In the 1920s, the yellow-spored mold Aspergillus flavus gained infamy after members of Howard Carter’s team died not long after opening Tutankhamun’s tomb.



Decades later, a similar fate befell scientists who entered the crypt of Poland’s King Casimir IV. Within weeks, 10 of the 12 researchers succumbed to respiratory illness, and investigators traced the deadly outbreak to dormant A. flavus spores. 



Long dismissed as a toxic mold, Aspergillus flavus has revealed a new role: producing compounds that match some of the most trusted cancer therapies for acute myeloid leukemia.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-aspergillus-flavus-the-basics">Understanding Aspergillus flavus - the basics</h2>



This fungus is commonly found in soil, decaying vegetation, and grains. It thrives in warm, humid environments, which makes it a persistent problem in agricultural settings - especially in crops like corn, peanuts, and tree nuts. 



What makes it particularly concerning is its ability to produce aflatoxins, which are highly toxic and carcinogenic compounds. 



Aflatoxin contamination in food can pose serious health risks to both humans and livestock, prompting strict regulations and regular testing in the food industry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mold-s-molecular-treasure-map">Mold’s molecular treasure map</h2>



The breakthrough came from Sherry Gao’s laboratory at the <a href="https://www.upenn.edu/">University of Pennsylvania</a>, where researchers hunt for drugs hidden in microbial genomes.



The team focused on ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides, or RiPPs - small, ring-shaped molecules known for complex bioactivity. Scientists have cataloged thousands of RiPPs in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/scientists-think-they-found-two-key-bacteria-that-cause-multiple-sclerosis/">bacteria</a>, but they've found only a handful in fungi.



“Purifying these chemicals is difficult,” explained lead author Qiuyue Nie, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Pennsylvania. Moreover, scientists can easily overlook the genes that direct their synthesis.



Using a two-pronged strategy, the team first compared the chemical fingerprints of a dozen Aspergillus strains, then zeroed in on gene clusters likely to encode RiPP machinery. 



Turning those genes off caused the mysterious chemical peaks to vanish. This confirmed the researchers had found an active RiPP factory inside the tomb-dwelling mold.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-tomb-mold-to-cancer-medicine">From tomb mold to cancer medicine</h2>



Isolation and structural analysis revealed four previously unknown molecules sporting an intricate lattice of interlocking rings. The scientists named them asperigimycins in honor of their fungal source.



Two of the four showed notable activity against leukemia cells straight out of the flask, but a chemical tweak proved transformative.



By adding a fatty tail identical to one found in royal jelly - the nutrient-rich substance that turns ordinary bee larvae into queens - the team produced a lipid-capped asperigimycin. It matched cytarabine and daunorubicin, drugs that have anchored leukemia care since the 1970s.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-drug-gets-inside">How the drug gets inside </h2>



Why did that extra lipid unleash such power? Gao’s group deployed a <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/crispr-gene-editing-gets-a-revolutionary-upgrade-with-new-tool/">CRISPR</a>-based screen, knocking out genes in leukemia cells and tracking changes in drug uptake. 



One transporter, SLC46A3, emerged as essential. It normally shuttles nutrients out of lysosomes, the cell’s recycling compartments. The researchers learned that the fatty tag let the mold-derived asperigimycins hitch a ride through this portal.



“This gene acts like a gateway,” Nie said. “Knowing that lipids can affect how this gene transports chemicals into cells gives us another tool for <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/oral-peptides-pave-the-way-for-new-drug-development/">drug development</a>.” 



The insight may rescue other cyclic peptides that falter in trials because they cannot cross cellular barriers efficiently.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disarming-cancer-s-dividing-machinery"><a></a>Disarming cancer’s dividing machinery</h2>



Microscopy and biochemical assays showed that the modified asperigimycins halt tumor growth by sabotaging microtubules, the protein scaffolds that haul chromosomes apart during mitosis.



Intriguingly, the mold-derived molecules left breast, liver, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/honeybees-can-sniff-out-lung-cancer/">lung cancer</a> lines largely untouched, as well as an array of bacteria and yeast. 



That selectivity hints at fewer side effects for patients, a perennial challenge for chemotherapy agents that indiscriminately target all fast-dividing cells.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-mold-modern-answers">Ancient mold, modern answers</h2>



For decades, scientists debated how fungi construct RiPPs, often mistaking them for non-ribosomal peptides. The current study resolves that puzzle by linking chemical signatures to the responsible genes.



“The synthesis of these compounds is complicated, but that’s also what gives them this remarkable bioactivity," said Nie.



Comparative genomic scans have already flagged similar RiPP gene clusters in dozens of other molds, suggesting a trove of undiscovered molecules with antibiotic, antiviral, or immunomodulatory potential. According to Nie, this is an unexplored region with tremendous potential.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-tomb-to-trial">From tomb to trial</h2>



The next step is to test asperigimycins in mice to gauge toxicity, dosage, and efficacy in living organisms. Success there could pave the way for human clinical trials. Gao, reflecting on the journey from tomb lore to lab bench, recalls one guiding principle.



“Fungi gave us penicillin. These results show that many more medicines derived from natural products remain to be found,” Gao said.



Nature’s pantry still holds untold remedies waiting to be unlocked. With each advance in genomic mining and synthetic tailoring, the line between microbial menace and medical marvel grows ever thinner.



It’s a testament to evolution’s vast chemical imagination - and to scientists bold enough to mine mold and other microbes for the next life-saving drug.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41589-025-01946-9">Nature Chemical Biology</a>.



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Toxic mold found in ancient tombs has been engineered into a promising cancer drug

In the 1920s, the yellow-spored mold Aspergillus flavus gained infamy after members of Howard Carter’s team died not long after opening Tutankhamun’s tomb. Decades later, a similar fate befell scientists who entered the crypt of Poland’s King Casimir IV. Within weeks, 10 of the 12 researchers succumbed to respiratory illness, and investigators traced the deadly outbreak to dormant A. flavus spores. Long dismissed as a toxic mold, Aspergillus flavus has revealed a new role: producing compounds that match some of the most trusted cancer therapies for acute...

Medium-sized dog breeds are more prone to cancer than both the smallest and the largest breeds, according to a recent study led by the <a href="https://www.ucr.edu/">University of California, Riverside</a>.



These findings challenge the multistage model of cancer, which associates increased size within a single species to a heightened risk of cancer due to more frequent cellular mutations as cells divide and replicate.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-size-and-cancer-risk">Size and cancer risk</h2>



“The question that arises is why, then, don't we get more cancer than a mouse? We don't. There is no increase in cancer risk as animals increase in size from species to species,” explained Leonard Nunney, a UC Riverside evolutionary biologist and the study's author.&nbsp;



The paradox lies within species where size appears to correlate with cancer risk, as seen in humans, where taller individuals have about a 10% increase in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/you-can-reduce-your-risk-of-cancer-with-just-4-5-minutes-of-daily-activity/">cancer risk</a> for every 10 centimeters in height.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dogs-and-cancer-risk">Dogs and cancer risk</h2>



To delve deeper into these relationships, Nunney looked at dogs - a species with significant size variation - to understand how size impacts cancer risk.&nbsp;



“Testing this in dogs is even better because you can compare a tiny chihuahua to a great Dane. That's a 35-fold difference in size, and people can't come close to that,” he explained.&nbsp;



His findings showed that smaller dogs like Pomeranians, miniature pinschers, and chihuahuas have approximately a 10% chance of dying from cancer, while some larger breeds like Bernese mountain dogs exhibit more than a 40% chance.



However, the research also identified outliers, such as flat-coated retrievers and Scottish terriers, which exhibit higher cancer rates than typical for their size. Despite these anomalies, the study generally supports the multistage model’s assertion that larger size within a species may increase <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cigarette-smoke-exposure-elevates-cancer-risk-in-dogs/">cancer risk</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lifespan-and-cancer-risk">Lifespan and cancer risk </h2>



Surprisingly, the study also found that the very largest breeds, like Great Danes, actually show lower cancer rates compared to medium-sized breeds. This is attributed to their shorter life spans.&nbsp;



“For every pound increase in typical breed size you lose about two weeks of life. A very big dog, you're lucky if they live past nine years, whereas small dogs can go about 14,” Nunney said. Since cancer is predominantly an affliction of older age, these reduced <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/why-do-small-dogs-live-longer-than-large-breeds/">lifespans</a> in larger dogs correlate with decreased cancer risk.



These insights suggest that size and life expectancy within species are significant factors in cancer risk, aligning closely with the multistage model of cancer. “I was surprised how well dogs fit the model,” Nunney said. “But that doesn't happen when you compare a mouse to an elephant or a human to a whale. So, does that undermine the model in some way?”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-prevention-mechanisms-nbsp">Cancer prevention mechanisms&nbsp;</h2>



Nunney proposes that larger species have evolved more sophisticated cancer prevention mechanisms. “My argument is that preventing cancer is an evolving trait, so a whale will have more ways of preventing cancer than a mouse does,” he explained. 



This evolutionary perspective is supported by observations of elephants, which rarely suffer from cancer despite their size and longevity.



The broader implications of this research extend beyond veterinary science to potential insights into cancer prevention in humans. Understanding the natural mechanisms that larger species use to protect themselves from cancer could lead to breakthroughs in human cancer treatments and prevention strategies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-in-dogs-nbsp">Cancer in dogs&nbsp;</h2>



Cancer in dogs is a significant health concern and one of the leading causes of death in older dogs, though it can also affect younger ones. The disease occurs when cells grow uncontrollably, forming masses or invading tissues throughout the body.&nbsp;



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cancer-types">Cancer types</h3>



Different types of cancer in dogs include lymphoma, melanoma, bone cancer, and mammary gland cancer, among others. Symptoms vary widely depending on the type of cancer, but common signs include abnormal swelling, sores that don't heal, weight loss, and changes in appetite.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diagnosis-of-cancer-in-dogs">Diagnosis of cancer in dogs</h3>



Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical exams, blood tests, imaging like X-rays and ultrasound, and biopsies. 



Treatment options are similarly varied, depending on the stage and type of cancer, and can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. These treatments aim to remove or kill cancer cells while minimizing damage to normal cells.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-outcomes">Outcomes</h3>



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/when-should-you-begin-cancer-screening-for-your-dog/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Early detection</a> and treatment can significantly improve outcomes, which is why regular veterinary check-ups are important. Advances in veterinary medicine have improved the management of cancer in dogs, leading to better quality of life and longer survival rates for many dogs diagnosed with the disease. 



The approach to treating canine cancer often involves a team of specialists, including veterinarians who specialize in oncology.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsos.231356" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Society Open Science</a>.



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Medium-sized dogs have a greater risk of developing cancer

Medium-sized dog breeds are more prone to cancer than both...

Did you know that the choices you make in the supermarket aisle might have more consequences than you think? A new study sheds light on nanoparticles, tiny ingredients in many <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/common-household-products-expose-people-to-dangerous-chemicals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">household</a> products, and the potential risks they might pose to your health.



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



Nanoparticles are astonishingly tiny fragments of a material, measuring approximately one billionth of a meter in size. Due to their extraordinarily small size, nanoparticles can exhibit unique and surprising properties that differ significantly from those of the same material in its everyday, bulk form. 



For instance, bulk gold typically displays a familiar yellow hue. However, when gold is reduced to the nanoscale, it exhibits a surprising change in color based on its size and the shape of the nanoparticles. Smaller gold nanoparticles may appear red, while larger particles can shift towards purple or even blue. These distinctive and often unexpected properties make nanoparticles incredibly valuable for integration into a vast array of products. 



Nanoparticles are utilized across a variety of industries due to their unique properties. In cosmetics, they are added to improve the smoothness of products and enhance sun protection, making creams and lotions more effective against UV rays. 



Similarly, in <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harmful-chemicals-found-household-dust/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">household</a> cleaning solutions, nanoparticles are used to increase the germ-fighting capabilities of these products. This allows for more efficient cleaning and disinfecting processes. The versatility of nanoparticles enables them to be a beneficial additive in numerous consumer products.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nanoparticle-danger-zone-in-household">Nanoparticle danger zone in household</h2>



A new study from <a href="https://www.rutgers.edu/">Rutgers University</a> has shed light on a hidden consequence of using everyday household products containing nanoparticles. These products, commonly found in sunscreens, cleaning solutions, and even cosmetics, release tiny nanoparticles when sprayed. The cause for concern lies not just in the initial release, but in the particles' lingering presence.



Unlike typical dust or larger particles that might settle and remain relatively stationary, nanoparticles don't simply disappear after leaving the spray can. Instead, they act more like microscopic hitchhikers. They cling to surfaces like carpets and floors, creating a potential reservoir of airborne particles. The truly unsettling aspect comes into play with our everyday activities. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-settled-household-nanoparticles">Settled household nanoparticles</h2>



"If an adult is walking in a room, and steps on some of these deposited particles, we found that the particles will be re-suspended in the air and rise as high as that person's breathing zone," said Gediminas Mainelis, a professor at Rutgers.



The very act of walking across a recently sprayed room can disturb these settled nanoparticles in household. This disturbance acts like a microscopic dust storm, kicking the particles back up into the air. The issue arises because the resuspension zone of nanoparticles overlaps with our breathing zone in household. This overlap raises concerns about the potential for inhalation of these particles. 



Prolonged inhalation could pose risks to our respiratory systems. The long-term health effects of such exposure to nanoparticles remain a significant concern. These effects are still under investigation, highlighting the need for caution and further research.



Children are potentially at even greater risk. Since they play on the floor and are closer to the ground, their exposure to these particles may be much higher.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-does-the-exposure-matter">Why does the exposure matter?</h2>



The long-term health effects of exposure to nanoparticles remain a subject of intense scientific investigation. The minuscule size of nanoparticles is at the heart of this uncertainty. 



When a material is scaled down to the nanoscale, its properties can shift dramatically from the way it acts in bulk form. This means standard methods for understanding and predicting a material's safety may not apply fully. 



Consequently, it's difficult to say with absolute certainty how nanoparticles will interact with the human body over extended periods of time. The concern among scientists is the possibility of our bodies responding to these microscopic particles in negative and surprising ways. 



These reactions might take years or even decades to manifest, making long-term studies and careful monitoring essential to uncover the full picture. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-you-do">What can you do?</h2>



While it's alarming to think about an invisible hazard in your home, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure to nanoparticles:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-be-a-responsible-shopper">Be a responsible shopper</h3>



When shopping for household items and personal care products, pay attention to their labeling. Some products might specifically mention "nano-free" or "does not contain nanoparticles" on their packaging. 



The "nano-free" designation on products is crucial. It confirms that the product does not contain engineered nanoparticles. These nanoparticles are typically added to enhance product features, such as clarity, strength, or sun protection in sunscreens. 



By choosing products labeled as nano-free, you can reduce your exposure to nanoparticles in households. This reduction is important because some studies suggest there could be health risks associated with nanoparticle exposure.



However, it's important to understand that such labeling does not guarantee complete avoidance of all nano-sized particles naturally present in the environment, but it does help in reducing exposure from engineered sources.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-choose-ventilation">Choose ventilation</h3>



Effective ventilation is crucial when using products that may release nanoparticles, such as aerosol sprays, paints, or other pressurized goods. To facilitate the rapid dissipation of these particles, open windows or use an exhaust fan to increase airflow in the area where the products are used. 



This not only helps in reducing the concentration of nanoparticles that you might inhale but also minimizes overall indoor air <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/indoor-air-pollution-india/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pollution</a>. Increased airflow can significantly lower the duration these particles remain airborne, thereby reducing the likelihood of respiratory exposure.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mask-up">Mask up</h3>



For individuals who are either particularly sensitive to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/exposure-to-forever-chemicals-costs-billions-in-the-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">chemicals</a> or concerned about potential health risks from nanoparticles, wearing a protective mask can be a beneficial precaution. Masks, especially those rated N95 or higher, can filter out a significant portion of nano-sized particles. 



This preventive measure is particularly recommended when using sprays or other products in confined or poorly ventilated spaces. By wearing a mask, you can protect your respiratory system from inhaling nanoparticles that might be suspended in the air during and after the application of such products.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-read-the-labels">Read the labels</h3>



Regularly checking and understanding the ingredient lists on products can be a very effective way to control your exposure to nanoparticles. Many consumer products, such as sunscreens, cosmetics, and household cleaning sprays, may contain nanoparticles for their beneficial properties. 



Manufacturers often use ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide in nanoparticle form in sunscreens for their UV protection properties. Similarly, they might include silver nanoparticles for their antimicrobial effects.



By reading labels, you can make informed choices about avoiding products with these ingredients if you are concerned about the potential health impacts. This habit also helps you become more aware of the chemical contents in your everyday products, fostering better consumer awareness and safety practices.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-awareness-on-household-nanoparticles-is-key">Awareness on household nanoparticles is key</h2>



We don't have all the answers about the long-term consequences of nanoparticle exposure. But researchers like those at Rutgers are drawing attention to a potential problem lurking right under our noses. "At this point, it's more about increasing awareness so that people know just what they are using," said Mainelis.



By knowing what these products contain, we can make informed choices about how to protect the health of ourselves and our families.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969724016000?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Science of The Total Environment</a>.



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Household sprays release dangerous nanoparticles that linger in the home

Did you know that the choices you make in the...

Recent findings presented at the <a href="https://www.eccmid.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ESCMID Global Congress</a> in Barcelona reveal a concerning level of contamination in UK hospital <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/flushing-toilets-eject-virus-containing-droplets/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">toilets</a>, highlighting significant differences among various toilet types.



The research, led by Professor Stephanie Dancer, delves into the proliferation of microbes, particularly in areas frequently used by patients, revealing a potential risk for hospital-acquired infections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-microbial-presence-across-hospital-toilets">Microbial presence across hospital toilets</h2>



Professor Dancer and her team conducted a meticulous study in three general hospitals, swabbing ten different surfaces within six toilet types, including staff and patient facilities as well as gender-neutral options. 



Patient toilets exhibited a higher concentration of multi-<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/tree-compound-can-kill-drug-resistant-bacteria/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">drug resistant bacteria</a>, underscoring a significant hygiene challenge in hospital settings.



The research revealed that while cleaning crews often thoroughly cleaned hand-touch surfaces like taps and door handles, they left floors and high surfaces such as air vents and door tops with higher microbial loads.



Notably, male toilets showed a higher presence of microbes compared to female toilets, with female staff toilets being the cleanest. This discrepancy may stem from more frequent handwashing practices observed among women.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-aerosolization-a-hidden-threat-in-toilet-hygiene">Aerosolization: A hidden threat in toilet hygiene</h2>



One intriguing aspect of the study is the role of aerosolization during toilet flushing. Aerosolization is the process of converting substances into very fine particles or droplets, often tiny enough to become airborne. In the context of toilets, it refers to the spraying of microorganisms into the air during flushing, which can spread bacteria and viruses.



"The only logical explanation for finding Gram-negative pathogens like E.coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae on ceilings and air vents as well as on floors is that flushing aerosolizes contents from the toilet bowl, sending microbes airborne," explained Professor Dancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gender-neutral-hospital-toilets">Gender-neutral hospital toilets</h2>



The transition from single-sex toilets to unisex facilities in some <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deadly-hospital-infections-have-a-mysterious-trigger/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hospitals</a> has brought unexpected challenges. The study revealed that unisex and disabled toilets, often used by a broader demographic, presented the highest levels of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/air-dryers-spread-germs-to-surfaces-beyond-the-restroom/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contamination</a>. 



"The move to convert traditional male and female facilities to unisex facilities raises concern that people might be exposed to higher risks of contamination," noted Professor Dancer.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-recommendations-for-improved-hygiene-practices">Recommendations for improved hygiene practices</h2>



The research has provided critical insights into microbial contamination in hospital toilets, resulting in several actionable recommendations aimed at improving hospital hygiene. The key suggestions include:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-increasing-cleaning-frequencies">Increasing cleaning frequencies</h3>



Professor Dancer stresses the need for hospitals to clean patient toilets more often. Given that these areas showed higher levels of contamination, including drug-resistant bacteria, more frequent and thorough cleaning could significantly reduce the risk of infections spreading.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-installing-toilet-lids">Installing toilet lids</h3>



To combat the risk of airborne contamination through aerosolization during flushing, the installation of toilet lids is recommended. This measure would help contain the spread of microorganisms, keeping them confined within the toilet bowl and reducing the potential for them to settle on nearby surfaces or become inhaled by patients and staff.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-enhancing-hand-hygiene-practices">Enhancing hand hygiene practices</h3>



Emphasizing the importance of hand hygiene, Professor Dancer calls for better enforcement of handwashing protocols. Proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the transmission of infections in hospital settings, and reinforcing these practices can lead to significant improvements in overall cleanliness and safety.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maintaining-single-sex-hospital-toilets">Maintaining single-sex hospital toilets</h3>



Based on the finding that female toilets are generally cleaner, Professor Dancer suggests that keeping single-sex toilets might help in reducing the overall microbial burden. This approach could leverage the better hygiene practices observed in different groups to minimize cross-contamination risks.



These recommendations aim to address specific issues identified in the study, offering practical steps that hospitals can implement to improve sanitation and reduce the incidence of hospital-acquired infections.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hygiene-education-and-infrastructure">Hygiene education and infrastructure</h2>



Professor Dancer concluded her presentation with a call for better education on hand hygiene and a reevaluation of toilet designs, including the potential benefits of windows in hospital toilets for natural ventilation.



Her insights not only shed light on current <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/harmful-microbes-persist-on-hospital-surfaces-after-disinfection/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hygiene</a> practices but also suggest paths forward that could benefit hospitals globally. As hospitals continue to combat the spread of infectious diseases, these findings underscore the critical need for targeted hygiene interventions and infrastructure improvements to safeguard patient health.



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Hospital toilets are contaminated with drug resistant 'superbugs'

Recent findings presented at the ESCMID Global Congress in Barcelona...

The Earth harbors hidden geological marvels, and among the most enigmatic are blue holes. These enormous underwater sinkholes, often teeming with marine life, provide a glimpse into our planet's history. 



A recent discovery in Mexico has redefined our understanding of these structures, with the identification of the deepest blue <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">hole</a> ever recorded: Taam Ja'.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-blue-holes-and-how-are-they-formed">What are blue holes and how are they formed?</h2>



Blue holes are large marine caverns or sinkholes, typically formed in limestone or other carbonate rock beds. They stand out dramatically as dark blue water-filled pits, contrasting sharply with the lighter blue of surrounding shallow waters.



The formation of blue holes typically involves several natural processes:



<ul>
<li>Dissolution of limestone: Initially, rainwater, which is slightly acidic, percolates through fractures in limestone or other soluble rock, gradually dissolving the rock and forming a void or cavern.</li>



<li>Collapse of surface rock: Over time, as more rock dissolves, the ceiling of the cavern can no longer support its own weight. This can lead to a collapse, creating a sinkhole that opens directly to the surface.</li>



<li>Sea level changes: During ice ages, when much of Earth's water was locked up in glaciers, sea levels were much lower, and many of these caverns or sinkholes were dry or contained freshwater. As ice caps melted at the end of ice ages, sea levels rose, flooding these structures with marine water.</li>
</ul>



Blue holes are often deep and isolated from one another. Located in both inland and shallow coastal waters, they feature unique environmental conditions that can lead to high levels of biodiversity. 



Blue holes are renowned for their clarity and depth. This makes them popular hotspots for advanced divers.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-earth-s-deepest-blue-hole">Earth's deepest blue hole</h2>



Situated in Chetumal Bay off the southeastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, Taam Ja', which translates to "deep water" in the Mayan language, has recently claimed the title of the world's deepest blue hole, surpassing the Dragon Hole located in China. 



Recent exploratory measurements have confirmed that Taam Ja' reaches a remarkable depth of 1,380 feet (about 420 meters). This new finding has excited the scientific community, as it suggests that the blue hole could extend even deeper than currently verified, potentially holding further secrets beneath its dark waters. 



This revelation not only highlights the blue hole's significant geological and ecological importance but also underscores the need for continued exploration to fully understand its dimensions and the marine life it supports.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-investigating-the-depths">Investigating the depths</h2>



The initial depth estimate for Taam Ja' was approximately 900 feet (274 meters). This measurement was obtained using echo sounder mapping, a technique that uses sound waves to determine the distance to the ocean floor. 



However, for a more accurate assessment, recent investigations employed a CTD (conductivity, temperature, and depth) profiler. This specialized instrument consists of a suite of sensors attached to a frame. 



A cable lowers it into the depths of the blue hole, collecting precise data on water conductivity, temperature, and pressure to directly calculate depth. These measurements provide a significantly more precise understanding of the true dimensions of Taam Ja'.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-importance-of-blue-holes">Importance of blue holes</h2>



Blue holes represent unique and highly complex ecosystems. They provide habitat for a wide variety of marine organisms, encompassing a range of species from corals and sponges to mollusks, sea turtles, and even sharks. These ecosystems thrive in the unique light and nutrient conditions found within blue holes. 



However, due to their significant depth and limited accessibility for traditional research methods, our understanding of these environments remains incomplete. The challenges posed by depth and access hinder our ability to fully document the biodiversity and ecological processes within blue holes.



The discovery of Taam Ja' highlights the vastness and complexity of our planet's underwater landscapes. Its unprecedented depth presents both scientific opportunities and challenges. The researchers emphasize the need for "further exploration, monitoring, and scientific inquiry" to unlock the secrets held within Taam Ja'.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-notable-blue-holes">Other notable blue holes</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dragon-hole-china-nbsp">Dragon hole (China)&nbsp;</h3>



The Dragon Hole in China was once believed to be the world's deepest blue hole, reaching a depth of 987 feet (300 meters). Known locally as Longdong, it set the standard for blue hole measurements and intrigued scientists and divers with its depth and potential mysteries.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-great-blue-hole-belize">Great blue hole (Belize)</h3>



The Great Blue Hole in Belize, celebrated and widely recognized due to the explorations and promotions by famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, is another renowned marine sinkhole. 



This iconic blue <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/map-belizes-great-blue-hole/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hole</a> plunges to a depth of 407 feet (about 124 meters) and is a top destination for scuba divers from around the world. Visitors are drawn by its striking circular shape and diverse aquatic ecosystem.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dean-s-blue-hole-bahamas">Dean's blue hole (Bahamas)</h3>



Dean's Blue Hole in the Bahamas, with its depth of approximately 662 feet (about 202 meters), is a pivotal location for the sport of freediving. It has hosted numerous freediving competitions, challenging divers to reach its depths without the use of scuba gear, highlighting its importance in both recreational and competitive diving circles.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dahab-blue-hole-egypt">Dahab blue hole (Egypt)</h3>



The Dahab Blue Hole in Egypt extends to a depth of 426 feet (130 meters). Vibrant coral reefs, renowned for encircling the hole, enhance its beauty. This blue hole attracts divers eager to explore the colorful marine life thriving in its unique underwater landscape. It serves as an important site for ecological studies and eco-tourism.



Blue holes are captivating reminders of our planet's geological history and the rich biodiversity they harbor. The discovery of Taam Ja' and its exceptional depth highlights the fascinating process of scientific exploration and the enduring allure of the underwater world.



The study is published in the journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmars.2024.1387235/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontiers in Marine Science</a>.



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World's deepest blue hole discovered in Mexico

The Earth harbors hidden geological marvels, and among the most...

Marijuana's place in American law has been fiercely debated for decades. But now, in a remarkable move, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has announced plans to reclassify <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/frequent-marijuana-use-linked-with-increased-risk-of-heart-attack/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marijuana</a>. This decision marks a major turning point in how many Americans perceive this complex plant and its place in society. 



“Today, the Attorney General circulated a proposal to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III,” Justice Department director of public affairs <a href="https://politics.georgetown.edu/profile/xochitl-hinojosa/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Xochitl Hinojosa</a> said in a statement. “Once published by the Federal Register, it will initiate a formal rulemaking process as prescribed by Congress in the Controlled Substances Act.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-reclassifying-marijuana-to-schedule-iii">Reclassifying marijuana to Schedule III</h2>



The DEA is suggesting a significant policy shift by proposing the removal of marijuana from Schedule I. Since its classification in the early 1970s, marijuana has been placed in the same category as highly dangerous drugs such as heroin and LSD. 



This classification suggests that these substances have a high potential for abuse and no recognized medical benefits. However, the new proposal aims to change this longstanding stance.



Under the proposed changes, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-strongly-linked-to-mental-disorders-in-a-new-study/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marijuana</a> would be reclassified to Schedule III. This category includes drugs like ketamine and some anabolic steroids, which are considered to have a lower potential for abuse than Schedule I or II substances. 



The shift of marijuana to Schedule III would acknowledge its medicinal benefits. Recent medical studies have increasingly recognized these benefits. It would also show that marijuana is less addictive and less dangerous compared to more strictly regulated drugs. 



This reclassification demonstrates a deeper understanding of marijuana's effects. It highlights its potential for treatment in various medical contexts.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-does-reclassifying-marijuana-mean">What does reclassifying marijuana mean?</h2>



The reclassification has several implications:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Shifting public opinion</h3>



The transformation in public perception of marijuana is remarkable, with an increasing majority now favoring its <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-legalization-does-not-increase-youth-substance-abuse/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">legalization</a>, a sentiment particularly strong among younger demographics. This broad support has spurred politicians, including President Joe Biden, to respond to these changing tides. 



President Biden recognizes the need for policy reform regarding marijuana. He has advocated for expunging criminal records related to marijuana offenses. Additionally, he has initiated reviews of existing national drug policies. 



These actions reflect a societal move towards a more lenient stance on marijuana. They acknowledge its broad acceptance and the unfair consequences of previously stringent laws.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Medical potential</h3>



As research continues to evolve, the medical applications of marijuana are becoming more evident. Although it is not a panacea, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/marijuana-use-may-change-brain-structure-in-adolescents/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">marijuana</a> has been found effective in managing chronic pain, controlling epileptic seizures, and alleviating the adverse side effects of chemotherapy. 



The proposed move of marijuana to Schedule III could potentially reduce the regulatory barriers that currently impede scientific research. This change would enable more thorough and expansive studies on marijuana. 



As a result, it may lead to the discovery and validation of new medical applications for this previously stigmatized plant.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Burgeoning cannabis industry </h3>



The economic implications of marijuana's reclassification are profound, particularly for the burgeoning cannabis industry. Currently experiencing rapid growth, this sector could see an alleviation of heavy tax burdens. 



Additionally, such a move could make the industry more appealing to banks and financial institutions, which have historically been hesitant to engage with cannabis businesses due to its Schedule I status. The potential influx of banking support and reduced taxation could significantly stimulate further growth and stability in the cannabis market, making it a more integral part of the national economy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-legal-status-of-recreational-marijuana">Legal status of recreational marijuana </h2>



“While this rescheduling announcement is a historic step forward, I remain strongly committed to continuing to work on legislation like the SAFER Banking Act as well as the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act, which federally deschedules cannabis by removing it from the Controlled Substances Act,” Senate Majority Leader Sen. <a href="https://www.schumer.senate.gov/about/biography" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chuck Schumer</a> of New York said. 



“Congress must do everything we can to end the federal prohibition on cannabis and address longstanding harms caused by the War on Drugs.”



The shift primarily recognizes marijuana's medical benefits rather than endorsing its recreational use. While this reclassification opens doors for medical research and treatment, the legal status of recreational marijuana use continues to be a complex and separate debate. This distinction is important for understanding the limits and implications of the DEA's proposed changes.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-outlook-on-reclassifying-marijuana">Future outlook on reclassifying marijuana</h2>



The process of reclassifying marijuana involves several key steps, including a period for public comment and a thorough review process. Due to these requirements, the exact timeline for when these changes will be implemented remains uncertain.



The interaction between state and federal laws concerning marijuana might become even more complex with this reclassification. States have their own varied laws regarding marijuana use, and changes at the federal level could either harmonize or further complicate this legal landscape.



There are concerns among some critics that reclassifying marijuana could lead to unintended negative consequences. As this change unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor its impacts to fully understand its effects on society and the legal system. The complete range of these outcomes will only become clear with time.



The DEA's proposed shift in marijuana policy reflects changing public attitudes, potential benefits to medical research, and a burgeoning industry. While full-scale legalization isn't on the immediate horizon, this proposal marks a significant step in a long and complex journey reshaping the United States' relationship with marijuana.



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U.S. plans to reclassify marijuana and ease restrictions

Marijuana's place in American law has been fiercely debated for...

Beautiful,Red,Planet,Mars,With,Craters,With,Dawn,Light,Sun.

As the Sun enters a period of peak activity known as solar maximum, scientists are gearing up to study how solar storms could impact future space exploration, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/massive-solar-outburst-detected-simultaneously-at-earth-the-moon-and-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particularly on Mars</a>. 



According to Shannon Curry, principal investigator for NASA's <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/maven/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MAVEN</a> (Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN) orbiter, this rare opportunity will provide valuable insights into the effects of solar radiation on the Red Planet.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-solar-storms-and-their-impact-on-mars">Understanding solar storms and their impact on Mars</h2>



Solar maximum, which occurs roughly every 11 years, is a time when the Sun is especially prone to throwing fiery tantrums in the form of solar flares and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/giant-sunspot-may-soon-disrupt-earths-power-grids/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">coronal mass ejections</a>. These events launch radiation deep into space, and when a series of them erupts, it's called a solar storm.



While <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Earth's magnetic field</a> largely shields our home planet from the effects of these storms, Mars is more vulnerable due to the absence of a global magnetic field. 



Curry, whose research is managed by NASA's <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/goddard/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Goddard Space Flight Center</a> in Greenbelt, Maryland, expressed her desire to witness a large solar event on Mars this year.



"For humans and assets on the Martian surface, we don't have a solid handle on what the effect is from radiation during solar activity," Curry said. "I'd actually love to see the 'big one' at Mars this year — a large event that we can study to understand solar radiation better before astronauts go to Mars."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-maven-and-curiosity-are-nasa-s-dynamic-duo">MAVEN and Curiosity are NASA's dynamic duo</h2>



To study the impact of solar activity on Mars, <a href="https://www.nasa.gov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NASA</a> relies on two spacecraft: the MAVEN orbiter and the <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/msl-curiosity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Curiosity rover</a>. MAVEN observes radiation, solar particles, and more from high above Mars, while Curiosity's Radiation Assessment Detector (<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/mission/msl-curiosity/science-instruments/#hds-sidebar-nav-19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RAD</a>) measures the radiation that reaches the planet's surface.



Don Hassler, RAD's principal investigator from the Southwest Research Institute in Boulder, Colorado, explained the importance of studying both the quantity and energy of solar particles. 



"You can have a million particles with low energy or 10 particles with extremely high energy," Hassler said. "While MAVEN's instruments are more sensitive to lower-energy ones, RAD is the only instrument capable of seeing the high-energy ones that make it through the atmosphere to the surface, where astronauts would be."



When MAVEN detects a big solar flare, the orbiter's team alerts the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/nasas-curiosity-rover-records-a-martian-day-from-dawn-to-dusk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Curiosity</a> team so they can watch for changes in RAD's data. 



The two missions can even assemble a time series measuring changes down to the half-second as particles arrive at the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-may-have-once-been-a-cradle-for-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Martian atmosphere</a>, interact with it, and eventually strike the surface.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-protecting-spacecraft-and-astronauts">Protecting spacecraft and astronauts</h2>



MAVEN also leads an early warning system that lets other Mars spacecraft teams know when <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/some-microbes-from-earth-could-survive-the-conditions-on-mars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">radiation levels</a> begin to rise. 



This heads-up enables missions to turn off instruments that could be vulnerable to solar flares, which can interfere with electronics and radio communication.



Beyond helping to keep astronauts and spacecraft safe, studying solar maximum could also lend insight into <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-has-a-water-reservoir-two-miles-deep-enough-to-fill-earths-red-sea/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">why Mars changed</a> from being a warm, wet Earth-like world billions of years ago to the freezing desert it is today.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-solar-storms-and-the-mystery-of-mars-lost-water">Solar storms and the mystery of Mars' lost water</h2>



Scientists are particularly interested in studying the potential connection between global dust storms and the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-vanishing-water-mystery-new-insights-curiosity-rover/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">loss of water on Mars</a>. 



Some researchers theorize that <a href="https://youtu.be/wRaGAA0jFFA" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">during solar storms</a>, global dust storms could help eject water vapor high into the atmosphere, where it gets stripped away.



If a global dust storm were to occur at the same time as a solar storm, it would provide an opportunity to test this theory. 



However, global dust storms are rare occurrences, and scientists are aware that the chances of this happening during the current solar maximum are slim.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-of-mars-exploration-and-solar-storm-protection">Future of Mars exploration and solar storm protection</h2>



As NASA prepares for future human missions to Mars, understanding the effects of solar radiation on the planet is crucial. 



The data collected by MAVEN and Curiosity during this solar maximum will help space agencies determine the level of radiation protection astronauts will require on the Red Planet.



With the Sun at its most active and Mars at its closest point to our star, the coming months will be an exciting time for scientists studying the Red Planet. 



The insights gained from this rare opportunity could not only help protect future astronauts but also shed light on the mysterious history of Mars and its once-abundant water.



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Mars missions prepare for intense solar storms on the Red Planet

As the Sun enters a period of peak activity known...

A new study has revealed that a rare genetic condition, known as growth hormone receptor deficiency (GHRD) or Laron syndrome, may protect against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/a-century-of-progress-in-the-fight-against-cardiovascular-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular disease</a>. 



The body’s ineffective use of its own growth hormone characterizes this condition, leading to <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/living-at-high-altitudes-increases-stunting-in-children/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stunted growth</a>. Researchers have long observed in mice that this mutation significantly increases lifespan and reduces age-related diseases; however, only recently have they begun to understand its impact on human cardiovascular health.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-laron-syndrome">What is Laron Syndrome?</h2>



Laron Syndrome is a rare genetic condition that primarily affects growth due to a defect in the growth hormone receptor. This defect disrupts the normal action of growth hormone, a critical regulator of growth, metabolism, and body composition. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Genetic basis</h3>



Laron Syndrome is caused by mutations in the GHR gene, which encodes the growth hormone receptor. These mutations lead to either a malformed receptor that does not function properly or to a significantly reduced number of receptors available for hormone binding. 



The condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning a child needs to inherit two copies of the mutated gene (one from each parent) to develop the disorder.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Characteristics and symptoms</h3>



Individuals with Laron Syndrome are characterized by:



<ul>
<li>Severely stunted growth, noticeable from infancy.</li>



<li>Proportional body structure, despite short stature.</li>



<li>Facial features that may include a prominent forehead, underdeveloped nasal bridge, and a blue tinge to the whites of the eyes.</li>



<li>High levels of circulating growth hormone with low levels of IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1), which normally mediates many of the effects of growth hormone.</li>
</ul>



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



There is no cure for Laron Syndrome, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life:



<ul>
<li>Growth hormone therapy is ineffective due to the body's resistance to it. Instead, IGF-1 therapy has been used to promote growth in children with this condition.</li>



<li>Regular monitoring and management of potential complications, such as delayed puberty and metabolic abnormalities, are recommended.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rare genetic condition and age-related disease </h3>



Laron Syndrome continues to be an area of interest for research, not only to improve management strategies for those affected but also to understand its implications for aging and chronic diseases in the general population. 



The unique characteristics of those with Laron Syndrome can provide insights into the aging process and the development of age-related diseases, offering potential pathways for developing new therapeutic approaches.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-insights-into-laron-syndrome">Genetic insights into Laron syndrome</h2>



Valter Longo, a professor at the <a href="https://gero.usc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USC</a> Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, and Jaime Guevara-Aguirre, an endocrinologist at the <a href="https://www.usfq.edu.ec/en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Universidad San Francisco de Quito</a> in Ecuador, published their findings in the journal <a href="https://www.cell.com/med/abstract/S2666-6340(24)00134-X" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Med</a> on April 26, 2024.



For nearly 20 years, these researchers have been studying the health and aging impacts of the GHR mutation in Laron syndrome, predominantly found among a small population of Ecuadorians descended from exiles of the Spanish Inquisition.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-health-impacts-of-laron-syndrome">Health impacts of Laron syndrome</h2>



The research focused on 51 individuals, comprising 24 with Laron syndrome and 27 of their relatives without the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/genetic-mutation-may-explain-how-humans-lost-their-tails/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mutation</a>. By conducting comprehensive assessments of cardiovascular function, damage, and risk factors both in Los Angeles and Ecuador, the team gathered significant data. 



The subjects with Laron syndrome exhibited lower blood sugar levels, decreased insulin resistance, and reduced blood pressure when compared to their non-mutant relatives. 



Additionally, they had smaller heart dimensions and exhibited lower carotid artery thickness despite having similar arterial stiffness.



Interestingly, even though individuals with Laron syndrome had elevated levels of LDL cholesterol, known as "bad cholesterol," they showed a lower incidence of carotid artery atherosclerotic plaques (7% compared to 36% in the control group).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-valuable-insights-from-the-study">Valuable insights from the study</h2>



"These findings suggest that individuals with Laron syndrome have normal or improved levels of cardiovascular disease risk factors compared to their relatives," stated Professor Longo, the senior author of the study. 



He further noted that although the sample size is small, the human data, when combined with previous animal studies, offer valuable insights into the potential health benefits of growth hormone receptor deficiency.



The implications of this research extend beyond just understanding the rare genetic condition of Laron syndrome. They also open up possibilities for new therapeutic strategies that mimic the effects of this <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/humans-live-long-genetic-mutations/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic mutation</a>. 



Potential interventions could include drugs or dietary adjustments aimed at replicating the mutation's protective effects, thereby potentially reducing disease incidence and extending human longevity.



As this body of research grows, it continues to illuminate the complex interactions between genetics and disease, providing hope for future breakthroughs in medical science.



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Rare genetic condition may offer protection from heart disease

A new study has revealed that a rare genetic condition,...

Wild,Blueberries,In,A,Canadian,Forest.

The image of a spear-wielding mammoth hunter might be the classic symbol of early humans, but it's becoming clear that reality was much less meat-obsessed. A new study has overturned the idea that our <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/neanderthal-tooth-ancient-diet/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient</a> ancestors were all about the hunt for their diets. 



As it turns out, long before anyone thought of planting wheat, North African hunter-gatherers had become surprisingly skilled plant chefs. They were even introducing their babies to a taste of the wild with mashed nuts and berries, completely changing our picture of prehistoric parenting.



The remarkable study was conducted by an international team of scientists from the <a href="https://www.eva.mpg.de/index/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology</a> (Leipzig, Germany), <a href="https://www.get.omp.eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Géoscience et Environnement Toulouse</a> (Toulouse, France), and the Institut National des Sciences de l’Archéologie et du Patrimoine (Rabat, Morocco),



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-iberomaurusians-and-their-ancient-diets">Iberomaurusians and their ancient diets</h2>



The people in this study are known as the Iberomaurusians, who called Morocco's Taforalt Cave home thousands of years ago. 



Until recently, the assumption was that people like them mostly tracked animals, ignoring the plant life around them. But by diving deep into their teeth and bones, researchers found these cave dwellers were more like adventurous omnivores:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-main-course">The main course</h3>



The Iberomaurusians had a diet much richer in plant material than previously thought. Researchers discovered a significant reliance on acorns, <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/what-gives-pine-trees-fresh-scent/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pine nuts</a>, and wild pulses (which are similar to the beans and lentils we know today). This indicates a surprisingly diverse and well-rounded diet drawing on the local, Mediterranean environment.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-baby-s-first-bites">Baby's first bites</h3>



Analysis of infant remains indicates early introduction of solid foods in the Iberomaurusian population. Babies and young children likely consumed acorns, pine nuts, and pulses. These staples mirrored adult diets but were mashed for easier consumption by the young.



"Our findings not only provide insights into the dietary practices of pre-agricultural human groups but also highlight the complexity of human subsistence strategies in different regions," says Zineb Moubtahij, who led the study.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-science-behind-the-surprising-ancient-diet">Science behind the surprising ancient diet</h2>



The researchers in this study employed a range of advanced analytical techniques to uncover the dietary practices of the Iberomaurusians. This went well beyond the traditional examination of artifacts like bones or tools.



Isotopic analysis of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/study-provides-insights-into-the-lives-of-neanderthals/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tooth enamel</a> revealed specific chemical signatures. These signatures are directly linked to the types of foods a person consumed regularly, providing a detailed dietary record.



Further analysis of skeletal remains focused on specific elements like carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur. The ratios of these elements offer insights into the balance of different food sources in an individual's diet.



To gain a broader understanding of the available food resources, the scientists also analyzed the bones of animals discovered in the cave. This helped determine the position of humans within the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/first-americans-split-reconverging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient</a> food web and identify potential sources of protein.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rethinking-the-hunter-gatherer-label">Rethinking the "hunter-gatherer" label</h2>



For decades, the prevailing image of "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-humans-used-to-eat-their-ancestral-relatives-practicing-cannibalism/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hunter-gatherer</a>" societies has been one heavily centered on the pursuit and consumption of animals. This study challenges the traditional view that diets in pre-agricultural times predominantly consisted of meat. 



It shows that plant-based foods were significantly important. Although meat was part of their diet, the findings reveal a complex strategy that utilized a diverse array of resources.



This new perspective forces us to question several long-held assumptions about pre-agricultural people:



<ul>
<li>Limited diet:&nbsp;The idea that hunter-gatherers were constrained by a monotonous and protein-heavy diet is undermined by evidence of diverse plant consumption. This points to more resourceful and adaptable dietary practices.</li>



<li>Foraging skills:&nbsp;The ability to successfully identify, gather, and potentially process various plant foods reveals a deeper knowledge of the environment and its resources than often attributed to these early communities.</li>



<li>Survival strategies:&nbsp;The emphasis on plants suggests a broader range of survival techniques employed by pre-agricultural people beyond just hunting. This includes sophisticated foraging strategies, seasonal exploitation of resources, and potentially even rudimentary food preservation methods.</li>
</ul>



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



Ultimately, this study highlights the remarkable adaptability of early human communities and their intimate relationship with their surroundings. 



These groups were not limited by a lack of agriculture. They ingeniously utilized available resources to ensure survival. This resourcefulness also helped complex social structures to emerge.



If these <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/earliest-human-footprints-ever-found-are-believed-to-be-300000-years-old/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient</a> people had access to so much yummy plant food, why didn't agriculture emerge in North Africa sooner? 



This discovery of a surprisingly plant-based diet among the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ancient-human-ancestor-footprints/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient</a> Iberomaurusians raises a perplexing question: If access to plentiful and diverse wild food resources was possible, why didn't the transition to agriculture occur earlier in North Africa?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-conventional-wisdom-turned-upside-down">Conventional wisdom turned upside down</h2>



The conventional understanding of agricultural development suggests that it arose in response to resource scarcity, population pressure, or unpredictable food availability. 



These factors are thought to have pushed hunter-gatherer groups toward the domestication of plants and animals for greater dietary stability.



The findings of this study suggest an alternative scenario. Perhaps North Africa's abundant wild resources provided enough comfort and food security to delay the adoption of labor-intensive farming. Foraging and gathering may have provided a perfectly sustainable, if nomadic, lifestyle.



It's also important to consider the potential impact of climatic shifts. The end of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/ice-age-data-analysis-reshapes-climate-future-lowers-warming-estimates/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">last Ice Age</a> triggered significant environmental changes. 



These changes may have altered the availability and distribution of wild food resources. This shift could have created the pressure necessary for the eventual transition to agriculture.



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



This study highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of the factors that led to the emergence of agriculture in different regions of the world. It prompts us to investigate several aspects. 



A closer examination of plant remains in North Africa could shed light on the changing availability and types of wild food sources over time and how they may have influenced subsistence strategies.



Analyzing climate records and evidence of environmental change could reveal whether shifts in resource availability played a role in the eventual adoption of agriculture.



Examining the timing and trajectory of agricultural development in other regions with rich wild resources could offer insights into the unique circumstances of North Africa.



This discovery acts like a key, unlocking a whole new world of prehistoric diets in Africa. Imagine what else we might learn about how our ancestors ate, the challenges they faced, and the surprising ways they adapted to survive. More studies like this one have the potential to rewrite whole chapters of human history.



The study is published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02382-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Ecology &amp; Evolution</a>.



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Ancient diets of early humans were richer in plants than expected

The image of a spear-wielding mammoth hunter might be the...

The Horsehead Nebula, a celestial icon, has been captured in the sharpest infrared images to date by the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope. 



<a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Horsehead-Nebula_telescope-comparisons_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">These observations</a>, taken by an international team of astronomers, reveal the complexity of this distinctive object with unprecedented spatial resolution, showcasing a part of the nebula in a whole new light.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-iconic-horsehead-nebula">The iconic Horsehead Nebula</h2>



Residing roughly 1,300 light-years away in the constellation Orion (The Hunter), the Horsehead Nebula, also <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/horsehead-nebula-captured-in-first-batch-photos-from-the-euclid-mission/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">known as Barnard 33</a>, rises from turbulent waves of dust and gas on the western side of the Orion B molecular cloud. 



The nebula formed from a collapsing interstellar cloud of material and glows due to illumination from a nearby hot star. 



While the surrounding gas clouds have already dissipated, the jutting pillar remains intact, composed of thick clumps of material that are more resistant to erosion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cosmic-countdown-the-horsehead-s-finite-future">Cosmic countdown: The Horsehead's finite future</h2>



Astronomers estimate that the Horsehead Nebula has about five million years left before it, too, disintegrates. 



Webb's new view focuses on the illuminated edge of the top of the nebula's distinctive dust and gas structure, providing a glimpse into its finite future.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-secrets-of-photon-dominated-regions">Secrets of photon-dominated regions</h2>



The Horsehead Nebula is a well-known <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-features-found-in-the-heart-of-milky-way-galaxy/">photon-</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-features-found-in-the-heart-of-milky-way-galaxy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">d</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mysterious-features-found-in-the-heart-of-milky-way-galaxy/">ominated</a> region (PDR), where ultraviolet light from young, massive stars creates a mostly neutral, warm area of gas and dust between the fully ionized gas surrounding the massive stars and the clouds in which they are born. 



As the most important source of heat, this ultraviolet radiation strongly influences the gas chemistry of these regions.



PDRs occur where interstellar gas is dense enough to remain neutral but not dense enough to prevent the penetration of far-ultraviolet light from massive stars. 



The light emitted from PDRs provides a unique tool for astronomers to study the physical and chemical processes that drive the evolution of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/cosmic-jets-cannibals-neutron-stars-explosions-contain-life-elements/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interstellar matter</a> in our galaxy and throughout the Universe, from the early era of vigorous star formation to the present day.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-horsehead-nebula-as-the-ideal-cosmic-laboratory">Horsehead Nebula as the ideal cosmic laboratory</h2>



Due to its proximity and nearly edge-on geometry, the Horsehead Nebula is an ideal target for astronomers to study the physical structures of PDRs. 



Horsehead is also perfect for studying the evolution of the chemical characteristics of the gas and dust within their respective environments, as well as the transition regions between them. It is considered one of the best objects in the sky to study how radiation interacts with interstellar matter.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-revealing-small-scale-structures-and-dust-particles">Revealing small-scale structures and dust particles</h2>



Thanks to Webb's MIRI and NIRCam instruments, the international team of astronomers has revealed, for the first time, the small-scale structures of the <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Horsehead-Nebula_Webb-NIRCam_NASA_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">illuminated edge of the Horsehead</a>. 



They have also detected a network of striated features extending perpendicular to the PDR front, containing dust particles and ionized gas entrained in the <a href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Webb/Webb_captures_iconic_Horsehead_Nebula_in_unprecedented_detail" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">photo-evaporative flow of the nebula</a>.



The observations have allowed astronomers to investigate the effects of dust attenuation and emission and to better understand the multidimensional shape of the nebula. 



Webb's new view focuses on the illuminated edge of the top of the nebula's distinctive dust and gas structure.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spectroscopic-analysis-and-next-steps">Spectroscopic analysis and next steps</h2>



Moving forward, astronomers intend to study the spectroscopic data that have been obtained of the nebula to evidence the evolution of the physical and chemical properties of the material observed across the nebula. This will provide further insights into the complex processes occurring within this iconic cosmic masterpiece.



As another team member remarked, "These observations show a part of the iconic nebula in a whole new light, capturing its complexity with unprecedented spatial resolution."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-webb-s-tribute-to-the-horsehead-nebula-is-a-cosmic-masterpiece">Webb’s tribute to the Horsehead Nebula is a cosmic masterpiece</h2>



In summary, the James Webb Space Telescope has once again demonstrated its unparalleled capabilities by capturing the sharpest infrared images of the iconic Horsehead Nebula to date. 



These observations showcase the nebula's complexity and beauty and provide astronomers with valuable insights into the physical and chemical processes that shape the evolution of interstellar matter. 



As researchers continue to study the spectroscopic data obtained from the nebula, they will undoubtedly uncover more secrets about this cosmic equestrian masterpiece. 



The Webb telescope's infrared gaze will keep illuminating the mysteries of the Universe, allowing us to appreciate the wonders that surround us and deepening our understanding of the cosmos.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://www.aanda.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">journal Astronomy &amp; Astrophysics</a>.



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Horsehead Nebula captured in jaw-dropping detail by Webb

The Horsehead Nebula, a celestial icon, has been captured in...

An international team of researchers has harnessed the power of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope to unravel the mysteries of distant worlds. The telescope's <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/webb-telescope-discovers-what-powered-the-reionization-of-the-universe/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">precise measurements</a> and advanced capabilities have allowed scientists to map the weather on WASP-43 b, a hot gas-giant exoplanet located trillions of miles away.



The study, published in Nature Astronomy, was led by Taylor Bell, a researcher from the <a href="https://baeri.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bay Area Environmental Research Institute</a>. 



The team's findings suggest the presence of thick, high clouds on the planet's nightside, clear skies on the dayside, and powerful equatorial winds that mix atmospheric gases at speeds of up to 5,000 miles per hour.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-wasp-43-b-is-a-planet-of-extremes">WASP-43 b is a planet of extremes</h2>



WASP-43 b, discovered in 2011, is a "<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/rare-glory-lights-effect-seen-exoplanet-wasp-76b-baffling-astronomers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hot Jupiter</a>" type of exoplanet. Similar in size to Jupiter and composed primarily of hydrogen and helium, this world orbits its star at an incredibly close distance of just 1.3 million miles. 



As a result, the planet is tidally locked, with one side perpetually facing the star and the other shrouded in eternal darkness.



"With Hubble, we could clearly see that there is water vapor on the dayside. Both Hubble and Spitzer suggested there might be clouds on the nightside," explained Taylor Bell. 



"But we needed more precise measurements from <a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Webb</a> to really begin mapping the temperature, cloud cover, winds, and more detailed atmospheric composition all the way around the planet," Bell continued.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mapping-temperature-and-inferring-weather-patterns">Mapping temperature and inferring weather patterns</h2>



By employing phase curve spectroscopy, the researchers measured tiny changes in the brightness of the star-planet system as WASP-43 b completed its 19.5-hour orbit. 



Using Webb's Mid-Infrared Instrument (<a href="https://webb.nasa.gov/content/observatory/instruments/miri.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIRI</a>), the team collected light measurements every 10 seconds for more than 24 hours, enabling them to calculate the temperature of different sides of the planet as they rotated into view.



The measurements revealed a stark contrast between the planet's dayside and nightside temperatures. The dayside, with an average temperature of nearly 2,300 degrees Fahrenheit (1,250 degrees Celsius), is hot enough to forge iron. 



In comparison, the nightside is significantly cooler at 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit (600 degrees Celsius). The data also helped locate the planet's hottest spot, which is slightly shifted eastward due to supersonic winds that move heated air in that direction.



"The fact that we can map temperature in this way is a real testament to Webb's sensitivity and stability," remarked Michael Roman, a co-author from the <a href="https://le.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">University of Leicester</a> in the U.K.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-missing-methane-and-high-speed-winds-on-wasp-43-b">Missing methane and high-speed winds on WASP-43 b</h2>



The broad spectrum of mid-infrared light captured by Webb also allowed the researchers to measure the abundance of water vapor (H2O) and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mars-is-letting-out-mysterious-methane-burps-but-why/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">methane (CH4)</a> in the planet's atmosphere. 



While water vapor was detected on both the dayside and nightside, the data revealed a surprising absence of methane.



"The fact that we don't see methane tells us that WASP-43 b must have wind speeds reaching something like 5,000 miles per hour," explained Joanna Barstow, a co-author from the <a href="https://www.open.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Open University</a> in the U.K. 



"If winds move gas around from the dayside to the nightside and back again fast enough, there isn't enough time for the expected chemical reactions to produce detectable amounts of methane on the nightside," she concluded.



The team believes that this wind-driven mixing results in a uniform atmospheric chemistry throughout the planet, a finding that was not apparent from previous observations using the Hubble and Spitzer space telescopes.



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



The James Webb Space Telescope has opened a new frontier in exoplanet science, enabling researchers to map the weather patterns and atmospheric composition of distant worlds like never before. 



By revealing the extreme temperature variations, thick clouds, and supersonic winds on WASP-43 b, this study demonstrates the telescope's extraordinary capabilities and sets the stage for a new era of exploration. 



As scientists continue to leverage Webb's advanced instruments and precise measurements, they will undoubtedly uncover more fascinating insights into the diverse and captivating worlds that populate our universe, bringing us closer to understanding the complexity and potential habitability of planets beyond our solar system.



The full study was published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-024-02230-x" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nature Astronomy</a>.



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Webb predicts the weather forecast on exoplanet WASP-43 b

An international team of researchers has harnessed the power of...

Geologists have uncovered ancient rocks in Greenland that bear the oldest remnants of Earth's early <a href="https://www.earth.com/earthpedia-articles/earths-magnetic-field-origin-structure-and-impact-on-humanity/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">magnetic field</a>. These exceptionally pristine rocks, preserved for billions of years, provide a glimpse into the planet's early conditions that may have helped life take hold.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-extending-the-age-of-earth-s-magnetic-field">Extending the age of Earth's magnetic field</h2>



Claire Nichols, a former <a href="https://www.mit.edu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MIT</a> postdoc and now an associate professor of the geology of planetary processes at <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oxford University</a>, along with her colleagues, determined that the rocks are about 3.7 billion years old. 



More importantly, they retain signatures of a magnetic field with a strength of at least 15 microtesla, similar in magnitude to the Earth's magnetic field today. 



The findings, appearing in the Journal of Geophysical Research, potentially extend the age of the Earth's magnetic field by hundreds of millions of years.



"The magnetic field is, in theory, one of the reasons we think Earth is really unique as a habitable planet," says Nichols. "It's thought our magnetic field protects us from harmful radiation from space, and also helps us to have oceans and atmospheres that can be stable for long periods of time."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-life-s-emergence">Implications for life's emergence</h2>



The discovery of a magnetic field dating back to 3.7 billion years ago has significant implications for the emergence of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/how-ancient-ocean-water-shaped-early-life-evolution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">life on Earth</a>. 



“That’s important because that’s the time when we think life was emerging,” says Benjamin Weiss, the Robert R. Shrock Professor of Planetary Sciences in MIT’s Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences (<a href="https://eaps.mit.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EAPS</a>). 



“If the Earth’s magnetic field was around a few hundred million years earlier, it could have played a critical role in making the planet habitable," Weiss continued.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-exploring-the-isua-supracrustal-belt">Exploring the Isua Supracrustal Belt</h2>



In 2018, Nichols and her team embarked on an expedition to the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isua_Greenstone_Belt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Isua Supracrustal Belt</a> in southwest Greenland, a remote location accessible only by helicopter. 



The area is known for having the oldest preserved rocks on Earth, which have been extensively studied to answer scientific questions about Earth's ancient conditions.



"It's about 150 kilometers away from the capital city, and you get helicoptered in, right up against the ice sheet," Nichols says. "Here, you have the world's oldest rocks essentially, surrounded by this dramatic expression of the ice age. It's a really spectacular place."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-analyzing-banded-iron-formations">Analyzing banded iron formations</h2>



The team collected <a href="https://www.earth.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/earth-magnetic-field_oldest-rock_Isua-Supracrustal-Belt_MIT_1m.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">samples of banded iron formations</a>, rocks that appear as stripes of iron-rich and silica-rich rock. The iron-oxide minerals found in these rocks can act as tiny magnets that orient with any external magnetic field. 



The researchers suspect that these rocks were originally formed in primordial oceans prior to the rise in atmospheric oxygen around 2.5 billion years ago.



"Back when there wasn't oxygen in the atmosphere, iron didn't oxidize so easily, so it was in solution in the oceans until it reached a critical concentration, when it precipitated out," Nichols explains. "So, it's basically a result of iron raining out of the oceans and depositing on the seafloor."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-determining-the-strength-of-the-ancient-magnetic-field">Determining the strength of the ancient magnetic field</h2>



Through a careful process of remagnetization, the team concluded that the rocks likely harbored an ancient, 3.7-billion-year-old <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mesopotamian-bricks-reveal-anomaly-in-earths-magnetic-field-3000-years-ago/">ma</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mesopotamian-bricks-reveal-anomaly-in-earths-magnetic-field-3000-years-ago/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">g</a><a href="https://www.earth.com/news/mesopotamian-bricks-reveal-anomaly-in-earths-magnetic-field-3000-years-ago/">netic field</a>, with a magnitude of at least 15 microtesla, half the strength of today's field but of the same order of magnitude.



"The fact that it's similar in strength as today's field implies whatever is driving Earth's magnetic field has not changed massively in power over billions of years," Nichols says.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-implications-for-earth-s-evolution-and-habitability">Implications for Earth's evolution and habitability</h2>



The results raise questions about how the ancient Earth could have powered such a robust magnetic field, as it's thought that the <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/solid-metal-ball-discovered-within-earths-inner-core/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">inner core</a>, which powers today's field, had not yet formed so early in the planet's evolution.



"It seems like evidence for whatever was generating a magnetic field back then was a different power source from what we have today," Weiss says. 



"And we care about Earth because there's life here, but it's also a touchstone for understanding other terrestrial planets. It suggests planets throughout the galaxy probably have lots of ways of powering a magnetic field, which is important for the question of habitability elsewhere," he concluded.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-new-chapter-in-the-history-of-earth-s-magnetic-field">New chapter in the history of Earth’s magnetic field</h2>



In summary, the discovery of 3.7 billion-year-old rocks in Greenland bearing signatures of Earth's ancient magnetic field opens a new chapter in our understanding of the planet's evolution and habitability. 



This find challenges our current knowledge of Earth's magnetic field and its role in supporting life. As geologists continue to unravel the secrets hidden within these ancient rocks, we move closer to comprehending the complex interplay between Earth's magnetic field, its early conditions, and the emergence of life on our planet. 



This research reshapes our understanding of Earth's history and provides valuable insights into the potential habitability of other terrestrial planets throughout the galaxy.



The full study was published in the <a href="https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023JB027706" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Journal of Geophysical Research Solid Earth</a>.



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Earth’s magnetic field is much older than previously believed

Geologists have uncovered ancient rocks in Greenland that bear the...

A team of researchers led by the <a href="https://www.pcom.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine</a> (PCOM) has recently described a remarkable species of <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/extinct-giant-salmon-teeth/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salmon</a>, known as Oncorhynchus rastrosus, which lived in the North American Pacific Northwest millions of years ago and boasted an unusual pair of protruding front teeth resembling tusks.



“In the Pacific Northwest, Oncorhynchus is the most celebrated and species-rich salmonine subclade, yet the twelve living species represent only a portion of their clade’s historical diversity,” wrote the study authors.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spike-toothed-salmon">Spike-toothed salmon</h2>



Previously, researchers believed that the large front teeth of O. rastrosus, which earned it the nickname "saber-toothed salmon," pointed backward into its mouth.&nbsp;



However, recent CT scans and thorough analyses of various <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/fossils-capture-a-turning-point-in-the-evolution-of-life/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fossils</a> have found that these teeth extended sideways out of the mouth, akin to the tusks of a warthog. Based on these findings, the researchers suggested renaming the species to "spike-toothed salmon."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-purpose-of-tusk-like-salmon-teeth-nbsp">Purpose of tusk-like salmon teeth&nbsp;</h2>



While the actual function of these distinctive teeth remains a matter of debate, the researchers argued that they could have been used for combat with other members of their species or for defense against <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deep-ocean-predators-thrived/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predators</a>. 



Another possibility is that the teeth served a practical purpose in nest-building during the spawning season. It is unlikely that the teeth were used for capturing prey, as O. rastrosus is believed to have been a filter-feeder, primarily consuming plankton.



“The discoveries like ours show they probably weren't gentle giants,” said lead author Kerin Claeson, a paleontologist at the PCOM. “These massive spikes at the tip of their snouts would have been useful to defend against predators, compete against other salmon, and ultimately build the nests where they would incubate their eggs.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-both-males-and-females-had-protruding-teeth">Both males and females had protruding teeth</h2>



Senior author Edward Davis, an associate professor of Earth Sciences at the University of Oregon and director of the <a href="https://mnch.uoregon.edu/collections-galleries/condon-collection" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Condon Collection</a> at the UO’s Museum of Natural and Cultural History, expressed enthusiasm about the new insights: “I’m delighted that we have been able to put a new face on the giant spike-toothed salmon, bringing knowledge from the field in Oregon to the world.”



“We also stress that females and males alike possessed enormous, tusk-like teeth. Therefore, the sexes were equally fearsome,” added co-author Brian Sidlauskas, an expert in ichthyology <a href="https://oregonstate.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oregon State University</a>. This feature highlights the potentially aggressive and competitive nature of both male and female spike-toothed salmon.



“Because male and females possess hypertrophied premaxillae and lateral premaxillary spikes, the former common name “Sabertoothed Salmon” no longer reflects our understanding of the species’ morphology. Accordingly, we redub O. rastrosus the Spike-Toothed Salmon and postulate that its spikes were multifunctional, serving as defense against predators, in agonism against conspecifics, and as a practical aid to nest construction,” the authors concluded.



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



<a href="https://www.earth.com/news/decline-in-atlantic-salmon-linked-to-humans-and-climate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Salmon</a> have a set of teeth that are well-adapted to their diet and lifestyle, primarily suited for grabbing and holding onto prey. These teeth are small but sharp, lining the jaws, and in some species, they can also be found on the roof of the mouth. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-function-of-salmon-teeth">Function of salmon teeth</h3>



The primary function of these teeth is not for chewing but for ensnaring slippery prey like fish and insects, which is crucial since <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/climate-change-has-unpredictable-effects-on-salmon-migration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">salmon</a> are predominantly carnivorous.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-structure">Structure</h3>



Interestingly, the structure and robustness of salmon teeth can vary among species and even change throughout the life stages of the fish. For example, when young salmon (smolts) transition from freshwater to the ocean, their diet changes, and this can be reflected in the development of their teeth to better suit their new food sources.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spawning">Spawning</h3>



Additionally, during the spawning phase, some male salmon develop what's called a "kype," which is a pronounced curvature of the jaws and teeth. This feature helps them in fights for dominance and the right to mate.&nbsp;



Overall, the teeth of salmon are integral to their survival and reproductive strategies, emphasizing their role as effective predators within their aquatic environments.



The study is published in the journal <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0300252" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PLoS ONE</a>.



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Giant prehistoric salmon had fearsome, tusk-like teeth

A team of researchers led by the Philadelphia College of...

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



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.

Detecting mercury contamination with the tap of a finger

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



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



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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: European Space Agency&nbsp;



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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



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 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



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How the immune system responds to injury

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

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



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



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



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



Video/ Image Credit: NASA Goddard



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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

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

Earth,Like,Exoplanet,3d,Render

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



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



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



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



Video Credit: NASA Goddard



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



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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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