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Huge eruption on a distant star confirmed at last
Researchers have detected what they say is the strongest evidence yet of a coronal mass ejection (CME) coming from a star other than our Sun. CMEs are massive bursts of fast-moving plasma that can be detected thanks to the characteristic radio signal they produce. However, despite decades of searching, these signals have only been identified from the Sun. Now a team has identified a similar signal coming from a distant star in the Milky Way. They hope their discovery will lead to better understanding of the impact these colossal events might have on the atmospheres of exoplanets, and their chances of being habitable.
Research Article: Callingham et al.
Video footage of a devastating earthquake provides a first-of-its-kind glimpse of a dramatic ground rupture — plus, a flock of comets seen outside our Solar System.
Research Highlight: Single video camera tells the story of deadly Myanmar quake
Research Highlight: A host of ‘exocomets’ swarms a distant star
Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects around 1 in 20 young people, but its underlying causes are not fully understood. Now, a team of researchers show that three rare genetic variants are implicated in an increased risk of ADHD, which may play a role in the neurons involved in dopamine signalling. While this work provides a better understanding of the complex genetics at play, the authors caution more research is needed to unpick the complex interplay other factors involved in ADHD.
Research Article: Demontis et al.
A high-resolution digital map for Roman roads, and how speaking more than one language could slow brain ageing.
Nature: ‘Google Maps’ for Roman roads reveals vast extent of ancient network
Nature: Want a younger brain? Learn another language
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Ancient DNA charts spread of Celtic and Germanic languages
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Briefing Chat: Dog years: could longevity science extend your pets' lives?
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Briefing Chat: How physicists successfully trapped the electron's antimatter equivalent
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Briefing Chat: An invisible tattoo that appears under UV light – and then disappears
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