A gamma-ray burst (GRB) called GRB 221009A, originating from a supernova explosion, has impacted Earth's ionosphere. This event challenges the assumption that GRBs cannot affect the ionosphere. Data from the China Seismo-Electromagnetic Satellite (CSES) revealed disturbances in the upper ionosphere caused by the GRB. Scientists are now exploring effects of other GRBs on Earth's ionosphere using ground-based and space-based detectors. This discovery also raises concerns about supernova explosionfrom Science News - Times of India https://ift.tt/DFiE30l
India is on the verge of a groundbreaking leap in space-based X-Ray astronomy with the imminent launch of the first X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat), Isro said Thursday. Unlike previous missions that focused predominantly on imaging, time-domain studies, and spectroscopy, XPoSat aims to explore the polarisation of intense X-Ray sources, introducing a novel dimension to X-Ray astronomy, the space agency said in a special page created for the mission.
Astronomers have identified a circumstellar disk around a star that surpasses the size and luminosity of the sun. This phenomenon, where a dense clump of interstellar gas and dust collapses under its own gravitational force, marks the birth of stars. The residual material forms a swirling disk around the nascent star, contributing to its growth and potentially giving rise to planets. Remarkably, such newborn stars with circumstellar disks were previously observed exclusively within our Milky Way galaxy.
A study revealed that the increasing sea temperatures driven by climate change are prompting tropical marine species to migrate from the equator towards the poles. Published in the journal Trends in Ecology and Evolution, the research highlights the retreat of temperate species due to rising temperatures, resulting in heightened competition for habitat and the introduction of new predators. This phenomenon, known as tropicalisation, is reshaping the ecological dynamics of oceans, triggering a series of repercussions for ecosystems, biodiversity, and potentially the global economy.
Annually, over 3 million individuals in the United States experience peripheral neuropathy, a condition characterized by the destruction of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, leading to pain and diminished sensation in affected areas. Various factors such as diabetes, injuries, genetic diseases, infections, among others, can contribute to the development of peripheral neuropathy. Researchers at the Salk Institute have identified a potential method for repairing damaged nerves in cases of peripheral neuropathy, based on findings in mice.
Nasa administrator Bill Nelson said here that the US was ready to collaborate with India in building the country's first space station , if it so desires. Nasa is also identifying an opportunity in private astronaut missions for Indian astronauts. Nelsonis also scheduled to visit Mumbai for a meeting with business leaders in the space sector, took forward the talks that PM Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden had agreed on, earlier this year to launch a two-week joint India-US space flight next year.
Cardiologists and radiation oncologists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have pioneered the use of low-dose radiation therapy to treat patients with ventricular tachycardia, a potentially fatal irregular heart rhythm. The therapy has been found to enhance heart function in various forms of heart failure by reducing inflammation in the heart muscle. This discovery offers potential for better therapies for the 6.2 million American adults currently living with heart failure. Further research is needed before testing this therapy in heart failure patients.
This article discusses a first-in-human, early-stage clinical trial that involved injecting brain stem cells directly into the brains of 15 patients with secondary progressive MS. The stem cells were obtained from a single miscarried foetus and extensively screened for anomalies. Participants experienced no severe adverse events after the treatment and did not report relapse-like symptoms of MS or significant deterioration in movement or cognitive function. Analysis showed an association between higher stem cell doses and a reduction in brain volume, suggesting a possible role in preventing brain inflammation.
Cutting down on salt intake can be as beneficial as first-line drugs used to manage high blood pressure, a study published in the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) has found. It is based on prospective follow-up of 213 individuals. These individuals, aged between 50 to 75 years, including people with normal blood pressure (25%), controlled hypertension or high blood pressure (20%), uncontrolled hypertension (31%), and untreated hypertension (25%), attended a baseline visit while consuming their usual diet, then completed one-week high- and low-sodium diets.
State-of-the-art climate models drastically underestimate how much extreme rainfall increases under global warming, according to a study published Monday that signals a future of more frequent catastrophic floods unless humanity curbs greenhouse emissions. "Our study confirms that the intensity and frequency of heavy rainfall extremes are increasing exponentially with every increment of global warming," said Max Kotz, lead author of the paper published in the Journal of Climate.
A recent study by UCL researchers reveals that hunger hormones released in the gut can directly influence the decision-making section of the brain, specifically the hippocampus. When animals are hungry, the increased neural activity in this area inhibits them from eating, whereas when they are full, the activity decreases, allowing them to eat. This finding suggests that ghrelin receptors in the brain can cross the blood-brain barrier and directly impact brain activity.
Contrary to popular belief, neuroscientists argue that the brain does not have the ability to rewire itself to compensate for loss of sight, amputation, or stroke. The notion that the brain can reorganize itself and repurpose regions for new functions is flawed. Instead, the brain is trained to utilize latent abilities. The idea of wholesale repurposing of brain regions is incorrect. Understanding the true nature of brain plasticity is crucial for setting realistic expectations for patients and guiding rehabilitative approaches.
The study suggests that the Y chromosome may impact the genetic basis of digestive diseases. The complete sequencing of the human Y chromosome is a tremendous step forward in human genetics, opening up new avenues for research into digestive disorders. Recent improvements in sequencing technologies have enabled researchers to unearth the precise features of this genetic domain, offering insight into its role in sex determination and its potential impact on a wide range of illnesses, notably those affecting the digestive system.
Articles by liberal and conservative media differ in their sentiment towards artificial intelligence (AI), with liberal media expressing more opposition. Concerns include the amplification of racial and gender biases and income inequity. Media sentiment influences public opinion and policymakers' stances on AI. The study analyzed over 7,500 articles from various media outlets. Media sentiment towards AI changed after George Floyd's death, with increased negative sentiment due to heightened social bias concerns.
The Centre has introduced a game-changing initiative by manufacturing four types of homegrown 'Made in India' drugs for rare diseases. The Central Government has prioritized 13 rare diseases and sickle cell disease. These drugs will bring down costs by up to 100-fold, making them significantly more affordable than imported drugs. The available generic drugs in India are for Tyrosinemia Type, Gaucher's Disease, Wilson's Disease, and Dravet or Lennox Gastaut Syndrome-seizures.
Plants use a light-sensitive tissue to detect the origin of light and position their organs for optimal photosynthesis. This tissue generates a light gradient using the optical properties of the air-water interface. Air-filled channels in the stems enable the plant to establish the light gradient. The different refractive indices of air and water cause light scattering, which allows the plant to perceive the direction of the light source. These channels also serve other functions.
Scientists have found that blind people can recognize basic faces using the fusiform face area in the brain. A study at Georgetown University tested the extent of compensation for loss of vision in blind individuals. They used a sensory substitution device to translate visual patterns into auditory patterns, allowing the blind to recognize basic faces. The study revealed that the brain's fusiform face area development is not dependent on visual experience.
Developing nations are seeking compensation for the impacts of climate change at the upcoming Cop28 talks. A draft agreement for a loss and damage fund has been reached, but details such as the scale of the fund and who must contribute remain unresolved. Developing nations argue that they are often hit hardest by climate change despite contributing less to greenhouse gas emissions. Some are skeptical that the fund will raise enough money, as the Green Climate Fund has fallen short of its goal.
The Ice Core Archive in Copenhagen holds 25 kilometers of ice collected from Greenland, offering insights into prehistoric climate change and human activities over the past 10,000 years. The ice cores contain trapped air bubbles that date back thousands of years, providing information on greenhouse gases and the impact of fossil fuel burning. Scientists hope that studying the ice will help them understand rising sea levels and predict future changes with greater accuracy.
A study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that the latest version of the language model ChatGPT, known as GPT-4, gives better personal advice than professional columnists. The study compared responses to social dilemma questions from ChatGPT and professional advice columnists, with about three-quarters of participants perceiving ChatGPT's advice as more balanced, empathetic, and helpful. However, most participants still preferred human advice over that of ChatGPT.
A study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has found that factors such as family history of sudden death, hospitalization for Covid-19, binge drinking, and vigorous physical activity are associated with unexplained deaths among young adults in India. The study also stated that there is no evidence of a positive association between Covid-19 vaccination and unexplained sudden death. Addressing these risk factors could potentially reduce the likelihood of such deaths.
Problematic screen use, including excessive gaming, internet browsing, and social media or smartphone use, impairs cognitive processes such as concentration and executive functions, according to a study. Researchers from Macquarie University in Australia analyzed over 30 studies on disordered screen use and found a reduction in cognitive performance. The research focused on young males and assessed attention and executive functioning. Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable, and if left untreated and cognitive impairment can compound over time.
NASA's Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) experiment has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by successfully transmitting data via laser to and from beyond the moon for the first time. The experiment, aboard the Psyche spacecraft, has set a new record for the farthest-ever demonstration of optical communications. This achievement paves the way for higher-data-rate communications that can support future missions, including sending humans to Mars.
The ancient town of Bahla in Oman is known for its myths and legends about supernatural beings called jinn. The belief in jinn is deeply rooted in the town's culture, with stories of men turning into animals and mysterious occurrences. Bahla's reputation for jinn is so strong that some Omanis still avoid visiting the town. These beliefs have shaped the lives of the town's residents, with tales of camel-eating hyenas and magical construction of walls and irrigation systems. While some younger Omanis are skeptical, suspicions about Bahla being a city of jinn persist.
Scientists at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute have discovered a medication that significantly decreases the growth of tuberculosis (TB), especially in drug-resistant bacteria. The medication, which is a combination of two molecules, has been successful in initiating natural cell death processes in TB-infected human cells. TB kills over 1.6 million people annually, and drug resistance is making treatment more difficult. The researchers believe that host-directed therapies, like this medication, can be a game-changer for infectious diseases.
A review of 23 years of neuroimaging research suggests that screen time spent watching television or playing computer games has significant and long-term implications on children's brain function. The study found that screen usage causes alterations in various parts of the brain, impacting executive skills, memory, language, and visual processing. While some positive effects were observed, the overall impact was mainly negative. The researchers recommend that policymakers provide guidance and support for children's digital use and promote programs that promote positive brain development.
SpaceX launched its Starship rocket, the largest ever built, which could potentially aid in the colonisation of Mars and the Moon. The rocket consists of two reusable elements, a first-stage booster called Super Heavy and an upper stage called Starship. Lessons from a previous failed launch were applied, including modifications to the separation process and improvements to prevent explosions.
A new study published in Nature Neuroscience has provided insights into how conscious perception is created in the brain. The study focused on visual masking, a phenomenon where people do not consciously recognize an image when it is quickly displayed after another image. The researchers found that this visual illusion also occurs in mice. The study suggests that conscious perception occurs in the visual cortex or higher areas of the cortex downstream of it.
A study presented at the European Nutrition Conference reveals that eating within a 10-hour window can have positive health benefits in terms of mood, energy, and hunger. The study, which involved over 37,000 participants, found that those who were consistent with their eating window experienced greater benefits than those who varied their eating window day to day. The findings suggest that a less restrictive window of ten hours can still have beneficial health effects.
A new study published in Science reveals that two groups of apes in Africa, specifically bonobos, regularly mingle and cooperate with each other, challenging the notion that human cooperation is unique. The bonobos, an ape species genetically distinct from chimpanzees, exhibit social behaviors such as defusing conflict with sex and forming alliances. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the extent of cooperation among bonobos.
Starship is mounted atop its towering Super Heavy rocket booster in what will be the second attempted flight of both vehicles together. The mission's objective is to get Starship off the ground in Texas and into space just shy of reaching orbit, then plunge through Earth's atmosphere for a splashdown off Hawaii's coast. The launch had been scheduled for Friday but was pushed back by a day for a last-minute swap of flight-control hardware. Nasa, SpaceX's primary customer, has a considerable stake in the success of Starship.
Nasa and Isro have held discussions on potential opportunities for future cooperation in space exploration. Nasa jet propulsion laboratory director Laurie Leshin visited the Isro headquarters here and had a meeting with the Chairman of the Indian space agency and Secretary of the Department of Space, S Somanath. Bengaluru-headquartered Isro said that Dr Laurie Leshin expressed happiness over the joint efforts of JPL and Isro officials as a single team at Isro's U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC).
The UK's medicines regulator has granted approval for the world's first gene therapy treatment for sickle cell disease. The treatment, called Casgevy, is the first medicine to be licensed using the gene editing tool CRISPR. It works by targeting the problematic gene in a patient's bone marrow stem cells, allowing the body to produce properly functioning hemoglobin. Casgevy is currently being reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration for approval. The makers of the treatment, Vertex Pharmaceuticals and CRISPR Therapeutics, are working with health authorities to establish a price and secure reimbursement for eligible patients.
India has set an example for the world on how scientific research can be used for development in every sector, Union minister Dr Jitendra Singh said on Thursday. Speaking at the curtain-raiser event of the India International Science Festival set to take place in Faridabad from January 17-20, Singh said India is the first country to use technology for development in every sector. "The IISF is dedicated towards fostering creativity in science, technology and innovation for the advancement of prosperous India," he added.
Telescopes detected a supernova explosion 1.9 billion light-years away, known as a gamma ray burst, which was described as the brightest of all time. Scientists have now discovered that this burst caused a temporary depletion of ozone molecules in Earth's upper atmosphere, leading to a measurable change in the number of ionized particles. Although the effect was only detectable for a few minutes and the ozone repaired itself, the discovery highlights how even distant cosmic explosions can influence Earth's atmosphere. The researchers emphasized that this particular event posed no threat to us.
Many illnesses are caused by genetic variants; worse, the genetic origin of the majority of ailments is unknown. Researchers have shed light on the specific variations responsible for an uncommon and deadly condition known as 'RAD50 deficiency/Nijmegen breakage syndrome-like disorder' in a study published recently in the Journal of Clinical Immunology. RAD50, along with MRE11 and NBN, is one of three proteins that make up the 'MRN complex,' which recognises DNA breaks and helps to initiate DNA repair.
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati have discovered that modified graphene oxide can be used for biomedical applications. They have also developed cost-effective experiments for modifying graphene oxide, which can be used by other academic institutions. By attaching an amino acid to the graphene oxide, its stability is enhanced. The research has been supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research and the Indian Nanoelectronics Users Program.
Trucks and SUVs with hood heights above 40 inches are 45% more likely to cause fatalities in pedestrian crashes compared to vehicles with sloped hoods, according to research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The study focused on the risks posed by vehicles with tall hoods, which are common in best-selling vehicles like Ford Super Duty pickups and Cadillac Escalades. The number of pedestrian deaths in the US has been increasing, reaching the highest levels since 1981.
A recent study by astronomers suggests that the radius of the Sun may be slightly smaller than previously believed. Utilizing sound waves trapped within the Sun's interior, known as p-modes, researchers were able to gain insights into pressure changes occurring within the Sun. These p-modes offer a unique perspective on the Sun's interior compared to other oscillating sound waves. The study's findings challenge previous assumptions about the Sun's size and contribute to a better understanding of its internal dynamics.
Astronomy enthusiasts can now observe a tool bag floating in space around Earth. The bag was lost by Nasa astronauts during a spacewalk outside the International Space Station (ISS) and is currently orbiting just ahead of the ISS. While not visible to the naked eye, it can be spotted with binoculars. The bag is expected to disintegrate when it reaches an altitude of approximately 70 miles over Earth. This incident adds to the collection of artificial space debris encircling Earth.
According to a study, those who have major mental health concerns are more likely to have physical ailments such as metabolic diseases, hypertension, epilepsy, respiratory, vascular, kidney, and gastrointestinal diseases, as well as cancer.
New research suggests that analyzing genetic data from healthy tissue close to lung tumors may be a better predictor of cancer recurrence after treatment than analyzing the tumors themselves. The study found that analyzing RNA from apparently healthy tissue accurately predicted cancer recurrence 83% of the time, compared to 63% accuracy when analyzing RNA from tumors. The findings indicate that the pattern of gene expression in healthy tissue could serve as a biomarker for predicting lung cancer recurrence in its earliest stages.
A rise in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in Japan has prompted a study on the role of the nasal microbiome in the development of the condition. Researchers collected nasal swabs from 143 subjects and found significant differences in microbiome diversity between those with CRS and healthy control subjects. The composition of the microbiome also differed significantly between eosinophilic (ECRS) and non-eosinophilic (non-ECRS) CRS, with the bacterium Fusobacterium nucleatum being less abundant in ECRS patients.