science
Scientists create a ‘light switch’ for the love hormone: How it could change how humans love and form bonds
Scientists have unveiled a revolutionary ‘light switch’ technique, enabling precise activation of the brain’s love hormone, oxytocin. This breakthrough allows researchers to observe how individual neurons and brain circuits form emotions, bonding, and social behaviours in real-time. The method promises deeper understanding of the human brain and potential targeted treatments for mental health conditions. Source […]
Meet Yasuyuki Aono: Japanese scientist who kept a 1,200-year cherry blossom record alive until his death
Professor Yasuyuki Aono meticulously tracked Kyoto’s cherry blossom bloom dates for over a millennium, revealing a significant shift towards earlier flowering. His lifelong dedication, documented in ancient scripts, created a unique historical record. Following his passing, a new researcher has stepped forward to continue this vital, centuries-long observation of climate change. Source link
How to spot the Lyrid meteor shower tonight
The Lyrid meteor shower will soon hit its peak. Here’s how to spot it, including by using the New Scientist stargazing companion Source link
1.3 bn people had liver disease globally in 2023: Lancet study
A staggering 1.3 billion people worldwide battled metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in 2023, a 143% surge since 1990. Projections indicate this figure could reach 1.8 billion by 2050, fueled by obesity and lifestyle shifts. Source link
