A nationally representative, wearables-based study has tracked Americans who said they did not do structured exercise. It found that short energy bursts - a median of just 1.1 minutes per day of brief, vigorous effort - was linked with a lower risk of death over roughly seven years.



The pattern was simple. People who racked up about five or six energy bursts per day, each usually around 10 seconds and all under one minute, tended to fare better than those who did none.



This work was led by Emmanuel Stamatakis at the <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Sydney</a>. The team focused on vigorous activity, meaning effort that makes breathing hard and raises heart rate clearly for short spans.



Researchers looked at death from any cause. The curve of benefit rose quickly at low amounts, then flattened, which means the biggest change showed up when going from zero to a little. 



That is important for people who find it hard to schedule <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-can-slow-aging-right-down-to-your-dna/">workouts</a>.



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



The sample came from <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nhanes/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHANES</a> (the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey), a long-running U.S. program that links health records with device-measured movement. 



Participants wore a wrist accelerometer - a sensor that records motion dozens of times per second - for about a week.



The authors studied what they call Vigorous Intermittent Lifestyle Physical Activity (<a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/fullarticle/2807734" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">VILPA</a>). 



That is the short, sharp effort that happens during normal life, like a very fast walk uphill, a quick run to catch a bus, or carrying heavy items up stairs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-short-energy-bursts-mean">What short energy bursts mean</h2>



Two findings stood out. First, daily time VILPA showed a near-linear link with lower risk, and the median of 1.1 minutes per day corresponded to a hazard ratio of about 0.61 in models that accounted for many other factors. 



Second, doing roughly five to six short bursts per day captured most of the observed benefit in this group.



“VILPA is a bit like applying the principles of High <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exercise-feels-better-when-its-matched-to-your-personality/">Intensity</a> Interval Training to your everyday life," Stamatakis explained. 



"We need to further investigate this link through robust trials, but it appears that VILPA may be a promising, cost free recommendation for lowering cancer risk in people who find structured exercise difficult or unappealing."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comparing-with-other-studies">Comparing with other studies</h2>



Earlier U.K. Biobank <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-022-02100-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> reported that a sample median of 4.4 minutes per day of VILPA was associated with noticeably lower risks of all cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality. 



The U.S. study’s median dose is smaller, which may reflect differences in age, fitness, or baseline activity.



Cancer findings from the U.K. Biobank add useful context. 



A 2023 <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/fullarticle/2807734" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysis</a> of non-exercisers found that about 4.5 minutes per day of VILPA was linked to lower incident cancer risk, with the steepest gains when moving from none to a little.



A hazard ratio compares rates of an outcome between groups over time. Values below 1.0 indicate a lower rate in the more active group, values above 1.0 indicate a higher rate, and the confidence interval shows the range of uncertainty.



These numbers do not prove that short energy bursts caused the lower risk. They show a strong association after adjusting for many measured factors, which is informative for public health while we wait for further trials.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-bursts-and-health">Energy bursts and health</h2>



Only about one quarter of U.S. adults meet both aerobic and strength targets, notes a CDC <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db443.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a>. 



Finding health linked to very short, vigorous effort embedded in daily life could help reach people who are not hitting those goals.



The signal shows up at low doses. That matters because many people cite time, cost, or access as barriers to regular exercise.



The U.S. cohort’s median VILPA time was just over a minute per day, and the median burst count was about five per day. 



Most bursts lasted around 10 seconds, which aligns with the way people actually move when life gets busy.



The dose-response curve rose quickly at first, then flattened around eight bursts per day in this dataset. That pattern supports the idea that small, repeatable effort may offer a meaningful step up from doing none.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-bursts-and-future-health">Energy bursts and future health</h2>



Wearable sensors let scientists capture movement in 10-second windows, which makes it possible to study these micro patterns. That is a big advance over older surveys that missed very short efforts.



Future trials need to test whether nudging VILPA upward changes health markers directly. Those tests could use prompts during chores, commuting, or short work breaks.



This was an observational analysis, so unmeasured differences could still explain part of the link. People who feel better might move more, and some health risks are hard to measure perfectly at baseline.



Device limits matter too. Wrist sensors can misread certain tasks, and any single week of tracking may not reflect a person’s full year of movement.



Public health groups already say that all <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-form-of-exercise-is-shown-to-improve-sleep-the-most-according-to-studies/">movement</a> counts. VILPA adds a sharp, practical edge to that message by focusing on brief, intense efforts that do not require special gear or set times.



If ongoing work shows cause and effect, simple cues could help people add a handful of short energy bursts to tasks they already do. 



That kind of shift would be especially useful for those who do not visit gyms or prefer not to schedule workouts.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.08.05.25333017v1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">medRxiv</a>.



-----



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



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



-----

Just one minute of this exercise every day can literally add years to your life, says a new study

A nationally representative, wearables-based study has tracked Americans who said they did not do structured exercise. It found that short energy bursts - a median of just 1.1 minutes per day of brief, vigorous effort - was linked with a lower risk of death over roughly seven years. The pattern was simple. People who racked up about five or six energy bursts per day, each usually around 10 seconds and all under one minute, tended to fare better than those who did none. This work was led...

Emotions have always been tricky. People often second-guess how others feel, and even well-trained professionals can miss signs of frustration or sadness. 



Now, a new study suggests that artificial intelligence (<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ai-could-protect-millions-of-people-from-vision-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI</a>) and large language models (LLMs) might be better at reading the room than many humans.



The work was led by the University of Geneva (<a href="https://www.unige.ch/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UNIGE</a>) and the University of Bern (<a href="https://www.unibe.ch/index_eng.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UniBE</a>). One of the key investigators was Dr. Katja Schlegel, a lecturer in the Division of Personality Psychology, Differential Psychology, and Assessment at the Institute of Psychology at UniBE.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-models-and-emotion-quizzes">AI models and emotion quizzes </h2>



The research team worked with six generative AIs, including ChatGPT, to see how well they could handle <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6546921/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">emotional intelligence</a> questions. 



Each question asked for the most effective <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-robot-interaction-are-we-prepared-for-the-ethical-challenges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reaction</a> to a particular scenario, where someone was caught up in negative feelings. A real-world example might be deciding whether to talk to a supervisor about a stolen idea or keep quiet and stay resentful.



“This suggests that these AI systems not only understand emotions, but also grasp what it means to behave with emotional intelligence,” noted Dr. Marcello Mortillaro, senior scientist at UNIGE’s Swiss Center for Affective Sciences (CISA).



The team discovered that these AIs answered correctly more often than typical human participants.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-proves-its-emotional-intelligence">AI proves its emotional intelligence </h2>



Those working on the project reported that the participating AIs earned an accuracy rate of around 81 percent. Previous studies had placed the human average at 56% in the same tests.



Each AI was given prompts describing situations where someone was sad, worried, annoyed, or otherwise emotionally off balance, and they chose the best coping strategy from multiple-choice answers.



The researchers were surprised by how consistent these performance levels were. Even when the same question was posed multiple times, the AIs picked the most emotionally sound course of action.



“They proved to be as reliable, clear and realistic as the original tests, which had taken years to develop,” noted Dr. Schlegel. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-creating-emotional-intelligence-tests">Creating emotional intelligence tests</h2>



The next step involved asking ChatGPT-4 to whip up brand-new emotional intelligence tests from scratch. The system produced fresh <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chick-emotions-shed-new-light-on-animal-welfare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scenarios</a> and answer sets faster than any typical human-led process.&nbsp;



Over 400 individuals tried these computer-generated quizzes. The researchers found that participants rated them as valid and coherent. 



There were minor differences in content variety, but these new questionnaires held up well in test comparisons.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-uses-in-daily-life">Practical uses in daily life</h2>



This exploration suggests a potential future where AI-based tutoring and personal development tools include emotional coaching. 



Guidance counselors, team-building specialists, and leadership trainers might lean on these systems to create group exercises for conflict resolution. A user could receive direct suggestions for handling tense conversations with co-workers or relatives.



This does not mean AI is about to replace human interaction. Many situations still call for a personal touch. However, the data show that computers can be surprisingly efficient at mapping <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-helps-humans-have-20-minute-conversation-with-humpback-whale-named-twain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feelings</a> and recommending balanced approaches.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-lacks-the-ability-to-feel">AI lacks the ability to feel</h2>



Despite its strong performance on emotional intelligence tests, AI still lacks the ability to truly feel anything. 



Emotional intelligence in humans includes not just choosing the right response, but sensing tone, body language, and context in real-time interactions, factors AI can’t fully interpret or replicate. 



Even a perfect answer on a test doesn’t mean the AI could read the room during a live conversation or adjust based on shifting moods.



There’s also the issue of transparency. These models don’t tell us how they arrive at their answers. When it gets a question right, we don’t know if it’s following emotional logic or just regurgitating patterns it has seen. 



That makes it hard to build trust in high-stakes areas like mental health care or mediation, where understanding emotions isn’t just useful, it’s essential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-capturing-universal-emotions">Capturing universal emotions</h2>



Social robots and virtual coaches have been around for years, but they used to rely on simpler models that scanned facial expressions or voice tones. 



Now, with massive text databases and more <a href="https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1&amp;type=pdf&amp;doi=ce8008cce8e8b8c40d4d3c5c667ecf9cbeac9fb1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advanced language processing</a>, AI can respond to emotional cues based on extensive learned patterns.



Some experts say these machines might keep evolving. Others warn that cultural nuances can confuse AI, because emotional norms differ by region and background. Despite that, many see a benefit in using software that captures the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26357337/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">universal aspects</a> of stress, sadness, or joy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-can-t-replace-human-empathy">AI can't replace human empathy</h2>



Just because AI can pick the right answers doesn’t mean it should act on them without supervision. Emotionally intelligent behavior still needs a human filter, especially when the stakes are high. 



Whether it’s advising a student in distress or guiding workplace decisions, people must remain in control of how these tools are applied.



There’s also the risk of over-reliance. If users start trusting AI more than their own judgment, or begin offloading sensitive decisions to it entirely, that could dull emotional growth and accountability. 



Experts warn that while AI can support learning, it should never replace human empathy or relational wisdom.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-may-help-in-emotional-decisions">AI may help in emotional decisions</h2>



The study sheds light on how AI systems might one day collaborate with humans in education, training, and mediating disputes. 



Their knack for spotting the <a href="https://arxiv.org/vc/arxiv/papers/2302/2302.02083v1.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">best course of action</a> in emotional dilemmas raises questions about how we can use them in coaching, therapy, and everyday life.



Time will tell if these systems keep improving or if there’s a plateau in how much they can mimic our own self-awareness. What is certain is that they have already shown a knack for matching, and even surpassing, many folks in emotional understanding.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44271-025-00258-x#citeas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Communications Psychology</a>.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

AI shows better emotional intelligence than humans

Emotions have always been tricky. People often second-guess how others...

Major depressive disorder is a serious mental health condition that can disrupt daily functioning. Roughly 10 percent of U.S. adults experience it at any given time.



Furthermore, a higher portion (around 20 percent) will deal with <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15061154/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MDD symptoms</a> at some point during their lifetime. Standard antidepressants prove ineffective for 30 percent, leaving many without a clear <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-the-hidden-casualty-of-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">solution</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-ketamine-treatment-works">How ketamine treatment works</h2>



Ketamine has emerged as a fast-acting approach for certain individuals with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-health-and-the-internet-who-benefits-and-who-suffers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a>. It often shows results in hours rather than the usual weeks required by traditional antidepressants.



Despite its benefits, repeat infusions are often necessary. That can raise concerns about possible side effects or addiction.



A fresh perspective comes from Dr. Lisa Monteggia of <a href="https://www.vanderbilt.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vanderbilt University</a>. She collaborated with Dr. Ege Kavalali to examine ways to prolong ketamine’s effect from about a week to around two months.



The experts aimed to see how a particular signaling pathway known as <a href="https://geneglobe.qiagen.com/us/knowledge/pathways/erk-mapk-signaling" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ERK</a> is involved in ketamine’s powerful impact. They tested whether ramping up ERK activity could lock in those antidepressant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/151-million-americans-have-mental-health-disorders-linked-to-leaded-gasoline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">effects</a> for a longer stretch.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prolonging-the-antidepressant-effects">Prolonging the antidepressant effects</h2>



The researchers used a compound called BCI to block a protein phosphatase that normally curbs ERK. By inhibiting this <a href="https://www.neb.com/en-us/applications/protein-analysis-and-tools/protein-phosphatases-and-kinases" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phosphatase</a>, they boosted ERK’s activity and extended ketamine’s influence.



“The antidepressant-like behavioral effects of acute ketamine treatment were extended by DUSP6 inhibition for up to 2 months,” noted Zhenzhong Ma, who led the study. 



The team found that a single dose of ketamine, when combined with this approach, offered <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/outdoor-classes-improve-childrens-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">benefits</a> that lasted far beyond the usual timeframe.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fewer-ketamine-treatments-fewer-risks">Fewer ketamine treatments, fewer risks</h2>



Repeated ketamine <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/surprising-mental-health-benefits-of-living-near-green-spaces/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infusions</a> can become a hassle for patients. This extended approach may spare people from multiple hospital visits, limiting risks tied to frequent dosing.



There’s also hope that fewer infusions can reduce issues like disconnection from reality. Some worry about the chance of dependence, so lengthening ketamine’s effectiveness with minimal dosing could be a game-changer.



“The premise of this study was based on a testable mechanistic model that we developed that accounts for ketamine’s rapid antidepressant action,” said Dr. Monteggia. According to the researchers, improved timing matters in how ketamine triggers rapid relief.&nbsp;



The research highlights ketamine’s ability to set off changes at <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526047/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">synapses</a> that correlate with less severe depression symptoms. When those synapses keep functioning well for longer, relief can hang around without repeated treatments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moving-forward-with-caution">Moving forward with caution</h2>



Despite the encouraging findings, there are practical hurdles before this strategy can move from the lab to patient care. 



The compound BCI might not be safe for human use in its current form, so the quest is on for related molecules that produce a similar outcome.



Scientists also face a complex puzzle when dealing with <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539894/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">neurotransmitters</a> and other signaling elements that influence mood. Pinpointing targets that amplify ketamine’s benefits without adding serious side effects remains a top priority.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-one-dose-lasting-relief">One dose, lasting relief</h2>



Studies exploring ways to keep a single dose of ketamine effective for longer could reshape depression treatment. Researchers believe that sustaining the therapeutic window might deliver more stable relief, though further tests are crucial.



By fine-tuning the proteins involved in these pathways, doctors may one day reduce or remove the need for regular infusions. For many, this concept offers hope of a more manageable treatment that maintains mental well-being over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-on-existing-knowledge">Building on existing knowledge</h2>



Other investigations have pointed to different molecules that enhance the effect of ketamine’s fast-acting properties. Researchers are working to confirm whether combining strategies could lead to even longer periods of relief.



Some believe that therapy personalized to each person’s unique brain chemistry will eventually be the norm. 



As science uncovers these intricate pathways, the door stays open for new interventions that stretch benefits without adding burdens.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-shift-in-mental-health-care">A shift in mental health care</h2>



Major depressive disorder imposes a severe burden, but new approaches offer a sense of possibility. Extending ketamine’s effect from a brief window to several weeks could transform how depression is managed.



The researchers emphasize that nobody should experiment with ketamine outside of a clinical program. It remains a controlled substance that demands careful administration and vigilant monitoring.



Excitement about prolonged relief does not minimize the serious nature of depression. Researchers continue to keep safety at the forefront, aiming for personalized treatments that balance effectiveness with patient well-being.



For those grappling with MDD, each new study sparks cautious optimism about better outcomes. Although many steps remain, this discovery marks a valuable moment in the conversation around depression treatment.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abb6748" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Ketamine treatment may now last months instead of weeks

Major depressive disorder is a serious mental health condition that...

Millions of people can’t see the board at school, the faces of their family, or the text on a phone simply because they lack a basic pair of prescription eyeglasses.



A sweeping analysis shows that, despite slow progress, the world is still decades away from offering everyone the clear <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-the-brain-splits-vision-and-puts-it-back-together/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vision</a> that glasses can provide.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-access-to-eyeglasses-worldwide">Access to eyeglasses worldwide</h2>



Led by Professor Rupert Bourne of <a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anglia Ruskin University</a>, the Vision Loss Expert Group assembled microdata from 237 eye-health surveys that together examined 815,273 adults in 76 countries.



The team calculated effective refractive error coverage (eREC) - the share of people who both own corrective lenses and achieve good vision with them. Globally, eREC reached 65.8 percent in 2023, only six points higher than in 2010, and roughly ten points better than at the turn of the century.



“Data from 815,000 people across 76 countries in our new study shows that we are off track to meet <a href="https://www.who.int/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Organization</a> targets," Bourne said. "Urgent global action is needed to reach the goal of a 40 percent increase in eyeglasses coverage by 2030."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-is-still-left-behind">Who is still left behind?</h2>



Disparities are stark. In high-income countries about 84 percent of adults over 50 have effective correction, while in sub-Saharan Africa the figure is only 28 percent. Everywhere, women fare worse than men, and coverage declines sharply after age 70.



Sub-Saharan Africa saw 60 percent gains since 2000 but still has the lowest overall coverage. 



The study also revealed a “quality gap.” In some settings, up to three-quarters of glasses wearers still see poorly due to incorrect or outdated prescriptions, while in others the gap is under three percent.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vision-goal-slipping-away">Vision goal slipping away</h2>



In 2021 <a href="https://www.who.int/about/governance/world-health-assembly" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Health Assembly</a> members pledged to lift each nation’s eREC by 40 percentage points (or to universal coverage where baseline levels already exceed 60 percent) by 2030.



However, the new modeling makes clear that the current trajectory of improvement in eREC is insufficient to meet the 2030 target. In fact, no region is close to achieving universal coverage.



“Correction of refractive error is the safest, most efficient, and most economical intervention to improve daily vision quality for the majority of individuals, contributing to reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poverty-impacts-brain-development-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poverty</a> and improvements in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-wellbeing-is-a-more-effective-focus-area-when-discussing-energy-solutions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wellbeing</a>, work productivity, education, and equity,” Bourne said.



If the five-point-per-decade trend continues, even the wealthiest states may struggle to reach full coverage. Low-income countries could remain below 50 percent well past mid-century.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-barriers-to-vision-care">Barriers to vision care</h2>



Several factors slow expansion of eye-care services. In many low-resource settings there are simply too few optometrists, opticians, or affordable optical shops.



Surveys using undercover “standardized patients” in Pakistan and Cambodia have also shown that even when glasses are dispensed, quality is often poor. 



Social barriers make the problem worse. Cost, clinic distance, and beliefs that blurred vision is just aging reduce demand, especially for older women.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-vision-with-glasses">Expanding vision with glasses</h2>



The paper highlights national programs that are already bending the curve. France recently began fully reimbursing the cost of spectacles through universal health insurance. Early data show the rate of forgone optical aids dropped from 12 percent to 6 percent after the policy change. 



Pakistan’s 20-year sequence of eyecare action plans has increased glasses use and cut uncorrected <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ai-could-protect-millions-of-people-from-vision-loss/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vision loss</a>.



Global initiatives are also gathering pace. The <a href="https://www.who.int/initiatives/specs-2030" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">WHO “SPECS 2030”</a> campaign, the <a href="https://tccv.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coalition for Clear-Vision</a> and the <a href="https://atscalepartnership.org/">ATscale</a> partnership aim to boost training, financing, and supply chains for affordable glasses.



The authors suggest additional measures, including integrating vision screening into primary health and school programs. They recommend task-shifting for basic refraction and using tele-refraction tech to expand access in remote areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vision-success-by-2030">Vision success by 2030</h2>



The study estimates that meeting the 2030 target would require effective vision correction for 400 million more people. 



Most of them would be in Asia and Africa, and need treatment within five years. That means training thousands of eye-care workers, improving lens supply chains, and enacting regulations to ensure quality care.



While the scale is daunting, the payoff is large. Every person who gains clear sight can read, drive, learn, or work more productively. In turn, societies benefit through higher educational attainment, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ai-traffic-cameras-are-preventing-thousands-of-crashes-each-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">safer roads</a>, and greater economic output.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seeing-the-way-forward">Seeing the way forward</h2>



Researchers conclude on a note of caution and hope. While we are still off track, the solutions are already in front of us - community screening, high-quality affordable glasses, and a commitment to reach the most marginalized.



Vision loss from uncorrected refractive error is preventable with low-cost glasses. The new analysis provides the clearest picture yet of where help is needed most, and how far the world still has to go before a simple pair of glasses is within everyone’s reach.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(25)00194-9/fulltext">Lancet Global </a><a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(25)00194-9/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">H</a><a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(25)00194-9/fulltext">ealth</a>.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Millions of people still lack access to glasses

Millions of people can’t see the board at school, the...

A growing number of scientists and Indigenous people around the world are spotlighting a powerful concept for sustainability: reciprocity between humans and nature.



A new collection of 18 scientific case studies published in the journal <a href="https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pan3.70036">People and Nature</a> presents compelling global evidence that caring, mutual relationships with the natural world are not only possible - they’re already shaping more resilient and balanced communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-human-nature-relationships">Rethinking human-nature relationships</h2>



The international team behind this collection spent over two years studying how societies worldwide practice reciprocity with their environments. The study was led by researchers at the <a href="https://www.uab.cat/web/universitat-autonoma-de-barcelona-1345467954774.html">Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona</a>, the <a href="https://en.ird.fr/">French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development</a>, and the <a href="https://www.uvic.ca/">University of Victoria</a> in Canada.



The result is a hopeful collection challenging extractive growth models and offering real-world, cooperation-based alternatives.



“These wonderful examples of the multiple ways people and nature benefit each other provide hope for the future because they illustrate that there are better paths,” said Natalie Ban, a co-editor of the collection.



Rather than viewing nature as a passive provider of resources, the authors highlight communities that actively give back. They cultivate, protect, and restore their local ecosystems as a form of ethical engagement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-living-in-harmony-with-nature">Living in harmony with nature</h2>



For many Indigenous and local communities, reciprocity with nature is a core part of their identity and everyday life. These practices arise from direct experience and deep spiritual and cultural ties to the land, often expressed through gratitude, respect, and moral responsibility.



“Many of the articles demonstrate that humans can care for ecosystems in ways that sustain <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-are-the-biggest-drivers-of-biodiversity-loss/">biodiversity</a>,” said co-editor Irene Teixidor-Toneu.



For instance, the collection includes case studies on sustainable palm harvesting in the Ecuadorian Amazon, respectful gathering of abalone along the Northwest Pacific coast of North America. It also highlights <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/shrinking-sea-ice-makes-it-harder-for-seabirds-to-find-food/">seabird</a> egg collection in Estonia. These practices reflect generations of knowledge passed down about how to use natural resources without depleting them.



In Chilean Patagonia, fishers return discarded fish parts to the sea to nourish seabird populations. In Cameroon, wild foods are gathered not just for individual consumption, but for sharing within the community. These are small acts with large ripple effects, nourishing both <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/groundwater-plays-critical-role-ecosystem-health/">ecosystem health </a>and social cohesion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-contrast-to-capitalist-exploitation">A contrast to capitalist exploitation</h2>



These practices contrast sharply with globalized capitalism, which often promotes one-way resource extraction without giving anything back. By comparison, reciprocity offers a vision of the world where humans are part of nature, not separate from or above it.



“Reciprocity can be a cultural norm for a certain culture, but it can also be the result of accurate observations of the consequences of trespassing ecosystem boundaries,” Teixidor-Toneu said. “People can learn from their immediate actions and change their relation with their environments for more sustainable outcomes rather quickly.”



The researchers emphasize that reciprocity isn’t just about tradition - it’s a dynamic, adaptive way of living that can offer powerful tools for navigating modern environmental crises. As climate change, biodiversity loss, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastic-pollution-is-changing-the-entire-earth-system/">pollution</a> escalate, these relationships with nature offer a blueprint for resilience and restoration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-time-for-bold-change">Time for bold change</h2>



“This Special Feature is a heartfelt compilation of 18 scientific articles from different corners of the world,” said co-editor Álvaro Fernández-Llamazares of <a href="https://www.uab.cat/web/icta-1345819904184.html">ICTA-UAB</a>. “These studies highlight the strong emphasis on cultivating positive, reciprocal, and responsible relationships among humans and their non-human kin.”



The implications are profound. By embracing reciprocity, societies can shift away from short-term gains and toward long-term sustainability. 



This requires rethinking how we relate to nature - not as something to be dominated, but as something to be respected, cared for, and collaborated with.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-way-forward-rooted-in-respect">A way forward rooted in respect</h2>



The collection of case studies reveals that reciprocity is not an abstract ideal - it is already being practiced in diverse ways across continents. These stories illustrate that hope is not lost.



While industrialized societies often struggle to reduce their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-hidden-and-destructive-environmental-impact-of-bitcoin-mining/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental impact</a>, some communities live in close relationship with their surroundings. These communities offer living examples of how mutual care can foster both ecological and social well-being.



By listening to these communities and learning from their ways of life, we can begin to create more just, sustainable futures for all species - human and non-human alike.



As climate-related challenges deepen, reciprocity may be one of the most powerful ideas we have left. It shows that sustainability isn’t just about science and policy. It’s also about values, relationships, and the daily choices we make about nature and how to live on this planet.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Mutual relationships with nature offer hope for a sustainable future

A growing number of scientists and Indigenous people around the...

People have long dreamed of seeing beyond the normal spectrum. Many rely on special devices, but a team of researchers has now rolled out a simpler way to detect hidden&nbsp;infrared signals&nbsp;in the environment.



Tian Xue, a neuroscientist at the <a href="https://en.ustc.edu.cn" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Science and Technology of China</a>, led a project that has introduced a non-powered contact lens with embedded nanomaterials.



The lens grants users the ability to perceive certain forms of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solar-storm-triggered-stunning-auroras-worldwide-october-11-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infrared</a> light, which starts around 700 nm and extends well beyond the familiar rainbow spectrum.



Researchers report that this approach opens the door to security and rescue applications, where flickers of invisible beams can become readable codes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contact-lenses-show-infrared-signals">Contact lenses show infrared signals</h2>



These specialized lenses use nanoparticles that transform near-infrared <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/europa-clipper-photographed-mars-thermal-infrared-en-route-to-jupiter-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">light</a> into frequencies that our eyes can recognize. 



Users can see a flicker pattern coming from near-infrared beams in real time. They can even catch these signals with their eyes closed, because near-infrared wavelengths slip through the eyelids more easily than visible light.



“It's totally clear cut: without the contact lenses, the subject cannot see anything, but when they put them on, they can clearly see the flickering of the infrared light,” said Xue. 



In tests, researchers tried sending Morse code-like messages by blinking invisible light sources. Participants wearing the lens recognized the blinking pattern.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lens-turns-infrared-into-visible-colors">Lens turns infrared into visible colors</h2>



The lens can be tuned to pick up different slices of the <a href="http://labman.phys.utk.edu/phys222core/modules/m6/the%20em%20spectrum.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">electromagnetic radiation range</a>. Certain nanoparticles can transform multiple portions of near-<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mosquitoes-use-thermal-infrared-vision-to-track-and-bite-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infrared</a> into different visible colors. 



By modifying the nanomaterial setup, the wearer perceives distinct color shifts that correspond to separate parts of the infrared spectrum.



Researchers showed how wavelengths near 980 nm shift to a blue hue, while 808 nm signals turn to green. At the higher end, around 1,532 nm, some nanoparticles shift that energy to a reddish shade. 



This strategy could also help people with <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9565472/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">color blind</a> conditions detect wavelengths that ordinarily remain out of reach.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-these-lenses-help-in-security-missions">How these lenses help in security missions</h2>



The ability to detect infrared signals without bulky gear could change how soldiers operate in dark or obscured environments. 



Instead of night vision goggles that rely on external power and give away a soldier’s position with reflections or heat, these lenses offer a more subtle and passive way to scan for threats or signals.



Surveillance teams could also use this tech to identify <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/international-space-station-observes-something-unknown-55-miles-above-earth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infrared</a>-tagged objects or locations discreetly. Since the contact lenses are transparent and lightweight, they allow the user to operate hands-free while maintaining full awareness of both visible and infrared surroundings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-applications-and-testing">Applications and testing</h2>



Trials began with mice to make sure the lens itself was safe and functional. Results showed normal eye health in animals wearing the contact film. 



Mice displayed behavioral signs of detecting near-infrared beams, choosing darker boxes when offered a space lit with infrared. Later, human volunteers tried the same concept, showing they could detect patterns of infrared light.



Scientists also built a set of wearable glasses that rely on the same nanotechnologies. The glasses improve image clarity and detail, thanks to a bit more distance between the nanomaterial and the retina. 



This approach avoids scattering of converted light and might open up further uses in imaging or medical screenings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-uses-of-infrared-signal-lenses">Future uses of infrared signal lenses</h2>



In addition to rescue missions or security codes, this concept might help in poor lighting scenarios where standard vision struggles. 



Infrared has long been used in night-vision devices, but these contact lenses do not need bulky external batteries or complex headsets. They draw power from the incoming infrared itself, thanks to the special upconversion process.



One focus is boosting sensitivity so these nanoparticles can detect weaker signals in dimmer settings. The ultimate goal is to fine-tune the resolution, allowing sharper images without losing the hands-free portability. 



Designers hope to combine the ease of regular contact lenses with the extended range of advanced optical systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-lens-could-help-in-health-checks">The lens could help in health checks</h2>



Researchers suggest that these lenses could eventually help doctors spot subtle heat changes linked to inflammation, poor blood flow, or even early-stage tumors. 



Since near-infrared light interacts with tissue in ways visible light cannot, this opens up new possibilities for non-invasive screening during routine checkups or emergency care.



Dentists and surgeons might also benefit from real-time thermal feedback during procedures. Being able to “see” through tissue with color-coded signals could improve accuracy and reduce the need for heavy imaging machines in certain clinical settings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-the-infrared-signal-lens">Future of the infrared signal lens</h2>



A key step is confirming biocompatibility and stability for everyday use. The soft polymer base needs to stay comfortable on the eye while handling the embedded nanomaterials. Early results show no toxicity issues, but continued follow-up will confirm safety over longer periods.



Researchers believe that as the technology matures, it might pair with color enhancements for those missing certain photo pigments. 



A future version of this lens could transform visible red light into green, widening the range that color-blind individuals can see. The team aims to refine production methods and push forward with clinical-grade testing.



The study is published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0092867425004544" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell</a>.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

New contact lens lets humans see hidden infrared signals

People have long dreamed of seeing beyond the normal spectrum....

Our bodies are finely tuned to time. From sleep patterns to hormone levels, internal clocks influenced by light regulate every cell. Now, scientists at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, have found that our immune system also tells time and works better during the daylight hours.



The study reveals that neutrophils - our most common white blood cells - have their own internal clock. This clock listens to daylight and responds by boosting immune strength. The work builds on previous findings but goes further to decode the genetic machinery linking light to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-lockdowns-weakened-our-immune-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immunity</a>.



The implications are wide. From shift workers to those with chronic inflammation, this research could change how and when we treat infections. 



The discovery was led by Professor Christopher Hall, along with researchers from the <a href="https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Auckland</a>. The findings add new depth to the fast-growing field of chronobiology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-the-immune-clock">Discovering the immune clock</h2>



To explore how light affects immunity, the scientists turned to zebrafish. These small freshwater fish share a surprising amount of genetic similarity with humans. 



More importantly, their transparent bodies allow researchers to observe immune cells live, under a microscope, without needing surgery or dyes.



“In earlier studies, we had observed that immune <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-deadly-molds-attack-the-immune-system-of-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">responses</a> peaked in the morning, during the fish’s early active phase,” said Hall. “We think this represents an evolutionary response such that during daylight hours the host is more active so more likely to encounter bacterial infections.”



Zebrafish became the perfect test subjects. Infections were introduced, light conditions were altered, and the activity of neutrophils - the first responders of our immune system - was tracked minute by minute. 



The results clearly showed that these cells were more aggressive and efficient during the day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-immune-cells-have-clocks">Immune cells have clocks </h2>



As it turns out, neutrophils do not simply respond passively to external cues. They contain their own circadian clock, driven by a core gene called&nbsp;per2. This gene senses daylight and activates a bacterial killing program inside the cell.



When the scientists removed or deactivated&nbsp;per2&nbsp;in zebrafish, the immune <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/reprogramming-the-immune-system-to-attack-cancer-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">response</a> weakened. Even during the day, neutrophils in these mutants failed to control infections as effectively. Bacterial survival rates increased, and inflammation worsened.



Further investigation showed that when light was restored, per2 became active again. Its presence resulted in better bacterial clearance and stronger neutrophil behavior. 



The day-night cycle, therefore, was not just setting the rhythm of sleep or alertness, but directly influencing immune strength at the cellular level.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-daylight-genes-help-immune-cells">Daylight genes help immune cells</h2>



But&nbsp;per2&nbsp;was only part of the picture. The real killing power of neutrophils comes from reactive oxygen species (ROS). These toxic molecules are used to break down invading bacteria. And the production of ROS relies on another gene:&nbsp;hmgb1a.



The researchers discovered that when per2 is active, it triggers higher expression of hmgb1a. This leads to greater ROS production and improved bacterial killing. When either <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/temperatures-impact-the-immune-system-of-wild-monkeys/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gene</a> is disrupted, neutrophils lose this power.



In fact, overexpressing per2 or hmgb1a rescued the immune response even in fish kept in constant darkness. 



This showed that the pathway could be activated genetically, independent of light, and offered possible targets for future drug development. The system was robust, precise, and deeply tied to environmental light cycles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-daylight-helps-immune-cells-fight">Daylight helps immune cells fight </h2>



While&nbsp;per2&nbsp;acted as the accelerator, another protein, Cry1a, functioned as a brake. Cry1a is known to repress the activity of the circadian clock. In the immune system, this repression turns into a reduction in neutrophil efficiency.



Mice and zebrafish with inactive Cry1a fought off infections more effectively. The absence of Cry1a allowed&nbsp;per2&nbsp;and&nbsp;hmgb1a&nbsp;to remain active longer, maintaining high ROS levels. This discovery led to a deeper understanding of how balance is maintained in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/computer-model-can-identify-tumor-fighting-immune-cells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immune</a> timing.



To test these findings further, the team created zebrafish mutants that lacked both per2 and Cry1a. The double mutants behaved like the Cry1a-only mutants. In other words, per2 normally works by blocking Cry1a’s suppression of immune activity. 



The results show that, in this battle of clock proteins, light tips the scale in favor of the immune system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-presence-of-light-activated-proteins">Presence of light-activated proteins</h2>



The final layer of this mechanism lies in gene regulation. Neutrophils use a DNA region called CNS4 to turn on&nbsp;hmgb1a. This region includes docking points for two important proteins: BMAL1 and NF-κB. These proteins act like keys, unlocking&nbsp;hmgb1a&nbsp;only when the timing is right.



In the presence of light, BMAL1 binds strongly to CNS4. This primes the cell for infection response, making it more effective at producing ROS. If the CNS4 region is deleted or BMAL1 is blocked, neutrophils lose this ability. Their response weakens, and&nbsp;hmgb1a&nbsp;levels fall.



This region of DNA is highly conserved across vertebrates - from fish to birds to mammals. That suggests this light-controlled immune pathway is not just a zebrafish feature. 



It is a shared biological strategy, built through millions of years of evolution, to fight bacteria more effectively during times of activity.



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



“Given that neutrophils are the first immune cells to be recruited to sites of inflammation, our discovery has very broad implications for therapeutic benefit in many inflammatory diseases,” said Hall.



This knowledge might change how we treat infections. For example, drugs that target the circadian machinery of neutrophils could help those with compromised immune systems. Such treatments could be timed with daylight exposure to maximize their effect.



People working night shifts or suffering from jet lag might also benefit. Their disrupted light cycles could be weakening immune responses. Light-based therapies, or drugs that mimic&nbsp;per2&nbsp;activation, might restore balance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-improving-how-we-fight-infections">Improving how we fight infections</h2>



“This finding paves the way for development of drugs that target the circadian clock in neutrophils to boost their ability to fight infections,” noted Hall.



The research was supported by the Royal Society of New Zealand’s Marsden Fund. Though done in zebrafish, the genetic pathways discovered - per2, Cry1a,&nbsp;hmgb1a, and CNS4 - are present in humans too.



Ongoing work now aims to unravel how light fine-tunes these molecular switches in more detail. By understanding the clockwork inside each neutrophil, scientists are moving closer to tailoring immunity by the hour. 



In the future, fighting infections might be as simple as switching on the lights - at just the right time.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciimmunol.adn3080" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Immunology</a>.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Daylight boosts the immune system's ability to fight infections

Our bodies are finely tuned to time. From sleep patterns...

Scientists have debated the best ways to slow down the effects of time on our cells. New results from a large-scale investigation indicate that vitamin D supplements might give cells a hand in staying intact for longer.



This discovery comes from an extensive research project involving older adults in the United States. It features Dr. JoAnn Manson, a leading expert at <a href="https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mass General Brigham</a>, a major research institution recognized for its commitment to patient care and scientific inquiry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-telomeres-are-and-why-they-matter">What telomeres are and why they matter</h2>



<a href="https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Telomere" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Telomeres</a> are the natural protective ends of chromosomes. They typically shorten during normal aging and can contribute to conditions that appear later in life.



Some researchers think telomeres work like tiny counters in our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-happens-to-our-teeth-as-we-age-new-details-have-emerged/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cells</a>. When these counters get too short, it may set the stage for various medical concerns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vitamin-d-and-cell-aging">Vitamin D and cell aging</h2>



A team recruited participants 50 years of age and older for men, and 55 years of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-bodies-undergo-very-rapid-change-aging-at-two-very-specific-times/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">age</a> and older for women, to study vitamin D’s effect. They assigned individuals to take 2,000 IU of vitamin D3 or an inactive capsule for five years, along with testing a separate omega-3 supplement in a related arm of the research.



They examined the length of the telomeres at the start of the trial, then again at Year 2 and Year 4. All measurements were gathered with methods that rely on a specific laboratory technique called <a href="https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/technical-article/genomics/qpcr/quantitative-pcr?srsltid=AfmBOopcWCGqot2ZgMbfIbBgCa0fZRnlBcTcbSldfSku1iyKt6Bhdjuq" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantitative PCR</a>, which precisely analyzes DNA samples.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vitamin-d-helped-slow-down-telomere-shortening">Vitamin D helped slow down telomere shortening</h2>



“VITAL is the first large-scale and long-term randomized trial to show that vitamin D supplements protect telomeres and preserve telomere length,” said Manson. The scientists reported that vitamin D supplementation helped maintain telomere length over the study period.&nbsp;



They discovered that individuals taking vitamin D experienced a smaller reduction in telomere length than the group not taking it. Their reports suggest this difference might equate to an advantage of nearly three years in cellular <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-friendships-improve-your-health-as-you-age/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-omega-3-supplements-did-not-protect-cells">Omega-3 supplements did not protect cells</h2>



<a href="https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-HealthProfessional/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Omega-3 fatty acids</a> have long been promoted for heart and brain health, so researchers were curious to see if they might also help slow cellular aging. But in this study, omega-3 supplements didn’t make much of a difference.



The participants who took 1 gram of marine-based omega-3 daily showed no significant changes in telomere length compared to those on a placebo. This suggests that omega-3 alone may not be enough to influence this specific aging process, at least not over four years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vitamin-d-linked-to-lower-inflammation">Vitamin D linked to lower inflammation</h2>



Past <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMoa1809944" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> hint that vitamin D might reduce markers of inflammation in certain populations. Reduced inflammation has been linked to positive effects on conditions related to aging.



“Our findings suggest that targeted vitamin D supplementation may be a promising strategy to counter a biological <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/muscles-defy-aging-with-remarkable-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging</a> process, although further research is warranted,” said Haidong Zhu, PhD, first author and molecular geneticist at the Medical College of Georgia, <a href="https://www.augusta.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Augusta University</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vitamin-d-may-support-cell-health">Vitamin D may support cell health</h2>



Experts caution that this evidence does not guarantee vitamin D will spare individuals from all age-related diseases. Yet the findings indicate a potential benefit for supporting cellular health in some adults who may not get enough of this nutrient in their daily routines.



This study highlights the notion that regular intake of vitamin D supplements may preserve part of our cellular protection. Scientists are hoping future work can clarify the best dosage and the people who stand to gain the most.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-much-vitamin-d-is-enough">How much vitamin D is enough?</h2>



The dose used in the study — 2,000 IU of vitamin D3 daily — is higher than the typical recommended daily intake for adults in the U.S., which ranges from 600 to 800 IU depending on age. However, the study dose is still considered safe for most healthy adults according to the National Institutes of Health <a href="https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-HealthProfessional/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">guidelines</a>.



That said, not everyone needs extra supplementation. People who get regular sunlight exposure or eat vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, or fortified dairy products may already be getting enough. It’s a good idea to consult a doctor before starting a higher-dose supplement.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps">Next steps</h2>



The team behind this project is calling for more trials in different groups. They want to see if these results hold up in younger populations or in those with existing ailments.



Efforts are also underway to investigate factors like genetic makeup or lifestyle choices. These details may reveal why vitamin D works for some but not for others, and whether it pairs well with other vitamins or dietary strategies.



The study is published in <a href="https://ajcn.nutrition.org/article/S0002-9165(25)00255-2/abstract" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition</a>.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Taking vitamin D supplements may add years to your life

Scientists have debated the best ways to slow down the...

Middle-aged and older adults often blame graying hair or tired joints for everyday twinges. Yet evidence suggests many of those sore spots might have been brewing in the mind long before the body felt them. Recent work from a large English study points to depression and loneliness as key early signals of worsening pain. 



Researchers tracked participants for years, uncovering <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/young-adult-depression-linked-to-worse-memory-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">patterns</a> that hint at the value of helping people feel better emotionally to prevent later bodily struggles.



“Pain and depression are known to be linked, with each exacerbating the other,” said Dr. Mikaela Bloomberg from the <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College London</a>. 



It has long been clear that these two conditions frequently occur together, but less clear how far back mental issues might set the stage for physical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-related-brain-inflammation-linked-to-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distress</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-midlife-mood-predicts-physical-pain">Midlife mood predicts physical pain</h2>



The study included older adults dealing with moderate to severe discomfort, though the specific cause varied. Some mentioned back or knee problems, others named different body regions. 



Experts have repeatedly <a href="https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/6/6/e010364" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">found</a> that as people age, ongoing pain affects an estimated 20-40% of adults, which makes it one of the more widespread health challenges around.



“This is important as it suggests the potential for early <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/teens-with-problematic-smartphone-use-suffer-from-depression/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health</a> and social support to reduce or delay later pain,” said Dr. Bloomberg. Changes in mood appeared quite a while before persistent pain which points to a window of opportunity where intervention might ease future strain.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-depression-inflammation-and-pain">Depression, inflammation, and pain</h2>



Scientists have proposed various biological explanations for the connection. Inflammatory processes in the body seem more active when a person feels down. Some have <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032710007305" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">noted</a> that prolonged sadness can raise the risk of low-grade inflammation, which may heighten the intensity of discomfort.



Loneliness also emerged as a contributing factor. Feeling isolated might drive people to withdraw, neglect physical activity, or adopt unhealthy habits. 



Though social isolation itself did not stand out in this particular work, participants who felt cut off emotionally were more likely to slide into worsened wellbeing overall.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-depression-changes-pain-sensitivity">Depression changes pain sensitivity</h2>



The <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539845/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">autonomic nervous system</a>, which regulates unconscious functions like heart rate and digestion, may play a bigger role in pain than people realize.



When someone is under ongoing emotional strain, this system can stay in a constant “on” position, heightening stress responses and making the body more reactive to discomfort.



Researchers have found that this overactivation may also interfere with how the body manages inflammation and processes pain signals. The end result is that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/millions-of-americans-have-lost-years-of-time-to-poor-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a> and sadness don’t just weigh on the mind - they also change how the body feels and reacts over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-people-with-fewer-resources-suffer-more">People with fewer resources suffer more</h2>



The report revealed that those with fewer resources had stronger ties between mental health struggles and subsequent pain. Researchers suspect that wealth and education might affect how well individuals cope or access support. 



A more secure financial status often allows for stress-management tools and lifestyle choices that buffer against chronic aches.



Experts say these differences underscore the need to help vulnerable groups who could face both emotional and financial hurdles in taking care of themselves. 



<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20538198/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> have shown that self-reported health conditions can be reliable indicators of overall outcomes, but they may miss important social factors that deepen health gaps.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-support-may-prevent-pain">Emotional support may prevent pain </h2>



Depressive symptoms do not always manifest in obvious ways. An individual might function day to day, yet experience subtle feelings of sadness or hopelessness that gradually worsen. 



Researchers believe that emotional changes from depression can ramp up stress responses, distort pain perception, and leave people more vulnerable to pain once physical problems arise.



Professionals emphasize that interventions do not have to be complicated. Simple steps like counseling, therapy, and improving connection with friends might go a long way. Such efforts could stave off or at least lessen the impact of persistent aches later in life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-issues-in-midlife">Addressing issues in midlife</h2>



Though this investigation centered on older English adults, the core insight holds broad relevance. Other <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10311415/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research</a> has mapped similar trends, suggesting that a supportive environment and good psychological care can play a big part in promoting healthier aging.



Experts hope future work will explore more diverse populations and younger adults. Pinpointing triggers that set off sadness-driven pain might help doctors tailor earlier care. 



Addressing feelings of disconnection or low mood in midlife could offer protective benefits for aches down the road.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-depression-signs-may-predict-pain">Depression signs may predict pain </h2>



Some people may assume pain is just part of getting older. But there could be warning signs hidden in emotional health. Treating depression is never a guaranteed cure-all, yet there are hints it might help break the chain that leads to bodily suffering.



Many older adults keep busy schedules and active social lives. When those bonds and their sense of happiness falter, it may be wise to look closer at the body’s signals. 



Pain that crops up later can sometimes be another chapter of the story that started with low spirits.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(25)00141-5/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eClinicalMedicine</a>.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Depression and isolation trigger physical pain years later

Middle-aged and older adults often blame graying hair or tired...

Your skin protects you from things like dirt, germs, and other harmful things in the environment. But because it’s always exposed, it also gets hit with things like sunlight and UV rays, which can lead to sunburn, long-term skin damage, or even cancer.



We've long believed that stepping out into the sun requires ample sunscreen slathering, shade-seeking, and hat-wearing, especially between the peak hours of 12 noon and 3 p.m.



However, researchers at the <a href="https://www.ku.dk/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a> and <a href="https://www.ntu.edu.sg/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nanyang Technological University</a> (NTU Singapore) have made surprising new strides in our understanding of sunburn.



As it turns out, the DNA damage we've always associated with sunburn might not be the complete story.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-rna-and-sunburn-damage">DNA, RNA, and sunburn damage</h2>



When it comes to sunburn, the prevailing wisdom suggests that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-can-now-collect-human-dna-from-water-air-and-basically-everywhere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DNA</a> damage triggers inflammation and subsequent cell death.



However, this recent research suggests that the real offender might be <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rna-world-unraveling-mysteries-life-origin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RNA</a>, not DNA. 



"Sunburn damages the DNA, leading to cell death and inflammation. So the textbooks say," stated assistant professor Anna Constance Vind from the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine at the <a href="https://researchprofiles.ku.dk/en/organisations/institut-for-cellul%C3%A6r-og-molekyl%C3%A6r-medicin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Copenhagen</a>. 



"But in this study we were surprised to learn that this is a result of damage to the RNA, not the DNA that causes the acute effects of sunburn." 



But what's the difference between DNA and RNA? While they share similarities, the two aren't interchangeable. 



DNA is a more consistent molecule, whereas RNA is more transitory. 



A particular type of RNA, messenger RNA (mRNA), carries information from DNA to create proteins - the fundamental building blocks of cells.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-rna-the-basics">Understanding RNA -- the basics</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rna-world-unraveling-mysteries-life-origin/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RNA, or ribonucleic acid</a>, is like the cell’s versatile messenger, playing several key roles in keeping our bodies running smoothly. 



Unlike DNA, which holds the long-term genetic blueprint, RNA is more dynamic and can move around the cell to help build proteins.



RNA essentially acts as the bridge between our genetic code and the actual production of the proteins that do all the work in our cells.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-fix-faulty-genes-before-birth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mRNA</a>, or messenger RNA, is a special type of RNA that has gained a lot of attention, especially with the development of mRNA vaccines. 



mRNA carries the instructions from DNA out of the nucleus and into the cytoplasm, where proteins are made. 



Think of mRNA as a temporary copy of a specific gene that tells the cell exactly which protein to produce and when. This makes mRNA incredibly important for everything from growth and repair to responding to infections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mrna-and-ultraviolet-rays">mRNA and ultraviolet rays</h2>



The importance of mRNA in our body's response to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-does-skin-become-leathery-after-too-much-uv-light-from-sun-exposure/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UV radiation</a> can't be understated. 



"DNA damage is serious as the mutations will get passed down to progenies of the cells, RNA damage happens all the time and does not cause permanent mutations," Vind explained. 



"Therefore, we used to believe that the RNA is less important, as long as the DNA is intact. But in fact, damages to the RNA are the first to trigger a response to UV radiation."



Investigating more deeply into the matter was no small task.



The researchers embarked on a study involving both mice and human skin cells to better understand the consequences of UV radiation on the skin. They discovered a consistent response in both species.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-zak-alpha-and-sunburn-damage">ZAK-alpha and sunburn damage</h2>



RNA damage activates a response in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-discover-the-cellular-mortality-timer-that-dictates-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ribosomes</a> (protein complexes that interpret the mRNA to assemble proteins).



This process is managed by a protein known as ZAK-alpha, which triggers what is referred to as the "ribotoxic stress response."



Think of it like a vigilant watchman, always on the lookout for RNA damage. When it detects any, it won't hesitate to call for backup.



"We found that the first thing the cells respond to after being exposed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-sunbathing-help-you-lose-weight-uv-radiation-triggers-fat-burning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UV radiation</a> is damage to the RNA, and that this is what triggers cell death and inflammation of the skin," explained Professor Simon Bekker-Jensen, who was also from the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine.



In mice exposed to UV radiation we found responses such as inflammation and cell death, but when we removed the ZAK gene, these responses disappeared, which means that ZAK plays a key role in the skin's response to UV-induced damage.



"So you could say that everything depends on this one response, which monitors all protein translations occurring,” Bekker-Jensen elaborated.



“The cells respond to the RNA damage, realizing that something is wrong, and this is what leads to&nbsp;cell death.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-paradigm-shift">Paradigm shift</h2>



The study's findings question our long-held beliefs about sunburn and how our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/skins-secret-strength-shields-against-puncture-damage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">skin</a> safeguards itself. 



It suggests that RNA damage sparks a quicker, more efficient response, which safeguards the skin from additional harm.



"The fact that the DNA does not control the skin's initial response to UV radiation, but that something else does and that it does so more effectively and more quickly, is quite the paradigm shift," reflected Vind.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/sunburn-study_graphical-illustration_credit-Molecular-Cell-Journal_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/sunburn-study_graphical-illustration_credit-Molecular-Cell-Journal_1s.webp" alt="Using ZAK knockout mice, we here show that it is the RSR that is responsible for the early manifestation of UVB-induced skin inflammation and keratinocyte death and subsequent proliferation in vivo. We also show that the RSR controls both p38-mediated pyroptotic and JNK-mediated apoptotic programmed cell death of human keratinocytes in vitro. In sum, our work highlights that skin cells rely on a cytoplasmic and ribosomal stress signal rather than a nuclear and DNA-templated signal for rapid inflammatory responses to UV exposure. Credit: Molecular Cell Journal" class="wp-image-1971003"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Using ZAK knockout mice, we here show that it is the RSR that is responsible for the early manifestation of UVB-induced skin inflammation and keratinocyte death and subsequent proliferation in vivo. We also show that the RSR controls both p38-mediated pyroptotic and JNK-mediated apoptotic programmed cell death of human keratinocytes in vitro. In sum, our work highlights that skin cells rely on a cytoplasmic and ribosomal stress signal rather than a nuclear and DNA-templated signal for rapid inflammatory responses to UV exposure. Click image to enlarge. Credit: Molecular Cell Journal</figcaption></figure>



Knowing how our skin reacts to UV damage at a cellular level could potentially transform prevention and treatment approaches to sunburn and other inflammatory skin conditions.



"Many inflammatory skin diseases are worsened by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/many-parents-are-not-using-sunscreen-properly/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sun exposure</a>. Thus, understanding how our skin responds at the cellular level to UV damage opens the door to innovative treatments for certain chronic skin conditions," explained Dr. Franklin Zhong, Nanyang assistant professor at NTU's Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine and a co-author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rewriting-the-textbooks">Rewriting the textbooks</h2>



In closing, it seems now is the time to revise our textbooks and rethink how we perceive the effects of UV radiation on our skin. 



"This new knowledge turns things upside down. I think most people associate sunburn with DNA damage; it is established knowledge," Professor Simon Bekker-Jensen concluded. 



"But now we need to rewrite the textbooks, and it will affect future research on the effects of UV radiation on the skin."



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1097276524008840" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Molecular Cell</a>.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Main cause of sunburn is finally identified, and it's not what we've been told

Your skin protects you from things like dirt, germs, and...

The growing conversation around microplastics is shining a light on an unsettling possibility: these tiny plastic particles may be accumulating in the human brain. Some researchers suspect that they could be related to certain mental health challenges and cognitive setbacks.



After reviewing evidence from recent publications, experts are urging further investigation into how processed food could introduce plastic fragments into our bodies.



One of those experts, Dr. Nicholas Fabiano from the <a href="https://www.uottawa.ca/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Ottawa</a>, emphasizes the potential health implications of ingesting significant amounts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-in-the-brain-alarming-new-details-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastics</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-microplastics-enter-our-brain">How microplastics enter our brain</h2>



Our environment is full of plastic debris, much of it invisible to the naked eye. High-quality laboratory tests have <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39901044/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">confirmed</a> that humans are exposed through diverse routes, including diet and air inhalation.



Researchers note that once these particles enter the bloodstream, they may find a path into our central nervous system. 



Some believe that the physical presence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dementia-patients-have-higher-levels-of-microplastics-in-their-brains/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> fragments could disturb neurons and biochemical processes in ways we have yet to understand.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-processed-food-may-increase-plastic-intake">Processed food may increase plastic intake</h2>



Ultra-processed products often involve industrial techniques that can introduce more synthetic elements during manufacturing. Experts believe that this could be a major source of plastic exposure.



Efforts to measure <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-are-infiltrating-the-human-body-even-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a> concentrations in popular snack items have drawn attention to how easily particles might be consumed on a routine basis. 



Many researchers hope that a comprehensive index will make it easier to figure out who is at greatest risk based on eating habits.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-persist-in-the-body">Microplastics persist in the body </h2>



Examining blood and tissue samples suggests these tiny plastic bits can reside in the body for unknown lengths of time. Some laboratory models hint that chronic exposure might trigger localized inflammation or oxidative stress in sensitive areas, such as the brain.



In one exploratory effort, <a href="https://genomicpress.kglmeridian.com/view/journals/brainmed/aop/article-10.61373-bm025c.0020/article-10.61373-bm025c.0020.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">specialists</a> tested whether certain blood-filtering methods might remove plastic fragments from circulation. Although the results are tentative, this approach could pave the way for more targeted removal strategies if future trials confirm effectiveness.



“We’re seeing converging evidence that should concern us all,” said Dr. Fabiano. Some professionals believe that the combination of shifting dietary habits and rising plastic contamination calls for better public health guidelines.



“What emerges from this work is not a warning. It is a reckoning,” wrote <a href="https://www.upstate.edu/psych/faculty.php?empID=wongma" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Ma-Li Wong</a>. Her viewpoint underscores the urgency of addressing these invisible contaminants.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rising-plastic-contamination-risks">Rising plastic contamination risks</h2>



Many experts recommend practical steps for reducing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-linked-to-health-issues-including-cancer-and-infertility/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exposure</a>. Replacing plastic water bottles with glass or stainless steel, avoiding plastic-wrapped microwave meals, and focusing on fresher meal choices may lower the daily load of plastic shards.



Cutting back on products that involve excessive packaging could also prove beneficial. While these adjustments may seem minor, they represent deliberate actions to limit what goes into our bodies over time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastics-and-brain-health">Microplastics and brain health</h2>



Some nutrition researchers are concerned that chronic intake of plastic contaminants might heighten the risk of emotional difficulties. <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2809727" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> that link highly processed foods to depressive symptoms have raised questions about the role synthetic compounds may play.



Though the mental health impact of these contaminants is not yet fully established, the topic has captured the attention of psychiatrists and neurologists. They hope to see long-term population studies that evaluate dietary patterns, measured plastic exposures, and overall brain function.



Calls for more transparent food labeling are growing louder. If scientific research confirms a direct link between microplastics and cognitive health, consumers may demand stricter rules on packaging materials and clearer disclosure of what is in their snacks.



Scientists across multiple disciplines plan to collaborate on large-scale projects that track exposure levels. This combined effort could help clarify how microplastic buildup is distributed in different body systems and how those particles may intersect with individual vulnerabilities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-minimizing-the-health-risks-of-microplastics">Minimizing the health risks of microplastics </h2>



Some food companies have started experimenting with compostable packaging, hoping to curb plastic intrusion at the source. Others are working on new processing technologies that reduce reliance on conventional polymers.



Health advocates argue that incremental progress is better than no progress at all. They note that a shift in manufacturing practices could lighten the burden placed on our bodies and our planet.



Individuals can play a part by staying up to date on recommendations from trusted health organizations. Policy developments, consumer choices, and scientific findings will likely continue to shape how we address microplastic contamination.



Researchers suggest that listening to new data and making modest lifestyle tweaks are constructive steps. 



Whether it’s switching to a reusable water bottle or urging local shops to offer plastic-free alternatives, each act adds momentum to a broader movement toward minimizing plastic infiltration.



The study is published in <a href="https://genomicpress.kglmeridian.com/view/journals/brainmed/aop/article-10.61373-bm025g.0062/article-10.61373-bm025g.0062.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brain Medicine</a>.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Microplastics in human brains may affect mental health

The growing conversation around microplastics is shining a light on...

High-sugar breakfast cereals are hugely popular among children. Families often see bright packaging and think the product is a fun way to start the day.



Experts are sounding the alarm about nutritional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/feeding-children-healthy-diets-can-be-very-challenging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changes</a> in these cereals. According to Dr. Shuoli Zhao from the <a href="https://www.uky.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Kentucky</a> and Dr. Qingxiao Li from Louisiana State University (<a href="https://www.lsu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LSU</a>), recent trends suggest that taste may be trumping nutritional value.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-changes-in-children-s-cereal">Changes in children’s cereal </h2>



The cereals launched from 2010 to 2023 show an uptick in certain nutrients that might be considered less beneficial for growing children. This means that fats and sodium levels are climbing while the protein and fiber <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/most-baby-food-isnt-nutritious-despite-what-the-label-says/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">content</a> appears to be on a downswing.



Some cereals are loaded with extra sugar, raising concerns about the direct impact on childhood weight gain. 



Parents are often unaware that a single bowl can account for nearly half of the American Heart Association’s daily recommended <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.109.192627" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sugar limit</a> for kids.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-sugar-cereal-harms-children-s-health">High sugar cereal harms children’s health</h2>



<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/childhood-obesity-facts/childhood-obesity-facts.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Childhood obesity</a> has been linked to higher risk of heart problems later in life. Extra calories from sugary cereals may worsen the issue and put unnecessary strain on growing bodies.



Protein and fiber help <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cutting-sugar-in-childhood-can-prevent-a-lifetime-of-health-problems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kids</a> feel fuller and maintain energy for active days. When those nutrients drop, children may experience mid-morning crashes or a constant need to snack on foods that lack balance.



The researchers reviewed new product launches, focusing on cereals aimed at <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neighborhood-food-access-linked-to-childhood-obesity-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">children</a> between 5 and 12 years old. Many were repackaged versions of existing brands, but fresh flavors also entered the market.



The findings suggest that competition in the cereal aisle might drive companies to emphasize taste more than wholesome content. Manufacturers often rely on added sugar and salt to make products appealing, but that can come at the cost of nutritional integrity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cereal-packaging-is-misleading">Cereal packaging is misleading </h2>



Cereal boxes targeting kids often feature cartoons, bold fonts, and slogans that suggest health benefits. These visuals can lead parents to assume the product is both fun and nutritious, even if the nutrition facts suggest otherwise.



Many cereals also include terms like “whole grain” or “fortified with vitamins,” which may give the impression of a healthy choice. However, these labels can overshadow the actual sugar or sodium content, which isn’t always highlighted on the front.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-these-changes-went-unnoticed">Why these changes went unnoticed</h2>



Nutritional shifts happened gradually over more than a decade, making them harder for most people to spot. 



Without side-by-side comparisons, it’s tough for the average shopper to realize just how much sugar, fat, or sodium has crept into these products.



Packaging updates often draw more attention than ingredient lists. As long as the cereal looks familiar and tastes good, many consumers don’t think to check what might have changed inside the box.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-companies-can-improve-cereal-for-children">How companies can improve cereal for children</h2>



Food companies could reformulate their products to include more protein and fiber, both of which are important for growing children. 



Small changes, like using whole grains or adding nuts and seeds, can make cereals more balanced without sacrificing taste.



They could also be more transparent about added sugars and sodium by placing clear, front-of-box warnings. This would make it easier for parents to spot less healthy options at a glance and choose better ones.



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



Shifts in cereal nutrition aren’t just about breakfast, they reflect broader issues in how processed foods are made and marketed to children. 



When unhealthy patterns begin early, they can lead to lifelong habits that increase the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/obr.12048" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">risk</a> of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic conditions.



These findings also raise questions about food policy. Stricter regulations on added sugars and clearer labeling might help curb childhood obesity rates and reduce future health care burdens.



Parents can help by reading labels and comparing nutrient profiles across options. If the sugar count looks high, it may be wise to switch brands or mix in cereals with more fiber to balance out the meal.



It also helps to round out breakfast with fruit, milk, or yogurt that adds protein and vitamins. Being <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23166346/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">watchful</a> during grocery runs could be a simple way to reduce the risk of serious health issues for children.



The study is published in <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2834355" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Network Open</a>.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Children's cereals now contain more sugar and fat than ever

High-sugar breakfast cereals are hugely popular among children. Families often...

Life on Earth often gets portrayed as a masterclass in efficiency. From the hexagonal wax chambers in a honeybee hive to the slow, energy-sipping heartbeat of a blue whale, living systems seem built to stretch every calorie and atom. 



Yet a closer look shows that biology sometimes plays fast and loose with permanence. 



Some parts of a cell, an organism, or even a family line are designed to wear out, fall apart, or switch off long before they “should.” Far from a design flaw, that planned fragility can keep the larger system nimble and alive.



That idea has a name - selectively advantageous instability (SAI) - and it argues that short-lived components offer long-term payoffs. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-and-wasps-use-the-same-nest-building-tricks-despite-independent-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hexagons</a> may be efficient, but a dash of instability can be just as essential when conditions turn harsh, new challenges appear, or evolution needs fresh material to work with.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-aging-and-sai">Life, aging, and SAI</h2>



Inside every cell, countless molecules flicker in and out of existence within minutes. Transcription factors, the proteins that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biological-age-or-chronological-age-which-is-more-important/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flip genes on</a>, top the list of short-timers. They appear, do their job, and are broken down almost immediately. 



Such turnover means a heat-stressed cell can swap its entire control panel faster than a summer thunderclap passes overhead. The same rule helps remove <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/main-cause-of-sunburn-finally-identified-is-rna-damage-not-dna/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">damaged proteins</a> before they jam vital processes. 



Even the simplest bacteria stock enzymes whose sole task is to shred mistakes. Energy is spent, sure, but the reward is a toolbox that always works.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-grandmothers-and-telomeres">Grandmothers and telomeres</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-caloric-restriction-help-you-live-longer-its-complicated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Telomeres</a> - the shoelace tips on chromosomes - offer another twist. With each cell division, telomeres shorten until the cell either retires or self-destructs. 



It sounds grim, yet those built-in countdowns help stop runaway mutations that lead to cancer. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-suggests-menopause-can-be-delayed-or-even-eliminated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Human menopause</a> shows the pattern at the organism level. Women typically stop bearing children years before they stop living. 



The “grandmother effect,” in which elders boost the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grandchildren-are-a-source-of-joy-and-well-being-for-older-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">survival of grandchildren</a>, hints that ending fertility early can spread family genes more effectively than another late-life birth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sai-in-the-lab">SAI in the lab</h2>



After years of tracing such patterns, molecular biologist John Tower at <a href="https://dornsife.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC Dornsife College of Letters</a>, Arts and Sciences has argued that SAI deserves promotion to a rule of biology. 



He published the proposal in Frontiers in Aging, joining the short list of principles that describe universal patterns in life. 



“Even the simplest cells contain proteases and nucleases and regularly degrade and replace their proteins and RNAs, indicating that SAI is essential for life,” he explains. 



Like Allen’s 19th-century observation that cold-climate mammals carry stockier limbs, Tower’s idea highlights a trade-off that shows up again and again across species and scales.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-two-states-one-advantage">Two states, one advantage</h2>



“Science has been fascinated lately with concepts such as chaos theory, criticality, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/laundry-cleaning-may-explain-the-formation-of-animal-patterns/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Turing patterns</a>, and ‘cellular consciousness,’” Tower explains. “Research in the field suggests that SAI plays an important role in producing each of these phenomena.” 



At the core lies a simple switch. When a cell builds an unstable part, it exists in one state; once that part is destroyed, it flips to another. 



“This can favor the maintenance of both a normal gene and a gene mutation in the same cell population, if the normal gene is favorable in one cell state and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-gene-explains-why-some-people-can-thrive-on-less-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gene mutation</a> is favorable in the other cell state,” he says. 



The arrangement keeps a reservoir of variety on hand without committing all resources to one genetic bet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aging-evolution-and-energy-cost">Aging, evolution, and energy cost</h2>



Turnover has a price. Making and breaking molecules burns energy and raw materials. Over decades, the bill may appear as aging. If a harmful mutation slips into the “on” state too often, tissues falter. 



On the flip side, the same seesaw fuels evolution. In populations where environments swing - day to night, drought to flood - cells that toggle between states adapt faster than rigid rivals. 



The hint is clear: perfect stability can become a liability when the ground keeps shifting.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/rule-of-biology_aging_organized-principles_credit-Smith-Science_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/rule-of-biology_aging_organized-principles_credit-Smith-Science_1s.webp" alt="Examples of organizing principles observed across multiple levels of biological organization. Photo credit John Tower. (A–C) Hexagons. (A) Drosophila eggshell. (B) Honeycomb. (C) Glycogen. (D–F) Logarithmic spirals and self-repeating patterns. (D) Ammonite fossil. (E) Pinecone. (F) Romanesco broccoli. (G) Power cone model. Credit: White et al. Science" class="wp-image-1970999"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Examples of organizing principles observed across multiple levels of biological organization. Photo credit John Tower. (A–C) Hexagons. (A) Drosophila eggshell. (B) Honeycomb. (C) Glycogen. (D–F) Logarithmic spirals and self-repeating patterns. (D) Ammonite fossil. (E) Pinecone. (F) Romanesco broccoli. (G) Power cone model. Click image to enlarge. Credit: White et al. Science</figcaption></figure>



SAI appears to scale beyond biology. Human social networks constantly form and dissolve ties. Friend groups change, companies reorganize, and online communities blink in and out. 



While the churn may feel chaotic, it helps fresh ideas leap between clusters, spreading innovation the way a transcription factor sparks a gene. 



Whale pods, elephant herds, and even ant colonies show similar patterns of bond-building and pruning that keep group knowledge current and defenses flexible.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-sai-for-synthetic-biology">Implications of SAI for synthetic biology</h2>



Engineers hunting for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-intelligence-identifies-new-anti-aging-compounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial cells</a> or self-replicating robots have started to embrace instability on purpose. 



Digital models that include expendable modules evolve more resourceful behaviors than versions where every line of code is built to last forever. 



In the lab, molecular circuits programmed with timed self-destruct sequences adjust to new substrates faster than locked-in designs. 



If Tower’s rule holds, future bioreactors and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nanorobots-built-with-folded-dna-could-revolutionize-medicine/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">therapeutic nanomachines</a> may need parts scheduled to break, ensuring the whole system can reboot when surprises arise.



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



No single principle captures the full sweep of life’s ingenuity, yet SAI offers a fresh lens. It suggests that fragility, when placed just right, provides room for repair, experimentation, and growth, turning vulnerability into a super-power



Honeycomb hexagons still matter; so does the slow heartbeat of a whale. Cells jettison worn-out parts, families trade late-life births for grandmother wisdom, and entire societies thrive on the churn of ideas that come from bonds forming and fading. 



Selectively advantageous instability reminds us that lasting strength often springs from pieces designed to break and renew. 



Whether you’re engineering a molecular circuit or steering a team through change, embrace the well-timed teardown - because the systems that outlive the unexpected are the ones nimble enough to rebuild on the fly.



Beside all of these examples stands a quieter truth: sometimes the best way to stay alive is to let a few pieces fall apart, again and again, on purpose.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging/articles/10.3389/fragi.2024.1376060/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Aging</a>.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

Universal 'rule of biology' reveals and explains patterns in aging and longevity

Life on Earth often gets portrayed as a masterclass in...

<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.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

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.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

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>



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

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.

<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://youtu.be/Fi2OeEwuzRM?si=vTyd2m9FMmtyWkex
</div></figure>







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.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



-----

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.

<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://youtu.be/XYgiPzmNBTU?si=eFYY7gPHU1JznLvU
</div></figure>



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>.



-----



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



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by <a href="https://www.earth.com/author/eralls/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eric Ralls</a> and Earth.com.



-----

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.



<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter 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://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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"]</div>



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="X0f6OHYoI4-2310561-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JRaP49ISmm-2357509-12187" type="single"]</div>



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

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="e4ZG0Jawp3-2374785-12187" type="single"]</div>



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="uV9Lh2fQbV-1760058-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="qjvhBOBnY8-2426650-12187" type="single"]</div>



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;



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="oL4FnPTGCV-2384527-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="0879czfG3k-1785905-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"]</div>



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



---



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

[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"]</div>



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)



---



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...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"]</div>



Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes Earth’s interconnected systems, and how this network is affected by rising temperatures.&nbsp;



During 2020, average global temperatures matched the hottest year on record. The hurricane season was also record-breaking, with many of the storms intensifying at extraordinary speeds. Hot water in the ocean is fuel for hurricanes. The satellite data shows that it's all one interconnected system showing how Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected.



According to NASA, dust swept up from Northern Africa plays a major role in the formation of hurricanes, and is also a key source of fertilization in the Amazon rainforest. As a result of<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-wasting-disease-is-fueled-by-climate-change/"> climate</a> change, dust plumes are expected to decline, which will have an effect on vegetation far away.&nbsp;



Images from Earth-observing satellites show how the world’s plant life is affected by natural disasters, fires, and deforestation. Satellites also reveal how widespread changes in vegetation impact waterways,&nbsp; the climate, air quality. Satellites communicate by using radio waves to send signals to the antennas on the Earth. "Earth From Space" is a groundbreaking two-hour special that reveals a spectacular new space-based vision of our planet. 



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&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.

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"] Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected...

News coming your way