Dissecting Jordan Peterson’s latest book – downright draining.

Posted on December 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Biblical approach

A new book by psychologist-turned-YouTuber Jordan Peterson has been published. we wrestle with god It's a work about how ancient myths and legends, if perhaps not literal truths, contain valuable, even universal lessons about life and humanity.

The feedback was also positive. Anthropologists will tell you that there is much to be gained from studying mythology. You can learn about how past societies thought about the relationship between ordinary people and elites, and about humanity's place in the natural world.

But when I reached the last page of the preface, the penny that had been so high somehow fell. This is not a worldwide study. Only Biblical stories are featured, almost entirely from Genesis and Exodus, because the Bible is the “presupposed story of Western civilization” and “the foundation of the West, plain and simple.” The story is featured.

Feedback's grasp of intellectual history is admittedly a little vague, but Western society and modern science, while shaped by Christianity, were also influenced by the ideas of ancient Greeks, Romans, Norsemen, and Arabic scholars. There is no doubt that it is. Fundamentals of scientific revolution, etc.

However, we do not pretend to be experts in Biblical exegesis. I'd like to leave the theological criticism to former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, who says Peterson “relies heavily on somewhat outdated Christian commentary” and “relentlessly disdains nuance and disagreement.” ” states.

Instead, we unpack small sections where Peterson tries to connect his ideas to human biology (something we know a little about).

eve problem

Chapter 2 tells the story of Adam and Eve being chased out of the Garden of Eden after Eve, tempted by the serpent, eats the forbidden fruit and convinces Adam to do the same.

Peterson says this reflects a fundamental flaw in the minds of men and women. “The temptation that forever faces women,” he writes, “is the idea that maternal benevolence can proudly extend to the whole world, even to the most venomous snakes…even if the position is wrong. He uses her compassion to assert unearned moral virtues and abilities, even when he is wrong.

Men, on the other hand, have “corresponding and equally deadly sins.” It's the belief that “anything you bring before me I can take in, control, name, subdue, and put into proper order” – no matter how “too much” or “That's ridiculous.”

While men must exercise “emergency powers” and decide who deserves help, it is women's role to show compassion and draw men's attention to those who are suffering.

Since the book aims to reveal absolute truths about human nature, feedback relished the lack of reflection on the part about the dangers of “going too far.”

Now, one might expect psychologist Peterson to provide psychological evidence for these differences between men and women. That would be a mistake. But he tries to tie it to the biology of childbirth. Labor is painful and dangerous because human babies' brains have evolved to be larger and they must pass through a narrower birth canal, which otherwise would be “difficult for women to run,” she said. explain.

This caused neurons in the brain to fire due to feedback overload. Peterson restates a hypothesis called the “obstetric dilemma.” Founded in 1960.

Today, it is one of the most controversial concepts in anthropology, and all of its underlying assumptions have been proven false or questionable. The 2018 study was bluntly titled: “There is no such thing as an 'obstetric dilemma'”. 2021 counterattack (Deep breath) “It is unwarranted to completely reject the obstetric dilemma hypothesis, because some of its basic assumptions are not well discounted,'' he said.

Feedback alone is not wise to resolve this sticky dispute. But at least unlike Peterson, we get it. She went on to say that pregnant and breastfeeding women are “increasedly dependent” and cannot compete with men for position, and at this point we have used our emergency powers to stop reading. said.

word of the year

Feedback enjoys the annual ritual in which the dictionary announces the word of the year. That tells us something about changing practices. We are proud of the existence of Macquarie Dictionary, Australia's national language dictionary, and the fact that the word of the year in 2024 is 'Encitization”.

This great term was coined by author Cory Doctorow to describe how companies gradually degrade their service as they squeeze more and more profit out of their customers. He was referring to companies like Google, where search results are full of ads and unreliable AI-generated summaries, and Facebook, where newsfeeds are full of memes and ads and messages from friends and family are barely visible. It means a company.

Ever since I read Doctorow's paper, the word feedback has been around. first essayAnd I'm glad that this work will be accepted by a wider audience.

Have a story for feedback?

You can email your article to Feedback at feedback@newscientist.com. Please enter your home address. This week's and past feedback can be found on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

First-ever European sighting of the infamous ‘murder hornet’ alien species

Posted on December 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

overview

The southern giant hornet, also known as the “murder hornet”, has been discovered for the first time in Europe.
A study last month confirmed that two pairs of hornets have been found in northern Spain since 2022.
Scientists are looking for wasp nests.

Researchers in Spain are busy discovering the first southern giant hornet nest ever discovered in Europe.

Also known as the “murder hornet” because it is known to kill beehives, this insect grows to an average length of 2 inches. They are native to parts of Asia. India, China, Thailand, Vietnam.

in research published last month Five Spanish scientists described two separate sightings in the journal Ecology and Evolution. The scientific name of the southern giant hornet is Vespa soror. Both were in Cielo, a city in northern Asturias. A pair was discovered in March 2022, and another two in October 2023.

Researchers believe the hornet's nest dates back at least a year.

Asian giant hornet — A closely related species that originates from other parts of Asia, it was first discovered in the US state of Washington in late 2019. The northern hornet and the southern hornet have similar behavior and appearance, but the former Shi Change the nesting period They then build small colonies or nests.

The first northern giant hornet nest discovered in the United States was promptly destroyed in October 2020, but live hornets were discovered in Washington the following year.

Southern giant hornets are known to send out scout teams to find colonies of prey, and the scouts rub their bodies against the hive or nearby plants to signal other hornets to join them. According to Research published in 2021 . It then enters the “slaughter stage” where the entire hive can be destroyed within a few hours.

Asian giant hornets have not been found in Europe, neither in the north nor in the south. That's more than the four recorded in Spain. Scientists behind the recent study believe the hornets likely first arrived on a cargo ship.

Omar Sánchez, lead author of the study and zoologist A professor at the University of Oviedo in Spain said he expected the hornets to affect the balance of local ecosystems, as they actively prey on native hornets, bees, butterflies, moths and flies. A long-term decline in bee populations could impact honey availability and disrupt the pollination process that many plants and crops depend on.

“Here in northern Spain, we have another type of Asian hornet called Vespa verntina, which is causing serious damage to the beekeeping industry, so the presence of another hornet could potentially amplify the negative impact. Yes,” he said.

Sánchez added that the researchers: They are trying to find the nest in order to destroy it.

“This species nests more than 30 meters underground, so it's not easy to find, so you have to be a little bit careful,” he says. “We are trying.”

Sánchez said researchers are looking for more hornet sightings.

Sanchez and his study co-authors discovered and captured four of the hornets after hearing from beekeepers in the area that they had seen the unusual-looking hornets. After capturing the wasps, scientists extracted DNA samples and conducted genetic testing and analysis to confirm the species.

Molly Keck, an entomologist at Texas A&M University, said the genetic research that identified this species will “help educate the public and beekeepers and educate local governments so that management planning, education, mapping and distribution can be done.” “This is the first step towards mitigation efforts such as issuing warnings.” . ”

“Most of these invasive species will come in through some port city, so no matter what quarantine or checking measures are in place, there's always a way to find them.” she added.

Keck said countries may need to tighten such processes around the world as a precaution if they want to ensure their cargo is bug-free.

Sanchez said the detection of the southern giant hornet in Spain shows that more hornets are likely to emerge.

“Perhaps in the near future this species will be detected again in other parts of Spain, and perhaps also in Europe,” he says.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

A recently identified gene enhances photosynthesis and boosts plant growth

Posted on December 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Biologists have identified a new gene California poplar trees (Populus trichocarpa) — named booster —It can promote photosynthesis and increase the height of trees.

Transgenic hybrid poplar with increased expression levels BSTR Increased photosynthetic efficiency and biomass under greenhouse conditions. Image credit: Feissa others., doi: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.11.002.

“Historically, much research has focused on steady-state photosynthesis, where all conditions remain constant,” the co-senior authors said. Dr. Stephen Burgessa researcher at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

“However, this does not represent a field environment where the light is constantly changing.”

“In recent years, these dynamic processes have been thought to be more important, but they are not fully understood.”

In the new study, Dr. Burgess and his colleagues focused on poplar trees. Because poplar trees grow quickly and are great candidates for making biofuels and bioproducts.

They conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) by sampling approximately 1,000 trees in an outdoor research plot and analyzing their physical characteristics and genetic makeup.

The researchers used GWAS populations to search for candidate genes related to photosynthetic quenching. Photosynthetic quenching is the process that regulates how quickly plants adapt between sun and shade and dissipate excess energy from excessive sun to avoid damage.

One of the genes Booster (BSTR)was unusual because it is unique to poplar and contains sequences derived from chloroplasts, even though it is within the nuclear genome.

“We found that this gene can increase Rubisco content and subsequent photosynthetic activity, resulting in tall polar plants when grown in greenhouse conditions,” the authors said.

“In field conditions, we found that the genotypes were highly expressed. booster Up to 37% taller and more biomass per plant. ”

The researchers also booster at the model factory ArabidopsisAs a result, biomass and seed production increases.

This discovery is booster Can potentially cause yield increases in other plants.

“This is an exciting first step, but it is a small-scale experiment and there is much work to be done. If we can reproduce the results on a large scale, this gene has the potential to increase biomass production in crops.” said Dr. Burgess.

“Next steps in the research could include trials at other bioenergy and food plants, recording plant productivity under different growing conditions to analyze long-term success. .”

“We also plan to investigate other genes identified in the GWAS study that may contribute to crop improvement.”

of findings Featured in this week's diary developmental cells.

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Birk A. Feissa others. orphan gene booster Increases photosynthetic efficiency and plant productivity. developmental cellspublished online on December 3, 2024. doi: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.11.002

Source: www.sci.news

Research Shows Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko’s Water Resembles Earth’s Water in Molecular Makeup

Posted on December 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Despite conflicting with the results of some recent studies, this new discovery reinforces the claim that Jupiter-based comets like 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko may have contributed to providing water to Earth. This finding has been confirmed.

This pseudocolor four-image mosaic consists of images taken on February 3, 2015, from a distance of 28.7 km from the center of comet Churyumov-Gerasimenko. The size of the mosaic is 4.2 x 4.6 km. Image credit: ESA / Rosetta / NAVCAM / CC BY-SA IGO 3.0.

Water is crucial for the formation and sustenance of life on Earth, and continues to be central to life on Earth today.

It is believed that some water was present in the gas and dust that formed our planet around 4.6 billion years ago, but due to Earth forming close to the sun’s intense heat, a considerable amount of water is thought to have evaporated.

The process by which Earth became abundant in liquid water is still a subject of debate among scientists.

Studies have indicated that a portion of Earth’s water originates from steam released by volcanoes, which then condensed and fell into the oceans.

Furthermore, evidence suggests that a significant percentage of our oceans resulted from the impact of ice and minerals from asteroids and potentially comets hitting Earth.

A series of comets and asteroids colliding with inner solar system planets 4 billion years ago could have facilitated this occurrence.

While there is a strong theory linking asteroid water to Earth’s water, the role of comets has perplexed scientists.

Multiple measurements of Jupiter-based comets have indicated a strong correlation between their water and that of Earth.

This connection is based on a fundamental molecular signature utilized by scientists to track the origins of water across the solar system.

The deuterium (D) to ordinary hydrogen (H) ratio in an object’s water serves as this signature, providing insights into the object’s formation location.

By comparing this hydrogen ratio in comets and asteroids to that of Earth’s water, scientists can discern a potential connection.

Deuterium-rich water is more likely to form in cold environments, resulting in objects formed farther from the Sun, such as comets, exhibiting higher concentrations of this isotope compared to objects formed nearer to the Sun, like asteroids.

Measurements conducted over the past few decades on the deuterium in the water vapor of various other Jupiter-based comets have revealed levels akin to Earth’s water.

“It seems increasingly likely that these comets play a significant role in delivering water to Earth,” commented Dr. Kathleen Mandt, a planetary scientist at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.

However, ESA’s Rosetta mission to 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko in 2014 challenged the notion that Jupiter-based comets aid in replenishing Earth’s water reservoirs.

Upon analyzing Rosetta’s water measurements, scientists discovered that it has the highest deuterium concentration among all comets, with approximately 100% more deuterium than Earth’s oceans (about 1 deuterium atom for every 6,420 hydrogen atoms), surpassing it by threefold.

“This was a significant revelation that compelled us to reassess everything,” remarked Dr. Mandt.

An advanced statistical computing approach was employed by the researchers to automate the laborious task of segregating deuterium-rich water from over 16,000 Rosetta measurements.

These measurements were taken within the gas and dust coma encircling 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko by Rosetta.

For the first time, Dr. Mandt and collaborators analyzed all water measurements from the European mission.

The researchers aimed to comprehend the physical processes influencing the fluctuations in hydrogen isotope ratios detected in comets.

Studies on comet dust in laboratory settings and observations indicated that comet dust could impact the hydrogen proportion detected in comet vapors, potentially altering how the comet’s water compares to Earth’s water.

“So, I was curious to see if I could find evidence of this phenomenon occurring in 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko,” added Dr. Mandt.

“This is one of those rare instances where a hypothesis is proposed and genuinely validated.”

In fact, scientists identified a distinct correlation between the deuterium measurements of 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko within its coma and the amount of surrounding dust near the Rosetta spacecraft, indicating that measurements taken in certain regions of the coma near 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko may not accurately represent the comet’s celestial composition.

As the comet traverses an orbit closer to the Sun, its surface warms, releasing gases from the surface, including dust particles with attached water ice fragments.

Research suggests that water containing deuterium has a higher tendency to adhere to dust particles compared to regular water.

When this ice on dust particles is expelled into a coma, it can create an illusion of the comet containing more deuterium than it actually does.

The researchers noted that by the time the dust reaches the outer regions of the coma, at least 120 miles away from the comet’s core, the coma depletes of water.

Once the deuterium-rich water dissipates, the spacecraft can precisely measure the amount of deuterium emanating from the comet’s core.

“This discovery holds profound implications not only for elucidating the role of comets in supplying water to Earth but also for comprehending comet observations that offer insights into the early solar system’s formation,” the researchers noted.

“This discovery provides a unique opportunity to revisit previous observations and prepare for future observations to better factor in the effects of dust.”

of study Published in a magazine scientific progress.

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Kathleen E. Mandt others. 2024. D/H of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko almost on Earth. scientific progress 10(46);doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adp2191

Source: www.sci.news

New study reveals that Clovis people primarily consumed mammoths and other large mammals in their diet

Posted on December 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Paleoanthropologists believe that the Columbian mammoth (mammoth colombi) are the largest contributor to the diet of the Clovis people, the earliest widespread hunter-gatherer group inhabiting North America, followed by elk and bison/camels, but the contribution of small mammals is There were very few.

An artist's reconstruction of Clovis life 13,000 years ago shows the Anzick 1 infant eating mammoth meat with his mother near the hearth. Another individual crafting tool, such as a dart launch point or an atlatl. A huge slaughterhouse can be seen nearby. Image credit: Eric Carlson / Ben Potter / Jim Chatters.

The Clovis people lived in North America about 13,000 years ago.

During that time, giant animals such as mammoths lived in both northern Asia and the Americas.

Because they traveled long distances, they became a reliable source of fat and protein for highly mobile humans.

Some researchers argue that the Clovisians were some degree of megafauna experts, with a particular focus on mammoths, while others argue that such adaptations were not viable and therefore They argue that Clovisians were extensive foragers, likely incorporating small amounts of food into their diets on a regular basis. Prey, plants, and perhaps fish.

“Focusing on mammoths helps explain how the Clovis people spread from across North America to South America in just a few hundred years,” said Dr. James Chatters, a researcher at McMaster University. said.

“What's surprising to me is that this corroborates a lot of the data from other sites,” said Ben Potter, a professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

“For example, the animal parts left at the Clovis site are dominated by megafauna, and the firing points are large ones attached to darts, which were effective long-range weapons.”

In the new study, Dr Chatters, Professor Potter and their colleagues used stable isotope analysis to investigate the effects of 18-month-old children found at the 13,000-year-old Clovis site in Anzick, Montana, USA. I modeled the meal. state.

Their findings support the hypothesis that the Clovis people specialized in hunting large animals, rather than primarily foraging on small animals and plants.

Professor Potter said: “Mammoth hunting provided a flexible way of life.”

“This allowed the Clovis people to move to new areas without relying on smaller, localized prey that could vary widely from region to region.”

“This mobility is consistent with what we are seeing with Clovis technology and payment patterns.”

“They were very mobile. They transported resources such as toolstone over hundreds of miles.”

“Isotopes provide a chemical fingerprint of a consumer's diet, and can be compared to the isotopes of potential dietary items to determine the proportional contributions of different dietary items,” said Dr. Matt Wooler of the University of Alaska Fairbanks. It can be estimated.”

The researchers compared the mothers' stable isotope fingerprints with those obtained from different food sources from the same time and region.

They found that about 40% of her diet came from mammoths, with other large animals such as elk and bison making up the rest.

Although small mammals were sometimes considered an important food source, they played a very minor role in her diet.

Finally, the scientists compared the mother's diet to that of other omnivores and carnivores from the same period, including American lions, bears, and wolves.

The mother's diet was most similar to that of the scimitar cat, a mammoth specialist.

The discovery also suggests that early humans may have contributed to the extinction of Ice Age megafauna, especially as environmental changes reduced their habitat.

“If the climate is changing in a way that reduces suitable habitat for some of these megafauna, they potentially become more susceptible to human predation. These people are highly capable. He was a great hunter,” Professor Potter said.

“It was a combination of a very sophisticated hunting culture that responded to a simple, large animal group under environmental stress, and techniques honed over 10,000 years in Eurasia,” Dr Chatters said.

of the team result Published in today's diary scientific progress.

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James C. Chatters others. 2024. Mammoths featured heavily in the diet of western Clovis. scientific progress 10(49);doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adr3814

Source: www.sci.news

Billionaire Jared Isaacman chosen by Trump to lead NASA

Posted on December 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

President-elect Donald Trump revealed on Wednesday his intention to nominate billionaire entrepreneur Jared Isaacman as the head of NASA.

“Jared will propel NASA’s mission of exploration and inspiration, opening the doors to groundbreaking advancements in space science, technology, and exploration,” President Trump stated. Post to Truth Social.

At 41 years old, Isaacman is the founder and CEO of Shift4, a payment processing company. While he has embarked on two commercial SpaceX spaceflights, he has never been employed by NASA or the federal government. Both spaceflights were privately funded by Isaacman for an undisclosed sum.

Isaacman expressed his honor at being nominated by Trump in a statement.

“Having had the privilege of witnessing our incredible planet from space, I am deeply passionate about America leading the most incredible adventure in human history.” he wrote to x.

Isaacman has a close connection to Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX. President Trump has selected Musk, a close associate, to co-lead his new Department of Government Efficiency. Musk congratulated Isaacman on Wednesday. In the post of X.

In 2022, Isaacman partnered with Musk and SpaceX to finance the Polaris mission, a set of three private spaceflights to test technology and maneuvers for exploration beyond Earth’s orbit. Isaacman was one of four civilians sent into orbit on the initial spaceflight called Polaris Dawn.

A five-day mission in September included the first all-civilian spacewalk.

Isaacman also funded and partook in SpaceX’s first all-civilian mission into orbit in 2021.

If confirmed, Isaacman will oversee NASA at a crucial juncture, with major missions planned for the return of humans to the moon in the years ahead.

The United States is facing escalating competition in its quest to reach the moon and establish a lasting presence there.

China has made significant advancements in its space program recently, with plans to land Chinese astronauts on the moon by 2030. The country has already sent a robotic spacecraft to the moon and brought back the initial samples from the far side. Chinese leaders have expressed their intention to eventually construct a lunar base.

“I was born after the moon landing. My children were born after the final space shuttle launch,” Isaacman said in a statement, emphasizing: Through walking on the Moon or Mars, we can enhance life on Earth. “

Mr. Trump’s selection of an outsider to govern NASA, as well as Mr. Musk’s involvement in the forthcoming administration, may indicate a move toward promoting the commercialization of NASA’s activities. At present, the space agency heavily relies on SpaceX and other commercial partners for launching astronauts, cargo, and spacecraft to the International Space Station and beyond.

Bill Nelson, the current administrator of NASA, has been in office since May 2021. Nelson served as a Senator from Florida from 2001 to 2019 and as a Representative in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1979 to 1991.

In 1986, Nelson became the second sitting Congressman to travel to space on Space Shuttle Columbia’s STS-61C mission. Nelson and his crew conducted scientific experiments while orbiting the Earth 98 times in six days.

Former NASA administrators have included former astronauts, scientists, engineers, military personnel, and politicians.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

The aerial robot soars like a bird and ascends into the skies.

Posted on December 5, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Robots that can take off like birds could eliminate the need for runways for small fixed-wing drones.

Birds use the powerful explosive force generated by their legs to jump into the sky and begin flight, but it has proven difficult to build robots that can withstand the strong accelerations and forces exerted during this process.

now, Won Dong Shin Researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) have developed a flying propeller robot called RAVEN. The robot has legs that move like a bird and can walk, hop, jump into the air and start flying.

“Fixed-wing aircraft like airplanes always need a runway or a launcher, but that's not available everywhere. You really need a designated infrastructure to get the plane off the ground,” Singh said. Masu. “But when they spot a bird, they just walk around, jump, take off. It's very easy for them. They don't need any outside help.”

A real bird's legs have joints at the hip, knee, and ankle, but RAVEN's legs have only two joints, the hip and knee, and are driven by a motor. Each leg also has a spring that can store and release elastic energy. By using fewer parts, Singh and his team were able to keep RAVEN's weight to about 600 grams, the same as a crow.

In indoor tests, RAVEN was able to jump approximately 0.5 meters into the air at a speed of 2.4 meters per second. This is a similar speed to birds of the same size. At this point the propeller takes over. Because it can be launched upwards from anywhere, RAVEN could be useful for disaster relief missions where regular fixed-wing drones cannot take off or land, Singh said. But first, he says, the team needs to develop RAVEN's ability to land safely.

“We've seen a lot of work on flying robots that land on perches, but not many focused on taking off with their feet,” he says. Rafael ZafriEPFL was also not involved in this work. “I think the two disciplines of landing, or perching, and takeoff will be integrated into one platform that will allow robots to fly, detect branches, land, recover, and perform missions.” Take off. ”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

AI from DeepMind outperforms current weather predictions in accuracy

Posted on December 4, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Weather forecasting today relies on simulations that require large amounts of computing power.

Petrovich9/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Google DeepMind claims its latest weather forecasting AI can predict faster and more accurately than existing physics-based simulations.

GenCast is the latest in DeepMind's ongoing research project to improve weather forecasts using artificial intelligence. The model was trained on 40 years of historical data from the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). ERA5 ArchiveThis includes regular measurements of temperature, wind speed, and barometric pressure at various altitudes around the world.

Data up to 2018 was used to train the model, and then 2019 data was used to test predictions against known weather conditions. The company found that it outperformed ECMWF's industry standard ENS forecasts 97.4% of the time, and 99.8% of the time when forecasting more than 36 hours ahead.

Last year, DeepMind collaborated with ECMWF to create an AI that outperformed the “gold standard” high-resolution HRES 10-day forecast by more than 90%. Previously, he developed a “nowcasting” model that used five minutes of radar data to predict the probability of rain over a given one square kilometer area from five to 90 minutes in advance. Google is also working on ways to use AI to replace small parts of deterministic models to speed up calculations while maintaining accuracy.

Existing weather forecasts are based on physical simulations run on powerful supercomputers to deterministically model and estimate weather patterns as accurately as possible. Forecasters typically run dozens of simulations with slightly different inputs in groups called ensembles to better capture the variety of possible outcomes. These increasingly complex and large numbers of simulations are computationally intensive and require ever more powerful and energy-consuming machines to operate.

AI has the potential to provide lower-cost solutions. For example, GenCast uses an ensemble of 50 possible futures to create predictions. Using custom-built, AI-focused Google Cloud TPU v5 chips, each prediction takes just 8 minutes.

GenCast operates at a cell resolution of approximately 28 square kilometers near the equator. Since the data used in this study were collected, ECMWF's ENS has been upgraded to a resolution of just 9 kilometers.

Yilan price DeepMind says AI doesn't have to follow, and could provide a way forward without collecting more detailed data or performing more intensive calculations. “If you have a traditional physics-based model, that's a necessary requirement to solve the physical equations more accurately, and therefore to get more accurate predictions,” Price says. “[With] machine learning, [it] It is not always necessary to go to higher resolution to get more accurate simulations and predictions from your model. ”

david schultz Researchers at the University of Manchester in the UK say AI models offer an opportunity to make weather forecasts more efficient, but they are often over-hyped and rely heavily on training data from traditional physically-based models. states that it is important to remember that

“is that so [GenCast] Will it revolutionize numerical weather forecasting? No, because in order to train a model, you first have to run a numerical weather prediction model,” says Schulz. “These AI tools wouldn't exist if ECMWF didn't exist in the first place and without creating the ERA5 reanalysis and all the investment that went into it. It's like, 'I can beat Garry Kasparov at chess. But only after studying every move he's ever played.''

Sergey Frolov Researchers at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) believe that further advances in AI will require higher-resolution training data. “What we're basically seeing is that all of these approaches are being thwarted.” [from advancing] “It depends on the fidelity of the training data,” he says. “And the training data comes from operational centers like ECMWF and NOAA. To move this field forward, we need to generate more training data using higher-fidelity physically-based models. .”

But for now, GenCast offers a faster way to perform predictions at lower computational costs. kieran hunt A professor at the University of Reading in the UK believes ensembles can improve the accuracy of AI predictions, just as a collection of physics-based predictions can produce better results than a single prediction. states.

Mr Hunt points to the UK's record temperature of 40C (104C) in 2022 as an example. A week or two ago, there was only one member of the ensemble who was predicting it, and they were considered an anomaly. Then, as the heat wave approached, the predictions became more accurate, providing early warning that something unusual was about to happen.

“You can get away with it a little bit if you have one member who shows something really extreme. That might happen, but it probably won't happen,” Hunt says. “I don’t think it’s necessarily a step change; it’s a combination of new AI approaches with tools we’ve been using in weather forecasting for a while to ensure the quality of AI weather forecasts. There is no doubt that this will yield better results than the first wave of AI weather forecasting.”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

A killer whale was seen balancing a salmon on its head

Posted on December 4, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

overview

An orca was spotted balancing a salmon on its head in coastal waters off Washington state.
It's not clear what this behavior means, but killer whales have been previously observed performing the same behavior in the 1980s.
Southern killer whales are critically endangered and may be on their way to extinction.

Recently, a fascinating sight was witnessed off the coast of Washington state where an orca was seen balancing a salmon on its head, surprising both scientists and killer whale enthusiasts.

This particular endangered Southern killer whale, known as J27 or Blackberry, was spotted wearing a hat made of salmon near Point No Point in late October. According to Orca Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to species conservation.

This behavior of carrying salmon on their heads was previously observed in killer whales in the late 1980s, as mentioned by Deborah Giles, director of scientific research at Wild Orca. However, the significance of this behavior remains unclear.

Giles, who spends a significant amount of time studying orcas, witnessed another instance of this behavior recently, suggesting that it might be a common occurrence among southern killer whales.

The behavior of balancing a salmon on their heads could be attributed to various reasons such as sharing food with other pod members or using it as part of their social interactions. Nevertheless, this behavior indicates that the whales are well-fed and can engage in playful activities.

Despite conservation efforts, Southern killer whales are facing numerous threats that have contributed to their critically endangered status. The decline in prey availability, pollution, and disturbance from human activities are some of the key challenges faced by these whales.

Efforts are being made to protect and recover the Southern killer whale population, but more needs to be done to ensure their survival in the long run.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Darwinism can coexist with the evolving theory of evolution.

Posted on December 4, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Darwin’s ideas began with Alfred Russell Wallace, co-discoverer of natural selection, who disagreed with some aspects of Charles Darwin’s arguments but ultimately realized that most of them were wrong. It has been proven and challenged many times. American botanist Liberty Hyde Bailey published a paper in 1894 pondering whether the mainstream neo-Darwinist formulation of the theory of evolution needed to be extended (it was not). In the 1980s, paleontologist Stephen Jay Gould pursued a similar tack.

Evolutionary biologist Kevin Lara also questions what he calls traditional Darwinian thinking (see “The surprising ways species control their evolutionary destiny”). Some say this is a straw man argument, as it challenges old-fashioned ideas about evolutionary biology, but modern ideas are changing the way we think about developmental biology, cultural evolution, symbiotics, etc. It’s broad enough to encompass all the new aspects you’re learning. Different species coexist closely.

Over the years, the theory of evolution by natural selection has itself evolved, absorbing new discoveries about genes, DNA, population genetics, and epigenetics that did not exist in Darwin’s time. As we report on page 11, identifying evolutionary drivers is essential to understanding how species adapt to climate change, for example, ahead of an avian influenza pandemic. Whether we need to add to the rulebook already at the disposal of evolutionary biologists is debatable. There is a danger that a “God of the Gaps” argument will creep in, where the obvious shortcomings of evolution are exploited by those who point to unscientific explanations.

Obvious shortcomings create a danger that the “god of the gaps” theory creeps in

All theories need to be challenged, and evaluating modern evolutionary biology highlights many aspects of life that may be less appreciated. Darwin’s explanation has survived more than 160 years because it is broadly correct and robust enough to absorb new discoveries. So while the impact of Lara’s approach is not yet clear, Lara’s scrutiny of neglected aspects of life should be welcomed.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Authorities report dozens of deaths from mysterious disease in Congo

Posted on December 4, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

A mysterious illness with flu-like symptoms has claimed the lives of dozens of people in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as reported by the country’s health authorities.

As of Tuesday, the unknown disease has resulted in the death of 79 people and the sickness of 376 individuals, according to the country’s Ministry of Public Health, Hygiene and Social Security.

In a statement regarding X, the ministry stated that the origin of the disease is “still unknown” and was first identified in Kwango province in southwestern Congo.

Symptoms reported include fever, headache, stuffy nose, cough, difficulty breathing, and anemia.

According to Reuters and Associated Press, local authorities have warned that the death toll could potentially rise to 143.

The Ministry of Health emphasized that the remains of those who have died with similar symptoms should not be handled without the involvement of authorized health authorities. They urged the public to report any suspicious illnesses or unusual deaths, avoid large gatherings, and follow basic hygiene practices like washing hands with soap and water.

Emergency public health officials are being deployed to the affected area, as confirmed by the ministry.

The World Health Organization, in response to the reports of the unidentified illness, stated to NBC News that they are collaborating with local authorities and have dispatched a team to collect samples for laboratory testing.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with offices in Congo, is aware of the situation and is providing technical support to a rapid response team sent by the local emergency operations center.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

This Month’s Top New Science Fiction: George R.R. Martin and Three-Body Problem Graphic Novels

Posted on December 4, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Game of Thrones author George R.R. Martin, editor of an anthology set in the Wild Cards universe

Paras Griffin/Getty Images

December is traditionally a quiet month in the publishing world, and that’s true this year as well, with fewer new books than usual to tempt us sci-fi geeks. However, there are some novels that I find very enjoyable. One example is Makana Yamamoto’s debut novel, which was described by the publisher as an “adventurous love letter” to Hawaii. And less interesting, but just as fascinating, is Arthur C. Clarke Prize winner Jane Rogers’ new collection of short stories, all climate fiction and (according to the publisher) “no easy answers. “It raises questions about personal responsibility.” It might also publish a huge and expensive 10-volume graphic novel, an adaptation of Liu Cixin’s novel. three body problem Put it on my Christmas wishlist – it sounds really epic.

The publisher pitches it as follows: oceans 8 meet blade runner – And what’s not to love there? – It follows Edie, who has just been released on parole from an icy prison planet, and meets Angel, the woman who sold her eight years ago. Angel offers Edie one last job. His goal is to defeat the billionaire “god of technology” that he was unable to stop last time. This has a lot of hype from a major publisher and looks like a lot of fun. By the way, hamajan is borrowed from the Hawaiian pidgin and is said to mean “a state of disorder or chaos.” A mess.

This is the latest anthology set in . wild card In space, an alien virus released into the world gives superpowers to 1% of the people it infects. This is the third book in the series, edited by Martin and featuring writing from a variety of authors. wild cardAfter the “British Arc” of queens over knives and three kings. The story is set on the fictional island of Coon, which is connected to mainland Cornwall only by an ancient tidal channel.

Jane Rogers won Britain’s highest science fiction award, the Arthur C. Clarke Award, in 2012. Jesse Lamb’s will. (I really liked this book. It’s set in a world where all pregnant women are infected with a deadly virus, and it’s narrated by a teenager.) A collection of climate fiction stories that span viral pandemics. Until the end of 22^n.d. From the Australian outback, where bushfires are raging, to Oxfordshire, where an old man is chained to an old beech tree about to be cut down. I especially love sounds set in a distant future in space, where Earth is barren but may be starting to recover.

This space opera is in part a sequel to a work with a great title. August Kitoko and the mechas from space. Of course, this work features a “ragtag group of misfits” fighting a “giant army of mechs” to destroy humanity. Our main characters are the super attractive pop star Ardent Violet and her new boyfriend August Kitoko. The book also promises a “mysterious omnipotent AI” and a coalition of aliens.

Eve Ridley (left) as The Follower and Kai Shimooka as Sophon in “Three Body Problem”

© 2024 Netflix, Inc.

This epic 10-volume graphic novel adaptation is for the full-length Cixin Liu lovers out there, but I suspect there’s probably some in there. new scientist Dear readers. The film, which was nominated for the 2024 Hugo Award for Best Graphic Story or Comic, is said to include several additional features, including a transcript of an interview with character Ye Wenjie by the Beijing PSB Criminal Investigation Squad. are. Liu himself says, “I believe graphic novels provide the widest possible canvas for science fiction.” Wouldn’t it be a good idea to put it on your Christmas list?

After romantasy (romance + fantasy), sci-fi romance seems to be the most popular genre these days, and I’m all for it. It’s about Ada being given an undercover mission by a group of rebels that happened to be at a charity event, where she finds Ryan, who tries to stop her. Here’s how the publisher describes fans of Becky Chambers and Martha Wells: I mean, that’s me.

21 second half^cent In this century, as the United States is ravaged by global warming, a mother and daughter escape from the Inside Project, a climate change relief program where they have been treated as lab rats for the past 22 years. As the weather continues to worsen and the remaining humans struggle to survive, they go on the run and encounter women from their mother’s past.

This is the latest installment in Zahn’s Icarus series, and is set in a universe where an alien race called the Icari disappeared 10,000 years ago, leaving behind portals through which people could be transported to the stars. In this expedition, Gregory Rourke and his partner Selene are tasked with finding these alien artifacts, only to find themselves on a distant planet, by a group of aliens called the Unmei who have their own portal plans. I realize what I’m facing.

new scientist book club

Do you like reading? Join our friendly group of fellow book lovers. We delve into exciting new titles every six weeks and give members free access to book excerpts, author articles, and video interviews.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New Zealand Revealed: Unearthed Fossils of Rare Whitefly and Plantain Insects

Posted on December 4, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have identified a new genus and species of whitefly from fossils found in Miocene crater lake deposits at Hindon Mar, near Dunedin, Otago, South Island, New Zealand.

Close-up of two small pupae Miotetraleurodes novaezelandiae It is attached to the leaves of angiosperms. Image credit: Drohojowska others., doi: 10.1007/s12549-024-00628-z.

Adult whiteflies are small insects about 3 mm in size, and immatures are even smaller.

The fossil discovered at Hindon Maar is approximately 1.5mm x 1.25mm and was preserved by pasting it on the back of a fossilized leaf.

It has a black, oval body and has some similarities with modern whiteflies, such as shape and color, but differs in that all parts of the body are clearly defined by deep sutures.

“Fossils of adult whiteflies are not uncommon, but unusual circumstances are required for the pupa (the protective shell in which the insect emerges) to become fossilized,” says palaeontologist at the University of Göttingen and former postdoctoral researcher at the University of Göttingen. says Dr. Uwe Kaulfus. University of Otago.

“About 15 million years ago, the pupal leaves must have been torn off the tree, blown into a small lake, sunk to the deep lake bed, become covered in sediment, and become fossils.”

“It must have happened in quick succession because the fossils of the small insects are so well preserved.”

“The new genera and species described in our study are Miotetraleurodes novaezelandiaerevealed for the first time that whitefly insects were an ecological component of ancient forests in the South Island. ”

“It was difficult to see much with the naked eye, but when we looked at the fossils under a microscope we could see amazing details,” said Emeritus Professor Daphne Lee from the University of Otago.

“The fact that they are still alive on leaves is incredible and extremely rare.”

“These small fossils are the first of their kind to be found in New Zealand, and only the third pupa fossil of this type known worldwide.”

“These new discoveries from the Otago fossil site are an important contribution to our understanding of New Zealand's past biodiversity and forest ecosystem history. It means we have a new appreciation for the importance of it.”

“Most people are interested in big fossils, big charismatic fossils, but most of the animals in the forest are insects.”

“New Zealand is home to 14,000 insect species, 90% of which are found nowhere else in the world.”

“The discovery of these tiny fossils shows that this insect group has been present in Aotearoa New Zealand for at least 15 million years.”

“This provides a well-dated calibration point for molecular phylogenetic studies.”

of study Published in a magazine Paleobiodiversity and paleoenvironment.

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J. Drohojovska others. The first Miocene whiteflies and parrots (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Aleyrodoidea and Psylloidea) from Aotearoa, New Zealand. Paleobio Paleoembupublished online on October 1, 2024. doi: 10.1007/s12549-024-00628-z

Source: www.sci.news

Scientists find a new exoplanet in Kepler-51 system

Posted on December 4, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Kepler-51 is a 500-million-year-old G-type star that hosts four low-density planets. new paper Published in astronomy magazine.

This diagram shows the Kepler-51 planetary system. Image credit: NASA / ESA / L. Hustak, J. Olmsted, D. Player & F. Summers, STScI.

Kepler-51 It is located approximately 2,615 light years away in the constellation Cygnus.

The star, also known as KOI-620, was already known to host three Saturn-sized “superpuff” exoplanets: Kepler-51b, c, and d.

First discovered by NASA's Kepler Space Telescope in 2012, these worlds have orbital period ratios close to 1:2:3 (45, 85, and 130 days, respectively).

It is several times more massive than Earth and has a hydrogen/helium atmosphere.

“Superpuff planets are very unusual in that they have very low masses and very low densities,” says Penn State astronomer Jessica Libby Roberts.

“The three planets known so far orbiting the star Kepler-51 are about the same size as Saturn, but only a few times the mass of Earth, making them as dense as cotton candy. ”

“We think they have small cores and huge atmospheres of helium hydrogen, but we don't know how these strange planets formed and how their atmospheres developed. It remains a mystery why the star was not blown away by the intense radiation of the young star.

“We had planned to use Webb to study one of these planets to answer these questions, but now we have to describe the fourth, low-mass planet in the system.”

To examine evidence of Kepler-51e, the fourth planet in the system, astronomers conducted extensive passes over 14 years from a variety of facilities, including the Webb, Apache Point Observatory telescopes, and Penn State Davey Laboratory telescopes. We utilized a timing dataset.

“We conducted a so-called 'brute force' search, testing different combinations of planet properties to find a four-planet model that explains all transit data collected over the past 14 years.” said Kento Masuda, an astronomer at Osaka University.

“We found that the signal is best explained if Kepler-51e has a mass similar to the other three planets and follows a fairly circular orbit of about 264 days. That's to be expected.”

“Other possible solutions we've found include larger planets in wider orbits, but we think that's unlikely.”

It is unclear whether Kepler-51e is also a superpuff planet, as researchers have not observed Kepler-51e transiting the Sun and therefore cannot calculate its radius or density.

According to the team, a wide range of demographics (

“Superpuff planets are fairly rare, and when they do occur, they tend to be unique in planetary systems,” said Penn State astronomer Jessica Libby Roberts.

“If explaining how three superpuffs formed in one star system wasn't enough of a challenge, now we have to explain a fourth planet, whether it's a superpuff or not. And we can't rule out the possibility that there are more planets in this system.”

“Kepler-51e's orbit is slightly larger than Venus and just inside the star's habitable zone, so there could be a lot more going on beyond that distance if we take the time to look.”

“Continuing to observe variations in transit timing could help us discover planets further away from their stars, which could aid in the search for planets that may harbor life.”

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Kento Masuda others. 2024. The fourth planet in the Kepler-51 system revealed by fluctuations in transit timing. A.J. 168, 294; doi: 10.3847/1538-3881/ad83d3

Source: www.sci.news

Neanderthal Hearth Structure Unearthed in Gibraltar Dating Back 65,000 Years

Posted on December 4, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Archaeologists have announced the discovery of a new type of Neanderthal hearth in Gibraltar’s Vanguard Cave. This hearth structure is consistent with predictions from theoretical studies that require the use of heating structures to obtain birch tar commonly used in hafting. Researchers suggest that this hearth was used to burn herbs and shrubs over guano mixed with sand and heat rockrose without oxygen.

Neanderthal hearth structures may have been constructed according to the following steps: Image credit: Ochando others., doi: 10.1016/j.quascirev.2024.109025.

“The use and control of fire would have provided important adaptive benefits.” Homo and even shaped its evolution,” said Clive Finlayson of Gibraltar National Museum and colleagues.

“Manufacturing fire technology has been shown to be common from 400,000 years ago to the present, and it has probably been around for much longer.”

“A variety of studies have demonstrated the ability of Neanderthals to create, protect, and carry fire.”

“The main functions of the use of fire are related to providing heat, light and the possibility of cooking food.”

“But it could also lead to the development of new technological innovations,” they added.

“These include deliberate heat treatment of stone artifacts, durable wood, smoking purposes, and the use of distillation of birch bark and adhesives from coniferous resins to create stone flakes on wooden elements. This may include the production of hafting multi-component tools.”

“Other innovations by Neanderthals were the construction of pits and the diversification of the types of fuels used with a variety of commonly used plants, liquid hydrocarbons, and lignite.”

“However, plants are the most common type of fuel and are therefore expected to have been subject to a selection process by Neanderthals among available resources in the nearby, and perhaps even beyond, landscape.”

Special combustion structures discovered by the Vanguard Cave team have revealed previously unknown ways in which Neanderthals managed and used fire.

The structure is 68,000 to 61,000 years old and is adapted for steam distilling essential oils from rockrose to obtain tar, a hafting substance proven to have been used by Neanderthals.

The researchers tested that interpretation experimentally by building structures with similar morphological and compositional characteristics to those excavated in the cave.

Distilling a small bunch of young rockrose leaves in a closed, nearly anoxic environment for a reasonable period of time produces enough to hold two spearheads using only locally available tools and materials. of tar could be produced.

“Neanderthals had to go through a series of thought processes to choose which plants and find a way to extract the resin without burning them,” Dr Finlayson said.

“Our extinct cousins were not the brutal humans of the popular imagination,” said Dr. Fernando Muñiz, an archaeologist at the University of Seville.

“This human species has been shown to have cognitive abilities, as reflected in studies showing mastery of the industrial process of making resin as an adhesive for attaching stone points to spear handles. ”

This finding is reported in the following article: paper in a diary Quaternary Science Review.

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Juan Ochando others. 2024. Neanderthals' special combustion structure adapted to the acquisition of tar. Quaternary Science Review 346: 109025;doi: 10.1016/j.quascirev.2024.109025

Source: www.sci.news

Astronomers achieve unprecedented level of detail in creating gravitational wave background map

Posted on December 3, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers using the MeerKAT Pulsar Timing Array, an international experiment using South Africa’s MeerKAT radio telescope, have discovered further evidence of gravitational wave signals originating from supermassive black hole mergers.

miles others. Created the most detailed map of gravitational waves throughout the universe to date. Image credit: Carl Knox / OzGrav / Swinburne University of Technology / South African Radio Astronomical Observatory.

“Our research opens up new avenues for understanding the universe we live in,” said astronomer Dr Matt Miles from the ARC Gravitational Wave Discovery Center (OzGRav) and Swinburne University of Technology. .

“By studying the background, we can listen to the echoes of cosmic events over billions of years. It reveals how galaxies and the universe itself have evolved over time.”

The MeerKAT Pulsar Timing Array observes and times pulsars (fast-spinning neutron stars) with nanosecond precision.

Pulsars act as natural clocks, and their steady pulses allow scientists to detect minute changes caused by passing gravitational waves.

This galaxy-scale detector provides the opportunity to map gravitational waves across the sky, revealing patterns and intensities that defy previous assumptions.

“The gravitational wave background is often thought to be uniformly distributed across the sky,” says Rowena Nathan, an astronomer at Ozgrab University and Monash University.

“The galaxy-sized telescope formed by the MeerKAT pulsar timing array allows us to map the structure of this signal with unprecedented precision, potentially revealing insights into its source.”

Astronomers have found further evidence of gravitational wave signals originating from merging supermassive black holes, capturing a signal more powerful than a similar global experiment in just one-third of the time.

“What we’re seeing suggests a much more dynamic and active Universe than we expected,” Dr. Miles said.

“We know that supermassive black holes are merging off Earth, but now we’re starting to know where they are and how many there are.”

Researchers used pulsar timing arrays to improve existing methods to build highly detailed gravitational wave maps.

This map revealed an interesting anomaly: an unexpected hotspot in the signal, suggesting a possible directional bias.

“The presence of a hotspot could point to a distinct source of gravitational waves, such as a pair of black holes billions of times more massive than the sun,” Nathan said.

“Looking at the arrangement and pattern of gravitational waves tells us how our universe exists today and contains signals from around the time of the Big Bang.”

“While there is still more work to be done to determine the significance of the hotspots we discovered, this is an exciting step forward for our field.”

“These discoveries raise exciting questions about the formation of supermassive black holes and the early history of the universe.”

“Further monitoring by the MeerKAT array could improve these gravitational wave maps and reveal new cosmic phenomena.”

“The research also has broader implications, with data that could help international scientists explore the origin and evolution of supermassive black holes, the formation of galactic structures, and even hints at early cosmic events. provided.”

The results were published in three papers. Royal Astronomical Society Monthly Notices.

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Matthew Miles others. 2024. MeerKAT Pulsar Timing Array: 4.5 Years of Data Release and Noise and Stochastic Signals in the Millisecond Pulsar Population. MNRASin press. doi: 10.1093/mnras/stae2572

Matthew Miles others. 2024. MeerKAT Pulsar Timing Array: The first search for gravitational waves with the MeerKAT radio telescope. MNRASin press. doi: 10.1093/mnras/stae2571

Kathryn Grandthal others. 2024. MeerKAT Pulsar Timing Array: Map of the gravitational wave sky with 4.5 years of data released. MNRASin press. doi: 10.1093/mnras/stae2573

Source: www.sci.news

A tiny asteroid collides with Earth and disintegrates above Siberia

Posted on December 3, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Webcam images show asteroid burning up in the atmosphere over Siberia

Lensk LR/YouTube

Astronomers discovered the asteroid, about 70 centimeters in diameter, hours before it exploded harmlessly into the atmosphere above Siberia.

european space agency (ESA) issued an alert at 9:27 a.m. GMT, warning that space rocks could illuminate the skies over northern Siberia at around 11:15 p.m. local time (4:15 p.m. GMT).

Speaking before the event, Alan Fitzsimmons from Britain’s Queen’s University Belfast says objects of this size pose no danger to people on the ground, but early warnings are a positive sign that our ability to detect these objects before they hit Earth is increasing.

“It’s small, but it’s still going to be pretty spectacular,” Fitzsimmons said. “The sky above the impact site will darken and a very impressive, very bright fireball will spread across the sky for hundreds of kilometers around it.”

Several objects of this size collide with Earth every year, and we are getting better at detecting them early. The first discovery was in 2008. The next discovery was made six years later, but the pace of observations has picked up. Today’s asteroid, named C0WEPC5, is the fourth predicted to hit Earth this year.

Early warning of small asteroids gives astronomers the opportunity to observe them, collect data, and even try to collect any small pieces that survive. Fitzsimmons said the first such predicted impact in 2008 led to the recovery of a small piece of rock and generated important science. “What was beautiful was that the meteorite’s reflectivity matched exactly what was measured by telescopes before the impact, and it was a perfect match between what we saw in space and what we later found on Earth. It shows a very nice direct connection,” he says.

Detecting larger, more dangerous objects heading toward Earth could provide an opportunity to deflect them or at least evacuate the dangerous area.

A map showing where the asteroid is predicted to hit Siberia’s atmosphere.

ESA

NASA and ESA currently have dedicated programs for asteroid discovery and tracking. This involves a large network of dedicated observatories and amateur astronomers who read the positions of known objects so that their orbits can be better understood and predicted.

This latest asteroid was discovered by NASA’s Asteroid Earth Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). ATLAS operates four telescopes around the world and is designed to provide up to a week of collision warning.

“This is a victory for science, If you happen to be in Siberia this evening, there will definitely be something to take your mind off the very cold temperatures,” says Fitzsimmons.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Scientists uncover mysteries of quantum entanglement in proton particles

Posted on December 3, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Physicists have discovered a new way to look inside protons using data from smashups of high-energy particles. Their approach uses quantum information science to map how the tracking of particles flowing from electron-proton collisions is affected by quantum entanglement inside the protons. As a result, it became clear that quarks and gluons, the basic building blocks of the proton’s structure, are affected by so-called quantum entanglement.

Data from past proton-electron collisions provide strong evidence that proton quarks and gluon oceans are entangled, which plays a key role in strong force interactions. There is a possibility that there are. Image credit: Valerie Lentz / Brookhaven National Laboratory.

“Until we did this work, no one had observed the internal entanglement of protons in experimental high-energy collision data,” said Brookhaven Laboratory physicist Zhoudunming (Kong) Tu. states.

“For decades, we have had the traditional view of the proton as a collection of quarks and gluons, and we have had many questions about how the quarks and gluons are distributed within the proton, so-called single particles. The focus has been on understanding the nature of

“Now that we have evidence that quarks and gluons are entangled, this situation has changed. We have a much more complex and dynamic system.”

“This latest paper further deepens our understanding of how entanglement affects the structure of protons.”

“Mapping the entanglement between quarks and gluons inside the proton provides insight into other complex questions in nuclear physics, such as how parts of the larger nucleus affect the proton’s properties. There is a possibility that

“This will be one of the focuses of future experiments at the Electron-Ion Collider (EIC), a nuclear physics research facility scheduled to open at Brookhaven Laboratory in the 2030s.”

In their study, Dr. Tu and his colleagues used the language and equations of quantum information science to predict how entanglement would affect particles flowing from collisions between electrons and protons.

Such collisions are a common approach to probing the structure of protons, most recently performed at the Hadron Electron Ring Accelerator (HERA) particle collider in Hamburg, Germany, from 1992 to 2007, and were used to investigate the future EIC. Experiments are also planned.

The equation predicts that if quarks and gluons are entangled, it can be revealed from the entropy of the collision, or disorder.

“Think of a child’s cluttered bedroom with laundry and other things strewn about. Entropy is very high in that cluttered room,” Dr. Tu said.

Calculations show that protons with maximally entangled quarks and gluons (high “entanglement entropy”) should produce a large number of particles with a “random” distribution (high entropy).

“For maximally entangled quarks and gluons, a simple relationship exists that predicts the entropy of particles produced in high-energy collisions,” says the theory, which is affiliated with both Brookhaven Institute and Stony Brook University. said Dr. Dmitri Kharziyev of the house. .

“In our paper, we used experimental data to test this relationship.”

The scientists started by analyzing data from proton-proton collisions at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider, but they also wanted to look at “cleaner” data produced by electron-proton collisions. .

Physicists have cataloged detailed information from data recorded from 2006 to 2007, including how particle production and distributions change, as well as a wide range of other information about the collisions that produced these distributions. It became.

When we compared the HERA data with the entropy calculations, the results were in perfect agreement with our predictions.

These analyzes, including the latest results on how the particle distribution changes at different angles from the point of collision, provide strong evidence that quarks and gluons inside the proton are maximally entangled .

“Unraveling the entanglement between quarks and gluons reveals the nature of their strong force interactions,” Dr. Kharziyev said.

“It could provide further insight into what confines quarks and gluons inside protons, one of the central questions in nuclear physics investigated at the EIC.”

“Maximum entanglement inside the proton appears as a result of strong interactions that produce large numbers of quark-antiquark pairs and gluons.”

of the team work appear in the diary Report on advances in physics.

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Martin Henczynski others. 2024. QCD evolution of entanglement entropy. Progressive member. physics 87, 120501; doi: 10.1088/1361-6633/ad910b

This article is based on a press release provided by Brookhaven National Laboratory.

Source: www.sci.news

Today, an asteroid will spectacularly burn up in Earth’s atmosphere.

Posted on December 3, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Map showing where asteroid fireballs can be seen in Siberia

ESA

A dramatic but harmless spectacle will take place over Siberia today as an asteroid about 70 centimeters in diameter burns up in the atmosphere.

The space rock will illuminate the sky over northern Siberia at around 11:15 pm local time (4:15 pm Japan time). Warning from the European Space Agency (ESA).

Alan Fitzsimmons Britain's Queen's University Belfast says objects of this size pose no danger to people on the ground, but early warnings are a positive sign that our ability to detect these objects before they hit Earth is increasing. It is said that this is a sign.

“It's small, but it's still going to be pretty spectacular,” Fitzsimmons said. “The sky above the impact site will darken and a very impressive, very bright fireball will spread across the sky for hundreds of kilometers around it.”

Several objects of this size collide with Earth every year, and we are getting better at detecting them early. The first discovery was in 2008. The next discovery was made six years later, but the pace of observations has picked up. Today's asteroid, named C0WEPC5, is the fourth predicted to hit Earth this year.

Early warning of small asteroids gives astronomers the opportunity to observe them, collect data, and even try to collect any small pieces that survive. Fitzsimmons said the first such predicted impact in 2008 led to the recovery of a small piece of rock and generated important science. “What was beautiful was that the meteorite's reflectivity matched exactly what was measured by telescopes before the impact, and it was a perfect match between what we saw in space and what we later found on Earth. “It shows a very nice direct connection,” he says.

Detecting larger, more dangerous objects heading toward Earth could provide an opportunity to deflect them or at least evacuate the dangerous area.

This latest asteroid was discovered by NASA's Asteroid Earth Impact Last Alert System (ATLAS). ATLAS operates four telescopes around the world and is designed to provide up to a week of collision warning.

“This is a victory for science, [for] “If you happen to be in Siberia this evening, there will definitely be something to take your mind off the very cold temperatures,” says Fitzsimmons.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How do Ozempic and Wegovy manage all aspects of treatment?

Posted on December 3, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Drugs are rarely famous, and even more rarely superstars, but with his ability to grab headlines, Ozempic is the Taylor Swift of pharmaceuticals. So what exactly is behind that star power? Even as the drug and its derivatives become more widespread, researchers are racing to figure out how they work.

“We are seeing an incredible amount of benefits,” he says. Stephen Dayan at the University of Illinois. “It's early days, but these drugs look like they're going to change not only medicine, but the entire economy.”

Because most drugs treat only one or two symptoms, “cures” that promise to address all ailments are usually met with skepticism and suspicion. Ozempic seems to be bucking that trend. Wegovy, a version of Ozempic approved for weight loss last year. Reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke An increase of almost 20%. The emergence of “Ozempic pregnancy” suggests Fertility benefits. People started noticing its positive effects on depression and anxiety. In May, Results showed that it also reduced the risk of kidney failure Deaths in diabetic patients were also observed during the three-year trial. In July, another version of The drug was found to reduce brain atrophy Cognitive function declines slowly in Alzheimer's patients.

Wegovy and other weight loss drugs are widely promoted in the US

Richard Levin/Alamy

Why this drug is effective against so many conditions remains a mystery, but researchers are beginning to unravel the mechanisms underlying its extraordinary abilities. Understanding everything from its impact on reward circuits in the brain to its impact on inflammation…

Source: www.newscientist.com

Discovering the origins of your brain’s enlarged size

Posted on December 3, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Recent research has uncovered the reason behind the evolution of our brains, pointing to the influence of gut microbes. Specifically, the study suggests that the intestines may have played a key role in boosting energy production over time, leading to the growth of crucial organs.

The study reveals that organisms with larger brains relative to body size, like humans and squirrel monkeys, have higher energy levels compared to those with smaller brains, thanks to their digestive microbes. These microbes help in breaking down food and producing energy efficiently.

This groundbreaking research is the first to demonstrate how the gut microbiome can drive biological differences between animal species.

“The connection between the gut and brain has always been acknowledged on some level. We often refer to ‘gut feelings,’ and it’s known that stress and anxiety can manifest as gut symptoms,” said lead author of the study, Katherine Amato, Associate Professor at Northwestern University, in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

Amato further elaborated, stating, “This study goes beyond that and proposes that the activities in the gut may have laid the groundwork for the evolution of our brains.”

The intestines harbor over 100 trillion microorganisms, a count that surpasses the number of cells in the body. These intestinal microbes collectively weigh around 2 kg (4.4 pounds) – equivalent to the weight of a large pineapple.

Researchers were particularly intrigued by how these tiny gut microbes influence brain size in relation to body size. While humans may not have the largest brains in the animal kingdom, they have a significantly higher brain-to-body ratio compared to other species.

The experiment, detailed in the journal microbial genomics, involved transferring gut microbes from three primate species to mice – two with large brains (humans and squirrel monkeys) and one with a small brain (macaque). The results showed that mice receiving gut bacteria from larger-brained species produced more energy to support brain function, while those with gut flora from smaller-brained primates stored more energy as fat.

Amato explained, “Our findings suggest that as humans and squirrel monkeys independently evolved larger brains, their microbial communities also adapted in similar ways to meet the energy demands.” The study also found that the outcomes of feeding human microbes to mice were more akin to other large-brained species than previously thought.

Researchers are now extending their studies to other primate species to further explore the impact of gut microbes on brain evolution.

About our experts:

Dr. Katherine Amato is an Associate Professor of Biological Anthropology at Northwestern University in Illinois, USA. Her research interests include the gut microbiome, human evolution, and primate ecology.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Hubble Space Telescope captures an off-center spiral galaxy

Posted on December 3, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers using the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope have provided an unparalleled snapshot of intermediate spiral galaxy NGC 1637.

This Hubble image shows NGC 1637, an intermediate spiral galaxy located about 38 million light-years away in the constellation Eridanus. Image credit: NASA / ESA / Hubble / D. Tilker.

NGC1637 It is located in the constellation Eridanus, about 38 million light years from Earth.

This galaxy, also known as LEDA 15821 or UGCA 93, is located around this galaxy. 30,000 light years Across.

it was discovered It was discovered on February 1, 1786 by German-British astronomer William Herschel.

At first glance it looks like NGC1637 will be displayed Despite being a fairly symmetrical galaxy, it has some interesting features that have led astronomers to classify it as a biased spiral galaxy.

“The new images of NGC 1637 come from an observational program dedicated to studying star formation in nearby galaxies,” Hubble astronomers said.

“Stars form in cold, dusty gas clouds that collapse under their own gravity.”

“As young stars grow, they heat the nursery with starlight, wind, and strong outflow.”

“Together, these factors play a role in controlling the rate of star formation in future generations.”

“Evidence of star formation is scattered around NGC 1637, if you know where to look.”

“The spiral arms of the galaxy are dotted with what look like pink clouds, many with bright blue stars.”

“The pinkish color comes from hydrogen atoms excited by ultraviolet radiation from young, massive stars.”

“This contrasts with the warm yellow glow at the galactic center, where older, redder stars are densely clustered.”

“The stars that sparkle their birthplaces are relatively short-lived, and many of these stars explode as supernovae just a few million years after their birth.”

In 1999, Lick Observatory's supernova search discovered a type II supernova in NGC 1637.

named SN 1999emThis supernova was hailed as the brightest supernova observed that year.

It has been closely tracked by astronomers and has been shown to have dimmed relatively slowly over the years.

“When a massive star annihilates as a supernova, its explosion outstrips its entire home galaxy for a short period of time,” the astronomers said.

“Supernovae mark the end of a star's life, but by compressing nearby gas clouds, they can also jump-start the formation of new stars, starting a star's life anew.”

Source: www.sci.news

Astrophysicists study planets, asteroids, and primordial black holes in Earth’s matter

Posted on December 3, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Primordial black holes have been theorized for decades and may even be the eternally elusive dark matter. However, primordial black holes have not yet been observed. These tiny black holes could become trapped in rocky planets or asteroids, consuming their liquid cores from within and leaving hollow structures behind, according to a duo of astrophysicists from the University at Buffalo, Case Western Reserve University, and National Donghua University. It is said that there is. Alternatively, microtunnels could be left in very old rocks on Earth, or in the glass or other solid structures of very old buildings.

An artist's impression of a primordial black hole. Image credit: NASA.

Small primordial black holes are perhaps the most intriguing and intriguing relics of the early universe.

They could act as candidates for dark matter, be sources of primordial gravitational waves, and help solve cosmological problems such as domain walls and the magnetic monopole problem.

However, so far no convincing primordial black hole candidates have been observed.

Professor Dejan Stojković of the University at Buffalo said: “Although the chances of finding these signatures are low, the search does not require many resources and the potential reward of providing the first evidence of a primordial black hole is enormous. It's going to become something.”

“We need to think outside the box because what has been done so far to find primordial black holes has not worked.”

Professor Stojkovic and colleague Dr. De Zhang Dai, of Case Western Reserve University and National Donghua University, are investigating how large hollow asteroids can grow without collapsing, and whether a primordial black hole is The probability of passing was calculated. Earth.

“Because of such long odds, we have focused on hard traces that have existed for thousands, millions, or even billions of years,” Dr. Dai said. .

“If the object has a liquid central core, a trapped primordial black hole could absorb the liquid core, whose density is higher than that of the outer solid layer,” Professor Stojković added.

“In that case, if the object was hit by an asteroid, the primordial black hole could escape from the object, leaving only a hollow shell.”

But would such a shell be strong enough to support itself, or would it simply collapse under its own tension?

Comparing the strength of natural materials such as granite and iron to their surface tension and surface density, the researchers found that such hollow objects could be less than one-tenth the radius of the Earth, making them smaller than normal We calculated that it was more likely to be an asteroid than a planet. .

“If it gets any bigger, it will collapse,” Professor Stojković said.

“These hollow objects could potentially be detected with telescopes. The mass, and therefore the density, can be determined by studying the objects' trajectories.”

“If an object's density is too low for its size, that's a good sign that it's hollow.”

For objects without a liquid core, the primordial black hole could simply pass through, leaving a straight microtunnel behind.

For example, a primordial black hole with mass 10^{twenty two} grams, leaving a tunnel 0.1 microns thick.

Large slabs of metal or other materials could serve as effective black hole detectors by monitoring the sudden appearance of these tunnels, but very old materials from buildings that are hundreds of years old Searching for existing tunnels has a higher probability. From the oldest to rocks that are billions of years old.

Still, even assuming that dark matter is indeed composed of primordial black holes, they calculated that the probability that a primordial black hole would pass through a billion-year-old rock is 0.000001.

“You have to compare costs and benefits. Does it cost a lot of money to do this? No, it doesn't,” Professor Stojković said.

“So, to say the least, it's unlikely that a primordial black hole will pass through you during your lifetime. Even if you did, you probably wouldn't notice.”

“Unlike rocks, human tissue has a small amount of tension, so the primordial black hole won't tear it apart.”

“And while the kinetic energy of a primordial black hole may be huge, it is moving so fast that it cannot release much of that energy during a collision.”

“If a projectile is moving through a medium faster than the speed of sound, the molecular structure of the medium has no time to react.”

“If you throw a rock through a window, it will probably break. If you shoot a window with a gun, it will probably just leave a hole.”

team's paper Published in a magazine physics of the dark universe.

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De Chan Dai and Dejan Stojković. 2024. We're looking for planets, asteroids, and tiny primordial black holes on Earth. physics of the dark universe 46: 101662;doi: 10.1016/j.dark.2024.101662

Source: www.sci.news

New study proposes Neanderthals were the original fossil collectors

Posted on December 3, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Approximately 46,000 years ago, a group of Neanderthals resided in caves in what is now Spain and gathered fossils, as reported by a researcher in a paper published in the magazine Quaternary period.

Marine fossils from the Prado Vargas Cave, Spain. Image credit: Lewis others., doi: 10.3390/quat7040049.

Collecting is a form of leisure, even a passion, involving the collection, preservation, and display of objects.

When tracing its origins in literature, we are reminded of the Assyrian king Ashurbanipal (7th century BC) known for collecting books, marking the emergence of writing and the dissemination of knowledge on clay tablets.

This innate curiosity and interest in collecting stones and fossils, known as manuports, dates back to the dawn of humanity.

Archaeologists have long known that Neanderthal dwellings contained objects devoid of practical value, indicating a cultural significance attached to these items.

In the case of the Prado Vargas Cave in Cornejo, Burgos, Spain, archaeologist Marta Navazo Ruiz and her team unearthed 15 marine fossils from the Late Cretaceous period in the cave’s Mousterian level.

The fossils, primarily mollusks and a few echinoderms, hinted at a deliberate collection rather than accidental gathering by the Neanderthals.

The presence of these fossils within the cave suggests intentional behavior, possibly for social or symbolic purposes.

The researchers proposed hypotheses ranging from aesthetic appreciation to cultural identity reinforcement through these fossil collections.

This discovery elevates the Prado Vargas Neanderthals as early fossil collectors, shedding light on their efforts towards understanding and preserving natural history.

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Marta Navazo Ruiz others. 2024. Were Neanderthals the first collectors? First evidence found in level 4 of the Prado Vargas cave in Cornejo, Burgos, Spain. Quaternary period 7(4):49;doi: 10.3390/quat7040049

Source: www.sci.news

A new species of armadillo fossil unearthed in Brazil

Posted on December 3, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists identify new species of extinct armadillo Partetus From fossilized bone embryos collected in the state of Paraná in southern Brazil.

Hypothetical artistic reconstruction Partetus Oliveirai Middle to late Eocene of Brazil. Image credit: Marcio L. Castro.

Partetus Oliveirai It lived in South America from 42 million years ago to 39 million years ago (mid-late Eocene).

The ancient species belongs to Euphractinae group of armadillo family Dasipidae.

Paleontologist Tabata Klimek of Santa Federal University and his colleagues said, “The armadillo family is represented by modern armadillos and extinct armadillos.''

“This group is stratigraphically and geographically widespread, from southern Patagonia to southern North America.”

“The paleontological record of armadillos is represented primarily by osteoderms.”

“According to other interpretations, they are known from nearly all South American mammal faunas from the late Paleocene/early Eocene, or only from the early Eocene.”

“Euphractinae is the most diverse clade (subfamily) of Dasypodidae,” they noted.

“The earliest undisputed occurrences of euphractin date back to the mid-to-late Eocene of the Gran Barranca region of Argentine Patagonia and the mid-Eocene Upper Lumbrella Formation of northwestern Argentina.”

“Partetus “It is one of the earliest branching euphractins,” they added.

“The genus was described in 1902 and the type species is Partetus chicoensis I'm from Patagonia, Argentina. ”

8 bone embryo fossils Partetus Oliveirai It was discovered in the Guavirotuba Formation in Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.

“The Guavilotuba Formation is the main lithostratigraphic unit of the Curitiba sedimentary basin,” the paleontologists said.

“It is represented by distributed fluvial system deposits consisting of immature subalcoholic sand and mud interspersed with limited gravel deposits at the edges of the basin.”

“Geological features indicate a semi-arid environment, with temporary rivers forming during the rainy season, transporting sediment and forming alluvial fans.”

This new species expands our knowledge of the diversity of armadillos, which lived in southeastern South America during the Paleogene period.

“Partetus OliveiraiThe osteoderm differs from other species of this genus in the following ways: (i) More surface glandular and ciliary pores. (ii) flat surface joint areas between osteoderms; There is no groove in the central part of the osteoderm. (iii) large size,” the researchers said.

“Combined, this set of traits does not exist in any other species. Partetus Genus. ”

“The increase in the number and size of surface glandular and ciliary pores may be related to the global cooling that occurred during the mid-to-late Eocene, which affected South American faunas. .”

“Finally, this new species expands our knowledge of the lesser-known diversity of mammals that lived in southeastern South America during the Eocene.”

of findings Published in Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.

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TDF Klimek others. 2024. Uncovering the diversity of Paleogene zonal fauna from Brazil: new species Partetus (Euphractinae) Guavilotuba Formation (Middle to Late Eocene). Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology 44 (1): e2403581;doi: 10.1080/02724634.2024.2403581

Source: www.sci.news

Scalp tattoos can temporarily record brain activity

Posted on December 2, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Tattoos printed on a person’s scalp can detect electrical activity in the brain and transmit the signals to a recording device.

Lu Nanshu

Printing temporary tattoos on people’s heads could make it easier to analyze their brain waves.

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a method of measuring electrical activity in the brain through electrodes placed on the scalp. It can be used to test patients for neurological conditions such as epilepsy, tumors, and damage from stroke or head trauma.

Because human skulls vary in size and shape, technicians must spend considerable time measuring and marking the scalp to obtain accurate values. The gel helps the electrodes detect brain signals, but when it dries it stops working. The cables that connect to the electrodes can also cause discomfort and interfere with delicate electrical signals.

Lu Nanshu A team of researchers at the University of Texas at Austin hopes to get around this problem by printing temporary tattoos on test subjects’ scalps. Tattoo ink is made of two polymers called poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and polystyrene sulfonic acid (PSS). It has excellent conductivity and durability, and does not irritate the skin.

A computer program creates a personalized tattoo design based on a 3D scan of your scalp, and a printer controlled by a robotic arm applies ink directly to your scalp. The ink comes in two different formulations, one for the electrodes that receive brain signals and one for the connection that goes to the back of the neck. From there, physical wires transmit the signal to small devices that record the data.

“Our technology embodies the first hair-compatible temporary electronic tattoo that enables high-quality brain monitoring,” says Lu.

This tattoo has been found to work well on bald heads and people with buzz-cut hairstyles. “This method has not yet been extensively tested on long, thick, curly hair, but it could be possible in the future by changing the nozzle design or incorporating robotic fingers into the hair parting. “It could be possible,” she says. The researchers say it is also possible to make the process completely wireless by embedding a data transmitter into the tattoo.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Increasing access and appeal to the mega-settlement of the Trypilian culture

Posted on December 2, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Archeology has a long history of utilizing various philosophies and philosophical concepts. One common criticism is that theoretical debates often have little impact on actual archaeological research and interpretation. In a recent interdisciplinary study, archaeologists and philosophers from Kiel University applied the “capability approach” to the large settlements of the Trypylian culture (5050 BC to 2950 BC).

Reconstruction of Trypillia’s house. Image credit: Susanne Beyer, Keele University.

The Trypilian culture emerged in Ukraine in the 5th millennium BC and extended into modern-day Romania, Moldova, and the Dnieper River region.

Known for its large ring-shaped settlements and high-quality pottery, the culture had a matrilineal society where women led households and engaged in various crafts.

Dr. Vesa Arponen from Kiel University noted the link between archaeological categories and the United Nations Human Development Index, allowing connections between the past and present.

The “capability approach,” developed by Amartya Sen, focuses on well-being beyond material possessions and influences the United Nations Human Development Index.

Applying this approach to ancient societies presents unique challenges, as Dr. René Ohrlau emphasized the need to understand the dynamic activities behind material remains.

The researchers used an analytical scheme to relate archaeological categories to the UN Human Development Index, revealing insights into societal development and innovation.

The study highlighted the social equality and opportunities for active participation in Trypilia, challenging previous notions of climate change and population growth as drivers of innovation.

The team’s paper was published in the journal open archeology, shedding light on the role of philosophy in shaping archaeological interpretations.

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V. Alponen others. 2024. Ability approaches and archaeological interpretations of transformation: On the role of philosophy in archaeology. open archeology 10(1): 20240013;doi: 10.1515/opar-2024-0013

Source: www.sci.news

Shared DNA Mutations Impacting the Genome in Cancer Cells

Posted on December 2, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

The human genome consists of approximately 3 billion DNA base pairs. If these base pairs were letters grouped together on a single line, they would fill more than 6,000 novels, too large to fit in a cell. Instead, some proteins organize and reform DNA into a more functional 3D structure called DNA. chromatin. These proteins regulate how different parts of the genome interact, controlling which genes are activated and which remain silent within each cell. One such protein is CCCTC binding factor or CTCF.

For CTCF to work, it must first bind to a specific spot on the DNA called CTCF. binding site. Scientists report that these CTCF binding sites behave differently in each scenario. Some lose their binding ability due to chemical interactions within the DNA, while others remain stable. Scientists call something stable Persistent CTCF binding site.

Scientists have previously reported that mutations in CTCF binding sites are common in cancer cells and disrupt the normal 3D structure of the genome. However, it was unclear whether these mutations were concentrated at persistence sites or what role they played. Australian researchers sought to understand mutations in persistent CTCF binding sites and how they affect different cancers.

To address these questions, the research team developed a computational tool based on machine learning models. CTCF-INSITE. Their tool uses genetic data and the interactions of organic compounds such as methyl in the genome to predict which CTCF binding sites are likely to persist even as CTCF protein levels decline. Researchers will use this tool to determine which persistent CTCF binding sites across the genome may be particularly vulnerable to mutations and whether these mutations are associated with cancer growth. I mapped it.

Using data from several human cell culture samples, including prostate cancer cells, breast cancer cells, and lung cancer cells, researchers developed a tool that allows them to distinguish between stable and unstable CTCF binding sites. trained. They exploited characteristics such as protein binding strength, the relative location of binding sites within the genome, and how distant regions of DNA interact to produce proteins.

The researchers then looked at mutation data from 12 types of cancer. International Cancer Genome Consortium. To avoid imbalance, we filtered out data entries with too few or too many mutations. Next, we applied CTCF-INSITE. A tool to test whether persistent CTCF binding sites are more likely to mutate in cancer cells than other CTCF binding sites.

They found significantly more mutations in persistent CTCF binding sites in all cancer types examined. This means that there were more mutations at these sites than would be expected by random chance. The researchers noted that the mutations were specific to the CTCF binding site, rather than in parts of the DNA close to it. They also reported that these mutations were more prominent in breast and prostate cancer cells than in other types of cancer.

The researchers also sought to understand whether these mutations alter the 3D structure of the genome. Using experimental techniques such as fluorescence imaging, they examined some of these cancer-specific mutations and found that many of them alter the genome structure and reduce the strength and effectiveness of CTCF binding. It turned out that. They explained that this reduction could affect gene expression in a way that promotes cancer growth.

The researchers emphasized that their findings were not limited to one or two types of cancer, as similar results were found for stomach, lung, prostate, breast and skin cancers. Although the exact mutation patterns vary between cancers, persistent CTCF binding sites were reported to have consistently higher mutations overall.

The researchers concluded that their findings may help other cancer researchers understand similarities in the onset and progression of multiple cancer types. They also proposed that their machine learning tools could provide future researchers with CTCF binding site candidates relevant to experiments investigating undocumented causes of cancer.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Collaboration of Scientists to Solve the Mystery of the World’s Rarest Whale

Posted on December 2, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

The rarest whale in the world, known as the Spade whale, has only been seen seven times. Very little is known about this mysterious species. A group of scientists and cultural experts from New Zealand recently gathered around the nearly perfectly preserved Spade whale to unravel its decades-old mystery.

“Words cannot articulate how extraordinary this is,” exclaimed Anton van Heerden, a senior marine science adviser at the New Zealand Conservation Service, who named the whale to distinguish it from others. He added, “For me personally, it’s unbelievable.”

Van Helden has been studying beaked whales for 35 years, and Monday marked his first time participating in a dissection of the whale. This is also the first time in history that this creature, found dead on a New Zealand coast in July, has been carefully examined.

No one has ever witnessed a Spade whale alive at sea.

A rare whale washed ashore on New Zealand’s South Island in July.
New Zealand Department of Conservation/AFP – Getty Images File

Researchers at the Agricultural Research Center near Dunedin are studying the 5-meter (16-foot) male whale in hopes of uncovering more information over the next week.

Van Heerden mentioned the possibility of a parasite unknown to science living inside the whale, as well as the mystery surrounding how this species communicates and eats.

Only six other Spade whales have been found, all buried before DNA testing could confirm their identities.

New Zealand has been a hotspot for whale strandings, with the first Spade whale bones discovered in 1872. DNA sequencing confirmed the species in 2002, but its extinction was unclear until two whales washed up dead in 2010.

During the dissection, the researchers worked respectfully alongside the indigenous Maori people, who consider whales as precious treasures. Traditional beliefs and practices were observed throughout the process.

After the dissection, the whale’s jawbone and teeth will be stored by the Maori tribe and replicated using 3D printing technology.

Spade-toothed whales are believed to inhabit the South Pacific Ocean, one of the deepest oceanic regions, making them even more enigmatic.

Anatomist Joy Lydenberg from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York expressed interest in understanding the life of these whales rather than just their cause of death, hoping to find insights applicable to humans.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

The Psychologist’s Handbook for Manipulating Your Brain’s Autopilot

Posted on December 1, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

There is a lot of talk about the word “habit.” Your doctor may advise you to develop the “good habit” of eating five servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Your friend may be concerned about his “bad habit” of checking Twitter before bed. Perhaps you had a music teacher who made you practice scales until it became a habit.

Or maybe you are telling yourself that you want to get into the habit of going to the gym twice a week.

While these situations may make sense colloquially, psychologists are more specific about what constitutes a habit. Not everything you do regularly or desire to do becomes a habit.

Some of the scenarios mentioned are related to goals, intentions, and skills rather than the habit itself.

Routines like going to the gym regularly can become habits, but it is not guaranteed. So, what exactly is a habit? And what does it take to create a “good” habit or break a “bad” one?

What defines a habit?

In psychology, a behavior becoming a habit means that the action, or a series of related actions, is automatically triggered by certain cues in the environment.

Psychologists suggest that a habit is formed when an action, which may have started intentionally, becomes automatic over time. This is seen in behaviors done without conscious thought or will, even if the behavior is no longer pleasurable or desirable.

For instance, reaching for cigarettes after taking a sip of alcohol, even if you want to quit smoking, illustrates the automatic nature of habits.

As a behavior becomes deeply ingrained as a habit, it is controlled by brain networks associated with involuntary behavior, rather than conscious decision-making. This efficient process saves energy and space in the brain.

Researchers have shown that a specific part of the brain, the infralimbic cortex, appears to control habits and can be “switched off” to disrupt habitual behaviors.

Credit: Kyle Smart

Understanding how habits are formed and controlled sheds light on their impact on behavior, both positively and negatively. Healthy or unhealthy habits can significantly influence your lifestyle and long-term goals.

Therefore, learning to break bad habits and establish healthy ones is crucial for personal development.

How to break bad habits

Understanding the psychology behind habit formation can help you break bad habits and cultivate good ones. Start by identifying the triggers that prompt your unwanted behavior and find ways to avoid or minimize them.

For example, if you want to stop checking social media before bed, remove the trigger by keeping your phone away from the bedroom.

Changing routines and contexts associated with bad habits can also aid in breaking them.

Consider the original purpose or reward of the habit you wish to break, and find alternative ways to fulfill that need or desire.

Replace the unwanted behavior with a more desirable one to make breaking the habit easier.

How to develop new healthy habits

To establish new habits, repeat desired actions in response to specific triggers consistently over time. This pairing process creates automatic behavior.

Make the desired behavior as easy as possible to perform by reducing friction between the trigger and the action.

Reward yourself for engaging in the behavior you want to become a habit to strengthen it during the initial stages.

Consistency, dedication, and commitment are essential for forming new habits and making them automatic.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Solar maximum increases chances of auroras.

Posted on December 1, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

overview

A recent flurry of solar storms suggests the Sun is at its peak as part of an 11-year cycle.
The active period is likely to continue into next year, and more auroras may appear.
Next month, NASA will take an up-close look at solar activity as the Parker Solar Probe makes its closest approach to the sun ever.

The sun is awake.

Earth’s star has become more active in recent months, with giant flares erupting from the surface and streams of plasma and charged particles spewing into space. Several solar storms have been directed towards our planet, causing intense magnetic storms and the dazzling glow of the aurora borealis.

Experts say a storm of solar explosions after years of relative calm and calm is a sure sign that the star has entered a busy phase of its natural cycle, or solar maximum.

The active period is likely to continue into next year, with the potential for more solar storms and spectacular aurora borealis.

“This is definitely the season for major solar storms,” said Kelly Kolek, a program scientist in NASA’s Heliophysics Division. “I think we’ll see the sky lit up again by the northern lights.”

Aurora photographed over Kiruna, Sweden on March 7th.
Leon Neal/Getty Images File

Later this month, NASA will get a close-up look at intense solar activity when the agency’s Parker Solar Probe makes its closest approach ever to the sun on December 24th.

The spacecraft is on an orbit that swoops to within 3.86 million miles of the Sun’s surface. This is closer than any other artifact in history. It is predicted that it could fly through the sun’s plasma plumes and fly into the star’s active regions.

“If you think of an American football field, if the Earth is on one side and the sun is on the other side, this is like going to the sun’s 4-yard line,” Kolek said.

Parker Solar Probe after heat shield installation in a clean room in Titusville, Florida, 2018.
Johns Hopkins APL / Ed Whitman / NASA

The Parker Solar Probe was launched in 2018 with a mission to study the sun’s atmosphere, an extremely hot region known as the corona. Last month, the car-sized spacecraft flew nearby in a maneuver that helped slingshot Venus closer to the sun.

Kolek said the spacecraft’s close encounters could provide valuable insights, especially if there are active sunspot regions (temporary features that appear as dark scratches on the sun’s surface) along its path. He said there is. Such observations could help researchers better understand how the sun’s activity rises and falls.

Solar cycles typically last about 11 years, as the Sun’s magnetic activity moves from periods of low to high magnetic activity. When a star emerges from its calm phase, or solar minimum, and reaches the peak of its solar cycle, its magnetic poles reverse and it enters solar maximum, increasing activity and erupting more frequently and violently.

The main way scientists know when the Sun has reached its maximum is by monitoring the formation of sunspots. As the sun spins, its magnetic field undulates, becoming distorted and tighter in some areas, Kolek said. This creates sunspots, which appear as dark specks in telescope images.

A huge, bright coronal loop traces magnetic field lines over the Sun’s active region in 2018.
Solar Dynamics Observatory / NASA

“The sun is a magnetic sphere, but it’s not a solid solid body, so as it rotates, its magnetic field gets twisted,” Kolek said.

the number of sunspots It increases steadily as the star moves towards its solar maximum. Once a significant decline is observed, researchers can define the beginning and end of a period of activity.

In some sunspot regions, the magnetic field can be about 2,500 times stronger than Earth’s magnetic field. According to NASA. Over time, sunspots can release vast amounts of stored magnetic energy in the form of solar storms.

This year, two major solar storms (one in May and one in early October) painted the night sky in bright pinks, greens, and purples as far south as Texas and Alabama. It surprised sky watchers. NASA said the May event was the strongest geomagnetic storm to hit Earth in the past 20 years.

On May 10th, a solar storm hit the Scottish National Monument in Edinburgh.
Jacob Anderson/AFP – Getty Images File

On October 10, the Northern Lights illuminate the desert sky of the Tonto National Forest northeast of Phoenix.
Michael Chou / USA Today Network

Auroras occur when clouds of charged particles ejected from the Sun during solar storms collide with Earth’s magnetic field and interact with atoms and molecules in Earth’s upper atmosphere. The colorful display is a beautiful byproduct of that process and is usually only seen at high latitudes. But during periods of high solar activity, the light can wander farther south than usual.

However, there may also be negative consequences. Strong magnetic storms can cause problems for astronauts in space and for GPS systems and satellites in orbit.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Why Do We Engage in Self-Destructive Behavior and How to Stop it: Insights from Psychologists

Posted on December 1, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Self-sabotage (also called “self-handicapping” by psychologists) is intentionally doing something that can harm your chances of success. academic ability testperformance at work, sportsor relationships.

For example, let’s say you intentionally don’t rehearse your work presentation. Or let’s say you have a running race coming up and you decide not to train for it. In a relationship, you might start ignoring your partner’s texts, even if you’re happy with the relationship.

In all these cases, behaving this way may sound strange and self-defeating. However, research suggests that there is a logic to self-destruction. It’s something people often do as a way to protect their self-esteem and reduce their fear of failure or abandonment.

For example, let’s say you deliberately fail to prepare for a presentation at work, and as a result, your presentation goes very poorly. The reason for your failure may be that you didn’t prepare, rather than the presentation saying something fundamental about you as a person or your skills. Similarly, if you come in last in a running race, you can ignore your misfortune and attribute it to not training at all.

If you ignore your partner’s messages, and they decide to break up with you, you can take that rejection not as a sign that they don’t like you anymore, but as a sign that you’ve been ignoring them. You can blame the facts. Or choose to go out with someone else.

In other words, self-sabotage is a way to protect your ego by having the perfect excuse in case of failure or rejection.

People who fear failure or have low self-esteem are more likely to engage in this type of self-sabotage. In the short term, it may make you feel better about yourself, and it’s a way to protect your image in the eyes of others. However, this is not a recommended strategy. Because in the long run, of course, it’s going to be something like this. increase the likelihood of failure or rejection.

How to stop self-sabotage

If you really want to give a good presentation, you better prepare. I should have trained to win the race. And if you really want to be with your partner, you shouldn’t make them angry by ignoring their messages.

If you’re stuck in a habit of self-sabotage, it will take time to break it, but a healthier approach is within reach. One useful strategy is the so-called “Master Mindset”This includes viewing challenges as opportunities to learn and improve, rather than as deep judgments about your unique skills and worth. If you give your best at a work presentation or a running race and it doesn’t go perfectly, think about how you can do it better next time.

Another helpful strategy is to practice. self-pityThis includes treating yourself with the same kindness you would treat a close friend or relative, and recognizing that your worth does not depend on any particular opinion or outcome of a relationship.

If you feel close to a romantic partner, get used to that feeling of vulnerability and know that even if the relationship ends someday, it doesn’t mean you are inherently broken or unlovable. Remind yourself.

read more:

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The Ultimate Anxiety Guide: The 6 Biggest Questions About Anxiety Answered by Psychologists
Why do I always cry when I watch movies on a plane?

Asked by: Samantha Osborne via email

To submit a question, please email questions@sciencefocus.com (remember to include your name and location)

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

You might be cleaning your reusable water bottle incorrectly

Posted on November 30, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Observing people around your local park, office, or city center, you will likely see many individuals using reusable water bottles. This trend has become a fashion statement and a social connector, in addition to being an environmentally conscious choice. According to NHS health guidelines, drinking 6-8 glasses of water per day from reusable bottles can reduce environmental impact by cutting down on single-use plastic consumption.

However, while using a water bottle is seen as a positive and healthy choice for the planet, there are hidden risks associated with not cleaning them properly. A study by WaterFilterGuru revealed that if water bottles are not cleaned regularly, they can harbor bacteria and mold on their surfaces, leading to potential health issues if consumed.

What is living in your water bottle?

Water, even from a kitchen faucet, is not sterile and can promote bacterial growth within a few days of filling a bottle. Storing water at room temperature can increase microbial growth, while refrigeration can help reduce the proliferation of microorganisms. Microorganisms in water bottles can come from the water itself, but most are transferred from the consumer’s body or surrounding environment.

Various microorganisms found in water bottles include skin and oral bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, which are normally harmless but can cause infections if ingested. Additionally, water bottles can harbor gut bacteria like Escherichia Coli, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues if consumed. Pregnant women, children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to illnesses caused by contaminated water.

The type of liquid used in water bottles also influences microbial growth, with sugary or nutrient-rich drinks creating an optimal environment for bacteria and mold. Even carbonated water, while having antibacterial properties, requires regular cleaning to prevent the accumulation of harmful pathogens.

How to clean a water bottle

Regular cleaning of reusable water bottles is essential to prevent the buildup of bacteria and mold. Washing the bottle with hot water and detergent, letting it soak, and ensuring complete drying can help maintain hygiene. For heavily soiled bottles, a vinegar-water solution can be used for deeper cleaning. It is recommended to clean bottles and accessories like lids and straws after each use or at least several times a week to avoid contamination.

While proper hygiene practices are important to prevent illness, our immune systems are resilient and have evolved to protect us from various pathogens. By maintaining cleanliness and regular cleaning routines, we can continue to enjoy the benefits of using reusable water bottles while staying healthy.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

As hurricane season wraps up, scientists explore surprising trends

Posted on November 30, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

overview

The Atlantic hurricane season officially ends Saturday.
The pattern of activity surprised forecasters. The season was busy early on, with strong storms occurring later in the season, but quiet during what is normally considered the peak period.
Climate change has most likely caused the observed storms to become more intense.

A bizarre and devastating hurricane season officially came to an end Saturday, and forecasters are looking into its many surprises.

Philip Klotzbach, a Colorado State University meteorologist who specializes in Atlantic hurricane forecasting, said, “Every year there are one or two things that bother me, but this year there were more than usual.” he said.

Most forecasters are predicting a very active hurricane season as early as April, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has released its best forecast ever.

In the end, there were 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and 5 major hurricanes. Although this was at the low end of the range most forecasters expected, it was still above normal and a “very active” season.

What surprised researchers was how strange the season unfolded. It got off to a roaring start in June when Hurricane Beryl became the first Category 5 storm to be observed in the Atlantic Ocean. But from mid-August to early September, everything went quiet. The season typically reaches its peak around September 10th. But it was the first time since 1968 that no named storm formed during those weeks.

Just when researchers thought their predictions were wrong, storm activity picked up again and Hurricanes Helen and Milton struck, causing billions of dollars in damage.

Hurricane Milton made landfall in the Gulf of Mexico on October 8th.
NOAA/NESDIS/Star

“The normal seasonal cycle has been reversed,” Klotzbach said. “What was striking to me was that it was like a switch was flipped, completely off, then completely on. For Helen, nothing happened, and for East Atlantic and Milton, The storm continued.”

Researchers are studying what causes this strange pattern to better understand the factors that cause hurricanes and improve future predictions.

Researchers predicted this spring's hurricane season would be busy and dangerous because of record-high ocean temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and the possibility that La Niña, a pattern of natural fluctuations, could take hold. Ta. Ocean heat provides fuel for hurricanes and can intensify them faster. La Niña is associated with hurricanes because it often reduces atmospheric stability.

“Early on, we thought it was going to be our busiest season on record,” Klotzbach said.

Although ocean temperatures remained at or near record highs in the North Atlantic, La Niña events did not develop as strongly, said Matthew Rosen, chief hurricane forecaster at the NOAA Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service. Krans said.

A combination of other factors most likely contributed to the alarming stagnation in activity.

Approximately 60% of hurricanes occur as a result of Africa's tropical monsoon season. draws moisture into an area called the Sahel. However, this year's monsoon developed elsewhere.

“The monsoon reached so far north and was so strong that it reached areas that hadn't had rain in 45 years,” Rosencrans said, adding that this change had weakened the development of tropical cyclones. Ta.

Rosencrans said another climate pattern, called the Madden-Julian Oscillation, a group of storms that pass near the equator, also likely contributed, with storm development slowing in early September and then later in the month. It is said that hurricanes are starting to occur.

Researchers will spend the winter examining which factors had the most influence through climate and weather models.

“This is an opportunity to learn, to observe systems and let the Earth teach us something new,” he said.

Despite a mid-season interruption due to a tropical storm, 2024 set several records. According to a review published by Klotzbach, five hurricanes have made landfall in the continental United States, tied for the second-highest number in history.

Destroyed and damaged buildings in the aftermath of Hurricane Helen's flooding in Batcave, North Carolina, on October 8.
Tama Mario/Getty Images File

On September 28, heavy rains from Hurricane Helen caused record flooding and damage in Asheville, North Carolina.
Melissa Sue Gerrits/Getty Images File

Helen was the most powerful hurricane to hit Big Bend, Florida. Since September 25th, seven hurricanes have formed in the Atlantic Ocean, the most on record.

Hurricane Milton set a record for tornado warnings in Florida, spawning dozens of tornadoes.

Research suggests climate change has worsened Helen and Milton's symptoms. Both hurricanes underwent a rapid intensification process, with their sustained wind speeds increasing by at least 35 miles per hour over a 24-hour period. This trend is becoming more common as global temperatures rise.

Additionally, scientists studying the effects of climate change on weather have discovered that: Rainfall amounts for single-day events like Milton are currently about 20% to 30% higher due to climate change.. Researchers, in collaboration with the World Weather Attribution project, determined that Milton's wind speeds were likely 10% stronger due to the effects of climate change. The group had similar results during Hurricane Helen.

A destroyed home in Lakewood Park, Florida, on October 10th.
Giorgio Vieira/AFP – Getty Images File

According to a report published by Climate Central, a nonprofit organization that tracks climate change, all 11 of this year's Atlantic hurricanes An additional 9 to 28 miles per hour due to human-induced global warmingmainly due to the record-breaking warmth of the ocean.

Rosenkrans said research generally does not suggest that the number of named storms (winds of 39 miles per hour or more) will change with climate change. However, a larger proportion of named storms are expected to become hurricanes, with the majority of those hurricanes reaching Category 4 or 5. That was the case this year as well.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

The hidden radioactive waste problem lies at the core of achieving net zero emissions

Posted on November 30, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

A dog chased a ball past me at full speed across the open fields of Seascale Beach, Cumbria. The beach is surrounded by a small park, rows of shops, and houses, with tall chimneys and large rectangular buildings visible on a vast industrial site as you walk north.

Close to Seascale Beach is the Sellafield complex, a 2 square mile nuclear facility located 5 km away. Sellafield is home to most of the UK’s radioactive nuclear waste and the world’s largest store of plutonium.

I visited Sellafield earlier this year to learn about the management of Britain’s nuclear waste. It was an eye-opening and expensive lesson in dealing with hazardous material with no clear plan.

Sellafield played a crucial role in producing plutonium during the Cold War. The current cleanup operation involves processing and storing spent nuclear fuel, cooling and stabilizing it, then storing it in silos covered with steel and concrete.

Initially, safe long-term storage was not a priority, leading to waste being disposed of from decades ago. The process of moving waste from dilapidated silos to more modern stores is ongoing.

Read More:

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A recent report by the National Board of Audit highlighted that Sellafield is still in the early stages of the cleanup mission, expected to last until 2125 with an estimated cost of £136bn, showcasing uncertainty about the exact tasks and timeline.

The plan for the most dangerous nuclear waste is to bury it deep underground in a geological disposal facility (GDF). Finding a suitable location involves not just solid rock but also a willing community.

Three communities are currently in discussion about building a GDF facility, with experts believing it to be the best option. Several countries are also working on similar facilities.

The complexity of site selection may delay the facility’s opening until the 2040s or 2050s, amidst a push for new nuclear power to reduce emissions and reach net zero.

As we navigate through the challenges of nuclear waste management, experts like Professor Claire Corkhill from the University of Bristol play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of radioactive waste.

About our expert Professor Claire Corkhill

Claire is Professor of Mineralogy and Radioactive Waste Management in the School of Earth Sciences at the University of Bristol.

Her work has been published in magazines material, nature, and ceramics.

Read More:

Nuclear fusion: Inside the construction of the world’s largest tokamak
Instant Genius Podcast: The race to bury nuclear waste in hidden bunkers
Sticky atoms and devastating iron: The strange science behind nuclear fusion

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Incredible Scientific Phenomenon of Rainbow Clouds

Posted on November 30, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

During midwinter, under the right conditions, the polar sky can be transformed into a colorful spectacle by shimmering clouds.

These rainbow clouds, also known as “nacre clouds” due to their resemblance to iridescent shells, are an incredibly rare atmospheric phenomenon.

Scientifically referred to as “polar stratospheric clouds,” they exist at much higher altitudes in the atmosphere compared to typical clouds. While most clouds are found below 10 km above the Earth’s surface, rainbow clouds form in the lower stratosphere, between 15 and 25 km in altitude.

In the usually dry stratosphere, temperatures dropping below -80°C can cause sparse water molecules to form small ice crystals that eventually gather to create a cloud. These tiny ice crystals scatter sunlight, producing a dazzling rainbow effect and a pearlescent appearance.

Due to their high altitudes, the curvature of the Earth allows sunlight from below the horizon to hit and reflect off the underside of these clouds, illuminating them at dawn and dusk.

Rainbow clouds formed from pure water crystals are the thickest and most vivid, while those formed from air pollutants like nitric acid can result in thin, less impressive clouds. The latter type of cloud is associated with the degradation of the Antarctic ozone layer.

To witness rainbow clouds, consider visiting Antarctica during winter or look up at the sky around sunrise or sunset in parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, Alaska, or even Scotland. These breathtaking phenomena are a result of unique atmospheric conditions.

This article addresses the question posed by Ollie Peterson via email: “What causes rainbow clouds?”

If you have any inquiries, please contact us at: questions@sciencefocus.comor reach out to us on Facebook, Twitteror Instagram (please include your name and location).

Explore more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

New study reveals that one human lineage experienced an increase in brain size

Posted on November 30, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Reading and the University of Durham has revealed that the increase in relative brain size, known as encephalization, during the seven million years of human evolution was a result of incremental changes within individual species.

Modern humans, Neanderthals, and other recent relatives on the human family tree evolved large brains much more rapidly than earlier species. Image credit: SINC / Jose Antonio Peñas.

“One of the most striking evolutionary changes in human evolution, closely linked to the unique cognitive and behavioral characteristics of humans, is the increase in brain size,” explained lead author Thomas Puschel and his colleagues.

“The question of encephalization in human evolution has been a topic of debate, with various studies comparing the brain capacities of different hominin species and exploring adaptive mechanisms that might have influenced differences in brain size among hominins. Our research proposes

“Some argue for a gradual growth pattern over time, while others suggest a pattern of rapid increases followed by periods of stagnation.”

“Certain studies support a combination of both models, while others claim that they are indistinguishable.”

In their recent study, the authors compiled the largest dataset of ancient human fossils spanning seven million years and utilized advanced computational and statistical methods to identify gaps in the fossil record.

These innovative approaches have provided the most comprehensive understanding to date of the evolution of brain size over time.

“This study has completely altered our perception of how the human brain evolved,” noted study co-author Professor Chris Venditti.

“Previously, it was believed that brain size varied significantly between species, like upgrading to newer computer models.”

“However, our study reveals a pattern of steady, incremental ‘software updates’ occurring within each species over millions of years.”

This study challenges the traditional notion that certain species, such as Neanderthals, remained unchanged and were unable to adapt, suggesting instead that the increase in brain size was a gradual and continuous driving force in evolution. It underscores the significance of changes.

“Major evolutionary shifts do not always require dramatic events,” Pushel stated.

“They can result from making small incremental improvements over time, akin to the learning and adaptation processes observed today.”

The researchers also identified a notable pattern: larger-bodied species tend to have larger brains, but the variation observed within individual species does not consistently correlate with body size.

Hence, the evolution of brain size over long evolutionary timescales spanning millions of years has been influenced by factors distinct from those observed within individual species, underscoring the complexities of evolutionary pressures on brain size. It’s remarkable.

“The reasons behind the evolution of large brains in humans are a key aspect of human evolution,” added study co-author Dr. Joanna Baker.

“Through analyzing the brain and body sizes of various species over millions of years, we have demonstrated that the characteristic large brains of humans primarily emerged through gradual changes within individual species. This became evident.”of study On November 26, 2024, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

_____

Thomas A. Puschel others. 2024. The increase in human brain size was revealed by intraspecific encephalization. PNAS 121 (49): e2409542121;doi: 10.1073/pnas.2409542121

Source: www.sci.news

Study: Ancient Central European Peasants Lived Equally 8,000 Years Ago

Posted on November 29, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

There are no signs of population stratification in the Linear Pottery Culture (LBK) communities that first spread agriculture across much of Europe, according to a new study led by scientists at the University of Vienna and Harvard University. He said he couldn’t see it.

The manual labor of prehistoric central European women was more demanding than the rowing of today’s boat crews.

“The expansion of agriculture in Central Europe occurred in the 6th millennium BC,” said Dr. Pere Gelabert of the University of Vienna and colleagues.

“Within a few generations, Balkan farmers expanded down the Danube Valley into what is now France and eastward into what is now Hungary and Ukraine.”

“The cultural footprint of peasants is homogeneous across this region, which spans thousands of kilometers, but the lack of genetic data from multiple families makes it difficult to understand whether these communities lived on social equality. It has become difficult to assess which individuals have migrated and migrated across continents. “

In the study, Dr. Gelabert and co-authors sequenced and analyzed the genomes of 250 LBK individuals and other extensive datasets.

“The LBK people expanded over hundreds of kilometers in just a few generations,” Dr. Gelabert said.

“We found distant relatives in Slovakia and others in western Germany, more than 500 miles away.”

“In this study, we report for the first time that families in the study sites of Nitra in Slovakia and Polgar Ferencí Hat in Hungary do not differ in terms of the food they consume,” said Dr. Ron Pignasi, a researcher at the institute. said. University of Vienna.

“This suggests that the people living at these Neolithic sites were not stratified based on family or biological sex, understood as differences in access to resources and space. No signs of inequality are detected.”

The LBK culture came to an end around 5000 BC, and various theories have been proposed for its demise.

Some say this period was a period of social and economic crisis, often associated with widespread incidents of violence.

“One of the most famous incidents was the Asparn Schretz massacre in Lower Austria, where more than 100 people were recovered from a ditch,” the researchers said.

“This site, along with Herxheim in Germany, is one of the largest known assemblages of people who were violently murdered during the early Neolithic period, and the skeletons show signs of violence and multiple fractures.”

“Our in-depth genetic studies of the Asparn Schretz people show that fewer than 10 people are genetically related, making it unlikely that this genocide represents a single population. This casts doubt on the hypothesis that there is a

“Previous anthropological studies have noted an underrepresentation of young women, but the new data further support the complete absence of relatives.”

“The large number of children among the victims opens the door to different interpretations of this remarkable event of Neolithic violence.”

of findings Published in a magazine nature human behavior.

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P. Gelabert others. Social and genetic diversity among the first farmers of central Europe. Nat Hum Behavepublished online on November 29, 2024. doi: 10.1038/s41562-024-02034-z

Source: www.sci.news

Unlocking the Mystery of Dinosaur Dominance: Fossilized Poop Holds Clues

Posted on November 29, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

We now know that dinosaurs were large reptiles that ruled the Earth, but scientists have always been curious about why it took them 30 million years to reach their peak. New research on fossilized poop and vomit may have found the answer – food.

According to the study, carnivorous dinosaurs like Tyrannosaurus may owe their massive size to their plant-eating ancestors. If these herbivores hadn’t consumed so many plants, researchers suggest that dinosaurs might not have evolved into the colossal creatures we know today.

The fossilized poop and vomit, dated back to about 230 to 200 million years ago, provide insights into the ancient food web. By studying over 500 fossils, scientists identified various prey items from beetles to bones, shedding light on the evolving food chains during the Triassic period.

By combining this information with climate data and other fossils, researchers gained valuable knowledge about the prehistoric environment and the species that coexisted with dinosaurs on Earth.

“Sometimes seemingly ordinary fossils hold extraordinary information that is invaluable,” said study co-author Dr. Martin Kvarnström from Uppsala University in Sweden, as reported by BBC Science Focus.

Co-author Dr. Grzegorz Niedzwicki added, “Understanding the dietary habits of early dinosaurs can offer insights into their success as a group and the importance of predator-prey relationships in shaping Earth’s evolutionary history.”

The study, featured in Nature magazine, analyzed digestive samples from south-central Poland, providing clues about the Late Triassic period and the changes in vegetation during that time.

By employing advanced scanning techniques, researchers were able to visualize intricate details of the fossils, unveiling significant discoveries about the size and distribution of vertebrate populations before the dominance of dinosaurs.

Scientists scanned more than 500 fossils for the study. – Illustration: Qvarnström et al., Nature, 2024

This research model opens up opportunities to explore ancient species in different regions worldwide, emphasizing the importance of analyzing fossilized remains beyond just skeletal findings.

“We aim to highlight the significance of saprolites in reconstructing ancient ecosystems, moving beyond their conventional perception as mere curiosities,” noted Kvarnström.

“While everyone focuses on fossilized skeletons, it is the organic remains that provide crucial insights into the ancient ecological dynamics,” added Niedzwicki.

About our experts:

Dr. Martin Kvarnström, a researcher at Uppsala University, specializes in using fossils to study reptilian diets, particularly dinosaurs.

Dr. Grzegorz Niedzwicki, also a researcher at Uppsala University, focuses on the early evolution of dinosaurs and quadrupeds.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Two hominin species lived together in Kenya 1.5 million years ago

Posted on November 29, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Paleoanthropologists have discovered 1.5 million-year-old footprints of two very different species of humans. homo erectus and Paranthropus boisei — at the same location near Lake Turkana in Kenya.

A 3D computerized model of the surface of an area near Lake Turkana in Kenya shows fossil footprints. Paranthropus boisei (vertical footprint) separate footprint homo erectus Form a vertical path. Image credit: Kevin Hatala / Chatham University.

Hominin is a term that describes a subdivision of the larger category known as Hominidae.

The hominid family includes all extinct and living organisms that are thought to belong to the human lineage that emerged after we separated from our great ape ancestors. This is thought to have happened about 6 to 7 million years ago.

Paleoanthropologists have long hypothesized that: homo erectus and Paranthropus boisei They coexisted.

According to the fossil record, homo erectus It lasted another million years.

Paranthropus boiseiHowever, they became extinct within a few hundred thousand years. Scientists don’t know why.

Both species had an upright posture and bipedal gait, and were very agile. We still know little about how these coexisting species interacted culturally and reproductively.

“Footprints are important because they fall into the category of trace fossils, which includes footprints, nests, and burrows,” said Craig Feibel, a professor at Rutgers University.

“Trace fossils are not parts of living things, but they provide evidence of behavior. Fossil body parts, such as bones and teeth, are evidence of past life, but they are easily displaced by water and predators. ”

This is a reconstruction by the artist homo erectus. Image credit: Yale University.

Professor Feibel and his colleagues discovered footprints from 1.5 million years ago. homo erectus and Paranthropus boisei Near Lake Turkana in Kenya.

“By being on the same surface and forming closely together over time, these two species are located at the edge of the lake and use the same habitat,” Professor Feibel said.

“Skeletal fossils have long provided the primary evidence for studying human evolution, but new data from fossil footprints reveals fascinating details about the evolution of human anatomy and locomotion. , giving further clues about ancient human behavior and the environment,” said Dr. Kevin Hatala. , a researcher at Chatham University.

“Fossil footprints are interesting because they provide a vivid snapshot of our fossil relatives coming to life.”

“These types of data can help us understand how living individuals millions of years ago moved through their environments, interacted with each other, and potentially interacted with other animals. Masu.”

“That's something you can never get from bones or stone tools.”

The authors used a new method they recently developed that allows them to perform 3D analysis to distinguish one footprint from another.

“Biological anthropology is always interested in finding new ways to extract behavior from the fossil record, and this is a great example,” said Dr. Rebecca Ferrell, program director at the National Science Foundation.

“The team used state-of-the-art 3D imaging technology to create a completely new way to observe footprints, which will help us understand human evolution and the role of cooperation and competition in shaping our evolutionary journey. It will help.”

of findings Published in today's diary science.

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Kevin G. Hatala others. 2024. Footprint evidence of locomotor diversity and common habitats in early Pleistocene hominids. science 386 (6725): 1004-1010;doi: 10.1126/science.ado5275

Source: www.sci.news