Researchers suggest how brain games predict risk of viral infection

If your alertness and reaction speed fluctuate more than usual, you may be more vulnerable to a viral disease. The study was led by experts from the University of Michigan, who collaborated closely with colleagues from Duke University School of Medicine and the University of Virginia. Subtle variations in every day cognitive performance can signal changes in brain states that are known to increase the risk of illness such as stress, fatigue and poor sleep.

It’s Taken 100 Scientists Two Years to Rename Airborne Viruses After Covid Mistakes

The World Health Organization introduces new terminology for airborne viruses, called "pathogens that transmit through the air," aiming to improve response to diseases like Covid-19. Despite criticism from some scientists, the terminology shift may impact public health measures and economic decisions. Governments globally are taking action to address airborne diseases, with the WHO releasing guidance on assessing Covid spread risks. The debate continues on the best approach to tackling airborne infections.

Bumblebees can survive days underwater, say scientists

Bumblebees can survive days underwater, a study finds, suggesting they may withstand increased floods due to climate change. This discovery offers hope for their declining populations. Researchers accidentally found this ability and are now studying its implications. The study, published in Biology Letters, showed that 81% of submerged bumblebees survived for seven days. Long-term effects and impact on colonies need further research.

India aims to achieve debris-free space missions by 2030: ISRO chief Somanath

ISRO aims for debris-free space missions by 2030, ensuring sustainability of space. Chairman Somanath emphasizes safe disposal of spacecraft and urges compliance with guidelines to prevent debris creation, especially in crowded areas like the moon. India plans its own space station 'Bharatiya Antriksh Station' by 2035, stressing the need to protect orbits for sustained human presence in space.

NASA reveals truth behind mystery object that crashed through roof of Florida house

NASA confirmed a piece of space junk that crashed into a Florida home was from the International Space Station. The 1.6-pound metal support was part of equipment jettisoned in 2021 but survived re-entry. Homeowner Alejandro Otero was shocked by the damage but thankful nobody was hurt.

NASA confirms space station debris hit Florida man's home

An object that crashed into a man's home in the US was debris from the International Space Station, confirmed by NASA. The debris, a stanchion from NASA equipment, narrowly missed the man's son. NASA is investigating how the debris survived re-entry and is updating its models. Past incidents of space debris falling on Earth were also mentioned.

NASA seeks faster, cheaper way to bring Mars rocks to Earth

NASA seeks to expedite Mars rock return mission after cost overruns. China aims for a simpler sample return by 2030, potentially beating US. NASA plans to adjust mission scope to cut costs. China's success could be a geopolitical victory. NASA faces budget constraints, may need to scale back mission ambitions.

Flowers may be more ancient than dinosaurs, say scientists

Flowering plants, or angiosperms, with over 350,000 species, play a crucial role in ecosystems and as commercial crops. Recent research debates the timing of their evolution, with evidence from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. Molecular clocks and physical characteristics help scientists understand angiosperms' early evolution, with a mathematical approach suggesting they may have evolved before the dinosaurs. Understanding angiosperms aids agriculture and conservation efforts.

NASA unveils probe bound for Jupiter's possibly life-sustaining moon

US space scientists unveiled NASA's interplanetary probe set for Jupiter's moon Europa in search of extraterrestrial life. The $5 billion Clipper spacecraft, launching in October, will study the moon's potential for life, focusing on conditions supporting it. With instruments like cameras and spectrometers, the mission aims to understand if life exists beyond Earth. The mission, starting in 2031, faces challenges like radiation and power supply.