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Want to throw a low-fuss (and very fun) party? Take this 93-year-old's sage advice
Environment
"The Power of Predators": How Wolves Helped Restore a Yellowstone Ecosystem
NPS / Jacob W. Frank
"Wolves are to Yellowstone what water is to the Everglades," Doug Smith, the former director of the Yellowstone Wolf Recovery Project and current National Park Service wildlife biologist, once said. That sentiment is especially evident in a recent study highlighting the predators' slow yet steady role in bringing an ecosystem back into balance — all the way down the food chain, from elk populations to plants. Researchers found that willow volume increased by 1,500% over the span of 20 years, spurred by the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone in 1995. As willow is a common food source for elk and elk are a primary food source for wolves, more wolves means fewer elk and more willow. "Our findings emphasizethe power of predators as ecosystem architects," lead study author William Ripple said in a statement, noting the importance of abundant willow as a vital food resource and habitat for birds and other animal species. "The restoration of wolves and other large predators has transformed parts of Yellowstone, benefiting not only willows but other woody species such as aspen, alder, and berry-producing shrubs. It's a compelling reminder of how predators, prey, and plants are interconnected in nature," he added. See the before-and-after photos of the transformation.
Together With Upway
Make 2025 the Year of E-Biking
Stuck in traffic again? Frustrated with rising gas prices? If the answer is yes, there's a better way to get around: e-biking. The best place to buy your ride is Upway, offering a top selection of e-bikes from brands like Cannondale, Specialized, and Aventon. You can get up to 60% off retail prices on more than 200 e-bikes. Your choice will be delivered straight to your doorstep in a week, with a one-year warranty included. And the pot is even sweeter for Nice News readers: With a minimum purchase of $1,000, you can get $150 off with the code NICENEWS, on top of the discounted prices.
Researchers Connect Genes to Bipolar Disorder to Improve Patient Care
spawns/ iStock
Bipolar disorder is understood to be among the most heritable psychiatric conditions. Yet which genes increase the risk of the health condition has been less understood, until now. In the largest study of its kind, researchers at the University of Oslo studied nearly 2.9 million participants and identified 298 genomic regions associated with bipolar disorder, the vast majority of which had not been previously linked to the mental illness. They then pinpointed36 genes that they believe play a key role in the condition's development. As many people with bipolar disorder are misdiagnosed or go untreated, the hope is that a deeper genetic understanding will pave the way to better care for the condition that affects around 40 to 50 million people worldwide. "By understanding the genetics behind the illness, we can use this knowledge to benefit patients," lead study investigator Ole Andreassen said in a statement. He added: "This could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options, early interventions, and preventive measures for individuals at risk of developing bipolar disorder."
Culture
How to Bring Valentine's Day Fun Into Your Workplace
Kinga Krzeminska/ iStock
Between buying cute gifts for our partners and hosting Galentine's celebrations, we often skip over showing Valentine's Day love to the people we may spend the most waking hours with during the week: our coworkers. Agatha Parks-Savage, an associate dean of Eastern Virginia Medical School, says that's a mistake. "We form connections at work not just professionally, but personally. If you're lucky, some colleagues become friends," she tells Nice News in an email, adding that the holiday falling on a Friday this year is "the perfect excuse to spread joy and care to those in the workplace." Parks-Savage recommends sending notes of appreciation, hosting a potluck, or creating self-care goodie bags in the office. For remote workers, she advises sending virtual greeting cards or mailing sweet treat bags to teammates in advance. "Include everyone!" she says. "Even a grumpy person can secretly appreciate the care you demonstrate." And there are a few coworkers in particular who could benefit from a little extra V-Day thoughtfulness. "Spread the joy to those who go the extra mile just because they care," Parks-Savage suggests. "Think about the unsung hero that works diligently behind the scenes to make things happen and doesn't ask for anything in return. There is also that cheerleader in the workplace that always has a great attitude supporting and cheering other[s] on." Get more ideas here.
In Other News
Big week for pups: The Westminster Kennel Club best in show will be awarded tonight (read more)
A one-of-a-kind violin sold for over $11 million, all of which will support student scholarships (read more)
Astronomers identified what may be the largest structure observed in the known universe (read more)
Thousands of turtle hatchlings were released in Brazil — watch a video of them heading out to the water (read more)
Volkswagen teased a first glimpse at its entry-level electric cars, priced at about $20,000 (read more)
Inspiring Story
A voicemail worth saving — and sharing
In 2016, then-23-year-old Brandon Puszkiewicz wrote a letter to his dad telling him that he was gay, and his dad Matt replied with a voicemail. Eight years later, Matt's words have gone viral. "Yo, what's up buddy? I got your letter today," he began. Listen to the rest of the heartfelt message.
If this adorable monkey cuddle doesn't bring a smile to your face, we don't know what could. The Bronx Zoo's new silvered langur baby, born in November, made its public debut last week. It's a real treat for visitors to see the monkey's "striking orange-colored coat," as it will eventually turn silver like the adults. Check out a video of the young animal in its habitat.
How to Get to Disney World for Almost Free, Courtesy of Brad's Deals
Craving a trip to the most magical place on Earth?Brad's Deals put together a blueprint to go to Disney World for next to nothing by using credit card rewards points. This trip includes airfare, five nights at a hotel with transportation to Disney, and four days in the parks. That's a value of $4,000-$5,000 — get the details below.
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