Today’s Solutions: February 12, 2025

THON: The inspiring student-ru

THON: The inspiring student-run philanthropic organization fighting against pediatric cancer

THON, which stands for "Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon," is an incredible humanitarian organization that has made a significant difference in the lives of children and families affected by pediatric cancer.  Since its inception in 1973, THON has grown to become the world's largest Read More...

Giant tortoise

Wild tortoises live a long time, and some don’t age at all

The oldest living land animal in the world is named Jonathan, and he is a 190-year-old Seychelles giant tortoise. Jonathan and other cold-blooded species like his are famous for living outstandingly long lives. They age incredibly slowly, and new research suggests that some might not age at Read More...

group of elderly friends play chess

New study confirms brain benefits of regular socialization

Earlier this year, we discussed how socialization can help prevent cognitive decline. Now, additional research from Penn State’s Center for Healthy Aging has further solidified this correlation with evidence that social interactions can immediately impact cognitive health.  Study leader Read More...

Study links mushroom consumpti

Study links mushroom consumption to lowered risk of cancer

We at The Optimist Daily are no stranger to the power of mushrooms. These versatile fungi can be used to make sustainable clothing, treat depression, and even build decomposable coffins. Now, a new study from Penn State College of Medicine indicates that mushroom consumption could help protect Read More...

Researchers solve key desalina

Researchers solve key desalination efficiency mystery

Desalination is the process of removing salt and other chemicals from water to make it potable. It holds immense promise for providing clean water in the future as we face dwindling fresh water supplies for a growing population.  For years, inconsistent efficiency in desalination baffled Read More...

New 3D printing technique is m

New 3D printing technique is more efficient and less wasteful

Traditional 3D printing begins at the bottom of an object and steadily adds layers, but a team of researchers from Penn State has come up with an innovative new way to print objects that is more efficient and faster than previous methods.  Called five-axis additive 3D-printing, the new method Read More...

Teaching feelings in preschool

Teaching feelings in preschool can ease emotional problems for teens

Feelings. We all have them, and yet, most of us were never taught how to talk about them. This can leave us at risk of developing emotional problems as we grow up. To help boost the social and emotional skills of future adults, researchers at Penn State University looked into how young students Read More...

Scientists create flexible cem

Scientists create flexible cement to fix tiny gaps in leaky gas wells

Leaky gas wells are a major problem, allowing methane to freely enter the atmosphere and contribute to global heating. Fortunately, we have a new solution in the form of a flexible cement that could be applied to fine gaps within deteriorating gas well pipes. The flexible cement was developed by Read More...

Cow eats seaweed on the shore

This dietary supplement cuts methane emission from cows by 26%

At the Optimist Daily, we are strong advocates of a meat-free diet, especially since the production of livestock is the greatest contributor of greenhouse gasses in America. With that said, beef production is showing no signs of stopping any time soon, so we’re open to solutions that minimize the Read More...