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Middle Schooler Discovers Key Biomedical Insight in Goose Droppings

A young student from Chicago has made a significant contribution to biomedical research by discovering a bacterium with antibiotic properties in goose droppings, which also produces a novel compound that inhibits the growth of human melanoma and ovarian cancer cells. This breakthrough emerged from a 14-week applied science program, part of a partnership between the University of Illinois at Chicago and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Chicago, aimed at engaging underrepresented and low-income students in STEM fields. Under the guidance of graduate mentors, the students collected environmental samples and utilized advanced robotics for scientific processing. The bacterium, identified as *Pseudomonas idahonensis*, was found to produce a new compound, orfamide N, which, while not responsible for the antibiotic activity, showed potential in cancer cell inhibition. This initiative highlights the importance of community-university collaborations in fostering scientific curiosity and discovery among young learners. The findings are published in the journal ACS Omega. sources

Published:
Jun 14 2025, 1 pm

"New Universe Map Reveals 13.5 Billion Years of History"

Last week, the COSMOS collaboration unveiled COSMOS-Web, a groundbreaking catalog of galaxies that significantly surpasses the Hubble Ultra Deep Field, featuring 800,000 galaxies and extending back 13.5 billion years, or 98% of the universe's age. This expansive dataset, described by UC Santa Barbara's Caitlin Casey as a mural larger than 13 feet square, challenges previous assumptions about galaxy formation, revealing ten times more galaxies than expected at such distances and uncovering supermassive black holes invisible to Hubble. While the data offers insights into the early universe and cosmic matter distribution, it also raises questions about established cosmological models, particularly regarding the rapid formation of stars and galaxies. The COSMOS-Web data is publicly accessible, promoting a collaborative approach to scientific discovery, as researchers worldwide are encouraged to explore its mysteries. Papers detailing the findings have been submitted to leading astrophysical journals. sources

Published:
Jun 12 2025, 9 pm

"Watch Food Digest in This Fascinating Video"

A new video from National Geographic provides an in-depth look at the fascinating journey food takes through the human digestive system. Beginning in the mouth, the video follows the path of food as it travels to the stomach, through the intestines, and ultimately to the rectum for excretion. While the process is a natural part of human biology, it can be perceived as somewhat unappealing when observed closely. The video aims to educate viewers on the complexities of digestion, shedding light on how our bodies process what we eat. With a touch of humor, the article playfully acknowledges the sometimes uncomfortable nature of discussing digestion, stating, "I would make a joke about the natural, but still kind of gross to observe first hand, process making your stomach turn, but I don't have the guts." sources

Published:
Jun 15 2025, 4 am

Study Reveals Unique Long COVID Symptoms in Young Children

A recent study from the NYU Grossman School of Medicine has revealed that children can experience long COVID, but symptoms vary significantly by age. Analyzing over 1,000 children, researchers found that 41% of toddlers under two and 45% of preschoolers aged three to five exhibited prolonged symptoms following COVID-19. Younger children often faced issues like sleep disturbances and increased fussiness, while older preschoolers reported dry cough and daytime fatigue. The study highlights the need for tailored screening approaches for long COVID across different age groups, as nearly 6 million US children could be affected. Despite limitations in confirming prior infections, the findings underscore the importance of recognizing long COVID in children, especially as discussions around COVID vaccination for kids evolve. Current CDC guidelines recommend vaccinations for all children aged six months and older, amid concerns about potential changes in vaccination policies that could leave children vulnerable. sources

Published:
Jun 15 2025, 2 am

Exploring the Simulation Hypothesis: Why Do We Believe?

The Simulation Hypothesis, which posits that our reality may be a computer-generated simulation, continues to intrigue many despite significant skepticism. Prominent figures like Elon Musk and astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson have expressed support for the idea, with Tyson suggesting the odds of living in a simulation are "better than 50-50." However, critics argue that the hypothesis lacks scientific validity, as it cannot be confirmed or disproven, rendering it more a philosophical speculation than a scientific theory. Rooted in historical skeptical hypotheses, such as René Descartes' Evil Demon concept, the Simulation Hypothesis has evolved into a metaphysical assertion about reality. Philosopher Nick Boström's statistical reasoning suggests that if advanced civilizations can create simulations, it is likely we are among the simulated. Yet, experts like Sabine Hossenfelder caution that the hypothesis is vague and lacks a coherent framework, likening its appeal to religious beliefs about predestination and divine control over human experiences. sources

Published:
Jun 14 2025, 7 pm

Is One in 200 People Related to Genghis Khan?

Genghis Khan, born Temüjin, is a polarizing historical figure known for uniting Mongolia and establishing an empire that stretched from China to the Adriatic Sea. A 2003 genetic study revealed that nearly one in 12 men in Asia share a unique Y-chromosomal lineage likely linked to Khan, suggesting that about 16 million men worldwide may be his descendants. This lineage's prevalence is attributed to cultural factors rather than mere biological selection, as Khan's conquests decimated local populations, allowing his genetic line to flourish. Officially, he had at least nine children with his primary wife, Börte, but the true number may be higher due to numerous concubines. Despite his genetic legacy, Khan is also remembered for the brutality of his campaigns, which resulted in the deaths of millions. While other historical figures have left significant genetic footprints, none match the scale of Genghis Khan's legacy. sources

Published:
Jun 13 2025, 10 pm

Best Time to View the Milky Way's Glowing Core

June marks the solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing the shortest night of the year, but it also heralds "core season" for the Milky Way. This month, stargazers are encouraged to venture into dark, secluded areas away from city lights to witness the galaxy's core, which appears as a hazy band of light arching across the night sky. NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory explains that this view is from within the Milky Way, allowing us to see its structure edge-on. While it may seem paradoxical to observe the galaxy from inside it, the perspective reveals a bright central core, with the left and right edges representing material in the opposite direction. For those seeking guidance, the Summer Triangle—comprising the stars Deneb, Vega, and Altair—can help locate the Milky Way. Observing this celestial spectacle offers a profound connection to the cosmos, especially through long-exposure photography. sources

Published:
Jun 13 2025, 9 pm

First-Ever Footage of Clouded Leopard Eating Slow Loris

In a groundbreaking discovery, a clouded leopard (_Neofelis nebulosa_) has been captured on camera preying on a Bengal slow loris (_Nycticebus bengalensis_) for the first time, shedding light on the predatory behavior of this elusive species. The incident occurred on December 7, 2024, in Dehing Patkai National Park, Assam, India, where a camera trap recorded the leopard carrying the slow loris in its mouth. This finding is significant for conservation efforts, as both species are listed as Vulnerable and Endangered, respectively, by the IUCN. Clouded leopards are adept climbers and nocturnal hunters, while slow lorises are known for their slow movements and tree-dwelling habits. The camera trap is part of a larger study involving 95 cameras aimed at understanding the behaviors of various wild cat species, ultimately aiding in the development of effective conservation strategies to combat threats like habitat loss and illegal hunting. The study is published in the Journal of Wildlife Science. sources

Published:
Jun 13 2025, 6 pm

Man Injects Magic Mushrooms; They Grow in His Blood

A 30-year-old man, referred to as "Mr. X," was hospitalized after injecting a homemade "mushroom tea" made from magic mushrooms, leading to severe health complications, including organ failure and septic shock. His family brought him to the emergency department due to confusion and alarming symptoms such as jaundice, nausea, and vomiting blood. Mr. X had recently stopped taking medication for bipolar disorder and sought to self-medicate for opioid dependence and depression by researching the therapeutic effects of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound. However, instead of consuming the tea orally, he injected it, resulting in the fungus growing in his bloodstream. Medical professionals noted the potential for the psychoactive fungus to affect his mental state, emphasizing the need for public education on the dangers of improper drug use. The case was documented in the Journal of the Academy of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry. sources

Published:
Jun 12 2025, 8 pm

"Is This the World's Strangest Worm That Freezes Enemies?"

In a refreshing twist on wildlife documentaries, *UNDERDOGS*, narrated by Ryan Reynolds, shines a light on the quirky and often overlooked aspects of nature. The series celebrates the "weirdos" of the animal kingdom, featuring bizarre behaviors such as velvet worms shooting gooey slime to immobilize prey and pearlfish "reverse parking" into sea cucumbers for shelter. With episodes titled *SuperZeroes*, *Terrible Parents*, and *Total Grossout*, viewers can expect a mix of humor and fascinating facts, including giraffes drinking urine to assess potential mates and monkeys adept at stealing tourists' phones. This unique approach not only entertains but also educates, making it the first wildlife documentary to receive an advisory rating. *UNDERDOGS* premieres on June 15 at 9/8c on National Geographic, with streaming available the following day on Disney+ and Hulu, and a simulcast on ABC. sources

Published:
Jun 14 2025, 3 am

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