UNIVERSE

Declining bat population is increasing infant mortality in US, says new study; Here's the strange connection

A study has found that the decline of bat populations in the US from 2006-2017 led to increased pesticide use by farmers, resulting in higher infant mortality rates. The research highlights the economic and health impacts of losing natural pest control services provided by insectivorous bats.

NASA releases Supernova audio recordings. Listen to the Universe’s haunting sounds

NASA has released new sonifications of three iconic astronomical images to mark the 25th anniversary of the Chandra X-ray Observatory. These sonifications translate data into sound, offering a unique auditory experience of cosmic phenomena. The featured sonifications include Cassiopeia A, the Tarantula Nebula, and NGC 6872, each providing a distinct auditory representation of these celestial objects.

UK universities say visa curbs for international students are hitting them in the pocket

Restrictions on visas for international students is causing financial hardship for UK universities, they said on Thursday, calling for a hike in domestic tuition fees to offset yawning deficits. Typically, international students pay more in tuition fees than their domestic counterparts and have become a lucrative source of income for many institutions.

Melting Himalayas are waking up 1,700 ancient viruses sleeping for 41,000 years

Researchers have uncovered nearly 1,700 ancient virus species in the glacial ice of the Himalayas, with about three-quarters previously unknown. These viruses, found in ice cores from the Guliya Glacier, offer insights into viral adaptation to past climate changes. This discovery could help predict how modern viruses might respond to ongoing environmental shifts. The study also suggests a potential link between climate changes and viral evolution.

Asteroid bigger than two cricket pitches is hurtling towards Earth again on September 15

NASA has alerted the scientific community about asteroid 2024 ON, measuring 720 feet in diameter, which is set to approach Earth on September 15, 2024. Traveling at 25,000 miles per hour, it will pass at about 620,000 miles from Earth. Despite the low collision risk, international efforts are ongoing to monitor its trajectory. The event underscores the importance of global cooperation in space exploration and planetary defense.

Indian student accuses Oxford University of racial bias, harassment

An Indian student at the UK's Oxford University has accused the institution of racial bias and harassment. She claims her PhD thesis on Shakespeare was unfairly failed, and that she was forcibly transferred to a Master's program without consent. Balakrishnan has initiated legal action seeking justice.

Could Nasa’s DART mission create a man-made meteor shower? Here’s what you need to know

In the aftermath of NASA's DART mission, over two million pounds of space debris have been created. This could lead to a man-made meteor shower, as debris from the asteroid Dimorphos might impact Earth or Mars in the next 10 to 30 years. The meteors will likely be small and visible from the southern hemisphere.

Women's heart disease risks: Why preventive medications should start in 30s

A recent study suggests that women's cardiovascular risks and need for preventive medications should be evaluated in their 30s rather than after menopause. Simple blood tests can estimate a woman's risk of heart disease over the next three decades, necessitating a change in current guidelines.

Skin Deep: The ugly truth behind youth skin care trends

Young girls are increasingly using high-end skincare products influenced by social media, leading to serious skin damage and mental health concerns. Dermatologists warn these products can harm children's sensitive skin, and experts emphasize the negative effects on self-esteem and body image caused by unrealistic beauty standards promoted online.

Forbes lists top 10 universities in the US

From Brazil to Cameroon: Nearly 260 similar dinosaur footprints found in opposite sides of the Atlantic ocean

Researchers have discovered more than 260 similar dinosaur footprints in Brazil and Cameroon, indicating that 120 million years ago, Africa and South America were part of the supercontinent Gondwana. Led by Dr. Louis L. Jacobs, the study reveals continuous geological structures and provides insights into ancient climatic and environmental conditions.

America's top 10 universities in 2024

For the second consecutive year, Princeton University has topped Forbes' list of America's leading colleges and universities, excelling across all 14 metrics used to evaluate educational quality, financial support, and career outcomes. Notably, Princeton boasts a 97% six-year graduation rate for low-income students. The list also saw Rice University make a significant leap, debuting in the top ten at #9, thanks to its low student debt levels.

University of Southampton awarded licence to establish India campus

The University of Southampton has become the first UK university to receive a licence from the Indian government to establish a campus in India. This move will enhance research collaboration, teaching partnerships, and student mobility between the two nations, boosting educational and economic ties.

Blue Origin completes latest space tourism flight successfully

Blue Origin conducted its eighth human spaceflight, taking six passengers, including a 21-year-old student, to the edge of space. The New Shepard rocket launched from Texas, offering participants a brief period of weightlessness before returning safely. Ticket costs vary, with prominent figures sometimes flying for free.

UK's University of Southampton becomes first foreign university to set up India campus under NEP

The University of Southampton is set to establish the first offshore campus of a foreign university in India under the new National Education Policy. The campus will be in Gurugram and is expected to start academic programmes by July 2025. The degrees awarded will be equivalent to those from the host university in the UK.

SP Jain Group acquires California Miramar University

The SP Jain Group has acquired California Miramar University, enabling it to offer AI-related master’s and bachelor’s programs to global students. The acquisition gives the group access to AI courses and the US market. SP Jain now has six campuses, with plans to increase international student ratios and introduce programs like an MBA in AI and MS in AI.

Wasn't polio wiped out? Why it is still a problem in some countries

Polio, once nearly eradicated, remains a threat in some regions. Recent cases in Gaza highlight the danger, with efforts now focused on global vaccination. The WHO and partners aim to eliminate the disease by 2026 despite challenges like conflict and health system limitations. Vaccine-derived cases now surpass wild virus cases globally.

Astronomers find the brightest object of known universe that eats 'just over a Sun per day', and its still growing

Astronomers have discovered the brightest black hole in the known universe, named J0529-4351, using the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope. This quasar is the most luminous object observed, with a mass of 17 billion Suns. Its light journeyed over 12 billion years to reach Earth, providing significant insights into the universe's early stages.

7 top-ranked Australian Universities for international students

Australia has attracted international students with its top-notch education system, post-study opportunities, and strong faculty support. Notable universities include the University of Melbourne, UNSW, University of Sydney, ANU, Monash University, University of Queensland, and UWA, all part of the prestigious Group of Eight. These universities offer diverse programs, research initiatives, and excellent career prospects.

Five massive asteroids on collision course with Earth: But why NASA is excited

Five asteroids made close approaches to Earth between August 27 and September 1, 2024, posing no threat but offering scientific opportunities. NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory tracked the asteroids to gather data for understanding their trajectories and behaviors. These observations were crucial for advancing planetary defense strategies and gaining insights into the origins of the universe, contributing to safer and better-informed future monitoring of near-Earth objects.

Mars crust has vast groundwater reserve but cannot supply future colony: Study

For those tracking the fate of water after the planet's oceans disappeared over three billion years ago, the study's results are "good news," the researchers, including those from the University of California (UC) in Berkeley, US, said. It is said that water from Mars was lost to space when its magnetic field collapsed and the solar winds destroyed its atmosphere.

HIV breakthrough: Drug trial shows injection twice a year is 100% effective against infection

The trial tested whether the six-month injection of lenacapavir would provide better protection against HIV infection than two other drugs, both daily pills. All three medications are pre-exposure prophylaxis (or PrEP) drugs.

Crypto Aliens: Harvard study claims extraterrestrials from outer space are living among humans

A Harvard University study suggests that alien beings, termed "cryptoterrestrials," might live covertly among humans on Earth. These entities could exist underground, on the moon, or disguised as humans. The study explores various forms of cryptoterrestrials and calls for open-minded consideration despite skepticism. The paper is pending peer review, continuing the intrigue about extraterrestrial life.