The Cortege

The University of Belgrade's Institute for Multidisciplinary Research has developed an urban photo-bioreactor called Liquid 3, which serves as a bench and cleans the air in Belgrade city centre. Serbia has one of the highest air pollution death rates in Europe, and Liquid 3 was created in response to an appeal from the Development Program of the United Nations to tackle air pollution.  Image source: liquid3 The device uses microalgae to bind carbon dioxide while also serving as an urban design feature. It was installed in September 2021 in front of the Municipality of Stari Grad in Belgrade.  Air pollution is a major problem in Serbia, with at least 75% of Serbian citizens breathing air polluted by particular airborne matter (PM) throughout the year.  Belgrade was ranked as the world's fifth most polluted major city by Swiss air quality database IQ Air in early November 2021, and thousands of people protested against the massive air pollution in the city two weeks later. ...

In a groundbreaking development, Neuralink, the brainchild of tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, received FDA approval for its first human clinical trial back in May. This pivotal moment represents a giant leap forward in the field of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). Neuralink's mission to merge technology with the human brain has garnered immense attention, and this approval signifies a major step towards making this vision a reality. Image source : Jagran Josh Unlocking the Potential: Neuralink's Vision Neuralink's ambitious goal is to enhance human capabilities by creating a direct connection between the human brain and computers. At the core of this technology is the N1 implant, a device powered by a wireless-charging battery. This implant comprises 64 flexible threads, finer than a human hair, strategically placed in the part of the brain responsible for "movement intention." These threads enable the recording and wireless transmission of brain signals to an app, ...

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) are a group of lifelong, often debilitating conditions that can affect individuals exposed to alcohol during pregnancy. As responsible members of society, it is crucial that we spread awareness and knowledge about FASDs to prevent future cases and support affected individuals and families. In this blog post, we will explore valuable information from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) publication titled "Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders." FASDs refer to a range of conditions that can occur in individuals whose mothers consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These disorders can cause a wide array of physical, behavioral, and intellectual challenges. The severity and nature of the symptoms can vary from person to person, making FASDs a complex and often misunderstood group of disorders. Source: fasdunited.org Key Takeaways from the NIAAA Publication: No Safe Amount or Safe Time: The NIAAA emphasizes t...

Tired of the endless hours spent crafting PowerPoint presentations? Look no further! In this article, we unveil four ingenious methods to leverage the power of ChatGPT in transforming your presentation-making experience. From generating slide content and suggesting images to automating slide creation using VBA, ChatGPT is your ultimate ally in revolutionizing the way you create PowerPoint presentations. Can ChatGPT Create A PowerPoint Presentation? Absolutely! ChatGPT's capabilities extend beyond just writing and coding. It can be harnessed to assist you in crafting captivating PowerPoint presentations. In fact, ChatGPT can aid you in: 1. Generating Presentation Outlines: ChatGPT can swiftly create a well-organized structure for your presentation based on the topic and key points you provide. 2. Crafting Slide Content: With prompts, ChatGPT can help you expand on each subtopic, providing detailed content for your slides. 3. Automating Slide Creation using VBA: ChatGPT can generate ...

In the vast expanse of space, the moon has always held a mystical allure for humanity. India, a burgeoning space power, has been making significant strides in lunar exploration, with the upcoming Chandrayaan-3 mission poised to mark another remarkable chapter in the country's space journey. Let's delve into the details of this ambitious mission and its potential implications. Image source : Al Jazeera Chandrayaan-3: A Brief Overview The Chandrayaan-3 mission is the third installment in India's Chandrayaan series, which translates to "Mooncraft" in Sanskrit. This series of lunar missions is spearheaded by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), renowned for its cost-effective yet technologically advanced space endeavors. The primary objective of Chandrayaan-3 is to further our understanding of the moon's surface and composition, building upon the insights gained from its predecessors, Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2. Chandrayaan-3 carries a suite of soph...

In a world grappling with the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions, nuclear power has emerged as a contentious topic. While its potential to provide clean energy is undeniable, concerns about safety and long-term consequences have often overshadowed its benefits. In a recent article by New Scientist titled "How Oppenheimer Addresses the Paranoia Around Nuclear Power," a fresh perspective on this matter is presented. Let's delve into the insights shared by Oppenheimer and how they offer a more nuanced view of nuclear power. Link to the article: How Oppenheimer Addresses the Paranoia Around Nuclear Power The article begins by acknowledging the historical context in which nuclear power emerged. Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer, a prominent physicist known for his role in the Manhattan Project, has witnessed the dual nature of nuclear science firsthand. As the architect of the atomic bomb, Oppenheimer is uniquely positioned to offer insights into both the potential benefits ...

Climate change has been a topic of concern for years, with rising greenhouse gas emissions leading to warmer ocean waters. However, an intriguing phenomenon is occurring in the Pacific Ocean that defies these predictions.  A stretch of water extending west from Ecuador has been cooling for the past three decades, creating what scientists refer to as the "cold tongue." This unexpected cooling has become a pressing mystery in climate science, as its implications could have global consequences. In this article, we delve into the enigma of the cold tongue and explore its potential impact on various regions and climate change as a whole. Image source: National Geographic The cold tongue in the Pacific Ocean holds significant importance due to its potential influence on various climatic events and phenomena worldwide. Scientists believe that unraveling the mystery behind this cooling trend is crucial for predicting future climate patterns accurately.  The implications of the cold t...

The placenta, often overlooked in the realm of human biology, is a vital organ that plays a significant role not only during pregnancy but also in determining lifelong health outcomes. This organ, unique to mammals, is the lifeline that connects the mother and the fetus, facilitating the exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste products. Image source : Pregnancy, Birth and Baby The placenta's role during pregnancy is well-known, but recent research suggests that its influence extends far beyond the gestational period. It has a profound impact on the health of both the mother and the child, potentially influencing their susceptibility to various diseases later in life. The placenta is a dynamic organ that adapts to the mother's health and environmental conditions. It can modify its structure and function in response to stressors such as maternal malnutrition, obesity, or exposure to toxins. These adaptations can affect fetal development and have long-term health implications. For...

Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions worldwide, has long been a subject of extensive research. A recent study, as reported by New Scientist, has shed new light on the potential benefits of exercise in combating this disease.  Image source : Wikipedia  The study suggests that regular physical activity may prevent the degradation of neurons crucial for controlling movement, a common issue in Parkinson's disease. This groundbreaking discovery could revolutionize the way we approach Parkinson's disease management and prevention. Parkinson's disease is characterized by the progressive loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in regulating movement and emotional responses. As these neurons degrade, patients experience symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement). The research, conducted by scientists at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, invol...

Schizophrenia is a complex psychiatric disorder that typically emerges in early adulthood. While the exact causes of schizophrenia are still not fully understood, researchers have long recognized the role of both genetic and environmental factors in its development. A recent study published in the journal Cell Genomics sheds new light on the genetic aspect of schizophrenia, specifically highlighting the potential impact of rare embryo mutations on the risk of developing this disorder. Image source : Health The study, conducted by Eduardo A. Maury and colleagues, focused on somatic copy-number variants (sCNVs), a type of mutation that occurs early in embryonic development. Unlike inherited mutations, which are present in all cells of the body, somatic mutations are only present in a fraction of cells based on when and where the mutation occurred. The researchers analyzed data from 12,834 schizophrenia cases and identified recurrent disruptions in two genes: NRXN1 and ABCB11. NRXN1, a ge...

The long-standing belief that our human ancestors were inherently violent has been challenged by a recent study. This research, published in the New Scientist, suggests that our forebears may not have been as violent as we have been led to believe. Image source : New Scientists  The study, which delved into the family tree of apes, our closest living relatives, found that violence is not a common trait among our shared ancestors. This contradicts the popular notion that humans are naturally violent due to our evolutionary history. The researchers behind this study examined the social behavior of various ape species, including bonobos, chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans. They found that while some species, like chimpanzees, are known for their violent behavior, others, such as bonobos and orangutans, are generally peaceful. The team then used this information to create a model of the likely behavior of the last common ancestor of all apes and humans. The results suggested that th...

The Antarctic region, a pristine and largely untouched part of our planet, is facing an imminent threat. The marine life that thrives in its icy waters is under siege, and recent talks aimed at establishing protected areas have unfortunately failed. This information comes from a recent article published by New Scientist, which provides a comprehensive overview of the situation. Image source : knews usa The Antarctic is home to a diverse array of marine life, including various species of penguins, seals, and whales, as well as a multitude of smaller organisms that form the base of the food chain. This biodiversity is under threat due to a combination of climate change, overfishing, and other human activities. The establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) has been proposed as a solution to protect these vulnerable ecosystems. However, the recent talks aimed at establishing these MPAs have failed. The negotiations, which involved multiple countries, were unable to reach a consensus o...

In recent years, the field of cancer research has witnessed a groundbreaking development that holds immense potential for revolutionizing cancer treatment. Scientists have discovered a remarkable phenomenon involving the presence of microbes within tumors, opening up a new avenue for targeted therapies. This article explores the fascinating world of tumor-dwelling microbes and their implications for cancer treatment. Image source : nature reviews cancer Unveiling the Microbial Landscape:    - Researchers have identified a diverse range of microbes residing within tumors, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.    - These microbes form complex communities known as the tumor microbiome, which interact with cancer cells and the immune system.    - The composition of the tumor microbiome varies across different types of cancer, offering insights into disease progression and treatment response. Microbes as Potential Allies in Cancer Treatment:    - Stu...

In a groundbreaking study published in the New Scientist, researchers have discovered a fascinating new way to reconstruct a three-dimensional model of what a person is looking at, simply by analyzing the reflections in their eyeballs. This innovative technique has the potential to revolutionize fields such as virtual reality, eye-tracking technology, and even forensic investigations. Let's delve into the details of this remarkable breakthrough. Image source : Lifehacker The human eye is a complex organ that not only allows us to see the world around us but also holds valuable information about our visual perception. Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, have harnessed this potential by developing a method to reconstruct a three-dimensional model of a scene based solely on the reflections in a person's eyes. Using a combination of machine learning algorithms and computer vision techniques, the researchers were able to analyze the unique patterns of light reflec...

Lionel Messi, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner, has once again made headlines in the world of football. After a successful stint with Paris Saint Germain (PSG), the Argentine maestro is set to embark on a new journey with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami.  Image source: Daily Sabah Messi's journey with PSG began in the summer of 2021, following a dramatic exit from FC Barcelona due to a La Liga salary cap reduction. Despite the abrupt departure from his home of 18 years, Messi quickly adapted to his new surroundings in France. In just two seasons, he led PSG to two Ligue 1 titles, scoring 32 goals and providing 35 assists across all competitions. His performance in the French league was nothing short of spectacular, with his 496th career league goal breaking Ronaldo's record. However, as his two-year contract with PSG came to an end on June 30, 2023, speculation about Messi's next move began to circulate. While there were rumors of a potential return to Barcelona, ...

TikTok, the short-form video platform, has taken the world by storm, boasting over 1 billion active users worldwide. As a marketing manager, it's crucial to understand the potential of TikTok ads and how they can be leveraged to boost brand visibility and engagement.  TikTok offers a variety of ad formats, including Top View ads, In-feed ads, Branded effects, Branded hashtags, and Brand takeovers. Each of these ad types serves a unique purpose and can be used to target different aspects of the user journey.  1. Top View Ads: These are the first things users see when they open the app, offering maximum visibility. 2. In-feed Ads: These ads appear as users scroll through their "For You" page, seamlessly integrating with user-generated content. 3. Branded Effects: These are interactive elements that users can incorporate into their own videos, promoting organic brand engagement. 4. Branded Hashtags: These encourage users to create and share content around a specific them...

The Titanic, once the world's largest and most luxurious ocean liner, now rests at the bottom of the North Atlantic Ocean. Since its tragic sinking in 1912, the ship has captivated the world's imagination, leading to numerous expeditions to explore its underwater grave. The advent of submersible technology has made it possible to visit and study the Titanic in its final resting place, providing invaluable insights into maritime history and underwater archaeology. Submersible technology has evolved significantly since the Titanic's sinking. Modern submersibles are equipped with advanced technology that allows them to withstand the extreme pressures of the deep sea, navigate the ocean floor, and capture high-resolution images and videos. These submersibles are typically remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) or manned submersibles, both of which have been used in Titanic expeditions. Image source: CNN The journey to the Titanic is a challenging one. The ship lies approximately 2.5...

Exercise is often touted as a way to improve physical health, but did you know that it can also have a significant impact on your mental well-being? In this article, we'll explore the science behind how exercise can help you feel better and think clearer, and provide practical tips for incorporating exercise into your daily routine. Image source : Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials The Science Behind Exercise and Mental Health: Research has shown that exercise can have a positive impact on mental health in several ways. First, exercise releases endorphins, which are natural chemicals that can improve mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Second, exercise can increase blood flow to the brain, which can improve cognitive function and memory. Finally, exercise can promote the growth of new brain cells, which can help protect against age-related cognitive decline. Practical Tips for Incorporating Exercise into Your Daily Routine: Now that we understand the science behind exer...

Botox has become a household name in the world of cosmetic treatments, with millions of people opting for the procedure to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. But have you ever wondered how Botox actually works? In a recent study published in the journal Science, researchers have uncovered the mechanism behind how Botox enters neurons and paralyzes muscles. Illustration of Clostridium botulinum, bacteria that produce botulinum neurotoxin Shutterstock/MZinchenko Botox, or botulinum toxin, is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When injected into the skin, it blocks the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that signals muscles to contract. This results in a temporary paralysis of the muscles, which smooths out wrinkles and fine lines. But how does Botox actually enter neurons to block the release of acetylcholine? The study found that Botox binds to a protein called SV2, which is found on the surface of neurons. SV2 is involved in the release of neurotran...

Have you heard about the recent news that a fake alien message was sent to Earth? According to a recent article from New Scientist, a group of researchers from the University of Oxford's Future of Humanity Institute sent a message to a nearby star system, with the intention of preparing humanity for potential first contact with extraterrestrial life. New Scientist The message, which was sent to the star system of GJ 273, contained a series of images and sounds that were designed to convey basic information about humanity and our planet. The researchers behind the project hope that this message will serve as a "hello" to any potential alien civilizations that may exist in the universe. But why send a fake message? The researchers argue that it's important for humanity to be prepared for the possibility of first contact and that sending a message like this can help us to think more deeply about our place in the universe. By imagining what we might say to an alien civili...

In a recent discovery, Saturn has taken the lead as the planet with the most known moons in our solar system. With over 100 moons now identified, this gas giant has surpassed Jupiter, which was previously known to have the highest number of moons. This fascinating finding has sparked new interest in the study of Saturn and its numerous satellites. Image source : The Nine Planets New Moons Discovered: According to an article published by New Scientist on May 11, 2023, astronomers have identified several new moons orbiting Saturn, bringing the total count to over 100 (New Scientist, 2023). This discovery was made possible through the use of advanced telescopes and imaging technology, which allowed researchers to detect these previously unseen celestial bodies. Implications for Planetary Science: The discovery of these new moons has significant implications for our understanding of Saturn and its formation. By studying the composition, orbits, and interactions of these moons, scientis...

Werner Karl Heisenberg (1901-1976) was a German theoretical physicist who made significant contributions to the field of quantum mechanics. He is best known for his uncertainty principle, which states that it is impossible to simultaneously determine the exact position and momentum of a particle. This principle has had a profound impact on our understanding of the subatomic world and the nature of reality itself.  Werner Karl Heisenberg mage source : Wikipedia Early Life and Education Heisenberg was born on December 5, 1901, in Würzburg, Germany. He showed an early aptitude for mathematics and physics, and by the age of 17, he had already published his first scientific paper (1). He studied physics at the University of Munich under Arnold Sommerfeld, one of the leading theoretical physicists of the time. Heisenberg received his doctorate in 1923 for his work on the anomalous Zeeman effect, a phenomenon in which spectral lines of atoms split under the influence of a magnetic field...

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, which is then used to fuel their growth and metabolism. Despite being one of the most fundamental and important biological processes on Earth, there are still many mysteries surrounding photosynthesis that scientists have been trying to unravel for decades. However, a recent breakthrough may have finally solved one of the most puzzling questions about photosynthesis. A fibre-like cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae Shutterstock / Ekky Ilham From New Scientist According to a new study published in the journal Nature, researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have discovered the mechanism by which plants protect themselves from damage caused by too much sunlight during photosynthesis. This mechanism involves a protein called PsbS, which acts as a sensor that detects excess light and triggers a protective response. The researchers used a com...

Earthquakes have long been a source of fear and fascination for humanity. Despite advances in technology and our understanding of the Earth's geology, predicting earthquakes remains a challenge. However, a recent study published in New Scientist suggests that bizarre lights in the sky may hold the key to predicting these natural disasters. In this article, we will explore the phenomenon of earthquake lights, the scientific theories behind them, and their potential for earthquake prediction. Image source : New Scientist Earthquake Lights: A Mysterious Phenomenon For centuries, people have reported seeing strange lights in the sky before, during, or after earthquakes. These lights, known as earthquake lights (EQLs), can take various forms, such as glowing orbs, flickering flames, or even colorful auroras. While these sightings were often dismissed as folklore or hallucinations, recent research has provided evidence that EQLs are a real and scientifically explainable phenomenon (New S...

Near-death experiences (NDEs) have long been a subject of fascination and debate among scientists, medical professionals, and the general public. These profound experiences, often described as a sense of detachment from the body, feelings of peace, and encounters with deceased loved ones, have been reported by individuals who have come close to death or experienced clinical death. A recent study published in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience sheds new light on the brain activity of dying people, providing valuable insights into the phenomenon of NDEs. Image source: Scientific American The Study: Brain Activity in Dying Patients The groundbreaking research, led by a team of scientists from the University of Liège in Belgium, involved monitoring the brain activity of 16 terminally ill patients in their final moments of life. The researchers used electroencephalography (EEG) to record the patients' brain activity, focusing on the dying process and the moments immediately f...