Invasive Jellyfish Clones and Measles Outbreak in British Columbia and Oregon

Invasive Jellyfish Clones and Measles Outbreak in British Columbia and Oregon

Happy September, listeners! Let’s lean into those new school year vibes by learning a little something. For Scientific American’s Science Quickly, I’m Rachel Feltman—and this is your weekly science news roundup.

**Cell Phones and Cancer Risk**

First, let’s address the concerns surrounding cell phones and cancer risk. A new paper offers reassurance that cell phones do not give you brain cancer, which is great news for all the phone addicts out there. In 2011, the World Health Organization’s cancer research agency classified mobile phone radiation as possibly carcinogenic, causing widespread concern. However, a recent review led by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency and commissioned by the WHO found no apparent link between phone use and brain and head cancers after analyzing over 5,100 studies on the subject.

While cell phones may not cause cancer, they can still have negative impacts on our health. Guidelines issued by Sweden’s public health authority recommend strict regulations on screen time for children, with children under two advised to avoid screens altogether and teens limited to three hours a day. Similar guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics stress the importance of limiting screen time for children of all ages. These recommendations highlight the need to balance technology use with healthy habits.

**Measles Outbreak in Oregon**

Moving on to a more pressing issue, Oregon is currently facing its worst measles outbreak in three decades. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 236 cases nationwide this year, a significant increase from previous years. Falling vaccination rates are identified as the main cause of the outbreak, with nonmedical vaccine exemption rates for kindergartners in Oregon rising to 8.8% since 2000.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can have serious health consequences, making vaccination crucial for preventing its spread. Health experts emphasize the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to achieve herd immunity and protect vulnerable populations from outbreaks. It is essential for parents to ensure their children are up to date on their vaccinations to prevent the spread of preventable diseases like measles.

**Invasive Jellyfish Clones in British Columbia**

Now, let’s shift our focus to the curious case of invasive jellyfish clones in British Columbia. These freshwater jellyfish, known as the “peach blossom jellyfish,” are multiplying in lakes, ponds, and quarries, posing a potential threat to local ecosystems. A recent study published in the Canadian Journal of Zoology revealed that all 100 jellyfish sampled shared the same genetic material, indicating that they are essentially clones originating from a single prolific polyp or polyp cluster.

The spread of these invasive jellyfish is concerning, especially as climate change is expected to extend their range in the future. While these jellyfish are not known to sting humans, there is a risk that they may outcompete local species for food, disrupting the balance of aquatic ecosystems. Researchers warn that the presence of these clones could have far-reaching implications for biodiversity and ecosystem health, highlighting the importance of monitoring and managing invasive species.

**Space Exploration and the Boeing Starliner**

In the realm of space exploration, NASA’s Boeing Starliner spacecraft has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons. A recent incident involving a mysterious pulsing noise from a speaker on the spacecraft raised concerns about its safety and reliability. However, NASA has clarified that the noise was simply feedback from the audio connection between Starliner and the International Space Station, posing no risk to the crew onboard.

Despite this minor setback, NASA is preparing to send the Starliner back to Earth without a crew, marking a significant milestone in the spacecraft’s development. As space agencies continue to push the boundaries of human exploration, ensuring the safety and functionality of spacecraft like the Starliner is essential for the success of future missions.

In conclusion, the intersection of science, technology, and health presents a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities. From debunking myths about cell phones and cancer to addressing public health crises like measles outbreaks, the need for evidence-based research and proactive measures is more crucial than ever. As we navigate the ever-changing world of science and technology, staying informed and engaged with the latest developments is key to shaping a healthier and more sustainable future for all.