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All of the latest tech and science news from all over the world.

DeepMind AI integrates fact checker to make groundbreaking mathematical findings

Posted on December 14, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

DeepMind’s FunSearch AI can tackle mathematical problems

Arengo/Getty Images

Google DeepMind claims to have made the first ever scientific discovery in an AI chatbot by building a fact checker that filters out useless output and leaves behind only reliable solutions to mathematical or computing problems. Masu.

DeepMind’s previous achievements, such as using AI to predict the weather or the shape of proteins, rely on models created specifically for the task at hand and trained on accurate, specific data. I did. Large-scale language models (LLMs), such as GPT-4 and Google’s Gemini, are instead trained on vast amounts of disparate data, yielding a wide range of capabilities. However, this approach is also susceptible to “hallucinations,” which refers to researchers producing erroneous output.

Gemini, released earlier this month, has already shown hallucination tendencies and even gained simple facts such as: This year’s Oscar winners were wrong. Google’s previous AI-powered search engine even had errors in its self-launched advertising materials.

One common fix for this phenomenon is to add a layer on top of the AI that validates the accuracy of the output before passing it on to the user. However, given the wide range of topics that chatbots may be asked about, creating a comprehensive safety net is a very difficult task.

Al-Hussein Fawzi Google’s DeepMind and his colleagues created a general-purpose LLM called FunSearch based on Google’s PaLM2 model with a fact-checking layer they call an “evaluator.” Although this model is constrained by providing computer code that solves problems in mathematics and computer science, DeepMind says this work is important because these new ideas and solutions are inherently quickly verifiable. is a much more manageable task.

The underlying AI may still hallucinate and provide inaccurate or misleading results, but the evaluator filters out erroneous outputs, leaving only reliable and potentially useful concepts. .

“We believe that probably 90% of what LLM outputs is useless,” Fawzi says. “If you have a potential solution, it’s very easy to tell whether this is actually the correct solution and evaluate that solution, but it’s very difficult to actually come up with a solution. So , mathematics and computer science are a particularly good fit.”

DeepMind claims the model can generate new scientific knowledge and ideas, something no LLM has ever done before.

First, FunSearch is given a problem and a very basic solution in the source code as input, and then generates a database of new solutions that are checked for accuracy by evaluators. The best reliable solutions are returned as input to the LLM with prompts to improve the idea. According to DeepMind, the system generates millions of potential solutions and eventually converges on an efficient result, sometimes even exceeding the best known solution.

For mathematical problems, a model creates a computer program that can find a solution, rather than trying to solve the problem directly.

Fawzi and his colleagues challenged FunSearch to find a solution to the cap set problem. This involves determining the pattern of points where three points do not form a straight line. As the number of points increases, the computational complexity of the problem increases rapidly. The AI discovered a solution consisting of 512 points in eight dimensions, larger than previously known.

When tackling the problem of bin packing, where the goal is to efficiently place objects of different sizes into containers, FunSearch discovered a solution that outperformed commonly used algorithms. The result is a result that can be immediately applied to transportation and logistics companies. DeepMind says FunSearch could lead to improvements in more math and computing problems.

mark lee The next breakthrough in AI will not be in scaling up LLM to ever-larger sizes, but in adding a layer to ensure accuracy, as DeepMind has done with FunSearch, say researchers at the University of Birmingham, UK. It is said that it will come from.

“The strength of language models is their ability to imagine things, but the problem is their illusions,” Lee says. “And this study breaks that down, curbs that, and confirms the facts. It’s a nice idea.”

Lee says AI should not be criticized for producing large amounts of inaccurate or useless output. This is similar to how human mathematicians and scientists work: brainstorm ideas, test them, and follow up on the best while discarding the worst.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Thermal secrets uncovered in neutron star mergers through gravitational waves

Posted on December 14, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

by US Department of Energy
December 14, 2023

Scientists used supercomputer simulations to study gravitational waves produced by neutron star mergers and found a correlation between residual temperature and gravitational wave frequency. These findings are important for future gravitational wave detectors that distinguish models of hot nuclear material. Credit: SciTechDaily.com

Binary simulation neutron star This merger suggests that future detectors will distinguish between different models of hot nuclear material.

Researchers used supercomputer simulations to investigate the effects of neutron star mergers gravitational waves, found a significant relationship with debris temperature. This research will aid future advances in the detection and understanding of hot nuclear materials.

Exploring neutron star mergers and gravitational waves

When two neutron stars orbit each other, they emit ripples into spacetime called gravitational waves. These ripples drain energy from the orbit until the two stars eventually collide and combine into one object. Scientists used supercomputer simulations to investigate how the behavior of different models of nuclear material affects the gravitational waves released after these mergers. They found a strong correlation between the temperature of the debris and the frequency of these gravitational waves. Next generation detectors will be able to distinguish these models from each other.

Plot comparing density (right) and temperature (left) for two different simulations (top and bottom) of a neutron star merger, viewed from above, approximately 5 ms after the merger.Credit: Jacob Fields, Pennsylvania State University

Neutron Star: Institute for Nuclear Materials

Scientists use neutron stars as laboratories for nuclear materials under conditions that would be impossible to explore on Earth. They will use current gravitational wave detectors to observe neutron star mergers and learn how cold, ultra-dense matter behaves. However, these detectors cannot measure the signal after the stars have merged. This signal contains information about hot nuclear material. Future detectors will be even more sensitive to these signals. Because different models can also be distinguished from each other, the findings suggest that future detectors could help scientists create better models of hot nuclear material.

Detailed analysis of neutron star mergers

The study investigated neutron star mergers using THC_M1, a computer code that simulates neutron star mergers and accounts for the bending of spacetime due to the star’s strong gravitational field and neutrino processes in dense matter. . The researchers tested the effect of heat on mergers by varying the specific heat capacity of the equation of state, which measures the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of neutron star material by one degree Celsius. To ensure the robustness of their results, the researchers ran their simulations at two resolutions. They repeated the high-resolution run using a more approximate neutrino processing.

References:

“Thermal effects in binary neutron star mergers” by Jacob Fields, Aviral Prakash, Matteo Breschi, David Radice, Sebastiano Bernuzzi, and Andre da Silva Schneider, July 31, 2023. of Astrophysics Journal Letter.
DOI: 10.3847/2041-8213/ace5b2

“Identification of nuclear effects in neutrino-carbon interactions in low 3 momentum transfer” until February 17, 2016 physical review letter.
DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.116.071802

Funding: This research was primarily funded by the Department of Energy, Office of Science, Nuclear Physics Program. Additional funding was provided by the National Science Foundation and the European Union.

This research used computational resources available through the National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center, the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center, and the Pennsylvania State University Computing and Data Science Institute.

Source: scitechdaily.com

Revolutionary New Technology Accelerates Diaper Recycling by 200 Times

Posted on December 14, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

The superabsorber becomes a liquid under ultraviolet light after absorbing enough water. It can then be reused. Credit: Ken Pekarsky, KIT

Water and UV light effectively and quickly break down the cross-linked polymers in diaper liners without the use of any chemicals. This process allows recycled plastic molecules to be reused for a variety of uses.

Superabsorbent materials such as sodium polyacrylate are important components of a variety of hygiene and medical products, including diapers, bandages, and dressings. These cross-linked polymers are typically insoluble in water, although they are known for their high absorbency. Recycling them traditionally required the use of strong acids.

It will not melt at high temperatures, it will only deteriorate. However, the acid “breaks” the chains and stabilizes the polymer after about 16 hours at 80 degrees. Celsius Therefore, recycling is now possible. Because this process is complex and expensive, superabsorbents are rarely recycled. Approximately 2 million tons of this waste is thrown away or incinerated each year.

Turns into liquid in 5 minutes instead of 16 hours

Researchers from KIT’s Institute of Biochemical Systems, Institute of Biointerfaces, and Institute of Chemical Technology and Polymer Chemistry have discovered that crosslinked sodium polyacrylate polymers degrade under ultraviolet light after uptake of water. .

“The chains that connect the polymers are broken by light, and they are so loose that they swim underwater and turn into liquid fibers,” explains Pavel Levkin, a professor at the Institute of Biochemical Systems. For the study, researchers cut liners from traditional diapers, wetted them with water and exposed them to a 1000 W lamp. After 5 minutes, the solid material turned into a liquid and fell into the collector. “This method using ultraviolet light is about 200 times faster than using acids,” Revkin says.

Recycled polymers can be used in a variety of ways

The team then used known processes to convert the liquid into new adhesives and dyes. “The observation that this substance is soluble and processable was very important. It could probably be turned into many other products,” explains the scientist.

In the test, the researchers used clean diapers. However, it is also possible to separate superabsorbents from used diapers. “Therefore, there is no reason why a near-realistic use should not be possible,” Revkin says. By using solar power, you can optimize recycling methods that are cost-effective and environmentally friendly. “We have discovered a promising strategy to recycle superabsorbents, which significantly reduces environmental pollution and contributes to a more sustainable use of polymers.”

Reference: “From diapers to thickeners and pressure-sensitive adhesives: recycling superabsorbents by UV degradation” by Shuai Li, Johannes M. Scheiger, Zhenwu Wang, Birgit Huber, Maxi Hoffmann, Manfred Wilhelm, Pavel A. Levkin , September 7, 2023 ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces.
DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c06999

Source: scitechdaily.com

Climate talks will only meet minimum requirements after hottest year in human history

Posted on December 14, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Wednesday that the era of fossil fuels “must end” and that science suggests there is no way to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) without eliminating fossil fuel use. It has been shown that it is impossible to contain, he added.

“Whether we like it or not, the phasing out of fossil fuels is inevitable.” he wrote to x. “Let’s hope it’s not too late.”

The COP28 climate summit was controversial from the start. The host country, the UAE, is rich in oil resources, and the conference chairman, Sultan Al Jaber, is the CEO of the UAE’s national oil company ADNOC.

At the beginning of the conference, Al-Jabbar addressed criticism at an online event in late November, claiming there was “no science” to support the need to phase out fossil fuels to curb global warming. I took a bath. As first reported by the Guardian.

The incident comes amid waning confidence that oil companies are working to reduce fossil fuel emissions. Big oil and gas companies have previously signaled they would do their part to transition to clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but over the past year they have walked back many of those claims. Critics have accused the industry of “greenwashing,” even as companies ramp up exploration and hundreds of new oil and gas projects are approved around the world.

Throughout the meeting, which culminated in extension negotiations, critics questioned how much could have been accomplished on fossil fuels when it was held in Dubai and led by Al Jaber. These concerns came to the forefront when it became clear that the final deal did not commit to phasing out fossil fuels.

Although the phrases “migration” and “phasing out” are similar, there are important differences between them. Phasing means that their use in the energy system is eventually eliminated, whereas “transition” represents a compromise, meaning that their use is reduced but still continues .

Nate Hartmann, a former State Department official and founder and director of the University of Maryland Center for Global Sustainability, said an open question heading into the meeting is whether world leaders will seriously discuss the future of fossil fuels. He said that.

“There was a risk that it could have been an exercise to avoid problems,” he said.

But Hartmann said countries should “transition” away from fossil fuels in an equitable manner, triple the amount of renewable energy installed by 2030 and step up leaks of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. He said the final agreement he is seeking makes clear that: World leaders actually envisioned a future without fossil fuels.

“The results show that this issue was not only substantively discussed, but also highlighted in the document. There are good and strong elements,” said Hartmann, who attended the 21st COP this year. Told. “Sending this kind of signal about the transition away from fossil fuels is going to be important.”

Still, the agreement is not legally binding, and its critics, especially leaders of poor developing and island nations that are disproportionately affected by climate change, argue that it does not eliminate fossil fuels. , says it is not enough to keep global temperatures below 1.5 degrees Celsius. Global warming.

Many climate scientists and activists have expressed frustration that calls for the “phasing out” of fossil fuels have been significantly weakened.

“While the COP28 consensus rightly emphasizes nature as a solution, it is unfortunate that it does not recognize the need to phase out the use of fossil fuels,” said the nonprofit National Wildlife Refuge. said Mustafa Santiago Ali, the federation’s executive vice president for conservation and justice. he said in a statement Wednesday.

Emotions were further heightened when the draft agreement was published earlier this week.goa I wrote it on Monday’s X. “COP28 is now on the brink of complete failure.”

Over the past 30 years, countries have finally realized that in order to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by around 2050 and avoid the worst consequences of climate change, countries need to transition away from fossil fuels. It was first agreed upon at the United Nations Summit.

It was hailed as a major milestone, as it merely touched on an issue that had been an issue at previous COP meetings.

“The fact that the phasing out of fossil fuels is now at the center of the international scene is in itself unimaginable five years ago, and is a huge step forward,” said the director of the Stockholm Environmental Research Institute and senior scientist. Michael Lazarus said. , based in Seattle. “That means fossil fuels now have an expiration date, an expiration date. We are at a point where we can envision a transition away from fossil fuels.”

Lazarus said the consensus nature of international processes – in which all countries participating in the deliberations have a de facto veto – makes global progress difficult.

“People talk about how it’s just words and not actions, but the arguments that come out of these international conferences have incredible resonance and have the power to change the conversation,” Lazarus said. Told. “Unless we have a sense of global action to phase out fossil fuels and reduce emissions across the board, countries will not have the same incentives to act in the ways they need to.” I guess.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

How Our Minds Control Impulses: A Fresh Perspective

Posted on December 14, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

In a groundbreaking study, researchers identified the right inferior frontal gyrus (rIFG) as important in the brain’s inhibitory control circuits. Using dynamic causal modeling and fMRI in 250 participants, this study found high connectivity in this circuit that was influenced by gender and performance. The findings reveal hemispheric asymmetries and sex-related differences in brain processes and provide insights that may improve treatment strategies for psychiatric and neurological disorders associated with response inhibition.

Researchers have discovered a critical role for the right inferior frontal gyrus in the brain’s inhibitory control, revealing implications for the treatment of gender differences and related diseases.

Published in Volume 3 in 2023 psychoradiology A team of dedicated researchers from the University of Hong Kong and the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China has conclusively identified the right inferior frontal gyrus (rIFG) as a key input and causal regulator within the subcortical response inhibition node. This right-lateralized inhibitory control circuit is characterized by its important intrinsic connectivity, highlighting the critical role of rIFG in coordinating top-down cortico-subcortical control and supporting the brain in response inhibition. It emphasizes the complex dynamics of function.

Advanced research methods and results

In this comprehensive study, researchers used dynamic causal modeling (DCM-PEB) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), a substantial sample size to investigate inhibitory circuits in the brain, with a particular focus on the right inferior frontal gyrus (rIFG), caudate nucleus (rCau), globus pallidus (rGP), and thalamus (rThal). (n = 250). This approach treated the brain as a nonlinear dynamical system and enabled the inference of directed causal relationships between these nodes, influenced by task demands and biological variables.

Brain activation map of general response inhibition at the whole-brain level (control: NoGo > Go; P < 0.05 FWE, peak level). L, left. Mr. R, that’s right. The color bar represents the t-value of the BOLD signal and reflects the significance level of the contrast.Credit: Psychoradiology

Our findings reveal high intrinsic connectivity within this neural circuit, with response inhibition markedly enhancing causal projections from rIFG to both rCau and rThal, particularly in the regulatory role of rIFG during such tasks. It has become clear that the role will be expanded. This study also revealed that gender and performance metrics significantly influence the functional architecture of the circuit. For example, females showed increased self-inhibition of rThal and decreased regulation to GP, whereas better inhibitory performance was associated with stronger transmission from rThal to rIFG.

Sex differences and hemispheric asymmetry

Interestingly, these communication patterns are not reflected in the left-lateralized model, which emphasizes hemispheric asymmetry. This study shows that different brain processes may mediate similar behavioral performance in response inhibition across genders, and that response inhibition may be higher in the thalamic loop in particular. Accuracy Associated with stronger information flow from rThal to rIFG.

(a) Location of the region included in the right model. A matrix: Intrinsic connectivity across all experimental conditions (b, f). B matrix: modulatory effects on effective connectivity between regions and self-inhibition from NoGo (c, g) and Go conditions (d, h). C matrix: Driving ROI inputs (e, i) in NoGo and Go conditions. The values in the matrix reflect the connection parameters.Credit: Psychoradiology

Impact and future directions

These insights into the brain’s inhibitory control mechanisms have important implications for understanding a variety of psychiatric and neurological disorders characterized by response inhibition deficits. The results of this study may guide the development of targeted neuromodulatory strategies and personalized interventions to address these disorders, enhancing the treatment and management of such conditions..

Reference: “Right inferior frontal gyrus as an effective regulator of the cardinal node and basal ganglia thalamocortical response inhibition circuit” Qian Zhuang, Lei Qiao, Lei Xu, Shuxia Yao, Shuaiyu Chen, Xiaoxiao Zheng, Jialin Li, Meina Fu, Keshuang Lee, Deniz Vatancevar, Stefania Ferraro, Keith M. Kendrick, Benjamin Becker, October 13, 2023. psychoradiology.
DOI: 10.1093/psyrad/kkad016

Source: scitechdaily.com

Study Shows Abdominal Circumference Grows During the Holiday Season

Posted on December 14, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

increase in perimeter

Some people get bigger during the holidays than they were before the holidays. A team from the University of Castilla-La Mancha and the University of Valladolid in Spain surveyed several first-year undergraduate nursing students and found that Preliminary study on the increase in BMI of health science students during Christmas vacation”.

Researchers assessed changes in weight and waist circumference in 67 students over the Christmas break. They asked students to take measurements on December 23, the day before the holidays officially began, and again at two designated locations during the holidays, and finally when the university’s general activities officially resumed on December 23. Measured on the 13th of the month.

(Presumably the students were honest and accurate. However, the study did not include the following: “This was an exploratory pilot study of self-reports. It is known that these reports tend to underestimate weight. ) The self-reported numbers show that: On average, students gained about 0.5 kg during their vacation and gained it back by the time they returned to campus.

The study states, “Overall, for both men and women, students who weighed more tended to gain more weight.” Research suggests that what students ate (not just the amount) may have played a significant role. “Students who were on a high-fat diet showed more significant weight changes.”

What kind of new hill of beans does this amount of pounds above and below equate to? The study found that “weight gain is not surprising, but it does show that young people may gain weight during the holiday period.” ” concludes.

What about the size of the student’s waistline (referred to in research as “abdominal circumference”)? It increased by about 1 centimeter on average and stayed that way. In other words, people tended to gain just a little bit more weight after the holidays.

A little moment on holiday

The little things that happen during the holidays are especially memorable because of their timing.

The same is true of a snake that bites a man’s genitals while defecating. GH Dijkema and his colleagues from Rhine State Hospital in the Netherlands reveal the details in a report called “.Scrotal necrosis after cobra (Naja annulifera) poisoning”.

At its core, this is a simple story. The research team condenses the basic facts into one sentence. “A 47-year-old otherwise healthy man was vacationing in a nature reserve in South Africa when a snake jumped out of the toilet and bit him on the genitals while he was using the toilet.”

Enough detail has been added to fill two and a half pages, punctuated by three photos of injured body parts. The authors also add some kind thoughts: In countries known for snakes, always flush the toilet before sitting down. ”

new holiday traditions

Some families like to get together to read aloud holiday stories, especially the Christmas stories written by Charles Dickens. But for families who are tired of hearing the same old words year after year, there is an alternative. Perhaps most beneficial is to take a business-like approach.

Yukyung Kim has identified a number of stories that you and your family can read aloud to each other as you look forward to the arrival of the new year, because no one will stop you.

Kim compiled this material as the main part of his master’s thesis at the University of Liberal Arts and Convergence Sciences in South Korea, which he titled “.Research on CEO New Year’s greetings: Research using text mining method”. As most holidaymakers know, “CEO” is an acronym for the phrase “Chief Executive Officer.”

Kim’s summaries of these New Year’s stories are more businesslike than those of Dickens’ Christmas stories. Mr. Kim said: “This study analyzed the New Year speeches of his CEOs of major Korean companies… [I] We analyzed 545 New Year’s speeches announced by the top 66 Korean companies by market capitalization from 2012 to 2021. ”

Many Korean CEO New Year’s greetings can be found on the Internet or by sending a request in a complimentary tone to the company headquarters. After a night of listening to families loudly proclaim these CEO stories, no matter what happens in the next few days, it will feel like the start of a vibrant year.

Muddy white christmas

Calcium carbonate (CaCO) is the reason we have a white Christmas in warm places, as opposed to snow covering the ground in colder climates.₃) precipitates in calm water. CaCO₃ It falls to the ocean floor and is covered with thick white lime mud.

Sam Purkiss and his team at the University of Miami, Florida, published a study on this titled “.It’s always a white Christmas in the Bahamas: Temperature and hydrodynamics localize winter mud production on the Great Bahama Bank.”.

As a Christmas Eve reading, the writing isn’t as good as Dickens (or Korean CEO), but you can have your relatives enjoy the lyrical parts. For example, “spatial heterogeneity in aragonite saturation is high in winter, and zones of peak bleaching are located in areas of locally increased saturation.”

Set to festive music and a cheerful atmosphere, a dramatic reading of Calcium Carbonate’s White Christmas will change everyone’s thoughts for the better.

Mark Abrahams hosted the Ig Nobel Prize ceremony and co-founded the magazine Annals of Improbable Research. Previously, he was working on unusual uses of computers.his website is impossible.com

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Rediscovery of Fazilde’s trapdoor spider after 92 years in Portugal

Posted on December 14, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Fazilde’s trapdoor spider rediscovered in northern Portugal

Sergio Enriquez/Re:wild

The elusive trapped spider has been rediscovered in a small village in Portugal after 92 years of disappearance.

Fazilde’s Trapdoor Spider (Nemesia berlandi) was first described in 1931 after an entomologist discovered a pair of females just outside the small village of Fajilde in northern Portugal. According to two specimens collected at the time, the female has a dark brown body and is thought to be about 2.2 centimeters in length at most.

This species belongs to a family of trapdoor spiders called Arachnidae, whose members live in burrows with hinged doors to catch unsuspecting prey. Although males have not been observed, scientists believe they behave similarly to related spiders, performing rhythmic tap dances on female doorsteps to attract mates.

Since its discovery, Fazilde’s trapped spider appears to have disappeared, and the species was considered lost to science.

“We tend to miss them because they’re so cryptic. They have trapdoors that look exactly like the background they have in the area, including leaves and moss,” he says. Sergio Enriquez At the Indianapolis Zoo in Indiana.

In 2011, Enriquez and his colleagues discovered a series of horizontal burrows around Fazilde and suggested that: N. Berlandi It may be the only spider among spiders that does not grow vertically.

After a two-year expedition in the Fazilde forest area, the team finally discovered this reclusive spider for the first time in 92 years.

They stumble upon a horizontal burrow and find a deep brown female spider and her children. This female matched the first description of Fazilde’s trapdoor spider, described in 1931.

“This discovery was like winning the lottery while being struck by lightning,” Enriquez said.

To confirm that it really was N. BerlandiThe research team analyzed its DNA samples and found that it was different from other known trapdoor species.

Enriquez and his colleagues hope the rediscovery will spur efforts to protect the spider, which lives in areas of the country threatened by wildfires and flooding.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Queensland’s Gateway: From a Roaring Category 4

Posted on December 13, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

A satellite image of Tropical Storm Jasper taken on December 12, 2023 by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer aboard NASA’s Aqua satellite.

The first storm of Australia’s tropical cyclone season has headed towards Port Douglas.

The 2023 tropical cyclone season will occur in the Atlantic Ocean and Northeast Pacific Ocean. nearing the end, but in the southern hemisphere near Australia, it’s just getting started. The region’s first tropical cyclone of the season formed in the first week of December in the Coral Sea.

MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) NASA‘s Aqua satellite captured images of Tropical Cyclone Jasper approaching northeast Queensland on December 12 at 04:10 UTC (3:10 p.m. local time).

With maximum wind speeds of 220 kilometers per hour (140 mph), the storm had earlier intensified rapidly, reaching Category 4 strength in the upper atmosphere. saffir simpson scale. It then weakened under the influence of dry air and wind, preventing a more symmetrical structure and clearer eyes by the time this image was taken.

with the forecaster Joint Typhoon Warning Center Jasper is expected to strengthen slightly on its final approach and make landfall near Port Douglas with winds of 120 kilometers per hour (75 miles per hour), making it a weak Category 1 storm.In some areas you can receive up to 30cm The Australian Bureau of Meteorology said 12 inches of rain fell in six hours and up to 50 centimeters in 24 hours.

Used by forecasters at the Joint Typhoon Warning Center observation From NASA’s TROPICS (Time-Resolved Observation of Precipitation Structure and Storm Intensity by Small Satellites) mission. their analysis The strength of the storm before landfall. Tracking storms with TROPICS is expected to improve our understanding of the processes that cause the rapid intensification of tropical cyclones. Each of his five satellites in this constellation carries a cross-track microwave sounder that makes observations at 205 gigahertz, which improves observations of storm cloud structure.

among them Announcement of seasonal outlook In October, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology predicted that Australia would have fewer tropical cyclones than usual this season. El Niño.Satellite observations collected since the 1970s It shows that the number of such storms forming near Australia is gradually decreasing.of Sixth Assessment Report More from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Projects downward trend In the future, the frequency of tropical cyclones in Australia will increase, but the proportion of severe storms will increase.

NASA Earth Observatory image by Michala Garrison using NASA EOSDIS LANCE and MODIS data from GIBS/Worldview.

Source: scitechdaily.com

Preparing Dragon for the Launch and Progress of Space Exploration

Posted on December 13, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

This photo from the International Space Station orbiting 462 miles above cloudy Central Asia shows the jagged Moon waning just above Earth’s horizon. Credit: NASA The crew of Expedition 70 is picking up the pace as they load cargo onto a U.S. cargo ship for its upcoming departure.Seven people international space station (ISS) residents also continue to focus on a range of microgravity sciences to improve human health and commercialize low Earth orbit. The SpaceX Dragon cargo spacecraft is nearing the end of its docked stay at the forward port of the Harmony module. Over the next few days, the four astronauts will pack more than 3,500 pounds of scientific materials and hardware into Dragon for removal and analysis back on Earth. NASA ESA aeronautical engineer Jasmine Moghberg and Commander Andreas Mogensen (european space agency) removed the scientific cargo freezer containing the research samples from the station’s EXPRESS rack and stowed it inside the Dragon for return to Earth. Astronaut Loral O’Hara and astronaut Satoshi Furukawa transported a cargo bag filled with hardware and trash and strapped it inside Dragon in preparation for its descent into Earth’s gravity. Japan’s tallest mountain, Mount Fuji, was photographed as part of the International Space Station orbiting 420 miles above the sky. The active stratovolcano’s peak reaches more than 12,000 feet (approximately 3,700 meters) above sea level and is covered in snow for five months of the year. Credit: NASA Ongoing research and crew activities The crew continued to load hardware and science onto the ship. space x The Dragon cargo spacecraft’s managers and operations team today are assessing weather conditions at various possible landing sites for its return to Earth, in preparation for its scheduled undocking Thursday afternoon. Despite the hectic cargo traffic, microgravity research continued apace, as the crew continued to explore how weightlessness affects biology and physics. NASA’s O’Hara will process the cell samples for culture, which researchers will analyze to investigate the senescence-like properties of immune cells and the regenerative capacity of liver cells.of space age Health research may provide deeper insight into the biology of aging and its impact on disease mechanisms. A nighttime view of Mexico City, Mexico’s capital and largest city with a population of 9.2 million people, was captured from the International Space Station, which orbits 460 miles above Central America. On the far left is the bright Felipe Angeles International Airport, easily observed from low Earth orbit. The large, dark area in the upper center is the Lake Texcoco Ecological Park. The dark area directly below is the Guadalupe Mountains. Credit: NASA From Mr. Furukawa JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) has replaced components in a microgravity science glovebox that supports physics experiments to produce optical fibers better than those produced on Earth.of Optical fiber manufacturing-2 This experiment has the potential to advance optical transmission capabilities that will benefit the Earth and space industries. Mogensen previously worked in the Harmony module, shaking mixing tubes containing different organisms for a variety of health-promoting biological and botany studies. These tubes are part of a NanoRacks-sponsored program that allows educational institutions and private organizations to conduct research on the space station. Contribution of Russian cosmonauts Today, cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko and Nikolai Chubb took turns wearing sensor-equipped hats and continuing to operate a computer. Roscosmos Research exploring future spacecraft and robot control technology. Researchers will use the data to train future crews and plan potential manned planetary missions. Cosmonaut Konstantin Borisov spent most of the day maintaining life support equipment, then synchronizing his camera with the station’s clock, which is set to GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). (function(d, s, id){ var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = “//connect.facebook.net/en_US/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v2.6”; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); }(document, ‘script’, ‘facebook-jssdk’));

Source: scitechdaily.com

Researchers discover new method for treating life-threatening liver condition

Posted on December 13, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

New research reveals the role of omega-3 fatty acids in the fight against non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)

Using innovative analytical techniques, researchers determined that omega-3 targets betacellulin, a protein that contributes to liver fibrosis. This discovery opens new avenues for NASH drug research and highlights the importance of omega-3s in the diet for liver health.

A recent study conducted by Oregon State University revealed new insights into how certain polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3s, fight serious liver conditions. This discovery paves the way for research into new drugs for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), for which there is currently no FDA-approved treatment.

Scientists including Natalia Shulzhenko, Andrei Morgan, and Donald Jump at Oregon State University used a technique known as multiomic network analysis to find that omega-3 supplements can be used to treat nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. This mechanism involves betacellulin, a protein growth factor that contributes to liver fibrosis and other serious liver conditions.

The results of this research have recently been published in EMBO molecular medicine. NASH is associated with a disease known as metabolic syndrome, and it is crucial to understand the role of omega-3s in the fight against NASH.

In this study, scientists used both a mouse model and human liver transcriptome data to determine that omega-3 PUFAs reduce, or downregulate, betacellulin in both mice and humans with NASH. This discovery not only significantly advances our understanding of how NASH begins and progresses, but also opens new doors for pharmaceutical research. Researchers say the discovery of betacellulin as a new drug target may help explore precision medicine approaches to NASH treatment and liver cancer prevention by using specific omega-3 PUFAs.

In addition to dietary supplements, omega-3 PUFAs can be found in cold-water fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel, as well as in some nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. Omega-3 PUFAs are essential fatty acids that are not produced by the body but must be obtained from the diet.

Reference:

Jyothi Padiadpu, Manuel Garcia-Jaramillo, Nolan K Newman, Written by Jacob W Pederson, Richard Rodrigues, Zhipeng Lee, Sekhavir Singh, Philippe Monnier, Giorgio Trinchieri, Kevin Brown, Amiran K. Zutsev, Natalia Shulzhenko, Donald B. Jump, Andrei Morgan, 2023 October 20th, EMBO molecular medicine. DOI: 10.15252/emm.202318367

Jyoti Padyap, a postdoctoral fellow in the OSU College of Pharmacy, is the study’s lead author. Other Oregon State researchers who contributed to the paper were Nolan Newman, Richard Rodriguez, Sehajivir Singh, Manuel Garcia-Jaramillo, Jacob Pederson, Jipeng Li, Philip Monnier, and Kevin Brown.

This research was supported by a grant from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, part of the National Institutes of Health.

Source: scitechdaily.com

Rage and frustration sparked by COP28 draft excluding fossil fuel phase-out

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

DUBAI, UAE – A draft COP28 climate change agreement that does not include a phase-out of fossil fuels has drawn widespread criticism from key stakeholders, highlighting deep-seated rifts on the final day of the international summit. There is.

The document, released by the United Arab Emirates, which hosts the climate summit, emphasized the need to reduce emissions but did not call for a complete phase-out of fossil fuels. Scientists believe that fossil fuels the single biggest factor Contributing to potentially life-threatening climate change.

Representatives from the United States, the European Union and countries vulnerable to climate change, including many in Africa and the Pacific Islands, have issued dire warnings about the draft agreement, putting it at odds with many oil-producing countries.

Wopke Hoekstra, the EU’s chief negotiator for COP28, told reporters that the draft was “clearly inadequate and inadequate to address the issues we need to address here.”

“It’s not because we want it, it’s not because the minister or I want it, it’s not because the Europeans want it,” Hoekstra said. “Because scientists clearly understand what is needed, and at the top of that list is the phasing out of fossil fuels. [correlation] Between doing so and ensuring we have the planet, we rescue people from danger. ”

Wopke Hoekstra, EU Commissioner for Climate Change.
Peter DeJong/Associated Press

US climate change envoy John Kerry expressed similar concerns, saying: Significant reductions are expected over the next 10 years. ”

“This is a war for survival,” he added.

The combustion of coal, oil, and gas accounts for more than three-quarters of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. This is why so many people asked for the results of COP28 to show that “We are truly at the beginning of the end of the fossil fuel era.”

However, COP28 President Sultan Al Jaber said: faced a backlash last week He insisted there was “no science” behind calls to phase out fossil fuels and that such a move would not enable sustainable development “unless we want the world to go back into caves”. .

In response to the subsequent outcry, Jaber, who is also the chief executive of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), said his team “very much believes in and respects science.”

A COP28 spokesperson told CNBC at the time that Al-Jaber was “steadfast” in saying that limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius requires action across many regions and sectors.

“We consider that there are elements in this document that are completely unacceptable,” Spain’s Minister of Environmental Transition, Teresa Rivera, told reporters after Monday’s publication of the draft, adding: “We believe there are elements in this document that are completely unacceptable.” How can we move forward in this important decade in the energy sector? ”

“I think it’s good to be clear about what we really want to create in this COP that the world needs, and whether we want this COP to create what it’s supposed to be: a turning point in the fight against climate change. ” she said. Added.

Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Annalena Verbock said the text was misleading. “In this critical decade, there is a complete lack of need to urgently replace and reduce fossil fuels in the power sector. The language on coal is inconsistent with EU energy policy, and the construction of new coal-fired power plants is completely absent. “is tolerated,” she said.

“Above all, the context around fossil fuels is misleading the world. This suggests that fossils may continue to play a significant role in our future. and send a misleading signal to the market.”

The draft document outlines several options for countries to reduce emissions, including “to achieve net zero by, or before, 2050. It includes “reducing both the consumption and production of fossil fuels in a fair, orderly and equitable manner.”

COP28 President Jaber said on Monday that the nearly 200 countries taking part in the talks “still have a lot of work to do”.

“Progress is needed on many areas, including the language on fossil fuels,” he said, calling for “more flexibility” from stakeholders.

The UAE is a member of the powerful oil producing group OPEC and is among the top 10 oil producing countries in the world.

Natasha Tulak, CNBC

Natasha Tulak is a correspondent for CNBC.

Sam Meredith, CNBCcontributed.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

The Changing Debate on Fossil Fuels at COP28: Even if the Climate Summit Fails

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Climate change protester Risipriya Kangujam takes the stage during the COP28 debate on December 11th

Dominika Zarzycka/NurPhoto via Getty Image

The COP28 climate summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, has gone into extra time, with a real possibility that negotiations will fail given how far countries are separated on the future of oil, gas, and coal. It has become a target. But whatever the outcome, this summit changed the way the world talks about fossil fuels and climate change.

“The calculations are being made for fossil fuels,” he says. David Waskow at the World Resources Institute, an environmental nonprofit organization. “This has put the issue front and center and changed the conversation around it, and I hope that will continue to be the case.”

At the summit, and in the months leading up to it, many countries and many civil society organizations lobbied for strong language on phasing out fossil fuels in any deal reached in Dubai. The phasing out of fossil fuels received unexpected attention near the end of last year’s COP27 summit in Egypt, but the role of fossil fuels in driving climate change as a major source of greenhouse gas emissions has never been more important. There has never been a COP with such continuous focus.

“Even a year ago, the historic debate on phasing out fossil fuels currently taking place at COP28 was completely unthinkable,” he says. Jonas Kuehl At the International Institute for Sustainable Development, Canada. “The joint efforts of nearly 130 countries and civil society forced them into a process that has been fruitless for many years.”

The draft core agreement, published on December 11, drew heavy criticism from a number of countries and organizations yesterday for not mentioning the phasing out of fossil fuels. However, the draft does mention the need to reduce the production and use of fossil fuels and makes two other references to these fuels. This alone represents a significant change from past summits, which referred to emissions but not major sources.

“This is the first COP to actually include the word fossil fuels in a draft decision,” he said. Mohamed Addo At Powershift Africa, a Kenyan energy think tank. “This is the beginning of the end of the fossil fuel era.”

Summit participants are fundamentally divided on what should be included in the agreement. High-income Western countries, as well as small island states and some low-income countries such as Colombia and Kenya, are demanding stronger language on ending the use of fossil fuels to be part of the agreement. We are united. But countries that rely on oil and gas revenues, and those that consider fossil fuel development essential to future development, oppose disqualifying language.

“The United States, Canada, and Australia are all fossil fuel producers, but they are all perfectly aligned with European countries,” he says. Andrew Deutz At the Nature Conservancy. “This puts even more pressure on fossil fuel producing countries.”

Countries that oppose language phasing do so for a variety of reasons. For example, the Group of African States, while not totally opposed to such an agreement, recognizes that any agreement would have different responsibilities and timelines for phase-out, and that it is important for countries to implement energy transitions. It claims to provide support to do so.

“Asking Africa to phase out fossil fuels is like asking Africa to stop breathing without life support,” Nigeria’s Environment Minister Isiak Kunle Salako said at a press conference at the summit on December 12. African ministers also emphasized the need for further support. This is to adapt to the climate change that is already occurring.

Nigeria is part of a group of oil-exporting countries called OPEC, and its members, especially Saudi Arabia, have been the strongest opponents of the phase-out. But the overwhelming focus on fossil fuels means it may not matter in the long run.

“I think because of the pressure from oil and gas interests, if we don’t agree to phase out fossil fuels here, it’s likely to be a pyrrhic victory for them,” he said. bill hare At the think tank Climate Analytics. “They would have kept it going, but they wouldn’t have stopped it.”

A complete failure at COP28 could help build momentum towards an unjust end to the fossil fuel era, Hare says. “Next year we’ll probably see more countries wanting to phase out fossil fuels, more countries thinking about it more and putting more pressure on oil and gas producers.”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

House cats consume more than 2,000 species, including turtles and insects.

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

cats are formidable predators

Gary John Norman / Alamy

Domestic cats have been recorded to eat more than 2,000 other species, and the actual number of species they eat is probably much higher. This is the result of a first attempt to create a comprehensive list.

“We know that cats eat a lot, but I don’t think anyone has really looked into the full story,” he says. Christopher Lepczyk At Auburn University in Alabama. “We started thinking, how big is this problem? Are there any animals that cats aren’t eating?”

Based on scientific papers, his team created a database of what cats ate and where they ate. This list includes 981 birds, 463 reptiles, 431 mammals (including humans), 119 insects, 57 amphibians, and 33 species belonging to other groups.

Of these 2,084 species, 347 are considered endangered or already extinct in the wild, including the western quoll, green turtle, and Newell’s shearwater, including the Stevens Island wren. But the study didn’t consider how big a role cat predation played in these cases, Lepczyk said.

These numbers are far from telling the complete story, he says. “We are just the tip of the iceberg.”

For example, in many cases where cats were recorded eating insects or other invertebrates, the species was not identified.

“The range of cats’ diets far exceeds what we’ve seen in many other carnivores and predators,” Lepczyk said. “There are few things cats won’t eat.”

Some of the species included in the database are also scavenged by cats, which is part of the reason why the list includes species too large for cats to kill. But in some cases, such as green sea turtles, cats can catch juveniles, Lepczyk said.

The study did not consider what could be done to reduce the amount of wildlife killed by domestic cats. However, some helpful measures include keeping your cat indoors or in a fenced yard, microchipping, and having your cat spayed or neutered.

It was also recently discovered that cats can spread the brain-altering parasite that causes toxoplasmosis to both wildlife and humans.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

AI technology capable of translating brain waves into text

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

AI can decode brainwave recordings and predict words someone is reading

Vertigo3d/Getty Images

A team of scientists has announced that a sensor-equipped helmet, combined with artificial intelligence, can translate a person’s thoughts into text.

In this study, participants read passages of text while wearing hats, and their brain electrical activity was recorded through the scalp. These electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings were converted to text using an AI model called DeWave.

Lin Ching Tian Researchers from Australia’s University of Technology Sydney (UTS) say the technology is non-invasive, relatively cheap and portable.

The system is far from perfect, with an accuracy of about 40%, but recent data currently under peer review shows an improvement in accuracy of more than 60%, Lin said.

In a study published in NeurIPS conference In New Orleans, Louisiana, the DeWave program does not use spoken language, but instead has participants read sentences aloud. However, in the researchers’ latest study, participants read the text silently.

Last year, the team he led was jerry tan Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin reported similar accuracy in converting thoughts into text, but used MRI scans to interpret brain activity. Using EEG is more practical because the subject does not have to remain still in the scanner.

UTS team member Charles Zhou said the DeWave model was trained by looking at many examples where brain signals matched a particular sentence.

“For example, when you think of saying ‘hello,’ your brain sends a specific signal,” Zhou says. “DeWave learns how these signals relate to the word ‘hello’ by looking at many examples of these signals for different words and sentences.”

Once DeWave had a good understanding of the brain signals, the team connected it to an open-source large-scale language model (LLM) similar to the AI that powers ChatGPT.

“This LLM is like a smart writer who can craft sentences. We tell these writers to pay attention to the signals from DeWave and use that as a guide to craft their sentences. ” says Zhou.

Finally, the team trained both DeWave and a language model together to further improve their ability to write sentences based on EEG data.

Researchers predict that further improvements to the system could revolutionize communication for people who have lost language due to stroke or other conditions, and could also have applications in robotics.

craig gin from the University of Sydney said he was impressed by Lin’s team’s work. “It’s great progress,” he says.

“People have long wanted to convert brainwaves to text, and the team’s model shows amazing accuracy. A few years ago, EEG-to-text conversion was complete and utter nonsense. .”

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Revealing the Ocean’s Secret Carbon Storage Capacity

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

New research published in Nature It has been suggested that the ocean’s capacity to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is 20% higher than previously thought, at 15 gigatonnes per year. This study focused on the role of plankton in carbon transport to the ocean floor. Credit: SciTechDaily.com

Research has revealed that the ocean is storing 20% more carbon dioxide than previously estimated, primarily due to plankton transporting carbon to the ocean floor. However, this new understanding will not have much of an impact on his current CO2 emissions crisis.

The ocean’s capacity to store atmospheric carbon dioxide is about 20% greater than estimates included in the latest IPCC report.^[1] These are the research results published in the journal Nature Led by an international team including biologists from the CNRS, it took place on December 6, 2023.^[2] Scientists investigated the role plankton plays in the natural transport of carbon from surface waters to the ocean floor.

Plankton absorb carbon dioxide and convert it into organic tissue as they grow. photosynthesis. When plankton dies, some of it turns into particles known as “marine snow.” Because these particles are denser than seawater, they sink to the ocean floor, where they store carbon and provide essential nutrients to a wide range of deep-sea organisms, from tiny bacteria to deep-sea fish.

Global distribution of organic carbon flux from the surface layer of the open ocean. Credit: © Wang et al., 2023, Nature.

By analyzing banks of data collected from around the world by ocean research vessels since the 1970s, a team of seven scientists was able to digitally map the flux of organic matter across the world’s oceans. The resulting new estimate of carbon storage capacity is 15 gigatonnes per year, an increase of about 20% compared to a previous study published by the IPCC in its 2021 report (11 gigatonnes per year).

This reassessment of the ocean’s storage capacity represents a significant advance in our understanding of carbon exchange between the atmosphere and ocean at the global level. The research team emphasizes that this absorption process takes place over tens of thousands of years and is therefore not sufficient to offset the exponential growth of CO.₂ Despite emissions caused by industrial activity around the world since 1750, this study highlights the importance of marine ecosystems as a key player in the long-term control of Earth’s climate.

Note

IPCC Climate Change 2021 Report, Fundamentals of the Physical Sciences, Chapter 5, Figure 5.12: Figure AR6 WG1 | Climate Change 2021: Fundamentals of the Physical Sciences (ipcc.ch)
From Marine Environmental Science Research Institute (CNRS/UBO/IFREMER/IRD)

Reference: “Estimating biological carbon pumps based on decades of hydrographic data” Wei-Lei Wang, Weiwei Fu, Frédéric AC Le Moigne, Robert T. Letscher, Yi Liu, Jin-Ming Tang, François W. Primeau , December 6, 2023, Nature.
DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06772-4

Source: scitechdaily.com

The correlation between vitamin B12 deficiency and multiple sclerosis

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

A groundbreaking study focused on astrocytes in the brain has uncovered a new molecular link between vitamin B12 and multiple sclerosis (MS). This study demonstrates that his FDA-approved MS treatment drug, fingolimod, can modulate the B12 transmission pathway, highlighting the potential of B12 supplementation in MS treatment. Credit: SciTechDaily.com

Study results identify molecular signaling pathways that have the potential to enhance current MS treatments.

Scientists have noted interesting similarities between vitamin B deficiency and B vitamins for decades.₁₂ – Essential nutrients that support the healthy development and function of the central nervous system (CNS) – and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the CNS, causing neurodegeneration.

Both are vitamin B₁₂ (also known as cobalamin) deficiency and multiple sclerosis cause similar neurological symptoms, including numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, loss of vision, difficulty walking or talking normally, and cognitive impairment such as memory loss .

New research reveals molecular connections

In a new study published online on December 8, 2023, cell reportSanford Burnham Prebys researchers are working with other collaborators to describe a new molecular relationship between B vitamins.₁₂ The other is MS, which occurs in astrocytes, which are important non-neuroglial cells in the brain.

The findings of the study’s senior authors Jerrold Chun, MD, PhD, professor and senior vice president for neuroscience drug discovery, and Yasuyuki Kihara, PhD, associate research professor and co-corresponding author, and their colleagues, open new ways to conduct research. It suggests. Improving MS treatment through CNS-B₁₂ Replenishment.

“Covalent molecular bonds of vitamin B in the brain”₁₂ A carrier protein known as transcobalamin 2 or TCN2 and the FDA-approved MS drug fingolimod provide a mechanistic link between B and B.₁₂ “Signal transduction and MS lead to reduced neuroinflammation and possibly neurodegeneration,” Chun said.

“Strengthen Brain B”₁₂ When used in combination with fingolimod or potentially related molecules, it could potentially enhance both current and future MS treatments. ”

Study details and impact

In their paper, the Sanford Burnham Prebys team, along with collaborators from the University of Southern California, Japan’s Juntendo University, Tokyo University of Pharmacy, and the State University of New York, focused on the molecular function of FTY720, or fingolimod (Gilenya®). . ), a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator that suppresses the distribution of T and B immune cells that mistakenly attack the brains of MS patients.

Using animal models of MS and postmortem human brains, researchers found that fingolimod suppresses neuroinflammation by functionally and physically modulating group B.₁₂ Enhance communication channels, especially B₁₂ A receptor called CD320 must take up and use the necessary B₁₂ If bound to TCN2 distributing B₁₂ throughout the body, including the CNS. This known process was newly identified through interaction with fingolimod within astrocytes. Importantly, this relationship was also observed in human MS brains.

Of particular note, the researchers reported lower levels of CD320 or dietary B;₁₂The restriction worsened the disease course and reduced the therapeutic efficacy of fingolimod in animal models of MS.This occurred through a hitchhiking mechanism in which fingolimod binds to TCN2-B.₁₂ This complex allows delivery to all astrocytes via interaction with CD320, and loss of the component disrupts the process and exacerbates the disease.

These new findings further support the use of B .₁₂ It turns out that supplements, particularly fingolimod, can correct astrocyte B disorders in terms of delivering vitamins to astrocytes in the brain.₁₂ Pathways for MS patients.

Scientists say other commercially available S1P receptor modulators, such as Mayzent®, Zeposia® and Ponvory®, may be able to access at least part of this CNS mechanism.This study supports B₁₂ Supplementation with S1P receptor modulators aimed at improving the efficacy of this class of drugs.

This study also opens new avenues for how B functions.₁₂The -TCN2-CD320 pathway is regulated by sphingolipids, specifically sphingosine, an endogenous structural analog of naturally occurring fingolimod, for future improvements in MS treatment, Chun said.

“We support the creation of B that targets the brain.”₁₂ formulation. In the future, this mechanism may be extended to new treatments for other neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. ”

Reference: “FTY720 requires astrocyte vitamin B12-TCN2-CD320 signaling to reduce disease in animal models of multiple sclerosis” (Deepa Jonnalagadda, Yasuyuki Kihara, Aran Groves, Manisha Ray, Arjun Saha, Clayton Ellington, Hyeon-Cheol Lee-Okada), Tomomi Furuhata, Takehiko Yokomizo, Edward V. Quadros, Richard Rivera, Jerrold Chun, December 7, 2023. cell report.
DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113545

Additional authors of the study include Sanford Burnham Prebys, Alan Groves, Sanford Burnham Prebys, Deepa Johnnalagadda, Manisha Ray, Clayton Ellington, and Richard Rivera of the University of California, San Diego . Arjun Saha, University of Southern California. Juntendo University, Hyeon-Cheol Lee-Okada and Takehiko Yokomizo. Tomomi Furuhata (Tokyo University of Pharmacy) Edward V. Quadros, Downtown Medical Center, New York.

This research was supported by a grant from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. National Institutes of Health (R01NS103940), Novartis, Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology/JSPS KAKENHI (18H02627, 19KK0199, 21H04798, 18K16246 and 21K08565). Additional support was provided by the Uehara Memorial Foundation, Kanae Medical Foundation, Mochida Memorial Medical and Pharmaceutical Research Foundation, Human Frontier Science Program, and the University of California, San Diego Medical Scientist Training Program and Pharmacology Training Grant (T32GM007752). . ).

Source: scitechdaily.com

The impact of daily songs on the appeal of songbirds

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Every Christmas season, it becomes clear once again that there are amazingly accomplished singers like Mariah Carey and George Michael. Their songs stir strong emotions. Singing involves perhaps the most complex and mostly hidden movements that humans and animals can perform. To become a good singer, you need to learn how to coordinate the movements of hundreds of muscles in your body with great precision. Therefore, it requires a lot of talent and practice.

Voice box training: unexplored territory We all know that athletes spend a lot of time exercising their limbs and body muscles, but why not try training your voice box muscles? “Surprisingly, little is known about the effects of exercise on these muscles or whether they respond to training in humans,” said Professor Koen Elemans of the University of Southern Denmark, an expert in sound production. says. Close to their precious voice box.

This study found that male songbirds require daily singing practice to improve vocal muscle health and song quality. This is an important factor in attracting mates and maintaining social bonds.

Insights from Songbirds

New research published today (December 12th) in a prestigious journal nature communications Male songbirds report that they need to sing daily to strengthen their vocal muscles and produce beautiful songs. And if the female didn’t notice, she notices. “Singing is extremely important for songbirds. They sing to impress potential partners, protect their territory, and maintain social bonds,” said Iris, lead author of the study. Dr. Adam says.

Researchers have shown that songbirds’ vocal muscles require training to keep them at peak performance. And it’s not just training; what’s especially important is singing practice. The study was carried out by an international team of researchers from the University of Southern Denmark, Leiden University, Umeå University and the University of Vermont, and led by Assistant Professor Iris Adam and Professor Koen Elemans from the Department of Biology at the University of Southern Denmark. .

Vocal muscles also need exercise
“It has long been known that songbird calls are controlled by fast vocal muscles, but it remains to be seen whether and how these muscles respond to exercise, similar to leg muscles. “Until now, we knew very little about it,” says Iris Adam. In their study, the researchers showed that when songbirds don’t use their vocal muscles at all, their voices become significantly slower and weaker within a few days. But even if the bird only made a mumble, after seven days the vocal muscles had already lost 50% of their power.

Therefore, in order for songbirds to remain attractive, they may need to invest a lot of time and energy into singing every day.

Unique features of the vocal muscles While studying the vocal muscles of zebra finches, the research team made another very important discovery. “When we go to the gym to work out our leg and arm muscles, we typically slow down our movements,” said study author Pell Stoll, an expert in human muscle exercise physiology. To tell. But songbird vocal muscles, like the muscles in their limbs, don’t get stronger or slower with exercise, they get weaker and faster. This is the opposite of normal limb and body muscles. “We think this reverse training may be unique to the vocal muscles and may be true for everyone.” vertebrateBecause all vocal muscles are developmentally related, ”says Iris Adam.

Source: scitechdaily.com

Can Natural Genetic Factors Lead to Having More Children in a Shorter Time?

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Scientific Evidence Backs Antagonistic Pleiotropy Theory of Aging

Comprehensive studies have confirmed the antagonistic pleiotropy theory of aging, indicating a genetic correlation between high fertility and shortened lifespan. Nonetheless, environmental factors are highlighted as major influencers of modern human lifespan and reproductive behavior.

New research further supports the idea that genes promoting early reproduction can accelerate aging but emphasizes the overriding role of environmental factors in determining longevity and reproduction.

Originating in a 1957 theory proposed by evolutionary biologist George Williams, the antagonistic pleiotropy theory posits that genetic mutations favoring early reproduction could simultaneously contribute to aging, making life shorter.

The theory was tested in a new study led by the University of Michigan, involving over 276,000 individuals, reaffirming its validity. The researchers found distinct genome-wide evidence supporting the theory.

A novel breakthrough discovery showcased a strong negative genetic correlation between reproduction and longevity, suggesting that mutations promoting reproduction tend to shorten lifespan. However, this link is also influenced by environmental factors.

It was established that the number and timing of reproduction can impact lifespan. Remarkably, having two children was linked to the longest lifespan, according to this study, reinforcing previous research findings.

The concept of pleiotropy suggests that a single mutation can impact multiple traits, while antagonistic pleiotropy posits that mutations can be beneficial or harmful depending on various circumstances. The evolutionary basis of aging is seen through this lens.

In line with this, the study’s outcome points to significant environmental changes, such as lifestyle and technological advances, as opposed to genetic variants identified as drivers of human phenotypic changes.

Reference: “Evidence for the role of selection for reproductively advantageous alleles in human aging” by Erping Long and Jianzhi Zhang, December 8, 2023. DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh4990

Source: scitechdaily.com

Is Pulsar Light the Key to Solving the Dark Matter Mystery?

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

New research explores the possibility that dark matter is composed of theoretical particles called axions, and focuses on detecting them through additional light from pulsars. Although axions have not yet been confirmed in early observations, this research is critical to understanding dark matter.

A central question in the ongoing search for dark matter is: What is dark matter made of? One possible answer is that dark matter is made up of particles known as axions. A recent study by astrophysicists at the University of Amsterdam and Princeton University suggests that if dark matter is indeed made of axions, it could manifest itself in the form of subtle additional glow emanating from pulsating stars.

Dark matter may be the most sought-after building block in our universe. Remarkably, this mysterious form of matter, so far undetectable by physicists and astronomers, is thought to make up a huge portion of what exists on Earth. It is suspected that more than 85% of the matter in the universe is “dark”, and at the moment it is only recognized by the gravitational force it exerts on other celestial bodies. Naturally, scientists want to look directly detect its existence rather than just inferring it from gravitational effects. And of course they want to know what of course, solve two problems One thing is clear: dark matter cannot be the same kind of matter that makes up you and me. If so, dark matter would simply behave like ordinary matter. Dark matter will form star-like objects, will glow, and will no longer be “dark.” So scientists are looking for something new, a type of particle that no one has detected yet, and perhaps one that only interacts very weakly with the types of particles we know about.

One common hypothesis is that dark matter may be made of: Axion. This hypothetical type of particle was first introduced in the 1970s when he solved a problem that had nothing to do with dark matter. The separation of positive and negative charges inside a neutron, one of the building blocks of a normal atom, turns out to be unexpectedly small. Of course, scientists wanted to know why. It turns out that the presence of a previously undetected type of particle that interacts very weakly with components of neutrons can cause just such an effect. Frank Wilczek, who later won the Nobel Prize, came up with the name for this new particle. Axion – as well as similar to another particle name such as protons, neutrons, and electrons. photon, but it’s also inspired by the laundry detergent of the same name. Axion existed to solve problems. In fact, it might clean up the two even if it’s not detected. Several theories about elementary particles, including string theory, one of the leading candidate theories for unifying all the forces in nature, seem to predict the possibility of axion-like particles.

Fortunately, there appears to be a way out of this conundrum for axions. If the theory predicting axions is correct, not only would axions be expected to be produced in large quantities in the universe, but some axions could also be converted to light in the presence of strong electromagnetic fields. If there is light, we can see. Could this be the key to detecting axions and, by extension, dark matter? To answer this question, scientists first had to ask themselves where in the universe the strongest known electric and magnetic fields occur. The answer is known in the region around rotating neutron stars. pulsar. These pulsars (short for “pulsating stars”) are dense objects with a mass about the same as the Sun, but a radius about 100,000 times smaller, or only about 10 km. Because pulsars are so small, they rotate at enormous frequencies and emit bright, narrow beams of radio radiation along their axis of rotation. Just like a lighthouse pulsarThe beam can sweep across the Earth, making it easy to observe the pulsating star. But the pulsar’s massive rotation does more than that. it is, neutron star It turns into a very powerful electromagnet. That could mean Pulsar is a highly efficient axion factory. The average pulsar can produce 50 orders of magnitude axions per second. Because of the strong electromagnetic fields surrounding pulsars, some of these axions can be converted into observable light.

As always in science, carrying out such observations in practice is, of course, not so easy. The light emitted by axions (which can be detected in the form of radio waves) is only a fraction of the total light these bright cosmic lighthouses send back to us. Much less can we quantify the difference and turn it into a measurement of the amount of dark matter. This is exactly what a team of physicists and astronomers are currently doing. Through a collaboration between the Netherlands, Portugal, and the United States, the research team has uncovered details about how axions are created, how axions escape the neutron star’s gravity, and…

First observational tests were performed on the theory and simulation results…referencesystem, simulate a subtle glow

Next, first observational tests were performed on the theory and simulation results…referencesystem to show that it is very unlikely that axions are a component of…s

Note: The original content contained HTML tags, it’s been removed in the rewrite.

Source: scitechdaily.com

COVID-19 can lie dormant in the lungs for as long as 18 months

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

SARS-CoV-2 Virus Persistence Study

The SARS-CoV-2 Virus Persistence Study

The SARS-CoV-2 virus can remain in the lungs for up to 18 months after infection, a study has found, challenging the notion that it is undetectable after initial recovery. This persistence is associated with a failure of the innate immune system. This study confirms the existence of “viral reservoirs” similar to those found in HIV and highlights the role of NK cells in controlling these reservoirs. This discovery is extremely important for understanding long-term COVID-19 infections and the mechanisms of viral persistence.

Groundbreaking research reveals:

SARS-CoV-2 Due to malfunctioning of the innate immune system, it can remain in the lungs for months, undetected, leading to long-term COVID-19 infections. 1 to 2 weeks after being infected with the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) virus It is generally undetectable in the upper respiratory tract. But does that mean it’s not present in the body? To find out, a team at the Institut Pasteur, which specializes in HIV, teamed up with France’s public research institute, the Commission for Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy (CEA), to study lung cells in animal models. It was conducted. This finding not only shows that SARS-CoV-2 can be detected in the lungs of certain individuals for up to 18 months after infection, but also that its persistence is associated with a failure of innate immunity, the first line of defense against the pathogen. It also shows that this is the case. ).This study was published in the journal innate immunology.

Discovery of virus carriers in the new coronavirus infection (COVID-19)

After causing an infection, some viruses remain in the body in a discreet and undetectable form. They remain in what is known as the “viral reservoir.” This is the case with HIV, which is latent in certain immune cells and can reactivate at any time. The same may be the case with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. COVID-19 (new coronavirus infection). At least, this is the hypothesis proposed in 2021 by a team of scientists at the Pasteur Institute, and now confirmed in a preclinical model in non-human primates.

“We observed that inflammation persisted for a long time in primates infected with SARS-CoV-2. We therefore thought that the presence of the virus in the body could be the cause,” said Pass. explains Michaela Müller Tortwin, head of the HIV, Inflammation and Persistence Unit at the Toole Institute. This study showed that the SARS-CoV-2 virus is transmitted from one macrophage to another through bridge-like cell processes, allowing it to spread. The cell nucleus is highlighted in pink and the viral protein NSP3 is highlighted in green. Credit: © Marie Lazzerini, Nicolas Huot, Institut Pasteur research result To study the persistence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, scientists at the Institut Pasteur collaborated with CEA’s IDMIT (Infectious Disease Models for Innovative Therapies) Center to study the persistence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus from animal models infected with the virus. The collected biological samples were analyzed. Early results from the study show that the virus was detected in some people’s lungs 6 to 18 months after infection, even though it was not detected in their upper respiratory tract or blood. Another finding was that the amount of residual virus in the lungs was lower with the Omicron strain than with the original SARS-CoV-2 strain. “We were really surprised that we found the virus in specific immune cells (alveolar macrophages) after such a long period of time, when routine PCR testing was negative,” said the study’s lead author. Yes, says Nicolas Huot, a researcher in HIV, inflammation and inflammation at the Institut Pasteur. Persistence unit.

“Furthermore, we were able to culture these viruses and use the tools we developed to study HIV to observe that the viruses were still able to replicate.” To understand the role of innate immunity in controlling these viral reservoirs, scientists next turned to NK (natural killer) cells. “The innate immune cellular response, the body’s first line of defense, has so far been little studied in the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection,” says Michaela Müller-Turtwin. “However, it has long been known that NK cells play an important role in controlling viral infections.” The study found that in some animals, macrophages infected with SARS-CoV-2 were destroyed by NK cells. In other animals, NK cells have been shown to adapt to infection and destroy resistant cells (known as adaptive NK cells). For macrophages. Therefore, this study sheds light on a possible mechanism explaining the existence of ‘viral reservoirs’. People who had little or no virus over time had adaptive NK cell production, whereas people with higher levels of virus not only had no adaptive NK cells, but only cell activation. NK cell activity also decreases. Therefore, innate immunity appears to play a role in controlling persistent SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Future research directions

“We will undertake a study of a cohort infected with SARS-CoV-2 early in the pandemic to investigate whether the identified viral reservoirs and mechanisms are associated with long-lasting COVID-19 cases. “However, the results here already represent an important step in understanding the nature of the virus reservoir and the mechanisms regulating virus survival,” says Michaela Müller-Turtwin.

Reference:

“SARS-CoV-2 virus persistence in lung alveolar macrophages is controlled by IFN-γ and NK cells”, Nicolas Huot, Cyril Planchais, Pierre Rosenbaum, Vanessa Contreras, Beatrice Jacquelin, Caroline Petitdemange, By Marie Lazzerini, Emma Beaumont, Aurelio Horta-Rezendis, Felix A. Rey, R. Keith Reeves, Roger Le Grand, Hugo Mouquet, Michaela Müller-Tourtuin, November 2, 2023. innate immunology.

This research was primarily funded by families of major donors as part of the Coronavirus Research Program Call for Projects.

Source: scitechdaily.com

Study uncovers long-term health hazards

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

New research reveals significant metabolic and health risks associated with long-term coconut oil supplementation, including hormonal changes, weight gain, and inflammation. Lead researcher Marcio Alberto Torsoni advises against consuming coconut oil blindly and recommends a moderate amount according to dietary guidelines.

Scientists at the State University of Campinas observed changes in eating patterns, weight gain, signs of anxiety, and increased inflammation in the brain, adipose tissue, and liver in mice.

Article published in Functional food journal We report on a research study in which oral administration of extra virgin coconut oil supplements to mice showed significant changes in eating habits, weight gain, anxiety levels, and inflammation in the central nervous system, adipose tissue, and liver.

Researchers also discovered that leptin, an important metabolic hormone, insulin The ability to activate cellular mechanisms involved in satiety and blood sugar control may be impaired, and biochemical mechanisms involved in fat synthesis may be stimulated.

Researcher insights

Marcio Alberto Torsoni, a researcher at the Institute of Metabolic Disorders, said: “The results of this study suggest that although the process occurs slowly and quietly, long-term coconut oil supplementation contributes to the development of obesity and related comorbidities. “This suggests that it may cause significant metabolic changes.” LabDiMe) is conducted at the Faculty of Applied Sciences of the State University of Campinas (FCA-UNICAMP), São Paulo State, Brazil. He holds a PhD in Functional and Molecular Biology and completed postdoctoral studies at the UNICAMP Faculty of Medicine and the University of Michigan, USA.

LabDiMe is part of the Obesity and Comorbidity Research Center (OCRC), one of FAPESP’s Research, Innovation, and Dissemination Centers (RIDCs), and the Center for Metabolic Programming and Perinatal Management (MPPM), which receives funding from the U.S. We are collaborating with National Institutes of Health (NIH (National Institutes of Health).

Animal fat and coconut oil risks

Excessive intake of animal fats is associated with an increased risk of: cardiovascular disease, as well as obesity and diabetes. One of the components of this diet is cholesterol, but this type of fat also contains saturated fatty acids, which can activate inflammatory processes through Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) and cause disease. there is.

Saturated fatty acids are also available from other sources, such as plants. For example, it makes up 90% of the fat in coconut oil. Although short-chain fatty acids make up the majority and are beneficial as they reduce inflammation, the saturated fatty acids found in coconut oil are sufficient to activate inflammatory pathways and damage many different types of cells.

“Consumption of coconut oil, either as part of the regular diet or as a dietary supplement, has increased significantly in the population,” Torsoni says. The problem is that most of the time it is consumed without the guidance of a nutritionist who can adjust the daily intake according to the individual’s needs.

experimental model

To find out whether daily consumption of coconut oil over long periods of time could cause health problems, the research group used an animal model involving healthy mice that were given coconut oil daily for eight weeks. did. This amount of coconut oil is equivalent to about 1 soup spoon (13g) of calories per day, or 5% of the calories from saturated fat in the diet of an adult of appropriate weight for his or her age and height.

Torsoni said coconut oil should be used in small amounts as part of seasonings and sauces, preferably with fresh or minimally processed vegetables. This is also the advice of the Ministry of Health’s Dietary Guidelines for Brazilian Citizens, which also recommends “an appropriate and healthy diet that combines quantity and quality and meets the needs of variety, balance, moderation and enjoyment.” I am.

“Coconut oil is not recommended as a supplement to treat disease or restore health,” Torsoni says.

Reference: “CO 2 supplementation induces lipogenesis in adipose tissue, leptin and insulin resistance in healthy Swiss mice” Alana Carolina Costa Veras, Larissa da Silva Bruzasco, Ana Beatriz Profiro Lopes, Beatriz da Silva Franco, Written by Alessandro Spencer de Souza Holanda, Andrea Maculano Estevez, Marcian Milanski, Adriana Souza Torsoni, Leticia Martins Ignacio-Sousa, Marcio Alberto Torsoni, June 4, 2023. Functional food journal.
DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2023.105600

This study was funded by the São Paulo Research Foundation.

Source: scitechdaily.com

Miniature VR goggles revolutionizing brain research

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

This diagram shows a VR setup with an “overhead threat” projected into the top field of view.Credit: Dom Pinke/Northwestern University
For the first time, the goggles allow researchers to study responses to overhead threats. northwestern university
Researchers have developed a new virtual reality (VR) goggle for mice. These tiny goggles aren’t just cute, they offer a more immersive experience for lab mice. By more faithfully simulating natural environments, researchers can more accurately and precisely study the neural circuits underlying behavior. A leap forward in VR goggles The new goggles represent a breakthrough compared to current state-of-the-art systems that simply surround a mouse with a computer or projection screen. Current systems allow the mouse to see the laboratory environment peeking out from behind the screen, but the flat nature of the screen prevents it from conveying three-dimensional (3D) depth. Another drawback was that the researchers couldn’t easily attach a screen above the mice’s heads to simulate overhead threats, such as looming birds of prey. New VR goggles avoid all of these problems. And as VR grows in popularity, the goggles could also help researchers gain new insights into how the human brain adapts and responds to repeated VR exposure. . This area is currently poorly understood. The study was published in the journal Dec. 8. neuron. This is the first time researchers have used a VR system to simulate overhead threats. A view through new miniature VR goggles.Credit: Dom Pinke/Northwestern University “For the past 15 years, we’ve been using VR systems on mice,” said Daniel Dombeck of Northwestern University, lead author of the study. “Traditionally, labs have used large computers and projection screens to surround the animals. For humans, this is like watching TV in the living room. You can still see the couch and walls. You There are cues around it that let you know you’re not in the scene. Next, consider wearing VR goggles, like the Oculus Rift, that occupy your entire field of vision, except the projected scene. They can’t see anything, and each eye projects a different scene to create depth information, which the rats lacked.” Dombeck is a professor of neurobiology in Northwestern University’s Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences. His laboratory is a leader in the development of his VR-based systems and high-resolution laser-based imaging systems for animal research. The value of VR Although researchers can observe animals in nature, it is extremely difficult to image patterns of brain activity in real time while animals interact with the real world. To overcome this challenge, the researchers integrated his VR into a laboratory setting. In these experimental settings, animals use a treadmill to move through a scene, such as a virtual maze, projected onto a screen around them. By keeping the mouse in place on a treadmill, rather than running it through a natural environment or a physical maze, neurobiologists can use tools to The brain can be observed and mapped. Ultimately, this will help researchers understand the general principles of how neural circuits activated during different behaviors encode information. “VR essentially recreates a real-life environment,” Dombeck says. “While we’ve had a lot of success with this VR system, the animals may not be as immersed as they would be in a real environment. Force the mouse to pay attention to the screen and ignore the surrounding lab.” That alone requires a lot of training.” Introduction to iMRSIV Recent advances in hardware miniaturization led Dombeck and his team to wonder if they could develop VR goggles that more closely replicate real-world environments. We created compact goggles using custom-designed lenses and a small organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display. The system, called Miniature Rodent Stereo Illumination VR (iMRSIV), consists of two lenses and two screens, one on each side of the head, that illuminate each eye individually for 3D vision. This provides each eye with a 180-degree field of view that fully immerses the mouse and excludes the surrounding environment. An artist’s interpretation of a cartoon of a mouse wearing VR goggles. Credit: @rita
Unlike VR goggles for humans, the iMRSIV (pronounced “immersive”) system does not wrap around the mouse’s head. Instead, the goggles are attached to experimental equipment and sit snugly right in front of the mouse’s face. Since the mouse runs in place on the treadmill, the goggles still cover the mouse’s field of view.
“We designed and built a custom holder for the goggles,” said John Issa, a postdoctoral fellow in Dombeck’s lab and co-first author of the study. “The entire optical display, the screen and lens, goes all the way around the mouse.” Enhance learning and engagement By mapping the brains of mice, Dombeck and his team found that the brains of mice wearing goggles activated in a manner very similar to that of freely moving animals. And in a side-by-side comparison, the researchers found that mice with goggles were able to immerse themselves in the scene much faster than mice with traditional VR systems. “We went through the same kind of training paradigm that we’ve done in the past, but the mice with the goggles learned faster,” Dombeck said. “After the first session they were already able to complete the task. They knew where to run and were looking for the right place to get the reward. We think they may not actually need as much training because they can interact with their environment in such a way.” Simulating overhead threats for the first time Next, the researchers used goggles to simulate overhead threats. This was not possible with the current system. Since the hardware for the imaging technology is already on top of the mouse, there is no place to attach a computer screen. But the skies above rats are often where animals are searching for important, sometimes life-or-death information. “The upper part of the visual field in mice is very sensitive to detecting predators from above, like in birds,” said co-first author Dom Pinke, a research specialist in Dombeck’s lab. . “It’s not a learned behavior. It’s an imprinted behavior. It’s hardwired into the mouse’s brain.” To create the looming threat, the researchers projected a dark, expanding disk onto the top of the goggles and above the mouse’s field of view. In experiments, mice ran faster and froze up when they noticed the disc. Both behaviors are common responses to overhead threats. Researchers were able to record neural activity to study these responses in detail. “In the future, we would like to investigate situations in which rats are predators rather than prey,” Issa said. “For example, we can observe brain activity while chasing a fly. This activity involves a lot of depth perception and distance estimation. Those are things we can start to capture. is.” Accessibility in neurobiological research Dombeck hopes the goggles will not only open the door to further research, but also to new researchers. He believes the goggles could make neurobiology research more accessible because they are relatively inexpensive and require less intensive laboratory preparation. “Traditional VR systems are very complex,” Dombeck says. “It’s expensive and it’s big. You need a large lab with plenty of space. Additionally, the long time it takes to train a mouse to perform a task limits the number of experiments you can perform. Although we are still working on improvements, our goggles are small, relatively inexpensive, and also very easy to use. This could make VR technology available to other labs. There is a gender.” References: “Full-field virtual reality goggles for mice” by Domonkos Pinke, John B. Issa, Gabriel A. Dara, Gergely Dobos, Daniel A. Dombeck, December 8, 2023. neuron.DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.11.019 This research “Full-field virtual reality goggles for mice” National Institutes of Health (Award Number R01-MH101297), the National Science Foundation (Award Number ECCS-1835389), the Hartwell Foundation, and the Brain and Behavioral Research Foundation. (function(d, s, id){
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Source: scitechdaily.com

T cells: the potential secret weapon against the latest coronavirus ‘variants of concern’ amid Pyrrha panic

Posted on December 12, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

A new SARS-CoV-2 variant, Pirora (BA.2.86), has been detected worldwide and is causing concern due to its high mutation rate

Researchers at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology are using immune epitope databases to predict T-cell responses to Pirora, suggesting that past exposure to existing vaccines and variants like Omicron remains important and may have a preventive effect. Although the results are promising, they are still predictive and require further experimental validation. (Credit: SciTechDaily.com)

Utilization of bioinformatics

LJI scientists are using bioinformatics to predict how T cells will adapt to fight the highly mutated Pirora mutant. In August, researchers discovered a new SARS-CoV-2 ‘Variants of concern’ in patients in Israel and Denmark. Since then, this variant has been called BA.2.86 or “Pirola” and has spread all over the world. Pirola’s mutant species is highly mutated, so caution is advised. In fact, Pirora has mutated similarly to the Omicron variant when compared to the earlier SARS-CoV-2 variants that were included in the first vaccinations. As Pyrolla spreads, researchers at La Jolla Immunology Institute (LJI) COVID-19 (new coronavirus infection) Vaccines (or previous SARS-CoV-2 infection) can still protect people from severe disease.

“The concern is that virus With so many mutations, T-cell immunity will ‘escape’,” says LJI Professor Alessandro Sette, Ph.D. in Biological Sciences. New research is currently being conducted Cell hosts and microorganisms This suggests that T cells can accurately detect mutations in pyrola and find their targets.

“Our analysis suggests there is positive news,” says LJI research assistant professor Dr. Alba Grifoni. “It appears that past exposure to Omicron, or vaccination with the new bivalent vaccine, may provide a person with T cells that can ‘catch up’ and generate a specific response to fight Pyrrha. ” LJI Professor Alessandro Sette, Doctor of Biological Sciences
(Credit: La Jolla Institute of Immunology)

Next step

Grifoni emphasizes that these findings are predictive and not observations based on actual pylora infections. Still, she thinks it’s important to see how these “in silico” (in silico) predictions are reflected in recent real-world research. “Although we still need experimental validation, we have established several collaborations around the world and are talking about this issue as we study it,” says Grifoni. Sette added that even with the Pirora variant, many people are still vulnerable to SARS-COV-2 infection. “That’s why people should still get vaccinated, especially the latest vaccines.” The researchers are currently collecting experimental data to learn more about T cell responses to the mutant strains and further strengthen their predictive tools. Griffoni is particularly interested in understanding exactly how people who have received a bivalent vaccine booster or a “breakthrough” infection will mount a T-cell response against future variants.

Reference:

“Existing SARS-2-specific T cells are predicted to cross-recognize BA.2.86,” Alessandro Sette, John Sidney, and Alba Grifoni, December 8, 2023. Cell hosts and microorganisms.DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2023.11.010 The study, “Existing SARS-2-specific T cells are predicted to mutually recognize BA.2.86,” also includes study author John Sidney. This research was supported by: National Institutes of HealthNational Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (Contract No. 75N93021C00016 and Contract No. 75N93019C00001)

Source: scitechdaily.com

A guide to drama-free family vacations using game theory

Posted on December 11, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

As the holidays approach, we all look forward to spending time with those closest to us. Gathering in the warmth of the hearth, we are so happy to see each other, that is, until our throats touch. How can you encourage your family members to behave in ways that reflect how much they truly love each other deep down? Let’s turn to game theory, the science of strategic thinking.

The mathematics of game theory has been applied to a wide range of scenarios, from negotiations over sports broadcast rights to improving organ donation rates. The famous prisoner’s dilemma problem has even been used in the search for new life forms in the universe. Game theory is about considering how others will react and making decisions based on that knowledge.

When it comes to hosting holiday gatherings, game theorists recommend using Bolda counts to determine the host. Each person ranks their preference for hosting and the host with the lowest score wins. This method is used in national elections and international issues such as the Eurovision Song Contest.

When it comes to deciding who brings what to the holiday feast, game theorists suggest using incentives to encourage balanced contributions. For example, give a prize to the cook who completely runs out of food, or make the guest with the most leftovers the next host.

To minimize arguments over the last portions of food, game theorists recommend using an “I Cut, You Pick” method, where one person slices and the other chooses. This method can also be used to peacefully allocate items during a separation, such as furniture or dishware.

When it comes to dealing with unruly children or lazy family members, game theory suggests using experiential expectations. Show them how others are behaving and encourage them to follow suit. This approach can also be applied to negotiating activities, such as playing a game or getting dressed.

Finally, if all else fails, game theory’s ultimatum game can be used to encourage fair behavior. By creating an environment where fairness is valued and unfair behavior has consequences, family members can be motivated to act in a way that benefits everyone.

In conclusion, game theory can provide valuable insights into managing family dynamics during the holidays. By using strategic thinking and understanding the motivations of those around us, we can create a harmonious and enjoyable holiday experience for all.

Source: www.newscientist.com

The Location of the Coldest Place on Earth

Posted on December 11, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

These places are less popular as holiday hotspots, but are known for their extreme cold. If you’re planning a visit, bring a blanket and be prepared to curl up. A record remains for the lowest temperature ever recorded.

East Antarctic Plateau (-94°C) The East Antarctic Plateau claims the title of the coldest place on Earth. Satellite data collected between 2004 and 2016 across Dome Argus and Dome Fuji, an area roughly the size of Australia, suggests temperatures could be around -94C. If these telemetry measurements are correct, this would be the coldest temperature on Earth, the researchers believe. Surface temperature could drop to -98 degrees Celsius.
Vostok Station, Antarctica (-89.2°C) The Vostok Research Station is located in the Antarctic region, an area with the lowest surface temperatures in the Southern Hemisphere, and was established by the Soviet Union in 1957. Click here for thermometer The minimum temperature reached -89.2℃ July 1983 recorded the lowest temperature ever directly recorded. It is also one of the driest places on earth, with an annual rainfall of around 20 millimeters, all of which is snow.
Amundsen-Scott Station, Antarctica (-82.8°C) Amundsen-Scott Station, located in Antarctica, was built in 1956 and receives six months of sunlight in the summer and six months of complete darkness in the winter. The highest temperature ever recorded in this part of the East Antarctic Plateau was Christmas Day 2011, when the thermometer soared to a positive and mild -12.3°C. The coldest on record was June 1982 -82.8℃.
Denali, Alaska, USA (-73°C) Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley, is North America’s highest mountain, rising more than 6,000 meters above sea level. The average temperature is around -10 degrees Celsius, and only half of those who attempt to climb this mountain actually reach the top. Between 1950 and 1969, temperatures at weather stations here reached around -73°C, but wind chills can reach -83.4°C.
Klink Station, Greenland (-69.6°C) The Klink weather station holds the record for the coldest place in the Arctic Circle. Located in central Greenland, it beat the record held by Oymyakon in December 1991 (see below) by about two degrees. Reach -69.6℃. Despite these low temperatures, much of Greenland’s ice is melting rapidly.
Oymyakon, Siberia, Russia (-67.7°C) Oymyakon is coldest permanent residence on earth And it is found in the cold Arctic. In 1933, the lowest temperature recorded was -67.7℃. If the population is less than 500, schools will only close if the average winter temperature falls below -55 degrees Celsius.
Northern Ice, Greenland (-66.1°C) The research station was established during the British expedition to North Greenland in the 1950s, which set record low temperatures in North America at the time. In 1954, the temperature dropped to -66.1℃.
Yakutsk, Siberia, Russia (-64.4°C) Yakutsk is one of the coldest cities on earth and is located on permafrost. The region has some short but warm summers, with temperatures reaching a maximum of 38.4°C in 2011, but also long and very cold winters. In 1891, the temperature dropped to -64.4°C. It is located on the Lena River, and during the winter it is often cold enough that the river freezes hard enough to be used as a road.
Snug, Yukon Territory, Canada (-62.8°C) In 1947, the small village of Snug in Canada’s northwestern Yukon Territory was home to about 10 First Nations people. The village was used as an emergency landing site during World War II and then as a weather observatory. The lowest temperature recorded was -62.8℃. researchers are urging the equipment to be retested to ensure it is working properly.
Prospect Creek, Alaska, USA (-62.1°C) Built in the late 1970s as a settlement for workers on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, the village is now largely deserted. It was January 1971 and the weather was extremely cold. -62.1℃ was recorded And this settlement still claims some of the coldest winter temperatures in the United States.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Neanderthals were prolific in exploiting straight-tusked elephants, say archaeologists

Posted on December 11, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Archaeologists from MONREPOS, the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, and the University of Leiden recently discovered that straight-tusked elephants were hunted some 125,000 years ago (Paleoloxodon Antique) was the largest land mammal of the Pleistocene and was part of the behavioral repertoire of Neanderthals for dozens of generations. This knowledge is based on data from only one of his locations, a northern European lakeside. In a new paper, the researchers present data from two other contemporary sites on the Nordic plains, where they demonstrate that elephant exploitation was a widespread phenomenon. The vast amounts of food produced by slaughter operations aimed at large-scale exploitation of carcasses suggest that Neanderthals were somehow preserving food or, at least temporarily, working in larger groups than is generally acknowledged. This suggests that it was active.

Reconstructed living appearance of a straight-tusked elephant (Paleoloxodon Antique) Side view (top) and front view (bottom) based on remains excavated from the Neumark Nord 1 site in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. Image credit: Su Shuyu.

“125,000 years ago, Neanderthals hunted and slaughtered straight-tusked elephants, the largest land mammals of the Pleistocene, in the lake landscapes of the Nordic plains,” said lead author Sabine Gaudzinski-Windho. Professor Iser and colleagues said.

“The data from this site is so far unique in the archaeological record, with evidence highlighting adult males and their widespread use.”

“Given its relevance to our knowledge of the Neanderthal niche, we wonder if Neumark Nord subsistence practices were more than just a local phenomenon, and perhaps determined by local features. I investigated.”

In the new study, scientists analyzed the remains of straight-tusked elephants from two other archaeological sites on the Nordic plains, Grebern and Taubach.

They identified slaughter patterns in both populations similar to the Neumark Nord site.

“The results of the examination of the Greyburn and Taubach bones indicate that the hunting of these elephants by Neanderthals was not an isolated phenomenon and must have been a more regular activity,” Gaudzinski-Windho said. Professor Iser said.

Reconstruction of Lake Schöningen shore when humans discovered the carcass of a straight-legged elephant. Image credit: Benoit Clarys.

Straight-tusked elephants were the largest land mammals of the Pleistocene and lived in Europe and western Asia from 800,000 to 100,000 years ago.

These animals had very broad heads and very long tusks, making them approximately three times larger than modern Asian elephants, twice as large as African elephants, and much larger than woolly mammoths.

Maximum shoulder height is estimated to be 3–4.2 m (10–14 ft) for females and males, respectively, and weight between 4.5 and 13 tons.

“The meat and fat provided by the adult body are Paleoloxodon Antique “The bull would have been enough to meet the daily caloric intake of at least 2,500 adult Neanderthals,” said Professor Gaudzinski-Windhauser.

“This is an important number because it provides us with new insights into Neanderthal behavior.”

“For example, previous research generally assumed that Neanderthals lived in groups of 20 or fewer.”

“However, the information we currently have about the systematic exploitation of straight-breasted elephants suggests that Neanderthals may have gathered, at least temporarily, in larger groups, or that they had developed techniques that allowed them to preserve and store large amounts of food. This suggests that he must have done both.”

“Follow-up projects will explore how Neanderthals hunted these giant elephants and how their hunting activities affected these and other prey animals and their environments. I would like to learn more about this.”

of the team paper Published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

_____

Sabine Gaudzinski-Windhauser other. 2023. Extensive evidence of Neanderthal exploitation of elephants during the last interglacial period on the Nordic plains. PNAS 120 (50): e2309427120; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2309427120

Source: www.sci.news

Study finds honeyguide birds have the ability to recognize distinct audio signals to assist humans in locating beehives

Posted on December 11, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Greater Honey Guide (indicator indicator)It is a type of African bird. well known To attract other species to the hive. They have even been known to collaborate with ratels, but their closest and most successful collaborators are humans. Several indigenous groups in Africa work with these birds throughout their range. Observing these interactions in Tanzania and Mozambique, scientists showed that honey guides were more responsive to the specific calls of their local honey-hunting partners compared to the calls of honey hunters in other regions. Ta. Honey guides therefore appear to learn the calls of their local partners, and honey hunters maintain these successful calls for generations.

Spottiswood and Wood experimentally showed that honeyguides in Tanzania and Mozambique distinguish between the calls of honeyhunters and are more likely to respond to local calls than to foreign calls. Image credit: Brian Wood.

The animal kingdom is full of interactions between species, but systems in which humans can successfully cooperate with wild animals are rare.

One such relationship involves the greater honeyguide, a small African bird known for guiding humans to wild bee hives.

Humans open the hive to collect honey, and bees eat the exposed beeswax.

Human honey hunters in different parts of Africa may use specialized and culturally distinct calls to signal their search for a honey guide partner and to maintain cooperation while following guided birds. It happens often.

For example, the honey hunters of the Yao culture group in northern Mozambique use a loud trill followed by a grunt (“brrr-hm”).

In contrast, the Honey Hunters of the Hadza cultural group of northern Tanzania use melodic flutes.

These successful calls have been maintained in these groups for generations.

In a series of field experiments across these disciplines, Dr. Claire Spottiswood of the University of Cambridge and the University of Cape Town, and Dr. Brian Wood of the University of California, Los Angeles and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, found that the ecology of honeyguides is We investigated whether it is good or not. They tend to respond more to the signals of their local human culture than to signals from another culture or any human sounds.

The authors found that honeyguides in the Yao region were more than three times more likely to initiate an induced response to honeyguides. Yao’s unique cry than Hadza’s whistle.

Conversely, honey guides in the Hadza region were more than three times more likely to respond to Hadza whistles than to Yao bloom sounds.

“It’s such a privilege to witness the collaboration between people and honeyguides, especially the birds that come looking for us,” Dr Spottiswoode said.

“Their calls sound exactly like a conversation between a bird and a bee as they travel together towards the beehive.”

According to the authors, the geographic variation and coordination between signals and responses observed in this behavioral system suggests that cultural coevolution has occurred between honeyguides and humans.

“What’s remarkable about the relationship between honey guides and humans is that interactions with humans involve free-living wild animals that have probably evolved through hundreds of thousands of years of natural selection,” Dr. Spottiswood said.

“Through learning, this ancient and evolved behavior was refined to fit local cultural traditions, or different human calls.”

“Our research demonstrates the ability of this bird to learn unique vocal signals traditionally used by various honey-hunting communities, opening up possibilities for mutually beneficial cooperation with people.” ,” Dr. Wood said.

Regarding this research, paper in a diary science.

_____

Claire N. Spottiswood and Brian M. Wood. 2023. Culturally determined interspecies communication between humans and honey guides. science 382 (6675): 1155-1158; doi: 10.1126/science.adh4129

Source: www.sci.news

Scientists at Stanford University identify shared genetic factor that offers protection against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases

Posted on December 11, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Stanford Medicine and international collaborators have discovered that around 20% of individuals carry genetic mutations that reduce their risk of Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease by 10% or more. This particular variant, known as DR4, has the potential to enhance future vaccines for these neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, the study found a potential link between the tau protein and both diseases, providing new possibilities for targeted therapies and vaccines.

The large-scale analysis included medical and genetic information from a wide range of individuals across different continents. This data analysis revealed that certain gene variants related to immune function are associated with a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Approximately one in five people possess a specific genetic mutation that provides resistance to both diseases.

The research, led by Stanford Medicine, indicates that individuals with this protective genetic mutation may be less likely to benefit from future vaccines aimed at slowing or stopping the progression of these common neurodegenerative diseases. Results from the analysis of medical and genetic data from hundreds of thousands of people from diverse backgrounds confirmed that carrying the DR4 allele increased the average chance of developing Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease by more than 10%. New evidence has also surfaced suggesting that the tau protein, which is known for aggregating in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, may also play a role in the development of Parkinson’s disease.

The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, was a collaboration between researchers at Stanford Medicine and international partners. The researchers involved in this study were Emmanuel Mignot, MD, Michael Gracius, MD, Iqbal Farooq, and Asad Jamal from Stanford Medicine, as well as Dr. Jean-Charles Lambert from Inserm, University of Lille, France. The lead author was Yan Le Nguyen, Ph.D., and other contributors included Dr. Guo Luo, Dr. Aditya Ambati, and Dr. Vincent Damot.

Further findings from the study showed that individuals with the DR4 allele were more likely to develop neurofibrillary tangles, characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease, in their brains. The study also suggests that tau, a protein central to Alzheimer’s disease, may have an unknown role in Parkinson’s disease.

DR4 is a particular allele of the DRB1 gene, which is a part of the human lymphocyte antigen complex. This complex is crucial in allowing the immune system to recognize the internal contents of cells. One of the significant findings of this study was that the specific peptide fragment that DR4 recognizes and presents is a chemically modified segment of the tau protein, which plays a role in both diseases. The study suggests that the DR4 allele could be used to create a vaccine targeting this modified peptide as a potential way to interfere with tau aggregation and the development of these neurodegenerative diseases. There may be potential to delay or slow the progression of the diseases in individuals who carry the protective variants of DR4.

The study also noted that the effectiveness of the vaccine may depend on the subtype of DR4 a person carries, which varies among different ethnic groups. For example, one subtype of DR4 that is more common among East Asians may be less protective against neurodegenerative diseases.

Source: scitechdaily.com

Three new young stars found in the central region of the Milky Way galaxy by astronomers

Posted on December 11, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

According to some researchers, the oldest of these stars is 1.5 billion years old, while the youngest is only 100 million years old. paper Published in Astrophysics Journal Letter.

This infrared image from Hubble shows the Milky Way Core Cluster, the densest and most massive star cluster in our galaxy. Image credit: NASA / ESA / Hubble Heritage Team / STScI / AURA / T. Do & A. Ghez, UCLA / V. Bajaj, STScI.

The center of our Milky Way galaxy is located about 27,000 light-years away in the constellation Sagittarius and is a crowded place.

This region is so dense that it’s equivalent to a million stars crammed into the space between the Sun and Alpha Centauri, 4.3 light-years away.

This nuclear cluster surrounds Sagittarius A*, a 4.3 million solar mass black hole at the center of the galaxy.

In general, many nuclear star clusters coexist with supermassive black holes, which are found in more than 70% of galaxies with masses greater than 100 million to 10 billion solar masses.

“In previous work, we hypothesized that these particular stars in the middle of the Milky Way may be unusually young,” said Lund University astronomer Rebecca Forsberg.

“Now we can confirm this. Our study shows that three of these stars are relatively young, at least as far as astronomers are concerned, ranging in age from 100 million years to about 1 billion years. We were able to determine the age.”

“This is equivalent to the age of the Sun, which is 4.6 billion years old.”

This panorama shows the central region of the Milky Way galaxy. It builds on previous surveys by NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory and other telescopes, and extends Chandra’s high-energy field of view further up and down the galactic plane than previous imaging campaigns. The X-rays from Chandra are orange, green, and violet, indicating different X-ray energies. Radio data from MeerKAT is gray. Image credits: NASA / CXC / UMass / QD Wang / NRF / SARAO / MeerKAT.

In this study, Dr. Forsberg and colleagues used high-resolution data from the Keck II telescope in Hawaii. This Keck II telescope is one of the largest telescopes in the world with a 10 meter diameter mirror.

For further verification, they measured the amount of iron, a heavy element, in the stars

This element is important in tracking the development of galaxies. This is because astronomers’ theories about star formation and galaxy development show that the formation of heavy elements increases over time in the Universe, so younger stars contain more heavy elements.

To determine iron levels, astronomers looked at the star’s spectrum in infrared light. Infrared light is a part of the light spectrum that can more easily illuminate dust-dense parts of the Milky Way compared to optical light.

Researchers say there is considerable variation in iron levels.

“The very wide spread in iron levels could indicate that the innermost parts of the galaxy are incredibly heterogeneous, or unmixed,” said Dr. Brian Thorsbro, an astronomer at Lund University. Stated.

“This is something we didn’t expect, and it tells us something not only about what the center of a galaxy looks like, but also about what the early universe looked like.”

“Personally, I think it’s very exciting that we can now study the galactic center itself at such a detailed level,” Dr. Forsberg said.

“While these types of measurements have been standard for observations of our own galactic disk, they have been an unattainable goal in more remote and exotic parts of the galaxy.”

“Studies like this can teach us a lot about how our home galaxy formed and developed.”

_____

B. Thorsbro other. 2023. The range of old metallicities of stars in nuclear clusters is wide. APJL 958, L18; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ad08b1

Source: www.sci.news

Climate Change’s Impact on Deep Sea Ecosystems

Posted on December 11, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

New research reveals that fire ice, or frozen methane, trapped as a solid under the oceans is at risk of melting due to climate change, potentially releasing large amounts of methane into the atmosphere. I did. Using advanced seismic imaging, the research team found that dissociated methane can travel significant distances, overturning previous assumptions about its stability.

Research shows that ocean fire ice, or frozen methane, is more likely to melt due to climate change and poses a significant threat to methane emissions into the atmosphere.

An international research team led by the University of Newcastle has discovered that when frozen methane and ice melt, the powerful greenhouse gas methane is released and travels from the deepest parts of continental slopes to the edges of underwater shelves. They also found a pocket that had traveled 25 miles (40 kilometers).

Publication in magazine natural earth scienceresearchers say this means more methane could potentially become vulnerable and released into the atmosphere as a result of climate warming.

Methane hydrate: the hidden climate change threat

Methane hydrate, also known as fire ice, is an ice-like structure containing methane buried under the ocean. Huge amounts of methane are stored in the ocean as marine methane. As the ocean warms, it melts, releasing methane, known as dissociated methane, into the ocean and atmosphere, contributing to global warming.

The researchers used advanced three-dimensional seismic imaging techniques to examine sections of hydrate that have dissociated during climate warming off the coast of Mauritania in northwest Africa. They identified specific cases where dissociated methane traveled more than 40 kilometers and was released through underwater depressions known as pockmarks during warm periods in the past.

Researchers at Newcastle University have found that frozen methane trapped on the ocean floor is more likely to melt due to climate change and could be released into the ocean.Credit: Newcastle University

Discovery and its impact

Professor Richard Davies, lead author and Vice-Chancellor for Global and Sustainability at Newcastle University, said: . Our study shows that they formed as methane released from hydrates from the deepest parts of the continental slope spewed into the ocean. Scientists previously thought these hydrates would be less susceptible to climate warming, but it turns out some are more susceptible. ”

Researchers have previously studied how changes in seafloor temperatures near continental margins affect methane release from hydrates. However, these studies mainly focused on regions where only a small fraction of the earth’s methane hydrate exists. This is one of the few studies to investigate methane emissions from the bottom of hydrate stability zones deep underwater. The results show that the methane released from the hydrate stability zone migrated a significant distance towards land.

Broader research perspective and future plans

Professor Christian Berndt, Head of the Ocean Geodynamics Research Unit at GEOMAR in Kiel, Germany, added:

“This is an important finding. Previous research efforts have focused on the shallowest part of the hydrate stability zone, because we thought this was the only part that would be susceptible to climate change.

“New data clearly shows that far greater amounts of methane can be released from ocean hydrates, and a thorough understanding of this fact is needed to better understand the role of hydrates in the climate system. need to be clarified.”

Methane is the second most common anthropogenic greenhouse gas after carbon dioxide (CO2). Methane accounts for about 16% of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency figures.

The findings could play an important role in predicting and addressing methane’s impact on a changing climate.

The researchers plan to continue looking for evidence of methane vents along the margin and predict where large methane seeps may occur as the planet warms. Researchers are now planning a scientific expedition to examine the pockmarks more closely and see if they can be more closely linked to past climate warming events.

Reference: “Long-distance transport and emissions of methane from the base of the hydrate stability zone” Richard J. Davies, Jinxiu Yang, Mark T. Ireland, Christian Berndt, Miguel Ángel Morales Maqueda, Mads Huuse, December 6, 2023 , natural earth science.
DOI: 10.1038/s41561-023-01333-w

Source: scitechdaily.com

The origins of social behavior revealed in new research

Posted on December 11, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

A new study from Cornell University reveals that the visual system, not just chemoreceptors, has a major influence on the social behavior of male fruit flies. The study found that enhanced visual input can override normal social inhibition, and suggests similar mechanisms in the human brain, particularly related to conditions such as autism and schizophrenia. It has meaning in understanding.

Drosophila males typically exhibit antisocial behavior toward other males and prefer to identify females through chemoreceptors. However, recent research by Cornell University biologists shows that the fruit fly visual system plays an important role in social interactions.

The findings provide new insights into the potential roots of a variety of human social behaviors, including those associated with conditions such as bipolar disorder and autism.

This paper recently current biology.

Visual system and social behavior

many seed Many animals use vision to regulate social behavior, but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. In Drosophila, vision is thought to be used explicitly to detect and follow movement rather than to regulate social behavior, but researchers have found that this may not be the case. .

“In our study, hyperactivation of the visual system overcomes the inhibition produced by chemical signals emitted by male flies, telling other males, ‘Okay, I know, I’m another male, don’t interfere. ”’ said senior author Nirey Yapisi, assistant professor of neurobiology and behavior. “Surprisingly, visual enhancement in the brain somehow overrides chemosensory inhibition and attracts male flies to other males.”

Researchers found that changing GABARAP/GABA;_a Receptor signaling in visual feedback neurons in the male brain influenced social inhibition in flies. When GABARAP is knocked down in the visual system, males unexpectedly exhibit increased courtship behavior towards other males.

Researchers discovered that genes similar to those in the human brain control visual neurons in fruit flies. Decreased GABA signaling in the human brain is associated with traits of social withdrawal in conditions such as autism and schizophrenia.

“Our results provide a promising avenue to investigate how these proteins regulate social behavior in the mammalian brain and their potential contribution to human mental state.” said lead author Dr. Yuta Mabuchi. ’23.

Reference: “Visual feedback neurons fine-tune Drosophila male courtship through GABA-mediated inhibition”, Yuta Mabuchi, Xinyue Cui, Lily Xie, Haein Kim, Tianxing Jiang, Nilay Yapici, September 2023 5 Day, current biology.

DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.08.034

Source: scitechdaily.com

Australian researchers find over 1,000 species of wildlife in suburban home and backyard

Posted on December 11, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

University of Queensland researchers Matt Holden, Andrew Rogers, Russell Yong and colleagues took on the challenge of identifying species around their home in Brisbane, Australia. paper in a diary ecology.

rogers other. They discovered his 1,150 unique species of animals, plants and fungi around his inner Brisbane home. Image credit: Penny.

Dr Holden, Dr Rogers and Dr Yong conducted a census in shared homes and their backyards during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, collecting 1,150 endemic species of animals, plants and fungi over 12 months. discovered.

“We asked a number of ecologists and conservation scientists how many species they expected to find in this environment, and they predicted only 200 species.” Dr. Holden said.

“But after 60 days of research, we had already discovered 777 species.”

“It shows that suburban homes and apartments can contain much more biodiversity than previously imagined, especially when it comes to insects.”

The idea for species number came when Dr. Rogers went to vacuum the cobwebs in his room and wondered how many spiders there were on the premises.

“The three of us immediately came up with a plan to scour our homes and backyards looking for other creatures living with us,” Dr Holden said.

The survey revealed a rich biodiversity, including 436 species of moths and butterflies, 56 species of spiders, 8 species of reptiles, and 56 species of birds.

Bird species included yellow-brown black-breasted kingfishers, common kingfishers, green honeycreepers, rainbow parakeets, spotted doves and Brisbane’s favorite, the Australian white ibis.

“Blue-bellied skinks hibernated under the garage, and at night we had green-bellied bees and teddy bear bees sleeping in the hedge under the front window,” Dr Holden said.

Researchers were also surprised to discover three species not previously recorded in Australia’s major biodiversity databases. Living Australia Atlas — Mosquitoes, sandflies, invasive flatworms, Platypus ManokwariIt is responsible for the decline in populations of native snails around the world.

“The house was a complex ecosystem of interacting species – we encountered a moth Countless scat lacerations“The caterpillars spend their entire lives feeding in green mouse feces before emerging as adults,” Dr Holden said.

“Palyrgis conqueror This is another type of moth whose caterpillars live inside spider webs and eat spider feces to survive. ”

“All urban housing has the potential to host similar biodiversity.”

“It depends on how people take care of their homes and gardens. By keeping low-maintenance trees and shrubs, keeping well-maintained lawns and eliminating pesticides, you can increase the number of critters found. will increase significantly.”

“You don’t need to travel to connect with Australia’s biodiversity; you just need to look out into your own backyard.”

_____

Andrew M. Rogers other. 2023. Home of a Thousand Species: The Untapped Potential of Comprehensive Biodiversity Surveys of Urban Properties. ecology, published online on December 1, 2023. doi: 10.1002/ecy.4225

Source: www.sci.news

Semiconductor Technology Transforms a Small Power Plant

Posted on December 11, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

In the heat transfer highway, thermal energy travels through quantum particles called phonons. But at the nanoscale in today’s most advanced semiconductors, those phonons don’t remove enough heat. Purdue researchers are therefore focused on opening new nanoscale lanes on the heat transfer highway using hybrid quasiparticles called “polaritons.” Credit: Purdue University Photo/DALL-E

In the heat transfer highway, thermal energy travels through quantum particles called phonons. but,
nanoscale today’s cutting edge
semiconductor, those phonons do not remove enough heat. Purdue researchers are therefore focused on opening new nanoscale lanes on the heat transfer highway using hybrid quasiparticles called “polaritons.”

thomas beachem

really like

heat transfer. He talks about it loudly and proudly, like a preacher in a big tent revival.

“There are several ways to describe energy,” says Beechem, an associate professor of mechanical engineering. “When we talk about light, we describe it in terms of particles called ‘photons.’ Heat also transports energy in a predictable manner. We call these energy waves “phonons.” However, in some materials, photons and phonons can come together to create new objects called “polaritons.” It carries energy in a unique way, different from photons and phonons. ”

Like photons and phonons, polaritons are not physical particles that can be seen or captured. These are similar ways of describing energy exchange.

as if

They were particles.

Still vague? How about another analogy? “Phonons are like an internal combustion engine, and photons are like an electric car,” Beechem says. “Polaritons are Toyota’s Prius. They are a hybrid of light and heat, retaining some of the properties of both. But they are special in their own right.”

Polariton is used in optical applications ranging from stained glass to home health testing. However, their ability to transfer heat has been largely ignored, as the effect becomes noticeable only when the size of the material becomes very small. “We now know that phonons do most of the heat-transferring work,” says Dr. Jacob Minyard. student in Beechem’s lab. “Polariton effects are observable only at the nanoscale. But thanks to semiconductors, we haven’t had to deal with heat transfer at that level until now.”

“Semiconductors have become incredibly small and complex,” he continued. “The people who design and manufacture these chips are starting to realize that phonons do not dissipate heat efficiently at very small scales. Our paper shows that on such length scales polaritons are not very efficient at conducting heat. We have demonstrated that we can contribute to a larger portion of the rate.”

Their research on polaritons was selected as a featured article in a magazine.

applied physics journal
.

DOI: 10.1063/5.0173917

Source: scitechdaily.com

The Revealed True Nature of Magellan’s Stars After 50 Years of Exploration

Posted on December 10, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

An artist’s rendition of the Magellanic Star Stream, depicting the Small and Large Magellanic Clouds, the Milky Way’s nearest neighbors, is shown in the diagram. The gaseous Magellanic Stream swirls behind the galaxies, spreading across the southern sky as they move, with 13 red giant stars discovered within the stream.

Astronomers from the Center for Astrophysics at Harvard University and the Smithsonian University have solved a 50-year-old mystery by identifying stars within the Magellanic Stream. The discovery helps reveal the distance to the stream, providing new insights into the history and characteristics of our galaxy and its neighbors.

The study, published in the Astrophysical Journal, showcases the discovery of 13 stars within the stream and their unique characteristics that place them precisely within the mysterious structure. The stars’ distances and chemical compositions offer clues to the formation of the Magellanic Stream and the interactions of the Magellanic Clouds with the Milky Way.

By conducting a spectroscopic analysis of distant Milky Way stars, researchers were able to determine their chemical makeup and velocity, ultimately allowing them to identify stars within the Magellanic Stream. This discovery also sheds light on the origin and gravitational pull of the stream, as well as its potential role in the future formation of new stars within the Milky Way.

The Magellanic Stream, which acts as a supplier of cold neutral gas for the formation of Milky Way stars, also holds valuable insights into the composition of galaxies and the distribution of dark matter. Further study of the stream and additional discoveries of stars are expected to provide more surprises and lead to a deeper understanding of our galaxy’s outer reaches.

Source: scitechdaily.com

NASA Solves OSIRIS-REx Parachute Issue

Posted on December 9, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

OSIRIS-REx collected a half-pound sample from the surface of the asteroid Bennu in October 2020. The mission’s sample return capsule landed at the ministry on September 24 with the help of a parachute, similar to the training model shown in the August 30 test. The Defense Force’s Utah Test and Training Range is located in the desert outside of Salt Lake City.Credit: NASA/Keegan Barber

NASA‘s osiris rex Despite a minor issue with parachute deployment due to mismatched wiring labels, we successfully returned the sample from Bennu. The main parachute compensated and ensured a safe landing, and further investigation is planned to confirm the cause.

NASA’s OSIRIS-REx sample return capsule parachuted into the Utah desert on September 24, 2023, safely delivering a container of rocks and dust collected from the near-Earth asteroid Bennu. Although the delivery was successful, the landing sequence did not go completely to plan and the small parachute, known as a drogue, did not deploy as expected.

After a thorough review of the descent video and the capsule’s extensive documentation, NASA concluded that due to inconsistent definitions of wiring labels in the design plans, engineers were unable to wire the parachute release trigger and deploy the drogue chute. It was discovered that the signals may have been fired out of order.

A sample return capsule from NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission is seen shortly after landing in the desert at the Defense Department’s Utah Test and Training Range on September 24, 2023. The sample was collected from asteroid Bennu by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft in October 2020.Credit: NASA/Keegan Barber

The drogue was expected to deploy at an altitude of approximately 100,000 feet. This was designed to slow and stabilize the capsule during its approximately five-minute descent before deploying the main parachute at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet. Instead, a signal activated the system at 100,000 feet, which separated the drogue while it was still stuffed into the capsule. When the capsule reached an altitude of 9,000 feet, the drogue deployed. The holding cord had already been severed, so the drogue was quickly released from the capsule. The main parachute deployed as expected and its design was robust enough to stabilize and slow the capsule, allowing him to land safely more than a minute earlier than expected. There were no adverse effects on OSIRIS-REx’s Bennu sample as a result of the unexpected drogue deployment.

In the design plans for the system, the word “main” was used contradictoryly between the device transmitting the electrical signal and the device receiving the signal. On the traffic light side, “main” means the main parachute. In contrast, on the receiver side, “main” was used to refer to the fireworks that would be ignited to release the cover of the parachute’s canister and deploy the drogue. Technicians connected his two main power sources, causing the parachute’s deployment motion to occur out of order.

To confirm the root cause, NASA plans to test the system that releases the parachute. This hardware is currently in one of his glove boxes containing Bennu samples at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. Once the on-site curation team completes processing the sample material (the mission’s top priority at this point), NASA engineers will be able to access the parachute’s hardware to examine the cause.

Source: scitechdaily.com

Combining Over-the-Counter Painkillers with Birth Control Raises Blood Clot Risk

Posted on December 9, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

A new study has found that women using NSAIDs with hormonal contraceptives, especially high-risk types and those using diclofenac, have an increased risk of blood clots. This study calls for increased awareness and careful consideration of safer pain relief and contraceptive options.

Researchers advise that while the absolute risk remains low, women should be informed accordingly.

People using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers in combination with hormonal contraceptives may be at a slightly higher risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), according to a recently published comprehensive Danish study. There is a gender. BMJ.

The risk was higher for women using combination oral contraceptives containing third- or fourth-generation progestins, but the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) ibuprofen, diclofenac, and progestin-only tablets; Women with implants and coils had a smaller risk. Naproxen.

Researchers stress that the absolute risk of developing serious blood clots is low, even for women using high-risk hormonal contraceptive methods. However, they say that given the widespread use of both hormonal contraceptives and NSAIDs, women should be informed of this potential drug interaction in a timely manner.

Classification of hormonal contraception and NSAID use

Although NSAIDs have been linked to blood clots, little is known about whether their use affects the risk of venous thromboembolism in healthy women using hormonal contraceptives. not.

To address this, the researchers used national medical records to find 49 children aged 15 to 49 with no history of blood clots, cancer, hysterectomy, or infertility treatment living in Denmark between 1996 and 2017. Two million women aged 20-30 years were tracked for their first diagnosis of venous thromboembolism.

Hormonal contraception was classified as high-risk, intermediate-risk, and low-risk according to its association with VTE based on previous studies.

High-risk hormonal contraception includes patches that combine estrogen and progestin, vaginal rings, and tablets containing 50 mcg of estrogen or third- or fourth-generation progestins. Moderate-risk contraception includes all other combination oral contraceptives and medroxyprogesterone injections, but progestin-only pills, implants, and hormonal intrauterine devices (coils) are classified as low-risk or no risk. I did.

Various potentially influencing factors were also taken into account, including age, education level, pregnancy history, previous surgical history, hypertension, and diabetes.

In this study, 529,704 women using hormonal contraceptives used NSAIDs. The most frequently used NSAID was ibuprofen (60%), followed by diclofenac (20%) and naproxen (6%).

Over an average 10-year monitoring period, 8,710 cases of venous thromboembolism (2,715 pulmonary embolisms and 5,995 deep vein thromboses) occurred, and 228 (2.6%) women died within 30 days of diagnosis.

Meaning and recommendations

In absolute terms, NSAID use is associated with 4 additional venous thromboembolic events per week per 100,000 women not using hormonal contraception and using intermediate-risk hormonal contraception. It was associated with 11 additional events in women and 23 additional events in women using high-risk hormonal contraception.

Among individual NSAIDs, diclofenac had the strongest association compared with ibuprofen and naproxen.

Because this is an observational study, it is not possible to determine cause, and the researchers highlight several limitations, such as missing information on smoking and obesity, which may influence the results. It is said that there is a possibility that

Nevertheless, this was a large study based on high-quality registry data, allowing the researchers to adjust for a wide range of potentially influencing factors. Furthermore, the associations persisted after further analysis, suggesting that they are robust.

Therefore, the researchers concluded that: “By using high-quality, linkable national registries, this national study shows that potentially fatal events occur when two drugs commonly prescribed to healthy women are taken together. It adds new knowledge about the risks involved.”

They added: “Women who require both hormonal contraception and regular use of NSAIDs should be advised accordingly.”

These data raise important concerns about the combined use of NSAIDs, particularly diclofenac, and high-risk hormonal contraceptives, writes Morten Schmidt. Aarhus University Hospital, linked editorial.

She said health authorities and regulators should include these findings in safety assessments of over-the-counter diclofenac, and that women using hormonal contraceptives and their clinicians should consider alternatives to NSAIDs for pain relief. I suggest that you should.

“If treatment with an NSAID is necessary, it may be preferable to use drugs other than diclofenac in conjunction with low-risk hormonal contraceptives, such as progestin-only tablets, implants, or intrauterine devices.” He concludes.

This study was funded by the Danish Heart Foundation.

Source: scitechdaily.com

Researchers Develop VR Goggles for Mice

Posted on December 8, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Scenarios Mouse might see when wearing virtual reality goggles

Dom Pinke

Tiny virtual reality goggles for mice create a convincing world in which scientists can study animal brain activity in a variety of scenarios. This technology brings rodent neuroscience even closer to simulations that are indistinguishable from the real world, researchers say.

For about 20 years, Daniel Dombeck Researchers at Northwestern University in Illinois used rudimentary virtual reality to learn more about how the mouse brain works.

The machines used to observe brain patterns are too large to attach to freely moving mice. Instead, the researchers kept a mouse inside such a machine and placed a screen around the mouse that displayed a virtual reality world when it was placed on a treadmill. The researchers were able to create a virtual world where the mouse could navigate any environment they designed.

“We can run them through a virtual maze and image their brains to see which neurons form memories and remember where they are,” Dombeck says. “[But] What the animal sees is a flat surface, there is no depth perception, and the mouse sees things that are not part of the projection. So there’s a collision of all these cues around us, and we think they’re not fully engaged and immersed in the environment. They are not completely fooled.”

To solve this problem, researchers have now created tiny goggles with a different screen for each eye to cut out everything but the virtual world from the mouse’s field of view and create convincing depth perception. They believe this allows them to perform more accurate experiments because the mice become more convinced of the illusion and behave more naturally.

But designing goggles for mice isn’t as simple as simply miniaturizing technology made for humans. A human’s field of view is just over 200 degrees, while a mouse’s field of view is up to 320 degrees.

This means that the screen inside the goggles needs to be curved and almost surround the eyeball. Although the screen can only display 400 pixels by 400 pixels, Dombeck says that’s enough to be convincing, since mouse vision is much less detailed than human vision.

“The first use of goggles on the first set of mice was quite remarkable,” says Dombeck. “The rats seemed to engage very quickly. When you put the goggles on, it’s pitch black and you can’t see anything, and the virtual rendering turns on. The first rat sat up and said, ‘Oh, what is this?’ It was that kind of feeling. It then started moving pretty naturally, which doesn’t usually happen with flat projection screens.”

Dombeck says the long-term goal is to make mouse technology comparable to what’s seen in mice, with additional devices to trick the senses of smell, hearing, and touch.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New findings on ancient climate analysis suggest that CO2 is contributing to more warming than previously believed

Posted on December 7, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

A diagram of Earth 65 million years ago, when CO2 levels were much higher than today.

Chris Butler/Science Photo Library

Perhaps the most difficult question in climate science. That is, how much global warming does carbon dioxide cause? A new analysis of 66 million years of Earth’s climate history suggests that the Earth is far more sensitive to greenhouse gases than current climate models predict, which could lead to even warmer temperatures in the long term. This means that there is a possibility of further development.

A key factor determining the impact of our emissions on the planet is how much the planet warms in response to the extra CO2 we pump into the atmosphere. This sensitivity is affected by various feedback loops related to clouds, melting ice sheets, and other influences.

One way to measure this sensitivity is to look at how the climate has changed in the past. Gases trapped in ice cores can only take us back about 800,000 years, so to go even further back in time to look at temperatures and CO2 levels in the atmosphere, researchers used proxies. Masu. For example, the density of pores in plant leaves and the isotope levels in the fossil shells of marine organisms change in response to CO2 levels.

However, discrepancies between different proxies have led to an uncertain view of Earth’s ancient climate. Now, an extensive review by a team of over 80 researchers provides a clearer picture. More accurate representation of ancient CO2 levels. “We now have a much clearer picture of what carbon dioxide levels have been in the past,” he says. Berber Henisch He coordinated the project at Columbia University in New York.

This allows us to understand current CO2 levels in the atmosphere alongside the deep past. This indicates that the last time CO2 levels were as consistently high as they are now was about 14 million years ago, and much earlier than that. previous estimate.

By comparing this new CO2 data with temperature records, “we can learn how sensitive the climate has been to changes in carbon dioxide,” Hoenisch says. Current climate models estimate that doubling his CO2 levels in the atmosphere would result in a warming of 1.5°C to 4.5°C. However, the results suggest that the temperature increase is even larger, between 5°C and 8°C.

However, there is a big caveat. This new insight into the history of Earth’s deep climate covers trends over hundreds of thousands of years, rather than the short timescales of decades or centuries that are relevant to humanity today, and therefore It doesn’t tell you what the temperature is likely to be. “It’s a slow cascading effect that slowly kicks in,” Hoenisch says.

The vast time scales covered in this study also mean that details of climate sensitivity cannot be detected. michael man Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania say climate sensitivities may have been different at other times in Earth’s history compared to today, which is likely why the study yielded higher estimates than those based on more recent periods. I think this explains why I got there.

“The bottom line is that the climate sensitivity estimates from this study probably don’t apply to current anthropogenic warming,” Mann says. “Nonetheless, this study confirms a very close relationship between CO2 and global temperatures, highlighting the continuing threat of fossil fuel combustion.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Eastern China’s Rare Black Hedgehog Becomes a New Science Enthusiast

Posted on December 7, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

This new species of hedgehog has darker brown fur, spines, and slightly larger ears than the European hedgehog.

Zookey

Scientists have identified a new species of hedgehog. It is a dark brown creature that lives in the forests of eastern China.

In 2018, Kai He Researchers from Guangzhou University in China encountered strange-looking hedgehogs in Anhui and Zhejiang provinces. Compared to the European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus), these had dark brown fur and spines, and slightly larger ears.

After analyzing seven animals, including DNA samples, the researchers concluded that they belonged to a species that had not previously been described scientifically, which they named the species. Mesechinus orientalis.

The other four known species are mesechinus This genus is mainly found in northern China, Mongolia, and Russia, but this species M. Hugi I live in southwestern China.

“It is very interesting that this forest hedgehog was found more than 1000 kilometers from its known range,” he says.

They weigh just under 340 grams and have an average length of 18.8 centimeters. M. orientalis It is slightly smaller than other known hedgehogs of its genus.

Like other hedgehogs, M. orientalis They are nocturnal and tend to feed on insects and fruits. They also hibernate in the winter.

So far, the team has discovered M. orientalis In two provinces of China. However, based on the numbers recorded so far, they are not considered endangered, He said, estimating there are probably a few hundred individuals in these states. are doing.

There were only 17 known species of hedgehogs in the world, so “we were really happy to add one more species,” he says.

“For a real hedgehog geek like me, this is amazing news,” he says. Sophie Rand Rasmussen at Oxford University. “We look forward to learning more about the ecology of this species and whether this is different compared to other hedgehog species in the country.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Researchers find natural method to enhance the meat-like qualities of plant-based meat

Posted on December 7, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Recent research has revealed that fermenting alliums such as onions with fungi can naturally mimic the flavor of meat, offering a promising solution for enhancing plant-based meat substitutes without the use of synthetic additives. measures are provided.

Plant-based alternatives like tempeh and bean burgers offer protein-rich options for those looking to cut back on meat. However, it is difficult to imitate the taste and aroma of meat, and many companies use artificial additives for this purpose. Recent research in ACS Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry revealed a promising solution. Onions, chives, and leeks can produce natural compounds that resemble meat flavors when fermented with typical fungi.

An innovative approach to natural meat flavoring

When food manufacturers want their plant-based meat alternatives to taste more like meat, they often add precursor ingredients found in the meat that transform into flavorants during cooking. Alternatively, flavors are first prepared by heating flavor precursors or other chemical manipulations and then added to the product.

Because these flavors are created through a synthetic process, many countries do not allow food manufacturers to label them as “natural.” To utilize plant-based “natural” meat flavors, flavor chemicals must be physically extracted from plants or produced biochemically using enzymes, bacteria, and fungi. So YanYan Zhang and colleagues wanted to see if they could produce the same chemicals from vegetables and spices using fungi, which are known for producing meat-like tastes and smells from synthetic ingredients.

Allium releases the aroma of meat

The team fermented different fungi seed After experimenting with different foods, I found that meaty aromas only come from foods in the allium family, such as onions and leeks. The sample with the strongest aroma was one in which the fungus Polyporus umbellatus was used to ferment onions for 18 hours, producing a fatty and meaty aroma similar to liverwurst.

The researchers used gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to analyze onion ferments to identify flavor and odor chemicals, many of which are known to be responsible for various flavors in meat. discovered a chemical substance. One of the chemicals they identified was bis(2-methyl-3-furyl) disulfide, a strong odorant found in meat and savory foods.

The researchers say the high sulfur content of alliums contributes to their ability to produce meat-flavoring compounds, and these compounds often also contain sulfur. These onion ferments could one day be used as a natural flavoring agent in a variety of plant-based meat substitutes, the researchers say.

Reference: “Sensoproteomic discovery of taste-modulating peptides and taste re-engineering of soy sauce” Manon Jünger, Verena Karolin Mittermeier-Kleßinger, Anastasia Farrenkopf, Andreas Dunkel, Timo Stark, Sonja Fröhlich, Veronika Somoza, Corinna Dawid, and Thomas Hofmann, 2022 May 20th Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c01688

The authors acknowledge funding from Adalbert-Raps-Stiftung.

Source: scitechdaily.com

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