For years, bacteria dominated gut health research. Now, the gut virome is gaining attention as a major player in health and disease. Bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-think-they-found-two-key-bacteria-that-cause-multiple-sclerosis/">bacteria</a>, make up around 90% of the gut virome.



Though small in biomass, they outnumber bacteria by up to tenfold. These tiny viruses shape microbial communities, influence immunity, and affect gut health.



A landmark review published recently in Precision Clinical Medicine reveals how the gut virome links to diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/inflammatory-bowel-disease/about/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IBD</a>), <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colonoscopy-vs-stool-tests-doctors-found-out-which-is-better-at-detecting-cancer/">colorectal cancer</a>, and Clostridium difficile infection (<a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15548-c-diff-infection" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDI</a>).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gut-s-virome-changes-across-life-stages">Gut's virome changes across life stages</h2>



The gut virome changes constantly throughout life. Infants show high <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/bacteria-that-eat-forever-chemicals-discovered-in-contaminated-soil/">diversity</a> in gut bacteriophages (also called phages), which is shaped by birth method, diet, and antibiotic exposure.



As individuals grow, diet and hormones refine the virome. In adults, phages and bacteria form a stable, <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41579-021-00536-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">balanced community</a>.



However, aging shifts this balance. Older adults show more lysogenic phages, which integrate into bacterial genomes and potentially alter metabolism and immune interactions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-and-environment-shape-the-virome">Diet and environment shape the virome</h2>



Diet greatly <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9455721/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influences</a> the virome. High-fiber diets support beneficial phages by encouraging helpful bacteria. Western diets, rich in fat and sugar, promote harmful <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-bacteria-breathe-by-creating-electricity/">phages</a>.



Urbanization reduces exposure to natural viruses. Studies show that rural diets which are rich in fiber boost gut virome diversity.



Host genetics and immunity also play roles. Genetic variants can affect viral detection and clearance. Immune defenses, like <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/interferons" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interferons</a> and <a href="https://www.immunology.org/public-information/bitesized-immunology/receptors-molecules/immunoglobulin-iga" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IgA</a>, keep the virome balanced.



However, immune dysfunction can trigger viral imbalances, worsening conditions like HIV and gut inflammation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-viruses-and-bacteria-interacting">Viruses and bacteria interacting</h2>



Viruses, including phages, along with bacteria and fungi form a complex and dynamic ecosystem in the gut. The components interact in positive and negative ways, thus affecting host metabolism, immune regulation and resistance to disease. 



The gut virome plays a crucial regulatory role in these intricate interactions. Phages interact with bacteria through lytic, lysogenic, and budding cycles, which regulate bacterial populations and gene flow. 



In a form of microbial arms race, the bacteria defend against phages using <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crispr-used-to-remove-extra-chromosomes-in-down-syndrome-and-restore-cell-function/">CRISPR systems</a> and the phages evolve escape mechanisms.



Some phages even boost bacterial metabolism and biofilm formation, affecting disease risk. For instance, phages can transfer genes that enhance bacterial survival in acidic conditions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virome-s-influence-on-immunity">Virome’s influence on immunity</h2>



The virome affects gut immunity deeply. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-bacteria-get-hungry-they-turn-on-each-other/">Phages</a> can anchor to gut mucus and form a protective barrier. They also shape our own <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459471/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">T and B cell</a> activity and regulate macrophages. In addition, viruses that infect eukaryotic cells affect immune pathways and maintain gut balance.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/virome_microbiome_human-gut_graphic_credit-PCM_1m.jpg"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/virome_microbiome_human-gut_graphic_credit-PCM_1s.webp" alt="This infographic illustrates four major therapeutic approaches—fecal microbial transplantation (FMT), phage therapy, dietary interventions, and probiotics/prebiotics—that aim to restore gut health by modulating the microbiome and virome. Each strategy offers unique methods, benefits, and challenges in managing gastrointestinal disorders such as IBD, CRC, and CDI, highlighting the growing potential of virome-informed precision medicine. Credit: Precision Clinical Medicine" class="wp-image-1976450"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This infographic illustrates four major therapeutic approaches—fecal microbial transplantation (FMT), phage therapy, dietary interventions, and probiotics/prebiotics—that aim to restore gut health by modulating the microbiome and virome. Each strategy offers unique methods, benefits, and challenges in managing gastrointestinal disorders such as IBD, CRC, and CDI, highlighting the growing potential of virome-informed precision medicine. Click image to enlarge. Credit: Precision Clinical Medicine</figcaption></figure>



However, infections and antibiotics can disrupt this harmony and lead to inflammation. Phages can trigger TLR9 pathways, causing excessive immune responses such as those linked to IBD.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virome-s-role-in-disease">Virome’s role in disease</h2>



Imbalances in the gut virome have been linked to several gut diseases. In IBD, specific phages become abundant and worsen inflammation.



Certain groups of phages (such as Caudovirales) amplify immune responses, while norovirus and rotavirus can damage the gut lining. Viral imbalances are also common in IBS and CDI.



In colorectal cancer, phages and eukaryotic viruses like HPV and JC virus (polyomavirus) appear more often. They may promote tumor growth by altering bacterial communities and gene expression.



Studies suggest that some phages directly influence cancer risk by promoting biofilms and transferring harmful genes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-virus-based-treatments">Virus-based treatments</h2>



Several therapies now explore the virome’s potential to treat certain diseases or conditions. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) restores gut balance and reduces inflammation in IBD and CDI.



FMT works not only by shifting bacteria but also by transferring beneficial phages. Studies show that donor phages often align quickly with recipients and promote recovery.



Phage therapy, which uses viruses to kill specific bacteria, is another approach that is gaining traction. It can reduce harmful microbes while preserving beneficial ones.



Researchers have created phage cocktails that target specific gut pathogens like E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae, and this approach has had promising results in animal models.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diet-as-a-tool-to-reshape-the-virome">Diet as a tool to reshape the virome</h2>



Dietary strategies also reshape the virome. High-fiber diets boost beneficial phages and support bacterial diversity.



Whey protein has shown potential in managing Crohn’s disease by improving phage-bacteria interactions.



Other interventions, such as exclusive enteral nutrition and low-FODMAP diets, also show benefits in gut diseases.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-probiotics-prebiotics-and-phages">Probiotics, prebiotics, and phages</h2>



Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria, while prebiotics feed them. Combining them, known as symbiotics, shows promise for restoring and maintaining gut health.



Recent research suggests that adding phages can enhance these effects. Phage-based products, such as PreforPro, have already shown benefits in clinical trials.



These products can reduce populations of harmful bacteria and improve probiotic performance, thereby creating a more stable gut environment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-gut-viruses-to-detect-diseases-early">Using gut viruses to detect diseases early</h2>



The gut virome is now being studied as a diagnostic tool. Viral patterns are more stable than bacterial ones, making them reliable biomarkers.



Distinct virome signatures can predict IBD and colorectal cancer. Machine learning models already use virome data to detect these diseases early.



Virome profiling may also track treatment responses, such as FMT success in IBD and CDI.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenges-and-future-prospects">Challenges and future prospects</h2>



Despite the excitement over potential new treatments, many hurdles remain. Current methods struggle to capture the full virome due to technical limits.



Many phages are still unculturable, and their roles remain unclear. Researchers are working to improve viral databases and develop targeted therapies. Once these gaps close, virome-based therapies could change how we treat gut diseases.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://academic.oup.com/pcm/article/8/2/pbaf010/8152264" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Precision Clinical Medicine</a>.



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Move over microbiome, it's time for the human gut's "virome" to shine

For years, bacteria dominated gut health research. Now, the gut virome is gaining attention as a major player in health and disease. Bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect bacteria, make up around 90% of the gut virome. Though small in biomass, they outnumber bacteria by up to tenfold. These tiny viruses shape microbial communities, influence immunity, and affect gut health. A landmark review published recently in Precision Clinical Medicine reveals how the gut virome links to diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer, and Clostridium difficile infection (CDI)....

The dawn of artificial intelligence (AI) has ushered in a transformative era, promising to reshape every facet of our lives. Now, AI has moved off-world, helping NASA scientists unlock the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/is-there-really-life-beyond-earth-ai-will-soon-solve-this-mystery/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">secrets of the cosmos</a>, including the location of gamma ray <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/new-clues-about-the-brightest-gamma-ray-burst-of-all-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">bursts</a> (GRBs).



This exciting intersection of technology and astronomy is now a reality,&nbsp;thanks to recent research led by Maria Dainotti,&nbsp;a visiting professor at UNLV's <a href="https://ncfa.physics.unlv.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nevada Center for Astrophysics</a>.



Dainotti and her teams have harnessed the power of AI to delve into the enigmatic world of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) – the most luminous and violent explosions in the universe.&nbsp;



By leveraging machine learning models,&nbsp;they have achieved unprecedented precision in measuring the distances of these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-glitch-in-gravity-expands-the-theory-of-general-relativity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic</a> behemoths.&nbsp;This breakthrough has far-reaching implications for our understanding of the universe's evolution and the life cycles of stars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-gamma-ray-bursts-grbs">What are gamma-ray bursts (GRBs)?</h2>



Imagine an explosion so powerful that it releases as much energy in a few seconds as our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/team-creates-video-showing-the-sun-in-gamma-rays-over-a-14-year-period/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sun</a> does in its entire lifetime. That's the awe-inspiring power of a GRB.&nbsp;



These cataclysmic events are visible across vast cosmic distances,&nbsp;even at the very edge of the observable universe.&nbsp;Their brilliance makes them invaluable tools for astronomers seeking to study the most ancient and distant stars.



But there's a catch: current observational technology limits our ability to gather the necessary data for calculating the distances of all known GRBs.&nbsp;This is where Dainotti's ingenious approach comes in.&nbsp;



By combining gamma ray bursts data from NASA's Neil Gehrels <a href="https://swift.gsfc.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swift Observatory</a> with multiple machine learning models, she has overcome these limitations, enabling far more accurate distance estimations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ai-used-as-a-cosmic-detective">AI used as a cosmic detective</h2>



"This research pushes forward the frontier in both gamma-ray astronomy and machine learning," says Dainotti.&nbsp;



"Follow-up research and innovation will help us achieve even more reliable results and enable us to answer some of the most pressing cosmological questions,&nbsp;including the earliest processes of our universe and how it has evolved over time."



One of Dainotti's studies focused on using machine learning methods to determine the distances of GRBs observed by the Swift UltraViolet/Optical Telescope (<a href="https://swift.gsfc.nasa.gov/about_swift/uvot_desc.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UVOT</a>) and ground-based telescopes. 



The results were remarkably precise, allowing researchers to estimate the number of GRBs in a given volume and time with astonishing accuracy.



In another study,&nbsp;Dainotti and her collaborators employed a powerful machine learning technique called Superlearner to measure GRB distances using data from NASA's <a href="https://www.swift.psu.edu/xrt/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Swift X-ray Telescope</a>.&nbsp;



Superlearner combines multiple algorithms, assigning weights based on their predictive power.&nbsp;This innovative approach significantly improved the reliability of distance estimations for a large sample of GRBs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-illuminating-the-origins-of-gamma-ray-bursts">Illuminating the origins of gamma-ray bursts</h2>



But the discoveries didn't stop there.&nbsp;A <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad2763" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">third study</a>,&nbsp;led by <a href="https://www.stanford.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford University</a> astrophysicist Vahé Petrosian and Dainotti, used Swift X-ray data to shed light on the puzzling question of how GRBs are formed.&nbsp;



Their findings challenged conventional wisdom, suggesting that some long GRBs may originate from the fusion of incredibly dense objects like neutron stars, rather than the collapse of massive stars.



"This opens the possibility that long GRBs at small distances may be generated not by a collapse of massive stars but rather by the fusion of very dense objects like neutron stars," explains Petrosian.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-era-of-cosmic-exploration">New era of cosmic exploration</h2>



The implications of this research are vast and profound.&nbsp;By enhancing our ability to measure GRB distances,&nbsp;scientists can gain deeper insights into the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/dying-stars-may-be-a-source-of-gravitational-waves/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a> and the overall structure of the universe.&nbsp;



The discovery of alternative formation mechanisms for long GRBs opens up new avenues for investigation into the most extreme cosmic phenomena.



Dainotti and her colleagues are now working to make their machine learning tools accessible to the wider scientific community through an interactive web application. 



This will empower astronomers worldwide to build upon their groundbreaking work and further our understanding of the cosmos.



The marriage of AI and astronomy has ushered in a new era of cosmic exploration.&nbsp;With each new discovery,&nbsp;we inch closer to unraveling the mysteries of the universe and our place within it.&nbsp;The future of astronomy is bright,&nbsp;and AI is illuminating the path forward.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/ad4970" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Astrophysical Journal Letters</a>.



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AI is helping NASA pinpoint the most violent explosions in the universe

The dawn of artificial intelligence (AI) has ushered in a...

New images reveal the birth of a massive <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/iceberg-that-weighs-more-than-the-eiffel-tower-is-floating-freely/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">iceberg</a> in the Antarctic, comparable in size to the Isle of Wight. The iceberg, named A-83, spans 146 square miles (380 square km) and is about 490 feet (150 meters) thick.&nbsp;



The iceberg separated from the Brunt Ice Shelf last week, following the appearance of a new crack spotted in satellite images. According to the <a href="https://www.bas.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">British Antarctic Survey</a> (BAS), ocean currents now control A-83's movement.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cracks-in-the-brunt-ice-shelf">Cracks in the Brunt Ice Shelf</h2>



The Brunt Ice Shelf, named after Welsh meteorologist David Brunt, has experienced several icebergs breaking away in recent years. This latest iceberg calved after a vertical crack merged with an existing horizontal crack, resembling scissors cutting paper.&nbsp;



The horizontal crack, known as Halloween Crack, was discovered on October 31, 2016, while the vertical crack, 8.6 miles long (14 km), was only spotted on April 26 this year. BAS experts, using satellite and GPS data, confirmed the final separation in the early hours of Monday, May 20.



“This calving was expected since the appearance of Halloween Crack eight years ago,” said Oliver Marsh, a glaciologist at BAS. “It reduces the total area of the ice shelf to its smallest extent since monitoring began.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natural-processes-nbsp-formed-the-cracks">Natural processes&nbsp;formed the cracks </h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/antarctic-ice-shelves-are-fracturing-from-meltwater-weight/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ice shelves</a> are floating ice platforms connected to a landmass, found in polar regions like Antarctica and Greenland. Although ice shelf melting is linked to global warming, BAS notes that the cracks leading to iceberg A-83 formed through natural processes.



According to Marsh, the iceberg's detachment resulted from the Brunt Ice Shelf's movement towards the McDonald Ice Rumples, a fixed point on the seafloor.&nbsp;



“Over time this created a bending stress in the ice to the north of Halloween Crack which increased until it exceeded a critical value,” said Marsh. “This type of calving is just one of the mechanisms through which the ice sheet loses mass to stay in balance with the year-round <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/snow-cover-has-decreased-in-recent-decades/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">snowfall</a>.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-research-monitoring-station">Research monitoring station</h2>



The Brunt Ice Shelf also hosts BAS's Halley VI research station, crucial for monitoring. Halley VI comprises eight units on skis, allowing relocation from the ice shelf edge when necessary.&nbsp;



In 2016, BAS experts moved the base 14 miles inland to avoid it drifting away on an iceberg that later broke off in January 2023. Currently unstaffed, a new team will return to Halley VI in November.



The research conducted here is critical, contributing to our understanding of climate change, sea level rise, and the atmospheric phenomena.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-feeling-the-pressure">Feeling the pressure</h2>



“Although iceberg calving is normal, the Brunt Ice Shelf is feeling the same pressures as elsewhere around Antarctica, including low sea ice conditions. When less sea ice is present, ice shelves are more exposed to destabilizing wind and wave action,” noted <a href="https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/152848/antarctic-ice-shelf-spawns-iceberg-a-83" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a>.



“The remainder of the Brunt is still holding on to the McDonald Ice Rumples. But the new Iceberg A-83, along with icebergs A-74 and A-81 that broke off in recent years, have greatly diminished the ice shelf’s area since early 2021.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-the-brunt-ice-shelf-nbsp">The future of the Brunt Ice Shelf&nbsp;</h2>



Christopher Shuman is a University of Maryland glaciologist based at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.



“As ice shelves get smaller and smaller, they become more vulnerable to extreme events that can, as in the case of the Glenzer/Conger Ice Shelf, lead to destabilization and total loss of the floating glacial ice area,” said Shuman.



NASA noted that the Brunt Ice Shelf still has fractures on its surface, such as Chasm 2, that will continue to play a role in the evolution of the ice platform. “Data from Landsat collected year-round, along with insights from other sensors, will help scientists make sense of that future.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-the-brunt-ice-shelf-nbsp">More about the Brunt Ice Shelf&nbsp;</h2>



Brunt Ice Shelf is located off the coast of Antarctica in the Weddell Sea. It extends from Coats Land in the west to Queen Maud Land in the east.&nbsp;



The ice shelf is particularly interesting to scientists because of its dynamic nature. It is constantly changing due to processes such as calving, and the formation of icebergs such as A-83.



These events could potentially alter the landscape of the shelf dramatically and have implications for global <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sea-level-rise-will-cost-coastal-cities-over-1-trillion-in-damages/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sea levels</a>, although the ice shelf itself, being already afloat, does not contribute to sea level rise when ice breaks off.



Image Credit: NASA Earth Observatory 



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Birth of an iceberg: A-83 breaks free from Antarctica

New images reveal the birth of a massive iceberg in...

In recent years, tattoos have become increasingly popular, yet their long-term health effects, including the potential risk of lymphoma, remain largely unknown. 



A research group at <a href="https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lund University</a> has recently delved into the potential association between tattoos and lymphoma. 



This investigation is shedding light on an area with limited research and providing new insights into how tattoos might impact health.



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



Lymphoma is a type of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cancer-thrives-on-human-stress-as-it-spreads-throughout-the-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a> that originates in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. It primarily affects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infections. 



There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Symptoms can include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, weight loss, and fatigue. 



The exact cause of lymphoma is unknown, but factors like genetic mutations, infections, and weakened immune systems can contribute to its development. Treatment options vary and may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or stem cell transplants.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tattoos-and-lymphoma-risk">Tattoos and lymphoma risk </h2>



The researchers identified individuals diagnosed with lymphoma through population registers. These individuals were matched with a control group of the same sex and age but without lymphoma. Participants completed a questionnaire about their lifestyle factors, including whether they had <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-can-now-put-nanoscale-tattoos-onto-individual-cells-inside-your-body/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tattoos</a>.



The study encompassed 11,905 people, including 2,938 individuals diagnosed with lymphoma between the ages of 20 and 60. Among these, 1,398 responded to the questionnaire. 



The control group consisted of 4,193 participants. In the lymphoma group, 21% (289 individuals) had tattoos, while 18% (735 individuals) in the control group were tattooed.



"After accounting for factors such as smoking and age, we found that the risk of developing lymphoma was 21% higher among those who were tattooed. It is important to remember that lymphoma is a rare disease, and our results apply at the group level. The results now need to be verified and investigated further in other studies, and such research is ongoing," noted Christel Nielsen, who led the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-impact-of-tattoo-size-on-lymphoma-risk">Impact of tattoo size on lymphoma risk</h2>



The experts initially hypothesized that the size of the tattoo would influence lymphoma risk. They speculated that a full-body tattoo might be associated with a greater cancer risk compared to a small butterfly on the shoulder. 



However, the study revealed that the area of the tattooed body surface did not significantly impact the risk of developing lymphoma.



"We do not yet know why this was the case. One can only speculate that a tattoo, regardless of size, triggers a low-grade inflammation in the body, which in turn can trigger <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/vitamin-d-influences-gut-bacteria-to-help-fight-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a>. The picture is thus more complex than we initially thought," explained Nielsen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-long-term-health-impacts">Long-term health impacts</h2>



Most people get their first tattoo at a young age, exposing them to tattoo ink for much of their lives. Despite this, research into the long-term <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tattoos-health-risks-immune-systems/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health</a> effects of tattoos is still in its early stages.



"We already know that when tattoo ink is injected into the skin, the body interprets this as something foreign that should not be there, activating the immune system. A large part of the ink is transported away from the skin to the lymph nodes where it is deposited," said Nielsen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unraveling-tattoo-related-health-concerns">Unraveling tattoo-related health concerns</h2>



The research group plans to continue studying the potential association between tattoos and other types of cancer. They also aim to investigate links between tattoos and inflammatory diseases.



"People will likely want to continue to express their identity through tattoos, and therefore it is very important that we as a society can make sure that it is safe," said Nielsen.



"For the individual, it is good to know that tattoos can affect your health, and that you should turn to your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms that you believe could be related to your tattoo."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-research-on-tattoos-and-health">Future research on tattoos and health</h2>



While the study highlights a potential link between tattoos and an increased risk of lymphoma, it also underscores the need for further research. 



Understanding the long-term health effects of tattoos is crucial as their popularity continues to rise. This study is a significant step towards uncovering the complex relationship between tattoos and health, paving the way for more comprehensive future investigations.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(24)00228-1/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EClinicalMedicine</a>.



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Tattoos increase the risk of developing cancer

In recent years, tattoos have become increasingly popular, yet their...

Heart failure is a severe condition that leaves lasting effects on the body, leading to recurrent episodes and other <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/covid-vaccines-linked-to-neurological-blood-and-heart-related-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health issues</a>. Recent research has uncovered that it creates a "stress memory" in the body, marked by changes in DNA modifications of hematopoietic stem cells. 



These stem cells are crucial for producing blood and immune cells, known as macrophages, which protect <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/green-environments-and-sidewalks-improve-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart health</a>. 



However, during this condition, a vital signaling pathway called transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is suppressed in these stem cells, leading to dysfunctional macrophage production.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oxytocin-holds-the-keys-to-both-your-heart-and-your-memory/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Heart</a> failure occurs when the heart can't pump blood efficiently, leading to insufficient blood flow to meet the body's needs. Various conditions can cause heart failure, which often develops over a prolonged period.



Coronary artery disease is a primary cause, where plaque buildup narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart muscle. High blood pressure forces the heart to work harder, eventually weakening it. Heart attacks can damage the heart muscle, impairing its ability to pump.



Other causes include cardiomyopathy, where the heart muscle itself is damaged by factors like genetics, infections, or alcohol abuse. Valve diseases, where heart valves don't function properly, can also contribute. Arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, can disrupt heart function. Chronic conditions like diabetes, obesity, and thyroid disorders increase the risk.



Infections, such as myocarditis, and lifestyle factors like smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise further exacerbate the likelihood of heart failure. Effective management of these risk factors is crucial in preventing heart failure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-memory-of-stem-cells-after-heart-failure">Stress memory of stem cells after heart failure</h2>



The United Nations’ global Sustainable Development Goals emphasize healthier lives and improved well-being. 



A recent study projects an increase in global life expectancy by about 4.5 years by 2050, attributed to public health efforts and improved survival from illnesses, including <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/depression-and-cardiovascular-diseases-are-genetically-linked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular</a> disorders.



Despite these advances, heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, affecting approximately 26 million people with heart failure - which is associated with a high risk of relapse.



Researchers at the <a href="https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/ja/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Tokyo</a> sought to understand the causes of heart failure recurrence, and whether it can be prevented.



"Based on our earlier research, we hypothesized that recurrence may be caused by stress experienced during heart failure accumulating in the body, particularly in hematopoietic stem cells," explained Professor Katsuhito Fujiu. 



Hematopoietic stem cells, located in bone marrow, are responsible for producing blood cells and macrophages, which are essential for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/finasteride-regrows-hair-heals-prostate-boosts-heart-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">heart health</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stress-imprinting-on-the-epigenome">Stress imprinting on the epigenome</h2>



By studying mice, researchers discovered that stress imprints on the epigenome, causing chemical changes to their DNA. The suppression of the TGF-β signaling pathway in the hematopoietic <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/what-are-stem-cells-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stem cells</a> of affected mice resulted in the production of dysfunctional immune cells.



This change persisted over time. When the researchers transplanted bone marrow from the affected mice into healthy ones, the stem cells continued to produce dysfunctional immune cells, leading to heart problems and organ damage in the healthy mice.



"We termed this phenomenon stress memory because the stress from heart failure is remembered for an extended period and continues to affect the entire body. Although various other types of stress might also imprint this stress memory, we believe that the stress induced by heart failure is particularly significant," noted Professor Fujiu.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-preventing-heart-failure-stress-in-stem-cells">Preventing heart failure stress in stem cells</h2>



The identification and understanding of changes to the TGF-β signaling pathway open new possibilities for future treatments. 



"Completely new therapies could be considered to prevent the accumulation of this stress memory during hospitalization for heart failure," stated Professor Fujiu. 



In animal studies, supplementing additional active TGF-β has shown potential as a treatment. Correcting the epigenome of hematopoietic stem cells might also help eliminate stress memory.



This research offers hope for developing innovative therapies to prevent the recurrence of heart failure and improve overall heart health. 



By addressing the root cause of stress memory, new treatments could significantly enhance the quality of life for those affected by heart failure.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciimmunol.ade3814" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science Immunology</a>.



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Heart failure creates a lasting 'stress memory' in the body

Heart failure is a severe condition that leaves lasting effects...

Earth's magnetic <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">field</a>, our silent guardian against harmful solar radiation, is a fickle protector. It fluctuates in strength and location, leading to issues in our navigation systems and a deeper understanding of our planet's complexities. 



If you've ever used a compass,&nbsp;GPS,&nbsp;or even flown in an airplane,&nbsp;you've relied on this invisible force.&nbsp;But recent research reveals that our understanding of this field may need a tune-up.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wandering-poles-of-earth-s-magnetic-field">Wandering poles of Earth's magnetic field</h2>



Think of Earth's magnetic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/powerful-magnetic-fields-may-be-key-features-of-black-holes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">field</a> as a giant bar magnet within our planet, with lines of force extending from the North and South poles. But unlike a bar magnet, our planet's magnetic field is anything but static. It's constantly changing, thanks to the churning molten iron and nickel in Earth's outer core.



Changes in Earth's magnetic field pose significant challenges for scientists and engineers alike. The fluctuations, often triggered by solar storms and changes in the solar wind, are playing havoc with our geomagnetic field models. These models are crucial for everything from satellite navigation to airplane flight paths.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-igrf-13-model-mismatch">IGRF-13 model mismatch</h2>



A recent <a href="https://umich.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Michigan</a> study delved into these discrepancies. The research team compared satellite observations with the International Geomagnetic Reference Field (<a href="https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/products/international-geomagnetic-reference-field" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IGRF-13</a>), a standard model used to track Earth's magnetic field.



"We often assume a nearly symmetrical magnetic field between the northern and southern polar regions, but they are actually very different," said study co-author Yining Shi.



The researchers discovered that the discrepancies weren't just due to space weather, as previously thought. A major factor was an asymmetry between the North and South poles, both in terms of magnetic field strength and their mapping to geographic coordinates.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-polar-problems-in-earth-s-magnetic-field">Polar problems in Earth's magnetic field</h2>



The North and South poles are not mirror images of each other when it comes to their magnetic fields.&nbsp;This asymmetry, combined with the fact that satellites often collect more data around the geographic poles,&nbsp;creates a bias that further exaggerates the differences between models and reality.



"Understanding that what has been attributed to geophysical disturbances is really due to the asymmetry of the Earth's magnetic field will help us better create geomagnetic field models as well as help with satellite and aviation navigation," said study co-author Professor Mark Moldwin.



To add another layer of complexity, Earth's magnetic poles are not stationary. They drift, and in recent years, the North Pole's movement has accelerated. This poses an additional challenge for creating accurate models and ensuring reliable navigation.



"This adds further complexity to creating accurate magnetic field models," noted Moldwin.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-stakes-are-high">The stakes are high</h2>



The implications of these findings are far-reaching.&nbsp;Accurate magnetic field models are essential for a wide range of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/desert-ants-use-earths-magnetic-field-for-navigation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">applications</a>,&nbsp;including:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Satellite navigation</h3>



Accurate magnetic field models are crucial for satellite navigation. Satellites rely on precise geomagnetic data to maintain their correct orbits and ensure proper functioning. 



Any discrepancies in the magnetic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earths-magnetic-field-much-older-than-previously-believed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">field</a> models can lead to errors in satellite positioning, which can affect communication, weather forecasting, and GPS services. Satellites operating in low Earth orbit are particularly sensitive to these changes, making accurate models indispensable for their operation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Aviation</h3>



In aviation, reliable magnetic field models are vital for safe navigation. Airplanes use geomagnetic data to determine their heading and ensure they follow the correct flight path. 



This is especially important in polar regions, where the magnetic field is more variable and can deviate significantly from standard navigation charts. Accurate models help pilots navigate safely, avoiding potential hazards caused by unexpected magnetic variations.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Shipping</h3>



For maritime navigation, magnetic field models guide ships across the oceans. Ships use magnetic compasses to determine their direction, and any inaccuracies in the magnetic field can lead to navigational errors. 



This is particularly critical for vessels operating in remote areas with limited access to other navigational aids. Accurate magnetic models ensure that ships can traverse the seas safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall maritime safety.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Scientific research</h3>



In addition, accurate magnetic field models are essential for scientific research, particularly in understanding Earth's magnetosphere, ionosphere, and thermosphere. These layers of the atmosphere play a crucial role in protecting the planet from solar radiation and cosmic rays. 



By studying these regions, scientists can gain insights into space weather phenomena, such as solar storms, which can impact satellite operations, power grids, and communication systems on Earth. Reliable magnetic field models help researchers predict these events and develop strategies to mitigate their effects.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Space weather prediction</h3>



Understanding and predicting space weather is another critical application of accurate magnetic field models. Space weather events, such as solar flares and geomagnetic storms, can disrupt communication networks, damage satellites, and even affect power grids on Earth. 



The models enable scientists to monitor changes in the Earth's magnetic <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/strong-magnetic-fields-leave-marks-on-nuclear-matter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">field</a> and provide early warnings of potential space weather events. This helps in taking preventive measures to protect critical infrastructure and minimize the impact of these events on everyday life.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-refining-earth-s-magnetic-field-models">Refining Earth's magnetic field models</h2>



The study highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of Earth's magnetic field.&nbsp;By accounting for the asymmetry between the poles and refining our data collection methods,&nbsp;we can develop more accurate models that will benefit navigation,&nbsp;scientific research,&nbsp;and our overall understanding of our planet's dynamic electromagnetic shield.



Earth's magnetic field is a complex and ever-changing phenomenon. While it continues to protect us from harmful solar radiation, its wandering ways remind us that our planet is a dynamic entity, full of surprises and challenges yet to be unraveled. 



The research conducted by the University of Michigan team is a significant step towards unraveling these mysteries and ensuring that our navigation systems remain accurate and reliable in the face of an increasingly unpredictable magnetic field.



The study is published in the <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023JA032092" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Geophysical Research:&nbsp;Space Physics</a>.



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Earth's magnetic field is shifting and putting navigation at risk

Earth's magnetic field, our silent guardian against harmful solar radiation, is a...

Researchers have documented the most extensive migration ever recorded for a silky <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sharks-important-deserve-protections/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shark</a> (Carcharhinus falciformis). 



The study reveals critical insights into the behavior of this severely overfished species and emphasizes the urgent need for cooperative international management measures to prevent further population declines.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-epic-migration-by-genie">Epic migration by Genie </h2>



An adult female silky shark, nicknamed “Genie” in honor of late shark ecologist Eugenie Clark, was tagged with a fin-mount satellite transmitter near Wolf Island in the northern Galapagos Marine Reserve in July 2021.&nbsp;



Genie embarked on a vast journey, covering more than 27,666 kilometers over 546 days. This epic voyage, equivalent to crossing the United States from coast to coast approximately four times, included two significant westerly migrations halfway to Hawaii, extending as far as 4,755 kilometers from the tagging site into international waters – areas of high fishing pressure and minimal regulation.



Genie shattered previous movement records almost six-fold, illustrating the shark's extensive use of the open ocean, far beyond national jurisdictions. This discovery demonstrates the urgent need to establish regulations to conserve <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/environmental-stability-helped-ocean-biodiversity-flourish/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean biodiversity</a> beyond areas of national jurisdiction.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-migration-of-silky-sharks">Understanding the migration of silky sharks</h2>



Study lead author Dr. Pelayo Salinas de León is the co-principal investigator of the shark ecology project at the <a href="https://www.darwinfoundation.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Darwin Foundation</a> (CDF).



“Understanding the migratory pathways of silky and other threatened pelagic sharks is crucial for developing effective management strategies to revert ongoing global population declines,” said Dr. Salinas de León.



“Sharks have been roaming the world’s oceans for hundreds of millions of years, and the map boundaries we humans have established on paper mean nothing to them. Their long migrations through heavily fished international waters expose them to significant risks, highlighting the need for a coordinated global response to ensure the survival of this highly threatened group of species.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-vulnerability-of-silky-sharks">Vulnerability of silky sharks</h2>



Silky sharks are particularly vulnerable to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/endangered-sharks-study-reveals-hidden-crisis-of-overfishing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">overfishing</a> due to their slow growth, late maturity, and high demand in the global shark fin trade. Classified as “vulnerable” on the <a href="https://www.iucnredlist.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">IUCN Red List of Threatened Species</a>, they are frequently caught in both artisanal and industrial fisheries, making them a conservation priority for CDF and other organizations.



Remarkably, more than 99% of the time Genie was tracked occurred within international waters to the west and south, far outside the Ecuador-managed Exclusive Economic Zone around the Galapagos Islands. This highlights the critical need for international cooperation in the protection of these long-distance traveling oceanic sharks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-this-iconic-species-nbsp">Protecting this iconic species&nbsp;</h2>



“Obtaining shark tracks with good location resolution for over a year is difficult at best. In this case, we were able to track Genie for 1.5 years, revealing unexpectedly consistent, repeated travel pathways of massive distances going far offshore, well beyond national management and current <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marine-protected-areas-fall-short-on-2030-biodiversity-targets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marine protected areas</a>,” said study co-author Mahmood Shivji.



“This finding is a call to action for all stakeholders involved in marine conservation and fisheries management to work together to protect these iconic species and the oceanic ecosystems they inhabit.”



Published in the <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/jfb.15788" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Fish Biology</a>, this study serves as a crucial reminder of the interconnectedness of our global marine environments and the collective action required to safeguard ocean biodiversity.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-about-silky-sharks">More about silky sharks</h2>



Silky sharks, named for their smooth skin texture, are a species of pelagic shark commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters around the globe.&nbsp;



These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tiger-sharks-that-interact-with-tourists-exhibit-physical-changes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sharks</a> are medium-sized and can be recognized by their streamlined bodies and elongated, rounded snouts. They are typically a dark gray color with a lighter underside, which helps them blend into the ocean depths when viewed from above or below.



Silky sharks are highly mobile, as demonstrated by Genie, and primarily feed on fish and squid, using their acute sense of smell and hearing to locate prey. They are considered to be one of the more aggressive shark species, particularly when bait is present.



The research was conducted by researchers from the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF), the <a href="https://ghriresearch.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Guy Harvey Research Institute</a> (GHRI), the <a href="https://saveourseas.com/sosf-shark-research-center/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Save Our Seas Foundation Shark Research Center</a> (SOSF-SRC) at Nova Southeastern University in Florida, and the <a href="https://www.imo-oceanum.org/partner/galapagos-national-park-directorate" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Galapagos National Park Directorate</a> (GNPD). 



Image Credit: Pelayo Salinas de León



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Silky shark shatters records by swimming over 17,000 miles

Researchers have documented the most extensive migration ever recorded for...

Mental disorders - particularly mood, anxiety, and eating disorders - can spread within teen social groups, according to a recent study led by the <a href="https://www.helsinki.fi/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Helsinki</a>. 



"Previous research indicates that mental disorders may be transmitted from one individual to another within social networks. However, there is a lack of population-based epidemiologic evidence that pertains to the full range of mental disorders," noted the study authors.



The research team set out to investigate this phenomenon by examining social networks formed in school classes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-rise-of-mental-disorders">The rise of mental disorders</h2>



Mental disorders can significantly affect a person's thinking, feeling, behavior, or mood. Such illnesses may have a profound impact on daily functioning and relationships. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-common-mental-disorders-in-teens">Common mental disorders in teens</h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Depression</h4>



Depression is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and a significant change in appetite or sleep patterns.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Anxiety disorders</h4>



Generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic attacks involve excessive worry, nervousness, or fear.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)</h4>



Symptoms of ADHD include difficulty staying focused, paying attention, controlling behavior, and hyperactivity.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eating-disorders">Eating disorders</h4>



Anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and binge-eating disorders involve serious disturbances in eating behaviors and related thoughts and emotions.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Bipolar disorder</h4>



This disorder is associated with episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-development-of-mental-disorders">Development of mental disorders </h3>



Teens can develop mental disorders due to various factors. Genetics play a crucial role, as mental disorders often run in families. Environmental factors, including stressful life events, trauma, abuse, and neglect, can trigger mental health issues. 



Biological factors like brain chemistry imbalances and hormonal changes during puberty also contribute. Social factors, such as peer pressure, academic stress, and social media influence, can affect mental health. 



Additionally, substance abuse and chronic health conditions can increase the risk of developing mental disorders. 



Signs of mental disorders in teens include sudden changes in behavior or mood, withdrawal from friends and activities, a decline in academic performance, excessive worry or fear, and changes in eating or sleeping patterns. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mental disorders and adolescent social networks</h2>



This study is the largest and most detailed of its kind, involving over 700,000 ninth-grade students from 860 Finnish schools. These <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/urban-forest-bathing-fresh-breath-for-teen-mental-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adolescents</a> were tracked from the end of ninth grade for a median period of 11 years. 



The researchers found a significant association between the number of classmates diagnosed with a mental <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sleep-circadian-disturbances-trigger-mental-health-disorders/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disorder</a> and the increased risk of these students receiving a similar diagnosis later in life.



"The observed link was the strongest during the first year of follow-up in the study," noted Professor&nbsp;Christian Hakulinen. "This was not explained by factors related to parents, school, and residential area. The link was most pronounced in the case of mood, anxiety, and eating disorders."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-finnish-registers">The power of Finnish registers</h2>



The study's depth and accuracy were made possible by the comprehensive Finnish registers. 



Unlike previous studies where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/social-network-interventions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">social networks</a> were chosen by the research subjects themselves, leading to potential bias, this research utilized school classes as predefined social networks. 



This method ensures a more accurate depiction of the social influence on mental health.



"Defining the social networks and following adolescents were made possible by extensive Finnish registers. The findings significantly deepen our understanding of how mental health problems develop and affect others in our social networks," said Professor Hakulinen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-contagion-of-mental-disorders">Contagion of mental disorders </h2>



While the study reveals a strong association, it does not necessarily imply a direct causal relationship. The study did not investigate how mental disorders might be transmitted between individuals.



"It may be possible, for instance, that the threshold for seeking help for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/childhood-maltreatment-fuels-mental-health-crisis-in-australia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental</a> health issues is lowered when there are one or more people in your social network who have already sought help for their problems. In fact, this kind of normalization of diagnosis and treatment can be considered a beneficial contagion of mental disorders," Hakulinen explained.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-growing-challenge-of-mental-disorders">The growing challenge of mental disorders</h2>



Mental disorders pose a significant global challenge, impacting individuals, society, and the economy. Moreover, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/chemical-found-in-cannabis-plants-can-actually-reduce-cannabis-induced-anxiety/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">anxiety</a> and mood symptoms, in particular, have been on the rise among young people in recent years. 



Previous research indicates that the onset of mental disorders in adulthood often occurs before the age of 18.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-need-for-preventive-measures">The need for preventive measures</h2>



Given the potential for mental disorders to spread within adolescent social networks, preventive measures and early intervention are crucial. 



"When taking preventive measures, it’s worthwhile considering that mental disorders can spread from one adolescent to another," noted Professor Hakulinen.



This groundbreaking study sheds light on the social dynamics of mental health among adolescents. By understanding the potential for mental disorders to spread within social networks, we can better <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/supportive-adults-help-protect-children-from-mental-health-issues/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">address</a> this growing concern and implement effective preventive strategies.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2818735" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JAMA Psychiatry</a>.



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Mental disorders can be contagious among teens

Mental disorders - particularly mood, anxiety, and eating disorders -...

COVID-19 breakthrough infections in vaccinated individuals may offer an unexpected benefit: heightened immunity against future <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/sars-cov-2-can-survive-on-frozen-meat-for-up-to-a-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SARS-CoV-2</a> infections. 



Research from <a href="https://www.lji.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">La Jolla Institute for Immunology</a> (LJI) reveals that those who experience breakthrough infections develop a more robust immune response, particularly through improved T cell recognition and targeting of the virus.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-covid-19-breakthrough-infections">COVID-19 breakthrough infections </h2>



The LJI scientists analyzed blood samples from vaccinated volunteers who had breakthrough infections. 



The team discovered that these individuals developed T cells capable of recognizing multiple parts of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, including its variants like Omicron and Delta. This enhanced ability is referred to as an "immunity wall."



"The virus evolves, but, importantly, so does the immune system. <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 cells</a> do not sit idle. Instead, they learn to recognize the parts of the virus that mutate," explained Professor Alessandro Sette, who co-led the study.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-findings">Key Findings</h4>



<ul>
<li>Symptomatic Breakthrough Infections: Volunteers who experienced these infections developed T cells that recognized various targets on the SARS-CoV-2 virus.</li>



<li>Improved T Cell Recognition: These T cells were better equipped to identify and respond to mutated regions on new variants.</li>



<li>Asymptomatic Breakthrough Infections: Even without symptoms, these infections boosted T cell responses, though less significantly.</li>



<li>B Cell Response: Breakthrough infections led to the production of cross-reactive antibodies, targeting both the new variants and the original vaccine antigens.</li>



<li>No T Cell Exhaustion: There was no evidence that repeated vaccinations and infections caused harmful T cell exhaustion.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-t-cells-gain-fighting-power">T cells gain fighting power</h2>



Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 provides significant protection against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/severe-covid-survivors-face-long-term-impairments/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">severe disease</a>. LJI studies show that this protection is long-lasting and effective against new viral variants. 



The researchers focused on how breakthrough infections impact T and B cells by tracking a group of vaccinated volunteers who later contracted COVID-19.



"With this study volunteer cohort, we were in a unique position to see how the immune system looked before and after a breakthrough infection," noted Professor Alba Grifoni.



Breakthrough infections prompted T cells to expand their repertoires, meaning they could recognize multiple features of SARS-CoV-2. This broadening was due to the combination of vaccination and infection. 



Vaccines taught T cells to recognize the spike protein, while infections helped them recognize additional viral proteins. As a result, T cells could target SARS-CoV-2 even if it mutated.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakthrough-infections-and-b-cell-responses">Breakthrough infections and B cell responses</h2>



Breakthrough infections also stimulated B cells to produce diverse <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/experts-have-found-powerful-antibodies-that-neutralize-all-covid-variants/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">antibodies</a> targeting common epitopes between the vaccine and the infecting variant. These new antibodies were effective against both the vaccine's antigens and the viral variants.



"New B cell responses that are only specific to the infecting variant, but not the vaccine, are very rare," said study co-author Parham Ramezani-Rad.



Another significant finding was the location of immune cell development. COVID-19 vaccines are typically administered in the upper arm, while SARS-CoV-2 infects the upper respiratory tract. This discrepancy can delay the immune response. A breakthrough infection can add an extra layer of protection by initiating immune cells closer to the infection site.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-impact-of-asymptomatic-infections">The impact of asymptomatic infections</h2>



The experts identified markers of previous SARS-CoV-2 infection in about 30% of volunteers who never showed symptoms, suggesting they had asymptomatic infections. 



"Our study suggests most people who never thought they got a breakthrough infection actually did," explained Professor Grifoni. "The majority of the population appears to be affected by a combination of vaccination and one or more breakthrough infections."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-evidence-of-t-cell-exhaustion">No evidence of T cell exhaustion</h2>



The research also dispels concerns about T cell exhaustion from repeated vaccinations and infections. Instead, breakthrough infections prompted T cells to produce more cytokines, enhancing their infection-fighting capabilities.



"After the breakthrough infection, the same cells produce multiple types of cytokines, making them more efficacious," noted Professor Grifoni. "Not only are our T cells not exhausted, but they are actually improving their capabilities."



However, the "immunity wall" has its limits. Following an asymptomatic breakthrough infection, T cell abilities were found to plateau with subsequent symptomatic infections, although B cells continued producing neutralizing antibodies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-importance-of-booster-vaccines">The importance of booster vaccines</h2>



Despite the benefits of breakthrough infections, the researchers emphasize the importance of following current CDC guidelines for booster vaccines. SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve, and COVID-19 can still cause serious illness, especially in immunocompromised individuals.



This research provides crucial insights for developing new vaccines against future SARS-CoV-2 variants and other potential <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/influenza-is-considered-the-biggest-pandemic-threat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pandemic viruses</a>. Researchers are keen to explore how future variants or new vaccine designs might further enhance the immune response.



"Studies of local B cell responses in the upper airway - where the infection occurs - will also be informative on how B cells responses are induced, particularly after breakthrough infection," said Ramezani-Rad.



The ultimate goal is to train T cells to recognize multiple types of coronaviruses simultaneously, potentially leading to a "pan-coronavirus" vaccine. This breakthrough study marks a significant step in understanding how to protect against viral infections and future pandemics.



"We're very interested to see if this phenomenon could be exploited in general to prepare against other potential pandemic threats," said Sette. "This is a step in a journey to help us protect against viral infections and potential pandemics."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2666379124002751" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cell Reports Medicine</a>.



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COVID-19 breakthrough infections build an 'immunity wall'

COVID-19 breakthrough infections in vaccinated individuals may offer an unexpected...

Microplastic ingestion is now an inescapable part of our daily lives, entering our bodies through the food we eat and the air we breathe. A recent study has mapped the human uptake of microplastics across 109 countries, revealing some startling trends.



Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines top the list for dietary <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/consumption-of-microplastics-cant-be-avoided-and-they-damage-gut-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microplastic consumption</a> per capita, while China, Mongolia, and the United Kingdom lead in microplastic inhalation.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microplastic-ingestion-from-the-human-diet">Microplastic ingestion from the human diet</h2>



Published in the journal Environmental Science &amp; Technology, this study builds on existing data models to estimate how much microplastic humans consume unknowingly.



These microplastics result from untreated <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ocean-floor-harbors-up-to-11-million-tons-of-plastic-debris/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic debris</a> degrading and dispersing into the environment. 



Furthermore, the study considers factors such as eating habits, food processing technologies, age demographics, and breathing rates to provide a comprehensive estimate of human microplastic ingestion.



Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, have become a pervasive part of our diet. These particles enter our food through various pathways, posing potential health risks. 



Seafood is a significant source, as fish and shellfish ingest microplastics from <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/microplastics-pose-a-greater-threat-to-some-ocean-animals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">polluted oceans</a>, which then transfer to humans upon consumption. 



Sea salt, particularly in regions with high marine pollution, also contains substantial amounts of microplastics.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/microplastics_human-ingestion_illustration_credit-Environmental-Science-Technology_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/microplastics_human-ingestion_illustration_credit-Environmental-Science-Technology_1s.jpg" alt="How humans ingest microplastics. Credit: Environmental Science and Technology" class="wp-image-1935199"/></a></figure>



Bottled water is another contributor, with plastic bottles shedding microplastics into the water we drink. Food packaging, especially when heated, can release microplastics into food we ingest.



Additionally, plastics used in agriculture, like mulch films, can break down and contaminate crops, further microplastic ingestion in our diets.



The ingestion of microplastics through diet is concerning due to their ability to absorb harmful chemicals, which can then enter the body.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breathing-and-indirect-microplastic-ingestion">Breathing and indirect microplastic ingestion</h2>



The study's data on dietary microplastic ingestion includes concentrations found in various food groups: fruits, vegetables, proteins, grains, dairy, drinks, sugars, salt, and spices. 



For example, while table salt consumption is similar between Indonesia and the U.S., the microplastic concentration in Indonesian <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/table-salt-contains-a-shocking-number-of-microplastics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">table salt</a> is about 100 times higher. 



Consequently, Indonesians consume about 15 grams of microplastics per month, primarily from seafood, making it the highest in the world. 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/microplastics_human-ingestion_world-map_credit-Environmental-Science-Technology_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/microplastics_human-ingestion_world-map_credit-Environmental-Science-Technology_1s.jpg" alt="World map showing levels of human microplastics ingestion. Credit: Environmental Science and Technology" class="wp-image-1935201"/></a></figure>



In comparison, U.S. residents consume approximately 2.4 grams per month, while Paraguayans consume the least at 0.85 grams.



Airborne microplastic concentration, age demographics, and respiration rates were analyzed to determine inhalation rates. 



Residents of China and Mongolia inhale over 2.8 million particles per month, topping the global list. In contrast, U.S. residents inhale about 300,000 particles per month. 



The lowest inhalation rates are found in Mediterranean regions, with Spain, Portugal, and Hungary residents inhaling between 60,000 to 240,000 particles monthly.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-of-industrialization">Implications of industrialization</h2>



"Industrialization in developing economies, particularly in East and South Asia, has led to increased consumption of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/biodegradable-plastic-materials-do-not-biodegrade-in-the-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plastic materials</a>, waste generation, and human microplastic uptake," said Fengqi You, the Roxanne E. and Michael J. Zak Professor in Energy Systems Engineering and senior faculty fellow at the <a href="https://atkinson.cornell.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability</a>. 



Developed countries, however, are seeing a reverse trend due to better economic resources for reducing and removing plastic debris.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategies-for-reduction">Strategies for reduction</h2>



The study suggests that a 90% reduction in aquatic plastic debris could significantly decrease microplastic ingestion -- by up to 51% in developed countries and 49% in highly industrializing regions. 



These findings come just after an international committee meeting (April 23–29) negotiating the U.N. <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/plastics-treaty-talks-slow-progress-yet-restored-hope/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Plastics Treaty</a>, which aims to establish global rules for plastic production and disposal. 



The treaty, expected to be finalized later this year, will emphasize international collaboration to reduce marine microplastics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-addressing-microplastic-uptake-a-multifaceted-approach">Addressing microplastic uptake: a multifaceted approach</h2>



"Cleaning the global surface water system is a marathon influenced by local industrial and socioeconomic settings," said Xiang Zhao, a doctoral student and co-author of the study. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/microplastics_human-ingestion_world-map_credit-Environmental-Science-Technology_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The global map</a> pinpointing aquatic microplastic hotspots can initiate this journey. 



The study highlights that addressing microplastic ingestion requires sustainable packaging solutions, stringent waste management regulations, and advanced water treatment technologies.



This comprehensive mapping of global microplastic ingestion provides crucial insights for local pollution mitigation efforts and supports the development of targeted strategies to combat this global crisis.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.4c00010" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Environmental Science &amp; Technology</a>.



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Human microplastic ingestion levels mapped across 109 countries

Microplastic ingestion is now an inescapable part of our daily...

The,Jet,Of,An,Active,Black,Hole

Astronomers have caught supermassive black holes in the act of changing the direction of their jets – a cosmic twist that could shake up our understanding of star formation and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colossal-black-hole-found-in-our-galaxy-is-33-times-the-suns-mass/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy evolution</a>. 



Imagine these behemoths, millions or even billions of times more massive than our Sun, firing off powerful jets of energy <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-jets-are-like-million-light-year-long-jedi-lightsabers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">like cosmic cannons</a>. What happens when these cannons start swiveling?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-jets-from-black-holes-in-two-galaxy-groups">Jets from black holes in two galaxy groups</h2>



In a captivating display, supermassive black holes are known to emit powerful jets of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/small-black-hole-disrupts-a-bigger-one-causing-cosmic-hiccups/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">energy</a>, often aligned with their rotation axis. 



Picture a spinning top, spewing energy from its poles. However, recent observations have revealed a surprising twist in this celestial pattern.



A team of astronomers, using NASA's <a href="https://chandra.harvard.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chandra X-ray Observatory</a> and the National Radio Astronomy Observatory's <a href="https://public.nrao.edu/telescopes/vla/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Very Large Array</a>, observed sixteen supermassive black holes spewing jets into space. 



Two Chandra images below reveal hot gas in the middle of the galaxy cluster Abell 478 (left) and the galaxy group NGC 5044 (right). 



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Abell-478_NGC-5044_black-holes_deathstars-x-ray-optical_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Abell-478_NGC-5044_black-holes_deathstars-x-ray-optical_NASA_1s.jpg" alt="Supermassive black hole jets changing directions in Abell 478 [Left] and NGC 5044 [Right]. Credit: NASA/CXC" class="wp-image-1935188"/></a></figure>



One of the sixteen black holes firing beams outwards resides in the center of each image. Each black hole lies in the center of a galaxy embedded in the hot gas. 



The beams carved out these cavities millions of years ago, indicating the past directions of the beams. An "X" marks the location on the below image of each supermassive black hole.



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Abell-478_NGC-5044_black-holes_deathstars-x-ray-optical-annotated_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><img src="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Abell-478_NGC-5044_black-holes_deathstars-x-ray-optical-annotated_NASA_1s.jpg" alt="Annotated image of supermassive black hole jets changing directions in Abell 478 [Left] and NGC 5044 [Right]. Credit: NASA/CXC" class="wp-image-1935191"/></a></figure>



They noticed that some of these jets had significantly changed direction over time. This is akin to a spinning top suddenly veering off course.



The researchers found that about a third of the 16 galaxies have beams pointing in completely different directions than before. 



In some cases, the beams have changed directions by nearly 90 degrees. These changes occurred over timescales ranging from one million years to a few tens of millions of years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-black-holes-redirecting-their-jets">Black holes redirecting their jets</h2>



What could cause these cosmic cannons to change course? The direction of a black hole's jet is linked to its rotation axis. 



If material <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-would-it-be-like-to-fall-into-a-black-hole/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">falling</a> into the black hole approaches at an angle not parallel to the surrounding disk of matter, it can alter the black hole's rotation. This change in rotation can shift the direction of the jet.



Black holes generate beams when material falls onto them via a spinning disk of matter. Some of this material gets redirected outward. 



The direction of these beams aligns with the rotation axis of the black hole, meaning the beams point along a line connecting the poles. 



If the inflow of material is misaligned with the disk, it can tilt the rotation axis, causing the jet direction to change. These findings reveal the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/powerful-magnetic-fields-may-be-key-features-of-black-holes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dynamic nature</a> of black holes and their significant influence on the galaxies they inhabit.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-consequences-of-change-in-black-hole-direction">Consequences of change in black hole direction</h2>



This unexpected shift in directions from the jets of black holes has far-reaching implications, especially for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/spin-of-a-new-black-hole-is-unlocking-galactic-mysteries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">star formation</a> within galaxies. 



Black hole jets inject energy into the surrounding gas, preventing it from cooling and forming stars. If these jets change direction, they could suppress star formation across wider areas of the galaxy.



Think of it as a cosmic gardener with a hose, watering different parts of the galactic garden. If the hose suddenly changes direction, some areas might get overwatered while others dry out, affecting the growth of plants (or in this case, stars).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-glimpse-into-the-dynamic-universe">Glimpse into the dynamic universe</h2>



The discovery of these redirected jets from black holes adds another layer of complexity to our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-waterfall-discovery-proves-einstein-right-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">understanding of the universe</a>. 



It reveals that even the most massive and seemingly stable objects in the cosmos are not immune to change. This is a reminder that the universe is a dynamic and ever-evolving place, full of surprises waiting to be uncovered.



Scientists believe that jets from black holes and the cavities they carve out play a crucial role in star formation within galaxies. These beams pump energy into the hot gas in and around the galaxy. 



This prevents the gas from cooling enough to form large numbers of new stars. When the beams change direction significantly, they can suppress star formation across much larger areas of the galaxy.



As we continue to explore the cosmos with increasingly sophisticated tools, we are bound to discover more fascinating phenomena that challenge our current understanding of the universe. 



The pattern of the supermassive black holes is just one example of the many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/black-hole-waterfall-discovery-proves-einstein-right-again/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mysteries</a> that await us in the vast expanse of space.



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Black holes caught redirecting their jets like a 'Death Star' weapon

Astronomers have caught supermassive black holes in the act of...

Researchers have long believed that cooperative hunting, where <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/inaudible-screams-amphibians-use-ultrasound-to-deter-predators/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a> work together to catch prey, required sophisticated cognitive processes. 



However, a recent study reveals that this complex behavior might emerge from mechanisms that are much simpler than expected.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breakthrough-research-from-japan">Breakthrough research from Japan</h2>



A team of scientists at <a href="https://en.nagoya-u.ac.jp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nagoya University</a> in Japan has discovered that cooperation among predators can arise from basic rules and experience, rather than advanced cognitive abilities. 



The research not only enhances our understanding of animal behavior but also has implications for the development of collaborative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/does-the-human-brain-outperform-artificial-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence</a> (AI) systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-challenging-assumptions-on-cooperative-hunting">Challenging assumptions on cooperative hunting</h2>



Earlier studies linked cooperative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/killer-whales-use-clever-hunting-strategies-to-outsmart-prey/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hunting</a> to mammals with complex social behaviors, such as lions and chimpanzees. 



Surprisingly, similar behaviors are observed in species with less advanced cognitive abilities, like crocodiles and fish. This suggests that simpler mechanisms might be at play.



To explore this theory, the researchers developed a computational model using deep reinforcement learning. In the model, AI agents learned to hunt together by receiving rewards for their actions. 



This approach allows algorithms to learn through interaction with the environment, processing inputs such as position and velocity, and making autonomous decisions.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-reality-of-cooperative-hunting">The reality of cooperative hunting </h2>



Programmed with reinforcement learning capabilities, AI predator agents were trained to collaborate by maximizing future rewards. These agents displayed distinct and complementary roles during the simulations. 



For instance, one agent would chase the prey while another would ambush it. As the number of predators increased, the success rate of hunts went up, and the time needed to capture prey decreased.



In a final test, AI agents acted as predators while human participants played the role of prey. Despite initial confusion due to unexpected human movements, the AI agents quickly adapted and successfully captured the humans. 



This experiment demonstrated that cooperative hunting does not require complex cognitive processes, suggesting that real-world predators may also learn to collaborate through simple decision rules.



"Our predator agents learned to collaborate using reinforcement learning, without requiring complex cognitive mechanisms akin to the theory of mind," said study co-author Kazushi Tsutsui. "This suggests that cooperative hunting can evolve in a wider range of species than previously thought."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-broader-implications-of-the-study">Broader implications of the study</h2>



The findings have significant implications beyond the animal kingdom. They highlight the potential to advance cooperative <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/machines-and-consciousness-are-ai-systems-really-awake/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI systems</a>, which could be used in various domains requiring collaborative solutions, such as autonomous driving and traffic management. 



The research team also anticipates that their discoveries will inspire new field studies on decision-making in predator-prey dynamics.



Ultimately, the study challenges the notion that complex cognitive processes are necessary for cooperative hunting. Instead, it shows that simple rules and experience can lead to effective collaboration among predators, opening new avenues for both animal behavior research and the development of advanced AI systems.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Examples of cooperative hunting</h2>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/lions-are-dangling-precariously-on-the-brink-of-extinction-immediate-action-is-needed/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lions</a> are perhaps the most famous cooperative hunters, working in groups to surround and take down large prey such as zebras and wildebeests. Similarly, wolves hunt in packs to effectively manage and capture faster or larger animals that one wolf alone could not overpower.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Orcas and dolphins</h3>



In the aquatic world, orcas, also known as killer whales, use sophisticated hunting techniques that rely on the group's coordination. They are known to create waves to wash seals off ice floes, or they herd fish into tight balls for easier feeding.&nbsp;



Dolphins display similar behaviors, encircling schools of fish and taking turns to feed in the center of the fish shoal.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Chimpanzees&nbsp;</h3>



Chimpanzees also demonstrate cooperative hunting when they target medium-sized mammals like monkeys. They orchestrate complex chases, with some chimps blocking potential escape routes while others actively chase the prey. This kind of strategy requires not only physical skill but also advanced communication and role assignment.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Unique strategies&nbsp;</h3>



Cooperative hunting not only enhances the efficiency of predators in capturing food but also plays a crucial role in the social structures and communication development of these animals.&nbsp;



Each species has evolved unique strategies that fit their environment and physical capabilities, illustrating the diverse ways in which animal societies organize themselves to meet their needs.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://elifesciences.org/articles/85694" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eLife</a>.



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Cooperative hunting does not require complex thinking skills

Researchers have long believed that cooperative hunting, where predators work...

Astronomers have developed a remarkable method to measure the spin of supermassive black holes. To achieve this feat, the scientists harnessed the chaotic aftermath of black holes devouring <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/star-collapse-black-hole-instead-of-supernova-vanish-from-sky/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stars</a>.



This novel approach sheds light on the elusive properties of black holes and paves the way for future discoveries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tidal-disruption-events">Tidal disruption events</h2>



A <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/18-black-holes-captured-devouring-nearby-stars-in-dramatic-tidal-disruption-events/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tidal disruption event</a> (TDE) occurs when a star ventures too close to a black hole, resulting in its violent destruction. The black hole's immense tidal forces rip the star apart, creating an intensely hot accretion disk from the remaining stellar material. 



This accretion disk, composed of the star's remnants, spins and wobbles under the influence of the black hole's gravity.



Researchers at <a href="https://www.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a>, in collaboration with <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> and other institutions, have demonstrated that this wobbling disk is crucial for determining the black hole's spin. 



The study revealed that tracking the X-ray flashes emitted by the disk immediately following a tidal disruption event can provide insights into the black hole's rotational speed.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unveiling-the-black-hole-s-spin">Unveiling the black hole's spin</h2>



The research team monitored the X-ray emissions from a nearby supermassive black hole over several months, observing the fluctuations caused by the wobbling accretion disk. 



By analyzing how the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/the-moons-wobbles-will-cause-a-surge-in-coastal-flooding/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wobble</a> evolved, the experts inferred the black hole's spin. Their findings indicated that the black hole was spinning at less than 25 percent the speed of light - a relatively slow rate for black holes.



Study lead author Dheeraj "DJ" Pasham is a member of MIT’s Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research. 



"By studying several systems in the coming years with this method, astronomers can estimate the overall distribution of black hole spins and understand the longstanding question of how they evolve over time," noted Pasham.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wobbling-accretion-disk">Wobbling accretion disk </h2>



Black holes acquire their spin through <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/galaxy-collisions-hubble-spots-a-string-of-pearls-star-cluster/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cosmic encounters</a> over time. Accretion, where material falls onto the black hole's disk, can significantly increase the spin. Conversely, mergers with other black holes may slow it down as the spins of the merging entities counteract each other. 



As a black hole spins, it drags the surrounding space-time, a phenomenon known as Lense-Thirring precession.



During a tidal disruption event, the star's debris forms a tilted, misaligned accretion disk around the black hole. The disk wobbles as the black hole's spin pulls it into alignment. 



The scientists predicted that this wobbling could serve as a measurable signature of the black hole's spin. However, obtaining the right observations was crucial.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hunting-for-tidal-disruption-events">Hunting for tidal disruption events</h2>



Pasham and his team spent five years searching for bright, nearby TDEs suitable for detailed study.



In February 2020, they struck gold with the detection of AT2020ocn, a bright flash from a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/colossal-black-hole-found-in-our-galaxy-is-33-times-the-suns-mass/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">galaxy</a> about a billion light-years away. This event, initially spotted by the Zwicky Transient Facility in the optical band, showed promise for tracking disk wobbling and measuring the black hole's spin.



"We needed quick and high-cadence data," said Pasham. "The key was to catch this early on because this precession, or wobble, should only be present early on. Any later, and the disk would not wobble anymore."



NASA’s NICER telescope, positioned on the International Space Station, provided the continuous observations that were needed. 



NICER, designed to measure X-ray radiation around black holes and other extreme gravitational objects, tracked AT2020ocn for 200 days after the tidal disruption event. 



The data revealed <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/x-ray-single-atom-captured-by-scientists-for-first-time/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">X-ray</a> peaks every 15 days, corresponding to the wobbling accretion disk emitting X-rays directly towards the telescope.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-decoding-the-spin-of-black-holes">Decoding the spin of black holes</h2>



The research team incorporated these observations into the Lense-Thirring precession theory, estimating the black hole's spin based on the mass of the black hole and the disrupted star. 



The analysis confirmed that the black hole was spinning at less than 25 percent the speed of light, marking the first time this method has been used to estimate a black hole's spin.



Looking ahead, Pasham anticipates more opportunities to measure black hole spins as new telescopes, like the Rubin Observatory, come online. 



"The spin of a supermassive black hole tells you about the history of that black hole," Pasham said. "Even if a small fraction of those that Rubin captures have this kind of signal, we now have a way to measure the spins of hundreds of TDEs. Then we could make a big statement about how black holes evolve over the age of the universe."



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07433-w" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature</a>.



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Star debris can be used to measure the spin of black holes

Astronomers have developed a remarkable method to measure the spin...

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing it with probiotics and prebiotics, aiming to create a treat that satisfies cravings while supporting gut health. 



The challenge lies in maintaining chocolate's beloved texture and flavor while adding health benefits.



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Probiotics - beneficial microbes that balance gut bacteria and aid digestion - are typically fragile and can be destroyed by stomach acid or processing. 



Prebiotics act as food for these microbes, helping them thrive. Together, they form "synbiotics," a powerful health combination.



Researchers Smriti Gaur and Shubhi Singh from India's Jaypee Institute of Information Technology took an innovative approach, using natural prebiotics like corn and honey instead of complex processing methods. 



They created five chocolate varieties: a control and four synbiotic versions containing different combinations of prebiotics, probiotics (Lactobacillus strains), and flavor enhancers (cinnamon or orange).



Laboratory simulations of human digestion showed the probiotics remained viable for over five hours, suggesting they could survive long enough to benefit gut health.



Taste tests were positive, with researchers particularly enjoying the orange-flavored variety, describing it as having "vibrant citrus notes" complementing the "rich cocoa" with a "luxurious" texture.



This research represents just the beginning. With further refinement of strains, textures, and flavors, chocolate could evolve beyond mere indulgence to become a functional food that nourishes while it delights.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00741" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ACS Food Science &amp; Technology</a>.

Is chocolate the next nutritional powerhouse?

Scientists are transforming chocolate into a functional food by infusing...

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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

Nushagak Bay in southwest Alaska

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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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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Flu viruses are more flexible than expected

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



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



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



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



Video/Image Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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

Lake Trasimeno in Central Italy

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



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



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



Video Credit: American Chemical Society&nbsp;



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



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Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

[sendtonews key="LvS8v8bp9z-2564889-12187" 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.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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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.

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



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.

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



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

How does salt makes things taste better?

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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: ESA



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



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.

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



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.

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



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.

Remote sensing will revolutionize the way we monitor trees

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: ESA&nbsp;



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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



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.

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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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 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



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.

The Pyrenees Mountains in southwest Europe

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



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



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



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



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



Video Credit: Stowers Institute for Medical Research&nbsp;



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



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

How the immune system responds to injury

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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

2022 illustrated the consequences of a warming climate

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Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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



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

Two distant planets may be "water worlds"

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

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard&nbsp;



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



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

Satellites reveal how Earth's systems are interconnected

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

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