not just about feathers. It's about how complexity arises, how it endures, and how biology protects the structures it builds. By reversing certain steps in feather <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/from-dinosaurs-to-birds-the-mysterious-origin-of-feathers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development</a>, researchers reveal a hidden resilience. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feather-development-before-birds">Feather development before birds</h2>



The earliest feathers didn’t help animals fly. Instead, they started as simple, hollow filaments. These "proto-feathers" likely emerged in some dinosaurs during the Triassic period, around 200 million years ago. 



There’s even evidence they may have evolved earlier, in a common ancestor of dinosaurs and pterosaurs nearly 240 million years ago.



Unlike modern feathers, proto-feathers had no central shaft, no branching barbs, and no follicle. But they still served a purpose. They helped with insulation and may have acted as colorful or patterned signals during social interaction. 



Over time, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-evolution-timeline-pushed-back-20-million-years-by-baminornis-zhenghensis-discovery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural selection</a> shaped feathers into complex tools that now support everything from flight to waterproofing.



This progression - from basic filaments to branched, aerodynamic feathers - didn’t happen randomly. It followed a path written in genes, using signaling pathways shared across the animal kingdom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-hidden-in-bird-embryos">Clues hidden in bird embryos</h2>



Modern bird embryos offer a way to retrace this path. At the <a href="https://www.unige.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Geneva</a>, Professor Michel Milinkovitch and his team have explored the genetics of feather formation. Their lab focuses on how molecular signals drive the development of skin structures like scales, hair, and feathers.



One such signaling system, the Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) pathway, plays a crucial role in shaping feathers. In earlier studies, the team activated this pathway in chicken embryos. 



The result was remarkable - scales on the feet of the birds transformed into permanent feathers. That experiment proved how a single shift in signaling can alter skin identity.



But what would happen if the Shh pathway were blocked instead?



"Feathers, ancient and intricate, still hold secrets that science is just beginning to unlock," noted Rory Cooper, lead author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-feather-development-recreated">Ancient feather development recreated</h2>



To investigate, the researchers injected a drug called sonidegib into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bird-wings-inspire-improvements-in-airplane-safety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chicken</a> embryos on their ninth day of development.



This drug shuts down the Shh pathway by targeting a key protein called Smoothened. The timing was crucial - day nine is when feather placodes begin to form, marking the start of feather bud development.



The results were dramatic. Feather buds failed to grow and remained short and unbranched. The typical invagination that forms a feather follicle was absent. Instead, the skin developed smooth, hollow filaments - almost identical to proto-feathers seen in fossils.



This temporary block in development held until the fourteenth day. After that, something unexpected happened. Feather growth resumed on its own. Chicks that hatched had patches of bare skin, but over the next several weeks, those areas filled in with normal feathers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closer-look-at-how-feathers-recover">A closer look at how feathers recover</h2>



The researchers tracked development from embryo to hatchling using imaging and RNA sequencing. They confirmed that the Shh pathway was indeed suppressed. 



Key genes like Ptch1, Ptch2, and Gli1 were all turned down. These genes normally guide outgrowth, branching, and follicle formation. Blocking them prevented barbs and ridges from forming.



Microscopy revealed that in high-dose treatments, feather buds remained fused, stubby, and lacked branching. 



Follicle invagination - the folding-in of the skin to support feather roots - was completely absent. But despite all this, the system rebounded. By 49 days after hatching, the chicks showed normal feather coverage.



The only part that didn’t return to normal? The flight feathers. These specialized feathers, located on the posterior edge of the wing, failed to form correctly in high-dose embryos. 



Even weeks later, their positions were filled by smaller, contour-type <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-and-why-tropical-birds-are-so-strikingly-colorful-and-iridescent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feathers</a>. This indicated that some aspects of feather identity are locked to narrow developmental windows.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-timing-is-everything">Timing is everything</h2>



To verify that the observed effects were specific to Shh signaling, the team ran a second experiment. They combined the Shh-blocking drug with a Shh activator known as SAG. If feathers could be restored this way, it would confirm that both molecules act directly on the same pathway.



And they were. Chicks treated with both sonidegib and SAG developed normal feathers. Even when SAG was delivered one or two days after sonidegib, the feathers grew, branched, and invaginated as they should. 



Only late treatment - beyond day eleven - led to partial recovery. This showed that timing is everything in embryonic development.



"Our experiments show that while a transient disturbance in the development of foot scales can permanently turn them into feathers, it is much harder to permanently disrupt feather development itself," noted Michel Milinkovitch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feathers-recover-scales-do-not">Feathers recover, scales do not</h2>



This recovery points to something fundamental about feathers. They grow from follicles that contain stem cells. These cells regenerate feathers cyclically throughout a bird’s life. 



In contrast, scales - like those on a bird’s foot - do not grow from follicles and cannot regenerate. That may explain why transformed foot scales remain feathers, while disrupted feathers bounce back.



Even at the gene expression level, this distinction is clear. After sonidegib treatment, the feathers showed temporary suppression of hundreds of genes tied to structure and shape - keratin production, signaling gradients, and branching formation. 



But the spatial map of feather follicles remained intact. Once signaling returned, so did the feathers.



Flight feathers, however, rely on precise placement and signaling levels during a short developmental window. If Shh signaling is missing at that moment, the opportunity is lost. The feather becomes ordinary, not aerodynamic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-mechanisms-modern-precision">Ancient mechanisms, modern precision</h2>



The entire experiment rests on a principle called reaction-diffusion. It’s a model that explains how patterns like stripes, spots, and ridges form in living tissues. 



The Shh protein works as an activator, while another molecule, Bmp2, acts as its inhibitor. Together, they create a spatial map that tells cells where to grow barbs, shafts, or follicles.



By altering the Shh signal, scientists rewrote this map. The result: broad stripes of gene activity replaced the usual dotted pattern of feather placodes. This type of disruption aligns with theories on how feathers evolved from simpler, unbranched structures. 



Proto-feathers didn’t have a patterned map yet - just the beginnings of one.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feather-development-and-evolution">Feather development and evolution</h2>



The study does more than recreate an ancient structure. It shows that feather development is built to recover from disruption. 



This makes sense from an evolutionary point of view. Feathers are essential to survival in many bird species. Evolution may have shaped them to resist failure - much like a city has backup systems to keep it running.



And yet, these systems remain open to change. By manipulating just one pathway, scientists can trigger a full shift in identity - from scale to feather. Or they can recreate traits that vanished millions of years ago.



It’s a reminder that the genetic blueprint of life is both sturdy and flexible. The key lies not in the parts themselves, but in the timing and tuning of their signals. Feathers evolved through such changes - and continue to teach us how form and function intertwine across deep time.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.3003061" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLOS Biology</a>.



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Chicken embryos reveal secrets of early feather development

Feathers did not arrive in nature as fully formed tools...

Photo,Of,Fresh,Pistachios,On,A,Tree

California grows nearly all of the nation’s pistachios, producing 99% of the crop and contributing close to $3 billion annually to the state’s economy. 



Despite their value, pistachios haven’t received as much scientific attention as other crops - mainly due to the absence of a complete, high-quality genetic map. But that is finally changing.



Scientists at the <a href="https://www.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, Davis</a> have created the most detailed genome sequence of the pistachio to date. 



The work opens the door to developing better pistachio varieties that are potentially more nutritious and resilient to climate change. 



Alongside the genome, the team also charted the full development cycle of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-nuts-every-day-does-not-cause-weight-gain-but-it-does-improve-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nut</a>, offering insights that could help farmers grow and harvest their crops more efficiently and sustainably.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-sharper-view-of-pistachio-genetics">A sharper view of pistachio genetics</h2>



While previous studies have sequenced pistachio DNA, the new genetic map stands apart for its depth and precision.



“The improvement in accuracy of the new reference <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-does-genome-size-impact-evolutionary-success/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a> is like going from a hand-drawn map of a landscape to a satellite image from Google Earth,” said study co-author J. Grey Monroe, an assistant professor with the Department of Plant Sciences.



The team focused on the Kerman cultivar, the most widely grown pistachio variety in California. By zeroing in on this standard, the researchers made their findings directly relevant to commercial growers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-change-threatens-cold-loving-trees">Climate change threatens cold-loving trees</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/image/springtime-brings-greenery-and-dust-to-turkmenistan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pistachio trees</a> are famously tough. They handle drought and salty soil better than many crops. But they also have a weakness: they need cold winters to flower and produce nuts. 



Warmer winters in recent years, along with less fog in California’s Central Valley, have disrupted that process and reduced yields.



Since pistachio trees can live and produce nuts for up to 50 years, any decision about what to plant carries long-term consequences. With climate patterns shifting, growers are understandably worried about the future of their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/megafire-smoke-has-long-lasting-impacts-on-orchard-trees/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">orchards</a>.



This is where the new genome map could help. It gives plant breeders a powerful tool to create new pistachio varieties that can adapt to warmer conditions while maintaining - or even improving - nut quality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-flower-to-harvest">From flower to harvest</h2>



The research didn’t stop at the genetic level. The team also tracked how pistachios develop over time, identifying four key stages from flowering to harvest. This includes when the shell hardens and when the kernel inside grows.



“Knowing how the nut changes through development will help farmers make better decisions, like when to water their trees, leading to more sustainable pistachio production,” said study co-author Bárbara Blanco-Ulate.



This information could also help farmers better time their harvests and reduce losses from insects or fungal infections. 



Beyond the physical stages, the researchers also studied the genetic activity at each step, offering a full picture of how the nut grows and changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pistachios-with-enhanced-health-benefits">Pistachios with enhanced health benefits </h2>



Pistachios are known for being a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-pistachios-daily-proven-to-boost-eyes-vision-and-overall-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">healthy snack</a> packed with protein and unsaturated fats. Now, researchers have pinpointed the specific genes and molecular pathways responsible for these benefits.



“We’re getting information about how all these nutritional characteristics are gained in pistachios and how we can improve that from a management perspective,” said Blanco-Ulate.&nbsp;



Understanding how nutrients build up in the nut over time could help producers fine-tune growing practices or even develop pistachios with enhanced health benefits and longer shelf life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-future-rooted-in-science">A future rooted in science</h2>



With this new genetic map and a clearer picture of how pistachios grow, researchers and farmers are better equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow. 



Whether it’s adapting to climate change or improving nut quality, California’s pistachio industry now has powerful new tools to work with - one gene at a time.



The implications go beyond scientific curiosity. As climate pressures intensify and global demand for nutritious, sustainably grown food rises, advances like these can help secure the future of an industry that supports thousands of jobs and contributes billions to the economy. 



From breeding better trees to optimizing harvest times, science is now firmly planted at the root of pistachio production.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/nph.70060" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Phytologist</a>.



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How pistachio DNA is shaping the future of farming

California grows nearly all of the nation’s pistachios, producing 99%...

In the face of climate change, forests have become more than green landscapes. They regulate temperatures, purify air and water, protect soil, and support biodiversity. 



Forests also absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in trees and soil, helping to reduce global warming.



Oceans do the same, but forests offer a land-based solution, one that we can manage directly. The idea of planting more trees has taken hold worldwide. But the story doesn’t end there.



Not all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-losing-the-battle-against-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trees</a> offer the same benefits. Some grow quickly, others slowly. Some survive tough climates, others do well only in ideal conditions. 



The challenge for forest managers is figuring out which trees will trap the most carbon where they are planted.



The answer lies in matching tree traits with the land on which they grow.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-study-seeks-answers">A global study seeks answers</h2>



To explore this issue, researchers from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">INRAE</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agro-bordeaux.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bordeaux Sciences Agro</a>&nbsp;teamed up with global partners. The project brought together the&nbsp;French National Forest Office (<a href="https://www.onf.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ONF</a>)&nbsp;and the&nbsp;French National Center for Private Forest Ownership (<a href="https://www.cnpf.fr/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CNPF</a>).



Together, they studied 223 tree species in 160 forest sites around the world. These included locations in Western Europe, the United States, Brazil, Ethiopia, Cameroon, and South-East Asia.



Each species was chosen to represent one of the world’s major forest biomes. The team focused on functional traits - specific characteristics that affect how a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-crops-a-path-to-feeding-the-world-and-saving-the-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree</a> grows, uses water and nutrients, and stores carbon. 



Their goal was simple yet ambitious: to identify which traits lead to better growth and carbon capture in real-world forest conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-old-beliefs-on-carbon-and-trees">Old beliefs on carbon and trees</h2>



For a long time, scientists believed that trees with acquisitive traits grew the fastest. These trees absorb resources like sunlight, water, and soil nutrients very efficiently. In controlled experiments, such as those in greenhouses, they outperform other trees in height, leaf size, and biomass.



Examples include maples, poplars, English oaks, and sessile oaks. These species have large leaves and long roots that gather nutrients quickly. Their leaves also contain large amounts of nitrogen, which supports rapid photosynthesis. All these features make them ideal candidates for storing carbon - at least on paper.



On the other side are conservative species. These trees invest less energy in fast growth. Instead, they survive by conserving internal resources like water and energy. Fir trees, downy oaks, and holm oaks fit this model. They usually grow more slowly but are better at handling environmental stress.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-surprise-from-real-forests">A surprise from real forests</h2>



When the team took their research into real forests, their findings turned the old beliefs upside down. Under natural conditions in boreal and temperate zones, conservative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/future-forests-which-tree-species-can-survive-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree species</a> actually stored more carbon and grew faster than acquisitive ones. That may seem surprising, but the explanation lies in how these forests function.



Boreal and temperate forests often have cold climates, poor soil, or both. In such settings, being efficient with internal resources becomes more important than fast nutrient absorption.



In tropical forests, the story changes again. These regions have ideal growing conditions - warm temperatures and high rainfall. Here, acquisitive and conservative species grow at similar speeds. Neither group holds a strong advantage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-matching-trees-with-their-environment">Matching trees with their environment</h2>



The biggest lesson from this research is that one size does not fit all. You cannot plant fast-growing trees everywhere and expect success. Tree performance depends heavily on local soil and climate conditions.



In rich, well-watered environments, acquisitive species like maples and poplars will outperform others. They can absorb nutrients quickly and convert them into biomass, storing more carbon. But in dry, cold, or nutrient-poor conditions, conservative species shine. Oaks, firs, and pines may grow more slowly, but they store more carbon over time because they survive and grow when others cannot.



The study highlights the need for precision in reforestation efforts. Forest managers must consider each site’s unique conditions. Planting the right <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-have-an-amazing-ability-to-adapt-to-new-climates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree</a> in the right place is far more effective than planting the same fast-growers everywhere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choosing-trees-for-better-carbon-impact">Choosing trees for better carbon impact</h2>



This new understanding gives forest managers a sharper tool in the fight against climate change. They can now look beyond growth speed and consider how a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/trees-are-relocating-in-a-race-against-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tree’s traits</a> interact with its environment. This leads to smarter choices and healthier forests.



Climate action often demands quick results. But nature does not always work that way. Sometimes the slow-growing, stress-tolerant tree is the one that captures the most carbon in the long run. 



With this knowledge, reforestation can become both more effective and more sustainable.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08692-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Slow and steady tree growth wins the race for carbon capture

In the face of climate change, forests have become more...

<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>



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.



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



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.



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



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.



"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.



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



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.



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



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

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

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



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.



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.



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.



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.



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.



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Worms dominated seas before dinosaurs

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

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



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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.



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



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."



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



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.



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



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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



The forest was remarkably diverse. Scientists identified Eospermatopteris, 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.



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.



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



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.



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."



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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.



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.



The full study was published in the journal Current Biology.



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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=prrq8Ql81zk
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Acid rain and a crisis solved.</figcaption></figure>



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



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?



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.



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



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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



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.



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.



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.



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



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.



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



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



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



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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



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



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.



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



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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



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.



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.



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.



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



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



Sources: 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.



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



1. Is acid rain completely gone? 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.



2. How long did solving take? 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.



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



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



5. Could acid rain return? 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.



6. Can you recommend any teaching tools on the subject of "acid rain"? 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>



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The environmental problem we actually solved

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

Fresh,Radish,Harvest,On,Soil,In,Garden.

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Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving fall garden, and this guide lays out the best vegetables and herbs to plant now for a fruitful autumn harvest. 



Fast-growing leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, kale, and arugula perform especially well in the waning summer heat, with harvests beginning as soon as 30 days. 



These cool-season crops relish the transition into fall, offering repeated yields with cut-and-come-again methods.



Root vegetables like radishes, carrots, and beets also excel during this period. Radishes deliver satisfaction in under a month, while carrots and beets mature in about two months. Employing succession planting ensures a continuous stream of produce deep into the cooler months. 



For a boost of fresh flavor, herbs like cilantro, basil, dill, and chervil are excellent picks. These heat-loving varieties flourish in July’s warmth and are harvest-ready in about 30 days, especially when sown continuously.



Gardeners in zones 6 through 9 can benefit from planting bush beans and snap peas, which don’t require trellising and are ideal for compact plots. 



Maturing in 50–60 days, they’re a smart choice for quick, protein-rich harvests. For those in hotter regions, heat-tolerant crops such as okra and southern peas provide reliable yields and thrive in scorching conditions.



This guide emphasizes more than crop selection—it highlights the importance of timing, soil preparation, and ongoing sowing techniques. 



With thoughtful planning and attention to regional climate needs, even late-summer gardeners can enjoy fresh salads, hearty stews, and the satisfaction of a robust, homegrown harvest well into fall.



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What to plant in your garden in mid-July

https://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex Mid-July is an opportune time to kick-start a thriving...

Green,Ecoduct,Over,An,Empty,Highway,During,Sunset.

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A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that wildlife tunnels significantly reduce amphibian road mortality during seasonal migrations. 



Frogs and salamanders often cross roads to reach breeding ponds each spring, but many are killed by vehicles. 



Researchers from the <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Vermont</a>, in collaboration with local citizens and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, installed two underpass tunnels in 2015. 



Over a 12-year monitoring period, they observed an 80.2% reduction in amphibian deaths, and up to 94% for non-climbing species like salamanders. 



The study used a before-after-control-impact design and documented more than 5,200 amphibians, highlighting the tunnels’ effectiveness even in nearby buffer zones.



Funded at $342,397 - far cheaper than wildlife crossings for large mammals - the project showcased the power of community-led conservation.



Local groups initiated the effort after observing mass amphibian deaths. Wildlife cameras later captured over 2,200 amphibians using a tunnel in just one spring, along with other species like raccoons and bobcats, indicating wider ecosystem benefits.



This marks the first peer-reviewed, long-term data set in the northeastern U.S. confirming amphibian-specific underpasses work. 



The study urges transportation departments to incorporate these designs into road planning and highlights how community action, thoughtful infrastructure, and persistence can make a real difference for biodiversity.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1617138125000780" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal for Nature Conservation</a>.



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-----

Wildlife tunnels save millions of amphibians

https://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU A new long-term study in Monkton, Vermont, reveals that...

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. 



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



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



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



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



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. 



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).



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



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.



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.



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>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

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

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Today’s Video of the Day 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.



"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.



"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."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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

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Today's Video of the Day 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.



"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.



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.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



---



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



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.

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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Today’s Video of the Day 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;



"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.



"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."



"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."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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

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Today's Video of the Day 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;



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;



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.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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.

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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



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.

How does salt makes things taste better?

[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



---



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



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.

Santiago, Chile in South America

[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

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Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



---



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



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.

Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"] Astronomers at Johns Hopkins University have created...

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Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features northwest Lesotho in South Africa.



According to ESA, Lesotho is the only nation in the world that lies completely above 1,000 m in elevation. The country is famous for its tall mountains and narrow valleys, and is known as Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky."



Out of a population of around two million people, about 80 percent live in rural areas. More than 75 percent of these people are engaged in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-will-have-a-global-impact-on-agriculture/">agriculture</a>, including rainfed cereal production and animal grazing.&nbsp;



ESA reports that the country’s agricultural system faces a growing number of issues, with climate-related vulnerabilities such as drought, floods and extreme temperatures occurring more frequently. 



Diamonds are amongst the minerals found in the mountains. Indeed, Lesotho can truly be called the Kingdom in the Sky. Beautiful, culturally rich, safe, affordable, and easily accessible from Durban and Johannesburg, mountainous Lesotho is a vastly underrated travel destination. the Kingdom of Lesotho (Sotho: 'Muso oa Lesotho) is an enclaved country in southern Africa. It is just over 30,000 km2 (11,583 sq mi) in size and has a population of around 2 million.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;&nbsp;



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



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.

Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky"

[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"] Lesotho: Africa's "Kingdom in the Sky" Today’s...

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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



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.

The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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.

The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> reveals the evolution of the Columbia Glacier in southeastern Alaska. Columbia is among the fastest shrinking glaciers in the world, and the video documents its rapid retreat over the years.&nbsp;



Columbia Glacier is a large, multi-branched calving glacier that flows out of the Chugach Mountains to the Prince William Sound.&nbsp;



According to USGS, Columbia had a long history of stability prior to 1980, with a length 41 miles, and small, short-lived advances or retreats.



In the years since 1980, however, satellite images have captured Columbia’s alarming retreat. By using false-color images, scientists can distinguish between snow and ice, open water, vegetation, and rocky debris on the glacier’s surface.



The series of false-color images featured in today's video were acquired over the span of 35 years. You can see that by 2021, the glacier’s main branch had retreated about 15 miles from its initial position.



The Columbia Glacier has also lost more than 50 percent of its volume, mostly due to calving. <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/nasa-reveals-3d-visual-of-an-atmospheric-river/">NASA</a> reports that while climate change likely started the retreat, mechanical processes kept the disintegration going.



The NASA images are provided by Jesse Allen, Robert Simmon, Joshua Stevens, and Lauren Dauphin using data from Landsat satellites, from the U.S. Geological Survey, and data from MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite. The structure of Columbia’s moraine played a large role in the stability of the glacier before 1980. 



Like other tidewater glaciers, the Columbia built up a moraine over time, and the mixture of ice and rock functioned like a dam keeping out the sea. It was supported on one end by the shoreline and by the underwater terminal moraine at the other.



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio



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



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.

The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from NASA...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



The mountain range is 430 kilometers in length. It stretches from the Mediterranean Sea on the east to the Atlantic Ocean on the west.



At an elevation of 3404 meters, Pico de Aneto is the highest mountain peak in the Pyrenees, and the third-highest peak in Spain. Pico de Aneto is located in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, which spans more than 82,000 acres.&nbsp;



"Geological studies have revealed that the Pyrenees Mountains have been around for longer than the Alps, with their sediments first deposited in coastal basins during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras," reports ESA.



"The entire mountain range formed due to the upwelling of large sedimentary rocks by the collision of the Iberian and the Eurasian plate around 100 to 150 million years ago, followed by intense erosion from ice and water."



The western Pyrenees receive more precipitation due to moisture blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountain range contains many lakes, several small glaciers, and some of the highest waterfalls in Europe.



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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



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.

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes two exoplanets that are orbiting a star 218 light-years away. A team of researchers led by the University of Montreal has found evidence that these planets are "water worlds."



The experts used data from NASA’s Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. They discovered that exoplanets Kepler-138 c and Kepler-138 could be composed largely of water.



"We previously thought that planets that were a bit larger than Earth were big balls of metal and rock, like scaled-up versions of Earth, and that's why we called them super-Earths," explained study co-author Björn Benneke.&nbsp;



"However, we have now shown that these two planets, Kepler-138 c and d, are quite different in nature and that a big fraction of their entire volume is likely composed of water. It is the best evidence yet for water worlds, a type of planet that was theorized by astronomers to exist for a long time."



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)



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



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.

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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