Science

A study conducted at the University of Cambridge suggests that suppressing negative thoughts may have benefits for mental health, challenging the belief that ignoring such thoughts allows them to persist and negatively affect well-being. The study involved training participants to suppress thoughts related to negative events, and surprisingly, suppressed thoughts became less vivid and participants reported improved mental health scores. Individuals with PTSD experienced the greatest positive impact from suppressing negative thoughts, indicating potential promise as a coping mechanism. The study’s findings have important implications for individuals with anxiety and offer a potential tool for difficult times.

The equinox, a significant astronomical event, marks the beginning of the fall season for the Northern Hemisphere.

Researchers at Curtin University have made a significant discovery that could aid in identifying sites containing valuable pink diamonds.

MIT researchers have developed a method to convert lignin into sustainable aviation fuel, offering a renewable alternative for the aviation industry and potentially reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. The use of a molybdenum carbide catalyst and a two-reactor system ensures the production of high-quality fuel, with preliminary testing showing promising results. With support from various funding sources, this research holds great promise for a greener and more sustainable aviation future.

The average daily global sea surface temperature has recently reached an unprecedented high, surpassing the previous record set in 2016.

A metal detectorist has discovered two Roman swords in the Cotswolds, dating back to 160 AD, shedding light on the region’s history and the use of such weapons during the Roman period.

Satellites are playing a pivotal role in the response to a magnitude 6.8 earthquake in Morocco, providing valuable information about damage to infrastructure and blocked routes caused by landslides. The use of satellite imagery and advanced analysis techniques has significantly aided relief workers and scientists in understanding the earthquake’s characteristics and assessing future hazard risks. The collaboration between the UK’s Comet and the EU’s Copernicus Earth observation system highlights the importance of international cooperation in satellite development and disaster response efforts.

The relationship between emotional wellbeing, socioeconomic factors, and human height is examined in this news brief, which draws comparisons from different historical periods and countries to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors that can affect human height. The report suggests that emotional stress and economic crises can negatively impact physical growth, and highlights the importance of strong social and emotional attachments in promoting healthy development. It also explores how certain countries prioritize social care and security, resulting in taller average heights. Furthermore, historical records indicate that the Long Depression had a detrimental effect on overall wellbeing and height, while other major global crises did not have a similar impact. This analysis emphasizes the need for further research and fact-checking before publication.

The Ig Nobel prizes, an annual event that recognizes unconventional scientific studies and achievements, featured a variety of intriguing research this year, including the re-animation of deceased spiders for use as mechanical gripping tools and the practice of geologists licking rocks to identify minerals.

A systematic review conducted by Mundt in Sleep Medicine highlights the potential dangers associated with arousal disorders and emphasizes the need for structured treatment guidelines.