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Being High Constantly Doesn't Equal Laziness

A recent study challenges the stereotype of the "lazy stoner," revealing that chronic cannabis users do not exhibit reduced motivation or effort due to their consumption. Researchers surveyed 260 regular cannabis users, who reported using the drug recreationally at least three times a week, through a smartphone app that assessed their motivation levels. Participants consistently chose challenging tasks over easier ones, regardless of whether they were high or sober. The findings suggest that heavy users may even be more motivated than moderate users. While cannabis use was linked to increased impulsivity and decreased conscientiousness, it did not correlate with feelings of paranoia or a "weed hangover." The study, published in the journal *Social Psychological and Personality Science*, indicates that chronic users consume cannabis primarily for enjoyment, experiencing positive emotions such as awe and gratitude, rather than a lack of ambition. sources

Published:
Oct 31 2025, 8 am

Investigating the Loch Ness Monster: Science, Story, Belief

In a recent exploration of Loch Ness, skipper Steve Glew showcased his skills by simultaneously navigating his boat and capturing footage of what he claims could be the elusive Loch Ness Monster. Known for its iconic status among cryptids, Nessie has fascinated the public for nearly a century, yet definitive evidence of its existence remains elusive. Glew, who has spent years conducting tours and collaborating with scientists, reported a peculiar sighting in 2019, describing two distinct humps surfacing in the water before disappearing. His footage, which he insists shows a creature moving in a serpentine manner, has reignited interest in the legend. A team of investigators, eager to delve into the mystery, visited Loch Ness to uncover the truth behind the creature, engaging with fellow monster hunters and examining decades of scientific research. The quest continues, leaving the question of Nessie's existence tantalizingly open. sources

Published:
Oct 31 2025, 10 pm

"I Am The Allergen": Rare Condition Makes Others Allergic To You

A rare and perplexing condition known as "People Allergic To Me" (PATM) has emerged, where individuals report that others react with sneezing and coughing in their presence, as if they are allergens themselves. This phenomenon, first noted in online forums around 2007, has gained some scientific attention in recent years, particularly from researcher Irene Gabashvili, who linked PATM to gut biome issues. A 2023 study from Japan identified elevated levels of toluene, a harmful volatile organic compound, in the skin gases of PATM sufferers, suggesting a physiological basis for the reactions they provoke. Despite this breakthrough, there are currently no established treatments or diagnoses for PATM, leaving those affected feeling isolated and distressed. Many report severe mental health impacts, including feelings of guilt and depression, as they navigate a world where their presence seems to trigger allergic responses in others. sources

Published:
Oct 31 2025, 5 pm

Jupiter Mission to Study Comet 3I/ATLAS This Weekend

The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS is set to be observed by the European Space Agency's JUICE spacecraft, which is currently en route to Jupiter. Having recently passed its closest approach to the Sun, the comet is now on the far side of the star, making detailed observations from Earth difficult due to solar glare. JUICE, designed to study Jupiter's icy moons, will take advantage of its position in deep space to observe 3I/ATLAS from November 2 to 25, with a close approach on November 4 at a distance of 64 million kilometers. The spacecraft will utilize five instruments, including a camera and a UV spectrometer, for remote sensing. Although data transmission will be slow, with results expected in February 2026, this mission presents a unique opportunity to study the comet during its peak activity, while Earth-based observations will improve as the comet moves away from the Sun. sources

Published:
Oct 31 2025, 11 pm

Aztec Day of the Dead and Celtic Halloween Origins

Despite being separated by an ocean and millennia, the Aztecs and Celts have influenced modern celebrations of death and the afterlife, notably Halloween and Día de los Muertos. The Celts, during the late Bronze Age, celebrated Samhain at the end of October, believing the veil between the living and the dead was thinnest, a tradition that persisted even as Christianity sought to suppress it. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III established November 1 as All Hallows’ Day, merging Samhain with Christian observance. Meanwhile, the Aztecs honored Mictēcacihuātl, the queen of the underworld, with month-long feasts, a tradition that also faced suppression by Spanish conquistadores. Ultimately, the Church integrated these customs, leading to a November celebration that combined both cultures. Today, symbols like La Catrina and candy skulls reflect this rich fusion, as contemporary festivities continue to honor both Celtic and Aztec legacies. sources

Published:
Oct 31 2025, 9 pm

Earth's Future: An Uninhabitable Hellscape Awaits

A recent study suggests that Earth, which has existed for approximately 4.5 billion years, faces a grim future as it evolves into a new supercontinent, dubbed Pangea Ultima, in about 250 million years. Researchers, led by Alexander Farnsworth from the University of Bristol, predict that rising carbon dioxide levels—potentially doubling current concentrations—combined with increased solar radiation, will create extreme temperatures between 40 to 70 °C (104 to 158 °F). This scenario, exacerbated by the continentality effect, would render much of the planet uninhabitable for mammals, including humans, who would struggle to regulate body heat in such conditions. While the study highlights a distant threat, co-author Eunice Lo emphasizes the urgency of addressing the current climate crisis driven by human emissions, underscoring the need for immediate action to achieve net-zero emissions to mitigate impending environmental challenges. The findings are published in *Nature Geoscience*. sources

Published:
Oct 31 2025, 2 pm

Bowhead Whales' 200-Year Lifespan Explained

The bowhead whale, known as the world's longest-living mammal, can reach ages of up to 200 years, prompting researchers to investigate the genetic mechanisms behind its remarkable longevity. A recent study led by scientists at the University of Rochester identified a cold-activated protein called CIRBP, which is present at significantly higher levels in bowhead whales compared to other mammals. This protein plays a crucial role in repairing DNA damage, particularly double-strand breaks that can lead to cancer. The research utilized tissue samples from the endangered species, provided by the Alaskan Iñupiat Inuit, to grow whale cells in the lab, revealing their superior DNA repair capabilities. The findings suggest that enhancing CIRBP activity in humans could potentially improve DNA repair and resistance to aging-related diseases. While further research is needed, the study opens exciting avenues for understanding longevity and cancer resistance, inspired by this extraordinary cetacean. sources

Published:
Oct 30 2025, 8 pm

Flour Can Explode: Here's What You Need to Know

In a crucial public service announcement, experts warn that flour can pose a significant explosion risk due to its combustible nature. This warning follows a 1981 incident at a General Foods factory in Banbury, UK, where an overfilled cornstarch bin ignited, injuring nine workers and causing extensive damage. Dust explosions can occur when five elements—fuel (like flour), oxygen, heat, confinement, and dispersion—are present. The fine particles of flour have a large surface area, allowing them to ignite rapidly when suspended in the air. While the risk at home is minimal unless flour is mishandled, industrial settings must implement strict safety measures, including specialized vacuum systems and controls on ignition sources. Additionally, it is a dangerous myth that flour can extinguish fires; it is, in fact, a fire hazard and should never be used as a substitute for proper fire extinguishers. sources

Published:
Oct 31 2025, 11 am

Unique System Features Two Stars and Three Earth-Sized Planets

In a groundbreaking discovery, astronomers have identified a unique planetary system, TOI-2267, featuring two stars and three Earth-sized planets, challenging previous assumptions about planetary stability in binary systems. The compact binary consists of two small, cool stars located approximately 1.2 billion kilometers apart, with two planets orbiting one star and a third transiting the other. This configuration makes TOI-2267 the first known binary system to host transiting planets around both stars. Researchers, led by Sebastián Zúñiga-Fernández from the University of Liège, emphasize that this finding not only sets records for the coldest and most compact star pair with planets but also provides a valuable opportunity to test and refine models of planet formation in complex environments. The study, published in Astronomy & Astrophysics, highlights the potential for understanding the diverse architectures of planets in our galaxy. sources

Published:
Oct 29 2025, 2 am

Ancient Egyptian Port's Location Discovered by Unlikely Source

In a significant breakthrough, researchers have traced the origins of mummified baboons discovered in Egypt back to the Horn of Africa, specifically around Eritrea, where the ancient port of Adulis likely existed. These baboons, dated to Egypt's Late Period (800–540 BCE), were found at Gabbanat el-Qurud, a site known as the "Valley of the Monkeys." The study, led by Gisela Kopp from the University of Konstanz, utilized advanced genetic analysis of mitochondrial genomes from the mummies, marking the first successful extraction of ancient DNA from non-human primates. The findings suggest that the baboons, revered in ancient Egypt as offerings to the god Thoth, may have been transported via trade routes linked to Adulis, which was known for luxury goods. Kopp posits that the historically elusive port of Punt, often cited as the baboons' origin, may actually be synonymous with Adulis, highlighting the interconnectedness of ancient trade networks. The study is published in the journal eLife. sources

Published:
Oct 31 2025, 11 am

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