In an age where antibiotic resistance is becoming a pressing global health concern, it is refreshing to see young minds actively participating in scientific discovery. Recently in Chicago, students at a middle school have turned what is generally considered a nuisance—bird droppings—into an exciting opportunity for biomedical exploration. The convergence of curiosity, creativity, and collaboration
Science
Emerging insights suggest that irregular bowel habits, such as constipation and diarrhea, could be linked to a range of health complications, including infections and neurodegenerative disorders. Previous studies often centered around patients already diagnosed with illnesses, leaving an open question about whether these bowel irregularities were contributing to health issues or simply symptoms resulting from
The Indian Ocean conceals a geological marvel beneath its waves—a series of underwater mountains that extend for 5,000 kilometers (3,107 miles), a length that surpasses even the majestic North American Rockies. Despite their impressive size, these formations remain largely obscured by the ocean, leaving their origins and evolution a topic of intrigue for geologists. Recent
Crustaceans, often characterized by their hard exterior shells and aquatic habitats, have long been underestimated in terms of their neurological complexity. Recent scientific advancements reveal that these creatures, specifically shore crabs (Carcinus maenas), possess a more sophisticated system for processing pain than previously acknowledged. This revelation not only challenges deeply ingrained perceptions about crustacean biology
The COVID-19 pandemic may have receded from the daily headlines, but its impact continues to resonate across various ecosystems, including zoos. A recent study involving a Brazilian zoo serves as a critical indication that the virus responsible for COVID-19 remains a profound risk, especially for animals. In this analysis, we explore the implications of this
In our modern world, the aspiration for a longer life is prevalent; however, the emphasis is shifting towards not just living longer, but living well. The last century has seen extraordinary advancements in public health, nutrition, medicine, and sanitation, leading to a significant rise in life expectancies globally. For instance, Canadians now enjoy an average
In the captivating world of gemstones, the rarest specimens often hold the greatest allure. Among them is kyawthuite, an extraordinary mineral that stands alone in its uniqueness. First discovered in Myanmar, this atypical gem is not just a visual marvel; it symbolizes the enigmas of Earth’s geological processes. Weighing only a third of a gram,
In the contemporary age, pollution manifests in various forms, posing significant risks to our environment and health. Two of the most pressing issues are microplastics and persistent chemical contaminants known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as ‘forever chemicals’. Microplastics—minute plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size—result from the breakdown of
The burgeoning field of astrophysics has reached a remarkable milestone with the completion of the largest astrophysical simulation of the Universe to date. Conducted at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in the United States, this groundbreaking simulation harnessed the immense computing power of the Frontier supercomputer. In November 2024, physicists initiated the ExaSky project, employing
Recent advancements in understanding Alzheimer’s disease have uncovered a fascinating relationship with insulin resistance, leading to the term “type III diabetes” being used to describe the condition. This link highlights the intricate ways in which metabolic factors might contribute to neurodegenerative disorders. Researchers in Italy have turned their attention to this connection, developing a nasal