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...

A recent study conducted by the <a href="https://www.globalcarbonproject.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Carbon Project</a> has revealed that emissions of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rising-levels-of-nitrous-oxide-will-accelerate-global-warming/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nitrous oxide</a>, a potent greenhouse gas, continued unabated from 1980 to 2020. In 2020 alone, over 10 million metric tons of nitrous oxide were released, primarily due to agricultural practices.&nbsp;



The study, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.5194/essd-2023-401" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth System Science Data</a>, indicates that 74% of these emissions in the 2010s came from farming, specifically from the use of chemical <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/carbon-emissions-from-fertilizers-could-be-cut-by-80-percent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fertilizers</a> and animal waste on croplands.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nitrous-oxide-and-global-warming-nbsp">Nitrous oxide and global warming&nbsp;</h2>



According to the report “<a href="https://www.globalcarbonproject.org/nitrousoxidebudget/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Nitrous Oxide Budget 2024</a>,” led by researchers from <a href="https://www.bc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston College</a>, nitrous oxide emissions increased at an unprecedented rate during 2020 and 2021, highlighting the urgent need for reducing these emissions to combat global warming.&nbsp;



On Earth, excess nitrogen contributes to soil, water, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-pollution-will-increase-dramatically-in-a-hotter-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">air pollution</a>, while in the atmosphere, it depletes the ozone layer and exacerbates climate change.



“Nitrous oxide emissions from human activities must decline in order to limit global temperature rise to 2°C as established by the Paris Agreement,” said lead author Hanqin Tian, a professor of global sustainability at Boston College.&nbsp;



“Reducing nitrous oxide emissions is the only solution since at this point no technologies exist that can remove nitrous oxide from the atmosphere.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increased-use-of-nitrogen-fertilizers-nbsp">Increased use of nitrogen fertilizers&nbsp;</h2>



The study reveals a significant increase in the use of nitrogen fertilizers, which rose from 60 million metric tons in 1980 to 107 million metric tons in 2020. Additionally, animal manure contributed 101 million metric tons in 2020, leading to a combined total of 208 million metric tons.&nbsp;



This unchecked rise in nitrous oxide, with a global warming potential 300 times larger than carbon dioxide, poses dire consequences for the planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-millions-of-nitrous-oxide-measurements-nbsp">Millions of nitrous oxide measurements&nbsp;</h2>



The researchers analyzed millions of nitrous oxide measurements taken over four decades from various sources, making this the most comprehensive assessment of global nitrous oxide emissions and sinks to date.&nbsp;



The team examined data from all major economic activities leading to nitrous oxide emissions and reported on 18 anthropogenic and natural sources and three absorbent sinks.



The top 10 nitrous oxide-emitting countries identified in the study are China, India, the United States, Brazil, Russia, Pakistan, Australia, Indonesia, Turkey, and Canada. 



While some regions, like China and Europe, have successfully implemented policies to reduce emissions, others, including the U.S., continue to see a rise in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/agricultural-emissions-negatively-impact-our-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agricultural emissions</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-need-for-improved-agricultural-practices-nbsp">Need for improved agricultural practices&nbsp;</h2>



Josep Canadell, Global Carbon Project Executive Director and a research scientist at <a href="https://www.csiro.au/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CSIRO</a>, emphasized the need for improved agricultural practices and more frequent assessments to target high-emission regions.&nbsp;



“The growth rates of atmospheric nitrous oxide in 2020 and 2021 were higher than any previous observed year and more than 30 percent higher than the average rate of increase in the previous decade,” he warned.



To effectively mitigate nitrous oxide emissions, it is crucial to adopt strategies that limit the use of nitrogen fertilizers and manage animal waste better, the authors concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sources-of-nitrous-oxide-emissions-nbsp">Sources of nitrous oxide emissions&nbsp;</h2>



The largest sources of nitrous oxide emissions are primarily from agricultural activities, including the use of synthetic and organic fertilizers and manure management. Industrial processes, such as the production of nitric acid and adipic acid, also contribute significantly.&nbsp;



Fossil fuel combustion in vehicles and power plants, biomass burning including forest fires and agricultural waste burning, and residential wood burning are additional sources.&nbsp;



Waste management practices, such as the decomposition of organic waste in landfills and wastewater treatment, also release nitrous oxide into the atmosphere.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dangers-of-nitrous-oxide-emissions-nbsp">Dangers of nitrous oxide emissions&nbsp;</h2>



Nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions pose significant environmental and health risks. As a potent greenhouse gas, nitrous oxide has a global warming potential approximately 300 times greater than that of carbon dioxide over a 100-year period, contributing significantly to climate change.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-uv-radiation-nbsp">UV radiation&nbsp;</h2>



Additionally, nitrous oxide is a major contributor to the depletion of the ozone layer, which protects living organisms from harmful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/uv-radiation-played-a-role-in-earths-largest-mass-extinction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ultraviolet radiation</a>.&nbsp;



The increased UV exposure due to ozone layer depletion can lead to higher incidences of skin cancer, cataracts, and other health issues in humans, as well as adverse effects on ecosystems and wildlife.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ground-level-ozone">Ground-level ozone</h3>



Furthermore, nitrous oxide is involved in the formation of ground-level ozone, a harmful air pollutant that can cause respiratory problems and other health issues in humans, as well as damage crops and other vegetation.&nbsp;



Reducing nitrous oxide emissions is therefore crucial for protecting both the environment and public health.



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Nitrous oxide emissions have increased at an unprecedented rate 

A recent study conducted by the Global Carbon Project has...

Aerosols, the&nbsp;tiny particles floating in the air from sources like dust,&nbsp;smoke,&nbsp;and pollution,&nbsp;play a role in climate change.&nbsp;They act as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-small-aerosols-influence-cloud-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">"seeds" for cloud formation</a>,&nbsp;with more aerosols leading to thicker,&nbsp;more reflective clouds that can cool the Earth.&nbsp;But a new study has discovered a crucial factor that has been overlooked:&nbsp;the connection between clouds and the Earth's surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cloud-surface-coupling">Cloud-surface coupling</h2>



The researchers,&nbsp;led by the Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Center (<a href="https://webhost.essic.umd.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESSIC</a>),&nbsp;investigated how clouds interact with the Earth's surface,&nbsp;a phenomenon known as&nbsp;cloud-surface coupling.&nbsp;



This coupling influences the vertical exchange of heat and moisture between the surface and the atmosphere.&nbsp;



When coupling is strong,&nbsp;warm air from the surface rises,&nbsp;creating updrafts that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/aerosol-formation-earths-lower-atmosphere-soas/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transport aerosols into the cloud layer</a>.&nbsp;This leads to a more homogeneous distribution of aerosols within the clouds,&nbsp;resulting in more consistent cloud droplet sizes and a stronger cooling effect on climate due to increased reflection of sunlight.&nbsp;



Conversely, when coupling is weak, this vertical transport is diminished, leading to an uneven distribution of aerosols within the clouds and a greater variability in cloud droplet size. 



The variability in cloud properties introduces significant uncertainty into our understanding of how aerosols influence climate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-climate-predictions-with-aerosol-cloud-link">Climate predictions with aerosol-cloud link</h2>



"Aerosol-cloud interaction has remained the largest source of uncertainty in understanding Earth's climate and projecting its future changes,&nbsp;especially those incurred by anthropogenic emissions such as sulfate,&nbsp;nitrate,&nbsp;and black carbon," said Zhanqing Li,&nbsp;Distinguished University Professor at <a href="https://umd.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UMD</a> and lead author of the study.



By understanding how cloud-surface coupling influences interactions between aerosols and clouds,&nbsp;scientists can better predict how aerosols will affect our climate.&nbsp;This is crucial because it helps explain why climate models and real-world observations often don't match up.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-global-perspective">A global perspective</h2>



The team's findings have far-reaching implications. "If we can determine cloud-surface coupling across the globe,&nbsp;we could significantly improve our quantification of aerosol climate effects," explained Tianning Su,&nbsp;a co-author of the study.



This translates to improved climate modeling and forecasting capabilities,&nbsp;allowing for more precise predictions about future climate change scenarios.&nbsp;



Furthermore,&nbsp;this enhanced understanding of aerosol-cloud interactions can help researchers better quantify the impact of human activities -&nbsp;such as the burning of fossil fuels - on the climate system.&nbsp;



This knowledge is essential for developing effective mitigation and adaptation strategies to address the challenges posed by climate change.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aerosols-clouds-and-climate-science">Aerosols, clouds and climate science</h2>



The research not only reveals the intricate nature of climate science but also serves as a stark reminder that seemingly minor elements within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysteries-in-the-sky-how-trees-impact-cloud-formation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's climate system</a> can wield substantial influence.&nbsp;



The interplay between <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-denial-historic-floods-are-not-caused-by-cloud-seeding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">clouds</a> and the Earth's surface,&nbsp;once considered a secondary factor,&nbsp;is now recognized as a key player in the broader climate change narrative.



This study underscores the imperative for continued and comprehensive research into the multifaceted mechanisms that govern our planet's climate.&nbsp;Each new discovery,&nbsp;like the significant role of cloud-surface coupling,&nbsp;adds another piece to the complex puzzle of climate change.



By diligently investigating and ultimately understanding these intricate processes, scientists can develop more precise and effective strategies to mitigate the escalating effects of climate change.&nbsp;



This knowledge empowers policymakers and communities alike to make informed decisions and take proactive measures to safeguard the planet for current and future generations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reducing-uncertainty">Reducing uncertainty</h2>



The researchers are now focused on applying their findings on a global scale,&nbsp;hoping to integrate this new understanding into broader climate projections.&nbsp;



"The goal is to integrate this new understanding into broader climate projections to reduce uncertainty and make more accurate predictions about climate change," said Su.



The study of cloud-surface coupling and its impact on aerosol-cloud interaction is a major step forward in our understanding of climate change.&nbsp;It's a reminder that the Earth's climate system is a complex web of interconnected processes,&nbsp;and that even the smallest details can have a significant <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cloud-engineering-can-temporarily-cool-our-planet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact</a>.&nbsp;



By continuing to explore these connections,&nbsp;we can gain valuable insights into how our planet is changing and what we can do to protect it.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adl5044" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Advances</a>.



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Aerosols have an underestimated effect on clouds and climate

Aerosols, the&nbsp;tiny particles floating in the air from sources like...

In a remarkable study, researchers have successfully mapped the complete genome of the endangered Przewalski's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/wild-horses-just-like-humans-live-in-a-complex-multilevel-society/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">horse</a>.



Once extinct in the wild, this species now boasts a population of around 2,000, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genome-mapping">Genome mapping</h2>



Genome mapping is the process of identifying the locations of genes and other significant features within an organism's DNA. It involves creating a comprehensive blueprint of the genetic material, which includes all the DNA sequences and their specific positions on chromosomes. 



This map helps scientists understand the structure, function, and organization of genes, enabling them to study genetic variations, mutations, and their implications. 



Genome mapping is essential for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/landmark-study-reveals-275-million-new-genetic-variants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">identifying genes</a> associated with diseases, understanding evolutionary relationships, and improving breeding programs for plants and animals. It provides a fundamental tool for advancing genetics, biotechnology, and medical research. 



For example, the mapping of the horse genome, including breeds like the Thoroughbred, has helped identify genes linked to performance traits and health conditions, guiding selective breeding and veterinary care.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-collaborative-achievement">Collaborative achievement</h2>



The study was led by researchers from the <a href="https://twin-cities.umn.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Minnesota</a> including Nicole Flack and Lauren Hughes from the College of Veterinary Medicine, along with Professor Christopher Faulk from the <a href="https://cfans.umn.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences</a>.



The research features contributions from students enrolled in Professor Faulk's animal science course.



"The genome is the basic blueprint for an animal and tells us what makes a species unique and also tells us about the health of a population," said Faulk. "My students worked together to produce the highest quality Przewalski's horse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-origin-of-horse-domestication-has-finally-been-revealed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a> in the world."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-a-reference-genome">Importance of a reference genome</h2>



With the genome now mapped, researchers have a crucial tool to make accurate predictions about gene mutations and their implications for the health and conservation of Przewalski's horses.



"Studying genes without a good reference is like doing a 3-billion-piece puzzle without the picture on the box. Przewalski's horse researchers studying mutations in an important gene need a good reference picture to compare their puzzle with," noted Flack.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genome-of-przewalski-s-horse">Genome of Przewalski's horse</h2>



The team used a blood sample from Varuschka, a 10-year-old Przewalski's mare at the Minnesota Zoo, to create a representative genetic map for the species. 



The Minnesota Zoo has been a long-time partner in Przewalski's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-domestic-horses-have-ancestors-in-russia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">horse breeding</a> and management, with over 50 foals born since the 1970s.



"We were excited to partner with the University of Minnesota to preserve the genetic health of the species as their populations continue to recover, both in zoos and in the wild," said Anne Rivas, a doctor of veterinary medicine at the Minnesota Zoo. 



"We are thrilled to offer our community the opportunity to see the horse as the results of our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/effective-conservation-efforts-key-to-saving-biodiversity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">conservation efforts</a>."



Interestingly, the genome sequencing was performed using cutting-edge technology, involving a portable device about the size of a soda can. This portability allows for potential future studies of wild Przewalski's horses in remote locations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-promising-applications-of-the-reference-genome">Promising applications of the reference genome</h2>



The newly mapped reference <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genome-mapping-completed-for-dozens-of-common-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome</a> has several promising applications. It can be used to study genes that help the horse adapt to environmental changes, identify mutations associated with specific <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/all-domestic-horses-have-ancestors-in-russia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">traits</a> or diseases, and inform future breeding decisions to improve genetic diversity.



Given the extreme population bottleneck during the near-extinction of Przewalski's horses, understanding their genetic makeup is crucial for continued breeding and conservation efforts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-interesting-facts-about-przewalski-s-horse">Interesting facts about Przewalski's horse</h2>



Przewalski's horse, the last surviving species of wild horse, has a distinct ancient lineage. After being declared extinct in the wild in the 1960s, successful reintroduction efforts have restored populations in Mongolia, China, and Kazakhstan. 



These horses are genetically unique, possessing 66 chromosomes - two more than domestic horses. They are smaller in stature, standing about 4 to 4.5 feet tall and weighing between 550 and 800 pounds.



Przewalski's horses live in small family groups with one dominant stallion and several mares. Their diet primarily consists of grasses, but they also eat leaves, bark, and fruit. They are tough survivors, capable of enduring extreme temperatures from scorching summers to freezing winters. 



These horses have a distinctive appearance with a stocky build, short legs, a thick neck, and a standing mane without a forelock. 



Przewalski's horses hold cultural significance for the Mongolian people as a symbol of their natural heritage and are seen as a conservation icon, representing hope for other endangered species.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/g3journal/advance-article/doi/10.1093/g3journal/jkae113/7683801?login=false" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G3 Genes|Genomes|Genetics</a>.



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Saving Przewalski's horse, the last surviving species of wild horse

In a remarkable study, researchers have successfully mapped the complete...

Summer solstice: A celebration of light and warmth

The summer solstice isn't just a date on the calendar;...

A team of scientists has identified previously unrecognized immune responses that explain why some individuals do not contract <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-19-breakthrough-infections-build-an-immunity-wall/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID-19</a>. 



The experts utilized single-cell sequencing to investigate immune reactions to SARS-CoV-2 in healthy volunteers as part of the world's first COVID-19 human challenge study.&nbsp;



The research was led by researchers from <a href="https://www.sanger.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wellcome Sanger Institute</a>, <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University College London</a> (UCL), <a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Imperial College London</a>, and the <a href="https://www.nki.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Netherlands Cancer Institute</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unique-immune-responses-nbsp-to-covid-19">Unique immune responses&nbsp;to COVID-19 </h2>



The study involved 36 volunteers exposed to the virus, with detailed monitoring revealing unique immune responses associated with resisting infection.



“This was an incredibly unique opportunity to see what immune responses look like when encountering a new pathogen - in adults with no prior history of COVID-19, in a setting where factors such as time of infection and comorbidities could be controlled,” said co-first author Rik Lindeboom, a researcher at the Netherlands Cancer Institute.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-basis-for-new-treatments-nbsp">Basis for new treatments&nbsp;</h2>



“These findings shed new light on the crucial early events that either allow the virus to take hold or rapidly clear it before symptoms develop,” noted study senior author Marko Nikolić, a clinical scientist fellow at UCL.



“We now have a much greater understanding of the full range of immune responses, which could provide a basis for developing potential treatments and vaccines that mimic these natural protective responses.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-activation-of-protective-immune-cells">Activation of protective immune cells</h2>



Using single-cell sequencing, the researchers generated a dataset of over 600,000 cells. They discovered immediate virus detection responses, including activation of specialized mucosal immune cells and a reduction in inflammatory white blood cells.&nbsp;



Individuals who cleared the virus immediately showed unique innate immune responses, influenced by high pre-exposure activity of the gene HLA-DQA2. Those who developed sustained infections had a rapid blood immune response but a slower nasal response.



“As we’re building the <a href="https://www.humancellatlas.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Human Cell Atlas</a> we can better identify which of our cells are critical for fighting infections and understand why different people respond to coronavirus in varied ways,” said Sarah Teichmann, co-founder of the Human Cell Atlas.



“Future studies can compare with our reference dataset to understand how a normal immune response to a new pathogen compares to a vaccine-induced immune response.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-critical-insights-into-immune-responses-nbsp">Critical insights into immune responses&nbsp;</h2>



The study also identified patterns in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/t-cells-could-be-used-to-slow-down-or-even-reverse-aging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">T cell</a> receptors, offering insights for targeted T cell therapies. 



Shobana Balasingam from Wellcome emphasized the value of human challenge models in understanding the body's response to infectious diseases, highlighting the need for such studies in low-resource settings to develop effective tools and treatments.



This research provides critical insights into immune mechanisms that allow some individuals to avoid COVID-19, offering potential pathways for improved therapeutic strategies and vaccine designs.&nbsp;



By understanding these natural protective responses, scientists can better inform the development of treatments and preventive measures for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-does-covid-invade-the-body">How does Covid invade the body?</h2>



COVID-19, caused by the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/pigs-are-highly-resistant-to-sars-cov-2-infection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SARS-CoV-2</a> virus, invades the body through a multi-step process. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-point-of-entry-nbsp">Point of entry&nbsp;</h3>



Initially, the virus enters the body primarily through the respiratory system, as people inhale droplets containing the virus from an infected person's coughs, sneezes, or speech. The virus can also enter through the eyes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasal-cells-protect-children-against-severe-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nose</a>, and mouth. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-attachment-to-cells">Attachment to cells</h3>



Once inside, the virus targets specific cells in the respiratory tract by using its spike protein to bind to ACE2 receptors on the surface of these cells, which are abundant in areas such as the lungs, heart, kidneys, and intestines.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fusion-and-cell-entry">Fusion and cell entry</h3>



Upon binding to the ACE2 receptor, the virus's membrane fuses with the host cell membrane, allowing the viral RNA to penetrate the host cell.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virus-replication-and-assembly">Virus replication and assembly</h3>



Inside the host cell, the viral RNA takes control of the cell's machinery, directing it to replicate the viral RNA and produce viral proteins necessary for creating new virus particles. These new viral particles are then assembled within the host cell.



Once assembled, the new viral particles are released from the host cell and proceed to infect neighboring cells, thereby spreading the infection throughout the body.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-immune-response-nbsp">Immune response&nbsp;</h3>



The body's immune system responds to this invasion, often leading to inflammation and symptoms associated with <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/low-iron-may-be-a-key-driver-of-long-covid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID-19</a>, such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. 



In severe cases, this can result in complications like pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and multi-organ failure, as the immune system's response can cause significant tissue damage.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07575-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Some people have unique immune responses that block Covid

A team of scientists has identified previously unrecognized immune responses...

Imagine the moon as a center for soil manufacturing, construction, and even building human habitation. This concept, once relegated to science fiction, is now becoming a reality thanks to increased interest and investment in space exploration.



Researchers are working tirelessly to develop the necessary technologies to make the moon a viable home for humans.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-innovative-solutions-with-moon-soil">Innovative solutions with moon soil</h2>



One significant challenge in developing lunar <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-plans-to-build-house-on-the-moon-by-2040/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infrastructure</a> on the moon is the need for building materials.



Transporting materials from Earth is costly and inefficient. This has led to research into utilizing raw materials found on the moon's surface. However, processing these lunar resources requires a substantial amount of power.



A team of researchers from the University of Waterloo's Laboratory for Emerging Energy Research (<a href="https://uwaterloo.ca/emerging-energy-research-laboratory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LEER</a>) is tackling this issue.



They are exploring how to process <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/moon-dust-simulating-lunar-dirt-will-make-it-easier-to-collect/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar regolith</a>, the moon's top layer of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/can-soil-from-the-moon-be-used-to-construct-buildings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soil</a> and dust, into usable materials for life support, energy generation, and construction. 



This includes using defunct satellite material as a fuel source when mixed with lunar regolith.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-harnessing-the-power-of-moon-soil">Harnessing the power of moon soil</h2>



"Lunar regolith contains lots of metallic dust embedded with oxygen," explained Connor MacRobbie, a Ph.D. candidate supervised by professors Dr. John Wen and Dr. Jean-Pierre Hickey in Waterloo's Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering. 



"Because it already contains oxygen, we can utilize it, without the need for atmospheric oxygen, to produce thermal energy through a thermite reaction, which is particularly useful in space where oxygen is not readily available," MacRobbie continued.



The LEER team conducted experiments using simulant "lunar" regolith synthesized and supplied by NASA. 



They tested various fuel and oxidizer compositions and particle sizes to control the energy release rate of a space-based thermite reaction for heating or manufacturing purposes.



"The results demonstrate the viability of the moon's topsoil to power <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-aims-to-build-a-train-on-the-moon/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lunar development</a>, enabling humans to explore and inhabit the moon's surface," said Dr. John Wen, the director of LEER.



The team is now focused on improving the extraction of metals and other useful materials from the regolith and designing automated processes to support in-situ resource utilization and the circular space economy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-space-debris-on-the-moon">Addressing space debris on the Moon</h2>



Another significant threat to humanity's future in space is the millions of bits of fast-moving debris between Earth and the moon's orbits. 



The European Space Agency (<a href="https://www.esa.int" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESA</a>) compares a collision with a one-centimeter particle of space debris traveling at 10km/s to a small car crashing at 40 km/h.



The LEER research team is addressing this problem by recycling defunct satellite material into a fuel source for space development. 



"Defunct satellites have enormous potential value," said MacRobbie. "They're made up of many useful materials, including aluminum, which, when added to lunar regolith, can produce a thermite reaction and generate heat."



Using the thermite reaction to repurpose salvaged <a href="https://www.earth.com/video/what-really-happens-to-space-debris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">space debris</a> also provides materials for maintaining and developing solar satellite systems in space, ensuring power for further space exploration.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-turning-science-fiction-into-reality">Turning science fiction into reality</h2>



"Our research is turning science fiction into reality," said MacRobbie. "Our goal is to help build the infrastructure and technology that will allow sustainable human settlement on the moon—and beyond."



This important work by the LEER team represents a significant step toward making the moon a sustainable hub for human life and industry.



Through innovative use of lunar resources and recycling space debris, they are paving the way for humanity's future in space.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-moon-soil-lunar-regolith">More about moon soil (lunar regolith)</h2>



Beyond the current research, lunar regolith offers several exciting possibilities for advancing space exploration. 



For instance, its use in 3D printing technology could revolutionize construction on the moon. By using regolith as a raw material for 3D printers, astronauts could fabricate complex structures and components on-site, drastically reducing reliance on Earth-supplied resources.



Moreover, lunar soil might play a crucial role in future Mars missions. Techniques developed for processing regolith on the moon could be adapted for similar applications on Mars, aiding in building infrastructure and supporting life on the Red Planet.



Lunar regolith could also contribute to scientific research, providing insights into the moon's history and the broader solar system. Its unique composition might reveal clues about the early solar system's formation and evolution.



Lastly, leveraging lunar resources could drive international cooperation in space exploration, uniting countries and space agencies in joint missions to harness and utilize extraterrestrial materials effectively.



Two studies were published by the International Astronautical Federation.



<a href="https://iafastro.directory/iac/archive/browse/IAC-23/D3/2A/77684/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The first can be found here...</a>



<a href="https://www.spacecanada.org/docs/2023-IAC-Second-Place-Paper.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The second can be found here...</a>



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Turning moon soil and space debris into building materials

Imagine the moon as a center for soil manufacturing, construction,...

Using NASA’s first two-way, end-to-end laser relay system, videos and photos of pets were transmitted to and from the International Space Station at a staggering rate of 1.2 gigabits per second - faster than most home internet speeds.



This unique demonstration aimed to showcase the power of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasa-receives-deep-space-laser-message-psyche-mission-140-million-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">laser communications</a> while testing new networking techniques.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nasa-s-laser-communication">NASA's laser communication </h2>



<a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> astronauts Randy Bresnik, Christina Koch, and Kjell Lindgren, along with other agency employees, submitted photos and videos of their pets.



These transmissions allowed NASA’s Space Communications and Navigation (<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/space-operations/space-communications-and-navigation-scan-program/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SCaN</a>) program to highlight the capabilities of laser <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psyche-mission-paves-a-revolutionary-path-toward-deep-space-communication/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">communications</a>.



“The pet imagery campaign has been rewarding on multiple fronts for the ILLUMA-T, LCRD, and HDTN teams," noted Kevin Coggins, deputy associate administrator and SCaN program manager at NASA Headquarters in Washington.



"Not only have they demonstrated how these technologies can play an essential role in enabling NASA’s future science and exploration missions, but it also provided a fun opportunity for the teams to ‘picture’ their pets assisting with this innovative demonstration.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspired-by-taters-the-cat">Inspired by Taters the Cat</h2>



This demonstration was inspired by "Taters the Cat," an orange feline whose video was transmitted 19 million miles over <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earth-received-laser-communication-from-10-million-miles-away/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">laser</a> links to the DSOC (Deep Space Optical Communications) payload on the Psyche mission.



The pet photo project involved NASA’s ongoing laser communications demonstrations: LCRD, DSOC, and ILLUMA-T.



The images and videos started on a computer at a mission operations center in Las Cruces, New Mexico. From there, NASA routed the data to optical ground stations in California and Hawaii. 



The data was modulated onto infrared light signals and sent to NASA’s LCRD (Laser Communications Relay Demonstration) in geosynchronous orbit, 22,000 miles above Earth. 



LCRD then relayed the data to ILLUMA-T (Integrated LCRD Low Earth Orbit User Modem and Amplifier Terminal), currently mounted on the space station.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evolution-from-radio-to-laser">Evolution from radio to laser</h2>



Since the beginning of space exploration, NASA has relied on radio frequency communications to send data to and from space. 



Laser communications, or <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-data-transmission-speed-record-set-by-scientists-using-optical-cables/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">optical communications</a>, use infrared light instead of radio waves. While both travel at the speed of light, infrared light can transfer more data in a single link due to its tighter wavelength.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-challenges-with-dtn-technology">Overcoming challenges with DTN technology</h2>



NASA tested a new networking technique to handle data transmission delays and potential disruptions. They developed Delay/Disruption Tolerant Networking (DTN), which uses a "store-and-forward" process to manage data. 



To enable DTN at higher data rates, NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland developed High-Rate Delay Tolerant Networking (HDTN). This technology allows data transfer at up to four times the speed of current DTN technology.



The HDTN implementation aggregates data from various sources, such as scientific instruments on the space station, and prepares it for transmission back to Earth. 



For the pet photo and video experiment, the content was routed using DTN protocols as it traveled from Earth to LCRD, then to ILLUMA-T on the space station. Upon arrival, an onboard HDTN payload reassembled the data into files.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-implications">Future implications </h2>



This optimized DTN technology aims to enhance NASA’s communications services, including improved security through encryption and authentication and network routing of high-definition multimedia. 



These capabilities are currently being tested on the space station with ILLUMA-T and LCRD.



As NASA’s Artemis campaign prepares to establish a sustainable presence on and around the Moon, SCaN will continue to develop groundbreaking communications technology to bring the scalability, reliability, and performance of Earth-based internet to space.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nasa-s-laser-technology">NASA's laser technology</h2>



NASA's laser communication technology represents a significant advancement in space communications. Unlike traditional radio frequency (RF) systems, laser communications use infrared light, which offers a tighter wavelength. 



This allows for the transfer of more data at faster speeds. For instance, NASA's Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) aims to revolutionize data transmission by offering speeds 10 to 100 times faster than RF systems.



One of the key advantages of laser communication is its ability to transmit large volumes of data over vast distances. 



This capability is crucial for future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, where high-definition video and large scientific datasets need to be sent back to Earth. The technology also supports more secure data transmission, with enhanced encryption and reduced signal interference.



NASA’s ongoing projects, such as the Deep Space Optical Communications (<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/mission/deep-space-optical-communications-dsoc/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DSOC</a>) and <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/missions/illuma-t/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ILLUMA-T</a>, continue to refine and demonstrate these technologies, paving the way for more efficient and reliable space communication networks.



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NASA sent pet photos to the space station using lasers

Using NASA’s first two-way, end-to-end laser relay system, videos and...

Poor American <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/junk-food-diet-triggers-lasting-changes-in-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diets</a> remain a significant issue in the United States, contributing to obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.



According to the Food and Drug Administration, more than one million Americans die each year from diet-related diseases.



The financial impact is also substantial, with an estimated $1.1 trillion spent on healthcare and lost productivity due to poor diet and food insecurity.



These issues disproportionately affect individuals based on income, education, zip code, race, and ethnicity - highlighting significant health disparities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-modest-progress-in-american-diets">Modest progress in American diets</h2>



A recent study from the <a href="https://tuftsfoodismedicine.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food is Medicine Institute</a> at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy reveals some progress.



The research shows that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-diet-quality-has-not-improved-in-the-past-30-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">diet quality</a> among U.S. adults improved modestly between 1999 and 2020. However, the number of Americans with poor diet quality remains high, and disparities in diet quality persist.



“While we’ve seen some modest improvement in American diets in the last two decades, those improvements are not reaching everyone, and many Americans are eating worse,” said study senior author Dariush Mozaffarian, cardiologist and director of the Food is Medicine Institute.



“Our new research shows that the nation can’t achieve nutritional and health equity until we address the barriers many Americans face when it comes to accessing and eating nourishing food.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analysis-of-american-diets">Analysis of American diets</h2>



The study analyzed data from 10 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 1999 and 2020. This includes repeated 24-hour dietary recalls from 51,703 adults, with 72.6% completing two recalls.



Diet quality was measured using the American Heart Association diet score, which evaluates the consumption of fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, whole grains, sugary beverages, and processed meat. 



The results showed that the proportion of adults with poor diet quality decreased from 48.8% to 36.7% over the two decades, while those with intermediate diet quality increased from 50.6% to 61.1%. The percentage of adults with an <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-fathers-diet-impacts-the-health-of-his-future-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ideal diet</a> remained very low but still improved, increasing from 0.66% to 1.58%.



The study noted specific changes contributing to these trends, such as increased consumption of nuts, seeds, whole grains, poultry, cheese, and eggs. 



Conversely, there was a decrease in the intake of refined grains, sugary drinks, fruit juice, and milk. However, the overall consumption of fruits and vegetables, fish, processed meat, potassium, and sodium remained stable.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disparities-in-dietary-improvements">Disparities in dietary improvements</h2>



The improvements in diet quality were not evenly distributed across the population. The greatest gains were seen among younger adults, women, Hispanic adults, and those with higher education, income, food security, and private health insurance.



Conversely, older adults, men, Black adults, and individuals with lower education, income, food insecurity, or non-private health insurance saw smaller improvements.



For instance, the proportion of adults with poor diet quality decreased from 51.8% to 47.3% among those with lower income, from 50.0% to 43.0% among those with middle income, and from 45.7% to 29.9% among those with higher income.



“While some improvement, especially lower consumption of added sugar and fruit drinks, is encouraging to see, we still have a long way to go, especially for people from marginalized communities and backgrounds,” noted Junxiu Liu, the study’s first author and former postdoctoral scholar at the Friedman School, now assistant professor at the <a href="https://icahn.mssm.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-the-nutrition-crisis">Addressing the nutrition crisis</h2>



The research underscores the ongoing national nutrition crisis related to American diets, with rising rates of obesity and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-diets-are-driving-a-global-diabetes-epidemic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">type 2 diabetes</a>.



These conditions affect all Americans but are particularly prevalent among socioeconomically and geographically vulnerable populations. 



Mozaffarian emphasizes the need to address nutrition security and other social determinants of health - including housing, transportation, fair wages, and structural racism - to mitigate the human and economic costs of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/poor-diet-quality-in-adolescence-linked-to-lifelong-health-risks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">poor diets</a>.



The journey toward achieving health equity through improved diets is ongoing. While there are signs of progress, much work remains to ensure that all Americans have <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/healthy-diets-linked-to-education-and-food-access/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">access to nutritious food</a> and the opportunity to lead healthy lives.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M24-0190" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annals of Internal Medicine</a>.



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Over a million Americans die each year from diet-related diseases

Poor American diets remain a significant issue in the United...

A recent study has revealed that <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-psilocybin-mushrooms-got-their-magic/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psilocybin</a>, the active psychedelic compound in “magic mushrooms,” induces a state of hyperconnectivity in the brain, linked to the ego-dissolving experiences and feelings of oceanic boundlessness. 



These findings, published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.bpsc.2024.04.001" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging</a>, offer insights into the mystical experiences reported during psychedelic use and their potential therapeutic benefits for psychiatric disorders like depression.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychedelic-state-of-oceanic-boundlessness">Psychedelic state of oceanic boundlessness </h2>



The term “oceanic boundlessness” describes a sense of unity, bliss, and spiritual experience often associated with psychedelics.&nbsp;



In one of the pioneering brain imaging studies in this field, researchers identified a specific connection between the psychedelic state and dynamic changes in whole-brain connectivity.&nbsp;



Previous research had already noted increased static global brain connectivity under psychedelics, but this study demonstrated that the hyperconnected state is dynamic and corresponds with the feeling of oceanic boundlessness, a key aspect of the psychedelic experience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psychedelics-and-brain-activity-nbsp">Psychedelics and brain activity&nbsp;</h2>



Johannes G. Ramaekers, a professor of psychopharmacology and behavioral toxicology at <a href="https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maastricht University</a>, is the study's lead investigator.



“Psilocybin has been one of the most studied psychedelics, possibly due to its potential contribution in treating different disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, death-related anxiety, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psilocybin-can-treat-depression-by-restructuring-the-brain/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">depression</a>, treatment-resistant depression, major depressive disorder, terminal cancer-associated anxiety, demoralization, smoking, and alcohol and tobacco addiction,” said Professor Ramaekers.



“What was not fully understood is what brain activity is associated with these profound experiences.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-psilocybin-enhances-mental-perspectives">Psilocybin enhances mental perspectives </h2>



The analysis revealed that psilocybin causes significant changes in the brain and experiences. The brain's propensity to enter a hyperconnected-hyperarousal state under psilocybin suggests the potential for varied mental perspectives.&nbsp;



These findings shed light on the intricate relationship between brain dynamics and subjective experiences under psilocybin, offering valuable insights into the neurophysiology and experiential aspects of the psychedelic state.



“Taken together, averaged and dynamic connectivity analyses suggest that psilocybin alters brain function such that the overall neurobiological pattern becomes functionally more connected, more fluid, and less modular,” Ramaekers said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hyperconnected-brain-patterns">Hyperconnected brain patterns</h2>



The researchers analyzed functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data from two groups: 22 individuals who received psilocybin and 27 who received a placebo.&nbsp;



During the peak effects of the drug, those who took psilocybin reported significant phenomenological changes compared to the placebo group.&nbsp;



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/traffic-pollution-impairs-brain-network-connectivity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brain connectivity</a> analysis revealed a recurring pattern of global region-to-region connectivity in the psilocybin group, potentially explaining the diverse mental associations participants experienced.



This hyperconnected pattern was closely linked to feelings of oceanic boundlessness and unity, indicating a significant connection between brain dynamics and subjective experiences. 



The findings suggest that the ego-dissolving effects of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/psilocybin-microdosing-may-improve-mental-health-by-boosting-stress-resilience/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">psilocybin</a>, rather than its hallucinogenic properties, are more strongly correlated with this hyperconnected brain state.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ego-modifying-effects-of-psychedelics-nbsp">Ego-modifying effects of psychedelics&nbsp;</h2>



“Psychedelic drugs like psilocybin are often referred to as <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/hallucinogen-use-is-on-the-rise-among-young-adults/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hallucinogens</a> both scientifically and colloquially. As such, we expected that the hallucinatory dimensions of experience would correlate the highest with psilocybin’s hyperconnected pattern,” explained co-author Larry Fort, a PhD student at the <a href="https://www.uliege.be/cms/c_8699436/en/uliege" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Liège</a>.



“However, hallucinatory experience had a strong, but weaker correlation with this pattern than ego-modifying experiences. This led us to formulate the term ‘egotropic’ to draw attention to these ego-modifying effects as important, perhaps even more so than their hallucinogenic counterparts.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-the-therapeutic-effects-of-psychedelics-nbsp">Investigating the therapeutic effects of psychedelics&nbsp;</h2>



Cameron S. Carter is the Editor-in-Chief of Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging and a neuroscientist at the <a href="https://www.uci.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of California Irvine</a>. 



“This study uses readily available resting state fMRI images acquired after psilocybin ingestion to provide new insights into the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying the subjective and clinical effects of the drug,” noted Carter.



“It sets the stage for future studies using other psychedelic agents to examine whether the dynamic connectivity effects reflect a general mechanism for the therapeutic effects of these compounds.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-producing-the-best-clinical-outcomes-nbsp">Producing the best clinical outcomes&nbsp;</h2>



“We were pleasantly surprised to learn that the brain pattern of hyperconnected regions was further characterized by lower global signal amplitude, which works as a proxy to heightened cortical arousal,” said study senior author Athena Demertzi, an expert in cognitive neuroscience at the University of Liège.



“So far, this is the first time that such approximation of arousal levels using fMRI was attempted in psychedelic research. This might be an important correlation as we move towards a full characterization of brain states under psychedelics.”



“Given the resurgence in research regarding the psychotherapeutic applications of psychedelic drugs, our results are pertinent to understanding how subjective experience under psychedelics influences beneficial clinical outcomes.”&nbsp;



“Is the effect driven by ego-dissolution? By hallucinations? As such, our work exemplifies how the strong inter-relatedness between egotropic effects of moderate dose psilocybin and its hyperconnected brain pattern can inform clinical focus on specific aspects of phenomenology, such as ego-dissolutions.”&nbsp;



“With this information, healthcare professionals may learn how to best engineer psychedelic therapy sessions to produce the best clinical outcomes.”



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Psychedelic drug induces feelings of "oceanic boundlessness"

A recent study has revealed that psilocybin, the active psychedelic...

For the first time, aquaculture has overtaken wild fisheries in aquatic animal production, marking a significant milestone in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/better-refrigeration-could-significantly-reduce-global-food-waste/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global</a> food security.



A recent report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (<a href="https://www.fao.org/home/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FAO</a>) highlights this shift and underscores the growing importance of sustainable aquaculture in meeting the world's food needs.



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



Aquaculture, often referred to as fish farming, is the practice of breeding, rearing, and harvesting aquatic organisms like fish and seaweed in controlled environments.



Unlike traditional wild fisheries that depend on capturing <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/eating-small-fish-whole-reduces-cancer-risk-in-women/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fish</a> from natural bodies of water, aquaculture involves cultivating these species in tanks, ponds, or ocean enclosures.



This method allows for greater control over growing conditions, such as water quality, feed, and breeding cycles, which can lead to more efficient and sustainable production. 



Aquaculture plays a crucial role in supplementing wild fish stocks, reducing pressure on overfished populations, and contributing to global food security. It also supports livelihoods in coastal and rural areas by providing jobs and economic opportunities.



By producing high-quality protein with lower environmental impact compared to some land-based farming practices, aquaculture presents a promising solution to meet the increasing global demand for nutritious and sustainable seafood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rise-of-aquaculture-for-food">Rise of aquaculture for food</h2>



In 2022, aquaculture reached a significant milestone by producing 94.4 million tons of aquatic animals. This impressive output accounted for 51 percent of the total aquatic production globally.



Even more noteworthy is that 57 percent of this production was specifically intended for human consumption. This achievement underscores the growing importance of aquaculture in meeting the world's food needs.



The increase in aquaculture production is crucial as the global demand for aquatic foods continues to rise. As populations grow and dietary preferences shift towards healthier and more diverse options, the need for reliable sources of aquatic foods becomes more pressing. 



The FAO highlights the importance of sustainable production practices in aquaculture. Ensuring that aquaculture operations are environmentally friendly and resource-efficient is vital for maintaining the health of our ecosystems. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aquaculture-and-food-security">Aquaculture and food security</h2>



"Aquatic systems are increasingly recognized as vital for food and nutrition security," the report states. This sentiment was echoed by experts who recently gathered in Costa Rica to discuss ocean conservation.



Due to their diversity and capacity to provide ecosystem services, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/blue-foods-could-help-address-global-challenges/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aquatic food</a> systems offer a promising solution to enhance <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/global-food-system-must-change-if-nations-hope-to-reduce-greenhouse-gas-emissions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global food</a> security and nutrition.



Despite the steady production levels of wild fisheries over the past decades, aquaculture has seen a 6.6 percent increase since 2020. However, the sustainability of wild fishery resources remains a significant concern. 



The proportion of marine stocks fished within biologically sustainable levels dropped to 62.3 percent in 2021, down from 64.6 percent in 2019. The report calls for urgent action to accelerate the conservation and rebuilding of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/without-strong-action-global-fish-stocks-could-collapse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fishery stocks</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investment-and-challenges">Investment and challenges</h2>



With the global population projected to reach 8.5 billion by 2030, significant investments are necessary to ensure adequate food, nutrition, and livelihoods. The report highlights the potential of aquaculture, particularly in Africa, where it remains largely untapped.



Currently, over 40 percent of the global population cannot afford a healthy diet, making the role of aquaculture even more critical. Aquatic products are among the most traded food commodities, generating a record $195 billion in 2022 - a 19 percent increase from pre-pandemic levels.



Despite these achievements, the sector faces significant challenges, including climate change, water scarcity, pollution, and biodiversity loss.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-efforts-to-support-aquaculture">Global efforts to support aquaculture</h2>



The report's release coincides with a meeting in San Jose, Costa Rica, where country representatives, scientists, and international experts are preparing for the third UN Ocean Conference in France in 2025. 



United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Social Affairs, Li Junhua, emphasized the urgency of protecting the ocean, stating that it is "not an option but an imperative."



Costa Rica's President Rodrigo Chaves, hosting the two-day meeting, warned that failing to act would jeopardize the future of humanity. Participants are debating critical issues, including the ocean's capacity to absorb carbon dioxide, the need for sustainable fishing practices, and tackling marine pollution.



In conclusion, the shift from wild fisheries to aquaculture marks a pivotal moment in global food security. Sustainable aquaculture offers a viable solution to meet the growing demand for aquatic foods, but it requires significant investment and concerted global efforts to overcome the challenges posed by climate change and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/90-percent-of-the-worlds-aquaculture-faces-substantial-risk-from-human-induced-environmental-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmental</a> threats.



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Aquaculture now produces more food than wild fishing

For the first time, aquaculture has overtaken wild fisheries in...

Cumulative culture is a fundamental aspect of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/stone-tool-discovery-challenges-entire-theory-of-human-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">human evolution</a>, a story of continuous cultural and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/400000-year-old-stone-tools-show-technological-adaptations-of-prehistoric-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">technological advancements</a> passed down through countless generations.



This accumulation of knowledge has set humans apart from other primates, enabling us to adapt to a wide range of environments. 



But when did our ancestors start to build on each other's knowledge, creating what we now call cumulative culture?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-cumulative-culture">Understanding cumulative culture</h2>



Cumulative culture refers to the way humans build upon the knowledge and innovations of previous generations. This unique aspect of human societies allows us to continuously improve tools, technologies, and ideas over time. 



Unlike animals, which may learn behaviors through imitation, humans enhance and refine these behaviors, creating more complex solutions to problems. 



This process has enabled humans to adapt to a wide variety of environments and challenges, from creating sophisticated tools to developing advanced social systems.



For example, the development of agriculture allowed early humans to settle in one place, leading to the growth of communities and civilizations. 



Over generations, these societies developed new farming techniques, tools, and social structures, continuously improving their way of life.



Similarly, advancements in medicine, transportation, and communication have all resulted from cumulative culture, where each generation builds on the discoveries and innovations of the past. This ongoing process is fundamental to human progress and development.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beginning-of-the-culture">Beginning of the culture</h2>



Pinpointing the exact time when this phenomenon began during hominin evolution has been challenging. A recent study by researchers from <a href="https://www.asu.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Arizona State University</a> sheds light on this pivotal development.



According to study co-authors Charles Perreault and Jonathan Paige, humans began to rapidly accumulate technological knowledge through social learning around 600,000 years ago.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cumulative-culture-and-human-adaptability">Cumulative culture and human adaptability</h2>



“Our species, Homo sapiens, has been successful at adapting to ecological conditions - from tropical forests to arctic tundra - that require different kinds of problems to be solved," explained Perreault.



"Cumulative culture is key because it allows human populations to build on and recombine the solutions of prior generations and to develop new complex solutions to problems very quickly."



"The result is, our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/evidence-of-innovative-40000-year-old-culture-found-in-china/">cultures</a>, from technological problems and solutions to how we organize our institutions, are too complex for individuals to invent on their own.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-origins-of-cumulative-culture">Origins of cumulative culture </h2>



To trace the origins of cumulative culture, Paige and Perreault analyzed the complexity of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ancient-humans-hunted-elephants-with-stone-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stone tool</a> manufacturing techniques over the past 3.3 million years. 



They used nonhuman primate technologies and experimental flintknapping by inexperienced humans as baselines for comparison.



The researchers found that between 3.3 and 1.8 million years ago, stone tool manufacturing sequences were relatively simple, involving 1 to 6 procedural units (PUs).



From 1.8 million to 600,000 years ago, the complexity increased slightly to 4 to 7 PUs. However, after 600,000 years ago, there was a rapid increase in complexity, with sequences involving 5 to 18 PUs.



“By 600,000 years ago or so, hominin populations started relying on unusually complex technologies, and we only see rapid increases in complexity after that time as well," said Paige. "Both of those findings match what we expect to see among hominins who rely on cumulative culture."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-role-of-tool-assisted-foraging">Role of tool-assisted foraging</h2>



Tool-assisted foraging likely played a crucial role in the early evolution of cumulative culture. 



Early hominins, between 3.4 and 2 million years ago, used tools for tasks like accessing meat and marrow, which may have driven changes in brain size, lifespan, and biology, setting the stage for cumulative culture. 



While other forms of social learning may have influenced tool-making, rapid increases in technological complexity are evident only from the Middle Pleistocene onward.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-evidence-from-the-middle-pleistocene">Evidence from the Middle Pleistocene</h2>



The Middle Pleistocene epoch, around 600,000 years ago, shows consistent evidence of advanced technologies, such as controlled use of fire, hearths, and domestic spaces. These innovations likely played essential roles in the development of cumulative culture.



Additionally, wooden structures constructed with hafted tools - stone blades affixed to wooden or bone handles - also emerged during this period.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-emergence-of-cumulative-culture">Emergence of cumulative culture</h2>



This research suggests that cumulative culture began near the start of the Middle Pleistocene, possibly before the divergence of Neanderthals and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-genes-still-influence-modern-humans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">modern humans</a>.



By understanding the origins of cumulative culture, we gain insight into the unique evolutionary path that has enabled humans to thrive across diverse environments and challenges.



Through continued research, we can further unravel the complexities of human evolution and the cultural developments that have shaped our history.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2319175121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>.



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Humans started "cumulative culture" around 600,000 years ago

Cumulative culture is a fundamental aspect of human evolution, a...

We all know that time is a fundamental part of life. It governs our daily routines, dictates our schedules, and allows us to make sense of the world around us. But have you ever wondered how your brain and cells actually perceive and process <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/astrophysicist-says-hes-cracked-the-equation-for-time-travel/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">time</a>? 



Researchers at the <a href="https://healthcare.utah.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Utah Health</a> have recently made a remarkable discovery that sheds light on this mystery.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brain-s-inner-clock-time-cells">Brain's inner clock: Time cells</h2>



Scientists have identified a special group of neurons in the brain called "time cells," which act like the second hand on a clock, firing in sequence to measure short periods of time.



“Time cells are supposed to be active at specific moments during the trial,” said Dr. Hyunwoo Lee, co-first author of the study. “But when the mice made mistakes, that selective activity became messy.”



While previous research suggested that time cells merely tracked time like a stopwatch, the new findings reveal a far more intricate role. These cells play a crucial part in learning complex behaviors that rely on precise timing.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mice-and-morse-code">Mice and morse code</h2>



To understand how time cells function, the researchers designed an experiment where mice had to learn a simplified version of Morse code using different patterns of odor stimuli. 



By observing the activity of individual time cells before and after the learning process, they discovered a fascinating phenomenon.



Initially, the time cells responded uniformly to all odor patterns. However, as the mice mastered the differently timed patterns, the time cells developed unique activity patterns for each sequence. It was like watching the brain create a personalized code for time!



“The MEC isn’t acting like a really simple stopwatch that’s necessary to track time in any simple circumstance,” said Erin Bigus, co-first author of the study. “Its role seems to be in actually learning these more complex temporal relationships.”



When the researchers temporarily deactivated the brain region containing these time cells, the mice could still <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-perception-we-see-the-world-based-on-what-we-expect-to-see/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perceive</a> and anticipate the timing of events, but they struggled to learn new time-related tasks. 



This suggests that time cells are not just responsible for keeping track of time but are also essential for learning intricate temporal relationships.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-perspective-on-space-and-time">New perspective on space and time</h2>



The study's findings challenge our conventional understanding of how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/human-perception-changes-with-our-walking-rhythm/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brain processes time</a> and space. 



The region where time cells are found, known as the medial entorhinal cortex (MEC), was previously thought to be primarily involved in spatial learning and the formation of mental maps. 



However, the researchers observed striking similarities between the brain activity patterns associated with time-based and spatial learning.



This intriguing connection raises the possibility that the brain processes both space and time using similar mechanisms. It's like a hidden link between two seemingly distinct dimensions of our experience.



“We believe that the entorhinal cortex might serve a dual purpose, acting both as an odometer to track distance and as a clock to track elapsed time,” said Dr. James Heys, senior author of the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-alzheimer-s-disease">Implications for Alzheimer's Disease</h2>



The researchers believe that their findings could significantly impact the field of neurodegenerative disease diagnostics, particularly for Alzheimer's disease.&nbsp;



Given that the MEC is among the initial brain regions affected by Alzheimer's,&nbsp;the observed correlation between MEC function and complex timing tasks suggests a potential avenue for early detection.&nbsp;



By developing diagnostic tools that assess an individual's ability to perform complex time-based tasks,&nbsp;clinicians may be able to identify subtle cognitive impairments associated with early-stage Alzheimer's disease.&nbsp;



This could lead to earlier interventions and potential treatments,&nbsp;ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.



“These are the first areas of the brain to be affected by neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. We are interested in exploring whether complex timing behavior tasks could be a useful way to detect the early onset of Alzheimer's disease," said Dr. Heys.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-time-research">Future of time research</h2>



The study of time cells is still in its early stages,&nbsp;but the potential implications are vast.&nbsp;Researchers are eager to explore the complex mechanisms by which these cells interact with other brain regions and contribute to our overall perception of time.&nbsp;



They are also investigating how disruptions in time cell activity may contribute to various neurological and psychiatric disorders.&nbsp;



As technology advances,&nbsp;we can expect even more sophisticated tools for studying time cells and their role in the brain.&nbsp;This could lead to new insights into the fundamental nature of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nature-experiences-alter-time-perception/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">time</a> itself and how it shapes our lives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significance-of-time-cells">Significance of time cells</h2>



The next time you become aware of the passage of time,&nbsp;consider the complex neural processes underlying this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-do-dreams-influence-our-perceptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">perception</a>.&nbsp;



The discovery of time cells and their essential role in learning and adaptation highlights the intricate relationship between our brains and our experience of time.&nbsp;



Ongoing research into time perception promises to reveal even more about how our brains construct our understanding of the world,&nbsp;potentially leading to breakthroughs in fields like neurology and cognitive science.&nbsp;



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41593-024-01683-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Neuroscience</a>.



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"Time cells" in the brain act like a stopwatch for complex tasks

We all know that time is a fundamental part of...

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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

[sendtonews key="0ynNMYkMKa-2340414-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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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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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.

Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

[sendtonews key="G9bUoxcjr4-2511624-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from the...

<div class="wp-block-sendtonews-playerselector">[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"]</div>



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

[sendtonews key="3upvlAaHgO-2256633-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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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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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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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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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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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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Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

[sendtonews key="EjmSP20gQK-2593093-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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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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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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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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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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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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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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The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

[sendtonews key="6HyfrAJTBI-1831843-12187" type="single"] Today’s Video of the Day from the...

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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



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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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2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

[sendtonews key="3UUsNkFOuS-2487333-12187" type="single"] Today's Video of the Day from NASA...

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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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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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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Tiger sharks are shifting poleward as temperatures rise

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