The COVID-19 pandemic has relentlessly showcased its ability to adapt and proliferate across species. A recent study emanating from Brazil underscores this reality by documenting the presence of the virus SARS-CoV-2 in animals at a zoo in Belo Horizonte. With the world still grappling with the pandemic’s implications, this research serves as a potent reminder
Science
As human beings, the desire to live longer intertwines deeply with the aspiration to live healthily. In the last hundred years, life expectancy has seen a remarkable rise due to factors such as improved sanitation, advancements in public health, better nutrition, and significant medical breakthroughs. For instance, Statistics Canada reports that in 2021, the average
In the vast realm of geology and mineralogy, there exists a treasure so rare that its peculiarities contribute to its almost mythical status. Kyawthuite (pronounced cha-too-ite) stands as a testament to nature’s enigmatic prowess, being the only specimen of its kind ever discovered. Weighing a mere 1.61 carats (or approximately a third of a gram),
In today’s world, pollution stands as a formidable challenge, with microplastics and persistent organic pollutants, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” taking center stage. These pollutants not only threaten ecosystems but also human health, stirring a growing concern among scientists and environmentalists alike. A recent investigation from the University of Birmingham unveils alarming insights regarding
In November 2024, a groundbreaking achievement unfolded at Oak Ridge National Laboratory with the execution of the ExaSky project, marking an unprecedented leap in astrophysical simulations. Utilizing the extraordinary capabilities of the Frontier supercomputer, researchers orchestrated the most extensive simulation of the Universe thus far. The simulation covered an astonishing volume of more than 31
When a person’s heart stops, the ticking clock becomes a matter of life and death. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a critical intervention that significantly increases survival chances by maintaining blood flow to the brain and vital organs until emergency responders arrive. However, recent evidence suggests that gender biases impact the likelihood of receiving CPR, which
Deadlines are crucial touchpoints in both academic and professional landscapes. A recent study has highlighted their undeniable importance, showcasing that even minor extensions can significantly tarnish perceptions of quality and competence. Interestingly, even when late work and on-time submissions are equal in quality, the former often receives a lower evaluation. This leads us to ponder:
Since antiquity, humans have sought to document their experiences and share knowledge. This innate impulse to communicate visually laid the groundwork for what eventually culminated in complex writing systems. Among the earliest instances of such visual communication can be found in the ancient civilization of Mesopotamia, where symbols on seals serve as a bridge between
In the contemporary world, plastics permeate every facet of life, from packaging to consumer goods, and astonishingly, even into our bodies. Recent findings indicate that microplastics—tiny fragments of plastic less than five millimeters in size—have infiltrated various human organs, including the placenta. The mere presence of these particles within our biological systems raises alarm bells
For many individuals embarking on weight loss journeys, the excitement of shedding pounds often gives way to a daunting reality—maintaining that lost weight proves to be an uphill battle. This phenomenon of regaining weight, commonly referred to as the “yo-yo effect,” poses a significant challenge not only for those using traditional methods but also for