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Showing posts from September, 2021

Scientists use nuclear physics to probe Floridan Aquifer threatened by climate change

Scientists used a nuclear dating technique to study the dynamics of the Floridan Aquifer. The findings show the promise of this emerging technique to help understand geological processes and to forecast the effects of climate change on coastal aquifers. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2Y1bTxm

Study on African buffalo offers insights on persistence of highly contagious pathogens

A new study on foot-and-mouth disease among buffalo in South Africa could help explain how certain extremely contagious pathogens are able to persist and reach endemic stage in a population, long after they've burned through their initial pool of susceptible hosts. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3DfXVHt

New metamaterial with unusual reflective property could boost your Wi-Fi signal

Engineers have achieved a practical mechanism for 'full-duplex nonreciprocity,' a property in metamaterials that allows for manipulation of both incoming and reflective beams of light. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/39PLe9z

Dynamic pregnancy intentions

A study found that pregnancy intentions often change over as short as a 12-month time period, and that they specifically vary with partner status, household income, and employment status. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3F4ASB1

Signaling from neighboring cells provides power boost within axons

Nerve cells (neurons) send signals throughout the brain and the body along long processes called axons; these communication and information processes consume high levels of energy. A recent study shows that the support cells around axons provide a way to boost local energy production. The new findings help explain how long axons maintain sufficient energy levels and could have implications for the treatment of several neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), linked to disruptions in axonal energy supply. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3mjG77s

Skittles is giving away a zero gravity flight to test out limited 'Zero-G' candies

Three months after certifying that their candies are "guaranteed to actually float while in space," Skittles is offering one fan the chance to test it out for themselves. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3oB5yEj

Scientists detect new landslides on U.S. West Coast

SMU geophysicists have used satellite imagery to identify more than 600 slow-moving landslides occurring near the U.S. West Coast from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3muRY2D

Science journal calls on scientists to combat Facebook misinformation

Leading US journal Science on Thursday issued a rare editorial calling for scientists to fight back against the COVID misinformation that proliferates on Facebook. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3ilf4r9

Optically generated quantum fluids of light reveal exotic matter-wave states in condensed matter physics

Researchers from Skoltech and the University of Southampton, U.K., have used all-optical methods to create an artificial lattice whose nodes house polaritons—quasiparticles that are half-light and half-matter excitations in semiconductors. This so-called Lieb lattice, which usually does not occur in nature, enabled the team to demonstrate breakthrough results important for condensed matter physics. From the applications perspective, the laser-generated polariton lattice, reported in Nature Communications, can be used for the design of next-generation devices like optical computers reliant on dispersion management and guided light. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2YiBy50

New study on African buffalo offers insights on persistence of highly contagious pathogens

A new Oregon State University study on foot-and-mouth disease among buffalo in South Africa could help explain how certain extremely contagious pathogens are able to persist and reach endemic stage in a population, long after they've burned through their initial pool of susceptible hosts. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3FgTsGe

Defense system protects African salmonella from attack by viruses

Scientists at the University of Liverpool and Harvard Medical School have discovered a new defense mechanism that makes a lethal strain of Salmonella resistant to viral infection. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3ASzzTb

Study: West Nile virus cases predicted to increase in New York and Connecticut due to climate change

A group of scientists affiliated with the University at Albany and New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) are predicting that the total number of West Nile virus (WNV) cases will increase, and be more geographically widespread, across New York and Connecticut in future years due to warming trends. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3oj1XKR

Can math make redistricting more fair?

Just before midnight on Tuesday, Sept. 28, an independent, bipartisan commission voted to approve a new map for Colorado's congressional districts––dividing the state into eight territories with roughly equal populations. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3oniCNa

Fungal transplants from close relatives help endangered plants fight off disease

For the endangered Hawaiian plant Eugenia koolauensis, fungi could be both its demise and its savior. The fungal pathogen myrtle rust (Austropuccinia psidii) has been devastating populations of the endemic tree, along with many other native and cultivated plants. However, researcher Mason Kamalani Chock thinks part of the solution might be more fungi. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/39STMfW

Safer treatment for deep-seated tumors

Scientists have detailed the effects of copper cysteamine, a next-generation cancer photo-drug. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3zRAS3z

Connecting the dots between material properties and qubit performance

Scientists studying superconducting qubits identified structural and chemical defects that may be causing quantum information loss -- an obstacle to practical quantum computation. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3iojRrH

Movement of genes within cells helps organisms tell time

Using the relatively simple clocks found in fruit flies, researchers reveal that the subcellular location of clock proteins and genes fluctuates with the daily passage of time, indicating that spatial information is translated into time-related signals. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3B2GBVu

Scientists reverse pancreatic cancer progression in ‘time machine’ made of human cells

What makes pancreatic cancer so deadly is its covert and quick spread. Now, a 'time machine' has shown a way to reverse the course of cancer before it spreads throughout the pancreas. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3kVNBxE

New analytical technique helps researchers spot subtle differences in subcellular chemistry

Researchers can now rapidly isolate and chemically characterize individual organelles within cells. The new technique tests the limits of analytical chemistry and rapidly reveals the chemical composition of organelles that control biological growth, development and disease. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3kXNqSQ

Seismic forensics and its importance for early warning

The scientific description of the catastrophic rockslide of February 7, 2021, in India's Dhauli Ganga Valley reads like a forensic report. A rockslide and the subsequent flood had killed at least 100 people and destroyed two hydroelectric power plants. In the scientific journal Science, researchers from the GFZ German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) together with colleagues from the National Geophysical Research Institute of India (NGRI), trace the disaster minute by minute using data from a network of seismometers. The team posits that seismic networks could be used to establish an early warning system for high mountain regions. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2ZMQVmQ

New research shows learning is more effective when active

Engaging students through interactive activities, discussions, feedback and AI-enhanced technologies resulted in improved academic performance compared to traditional lectures, lessons or readings, faculty from Carnegie Mellon University's Human-Computer Interaction Institute concluded after collecting research into active learning. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3uvHwez

‘Planet confusion’ could slow Earth-like exoplanet exploration

A new study finds that next-generation telescopes used to see exoplanets could confuse Earth-like planets with other types of planets in the same solar system. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3upL0PG

Expanding the genetic code with quadruplet codons

One of modern biologists' most ambitious goals is to learn how to expand or otherwise modify the genetic code of life on Earth, in order to make new, artificial life forms. Part of the motivation for this "synthetic biology" research is to understand more about the evolution and the logic of the natural biology we've inherited. But there's also a very practical motivation: Cells can be used as efficient factories for making a broad array of useful molecules—especially protein-based therapeutics, which account for an increasing share of new medicines. Cells working with an expanded genetic code could make a much more diverse set of such medicines and could do so in a way that greatly simplifies the overall process of developing and manufacturing them. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2XXOIE7

Extending our reach into the cosmos with new mirror coatings

Since the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO)'s groundbreaking detection, in 2015, of gravitational waves produced by a pair of colliding black holes, the observatory, together with its European partner facility Virgo, has detected dozens of similar cosmic rumblings that send ripples through space and time. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/39RBn2O

Low oxygen levels along Pacific Northwest coast are a 'silent' climate change crisis

Nearly two decades ago, fishers discovered an odd occurrence off the coast of Oregon. They were pulling up pots of dead or lethargic crabs. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2XYOnRM

Environmental groups welcome volunteers back to oyster planting in Baltimore Harbor

Sunday, for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic began, volunteers made their way to Baltimore's Downtown Sailing Center for a day of oyster gardening. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3a4gstL

Researchers integrate optical devices made of multiple materials onto single chip

Researchers have developed a highly accurate way to assemble multiple micron-scale optical devices extremely close together on a single chip. The new approach could one day allow high-volume manufacturing of chip-based optical systems that would enable more compact optical communications devices and advanced imagers. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3kPzeeu

Extending LIGO's reach into the cosmos

New mirror coatings will increase the volume of space LIGO can probe in its next run. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3uwjGQ4

Glioma subtype may hold the secret to the success of immunotherapies

A common mutation in gliomas sensitizes them to immunotherapy, a finding which researchers believe could have broader therapeutic implications for all glioma patients. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3zNyMla

North Korea tests new hypersonic weapon: reports

North Korean state media declared the test of the Hwasong-8 a success, but outside experts are skeptical. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3umeuy5

Lava from La Palma eruption finally reaches the Atlantic

A bright red river of lava from the volcano on Spain's La Palma island finally tumbled over a cliff and into the Atlantic Ocean, setting off huge plumes of steam and possibly toxic gases that forced local residents outside the evacuation zone to remain indoors on Wednesday. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3uvuDRN

A bigger nursery for the solar system's first formed solids

By studying isotopic variations of the elements vanadium (V) and strontium (Sr), an international team of researchers including scientists from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory found that those variations are not caused by irradiation from the sun but are produced by condensation and evaporation reactions in the early solar system. The research appears in the Sept. 29 edition of Science Advances. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3kQAPR6

Groundwater markets could promote solutions to the West's water woes

Amid historic drought and changing rainfall patterns, a groundwater market in the California desert could serve as a template for the future of water management. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3AXNG9N

Team rewires a behavioral circuit in the worm using hydra parts

New research highlights the development of HySyn, a system designed to synthetically reconnect neural circuits using neuropeptides from Hydra, a small, freshwater organism, into the model organism C. elegans. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3a45eFD

Clover growth in Mars-like soils boosted by bacterial symbiosis

Clover plants grown in Mars-like soils experience significantly more growth when inoculated with symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria than when left uninoculated, researchers report. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3CXdYK2

Exoskeleton research demonstrates the importance of training

New research shows that the benefits people could reap from exoskeletons rely heavily on having time to train with the device. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3B8f9G5

Strikingly simple means of diagnosing ecosystem health uncovered

Scientists say the health of a terrestrial ecosystem can be largely determined by three variables: vegetations' ability to uptake carbon, its efficiency in using carbon and its efficiency in using water. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/39QffWM

Strict lineage tracing crucial to nerve cell regeneration research

Stem cell scientists find that stringent lineage tracing is crucial for studies of nerve cell regeneration. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3zUYxjk

Astronaut snaps stunning photos of massive Hurricane Sam from space

NASA astronaut Megan McArthur shared three photos of the massive Hurricane Sam as seen from the International Space Station. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3md3tLB

Making waves: A contactless way to detect damage in transparent materials

Transparent materials have become an essential component in a wide variety of technological applications, ranging from everyday electronics like tablets and smartphones to more sophisticated uses in solar panels, medicine, and optics. Just as for any other product to be mass-produced, quality control is important for these materials, and several techniques have been developed to detect microscopic scratches or imperfections. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3F5eJCH

Team rewires a behavioral circuit in a worm using hydra parts

For two people to communicate in a loud, crowded room, they need to be standing side by side. The same is often true for neurons in the brain. But the same way a cell phone allows two people to communicate clearly across the room, new research at the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL) has opened up a new channel of communication in the brain of the worm C. elegans. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3m785TL

U.S. soybean, corn yields could be increased through use of machine learning

Research guided by a plant pathologist in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences suggests that machine-learning algorithms that are programmed to recognize changing weather patterns could show producers and agricultural managers how to increase soybean and corn yields in the United States. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3kS8VUP

Correlated electrons 'tango' in a perovskite oxide at the extreme quantum limit

A team led by the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory has found a rare quantum material in which electrons move in coordinated ways, essentially "dancing." Straining the material creates an electronic band structure that sets the stage for exotic, more tightly correlated behavior—akin to tangoing—among Dirac electrons, which are especially mobile electric charge carriers that may someday enable faster transistors. The results are published in the journal Science Advances. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3F2LS1S

Clover growth in Mars-like soils boosted by bacterial symbiosis

Clover plants grown in Mars-like soils experience significantly more growth when inoculated with symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria than when left uninoculated. Franklin Harris of Colorado State University, U.S., and colleagues present these findings in the open-access journal PLOS ONE on September 29, 2021. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3ASKEUo

Counting cells may shed light on how cancer spreads

Engineers developed a technique that allows them to measure the generation rate and half-life of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in mice. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3AR1rqQ

Magnetic stimulation of the brain can improve episodic memory, study finds

The ability to form episodic memories declines with age, certain dementias, and brain injury. However, a new study shows that low frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation delivered over the left prefrontal cortex of the brain can improve memory performance by reducing the power of low frequency brain waves as memories form. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3uiupgR

Elephants strive to cooperate with allies, until the stakes get too high

Asian elephants are keen to cooperate with friends and have evolved strategies to mitigate competition in their social groups, but cooperation breaks down when food resources are limited, according to new research. The study sheds light on the evolution of cooperative behavior in mammals. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3F3n61g

AI may predict the next virus to jump from animals to humans

A new study suggests that machine learning using viral genomes may predict the likelihood that any animal-infecting virus will infect humans, given biologically relevant exposure. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ihXN21

Seven symptoms jointly predict COVID-19 diagnosis, study finds

A set of 7 symptoms, considered together, can be used to maximize detection of COVID-19 in the community, according to researchers. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ARIIeP

Stuffed cow guards China's space station ahead of Shenzhou 13 crew arrival next month

A stuffed cow is currently a lone occupant of the Chinese Tianhe space station, waiting to be joined by the crew of the upcoming Shenzhou 13 mission. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3a0obsN

NASA Mars missions facing 2-week communications blackout as sun blocks Red Planet

NASA plans to pause most of its Martian work in October for safety reasons associated with the Red Planet's position in space. from Space.com https://ift.tt/39Ii38c

Soft pressure sensor breakthrough solves field's most challenging bottleneck

Medical sensing technology has taken great strides in recent years, with the development of wearable devices that can track pulse, brain function, biomarkers in sweat and more. However, there is one big problem with existing wearable pressure sensors: Even the slightest amount of pressure, something as light as a tight long sleeve shirt over a sensor, can throw them off track. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3ESPmDQ

Nasa's Lucy mission prepares for launch to Jupiter's Trojan asteroids

NASA has tested the functions of Lucy, the agency's first spacecraft to study Jupiter's Trojan asteroids, filled it with fuel, and is preparing to pack it into a capsule for launch on Saturday, Oct. 16. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3zOTvoA

When it comes to reporting on sexual assault in media, words matter

Someone on your favorite sports team is accused of date rape. A local city council candidate is charged in the sexual assault of a co-worker. Accusations surface about coaches of a gymnastics team. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3AS6kjc

Liquid metal coating creates effective antiviral, antimicrobial fabric

Researchers used liquid gallium to create an antiviral and antimicrobial coating and tested it on a range of fabrics, including face masks. The coating adhered more strongly to fabric than some conventional metal coatings, and eradicated 99% of several common pathogens within five minutes. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3D9jIk3

Liquid metal coating creates effective antiviral, antimicrobial fabric

An international team of researchers has used liquid gallium to create an antiviral and antimicrobial coating and tested it on a range of fabrics, including facemasks. The coating adhered more strongly to fabric than some conventional metal coatings, and eradicated 99% of several common pathogens within five minutes. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3CUackx

More diverse ant colonies raise more offspring

Ant colonies with a higher degree of genetic diversity thrive better than those that consist of individuals with more similar genetic backgrounds. This is the conclusion of an experimental study in which researchers compared various colonies of the common black ant with one another. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3ASMrIV

People used Facebook as emergency communication system during pandemic, study finds

The webpages of Facebook are a seemingly endless source of news, connection, and entertainment for billions of people. A new study from the School of Public Health (SPH) also finds that the social networking platform functioned as a kind of informal emergency broadcast system for people seeking critical information and support during the pandemic. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2ZGBbli

Twitter is buzzing about 'parasocial relationships.' Are they unhealthy?

The term "parasocial relationship" is getting a lot of attention on Twitter as of late. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3kOaV0v

NASA's Mars fleet lays low as sun moves between Earth and Red Planet

NASA will stand down from commanding its Mars missions for the next few weeks while Earth and the Red Planet are on opposite sides of the Sun. This period, called Mars solar conjunction, happens every two years. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/39LqvDC

Living retina achieves sensitivity and efficiency engineers can only dream about

'Efficient coding theory' describes the most perfect, low-energy way to design a light-detecting device for a future camera or prosthetic retina. Or you could just look at a mammalian retina that's already organized this way. In a pair of papers on retinal structure, a team of neurobiologists has shown that the rigors of natural selection and evolution shaped our retinas to capture noisy data just as this theory of optimization would prescribe. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3EY3hsr

‘Research autopsy’ enable scientists study why certain cancer therapies stop working

A new research study turns cancer scientists into molecular detectives, searching for clues for why certain cancers are able to spread and evolve by studying tissues collected within hours of death. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2Y7tzYC

Intense workouts before bedtime won’t guarantee a good night’s rest, new research shows

A new meta-analysis assessed data from 15 published studies to see how a single session of intense exercise affects young and middle-aged healthy adults in the hours prior to bedtime. And while no two bodies are the same, the researchers did find that the combination of factors would interact to enhance or modulate the effects of exercise on sleep. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3CTvoXJ

AI may predict the next virus to jump from animals to humans

Most emerging infectious diseases of humans (like COVID-19) are zoonotic—caused by viruses originating from other animal species. Identifying high-risk viruses earlier can improve research and surveillance priorities. A study publishing in PLOS Biology on September 28th by Nardus Mollentze, Simon Babayan, and Daniel Streicker at University of Glasgow, United Kingdom suggests that machine learning (a type of artifical intelligence) using viral genomes may predict the likelihood that any animal-infecting virus will infect humans, given biologically relevant exposure. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2XPNniF

Elephants strive to cooperate with allies, until the stakes get too high

Asian elephants are keen to cooperate with friends and have evolved strategies to mitigate competition in their social groups, but cooperation breaks down when food resources are limited, according to a study publishing September 28th in the open-access journal PLOS Biology by Li-Li Li at the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Yunnan, China, and colleagues. The study sheds light on the evolution of cooperative behavior in mammals. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/39Negq6

Happiness in early adulthood may protect against dementia

While research has shown that poor cardiovascular health can damage blood flow to the brain increasing the risk for dementia, a new study indicates that poor mental health may also take its toll on cognition. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3olnbrz

Shock waves in outflow gases could regulate 'volcano lightning'

Volcanic eruptions spew lava, rock and ash into the air. When fragments of these materials mix and collide in the outflow, they can create an electric potential large enough to generate lightning. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3m33phy

New world record in materials research: X-ray microscopy at a speed of 1000 tomograms per second

Most people are familiar with computed tomography from medicine: A part of the body is X-rayed from all sides and a three-dimensional image is then calculated, from which any sectional images can be created for diagnosis. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3CPek5g

Does pollution make thunderstorms more severe?

A team of atmospheric scientists from around the nation is descending on the Houston, Texas, area for the next 14 months to seek answers to a vexing question: Do tiny specks of soot, dust, smoke, and other particles suspended in Earth's atmosphere help determine the severity of thunderstorms? The knowledge gained may make weather forecasts more accurate and provide crucial data for improving predictions about how aerosols may affect Earth's future climate. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3odR25a

New tool finds the best opportunities to reduce, reuse and recycle across industrial sectors

A new tool finds hidden connections across industrial sectors and identifies opportunities to reduce waste and lower carbon emissions by mapping the physical economy for a region. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3kKquWU

Amazonian protected areas benefit both people and biodiversity

Highly positive social outcomes are linked to biodiversity efforts in Amazonian Sustainable-Use Protected Areas, according to new research from the University of East Anglia (UEA). from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3udxj6w

Zen stones naturally placed atop pedestals of ice: A phenomenon finally understood

Like a work of art enshrined in a museum, some stones end up on a pedestal of ice in nature, with no human intervention. This "Zen stone" phenomenon, named after the stacked stones in Japanese gardens, appears on the surface of frozen lakes, Lake Baikal (Russia) in particular. These structures result from the phenomenon of sublimation, which causes a body, in this case ice, to change from solid to gaseous form without the intermediary form of a liquid. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3EVz9hk

Late Pleistocene humans may have hatched and raised cassowary chicks

As early as 18,000 years ago, humans in New Guinea may have collected cassowary eggs near maturity and then raised the birds to adulthood, according to an international team of scientists, who used eggshells to determine the developmental stage of the ancient embryos/chicks when the eggs cracked. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3kIKyZN

Dinosaurs' ascent driven by volcanoes powering climate change

The rise of dinosaurs coincided with environmental changes driven by major volcanic eruptions over 230 million years ago, a new study reveals. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3kJXkqM

Deep roots of the Anthropocene can be found in tropical forests

A new special edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences showcases multidisciplinary approaches to exploring human impacts on tropical forests and their associated earth systems. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3oc1Ssd

Future prosperity in China is unlikely to be hindered by population aging

New research on China suggests that declining birth rates and an aging population might not hinder future prosperity when associated with better education of the young. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3m3dVp3

Valuable crab populations are in a 'very scary' decline in warming Bering Sea

Federal biologist Erin Fedewa boarded a research vessel in June in Dutch Harbor, Alaska, and journeyed to a swath of the Bering Sea that typically yields an abundance of young snow crab in annual surveys. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3zFUrvy

N95 respirators could offer robust protection from wildfire smoke

N95 respirators offer the best protection against wildfire smoke and other types of air pollution, performing better than synthetic, cotton and surgical masks. N95s were so effective in the lab experiments that the researchers estimate their widespread use could reduce hospital visits attributable to wildfire smoke by 22% to 39%. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3kHrXxc

Withdrawal from psychostimulants restructures functional architecture of brain

Researchers describe how withdrawal from nicotine, methamphetamine and cocaine alters the functional architecture and patterns in the brains of mice, compared to control animals, a key to developing addiction treatments. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3AHukWl

Drugs used by some Type 2 diabetics may lessen risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes, study suggests

A type of drug already used to treat obesity and Type 2 diabetes, when taken six months prior to the diagnosis of COVID-19, was associated with a decreased risk of hospitalization, respiratory complications and death in COVID-19 patients with Type 2 diabetes, according to researchers. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3uipBbh

NASA launches powerful Landsat 9 satellite to monitor climate change, forest cover and more

Landsat 9 will join its partner Landsat 8 in tracking urban sprawl, forest cover and the retreat of glaciers, among other features and phenomena. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3m0LJDn

Hulu drops new teaser for 'The Orville' Season 3, announces 2022 premiere date

The crew of the Planetary Union exploration vessel, the USS Orville, will quantum drive onto our screens on March 10, 2022. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3uh4tlw

Benefits of early intervention in autoimmune diseases

Complex autoimmune diseases affecting various organ systems remain one of the greatest medical challenges in spite of immense advances in treatment. In particular, the diffuse symptoms at the early stage of complex autoimmune diseases make it hard to diagnose the condition early on, which in turn delays treatment. A team of researchers has now demonstrated that treatment can be extremely effective if autoimmune diseases are treated as early as possible, even before the first clinical symptoms appear. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2Zs2EqC

Detecting dementia in the blood

Researchers want to image proteins with unprecedented precision -- and thus gain insights into the molecular pathogenesis of Alzheimer's. This should pave the way for an earlier diagnosis of the dementia disorder via a simple blood test. A successful pilot study has now been completed. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3zJ0U8V

Record in materials research: X-ray microscopy with 1000 tomograms per second

Tomoscopy is an imaging method in which three-dimensional images of the inside of materials are calculated in rapid succession. Now a team has achieved a new record: with 1000 tomograms per second, it is now possible to non-destructively document very fast processes and developments in materials on the micrometer scale, such as the burning of a sparkler or the foaming of a metal alloy for the production of stable lightweight materials. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3m6wEQr

Shrinking waveforms on electrocardiograms predict worsening health and death of hospitalized COVID-19 and influenza patients

Specific and dynamic changes on electrocardiograms (EKGs) of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 or influenza can help predict a timeframe for worsening health and death, according to a new study. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3zLjj54

Unusual visual examination of objects may indicate later autism diagnosis in infants

A new study suggests that unusual visual inspection of objects may precede the development of the social symptoms that are characteristic of autism syndrome disorder. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3ANjPRq

Stigmatization prevents lessons from the HIV pandemic

The HIV pandemic hit the LGBTQI+ community, people who were already stigmatized, particularly early: This stigmatization prevented the lessons of the HIV pandemic from being adopted by broader parts of society—with consequences for dealing with the COVID 19 pandemic, argue researchers from the School of Public Health at Bielefeld University. In the journal Science, they show how society could learn better from the experiences of stigmatized communities. Their contribution is part of a project at the Research Institute Social Cohesion (FGZ) funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3lVHnxe

First reported case of anthrax in wildlife: Infected zebra most likely causes death of 3 cheetahs

Since 2015, scientists of the Leibniz-IZW Cheetah Research Project (CRP) conduct a National Cheetah Survey together with the Namibian Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT). The purpose is to obtain data on cheetah density and distribution across the country. Within this framework, a coalition of three cheetah males was captured in the Namib Desert and one animal equipped with a GPS collar. The recorded location and movement data were regularly downloaded during aerial tracking flights. On one of these flights, on October 5th 2019, the carcass of a collared cheetah—one of the members of the coalition—was located from the aircraft. During the following ground inspection, the other two cheetahs were also found dead. "The GPS data of the collared cheetah revealed that they died within a time window of six hours a few days before we found them," says Ruben Portas, CRP scientist. "Evaluating their most recent movements, we identified a cluster of GPS locations a

New way to simulate hydrogen storage efficiency of materials

Hydrogen energy has the potential to be a key measure to meet the United Nations net zero emissions target, but its industrial use has been hindered by the difficulty in its storage and handling. Hydrogen becomes a gas at a very low temperature (-252°C), which makes its storage at room temperature challenging. The interaction between hydrogen and its storage material is simply too weak to persist at room temperature. This makes the design of storage materials crucial to achieving the goal of bringing hydrogen energy into daily use. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3CR4ZtC

Mali's elephants show how people and nature can share space in a complex world

The challenge of conserving wildlife while meeting the many needs of humans is a complex one. Some policymakers don't see how economies can grow while still making space for wildlife. Others understand that conservation must make space for people, but it's difficult to do in practice. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3ESACF3

Best lightsaber fights: Epic duels from across the Star Wars universe

These are the 10 best lightsaber fights in Star Wars, ever. Don't fight us on this, we have the high ground. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3kKkzBi

CyberLink PhotoDirector 13 review

The latest version of CyberLink PhotoDirector is a perfect tool for beginners and social media-savvy photographers, but its newer tools are unlikely to satisfy serious astrophotographers from Space.com https://ift.tt/3EUgDWw

A guide to blue hour photography

Our guide to blue hour photography has top tips on equipment, settings, and planning – all you need to get inspired for the most magical time to shoot. from Space.com https://ift.tt/2WfrDfE

Our climate projections for 2500 show an Earth that is alien to humans

There are many reports based on scientific research that talk about the long-term impacts of climate change—such as rising levels of greenhouse gases, temperatures and sea levels—by the year 2100. The Paris Agreement, for example, requires us to limit warming to under 2.0 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels by the end of the century. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2Y5h53J

Urgent action must be taken to save the critically endangered Sumatran rhino

Indonesia manage to conserve two of the world's five rhinoceros species. Both the Javan rhino (Rhinoceros sondaicus) and the Sumatran rhino (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) still exist today, uniquely only in the country. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3CRwbZc

Not all men's violence prevention programs are effective: Why women's voices need to be included

In the opening panel of the National Summit on Women's Safety 2021, Professor Marcia Langton called for a separate national plan to address violence against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3oaZgL3

Galactic panspermia: How far could life spread naturally in a galaxy like the Milky Way?

Can life spread throughout a galaxy like the Milky Way without technological intervention? That question is largely unanswered. A new study is taking a swing at that question by using a simulated galaxy that's similar to the Milky Way. Then they investigated that model to see how organic compounds might move between its star systems. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3zEGPAI

Political bias on social media emerges from users, not platform

In this era of political polarization, many accuse online social media platforms such as Twitter of liberal bias, intentionally favoring and amplifying liberal content and users while suppressing other political content. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3EVcphy

Do space tourists really understand the risk they're taking?

Space tourism vehicles are probably the only technology with the potential to kill humans that doesn't need to undergo independent safety certification. Is that a good idea? from Space.com https://ift.tt/3ibIbgq

Astronomers reveal strange clouds on 'fluffy' alien planet WASP-127b

Astronomers reveal WASP-127b's clouds are unlike any found on Earth. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3AOT5jA

NASA will launch a new Earth-observing satellite today, here's how to watch

NASA is gearing up to launch a new Earth-observing satellite and you can watch the action live online. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3iaM3hG

5.7-magnitude quake shakes Philippines' main island: USGS

A strong earthquake hit off the Philippines' main island Monday, but there were no immediate reports of damage, the US Geological Survey and local officials said. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3CJFeeK

'Back to basics' approach helps unravel new phase of matter

A new phase of matter, thought to be understandable only using quantum physics, can be studied with far simpler classical methods. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3zOYpln

Research reveals potential of an overlooked climate change solution

Earlier this month, President Biden urged other countries to join the U.S. and European Union in a commitment to slashing methane emissions. Two new Stanford-led studies could help pave the way by laying out a blueprint for coordinating research on methane removal technologies, and modeling how the approach could have an outsized effect on reducing future peak temperatures. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3AKmuuV

Finger tracing enhances learning: Evidence for 100-year-old practice used by Montessori

Finger tracing has been used by teachers to help students learn for more than a century. In the early 1900s, education pioneer Montessori encouraged young children to trace over letters of the alphabet made from sandpaper with their index fingers, based on the intuition that a multi-sensory approach (i.e., visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic) to learning would be most effective. In 1912, Montessori noticed that children, after mastering the sequence of tracing a letter with their index finger, "took great pleasure" in closing their eyes and trying to recall it. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3o9tFJI

New lava lake lets DR Congo volcano 'breathe', experts say

The reappearance of a lava lake in the crater of the Nyiragongo volcano in eastern DR Congo is a good sign, experts said Sunday, four months after a major eruption killed 32 people. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3CKHXVp

'Ancestor' of Mediterranean mosaics discovered in Turkey

The discovery of a 3,500-year-old paving stone, described as the "ancestor" of Mediterranean mosaics, offers illuminating details into the daily lives of the mysterious Bronze Age Hittites. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2WeMEHj

Volcanic ash cloud halts flights to and from Spanish island

A massive cloud of ash prevented flights in and out of the Spanish island of La Palma on Sunday as molten rock continued to be flung high into the air from an erupting volcano. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3kHGJnC

Smartphone sensor data has potential to detect cannabis intoxication

A smartphone sensor, much like what is used in GPS systems, might be a way to determine whether or not someone is intoxicated after consuming marijuana, according to a new study. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3zE7ldj

Love and rockets: We need to figure out how to have sex in space for human survival and well-being

Love and sex need to happen in space if we hope to travel long distances and become an interplanetary species, but space organizations are not ready. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3kKf5GJ

Solar eclipse looks otherworldly in 'Golden Ring' astrophotography shot

The winning photographs for the 13th annual Astronomy Photographer of the Year awards have been announced, and the sun is the star of the show. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3ubxSxL

Disney to reboot 'Flight of the Navigator' with Bryce Dallas Howard at the helm

Set to be a female-led reimagining of the 1986 kids sci-fi adventure movie. from Space.com https://ift.tt/2Zy08zj

Photos: Astrophotographers capture stunning views of the night sky for 2021 contest

Here's a look at stunning astronomy images from the Royal Observatory Greenwich's Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3F3yNFB

Far Eastern star legends: the princess and the herdsman

The stars have provided inspiration for imaginative storytellers across the planet for millennia. This is the tale of two star-crossed lovers, Vega and Altair. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3udnw05

Brilliant dashcam fireball videos help scientists find 3 meteorites in Slovenia

By diligently tracing dashcam footage from a particularly spectacular fireball seen over central Europe in February 2020, a team of scientists hit pay dirt on three fragments of space rock. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3AM2JmR

California fights fire with fire to protect giant sequoias

The so-far successful battle this month in California to save the world's biggest trees from ever-worsening forest blazes seems to offer an important lesson: You can fight fire with fire. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3onxCLh

Volcanic ash cloud closes La Palma airport; new vent emerges

The airport on the Spanish island of La Palma shut down Saturday because of an ash cloud spewing out of a volcano that has been erupting for a week, and scientists said another volcanic vent opened up, exposing islanders to possible new dangers. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3kGwkZh

Landsat 9, NASA's most powerful Landsat satellite ever, is 'go' for launch on Monday

NASA has cleared its newest powerful Earth observation satellite for a launch into orbit on Monday (Sept. 27) from the California coast. from Space.com https://ift.tt/2ZwTQ2V

SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket will launch internet satellite to serve Alaska in 2022

Falcon Heavy is now scheduled to loft Astranis' first commercial communications satellite to orbit next spring, the San Francisco-based company announced Thursday (Sept. 23). from Space.com https://ift.tt/3zGbHRe

The sun has spots. Here's what we've learned about them so far.

Of all of the features associated with our sun, sunspots are by far the most conspicuous. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3o5TCtK

Zoo Miami: Orangutan dies following dental surgery

An orangutan has died at Zoo Miami following a dental surgery, officials said. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3zI5Omu

Flights scrapped as new volcanic eruptions hit Canaries

Fresh volcanic eruptions in Spain's Canary Islands prompted the cancellation of flights, airport authorities said Friday, the first since the Cumbre Vieja volcano came to life again. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3AIoUuj

Guatemala's Fuego volcano quiets after eruption

Guatemala's Fuego volcano on Friday has quieted after a 32-hour long eruption, authorities said Friday. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3zGKU7l

More than 3,000 shark fins confiscated in Colombia

Thousands of shark fins were confiscated by Colombian authorities before they could be illegally shipped to Hong Kong, officials said. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3o46HDN

Researchers develop new method for detecting superfluid motion

Researchers at Rochester Institute of Technology are part of a new study that could help unlock the potential of superfluids—essentially frictionless special substances capable of unstopped motion once initiated. A team of scientists led by Mishkat Bhattacharya, an associate professor at RIT's School of Physics and Astronomy and Future Photon Initiative, proposed a new method for detecting superfluid motion in an article published in Physical Review Letters. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/39AdDjF

Researchers develop new method for detecting superfluid motion

Researchers are part of a new study that could help unlock the potential of superfluids -- essentially frictionless special substances capable of unstopped motion once initiated. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2XJjCA0

When it comes to communication skills, maybe we’re born with it?

A neuroscientist and speech pathologist, led a study that uncovered how neural networks in infants influence their language learning skills in early childhood. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3CK7qyd

A giant space rock demolished an ancient Middle Eastern city, possibly inspiring the Biblical story of Sodom

Flashing through the atmosphere, the rock exploded in a massive fireball about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) above the ground. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3AKmMCb

3D nano-inks push industry boundaries

A new, 3D-printable polymer nanocomposite ink developed by engineers has incredible properties like conducting electricity and high tensile strength -- and many applications in aerospace, medicine and electronics. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3zCLyTn

The origin and legacy of the Etruscans

Researchers present comprehensive ancient DNA data retrieved from peoples culturally affiliated with the iconic Etruscans, settling a long-lasting debate on the origins of this highly skilled and enigmatic culture. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3CNBRmW

In a gene tied to growth, scientists see glimmers of human history

A new study delves into the evolution and function of the human growth hormone receptor gene, and asks what forces in humanity's past may have driven changes to this vital piece of DNA. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3u8E49u

Guiding microbes along their path

The direction of movement of a microbe directly depends on the curvature of its environment, according to new findings. The researchers investigated the navigation of a model microbe, a small self-propelling microalga, in confined compartments with different shapes. They also developed theoretical models to predict the probability flux of that microswimmer which was confirmed by experiments. With this model available, it is now possible to pre-define the average trajectory of such microbes by manipulating the curvature of the compartments which directly affects their movement. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3kFVc3o

Moonshots, private space stations and more: NASA chief Bill Nelson on the future of human spaceflight

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson is confident the agency's human spaceflight future is bright, despite the inherent difficulty of the endeavor and some challenging international issues. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3EIplHg

Soar into space aboard this inspiring trailer for 'Among The Stars,' a new Disney Plus docuseries

Ride along with veteran astronaut Chris Cassidy in this six-part, all-access trip into orbit from Space.com https://ift.tt/2XOQjvN

Ancient impact that formed Earth's moon was likely a one-two punch

The gigantic impact that created the moon was actually a one-two punch, a new study suggests. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3EMshCO

NASA's Perseverance rover cameras capture 'mission-critical' views of Mars — and an epic selfie

NASA's Perseverance rover has compiled a variety of photos since landing at its new home on Mars in February, offering a more comprehensive view of the Red Planet. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3zIzoIC

Insights from our genome and epigenome will help prevent, diagnose and treat cancer

In 2020, an estimated 10 million people lost their lives to cancer. This devastating disease is underpinned by changes to our DNA – the instruction manual for all our cells. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3zGFU2u

Gamma rays and neutrinos from mellow supermassive black holes

The Universe is filled with energetic particles, such as X rays, gamma rays, and neutrinos. However, most of the high-energy cosmic particles' origins remain unexplained. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3EMr2DD

The origin and legacy of the Etruscans

The Etruscan civilization, which flourished during the Iron Age in central Italy, has intrigued scholars for millennia. With remarkable metallurgical skills and a now-extinct, non-Indo-European language, the Etruscans stood out from their contemporary neighbors, leading to intense debate from the likes of the ancient Greek historian Herodotus on their geographical origins. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3EMiQ6l

In a gene tied to growth, scientists see glimmers of human history

A new study delves into the evolution and function of the human growth hormone receptor gene, and asks what forces in humanity's past may have driven changes to this vital piece of DNA. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2WaonlH

Spanish volcano still packs a punch 5 days after eruption

A volcano in Spain's Canary Islands kept nerves on edge Friday for a fifth day since it erupted, producing loud explosions, a huge ash cloud and cracking open a new fissure that spewed out more fiery molten rock. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3zCONdx

NASA satellites show how clouds respond to Arctic sea ice change

Clouds are one of the biggest wildcards in predictions of how much and how fast the Arctic will continue to warm in the future. Depending on the time of the year and the changing environment in which they form and exist, clouds can both act to warm and cool the surface below them. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3EObv6o

Telescope in Chile captures a doomed galaxy falling into the heart of the Fornax Cluster

The Fornax Cluster—which, as the name suggests, lies primarily in the constellation Fornax (the Furnace)—is a relatively nearby galaxy cluster, only about 60 million light-years from Earth. This means that it looms large in the night sky, stretching across an area more than 100 times larger than the full moon. With over 600 member galaxies, the Fornax Cluster is the second "richest" (most populous) galaxy cluster within 100 million light-years of our galaxy (after the much larger Virgo Cluster). from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3zDn2BJ

Decoding birds’ brain signals into syllables of song

Researchers can predict what syllables a bird will sing -- and when it will sing them -- by reading electrical signals in its brain, reports a new study. The work is an early step toward building vocal prostheses for humans who have lost the ability to speak. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3o7zx6x

Carbon dioxide reactor makes 'Martian fuel'

Engineers are developing new ways to convert greenhouse gases to fuel to address climate change and get astronauts home from Mars. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3zBtmJU

Astronomers discover mysterious 500-light-year-wide 'cavity' in our Milky Way

Astronomers have discovered a huge cavity 500 light-years wide in the Milky Way galaxy believed to have been carved out by a supernova 10 million years ago. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3AxzeVP

Elon Musk says Inspiration4 crew had 'challenges' with toilet, vows for bathroom upgrades

The private space flight, SpaceX, completed a historic mission with the first all-civilian flight crew last weekend. The four members of the Inspiration4 crew raised $200 million for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and helped prove SpaceX founder Elon Musk's belief that non-professional astronauts can venture into space in regularity. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3AOAOCE

Dual action: RNA binding protein also binds DNA and acts as a damage sensor across the genome

Cancer is a devastating disease and is the second leading cause of death in the U.S. One of the hallmarks of cancer is genomic instability, or the tendency to accumulate mutations and damage to the DNA that leads to genome alterations during cell division. DNA mutations can arise from exposure to ultraviolet or X-ray radiation or from certain chemicals known as carcinogens; however, our cells have developed mechanisms to monitor and repair damaged DNA. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3kHC1q9

Earliest evidence of human activity found in the Americas

Footprints found at White Sands National Park in New Mexico provide the earliest unequivocal evidence of human activity in the Americas and offer insight into life over 23,000 years ago. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3ELTmWN

Ancient DNA analysis sheds light on a dark event in medieval Spain

An international team of researchers led by the University of Huddersfield's Archaeogenetics Research Group, including geneticists, archeological scientists, and archeologists, has published the genome sequence of a unique individual from Islamic medieval Spain—al-Andalus—the results of which have shed light on a brutal event that took place in medieval Spain. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3ogDaan

Researchers develop algorithm to map words to colors across languages

No language has words for all the blues of a wind-churned sea or the greens and golds of a wildflower meadow in late summer. Globally, different languages have divvied up the world of color using their own set of labels, from just a few to dozens. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2XOaVVE

New cereal box-sized satellite to explore alien planets

A new miniature satellite designed and built at CU Boulder's Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) is providing proof that "cute" things can take on big scientific challenges. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3ACdF6H

Laser treatment shows potential for reducing industrial chemical processing for vehicles

Long-lasting protection from corrosion is essential for materials used for vehicles and aircraft to ensure structural integrity amid extreme operating conditions. Two chemical pre-treatment processes are widely used in industrial settings to prepare for coating adhesion and protect aluminum alloy surfaces against corrosion. While highly regulated, both processes use large quantities of hazardous compounds with known environmental and health risks. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3i3wng5

Times we didn't act like ourselves can be helpful in the long run, study finds

When we reflect on our past behavior and decisions, we can normally identify both occasions where we have been true to ourselves, i.e. acted authentically, as well as times when we have done things in a way that doesn't align with who we believe we are. However, how do these recollections translate onto the story of who we are that we tell ourselves every day? from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3kCnzja

Team proposes microprinting a fiber-tip polymer clamped-beam probe for high-sensitivity nanoforce measurements

The control and measurement of asserted forces on small objects are frequently seen in micromanipulation, material science, and biological and medical applications. Researchers in China have proposed for the first time the microprinting of a novel fiber-tip-polymer clamped-beam probe micro-force sensor for the examination of biological samples. This approach opens new avenues towards the realization of small-footprint AFMs, and the proposed sensor has great application prospects for examining biological samples and the mechanical properties of materials. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3nYsE7m

Chinese scientists report starch synthesis from carbon dioxide

Chinese scientists recently reported a de novo route for artificial starch synthesis from carbon dioxide (CO2) for the first time. Relevant results were published in Science on Sept. 24. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/39MtL1P

Decoding birds' brain signals into syllables of song

Researchers can predict what syllables a bird will sing—and when it will sing them—by reading electrical signals in its brain, reports a new study from the University of California San Diego. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2XUbtZR

Vampire bats may coordinate with 'friends' over a bite to eat

Vampire bats that form bonds in captivity and continue those "friendships" in the wild also hunt together, meeting up over a meal after independent departures from the roost, according to a new study. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3CEeNHf

Breast cancers: Ruptures in cell nuclei promotes tumor invasion

When cells multiply and migrate, they can be compressed and their nucleus may break open. This phenomenon causes DNA damage. Scientists have now shown that this facilitates the spread of cancer cells in breast tumors. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3u85M6z

Child abuse and neglect linked to early death in adulthood

A new study found that adults who reported experiencing sexual abuse by the age of 16 had a 2.6 times higher risk of dying in middle age -- that is, between 45 and 58 -- than those who did not report sexual abuse. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3o756gN

Ancient DNA analysis sheds light on dark event in medieval Spain

Researchers used ancient DNA analysis to identify a member of a population expelled from medieval Spain known as the 'Segorbe Giant'. The results have shed light on the brutal political decision that led to a dramatic change in population following the Christian reconquest of Spain. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3lRApt8

Deadly virus’s pathway to infect cells identified

Researchers have discovered how Rift Valley fever virus enters cells, pointing the way to new therapies to treat deadly Rift Valley fever. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3EOLpQq

Baby Yoda from 'The Mandalorian' will soar as Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon

A Funko Pop!-themed Baby Yoda (Grogu) from "The Mandalorian" will become the first "Star Wars" balloon to debut at the traditional Turkey Day event. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3lM2BgM

Where and how to photograph the aurora

Here our beginner's guide on how to photograph the aurora, which includes the best techniques and camera settings for capturing the Northern Lights. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3u4NjHZ

Team creates micro-robots propelled by air bubbles and ultrasound

Some engineers find inspiration in the mechanics of bird flight and the architecture of bee nests. Others think much smaller. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3AC9KH0

Continental growth is not a continuous process

The continents, a specific feature of our planet, still hold many secrets. Using chemical data on sedimentary rocks compiled from the scientific literature from the 1980s to the present day, CNRS researcher Marion Garçon has uncovered a new geological history of the continents. She shows that their growth was not a continuous process, and that they have always been rich in silica. This new study, published on September 22, 2021 in Science Advances, calls into question certain models of the onset of plate tectonics and provides us with a better understanding of continental growth through time. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3ABZXke

Early Homo sapiens groups in Europe faced subarctic climates

Using oxygen stable isotope analysis of tooth enamel from animals butchered by humans at the site of Bacho Kiro Cave, Bulgaria, researchers show that human groups belonging to an early wave of dispersal of our species into Europe were faced with very cold climatic conditions while they occupied the cave between about 46,000 and 43,000 years ago. Archaeological remains at Bacho Kiro Cave currently represent the oldest known remnants of Upper Palaeolithic Homo sapiens in Europe, and thus open a unique window into the time when our species started to move out of the Levant and establish itself across the mid latitudes of Eurasia as part of an archaeological phenomenon called the Initial Upper Palaeolithic. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3CC9g4e

New research 'sniffs out' how associative memories are formed

Has the scent of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies ever taken you back to afternoons at your grandmother's house? Has an old song ever brought back memories of a first date? The ability to remember relationships between unrelated items (an odor and a location, a song and an event) is known as associative memory. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3lP7mpZ

Engineers discover way to turn organic waste into renewable biofuel additives using radiation

The renewable proportion of petrol is set to increase to 20 per cent over the coming years, meaning the discovery of a new production pathway for these additives could help in the fight to cut carbon dioxide emissions and tackle climate change. Engineers propose a process to generate one such additive, solketal, using waste from both biochemical and nuclear industries -- termed a nuclear biorefinery. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3u1EFdb

Poorly circulated room air raises potential exposure to contaminants by up to six times

Having good room ventilation to dilute and disperse indoor air pollutants has long been recognized, and with the COVID-19 pandemic its importance has become all the more heightened. But new experiments show that certain circumstances will result in poor mixing of room air, meaning airborne contaminants may not be effectively dispersed and removed by building level ventilation. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2XKijRU

Quantum cryptography Records with Higher-Dimensional Photons

A new and much faster quantum cryptography protocol has been developed: Usually, quantum cryptography is done with photons that can be in two different states. Using eight different states, cryptographic keys can be generated much faster and with much more robustness against interference. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3lQMjTT

Meteor showers and shooting stars: Formation, facts and discovery

Watching a meteor shower on a clear, dark night is an unforgettable experience. from Space.com https://ift.tt/2W1xKUI

Mimicking how water and wind create complex shapes in nature

Intricate natural formations like star-shaped sand dunes or arc-shaped rocks can appear so purposeful in form that it's easy to wonder whether someone has designed them. Scientists have long recognized that a particular combination of random and chaotic energy fields can, over a long period of time, give rise to these kinds of unique formations that dot our globe. Few, however, have succeeded in replicating these natural phenomena. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3lOXNr5

Desert teamwork explains global pattern of co-operation in birds

A new study from the Kalahari Desert finds that teamwork allows birds to cope with brutally unpredictable environments. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3hXEVVN

Online searches may reduce predisposed belief in misinformation

A new analysis suggests that online searches could help correct people's predisposed belief in misinformation, but that searching may still promote negative feelings about a targeted minority group, despite correction of specific information about the group. Tetsuro Kobayashi of City University of Hong Kong and colleagues present these findings in the open-access journal PLOS ONE on September 22, 2021. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3hWSWDb

Those earrings are so last year—but the reason you're wearing them is ancient

The necklace, nametag, earrings or uniform you chose to put on this morning might say more than you realize about your social status, job or some other aspect of your identity. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3o1HHgu

Early Homo sapiens groups in Europe faced subarctic climates

Using oxygen stable isotope analysis of tooth enamel from animals butchered by humans at the site of Bacho Kiro Cave, Bulgaria, Max Planck researchers show that human groups belonging to an early wave of dispersal of our species into Europe were faced with very cold climatic conditions while they occupied the cave between about 46,000 and 43,000 years ago. Archaeological remains at Bacho Kiro Cave currently represent the oldest known remnants of Upper Paleolithic Homo sapiens in Europe, and thus open a unique window into the time when our species started to move out of the Levant and establish itself across the mid latitudes of Eurasia as part of an archaeological phenomenon called the Initial Upper Paleolithic. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3CF867N

Genetic regulation of blood cells: Proximity of a gene to a genetic change plays an important role

Researchers have gained significant new insight into the genetic regulation of blood cells. They achieved this by analyzing a dataset that included more than 31,000 study participants, to date the largest dataset of its kind. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nZgJpF

Dog parasite is developing resistance to treatments

Right now, U.S. veterinarians rely on three types of drugs to kill the hookworms, but the parasites appear to becoming resistant to all of them. Dog hookworms can also infect humans. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3kz4VbU

An experimental loop for simulating nuclear reactors in space

Nuclear thermal propulsion, which uses heat from nuclear reactions as fuel, could be used one day in human spaceflight, possibly even for missions to Mars. Its development, however, poses a challenge. The materials used must be able to withstand high heat and bombardment of high-energy particles on a regular basis. A nuclear engineering doctoral student is contributing to research that could make these advancements more feasible. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3CztCek

Functioning of terrestrial ecosystems is governed by three main factors

A large international research team has identified three key indicators that together summarize the integrative function of terrestrial ecosystems: 1. the capacity to maximize primary productivity, 2. the efficiency of using water, and 3. the efficiency of using carbon. The monitoring of these key indicators will allow a description of ecosystem function that shapes the ability to adapt, survive and thrive in response to climatic and environmental changes. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3hTts9G

Global cancer risk from burning organic matter comes from unregulated chemicals

Scientists have found that benzo(a)pyrene, traditionally measured to gauge risk of developing cancer from exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), is a poor proxy for this type of cancer risk. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2XGVFcJ

Flying on Mars getting tougher as Ingenuity helicopter gears up for 14th hop

NASA's Ingenuity helicopter is getting ready for its 14th Red Planet flight, but the thinning Martian air is making such sorties more and more challenging. from Space.com https://ift.tt/39uD6eo

Space calendar 2021: Rocket launches, sky events, missions & more!

Here's a guide to all the rocket launches and astronomical events in 2021, as well as milestones for space missions, anniversaries and conferences. from Space.com https://ift.tt/2raTgBU

Scores of internet-providing satellites will soon streak across Canada's skies, but at what cost?

The night sky is going to get much busier thanks to thousands of new internet satellites set to launch over the next few years—and researchers say it's going to affect Canada more than most places on Earth. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3hTFe46

Engineering researchers develop new explanation for formation of vortices in 2D superfluid

Researchers at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering and the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory have new insight about the formation of vortices in a type of quantum fluid, work that could help our comprehension of the physics mystery of how vortex clusters form and provide valuable understanding into the atmospheric swirling motion on planets such as Earth and Jupiter. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2XOAGVJ

New machine learning method to analyze complex scientific data of proteins

Scientists have developed a method using machine learning to better analyze data from a powerful scientific tool: Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). One way NMR data can be used is to understand proteins and chemical reactions in the human body. NMR is closely related to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for medical diagnosis. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3EDkMhq

How to use marine ecosystem models to improve climate change impact forecasts

Millions of people depend on oceans for food and income. A recent report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change states that at least 83 percent of the ocean's surface will continue to warm this century, which will negatively affect lives and livelihoods. Additionally, a new international study that includes research from LSU found that higher resolution data are critical to predict how ocean warming will impact various marine species and ecosystems. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3hPrt6n

Study finds that natural outdoor spaces are not necessarily common at schools

Spending time in nature can have mental, physical and social benefits for children. While schools offer a chance for students of all backgrounds to get outside in nature, researchers from North Carolina State University found natural spaces like woods or gardens were relatively rare in a small sample of elementary and middle schools in Wake County. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3hU8zuS

Canada's nitrogen footprint shows great regional variation

Reactive nitrogen emissions contribute to greenhouse gases, as well as air and water pollution. For the first time, researchers from McGill University have calculated Canada's nitrogen footprint (akin to a carbon footprint) at both national and provincial levels. They looked at the three primary sectors that contribute nitrogen to the environment to calculate the annual average nitrogen footprint: Food production and consumption, wastewater treatment, and fossil fuel use. There were some surprises when they analyzed their results. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3ktbDQB

As diversity increases in workplaces, so do discrimination complaints, but ethical leaders can help, says study

U.S. workplaces are becoming increasingly diverse, a result of both a younger and more racially diverse working class and successful diversity hiring efforts. In federal agencies alone, minority employees jumped from 28.4% of the workforce in 1994 to 36.7% in 2017. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3CBRDkL

Graphic 'beach ball' representations calculated for U.S. underground nuclear tests can aid monitoring

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have calculated moment tensors for 130 underground nuclear and 10 chemical test explosions that have taken place at the Nevada National Security test site. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3EDBlK2

Maya rulers put their personal stamp on monumental complexes

Early Maya cities featured monumental complexes, which centered on a shared form of religion but these complexes transformed radically once kingship emerged in 400 B.C. To solidify their power, rulers throughout the Maya lowlands would change these complexes, installing their mark on the landscape and reshaping how people remember it, according to a Dartmouth study published in Ancient Mesoamerica. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3CybgKz

Limiting the impacts of technology materials for the low carbon transition

A team of researchers from the University of Exeter, Minviro, the British Geological Survey, and the Circular Economy Solutions Unit has shown the benefits of utilizing a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in the quest to enhance 'green' mining techniques. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2Za5ksO

Roman-era mixers and millstones made with geology in mind

A study on stone tools from an outpost of the Roman Empire has found that for ancient bakers and millers, having the right tools was a matter of geology. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3CpVbGW

Our eyes and brain work together to create a ‘pipeline’ of meaning – new study

Humans read by 'pre-processing' written words to create a pipeline of meaning, according to new research. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/39mxyCG

Why do the planets in the solar system orbit on the same plane?

About 4.5 billion years ago, the solar system was just a giant, spinning cloud of gas and dust. Today, it's flat. Here's how that happened. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3nVkPPC

Records from Lake Magadi, Kenya, suggest environmental variability driven by changes in Earth’s orbit

Rift Valley lakes within eastern Africa range from freshwater to highly alkaline systems and are homes to diverse ecosystems. These Rift Valley lakes are also sedimentary repositories, yielding a high-resolution environmental record that can be targeted to better understand the environmental and climatic context of human evolution over the past few million years in eastern Africa. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3u2ZDZ5

Novel method of bioprinting neuron cells

Researchers have developed a new method of bioprinting adult neuron cells. They're using a new laser-assisted technology that maintains high levels of cell viability and functionality. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nRUxhp

'Beach ball' representations calculated for US underground nuclear tests can aid monitoring

Researchers have calculated moment tensors for 130 underground nuclear and 10 chemical test explosions that took place at the Nevada National Security test site. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/39serqG

Darwin’s short-beak enigma solved

Biologists discovered that a mutation in the ROR2 gene is linked to beak size reduction in numerous breeds of domestic pigeons. Surprisingly, different mutations in ROR2 also underlie a human disorder called Robinow syndrome. The ROR2 signaling pathway plays an important role in the craniofacial development of all vertebrates. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2XxLNlm

Right program could turn immune cells into cancer killers

Cancer-fighting immune cells in patients with lung cancer whose tumors do not respond to immunotherapies appear to be running on a different 'program' that makes them less effective than immune cells in patients whose cancers respond to these immune treatments, suggests a new study. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3EB9udA

Two celestial crowns for late summer

There are two star patterns representing crowns that are visible in our current late-summer evening sky: Corona Borealis (the Northern Crown) and Corona Australis (the Southern Crown). from Space.com https://ift.tt/39rcCuk

NASA splits human spaceflight directorate into two new branches

NASA is reorganizing its human spaceflight office, a move the agency believes will aid its push to put boots on the moon and Mars. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3kqWizZ

Mars habitability limited by its small size, isotope study suggests

Water is essential for life on Earth and other planets, and scientists have found ample evidence of water in Mars' early history. But Mars has no liquid water on its surface today. New research from Washington University in St. Louis suggests a fundamental reason: Mars may be just too small to hold onto large amounts of water. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3zxdUyA

New computational platform to study biological processes

Scientists have launched a unique software that is able to perform highly complex simulations of a variety of biological processes. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3koKu12

The nanophotonics orchestra presents: Twisting to the light of nanoparticles

Physics researchers discover a new physical effect relating to the interactions between light and twisted materials -- an effect that is likely to have implications for emerging new nanotechnologies in communications, nanorobotics and ultra-thin optical components. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2Zg0xGt

More than 40% of adults with no known heart disease had fatty deposits in heart arteries

More than 40% of middle-aged adults with no known heart disease had signs of atherosclerosis, a buildup of fatty deposits that reduce blood flow to the heart, in a study of more than 25,000 adults in Sweden. In more than 5% of the people who had a buildup of fatty deposits, the atherosclerosis narrowed at least one artery by 50% or more. In nearly 2% of the people with artery deposits, the narrowing was so severe that blood flow was obstructed to large portions of the heart. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3AuNRZX

South American musical instruments reflect population relationships

A new study provides a systematic review of musical instrument diversity in the archaeological and ethnographic history of the continent, suggesting cultural contact over long geographic distances, and cases of recent extinction. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3u4heA4

Conservation study: Fostering wanderlust benefits pandas

New study shows home sweet home can be too sweet for some wildlife, and easing conservation standards can benefit both wildlife and people. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2Z4X8Kn

SpaceX's all-civilian Inspiration4 crew react to their historic space mission in 1st interview since splashdown

The Inspiration4 crew says they hope the diversity of their astronauts helped inspire others and told NBC News that the spaceflight experience changed them forever. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3nQ4w6N

Coral reef biodiversity predicted to shuffle rather than collapse as climate changes

Coral reefs are among the most biologically diverse, complex and productive ecosystems on the planet. Most of coral reef biodiversity consists of tiny organisms living deep within the three-dimensional reef matrix. Although largely unseen, this diversity is essential to the survival and function of coral reef ecosystems, and many have worried that climate change will lead to dramatic loss of this diversity. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2VUXm5B

Nano-scale discovery could help to cool down overheating in electronics

A team of physicists at CU Boulder has solved the mystery behind a perplexing phenomenon in the nano realm: why some ultra-small heat sources cool down faster if you pack them closer together. The findings, published today in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), could one day help the tech industry design faster electronic devices that overheat less. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/39jAr7j

Understanding photon collisions could aid search for physics beyond the Standard Model

Hot on the heels of proving an 87-year-old prediction that matter can be generated directly from light, Rice University physicists and their colleagues have detailed how that process may impact future studies of primordial plasma and physics beyond the Standard Model. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2XxJjU2

The most successful startups mix friendships and business to build teams, research finds

Finding the right team is critical for a startup's success and most aren't taking the right approach, finds new Maryland Smith research. With the right strategy—a mix that has founders both liking each other due to shared values and experiences, and having the proper complementary skills and capabilities—startups can foster better team dynamics and have more success raising funds, being productive, and earning profits. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3lMgPP3

How resistant germs transport toxins at molecular level

Microorganism resistance to antibiotics, in particular, is a major problem in everyday medicine. This has seen the number of resistant microbes increase exponentially. As a result, infections that appeared to already have been eradicated using modern drugs now once again pose a potentially fatal threat to humans. The situation is further complicated by the fact that more and more germs are emerging which are resistant to not one but several antibiotics or other drugs. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3AtCHob

Mars was always too small to hold onto its oceans, rivers and lakes

Mars was doomed to desiccation by its small size, a new study suggests. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3EAehfl

US unveils plan to address 'silent killer' extreme heat

The Biden administration is moving to protect workers and communities from extreme heat after a dangerously hot summer that spurred an onslaught of drought-worsened wildfires and caused hundreds of deaths from the Pacific Northwest to hurricane-ravaged Louisiana. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2XAftPn

Meeting sleep recommendations could lead to smarter snacking

Missing out on the recommended seven or more hours of sleep per night could lead to more opportunities to make poorer snacking choices than those made by people who meet shut-eye guidelines, a new study suggests. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2XCNgr8

Students’ certainty about belonging and their performance in a STEM course reinforce each other – for better or worse

New research shows that belonging insecurity in a STEM course, specifically a first-year chemistry course, can affect a student's midterm scores, which can then feed back into the student's belonging uncertainty. For students in groups that are underrepresented in STEM, there's a danger that such a feedback loop could cause them to decide that science isn't for them, deterring potential scientists from even entering a STEM field. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nRywiQ

Behold the humble water flea, locked in a battle of mythological proportions

Biologists sized up an unlikely natural phenomenon: when parasitism actually causes the number of hosts to increase, an effect known as a hydra effect. A study of common water fleas and their fungal parasites includes laboratory components and an analysis of 13 fungal epidemics in nature. The scientists use consumer-resource theory to explain why -- and in what types of systems -- the hydra effect can occur. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nOevJV

Vaccinated groups who are at highest risk of COVID-19 hospitalization and death identified using new QCovid tool

Researchers report new findings on the vaccinated people who are at greatest risk from severe COVID-19 leading to hospitalization or death from 14 days post the second dose vaccination, when substantial immunity should be expected. By updating the QCovid tool, they are able to identify groups more at risk of hospitalization or death from COVID-19. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3lL0VnI

Lessons from how bats resist COVID could inform new treatments in humans

A new paper explores the idea that studying bats' responses to SARS-CoV-2 may provide key insights into how and when to best use existing therapies for COVID-19, and to develop new treatments. The paper is a major review of how the virus that has caused the current pandemic wreaks havoc on the human immune system. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3tXyUwU

How frequent is the full Harvest Moon?

The Harvest Moon is always the full moon closest to the time of the autumnal equinox. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3zBE2IF

Inspiration4 crew celebrates return to Earth after 3-day SpaceX mission

Inspiration4's crew of civilian astronauts is sharing their joy after returning to Earth from their three-day mission in orbit. from Space.com https://ift.tt/2Z9w10J

From septic to sustainable: A potential new source of fertilizer

A recently published study focuses on a new process for converting human waste from home septic systems into phosphorus-rich fertilizer. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3AEBv1H

How many satellites are orbiting Earth?

It seems like every week, another rocket is launched into space carrying rovers to Mars, tourists or, most commonly, satellites. The idea that "space is getting crowded" has been around for a few years now, but just how crowded is it? And how crowded is it going to get? from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3nV10bv

Directed energy weapons shoot painful but non-lethal beams: Are similar weapons behind Havana syndrome?

The latest episodes of so-called Havana syndrome, a series of unexplained ailments afflicting U.S. and Canadian diplomats and spies, span the globe. They include two diplomats in Hanoi, Vietnam—which disrupted Vice President Kamala Harris's foreign travel schedule—in August, several dozen reports at the U.S. Embassy in Vienna earlier this year, and a pair of incidents at the White House last November. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3ECxPj5

Something big just hit Jupiter

In 1994, the Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 (SL9) impacted Jupiter, which had captured the comet shortly before (and broken apart by its gravity). The event became a media circus as it was the first direct observation of an extraterrestrial collision of Solar System objects. The impact was so powerful that it left scars that endured for months and were more discernible than Jupiter's Great Red Spot. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2XviXSO

Gene for sex hormone synthesis could play key role in eczema

A study led by dermatologists suggests that a common inflammatory skin condition may stem from poorly regulated sex hormones. The finding could offer an unexpected new target to fight this condition. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nV6G5j

Meds, surgery may help obesity-related high blood pressure if diet, exercise fall short

Being overweight or having obesity, weight that is higher than what is considered healthy for an individual's height, is a major risk factor for high blood pressure. A healthy diet, more physical activity and less sedentary time are recommended to reduce blood pressure for people who are overweight or have obesity; however, evidence of long-term weight loss and sustained blood pressure reductions from these lifestyle changes is limited. New weight-loss medications and bariatric surgery have shown benefits in both long-term weight loss and improved blood pressure, which can reduce the long-term, negative impact of high blood pressure on organ damage. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nV4Scx

NASA to reveal moon landing site for ice-lunar rover today. Here's how to follow along.

NASA will hold a press conference Monday as part of its Artemis program. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3lIpqSM

The full Harvest Moon of 2021 rises tonight: Here's what to look for

The full Harvest Moon rises tonight, accompanied by brightly shining planets Venus and Jupiter. from Space.com https://ift.tt/39nfo3K

Pandemic workaround: Keeping eyes on Pacific water quality from afar

A Griffith University researcher has overcome a key challenge posed by the COVID-19 pandemic to lead a monitoring program in Vanuatu aiming to improve the water quality of a popular lagoon used for fishing and swimming. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3Cususl

Uncovering how T-cells recognise the SARS-COV-2 virus spike protein

The immune system is vitally important for resolving COVID-19 when individuals are infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Moreover, the vaccines that are being administered to millions of people across the globe are designed to 'pre-warn and arm' the immune system so that if infected with SARS-CoV-2, individuals are significantly less likely to develop severe disease or die. Here, two crucial arms of the immune system, namely B cells and T cells, play a central role. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/39jJo0n

The unexplored region of the atmosphere that could help predict climate change

About 17 kilometers above the Earth's surface, the first layer of the atmosphere meets the second one. At a boundary called the tropopause, the troposphere ends and the stratosphere begins. Straddling this interface, for about five kilometers on either side, is a band of the atmosphere labeled, matter-of-factly, the "upper troposphere/lower stratosphere"—the UTLS. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3km97eW

Hubble takes 31st anniversary image: Two new views showcase the dual nature of the star AG Carinae

Comparing two images shows puffing dust bubbles and an erupting gas shell—the final acts of a monster star's life. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3zmXVmp

How cultural differences affect behavior on social media

Research published in the International Journal of Internet Marketing and Advertising has looked at how cultural differences affect behavior on social media. Myron Guftométros and João Guerreiro Instituto Universitário de Lisboa, in Lisbon, Portugal, focused on what is perhaps the most well-known and well-populated online social network, Facebook. They used an organic approach to assimilate data from 6750 posts from 225 different Facebook brand pages across fifteen different countries. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3lDMbHr

Male seahorses develop placentas to support their growing babies

Supplying oxygen to their growing offspring and removing carbon dioxide is a major challenge for every pregnant animal. Humans deal with this problem by developing a placenta, but in seahorses—where the male, not the female, gestates and gives birth to the young—exactly how it worked hasn't always been so clear. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3CItdqb

China launches Tianzhou 3 cargo ship to new space station

China has launched a cargo mission to its new space station, just days after astronauts departed the orbiting outpost. from Space.com https://ift.tt/2VWdpQP

New gravitational wave detector picks up possible signal from the beginning of time

Physicists turned on a new type of gravitational-wave sensor and saw two intriguing results, but they aren't yet ready to claim a discovery. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3lFvoDZ

Scientists watch a galaxy's supermassive black hole shoot out the galaxy's gas

There comes a time in every galaxy's life, astronomers think, when the galaxy ejects a large part of its gas, but scientists aren't certain what drives this "mid-life crisis." from Space.com https://ift.tt/3tT67d9

Missing wind variability means future impacts of climate change may be underestimated in Europe and North America

Extratropical winds have a strong influence on climate in extratropical regions, and are known to vary from decade to decade. However, their variability is currently not factored into climate models making predictions for future climates in these regions. Researchers inserted these into predictions for how extratropical climates will change by the middle of the century, and found uncertainty increased significantly, meaning unusually hot, cold, dry or wet decades are likely to be more frequent here than previously thought. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3Ct4MwF

Faroe Islands mass dolphin slaughter casts shadow over tradition

Every summer in the Faroe Islands hundreds of pilot whales and dolphins are slaughtered in drive hunts known as the "grind" that residents defend as a long-held tradition. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/39AdT2l

The nanophotonics orchestra presents: Twisting to the light of nanoparticles

Physics researchers at the University of Bath in the UK discover a new physical effect relating to the interactions between light and twisted materials—an effect that is likely to have implications for emerging new nanotechnologies in communications, nanorobotics and ultra-thin optical components. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3CusoRq

Leaving by staying: Dispersal decisions of young giraffes

Dispersal, the process where animals reaching sexual maturity move away from family, is important for maintaining genetic diversity and is key to the long-term persistence of natural populations. For most animals, this involves having to make risky journeys into the unknown in the hope of finding new communities in which to settle and reproduce. However, many animal societies—including those of humans—have structured social communities that overlap in space with one another. These potentially provide opportunities for maturing individuals to disperse socially without having to make large physical displacements. New research published today in the Journal of Animal Ecology shows that this strategy is employed by young dispersing giraffes. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3km2Fob

Bees kill dozens of endangered penguins in South Africa

A swarm of bees has killed 63 endangered African penguins on a beach outside Cape Town, the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds said on Sunday. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2XA1jxE

Volcano erupts on Spain's Canary Islands

The Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted on Spain's Canary Islands on Sunday spewing out lava, ash and a huge column of smoke after days of increased seismic activity, sparking evacuations of people living nearby, authorities said. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3kn7bCL

Harvest Moon 2021: When and how to see September's full moon

The full moon of September 2021 also carries the title of the Harvest Moon for those living in the Northern Hemisphere. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3hKpqQM

SpaceX's Elon Musk donates $50 million to Inspiration4 spaceflight fundraiser for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk has pledged to donate $50 million to benefit childhood cancer research by the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3nLXQGN

1st 'atom tornado' created from swirling vortex of helium atoms

Physicists have created the first-ever atomic vortex beam — a swirling tornado of atoms and molecules with mysterious properties that have yet to be understood. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3lBsDTX

SpaceX's Inspiration4 mission just opened a new era of private spaceflight

Inspiration4 may be over, but many other missions are poised to follow in its pioneering footsteps. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3EuJDEb

Trailblazing tourist trip to orbit ends with splashdown

Four space tourists safely ended their trailblazing trip to orbit Saturday with a splashdown in the Atlantic off the Florida coast. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3zpkQ0i

SpaceX's private Inspiration4 crew returns to Earth with historic splashdown off Florida coast

After three days in space, SpaceX's first all-civilian crew returned to Earth tonight, splashing down off the Florida coast to end a historic mission. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3nNjeeW

Space photos: The most amazing images this week!

See the best photos on Space.com this week. from Space.com https://ift.tt/2tedITD

The top space stories of the week!

These are the top space stories this week from Space.com. from Space.com https://ift.tt/2sd6VvC

Yeast and bacteria together biosynthesize plant hormones for weed control

Plants regulate their growth using hormones, including a group called strigolactones that prevent excessive budding and branching. Strigolactones also help plant roots form symbiotic relationships with microorganisms that allow the plant to absorb nutrients from the soil. These two factors have led to agricultural interest in using strigolactones to control the growth of weeds and root parasites, as well as improving nutrient uptake. These root-extruding compounds also stimulate germination of witchweeds and broomrapes, which can cause entire crops of grain to fail, making thorough research essential prior to commercial development. Now scientists have synthesized strigolactones from microbes. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3EwCpiT

Infants exposed to domestic violence have poorer cognitive development

Infants coming from homes with domestic violence often go on to have worse academic outcomes in school due to neurodevelopmental lags and a higher risk for a variety of health issues, including gastrointestinal distress, trouble eating and sleeping, as well as stress and illness. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3nJp3Kj

Discovery highlights the complex lifestyles of frontline immune cells

Researchers have made a surprise discovery about how immune 'sentinel' cells are maintained, which could have implications for drugs in development for treating cancer. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3tRLq0Z

Brain microstructural damage related to cognitive dysfunction and steroid medication in lupus patients

Researchers attempted to unravel such mechanisms by adopting non-invasive diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to study the brains of SLE patients, particularly the white matter, coupled with computerized neuropsychological assessment. White matter lies beneath the grey matter cortex in the human brain and comprises millions of bundles of nerve fibers that transmit signals to different brain regions. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3AoK5RY

Now we’re cooking with lasers

Imagine having your own digital personal chef; ready to cook whatever you want, tailoring the shape, texture, and flavor just for you -- all at the push of a button. Engineers have been working on doing just that, using lasers for cooking and 3D printing technology for assembling foods. In their new study they discovered that laser-cooked meat shrinks 50% less, retains double the moisture content, and shows similar flavor development to conventionally cooked meat. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3AmV9yJ

Iceland's volcanic eruption the longest in half a century

It will be six months on Sunday that the volcanic eruption currently mesmerising spectators near Reykjavik first began, making it the longest Iceland has witnessed in more than 50 years. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/2XtO3tK

Tom Cruise gets sneak preview from SpaceX's 1st private crew

Tom Cruise got a sneak preview of what it's like to circle Earth in a SpaceX capsule. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3hMAixA

Yeast and bacteria together biosynthesize plant hormones for weed control

Plants regulate their growth and development using hormones, including a group called strigolactones that prevent excessive budding and branching. For the first time, scientists led by UC Riverside have synthesized strigolactones from microbes. The work is published in the open-access journal, Science Advances. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/39kFLHv

SpaceX's Inspiration4 crew is having a blast and doing science in orbit (video)

From ultrasounds to ukelele jam sessions and space art, it appears the Inspiration4 crew is staying busy in orbit. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3AlKcxD

Allergies to mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines rare, generally mild, study finds

Allergic reactions to the new mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines are rare, typically mild and treatable, and they should not deter people from becoming vaccinated, according to researchers. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3CnbQL5

Time until dementia symptoms appear can be estimated via brain scan

Researchers have developed an approach to estimating when a person who is at high risk of Alzheimer's dementia but has no cognitive symptoms will start showing signs of cognitive decline. The approach is based on data from a single brain scan, combined with the person's age. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2XtjOUr

Fiber tracking method delivers important new insights into turbulence

A new technique for measuring turbulent flows has been developed. By using fibers rather than particles -- the usual method of measurement -- the researchers could get a more detailed picture of turbulent flows. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/39izHz2

Quantitative assessment for sustainable agriculture

Scientists have assembled a quantitative assessment for agriculture sustainability for countries around the world based not only on environmental impacts, but economic and social impacts, as well. The Sustainable Agriculture Matrix, or SAM, provides independent and transparent measurements of agricultural sustainability at a national level that can help governments and organizations to evaluate progress, encourage accountability, identify priorities for improvement, and inform national policies and actions towards sustainable agriculture around the globe. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3Es1T0Q

The microbial molecule that turns plants into 'zombies'

A newly discovered manipulation mechanism used by parasitic bacteria to slow down plant aging, may offer new ways to protect disease-threatened food crops. Research has identified a manipulation molecule produced by Phytoplasma bacteria to hijack plant development. When inside a plant, this protein causes key growth regulators to be broken down, triggering abnormal growth. The new findings show how the bacterial protein known as SAP05 manipulates plants by taking advantage of some of the host's own molecular machinery. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3EDPuam

Coral reefs are 50% less able to provide food, jobs, and climate protection than in 1950s, putting millions at risk

The capacity of coral reefs to provide ecosystem services such as food and jobs, relied on by millions of people worldwide, has declined by half since the 1950s, according to a new study. Other findings are equally bleak: the authors found that global coverage of living corals had declined by about half since the 1950s and consequently, the diversity of species had also declined, by more than 60 per cent. Finding targets for recovery and climate adaptation would require a global effort, while also addressing needs at a local level, authors say. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3u2Npjr

SpaceX Inspiration4 mission crew talks to St. Jude patients from space (video)

In between playfully snacking on M&Ms, the all-civilian Inspiration4 crew took a break from their science-heavy mission to chat with kid patients from a Memphis children's hospital. from Space.com https://ift.tt/3klL9jG

Gut bacteria might be an indicator of colon cancer risk

Researchers are finding a link between the increased presence of certain bacteria in a gut biome and colon cancer. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3kjvEsy

Faster research through automation: New way to count micronuclei in cells

Researchers have created a novel automated program that accurately and quickly counts micronuclei in stained images. Micronuclei are small nucleus-like structures that are markers of pathologies such as cancer. The development of this automated program will be useful for future research into micronuclei and may aid in the diagnosis and tracking of a range of pathologies. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3hLpyQ2

Chemical discovery gets reluctant seeds to sprout

Seeds that would otherwise lie dormant will spring to life with the aid of a new chemical. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/3tNkNul

Fossil: New species of otter discovered in Germany

Researchers have discovered a previously unknown species of otter from 11.4-million-year-old strata at the Hammerschmiede fossil site. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2XtRKzB

White Americans pay less attention to Black peers, says a new study

In a study of more than 2,500 participants published today in Science Advances, Sheen S. Levine, adjunct research scholar in the sociology department at Columbia University and professor of management at University of Texas, Dallas; Charlotte Reypens, postdoctoral fellow at the University of Warwick; and David Stark, professor of sociology at Columbia University, show that white Americans pay less attention to Black peers. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3AmthLp

How do cells acquire their shapes? A new mechanism identified

Working with light to activate processes within genetically modified fission yeast cells is among the research performed by the experimental biologists in the Martin Lab at the University of Lausanne, led by faculty member Sophie Martin. Team members there were conducting such experiments when they noticed that a certain protein, when introduced into the cell, would become displaced from the cell growth region. So, they reached out to Dimitrios Vavylonis, who leads the Vavylonis Group in the Department of Physics at Lehigh University, to find out why. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/39fOivf

Ancient DNA rewrites early Japanese history—modern day populations have tripartite genetic origin

Ancient DNA extracted from human bones has rewritten early Japanese history by underlining that modern day populations in Japan have a tripartite genetic origin—a finding that refines previously accepted views of a dual genomic ancestry. from Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories https://ift.tt/3hKty3v

Six stages of engagement in ADHD treatment revealed in new, diverse study

Six stages of engagement in treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have been reported by researchers based on a diverse study, inclusive of parents of predominantly racial and ethnic minority children with ADHD. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/39cI5Ai

Witnessing abuse of sibling can lead to mental health issues

Researchers find that youth who witness the abuse of a brother or sister by a parent can be just as traumatized as those witnessing violence by a parent against another parent. Such exposure is associated with mental health issues like depression, anxiety and anger. from Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/2XtniG5