Latest news with #UniversityofReading
Time of India
17 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
Invisible parasites roam on your face every night while sleeping. Could they be causing skin problems?
While sleep is often viewed as a peaceful escape from the demands of the day, it's also when an invisible ecosystem on your face springs to life. Every night, microscopic creatures called Demodex mites emerge from your pores. These eight-legged parasites, which reside around the outer part of hair follicles, feed on the oily substances your skin naturally produces. You can't see them or feel them, but nearly every adult human hosts these mites. Measuring just 0.15 to 0.4 millimeters in length — smaller than the tip of a needle — they are a permanent and largely unnoticed presence on our skin. Up to five mites can occupy just one square centimeter of your face. And despite the unsettling thought, experts say their presence is typically harmless. Why They're on Your Skin According to Alejandra Perotti, an associate professor of invertebrate biology at the University of Reading, the mites become most active while you sleep. 'While we are sleeping, they come out and are very happy, mating, visiting relatives, walking on our faces. The moment we wake up, they go back inside the pore,' Perotti said. These mites aren't freeloaders. In fact, they perform a sort of maintenance service by clearing out pore blockages. In return, the human body provides melatonin — a sleep-inducing hormone produced in the skin — which gives the mites the energy they need to survive. Their ability to resist ultraviolet light also helps them thrive, as UV rays typically damage small organisms' DNA. When Problems Arise Though usually harmless, Demodex mites can sometimes cause skin and eye issues, particularly when their population increases uncontrollably. Dr. Richard Locksley, professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, explained that overgrowth — a condition known as demodicosis — is more common in people with weakened immune systems, such as older adults or those undergoing chemotherapy. In such cases, the body may react to both the mites and the bacteria they carry, leading to inflammation. Dr. Roberto Ricardo-Gonzalez, a dermatologist also at UCSF, noted that this inflammation can appear as rosacea, acne, flaking, or dryness, especially on oily areas of the face like the cheeks and forehead. Doctors can diagnose mite-related conditions by examining skin or eyelash samples under a microscope. Dr. Cory Lappin, an optometrist in Ohio, pointed out that demodex waste and eggs often accumulate at the base of the eyelashes, causing dryness, itching, and even recurring sties in some patients. Reducing the Risk Fortunately, preventing mite overgrowth is often as simple as practicing good hygiene. Experts recommend gently washing the face each night with a cleanser to remove excess oil and debris. It's also advised to remove makeup and false lashes before sleeping to avoid irritation around the eyes. Those with acne-prone skin may benefit from using a topical retinoid once or twice weekly, but moderation is key. Excessive cleansing or skin dryness can disrupt the skin's natural barrier, prompting the mites to multiply. Additionally, a consistent sleep schedule can help regulate sebum production, which acts as food for these parasites. In cases where overgrowth leads to persistent irritation, dermatologists may prescribe topical or oral ivermectin to bring the mite population under control, although total eradication isn't possible. In 2023, the FDA also approved medicated eye drops specifically to treat eyelid inflammation caused by demodex mites. Demodex mites have likely lived on human skin for centuries, passed on shortly after birth through close contact, especially from mothers. Yet, as Perotti's 2022 research suggests, these mites may be undergoing what she describes as 'a long-term evolutionary death.' This means that, while they're still here now, their long-term survival may be uncertain. Despite how strange it may sound, these tiny organisms are just another part of the human body's ecosystem — mostly silent, invisible, and surprisingly useful.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Bees under threat: war in Ukraine tops global list of dangers to pollinators
The war in Ukraine, light pollution and microplastics are among the key threats putting the future of bees at risk worldwide. Scientists warn that this is not only an ecological issue but also a matter of global food security. Source: The Guardian Details: In a new report from the University of Reading titled Emerging Threats and Opportunities for Conservation of Global Pollinators, researchers identified 12 of the most dangerous emerging threats to bees and other pollinators expected to intensify over the next decade. The top threat highlighted by scientists is the war in Ukraine. Armed conflicts affect agriculture by reducing crop diversity, which deprives pollinators of access to flowers throughout the growing season. "This is not just a conservation issue," said Professor Simon Potts, the report's author. "Pollinators are central to our food systems, climate resilience, and economic security." The second most pressing concern is microplastic pollution. Synthetic polymer particles – such as PET plastic – were found in 315 bee colonies across Europe. These particles infiltrate honey and beehives, although their full impact on bee health remains unclear. Pollinators are also harmed by light pollution. For instance, in areas with street lighting, nocturnal pollinators are 62% less likely to visit flowers. Antibiotics used in agriculture can end up in hives and affect bee behaviour, reducing their activity and altering their foraging routes. Researchers also warned of the dangers of "pesticide cocktails" – combinations of chemicals that may be more harmful together than individually. Other threats listed include poorly planned tree planting for net-zero goals, air pollution, enclosed farming, heavy metal extraction, wildfires and more. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Forbes
20-05-2025
- Forbes
Air Turbulence Increases As Air Travel Peaks On Memorial Day
Air turbulence influenced by climate change is expected to double over the next decade. These ... More volatile high-altitude winds can be dangerous, especially clear air turbulence which offers no visual cues and limited time for pilots to respond. A record-number of people are eager to travel, according to AAA's annual Memorial Day forecast, and many of them are taking to the skies. Nearly 4 million passengers are expected to fly this holiday, a 2% increase over last year, and part of the record-breaking year for air travel. Researchers say many of those travelers can expect bumpier flights as clear air turbulence events are expected to more than double over the next decade. This convergence of increased flight volume and atmospheric instability raises new questions about passenger protection, airline preparedness and the broader influence of climate change on aviation. While turbulence has long been an occupational hazard of air travel, evidence is mounting that it is becoming more frequent and severe with climate change as the driver. The jet stream, a high-altitude river of fast-moving air, is influenced by the temperature contrast between the equator and the poles. As global temperatures rise, especially in the Arctic, this contrast diminishes. However, the warming is also increasing wind shear in some areas of the atmosphere. This disruption leads to more unstable air layers and gravity wave formations, creating ideal conditions for clear air turbulence. A 2023 study from the University of Reading found that severe clear air turbulence over the North Atlantic increased by 55% between 1979 and 2020. A 2024 study published in JGR Atmospheres expanded the scope, showing increases in moderate-to-severe turbulence of up to 155% across parts of the North Atlantic, Middle East, and East Asia. This form of turbulence is especially hazardous because it occurs at high cruising altitudes, often between 30,000 and 40,000 feet, and is invisible to radar. Unlike thunderstorms or frontal boundaries, clear air turbulence offers no visual cues and limited time for pilots to respond. With summer travel poised to break records a string of high-profile turbulence events is reigniting concerns about safety in the skies. In March, a United Airlines flight from San Francisco to Singapore was rocked by severe turbulence over the Philippines, leaving five people injured. This follows an incident a year earlier when a Singapore Airlines flight encountered severe clear air turbulence that resulted in one death and dozens of injuries, drawing global attention to the growing threat of invisible atmospheric hazards. These are not isolated events but part of a rising trend impacting major global carriers. For the traveling public, the risk of significant injury during flight remains low. Flying continues to be one of the safest forms of transportation. Still, turbulence remains a leading cause of in-flight injuries, particularly when passengers are not wearing seat belts. Cabin crew members face an even higher risk, as they are frequently standing or moving about in the cabin when turbulence strikes without warning. Turbulence events pose significant operational and financial challenges for airlines. When aircraft are damaged, routes must be diverted, emergency landings arranged and planes taken out of service for inspection. These events disrupt schedules, strand travelers and increase operating costs. Legal risks are also mounting. Injuries incurred during turbulence have led to lawsuits, especially in situations where warning systems failed or the seatbelt sign was not illuminated in time. There is also a reputational cost. In the age of social media, videos of chaotic cabins during turbulence quickly go viral, amplifying public concern and affecting brand perception. The good news is that advances in detection and forecasting are giving airlines more tools than ever to manage this growing hazard. Turbulence detection has evolved from reliance on pilot reports to a sophisticated network of real-time data sharing and advanced forecasting techniques. Public and private weather enterprises are using advanced turbulence tools such as IATA Turbulence Aware, the FAA's GTG4, and DTN Enhanced Flight Hazards to help deal with the threat. Many aircraft are now equipped with accelerometers and send objective measurements of air disturbances, known as eddy dissipation rate, back to a central platform. Pilots, dispatchers and flight planning systems can access this live data to adjust routes in real time. Some carriers, like United Airlines and Lufthansa, are deploying smartphone and tablet-based tools. These use onboard devices to measure turbulence and warn crews before rough air is encountered. Others are integrating next-generation weather feeds directly into flight management systems. Forward-looking onboard radars are also advancing. These systems can now scan for turbulence up to 60 nautical miles ahead of the aircraft. This gives pilots valuable minutes to change altitude, communicate with the crew or secure the cabin. Even experimental long-range LIDAR systems are showing promise. These sensors measure the movement of dust particles ahead of the aircraft to detect invisible wind shear layers before they become dangerous. This summer's record-breaking travel volume will test the limits of airline operations, from route planning and aircraft readiness to real-time communication between the cockpit, cabin and ground crews. With more fully booked flights, tighter turnaround times and an increasingly unstable atmosphere, even a single turbulence incident can trigger cascading delays, costly aircraft inspections and injuries that erode public confidence. Passengers can do their part by heeding seatbelt signs and remaining buckled when seated. Airlines, for their part, must invest in a layered defense strategy. Integrating turbulence forecasts into pre-flight briefings, using real-time sensing during flight and communicating effectively between cockpit, cabin and ground operations are essential. As the busiest months of air travel approach, the combination of innovative forecasting, real-time turbulence detection and operational transparency will be critical in keeping passengers safe and flights running smoothly, even when the skies look calm.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
War and microplastics are new threat to bees, scientists warn
War zones, microplastics and light pollution are emerging threats to the world's bee population, scientists have warned. Bee experts have identified 12 new threats that could accelerate pollinator losses within the next decade. Habitat loss, pesticides, climate change and invasive species have already caused severe decline in numbers, including the extinction of some bee species, the scientists said. The report, named Emerging Threats and Opportunities for Conservation of Global Pollinators, found that wars such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine have forced countries to grow fewer crop types, leaving pollinators without diverse food throughout the season. Scientists from the University of Reading also found microplastic particles contaminating beehives across Europe. The researchers tested 315 honey bee colonies and found synthetic materials like PET plastic in most hives. Artificial lights, such as street lamps, have also reduced flower visits by nocturnal pollinators by 62 per cent, and air pollution has been found to affect their survival, reproduction and growth, according to the authors. Antibiotics have contaminated beehives and honey, affecting the behaviour of pollinators and reducing their foraging and visits to flowers. Pesticide 'cocktails' have also been identified as an emerging threat by the group. Professor Simon Potts, of The University of Reading and lead author of the report, said: 'By acting early, we can reduce harm and help pollinators continue their important work in nature and food production. Various conservation opportunities already exist and more are emerging. 'This is not just a conservation issue. Pollinators are central to our food systems, climate resilience, and economic security. Protecting pollinators means protecting ourselves.' The report also outlines various measures to protect the world's bees. This includes stronger laws limiting antibiotic pollution, transitioning to electric vehicles to reduce air pollution and breeding crops with enhanced pollen and nectar. The report's co-author Dr Deepa Senapathi, also from the University of Reading, added: 'It will take effort from everyone to address these threats. We need to maintain, manage and improve our natural habitats to create safe spaces for pollinators. 'Individual actions like providing food and nesting areas in our own back gardens can help in a big way. But policy changes and individual actions must work together so everything from gardens and farms to public spaces and wider landscapes can all become pollinator-friendly habitats.'
Yahoo
08-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
American Robert Francis Prevost Elected as Pope
White smoke billowed out of the Sistine Chapel's chimney this afternoon, signaling that the conclave has concluded and the 133 cardinals have elected a new pope. Pope Leo XIV, 69-year-old Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago, was chosen as the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics around the world. He is the first American pope. His election took multiple rounds of voting, with the conclave lasting just over 24 hours. Since 1900, Leo XIV is the fifth pope to have been elected in under two days. After 7 p.m. local time in Vatican City, Leo XIV, the 267th pope of the Catholic church, was introduced on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, with Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, the senior cardinal deacon of the conclave, declaring: 'Nuntio vobis gaudium magnum: habemus papam!' ('I announce to you a great joy: We have a Pope!') Wearing the white papal vestments for the first time, Leo XIV greeted the gathered crowds. Pope Leo XIV's inauguration will likely take place within the week. After Pope Francis was elected, he was inaugurated six days later; Pope Benedict XVI's inauguration took place five days after his election. Upon his election as pontiff, he is given a special ring, the Fisherman's Ring, 'which signifies that he is the direct successor of St Peter who was both fisherman and disciple,' Professor Rebecca Rist, papal expert at the University of Reading, explains. Previous popes were crowned with a papal tiara, but the last pope to do so was Pope Paul VI, who was also the last pope to have a coronation. You Might Also Like 12 Weekend Getaway Spas For Every Type of Occasion 13 Beauty Tools to Up Your At-Home Facial Game
