Science

Scientists Observe Sperm Defying a Fundamental Law of Physics

Image from pixabayAccording to a recent study, human sperm use their slender tails to navigate through thick fluids, appearing to defy Newton's third law of motion. This research also examines the movement patterns of these sex cells alongside single-celled algae.Exploring Non-Reciprocal Interactions in Microscopic SwimmersKenta Ishimoto, a mathematical scientist at Kyoto University, and his...

Feeling Sleepy? Research Identifies the Best Dosage and Timing for Melatonin

Taking melatonin at the right time, in the right dose, could get you a solid night's sleep, says a new study~. Credit: PixabayMelatonin is a well-known supplement for individuals who have difficulty achieving restful sleep. However, determining the right dosage and the ideal time to take it has often involved trial and error. A...

Large Study Reveals Unexpected Origins of Gout

Image from PixabayGout is often linked to poor diet and drinking habits, but new research reveals genetics as a stronger factor in developing the condition than previously believed. In a major study, researchers analyzed genetic data from 2.6 million individuals, including 120,295 with this disease, identifying 377 DNA regions associated with the condition—149 of...

Scientists Finally Uncover What Really Happens When an Atom Splits

Credit: PixabayThe term "atom," derived from Latin for "indivisible," can be misleading. A recent simulation by U.S. theoretical physicists has provided a detailed microscopic view of how an atom splits in two, shedding light on an energetic event that has significantly impacted science and technology.In 1938, physicists Otto Hahn, Lise Meitner, and Fritz Strassmann...

Dark Oxygen Discovered in the Ocean: What Does It Mean?

Credit: PixabayPlants, whether in the ocean or on land, largely produce the oxygen essential for intelligent life as we know it through photosynthesis of carbon dioxide. However, new research suggests that depths with no light might generate oxygen without relying on living organisms.The authors of the study, published in Nature Geoscience, collected samples of...

How it works: The Harmonic Drive gear, Precise, High-torque, With a Wobbling Motion

The unique properties of the Harmonic Drive make it very odd to watch in action - but extremely useful, particularly in precision, high-torque roboticsHarmonic DriveView 4 ImagesThe Harmonic DriveThe Harmonic Drive is a fundamental component in countless robotic applications. Although simple and intriguing to watch in action, this gear system combines exceptional precision with...

A Significant Number of Doctors are Already Integrating AI Into Medical Care

Credit: PixabayA recent survey of approximately 1,000 UK general practitioners found that one in five doctors use generative AI tools—such as OpenAI's ChatGPT or Google's Gemini—to support clinical practice.Doctors reported using generative AI for tasks like creating documentation after appointments, assisting in clinical decision-making, and delivering patient information—such as easy-to-understand discharge summaries and treatment...

Physicists Create Sound Waves That Move Exclusively in One Direction

Self-oscillations (red and blue) guide sound waves (green, orange, purple) in only one direction through the circulator. (Xin Zou)Imagine three people arranged in a circle, where each can only hear one other directly. Scientists have created a device that directs sound waves in just this way, allowing them to travel in a single direction only.Developed...

TikTok Claims Cough Medicine Could Aid in Pregnancy—Here’s the Science

Credit: PixabayThe desire for biological children (conception) is deeply ingrained in many people, especially those facing infertility, which makes the allure of simple solutions hard to resist. This may explain why "the Mucinex method" has gained traction on social media.On TikTok, many women credit their successful conceptions to Mucinex, a common cough and cold...

Nanoplastics May Weaken the Effectiveness of Antibiotics

Credit: PixabayNanoplastics’ Impact on Antibiotic Absorption and ResistanceA recent study reveals that nanoplastics—tiny plastic particles smaller than 0.001 millimeters—can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb antibiotics and may even encourage the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.Researchers from the University of Vienna, University of Bonn, and University of Debrecen used molecular models to examine the...