Global science
The newest global technological information
Physiology
A new way to lose weight: local hyperthermia activates beige fat
Recently, researchers from the School of Life Sciences of East China normal University and the sixth people's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University have found that beige fat (Beige fat) in human body can activate thermogenesis through local hyperthermia, reduce obesity symptoms and improve metabolic disorders. On March 4, the study was published as a cover article in the journal Cell.
Scientific event
The rocket wreckage hit the far side of the moon at a speed of about 9300 kilometers per hour
The wreckage of a 4-ton rocket crashed into the far side of the moon at a speed of about 9300 kilometers per hour at 20:25 Beijing time on March 4. At present, the impact has not been directly observed, and the speed and impact time of the rocket wreckage are calculated from the orbit based on telescope observations. This is the first known impact of space junk on the moon, and astronomers speculate that the impact should form a crater 10 to 20 meters in diameter.
Biological engineering
Cultivate algae as a low-cost renewable energy
Algae can be used as biofuel and animal feed for ethanol extraction, which has great application potential, but there may be some problems such as low yield and high harvest cost caused by fast growth and mutual shading in the process of culture, which makes it difficult for its commercialization. A study published in the journal Nature Communications pioneered the introduction of artificial intelligence to solve the problem.
Scientists have developed an artificial intelligence model to predict the parameters of algae growth, including light permeability, growth rate and density, in order to determine the timing of culture medium and harvest, and to keep the algae growing rapidly at the optimal density. maximize the use of light. At the same time, in order to solve the problem of difficult harvest, they also designed a kind of cyanobacteria Synechococcus elongatus UTEX 2973 through bioengineering, which can produce limonene, increase the hydrophobicity of cell surface, make it aggregate and precipitate, and facilitate collection. Their method achieved an output of 43.3 grams per square meter per day in outdoor experiments, far higher than the 25 grams per square meter per day set by the U.S. Department of Energy, and greatly reduced related costs. there is hope for the large-scale commercialization of algae as renewable energy.
Physics
Realization of a two-element neutral atomic system with 512 qubits
As the basic component of quantum computer, qubits can be made by different technologies, one of which is to use laser to capture neutral atoms to produce qubits. However, the neutral atomic system used in quantum computing is limited to a single atomic element array. Because each atom in the array has the same characteristics, it is extremely difficult to measure a single atom without interfering with the adjacent atoms. Recently, in a study published in physical Review X, researchers created a two-element neutral atomic array of rubidium and cesium atoms that can control each atom separately. the first neutral atomic system consisting of 512 qubits was achieved.
In a hybrid array of atoms of two different elements, two adjacent atoms can be different elements with completely different frequencies. This makes it easier for researchers to measure and manipulate individual atoms without interference from surrounding atoms. The team used 512 optical tweezers to capture 256 rubidium and cesium atoms and observed that the interference between the two elements was negligible. The researchers say the findings will contribute to a wide range of research, including quantum non-destructive measurement, quantum error correction, and continuous operation of quantum processors and sensors.
Health
Alcohol intake is exponentially related to brain aging.
Heavy drinking can change the structure and capacity of the brain, resulting in a decrease in white matter and gray matter in the brain, leading to cognitive impairment. But some studies suggest that moderate alcohol consumption has no effect, and that a small amount of alcohol intake can also bring benefits to the elderly. According to a new study published in the journal Nature Communications, moderate drinking, that is, a few glasses of beer or wine a week, can cause brain damage.
In the new study, scientists calculated the volume of white matter and gray matter in various regions of the brain of 36000 adults using an MRI and found that light and moderate alcohol consumption was associated with a decrease in brain volume, and the greater the alcohol intake, the more significant the decrease. They found that for a 50-year-old adult, an average daily increase in alcohol consumption from one unit of alcohol (about half a bottle of beer) to two units of alcohol (about one bottle of beer or a glass of wine) would age the brain by two years. Rising from 2 alcohol units to 3 alcohol units can age the brain by 3.5 years. Studies have shown that alcohol intake may have an exponential relationship with brain aging, and reducing alcohol consumption may improve brain aging.
Spaceflight
China plans to complete the Mars sampling and return mission by 2030.
Wu Weiren, member of the standing Committee of the National Committee of the Chinese people's political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and chief designer of China's lunar exploration project, said recently that China plans to complete the Mars sampling and return mission by 2030. This project is much more difficult than lunar sampling and return, and the first problem to be solved is to develop a carrier rocket with greater thrust. In the follow-up, China is also preparing to conduct marginal exploration of the solar system. Wu Weiren said that China plans to achieve the goal of "two hundred" by 2049, that is, to complete 100 astronomical units, or deep space exploration 15 billion kilometers away, in the centenary of the founding of New China.
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It rains only one day a year at night, but that's not all the wonder of the planet.
WASP-121b is probably the most thoroughly studied exoplanet. It was discovered in 2015, with a mass of 1.18 times that of Jupiter, a radius of 1.81 times that of Jupiter, and an orbit period of 30.6 hours. In 2017, astronomers even found water in its stratosphere. Today, abnormal data in spectral analysis show that the planet will even rain gems.
By jsyeem shekels3 years ago in Earth
M&S Reveals 500 ‘Wish List’ Locations for New Stores as It Unveils Huge Expansion Plans – Could One Be Coming to a Town Near YOU
Marks & Spencer (M&S), the iconic British retailer, has unveiled plans to expand its store footprint dramatically, revealing a “wish list” of 500 potential locations for new shops across the United Kingdom. The move marks one of the most ambitious growth strategies in the retailer’s recent history and signals a renewed confidence in high-street shopping after years of online retail disruption. For shoppers, this announcement raises an exciting question: Could an M&S be coming to a town near you? The expansion strategy suggests that the company is targeting a mix of urban, suburban, and regional locations to strengthen its presence and reach new customer bases. The Expansion Plan M&S has long been a staple of British retail, but the company has faced challenges in recent years, including declining footfall in traditional high streets and competition from online retailers. The 500-location wish list represents a proactive attempt to revitalize the brand and reconnect with communities. Key points of the expansion strategy include: Targeting underserved areas where M&S currently has limited presence Optimizing store size to match local demand, ranging from smaller convenience stores to larger food and clothing outlets Focusing on food-led stores, reflecting the success of M&S’s food offerings and growing demand for premium groceries The company hopes that expanding its footprint will not only boost sales but also strengthen brand visibility across the country. Why M&S Is Betting on Expansion Now Several factors have prompted M&S to take this bold step: Resilience of Brick-and-Mortar Retail: Despite the rise of online shopping, physical stores remain crucial for customer experience, especially for groceries, fresh produce, and clothing. Strong Performance in Food: M&S’s food division has consistently outperformed expectations, driving growth even when other segments lag. Expanding stores with a focus on food could capture new markets and increase footfall. Brand Heritage and Loyalty: M&S remains one of the most trusted and recognized brands in the UK. Expanding stores leverages this brand equity to reach more customers. Post-Pandemic Opportunities: Many towns and cities are seeing renewed interest in high-street shopping, creating openings for retailers willing to invest in local communities. By combining these factors, M&S aims to position itself as both a modern and traditional retailer, appealing to diverse consumer preferences. Potential Locations and Community Impact The company has not yet disclosed the exact towns or neighborhoods for the new stores, but analysts suggest that smaller towns and suburban areas may feature prominently. This is because many larger cities already have significant M&S coverage, whereas smaller communities are underserved. For local economies, an M&S opening can provide several benefits: Job creation in retail, logistics, and support services Boost to high streets, attracting shoppers to nearby businesses Increased choice for consumers, particularly for premium groceries and ready-to-eat meals Communities can expect M&S to adapt store formats to local needs, ensuring that smaller locations focus on food, while larger outlets may include clothing, homeware, and other categories. Customer Excitement and Expectations The announcement has generated excitement among shoppers, especially those in towns that currently lack an M&S presence. Social media platforms are buzzing with speculation, with users asking whether a store might be opening within commuting distance. M&S has acknowledged the curiosity, encouraging communities to stay tuned as it finalizes lease agreements and site preparations. The company has also indicated that it will engage with local councils and residents to ensure smooth openings. Challenges Ahead While the expansion plan is ambitious, it comes with challenges: High Rental Costs: Securing prime high-street locations can be expensive, particularly in urban areas. Competition: Other retailers, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Aldi, are also vying for market share, making it essential for M&S to differentiate through product quality and customer experience. Supply Chain Management: Scaling up to 500 locations requires robust logistics and inventory management to maintain the freshness and quality of food offerings. Changing Shopping Habits: While footfall is recovering, many customers continue to shop online. M&S must balance physical expansion with digital integration to remain competitive. Successfully navigating these challenges will be crucial to turning the expansion wish list into long-term profitable stores. Strategic Focus on Food and Convenience A key feature of the expansion strategy is M&S’s food-first approach. The retailer has seen strong growth in its ready-to-eat meals, premium groceries, and convenience items, which cater to busy lifestyles and local tastes. Smaller-format stores, often located in suburban or high-street settings, are expected to focus primarily on food and everyday essentials, while larger flagship locations will continue offering clothing, homeware, and specialty products. This strategic differentiation allows M&S to tailor offerings to local demographics while maximizing sales potential. Expert Opinions Retail analysts have praised the move as timely and strategic, highlighting M&S’s strong brand recognition and food expertise as competitive advantages. Claire Thompson, a retail analyst, commented: “Expanding into underserved towns and suburbs allows M&S to capture new customers while reinforcing its position in the premium segment. The challenge will be execution — ensuring that new stores meet local needs without overextending resources.” Analysts also note that the expansion could signal renewed confidence in the high street, especially as other major retailers continue to consolidate or reduce their physical presence. Looking Ahead M&S’s ambitious expansion plan demonstrates a clear commitment to strengthening its presence in the UK. With 500 potential locations on the wish list, the company is poised to redefine accessibility and convenience for customers while supporting local economies. Shoppers can expect phased rollouts over the coming years, with announcements on specific towns likely to follow. For communities eager for a local M&S, the future may hold new jobs, new food options, and a boost to the high street experience. Final Thoughts Marks & Spencer’s announcement of 500 potential new store locations represents one of the boldest expansion plans in recent British retail history. By focusing on food-led stores, targeting underserved towns, and leveraging its iconic brand, M&S is betting on a reinvigorated high-street presence. For shoppers across the UK, this could mean a new M&S store just around the corner, bringing convenience, quality, and the familiar British retail experience to towns that have long awaited it. As the company executes its vision, communities and consumers alike will be watching closely — eager to see which locations make the wish list a reality.
By Muhammad Hassana day ago in Earth
Tea of Silence
The snow had covered the hills for days, turning the land into a quiet white world where sound seemed afraid to exist. On the highest of these hills, beneath a dry, leafless tree, a young man sat alone. The tree had long ago lost its strength, its branches thin and broken, but it still stood, as if refusing to disappear. The young man chose this place often, not because it was comfortable, but because it was honest.
By Bilal Mohammadi7 days ago in Earth
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