1. A recent worldwide (advanced satellite) mapping project showed: we have a much larger expanse of coral reefs than previously known. We have approx. 348,000 sq. kilometers. The contributions of coral reefs to our global economy & human wellbeing are huge (think medicine; tourism; fisheries). The research was led by University of Queensland. A collaborative project, with over 480 contributors.

2.  Travelers may rejoice that 2023 was Earth’s “safest year in aviation history”. I read that: last year there were *zero “large, turbofan-powered jet aircraft … involved in anything resembling a crash”. We hope this accomplishment can be set to repeat.
[*Although there were some fatal crashes involving smaller aircraft incl. a notable one “that might have been a ‘political assassination’ “.]

3.  Some people find ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day w/o commercialism. (Including lots of single people who find ways to spread love “in their families, communities, & within”.) Sharing gratitude seemed a common theme. Twp favorite ways I read about involved leaving anonymous gifts in the community:  1. Two people in England made “felt hearts with little messages inviting people to love everyone”. These they left in public areas including @ “ATMs, library seats, & shop counters”; &  2. A woman made kits of several tiny Valentine’s cards (in various styles; made with repurposed paper). Enough space was left on cards for adding a short message. They were left in the Teen Room of her local library.

And:

5.  I am not a health professional. I read about something rather amazing: clues to a possible solution for noise-induced hearing loss. Discovered recently by scientists in Pittsburgh. Offering hope & possible remedy for “millions [who] suffer from noise-induced hearing loss”. Identified: “a molecular mechanism behind noise-induced hearing loss”. Key factor found: “excess free-floating zinc“, although some of that is said to be necessary “for cellular function & hearing”. After mice were exposed to high noise during experiments, researchers observed “an increase in zinc levels in [their] inner ears”. The excess zinc “caused cellular damage & disturbed cell communication.” Researchers now working to design a treatment. Possibly via a drug (we hope for a relatively simple & over-the-counter solution).