Solar scientists have revised their predictions for the current solar cycle, stating that solar activity will peak earlier and with greater intensity than initially projected. The National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center initially estimated that Solar Cycle 25 would peak in 2025, but recent observations have shown that the sun's behaviour is not aligning with these forecasts. The revised predictions suggest that solar maximum will occur between January and October of the following year.from Science News - Times of India https://ift.tt/UHF9sNn
Scientists from China and Sri Lanka are conducting joint marine scientific activities on a Chinese research vessel called 'Shi Yan 6'. The vessel arrived in Colombo last week, and although there were concerns raised by India, permission was granted for the research to take place. The vessel is currently located off the western waters of Sri Lanka and will be studying various aspects of the sea, including seawater temperature, sea wave conditions, fish, and climate change. The research will be limited to western waters and is focused on geophysical exploration.
A study conducted by researchers at the University of Sydney has found that drugs used to treat common infections in children and babies are becoming increasingly ineffective due to antibiotic resistance. The study revealed that many antibiotics recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) have less than 50% effectiveness in treating childhood infections such as pneumonia, sepsis, and meningitis. The study emphasizes the urgent need for updated global antibiotic guidelines to reflect the rapidly evolving rates of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
A recent study has found that rapid groundwater extraction can lead to shifts in the Earth's axis. Between 1993 and 2010, the planet's tilt changed by approximately 31.5 inches, correlating with the removal of underground water resources. This extensive groundwater extraction has also resulted in a more noticeable wobble in the Earth's rotation. The study emphasizes the need to safeguard groundwater resources to mitigate the Earth's unexpected wobble and prevent land subsidence.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbour Laboratory have developed an antibody that can inhibit an enzyme called PTPRD, which is overexpressed in some breast tumors. The antibody binds to two PTPRD molecules and draws them together into an inactive configuration, preventing the enzyme from working and leading to its destruction. This has shown promising results in reducing the invasiveness of breast cancer cells in the lab, indicating that the antibody could be a potential therapeutic treatment for certain breast tumors.
Two scientists, Jacques Pironon and Phillipe De Donato, embarked on a mission to assess the amount of methane in the subsoils of the Lorraine mining basin. Using a specialized probe, they unexpectedly discovered hydrogen concentrations deep underground. Their findings indicated a vast reservoir of hydrogen, potentially one of the largest deposits of white hydrogen ever discovered. This discovery has amplified the interest in this form of hydrogen, which is now seen as a potential solution to the climate crisis.
Researchers have successfully activated the world's smallest particle accelerator, called a nanophotonic electron accelerator (NEA). It uses miniature laser beams to accelerate electrons, marking a departure from traditional particle accelerator technology. In a recent study, researchers reported a 43% increase in energy using the NEA. The goal is to develop miniature accelerators for precise medical treatments, such as administering radiotherapy directly to affected areas in the body.
The Subsurface Water Ice Mapping (SWIM) project, funded by NASA, has released its fourth map pinpointing potential subsurface water ice locations on Mars. The map, created using data from various NASA Mars missions, will play a crucial role in guiding mission planners for future human expeditions to the planet. Understanding the distribution of water ice is essential for planning crewed missions, as it can serve as a critical resource for astronauts.
Research suggests that taking as few as 2,337 steps per day can reduce the risk of dying from heart disease, while 3,867 steps can lower the risk of all-cause mortality. Each additional 1,000 steps can decrease the risk of all-cause mortality by 15% and an extra 500 steps can reduce the risk of dying from heart disease by 7%. Walking is a practical and effective way to improve health, with benefits observed at all ages but particularly in those under 60. Experts recommend starting with 15-minute walks, gradually increasing duration and frequency.
Youths should learn to balance hard work with a healthy diet, proper sleep and timely exercise, doctors said while cautioning that overwork is leading to early onset of lifestyle diseases. Some of the medical experts also said that 70-hour-week regimen would be "far too ambitious," and urged team leaders at workplaces to divide work in an optimised manner among team members and "not try to extract too much work from an individual", which often leads to physical or psychological burnout among employees.
A recent study suggests that Venus may have exhibited plate tectonics in its early years, similar to Earth. This could have made Venus more Earth-like and potentially habitable. Researchers analyzed nitrogen in Venus' atmosphere as a diagnostic tool to understand its tectonic history. Computer simulations indicated a combination of stagnant lid and plate tectonics models for Venus. However, these findings are suggestive and not conclusive, and upcoming spacecraft missions will provide more insights into Venus' geological past.
A recent study by scientists at Penn State, using data from Nasa's Curiosity rover, suggests that Mars may have had flowing rivers in the past. These findings could indicate the possibility of past life on the planet. The researchers propose that many craters on Mars could have once been habitable rivers, potentially reshaping our understanding of the planet's history. Evidence for ancient life on Mars has been increasing in recent years, with Nasa's Perseverance rover uncovering organic molecules near a former Martian lake.
Researchers have discovered evidence of human activity at the site often referred to as the "ruins of Noah's Ark" in Turkey. A joint study by Turkish and American universities found evidence dating back to the biblical era. The site, known as the Durupinar formation, is located in the Doğubayazıt district of Ağrı. Soil samples collected from the site were dated to approximately 3000 BC, aligning with the biblical account of a flood. While the discovery supports the biblical narrative, scientists have not yet confirmed its authenticity.
The Smithsonian national museum of natural history in Washington DC will display a fragment of the asteroid Bennu, collected by NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft, to the public. The carbon-rich rock sample will be exhibited on November 3 at the museum's meteorite gallery. Other samples from Bennu will also be displayed at the University of Arizona's Alfie Norville Gem & Mineral Museum and at Space Center Houston. The exhibit will include scale models of the spacecraft and a video showcasing the OSIRIS-REx mission. The Bennu samples could provide insights into the formation of our solar system and the origin of life on Earth.
Imagine a magical adhesive capable of underwater bonding, mending bones, skin, and fixing your broken chair. Researchers from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Bhopal, and the School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Haryana, have created this versatile, biodegradable adhesive, temporarily named 'A30.' This adhesive exhibits the potential to heal and mend damaged tissues, eliminating the necessity for painful sutures and staples. It can mend fractured bones and enhance drug delivery efficiency.
Researchers have discovered a new type of crystal that can manipulate light in a way similar to the gravitational forces of black holes. The "pseudogravity" has potential applications in 6G communication technology and could contribute to the study of quantum gravity. By distorting photonic crystals and observing the deflection of light, the researchers were able to bend light within certain materials. This could revolutionize wireless communication and offer new insights into the world of quantum gravity and graviton physics.
A black hole at the centre of the M87 galaxy is emitting powerful gas streams, causing nearby stars to explode. This behaviour has surprised astronomers. These explosions are similar to nova events, where a white dwarf star receives gas from another star and explodes, but both stars usually survive
After the solar eclipse, a partial lunar eclipse will take place on October 28-29. Lunar eclipses occur when the moon, Earth, and sun align, causing Earth's shadow to fall on the moon's surface. The eclipse will be visible from various parts of the world, including India. If this eclipse is missed, there will be another chance on September 17, 2024. A partial lunar eclipse occurs when only a portion of the moon passes through Earth's shadow, creating a crescent-shaped shadow on the lunar surface.
Scientists have discovered an ancient landscape hidden beneath the ice sheet in East Antarctica. Using satellite data and ice-penetrating radar, researchers mapped 32,000 square kilometers and found a landscape that was formed by rivers before the ice sheet developed. The well-preserved nature of the landscape provides valuable insights into the stability of the East Antarctic ice sheet and suggests that Earth's climate is heading towards conditions similar to those when the landscape first emerged millions of years ago.
A new study suggests that long Covid is not caused by direct viral invasion or brain damage. Researchers from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden analyzed blood and cerebrospinal fluid samples from 25 people with long Covid and found no detectable SARS-CoV-2 virus or significant differences in immune activation or brain injury markers. The findings indicate that long Covid may be a consequence of events during the acute phase of Covid-19 rather than ongoing infection or inflammation.
China's youngest-ever crew of astronauts, known as taikonauts, have launched to the country's space station. The three-person crew, led by former air force pilot Tang Hongbo, will spend six months on the space station. Tang's return to space sets a new record for the shortest interval between spaceflight missions by taikonauts, suggesting a faster rotation of astronauts in the future. China has already begun selecting candidates for its fourth batch of astronauts, including applicants from Hong Kong and Macau for the first time.
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal have developed a biodegradable and biocompatible adhesive that can seal and repair injured tissues. The adhesive can bind different surfaces, including tissues, bones, eggshells, and wood, in both air and underwater without the need for additional agents. It has applications in medicine, dentistry, drug delivery, and tissue engineering. The adhesive is transparent, allowing for aesthetic value, and has a porosity that aids tissue regeneration.
The United States has expressed concerns over Russia's "signs of aggression" in space. US-based Slingshot Aerospace officials grew alarmed when they detected Russia maneuvering one of its Luch satellites to approach within 60 kilometers of another satellite launched by an unnamed Western nation. According to Slingshot's analysis, the satellite has been engaged in what they describe as a "parking maneuver," and it appears poised to remain in its current location.
Spacetech startup Skyroot Aerospace is planning to launch India's first orbital space launch vehicle, Vikram-1, in the first quarter of 2024. The rocket has a payload capacity of around 300 kg and is equipped with 3D-printed liquid engines. Skyroot aims to provide affordable and reliable launch solutions for satellite constellations. The company recently unveiled Vikram-1 and inaugurated India's largest private integrated rocket development facility.
Climate change is an "existential threat" to life on Earth, according to a report by scientists. The report highlights the unprecedented heat records and extreme weather events experienced in 2023, and warns that humanity has made minimal progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The authors urge a shift in perspective to view climate change as a systemic, existential threat. They also highlight the need for urgent action to curb emissions and increase funding for climate adaptation.
A multinational team of astronomers announced the discovery of two new exoplanets circling a brilliant star known as TOI-5126, using Nasa's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (Tess), Phys Org reported. "We report the discovery and validation of two planets around the bright F star TOI-5126," the researchers wrote in the paper. The size of the newly discovered extraterrestrial worlds is comparable to that of the planet closest to the sun. The discovery was made public on October 13 on the arXiv pre-print server.
New research revealed that an ancient mud lake with sediments is an apt place to look for evidence of life on Mars, the Universe Today reported. According to the researchers, "The quest for past Martian life hinges on locating surface formations linked to ancient habitability." It is for this reason, among others, that Nasa's Perseverance rover is in Jezero Crater, the location of an ancient paleolake where sediment layers may reach a depth of one km.
A new study suggests that the Moon may be 4.46 billion years old, pushing back its age by 40 million years. The study used crystals brought back by Apollo astronauts in 1972 to determine the time of the Moon's formation. These crystals are the oldest known solids that formed after the giant impact that created the Moon. The researchers used an analytical method called atom probe tomography to determine the age of the lunar crystal. This study provides valuable insights into the formation and history of the Moon. However, the precise time when this happened continues to be a mystery, they said.
Just as nothing can escape a black hole, nothing can enter a white hole.
The Orionids meteor shower, linked to Halley's comet, is one of the most reliable and well-known meteor showers. Meteoroids, which are rocks traveling in space, cause shooting stars when they enter Earth's atmosphere. The Orionids have an average speed of 61 km/s and burn up at high altitude, creating bright streaks in the sky. Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through dense regions of space debris left behind by comets. To observe the Orionids, it is important to choose the right timing, find a location away from bright lights.
The theory of a simulated universe suggests that our reality is a computer simulation, with physical laws being algorithms and our experiences being created by computational processes. Scientists and philosophers have shown interest in this theory despite its speculative nature. The concept has gained popularity in popular culture through movies like 'The Matrix.' The idea that reality is an illusion extends the principles of idealism and draws inspiration from advancements in computing and digital technology. Some scientists believe that there might be glitches or patterns in the fabric of the universe that could reveal its simulated nature. However, distinguishing between a simulated and non-simulated reality remains a challenge. A researcher has proposed a new law of physics called the "second law of infodynamics," which supports the simulated universe theory. This law explains why symmetry predominantly characterizes the universe and suggests that information entropy must remain constant or decrease over time. Further research is needed to establish this law definitively.
Invasive alien species, introduced by human activities, can harm native flora and fauna. Research on the topic is lacking, but a study by the B3 research team in New Zealand evaluated the biological risk of dirt on sea freight. They found that soil carried live bacteria, fungi, worms, seeds, and insects, including regulated biosecurity organisms not found in New Zealand. The spread of exotic species through these pathways can have significant environmental, economic, and social costs.
A genetic study led by UCL specialists suggests that sleeping less than five hours per night may increase the likelihood of developing depressive symptoms. The study, which analyzed data from people with an average age of 65, found that short sleep was associated with the onset of depressive symptoms. The researchers used genetic and health data from over 7,000 participants and found that individuals with a stronger genetic predisposition to short sleep were more likely to develop depression.
A recent study using a machine learning algorithm has identified key personality traits that contribute to the success of start-up founders. By analyzing the language and activity in the founders' publicly available accounts, the algorithm determined personality profiles for over 21,000 founders. The researchers found that traits such as "openness to adventure," "lower levels of modesty," and "exuberance" were distinguishing factors for successful entrepreneurs. The algorithm achieved an accuracy rate of 82.5% in identifying successful founders.
A study conducted by Rutgers found that adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are three times more likely to develop dementia than those without the condition. The study, which tracked over 100,000 senior citizens in Israel for 17 years, aims to better inform caregivers and clinicians about the risks associated with ADHD and dementia. The research suggests that ADHD treatment incorporating psychostimulants may help reduce the risk of dementia, but further studies are needed to explore the impact of medications on ADHD patients and their potential effects on risk.
A recent study published in Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging by Elsevier discovers variations in functional brain connectivity in patients with and without psychosis and schizophrenia, which may aid researchers in understanding the neural foundation of this disease. Alexander Holmes, a PhD candidate at Monash University who led the study, said, "We used brain imaging and novel mathematical techniques to investigate the hierarchical organization of the brains of individuals with early psychosis and established schizophrenia."
Samsung Semiconductor India Research (SSIR) has joined forces with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) based in Bengaluru to establish a Quantum Technology Lab. This significant collaboration represents a cornerstone of SSIR's Corporate Social Responsibility commitment. Its primary objective is to provide research and training opportunities to numerous faculty members and hundreds of students pursuing higher education, both at IISc and other educational institutions.
The Indian Institute of Management Udaipur (IIMU) has installed a 500 kW solar plant on its campus as part of its Sustainability@IIMU campaign. The solar plant will cater to 30% of the institute's energy needs and is expected to generate 2,500 units per day and 7.30 lakh units annually. This will result in an estimated financial saving of 18 lakhs per annum and offset 543 tons of CO2 from the institute's carbon footprint. IIM Udaipur has illuminated the campus by installing 200 solar street light poles along a 3.5 km stretch of the inner peripheral road.
Each planet has its own unique characteristics, making our solar system a diverse and fascinating place to explore. The next time you look up at the night sky, you can appreciate these celestial bodies. Here are the planets in order of how fast they orbit the sun.
Artificial intelligence researchers at Nvidia have transformed the chatbot ChatGPT into an autonomous AI agent capable of performing tasks beyond generating text. The agent has been taught to play Minecraft and can navigate the game's universe, gather resources, and build structures.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has concluded a seven-year study on the male contraceptive RISUG, finding it to be safe and effective. RISUG is a non-hormonal injectable contraceptive that provides long-lasting sterility with complete reversibility. The study involved 303 healthy male volunteers and found that non-hormonal injectable male contraceptive RISUG (Reversible Inhibition of Sperm under Guidance) is safe and efficacious.
NASA's InSight lander has discovered the largest quake ever recorded on Mars, measuring 4.7 on the magnitude scale. Initially, scientists thought it might be an impact from a meteorite, but no crater was found. They concluded that the quake was actually triggered by tectonic activity within Mars itself. This discovery sheds light on the seismic activities and interior of Mars.
Astronomers have made progress in understanding the Sun's magnetic field by collecting data from the US National Science Foundation's Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope. The data has provided detailed representations of the magnetic field of the Sun's "quiet" surface and could help explain why the outermost layer of the Sun is hotter than the surface.
Are you one of those who relies on password managers (PMs) for creating and helping remember passwords? Then beware, especially if you use PMs on your mobile devices. A team of researchers from Indian Institute of Information Technology at Hyderabad (IIITH) has found a serious vulnerability in the autofill function of Android-based apps as it accidentally leaks login credentials to apps hosting the web pages, exposing the user to potential malicious attacks.
When British naturalist Charles Darwin sketched out his theory of evolution in the 1859 book "On the Origin of Species" - proposing that biological species change over time through the acquisition of traits that favor survival and reproduction - it provoked a revolution in scientific thought. Now 164 years later, nine scientists and philosophers on Monday proposed a new law of nature that includes the biological evolution described by Darwin as a vibrant example of a much broader phenomenon, one that appears at the level of atoms, minerals, planetary atmospheres, planets, stars and more.
Scientists at the Carnegie Science Center in the US have developed an AI-driven method to search for extraterrestrial life in space. The AI tool can differentiate between human and non-human samples, including specimens. The researchers have achieved a 90% accuracy rate in differentiating between samples of abiotic and biotic origins. The search for definitive biosignatures is a central goal of palaeobiology and astrobiology.
A new study has found that the 1918 Spanish flu primarily affected frail and unhealthy individuals, contradicting the belief that it targeted young and healthy adults. Researchers from McMaster University and the University of Colorado Boulder examined skeletal remains of individuals who died during the pandemic and found that those with active lesions were the most frail.