Science

Sleep deprivation triggers brain cleaning during wakefulness

A new study reveals that lack of sleep causes the brain to perform its cleaning process while awake, leading to momentary lapses in attention. Researchers found that cerebrospinal fluid flushes occur just before focus is lost. This explains the difficulty in concentrating after a bad night's sleep.

London tube stations reach extreme temperatures

Researchers have recorded temperatures as high as 42 Celsius in London Underground stations amid rising global heat. Jonathan Paul, a scientist at Royal Holloway, University of London, measures these conditions using a thermometer-equipped smartphone. Underground commuters face stifling heat with no easy escape.

Scientists warn of grim new chapter in Earth's climate crisis

An international team of researchers has issued a stark report on the planet's vital signs, declaring that humanity is hurtling toward climate chaos. The analysis of 2025 data reveals record extremes in 22 of 34 tracked indicators, from ocean heat to Antarctic ice loss. While the situation is dire, experts emphasize that bold action can still avert catastrophe.

Fungi appeared up to 1.4 billion years ago, study reveals

An international team of scientists has determined that fungi originated between 900 million and 1.4 billion years ago, predating plants and animals by hundreds of millions of years. This discovery, based on advanced molecular dating and gene transfer analysis, suggests fungi were key pioneers in Earth's early terrestrial ecosystems. The findings were published in Nature Ecology & Evolution.

Analogue chips could speed up AI training 1000 times

Researchers at Peking University have developed analogue computer chips that solve key matrix equations for AI training with high accuracy and speed. These chips promise up to 1000 times faster processing and 100 times less energy use compared to digital GPUs. The innovation addresses the rising energy demands of AI in data centres.

Physicists measure trillion-degree heat in Big Bang plasma

2025년 10월 29일 Theo Klein

Researchers at Rice University have captured the temperature profile of quark-gluon plasma, the ultra-hot matter from the universe's dawn. By analyzing electron-positron emissions from atomic collisions, they determined precise temperatures at different evolutionary stages. The findings, published in Nature Communications, refine understanding of early cosmic conditions.

QUT scientists reveal coral attachment process for reef restoration

Researchers at Queensland University of Technology have discovered a three-phase biological process that allows coral fragments to reattach to reefs, offering new insights for global restoration efforts. The study, published in Royal Society Open Science, highlights species-specific differences that affect attachment speed and strength. This finding could help predict which corals will recover best in damaged ecosystems.

Tohoku university proposes quantum network for dark matter detection

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a method to enhance quantum sensors by connecting superconducting qubits in optimized networks, potentially detecting faint signals from dark matter. This approach outperforms traditional methods even under realistic noise conditions. The findings could extend to applications in radar, MRI, and navigation technologies.

Tiny nearby galaxy hosts massive black hole

A small satellite galaxy of the Milky Way, known as Segue 1, contains a supermassive black hole far larger than expected for its size. This discovery challenges long-held assumptions that such dwarf galaxies are primarily held together by dark matter. Researchers used computer models to reveal the black hole's presence at the galaxy's center.

Scientists create nanodiamonds using electron beams without heat

2025년 10월 29일 Theo Klein

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a method to form nanodiamonds from organic molecules using electron beams, bypassing traditional high-pressure and high-temperature processes. This breakthrough protects delicate materials from beam damage and could advance fields like materials science and quantum computing. The discovery challenges long-held assumptions about electron irradiation.

Hurricane Melissa makes landfall in Jamaica as category 5 storm

2025년 10월 28일 Theo Klein

Hurricane Melissa, one of the strongest Atlantic storms on record, struck Jamaica as a category 5 hurricane on October 28, 2025, fueled by unusually warm sea surface temperatures linked to climate change. Meteorologists expressed alarm over its rapid intensification and potential for catastrophic damage, including up to one meter of rain. Three people died in preparations for the storm.

Human skulls evolved faster than those of other apes

Researchers at University College London have discovered that human skulls evolved at an exceptionally rapid pace compared to other apes, developing larger brains and flatter faces twice as quickly as expected. This acceleration likely stems from cognitive and social evolutionary pressures. The findings, based on 3D skull models, highlight unique human adaptations among great apes.