Results for: Science

The Hubble Space Telescope will be limiting the speed at which it can target new objects in order to preserve its lifespan for as long as possible. The telescope has been having problems with its gyros over the last year, leaving only three operational. To preserve them, the Hubble team has decided to switch to using just one gyro at a time. This will still allow Hubble to make science observations and take pictures of space, but it will take longer for the telescope to move from one target to the next, resulting in a decrease in the number of observations it can make.

Scientists have unearthed the fossils of the world’s largest-ever cheetah species, a behemoth that roamed Eurasia over a million years ago. Weighing up to 420 pounds, this colossal predator was significantly heavier than modern cheetahs, comparable in size to tigers and lions. Its impressive 780,000-year-old fossils showcase distinctive skull and snout characteristics, indicating a unique lineage within the cheetah family. Despite its similarities to modern cheetahs, such as tooth arrangement and nasal anatomy, this giant cheetah succumbed to extinction around 500,000 years ago due to climate change during the Mid-Pleistocene Transition.

Scientists have developed a miniature “blood-vessel-on-a-chip” to investigate the mechanisms by which snake venom causes fatal internal bleeding. This breakthrough could aid in the development of more effective antivenoms, reducing the need for animal testing. The chip contains human blood vessel cells, accurately mimicking the shape and cellular makeup of tiny blood vessels in the body. Using the chip, researchers exposed it to venoms from four snake species, including Indian cobras, West African carpet vipers, many-banded kraits, and Mozambique spitting cobras. They discovered that some venoms directly damage endothelial cell membranes, while others dislodge cells from their extracellular matrices, causing blood vessels to collapse. This knowledge enhances our understanding of how snake venoms attack blood vessels and will help develop improved treatments for snakebites.

On June 5, 2024, Mercury will move into the Rohini nakshatra, an auspicious event in Vedic astrology. This transit is favorable for education, business, public speaking, and relationships. It is a good time to start new studies, business ventures, or public relations campaigns. Participating in seminars, meetings, and negotiations is also recommended. Communication skills will be enhanced, making it easier to express one’s ideas effectively. Additionally, this transit is beneficial for job seekers, those seeking promotions or transfers, and those looking to buy property or vehicles.

According to the Chinese philosophy of yin and yang, Wood, one of the five elements, symbolizes growth, creativity, and healing. Influencing personalities, relationships, and health, the Wood element encourages individuals to pursue their dreams, nurture relationships, and embrace change. Associated with the liver and gallbladder, maintaining a balance in the Wood element involves practicing relaxation techniques, surrounding oneself with greenery, and engaging in creative activities.

On June 5, 2024, a rare celestial event will occur as five planets—the Sun, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, and Moon—align in the zodiac sign Taurus. According to astrology, this alignment holds significant astrological implications and will impact all zodiac signs.

A 50-year-old Toronto woman experienced puzzling symptoms like dizziness, confusion, and fainting, despite not consuming alcohol. After two years of medical visits, doctors diagnosed her with auto-brewery syndrome, a rare condition where the body converts carbohydrates into alcohol through gut bacteria and fungi.

NASA has shared awe-inspiring images from deep space, capturing majestic cosmic wonders. These images showcase the beauty and complexity of the universe, from star-forming galaxies to swirling nebulae and giant storms on planets.

Archaeologists have meticulously mapped a series of ancient rock art located along the Upper and Middle Orinoco River in Venezuela and Colombia. These captivating masterpieces, featuring both human and animal motifs, are situated along an essential trade and travel route known as Atures Rapids. The researchers believe the strategic positioning of these engravings was intentional, serving as a means of marking territory and asserting dominance. The largest of these engravings, measuring an impressive 138 feet in length, remains a remarkable enigma, with its creators shrouded in mystery. However, the subject matter, which prominently features snakes and anacondas, aligns with the beliefs and mythology of indigenous groups in the region, suggesting a deep connection with their cultural heritage.

Scientists have discovered that a specific type of genetic material found in the human genome, known as Human Endogenous Retroviruses (HERVs), may be associated with higher susceptibility to neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. By analyzing genetic data and postmortem brain tissue samples, researchers have identified five novel HERVs that are strongly linked to these conditions. The study suggests that these HERVs could potentially enhance the chances of developing psychiatric disorders, although further research is needed to determine the specific level of risk.