The Scaly-foot snail (Chrysomallon squamiferum) is one of the most extraordinary deep-sea creatures known to science. It lives in extreme environments near hydrothermal vents, specifically in the Indian Ocean, where temperatures can approach 400°C (750°F). What sets this snail apart is its triple-layered shell, which includes: 1. An outer layer of iron sulfide, making it the only known animal to incorporate iron into its skeleton. 2. A middle layer of organic material, acting as a shock absorber. 3. An inner aragonite layer, a typical component in many mollusk shells. Its scales (or "sclerites"), which also contain iron sulfide, cover its foot—hence the name "scaly-foot"—and may protect it from predators like venomous snails or extreme heat. This armor-like adaptation helps the snail survive in an environment with high pressure, toxic chemicals, and temperatures that would kill most life forms. Scientists believe the snail’s shell design could inspire future materials for defense or engineering, due to its resistance to mechanical and thermal stress. The Scaly-foot snail has also been recognized as endangered by the IUCN because of the increasing threat of deep-sea mining in its limited habitat.

In a revolutionary step toward ending plastic pollution, Japanese scientists have created a new biodegradable plastic that dissolves completely in seawater within hours and enriches soil within just 10 days. Developed by researchers at the RIKEN Center and the University of Tokyo, the material not only breaks down harmlessly—it releases nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen, boosting soil fertility instead of harming ecosystems. The plastic uses salt-bridge chemistry, combining sodium hexametaphosphate and guanidinium-based monomers to form a structure that’s stable in normal use but degrades rapidly when exposed to marine or soil conditions. This dual-function design means it could be used in agriculture, fishing, or packaging without leaving a harmful trace. With recovery and reuse rates of over 80%, this innovation supports a circular economy and could drastically reduce the world’s reliance on harmful, persistent plastics. #BiodegradablePlastic #SustainableInnovation #OceanCleanup #SoilHealth #PlasticPollutionSolution

Mom's Beef Shish Kabobs Juicy Marinated Beef Shish Kabobs with Veggies, Just Like Mom Made Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1½-inch cubes 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks 1 red onion, cut into wedges 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp soy sauce 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 2 tbsp lemon juice 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp paprika Salt and pepper to taste Metal or wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 min if wooden) Directions: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add beef cubes to the marinade, toss well to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor). Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread beef, peppers, onion, and zucchini alternately onto skewers. Grill kabobs for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until beef is browned on the outside and cooked to your desired doneness. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating) | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 2 hrs 32 minutes Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings #shishkabobs #beefkabobs #grilledmeat #grillseason #familyrecipes #marinatedbeef #kabobskewers #homestylegrilling #summergrill #bbqrecipes #sirloinsteak #grilledveggies #kabobnight #beefrecipes #cookoutideas #simplegrilling #easybbq #veggiekabobs #momsrecipes #flavorpacked Nothing beats Mom’s Beef Shish Kabobs on the grill! Juicy marinated steak + colorful veggies = the ultimate summer meal!

Looks like Culver's has invented the zero calorie straw: none of the calories in your milkshake can make it into your mouth.

Scientists have developed a potential game-changer in heart disease prevention: a one-time gene-editing injection that slashes cholesterol levels by up to 69%. This breakthrough treatment, named VERVE-102, targets the PCSK9 gene in the liver, which is responsible for regulating LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Unlike daily statins, which only manage cholesterol, this therapy could permanently lower it with a single dose—revolutionizing how we approach cardiovascular care. Early human trials in the UK have already shown promising results. By silencing the PCSK9 gene, the body naturally clears harmful cholesterol from the bloodstream far more efficiently. Experts believe that if further trials confirm its safety and effectiveness, VERVE-102 could drastically reduce the risk of heart attacks and eliminate the lifelong dependency on cholesterol medications for millions around the world. #CholesterolBreakthrough #GeneEditing #HeartHealth #MedicalInnovation #VERVE102