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'540 days': NASA's Sunita Williams on the verge of setting a new space endurance record.

2025-04-06 04:46:05 By John Smith

Chronicle on the Horizon

'540 days': NASA' Sunita Williams close to breaking space time record

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NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is nearing a significant achievement in the realm of space exploration. Her current mission is propelling her toward the possibility of breaking the record for the longest total time spent in space by a NASA astronaut, a record that is presently held by Peggy Whitson, who has logged 675 days in orbit.

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Prolonged Stay

Sunita Williams' initial mission on Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, which took off in June 2024, was planned for a duration of just 8 days. Nevertheless, complications including helium leaks and thruster problems have resulted in an extension of her time in space.

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Present Space-Time

As of January 10, 2025, Sunita Williams has spent a total of 540 days in space, which includes her present mission on the International Space Station (ISS). With the current extension, she is swiftly nearing the record set by Whitson.

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The Influence of Sunita

Sunita Williams and her fellow astronaut Barry Wilmore are experiencing prolonged missions as a result of the technical challenges with the Starliner. Both astronauts have been diligently engaged in conducting scientific research and performing maintenance tasks on the International Space Station (ISS).

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Community and Scientific Involvement

Sunita Williams' remarkable journey has captivated the interest of both the general public and the scientific community. Conversations across online forums and social media channels are brimming with praise for her determination and her significant role in advancing space exploration. These discussions emphasize the unpredictable aspects of space missions and the adaptability needed in mission planning.

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Ensuring a Secure Return and Looking Ahead

NASA is currently concentrating on the safe return of Sunita Williams, possibly utilizing SpaceX's Crew Dragon spacecraft. The main goal is to guarantee a secure trip back while maximizing the scientific opportunities presented by her extended mission.

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A Pioneer in the Realm of Space Exploration

Sunita Williams, chosen as a NASA astronaut in 1998, has made history with her impressive achievements in spacewalks and total spacewalking duration for women. Should she break Whitson’s record, it would solidify her reputation as one of NASA’s most distinguished astronauts.

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Humans Emit Light, But It's Too Faint for Our Eyes to Detect

"The human body truly shines." View pictures in App save up to 80% data. It appears that the human body sparkles in sync with the circadian rhythm. Image credit: Mygate / Shutterstock.com. Living things have been known to glow thanks to a nifty trick called bioluminescence, but it’s something we more typically associate with animals of the deep sea than those stomping around surface-side. It may surprise you, then, to learn that bioluminescence has been detected in humans. That’s right, we glow in the dark – it’s just really, really, really faint. That was the discovery made by researchers in a 2009 study who used incredibly sensitive cameras to effectively watch naked people sleep. Bit creepy, sure, but it also shone a light on the light that we unknowingly emit. "The researchers noted that 'the human body actually emits a subtle glow.' As for the reason we can't perceive it? 'The brightness of the light released by the body is a thousand times dimmer than what our unaided eyes can detect.'" The shimmering phenomenon was noticed in five men in their twenties who were placed under standard light-dark settings and encouraged to take short naps in front of a cryogenic charge-coupled device (CCD) camera capable of sensing light down to the level of a single photon. The researchers pointed out that the camera needed to function at a temperature of –120 °C (-184 °F), but thankfully, the participants did not have to endure such extreme conditions. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. A. Overview of the experimental configuration. B–F. Photographs depicting ultraweak photon emissions from the human body, showcasing the subject illuminated by light. G. Calibration scale for the estimated radiation intensity on the skin's surface. H. Daily patterns of photon emission from the faces and bodies of 5 participants. I. A representative thermographic image of the subject from sections B-G. Image credit: Kobayashi et al., PLoS One 2009 (CC BY 4.0) They were, however, routinely sampled for saliva to measure cortisol levels, and had their surface and oral temperature checked before and after photon measurements were taken. Cortisol is a biomarker of endogenous circadian rhythms, which the researchers wanted to have tracked so that they could compare it against any changes observed on the camera. Interestingly, our natural radiance appears to fluctuate throughout the day, peaking in our facial glow. The driving force behind this variation is probably linked to our circadian rhythms. Chronobiology is a branch of science that studies cyclical physiological phenomena, and it’s established that the circadian clock is the main regulator of metabolism. We see it in the way we burn up glucose and consume oxygen, both of which – the researchers say – show robust rhythms in the main mammalian circadian center. The mitochondria, often referred to as the "powerhouse" of the cell, generate energy essential for our survival, but in the process, they also release small quantities of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as byproducts. These ROS engage with various molecules such as proteins, lipids, and fluorophores, resulting in excited states that emit biophotons. This phenomenon is what causes "the human body to shimmer in harmony with the circadian clock." Oh, look at us, all dressed up! Bioluminescence relies on enzymatic activity to glow, but there’s also another way that living things can glow and we’re increasingly finding it in more and more species.

This undated image provided by Firefly Aerospace showcases the complete assembly of the Blue Ghost Mission 1 lunar lander.

On Tuesday, Firefly Aerospace, a US-based firm, announced its plans to launch a lunar lander next week as part of an experimental NASA initiative that collaborates with the private sector to lower expenses. Thank you for joining the conversation! Most Recent Digital Edition Your browser is outdated and may pose security risks. We suggest updating to one of the following browsers: Everything is ready to go! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Thank you . Your registration is complete, and you are successfully logged in. Please refer to your email for further information.

Recent Studies Show Ants Can Harbor Grudges

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Ants are remarkable creatures that exhibit behaviors often regarded as pre-programmed and instinctual. However, recent research published in Current Biology challenges this long-held notion, unveiling evidence that these tiny insects possess the capacity for experiential learning and memory retention. The study, led by evolutionary biologists from the University of Freiburg, sheds light on ant behavior, particularly their interactions with competitors from neighboring nests. The findings indicate that ants can adjust their responses based on past encounters, demonstrating not only aggression but also a form of memory that influences their social strategies. The study's experimental framework included exposing ants to competing species from distinct nests, facilitating regulated interactions that examined their behavioral reactions. Throughout these encounters, the ants experienced different levels of aggression from their adversaries. Researchers noted that ants with past experiences involving aggressive rivals were significantly more inclined to react aggressively themselves. This indicates that ants may develop connections between the odors of rival ants and their past experiences, resembling the associative learning processes observed in more complex organisms. Ants possess a remarkable capability to identify and recall the unique scents of their rivals, which is vital for their social interactions. Every ant colony emits a specific odor, enabling ants to distinguish between their own members and intruders. This ability to recognize scents is instrumental in triggering aggressive reactions, especially towards nearby colonies, which tend to be the main focus of hostility within ant societies. Recent research underscores that an ant's familiarity with the scent of an adversary, particularly one linked to past aggressive interactions, increases the likelihood of initiating aggressive behavior. Interestingly, the research indicates that aggression varies based on context rather than being a consistent reaction. Ants that faced non-threatening competitors showed markedly reduced aggression when they encountered those same rivals again later on. This finding points to a behavioral hierarchy in which past interactions influence not just immediate reactions but also the ongoing social dynamics between rival colonies. The ability to "bear a grudge" suggests a level of cognitive sophistication that challenges earlier beliefs that insect behavior is purely driven by instinct. A two-part experimental design was created to explore this intricate behavior. In the initial phase, various groups of ants encountered different scenarios with both known and unknown competitors. Ants that faced off against aggressive rivals showed increased aggression when they later encountered the same opponents. The second phase expanded on this observation by examining the ants' responses to both aggressive and non-aggressive rivals, thereby emphasizing how past experiences shape present behavioral patterns. A more thorough investigation into the biological and neurological foundations of these behavioral changes is necessary. The researchers proposed that the olfactory receptors in ants might adjust according to their learned experiences, effectively incorporating memories at the level of sensory processing. Gaining this understanding could lead to valuable insights into the connections between olfactory signals and memory and behavior in both insects and more complex organisms. This study adds to the ongoing discussion surrounding insect cognition, questioning the traditional belief that insect behavior is fixed and unadaptable. It reinforces the idea that animal behavior can exhibit flexibility, paving the way for further exploration into the cognitive abilities of various insect species. The results indicate that ants engage in not only instinctual survival tactics but also in learned social interactions, thereby enhancing our comprehension of ant behavior and their ecological significance. The findings from this research have far-reaching consequences that go beyond entomology, influencing the study of animal behavior in multiple taxa. As researchers work to unravel the complexities of social dynamics among insects, the discoveries related to ants enrich the growing understanding of cognitive sophistication within the animal kingdom. Subsequent research efforts could build on these revelations to explore how different species modify their behaviors in response to ecological demands and social obstacles. The research highlights that ants should not be viewed simply as mechanical beings reacting to their environment; rather, they display a level of social intelligence grounded in their ability to learn and remember. This emerging understanding of the cognitive skills of ants calls for a major reevaluation of how both scientists and enthusiasts regard these seemingly simple but complex organisms. The research team is eager to further explore whether the behavioral adaptations seen in ants stem from genetic factors, learned behaviors, or a blend of the two. Certainly! This thorough research encourages conservationists, evolutionary biologists, and ecologists to reconsider their beliefs about the interactions between different species. Gaining insights into the behavior of ant aggression and their memory could enable stakeholders to develop innovative approaches for preserving biodiversity, especially in ecosystems where these small yet formidable creatures are essential for maintaining equilibrium among diverse species. The true significance of this research extends beyond its specific results; it opens up a dialogue regarding the essence of intelligence, memory, and learning throughout the animal kingdom. By centering their studies on ants, researchers can delve into broader themes such as the development of social interactions and the mental capabilities of various species, providing scholars with the means to further analyze the complexities of animal behavior. Research Focus: Aggression and Learning Patterns in Ants. Article Title: Enhancing Enemy Recognition in Ants Through Associative Learning of Non-Nestmate Signals. Date of News Release: 2024. Web References: DOI link. Citations: M. Bey, R. Endermann, C. Raudies, J. Steinle, V. Nehring: The enhancement of enemy recognition in ants through associative learning of cues from non-nestmates. Current Biology, 2024. Photo Courtesy: University of Freiburg. Keywords: Ant behavior, associative learning, memory processes, evolutionary biology, insect intelligence, ant aggression. Explore additional insights from the world of Science. Sign up to receive the newest posts directly in your inbox.

Breton, a massive great white shark weighing 1,400 pounds, has made his way back to the shores of Florida.

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. A 13-foot great white shark made a return appearance to the Florida waters Wednesday. The over 1,400-pound male shark, named Breton, has been tracked by researchers since 2020 and last resurfaced near Florida on New Year’s Day in 2024. Breton left the Newfoundland coast in early December and made his way south down the East Coast, according to the OCEARCH tracker.  The marine science organization OCEARCH monitors a shark named Breton, who was initially tagged by scientists in September 2020 close to Scatarie Island in Nova Scotia. He became the first shark to be tagged during OCEARCH's expedition in 2020. Since then, Breton has journeyed an impressive 40,913 miles.  Breton has taken trips to Florida during this season in the past, and in 2022, he gained significant attention when his tag pings suggested he had crafted a self-portrait. The great white shark has traveled up and down the East Coast for the past five years and in 2023, he was “pinged” near the Pamlico Sound on North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Great white sharks range from Maine down to the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Breton isn’t the only great white shark making his way south. Bob, another 13-foot male white shark, was pinged off the Florida coast on Jan. 5, according to the tracker.

Researchers express alarm over elements causing extraordinary shifts along the Arctic coastline: 'This research serves as a crucial alert'

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Image Courtesy: iStock A recent study conducted in Alaska reveals that the state's coastal erosion is speeding up due to "compound climate impacts." This phenomenon could potentially affect six to eight times more land compared to the effects of erosion by itself. What’s going on? The rising temperatures of our planet are causing swift transformations in the coastal areas of the Arctic. Following a thorough examination of 75 years of aerial and satellite data, researchers have identified a growing threat of coastal erosion in the Arctic region. Other less-understood processes are threatening Arctic coastlines that haven't received the same amount of attention. These "compound climate impacts" include rising sea levels, permafrost thaws, intensifying storms, and sea ice thinning. Inhabitants of northern Alaska have observed the effects of permafrost thaw subsidence, which refers to the sinking of the land surface caused by the melting of permanently frozen ground, commonly referred to as permafrost. Certain scientists express worry that organizations like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Emergency Management Agency may not be seeing the full scope of the situation. "These sorts of bodies with a lot of resources may have not been paying enough attention to permafrost thaw subsidence as an agent of coastal change," according to Roger Creel, the study's lead author and postdoctoral scholar in Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution's Department of Physical Oceanography, per Phys.org. "This study is a wake-up call to expand the conversation.  "Creel noted, 'The combined effects of climate change are speeding up alterations along the coast. We should anticipate a nonlinear increase in coastal impacts, particularly in areas such as Northern Alaska.'" The acceleration of coastal erosion in Alaska is concerning for several reasons. Firstly, it threatens local communities and infrastructure, as many towns and villages are situated along the coast and are at risk of being washed away. Secondly, the erosion can lead to the loss of habitat for wildlife, disrupting local ecosystems and biodiversity. Additionally, the erosion can contribute to the release of greenhouse gases trapped in permafrost, exacerbating climate change. Lastly, the cultural significance of these coastal areas for Indigenous populations is at stake, as they rely on the land for their way of life and cultural practices. Overall, the rapid erosion poses significant environmental, social, and economic challenges that require urgent attention. "By 2100, unless coasts respond differently to future change, these compound effects may transform 6-8x more land than erosion alone may impact," according to the study. "Without mitigating measures, by 2100, coastal change could damage 40 to 65% of infrastructure in present-day ACP coastal villages and 10 to 20% of oilfield infrastructure." Scientists have concentrated their efforts on the Arctic Coastal Plain in Alaska, an extensive area exceeding 23,000 square miles characterized by low-lying, ice-laden permafrost. This region is currently facing some of the most rapid sea-level rise and coastal erosion observed in the Arctic. 🗣️ In your opinion, does the United States face an issue with plastic waste? 🗳️ Select your option to view the results and share your thoughts! The researchers behind the study emphasize the critical necessity for Arctic communities to engage in adaptive planning, given the challenges presented by escalating climate-related risks. The researchers caution that by the year 2100, the synergistic effects of coastal erosion along with various climate-related factors could drive the North Slope shoreline further inland than it has been since the last interglacial phase, which occurred over 100,000 years ago. Our overheating planet is hitting Alaska hard. A recent report highlights how our 49th state is being impacted by melting glaciers and extreme weather. One of the alarming findings from the study points out that flooding in Juneau last year was caused by glacial melt due to our planet overheating with minimal influence from weather conditions. What measures are being taken to address the effects of compounded climate challenges? The study's authors call for more research on Arctic shoreline evolution in the future, which should be driven by communities affected by the "paradigm shift in 21st-century Arctic coastal change that we project here." Soaring fuel costs are forcing utilities in Alaska to shift to renewable energy sources. Renewable options such as solar and wind will help reduce the amount of heat-trapping gases in our atmosphere that contribute to the problems in our country's biggest state. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Awesome Selections

California and Washington Rank Among the Top 5 States with the Highest Grocery Costs

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Timmy! After my recent grocery store visit, I looked at the receipt, and my jaw dropped. My wife typically handles the grocery shopping because, in her opinion, I can't be relied upon (and she’s not wrong). The total cost for a bag of groceries along with a case of soda came to $64. I was aware that prices were soaring, but wow, I really wasn't keeping track. After my shock, the article from TheHill.com really didn’t surprise me at all. All I can say is thank goodness we’re not shopping in California! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Canva On average, American households spend more than $1,000 a month on groceries, breaking down to just about $270 a week, according to a new study via HelpAdvisor. HelpAdvisor ran the numbers from the U.S. Census Bureau to fill a shopping bag with stats. It's hardly surprising that families with kids tend to have higher expenses, but the fact that they spend nearly 41% more than those without children is striking. (My wife and I only have a dog, and I'm pretty sure our little fur-ball wasn't part of this survey). Which States Have the Highest Grocery Expenditures? When analyzing the data by state (recall my comment about how grateful we are not to be grocery shopping in California?), it turns out that California has the highest average weekly grocery expenditure for families, which stands at $297.72. Washington ranks 4th, following Nevada and Mississippi, with an average store expenditure of $287.67. Who spends the most on groceries at stores in Washington? Seattle takes the lead with the highest prices! Moving to California, San Francisco holds the top spot, closely followed by Los Angeles. Are you surprised by these stats? How do you save money at the store? Comparison shop? Coupons? Five Finger Discount? Tap the App and let us know! CHECK IT OUT: 20 American dishes that surprise people from other countries Stacker compiled a list of 20 unusual and uniquely American foods that might raise eyebrows outside the U.S. Gallery Acknowledgment: Charlotte Barnett Top grocery store chains in the United States The most popular grocery stores in America, from corporate chains to family-owned enterprises. Stacker ranked them using consumer ratings sourced from YouGov polls. Gallery Acknowledgment: Stacker

Unleashing the Power of Language: The Impact of Words on Feelings, Decisions, and Behaviors

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. In a pioneering study featured in the renowned journal Cell Reports, scientists have achieved remarkable advancements in comprehending the interplay between neurotransmitters in the human brain and the emotional facets of language processing. The findings illuminate the intricate relationship between linguistic elements and emotional perception, indicating a deep link between neurotransmitter release and the emotional significance of the words we encounter in daily interactions. This global collaboration, spearheaded by the distinguished computational neuroscientist Read Montague at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, brought together more than 20 researchers and medical professionals, highlighting the collective effort behind this innovative research. The study concentrated on neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are commonly linked to mood regulation and emotional reactions. Historically, it was believed that these neurochemicals indicated the positive or negative aspects of experiences. Nonetheless, recent discoveries suggest that these neurotransmitters are also vital in shaping how individuals understand the subtleties of language. This connection between brain chemistry and linguistic interpretation is fascinating and could indicate a more profound evolutionary advancement in human cognitive abilities. Montague and his team embarked on this research to examine the theory that brain systems, which initially developed for the purpose of survival and responding to environmental dangers or rewards, could also play a vital role in understanding the meanings of words. This idea holds particular importance for complex social creatures such as humans, who depend heavily on nuanced verbal communication for their everyday interactions and survival tactics. Effectively grasping the emotional nuances of language may not only facilitate human connections but also influence mental well-being. This research marks a groundbreaking effort to assess the simultaneous release of various neurotransmitters triggered by emotional language content. It was carried out on patients who were receiving deep brain stimulation surgery, enabling real-time monitoring of neurochemical activity in targeted areas of the brain. By presenting emotionally significant words on a screen throughout the procedure, the scientists successfully collected data on neurotransmitter fluctuations through sophisticated measurement methods. Recent discoveries have shed light on unexpected roles of the thalamus, a brain region generally recognized for its role in sensory processing. Historically, the thalamus has not been connected to language or emotion. However, new research has revealed that neurotransmitter levels fluctuate in reaction to different emotional words, indicating a complex interaction between various brain areas during language interpretation. This finding suggests that regions not typically associated with emotional and linguistic functions might still play a crucial role in processing important information, aiding in immediate decision-making. Participants in the study underwent deep brain stimulation, during which electrodes monitored neurotransmitter release in response to positive, negative, and neutral words. The findings revealed a complex interaction of neurotransmitters that correlated closely with the emotional weight of the words presented. This detailed insight marks a significant advancement in our comprehension of language processing, illuminating the distinct patterns emerging across different brain areas and their processing dynamics. As a crucial component of the validation process, the team carried out relevant studies employing rodent models. They leveraged advanced techniques such as optogenetics to selectively stimulate certain neurons and monitor their reactions, reflecting the processing patterns of the human brain. This research across different species supports the findings and enhances our comprehension of the neurochemical networks that shape our emotional interpretations of language. The research highlights that language transcends its role as a communication tool, acting instead as a powerful driver of behavior and choices. By uncovering the unique neuromodulator patterns associated with various emotional tones, the study enhances our comprehension of how people may respond in diverse ways to identical verbal messages based on the emotional nuances present. This insight could prove significant for fields like mental health, underlining the critical need to acknowledge the impact of emotional language. Earlier studies in neuroscience predominantly examined neurotransmission in relation to decision-making. In contrast, the present research takes a novel approach by focusing on the emotional impact of language, shedding light on cognitive dimensions that have often been neglected. The researchers argue that, in contrast to numerous other species, humans have a sophisticated ability to understand language that incorporates both context and emotional nuances. Consequently, our processing of emotionally charged words could reveal fundamental cognitive processes linked to survival, creating a connection between linguistic expression and biological needs. Additionally, the vocabulary utilized in the study was carefully curated from the Affective Norms for English Words (ANEW) database, which classifies words according to their emotional value. This thorough methodology enabled the research team to develop a framework that can examine how specific words provoke different emotional reactions, thereby enhancing the comprehension of human thought processes and language. As the scientific community enthusiastically examines these discoveries, the repercussions extend beyond neuroscience to impact psychology, linguistics, and therapeutic methodologies. Such research lays the groundwork for future investigations into the complex connections among emotional cognition, language understanding, and neurobiology. It paves the way for new explorations into how language molds human experiences and affects mental health results. As research progresses and gains further validation, it is essential to recognize the significant impact it could have across multiple disciplines, including cognitive neuroscience, psychology, and artificial intelligence. Gaining insights into how individuals emotionally connect with language might pave the way for innovative approaches in creating technologies that can more effectively understand and react to human emotions via language processing mechanisms. This convergence of neuroscience, linguistics, and emotional intelligence presents a thrilling avenue for scientific inquiry. Subject of Research: People Article Title: Emotional words evoke region and valence-specific patterns of concurrent neuromodulator release in human thalamus and cortex News Publication Date: 28-Jan-2025 Web References: References: Image Credits: Clayton Metz/Virginia Tech Keywords: Health and medicine, Neuroscience, Neurotransmitters, Emotion, Dopamine, Serotonin, Cognitive neuroscience. Explore additional insights from the world of Science. Sign up to receive the newest updates directly in your inbox.

Consensus Guidelines for Histological and Clinical Reporting in HS

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The following is a summary of “Standardized Protocols for Clinical and Histopathological Characterization of Hidradenitis Suppurativa Tissue Specimens,” published in the January 2025 issue of Dermatology by Sampath et al.  The absence of standardized protocols for the description and reporting of clinical and histological features of skin tissue samples from patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) impedes consistent data collection, documentation, and communication. This is essential for advancing translational research, even in light of a recent agreement on the morphology of HS lesions.   A team of researchers carried out a retrospective analysis aimed at developing a standardized protocol for documenting the histopathological and clinical features of HS tissue samples.   A study was conducted between May 2023 and August 2023, involving specialists in clinical care, dermatopathology, and translational research. In total, 27 experts took part, comprising 14 dermatologists, 3 fellowship-trained dermatopathologists, 3 plastic surgeons, 3 general surgeons, and 4 research scientists. The researchers employed a modified Delphi technique to create a protocol aimed at histologic reporting and clinical characterization of tissue samples from patients diagnosed with HS.    The findings indicated that a total of 27 specialists were involved in the creation and assessment of protocols for the clinical and histopathological analysis of HS tissue samples. This cohort comprised 14 dermatologists (51.9%), 3 dermatopathologists with fellowship training (11.1%), 3 plastic surgeons (11.1%), 3 general surgeons (11.1%), and 4 research scientists (14.8%).   Researchers determined that the structured protocols, delivered in the form of a summary report, would promote uniform classification of HS specimens in biobanks according to their histological characteristics. This would lead to improved accuracy in reporting and the selection of samples for translational research initiatives.  You have been educated on information available until October 2023.

A Discovery of Hundreds of Dinosaur Footprints Dating Back 166 Million Years Has Been Made in England

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Pawel Pajor - stock.adobe.com - for illustrative use only During the previous summer, an employee at a limestone quarry located in southeast England was excavating clay when he observed some unusual protrusions in the vicinity. Recently, a collaborative effort involving more than 100 researchers from the Universities of Birmingham and Oxford has confirmed that the bumps discovered are indeed dinosaur tracks, dating back approximately 166 million years to the Middle Jurassic era. Approximately 200 footprints have been uncovered across five distinct trails at Dewars Farm Quarry in Oxfordshire. This recent discovery sheds light on the behaviors of dinosaurs, offering valuable information regarding their speed, size, locomotion, and social interactions. “According to our speed estimates, it is likely that all dinosaurs were more inclined to walk than to run,” stated Kirsty Edgar, a micropaleontology professor at the University of Birmingham. Edgar suggests that the habitat of the dinosaurs may have been similar to the modern-day Florida Keys. Scientists uncovered five trackways preserved in the mud, with the longest measuring nearly 500 feet. Four of the trackways were created by long-necked herbivorous sauropods, probably belonging to the 60-foot, two-ton species known as Cetiosaurus. The fifth set was created by a meat-eating Megalosaurus, a predator that stretched 30 feet in length and had clawed feet with three toes. In 1824, it was William Buckland, a geologist from Oxford, who became the first to scientifically name the Megalosaurus, marking a significant moment in paleontology. In one section of the site, the tracks of carnivores and herbivores intersected, prompting inquiries into the nature of their interactions and whether they coexisted in the same environment. “Researchers have had knowledge of and have been investigating Megalosaurus longer than any other dinosaur species on the planet. However, recent findings demonstrate that there remains untapped evidence regarding these creatures, just waiting to be uncovered,” stated Emma Nicholls, a vertebrate paleontologist at the Oxford Museum of Natural History. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Pawel Pajor – stock.adobe.com – for illustrative purposes only. The tracks left by the Megalosaurus measured approximately 25 inches in length, with a stride spanning about 8.8 feet. Researchers believe that this dinosaur moved at a speed of approximately three miles per hour, which is comparable to the typical walking speed of an adult human. It is also suggested that the sauropods may have traveled at a similar rate. Dinosaur footprints were initially found in the region in 1997 when workers at a limestone quarry stumbled upon over 40 sets of tracks. Some of these trackways extended nearly 600 feet long. The UK government has identified the Oxfordshire location as one of the globe's key dinosaur track sites, granting it the status of a Site of Special Scientific Interest. In general, the recent findings have shed light on the types of dinosaurs that roamed the U.K. during the Middle Jurassic era. Thanks to advancements in modern technology, prints can now be captured with unprecedented detail, enhancing the importance of the region. In the most recent excavation, over 20,000 images of 200 dinosaur footprints were taken. These images will be valuable resources for ongoing research and educational purposes related to dinosaurs. More About:News

Abbott names Anwar and Salsman to the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission.

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. AUSTIN Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Ryan Anwar of Midland and reappointed John Salsman of Driftwood to the Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission for terms set to expire on September 1, 2029. Pursuant to an interstate compact with Vermont and in accordance with relevant federal and state laws, the Compact Commission oversees and provides for the efficient management and disposal of low-level radioactive waste while working to protect the health, safety, and welfare of citizens and the environment. Ryan Anwar, the owner of Midland Energy, hails from Midland. He serves as a board advisor for the Bank of Texas and holds board memberships with several organizations, including the Permian Basin Petroleum Association, the Bynum School, Sibley Nature Center, and the Cockrell School of Engineering at The University of Texas (UT) at Austin. Anwar earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering from UT Austin. John Salsman of Driftwood is the executive director of Operational Safety and Compliance at UT Austin. He is a member of the Health Physics Society and the American Academy of Health Physics. Salsman received a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Protection Engineering and a Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering from Texas A&M University.