Nuclear fallout, or just simply fallout, known also as Black Rain, is the residual radioactive material that is propelled into the upper atmosphere after a nuclear black or a nuclear reaction that is conducted in an unshielded facility. It is so called because it “fall out” of the sky after the explosion and the shock wave have passed. It most commonly refers to the radioactive dust and ash that is created when a nuclear weapon explodes, but such dust can also come from a damaged nuclear plant.
This radioactive dust, made up of material either directly vaporized by a nuclear blast or charged by exposure, is highly dangerous radioactive contamination.
This can lead to the contamination of aquifers or soil and damage the affected ecosystems for years after the initial exposure.
Image Caption: Fallout shelter sign on a building in New York City upper east side. Credit: Gesalbte/Wikipedia

What is Nuclear Fallout?

Sleep experts advise against screen time in bed, cautioning that light from phones and electronic devices can interfere with our natural sleep patterns.&nbsp;



This is one example of how science is becoming more attuned to the wide-ranging health impacts linked to circadian rhythms and our daily sleep-wake cycles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-artificial-light-and-honeybees">Artificial light and honeybees</h2>



Now, a team of researchers led by the <a href="https://ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California, San Diego</a> (UC San Diego) has revealed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-light-pollution-disrupts-entire-ecological-networks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial light</a> also disrupts the circadian rhythms of honeybees, posing a risk to their role as pollinators.&nbsp;



“Our research shows just how sensitive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honey-bees-face-a-multitude-of-complex-stressors-in-the-field/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">honeybees</a> are to changes in their environment, particularly to something as seemingly benign as artificial light,” said lead author Ashley Kim, a PhD student in biology at UC San Diego.&nbsp;



“By disrupting their circadian rhythms, we see clear evidence of reduced sleep periods. This raises significant concerns, not only for bee health but also for the health of ecosystems that depend on them for pollination.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-night-light-and-sleep-disturbances">Night light and sleep disturbances </h2>



Honeybees are key pollinators for many wild plants and agricultural crops, essential for both ecosystem stability and global food security. These bees typically prefer nesting in dark spaces, though a little light enters from the hive entrance.&nbsp;



When bees are exposed to artificial light at night (ALAN), particularly in urban areas, their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/australian-dragons-reveal-new-clues-about-the-mysteries-of-sleep/">sleep</a> is disturbed, and as temperatures rise, bees may be even more exposed to ALAN.&nbsp;



The growing popularity of urban beekeeping to support bees and their pollination services means more honeybees may be facing these artificial light challenges.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-artificial-light-and-honeybee-behavior">Artificial light and honeybee behavior</h2>



Poor sleep from light exposure impairs bee behaviors crucial for hive health, including their complex communication system called the “<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bees-perform-waggle-dance-to-share-the-location-of-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">waggle dance</a>,” which helps bees share information about food sources.&nbsp;



To study this impact, UC San Diego researchers conducted experiments over several years, comparing bees sleeping in darkness with bees exposed to constant light. The results showed that bees in constant light had disrupted sleep, as Kim observed through 24-hour video recordings.



“Even without analyzing the data, you can tell that there was something going on…the bees that were under constant light slept less,” she said.&nbsp;



“The effects of light pollution on biological systems is fairly unknown and something people normally don’t think about, which is why it’s a rapidly evolving field.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-threat-of-light-pollution">Growing threat of light pollution</h2>



“Understanding the factors that affect bee health, such as light pollution, is essential for developing strategies to protect pollinator populations,” said senior author James Nieh, a professor of biology at UC San Diego.&nbsp;



As artificial light now covers over a quarter of the Earth’s surface, the study highlights the urgent need to understand how these disruptions may be harming bees and other pollinators.&nbsp;



Continuous artificial light exposure caused honeybees to sleep less, and their hive-mates disturbed them more frequently compared to bees resting in the dark. In experimental cages, bees under constant light sought darker areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enlace-initiative-in-pollinator-research">ENLACE initiative in pollinator research</h2>



This research also highlights UC San Diego’s ENLACE program, which connects students from Latin America and the U.S. to research global challenges like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollen-wars-plants-compete-for-space-on-pollinators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollinator</a> health.&nbsp;



Students who participated in the ENLACE initiative, such as Aura Velazquez and Belen Saavedra, contributed as co-authors on the study.&nbsp;



“This project exemplifies the impact of ENLACE, bringing diverse perspectives to address environmental challenges like pollinator health and environmental sustainability,” said Olivia Graeve, ENLACE director and UC San Diego professor.



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



UC San Diego’s Catalyst Fund recently awarded Nieh and study co-author Benjamin Smarr a grant to extend their research on circadian rhythms to broader environmental and human health issues.&nbsp;



Their project, “Harmonizing the Pulse of Life: Pioneering Circadian Insights for Human and Ecosystem Health at UC San Diego,” will explore the effects of circadian disruptions from bees to entire ecosystems.&nbsp;



“This program fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together experts in biology, data science, and medicine to address issues like light pollution and its impact on pollinator health,” said Nieh.&nbsp;



The Catalyst Grant reinforces UC San Diego’s commitment to sustainability and human well-being, offering innovative ways to mitigate light pollution’s effects on pollinators and beyond.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/srep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Scientific Reports</a>. A preprint can be found on <a href="https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.07.03.547605v1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BioRxiv</a>.



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Artificial light disrupts honeybee sleep patterns

Sleep experts advise against screen time in bed, cautioning that...

The fossilized remains of a giant "terror bird," recently discovered in the sandy landscapes of South America's Tatacoa Desert, tells the story of a formidable predator from the Phorusrhacid family.



A new study focuses on these giant, meat-eating predators, providing remarkable insights into the diverse wildlife that roamed the world in very ancient times.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-phorusrhacid-s">What are Phorusrhacids?</h2>



Phorusrhacid birds, better known as "terror birds," were some of the most impressive predators to ever walk the Earth. These flightless birds lived in South America from about 60 million to 2 million years ago. 



Standing up to 10 feet tall, they had massive, hooked beaks and really strong legs built for running, Basically, they were the top predators of their time.



Terror birds dominated their environment by hunting small to medium-sized animals. They could sprint at high speeds to chase down prey, using their powerful beaks to deliver lethal strikes. 



Some scientists believe they might have even hunted in packs, although that's still up for debate. Their reign lasted for millions of years, filling the gap left by the dinosaurs' extinction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leg-bone-of-an-ancient-phorusrhacid">Leg bone of an ancient Phorusrhacid</h2>



At the center of this fascinating narrative is a leg bone. This relic from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-site-in-australia-indicates-abundant-life-during-the-miocene/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Miocene</a> epoch, a period dating back around 12 million years, holds within it stories about the ancient birds of prey that roamed the continent.



Dr. Siobhán Cooke is an associate professor of functional anatomy and evolution at the <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johns Hopkins University</a> School of Medicine. 



He noted that the size of the bone indicates that this terror bird may be the largest known member of the species identified to date, approximately 5 to 20 percent larger than known Phorusrhacids.



The bone's physical attributes provide an intriguing subplot. It contains deep pits peculiar to Phorusrhacids and potential teeth marks of a prehistoric caiman, Purussaurus.



The physical evidence seems to point to a fatal altercation with a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/differences-in-the-mammalian-and-reptilian-brain-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reptilian</a> adversary. 



"We suspect that the terror bird would have died as a result of its injuries given the size of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-remains-shed-new-light-on-crocodilian-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crocodilians</a> 12 million years ago," said Dr. Cooke.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-distribution-of-phorusrhacid-terror-birds">Distribution of Phorusrhacid terror birds</h2>



The unearthed fossil, found as far north as Colombia, expands our understanding of the geography of terror birds, which have been primarily associated with Argentina and Uruguay.



The research hints at a diverse and thriving ecosystem, markedly different from the landscapes we see now.



This ancient environment, now a desert, was home to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primates-face-an-uncertain-future-due-to-climate-change/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primates</a>, hoofed mammals, gigantic ground sloths, glyptodonts (essentially, gigantic armadillos the size of cars), and terror birds.



The seriema, a modern long-legged bird native to South America, is considered a distant relative of Phorusrhacids.



"It’s a different kind of ecosystem than we see today or in other parts of the world during a period before South and North America were connected," noted Dr. Cooke.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-phorusrhacid-terror-birds">Studying Phorusrhacid terror birds</h2>



The discovery opens a window of possibility that additional fossils of terror birds may lie unidentified in museum archives.



"It’s possible there are fossils in existing collections that haven’t been recognized yet as terror birds because the bones are less diagnostic than the lower leg bone we found," said Dr. Cooke.



The fossil also prompts us to envision an environment now lost to time, populated by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/elusive-bird-night-parrot-pezoporus-occidentalis-thought-to-be-long-extinct-rediscovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">long-extinct</a> creatures that once dominated the fauna. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/terror-bird_Phorusrhacid_leg-bone_tibiotarsus_credit-Degrange_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/terror-bird_Phorusrhacid_leg-bone_tibiotarsus_credit-Degrange_1s.webp" alt="The end of a terror bird's left tibiotarsus, a lower leg bone in birds equivalent to that of a human tibia or shin bone, dates back to the Miocene epoch around 12 million years ago. Credit: Degrange et al." class="wp-image-1949728"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The end of a terror bird's left tibiotarsus, a lower leg bone in birds equivalent to that of a human tibia or shin bone, dates back to the Miocene epoch around 12 million years ago. Credit: Degrange et al.</figcaption></figure>



"It would have been a fascinating place to walk around and see all of these now extinct animals," noted Dr. Cooke.



This remarkable find, the first of its kind from the site, is a tribute to the rich biodiversity that once adorned our planet. 



It nudges us to view the past through a lens of awe and curiosity, and to appreciate the diversity and beauty of the life forms that populated Earth millions of years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-terror-bird-s-legacy">The terror bird’s legacy</h2>



The discovery of this massive terror bird sheds light not only on ancient ecosystems but also on the evolutionary story of apex predators. 



The physical characteristics of this bird - its powerful leg bones and sharp beak -- highlight the specialized adaptations that allowed it to thrive in its environment.



These adaptations may have provided the terror bird with the speed and agility to hunt effectively, filling a predatory role in the food chain much like large cats or raptors do today. 



By understanding the terror bird’s evolution, researchers hope to uncover insights into how apex predators adapt to environmental shifts, contributing valuable knowledge to evolutionary biology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossil-discoveries-on-the-horizon">Fossil discoveries on the horizon</h2>



This fossil, potentially one of the largest known of its kind, also serves as a reminder that more discoveries await in the Tatacoa Desert and beyond.



While Colombia is not typically recognized as a hotbed of fossil discovery compared to regions like Argentina or North America, recent findings like this highlight its hidden potential.



Paleontologists are hopeful that ongoing exploration of South American sites will yield further specimens, expanding our understanding of Miocene-era ecosystems. 



This research, along with improved fossil identification techniques, may pave the way for unearthing additional terror bird remains, helping scientists reconstruct the behaviors, habitats, and interactions of these ancient predators.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/spp2.1601" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Palaeontology</a>.



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"Terror birds" ate meat and dominated the planet long ago

The fossilized remains of a giant "terror bird," recently discovered...

It's known as the "boring billion," a murky period in Earth's history between 1.8 billion and 800 million years ago, when life's complexity didn't extend much beyond single-celled organisms.



Apart from the occasional multicellular life form, most of the living species during that time period were simple, unicellular organisms that had minimal requirements for life. 



But don't mistake "boring" for insignificant. This epoch of evolution laid the foundation for the drama of complex multicellularity that would eventually lead to us.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-energy-fuel-for-evolution">Energy: Fuel for evolution</h2>



The boring billion period appears to mark a time when the evolution of complex life was delayed and conditions were so stable as to border on stagnant. 



Scientists state that oxygen levels at this time were drastically decreased and conditions were fairly harsh for most forms of life.



A new study by Michael Lynch of <a href="https://www.asu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona State University</a> has revealed that the transition from unicellular to multicellular life forms would have come at a cost.



Using the water flea, Daphnia, as a <a href="https://phys.org/tags/model+organism/">model organism</a>, the study shows that multicellular organisms require more than a tenfold increase in energy compared with the simpler, unicellular organisms characteristic of the boring billion period. 



"No one doubts that multicellularity can bring substantial advantages to the table, but the privilege of attaining such benefits comes at a steep investment cost," said Lynch, who directs the <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fbiodesign.asu.edu%2Fmechanisms-of-evolution%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biodesign Center for Mechanisms of Evolution</a> at ASU.



The study emphasizes the importance of respiration and other metabolic processes in navigating the transition to more complex life forms. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cost-of-complexity">Cost of complexity </h2>



Every organism, from the smallest bacterium to a human, is driven by energy. Having an entire body made of only one cell reduces the need for energy and nutrients to grow and reproduce. 



But multicellular organisms, like plants, animals, and fungi, have to maintain a multitude of cells in complex tissues, organs and structures. And this places a far higher energy demand on the organism.



As the cell count increases in a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-life-and-environment-co-evolved-over-500-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multicellular organism</a>, so does the demand on ATP synthase, the molecular machinery in cells that manufactures ATP, the universal energy currency. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/multicelled-organisms_metazoan-daphnia_credit-Marek-Mis_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/multicelled-organisms_metazoan-daphnia_credit-Marek-Mis_1s.webp" alt="A new study shows that multicelled organisms like the metazoan daphnia (pictured) require a tenfold increase in energy compared with protists for their growth, maintenance and survival. The high cost of multicellular existence is offset by the many evolutionary advantages afforded to advanced organisms, from simpler forms like daphnia all the way up to vertebrate species, including humans. Credit: Marek Miś" class="wp-image-1950209"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A new study shows that multicelled organisms like the metazoan daphnia (pictured) require a tenfold increase in energy compared with protists for their growth, maintenance and survival. The high cost of multicellular existence is offset by the many evolutionary advantages afforded to advanced organisms, from simpler forms like daphnia all the way up to vertebrate species, including humans. Credit: Marek Miś</figcaption></figure>



Each new cell in a multicellular body is another mouth to feed in terms of energy, and the cost increases with the number of cells.



The findings of the Daphnia study show that metazoans - the group that includes multicellular creatures - need a lot more ATP synthase complexes in each cell than their simpler, unicellular counterparts.



In fact, for every increment in body mass, these organisms require 30 to 50 times more oxygen than simpler, unicellular creatures. This additional oxygen supports the complex needs for metabolism, cellular communication, and tissue maintenance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size-comes-at-a-price">Size comes at a price</h2>



Growth isn't cheap, particularly for multicellular organisms. 



While larger, unicellular organisms, like some amoebas, become more efficient as they grow, multicellular organisms face unique challenges that require extra energy to sustain their larger sizes and more complex structures.



Given this steep energy price, why did multicellularity evolve at all? 



The answer seems to be that multicellular life offers evolutionary advantages, such as being able to consume unicellular organisms en masse, evade predators, and live in various environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-energy-barriers">Overcoming energy barriers</h2>



To surmount the energetic challenges presented by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/past-snowball-earth-conditions-drove-evolution-complex-multicellular-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multicellularity</a>, organisms have developed remarkable adaptations to utilize their resources efficiently. 



One key adaptation is the division of labor between specialized cells, tissues, and organs; this specialization allows for optimized energy usage where cells perform distinct functions more efficiently than they would if they had to carry out all the different life activities.



For example, mitochondria within eukaryotic cells have evolved highly efficient pathways to generate ATP, thus maximizing the energy harvested from different substrates.



Furthermore, the development of vascular systems in plants and circulatory systems in animals allows for the effective distribution of energy resources, and ensures that all cells have access to the oxygen and nutrients necessary to produce energy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-the-boring-billion">Implications of the "boring billion"</h2>



Understanding the evolutionary narrative of the "boring billion" holds powerful implications for modern scientific research. 



This era not only reflects the energy-centric challenges of the past but also informs the fields of synthetic biology, evolutionary biology, and bioengineering.



By studying the metabolic pathways and energy efficiencies developed during this period, researchers can potentially design bio-inspired systems and organisms with enhanced functionalities and sustainability.



Furthermore, insights gained from this epoch's evolutionary innovations could pioneer future advancements in medical therapies, agriculture, and ecosystem management. 



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



This study primarily focuses on aerobic, animal-like organisms. But there's a vast and varied spectrum of life out there, including plants and fungi, and the researchers plan to extend their investigations to these life forms. 



Future insights could shed light on why <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biggest-known-space-cloud-of-life-building-complex-chemicals-discovered/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">multicellular life forms</a> took a considerable time to appear and diversify on our planet.



Multicellular life has high energy demands and this study suggests that the constraints of bioenergy could be a universal phenomenon that is applicable to any carbon-based, oxygen-breathing life, no matter where it exists in the universe.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2414742121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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'Boring billion' wasn’t a dull period, it fueled a shift to complex life

It's known as the "boring billion," a murky period in...

Lightning,Thunderstorm,Flash,In,The,Mountains.,Concept,On,Topic,Weather,

Imagine a world where continents are fused into one massive landmass, and life as we know it is on the brink of transformation. That's precisely what happened 233 million years ago during one million year period of rain called the Carnian Pluvial Episode (CPE).



An international team of scientists has found evidence of this significant extinction event, which appears to have paved the way for dinosaurs to become the dominant creatures on Earth.



Involved in this important research are Dr. Jacopo Dal Corso from the <a href="https://en.cug.edu.cn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">China University of Geosciences</a> at Wuhan and Professor Mike Benton from the <a href="https://www.bristol.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bristol</a>. 



Their collaborative efforts have pieced together a pivotal moment in our planet's history that reshaped life both on land and in the oceans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carnian-pluvial-episode">Carnian Pluvial Episode</h2>



Back in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/early-dinosaurs-benefited-from-changes-in-global-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Late Triassic period</a>, all the continents were joined together in a supercontinent known as Pangea, surrounded by the vast Panthalassa Ocean. The interior of <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/supercontinents-101-pannotia-gondwana-and-pangea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pangea</a> was mostly dry and arid, with rainfall occurring mainly near the coastal regions. 



This dry spell took a dramatic turn when a layer of dark gray rock was discovered in Austria's Northern Limestone Alps in the 1970s by geologists Schlager and Schollnberger. 



This layer indicated wet conditions sandwiched between arid periods, suggesting a global climate event -- the Carnian Pluvial Episode.



So, what caused this sudden shift to a wetter climate? The main culprit appears to be massive volcanic eruptions in the Wrangellia Province, an area that now includes parts of Alaska and British Columbia. 



These eruptions released enormous amounts of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jurassic-rocks-reveal-new-details-about-earths-climate-system/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">carbon dioxide</a> into the atmosphere. 



"The eruptions peaked in the Carnian," notes Dr. Jacopo Dal Corso. "They were so huge, they pumped vast amounts of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, leading to spikes of global warming."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mass-extinction-and-new-beginnings">Mass extinction and new beginnings</h2>



The surge in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/report-earth-is-headed-for-an-irreversible-climate-disaster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gases</a> caused global temperatures to rise by about 5 to 7 degrees Fahrenheit, amplifying evaporation from the seas and triggering increased rainfall worldwide. 



This climate chaos led to significant biodiversity loss. Many species couldn't adapt to the rapid environmental changes, resulting in a mass extinction event. But nature abhors a vacuum. 



As some species disappeared, new ones emerged to fill the gaps, leading to ecosystems that began to resemble those we see today.



"The new floras probably provided slim pickings for the surviving <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animals-with-high-body-temperatures-often-become-herbivores/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">herbivorous reptiles</a>," says Professor Mike Benton. 



"We now know that dinosaurs originated some 20 million years before this event, but they remained quite rare and unimportant until the Carnian Pluvial Episode hit. It was the sudden arid conditions after the humid episode that gave dinosaurs their chance."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dinosaurs-emerge-from-the-carnian-pluvial">Dinosaurs emerge from the Carnian Pluvial</h2>



As the climate shifted back to drier conditions, dinosaurs seized the opportunity to thrive. This period also saw the rise of the first turtles, crocodiles, lizards, and even the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/incredible-discovery-some-mammals-attacked-dinosaurs-and-they-often-won-the-battle/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earliest mammals</a>. 



The expansion of conifer forests created new habitats, and these emerging animal groups diversified life on land in remarkable ways.



The oceans weren't spared from the upheaval. The Carnian Pluvial Episode marks the beginning of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-we-save-coral-reefs-with-selective-breeding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modern coral reefs</a> and the appearance of many groups of plankton. 



These changes indicate significant shifts in ocean chemistry and the carbonate cycle, affecting the entire marine food chain and leading to new forms of marine life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recognizing-a-sixth-mass-extinction">Recognizing a sixth mass extinction</h2>



Until now, scientists had identified five <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-was-the-cause-of-earths-largest-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">major mass extinctions</a> over the past half-billion years. These events dramatically reshaped life's trajectory on Earth. 



"So far, paleontologists had identified five 'big' mass extinctions in the past 500 million years of the history of life," says Dr. Dal Corso. 



"We have identified another great extinction event, and it evidently had a major role in helping to reset life on land and in the oceans, marking the origins of modern ecosystems."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-this-carnian-pluvial">Lessons from this Carnian Pluvial</h2>



The Carnian Pluvial Episode offers valuable insights into how massive volcanic eruptions and the resulting climate shifts can have far-reaching consequences. 



The release of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide led to global warming, increased rainfall, and environmental upheaval. 



In our current era, human activities are raising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/2023-climate-change-report-record-high-temperatures-greenhouse-gases-sea-level-rise/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">greenhouse gas levels</a>, leading to climate change. Studying events like the CPE can help us understand how ecosystems respond to rapid environmental changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-massive-volcanic-events">Massive volcanic events</h2>



Dr. Dal Corso emphasizes the scale of these ancient volcanic events, saying, "The eruptions were so huge, they pumped vast amounts of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, and there were spikes of global warming." 



His observations highlight how natural events can dramatically alter our planet's climate.



"I had noted a floral switch and ecological catastrophe among the herbivores back in 1983 when I completed my PhD," Professor Benton notes.



His decades of work illustrate how scientific understanding evolves, building on clues from various fields to piece together Earth's complex history.



Learning about events from millions of years ago requires collaboration across multiple scientific disciplines, including geology, paleontology, and climate science. 



Discoveries like the Carnian Pluvial Episode showcase the importance of interdisciplinary research in deepening our understanding of Earth's past.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-any-of-this-matter">Why does any of this matter?</h2>



As we face our own environmental challenges today, looking back at events like the Carnian Pluvial Episode can inform our actions. 



If natural volcanic activity could cause such drastic changes, it raises questions about the impact of human-induced climate change. 



How might life on Earth adapt -- or struggle to adapt -- in the face of current environmental shifts?



The story of the Carnian Pluvial Episode demonstrates Earth's resilience and ability to recover and evolve after catastrophic events. 



A period of massive volcanic eruptions and climate upheaval set the stage for the rise of dinosaurs and the formation of ecosystems that continue to influence life today. 



As we continue to explore our planet's history, each discovery offers a new perspective on the resilience and adaptability of life on Earth.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.2109895118" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PNAS</a>.



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One million straight years of rain triggered the dinosaur takeover of Earth

Imagine a world where continents are fused into one massive...

They say all good things come to an end. And this week, we will witness the last supermoon of 2024. This dazzling celestial pattern will take center stage for the fourth time this year, illuminating our night skies with an intensity that we won't see again until 2025.



"Skywatchers can see the next full moon, the Beaver Moon, on November 15, starting at 4:29 p.m. EST. This moon is extra special as it’s the final supermoon of 2024, meaning the moon will appear bigger and brighter than usual," noted <a href="https://search.app?link=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.nasa.gov%2FWatch_the_Skies%2F2024%2F11%2F12%2Fyou-woodnt-want-to-miss-the-beaver-moon-last-supermoon-of-2024%2F&amp;utm_campaign=aga&amp;utm_source=agsadl2%2Csh%2Fx%2Fgs%2Fm2%2F4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-beaver-moon">The Beaver Moon </h2>



November's full moon is traditionally known as the Beaver Moon. This name comes from Native American and colonial times when beavers were actively preparing for winter, and it was the time to set beaver traps before the water froze. 



The full moon's timing helped trappers work late into the evening by the moonlight, making it an essential time for both hunting and survival preparations.



The Beaver Moon is usually the last full moon before the winter solstice, marking the shift into colder weather in the Northern Hemisphere. For skywatchers, it’s an ideal time to view a bright, clear full moon since November nights are often crisp and clear.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bigger-brighter-closer">Bigger, brighter, closer</h2>



The Beaver Moon will look more impressive than usual as it swings by Earth at a distance of about 225,000 miles on Thursday, just before reaching its full luminary peak on Friday.



The supermoon is no <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hunters-supermoon-prepares-to-illuminate-the-october-skies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">one-act wonder</a>, having kicked off its tour in August. Last month, it dazzled us at a distance that was 2,800 miles (4,500 kilometers) closer than the position of the upcoming Beaver Moon.



The grand finale of the 2024 supermoons will arrive just after the peak of the Taurid meteor shower and just before the Leonids are most active.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supermoons-of-2024">Supermoons of 2024</h2>



This year has kept us <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/full-moon-trifecta-september-2024-harvest-moon-supermoon-and-partial-eclipse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">moonstruck</a> four times over. August's supermoon was 224,917 miles away, which was outdone by September's full moon at a distance of 222,131 miles away.



September's supermoon was punctuated by a partial lunar eclipse, reminiscent of a small bite. The Earth's shadow cloaked the moon, and this sight was visible across much of the Americas, Africa, and Europe.



October's supermoon was the closest of 2024 at a distance of 222,055 miles from Earth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supermoon-s-close-approach-to-earth">Supermoon's close approach to Earth</h2>



When it comes to a supermoon, it's not just the size, but the brightness that counts. It can outshine its regular luminosity by up to 30 percent. While a supermoon appears up to 14 percent larger than a regular full moon, it is not physically bigger.



This effect happens because a supermoon occurs when the full moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit, known as perigee. 



When a full moon occurs at this closer point, it appears larger and reflects more sunlight, making it look especially luminous.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supermoon-2024-legends-and-myths">Supermoon 2024: Legends and myths</h2>



Throughout history, the supermoon has captivated human imagination, inspiring countless myths, legends, and cultural interpretations across diverse civilizations. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heightened-emotions-and-behavior">Heightened emotions and behavior </h3>



In many cultures, the supermoon is believed to amplify emotions and influence human behavior. 



This idea might stem from longstanding associations between the moon and tides, leading to beliefs that the moon similarly affects human emotions. Some people believe it heightens feelings of love, passion, or even aggression.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spiritual-energy">Spiritual energy</h3>



Many spiritual traditions consider a supermoon event as a powerful time for reflection, healing, and new beginnings. Some believe the supermoon enhances intuition, making it an ideal time for meditation, setting intentions, or letting go of old energies.



Supermoons are sometimes celebrated with rituals, like burning sage or journaling, to harness its "supercharged" energy.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bad-omens-and-superstition">Bad omens and superstition </h3>



In some cultures, a larger-than-usual moon was seen as a bad omen, linked to natural disasters like earthquakes or storms. 



This belief, while without scientific basis, persists in popular culture, with people associating supermoons with strange happenings or increased accidents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-supermoon-in-scientific-endeavors">Supermoon in scientific endeavors</h2>



Beyond its visual spectacle, the supermoon serves as a significant tool in scientific research, providing an exceptional opportunity for astronomers and researchers to gather valuable data. 



By illuminating lunar features with unmatched clarity, it assists in refining understanding of the lunar surface, contributing to ongoing studies in geology and potential resource utilization. Moreover, the increased brightness and proximity facilitate educational and outreach initiatives. 



Public engagement activities during a supermoon can ignite interest in astronomy and the broader sciences, empowering future generations with a passion for celestial sciences. 



As explorations extend beyond Earth, the supermoon remains integral to both artistic and scientific pursuits, bridging the gap between beauty and knowledge.



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Last supermoon of 2024, the Beaver Moon, will rise this week

They say all good things come to an end. And...

A recent study has revealed the extraordinary capacity for reverse development in the ctenophore, or comb jelly, specifically in the species Mnemiopsis leidyi.&nbsp;Comb jellies seem to use the strategy of aging in reverse as a survival strategy when they are under pressure.



This surprising discovery, led by the University of Bergen, has added fresh perspectives to the field of developmental biology, suggesting that life cycle plasticity might be more prevalent in the animal kingdom than previously assumed.



Traditionally, animal life cycles follow a well-established sequence: birth, growth, reproduction, and death. 



Only a few exceptions defy this pattern, such as the “immortal jellyfish” Turritopsis dohrnii, known for its ability to revert from an adult medusa to a polyp stage. 



Now, this remarkable club of life-cycle-reversing organisms includes the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-comb-jellies-survive-crushing-pressure-in-the-deep-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comb jelly</a> Mnemiopsis leidyi, adding a new chapter to what is understood about animal regeneration and development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-comb-jellies">What are comb jellies?</h2>



Comb jellies, also known as ctenophores, are fascinating marine creatures that often get mistaken for jellyfish. Unlike true jellyfish, comb jellies don’t sting.



Instead, they move gracefully through the water using rows of tiny, hair-like cilia that shimmer in the light, creating beautiful, rainbow-like reflections. 



These cilia beat in coordinated waves, propelling the comb jellies forward and making them look like they're dancing through the ocean.



Inside their transparent bodies, comb jellies have a simple yet effective setup. They sport sticky cells called colloblasts, which they use to capture tiny plankton and other small prey. 



Some species even have a rudimentary nerve net and complex eyes, allowing them to navigate their environment and hunt more efficiently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-life-cycle-plasticity-and-rejuvenation">Life cycle plasticity and rejuvenation</h2>



The discovery happened by chance during routine laboratory observations. Joan J. Soto-Angel, a postdoctoral fellow at the <a href="https://www.uib.no/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Bergen</a>, first noticed an adult Mnemiopsis that seemingly morphed into a larval form. 



“The work challenges our understanding of early animal development and body plans, opening new avenues for the study of life cycle plasticity and rejuvenation,” he said. 



“Witnessing how they slowly transition to a typical cydippid larva as if they were going back in time, was simply fascinating.”



Intrigued by this unexpected transformation, Soto-Angel, together with Pawel Burkhardt from the Michael Sars Center at the University of Bergen, conducted controlled experiments to test whether this reversion could be consistently triggered.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-comb-jellies-aging-in-reverse">Comb jellies aging in reverse</h2>



Under conditions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stress-eats-away-our-brains-cognitive-defenses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress</a>, such as starvation and physical injury, the Mnemiopsis displayed an ability to revert from its lobate adult form to a juvenile-like cydippid stage.&nbsp;



Over several weeks, the specimens not only shifted their physical characteristics but also adopted feeding behaviors typical of the larval stage.&nbsp;



This ability to transform fundamentally alters the way scientists understand life cycle stages and development in early animal lineages.



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



The implications of these findings reach beyond ctenophores themselves. 



“The fact that we have found a new species that uses this peculiar 'time-travel machine' raises fascinating questions about how widespread this capacity is across the animal tree of life,” Soto-Angel noted. 



Ctenophores are among the earliest diverging animal lineages, so this newly discovered plasticity could represent an ancestral trait retained from early evolutionary history.



“This fascinating finding will open the door for many important discoveries,” Burkhardt added. 



“It will be interesting to reveal the molecular mechanism driving reverse development, and what happens to the animal’s nerve net during this process.” 



Understanding how nerve structures adapt or are preserved during such drastic transitions could provide insights relevant to neurobiology and regenerative medicine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aging-in-reverse-for-survival">Aging in reverse for survival</h2>



Reverse development might have evolved as an adaptive survival strategy, allowing organisms to respond to environmental challenges by resetting to a simpler developmental stage.&nbsp;



The reversion observed in Mnemiopsis leidyi under stressful conditions could be an evolved mechanism to increase resilience, conserving resources until conditions improve.



The new evidence prompts questions regarding how these mechanisms are regulated and whether similar processes could be found in other species, particularly in more complex organisms.&nbsp;



The ability of comb jellies to revert to a juvenile form could carry implications for how scientists approach the study of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-reversed-aging-in-mice-by-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aging</a>, cellular repair, and tissue regeneration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-horizons-in-developmental-biology">New horizons in developmental biology</h2>



The discovery paves the way for future research into developmental flexibility and regeneration. Revealing the molecular mechanisms that facilitate this reverse development will be key to understanding not just ctenophores but potentially broader biological processes.



The findings challenge previously held notions that complex life cycles are irreversible, showing that under certain conditions, some species can alter their developmental trajectory.&nbsp;



This opens new questions about how widespread such capabilities may be and whether they exist, undiscovered, in other branches of the animal kingdom.



In conclusion, this breakthrough in studying Mnemiopsis leidyi has added a significant piece to the puzzle of evolutionary biology, demonstrating that the potential for life cycle reversal and developmental plasticity could be more common than once believed.&nbsp;



The research not only provides new insights into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/unraveling-the-story-of-early-animal-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early animal evolution</a> but also presents exciting opportunities for studying regeneration, aging, and cellular processes in broader biological contexts.



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Comb jellies can age in reverse and may hold secrets to immortality

A recent study has revealed the extraordinary capacity for reverse...

If you've ever walked through the city at night and heard the hoot of an owl, chances are you've encountered a creature that's made the urban jungle its home: the barred owl (Strix varia).



Recent evidence suggests that urban spaces don't just provide homes for humans, but for these adaptable nocturnal birds as well.



And believe it or not, the way we design and architect our cities could have a significant influence on the survival, behavior, and habitat choices of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/owl-wings-inspire-noise-reduction-in-wind-turbines-and-aircraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">winged residents</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-the-sun-sets-barred-owls-stir">When the sun sets, barred owls stir</h2>



A team of biologists from <a href="https://www.lsu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Louisiana State University</a> recently revealed an interesting pattern in the behavior of urban owls. 



Mainly, barred owls have a knack for night-time activities, with the data showing that their home ranges were considerably larger at night than during the day.



Interestingly, the study found that barred owls seem to manage their energy more efficiently in their preferred <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/geomagnetic-disturbances-throw-nocturnal-birds-off-course/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nocturnal</a> spots, indicating that these areas might be resource-rich and vital for their survival.



This finding can guide urban planning efforts to protect and preserve such spaces, thereby supporting not just barred owls but also the array of wildlife that thrives within them.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-affluent-neighborhoods-and-biodiversity">Affluent neighborhoods and biodiversity</h2>



The study drew an unexpected connection: barred owls seem to prefer habitats in affluent neighborhoods, where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-spaces-shape-bird-characteristics-in-urban-areas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">green spaces</a> and resources are more abundant.



This phenomenon supports the “luxury effect” - where wealthier areas nurture greater biodiversity due to factors like better-maintained parks and larger, tree-filled properties.



The research suggests the need for an equitable distribution of green spaces in cities, extending to less affluent neighborhoods, as a means to encourage <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-greening-projects-can-dramatically-boost-urban-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">urban biodiversity</a> and support wildlife across all socioeconomic areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-habitat-needs-of-wildlife">Understanding the habitat needs of wildlife </h2>



The research highlights the importance of studying an animal’s full 24-hour cycle, known as the diel cycle, to better understand their habitat needs.



Instead of focusing solely on their nocturnal activities, which is usually the case for owls, understanding their daytime behavior is equally important. 



This approach might be compared with evaluating human priorities based solely on work hours, while neglecting off-work events.



Just as work and home life shape human well-being, an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/survival-of-the-friendliest-social-animals-live-longer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">animal’s survival</a> and fitness are swayed by both active and inactive periods.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-challenge-of-studying-barred-owls">The challenge of studying barred owls</h2>



The research team faced unique challenges in capturing barred owls, employing various creative strategies along the way. One of their notable attempts involved a stuffed owl toy named Judas. 



“Judas was supposed to lure territorial owls into our nets. He was hit a few times, but most owls weren’t fooled. We had better success with a broadcast of owl calls next to 12-meter (40-foot) tall nets," noted study co-author Dr. Vitek Jirinec.



He described the experience as both thrilling and humbling - recounting the physical reminders with photographic evidence of his hands, torso, and head.



“Most of my previous experience comes from working with small songbirds, but these owls are a different kind of beast who can make use of their sharp beaks and claws, if one is not careful." 



Once captured, the barred owls were fitted with GPS and accelerometer loggers. This technology allowed the team to precisely track the owls' movements and energy use, providing crucial data that revealed differences in their behavior and habitat use across the urban landscape.



The findings offer valuable insights into how these nocturnal predators navigate and adapt to their environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-teaming-up-for-a-cause">Teaming up for a cause</h2>



This research was made possible due to a collaborative blend of advanced technology, hands-on fieldwork, and community involvement. 



According to study co-author Dr. Sabrina Taylor, the research was a deeply rewarding experience that united graduate and undergraduate students, faculty, and even community members.



“We wouldn’t have been able to undertake an extra research project to learn about this local species without the collaboration of many people,” she noted.



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



This research not only paves the way for a greater understanding of urban ecology but also sheds light on socio-economic disparities in environmental quality, revealing how unequal distribution of resources can impact wildlife and community well-being.



The findings highlight the need for cohesive urban landscapes that support biodiversity, promote ecological balance, and offer equitable access to green spaces for all residents.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/condor/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/ornithapp/duae038/7736940?redirectedFrom=fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ornithological Applications</a>.



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When barred owls live in the city, they prefer affluent neighborhoods

If you've ever walked through the city at night and...

Plants captivate us as they grow not only upward but also in width, expanding their girth. Imagine a pencil-thin tree growing taller without becoming sturdy - hardly stable, right?



Our perception of plants reveals a simple truth: they must grow outwards as well as upwards. Yet, most research focuses on the tips of shoots, where a plant's height increases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-plants-grow-stronger">How plants grow stronger</h2>



"Plants can’t grow endlessly in height. They also need to grow in thickness, or they would simply fall over," noted biologist Kirsten Ten Tusscher from <a href="https://www.uu.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Utrecht University</a>.



So, while examining the increase in a tree’s height makes sense, understanding how they get "broader" is just as crucial.



We've all marveled at <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/older-trees-help-the-endangered-wolf-lichen-survive/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">older trees</a> growing visibly thicker and more robust over time. This outward growth, especially in trees, is necessary for structural strength.



What's the key to this increase in width over time? It's all in the cambium layer's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-plant-stem-cells-could-support-human-growth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stem cells</a>.



These crucial cells are the ones calling the shots, producing wood to support the tree's structure as it grows. However, until now, the genetic mechanisms behind the activation of these stem cells has remained a mystery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growing-processes-in-plants">Growing processes in plants</h2>



In collaboration with colleagues from the University of Helsinki, Durham University, and the University of California, Ten Tusscher and her team set out to solve this mystery. The researchers designed and developed a computer model that played a central role in the study.



The model provided invaluable insights and made significant predictions while supporting the laboratory results of the team members.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-replicating-the-magic">Replicating the magic</h2>



Where the scientific community had studied <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aspen-trees-change-their-genetic-structure-to-adapt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genes</a> for growth in height before, increase in width was uncharted territory. Until now, it was unclear which genes enable these cambium&nbsp;<a href="https://phys.org/tags/stem+cells/">stem cells</a>&nbsp;to become active and how this is controlled.



Ten Tusscher's model tackled the genes controlling thickness growth and shed light on the activation processes. The model's results were astonishing.



The output from the model indicated that growth in thickness is controlled by specific chemical signals within the cambium layer. Gradients in these chemical signals intersect to form a precise zone where stem cells are "switched on."



This subsequently guides the cells to produce woody tissue, thereby ensuring the continuous formation of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genetically-engineered-wood-poplar-cottonwood-trees-store-more-carbon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wood</a> throughout the plant’s life. The steady process guarantees the strength and stability a plant needs in order to support its upwards growth.



The model centered on the small plant, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plants-adjust-roots-to-reach-their-preferred-form-of-nitrogen/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arabidopsis</a>, a popular choice with biologists worldwide who study plant growth.



It demonstrated how cambium stem cells are activated and sustained, facilitating continuous thickness growth throughout a plant's life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-scientific-triumphs">Beyond scientific triumphs</h2>



Unraveling the mystery of growth in thickness isn't just a scientific triumph; it has practical implications in forestry and climate action.



"If you fully understand plant growth, and develop a tree that grows twice as fast in thickness, it's a great benefit for more sustainable timber industry," noted Ten Tusscher.



"It's also advantageous for climate efforts, as faster-growing trees can store more CO₂. Perhaps, it could even help researchers tune thickness growth in crops for better agricultural yield." 



This study, therefore, not only quenches a scientific curiosity but could also lead to a greener, healthier planet. Furthermore, it has profound implications for our environment and economy. 



Plants' hidden growth secret, it turns out, is a secret no more!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-the-study">Significance of the study</h2>



With climate change at the forefront of global challenges, the knowledge gained from this study could transform approaches to reforestation and sustainable timber production in future.



Enhanced growth in tree thickness means greater carbon storage capacity, which plays a critical role in carbon sequestration efforts.



Moreover, unlocking the secrets of cambium-driven growth can guide innovations in crop breeding to optimize plants that produce higher yields and withstand environmental stresses.



By harnessing this newfound understanding, scientists can develop plants that not only meet timber and agricultural demands but also contribute to climate resilience.



The findings of the study pave the way for practical applications that could lead to a greener, more sustainable future, where plants not only reach sky-high but also play an even larger role in supporting life on Earth.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adj8752" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Scientists uncover how plants grow wider, not just taller

Plants captivate us as they grow not only upward but...

Crows are more than just black-feathered figures cawing from treetops; they are masters of memory and grudges, with cognitive abilities that defy our expectations. 



While we often admire birds for their bright plumage and lilting songs, there is a deeper layer to their behavior that remains unseen. 



Birds are more intelligent than most people realize, especially when it comes to recalling those who pose a threat.



Recent research has illuminated this startling dimension of avian behavior, revealing that crows -- members of the avian elite -- can hold grudges for up to 17 years.



This discovery showcases the profound capacity of the crows' memories. The study also sheds light on the social transmission of knowledge about threats within bird communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-crows-and-grudges">Studying crows and grudges</h2>



The research project, led by experts at the <a href="https://www.washington.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Washington</a>, was launched in 2006. 



Professor John Marzluff, an environmental scientist, initiated the study by donning a fearsome mask and temporarily trapping seven crows. He identified them with leg rings before their safe release.



In subsequent years, the professor and his assistants sporadically wore the same mask -- strolling the university campus while feeding the resident crows.



Marzluff recalled an incident while wearing the mask when 47 out of 53 crows he encountered vehemently scolded him.



This was a substantial increase from the original seven crows that were captured, suggesting that these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/do-birds-dream-of-flying-scientists-say-they-now-know-the-answer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">birds</a> could recognize threatening humans and pass on this knowledge to their kin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-sound-of-silence">The sound of silence</h2>



The climax of this fascinating study came in 2013 when the number of aggressive caws reached their peak, only to gradually decrease. 



By September 2023 -- 17 years since the experiment began -- not a single scolding crow was heard on one of Marzluff's masked walks.



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



Another intriguing facet of the study involved the use of a "neutral" mask, bearing the likeness of Dick Cheney, who was the vice president of the United States at the time.



Those sporting the Cheney mask fed the crows without causing them any <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-years-fireworks-send-millions-of-birds-on-erratic-flights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distress</a>, and were subsequently spared of avian wrath.



As the research progressed, unknowing volunteers were roped in to wearing the masks, ignorant of the "dangerous" or "neutral" categorization by the crows.



One such volunteer found himself at the center of an avian uproar, confirming the crows' skill in discerning and remembering threats.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dive-bombing-attacks-by-crows">Dive-bombing attacks by crows</h2>



A report published in Mail Online shares some other instances of crows with a grudge. In Dulwich, a posh London suburb, residents reported instances of crows executing dive-bombing attacks.



One resident, Alison Frean, shared her harrowing experience, revealing that she had been targeted by crows on three separate occasions when trying to exit her car.



This had a profound impact on the residents, as they chose to stay indoors, attempting to avoid any crow confrontations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-intelligence-of-crows">Intelligence of crows</h2>



Crows never cease to amaze with their incredible intelligence, and it isn't confined to recognizing threats and holding grudges. 



Prior research indicates that crows possess the talent to devise tools and even <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crows-count-out-loud-just-like-toddlers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">count</a>.



Stories abound of crows dropping nuts onto busy roads, waiting for cars to crack them open, and then retrieving the food once the traffic stops. 



Some crows have even figured out how to use sticks to extract insects from tree bark or fashion hooks from twigs to fish out food from hard-to-reach places.



The study from the University of Washington undeniably contributes to affirming the crows' place in the intelligence hierarchy among birds. 



Crows, it appears, are creatures of memory, holding on to grudges and recalling threats even after a lengthy span of 17 years. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-dynamics-of-crow-behavior">Social dynamics of crow behavior</h2>



Beyond their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mountain-chickadees-have-an-extraordinary-memory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impressive memory</a> and intelligence, crows exhibit complex social structures that further highlight their cognitive sophistication. 



They live in tight-knit family groups and exhibit behaviors that suggest complex emotional lives. 



For instance, they've been observed holding what appear to be "funerals" for deceased members of their flock. 



Their communication is sophisticated, involving a range of vocalizations and even regional dialects. 



This communication is not limited to warnings about potential threats; crows have been observed sharing information about food sources and even forming alliances to fend off predators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-animals-and-cultural-transmission">Animals and cultural transmission </h2>



One of the most remarkable aspects of crow behavior is their ability to teach one another. 



When a crow learns to associate a specific individual or object with danger, it can relay this information to others in its community, spreading awareness rapidly.



Communal learning helps ensure that knowledge of potential threats is preserved and passed down, allowing even young crows to recognize dangers without firsthand experience.



This intricate network of social interactions places crows among the few non-human animals capable of cultural transmission -- passing knowledge from one generation to the next.



It is no surprise that these birds are revered in many cultures, often viewed as symbols of intelligence and adaptability.



The full study was published in <a href="http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/early/2011/06/20/rspb.2011.0957" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Proceedings of the Royal Society B</a>. 



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Crows hold grudges against individual humans, often attacking, for up to 17 years

Crows are more than just black-feathered figures cawing from treetops;...

Dementia research is entering a new era as more focus and resources are directed toward finding the right treatments to combat this complex condition.



While much of this search revolves around cutting-edge drugs, it is fascinating to see that potential solutions might be hidden within traditional medicine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dementia-not-just-a-test-of-time">Dementia: Not just a test of time</h2>



Dementia, a debilitating condition that impacts both cognitive and motor functions, is primarily associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/one-third-of-older-americans-have-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">older adults</a> and is often viewed as an inevitable consequence of aging. 



However, it's not merely the passing of time that triggers its onset, but rather a multitude of complex factors such as genetics, environmental influences, and lifestyle.



There is an urgent need for a therapeutic breakthrough to prevent or at least <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/having-a-pet-leads-to-a-much-slower-rate-of-cognitive-decline/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">slow down dementia’s progression</a>, especially as populations worldwide continue to age rapidly.



On the brighter side, a dedicated group of researchers in the Graduate School of Medicine at <a href="https://www.omu.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Osaka Metropolitan University</a> is making promising strides in the search for new solutions.



The research dives into the realms of traditional Chinese medicine, an area rich with ancient knowledge and healing practices. 



Their findings are quite encouraging, to say the least, and may hold the key to a revolutionary approach to dementia prevention.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-herbal-medicine-and-dementia-treatment">Herbal medicine and dementia treatment </h2>



The researchers focused on the dried seeds of Ziziphus jujuba Miller var. spinosa, a type of jujube that is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine.



The team administered hot water extracts of the dried seeds to mice with various diseases -- including Alzheimer's, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia with Lewy bodies.



Remarkably, the researchers discovered that the treatments resulted in significant restoration of cognitive and motor functions.



Even more intriguing was when these seeds were crushed into a powder form and given to the model mice. The cognitive function of these mice improved to a level exceeding that of the control group. 



The effects didn't stop there. The powders also seemed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consistent-sleep-slows-down-aging-at-a-cellular-level/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">suppress cellular aging</a> in older mice and boosted their cognitive functions to match those of their younger counterparts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-ziziphus-jujuba-miller-var-spinosa">What is Ziziphus jujuba Miller var. spinosa?</h2>



Often called sour jujube or spindle jujube, Ziziphus jujuba Miller var. spinosa is a tree that originally hails from East Asia, especially China. 



What makes it stand out are its thorny branches and the small, oval fruits that shift from green to a rich reddish-brown as they ripen. 



This tree does really well in dry and semi-dry areas and can handle different types of soil and climates, making it super resilient even in tough conditions. Its ability to survive droughts is a big reason why it's grown in so many different places around the world.



People have been loving Ziziphus jujuba var. spinosa for centuries because it's so versatile in both cooking and medicine. 



The fruits are pretty sour on their own, but when dried, they're fantastic in teas, desserts, and traditional dishes, adding a unique kick to all sorts of recipes. 



Plus, the fruits and other parts of the tree are a staple in traditional <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/herbal-supplements-often-contain-hidden-ingredients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese medicine</a>. They’re believed to help improve sleep, boost the immune system, and provide antioxidants, making them a go-to ingredient for herbal remedies that promote overall health and well-being.



Growing Ziziphus jujuba var. spinosa comes with a bunch of perks, both economically and environmentally. 



Farmers love that it doesn’t require a lot of maintenance and can still produce fruit even when conditions aren’t perfect, ensuring a reliable harvest. 



On top of that, the tree helps prevent soil erosion and improves soil quality thanks to its extensive root system.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-world-of-traditional-medicine">The world of traditional medicine </h2>



This was not the research team's first successful venture into the world of traditional medicine. 



They had previously noted memory and motor function improvements in dementia mice models when using the Hawaiian herb mamaki and the Chinese herb Acorus gramineus.



"The results of our research will hopefully make it possible to develop dementia prevention products that middle-aged and elderly people can take at their own discretion," said Professor Takami Tomiyama of Osaka Metropolitan University’s Graduate School of Medicine.



Published for review in the journal eLife, the findings mark a substantial leap toward developing vital dementia drugs, drawing from the vast knowledge of traditional herbal medicine.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-practices-and-modern-science">Ancient practices and modern science</h2>



As researchers investigate traditional Chinese medicine, a promising new frontier is emerging at the intersection of age-old wisdom and cutting-edge science. 



Unlike synthetic drugs, which often target specific molecular pathways, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/herbal-supplements-often-contain-hidden-ingredients/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">herbal</a> remedies typically involve a complex mixture of active compounds that can influence multiple systems within the body. 



This complexity poses a challenge for scientific analysis but also offers an opportunity to explore treatments that work in harmony with natural biological processes.



In the case of Ziziphus jujuba seeds, for example, the potential to improve cognitive function without significant side effects has sparked interest beyond academia. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dementia-prevention-with-herbal-medicine">Dementia prevention with herbal medicine</h2>



Researchers are increasingly interested in whether these herbal treatments could evolve into widely accessible, over-the-counter supplements for dementia prevention.



If successful, these innovations could provide more affordable, preventive care options to populations at risk of dementia. This could transform the landscape of brain health and aging.



This study from Osaka Metropolitan University represents a pivotal step in that direction, encouraging more scientists to investigate ancient practices that may hold solutions for modern health challenges.



By validating the efficacy of traditional herbs through rigorous testing, researchers are paving the way for a new wave of dementia therapies that bridge the best of both worlds: the depth of traditional knowledge and the precision of modern science.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://elifesciences.org/reviewed-preprints/100737v1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eLife</a>.



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Herbal medicine shows great potential in treating and preventing dementia

Dementia research is entering a new era as more focus...

Parents, take note - your child's inconsistent bedtime routine could be the troublemaker behind their erratic emotions and behavior. And no, it doesn't have to do so much with the quality or duration of their sleep, but more about the regularity of their sleep schedule. 



This is according to the latest research paper published by the Grand team at Penn State College of Health and Human Development and Penn State College of Medicine.



The research shows that children who stick to a regular bedtime, falling asleep and waking up at the same time each day, have better control over their behavior and emotions, particularly during stressful situations or while collaborating with others.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sleep-and-behavior-patterns-in-children">Sleep and behavior patterns in children</h2>



The research was led by Adwoa Dadzie, a doctoral student, and her adviser Professor Orfeu Buxton. The team analyzed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/children-who-watch-screens-in-bed-have-the-most-disrupted-sleep/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a> and behavior data from 143 six-year-old children.



The information was extracted from the Penn State Intervention Nurses Start Infants Growing on Healthy Trajectories (INSIGHT) study. 



When these kids were just newborns, their mothers received training in responsive parenting from the <a href="https://www.psu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Penn State</a> researchers. So, this study is longitudinal, which means the experts have been tracking the development of these kids for quite some time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-training-mothers-in-responsive-parenting">Training mothers in responsive parenting</h2>



Responsive parenting, in simple terms, means answering to a child’s emotional and physical needs in a warm, timely, and consistent way. 



Earlier research found that training mothers in responsive parenting during their infant's early years promotes healthy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/world-sleep-day-2024-the-quest-for-a-well-rested-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep habits</a> and reduces childhood obesity. 



Now, the latest analysis from the same study provides even more compelling proof of the benefits of regular sleep timing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bedtimes-behavior-and-emotions">Bedtimes, behavior, and emotions</h2>



"Children who had consistent bedtimes were generally able to regulate their behavior and emotions," explained Dadzie. "On the contrary, children whose bedtimes and sleep times were erratic showed more impulsivity and less control."



The child's sleep pattern was tracked using a monitor they wore on their wrist for seven days. The device kept a check on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-sleep-habits-may-age-the-brain-faster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">various sleep aspects</a>. The data was then cross-checked with the child’s reaction to a frustrating task.



The task involved placing a toy the child chose in a transparent, locked box. The child was given a set of keys - none of which could unlock the box. Following this, the researchers kept an eye on how the child reacted and whether they displayed regulated or unregulated behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-varying-bedtimes-and-children-s-emotions">Varying bedtimes and children's emotions</h2>



Observing their behavior while decorating a picture frame with their parents was another important step of the study.



The findings? The more a child’s bedtime varied each night, the worse they regulated their behavior and emotions.



"Parenting matters. When parents create clear routines and respond timely and appropriately to their child’s needs, children show better outcomes in behavior regulation and even weight control," said Professor Buxton.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-control-over-behavior-and-emotions">Control over behavior and emotions</h2>



Between the year 2012 and 2014, the INSIGHT study set up an experiment on preventing childhood obesity. 



The researchers engaged families with newborns and grouped them into two - a control group that was informed about child safety, and an intervention group that was educated on responsive parenting techniques.



Parents in the intervention group were taught how to respond during different infant behavior states like fussiness, alertness, drowsiness, and sleeping.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bedtime-and-regulation-of-emotions">Bedtime and regulation of emotions</h2>



By the time these children turned three, they had lower body mass indices (BMIs) than the kids in the control group! 



The targeted program did not focus solely on weight. It provided training on recognizing hunger and satiety signs in children, allowing the child to decide when they are full, and the establishment of routines and expectations around food, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-is-essential-for-memory-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sleep</a>, and behavior regulation.



When these children turned six and returned to the College of Medicine for evaluation, this current study on bedtime and behavior used data from their visit.



"The results clearly indicated that sleep regularity is crucial for fostering prosocial and age-appropriate behavior in children," said Dadzie.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-responsive-parenting-matters">Responsive parenting matters</h2>



Remember, parents: you hold the key to your child's healthy development. Even if you have hectic schedules that don't allow for a consistent bedtime routine, you can still act responsively. 



Set clear standards and bedtime routines, and respond promptly and suitably to your children's needs, helping them regulate their emotions effectively.



With eight years of research on the INSIGHT project, the proof is all there: When parents are responsive, they raise healthier children.



The study is published in the <a href="https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1064350" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Developmental &amp; Behavioral Pediatrics</a>. 



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Irregular bedtimes disrupt the well-being and behavior of children

Parents, take note - your child's inconsistent bedtime routine could...

A prescription medication that has been available in the U.S. since 1992, which many people recognize for treating hair loss and enlarged prostate, might have another significant benefit.



Recent research suggests that a drug called finasteride could lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. That's a surprising twist for a drug that's been around for decades.



Curiosity led <a href="https://fshn.illinois.edu/directory/jaume6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Jaume Amengual</a>, an assistant professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition at the <a href="https://fshn.illinois.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Illinois</a>, to explore this unexpected connection. 



After noticing something unusual in a national survey, he decided to dig deeper. 



"When we looked at the men taking finasteride in the survey, their <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-power-of-fish-oil-in-combating-high-cholesterol/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cholesterol levels</a> averaged 30 points lower than men not taking the drug. I thought we'd see the opposite pattern, so it was very interesting," Dr. Amengual enthused.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lowering-cholesterol-with-finasteride">Lowering cholesterol with finasteride?</h2>



The initial clue came from the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nhanes/index.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey</a> conducted between 2009 and 2016. 



This survey collects health information from thousands of Americans. In this data, men using finasteride as a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-natural-cure-male-baldness-highly-effective-sugar-2-deoxy-d-ribose/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hair loss treatment</a> had significantly lower cholesterol levels compared to those who weren't on the medication. 



A 30-point difference is substantial and caught the researchers' attention. But observational studies have limitations. The sample size of men over 50 using finasteride was small. 



"This was not a clinical study in which you can control everything perfectly," Amengual noted. "It was more of an observation that led us to say, 'Okay, now we've seen this in people. Let's see what happens in mice.'"



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



To get a clearer picture, the team turned to laboratory mice. Doctoral student <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-molina-ba3099197/?locale=es_ES" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Donald Molina Chaves</a> conducted experiments on mice predisposed to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fathers-diets-impact-the-heart-health-of-their-daughters/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atherosclerosis</a> -- a condition where arteries narrow due to plaque buildup. 



The mice were fed different doses of finasteride along with a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet.



"Mice that were given a high dose of finasteride showed lower <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/certain-gut-bacteria-lower-cholesterol-and-the-risk-of-heart-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cholesterol levels</a> within the plasma as well as in the arteries," Molina Chaves said. "There were also fewer lipids and inflammatory markers in the liver." 



These findings suggested that finasteride doesn't just lower cholesterol in the blood but might also <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lifestyle-choices-in-young-adulthood-impact-cognitive-ability-in-midlife/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reduce inflammation</a> and plaque formation in arteries.



While the highest dose had significant effects, it's not a dose humans would take. 



"It's an incredibly high level of the drug. But we use mice as a model, and they are extremely resistant to things that would kill any of us," Amengual explained. "So it is not that wild when you think about it that way." 



The results in mice provide a direction for future human studies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finasteride-testosterone-and-heart-disease">Finasteride, testosterone, and heart disease</h2>



So why would a hair loss drug affect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-study-eating-eggs-is-not-bad-for-your-health-despite-years-of-warnings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cholesterol levels</a>? It comes down to hormones. 



Finasteride works by blocking a protein that activates testosterone, specifically reducing levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/men-with-low-testosterone-have-a-higher-risk-of-mortality/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dihydrotestosterone (DHT)</a>. DHT is linked to hair loss, prostate enlargement, and, as it turns out, possibly heart disease.



"I was reading about this medication one day, and I started to notice that there were not many long-term studies of the implications of the drug," Amengual said. 



"Initially, it was just my own curiosity, based on the fact that hormone levels are known to have an effect on atherosclerosis, hair loss, and prostate issues. So, we decided to dig into it."



Testosterone and its derivatives can influence the development of atherosclerosis. By altering these hormone levels, finasteride might indirectly impact cholesterol metabolism and inflammation, leading to improved <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-expectations-of-men-are-bad-for-their-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart health</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-surprises-from-finasteride">More surprises from finasteride</h2>



Interestingly, these findings might benefit more than just men dealing with hair loss or prostate issues. 



Transgender individuals undergoing hormone therapy often face a higher risk of heart disease due to hormonal changes. 



Finasteride is sometimes prescribed during gender transitions to manage hair loss triggered by hormone treatments.



"Over the past decade, doctors have started prescribing this drug for individuals transitioning either from male to female or female to male. In both cases, the hormonal changes can trigger hair loss," Amengual said. 



"The interesting thing is that transgender people are also at a higher risk of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/depression-and-cardiovascular-diseases-are-genetically-linked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular diseases</a>. So this drug could have a potential beneficial effect to prevent cardiovascular disease not only in cis men, but also in transgender individuals."



This opens up the possibility that finasteride could serve a dual purpose for transgender patients, helping with hair loss while also reducing heart disease risk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-the-catch-understanding-finasteride-risks">What's the catch? Understanding finasteride risks</h2>



Of course, no medication is without risks. Finasteride can cause side effects, and it's important to consider them. 



Some users experience <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/men-exhibit-better-sexual-health-eating-a-plant-based-vegan-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sexual side effects</a> like decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and reduced ejaculate volume. These effects happen because finasteride reduces DHT, which plays a role in sexual function.



There have also been reports of psychological effects such as depression, anxiety, and mood changes. While not everyone experiences these, they're important to monitor. 



Physical side effects can include breast tenderness or enlargement, rashes, and swelling in the hands or feet. Rarely, finasteride can affect liver enzymes, so regular medical check-ups are recommended.



A small percentage of users report persistent side effects even after stopping the medication, a condition referred to as Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS). 



Symptoms can include ongoing sexual dysfunction and psychological issues. Research is ongoing to understand and address these concerns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-future-holds-for-finasteride">What the future holds for finasteride</h2>



These discoveries suggest that finasteride could have a role in heart health beyond its current uses. More research is needed, though. 



Clinical trials involving people would help determine if the cholesterol-lowering effects seen in mice also occur in humans at practical doses.



"This was not a clinical study in which you can control everything perfectly," Amengual emphasized. "It was more of an observation that led us to say, 'Okay, now we've seen this in people. Let's see what happens in mice.'"



If future studies confirm these benefits, finasteride could become part of a strategy to prevent <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/artificial-sweetener-erythritol-sugar-substitute-linked-to-blood-clots-heart-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart disease</a>, especially in populations at higher risk.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-hope-proceed-with-eyes-wide-open">A new hope? Proceed with eyes wide open</h2>



Finasteride has been around for a while, helping many with hair loss and prostate issues. Now, it might have a new role to play in promoting heart health. 



This could be significant not just for men but also for the transgender community and others at risk of cardiovascular disease.



As with any medical treatment, it's crucial to consult healthcare providers before making changes. Finasteride's potential benefits must be balanced with its risks. But this research opens up exciting possibilities.



The full study was published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jlr.org/article/S0022-2275(24)00012-9/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Lipid Research</a>.



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Old drug now called a 'magic pill' because it's found to regrow hair and boost heart health

A prescription medication that has been available in the U.S....