Science & Technology
Rats trade initial rewards for long-term learning opportunities
Scientists have provided evidence for the cognitive control of learning in rats, showing they can estimate the long-term value of learning and adapt their decision-making strategy to take advantage of learning opportunities.
New technique maps large-scale impacts of fire-induced permafrost thaw in Alaska
Researchers have developed a machine learning-based ensemble approach to quantify fire-induced thaw settlement across the entire Tanana Flats in Alaska, which encompasses more than 3 million acres. They linked airborne repeat lidar data to time-series …
Social isolation triggers astrocyte-mediated deficits in learning and memory
In animal models, social isolation triggers memory and learning deficits that are mediated by hyperactivity of the most abundant brain cell, the astrocyte. Importantly, inhibiting this hyperactivity reversed the cognitive deficits associated with socia…
Pungent ginger compound puts immune cells on heightened alert
Ginger has a reputation for stimulating the immune system. New results now support this thesis. In laboratory tests, small amounts of a pungent ginger constituent put white blood cells on heightened alert. The study also shows that this process involve…
The roar and crackle of Artemis 1
When the Artemis 1 mission was launched in November, it became the world’s most powerful rocket, and with liftoff came a loud roar heard miles away. Researchers report noise measurements during the launch at different locations around Kennedy Space Cen…