Tuesday, October 20, 2026

Quote of the day by Stephen Hawking: “We are just an advanced breed of monkeys on..."



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Falling water levels at Utah’s Great Salt Lake exposed mysterious circular mounds

Newly released satellite images reveal an array of circular mounds at Great Salt Lake, predominantly formed by freshwater springs, which significantly contribute 12% to the lake’s water levels. Researchers, during expeditions across the receding lakebed, confirmed this essential finding. The unique circular reeds at the mound centers highlight the presence of these freshwater sources, which could also aid in controlling dust emissions from exposed areas.

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Third-grader Kailyn Brown won $25,000 for her child-friendly injection patches



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NC State researchers create laser antenna that boosts reception 2.5 times



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Oregon’s underground River Styx study uncovers three previously unknown springs and seeps



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Kentucky sinks 1,700 discarded Christmas trees in a lake to create homes for fish

Kentucky collected around 5,000 discarded Christmas trees in 2026 to restore underwater habitats in its ageing lakes. As part of the state's 'Christmas for the Fishes' programme, approximately 1,700 trees were submerged in Boltz Lake alone. The trees provide shelter and feeding areas for fish, replacing natural structures that have decayed over time. The initiative also helps improve recreational fishing opportunities.

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Monday, October 19, 2026

Kerala’s ‘suicide tree’: How a poisonous fruit became a forensic mystery

Othalanga, or the suicide tree, flourishes along Kerala's shores, but its perilous fruit contains cerberin, a lethal toxin that can disrupt heart rhythms, leading to potentially fatal outcomes. Between 1989 and 1999, numerous deaths were connected to othalanga poisoning, posing diagnostic challenges for medical professionals due to symptom overlap. Raising awareness about this dangerous plant is crucial for prevention and timely treatment.

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