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Tattoos May Impact Local Immune System Function

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Some researchers are concerned that tattoos might be hazardous to health

Olga Korbakova / Alamy

Research indicates that tattoo ink can accumulate in lymph nodes, potentially disrupting the immune system and leading to permanent alterations in the body’s disease defense mechanisms.

This conclusion arises from a study involving mice, which revealed chronic inflammation in the lymph nodes of tattooed animals—nodes that were stained with ink—and modified antibody responses to vaccinations. Similarly, studies have shown inflammation and discoloration in the lymph nodes of individuals with tattoos, persisting for years after the tattoo was applied.

The findings suggest that tattoos could increase disease risk and highlight the necessity for further investigation. Santiago González from the University of Lugano, Switzerland, asserts, “When you get a tattoo, you are essentially injecting ink into your body. This affects not only the skin’s appearance but also the immune system. Chronic inflammation, over time, can deplete the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections and certain cancers—many questions remain that require additional research.”

Tattoos are becoming increasingly popular worldwide, with approximately 30 to 40 percent of individuals in Europe and the United States sporting at least one tattoo. Though Gonzalez does not have a tattoo, he admires them as an art form, stating, “I think they’re visually appealing.” Nonetheless, the long-term health implications of tattooing—particularly concerning the immune system—are still not well understood.

Gonzalez noted that he and his team were conducting an unrelated investigation into inflammation in mice when they observed a “crazy inflammatory response” after applying small identifying tattoos. Curious, they decided to delve deeper.

The team utilized standard commercial inks in black, red, and green to mark 25 square millimeter patches on the hind legs of several mice. With specialized imaging technologies, they tracked the ink traveling through lymph vessels towards nearby lymph nodes almost immediately, often within minutes.

In these nodes, the researchers found that macrophages (immune cells that eliminate debris, pathogens, and dead cells) absorbed the ink, turned the nodes discolored, and initiated acute inflammation. Within approximately 24 hours, these macrophages would perish and release the ink, which would then be taken up by other macrophages, creating a continuous cycle of chronic inflammation that outlasted the healing of the tattoo site.

After two months, during which the tattoos remained, the mice still exhibited inflammatory markers in their lymph nodes that were up to five times higher than typical, Gonzalez reported.

To comprehend how this inflammation affected immune functioning, the researchers administered a vaccine directly into the tattooed skin. Notably, the tattooed mice demonstrated a markedly weaker antibody response to the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine compared to control mice, while showing a stronger response to the influenza vaccine.

Further analysis revealed that the lymph node macrophages from tattooed mice were filled with ink and struggled to capture the COVID-19 vaccine. For mRNA vaccines to be effective, they must be processed by macrophages. Conversely, the protein-based influenza vaccines triggered an enhanced antibody response, likely due to an increase in immune cells drawn to the tattoo site. “The response may vary based on the type of vaccine,” Gonzalez explained.

Lastly, the researchers investigated a limited number of lymph node biopsies from individuals who had tattoos near their lymph nodes. Two years post-tattoo application, the lymph nodes retained visible pigment, housed within the same type of macrophages observed in the mouse research. “Their lymph nodes were entirely filled with ink,” noted Gonzalez.

Crucially, he emphasized that even if individuals undergo tattoo removal, the ink is likely to persist in the lymph nodes for a lifetime. “You can eliminate ink from your skin, but the ink in your lymph nodes remains,” he stated.

The research findings illuminate the long-suspected link between tattoos and immune response. Christel Nielsen at Lund University, Sweden, indicated that her team had recently published findings that suggest individuals with tattoos have a heightened melanoma risk. She believes that the findings from Gonzalez’s team may be explained by increased inflammation in lymph nodes. “This study provides compelling proof that this is indeed the case,” she remarked, calling it a significant advancement in our understanding of the relationship between tattoos and disease.

For Michael Jurbdazian, this study conducted at the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment in Berlin paints a clearer picture of how tattoo pigments interact with the immune system. However, he notes that results from mouse studies might not precisely mirror human outcomes, especially considering the differences between human and mouse skin. “The correlation with human health, particularly once healing is complete, necessitates more investigation,” he stated.

topic:

  • immune system/
  • inflammation

Source: www.newscientist.com

We’ve Adapted to Local Micronutrient Levels, but This Could Lead to Issues

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Numerous Mayan individuals reside in Acanceh, Mexico

Educational Images/Universal Image Groups via Getty Images

Historically, the quantity of zinc and other trace elements in human nutrition was largely influenced by the local soil conditions. Recent findings suggest that our ancestors adapted to varying levels of micronutrients as they dispersed globally.

This adaptation may have resulted in notable repercussions. For instance, the shorter statures observed in certain populations might be a consequence of adapting to low iodine availability. Additionally, these historical adjustments may lead to some individuals today experiencing deficiencies or excesses of specific micronutrients.

“For much of human history, the micronutrient profile of our diet has been determined by the soil beneath us,” stated Jasmine Reese from the University of Pennsylvania.

Reese and her team analyzed the genomes of nearly 900 individuals globally to uncover evidence of adaptation to local concentrations of 13 trace elements, including iron, manganese, and selenium. They investigated signs of positive selection in 270 genes related to the ingestion of these elements, highlighting benefits of genetic variations that became more common within certain populations.

The most compelling evidence was for iodine-related genes in the Maya populations of Central America. A similar pattern was observed in the Mbuti and Biaka peoples of Central Africa.

In 2009, it was suggested that the short stature of the Mbuti and Biaka peoples may be attributed to their adaptation to low iodine levels. This relates to iodine-binding genes that influence thyroid hormone function and subsequently growth. These groups are also notably more susceptible to thyroid enlargement due to dietary iodine deficiencies compared to nearby populations.

Maya individuals also exhibit notably shorter statures, providing supporting evidence for the hypothesis that adaptations to low iodine levels influence height. Moreover, it is emphasized that the soils in the Mayan regions, particularly rainforests, are recognized as low in iodine.

“This is quite speculative,” she notes. “While I can’t definitively link short stature directly to iodine levels, we observe a striking correlation with the selection of iodine-related genes in these shorter populations.”

In the Uighur and Blahui populations of Central and South Asia, where soil magnesium concentrations are particularly elevated, there is strong selection impacting two genes involved in magnesium uptake. Some gene variants correlated with low magnesium levels suggest adaptive changes that minimize magnesium absorption to avoid toxicity from environmental excess.

These instances are merely a couple of examples. The research team has identified signs of positive selection related to at least one micronutrient across virtually all examined populations worldwide. “We truly observe a widespread signature of adaptation,” Reese states.

This research marks just the beginning, she emphasizes. Further investigations are crucial to elucidate the impacts of the numerous genetic variants discovered by the team. Given the global trade in food, individuals within certain populations may require increased or decreased intake of specific micronutrients. Reese compares this to populations in the UK, where individuals with darker skin may need vitamin D supplementation not just in winter but throughout the entire year.

“Understanding whether a specific population may require certain micronutrient supplements is essential,” notes Mark Stoneking at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Germany.

“They’ve conducted groundbreaking work in identifying signatures of selection from genomic data,” he states. “However, further research is needed to confirm these findings as genuine cases of selection, as some may inevitably turn out to be false positives.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Newly Discovered Small Red Dot Galaxy Found in Our Local Universe

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SEI 259288289

J1025+1402, one of three small red dot galaxies up to 2.5 billion light years apart

Digital Legacy Survey/d. Lang (Permieter Institute)

A new analysis shows that peculiar galaxies, once only identified in early cosmic formations, have surfaced more recently, raising intriguing questions about their origins.

Recent observations made by astronomers utilizing the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) have revealed compact red entities from the universe’s first billion years, dubbed Little Red Dots (LRD). These were initially believed to be associated with phenomena in the early universe, like the formation of supermassive black holes at the cores of galaxies, including our own.

Xiaojing Lin from China’s Tsinghua University, along with her research team, has discovered LRD in a much younger universe, about 12 billion years post-Big Bang. “This finding demonstrates that the conditions fostering small red dots are not solely confined to the early universe,” states Lin.

The researchers employed a telescope based in New Mexico to analyze images captured during the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. They pinpointed three objects that appeared as LRD, but significantly, they were merely 2.5 billion light years apart.

“They meet all criteria for classification as small red dots,” remarks Xiaohui Fan from the University of Arizona. “I believe there’s no doubt regarding their similarity.”

Each LRD is estimated to be approximately one million times the mass of the Sun, with dimensions comparable to the solar system. One of these LRDs is nicknamed the “egg” due to its elongated structure. The team also identified a few other potential LRD candidates awaiting confirmation.

These findings are exhilarating, says Anthony Taylor from the University of Texas at Austin, as they provide unique insights into the characteristics of LRDs. These objects are faint enough that telescopes like the JWST and Hubble can analyze them significantly easier than their early universe counterparts, potentially unveiling their true nature.

“They’re much closer to us, making them appear much brighter,” adds Taylor.

A schematic diagram showing what the local small red dots might be, depicting a black hole at the center, encircled by a significant gas envelope (yellow), streams of gas, clouds, and dust.

Xiaojing Lin with Cass Fan

A potential explanation for LRDs is that they signify the nascent phases of extraordinarily massive black holes maturing within the galaxy, possibly marking their initiation as they begin consuming matter voraciously.

It’s currently unclear whether local LRDs are dormant galaxies that have recently awakened or if they have just formed and are starting to consume significant amounts of material. “At this point, it is premature to discuss that aspect,” Taylor points out.

The team is eager to utilize Hubble and JWST to delve deeper into these local LRDs. “I have a proposal for Hubble pending approval,” Fan comments.

LRDs have the potential to exist not just in contemporary and ancient universes but throughout cosmic history. “They may have been lurking, camouflaged, amidst the cosmos,” Fan remarks. “People haven’t known what to look for.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New Research Suggests Neanderthals Embraced Local Food Traditions

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The Caves of Amdo and Kebara in northern Israel date back to the central Paleolithic period, approximately 70,000-50,000 years ago. Both are situated in the Southern Levant’s Mediterranean region. The Neanderthals occupying these sites left behind a wealth of stone tools, evidence of fire usage, and a variety of animal and human fossils. A recent study from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem indicates that despite their proximity and the use of similar resources and tools, Neanderthals at these sites employed markedly different methods for processing their food.

Jaron et al. Despite comparable occupational strengths, similar stone tool techniques, and access to similar food resources, we propose a unique slaughter strategy among Neanderthal populations in the caves of Amdo and Kebara.

“The distinct variations in cut mark patterns between Amdo and Kebara might reflect local customs in animal processing,” stated Anal Jaron, a doctoral candidate at Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

“Though the Neanderthals at both sites experienced similar environments and challenges, they seem to have developed a distinct butchering strategy potentially passed on through cultural learning and social traditions.”

“These two sites present an extraordinary opportunity to investigate whether Neanderthal slaughter methods were standardized.”

“If butchering techniques differ between sites or over time, it could suggest that factors like cultural practices, dietary preferences, or social structures have influenced self-sufficiency activities, including slaughter.”

The Neanderthals resided in the caves of Amdo and Kebara during the winters between 70,000 and 50,000 years ago.

Both groups utilized the same flint tools and primarily preyed on gazelles and fallow deer.

However, it appears that the Kebara Neanderthals hunted larger game compared to their counterparts in Amdo and opted to perform the slaughter in caves rather than at the kill sites.

In Amdo, 40% of the animal bones show signs of burning, with most being fragmented, possibly resulting from intentional cooking or accidental damage afterward.

Conversely, in Kebara, only 9% of the bones are burned, suggesting they were cooked with less fragmentation.

Amdo’s bones seem less impacted by carnivores than those found in Kebara.

To compare food preparation techniques at Kebara and Amdo, researchers selected bone samples from corresponding layers at both sites.

These samples were analyzed macroscopically and microscopically to assess various cut mark characteristics. Similar patterns might suggest consistent slaughter practices, while differing patterns may highlight distinct cultural customs.

The cut marks were notably clear and intact, with minimal alteration from carnivorous activity or later damage from desiccated bones.

The profiles, angles, and widths of these cuts were akin across both groups and their toolkits.

Nonetheless, the cut marks at Amdo were found to be more densely packed than those at Kebara, and exhibited a less linear shape.

Scientists have proposed several potential reasons for this observation. It could be due to differing demands in processing various prey species and types of bones—most of the bones found in Amdo are short, yet similar distinctions appeared when examining small, straight bone fragments present in both sites.

Experimental archaeology indicates that this pattern cannot be solely attributed to the skills of butchers or heightened slaughtering efforts to maximize food yield.

Instead, the varying cut mark patterns likely reflect intentional butchering choices made by each group.

One hypothesis is that Neanderthals in Amdo treated meat differently prior to slaughter—perhaps opting to dry it or allow it to decay.

We posit that managing decomposing meat poses challenges, which may explain the strong cut marks and less linear characteristics observed.

The second possibility is that the organization of the groups (e.g., the number of butchers involved in a particular kill) contributed to the variance in practices between these two Neanderthal communities.

However, further research is needed to explore these theories.

“There are some limitations to consider,” Jaron noted.

“Bone fragments can be too small to provide a complete understanding of the butcher marks present on the remains.”

“We have made efforts to mitigate biases caused by fragmentation, but this may limit our ability to fully interpret the findings.”

“Future research involving more experimental work and comparative studies will be vital to address these uncertainties. Eventually, we might be able to reconstruct Neanderthal recipes.”

Survey results published in the journal Frontiers of Environmental Archaeology.

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Anal Jaron et al. 2025. Comparing Neanderthal Treatment of Faunal Resources in the Amdo and Kebara Caves (Israel) Through Cut Mark Analysis. Front. Environ. Archaeol 4; doi:10.3389/fearc.2025.1575572

Source: www.sci.news

Tesla’s Massive Factory in Germany: Shadows Cast on Local Lives

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when Elon Musk encouraged Germans to support the far-right Alternative for Germany (AFD) in last year’s election, Manu Heuer, a resident of the small town where the billionaire established Tesla’s European production center, expressed her concerns.

“How can you engage in business with individuals who endorse right-wing extremism?” she questioned Dietimar Wudike, the Social Democrat leader in Brandenburg, who backed the creation of the Tesla Giga Factory in Grunheide.

Heuer described Woidke’s “unfortunate, yet predictable” response, where he dismissed the claim. “He claimed he didn’t know Musk personally, as if that were a valid excuse,” she noted.




Manu Heuer has sought to question local politicians regarding Elon Musk’s backing of the far-right Alternative for Germany party. Photo: Imago/Alamy

She co-founded Citizens’ Initiatives to develop a vibrant community on a sandy plain southwest of Berlin to oppose plans announced in 2019. At the time, there was significant concern regarding the potential environmental effects of factories on the local pine forests and groundwater.

Recently, it is Musk’s politics that have raised alarms. Not only did he notably endorse far-right European parties, but he also appeared to make a Nazi salute at a rally following Donald Trump’s inauguration.




Elon Musk will inspect the vehicle when production commences at the Tesla facility in Grunheide. Photo: Patrick Pleul/AFP/Getty Images

Meanwhile, Tesla’s sales have declined, particularly in Europe, where new vehicle sales have dropped for the fifth consecutive month, despite overall growth in the electric vehicle market.

Heiko Basin, another member of the civic initiative, expressed a sense of schadenfreude. “We had placed our hopes in this,” the carpenter shared during a recent walk in the shadows of the expansive Grunheide factory.

As sales continue to drop, factories face challenges. Production shifts for the Y model have decreased from 3-2 units per day. IG Metal, which has recruited hundreds of workers despite Tesla’s resistance, urged the company to consider placing employees in “Kurzarbeit.”

Regional media has reported that Tesla is relocating to carriers at a former East German airport, approximately 60 km (37 miles) away.

Musk’s apparent Nazi salute elicited shock and horror in Germany, but it went largely unnoticed in Grunheide until the campaign group projected an image on the facade of the Tesla factory with the Nazi-related word “heil” provocatively placed in front of the Tesla logo.

The outcry from the incident was palpable on the factory floor, as workers told tabloid Berlin Klier. “In Tesla Germany, they tried to maintain distance from (Musk) and remained silent,” one worker noted. Now, they could no longer ignore their ties.

Workers are hard to reach and are often compelled to sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). Yet, on Khunnu, a work portal allowing employees to express their thoughts anonymously, a Tesla worker shared:

Almut, a local resident, remarked that politicians tout the benefits Tesla has brought to the area, yet “fail to acknowledge the troubling reality that it subsidizes the wealthiest individual in the world who bears no social responsibility for what occurs here.”

She said locals often joke about what might replace the factory if Tesla were to fail. “Ammunition factories? Prisons? In a way, those seem like decent alternatives,” she quipped. The only positive contribution she could recall from Tesla was the robotic lawnmower it donated to a local soccer club.




While local politicians in Grunheide were keen to highlight the advantages of the factory, some residents voiced concerns about the environmental effects of light pollution and excessive water consumption. Photo: Michele Tantussi/Getty Images

Just two weeks prior to the salute, Musk publicly supported the AFD during an hour-long discussion with co-leader Alice Weidel, touching on topics like Hitler, solar energy, and German bureaucracy. Musk mentioned that Tesla had to submit a staggering 25,000-page form to establish the Grunheide factory. Notably, the AFD has vehemently opposed the Tesla facility, citing concerns over US-led turbo-capitalism and the erosion of workers’ rights. “People need to get behind the AFD,” Musk stated.

For Grunheide residents who oppose Musk, their concerns are compounded by the factory’s impact on rural areas characterized by forests, lakes, and rivers.

New bike lanes and roads necessitate the clearing of large swaths of pine forests, threatening the area’s already precarious drinking water resources and officially declared drought zones.




Tesla Giga Factory with forests in the backdrop. Photo: Sean Gallup/Getty Images

The expansive factory complex, covering 300 hectares (740 acres), is set for expansion by another 100 hectares under a plan submitted by the Mayor of Grunheide, despite a local referendum where 62% of voters voiced opposition.

Supporters highlight the 11,000 jobs created by the factories and the positive impact on the local economy in a region previously governed by the Communist Party. Many young residents look forward to more frequent train services to Berlin, improved supermarket stocks, and the elevation of their hometowns alongside Tesla’s other locations in Shanghai, Nevada, and Austin as examples of “green capitalism.” It is said that an invitation to the “Rave Cave” Technodance Space Mask was sought within the factory complex.

For job openings, the Tesla recruitment page emphasizes that diversity is central to its business model, listing numerous positions available from shift managers to maintenance technicians.

Nevertheless, even among those who have previously expressed enthusiasm for Tesla, sentiments have turned cold. Formerly, a group of local teenagers routinely flew drones over the construction site and proudly shared their videos on YouTube. “Even though I’m no longer anonymous about Tesla/Elon, I’m happy to discuss publicly about them,” one teen texted to the Guardian.

There has been no response from the company regarding interview requests or access to the factory.

Arne Christani, the Mayor of Grunheide and a steadfast Musk supporter, expressed confidence that Tesla will thrive in Grunheide. He mentioned he was unfazed by Musk’s statements or actions. “We must differentiate between what happens in the United States and here in Grunheide,” he stated.

Heuer, living 9 km from the factory, remains hopeful of seeing a starry sky from her garden once again. “Since the factory was built, it’s been challenging due to light pollution from the round-the-clock operation,” she remarked, sharing before and after photos on her phone.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Local Officials Back Reduction in Disaster Preparedness Funding

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St. Louis has experienced two tornadoes within the last two months. A recent fire led to the evacuation of a new nursing home in Enterprises, Alabama, last month. Meanwhile, Cleveland dealt with a blackout as crowds attended the NCAA Women’s Basketball Final Four.

In these incidents, local health officials managed aftermaths, supported hospitals, located new residences for displaced individuals, and coordinated efforts with fire services, police, and other municipal sectors.

The total cost of these responses reached approximately $735 million, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The budget proposed by President Trump allocates zero funds for such efforts.

The proposed budget cuts have increased anxiety among health officials, especially following a $12 billion reduction to state and local health agencies in March. Nineteen states and the District of Columbia have filed lawsuits aiming to stop these cuts.

“Both artificial and natural disasters are not reliant on federal funds, but the response aimed at saving lives certainly is,” stated Dr. Matifha Fratova Davis, Health Director of St. Louis. (Dr. Davis has resigned but will remain until a replacement is appointed.)

The city faces substantial sinkholes and is situated on fault lines prone to floods, in addition to being at risk for earthquakes. “We genuinely depend on this fundraising,” Dr. Davis remarked. Without it, “the entire community of St. Louis and its visitors will stay at risk.”

The Department of Health and Human Services directed budget-related inquiries to the Office of Management and Budget, which did not reply to requests for comments.

The funding has garnered interest from local health sectors via the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Cooperation Agreement, established after the September 11, 2001 attacks to prepare for biological threats and other emergencies.

This funding aids authorities in overseeing public health implications of both natural and artificial disasters while also containing infectious disease outbreaks. It also finances salaries of experienced officials tasked with readiness and mitigation of public health issues.

Funding amounts vary by jurisdiction. St. Louis and Cleveland each receive roughly $250,000, covering salaries for three staff members. In comparison, Dallas is allocated nearly $2 million, supporting salaries for 17 employees.

“There’s minimal cushion for these funds, especially at the local level,” noted Dr. Philip Fan, director of the Dallas County Health and Human Services Department in Texas.

If these funds vanish, even larger cities like Dallas will feel the effects. “The smaller the health department, the more pronounced the impact will be,” he explained.

Dr. Davis indicated that her department receives less than 1% of the overall St. Louis city budget. Should CDC public health emergency funds be reduced, Missouri and its cities may need to compensate for the deficit, as current budgets imply.

“These individuals will soon find themselves jobless,” Dr. Davis remarked regarding employees funded through the grant.

In Alabama, emergency response programs are fully financed through federal grants. Winter tornadoes, hurricanes, and ice storms can wreak havoc and necessitate intervention from health authorities.

“Accusations have been made against the Alabama Department of Public Health,” stated Dr. Scott Harris, state health officer.

In several jurisdictions, staff depend on hundreds of volunteers to assist with COVID-19 and MPOX vaccinations. Nevertheless, paid staff is essential for coordinating those activities and training volunteers, Dr. Huang explained.

“You can’t appear before everyone claiming, ‘Yes, I’m a doctor,'” he added. City officials will verify volunteer qualifications and mobilize them for emergencies as needed.

In Cleveland, health officials responsible for preparations receive midnight calls from hospitals regarding potential charcoal or other bacterial infectious threats.

“We’ve encountered numerous challenges with our efforts,” commented Dr. David Margolius, Director of Public Health in Cleveland. “However, it’s always better to be prepared than to be caught off guard.”

Some officials have expressed concern since the election about whether the Trump administration will continue funding for these programs. However, they did not anticipate a sudden cessation of funds, as seen with other CDC funding streams.

If Congress implements a funding cut, he noted, “We’ll have to urgently assess their situation.” “It’s entirely unfair for these teams and Cleveland residents to rely on these services under such circumstances.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Research Indicates That the Size of Small Houses Made Ancient Giant Kangaroos Susceptible to Local Extinction

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Extinct Kangaroos from the genus Protemnodon A recent study by paleontologists from the University of Adelaide, Queensland Museum, and Monash University discovered that these creatures were not adventurous wanderers traversing the plains, but rather homebodies that remained close to their habitats throughout their lives. This finding aligns with behaviors observed in modern kangaroo species, yet it was surprising to the researchers.

Protemnodon. Image credits: Andrey Atuchin / Rochelle Lawrence / Scott Hocknull.

Among large herbivorous mammals, greater body sizes are often associated with broader foraging ranges; however, it remains uncertain if this trend applies to extinct Australian megafauna.

In this study, paleontologist Christopher Laurikainen Gaete and colleagues investigated protemnodon fossils found in the Etna Cave, located north of Rockhampton in Central Queensland, Australia.

They examined strontium isotopes from kangaroo teeth, revealing matches only with local limestone rather than distant rock formations.

“The strontium isotopes in the fossilized teeth indicate the geology of the region where food was sourced,” they noted.

The findings suggest that Protemnodon had a significantly smaller foraging range than anticipated for its size, which is estimated at up to 170 kilograms.

Prior research indicates that Protemnodon likely lacked the capacity for long-distance travel due to its large size, thereby restricting its movement.

Additionally, this new study suggests that the stable, lush rainforest habitat provided sufficient food sources, negating the need for Protemnodon to wander far.

When climate change and increasing aridity disrupted this rainforest ecosystem about 280,000 years ago, the reduced foraging area may have left Protemnodon unable to find sufficient food, ultimately leading to the local extinction of these giant kangaroos.

Further investigations are needed to ascertain whether the limited range of Australia’s gigantic marsupials is a widespread pattern attributable to habitat rather than body size.

“We utilized data from contemporary kangaroos to predict a much broader foraging range for these giant extinct kangaroos,” explained Laurikainen Gaete.

“We were astonished to find they didn’t roam at all.”

“These innovative isotopic techniques have significantly advanced our field,” remarked Dr. Scott Hocknall, a senior scientist and curator at the Queensland Museum and paleontologist at Monash University.

“Think of it as an ancient GPS tracker. Fossils allow us to monitor individual movement, dietary habits, social interactions, and causes of death.”

“The ongoing debate regarding the extinction of Australia’s megafauna has persisted for decades, and now we can analyze it from an individual and species-specific standpoint,” stated Professor Anthony Doset, a paleontologist at the University of Wollongong.

“These precise methodologies enable us to examine each site and individual, facilitating more accurate extinction models.”

Researchers are currently planning to apply these methods to reconstruct the past behaviors and diets of MT ETNA and other extinct kangaroo species in the Capricorn Cave region.

“Many of the kangaroo species on Kangaroo Island, such as those found in Capricorn Caves, include tree kangaroos, pademelons, and rock wallabies, with descendants inhabiting the wet tropics and Papua New Guinea,” noted Professor Doset.

“We will employ these same techniques to explore how these surviving kangaroo species adapted to the environmental changes that contributed to the massive extinctions.”

The study will be published in the journal PLOS 1.

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C. Laurikainen Gaete et al. 2025. Megafauna Mobility: An assessment of the foraging range of extinct macropodids from central Queensland, Australia. PLOS 1 20(4): E0319712; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0319712

Source: www.sci.news

Insightful Discoveries: New Fossils Shed Light on Plesiosaurus Diversity and Local Adaptations

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German paleontologists have unearthed a very well-preserved skeleton of the early Jornaian plesiosauloid species Plesioptery Wildi.

MH 7 Skeleton Plesioptery Wildi Abdominal view. Image credit: Marx et al. , doi: 10.7717/peerj.18960.

From a global perspective, the early Jurassic was characterized by the steady division of the Supercontinent Pangaea and associated climate change that produced alternating greenhouses and ice house conditions.

These paleoenvironmental changes coincided with radiation in various reptile groups. Plesiosauria.

The early Jurassic fossil records of the Plesiosaurus are particularly diverse, with members of Plesiosauroidea, Pliosauridae and Rhomaleosauridae being represented by numerous species in Europe, particularly in Germany and the UK.

3 m long skeleton Plesioptery Wildi It provides new clues about the evolution and geographical distribution of early Jurassic Precio Sources.

Fossils that were 180 million years ago posidonienschiefer layer Near Holtzmadden in southern Germany.

The specimen, called MH 7, is one of the most complete and distinct plesioaurus skeletons found in the region.

“Unlike the fishy scallions and marine crocodile parents who dominate the fossil record of this formation, Pleciosaurus is relatively rare,” said Miguel Marx, a paleontologist at Lund University and his colleagues.

“Therefore, new discoveries offer rare glimpses into the biodiversity of these long-necked marine reptiles.”

“MH 7 represents someone who refines this type of known trait and refines its validity as a clear taxa.”

Phylogenetic analysis shows that Plesioptery Wildi It is a close-related early potential plesiosaualoid Franconiasaurus Brevispinus.

“This finding suggests a progressive evolutionary transition to more derived cryptocrizids in the late Jurassic period,” the paleontologist said.

“It supports the idea that Prisiosaurus species may have been regionally different in the Epicontoninent Seas of early Jurassic Europe, reinforcing the pattern of paleobiogeographic segregation.”

“The Holtzmadden specimen gives us an unprecedented view Plesioptery Wildi At a more mature stage of development, we can refine our understanding of this species and its place in the evolution of plesiosaurus,” said Dr. Marx.

“It also suggests that different plesiosaurus communities may have evolved in different regions of the European sea during the early Jurassic region.”

“Our research reinforces the Pleciosoaurus already evolves specialized adaptations and distinct regional lineages much faster than we believed,” added Dr. Sven Sachs, a researcher at the Naturkunde Museum Bielefeld.

“This has important implications for understanding how marine reptiles responded to changes in the Jurassic ocean environment.”

study Published in the journal Peerj.

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M. Marx et al. 2025. New specimen of Plesioptery Wildi We reveal the diversification and possible uniqueness of Cryptocrizia precursors in the early European Jurassic Plecioaurauro assembly. Peerj 13:E18960; doi:10.7717/peerj.18960

Source: www.sci.news

How to Identify and Stay Safe from Human Waste in Your Local River

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Have you ever experienced this feeling before? On a blazing hot day, the desire to plunge into a cool stream of water intensifies by the minute. The water appears pristine, clear, and incredibly refreshing. However, in reality, it could be extensively contaminated.

Even the purest rivers can harbor harmful bacteria, including fecal bacteria originating from livestock manure and human waste.

In a recent announcement, the Designated bathing area in the UK, a favored holiday spot, has been a subject of concern due to issues such as being submerged in sewage and incidents of rowers contracting E. coli infections. To address these concerns, we consulted with water and sanitation expert Professor David Werner to provide essential information for safely enjoying wild swimming this summer.

Werner’s research delves into treated sewage, stormwater (untreated sewage overflows following heavy rains), and occasionally illegal sewage disposal in dry weather. These factors impact both human health and ecosystem health. While human waste is discharged into oceans, rivers tend to exhibit higher concentrations of human waste and the accompanying harmful bacteria due to lower dilution levels compared to water bodies, increasing the risk of exposure to harmful substances.

(Notably, a microbiology professor, William Gays, mentioned in BBC Science Focus that rivers have only recently been subjected to the same microbial testing as coastal waters. Moreover, wastewater discharged into the ocean is often subjected to more stringent treatment standards than rivers, including ultraviolet disinfection.)

The following guidelines mainly focus on rivers but are also relevant for coastal swimming activities.

The key takeaway? Avoid swimming after rainfall.

How do diseases enter rivers, and what is the risk of swimming in them?

Fecal contamination doesn’t always mean significant. The majority of people’s stool contains beneficial bacteria essential for our health. However, the stool of an ill individual harbors bacteria responsible for the illness, potentially leading to disease transmission.

According to Warner, the risk of contracting a disease from a river is relatively low, but it escalates if you ingest river water (discouraged but not impossible).

This can result in unpleasant symptoms like infections and diarrhea. The worst-case scenario involves acquiring antibiotic-resistant bacteria, an eventuality deemed highly improbable by Warner.

So, should one abstain from wild swimming altogether? Ultimately, it boils down to whether you are willing to accept the (generally minimal) risk for the mental health benefits, as Warner highlights.

“There is no such thing as absolute safety or zero risk,” he states. “Each time we embark on a car journey, we weigh the trip’s advantages against the accident risks. Similarly, outdoor recreation offers significant mental health perks, particularly for urban dwellers.”

How to safeguard yourself from sewage while swimming

Warner and his team are currently devising a device capable of swiftly testing water for contaminants, akin to a lateral flow corona test, though substantial research is required to materialize this concept.

Until this technology is available, several straightforward methods can help identify sewage presence while swimming in rivers this summer. Here are Warner’s recommendations:

1. Choose your spot wisely

According to Werner, it is crucial to avoid swimming downstream from a sewage treatment plant under any circumstances. While untreated sewage overflows are a common concern, treating sewage does not completely eradicate the risks; it merely diminishes them.

“Treating wastewater significantly reduces the levels of harmful bacteria, possibly by a factor of 1,000, but it doesn’t eliminate them,” Werner explains.

“Hence, if a location is situated immediately downstream of a treatment plant discharge point, one can expect a consistent presence of fecal bacteria due to the continuous discharge.”

Individuals can consult the “Poop Map” and trace their local river upstream to identify any treatment facilities along the route.

2. Check the poop map

UK organizations such as Rivers Trust and Surfers Against Sewage have developed an interactive map showcasing regular treated sewage discharges and anticipated untreated sewage overflows across the UK in 2023.

To locate a wastewater treatment plant on The Rivers Trust map, click the yellow square corresponding to your area or tap the brown circle icon, peruse the cards to pinpoint locations. The phrase “Sewage Discharge – Final/Treated Effluent – Water Companies” typically indicates a wastewater treatment facility.

The Rivers Trust’s interactive wastewater map displaying treated and untreated sewage discharge locations into UK rivers in 2023. – Image credit: Rivers Trust

This year, the charity integrated near real-time data into its maps. “This marks a significant advancement for individuals seeking real-time updates,” remarks Warner. “We strongly recommend utilizing these online resources, offering current information.”

Presently, individuals can ascertain if sewage has been discharged within the last 24 hours, albeit inland data is exclusive to designated bathing locations and rivers within the Thames Basin (Northumbrian Water also provides a County-level map while coastal regions are included).

3. Monitor the weather

Despite the allure of swimming on a sunny day, verify there hasn’t been rainfall for a few days. Swimming post-rainfall significantly heightens the possibility of encountering contaminated water due to sewer overflows and increased water release during heavy downpours.

To compound matters, even as a dry spell seems to prevail and swimming appears safe, hidden risks could lurk upstream. Thunderstorms can unleash localized rainfall, implying that upstream areas may experience heavy showers despite sunshine at your location.

4. Steer clear of small rivers

In addition to potentially turbid waters, small rivers tend to exacerbate the situation as sewage, whether treated or untreated, is less diluted in these settings.

Warner adheres to a safety benchmark stipulating that raw sewage minimal dilution should be 1,000 times for paddling and over 10,000 times for swimming. While calculating these dilution levels is not advised, the underlying principle is straightforward: “A large river with vigorous flow signifies ample dilution,” Werner asserts.

Nonetheless, disparate river segments need not cause undue concern: while one side may seem stagnant relative to the center, the water mixes uniformly.

5. Keep tabs on the paper trail

Exhibit prudence: refrain from swimming if toilet paper is visible. Alarming indicators surpass toilet paper and include wet wipes and sanitary pads crafted from plastic materials that should not be flushed but often are.

According to Werner, unlike toilet paper and human excrement, these items do not disintegrate in swiftly moving waters.

6. Stay informed

“After frolicking in the river, diligently cleanse yourself. Embrace standard personal hygiene,” stresses Werner.

About our experts

David Warner serves as a Professor of Environmental Systems Modelling at Newcastle University. Previously, his research concentrated on sanitation and water quality in low-income countries by utilizing DNA sequencing and assessing microbial hazards in rivers. During travel restrictions amid the pandemic, he shifted his focus to the UK’s rivers. His research on post-rain fecal bacteria levels has been documented in various journals such as Water Science and Technology, Comprehensive Environmental Science, and Environmental Pollution.

William Gays, a Professor of Microbiology at the European Centre for Environment and Human Health within the University of Exeter’s Medical School, conducts research published in journals like International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents, Food and Environmental Virology, and Water Research.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Florida Senate approves bill prohibiting local regulations protecting workers from heat-related hazards

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The Florida Senate has passed a bill that would prevent cities and counties from enforcing mandatory water breaks or other workplace safety measures for extreme heat.

With a 28-11 vote along party lines, the Republican-controlled Senate approved Senate Bill 1492, which would prohibit local governments from setting workplace heat standards higher than federal requirements. This means that cities and counties would no longer have the authority to mandate water breaks or shade breaks for workers during the day.

The legislation was introduced in response to the record-breaking heat in 2023, which resulted in prolonged heat waves and high temperatures in the southern United States. Climate experts attributed the extreme heat to global warming.

Proponents of Senate Bill 1492 argue that uniform regulations are necessary to avoid inconsistent rules across the state.

However, labor organizations argue that workplace heat standards are vital for protecting workers, particularly those in industries like construction and agriculture that require outdoor work.

Similar to a law in Texas, the bill in Florida would prevent local governments from implementing ordinances that mandate outdoor workers to take breaks for water or shade.

According to the National Weather Service, heat-related incidents cause more deaths in the U.S. than any other weather event, with outdoor workers at higher risk. The bill would also prohibit local heat protection measures such as training programs and record-keeping related to heat exposure.

While companies must adhere to OSHA’s general workplace safety regulations, there are currently no specific federal guidelines addressing extreme heat hazards.

The bill is pending final approval in the House of Representatives before reaching Governor Ron DeSantis. If signed, it will take effect on July 1st.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

“Milked for all it’s worth: The aftermath of a local eatery’s viral success” | Tick Tock

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Ben Newman, also known as Spudman, now spends more time taking selfies than selling jacket potatoes from his van in the heart of Tamworth.

His shop has become a TikTok sensation, attracting visitors from around the globe to sample his signature dishes – jacket potatoes topped with butter, cheese, and beans. However, Newman is bewildered by the sudden popularity.

He joins the ranks of other businesses like Binley Mega Chippy, Get Baked, and Wakey Wines that have gone viral on social media, drawing throngs of customers for various reasons, sometimes without rhyme or reason.

Despite the frenzy, Newman remains humble, recognizing that his success could happen anywhere. He serves a steady stream of customers lining up at his van for spuds, maintaining a focus on both excellent customer service and quality products.




Ben Newman’s business has flourished, necessitating the hiring of additional staff since October. Photo: Fabio de Paola/The Guardian

Newman’s social media presence, showcased through daily TikTok videos and live streams from his van, has garnered over 44 million likes. He started using the platform to attract customers post-COVID-19, but the real breakthrough came last October, requiring him to expand his team to meet the demand.

To leverage this newfound fame, Newman is partnering with singer Tom Walker for a promotional event featuring over 2,000 jacket potatoes, possibly held in the town square.

Similarly to Binley Mega Chippy, Spudman has become a TikTok sensation, drawing curious visitors from far and wide.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Local Bank Adapts Approach to Serve Latino Immigrants Through Communal Channels

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ID requirements, high fees and language gaps have long prevented some Latino immigrants from opening bank accounts in the United States. Comun I want to change that.

The New York-based neobank is a modern bank that offers banking services customized to the needs of immigrants. While many traditional banks require customers to provide a U.S. social security card or proof of address (such as a mortgage or utility bill), Comun allows customers to provide 100 different forms of identification in Latin America, including foreign passports. The certificate can be used to apply for an account.

Andres Santos and Aviel Gutierrez founded Comun in early 2022 to provide digital banking services such as instant payments, check deposits, and early payroll. They also wanted to give their customers 24/7 access to native Spanish speakers.

“Our mission is to bring local banking back to American immigrants,” Santos told TechCrunch. “We think this is a model that has continued to become obsolete at an alarming rate over the past 30 years. Basically, ‘too big to fail’ has taken away the lion’s share of the market share, shifting from 20,000 banks to I’ve seen it grow to less than 5,000 rows.”

Aviel Gutierrez and Andres Santos, Co-founders of Comun

Aviel Gutierrez and Andres Santos, co-founders of Comun. Image credits: Comun

Santos also explained that some banks were considering immigration during this time. But that group usually gets left behind because it doesn’t fit the model of potential customers you’re chasing.

“We want to reimagine local banking in the digital space, and that means communities and their unique needs to offer better products,” Komun added.

Banks make money from interest on deposits and from convenience fees to facilitate instant transactions similar to peer-to-peer transactions. It also began direct banking integration last month, which Santos said is growing rapidly and “already driving about 25% of our revenue and volume.” Comun also plans to collect fees on transactions once it launches a pilot remittance program that allows migrants to send money from the U.S. to Latin America.

The Commune is not the only one targeting immigrants. We partner with companies like Tanda, Bloom Money, Majority, Welcome Tech, and Pillar to help solve banking accessibility issues.

We are also participating in attracting venture capital for our approach. Today, Comun announced an additional $4.5 million in funding, bringing its total raised to $9 million. The latest investment was led by Costanoa Ventures, with participation from a group of existing investors including Animo Ventures, South Park Commons, and FJ Labs.

In addition to offering a variety of identification methods to open an account, the company differentiates itself from competitors through its partnership with Community Federal Savings Bank. Santos said having direct relationships with banks allows Comun to quickly add new services in a compliant manner.

Comun has also developed a large network of partners that support cash deposits and withdrawals at over 90,000 physical locations.

The concept stuck. The bank not only achieved a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 86, more than four times the industry average in terms of customer satisfaction, but also achieved a 60% month-over-month revenue increase. Through the platform he has processed over $75 million.

Mr. Santos and Mr. Gutierrez plan to use the new funding to hire additional employees, expand Comun’s banking services, launch new products including insurance, and eventually launch credit and underwriting operations. .

Source: techcrunch.com