A new study has found that more than 3,600 chemicals that leach into food during manufacturing, processing, packaging, and storage end up in the human body - and some are linked to serious health issues.



Martin Wagner is a professor of biology at the <a href="https://www.ntnu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Norwegian University of Science and Technology</a> in Trondheim who was not involved in the research.&nbsp;



“This is a staggering number and shows that food contact materials are a significant source of chemicals in humans,” Wagner told CNN.&nbsp;



“The study is the first to systematically link the chemicals we use in materials to package and process foods to human exposure.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-causing-food-chemicals-nbsp">Cancer-causing food chemicals&nbsp;</h2>



Published in the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41370-024-00718-2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Exposure Science &amp; Environmental Epidemiology</a>, the study identified 79 food-processing chemicals found in the body that are known to cause cancer, genetic mutations, endocrine and reproductive issues, and other health concerns.



Senior study author Jane Muncke, managing director and chief scientific officer at the <a href="https://www.foodpackagingforum.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food Packaging Forum</a> - a nonprofit foundation based in Zurich, Switzerland - emphasized that many more chemicals may be harmful in ways science has yet to determine.&nbsp;



“We’re measuring not only the chemicals that were known to be used in the food manufacturing process, but all the gunk as well - the byproducts and impurities that we call non-intentionally added substances,” said Muncke.&nbsp;



“Those substances are always present in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/4200-harmful-plastic-chemicals-hidden-in-everyday-objects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic</a>, in can and package coatings, in printing inks and so on. They may not have a technical function in the food processing, but they are there regardless and migrating into people, and we measure them.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-chemical-regulation-and-food-safety">Chemical regulation and food safety</h2>



The <a href="https://www.americanchemistry.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Chemistry Council</a>, an industry association, responded by stating that its members are dedicated to food safety.&nbsp;



“It is essential, however, when assessing potential risks to consider a broader context, including existing regulatory frameworks, scientific evidence, and the actual levels and degree of exposure that may exist,” said a council spokesperson.&nbsp;



“Any proposed actions lacking this context, particularly when causality has not been definitively established, is inconsistent with risk-based U.S. chemical regulation laws.”



Muncke pointed out that while food contact materials may comply with current government regulations, the study highlights that these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/9936-chemicals-found-in-plastic-products-used-for-food-packaging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemicals</a> may not be fully safe.&nbsp;



“We don’t know exactly what the amount is that’s been used in food packaging or other food contact materials versus the amount that’s being used for cosmetics, personal care products, textiles, and so on and so forth, right? I would like to have that information,” said Muncke.&nbsp;



“I think it would be fantastic to make it a regulatory requirement for companies to declare how much and what type of chemicals they are putting into my food or plastic water bottle.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bisphenol-a-exposure">Bisphenol A exposure</h2>



One chemical detected in both food and the human body is <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bpa-replaced-bad/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bisphenol A</a>, or BPA, which was used to create baby bottles, sippy cups, and infant formula containers until concerned parents boycotted those products more than a decade ago.&nbsp;



BPA is an endocrine disruptor linked to fetal abnormalities, low birth weight, and brain and behavior disorders in infants and children. In adults, it has been associated with diabetes, heart disease, erectile dysfunction, cancer, and a 49% higher risk of early death within 10 years.



Bisphenol A can leach into food from the linings of canned foods, polycarbonate tableware, food storage containers, and water bottles, according to the <a href="https://www.niehs.nih.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-forever-chemicals-in-food-materials-nbsp">Forever chemicals in food materials&nbsp;</h2>



“The study also shows that food contact materials can contain mutagenic chemicals that harm our DNA, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/heavy-metals-in-food-pose-a-threat-to-childrens-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heavy metals</a>,” Wagner said. 



“There is strong evidence that humans are exposed to PFAS, so-called forever chemicals, from food packaging that are very persistent, bioaccumulate, and cause organ toxicity.”



Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-microbes-discovered-destroys-pfas-forever-chemicals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PFAS</a>, are present in the blood of an estimated 98% of Americans, according to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.&nbsp;



These hormone-disrupting chemicals are so concerning that in July 2022, the Academies set “nanogram” levels of concern and called for testing of high-risk individuals, including infants and older adults.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-additional-chemicals-in-food-packaging-nbsp">Additional chemicals in food packaging&nbsp;</h2>



Another chemical group in food packaging that has migrated into people is phthalates, the research revealed.&nbsp;



Found in shampoo, makeup, perfume, children's toys, and food containers, phthalates have been linked to genital malformations and undescended testes in baby boys, as well as lower sperm counts and testosterone levels in adult males.&nbsp;



Previous studies have also associated phthalates with childhood obesity, asthma, cardiovascular issues, cancer, and premature death in people aged 55 to 64.



In the new study, researchers compared 14,000 chemicals known to come into contact with food during the packaging process with worldwide databases that monitor human exposure to potential chemical toxins. All the research data has been uploaded to an open database for scientific use.



“We’ve got, say, 60 years of research into the migration of chemicals into food from food processing and packaging equipment. It’s been studied very extensively,” Muncke said.&nbsp;



“And at the same time, there’s increasingly good, powerful studies coming out on Bisphenol A, on phthalates, on PFAS, brominated flame retardants and so forth that are associated with diseases in people.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-chemicals-in-the-human-body">Tracking chemicals in the human body</h2>



What was lacking in the literature was a comparison between what was found in people and the chemicals known to migrate into food during processing.&nbsp;



To connect the dots, Muncke and her colleagues looked at national and regional biomonitoring databases that track chemicals in human blood, urine, breast milk, tissue samples, and other biomarkers.



For the study, researchers used data from the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nhanes/index.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey</a> (NHANES), which gathers yearly health and nutrition data on Americans, as well as other databases.&nbsp;



Of the 14,000 chemicals known to migrate into food during processing and packaging, only a few hundred are measured in people by these programs.&nbsp;



For example, only 172 chemicals detected in food contact materials are monitored in the United States by NHANES - 144 of these chemicals have been detected in some populations, Muncke said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tens-of-thousands-of-food-contact-chemicals-nbsp">Tens of thousands of food contact chemicals&nbsp;</h2>



“Given that there are (tens) of thousands of food contact chemicals, biomonitoring programs do not have the capacity to test for all chemicals we are potentially exposed to,” Wagner said. 



“This creates biases towards very well-studied substances and leaves a big gap in our knowledge on all the other chemicals we potentially have in our bodies.”



Having a chemical in the body does not necessarily mean it is harmful, said Melanie Benesh, vice president of government affairs for the <a href="https://www.ewg.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Working Group</a> (EWG), a consumer organization that monitors exposure to PFAS and other dangerous chemicals.&nbsp;



“Yet you’re not supposed to be born with any chemical inside of you,” said Benesh. “The bigger question is, do we really need these chemicals to process our food? When there are chemicals in our bodies that we know have the potential to cause us harm, we should be eliminating every route of exposure that we can.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fda-loophole-for-food-contact-substances-nbsp">FDA loophole for food contact substances&nbsp;</h2>



Since 2000, nearly 99% of any new food contact chemicals were approved for use by the food and chemical industry, not the <a href="https://www.fda.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Food and Drug Administration</a> (FDA), according to a 2022 analysis by EWG. 



In that 22-year period, food manufacturers asked the FDA's permission to introduce a chemical only 10 times, the analysis said. 



Instead, "companies have exploited a loophole for substances that are ‘generally recognized as safe,’ or GRAS. The loophole lets food manufacturers - not the FDA - decide a substance is safe,” the EWG report stated.



Created by an amendment in the 1950s to the 1938 Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, GRAS was intended to be applied narrowly to common ingredients such as sugar, vinegar, and baking soda.



The <a href="https://www.gao.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. Government Accountability Office</a> (GAO) released a <a href="https://www.gao.gov/assets/d23104434.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a> in November 2022 highlighting FDA limitations in monitoring the nation’s food safety, including the agency’s lack of legal authority over food manufacturers.&nbsp;



“In addition, FDA does not track the date of the last pre- or post market review for all food contact substances in a way that allows FDA to readily identify substances that may warrant a postmarket review because new safety information may have emerged,” the GAO report stated.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-plans-to-improve-food-chemical-safety">Plans to improve food chemical safety </h2>



FDA's deputy commissioner for human foods, Jim Jones, told the <a href="https://energycommerce.house.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce</a>'s subcommittee on health last week that the FDA has made food chemical safety a top priority.&nbsp;



“However, there are also important gaps that need to be addressed as we undertake the work to strengthen our food chemical safety activities,” said Jones.&nbsp;



“Ready access to safety information and consumer exposure data on chemicals in need of review would help us conduct faster and more robust safety evaluations and reassessments." 



"Access to this data would allow FDA to take any necessary regulatory actions in a timely manner to protect consumers and help ensure food safety.”



For the first time, the FDA will hold a public hearing, slated for September 25, on enhancing its assessment of chemicals found in food, including food and color additives, food contact substances, potential contaminants and pesticides, and ingredients considered generally recognized as safe.



“This is unprecedented. This is the first time the FDA is talking about standing up a rigorous review program that puts human health first, that puts chemical safety first, and that restores some of the trust consumers have lost in the agency,” Benesh concluded.



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Toxic chemicals from food production pass into the human body

A new study has found that more than 3,600 chemicals that leach into food during manufacturing, processing, packaging, and storage end up in the human body - and some are linked to serious health issues. Martin Wagner is a professor of biology at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim who was not involved in the research.&nbsp; “This is a staggering number and shows that food contact materials are a significant source of chemicals in humans,” Wagner told CNN.&nbsp; “The study is the first to...

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Curvature propulsion and the future of intergalactic space travel

If you are a fan of reading or watching science...

Pteranodon,Eating,Captured,Fish.3d,Illustration,3d,Rendering

Dinosaurs might get all the press, but let's not forget their high-flying cousins, the pterosaurs. These weren't birds, but rather reptiles that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-species-of-jurassic-pterosaur-found-on-the-isle-of-skye/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ruled the skies</a> long before feathered friends took flight. Now, the discovery of a new pterosaur species, named Abfab, is rewriting what we thought we knew about these ancient aviators.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digging-up-abfab-the-pterosaur">Digging up Abfab the pterosaur</h2>



In an unassuming gravel pit near Abingdon-on-Thames,&nbsp;an unexpected discovery unfolded.&nbsp;Geologist Dr.&nbsp;James Etienne, initially searching for fossilized remains of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiktaalik-fossil-discovery-sheds-light-on-how-fish-walked-onto-land/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine creatures</a>,&nbsp;unearthed a remarkable specimen:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Low-Res_Bone.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a large bone fragment</a> belonging to a pterosaur,&nbsp;an ancient flying reptile.&nbsp;



This was no ordinary pterosaur. It's estimated wingspan exceeded three meters, a measurement equivalent to approximately ten feet. 



To grasp the enormity of this creature, imagine its outstretched wings stretching as wide as a compact car, dominating the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oldest-pterosaur-bones-found-in-australia-date-back-107-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric skies</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jurassic-heavyweight-champion">Jurassic heavyweight champion</h2>



"When the bone was discovered, it was certainly notable for its size," says Professor David Martill from the <a href="https://www.port.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Portsmouth</a>, one of the lead researchers on the project.



 After careful analysis, they concluded that this winged wonder belonged to a group of pterosaurs called ctenochasmatoids, known for their slender wings, long jaws, and bristle-like teeth.



What makes this discovery so remarkable? Well, pterosaurs from the Jurassic Period (think 200 to 145 million years ago) were typically much smaller, with wingspans averaging between 1.5 and 2 meters. 



This new specimen, nicknamed "Abfab" by the researchers, <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/jurassic-pterosaur-wingspans_illustration_UPortsmouth_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blows those figures out of the water</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abfab-game-changer-for-pterosaur-evolution">Abfab: Game-changer for pterosaur evolution</h2>



Abfab's impressive size challenges the prevailing idea that pterosaurs only reached their gargantuan proportions in the later <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-shed-new-light-on-europes-enigmatic-dinosaurs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cretaceous Period</a>. 



"This specimen is now one of the largest known pterosaurs from the Jurassic period worldwide, surpassed only by a specimen in Switzerland with an estimated wingspan of up to five meters," Professor Martill notes.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/pterodactylus-kochi_credit-dino-frey_1s.jpg" alt="Pterodactylus kochi. Artwork by Dino Frey" class="wp-image-1935983"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pterodactylus kochi. Artwork by Dino Frey</figcaption></figure>



This discovery is a clue that the evolution of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-extinct-species-of-flying-reptile-nicknamed-elvis-is-officially-named-petrodactyle-wellnhoferi/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">flying reptiles</a> might have been more complex and diverse than previously thought.



“Abfab, our nickname for the Abingdon pterosaur, shows that pterodactyloids, advanced pterosaurs that completely dominated the Cretaceous, achieved spectacularly large sizes almost immediately after they first appeared in the Middle Jurassic right about the time the dinosaurian ancestors of birds were taking to the air,” explains Dr. Dave Unwin from the <a href="https://le.ac.uk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leicester</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-did-abfab-eat-with-those-wings">What did Abfab eat with those wings?</h2>



Although a complete skeletal reconstruction of the pterosaur is not available,&nbsp;scientists can infer certain aspects of its behavior and diet based on its close relatives.&nbsp;



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pterosaurs-had-good-parenting-skills-but-only-the-larger-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ctenochas</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pterosaurs-had-good-parenting-skills-but-only-the-larger-species/">matoids</a>, the group to which Abfab belongs, are thought to have employed their elongated jaws and bristle-like teeth to filter food from the water, much like modern-day flamingos. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/pterodactylus-kochi_credit-Hamzah-Imran_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/pterodactylus-kochi_credit-Hamzah-Imran_1s.jpg" alt="Pterodactylus kochi. Artwork by Hamzah Imran" class="wp-image-1935985"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Pterodactylus kochi. Artwork by Hamzah Imran</figcaption></figure>



This suggests that Abfab likely soared above ancient Jurassic lagoons,&nbsp;skillfully skimming the water's surface to capture small aquatic organisms for sustenance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fossil-treasure-trove">Fossil treasure trove</h2>



The Oxfordshire gravel pit where Abfab was discovered proved to be a rich source of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pterosaurs-had-good-parenting-skills-but-only-the-larger-species/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">paleontological finds</a>. 



In addition to the pterosaur, the site yielded a diverse array of Jurassic marine fossils, showcasing the abundance of prehistoric life that once thrived in the region. 



Among the notable discoveries were the remains of ichthyosaurs, dolphin-like marine reptiles, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plesiosaur-fossils-are-the-first-evidence-of-jurassic-vertebrates-in-texas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plesiosaurs</a>, large marine reptiles with long necks. 



The site also yielded numerous ammonites, extinct cephalopods with coiled shells, as well as fossils of ancient sharks. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-still-much-to-learn-about-prehistoric-creatures">Still much to learn about prehistoric creatures</h2>



This remarkable collection of fossils indicates that the area served as a thriving ecosystem for a wide variety of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossil-reveals-the-first-ancestors-of-scorpions-and-spiders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prehistoric creatures</a>,&nbsp;inhabiting both the skies and the waters.



This unexpected discovery of a giant pterosaur reminds us that the fossil record still holds many secrets. What other surprises are waiting to be unearthed? 



One thing's for sure: Abfab has earned its place in the pterosaur hall of fame, and it's given scientists a whole new perspective on the evolution of these magnificent creatures.



So, the next time you think of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/koleken-inakayali-dinosaur-arms-smaller-than-t-rex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dinosaurs</a>, spare a thought for the pterosaurs. They were the aerial aces of their time, and Abfab proves they were capable of reaching truly impressive sizes much earlier than we thought.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0016787824000191?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the Geologists Association</a>.



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New Pterosaur species named 'Abfab' had wings as wide as a car

Dinosaurs might get all the press, but let's not forget...

We all love a neatly manicured lawn. But what if frequently mowing the yard in our quest for tidiness is inadvertently creating a legion of superweeds? 



A recent study on the seemingly innocuous silverleaf nightshade (<a href="https://earthpedia.earth.com/plant-encyclopedia/angiosperms/solanaceae/solanum-elaeagnifolium/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Solanum elaeagnifolium</a>) has revealed a startling truth. 



This unassuming weed, along with dandelions and many others, is a master of adaptation, evolving into a tougher, more resilient <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boosting-crop-colors-with-gene-editing-can-improve-weed-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">version of itself</a> when faced with frequent mowing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-superweeds-like-mowing">Why superweeds like mowing</h2>



Superweeds are wild plants that develop resistance to herbicides. This resistance often results from the repeated use of the same herbicide, like glyphosate, on crops. 



As a consequence, these weeds can survive treatments meant to eliminate them, making them harder to control.



Genetically modified <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/boosting-crop-colors-with-gene-editing-can-improve-weed-control/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(GM) crops</a>, designed to withstand herbicides, inadvertently contribute to the rise of superweeds. When these herbicides kill off non-resistant weeds, resistant ones thrive and spread.



Superweeds pose a significant threat to agriculture. They compete with crops for resources, leading to lower yields and higher costs for farmers. 



Controlling these weeds often requires stronger, more expensive herbicides or alternative management strategies, which can further harm the environment.



As superweeds continue to evolve, sustainable <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/weeds-are-becoming-increasingly-resistant-to-herbicides/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weed management</a> practices and diversified farming techniques become crucial in mitigating their impact.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unassuming-purple-weed-spreading-rapidly">Unassuming purple weed spreading rapidly</h2>



Silverleaf nightshade may not be a household name,&nbsp;but this pervasive weed is found from the sun-soaked fields of south Texas to the ancient landscapes of South Africa and Greece.&nbsp;



With its delicate purple flowers (sometimes white or light purple), prickly spines, and toxic berries, it's not a plant you want to mess with. 



Interestingly, it shares a family tree with some of our favorite crops, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tomatoes-acylsugars-parallel-universe-plant-kingdom-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tomatoes</a>, potatoes, peppers, and eggplants.



Rupesh Kariyat, an associate professor of entomology and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bioengineered-super-plant-acts-as-natural-indoor-air-purifier/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant pathology</a>, has been studying this unassuming weed for over a decade. 



His research, which began at the <a href="https://www.utrgv.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Texas Rio Grande Valley</a>, has revealed some fascinating insights into the plant's response to frequent mowing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mowing-launches-survival-of-the-fittest-contest">Mowing launches "survival of the fittest" contest</h2>



Kariyat's research has found that frequent mowing doesn't just trim the silverleaf nightshade; it triggers a series of remarkable <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-capture-plant-communication-on-video/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defense mechanisms</a>. 



"You are trying to mow these plants so that the plants are getting eliminated," Kariyat explains,&nbsp;"But what you are actually doing here,&nbsp;you are making them much worse,&nbsp;much stronger."



Under the pressure of frequent mowing, the plant's taproot burrows deeper into the soil, reaching depths of nearly 5 feet to access water and nutrients. 



More spikes sprout on its stem to deter hungry caterpillars, and the flowers themselves become more toxic, reducing the threat from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/grazing-sheep-can-reduce-stress-on-college-campuses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">natural predators</a>.



The plant even employs a clever strategy for seed germination, producing some that sprout quickly and others that lie dormant, like time bombs. 



This "staggered" germination ensures the plant's survival over the long haul, even in the face of repeated mowing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-superweeds-spawn-from-mowing-ripple-effect">Superweeds spawn from mowing ripple effect</h2>



While Kariyat's research focused specifically on silverleaf nightshade, its findings have far-reaching implications. 



Other weeds, even close relatives of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/is-deadly-nightshade-really-deadly-misnomers-of-the-botanical-world/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nightshade</a>, may react similarly to frequent mowing, potentially creating a whole army of superweeds.



"This should be something that we consider when we make management plans," Kariyat warns.&nbsp;"Management practices need to be better understood using the ecology and biology of the species and the other species which interact with them."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-adaptation-of-silverleaf-nightshade">Adaptation of silverleaf nightshade</h2>



The silverleaf nightshade's response to mowing is a fascinating example of adaptation in action.&nbsp;It demonstrates the incredible resilience of nature and the unintended consequences of human intervention.



The plant's ability to evolve in response to environmental pressures is a testament to its tenacity and adaptability.&nbsp;It's a reminder that even the most unassuming organisms can possess remarkable survival skills.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mowing-superweeds-requires-caution">Mowing superweeds requires caution</h2>



So, what does this mean for our manicured lawns? Should we abandon our mowers altogether? Not necessarily. 



Kariyat's research does suggest that we should approach mowing with a bit more caution and consider alternative weed management strategies.



For instance,&nbsp;tilling areas infested with silverleaf nightshade can actually worsen the problem by spreading the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/measuring-plant-root-health-scanning-leaves-xray-device/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plant</a>'s rhizomic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-rooted-crops-can-significantly-improve-soil-carbon-storage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">roots</a>,&nbsp;which can propagate asexually.



"As scientists, we want our research to be accessible and applicable to anyone, and mowing is a concept the world at large can understand," says Alejandro Vasquez, the lead author of the study and a Ph.D. student at the <a href="https://www.uark.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arkansas</a>.



So, from now when you fire up your mower,&nbsp;spare a thought for the unassuming superweeds lurking in your lawn.&nbsp;They may be small,&nbsp;but they're far more resilient than you think.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-58672-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scientific Reports</a>.



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Mowing your yard too often may create unstoppable 'superweeds'

We all love a neatly manicured lawn. But what if...

The turbulent storms in Jupiter’s polar regions are driven by processes familiar to physicists studying Earth’s oceans and atmosphere. 



This is the conclusion of new research led by Lia Siegelman, a physical oceanographer at UC San Diego’s <a href="https://scripps.ucsd.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scripps Institution of Oceanography</a>.



Siegelman first observed the connection in 2018, noting the similarity between images of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-use-exoplanet-hunter-to-study-jupiters-winds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter’s cyclones</a> and the ocean turbulence she studied on Earth. 



Since air and water are both fluids, it isn’t so far-fetched to apply ocean physics to Jupiter. “Jupiter is basically an ocean of gas,” explained Siegelman.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-convection-helps-sustain-jupiter-s-storms">Convection helps sustain Jupiter’s storms</h2>



This observation led to a 2022 study published in <a href="https://rdcu.be/dwJMT" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Physics</a>, which analyzed high-resolution infrared images of Jupiter’s cyclones taken by NASA’s Juno spacecraft.&nbsp;



The study revealed that convection, similar to that seen on Earth, helps sustain Jupiter’s massive storms, which can be thousands of miles wide and last for years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-filaments-in-jupiter-s-storms">Role of filaments in Jupiter’s storms</h2>



The 2022 study focused on <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/amalthea-jupiter-tiny-moon-captured-juno-spacecraft/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter’s cyclones</a>, but Siegelman also noted the presence of filaments, or wispy tendrils, between the vortices. 



These filaments appeared analogous to phenomena on Earth, prompting further investigation using Juno’s detailed imagery to explore whether this similarity was merely superficial.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/jupiter-cloud-system_northern-hemisphere_closeup_juno_nasa_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/jupiter-cloud-system_northern-hemisphere_closeup_juno_nasa_1s.jpg" alt="Cloud system in Jupiter's northern hemisphere imaged by Juno spacecraft. Photo: NASA" class="wp-image-1935977"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Cloud system in Jupiter's northern hemisphere imaged by Juno spacecraft. Photo: NASA</figcaption></figure>



The current study has uncovered additional similarities between the processes driving Jupiter’s cyclones and those on Earth, revealing that the filaments between Jupiter’s cyclones work in tandem with convection to sustain the planet’s giant storms. 



Specifically, these filaments act in ways resembling <a href="https://www.earth.com/image/striking-seawater-colored-by-phytoplankton-blooms/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fronts on Earth</a>, which are boundaries between gas or liquid masses with different densities, often leading to strong vertical velocities that create winds or currents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-temperatures-and-wind-speeds-on-jupiter">Temperatures and wind speeds on Jupiter</h2>



To understand the role of the filaments visible in Juno’s images, Siegelman and her co-author, Patrice Klein, analyzed a series of infrared images of Jupiter’s north polar region taken in 30-second intervals.&nbsp;



The infrared images allowed the researchers to determine temperatures, with bright areas indicating warmer regions and dark areas indicating cooler regions.&nbsp;



On <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/secrets-of-jupiters-magnetosphere-will-help-us-predict-space-weather/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jupiter</a>, warmer areas correspond to thin clouds, while cooler areas represent thick cloud cover, blocking more heat from the planet’s super-heated core. 



By tracking the movement of clouds and filaments, the researchers calculated horizontal wind speeds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heat-from-jupiter-s-interior">Heat from Jupiter’s interior </h2>



Combining these measurements with methods from ocean and atmospheric science, Siegelman and Klein calculated the vertical wind speeds that corresponded to the derived temperatures and horizontal wind speeds.&nbsp;



The findings confirmed that Jupiter’s filaments behaved like Earth’s fronts, playing a significant role in transporting energy in the form of heat from Jupiter’s hot interior to its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/jupiters-turbulent-atmosphere-includes-a-high-speed-jet-stream/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">upper atmosphere</a>, thereby fueling the giant cyclones. 



While convection is the primary driver, the fronts contribute to a quarter of the total kinetic energy and forty percent of the vertical heat transport powering Jupiter’s cyclones.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-small-filaments-with-a-big-impact">Small filaments with a big impact</h2>



“These cyclones on Jupiter’s poles have persisted since they were first observed in 2016,” Siegelman said. “These filaments in between the large vortices are relatively small but they are an important mechanism for sustaining the cyclones.”



“It’s fascinating that fronts and convection are present and influential on Earth and Jupiter - it suggests that these processes may also be present on other turbulent fluid bodies in the universe.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-mechanisms-on-far-away-planets-nbsp">Earth's mechanisms on far-away planets&nbsp;</h2>



Siegelman emphasized that Jupiter’s vast scale and Juno’s high-resolution imagery offer a clearer visualization of how smaller-scale phenomena like fronts connect to larger systems like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fast-moving-tropical-cyclones-are-becoming-more-powerful/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cyclones</a> and the atmosphere at large.&nbsp;



These connections are often challenging to observe on Earth due to their smaller and more ephemeral nature. However, a new satellite known as SWOT might make observing these ocean phenomena much easier.



“There is some cosmic beauty in finding out that these physical mechanisms on Earth exist on other far-away planets,” Siegelman concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-jupiter-s-storms-nbsp">More about Jupiter’s storms&nbsp;</h2>



Jupiter is known for its magnificent and turbulent weather systems, including some of the most colossal and enduring storms in the solar system.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-great-red-spot-nbsp">Great Red Spot&nbsp;</h3>



The most famous of these is the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/smaller-storms-feed-jupiters-great-red-spot/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Great Red Spot</a>, a giant storm larger than Earth that has been raging for at least 350 years.&nbsp;



This storm is a high-pressure anticyclone, characterized by swirling clouds of reddish hues, and it stands out against the rest of the planet's mostly white and ochre atmosphere.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jupiter-s-rapid-rotation-nbsp">Jupiter's rapid rotation&nbsp;</h3>



The dynamics of Jupiter’s storms are driven by the planet's rapid rotation, which is the fastest of all the solar system’s planets, completing a rotation roughly every 10 hours.&nbsp;



This rapid rotation contributes to strong jet streams that divide the clouds of the upper atmosphere into dark belts and bright zones.&nbsp;



Storms often form along the boundaries of these belts and zones, where the atmosphere exhibits dramatic shifts in composition and temperature.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-varied-appearance-and-duration">Varied appearance and duration</h3>



Besides the Great Red Spot, Jupiter is home to many other storms, some appearing as smaller red spots, white ovals, or even brown splotches.&nbsp;



These storms can last for varying lengths of time - some persisting for years and others dissipating much more quickly.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41567-024-02516-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Physics</a>.



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Jupiter’s iconic storms can last for centuries, but what fuels them?

The turbulent storms in Jupiter’s polar regions are driven by...

A recent investigation reveals a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pollution-is-a-greater-health-threat-than-we-ever-imagined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">concerning forecast</a> for ozone pollution levels across the United States by 2050, indicating potential non-compliance with air quality standards and increased public health risks.



This study paints a detailed picture of how <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monsoons-launch-ozone-depleting-substances-into-the-stratosphere/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate-induced changes</a> could intensify ground-level ozone, a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-ozone-pollution">What is ozone pollution?</h2>



Ozone pollution, also known as ground-level ozone, refers to the presence of ozone gas (O₃) in the Earth's lower atmosphere. Unlike the protective ozone layer in the stratosphere, ground-level ozone is a harmful pollutant. 



It forms when nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) react in the presence of sunlight. Common sources of these pollutants include vehicle emissions, industrial facilities, and chemical solvents.



Ozone <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/short-term-pollution-claims-more-than-one-million-lives-per-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a> poses significant health risks. It can cause respiratory problems, aggravate asthma, reduce lung function, and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections. 



Long-term exposure can lead to chronic respiratory diseases and even premature death. Additionally, ground-level ozone can harm ecosystems, damaging crops, forests, and wildlife.



Climate change exacerbates ozone pollution by increasing temperatures, which accelerates the chemical reactions that produce ozone. Efforts to control ozone levels focus on reducing NOx and VOC emissions through regulatory measures and technological advancements.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ozone-pollution-on-the-rise">Ozone pollution on the rise</h2>



Ground-level ozone isn't just a minor irritant; it's a major health hazard, linked to reduced lung function and airway inflammation, contributing to hundreds of thousands of deaths annually.



Study lead author James East, a former PhD student at <a href="https://www.ncsu.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Carolina State University</a>, is now a researcher at <a href="https://www.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard University</a>.



"Climate change influences ozone formation through a myriad of factors. Predominantly, warmer temperatures correlate with ozone increases in already polluted areas. Furthermore, expected rises in naturally occurring VOC emissions, particularly in regions like the Southeast U.S., could worsen the situation," explained East.



The study, "Projecting Changes in the Frequency and Magnitude of Ozone Pollution Events Under Uncertain Climate Sensitivity," navigates through these complexities.



The research extends beyond mere predictions, incorporating various models and statistical tools to gauge future ozone pollution landscapes. In particular, the study explores how often (and by how much) ozone levels might exceed public health standards by mid-century.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-air-quality-thresholds">Air quality thresholds</h2>



The results of the study are presented as a range, acknowledging the ongoing debates among climate scientists about how drastically the climate reacts to greenhouse gas concentrations. 



"The best-case scenario, with low climate sensitivity to carbon dioxide, suggests an average increase in peak ozone levels by less than 0.3 parts per billion (ppb)," noted East. "This increase might still keep many areas within safe air quality thresholds."



However, East warns of a less optimistic outcome where the climate shows high sensitivity to carbon dioxide. 



Here, peak ozone levels could rise by more than 2.3 ppb on average, leading to a significant increase in days where ozone levels surpass <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extreme-rainfall-gets-an-unpredictable-boost-from-air-pollution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality</a> norms.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-public-health-and-policy">Implications for public health and policy</h2>



The practical implications of these findings are stark. "Our study estimates that between 5 million and 13 million additional people could be exposed to dangerously high ozone levels by 2050," said East.



This projection is crucial for policymakers, especially those involved in the Environmental Protection Agency's ongoing review of the ozone <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/u-s-air-pollution-levels-have-dropped-but-not-for-everyone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air quality standards</a>.



Fernando Garcia Menendez, the study's corresponding author and an associate professor of environmental engineering at NC State, emphasized the broader significance of these insights.



"While state and federal governments strive to control ozone levels through emissions reductions, our findings suggest these efforts might be less effective in the future, particularly in areas already struggling to meet air quality standards," said Menendez.



"This research not only deepens our understanding of climate change's impact on air quality but also aids in refining the cost-benefit analyses of climate regulations and related technological advances."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategic-responses-to-ozone-challenges">Strategic responses to ozone challenges</h2>



This work underscores the need for a proactive approach in reviewing and possibly revising air quality standards to better protect public health in the face of evolving climate conditions.



By offering a clearer picture of the potential scenarios, the research arms policymakers with vital data to make informed decisions, potentially leading to more robust strategies to mitigate the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ozone-hole-exposes-wildlife-to-harmful-uv-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adverse effects</a> of ozone pollution.



As climate patterns continue to shift, such studies will be pivotal in guiding effective responses to safeguard environmental and public health.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023EF003941" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's Future</a>.



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Ozone pollution will harm tens of millions of people at current pace

A recent investigation reveals a concerning forecast for ozone pollution...

In a remarkable discovery, researchers have pinpointed a specific group of neurons that appear to drive compulsive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ditch-the-diet-trends-for-a-healthier-relationship-with-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating</a> behaviors (binge eating), even in the absence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/being-overweight-makes-it-harder-for-brain-to-resist-unhealthy-food/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hunger</a>.



This finding could significantly advance our understanding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hunger-hormones-in-the-gut-can-change-our-eating-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating disorders</a> and offer new targets for treatment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-binge-eating">What is binge eating?</h2>



Binge eating, also known as compulsive eating, is a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mental-disorders-can-be-contagious-among-teens/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disorder</a> characterized by frequent episodes of consuming large amounts of food, often rapidly and to the point of discomfort. 



Unlike regular overeating, binge eating is driven by an overwhelming urge to eat, even when not hungry. People experiencing this disorder often feel a lack of control during these episodes and may eat in secret due to feelings of shame or guilt.



This behavior can lead to various physical health problems, such as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/obesity-now-affects-more-than-a-billion-people/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">obesity</a>, diabetes, and heart disease. It also significantly impacts mental health, often associated with stress, anxiety, and depression.



The exact cause of binge eating is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors.



Treatment typically involves therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and sometimes medication to address underlying psychological issues. Early intervention is crucial for better management and recovery outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neural-link-to-binge-eating">Neural link to binge eating</h2>



Located in the periaqueductal gray area of the midbrain - a region already associated with a variety of bodily functions such as mood regulation, sleep, and stress response - these neurons are identified as vesicular GABA transporter cells, or VGAT cells. They utilize the neurotransmitter GABA, which is pivotal in controlling neuronal activity.



Despite the known functions of VGAT cells in various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/brain-region-that-influences-our-food-preferences-can-be-manipulated/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain regions</a>, their relationship with feeding behaviors was previously unclear. This link was unveiled quite unexpectedly by researchers focusing on anxiety, not feeding.



"Our initial hypothesis centered on VGAT cells reducing fear and panic. Instead, activating them caused mice to frantically search for food," noted Brazilian neuroscientist Fernando Reis, first and corresponding author of the article, and a postdoctoral fellow at <a href="https://www.ucla.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UCLA</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surprising-behaviors-in-lab-mice">Surprising behaviors in lab mice</h2>



Further experimentation revealed intriguing results related to binge eating: well-fed mice exhibited an intense foraging behavior upon activation of these cells, consuming more than usual.



Conversely, when the VGAT neurons were inhibited, even food-deprived mice showed reduced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-behavior-is-influenced-by-the-unconscious-mind/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eating behavior</a>.



The experiments also demonstrated that the mice enjoyed the stimulation, spending more time where their VGAT cells were activated, suggesting that the activation not only spurred eating but also triggered feelings of pleasure and reward. 



Remarkably, the mice were even willing to endure discomfort, such as mild electric shocks, to satisfy their induced cravings, indicating a strong drive to eat that overpowered other aversive sensations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advanced-techniques-and-implications">Advanced techniques and implications</h2>



The research employed the cutting-edge technique of optogenetics, which enables precise control over specific neurons using light. 



This method was implemented by introducing a genetically modified virus that carries a light-sensitive protein derived from green algae into the mice. 



As a result, only the targeted VGAT cells within the periaqueductal gray were selectively activated or inhibited.



This precise neural manipulation not only affected the periaqueductal gray but also influenced deeper brain structures, such as the zona incerta. 



"We observed an increase in neural activity in this area when the mice were approaching food," said Juliane Ikebara, a co-author of the study. 



This observation underscores the broad impact of VGAT cell activation on the brain's neural circuits involved in feeding behavior.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-compulsive-eating">Understanding compulsive eating</h2>



The study raises intriguing questions about the potential parallels in humans, given that humans also possess VGAT cells in similar brain regions. 



Although direct experimentation in humans is not currently feasible, the researchers are hopeful. 



"Our findings can't be directly tested in humans right now, but future studies may show whether activation of these cells in monkeys triggers a search for food, suggesting something similar might happen in humans," noted Avishek Adhikari, the team's senior researcher.



Moving forward, the team plans to investigate whether stimulating these neurons influences cravings for specific types of food like proteins or sugars, noting a distinct preference in mice for high-calorie foods over vegetables.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-treating-compulsive-eating-disorders">Treating compulsive eating disorders</h2>



This discovery opens up potential new avenues for understanding and treating conditions such as binge eating and anorexia. 



By identifying the neural circuits involved in compulsive eating, researchers can explore innovative strategies to modulate these behaviors, offering hope for those battling eating disorders.



The research not only highlights the complex interplay between brain regions and binge eating behaviors but also underscores the potential for targeted neural interventions in addressing compulsive eating.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-46430-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Communications</a>.



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'Binge eating' linked to a specific group of neurons in the brain

In a remarkable discovery, researchers have pinpointed a specific group...

Approximately two million species inhabit the world's oceans, but scientists have only described about 10% of them. With rising <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-oceans-are-on-track-for-a-catastrophic-extinction-event/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">extinction</a> rates and global biodiversity threats, many species could vanish before being identified or their benefits understood.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-national-ocean-biodiversity-strategy-nbsp">National Ocean Biodiversity Strategy&nbsp;</h2>



The National Ocean Biodiversity Strategy, led by the <a href="https://www.si.edu/home" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smithsonian</a> and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has recently called for a more unified approach to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-fall-short-on-2030-biodiversity-targets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean conservation</a>. This strategy aims to enhance the ability of scientists to gather and share knowledge and use it for more effective protections.



“We are confronting <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plankton-help-predict-ocean-biodiversity-losses/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biodiversity loss</a> and its implications for human well-being, alongside the challenges posed by climate change and social inequity,” said Ellen Stofan, Under Secretary for Science and Research at the Smithsonian.&nbsp;



“But we hold the power to overcome these obstacles with a united, society-wide effort to preserve nature and its benefits.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-benefits-will-degrade-with-biodiversity-loss-nbsp">Ocean benefits will degrade with biodiversity loss&nbsp;</h2>



The health and prosperity of the U.S. are closely tied to the ocean, contributing nearly $400 billion annually to the economy and providing 2.4 million jobs. The U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone, covering an area larger than all 50 states combined, benefits greatly from the ocean's diverse species and habitats.



“Life in the ocean touches everyone,” said Gabrielle Canonico, leader of the U.S. Marine Biodiversity Observation Network at NOAA and co-chair of the strategy team.&nbsp;



“Every other breath we take comes from the oxygen produced by microscopic ocean plants, and more than a billion people worldwide rely on food from the ocean as their primary source of protein. But these and other benefits will degrade with biodiversity loss, with dire consequences especially for frontline communities.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-gaps-in-our-knowledge-of-ocean-wildlife">Critical gaps in our knowledge of ocean wildlife </h2>



Despite the ocean's vast benefits, critical gaps remain in the protection and knowledge of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/monitoring-ocean-life-through-underwater-soundscapes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean life</a>. Current information is scattered across different organizations, making it difficult to share.&nbsp;



Many smaller organisms, crucial for maintaining ecosystems, are barely studied. The strategy aims to address this by strengthening the ocean observing system and information pipeline.



“We are advancing frontier technologies for biodiversity science and understanding,” said Sarah Kapnick, NOAA chief scientist. “But it is critical that we come together around the use of evidence-based metrics and indicators for decision-making in ocean spaces, and for monitoring, reporting, and verification to ensure that investments in conservation or development deliver the desired outcomes while minimizing negative impacts to ocean life.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ocean-biodiversity-is-in-trouble-nbsp">Ocean biodiversity is in trouble&nbsp;</h2>



“Biodiversity is the beating heart of the ocean that supports society, but it’s in trouble,” noted Emmett Duffy, chief scientist of <a href="https://serc.si.edu/research/projects/marinegeo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MarineGEO</a> at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center and co-chair of the strategy team.&nbsp;



“This strategy is our best chance yet to turn the tide. We need to implement it to reach a future where people and the rest of nature thrive together by joining forces and leveraging the power of people and technology to understand the living ocean ecosystem.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-roadmap-to-a-more-sustainable-ocean">Roadmap to a more sustainable ocean</h2>



The National Ocean Biodiversity Strategy outlines a three-pronged plan to create a more inclusive, evidence-based network of protection in U.S. ocean waters and the Great Lakes:



<ul>
<li>Coordinate ocean research and conservation across the entire nation: This involves bringing together federal agencies with ocean-related missions to engage stakeholders, including states, Tribes, and local communities, to co-design solutions. Part of this process includes documenting the economic and cultural values of the ocean to reveal hidden costs of degrading nature and incorporating them into economic decision-making across government and private sectors.</li>



<li>Strengthen the U.S. information pipeline: The U.S. has a wealth of data on ocean life, but much of it is inaccessible to policymakers and managers. The strategy calls for stronger support of centralized, open-source databases accessible to all stakeholders. This also involves revamping taxonomy to reveal undiscovered species and using new technologies like <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/racing-boat-collects-edna-samples-on-a-round-the-world-sailing-competition/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental DNA</a> (eDNA), satellites, and artificial intelligence to track biodiversity.</li>



<li>Conserve, restore, and sustainably use ocean biodiversity: Success hinges on partnerships with states, Tribes, local communities, NGOs, and the private sector. Listening sessions will help build collaborations based on trust, allowing managers to co-create protection measures that work long-term with community input.</li>
</ul>



According to the experts, this strategy is a high-level roadmap to a more sustainable ocean and a first step toward implementing a plan to outline specific actions tailored to regions and communities based on stakeholder feedback.



The full strategy can be found on the <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/NSTC_National-Ocean-Biodiversity-Strategy.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Office of Science and Technology Policy website</a>.



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World Ocean Day: A unified approach to protect biodiversity 

Approximately two million species inhabit the world's oceans, but scientists...

Primordial black <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/molecules-scramble-quantum-information-equally-well-black-holes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">holes</a> (PBHs) are being reevaluated through the application of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/quantum-vortex-created-lab-mimic-black-hole-behavior/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum</a> field theory - a concept traditionally reserved for microscopic phenomena - to the vast expanses of the early universe.



Researchers have found a surprising scarcity of these miniature black holes, contradicting many existing models. 



Primordial black holes are considered potential candidates for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/existence-of-dark-matter-confirmed-by-new-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dark matter</a>, the elusive substance that constitutes a significant portion of the universe’s total mass yet remains invisible. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-primordial-black-holes">What are primordial black holes?</h2>



Primordial black holes (PBHs) are a theoretical type of black hole formed in the early universe, shortly after the Big Bang. 



Unlike black holes formed from the collapse of massive stars, PBHs could have originated from high-density regions in the young universe due to extreme fluctuations in density. These black holes vary in size and mass, potentially ranging from microscopic to several solar masses.



It is believed that these early-formed black holes could explain the missing mass not accounted for by visible matter.



However, recent studies using quantum field theory suggest that PBHs might be scarcer than previously thought, challenging their viability as dark matter candidates. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inflation-dark-matter-and-primordial-black-holes">Inflation, dark matter, and primordial black holes</h2>



The universe is an ancient expanse, about 13.8 billion years old, originating from a massive explosion and expanding rapidly in a phase known as inflation. This process transformed the universe from a uniform state into one rich with structure and detail. 



Despite the vast empty spaces, the universe weighs more than visible matter can account for, leading scientists to hypothesize the existence of dark matter. Recently, ancient black holes have emerged as possible explanations for this discrepancy.



“Primordial black <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/primordial-black-holes-may-be-shifting-earths-orbit/">holes</a> are fascinating not only as dark matter candidates but also because their large numbers could explain the binary black hole mergers observed through gravitational wave astronomy. However, despite theoretical expectations of their abundance, actual observations have been lacking, pointing to a gap in our understanding,” noted Jason Kristiano, a graduate student involved in the research.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-theoretical-models">Theoretical models</h2>



Kristiano, along with his supervisor, Professor Jun’ichi Yokoyama, director of two prominent research institutes at the <a href="https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tokyo</a>, have meticulously examined the prevailing theories of primordial black hole formation.



Their analysis reveals a mismatch between these theories and the observations of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) - the residual radiation from the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/visible-matter-dark-matter-evolved-together-big-bang/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Big Bang</a>, which serves as a cosmic fingerprint of the universe's inception.



To address this discrepancy, Yokoyama and Kristiano revised the leading model of PBH formation from cosmic inflation, aligning it more closely with observed data. Their revised theory awaits further validation from upcoming observations by global gravitational wave observatories.



“At the universe's beginning, it was infinitesimally small - smaller than an atom. Cosmic inflation then expanded it dramatically. During this period, small fluctuations could generate large amplitude but short wavelength waves," explained Yokoyama.



"We discovered that these small but intense waves could amplify longer waves that we now detect in the CMB. This occasional coherence among early, short waves, describable by quantum field theory, suggests a rare but significant influence on larger-scale cosmic structures.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-primordial-black-holes-and-cosmic-insights">Primordial black holes and cosmic insights</h2>



The study posits that early, small-scale fluctuations may reshape our understanding of the universe's coarse structures. 



Moreover, measuring CMB wavelengths can help constrain the properties of wavelengths from the universe’s earliest moments, which in turn limits potential phenomena dependent on these short, powerful waves - including the formation of primordial black holes.



“The early universe’s short but strong wavelengths likely led to the creation of PBHs. However, our findings indicate that there should be far fewer PBHs than required if they are to be considered viable candidates for dark matter or sources of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-cosmic-object-detected-gravitational-wave-signal/">gravitational waves</a>,” noted Kristiano.



As research continues, the world's leading gravitational wave observatories - LIGO in the U.S., Virgo in Italy, and KAGRA in Japan - are actively engaged in missions to detect these elusive small black holes.



The outcomes of these observations are anticipated to provide crucial data, helping researchers refine their theories and possibly reshaping our understanding of the universe’s dark matter.



Through this innovative application of quantum field theory to cosmology, the study not only challenges existing paradigms about primordial black holes and dark matter but also underscores the intricate connections between the smallest particles and the vast cosmic structures, highlighting the universe’s profound complexity and the continuing mystery of its true composition.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://journals.aps.org/prl/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevLett.132.221003" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Physical Review Letters</a>.



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Early black holes were too scarce to explain the unseen universe

Primordial black holes (PBHs) are being reevaluated through the application...

After suffering a career-ending injury, Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Gretchen Evans was confronted with severe challenges. Service <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-detect-human-stress-levels-sniffing-breath-compounds/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dogs</a>, starting with Aura, a black Labrador Retriever, played a pivotal role in her transition.



She was fraught with loneliness and depression when she tried to adapt to life with disabilities, including near-total hearing loss and PTSD.



Later, Rusty -- a golden retriever and black lab mix service <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dogs-can-detect-scents-better-than-the-most-advanced-lab-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dog</a> -- joined her, further enhancing her safety and social interactions.



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/despite-strong-bonds-pet-ownership-may-not-improve-severe-mental-illness/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">companion animals</a> not only provided companionship but also transformed her daily life, offering a poignant example of how these dogs can significantly aid veterans facing similar struggles.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-service-dogs-reduce-loneliness">Service dogs reduce loneliness</h2>



Personal stories like that of Evans have long suggested the benefits of assistance dogs, but rigorous scientific evidence was sparse. 



A recent study conducted by Sarah Leighton at the <a href="https://vetmed.arizona.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine</a> has started to fill this research gap.



The findings revealed that veterans paired with service dogs reported significantly lower PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and depression, while experiencing enhanced quality of life and reduced feelings of isolation, compared to those without such assistance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-in-service-dog-adoption">Challenges in service dog adoption</h2>



Despite these positive outcomes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/assistance-dogs-improve-mental-health-of-veterans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">veterans</a> encounter several barriers when accessing service dogs.



Limited funding for service dog nonprofits, lack of insurance coverage, and legislative gaps hinder the widespread adoption of this intervention. 



Leighton pointed out the critical need for complementary interventions that can enhance traditional treatments for PTSD, which could lead to significant improvements in veterans' healthcare outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pawsitive-healing">'Pawsitive' healing</h2>



To deepen understanding of how assistance dogs can impact <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psychedelic-drug-mdma-shows-promise-for-reducing-post-traumatic-stress/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PTSD</a> treatment, Maggie O'Haire and her team from the OHAIRE research group, alongside experts from various fields within the University of Arizona, have secured funding for a comprehensive clinical trial.



This study aims to assess how assistance dogs might enhance the effectiveness of prolonged exposure therapy, a recognized treatment for PTSD.



The goal is to alleviate the treatment's challenges, improve patient adherence, and ultimately, enhance therapeutic outcomes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-service-dogs-in-ptsd-treatment">Future of service dogs in PTSD treatment</h2>



The preliminary results are promising, but the research team stresses the need for further studies to optimize the integration of service dogs into therapeutic settings. 



The upcoming trial represents a significant step towards harnessing the potential of service dogs to improve the lives of veterans. 



Such research not only seeks to refine treatment approaches but also aims to explore the depth of the human-animal bond within therapeutic contexts. 



As veterans like Evans have shown, the benefits of service dog partnerships extend beyond managing symptoms -- they enrich lives, providing both emotional support and a renewed sense of purpose.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-benefits-of-service-dogs">Other benefits of service dogs</h2>



Service dogs can help veterans in various ways beyond the research findings:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-physical-assistance">Physical assistance</h3>



Service dogs can be trained to perform a variety of physical tasks that aid veterans with disabilities. For instance, they can retrieve dropped items, open and close doors, turn on and off lights, and even assist with dressing or undressing. This support helps veterans maintain independence and reduces the need for human assistance in daily activities.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-seizure-alerts">Seizure alerts</h3>



Some service dogs can be trained to detect subtle changes in their handler's behavior or scent that indicate an oncoming seizure. These dogs can alert the veteran beforehand, allowing them to move to a safe location or take medication to prevent or lessen the severity of the seizure. This can be life-saving and provides a sense of security.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nightmare-interruption">Nightmare interruption</h3>



Veterans with PTSD often suffer from nightmares that disrupt their sleep and cause severe distress. Service dogs can be trained to recognize the signs of a nightmare, such as thrashing or vocalizing in sleep. They can gently wake the veteran, providing comfort and grounding, which helps reduce the frequency and severity of nightmares.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mobility-support">Mobility support</h3>



For veterans with mobility impairments, service dogs can provide crucial support. They can help with balance while walking, pull wheelchairs, or assist in getting up from a seated position. This mobility support enables veterans to move around more safely and confidently, enhancing their overall quality of life.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-social-interaction">Social interaction</h3>



Service dogs often act as social bridges, facilitating interactions between veterans and other people. The presence of a service dog can attract positive attention and initiate conversations, helping veterans feel more comfortable in social settings. This reduces feelings of isolation and encourages social engagement.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-reduction">Stress reduction</h3>



The presence of a service dog has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Physical contact, such as petting or hugging the dog, can lower cortisol levels and increase the production of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and stress relief. This helps veterans manage anxiety and maintain a calmer state of mind.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emotional-support">Emotional support</h3>



The dogs offer unconditional love and companionship, which can be profoundly comforting for veterans dealing with emotional challenges. The bond between a veteran and their service dog provides constant emotional support, helping them cope with feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2819452" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA</a>.



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Service dogs reduce anxiety and depression in veterans

After suffering a career-ending injury, Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Gretchen...

Approximately 50,000 years ago, North America was a realm dominated by megafauna, teeming with an array of colossal creatures. Mammoths traversed the tundra, while mastodons dominated the woodlands.



The landscape also hosted fierce saber-toothed tigers, massive wolves, towering camels, and hefty bison that roamed in herds. 



Giant beavers navigated the region's waterways and immense ground sloths, each weighing over a ton, thrived east of the Rocky Mountains.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-disappearance-of-megafauna">The disappearance of megafauna</h2>



As the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-age-data-analysis-reshapes-climate-future-lowers-warming-estimates/">Last Ice Age</a> drew to a close, these monumental animals began to vanish, leaving a puzzle that has intrigued scientists for decades. The reasons behind their disappearance are still debated.



Some scholars suggest that human arrival played a crucial role in the disappearance of megafauna through hunting, habitat alteration, or competition for resources. Others argue that rapid climate shifts following the ice age overwhelmed the adaptive capabilities of these fascinating creatures.



The debate between these two perspectives has been both fierce and enduring. Over time, numerous theories have emerged, including disease, a catastrophic comet impact, or a combination of various factors contributing to the extinction of megafauna.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-piecing-together-the-past">Piecing together the past</h2>



One major obstacle in solving this mystery has been the condition of the bones left behind. While many sites have preserved these remains well, the bones at other sites have suffered from exposure, abrasion, and biomolecular decay - leaving them fragmented and difficult to identify.



This has significantly hindered our understanding of where these animals lived, when they disappeared, and how they interacted with changing environments and human populations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-approach-to-study-old-bones">A new approach to study old bones</h2>



In a breakthrough study, researchers have turned to exceptional fossil collections housed at the <a href="https://naturalhistory.si.edu/">Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History</a>.



This institution holds a vast array of bones unearthed from numerous archaeological digs conducted over the last century, providing a rich resource for understanding the fate of North America's megafauna.



"Museum legacy collections, often derived from large-scale archaeological excavations, can serve as paleoenvironmental archives of Late Pleistocene megafaunal composition and dynamics," wrote the study authors. 



"Many of these collections, however, contain large quantities of highly fragmented and morphologically indistinct bones that cannot be identified to a specific taxon and are therefore of limited use to paleoenvironmental and archaeological analyses."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extracting-collagen-from-bones">Extracting collagen from bones</h2>



To overcome the challenges posed by fragmented bones, scientists are employing a cutting-edge technique known as Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry, or ZooMS. This method utilizes the durable nature of bone collagen, a protein that can persist for millennia.



The unique sequences of collagen vary slightly among different animal groups and species, acting like a molecular barcode that helps identify otherwise unrecognizable bone fragments.



The process involves extracting tiny collagen segments from these bones, which are then analyzed using a mass spectrometer. This technology allows for the precise identification of the species the bone fragments belong to, a task that traditional archaeological methods could not achieve.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-megafauna-extinction">Exploring megafauna extinction</h2>



The ZooMS approach is reshaping how archaeologists study ancient remains. Instead of solely relying on new excavations, researchers are revisiting existing collections with these sophisticated techniques, uncovering details that were previously inaccessible.



As this method continues to be refined and applied, it holds the promise of finally unlocking the secrets of the disappearance of megafauna.



By understanding what happened to these magnificent creatures, scientists can gain deeper insights into the historical interactions between humans and their environment, as well as the impacts of climate change on biodiversity.



The ongoing research not only sheds light on the past but also enhances our understanding of present and future ecological challenges. The mystery of North America's lost megafauna is slowly but surely being unraveled, thanks to the convergence of archaeological tradition and modern scientific innovation.



"Archaeological collections of megafauna exist in repositories around the world. Higher resolution investigation of these collections using novel biomolecular tools like ZooMS will foster new insights into local and regional links between climate, environment, human behavior and megafaunal composition, offering new perspectives on the timing and extent of past biodiversity change and the causes and consequences of megafaunal extinction," concluded the study authors. 



The research is published in the journal <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmamm.2024.1399358/full">Frontiers in Mammal Science</a>.



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Tracing the disappearance of North America's megafauna

Approximately 50,000 years ago, North America was a realm dominated...

Ants are everywhere – in our backyards,&nbsp;our kitchens,&nbsp;and even our picnics.&nbsp;But have you ever wondered how these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/desert-ants-use-earths-magnetic-field-for-navigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tiny creatures</a> determine their sex?&nbsp;It's not as simple as you might think.



A recent discovery by scientists in Mainz and Lausanne has unveiled a fascinating new piece of this puzzle,&nbsp;and it involves a rather unexpected player:&nbsp;a "noncoding" gene.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-different-path-to-ant-sex-determination">Different path to ant sex determination</h2>



In humans,&nbsp;biological sex is determined by the inheritance of specific sex chromosomes.&nbsp;



Individuals with two X chromosomes typically develop as females,&nbsp;while those with one X and one Y chromosome typically develop as males. This system of sex determination relies on the presence or absence of the Y chromosome.



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-reveals-the-genetic-basis-of-butterfly-sex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Insects</a> like ants, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/squash-bees-ability-withstand-heat-varies-size-sex/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bees</a>, and wasps employ a distinct mechanism for sex determination called haplodiploidy. 



In this system, rather than sex chromosomes, the number of chromosome sets an individual possesses determines their sex. 



Males develop from unfertilized eggs and therefore inherit only one set of chromosomes from their mother (haploid). 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ant-queen-behavior-changes-based-on-social-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Females</a>, on the other hand, develop from fertilized eggs and inherit two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent (diploid).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-molecular-processes-involved">Molecular processes involved</h2>



While the basic principle of haplodiploidy is understood,&nbsp;scientists have long been interested in uncovering the specific molecular processes that trigger the development of a male or female organism from a haploid or diploid egg.&nbsp;



To investigate this further,&nbsp;researchers turned their attention to an unusual phenomenon observed in Argentine ants:&nbsp;the occurrence of diploid males.&nbsp;These males,&nbsp;typically infertile,&nbsp;arise from fertilized eggs due to a genetic anomaly.&nbsp;



By studying these diploid males,&nbsp;scientists hoped to gain insights into the underlying genetic mechanisms responsible for sex determination in these insects.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-oddity-that-cracked-the-code">Genetic oddity that cracked the code</h2>



"This allowed us to compare the two sets of chromosomes present in females and diploid males,&nbsp;which differ from their haploid counterparts that possess only one set of chromosomes," explains Dr.&nbsp;Qiaowei Pan,&nbsp;a scientist at the Institute of Molecular Biology (<a href="https://www.imb.de" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IMB</a>) in Mainz and the <a href="https://www.unil.ch/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Lausanne</a>.



By analyzing the genetic makeup of these ants,&nbsp;the researchers found a striking difference in a small region of the genome.&nbsp;



"We were able to identify seven differing versions in a 5,000 base pair region of the genome," says Dr.&nbsp;Pan.&nbsp;"All the females had two different versions of this region while all the diploid males had the same alleles twice.&nbsp;Thus,&nbsp;this genomic location is fundamental to determining sex in this ant."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unexpected-hero-in-ant-sex-determinism">Unexpected hero in ant sex determinism</h2>



This discovery was groundbreaking, but what really surprised the scientists was the nature of this sex-determining region. 



Unlike a similar finding in honeybees, where a protein-coding gene is responsible, the researchers found something completely different in ants.



"To our surprise,&nbsp;we found that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-corals-have-sex-new-secrets-of-spawning-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sex</a>-determining gene site in ants does not encode a protein," says Dr.&nbsp;Pan.&nbsp;"In other words,&nbsp;it does not contain the information required to make a protein.&nbsp;This is called a noncoding RNA gene."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rna-s-starring-role">RNA's starring role</h2>



Noncoding RNA genes produce RNA molecules that don't translate into proteins,&nbsp;yet they play crucial roles in many biological processes.&nbsp;In this case,&nbsp;the amount of RNA produced from this noncoding gene seems to be the key.



"The level of RNA expression of this gene is higher in females who carry two versions of the sex-determining region than it is in diploid males with two identical copies of the region," explains Dr.&nbsp;Pan.&nbsp;



When the researchers experimentally switched off this gene in female embryos,&nbsp;they developed into males,&nbsp;confirming its pivotal role.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solving-the-puzzle">Solving the puzzle</h2>



Although the identification of a noncoding RNA gene responsible for sex determination in Argentine ants is a significant breakthrough,&nbsp;it raises further questions that require investigation.&nbsp;



Researchers are keen to understand why the presence of two different versions (alleles) of this gene results in increased RNA expression compared to when two identical alleles are present.&nbsp;This could involve complex regulatory mechanisms at the genetic or epigenetic level.



Additionally,&nbsp;the precise molecular pathways through which this RNA molecule influences the development of male or female traits remain unclear.&nbsp;



It is possible that this RNA interacts with other genes or proteins, initiating cascades of events that ultimately lead to the differentiation of sexual characteristics. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ant-sex-determinism-needs-more-research">Ant sex determinism needs more research</h2>



In summary, understanding these mechanisms would provide valuable insights into the intricate processes governing sex determination and development in ants.



The quest to answer these questions continues, highlighting the vastness of the natural world and the complexity of its biological processes. 



This discovery serves as a reminder that even seemingly simple organisms like ants possess intricate genetic mechanisms that are far from fully understood.



So, the next time you encounter an ant, consider that its sex isn't determined by a simple genetic switch like the X and Y <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/animal-chromosomes-have-conserved-specific-elements-for-600-million-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chromosomes</a> in humans. 



Instead, it is orchestrated by a noncoding RNA gene that acts as a conductor, directing a complex symphony of genetic activity. 



This intricate pattern of gene expression ensures the proper balance of males and females within the colony,&nbsp;ultimately contributing to the survival and propagation of the species.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adp1532" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Determining the sex of ants is no easy task

Ants are everywhere – in our backyards,&nbsp;our kitchens,&nbsp;and even our...

Protoplanetary,Disk.,New,Planetary,System,,3d,Illustration

The James Webb Space Telescope (<a href="https://webb.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JWST</a>) continues to revolutionize our understanding of the cosmos,&nbsp;this time by uncovering a surprising abundance of carbon-rich molecules in the planet-forming disks around very low-mass stars.&nbsp;



This remarkable discovery challenges our previous assumptions about the composition of these disks and raises intriguing questions about the nature of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-butterfly-iras-23077-discovery-flips-planet-formation-understanding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets</a> forming in such environments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-disks-around-young-stars">Planetary disks around young stars</h2>



Planets form within rotating disks composed of gas and dust,&nbsp;which surround young stars.&nbsp;



The MIRI Mid-Infrared Disk Survey (<a href="https://minds.cab.inta-csic.es" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MINDS</a>) project,&nbsp;under the direction of Thomas Henning at the <a href="https://www.mpia.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Astronomy</a>,&nbsp;utilizes the James Webb Space Telescope's Mid-Infrared Instrument (<a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/content/observatory/instruments/miri.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIRI</a>) to investigate these protoplanetary disks with exceptional precision.&nbsp;



By examining the chemical composition and physical characteristics of these disks,&nbsp;researchers seek to unravel the intricate processes that lead to planet formation and determine the potential types of planets that can emerge around stars with varying masses and properties.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abundance-of-carbon-gases-around-star-disks">Abundance of carbon gases around star disks</h2>



In a recent study&nbsp;the MINDS team focused on a disk around a very low-mass star,&nbsp;just 11% the mass of our Sun.&nbsp;



What they found was astonishing:&nbsp;the disk was teeming with carbon-bearing molecules like methane,&nbsp;ethane,&nbsp;ethylene,&nbsp;and even benzene,&nbsp;but lacked oxygen-rich compounds like water and carbon dioxide.



"This is profoundly different from the composition we see in disks around solar-type stars, where oxygen-bearing molecules such as water and carbon dioxide dominate," explained Inga Kamp, a member of the research team from the <a href="https://www.rug.nl/?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Groningen</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/planetary-disk_iso-chai-147_hydrocarbons-spectrum_webb_1big.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/planetary-disk_iso-chai-147_hydrocarbons-spectrum_webb_1s.jpg" alt="Hydrocarbon emissions map of planet-forming disk ISO-ChaI 147. Credit: NASA" class="wp-image-1935882"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hydrocarbon emissions map of planet-forming disk ISO-ChaI 147. Credit: NASA</figcaption></figure>



“These molecules have already been detected in our solar system, like in comets such as 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko and C/2014 Q2 (Lovejoy),” added &nbsp;lead author Aditya Arabhavi of the University of Groningen. 



“Webb allowed us to understand that these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-asteroids-were-formed-in-cold-regions-of-space/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrocarbon molecules</a> are not just diverse but also abundant. It is amazing that we can now see the dance of these molecules in the planetary cradles. It is a very different planet-forming environment than we usually think of," Arabhavi concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-planet-formation">Implications for planet formation</h2>



This unexpected finding suggests that disks around very low-mass stars evolve differently than those around more massive stars like our Sun. 



This difference in composition could have significant implications for the types of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/planet-formation-new-insights-mechanics-physics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">planets</a> that form in these environments.



The abundance of carbon in these disks suggests that rocky planets forming around very low-mass stars might be carbon-rich, unlike Earth. 



Their atmospheres, if any, might be dominated by <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/building-blocks-of-life-found-in-a-galaxy-12-billion-light-years-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hydrocarbon compounds</a> rather than oxygen and water vapor.



"Many primary atmospheres of those planets will probably be dominated by hydrocarbon compounds and not so much by oxygen-rich gases such as water and carbon dioxide," said Thomas Henning.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mystery-of-missing-oxygen">Mystery of missing oxygen</h2>



While the carbon-rich nature of these disks is clear,&nbsp;the reason behind this imbalance remains a mystery.&nbsp;It could be due to an enrichment of carbon or a reduction of oxygen in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-winds-from-planet-forming-discs-seen-for-the-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disk's material</a>.&nbsp;Further research is needed to unravel this puzzle.



If the carbon enrichment is caused by the vaporization of carbon from solid particles in the disk,&nbsp;then the resulting rocky planets would be carbon-poor,&nbsp;similar to Earth.&nbsp;However,&nbsp;their atmospheres would still be dominated by carbon-based chemistry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-s-unique-capabilities">Webb's unique capabilities</h2>



The discovery of this carbon-rich chemistry was made possible by JWST's unique capabilities.&nbsp;



“It’s incredible that we can detect and quantify the amount of molecules that we know well on Earth, such as benzene, in an object that is more than 600 light-years away,” added team member Agnés Perrin of <a href="https://www.cnrs.fr/fr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique</a> in France.



Its high sensitivity and spectral resolution allowed the researchers to detect faint emissions from less abundant molecules that were previously undetectable.



"These observations are not possible from Earth because the relevant gas emissions are absorbed by its atmosphere," said Arabhavi.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-planetary-disks-carbon-and-the-search-for-life">Planetary disks, carbon, and the search for life</h2>



This discovery marks a new era in our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oceans-of-water-vapor-may-be-involved-in-planet-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding of planet formation</a> and carbon molecules within star disks. 



It challenges our preconceived notions and opens up a whole new realm of possibilities for the types of planets that might exist in the universe.



The MINDS team plans to expand their research to study a larger sample of disks around very <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-have-discovered-a-massive-planet-too-big-for-its-sun/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">low-mass stars</a>. 



This will help them determine how common these carbon-rich environments are and shed light on the processes that lead to their formation.



"Expanding our study will also allow us to understand better how these molecules can form," said Thomas Henning. "Several features in the data are also still unidentified, warranting additional spectroscopy to interpret our observations fully."



The James Webb Space Telescope continues to push the boundaries of our knowledge,&nbsp;revealing the hidden secrets of the universe and expanding our understanding of our place in the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-stars-shape-planetary-systems-like-ours-with-ultraviolet-radiation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmos</a>.&nbsp;



With each new discovery,&nbsp;we are reminded of the vastness and complexity of the universe and the endless possibilities that await us in our quest for knowledge.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adi8147" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science</a>.



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Webb finds largest amount of carbon ever seen in a planet-forming disk

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) continues to revolutionize our...

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Nushagak Bay, a large estuary in southwest Alaska. Nushagak runs mainly north to south and exits in Bristol Bay, a large body of water in the Bering Sea.



"The bay is primarily fed by the Nushagak River, which begins in the Alaska Range and flows southwest approximately 450 km. The bay is also fed by several additional rivers including the Wood, Igushik, Snake and Weary rivers," says ESA.



"The dark colors of the Nushagak River are most likely due to tannins or lignins (chemical substances found in plants). Tannins and lignins from roots, leaves, seeds, bark and soil can leach into the water and give it a brown or even black colour. The sediments then flow southwards where it is mixed with the bluer waters of the bay."



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> (ACS) reveals that proteins on flu viruses are actually flexible, tilting and waving in a “breath-like” motion. According to the experts, these proteins could be used to better defend against the flu.



"The main antigenic targets of influenza virus are two surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Whereas the structural and dynamical properties of both glycoproteins have been studied previously, the understanding of their plasticity in the whole-virion context is fragmented," wrote the researchers.



To investigate, the team conducted detailed simulations of the influenza A H1N1 virion, or the swine flu. The experts concluded that the visualizations show many new vulnerable states of flu viruses, which could improve future vaccines and antiviral drugs.



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Lake Trasimeno, which is located west of Perugia in central Italy. It is the fourth largest lake in the country. While Trasimeno’s water level varies, it has a maximum depth of approximately six meters.&nbsp;



"In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image, captured on 6 August 2022, the lake’s emerald green colour is likely due to the presence of phytoplankton. Streaks in the water, particularly visible in the west, indicate the presence of soil and sediments which have been stirred up by winds. Dark colored waters in the southern part of the lake indicate a presence of submerged and floating macrophytes (aquatic plants) as well as algae," says ESA.



"Surrounded by hills on three sides, Trasimeno is subject to heavy storms created by winds, especially from the north and west. There are three islets in the lake: Maggiore, Minore and Polvese (the largest). The lake’s shores are sparsely inhabited with only two popular villages: Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno."



"Italy is experiencing its worst drought in 70 years which has affected drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power and agricultural production. High temperatures, hot winds and lack of rainfall are the main causes of drought in the Umbrian region which saw Lake Trasimeno’s drop 1.3 m, reaching the limit of the hydrometric zero in July 2022."



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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By <a href="http://csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Staff Writer

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> describes a new self-powered nanosensor that can instantly detect mercury contamination with the tap of a finger.&nbsp;



The oxidized form of mercury can be harmful when it is ingested through contaminated water or food. This makes it necessary for experts to develop sensors that can quickly and accurately detect the presence of mercury.&nbsp;



Zong-Hong Lin and colleagues have now created a triboelectric nanosensor (TENS) that can detect mercury by simply by touching a sample. According to the researchers, their TENS could serve as the basis for similar devices to safely and remotely monitor other pollutants.



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Kainji Lake, a reservoir on the Niger River.



In 1968, Kainji Lake was created by the construction of the Kainji Dam. The Niger River, the third longest in Africa, enters the lake in the north.&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rivers-in-the-american-west-are-a-lifesaving-resource-for-birds/">ESA</a>, the creation of the lake submerged Foge Island and the town of Bussa and permanently flooded other riverine settlements, leaving around 50,000 people displaced.&nbsp;



Large parts of Foge Island are temporarily exposed during low water tides, and the land is often used by migrating fishermen. Kainji Dam is a dam across the Niger River in Niger State of Central Nigeria. 



Wild mammals occur at relatively low densities due to illegal hunting. Lake Kainji has suffered a dramatic decline as a fishery due to the high numbers of artisanal and subsistence fisherfolk using the lake. It has been suggested that a period of closure, together with controlled fishing rights may help improve fish stocks.



Kainji Lake National Park is the oldest of its kind in Nigeria. The park contains three distinct areas: a part of the Kainji Lake, the Borgu Game Reserve to the west of the lake, and the Zugurma Game Reserve to the southeast. The park is home to around 65 mammal species, 350 bird species, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. 



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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Kainji Lake in north central Nigeria

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.igb.illinois.edu/">Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology</a> reveals how scientists can modify common crops like soybean, rice, and wheat to protect them from heat stress.



“We need to double crop production by 2050 to feed a growing global population, and not only are we not on track to do that, but climate change is further complicating things,” said Amanda Cavanagh, a lecturer at the University of Essex. 



The study is part of Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE), an international research project that aims to develop food crops that turn the sun’s energy into food more efficiently.



“Using an engineering approach we designed multiple alternative metabolic pathways to photorespiration. Testing them in the field showed increases in productivity which led Amanda to significantly move the project forward by showing our engineered plants can withstand pretty extreme temperature stress,” said study co-author and RIPE researcher Paul South.&nbsp;



“As the climate changes and temperature stresses increase the pressure on our global food supply, farmers will need every tool available including engineering approaches like the synthetic biology used here to maintain safe and productive harvests.”



The experts tested plants modified to have more efficient photorespiration to see if they were better adapted to warmer temperatures.&nbsp;



The team found that the engineered plants produced 26 percent more biomass than the wild-type plants exposed to the same temperatures, and had 15 percent less yield loss under the higher temperatures.



Video Credit: Amanda Nguyen/University of Illinois



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Designing crops that can beat the heat

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.acs.org/">American Chemical Society</a> explores the ability of salt to transform the way that foods and beverages taste. Salt is known to cover up undesirable flavors, such as bitterness in coffee or beer, but how exactly does sodium chloride change the taste of other compounds?



One previous study showed that, not only does salt suppress bitterness, but also enhances sweetness and sourness. Another study revealed that bitterness reduction by salt seems to be happening at the tongue receptor level as well as in the brain.&nbsp;



While it is known that salt taste is mediated by the presence of sodium channels in the form of taste buds, experts believe that there is also an unknown receptor responsible for how we taste salt that has not yet been identified.&nbsp;



Video Credit: ACS Reactions



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How does salt makes things taste better?

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Santiago, the capital city of Chile. The city is located in the center of the Santiago Metropolitan Region, which has a population of about eight million people.&nbsp;



'The weather of Santiago resembles the Mediterranean climate with dry and warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (from October to March) and cool and humid winters that can drop to 0°C (from April to September)."



"The city lies in the centre of the country’s central valley around 80 km from the Pacific Ocean to the west and borders Argentina to the east. A tiny part of Argentina is visible in the top-right corner of the image where the mountain crest of the Andes Mountains acts as a divider between the two countries," says ESA.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Santiago, Chile in South America

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Spiral,Galaxy,,Illustration,Of,Milky,Way

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Astronomers at <a href="https://www.jhu.edu/">Johns Hopkins University</a> have created an interactive map of the universe, including the actual position and real colors of 200,000 galaxies. The map allows the public to access data that was previously only available to scientists.



The map was developed using data collected by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. For over two decades, a telescope in New Mexico was aimed at slightly different locations to capture the night sky.&nbsp;



"Growing up I was very inspired by astronomy pictures, stars, nebulae and galaxies, and now it's our time to create a new type of picture to inspire people," said map creator Brice Ménard, a professor at Johns Hopkins. "Astrophysicists around the world have been analyzing this data for years, leading to thousands of scientific papers and discoveries. But nobody took the time to create a map that is beautiful, scientifically accurate, and accessible to people who are not scientists. Our goal here is to show everybody what the universe really looks like."



"In this map, we are just a speck at the very bottom, just one pixel. And when I say we, I mean our galaxy, the Milky Way which has billions of stars and planets. We are used to seeing astronomical pictures showing one galaxy here, one galaxy there or perhaps a group of galaxies. But what this map shows is a very, very different scale."



"From this speck at the bottom, we are able to map out galaxies across the entire universe, and that says something about the power of science."



The <a href="https://mapoftheuniverse.net/">interactive map</a> is available online, where it can be downloaded for free.



Video Credit: Johns Hopkins&nbsp;



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Interactive map of the universe includes 200,000 galaxies

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes the first comprehensive estimate of carbon density in the Saharan, Sahel, and Sudanian zones of Africa. In an effort to measure the amount of carbon stored across these drylands, a team of scientists used high-resolution satellite images and artificial intelligence to map nearly 10 billion individual trees. 



"The high spatial resolution (50 cm) combined with AI and field measurements used in this study is key to improving tree inventories in drylands," said Pierre Hiernaux, a French researcher working for NASA. "The ever-increasing availability of very high-resolution satellite imagery will make it possible to assess carbon pools and their dynamics at the individual tree level on a global scale."



"This study is exceptional because it is pioneering a type of approach that will revolutionize the monitoring of trees and forests on a global scale: in the short term, it will be possible to map the world's trees from the centre of the Amazon to our schoolyards," said <a href="https://www.inrae.fr/en">INRAE</a> researcher Jean-Pierre Wigneron.



"Many fields of application will become much more efficient and accurate, such as tracking carbon stocks, biodiversity, monitoring logging and protection against illegal forest degradation, in near real time.”



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland. Beyond its pub culture, Dublin is known as a modern culinary destination and a UNESCO City of Literature.



"Dublin is located near the midpoint of Ireland’s east coast in the province of Leinster. The city, which covers an area of around 115 square kilometers, is bordered by the Dublin Mountains, a low mountain range to the south, and is surrounded by flat farmland to the north and west," says ESA.



"The city straddles the River Liffey, which rises in the Wicklow Mountains and flows around 80 kilometers eastwards through the city of Dublin, in which it is canalised and bordered with quays. It then empties into Dublin Bay, an arm of the Irish Sea."



Dublin has an abundance of green spaces, including one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital city. Phoenix Park, which was originally formed as a royal hunting park in the 1660s, includes 707 hectares of green space.



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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The city of Dublin on Ireland's east coast

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Today's Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain. The image was captured by the Copernicus Sentinel-2 mission.



"Together with the provinces of Huesca and Teruel, Zaragoza formed the old kingdom of Aragon. Its capital, also called Zaragoza (not visible in this image) is home to around half of Aragon’s population," says ESA.



"The Ebro River can be seen winding its way through the province from west to east in this image. Between its source in the Cantabrian Mountains in the northwest and its delta on the Mediterranean coast, the Ebro River is fed by more than 200 tributaries as it flows 910 km across much of northern Spain."



Since rainfall is very scarce in this region, irrigation in the Ebro basin is critically important. In the valleys surrounding the Ebro River, many fields are used for growing crops such as corn, wheat, and barley.



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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The province of Zaragoza in northeast Spain

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> features a visual dataset of.methane emissions from wetlands across the globe. Atmospheric methane levels have reached record highs in recent years, and wetlands are a major source of these emissions.&nbsp;



"Methane is an important greenhouse gas that contributes substantially to global warming. On a molecule by molecule basis, methane is much more efficient at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, the main driver of warming," says NASA.



"Though human activities, including agriculture, oil and natural gas production and use, and waste disposal, collectively contribute the majority of methane to the atmosphere, about a third of total methane emissions comes from wetlands."&nbsp;



According to NASA, understanding methane emissions from wetlands and other natural sources is critically important for scientists and policymakers who are working to combat climate change by reducing emissions from human activities.



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



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Wetlands are a major source of methane emissions

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/">NASA Earth Observatory</a> reveals the evolution of the Columbia Glacier in southeastern Alaska. Columbia is among the fastest shrinking glaciers in the world, and the video documents its rapid retreat over the years.&nbsp;



Columbia Glacier is a large, multi-branched calving glacier that flows out of the Chugach Mountains to the Prince William Sound.&nbsp;



According to USGS, Columbia had a long history of stability prior to 1980, with a length 41 miles, and small, short-lived advances or retreats.



In the years since 1980, however, satellite images have captured Columbia’s alarming retreat. By using false-color images, scientists can distinguish between snow and ice, open water, vegetation, and rocky debris on the glacier’s surface.



The series of false-color images featured in today's video were acquired over the span of 35 years. You can see that by 2021, the glacier’s main branch had retreated about 15 miles from its initial position.



The Columbia Glacier has also lost more than 50 percent of its volume, mostly due to calving. <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/nasa-reveals-3d-visual-of-an-atmospheric-river/">NASA</a> reports that while climate change likely started the retreat, mechanical processes kept the disintegration going.



The NASA images are provided by Jesse Allen, Robert Simmon, Joshua Stevens, and Lauren Dauphin using data from Landsat satellites, from the U.S. Geological Survey, and data from MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite. The structure of Columbia’s moraine played a large role in the stability of the glacier before 1980. 



Like other tidewater glaciers, the Columbia built up a moraine over time, and the mixture of ice and rock functioned like a dam keeping out the sea. It was supported on one end by the shoreline and by the underwater terminal moraine at the other.



Video Credit: NASA Earth Observatory/&nbsp; NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio



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The rapid retreat of the Columbia Glacier

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Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European Space Agency</a> features the Pyrenees Mountains, which form a natural boundary between France and Spain in southwest Europe.



The mountain range is 430 kilometers in length. It stretches from the Mediterranean Sea on the east to the Atlantic Ocean on the west.



At an elevation of 3404 meters, Pico de Aneto is the highest mountain peak in the Pyrenees, and the third-highest peak in Spain. Pico de Aneto is located in the Posets-Maladeta Natural Park, which spans more than 82,000 acres.&nbsp;



"Geological studies have revealed that the Pyrenees Mountains have been around for longer than the Alps, with their sediments first deposited in coastal basins during the Paleozoic and Mesozoic eras," reports ESA.



"The entire mountain range formed due to the upwelling of large sedimentary rocks by the collision of the Iberian and the Eurasian plate around 100 to 150 million years ago, followed by intense erosion from ice and water."



The western Pyrenees receive more precipitation due to moisture blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The mountain range contains many lakes, several small glaciers, and some of the highest waterfalls in Europe.



Video &amp; Image Credit: ESA



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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.stowers.org/">Stowers Institute for Medical Research</a> describes why experts are studying zebrafish to gain a better understanding of how the immune system responds to injury. Zebrafish have the ability to repair and regenerate organs.



“Organ regeneration offers an exciting opportunity for studying the immune system and to inquire why some species can regenerate organs like the heart or missing limbs while others like humans cannot,” explained Dr. Tatjana Piotrowski.



Zebrafish sensory organ hair cells are an ideal system to investigate the pathways and cell types involved in regeneration since they are easily destroyed with antibiotics and begin regenerating within five hours. This enabled the researchers to identify the exact timing and genetic programs for each anti-inflammatory macrophage activation state.&nbsp;



“Our hypothesis is that human macrophages do not receive the proper chemical activation 'cocktail' to instruct pro-regenerative processes,” said Dr. Nicolas Denans. “Identifying the molecular recipe of macrophage activation in zebrafish may one day enable us to design regenerative immunotherapies in humans.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



“The new evidence is a valuable resource for comparative studies on the genetic programs involved in macrophage-mediated repair and regeneration. In other words, different types of injuries may induce different kinds of inflammatory responses. We want to decipher whether this 'language' is universal or if there are a variety of dialects."



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

How the immune system responds to injury

[sendtonews key="0dEcERCq61-2283382-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from Stowers...

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes how record-breaking heat expressed itself around the world in 2022.



Scientists have determined that 2022 was the 5th warmest year since 1880. Furthermore, the last nine consecutive years have been the warmest on record.



From devastating floods and wildfires to natural disasters like Hurricane Ian, 2022 showed us yet again how a warming climate affects people across the globe.&nbsp;



"As we look back at 20:22 and years past, we see that each year we better understand the challenges we face and how important it is to meet them," says NASA.



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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Today's Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes two exoplanets that are orbiting a star 218 light-years away. A team of researchers led by the University of Montreal has found evidence that these planets are "water worlds."



The experts used data from NASA’s Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. They discovered that exoplanets Kepler-138 c and Kepler-138 could be composed largely of water.



"We previously thought that planets that were a bit larger than Earth were big balls of metal and rock, like scaled-up versions of Earth, and that's why we called them super-Earths," explained study co-author Björn Benneke.&nbsp;



"However, we have now shown that these two planets, Kepler-138 c and d, are quite different in nature and that a big fraction of their entire volume is likely composed of water. It is the best evidence yet for water worlds, a type of planet that was theorized by astronomers to exist for a long time."



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



Image Credit: NASA, ESA, and Leah Hustak (STScI)



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

[sendtonews key="QIoVYJqRBi-2434608-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected Today’s Video of the Day from <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard">NASA Goddard</a> describes Earth’s interconnected systems, and how this network is affected by rising temperatures.&nbsp;



During 2020, average global temperatures matched the hottest year on record. The hurricane season was also record-breaking, with many of the storms intensifying at extraordinary speeds. Hot water in the ocean is fuel for hurricanes. The satellite data shows that it's all one interconnected system showing how Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected.



According to NASA, dust swept up from Northern Africa plays a major role in the formation of hurricanes, and is also a key source of fertilization in the Amazon rainforest. As a result of<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/seagrass-wasting-disease-is-fueled-by-climate-change/"> climate</a> change, dust plumes are expected to decline, which will have an effect on vegetation far away.&nbsp;



Images from Earth-observing satellites show how the world’s plant life is affected by natural disasters, fires, and deforestation. Satellites also reveal how widespread changes in vegetation impact waterways,&nbsp; the climate, air quality. Satellites communicate by using radio waves to send signals to the antennas on the Earth. "Earth From Space" is a groundbreaking two-hour special that reveals a spectacular new space-based vision of our planet. 



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

[sendtonews key="JbW4VsY53O-1632195-12187" type="single"] Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected...

Today’s Video of the Day from the <a href="https://welcome.miami.edu/">University of Miami</a> Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science explores how changes in water temperatures have affected tiger shark habitats and movements in the North Atlantic Ocean. The study reveals that rising temperatures have caused the sharks to shift toward the poles over the past 40 years.



“Tiger shark annual migrations have expanded poleward, paralleling rising water temperatures,” explained study lead author Neil Hammerschlag. “These results have consequences for tiger shark conservation, since shifts in their movements outside of marine protected areas may leave them more vulnerable to commercial fishing.”



The researchers analyzed nine years of tracking data from satellite-tagged tiger sharks, combined with four decades of conventional tag and recapture data provided by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Cooperative Shark Tagging Program.



The experts found that during the last decade of record heat, for every one-degree Celsius increase in water temperatures, tiger sharks migrated further poleward by over 400 kilometers. They also migrated two weeks earlier than usual to waters off the northeastern coast of the United States.



“Given their role as apex predators, these changes to tiger shark movements may alter predator-prey interactions, leading to ecological imbalances, and more frequent encounters with humans,” concluded Professor Hammerschlag.



Video Credit: University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science



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By <a href="mailto:csexton@earth.com">Chrissy Sexton</a>, <a href="https://www.earth.com/staff/">Earth.com</a> Editor



Check us out on <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthsnap/">EarthSnap</a>, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

Today’s Video of the Day from the University of Miami...