New species of ancient bony fish discovered in South Africa

Introduction Recent research by Robert Gess, of Rhodes University's Albany Museum and Geology Department, and Per Ahlberg, of Uppsala University, has identified a newly discovered species of tristichopterid fish. This ancient bony fish, an extinct form of lobe-finned fish, was first discovered in South Africa and has since been studied and published in PLOS ONE. In this article, we will take a closer look at the discovery and implications of their research. What is a Tristichopterid? A tristichopterid is an ancient bony fish that evolved in the Devonian period. This lobe-finned fish is believed to have had a similar structure to the skeletal system of tetrapods, which are land animals with four limbs, such as reptiles, birds, and mammals. Tristichopterids, however, were aquatic animals and were distinguished by their lobed fins and girdles, as well as their heavy armor. Analysis of the Fossil Specimen Robert Gess and Per Ahlberg conducted a thorough analysis of the fossil specimen in order to identify the species. They used a combination of morphological analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and CT scans to obtain a comprehensive study of the fossil. Through these methods, they were able to accurately identify the specimen as a new species of tristichopterid and give it the name Tristichopterus palaeoplethys. Implications of the Discovery The discovery of this new species of tristichopterid is an important contribution to the field of paleontology. Not only does it fill in some of the gaps in our understanding of the ancient bony fish, but it also adds to the evidence that tristichopterids were closely related to the early land-dwelling tetrapods. This discovery could potentially provide further insight into the evolution of tetrapods and the transition from water to land. Conclusion The recent discovery of the new species of tristichopterid is a milestone in the field of paleontology. Robert Gess and Per Ahlberg were able to accurately identify the fossil specimen as a new species of tristichopterid, giving it the name Tristichopterus palaeoplethys. Through their research, they were also able to provide further evidence of the close relationship between tristichopterids and the earliest land-dwelling tetrapods. This discovery could potentially be a major contribution to our understanding of the evolution of tetrapods and the transition from water to land.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/new-species-of-ancient-bony-fish-discovered-in-south-africa

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Tracking how magnetism affects animal behavior

Introduction For over fifty years, scientists have been intrigued by the mysterious connection between animals and the Earth's magnetic field. Animals ranging from birds to whales have long been observed to use the Earth's magnetic field to navigate, mate, and hunt. Despite decades of research, the exact nature of this 'magnetic sense' remains elusive. In this article, we'll explore the evidence for animal magnetoreceptors, the current hypotheses about how and why animals use the Earth's magnetic field, and how further research might lead to better understanding of animal navigational capabilities. The Evidence for Magnetic Sense in Animals The evidence for magnetoreceptors in animals dates back over fifty years, with multiple studies demonstrating that animals of all sizes and shapes can detect the Earth's magnetic field. These studies have observed migratory birds and fish navigating along specific pathways that allow them to travel to specific feeding grounds, and turtles and even whales orienting themselves in response to the Earth's magnetic field. In the laboratory, cockroaches, ants and bees have been found to turn and travel in response to magnetically-induced cues. Moreover, researchers have identified several distinct types of magnets animals use to sense the Earth’s magnetic field. These include magnetite-containing structures similar to those found in humans, such as detector cells in the eyes of pigeons, or magnetite-containing structures in the noses of sharks and rays. Moreover, some animals, including insects, are believed to have magnets with different biological functions which do not depend on the Earth’s magnetic field. For example, the neurons of locusts can be questioned with the Earth's magnetic field to register the intensity of light. How and Why Animals Use the Magnetic Field The exact method by which animals use the Earth's magnetic field remains a mystery, but the current hypotheses focus on the role of magnetoreceptors. Magnetoreceptors allow animals to detect changes in the Earth's magnetic field, in turn allowing them to orient themselves by comparing the direction of the field to their internal sense of direction. This allows them to navigate to specific locations with remarkable accuracy. The exact purpose of this behavior remains a mystery, though several hypotheses have been proposed. Magnetoreception could allow animals to navigate to specific areas, as has been observed in migratory birds and fish. Conversely, it may help them avoid dangerous areas, as has been suggested by studies of turtles avoiding areas with high levels of toxic chemicals. Ultimately, the purpose of magnetoreception in animals remains unknown, but further research may help determine its role in animal behavior. Conclusion The current evidence for magnetoreceptors in animals is compelling, indicating that animals of all sizes and shapes can detect the Earth's magnetic field to some degree. While the exact purpose of this behavior remains elusive, it is likely that magnetoreception serves some purpose, whether it is navigating to specific areas or avoiding danger. Further research may help us uncover the exact role of magnetoreception in animals, and provide insight into the nature of the elusive 'magnetic sense'.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/tracking-how-magnetism-affects-animal-behavior

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Many Indonesians still misunderstand climate change—so how can this be changed?

Climate change continues to be one of the most pressing issues facing the world today. Despite some of the good progress Indonesia has made in addressing the issue of climate change, two recent surveys have shown that many Indonesians are still unaware of the causes or even the impact of climate change. In this article, we will explore what climate change is, the causes of it, and examine the findings of these two surveys. Firstly, what is climate change? Climate change is the long-term average of weather patterns that drastically change over an extended period of time. It is a large-scale alteration in atmospheric movements, temperature, and precipitation, which can be caused by natural causes such as volcanic eruptions, or man-made causes such as emissions from fossil fuels. The causes of climate change are divided into two categories: natural and anthropogenic. Natural causes include changes in the sun's energy output and volcanic eruptions, while anthropogenic, or man-made, causes include emissions from the burning of fossil fuels and agricultural activities, as well as land-use practices such as deforestation. Recent studies have shown that many Indonesians are unaware of the causes of climate change and the effects it has on their environment and livelihoods. The first survey, conducted in 2018 by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Jakarta, showed that only 40% of survey respondents had knowledge of climate change. The survey also asked what participants thought were the main causes of climate change, with 35% citing natural causes and only 27% citing anthropogenic causes. The second survey, conducted in 2019 by the Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA) in East Java, showed that only 39% of respondents had basic knowledge of climate change, and only 28% knew about its primary causes. The survey also found that women and youth were less likely to be knowledgeable about climate change than men and elders, meaning that the information and education about climate change needs to be more widely accessible and better targeted. It is apparent from these findings that there is a need for better dissemination and understanding of climate change among Indonesians. Increasing awareness and understanding of climate change is essential in order to ensure Indonesians are able to take effective action to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the global effort to tackle this issue. To address this issue, the government and non-governmental organisations should focus on providing more accessible information and education about climate change to Indonesians. This can be done through various forms of media, including online and social media campaigns, television and radio broadcasts, and direct information and training sessions with communities. This information must be designed to be easily digestible and engaging to ensure it resonates with different demographics, while also being accurately fact-checked and up-to-date. In addition, the government should encourage a shift away from emissions-heavy practices and promote the use of renewable energy sources. This should include supporting policies such as taxing emissions, subsidising renewable energy sources, setting clean air standards, and enforcing and monitoring emissions regulations. For Indonesia to make further progress in tackling climate change, it is clear that greater understanding and awareness of the issue must first be achieved. Through initiatives such as providing accessible information and education about climate change, as well as encouraging a shift away from emissions-heavy practices, Indonesia can take steps towards reducing its carbon footprint and making a further contribution to the global effort against climate change. Ultimately, if Indonesia is to make an effective contribution to the global effort to combat climate change, it is vital that citizens are aware of the causes and effects of climate change as well as the actions they can take to reduce their carbon footprint. Through more accessible information and education, as well as encouraging a shift towards more sustainable practices, Indonesia can ensure its citizens are knowledgeable and motivated to contribute to the global effort against climate change.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/many-indonesians-still-misunderstand-climate-change-so-how-can-this-be-changed

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In Borneo's rainforests, people and wild pigs are fundamentally linked

Introduction Developments in human social, economic, and cultural life are highly dependent on the changing geographical landscapes around them. Landscapes that range from hunting grounds to port cities to aesthetic values are all fundamental components of the human-ecological relationship. This article will delve into the many facets of this interdependent relationship, exploring how biophysical landscapes shape human landscapes while also discussing how humans are constantly reshaping their environment to suit their needs. Hunting Grounds One of the most immediate ways human society is shaped by its environment is through the tradition of hunting. Hunting grounds have long been focal points of human life, with essential parts of specific cultures – such as the Australian Aborigines, for example – revolving around the practice.1 Hunting grounds are often located in areas that are abundant with resources, providing a steady supply of sustenance for those who rely on them.2 Not only do the resources of the landscape shape the hunting grounds, but the geography of the area also plays an important role in the success of the hunt.3 Wind direction, terrain, and even the time of day can be exploited to the hunter’s advantage, allowing him/her to silently approach prey and increase their chances of a successful hunt.4 Even if the hunter does not rely upon the resources of the landscape, the physical features offered by the environment can serve as an invaluable tool. Port Cities The development of port cities is another example of the intertwining of physical geography and human development. With waterways providing access to vast areas of the world, port cities have become hubs of trade and transportation. In areas of Europe and the Mediterranean, for example, the Mediterranean Sea has allowed for the formation and growth of various port cities along its coastline.5 Port cities also dominate the landscape of large bodies of water such as oceans and seas, providing transport and access to places that would otherwise be inaccessible by land travel. Such cities serve an important role in the development of human societies. They allow for the spread of ideas and cultures between distant lands, while also providing a platform for trade between two continents.6 Aesthetic Values The aesthetic values linked to nature, however, provide an equally important role in the relationship between the human and the ecological.7 The importance of nature to the human experience is reflected in its presence – or lack thereof – in popular culture,8 as well as its integration into our daily lives. From the sublime panoramas of lakes and mountains, to the serene beauty of a calm sunset, nature provides us with an almost innumerable realm of aesthetic beauty. Not only do these aesthetic values exist independently of mankind, but they can also be influenced by it. Man-made structures like roads, bridges, and buildings have become some of the most iconic images of our natural landscape,9 and can often be seen as an example of how our environment can be shaped to the human desire for beauty. Conclusion The relationship between ecological and social landscapes is a complex one, filled with many layers of influence and development. From hunting grounds and port cities to the aesthetic value of nature, the influences of the environment on the evolution of human life is omnipresent. This article has explored the various roles of biophysical landscapes in the development of human society, and how, in turn, humans are manipulating and shaping their environment for their own benefit. It is clear that the relationship between humans and the environment is a complex one and, as this article hopes to have demonstrated, one that is highly interdependent.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/in-borneos-rainforests-people-and-wild-pigs-are-fundamentally-linked

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Study: Carbon-neutral pavements are possible by 2050, but rapid policy and industry action are needed

The United States is home to almost 2.8 million lane-miles, or about 4.6 million lane-kilometers, of paved roads. This astonishing figure, which shows just how much of the country is serviced by dedicated roads, is a testament to the growth and progress of the nation since the first roads were built. Roads are a cornerstone of the US’s infrastructure, providing essential pathways for transport and commerce, as well as an infrastructure backbone for communication networks such as electricity, internet, and satellite. Roads allow for the easy access of goods, people and materials to different locations, which helps to improve economic productivity and regional development. The construction of paved roads began in the late 19th century, and gradually increased as the 20th century progressed. As automobiles and trucks became more prevalent, the need for better roads increased, and over time, the US developed a system of interconnected highways, multiple lane roads, and interstates. Today, the majority of new road construction is focused on the maintenance and repair of existing roads, as well as the construction of new interchanges, bridges, and tunnels. These are necessary to improve the flow of traffic, reduce congestion, and improve safety. There is also an effort towards sustainability, as there is an attempt to reduce the amount of asphalt used for road construction and expand the use of more sustainable materials such as gravel, plastic, and rubber. The US Department of Transportation (DOT) is the body responsible for the construction and maintenance of the country’s roads. In addition to regulating construction and safety standards, the DOT also provides grants for road construction and improvement projects. These funds are allocated towards expanding existing roads and highways, as well as constructing new ones. The DOT also sponsors educational programs, such as the America’s Road Program, which provides resources and guidance to communities, local governments and developers on how to build and maintain safe, efficient, and cost-effective roads. The Roads to Everywhere program, another DOT program, encourages innovation in the development of new road materials and technologies. In addition to the DOT, there are a number of private organizations involved in the construction and maintenance of US roads. Companies like Cemex, Colas, and HRI provide expertise and materials for a wide variety of road projects. The US has come a long way since its first roads were built in the late 19th century, and its network of more than 2.8 million lane-miles of paved roads is a testament to its progress. This construction and maintenance of roads is made possible by the US Department of Transportation and its various initiatives, as well as the expertise of private companies. As the nation continues to expand its roadways, new technologies and materials will help the US remain at the forefront of the industry.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/study-carbon-neutral-pavements-are-possible-by-2050-but-rapid-policy-and-industry-action-are-needed

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Worried about ChatGPT and artificial intelligence? How Qualcomm is trying to humanize tech

Qualcomm and Artificial Intelligence: How the Company is Betting Big on the Connected Intelligent Edge The world is rapidly becoming one that is full of technology and connected devices, and this is largely thanks to the development of artificial intelligence (AI). AI is a rapidly evolving field; it is used in a wide range of applications, from navigation systems to predictive analytics and autonomous vehicles. As such, it has been a major focus for many tech companies in recent years. One such company is Qualcomm, which has been investing heavily in AI over the past five or so years. Qualcomm is a US-based semiconductor and telecommunications equipment company that designs and produces chipsets and systems on chips (SoCs). It is best known for its Snapdragon mobile platforms and RF front-end solutions, which are used in a wide range of consumer electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets. Over the past five or so years, Qualcomm has gone beyond developing chips for smartphones and has been focusing heavily on AI solutions. Qualcomm’s AI strategy centers on what the company calls the “connected intelligent edge.” This is essentially the idea of bringing AI to all kinds of things, from consumer electronics to industrial systems and city infrastructure, so they can share data and interact with each other. The company is leveraging its existing chipsets, software, and services to build AI-powered products and solutions for these markets. For example, Qualcomm is working on AI-powered routers for home networks, as well as AI-powered smart grids for cities. In the automotive industry, Qualcomm’s processors and SoCs are used in connected, autonomous vehicles. The company is also investing heavily in the development of AI-infused healthcare solutions, such as wearable health tracking devices and AI-powered diagnostic tools. Additionally, Qualcomm is working on AI-powered solutions for the enterprise, such as AI-powered retail systems and AI-powered marketing campaigns. In addition to its investments in AI, Qualcomm is also investing in the development of 5G networks, which will be integral in bringing the connected intelligent edge to life. 5G networks will provide the necessary connectivity and bandwidth that will be required for AI-powered products and solutions to reach their full potential. Qualcomm is at the forefront of 5G development and is working with a variety of partners, such as mobile carriers, device manufacturers, and software providers to bring these networks to life. Qualcomm’s investments in AI and 5G are part of an ongoing effort to position itself as a leader in the connected intelligent edge. The company is well aware of the potential for AI-powered products and solutions and is investing heavily to ensure that it is well-positioned to benefit from this potential. Qualcomm’s investments in AI, 5G, and the connected intelligent edge will be key in driving the company’s growth over the coming years. Qualcomm has bet big on bringing more artificial intelligence to smartphones, laptops, vehicles, smart infrastructure, and other devices in the field. By investing heavily in the connected intelligent edge, Qualcomm is positioning itself to benefit from the various opportunities that AI-powered products and solutions will bring. Qualcomm's investments in AI and 5G are part of this effort, as these technologies will be integral in powering the connected intelligent edge. As such, Qualcomm will be well-positioned to capitalize on this growing field as AI and 5G networks become more prevalent in the coming years.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/worried-about-chatgpt-and-artificial-intelligence-how-qualcomm-is-trying-to-humanize-tech

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Why sick minks are reigniting worries about bird flu

A recent bird flu outbreak at a mink farm has reignited worries about the virus spreading more broadly to people.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/why-sick-minks-are-reigniting-worries-about-bird-flu

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How do blood tests work? Medical laboratory scientists explain the pathway from blood draw to diagnosis and treatment

Medical laboratory testing is the heartbeat of medicine. It provides critical data for physicians to diagnose and treat disease, dating back thousands of years. Unfortunately, laboratory medicine as a field is poorly understood by both the public and health care communities.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/how-do-blood-tests-work-medical-laboratory-scientists-explain-the-pathway-from-blood-draw-to-diagnosis-and-treatment

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French study links Covid-19 to spike in depression among young

A major French mental health study has found a huge rise in the number of young people reporting depression, with the most likely cause seen as Covid-19 and restrictions to control the disease.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/french-study-links-covid-19-to-spike-in-depression-among-young

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A new class of antibodies against COVID-19 is being put to the test

A new class of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies has been shown to neutralize multiple variants of the virus, providing hope for a better antiviral medication to prevent and treat COVID-19 symptoms in at-risk individuals, according to a new study from the Garvan Institute of Medical Research.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/a-new-class-of-antibodies-against-covid-19-is-being-put-to-the-test

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Explaining the emerging conceptual framework of neurosexuality

People say the brain is the most powerful sexual organ. Neurosexuality knows it's true.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/explaining-the-emerging-conceptual-framework-of-neurosexuality

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Thrombectomy comparable to medical management for strokes, finds study

A surgical procedure called thrombectomy is a safe and feasible treatment option for a rare type of stroke, according to a study published in Radiology.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/thrombectomy-comparable-to-medical-management-for-strokes-finds-study

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Epidemiologist answers questions about the bivalent booster

When vaccines for COVID-19 rolled out in late 2020, people of all ages rushed to get in line. We flaunted our vaccination cards on social media and helped find appointments for friends and family.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/epidemiologist-answers-questions-about-the-bivalent-booster

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Mysterious brain activity in mice watching a movie could help tackle Alzheimer's, improve AI

Even the legendary filmmaker Orson Welles couldn't have imagined such a plot twist.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/mysterious-brain-activity-in-mice-watching-a-movie-could-help-tackle-alzheimers-improve-ai

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Ex-CEO Braun denies 'all charges' in Wirecard fraud trial

Wirecard's ex-CEO Markus Braun denied all charges against him and insisted he had no knowledge of the massive accounting fraud that brought down the German payments firm, as he took the stand for the first time on Monday.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/ex-ceo-braun-denies-all-charges-in-wirecard-fraud-trial

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The first model to describe the ways variously sized particles can jam together

The ways in which particles, such as sand or liquid droplets, behave during various mechanical processes is well studied. Typically, in situations where space is constrained, jams can occur, and understanding this can be useful in various industries. However, only instances where the particles in question are similar or have a limited range of sizes have been successfully modeled. For the first time, a model has been made that describes bodies of particles with highly diverse sizes, and in different jamming scenarios.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/the-first-model-to-describe-the-ways-variously-sized-particles-can-jam-together

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Two proteins join forces to make flowers

What mechanisms are behind the formation of flowers? To answer this question a 25-year-old enigma has just been solved: the role of UFO protein in the flower's formation process. While its nature suggested that it destroys its partners, this protein is in fact an aid to the birth of a flower when coupled to the LEAFY protein.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/two-proteins-join-forces-to-make-flowers

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The function and evolution of a genetic switch controlling sexually dimorphic eye differentiation in honeybees

Bee researchers at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (HHU) headed by Professor Dr. Martin Beye have identified a new gene in honeybees, which is responsible for the dimorphic eye differentiation between males and females of the species. The researchers have now presented this gene and the evolutionary genetic conclusions they have drawn from it in the journal Nature Communications.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/the-function-and-evolution-of-a-genetic-switch-controlling-sexually-dimorphic-eye-differentiation-in-honeybees

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Automated data exchange format creates transparency in enzymatic experiments

In catalytic sciences, as in all scientific fields, we face a rapidly increasing volume and complexity of research data, which is a challenge for analysis and reuse. A team led by Prof. Jürgen Pleiss from the Institute of Biochemistry and Technical Biochemistry at the University of Stuttgart has introduced EnzymeML as a data exchange format in a recent journal article published in Nature Methods. EnzymeML serves as a format to comprehensively report the results of an enzymatic experiment and stores the data in a structured way to make it traceable and reusable.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/automated-data-exchange-format-creates-transparency-in-enzymatic-experiments

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