The idea of a space elevator has long captured the imagination of scientists and space enthusiasts alike. The concept promises to revolutionize space travel by drastically reducing costs and shortening travel times to other celestial bodies. One of the most ambitious plans to build a space elevator comes from the Japan-based company Obayashi Corporation, known
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A recent report from the World Health Organization has confirmed the first case of a human infected with the H5N2 variant of bird flu in Mexico. The individual, a 59-year-old resident of the State of Mexico, passed away on April 24 after experiencing symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, diarrhea, and nausea. This case
The consumption of chocolate has long been associated with indulgence and pleasure, but it has also brought concerns about the health implications of consuming too much sugar and saturated fats. While Americans enjoy millions of tons of chocolate each year, the sweet treat comes with a dark side, contributing to the risk of diabetes and
The Large Binocular Telescope (LBT) in Arizona, operated by the University of Arizona, is considered one of the next-generation Extremely Large Telescopes (ELTs). Its two primary mirrors, each measuring 8.4 meters (~27.5 feet), provide a collecting area that rivals that of a 30-meter telescope. Equipped with cutting-edge technology such as adaptive optics and sophisticated instruments
When researchers and artists collaborate, magic can happen. This is exactly what occurred in the “Air of the Anthropocene” project, where invisible air pollution was transformed into colorful and impactful images. By combining digital light painting and low-cost air pollution sensors, the team was able to create stunning visual evidence of pollution levels in Ethiopia,
Italy’s competition authority has imposed a fine of 3.5 million euros on Meta for failing to be transparent in its data usage and management of Instagram and Facebook accounts. The AGCM watchdog described this as a case of “unfair commercial practices”. The watchdog specifically pointed out that Meta did not promptly inform Instagram users registered
Engaging in extreme exercise has long been touted as a key component of a healthy lifestyle, with benefits ranging from improved mood to strengthened immune system. However, a recent study conducted in 2023 by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) suggests that excessive vigorous exercise may actually have a negative impact on the immune system. This
Isotopic production plays a crucial role in various technological advancements, from deep-space exploration to life-saving medical devices. Recently, a team of nuclear scientists from Shanghai Jiao Tong University and the Nuclear Power Institute of China have introduced a new high-resolution neutronics model that has the potential to significantly improve the production of plutonium-238 (238Pu). This
Large language models like ChatGPT, despite their sophistication, have shown inconsistencies in reasoning tests, as revealed in a recent study conducted by researchers at University College London. These models, which power generative AI platforms, gave varying answers when posed with the same reasoning test. Furthermore, even with additional context provided, the models did not exhibit
With climate change exacerbating flood risks in urban areas around the world, heavy rainfall disasters are becoming increasingly common. The traditional method of displaying flood risk assessments on flat maps has limitations, hindering a comprehensive understanding of the potential dangers posed by flooding to residents. Researchers at Osaka University have introduced a groundbreaking solution to
Recent research has shed light on a concerning issue – the presence of natural gas leaks that go undetected even by individuals with an average sense of smell. The study, published in Environmental Research Letters, revealed that small gas leaks can significantly impact indoor air quality by introducing hazardous air pollutants, including the carcinogen benzene.
The increasing global demand for cobalt and lithium for e-car batteries, as well as other materials such as copper, aluminum, iron, and rare earth elements for renewable energy technologies, poses significant challenges for the future. The transition to a fossil-free power supply is essential for combating climate change, but it also comes with its own
Halogen bonds play a crucial role in directing sequential dynamics in multi-functional crystals, leading to rapid photoinduced changes within supramolecular systems. Understanding the distinct nature of halogen bonds is essential for crystal engineering and the development of innovative photo-functional materials. However, the influence of halogen bonds on the rapid photoinduced changes within supramolecular systems remains
In a groundbreaking development reported in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, a team of researchers has introduced a new technology aimed at overcoming the limitations of current catalyst electrodes. This innovation has paved the way for the large-scale production of green hydrogen at a relatively low cost. Led by Professor Han Gi Chae
A recent randomized controlled trial has provided additional evidence to support claims that circumcision could potentially reduce the risk of HIV infection among men who have sex with men. Led by researchers from Sun Yat-sen University in China, the study involved comparing two randomly-assigned groups of men who voluntarily underwent circumcision over a twelve month