Control Your Brain’s Master Switch to Optimize Your Thinking

Posted on October 10, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Place your fingers on the back of your skull, approximately at the same height as the top of your ear. Here, deep in your hair, skin, and bones, near a fluid-filled cavity at the base of your brain, you’ll find tiny bundles of pigment cells the color of lapis lazuli. this is, coeruleus – Latin for “blue dot”. Although it is only a few millimeters in size, it has the power to control people’s thoughts in a way that is hard to imagine considering its small size.

Research has revealed that this structure helps regulate our mental processing. It’s sometimes called the brain’s “master switch,” but it’s better to think of it as a gearbox. ‘You can set the pace of your brain to match the specific mental task you’re doing,’ says turned neuroscience researcher Writer Miss Stroney. When we’re in the right gear, we feel like we’re enjoying the task at hand. But more often than not, we get stuck in the wrong direction, which can lead to dreamy procrastination and intense frustration.

Until recently, we knew little about how to control these transitions, but that is changing. It turns out that the little blue dots in your brain may be trainable and have an immediate impact on your cognition and mental health. This means that with the right techniques, you can shift gears that affect your mental state, from your ability to concentrate and the level of stress you feel, to your ability to take creative leaps and think on your feet.

It took almost two and a half centuries for the locus coeruleus to receive due recognition. The structure is…

Source: www.newscientist.com

Nobel Prize continues to lack diversity in science recognition

Posted on October 10, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Nobel Prize winners are awarded medals

Zhenkong Chen / Alamy

It's the most celebratory time of the year, as some of the brightest minds in science win Nobel Prizes. Recent winners have a few things in common. They definitely have a great body of work. And they're all men, they live in high-income countries, and none of them are black.

Gary Lubukun and Victor Ambrose received the Physiology or Medicine Prize for their discovery of microRNAs and their role in gene regulation to help treat cancer. A series of papers led to this discovery, many of which listed Ambrose's wife, Rosalind Lee, as the author. The Nobel Committee for Physiology and Medicine We would like to recognize Ms. Lee on social media.but did not go as far as awarding a medal. They may think that one device per family is enough.

Lee's omission may seem familiar. In 1962, James Watson, Francis Crick, and Maurice Wilkins received the award for their discovery of the molecular structure of DNA. This was the opposite Of the three papers published in the same issue nature. One was co-authored by Wilkins, another was co-authored by Watson and Crick, and the third was an image captured by Rosalind Franklin of DNA with two strands. Prior to publishing the image, It ended up in the hands of Watson and Crick.I then told them that their DNA model was a double helix. Franklin was removed from the Nobel Prize trophy.

Perhaps the committee dislikes the name Rosalind. but 972 people won the Nobel Prize Since our founding in 1901, 64 were women. This year's physics prize, awarded to John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton for discoveries related to machine learning, had a particularly poor hit rate, with only five women winning the award so far.

At least women in science are getting some recognition. No black person has ever won a science Nobel Prize, and only 17 black people have won the peace, literature, and economics prizes combined. Many people argue that Charles Drew says: African American man discovers a way to store plasma long-termmedicine was supposed to win, but Percy Julian figured it out. How to synthesize medicines from plantsneglected because of chemistry.

Geography also appears to play an important role in determining the winner. More than half of the prizes I went to the people of North America.and the few winners from low-income countries, most of whom had immigrated to North America or Europe by the time they won the award.

Some might say that all of this simply reflects the demographics of science. Less than 30% of researchers are womenfor example. However, it is no use failing to give credit where credit is due, especially when the Nobel Committee for Physiology or Medicine has issued a warning to the paper led by Lee. As the key publication behind the success of Ruvkun and Ambros.

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, which administers the prizes in physics and chemistry, at least recognizes that this lack of diversity is a problem. Starting in 2019, recommenders are required to: When choosing candidates, pay attention to gender, ethnicity, and geographypeople who can&#39t put themselves forward. Sounds good in theory, but since then, only six women and none of them have won in science, and none have been black.

You may be wondering why this is important. Awards are great honors, but they shouldn’t drive scientists. However, being a Nobel Prize winner opens doors for researchers and brings their work into the public consciousness. For many people, the annual Nobel Prize may be the only time they see a scientist&#39s name in the news headlines, but this award plays a huge role in shaping our perception of science.

Part of the problem is that the prize structure, dictated by Alfred Nobel&#39s will, tends to enforce a “great man of history” approach to science that does not reflect the realities of modern research. The rules state that no more than three people can share the award, but this does not explain why Lee was left out of the winning duo of Lubukun and Ambros. Additionally, donations cannot be received after death. Otherwise, Ms. Franklin, who died of ovarian cancer in 1958 at the age of 37, might have received the donations by now.

Of course, such issues are not new, and it seems unlikely that the Nobel Prize committee will deviate from the wishes of its sponsors, but that is no reason to ignore diversity. The committee needs to cast a wider net, not just for the sake of fairness, but if it wants to ensure that the awards continue to be taken seriously.

Alexandra Thompson is assistant news editor at New Scientist.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Suppressing Appetite to Lose Weight: The Effects of Weight Loss Drugs on Eating and Exercising Desires

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Weight loss drugs may reduce people's desire to exercise

Me 3645 Studio/Getty Images

Semaglutide, found in medicines such as Ozempic and Wigovy, reduces the amount of movement in mice. This finding suggests that these weight loss drugs may reduce people's motivation to exercise.

Semaglutide helps treat type 2 diabetes and obesity by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which regulates blood sugar and suppresses appetite. GLP-1 also suppresses activity in brain areas involved in reward processing and craving. This may explain why people taking semaglutide-based drugs no longer find eating as rewarding or pleasurable as they did before taking the drug. This is also probably why some studies show that semaglutide may also be helpful in treating substance use disorders.

ralph dileone Researchers at Yale University wanted to know whether semaglutide also affects other rewarding behaviors, such as exercise, which is known to improve mood and memory. So they gave seven mice semaglutide and an equal number a placebo and measured how far the mice ran on an exercise wheel each day.

On average, patients treated with semaglutide ran about half the distance as those given a placebo. This suggests that motivation for exercise may be low.

To further test this, the researchers administered semaglutide to another group of 15 mice and a placebo for 5 days to another group of similarly sized mice, and investigated their willingness to exercise on a wheel. did. But this time, the exercise wheel locked up periodically while the animal was running on it. To release the lock, the mouse had to press a lever with its nose. Each time the wheel locked, it became progressively more difficult to unlock, requiring the mouse to press the lever many more times. “Eventually they quit,” says DiLeone, who presented these findings at the Society for Neuroscience meeting in Chicago on October 7. “We call that their breakpoint. It's a proxy for how willing they are to access the wheel.”

The maximum number of lever presses in the semaglutide-treated mice was, on average, 25% lower than in the control animals. The researchers repeated the experiment in obese mice and found similar results.

Taken together, these findings suggest that semaglutide-based drugs, such as Ozempic and Wigovy, may reduce motivation to exercise, similar to reducing food and drug cravings. Masu. But DiLeone says there's still no evidence that this applies to humans. This could be because most of the data on Wegovy and Ozempic comes from people participating in weight-loss programs that include exercise, he says.

Still, these findings highlight that these drugs can interfere not only with negative behaviors but also with positive ones. ”[This] Data suggests there are still motivated behaviors that can be changed [with semaglutide] I haven't heard it yet.'' Karolina Skibicka at Penn State University.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Archaeologists say beach and underwater ruins in Sicily offer insights into early immigration

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Sicily is thought to be one of the first islands inhabited by humans during the European Upper Paleolithic period. Research to understand the early occupation of the island has focused primarily on the north coast. An international team of archaeologists led by Washington University in St. Louis is currently searching for signs of human habitation in 25 caves and trenches in southeastern Sicily, Italy.

Coastal and underwater cave sites in southern Sicily contain important new clues about the routes and fate of early human migrants to the island. Image credit: Ilaria Patania.

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is considered by many scholars to be the oldest permanently inhabited island of human ancestors in the region, but it is unclear when and how these early settlers arrived. It remains unclear whether he accomplished this feat.

Although the island is less than three miles from mainland Italy, it would have been extremely difficult for early humans to cross the ocean.

In the ancient Greek poem The Odyssey, Homer describes Odysseus sailing past the mythical sea monsters Scylla and Charybdis as they crossed the Strait of Sicily.

This strait was well known to ancient sailors. They attributed the terrifying power of its waves and whirlpools to powerful monsters.

In modern times, thousands of migrants from North Africa attempt to cross the Channel each year. Many never make it, and some capsize just a few hundred meters from landing.

“We're not just looking for the first arrivals, we're looking for the first communities,” says Dr. Ilaria Patania, a researcher at Washington University in St. Louis.

“Understanding the timing of Sicily's early colonization provides important data on the patterns and modes of Sicily's early expansion. homo sapiens To the Mediterranean. ”

“This study shows that new ways of thinking and seeing can reveal previously invisible patterns,” added TR Kidder, a professor at Washington University in St. Louis.

“Previous scholars believed that the ruins on Sicily's southern coast were eroded or too damaged to yield useful information.”

“But discovering underwater ruins opens up a whole new area of research.”

“This allows us to reconsider the migration routes of these earliest modern human ancestors.”

Scholars agree that humans reached Sicily by 16,000 years after the Last Glacial Maximum.

But that date is puzzlingly late, given that humans are known to have dispersed from land to Siberia about 30,000 years ago.

This discrepancy has led some to wonder whether humans actually reached Sicily long before the currently accepted date.

Also, no one yet knows whether humans arrived in Sicily by sea or by foot over a land bridge, or even from what direction.

“The challenge in understanding the spread of early modern human ancestors is that we don't fully understand how they spread and colonized the world so early on,” Professor Kidder said. said.

“Did people come across the Strait of Messina from Italy or from the south along the coast of Africa?”

“Or could they have been island hopping in the Mediterranean? Locating a location on the southern coast helps us consider their route, and therefore their mode of movement.”

“In southeastern Sicily, very few Upper Paleolithic sites have been excavated and analyzed using scientific methods,” Dr. Patania said.

“Although our project is still in its early stages, we have already identified and assessed more than 40 locations of interest, of which around 17 locations have been more accurately relocated based on older identification information. .”

Two of the new sites identified by the research team may contain evidence of Upper Paleolithic human occupation, including fossilized animals.

Coruzzi is located at the southernmost tip of Sicily. This site was originally identified by other researchers in the 1940s.

“This is the location where a second land bridge would have connected this island to Malta,” Dr Patania said.

“When we investigated this site, we found European wild donkey teeth and stone tools.”

“Analysis of the ruins at this site may provide insight into the final leg of the human journey south down Sicily's southernmost coast and towards Malta.”

In the summer of 2024, archaeologists began excavating the second site, a cave called Camporato.

“Here we found evidence of sea level changes caused by the last ice age and local earthquakes. We are still investigating,” Dr. Patania said.

“We reconstruct not only the period of human habitation, but also the environments in which these people lived and how they coped with natural phenomena such as earthquakes, climate and environmental changes, and even volcanic eruptions. I am thinking of doing so.”

of findings appear in the diary PLoS ONE.

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I. Patania others. 2024. Between land and sea: an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the early occupation of Sicily (EOS). PLoS ONE 19 (10): e0299118;doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299118

This article is a version of a press release provided by Washington University in St. Louis.

Source: www.sci.news

The scientific explanation for why you believe you are correct

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Some individuals may not only be incorrect in their arguments but also in their self-assuredness, possibly due to psychological reasons. According to a recent study, it is crucial to believe that you possess all necessary information to formulate an opinion, even when you do not, as outlined in a paper published in the Pros One journal on Wednesday. “Our brains tend to be overly confident in reaching rational conclusions based on minimal information,” stated Angus Fletcher, a co-author of the study and a professor at Ohio State University.

Fletcher and two other psychology researchers sought to evaluate how individuals make judgments about situations and people, primarily based on their confidence in the information available to them. “People tend to make hasty judgments,” remarked Fletcher.

The researchers enlisted approximately 1,300 participants with an average age of around 40. They all read a fictional narrative about a school experiencing a water shortage due to the local aquifer drying up.

Of the group, 500 individuals read an article supporting the school’s merger with another school, presenting three pro-merger arguments and one neutral point. Another 500 read an article containing three arguments favoring separation and the same neutral viewpoint.

The remaining 300 participants in the control group read a comprehensive article outlining all seven arguments: three in favor of the merger, three favoring separation, and one neutral argument.

After reading the materials, the researchers questioned the participants on their opinions regarding the school’s course of action and how confident they felt about having all required information to make a decision.

Survey results demonstrated that most individuals were more inclined to align with the arguments they were presented with (either for merging or remaining separate) and were confident in having acquired sufficient information to form their opinions. Moreover, it became evident that individuals who only read one perspective were more likely to express confidence in their views compared to those in the control group who read both sets of arguments.

Subsequently, half of the participants from each group were exposed to opposing information contradicting the initial article they read. While individuals felt assured in their viewpoints after encountering arguments favoring one solution, they were generally open to changing their minds when presented with all facts, subsequently reporting lower confidence in their ability to form opinions on the topic.

Fletcher noted, “We anticipated individuals maintaining their original judgments even upon receiving contradictory information. However, once presented with plausible alternatives, they exhibited a significant shift in their thinking, signaling a readiness for change.” This study underscored that people may not always consider whether they possess all pertinent information on a particular matter.

However, the researchers acknowledged that their findings might not apply to scenarios where individuals have established preconceived notions, such as in politics.

“People exhibit more openness and willingness to revise their opinions than assumed,” Fletcher remarked, adding, “Yet, this flexibility is not as prevalent in enduring divides like political beliefs.” Todd Rogers, a behavioral scientist at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, likened the study’s conclusions to the concept of an “invisible gorilla,” illustrating how individuals can be fixated on one aspect and overlook the obvious — a phenomenon referred to as “blindness caused by blindness.”

Rogers further stated, “This study encapsulates that insight. There appears to be a cognitive inclination to overlook the inadequacy of our information.”

Barry Schwartz, a psychologist and professor emeritus at Swarthmore College, noted that the research indicated people often underestimate their knowledge on specific subjects, similar to the concept of the “illusion of explanatory depth.” This notion suggests that individuals might believe they understand a topic, like the functioning of a toilet, but when prompted to explain the process, realize their lack of comprehensive knowledge.

“It’s not merely about being wrong; it’s the unwavering confidence in that wrongness,” Schwartz emphasized, suggesting that cultivating curiosity and humility can be the antidote.

The researchers and Schwartz found it encouraging and unexpected that individuals who encountered new information were willing to reconsider their beliefs, given that the information appeared plausible. “It instills a degree of optimism that even in the face of presumed certainty, individuals remain receptive to evolving evidence,” concluded Schwartz.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

There are hundreds of viruses on your toothbrush

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Our toothbrushes contain not only bacteria but also a huge number of viruses.

Kathryn Ziegler/Getty Images

Hundreds of viruses that infect bacteria have been found on toothbrushes and showerheads. However, this is not a cause for concern as the virus is not harmful to humans and studying how it works may reveal new ways to kill drug-resistant bacteria.

our toothbrushes Shower heads are full of bacteria From our mouths and from our water supplies. However, little is known about the viruses that are also present on these surfaces.

To get a better image, Erica Hartman Researchers at Northwestern University in Illinois wiped down 92 shower heads and 36 toothbrushes from the bathrooms of people living in the United States.

By analyzing the DNA sequences of swab samples, researchers discovered more than 600 viruses known to infect bacteria called bacteriophages. Most viruses that are harmless to humans originate from toothbrushes, and many have never been reported before. “This is a crazy story, and it just highlights how much novelty there is out there,” Hartman said.

Although the researchers did not test whether viruses affected the thousands of bacteria they also discovered, Hartman said bacteriophages tend to do one of two things. They can hijack the bacteria's molecular machinery to make copies of themselves and kill the bacteria as they exit. Alternatively, they can be integrated into the bacterial genome and change the bacteria's behavior.

The bacteriophages that Hartman and her colleagues identified are likely present on moist surfaces around the house, such as inside sinks and refrigerators. “We expect them everywhere,” she says.

“This is an interesting resource that allows us to better understand the breadth and detail of phage activity in the home,” he says. jack gilbert at the University of California, San Diego.

Genetically engineered bacteriophages can be used to kill drug-resistant bacteria when antibiotics don't work, so the discovery of so many new bacteriophages could point the way to further treatments. states that there is. dark bock mule at the Rheinwaal University of Applied Sciences, Germany.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Hannah Fry discusses the science of laughter: Monkeys enjoy being tickled, mice giggle | Revealing the formula for life by Hannah Fry

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

The British sense of humor is cherished among Brits, but it’s natural to assume that many British jokes may be embarrassing to other cultures. There is an interesting point to consider here – humor is not universal. What one finds amusing is not inherent, but rather cultural.

Humor differs significantly from laughter, which is a common experience for all human beings, even the grumpiest ones. Laughter is much easier to comprehend and study scientifically.

For instance, TV producers have long understood that incorporating a pre-recorded “laugh track” can make people perceive something as funnier compared to when they don’t hear that laughter (I’m Looking at You, 90’s Sitcom). However, neuroscientist Robert Provine found that jokes are not even necessary. In a study conducted in 2013, Provine solely played the laugh track, which surprisingly was adequate to induce laughter in nearly all participants.

Provine’s groundbreaking research on laughter involved observing it in real-world settings rather than just in a lab. Observing people laughing in public, he empirically proved that individuals are significantly more likely to laugh in the presence of others than when alone, approximately 30 times more likely. Moreover, laughter is not necessarily a response to finding something funny but serves as a form of social communication, indicating a positive, nonthreatening interaction.

Laughter is not exclusive to humans; it is observed across the animal kingdom. For example, apes enjoy being tickled and vocalize their enjoyment while playing. Kea parrots are known for their playful behaviors and have distinct calls to amuse others. Additionally, mice produce ultrasonic giggles when playing. Rats tickled regularly by their owners exhibit immediate laughter upon the owner’s arrival, displaying excitement for playtime.

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However, humor poses a greater challenge in understanding. What makes certain things more amusing than others? And how do you define what is considered amusing, depending on individual perspectives?

One compelling explanation for humor is that it involves the buildup and release of tension. This concept can explain some well-known comedic moments, such as Del Boy falling on the bar, Basil Fawlty hitting a car with a tree branch, or Mark Simmons’ joke at the Edinburgh Fringe: “I planned to sail around the world in the smallest ship, but chickened out.” These instances are humorous, especially when viewed from a non-human perspective.

Generative AI, trained on vast internet data, is adept at replicating various humor styles, including generating jokes based on given parameters. When prompted with a framework like, “I thought I was going to sail around the world in the world’s smallest ship…”, an AI chatbot replied, “I felt like I was sinking.” Not a bad attempt, right?

However, creating the framework itself, i.e., original humor, involves distilling quirky and unconventional ideas that resonate with shared human experiences but lack any firsthand experience of the world beyond online sources. For now, these unique concepts offer intriguing ways to engage with audiences.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Hannah Fry reveals how technology can empower us in health, but cautions that data alone is not the full picture | Unlocking Hannah Fry’s Formula for Life

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Throughout history, there have been many individuals who meticulously monitored their weight, but one of the most intriguing figures is Santorio Santorio. In the 1500s, he devoted his life to tracking his body, weighing everything he consumed and everything he excreted.

For a particular scientific investigation, he created what he called a sanctorian weighing chair – a chair placed next to the dining table on a steel scale that closely monitored one’s weight.

His theory was based on the idea that individuals could maintain their weight by consuming the same amount that their bodies expelled (urine, feces, sweat, or what he referred to as “insensible sweat”). If it detected overeating, the chair would lower, making it impossible to reach the food. This would prevent further consumption until the end of the meal.

Despite being mocked at the time, Santorio’s concept had merit. The notion of a personalized, experimental, and quantitative approach to health is undeniably appealing.

Nearly two centuries later, Benjamin Franklin, inspired by Santorio, meticulously recorded his dietary intake and compiled a list of all 13 of his virtues. He marked them whenever he committed an immoral act, monitoring and quantifying his life in great detail.

In the modern era, individuals have pushed boundaries with technology to track various aspects of their lives. For instance, a Reddit user created a beautiful visualization depicting a baby’s sleep and wake times during the initial months of life.

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The advancement of wearables has made monitoring our health easier than ever. With technology, we can now effortlessly track various health metrics. AI-powered wearables connected to smartphone apps can monitor sleep patterns, blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and blood pressure.

Having access to objective numbers and data can be reassuring. It can serve as a motivator for achieving our health goals and connecting with communities that prioritize health tracking and accountability. However, it’s essential not to prioritize tracking numbers over happiness and well-being.

When it comes to fitness, remember that numbers are merely proxies for what truly matters. Each individual is unique, and responses to external stimuli vary. While trackers can provide insights into what is “normal” for a person, this data should be used to inform rather than dictate health status. Human bodies are complex and should not be reduced to mere data points.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Hannah Fry’s Formula for Life: Overcoming Procrastination through Understanding Its History

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Back in 1830, what would eventually become one of the most renowned novels in French literature was just an empty page. Victor Hugo had been tasked with writing The Hunchback of Notre Dame the year before, but instead of focusing on it, he was preoccupied with other obligations. His publisher informed him that he was running out of time to finish the book, giving him a strict six-month deadline.

To force himself to deliver, Hugo resorted to working in the nude – except for a large knitted shawl. Unable to go out in public, he had no choice but to stay at home and focus on writing. This wardrobe tactic proved successful, as The Hunchback of Notre Dame was completed and published two weeks ahead of schedule on January 14, 1831.

Procrastination is a common challenge that people face when they struggle to find the motivation to complete tasks. Piers Steel, a prominent researcher in the field of procrastination, defines it as “the act of delaying tasks even though you know it will worsen your situation.” Hugo’s experience highlights how overthinking rather than taking action has been a prevalent issue for centuries.

References to procrastination can be traced back to ancient times, with examples found in early Roman, Greek, and Egyptian texts. Hesiod, an ancient Greek poet, warned against procrastination and laziness in his works, emphasizing the importance of diligence. The Hindu scripture Bhagavad Gita also addresses the consequences of procrastination, highlighting its detrimental effects.

While procrastination has always existed, modern factors like social media and technology have exacerbated the problem. With numerous distractions, the way we approach work has evolved, making it easier to procrastinate when tasks are not immediately vital. Companies are now grappling with challenges like “cyber loafing,” where employees waste time online instead of working.

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The conventional view that procrastination stems from poor self-control has shifted to emphasizing emotional regulation. Research indicates that procrastination often results from avoiding negative emotions associated with tasks, leading to a cycle of procrastination and negative feelings.

Technology, while contributing to procrastination, also offers solutions. Apps like Forest promote focused work by rewarding users with virtual trees. Generative AI can help overcome creative blocks, providing tools to combat procrastination.

It’s important to acknowledge and address procrastination with self-compassion. Occasional distractions can boost self-esteem and curiosity, ultimately enhancing motivation. Starting with small tasks and gradually progressing can help overcome the discomfort of returning to work after procrastination. Remember, even delayed progress eventually leads to completion.

Source: www.theguardian.com

David Baker, Demis Hassabis, and John Jumper awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

The 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded to scientists David Baker, Demis Hassabis, and John Jumper, as announced by the awarding body on Wednesday. protein structure.

This prestigious award, worth 11 million Swedish crowns ($1.1 million), is bestowed by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.

Baker received half of the prize for his work in “computational protein design,” while Hassabis and Jumper shared the other half for “protein structure prediction,” according to the academy.

Following the announcement of the Chemistry Award, this is the third of the awards given each year. Medicine and physics winners were revealed earlier this week.

Established by the will of Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite, and a wealthy businessman, the Nobel Prize is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions benefiting mankind the previous year.

Since its inception in 1901, the Nobel Prize has honored achievements in various fields including medicine, physics, chemistry, literature, and peace. The prize amount has been adjusted over the years, and the Economics Prize was later added by the Swedish Central Bank.

Chemistry, a field closely tied to Alfred Nobel’s work as an inventor, has seen notable recipients over the years, including pioneers like Ernest Rutherford and Marie Curie.

In the previous year, the chemistry prize was awarded to Mungi Bawendi, Luis Brus, and Alexei Ekimov for their discovery of quantum dots, tiny clusters of atoms widely used today in various technologies.

In addition to the monetary reward, the Nobel Prize winners will receive a medal from the King of Sweden on December 10th, followed by a grand banquet at Stockholm City Hall.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Court filing shows U.S. government attempting to dismantle Google

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

The U.S. government may seek court intervention to break up Google and challenge its monopoly in the internet search market.

According to court documents filed by the Justice Department, Google is considering implementing “structural remedies” that would restrict the use of products like Chrome, Android, and Play. The government believes this would provide Google with an unfair advantage over its competitors.

Additional measures being considered include prohibiting Google from paying to have its search engine preinstalled on devices like smartphones.

Google’s parent company, Alphabet Inc., has objected to the lawsuit, arguing that it represents government overreach at the expense of consumers.

The lawsuit stems from a previous court ruling in August which found Google in violation of antitrust laws for building an illegal monopoly in the search market. The Justice Department is pursuing further actions to challenge Google’s dominance.

The filing alleges that Google’s actions have harmed users and emphasizes the need to restore competition in a market crucial to Americans.

The proposed remedies could prevent Google from using its search-related products, such as Chrome, Play, and Android, to gain an advantage over competitors through new search features like Artificial Intelligence.

Furthermore, Google may be prohibited from paying major phone companies to make Chrome the default browser on their devices, a practice that has cost the company billions.

Google’s vice president of regulation criticized the Justice Department’s proposals, warning of potential harm to consumers, businesses, and developers.

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The Justice Department is expected to present more detailed proposals by November 20th, with Google responding by December 20th.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Top 15 Jaw-Dropping Wildlife Images of 2024

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Winner of the Natural History Museum’s prestigious award Wildlife Photographer of the Year The contest has just been announced. This year’s winner is Canadian marine conservation photojournalist Shane Gross, who won for his photo of the magical underwater world of a toad tadpole.

Chair of the judging panel, Kathy Moran, said all the judges were “fascinated by the combination of light, energy, and the connection between the environment and the tadpoles.”

Alexis Tinker-Tsavalas won the 2024 Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year award for her close-up image of a slime mold fruiting body with a tiny springtail.

Now in its 60th year, the competition’s latest exhibit spotlights past grand title winners throughout its history and features photographs, trophies, and high-tech camera displays that encapsulate the competition’s 60 years of revealing nature’s stories. Lights will be included.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year is developed and produced by the Natural History Museum, London, of Wildlife Photographer of the Year An exhibition featuring all 100 award-winning works will be held on October 11, 2024. natural history museum in London, England.

Behavioral Category Winner: Invertebrate Category

A swarm of red wood ants (Formica rufa) set about dismantling the blue ground beetle. Much of the red wood ant’s nutrition comes from honeydew secreted by aphids, but it also needs protein. They can kill insects and other invertebrates much larger than themselves with overwhelming force. Photographed in Hesse, Germany. Photo credit: Ingo Arndt/WPOTY

Winner in the animal portrait category

A lynx shelters from the cold wind on its back and rests with its adult lynx calf in Canada’s Yukon Territory. Lynx numbers typically reflect natural population fluctuations in their primary prey, the snowshoe hare. As climate change reduces snow cover, other predators have more opportunities to hunt hares. As a result, hare populations may decline, impacting lynx populations. Photo by John Marriott/WPOTY

Behavior Category Winner: Bird Category

A peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) practices hunting with butterflies on its nest on a sea cliff in Los Angeles, USA. Tests have shown that when the young peregrine falcon becomes an adult, it can duck and fall onto prey from above at speeds of more than 300 kilometers (186 miles) per hour. Photo by Jack Zhi/WPOTY

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Top 10 largest birds in the world

Winner of Animal Environment Category

A lynx stretches in the evening sunlight. A survey conducted in 2013 estimated the total population of lynx in Russia to be around 22,500, with the population in Russia’s Far East at 5,890. Photographed in the Lazovsky district of Primorye, Russia. Photo credit: Igor Metelskiy/WPOTY

Rising Star Portfolio Award Winner

There are many tube snout (Aulorhychus flavidus) eggs on display, carefully placed in a giant kelp ditch. As the seasons change in Monterey Bay in the United States, all the little signs of new life appear. In the darkness of the nutrient-rich summer waters, ruby eggs and golden kelp look like carefully arranged jewelry. Photo provided by: Stage Ono/WPOTY

Winner of the 10 and under category

This young rock grouper (Saxicola robicola) has not yet developed its adult call. Its cry sounds like two stones slamming together. Stonechat tends to prefer open habitats and usually perches on fences. Photographed near the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park in Cadiz, Spain. Photo credit: Alberto Roman Gomez/WPOTY

Winner of Urban Wildlife Category

A tiger rests on a hillside, with the once forested town in the background. The protected areas of the Western Ghats, where tigers are closely monitored, are among the most biodiverse landscapes in India and have stable tiger populations. Outside these areas, development has led to conflicts between humans and wildlife, and tiger occupancy has declined. Photographed in the Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India. Photo by Robin Darius/WPOTY

15-17 Category Winner

A type of hexapod known as a collembola investigates a nearby slime mold. The photographer discovered them under a log in a local forest in Berlin, Germany, and was able to obtain a focused stack of 36 images before the springtail began to move. Hexapods are a type of arthropod that was once thought to be an insect. Photo credit: Alexis Tinker-Tsavalas/WPOTY

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The amazing abilities of slime molds

Underwater category winner

A young leopard seal approaches a photographer on a small sailboat in Paradise Harbor, Antarctica. Leopard seals are naturally bold and inquisitive, with krill and penguins making up a large part of their natural diet. But both krill and penguin numbers are in decline due to pressure from receding sea ice and rising ocean temperatures around the Antarctic Peninsula, pollution, and overfishing. In 2022, Antarctic sea ice will be at a record low, causing a catastrophic failure of emperor penguin breeding colonies. Photo by Matthew Smith/WPOTY

Photojournalist Story Award Winner

Forensic experts from the Metropolitan Police take fingerprints from tusks seized at Britain’s Heathrow Airport. Fingerprints usually cannot be removed from ivory and the odontogenic pores absorb them within 1-2 days. However, with the new, chemically tailored, finer magnetic powder, less fingerprint sweat material is required, and the powder can still adhere to 28-day-old residue, although the first 7 days are still the best. Maintaining quality. The powder can be colored for use on dark materials such as rhino horn. Photo by Britta Jaschinski/WOPTY

Behavioral Winner: Amphibians and Reptiles

A yellow anaconda (Eunectes notaeus) wraps around the snout of a Caiman yacare. Caimans are voracious eaters and even eat snakes. On the contrary, as the anaconda grows, its diet will include reptiles, so it is difficult to determine who is the attacker here. On the snake’s back are two blood-sucking horseflies, which are known to prey on reptiles. Photographed on the Transpantaneira highway in Mato Grosso state, Brazil. Photo by Karine Aigner/WPOTY

Behavior Category Winner: Mammal Category

This baby monkey (Macaca sinica) was so relaxed drinking milk from its mother that it fell asleep. Because crested monkeys easily adapt to human food, the encroachment of plantations into their habitat has led to increased incidents of shooting, trapping, and poisoning by farmers trying to preserve their crops. Photographed in Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka. Photo credit: Hikkaduwa Liyanage Prasantha Vinod/WPOTY

Oceans: The Bigger Picture Winner

A mosaic made from 403 pieces of plastic found inside the digestive tract of a dead blue shearwater. The diet of the meat-reed shearwaters that nest on Lord Howe Island is increasingly flavored with plastic waste floating in the ocean. By measuring impacts and highlighting problems, Adrift Lab researchers aim to raise awareness and advocate for action to address overconsumption, poor waste management, and pollution. Photo by Justin Gilligan/WPOTY

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How does plastic end up in the ocean?

Photojournalist Story Award Winner

The Amazon river dolphin (Inia geoffrensis) is one of two freshwater dolphin species that live in the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Only this species evolved to explore seasonally flooded forest habitats. Photo by Thomas Peschak/WPOTY

read more:

Top 10 largest rainforests in the world

Wetland Category Winner: Big Picture Category and Overall Winner

A tadpole of a western toad (Anaxylus boreas) among lily pads in a lake on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Toad tadpoles swim up from the safe depths of a lake, trying to avoid predators and reach shallow waters where they can feed. Tadpoles begin to develop into toads 4 to 12 weeks after hatching. An estimated 99 percent do not survive to adulthood. Photo by Shane Goss/WPOTY

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2023 Wildlife Photographer of the Year, People’s Choice Winner
Try not to laugh at these funny comedy wildlife award winners
Top 10 cutest animals in the world
Best nature images of the year so far
2024 Underwater Photographer of the Year Winner

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Scientists unravel the composition of the unique toxin found in black widow spider venom

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Black widow spider venom contains a cocktail of seven specific latrotoxins, but only one, alpha-latrotoxin, targets vertebrates, including humans. chemist of University of Munster They have now deciphered the structure of alpha-latrotoxin before and after membrane insertion at near atomic resolution.

Cryo-EM structures of α-latrotoxin in two different tetrameric states. Image credit: Klink others., doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-52635-5.

Latrotoxin is the main toxic component of the venom of black widow spiders (genus). latrodectus).

The toxins include five insecticidal toxins known as α-latrotoxin, α-, β-, γ-, δ-, and ε-latroinsect toxins, which are unique to vertebrates, and one toxin that is unique to crustaceans.

“Alpha-latrotoxin interferes with nervous system signal transmission,” said researcher Björn Klinck and colleagues at the University of Münster.

“As soon as alpha-latrotoxin binds to specific receptors at the synapse (contacts between nerve cells or between nerve cells and muscles), calcium ions flow uncontrollably into the presynaptic membrane of the signal-transmitting cell.”

“This triggers the release of neurotransmitters, which causes strong muscle contractions and spasms.”

“Although this process seems simple at first glance, there are very complex mechanisms behind it.”

To better understand the mechanism of calcium influx into the presynaptic membrane, the authors used high-performance cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and molecular dynamics (MD) computer simulations.

They showed that alpha-latrotoxin undergoes significant changes when it binds to the receptor.

Some of the toxic molecules form stalks and penetrate the cell membrane like a syringe.

As a special feature, this stalk forms small pores in the membrane, which act as calcium channels.

MD simulations revealed that calcium ions can enter the cells through a selection gate on the side directly above the pore.

“This toxin mimics the function of calcium channels in the presynaptic membrane in a very complex way,” said Christos Gatsogiannis, a researcher at the University of Münster.

“Therefore, it is different in every way from any toxin known to date.”

“The new discovery opens up a wide range of potential applications.”

“Latrotoxin has considerable biotechnological potential, including the development of improved antidotes, treatments for paralysis, and new biopesticides.”

of study Published in a magazine nature communications.

_____

Clink BU others. 2024. Structural basis of α-latrotoxin transition to cation-selective pores. Nat Commune 15, 8551; doi: 10.1038/s41467-024-52635-5

Source: www.sci.news

Astronomers find farthest rotating disk galaxy ever observed: REBELS-25

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

According to one researcher, REBELS-25 existed until 700 million years after the Big Bang. paper Published in Royal Astronomical Society Monthly Notices.

This image shows the galaxy REBELS-25, observed by ALMA, superimposed on infrared images of other stars and galaxies. This infrared image was taken by ESO's Visible Infrared Survey Telescope for Astronomy (VISTA). Image credits: ALMA / ESO / National Astronomical Observatory of Japan / NRAO / Roland others. / Dunlop others. / Cas / Kare.

The galaxies we see today are very different from the chaotic, clumpy galaxies that astronomers typically observed in the early universe.

These messy early galaxies merge with each other and evolve into smoother shapes at an incredibly slow pace.

Current theory suggests that it would take billions of years of evolution for galaxies to become as ordered as our Milky Way, a rotating disk with an orderly structure like spiral arms.

However, the detection of REBELS-25 casts doubt on that timescale.

“Our understanding of galaxy formation predicts that most early galaxies appear small and messy,” said Dr Jacqueline Hodge, an astronomer at Leiden University.

In their study, Dr. Hodge and colleagues found that REBELS-25 existed at redshift z = 7.3 (when the universe was only 700 million years old), making it the most distant object ever discovered. They discovered that it was a strongly rotating disk galaxy.

“Seeing galaxies so similar to our own Milky Way and with strong rotational dominance adds to our understanding of how galaxies in the early universe evolved into the ordered galaxies of today's universe. It raises questions,” says Lucy Roland, a PhD student at Leiden University. University.

REBELS-25 was detected by the authors using the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA).

To precisely identify the galaxy's structure and motion, they conducted follow-up observations at higher resolution with ALMA, confirming its record-breaking nature.

Surprisingly, the data suggested more developed features similar to the Milky Way, such as an elongated central bar and spiral arms, but more observations are needed to confirm this. Probably.

“Finding further evidence of a more evolved structure would be an interesting discovery, as this would be the most distant galaxy in which such a structure has been observed to date,” Rowland said.

“These future observations from REBELS-25, along with other discoveries of early rotating galaxies, could change our understanding of early galaxy formation and the evolution of the universe as a whole.”

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Lucy E. Rowland others. REBELS-25: Dynamically cold disk galaxy discovered at z = 7.31. MNRASpublished online October 7, 2024. doi: 10.1093/mnras/stae2217

Source: www.sci.news

Spotted Handfish Genome Decoded | Latest Scientific Findings

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

team of researchers CSIRO We decoded the genome of Spotted handfish (Brachyonychthys hirsutus)an endangered species of marine fish endemic to Tasmania.

Spotted handfish (Brachyonychthys hirsutus). Image credit: CSIRO.

Brachyonychthys hirsutus It is a rare benthic fish of the handfish family. Brachionidae.

This rare fish is found only in Tasmania's Derwent River estuary and nearby areas. It is usually found at depths of 5 to 10 meters (16 to 33 feet).

It was first officially described in 1804. Brachyonychthys hirsutus have Their highly adapted pectoral fins look like hands and allow them to walk on the ocean floor.

This species' diet includes small shellfish, shrimp, and polychaetes.

Brachyonychthys hirsutus teeth classified as endangered species Listed on the IUCN Red List 2020. Scientists estimate that fewer than 2,000 individuals remain in the wild.

Its rapid decline is thought to be due to historical fishing practices, coastal development, climate change, and the arrival of invasive species.

“Genome sequencing will aid ongoing efforts to increase population numbers and monitor genetic diversity,” said CSIRO researcher Gunjan Pandey.

“Genomes help us understand how organisms work.”

This provides a basis for understanding gene expression in everyday life and provides insight into its evolutionary history.”

“With the genome, we can help detect species, monitor populations, and even estimate the lifespan of fish.”

“This rich genetic information will help inform long-term conservation strategies,” added CSIRO researcher Carly Devine.

“Recognizing that a multidisciplinary approach alongside ecological research is essential for effective conservation of endangered species, conservation measures are being expanded to include genetics.”

“Marine creatures like the spotted handfish are notoriously difficult to handle.”

“DNA is rapidly degraded and contaminated by microorganisms.”

“This makes it very difficult to assemble a pure genome.”

Using a so-called low-input protocol, the research team was able to sequence the complete genome from a small amount of low-quality DNA.

“We are one of only three teams in the world using this protocol,” Dr. Pandey said.

“We customized the entire process, from the lab setup to the bioinformatics software, to sequence high-quality genomes from low-quality DNA.”

“Work that previously took six to 12 months can now be completed in a matter of days. This technology holds great promise for the understanding and conservation of threatened species across Australia and around the world.”

Source: www.sci.news

Report finds that Hurricane Helen had increased rainfall and stronger winds as a result of climate change

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Samamuri

Climate change has increased Hurricane Helen’s wind speed by 11% and total precipitation by about 10%, according to a new report.
Researchers expect Milton to do the same, and say it is likely to get worse because of climate change.
The report says the higher sea surface temperatures that contributed to the intensification of both storms are 200 to 500 times more likely to be due to climate change.

As Hurricane Milton hurtles toward Florida’s west coast, a new report estimates how intense Hurricane Helen’s winds and rain could have been due to climate change. Scientists involved in the study said they expected Milton to do the same, and that it would likely get worse because of climate change.

The report, released late Wednesday night, is from the World Weather Attribution Group, a consortium of scientists that analyzes extreme weather events and determines how much climate change has influenced certain events. He is regarded as the leading expert in making decisions.

The findings show that because of climate change, Hurricane Helen’s wind speeds were 11% more intense and its precipitation totals were about 10% higher.

Friederike Otto, a climate scientist at Imperial College London who contributed to the new study, said “we now have a complete study showing a very clear link” between climate change and hurricane strength. “The biggest danger is not making the connection to climate change.”

Like Hurricane Helen, Hurricane Milton is also moving through record-breaking heat. Sea surface temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico are much warmer than usual, even for this time of year. Warmer water acts as fuel for such storms, helping them intensify faster.

Both hurricanes undergo a process known as rapid intensification, where the hurricane’s sustained wind speeds increase by at least 35 miles per hour over a 24-hour period. This trend is becoming more common due to climate change.

The report says the sea surface temperatures that pushed Helen and Milton up were 200 to 500 times warmer due to climate change.

On Monday, Milton experienced a dramatic pressure drop in the center of the hurricane, strengthening to one of the fifth strongest hurricanes ever recorded.

“This storm is definitely explosive,” said Bernadette Woods Plucky, chief meteorologist at the nonprofit research group Climate Central and co-author of the new report.

Using a combination of statistical analysis and detailed climate modeling, the researchers found that climate change and the fossil fuel pollution it causes are about 2.5 times more likely to produce a hurricane as strong as Helen.

This is the third and most extensive preliminary report linking climate change to the heavy rains that killed more than 200 people after Hurricane Helen made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region on September 26.

Scientists at World Weather Attribution examined rainfall over two days along the coast of Florida, where Helen first hit, and three days of rainfall in mountainous areas in six neighboring states, including North Carolina and Tennessee. Assessed quantity.

They found that coastal rainfall totals are 40% more likely to be this high due to climate change, and inland rainfall totals are 70% more likely to be this high due to climate change. I discovered that there is a sex.

Helen flooded parts of southern Appalachia with more than 6 feet of rain. Floodwaters washed away houses, washed out highways, and cut off access to the town. Much of the recovery work is just beginning.

Damaged buildings in downtown Chimney Rock, North Carolina, after Hurricane Helen passed through on October 2nd.
Alison Joyce/AFP via Getty Images

The World Weather Attribution group is a loose confederation of scientists who rapidly publish extreme findings about whether and how climate change has affected particular events. Twenty-one researchers participated in the new analysis. Although the group uses peer-review methods, its findings are published prior to traditional peer-review when events are new and particularly newsworthy. Previous studies on global weather attribution have withstood further scrutiny by outside scientists and been published in major scientific journals.

Otto said the new results are consistent with two previous analyzes of the effects of climate change on Hurricane Helen, but different researchers defined the parameters of the study in different ways, and there are different He said each report produced different numbers because they focused on geography.

Scientists at World Weather Attribution will run the numbers again for Milton and write a new report.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Hurricane Milton Threatens Florida with Life-Threatening Storm Surge

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

A storm surge is when hurricane force winds push shallow water towards the coast, causing an abnormal rise in water levels during a storm. Factors such as wind, the angle of approach of the storm, ocean floor shape, and storm’s low pressure all play a role in the intensity of the surge.

Storm surge is a deadly threat from hurricanes as it can quickly flood coastal areas and penetrate far inland.

West Florida’s shallow coastline along the Gulf of Mexico is particularly vulnerable to storm surges due to its gentle slopes and the continental shelf being close to the surface, making it easier for water to rise.

Climate change-induced rising sea levels further increase the risk of flooding in the region, and the impending Hurricane Milton has the potential to cause significant damage.

While the exact landing location of Milton is uncertain, small changes in its path can have a significant impact in areas like Tampa Bay. The National Hurricane Center is closely monitoring the storm’s movements and advising residents to be prepared for potential evacuation orders.

Historically, Tampa Bay is at high risk of storm surges due to its underwater topography acting as a funnel for floodwaters. The city’s urban development has also increased the vulnerability of its population and coastal structures to storm-related threats.

As Milton approaches Florida, its size may increase while its winds could weaken, affecting the height of storm surges. Local officials are urging residents to follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety.

Storm surge is a serious concern, particularly with major hurricanes classified as Category 3 or higher. Even lower-ranking storms can produce devastating storm surges, as seen with hurricanes like Katrina and Ike in the past.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

TechScape: Silicon Valley’s top schools quickly experimenting with technology | Technology

Posted on October 9, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Hello. Welcome to TechScape. I’m Blake Montgomery, technology news editor at Guardian US.

I’m taking over TechScape from Alex Hern. In this newsletter I would like to introduce myself and my ideas.

Blake Montgomery, new TechScape writer. Photo: The Guardian

A little about me: I started working for the Guardian the day Sam Bankman-Freed went to trial. My first break from my new job coincided with the shock firing of Sam Altman at OpenAI. A story I often tell at parties is how I was arrested and jailed while reporting. deadly testicular injection.

New newsletter: TechScape immerses you in the influence of politics, culture, and technology. We analyze the importance of the week’s most important technology news, explore odd niches, stay up to date with Guardian coverage, and give you helpful tips from time to time. My version of TechScape is a newsletter about technology and the people who make it. Technology, both as a product and as an industry, is the biggest driver of change in our time. It intersects every aspect of our lives and changes our daily behavior. Think of TechScape as your guide to the future and future present.

Thank you for your participation.

This week on iPhone

Yu-Gi-Oh! There’s a lot to explore in Master Duel. Photo: Matt Cardy/Getty Images

Average usage time per day: 6 hours 2 minutes.

Most used apps: Yu-Gi-Oh! master duel. I just downloaded this app last week and it stirs up some nostalgia in me. teenage trading card era for better or for worse. Quite a lot of things in the game have changed since then, so there’s a lot of digital territory to explore.

Silicon Valley’s elite schools are testing temporary bans on technology

There is a popular opinion that mobile phones are bad for everyone, especially children. Photo: The Guardian

Leaders in the United States, United Kingdom and Europe are debating whether students should have cellphones in their hands during class. A growing number of people in power, from presidents to school superintendents, think they shouldn’t do that.

California’s governor last week signed a bill requiring schools to reduce screen time for students, and the Los Angeles School District, the second largest in the United States, passed a ban on public high school phones on campus starting in 2025. The UK is not making this decision piecemeal. Similar to the US, ministers announced plans in February to ban phones in schools across the country. Hungary now requires schools to collect students’ devices at the start of the school day. France is in the midst of trialing a ban on the use of phones for students under 15. The Netherlands has banned the use of phones in schools from January 1, 2024.

Consensus is growing. Taking up arms against screen time is a popular stance among both conservatives and progressives. There is a popular opinion that phones are bad for everyone, especially children. One of the problems is that it is a universally acknowledged fact that everyone living in our time must have a smartphone. How can we prepare students to balance the two competing needs of screen time and screen-free time?

Will going tech-free help students learn better in school? Photo: The Guardian

An elite school in the heart of Silicon Valley is asking students to put down their devices and rethink their relationship with technology. The $62,400-a-year, private school for girls at Castile School in Palo Alto, Calif., has banned cell phones in classrooms since middle school principal Laura Zappas can remember. Also smart watches. The school has 185 students in grades 6, 7, and 8, aged 11 to 14.

Zappas instituted a completely technology-free week last school year, requiring all Castillaja students to lock their devices, including smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and school-issued laptops, at the start of the school day for one week in March. The girls took notes, filled out all assignments on paper, and recorded data from their science experiments in graph journals. They wrote down the homework they needed to complete on paper planners that Zappas personally distributed. They complained of cramps because they handwritten more lines in a day than any other grade.

“We found that students with laptops had several screens open at the same time,” Zappas said. “They may be texting or playing games instead of taking notes. Or, a student’s urge to start class may be replaced by waiting for instructions from the teacher or what they are doing. Instead, I wanted to open my laptop as soon as I entered the classroom. I was always drawn to my laptop.”

The initiative, simply named “Tech Free Week,” served to reset digital-first educational practices during the pandemic, Zappas said. “I think before coronavirus, we were using a combination of paper and technology. And I think my own education has changed pretty dramatically with coronavirus, with all assignments now having to be submitted electronically. And since COVID-19, it has become our daily life.”

What does Unplugged look like as a way for students and teachers to think more deeply about our relationship with technology?

Administrators described Tech Free Week as a pause for rethinking. How can we participate as a community without screens?”

A recent study from Tech-Free Week found that 42% of students improved their ability to concentrate after returning to paper and pen. Photo: The Guardian

The results were positive, with 42% of students saying they were able to concentrate better in class and were less distracted during schoolwork, according to a survey conducted by the school. Almost three-quarters of teachers asked Zappas to repeat the effort. She is in discussions with administrators at the 9th- through 12th-grade high school to implement a technology-free week for older students.

Zappas emphasized that advance notice and careful preparation made Technology Free Week possible. She notified school teachers of the initiative four months in advance and pitched it to parents six weeks in advance. She asked both teachers and parents to consider how they can build healthy relationships. That a week without technology required so much planning shows that devices can be an inseparable part of modern life, even for 11-year-old students.

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We have a French teacher and we gave them all the dictionaries and she said they had never seen a French dictionary before.

“We have a French teacher and we gave them all the dictionaries and she said they had never seen a French dictionary before,” Zappas said. “And it took a long time for them to figure out, ‘Okay, what’s the right word that I want to use here?’ How do I find that?”

www.theguardian.com

Carbonate minerals in Gale Crater reveal insights into the climate of ancient Mars

Posted on October 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Carbonate minerals are an integral part of the carbon and water cycles, both of which are implicated in habitability, making them of particular interest in paleoenvironmental studies. In the new study, planetary scientists focused on carbon and oxygen isotope measurements of carbonate minerals detected by NASA’s Curiosity rover inside Mars’ Gale Crater.

An artist’s concept of an early Mars with liquid water (blue area) on its surface. Image credit: NASA / MAVEN / Lunar and Planetary Institute.

Isotopes are versions of an element that have different masses. As the water evaporates, the lighter ones, carbon and oxygen, are more likely to escape into the atmosphere, while the heavier ones are more likely to be left behind, accumulating in larger quantities, and in this case eventually incorporated into carbonate rocks.

Scientists are interested in carbonates because they have been shown to act as climate records.

These minerals may retain traces of the environment in which they formed, such as the temperature and acidity of the water and the composition of the water and atmosphere.

“The isotopic values of these carbonates indicate extreme amounts of evaporation, suggesting that these carbonates likely formed in climates where only ephemeral liquid water could exist. ‘ said Dr. David Burt, a researcher at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.

“Our samples do not match an ancient environment in which life (biosphere) existed on the surface of Mars. However, it does not match the subterranean biosphere or the surface environment that began and ended before these carbonates formed. This does not exclude the possibility of a biosphere.

Dr. Burt and his colleagues propose two formation mechanisms for the carbonates found in Gale Crater.

In the first scenario, carbonates form through a series of dry-wet cycles within the crater.

In the second, carbonates form in extremely salty water under cold ice-forming (cryogenic) conditions inside the crater.

“These formation mechanisms represent two different climate regimes that could indicate different habitation scenarios,” said Dr. Jennifer Stern, also of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.

“Wetting and drying cycles would indicate alternations between more and less habitable environments, while the extremely low temperatures in the mid-latitudes of Mars mean that most of the water is trapped in ice. “And what’s there would be very salty and unpleasant to live in.” “

These climate scenarios for ancient Mars have been previously proposed based on the presence of certain minerals, global modeling, and the identification of rock formations.

The results are the first to add isotopic evidence from rock samples to support the scenario.

The heavy isotope values of carbonates on Mars are significantly higher than carbonate minerals observed on Earth, and are the heaviest carbon and oxygen isotope values ever recorded in Martian material.

In fact, both wet-dry and cold-saline climates are required to form carbonates, which are extremely rich in heavy carbon and oxygen.

“The fact that these carbon and oxygen isotope values are higher than any other measured on Earth or Mars indicates that the process is extreme,” Dr. Burt said.

“While evaporation can cause significant oxygen isotope changes on Earth, the changes measured in this study were two to three times larger.”

“This means two things: (i) there was an extreme degree of evaporation that made these isotope values very heavy, and (ii) these heavier values were conserved so that the lighter isotopes The process that generated the body value must have significantly reduced its size.””

team’s paper Published in this week’s Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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David G. Burt others. 2024. High concentrations of carbon and oxygen isotopes in carbonate-derived CO₂ At Gale Crater on Mars. PNAS 121 (42): e2321342121;doi: 10.1073/pnas.2321342121

This article is based on a press release provided by NASA.

Source: www.sci.news

In 2024, the Nobel Prize in Physics will be given to the duo behind a groundbreaking AI technology

Posted on October 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

John Hopfield and Jeffrey Hinton jointly awarded 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics

Christine Olson/TT/Shutterstock

SEI 224873524 — John Hopfield and Jeffrey Hinton jointly awarded 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics

Christine Olson/TT/Shutterstock

The 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics will be awarded to John Hopfield and Jeffrey Hinton for their work on fundamental algorithms that enable artificial neural networks and machine learning, which are key to today’s large-scale language models such as ChatGPT. was awarded.

Upon hearing the award announcement, Hinton told the Nobel Committee, “I’m shocked. I never expected something like this to happen.” “I’m very surprised.” Hinton, who has been vocal about his concerns about the development of artificial intelligence, also reiterated that he regrets the work he did. “I would do the same thing in the same situation, but I fear that the overall impact of this will ultimately be controlled by systems more intelligent than us.” he said.

AI may not seem like an obvious candidate for the Nobel Prize in physics, but the discovery of learnable neural networks and their applications are two fields closely related to physics, the Nobel Committee for Physics says. Committee Chair Ellen Moons said during the announcement. . “These artificial neural networks are being used to advance research across a variety of physics topics, including particle physics, materials science, and astrophysics.”

Many early approaches to artificial intelligence involved giving computer programs logical rules to follow to solve problems, allowing them to learn about new information and It has become difficult for me to encounter situations that I have never seen before. In 1982, Hopfield at Princeton University created an architecture for computers called the Hopfield Network. A Hopfield network is a collection of nodes or artificial neurons whose connection strengths can be changed by a learning algorithm invented by Hopfield.

This algorithm is inspired by the study of physics to find the energy of a magnetic system by describing it as a collection of small magnets. The technique involves repeatedly changing the strength of the connections between the magnets to find the energy minimum of the system.

That same year, Hinton at the University of Toronto began developing Hopfield’s ideas to help create a closely related machine learning construct called a Boltzmann machine. “I remember going to a conference in Rochester where John Hopfield was speaking and learning about neural networks for the first time.After this, Terry [Sejnowski] And I worked hard to find ways to generalize neural networks,” he said.

Hinton and colleagues showed that unlike previous machine learning architectures, Boltzmann machines can learn and extract patterns from large data sets. This principle, combined with large amounts of data and computational power, has led to the success of many of today’s artificial intelligence systems, such as image recognition and language translation tools.

However, although Boltzmann machines have proven to be capable, they are inefficient and slow, so they are not used in today’s modern systems. Instead, it uses faster, modern machine learning architectures like Transformer models that power large language models like ChatGPT.

At the Nobel Prize press conference, Hinton was bullish about the impact of his and Hopfield’s discoveries. “It will be comparable to the industrial revolution, but instead of surpassing humans in physical strength, we will surpass humans in intellectual ability,” he said. “We’ve never experienced what it’s like to have something smarter than us. It’s going to be great in many ways…but we have We also have to worry about the negative consequences of this, especially the threat that these things can get out of control.”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Evangelical Environmental Activists Rally for Climate Change Vote as Election Nears

Posted on October 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

overview

A group of young evangelical Christians is planning a campaign at religious universities to persuade students to think about climate change at the voting booth.
It’s part of a small movement within the evangelical community to combine Christian values with climate action.
The effort comes as President Donald Trump continues to court evangelical voters while calling climate change a “fraud.”

When an evangelical student group calls for a vote on climate change at a Christian university later this month, they plan to carry the tagline: “Love God, Love Your Neighbor, Vote for Climate Change!”

This is the first time the bipartisan group Young Evangelicals for Climate Action has organized such an in-person campaign on campus since its inception in 2012.

The volunteers, members of six Christian university chapters, are working to connect communities affected by the climate crisis with the Christian duty to “love our neighbor” and help those in need. We are aiming for

The effort is part of a larger movement led by the Evangelical Environmental Network, a faith-based organization calling for climate action.

Its members are a minority within the community. A 2022 poll from the Pew Research Center found that evangelical Christians are the largest minority. most likely Religious groups in the United States have expressed skepticism about anthropogenic climate change.

In the 2020 election, 84% of white evangelical Christians I voted for Donald Trump — I have voted for Trump in the past Climate change is a “hoax” decades of contradictions scientific consensus. Just last week, President Trump falsely claimed that “the Earth has actually gotten a little colder lately,” and at a September 29 rally called climate change “one of the biggest frauds in history.”

Cast of white evangelical voters third President Trump's 2016 vote count and Pew Research poll released last month We found that 82% said they would do so again this year.

Still, Jessica Morman, CEO of the Evangelical Environmental Network, says she's working to get Christians to see climate change as an issue that loves God's planet.

“As evangelicals, we have a biblical mission to care for God’s creation,” said Morman, a pastor and climate scientist. “And in the 21st century, that means taking action on the climate.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Whimsical Whales Spotted Performing Headstands Beneath the Surface

Posted on October 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

There is a possibility that Gray Whale could become the next Olympic champion if it surpasses Simone Biles. This speculation comes from a recent study that captured animals performing impressive acrobatic movements underwater, including headstands.

The spectacular ocean gymnastics were documented as part of a seven-year research project, during which scientists utilized drones to study pods of 200 gray whales along the coasts of Oregon, Washington, northern California, and southern Canada.

The findings of the study were published in new research results in the journal animal behavior. The research revealed that whales perform handstands by pressing their mouths against the ocean floor while foraging for food. The scientists also observed the whales moving their flippers in a sweeping motion, similar to synchronized swimmers.

A particularly endearing moment captured by the drones was that of a baby whale attempting, unsuccessfully, to perform a handstand, indicating that this behavior is learned with age.

According to Clara Bird, a study author at Oregon State University, “Our findings suggest that this handstand behavior requires strength and coordination.”

Drone footage of a whale (the whale above this image) doing a headstand. – Photo credit: Oregon State University GEMM Lab.

In addition to these remarkable acrobatic displays, the drone footage also captured the gray whale performing a “bubble blast,” where the whale releases air underwater to create a large circular pattern on the water’s surface.

In a second study published in ecology and evolution, scientists discovered that the bubble blast aids whales in feeding longer, especially in shallow waters.

Bird explained, “It’s similar to when we dive underwater. Releasing air from our lungs helps us stay submerged without battling the force that pushes us back to the surface.”

The research indicates that larger, fatter whales are more likely to perform bubble blasts, particularly while doing handstands. These findings underscore the importance of whale size in feeding behavior.

For more information, check out the full articles linked above.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

NGC 5248’s Starburst Region Uncovered by Hubble Space Telescope

Posted on October 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Hubble's Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3) has captured a striking new image of the grand design spiral galaxy NGC 5248.

This Hubble image shows the Grand Design spiral galaxy NGC 5248, located approximately 42 million light-years away in the constellation Bootes. The color images were created from separate exposures taken in the visible, ultraviolet, and near-infrared regions of the spectrum using Hubble's WFC3 instrument. Six filters were used to sample different wavelengths. Color is obtained by assigning different hues to each monochromatic image associated with an individual filter. Image credits: NASA / ESA / Hubble / F. Belfiore / J. Lee / PHANGS-HST team.

NGC5248 It is located in the constellation Bootes, about 42 million light years away.

This spiral galaxy, also known as Caldwell 45, LEDA 48130, UGC 8616, IRAS 13353+0908, and TC 830, has a diameter of 95,000 light years.

beginning discovered It was discovered on April 15, 1784 by German-born British astronomer William Herschel and is a member of the NGC 5248 galaxy group.

NGC 5248 has an apparent magnitude of 10, so it doesn't appear very bright, but it can be spotted with a small telescope.

The galaxy is noteworthy Because of the nuclear ring, which has “hot spots” of starburst activity.

“NGC 5248 is one of the so-called 'grand design' spirals, with prominent spiral arms extending from near the center through the disk,” Hubble astronomers said in a statement.

“There is also a faint bar structure in the center between the inner edges of the spiral arms, which is less obvious in this visible-light portrait from Hubble.”

“Features like this that break a galaxy's rotational symmetry have profound effects on how matter moves through it and ultimately on its evolution over time.”

“They can supply gas from the outer reaches of the galaxy to the inner star-forming regions and even to the black hole at the center of the galaxy, where it can start an active galactic nucleus.”

“These gas flows have significantly shaped NGC 5248, with many bright regions of intense star formation spread throughout the disk and dominated by populations of young stars.”

“This galaxy has two very active ring-like starburst regions filled with young star clusters around its core.”

“While these 'nuclear rings' are noteworthy enough, nuclear rings usually tend to prevent gas from penetrating further into the center of the galaxy.”

“The fact that NGC 5248 has a second ring inside the first shows how powerful its flow of matter and energy is.”

“Due to its relatively close proximity and highly visible starburst region, this galaxy is a target for professional and amateur astronomers alike.”

Source: www.sci.news

Biologists claim geckos possess an extra sense

Posted on October 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

To detect low-frequency vibrations, geckos use the saccule, a part of the inner ear traditionally associated with maintaining balance and body position, the institute’s biologist duo said. University of Marylandthis special “sixth sense” serves as a complement to the gecko’s normal sense of hearing and how it senses the world around it.

Tokay gecko (gecko gecko). Image credit: Duncan Leach.

“As we know, the ear hears sounds in the air,” says Katherine Kerr, a professor at the University of Maryland.

“However, this ancient internal pathway is usually associated with balance and helps geckos sense vibrations traveling through media such as the ground or water.”

“This pathway is present in amphibians and fish, and has now been shown to be conserved in lizards.”

“Our findings reveal how the auditory system evolved from being visible in fish to being visible in land animals, including humans.”

In their research, Professor Kerr and colleague Dr. Dawei Han, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Maryland, focused on: Tokay gecko (gecko gecko).

They discovered that the gecko’s saccule can sense weak vibrations in the 50 to 200 Hz range. This is a much lower spectrum than what geckos can normally hear.

This indicates that the saccule serves a different, but complementary, function to the gecko’s normal auditory system.

Geckos can hear sounds in the air, but many other reptiles do not have this ability.

“Discovery of the role of the saccule in gecko hearing may lead to a better understanding of communication and behavior in other animals previously thought to have limited hearing ability,” said Dawei of the University of Maryland.・Dr. Han said.

“Many snakes and lizards were thought to be ‘dumb’ or ‘deaf’ in the sense that they could not make or hear sounds very well.”

“But it turns out that animals could potentially be using this sensory pathway to communicate via vibrational signals. This has revolutionized the way scientists think about animal perception as a whole. Ta.”

The existence of this common sensory pathway in modern reptiles provides a unique window into the evolutionary history of vertebrate sensory systems, suggesting that the transition from aquatic to terrestrial environments may be more complex than previously thought. This suggests that gradual changes in auditory mechanisms are likely involved.

Although these discoveries are not directly related to human hearing, researchers believe there is always more than meets the eye – in this case, the ears.

“Think about going to a live rock concert,” Professor Kerr says.

“The sound is so loud that you can feel your whole head and body vibrating in the sound field.”

“You don’t just hear music, you can feel it. This sensation suggests that the human vestibular system may be stimulated during loud concerts, which This means that the sense of balance may also be closely related.

of findings Published in a magazine current biology.

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Dawei Han & Catherine E. Kartkay The gecko’s auditory pathway for sensing vibrations. current biologypublished online on October 4, 2024. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.09.016

Source: www.sci.news

Research finds that pterosaurs were well-suited for diverse terrestrial lifestyles

Posted on October 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

A new study by palaeontologists from the Universities of Leicester, Birmingham, and Liverpool John Moores University shows that pterosaur limbs had an unexpectedly high degree of variation, comparable to that observed in living birds. The discovery demonstrates that pterosaurs were not limited to a life in the air but were also adapted to a wide range of terrestrial lives, from tree-climbing in early species to more terrestrial lives in later species.

Pterosaurs have adapted to a surprisingly wide range of non-aerial locomotion ecologies. Early small, long-tailed pterosaurs (not pterosaurs) showed extreme changes in hand and foot proportions, indicating a climbing lifestyle. In contrast, the hands and feet of later short-tailed pterosaurs (Pterosaurians) typically exhibit morphologies consistent with a more ground-based locomotor ecology. (A) Non-pterosaur antiquities restoration Scaphognathus crassirostris (Late Jurassic) in scansorial mode, with autosufficiency characterized by short proximal elements and elongated distal elements. (B) Restoration of Pterodactylis-type antiquities Balaenognathus maeuseri (Late Jurassic) In the terrestrial mode, the autopodia are characterized by an elongated proximal element and a shortened distal element. (C) Reconstruction of Scaphognathus (left) and Baleonognathus (Right) Rear view showing major flight surfaces. (D) Simplified pterosaur phylogeny showing the major taxa used in the study. Image credit: Smith others., doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.09.014.

Pterosaurs, the first true flying vertebrates, played an important role in Mesozoic terrestrial ecosystems.

However, our current understanding of their terrestrial locomotion abilities, and more broadly their terrestrial paleoecology, is limited.

Robert Smith, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Leicester, said: “Early pterosaurs were highly specialized for climbing and had extreme modifications to their limbs, similar to those seen in today’s climbing lizards and birds such as woodpeckers. It’s the same,” he said.

“Holding on to a vertical surface with your fingertips for long periods of time is a difficult task, but it’s much easier for smaller, lighter animals.”

“These early pterosaurs were likely restricted to arboreal habitats, and as a result, their body size was small.”

“However, during the mid-Jurassic period, a major evolutionary change occurred, and pterosaurs’ hands and feet changed to more closely resemble those of land-dwelling animals.”

“These adaptations to terrestrial locomotion have opened up new ecological opportunities and given rise to a wide variety of feeding strategies.”

Freed from the size constraints imposed by vertical living, some pterosaurs were able to evolve to gigantic sizes with wingspans of up to 10 meters.

Dr David Unwin, a researcher at the University of Leicester, said: “In early pterosaurs, the hind limbs were connected by a flight membrane, which severely hindered walking and running.”

“In later, more advanced pterosaurs, this membrane separated along the midline, allowing each hindlimb to move independently.”

“This was an important innovation, and together with the changes in the hands and feet, it greatly increased the maneuverability of pterosaurs on land.”

“These later pterosaurs were freed from the constraints of climbing and were able to grow to enormous sizes, making some species the true giants of the Mesozoic Era.”

In early pterosaurs, the bones at the base of the fingers and toes were relatively short, and the parts farther from the body were very long, terminating in large, curved claws. These improvements created a strong grip, making it ideal for climbing trees.

In contrast, later, more evolved pterosaurs showed the opposite pattern. That is, the bones at the base of the fingers and toes were much longer, and those closer to the tips were shorter.

Their claws are also flatter and less curved, suggesting they are better suited for walking than climbing.

“These discoveries highlight the need to examine all aspects of pterosaur locomotion, not just flight, to fully understand pterosaur evolution. It’s just part of our history,” Smith said.

“By studying how they lived in trees and on the ground, we can begin to understand the role they played in ancient ecosystems.”

“When pterosaurs arrived on Earth, it was already inhabited by a wide range of animals, including dinosaurs and many other reptiles.”

“Pterosaurs cleverly avoided competition with these established groups by exploiting ecological niches that required both the ability to fly and walk.”

“This resulted in some strange feeding strategies, including the evolution of hundreds of thin, needle-like teeth used for filter feeding.”

“This surprising feature is similar to the feeding method of modern flamingos and appeared at least 120 million years before the first flamingos evolved.”

of study Published in a magazine current biology.

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Robert S.H. Smith others. Morphology of limbs showing the invasion of terrestrial environments by pterosaurs in the mid-Mesozoic era. current biologypublished online on October 4, 2024. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.09.014

Source: www.sci.news

Confirmation of new Gondwanannotoscos species discovered in Brazil

Posted on October 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have described a new genus and species of long-nosed notothids from fragmentary remains found in Brazil's Adamantina Formation.

Epoidesuccus tavaresae is a new species of pyrosauridae from the Cretaceous Adamantina Formation of Brazil. Image credit: Lewis others., doi: 10.1002/ar.25559.

Epoidesuccus tavaresae They lived on the ancient supercontinent Gondwana during the late Cretaceous period, about 72 million years ago.

This ancient reptile was about 4 meters (13 feet) long, had a long, almost tubular snout, and probably lived a semi-aquatic lifestyle.

belongs to pyrosauridaeGondwanidae, a group of crocodilians belonging to the suborder Gondwanana. Notostia.

“Notoschia are an extremely diverse group of extinct crocodylidae found especially in the Cretaceous deposits of Gondwana, with more than 80 species described to date,” said lead author Juan of FEIS-UNESP. Dr. Lewis and colleagues said.

“Such taxonomic richness is also reflected in unexpected ecological diversity, including fully terrestrial and semi-aquatic morphologies, different feeding strategies, and perhaps occupation of many different ecological niches. It has been.”

“The Notothian fossil record is mostly confined to the Cretaceous Gondwana landmass, which included North Africa, Central Africa, Madagascar, and the Indian subcontinent, but the group reached its peak of diversity in South America. It was the late Cretaceous period.

Paleontologists say the pyrosauridae was first described in 1982.

“Despite the description of several species of pyrosauridae over the past 25 years and advances in our knowledge of the group's morphological and unique features, pyrosaurids have largely been excluded from broader phylogenetic studies.” said the researchers.

In the study, the researchers examined a fragment of the skull and one of the elements at the back of the skull. Epoidesuccus tavaresae.

This fossil was discovered in 2011 in an outcrop of the Adamantina Formation (Bauru Group) in the city of Catanduba in northwestern São Paulo state, Brazil.

“Our results provide further evidence for the existence of a two-lineage pyrosaurinae, the oleinilostrinae Peirosaurinae and the longilostrinae Pepestinae,” the scientists said. Ta.

“Furthermore, the results of our morphospatial analysis indicate that pyrosaurids are ecomorphologically diverse, with species exhibiting more putative terrestrial ecosystems or a more semi-aquatic habit, compared to other notothids and neoscidians. This indicates that the morphospace had a wide range of morphospace occupancy, including unexplored spaces.”

“Pepeschinae was widespread in Africa and South America during the Cretaceous period,” the researchers noted.

“This lineage is notable among the notothids in that it has a longer rostra, similar to common extant crocodilians. crocodile There's also a caiman. ”

“Pepeshushiinae have been recorded from strata where semi-aquatic Neosushiinae are absent or rare.”

“In Africa, Strochrosuchus occurred simultaneously with SarcosuchusOn the other hand, in the Bauru group of Brazil, which represents the greatest extreme of pepestinid diversity, only one putative neostinid has been described so far, a large predatory quadruped with a semi-aquatic habit. There are no other records. ”

“In this scenario, pepestinids would have occupied vacant freshwater systems in western Gondwana during the Late Cretaceous.”

team's paper Published on August 29th anatomical record.

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Juan V. Ruiz others. A new pyrosauridae (Crocodiformes, Notostia) from the Adamantina Formation (Late Cretaceous, Bauru Group). The phylogenetic analysis of Sevesia has been revised. anatomical recordspublished online on August 29, 2024. doi: 10.1002/ar.25559

Source: www.sci.news

New Hera probe sent to study asteroid target of NASA’s previous experiment

Posted on October 8, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

On Monday, a spacecraft was launched to investigate. Space collision site.

The European Space Agency’s Hera spacecraft was rocket-launched on a two-year journey to the small, harmless asteroid it crashed into. Two years ago, NASA During that day’s dress rehearsal, a killer space stone threatens Earth. The experiment, launched by SpaceX from Cape Canaveral, is the second in a series of planetary defense tests that could one day save the planet.

Crash in 2022 NASA dart spacecraft This shortens Dimorphos’ orbit around its larger brethren, indicating that if a dangerous rock is headed in our direction, it can be thrown off course with sufficient advance notice. I did.

Scientists want to study the impact’s aftermath up close to learn exactly how effective Dart was and what changes are needed to protect the planet in the future.

“The more details we can gather, the more details we can gather because it could be important in planning future deflection missions if they are needed,” University of Maryland astronomer Derek Richardson said before the launch. It’s good enough.”

Researchers want to know whether Dart (short for Double Asteroid Redirection Test) left behind a crater or changed the shape of the 500-foot (150-meter) asteroid more dramatically. Richardson, who participates in the dart mission and supports Hera, said that before the dart was shot, it looked like a flying saucer, but now it may resemble a kidney bean.

ESA’s Hera mission lifted off at 10:52 a.m. Monday aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
S. Korbach / ESA

The flurry of darts sent debris and even rocks flying from Dimorphos, further increasing the force of the impact. The debris trail stretched thousands of miles (more than 10,000 kilometers) into space over several months.

Flight director Ignacio Tanco said rocks and other debris may still be floating around the asteroid, posing a potential threat to Hera.

“We don’t really know what kind of environment we’re going to operate in,” Tanko says. “But the whole point of this mission is to go out there and find out.”

European officials described the $400 million (363 million euro) mission as an “investigation of the accident scene.”

Project manager Ian Carnelli said Hera was “returning to the crime scene and obtaining all the scientific and technical information”.

Hera, which is about the size of a small car and carries more than a dozen scientific instruments, needs to fly past Mars in 2025 to increase its gravity and reach Dimorphos by the end of 2026. This is a satellite of the fast-spinning asteroid Didymos, which means twins in Greek. It’s 5 times bigger. At that point, the asteroid will be 120 million miles (195 million kilometers) from Earth.

Hera, controlled by a flight team in Darmstadt, Germany, will attempt to enter orbit around the pair of rocks as its flight range gradually decreases from 18 miles (30 kilometers) to half a mile (1 kilometer). The spacecraft will study the satellite for at least six months, determining its mass, shape, composition, and orbit around Didymos.

Before impact, Dimorphos circled its larger mate from three-quarters of a mile (1,189 meters) away. Scientists believe the orbit could become tighter and more elliptical, potentially even causing the satellite to fall off.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

The rapid intensification of Hurricane Milton is indicative of a climate trend

Posted on October 7, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

The Milton, which is expected to make landfall along the Florida Gulf Coast Wednesday evening, is sailing through unusually warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico. Temperatures in much of the ocean basin were well above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with some parts of the bay up to 4 degrees warmer than normal. Data from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Rising temperatures in the Gulf also strengthened Hurricane Helen, which made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region less than two weeks later.

2023 study published in journal scientific report We find that Atlantic tropical cyclones are about 29% more likely to develop rapidly from 2001 to 2020 compared to 1971 to 1990.

Scientists have documented many recent examples of rapid intensification, including Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Hurricane Laura in 2020, Hurricane Ida in 2021, and Hurricane Idalia last year. 2019 Hurricane Dorian’s peak wind speed increased from 150 mph to 185 mph in nine hours, and 2022 Hurricane Ian experienced two rapid intensifications before making landfall in Florida.

Although this process is well documented, rapid intensification is difficult to predict. Although scientists know the ingredients needed to activate this phenomenon, it remains difficult to predict exactly how and when it will occur, and its exact triggers.

Milton is expected to weaken slightly before making landfall, but the storm’s impacts will be severe. A storm surge watch is in effect for the Florida Gulf Coast, including the Tampa Bay area, with potentially life-threatening storm surges of up to 12 feet expected. As many as 15 million people are under flood watches across the state.

Dennis Chow

Dennis Chou is a science and space reporter for NBC News.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Two injured comb jellyfish might merge to create a single entity.

Posted on October 7, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

A shimmering sea creature known as a comb jelly exhibits incredible abilities. Despite being injured, two comb jellies can fuse into one body without experiencing tissue rejection, unlike other animals. Moreover, their nervous systems merge, and their digestive tracts combine to share food.

This discovery could assist researchers in understanding how the immune system evolved to differentiate an organism’s own tissues from those of another organism, as well as shed light on the evolution of the nervous system.

Although commonly referred to as comb jellies or ctenophores, they are distinct from jellyfish due to their unique body structures. These creatures are the most ancient beings to have branched off from the common ancestor of all animals, making them a captivating subject for scientists studying early animal evolution. Their nervous system, composed of interconnected neurons forming a continuous network, sets them apart from other animals.

While studying the vibrant combs of ctenophores, specifically Mnemiopsis leidii, at the University of Exeter in the UK, researcher Kei Shirokura noticed a unique specimen with two posterior ends and apical organs. This prompted further investigation.

Through experimentation involving cutting out pieces from unrelated individuals and pairing them together, Shirokura discovered that in most cases, the two bodies seamlessly merged into one within hours. The absence of tissue rejection suggested a lack of xenorecognition, indicating an inability to distinguish between self and non-self.

When prodded, the fused body responded collectively, demonstrating complete integration of the nervous systems. Additionally, the digestive tracts fused, allowing shared food consumption through a single entry point.

This groundbreaking discovery raises questions about when animals developed heterogeneous cognition and the mechanisms behind neural network formation and information processing. Similarly, ctenophores possess the ability to revert from adulthood to a larval-like stage under certain conditions, hinting at a common ancestral characteristic shared among animals.

The potential applications of ctenophores in understanding biological processes like tissue rejection, regeneration, and aging, which are relevant to human health, make them a valuable model for future research.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Fewer People Expected to Reach 100 Years Old as Life Expectancy Growth Slows

Posted on October 7, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Few people celebrate their 100th birthday.

Comet/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Will you live to be 100 years old? For the average person, the answer is probably no, as life expectancy growth has slowed in wealthy countries despite advances in medicine and living conditions. This suggests there may be a biological limit to our age, but some researchers believe further progress is possible.

The current slowdown is in sharp contrast to 20 years.^th Over the past century, life expectancy at birth in wealthy areas has increased by three years per decade in what researchers call radical life extension. People born in the mid-1800s had a life expectancy of 20 to 50 years, but by the 1990s they had reached 50 to 70 years.

Extrapolating from this trend, some people at the time began predicting that newborns in the 21st century would typically live to be over 100 years old, but that point has now been reached and this may have been too optimistic. It seems so.

S. Jay Olshansky Researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago analyzed mortality data from the 1990s to 2019 in nine wealthy countries, including the United States, Australia, South Korea, and Hong Kong. The 2019 cutoff was aimed at avoiding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers found that life expectancy at birth increased by an average of 6.5 years over the study period. In the United States, reached 78.8 While in Hong Kong in 2019 It was 85.

However, from 2010 to 2019, the growth rate slowed in most countries compared to the past 20 years. The U.S. is in the worst position, perhaps because of the ongoing opioid crisis, Olshansky said. By contrast, only Hong Kong has seen an increase in life expectancy growth since 2010, but it is unclear what is causing this, he said. That may be because people have easier access to health care than in other regions, he says.

Based on historical trends, researchers predict that life expectancy at birth will never exceed 84 years for men and 90 years for women. They also calculate that only a small number of today's newborns will live to be 100 years old.

The recent slowdown may be because the greatest advances in environmental and medical improvements were already achieved in the 1900s, and human aging is reaching its biological limits, Olshansky said. Jan Vig A professor at New York's Albert Einstein College of Medicine thinks similarly. “There are certain biological limits that keep us from getting older,” he says.

but jerry mccartney Researchers from the University of Glasgow in the UK say that the slowdown in growth over the past decade is mainly due to policies in many of the countries analyzed, which have led to cuts in social security and health services and increased poverty. states that it is possible. Without these, life expectancy growth might not have slowed down, so with the right policies, life expectancy could continue to rise, he says.

in fact, michael rose A professor at the University of California, Irvine, believes there is no limit to the human lifespan. With the right investments in anti-aging research, he says, we could see another radical increase in life expectancy this century, at least in wealthy countries.

Olshansky said he was positive that life expectancy is still increasing despite the recent economic slowdown. “Of course we should celebrate the fact that we can live this long,” he says.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

One simple reason why baby sharks are are more frightening than adorable

Posted on October 6, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

When it comes to cuteness, it’s all subjective. Depending on the species, baby sharks can be as small as palm-sized infants like small spotted cat sharks that hatch from “mermaid's purse” egg cases or directly from their mothers as long-bodied pups with outstretched arms.

This is especially true for sand tiger sharks, although it’s surprising how these tiny creatures grow so big. Sand tiger sharks are one of the many species where fertilized eggs hatch inside the female’s body and develop in the womb.

It’s quite common for shark fetuses to feed on unfertilized eggs, a behavior seen in over a dozen species. Sandwich shark embryos are even more developed, with ultrasound scans showing them swimming between the uterus prongs, likely searching for more sustenance.

After a year of gestation, female sand tiger sharks give birth to one or two large pups, considered the survivors of a fierce intrauterine battle. While their size at birth helps protect them from many predators, they are also at risk of getting caught in fishing nets, pushing them closer to extinction.

Researchers studied shark carcasses caught in nets across South Africa to understand why unborn sand tiger sharks engage in cannibalism. They found that females carrying more advanced embryos produced fewer fetuses due to intrauterine competition.

DNA testing revealed that sand tiger shark fetuses are born to multiple fathers in a litter, showing a complex mating system where the offspring of one dominant male tend to outcompete their half-siblings.

It’s unclear why this occurs, but it could be a strategy for females to select the best mate or for the strongest sperm to produce the most viable offspring. This article dives into the intriguing world of baby sharks and their complex familial relationships.

This article addresses questions like: “How cute are baby sharks in real life?” – Jacob Barnett, Peterborough

For inquiries, contact us at: questions@sciencefocus.com or message us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (remember to include your name and location).

Explore more fun facts and fascinating science topics on our ultimate science pages.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Satellite collision catastrophe now unavoidable, warn experts

Posted on October 6, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Approximately 50,000 collision avoidance maneuvers were performed by satellites in SpaceX’s Starlink constellation in the first half of 2024. This number reflects the growing concern about satellite collisions as the number of satellites orbiting the Earth continues to increase unchecked.

With a significant portion of our communication, navigation, and climate change observation relying on space infrastructure, the potential for a catastrophic collision that could disrupt these critical services is a valid concern.

According to Andy Lawrence, Regius Professor of Astronomy at the University of Edinburgh, the threat is more insidious. Lawrence compares the situation to the “boil the frog” analogy, pointing out that gradual changes often go unnoticed until it’s too late.

Space debris resulting from collisions poses a significant risk to operational satellites. Previous incidents, such as the 2009 collision between the U.S. satellite Iridium 33 and the Russian spacecraft Cosmos 2251, highlight the potential dangers of high-speed collisions in orbit.

As the number of satellites in orbit continues to rise, the risk of collisions and conjunctions also increases. Flybys between satellites, like the ones observed by LeoLabs, underscore the potential for catastrophic events that could generate significant amounts of debris in space.

Efforts to prevent collisions, such as onboard software maneuvers and tracking systems, are crucial in mitigating risks. However, as more satellites are launched, concerns remain about the software’s ability to handle the increasing volume of space objects.

The rise in satellite constellations, driven by companies like Starlink aiming to provide global internet coverage, exacerbates the collision risk. The challenge now is to balance the benefits of satellite technology with the potential hazards it poses to orbital space, astronomy, and the environment.

As the debate continues on how to manage the growing number of satellites and ensure the sustainability of outer space, the need for international cooperation and responsible satellite deployment becomes increasingly evident.

Ultimately, the future of space exploration and satellite operations hinges on finding a delicate balance between technological progress and ensuring the long-term health and safety of our activities in space.

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To orbit the Earth, a satellite must travel at a minimum speed of 7.8 km/s (4.8 miles per second), highlighting the immense energy released in a potential collision. The increasing density of satellites in orbit raises concerns about the risks posed by collisions and close encounters between space objects.

As technology advances and more satellites are launched into space, the need for responsible space debris management becomes paramount in ensuring the sustainability of future space missions and satellite operations.

Satellite collisions can scatter thousands of pieces of debris into orbital space around Earth – Image courtesy of Alamy

The increasing number of satellites in orbit not only poses risks to operational spacecraft but also interferes with astronomical observations and environmental concerns. Balancing the benefits of satellite technology with the potential hazards it poses to space and the environment is crucial in the era of rapid space exploration and commercial satellite deployment.

As we navigate the complexities of space governance and responsible satellite deployment, collaboration among stakeholders, regulators, and operators will be essential in ensuring the sustainability and safety of our activities in space.

The future of satellite operations and space exploration depends on our ability to address these challenges effectively and ensure a secure and sustainable space environment for future generations.

A blend of exposures showing thousands of satellites swarming the night sky in 2022 – Photo credit: Alan Dyer/VW Pics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

As we continue to expand our presence in space, it becomes increasingly important to consider the implications of our actions on the environment, astronomy, and the sustainability of future space activities. By addressing these challenges collaboratively and responsibly, we can pave the way for a safer, more sustainable future in space exploration and satellite operations.

obscure our view of the universe

The proliferation of satellites around Earth presents challenges to astronomers, with concerns about interference with observations and radio signals. Finding a balance between technological progress and preserving the integrity of astronomical research is a key concern in the evolving landscape of space exploration.

As we strive to harness the benefits of satellite technology while mitigating its potential risks, it is essential to prioritize international cooperation and sustainable practices in satellite deployment and space exploration. By working together to address these challenges, we can ensure a brighter and more sustainable future in space.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Arson becomes an escalating danger in California due to climate change

Posted on October 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Between 10% to 15% of California’s wildfires are caused by arson annually, a trend that seems to continue in 2024. With the impact of climate change raising temperatures, prolonging fire seasons, and worsening drought conditions, intentional fires have more opportunities to ignite and spread.

Suspected arson fires have burned over 477,000 acres this year, the highest since 2014 when 98,259 acres were burned due to arson, according to Cal Fire.

Dry wood from drought or other climate change effects heightens the risk posed by arson fires, as they can rapidly spread and endanger homes. Mouchette warned of the increased danger, especially for those without access to escape vehicles.

The wildfire season in California is becoming longer, with the desert basin in the southeastern part of the state experiencing 61 additional fire weather days from 1973 to 2022, according to Climate Central.

Rising temperatures from a record-breaking October heatwave in parts of California, with temperatures forecasted to reach 105 degrees in some areas, further exacerbate the risk of arson fires spreading quickly.

Arson fires inherently cause more damage per acre compared to fires caused by lightning or other factors, making them a serious concern, noted researcher Jeffrey Prestemon from the U.S. Forest Service.

In a study conducted by Prestemon and colleagues on wildfire arson incidents in various countries, they found a significant decrease in wildfires after the arrest of a particular arsonist in Spain the following year.

Arresting arsonists can deter future incidents and prevent further damage, emphasized Prestemon.

In California, Cal Fire had apprehended 91 individuals on arson charges by August, aligning with historical trends. Typically, wildfire arsonists are young males who tend to have multiple instances of setting fires.

Investigating and prosecuting wildfire arson cases present challenges due to sparse physical evidence, making it difficult to hold perpetrators accountable, stated Daniel Fox, a prosecutor from Riverside County.

While advancements in technology like surveillance cameras and satellite tracking have aided in closing cases, victims of arson wildfires often struggle to recover fully from the damages inflicted, as insurance coverage may fall short.

Andrea Blaylock examines the charred remains of her home destroyed in the Park Fire near Forest Ranch, California, on July 30, 2024.Nick Cooley/Associated Press

A suspect, Stout, arrested for the Park fire, faces charges of arson of a residential structure or property, potentially carrying a 25 years to life sentence if convicted.

With wildfire arson posing ongoing threats in California, efforts to prevent, investigate, and prosecute these incidents remain crucial to protect lives and property from the devastation they cause.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

John Norton’s Article: The Rise of the Blogosphere as Traditional Internet Usage Declines

Posted on October 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

ILog in to Dave Winer’s blog.
script news
you’ll see constantly updated notes that tell you how many years, months, days, hours, and seconds your blog has been running.
The year field will switch to 30 sometime tomorrow morning. That means Dave’s blog will be stirring things up every day for 30 years.

He really
notable person
a talented hacker and software developer who embodies the spirit of the early Internet.
In the 1980s, he created a new type of software called ThinkTank.
“Outliner”
It’s a computerized version of the hierarchical list we all use when planning articles and presentations, but until then was scrawled on paper.
Like Dan Bricklin’s spreadsheets, this was a novel idea at the time, but nearly every type of writing software now includes an outliner.
Surprisingly, Microsoft Word also has this feature.

In 1983, Winer founded a company called Living Videotext to develop and commercialize the outline idea, and six years later sold it to Symantec to earn enough money to do his own work for the rest of his life.
I got the funds. One of them is to play a leading role in development.
RSS
(Very Simple Syndication) is a tool that allows users to track different websites in one application (a news aggregator), constantly monitoring the site for new content.
(Think of this as the hidden wiring of the web.)

As the use of RSS feeds became commonplace, someone had the idea of being able to attach audio files to RSS feeds, and Dave implemented that idea with a nice geeky touch.
I attached a Grateful Dead song. Initially, this new technology was called audio blogging, but eventually a British journalist came up with the term “podcasting” and the word stuck.

So, while Dave was there to create some cool stuff, it was his blog that brought him to a wider audience.
“Some people are born to play country music.”
he wrote
At some stage.
“I was born to blog. When I first started blogging, I thought everyone would become a blogger. I was wrong. Most people don’t have the urge to say what they think. I don’t have one.’”
Dave was just the opposite. He was (and still is) articulate and forthright.
His formidable track record as a technological innovator meant that he could not be dismissed as an eccentric.
The fact that he was financially secure meant he didn’t have to pander to anyone and could speak his mind. And he did.
That made him a prominent presence on the web from the moment he launched Scripting News in October 1994.

Like many of us, he realized that what became known as the blogosphere might be a modern realization of Jurgen Habermas’ ideas.
“Public sphere”
Because it was open to everyone, everything was up for discussion, and social status did not determine who was allowed to speak.
But what he – and we – underestimated is that tech companies like Google and Facebook have surrounded their public realm with their own walled gardens, where “free speech” is algorithmically enforced.
The speed and comprehensiveness of the central monitoring of speakers and their data. Mined for advertising purposes.

In my experience, most journalists fail to understand the importance of the blogosphere.
This is partly due to the fact that they thought, like Dr. Johnson, that “no one but a blockhead writes about anything other than money,” so bloggers must be weirdos.
(This is difficult for those of us who happen to be in this situation, but
both bloggers
)
But that was largely because the mainstream media was hypnotized and blindsided by the dizzying rise of social media.
Journalists have come to believe that the blogosphere must be a meeting place for old hats, relics of the past, weirdos in Cornish pasty shoes, nerds and ponytailed men. Social media was key.

If that’s really what they think, Winer has news for them.
The blogosphere is alive and well and thriving.
In fact, much of the best writing and thinking of our time is found here.
I can say this because I use tools and read them every day.
feedland.org – Something Dave made to make it easier to drink water from a fire hose.
Clay Shirkey, an early Internet sage,
Please put it down once
There is no such thing as information overload, only “filter failure.”
And there’s no excuse to ignore the blogosphere.

what i was reading

100th anniversary celebration

Jimmy Carter turned 100 this week, and his former speechwriter James Fallows wrote the following message:
generous rating His stuff on his Substack.

Look, I don’t have any hands…

Our ubiquitous future is astonishing.
blog post
By Allen Pike: I think self-driving cars will become commonplace.

The truth about monopoly

Antitrust Revolution: Title
great essay
in
harpers Barry Lynn, on democracy’s awakening to the dangers of corporate power.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Time to reconsider our approach to combating loneliness

Posted on October 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Although we’re more connected than ever, we’re all pretty alone right now. In fact, we’re so lonely that the World Health Organization has declared a “loneliness epidemic” as global public health concerns, with approximately a quarter of the world reports feeling isolated. Young people are the ones who bear the brunt of this crisis.

In other words, we are facing a crisis. Social clubs are springing up in every city, Japan is backing support groups, and the Dutch are finding success with flat-sharing that mixes older and younger residents.

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However, while all of these measures have been shown to be helpful, they are only a drop in a much larger lonely ocean. Rates of loneliness are increasing, and finding a global solution is not easy. But technology companies are stepping in to fight loneliness with various hardware and software solutions. While they are making progress, there is still a long way to go in curing this epidemic.

How we misunderstand loneliness

In their rush to design solutions, big tech companies have oversimplified the concept of loneliness and linked it with the need for conversation. Few people fully understand the different types of loneliness, as explained by Dr. Jeremy Nobel, author of the book project unlonely. He highlights three types of loneliness: psychological, systemic exclusion, and psychological isolation.

Currently, solutions offered by the technology industry mostly focus on addressing psychological loneliness, such as AI chatbot programs like Replika and Friend. While these may provide temporary relief, they are not comprehensive solutions to the root causes of loneliness.

As technology continues to evolve, there is potential for it to play a larger role in addressing loneliness. Dr. Nobel suggests that wearables with loneliness sensors could track indicators and provide suggestions to combat loneliness in real-time.

Dealing with loneliness with technology

Credit: Oleg Breslavtsev

While current technology-based solutions are primitive, there is potential for technology to address loneliness in more impactful ways. By understanding loneliness as an emotional signal, technology can offer innovative solutions to help individuals combat loneliness and form meaningful social connections in a digital age.

About our experts, Jeremy Nobel

Jeremy is a primary care physician and public health worker. He is the founder and chairman of The Foundation for Art & Healing, which runs the Project UnLonely program, addressing the personal and public health challenges posed by loneliness.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Pharmacological potential discovered in toxins found in crustacean venom from Mayan underwater caves

Posted on October 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Xibalbanus turmensisThe poisonous remipede, found in the caves of Antiarin on the Yucatan Peninsula, is the only crustacean for which a venom system has been described.

Xibalbanus turmensis. Image credit: Pinheiro-Junior others., doi: 10.1186/s12915-024-01955-5.

“Poisonous animals inject toxic compounds into other organisms primarily for self-defense or predation,” said Dr. Björn von Roymont, a researcher at Goethe University Frankfurt, and his colleagues.

“Many venoms are composed of proteins that have evolved to modulate various physiological functions in the target organism.”

“Studying these biological activities could lead to pharmacological or agrochemical applications.”

“The majority of thoroughly studied venoms and venomous proteins originate from iconic terrestrial groups, primarily snakes, spiders, scorpions, and insects,” the researchers said.

“Research attention to marine life has been limited, with only a few fish and invertebrates being better studied, such as sea anemones, jellyfish, cone snails, cephalopods, polychaetes, and more recently nemertes.”

“Venoms and their toxic proteins have evolved independently in different animal lineages, so the study of new lineages provides an opportunity to identify novel toxic compounds with interesting biological activities, on the one hand, and generally convergent proteins on the other hand. It provides an opportunity to improve our understanding of the evolution of functional traits.”

In their study, the researchers investigated the biological activity of peptides found in crustacean venom. Xibalbanus turmensis.

This underwater cave-dwelling crustacean belongs to the following classes: Remipediafirst described in the 1980s and currently consists of 28 extant species.

“Xibalbanus turmensis They live in cenotes, underwater caves in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula,” the scientists said.

“Cave dwellers directly inject the venom produced by their venom glands into their prey.”

“This toxin contains a variety of components, including a new type of peptide named cibalbin after the crustacean producer.”

“Some of these sibalbins contain characteristic structural elements that are well known to other toxins, especially those produced by spiders. Some amino acids (cysteine) in the peptide are tied together like a knot. are connected to each other in such a way that they form a structure.

“This makes the peptide more resistant to enzymes, heat, and extreme pH values.”

“Such knots often act as neurotoxins, interacting with ion channels to paralyze prey. This effect has also been proposed for some cibalbins.”

This study shows that all sibalbin peptides tested by the team, particularly Xib1, Xib2, and Xib13, effectively inhibit potassium channels in mammalian systems.

“This inhibition is very important when developing drugs to treat a variety of neurological diseases, including epilepsy,” Dr. von Roymont said.

“Xib1 and Xib13 also exhibit the ability to inhibit voltage-gated sodium channels, such as those found in neurons and cardiomyocytes.”

“Furthermore, in higher mammalian sensory neurons, the two peptides can activate two proteins involved in signal transduction: the kinases PKA-II and ERK1/2.”

“The latter suggests that they are involved in pain sensitization, opening the door to new approaches in pain treatment.”

of the team findings Published in a magazine BMC biology.

_____

EL Pinheiro – Junior others. 2024. Xibalbin mutants divergently evolved from remipede toxin inhibit potassium channels and activate PKA-II and Erk1/2 signaling. BMC biol 22, 164; doi: 10.1186/s12915-024-01955-5

Source: www.sci.news

A newly discovered species of hammerhead shark

Posted on October 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

A team of marine biologists led by researchers at Florida International University has described a new species of shark. Sphyrna Native to the Caribbean and Southwest Atlantic.

Svirna Arenia male collected in Riversdale, Belize. Image credit: Cindy Gonzalez.

It got its name from the unusual and unique shape of its head. hammerhead shark Belongs to the family Sphinidae.

They live all over the world and prefer to live in warm waters along coastlines and continental shelves.

“The hammerhead shark is a monophyletic lineage of hammerhead sharks that first appeared in the Miocene,” said Florida International University researchers. Cindy Gonzalez her colleagues from the United States and Canada;

“They are characterized by a laterally expanded and dorsoventrally compressed head or 'cephalic lobe' and currently include nine named species. ”

“Hammerhead sharks are one of the most endangered shark families, with all but one species present, primarily due to overfishing.Svirna Gilberti) listed worldwide as vulnerable, endangered speciesor endangered species by IUCN,” they added.

“There are four species of small hammerhead sharks (less than 1.5 meters in length at first maturity) that are endemic to the Americas. Sphyrna Tiblo, Sphyrnatitude, Sphyrna Coronaand Sphyrnamedia”

“Sphyrna Corona Occurs only in the eastern Pacific, Sphyrnatitude It occurs only in the western Atlantic Ocean and is associated with the bull shark (Sphyrnamedia) and bonito shark (Sphyrna Tiblo). ”

The newly described Sphyrna This is a small hammerhead shark, less than 1.5 meters long.

with scientific name Svirna Areni (common name is shovel shark), has a flat, shovel-shaped head with no indentation at the front end.

“Svirna Areni different from Sphyrna Tiblo “This is because in this species the leading edge of the head is more rounded and the trailing lobule is absent,” the researchers said.

“The importance of the precaudal vertebrae is as follows.” Svirna Areni Between 80 and 83 – about 10 more vertebrae than others Sphyrna Tiblo”

“Given that there is some similarity in the shape of cephalofoils, Svirna Areni and Sphyrna Vespertina They may be sister lineages; Sphyrna Tiblo It diverged from and later separated from them as it expanded into the subtropics and temperate Atlantic Ocean. Sphyrna Vespertina and early Svirna Areni By isthmus closure. ”

Svirna Areni It is found in coastal waters, estuaries, coral reefs, seaweed beds, and sandy bottoms from Belize to Brazil.

The presence of this species has been confirmed in the Caribbean in Belize, Panama, Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago, and in the southwestern Atlantic Ocean of Brazil.

“Bonnet Head is currently rated as globally endangered However, the IUCN rates it as an amphibious American species,” the scientists said.

“This assessment highlights that while this species is well managed in high latitudes of the northern hemisphere Atlantic range (USA, Bahamas), it is heavily fished and poorly managed elsewhere. There is evidence of population decline in Brazil and much of the tropical eastern Pacific.

“We will re-evaluate this assessment taking into account geographic distribution.” Sphyrna Tiblo and Svirna Areni Now that is guaranteed,” they said.

“Given how fisheries and management are distributed, the IUCN status is probably Sphyrna Tiblo it will be improved, Svirna Areni Of course, it would be a very dangerous situation. ”

“Additional attention from management is needed to rebuild the population.” Svirna AreniThis could take the form of restrictions on gillnet and trawl fishing, as these types of gear account for most of the catch of this coastal species. ”

discovery of Svirna Areni is reported in paper in a diary zoo animals.

_____

Cindy Gonzalez others. 2024. Svirna Areni sp. In November, new hammerhead sharks (Hammellidae, Hammerheadidae) from the Caribbean Sea and the southwestern Atlantic Ocean. zoo animals 5512 (4): 491-511;doi: 10.11646/zootaxa.5512.4.2

Source: www.sci.news

Astronauts Could Potentially Consume Asteroids in the Future

Posted on October 4, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Samples from asteroid Ryugu

JAXA

Future astronauts may be able to eat a nutritionally complete meal made from bacteria grown on crushed asteroids, creating a type of milkshake or yogurt.

Astronauts on the International Space Station are experimenting with growing salad leaves, but most of the food consumed in space comes from Earth. This will not be possible for more distant and longer duration space missions. joshua pierce and his colleagues at Western University in Ontario, Canada, decided to study the use of bacteria to convert carbon-containing compounds from asteroids into edible food.

Although they have not yet performed this process using real asteroids, Pearce and his team performed a similar experiment using bacteria that breaks down plastic from leftover military ration packets. To do this, they heated the plastic in the absence of oxygen, a process called pyrolysis, and fed this to a mixture of carbon-eating bacteria.

“If you look at the pyrolysis products that bacteria are known to eat and the materials found in asteroids, there's actually a pretty reasonable match,” Pearce said. “So I think this really works.”

The bacterial aggregates end up being “something like a caramel milkshake,” Pearce said, and the team is also experimenting with drying the material to make something like yogurt or powder.

Although it may not be very appetizing, Pearce says this bacteria is highly suited for human needs. “We did a nutritional analysis and found it to be a nearly perfect food,” he says. “We found that the bacterial consortium we were using was more or less allocating a third each to protein, carbohydrates, and fat.”

If this idea is correct, a 500-meter-wide asteroid similar to Bennu, which NASA visited in 2020, could feed between 600 and 17,000 astronauts for a year, Pierce said. say. The exact amount depends on how efficiently the bacteria can digest the asteroid's carbon compounds.

A fully operational asteroid food project would require an “industrial-sized supermachine” in space, but researchers will begin testing the idea on a small scale next year, starting with coal. He says he wants to move on to meteorites next. They are currently working on the proposal. “It's very expensive, so we have to destroy it.” [the meteorites]So when we made these proposals, the stone collectors were not happy,” Pearce says.

“There's definitely potential there, but it's still a very futuristic and exploratory idea,” he says. Annemiek Wargen At the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. “It's good to think about these things, but in terms of technology, there's still quite a bit of development to be done before we can use these methods.”

The success of this process depends on how much of the carbon compounds in the asteroid are suitable food for bacteria, Wagen said. Based on the composition of meteorites on Earth, it's likely somewhere in the middle of the range the researchers calculated, she says.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

‘Sustainable Startups Struggle to Fix Broken Food System as Venture Capital Seeks Return on Investment’

Posted on October 4, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Andrew Carter and Adam DiMartino launched Smallhold in 2017 with a goal of providing mushrooms to more people. Carter believed that mushrooms are highly sustainable in terms of water, waste, plastic use, and emissions. Over the years, Smallhold has successfully introduced specialty mushrooms like shiitake, green oysters, and trumpet mushrooms to grocery stores and households across America.

As mushrooms gained popularity as a symbol of sustainability during the pandemic, Smallhold found success and attention from the media, resulting in a valuation of $90 million. Despite starting in a Brooklyn shipping container, the brand expanded rapidly with farms in New York, Texas, and California, selling in 1,400 stores nationwide.

Smallhold’s co-founders, DeMartino and Carter, believe in promoting sustainability and reducing waste in the food industry. However, the company faced challenges when the founders resigned, leading to Smallhold filing for bankruptcy. Although the brand was acquired and reorganized, it struggled to maintain its original vision, closing farms and reducing staff.

For entrepreneurs, Smallhold’s journey serves as a lesson on finding a niche beyond sustainability and ensuring economic sustainability. While the company focused on unique mushroom varieties and sustainable practices, it also built a strong brand through aesthetics and social media. It’s crucial for startups to deliver quality products, maintain profitability, and avoid excessive reliance on venture capital.

In the evolving landscape of food startups, lessons can be learned from Smallhold’s experience. By combining sustainability with quality, variety, and branding, companies can attract customers and thrive in the market. Innovating in the food industry requires a balance between financial responsibility and sustainability goals, defining success on your own terms.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Ultimate Guide to Amazon’s New Free Fantasy Game, Throne and Liberty: Otter in a Hat and Magic Wand

Posted on October 4, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Amazon has been attempting to enter the gaming industry for quite some time. Despite having abundant resources and hiring top designers, progress has been slow. However, in recent times, Amazon has found success in releasing massively multiplayer online games. First came New World in 2021, a fantasy game focusing on survival and player-built settlements. This was followed by Lost Ark in the next year, developed by SmileGate from South Korea, blending MMO elements with Diablo-style combat. While reviews were mixed, both games found popularity among players. Now, Amazon is launching its third MMO in four years, Throne and Liberty, also developed in Korea. Here’s what you need to know about this latest offering.

What is Throne and Liberty?

A large, detailed world… Throne and Liberty. Photo: Amazon Games

Throne and Liberty is an MMO set in a fantasy world akin to World of Warcraft. Players create characters and embark on adventures, either alone, with friends, or as part of a guild. The game offers main storylines, cooperative dungeon battles, and player-versus-player combat for territory control.

The game had a prolonged development, initially announced in 2011 as an expansion of the Lineage series. It was released in South Korea in December after facing delays, technical changes, and leadership shifts. Amazon is the global publisher, having acquired the rights in February the previous year.

How is Throne and Liberty different?

Traditional MMO combat combined with action-game dodging and parrying for real combat. Photo: Amazon Games

Throne and Liberty offers unique elements, such as the ability to transform into various animals for faster travel. Combat and character progression stand out; instead of fixed classes, character abilities revolve around weapon usage. With six different weapons and customizable combinations, players can create unique playstyles.

Is Throne and Liberty worth playing?

A unique world… a massive floating whale in the sky. Photo: Amazon Games

Throne and Liberty offers engaging exploration and combat mechanics, blending MMO and action elements. However, it lacks depth in storytelling and character development. Crafting and upgrading systems may feel complex and tedious. Overall, the game is free-to-play and provides a decent gaming experience without requiring excessive time investment.

Should I try Throne and Liberty?

Fashionable style… Characters resembling a mix of wizards, warriors, orcs, and goblins. Photo: Amazon Games

Throne and Liberty is recommended for casual play, offering basic yet enjoyable gameplay. However, if choosing between Amazon’s Korean MMOs, Lost Ark may be a better choice due to its more engaging combat and storytelling. Both games are free-to-play, providing diverse experiences for players.

Source: www.theguardian.com