Happy Monday, everyone! I’m Rachel Feltman, and this is your weekly science news update from Scientific American’s Science Quickly. Let’s dive into some interesting discoveries and developments in the world of science.
First off, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported a significant increase in whooping cough cases, also known as pertussis. The number of cases has surged to levels seen before the pandemic, with some regions experiencing a more than tenfold increase compared to last year. Whooping cough is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis and is highly contagious, especially for infants who can suffer serious illness. It’s essential to ensure that your family’s vaccines, such as the DTaP vaccine, are up to date to protect against whooping cough.
Moving on to microbes, a fascinating study revealed that some microbial strains have genes that allow them to metabolize compounds found in cleaning products. These microbes essentially feed on disinfectants like ammonia and alcohol, highlighting the adaptability of these tiny organisms. Despite our efforts to create sterile environments, microbes continue to find ways to thrive.
Additionally, researchers discovered a new strain of nanobacteria that live on human skin and produce important antioxidants. This finding suggests a symbiotic relationship between these microbes and humans, showcasing the complexity of microbial life.
In a surprising discovery beneath the ocean floor, scientists found a diverse community of multicellular organisms living near hydrothermal vents. Previously, it was believed that only microbes inhabited these extreme environments, but the presence of larger organisms challenges this assumption. This finding sheds light on the resilience and adaptability of life in harsh conditions.
Shifting our focus to environmental research, scientists at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution identified a type of plastic derived from wood pulp that biodegrades quickly in seawater. This discovery could lead to the development of more ocean-friendly plastic alternatives that break down efficiently in marine environments.
Finally, in space news, astronomers recently confirmed the existence of binary brown dwarfs, which are massive celestial bodies that fall between planets and stars in terms of size and luminosity. These twin objects orbit each other and their host star in a fascinating cosmic dance, raising questions about their formation and evolution.
Additionally, NASA and NOAA announced that the sun is currently in the solar maximum phase, marked by increased solar activity and geomagnetic storms. This period presents an opportunity to witness spectacular auroras in the night sky, so keep an eye out for reports of high solar activity and head to a dark location for a chance to see this natural phenomenon.
That wraps up this week’s science news roundup. If you enjoyed this update, consider supporting our journalism by subscribing to Scientific American for more insightful science news and discoveries. Thanks for listening, and have a great week!
