How scientists are shining light on the biology behind seasonal affective disorder

Recent research indicates that air pollution may be a significant factor in marathon runners' slower finish times, particularly in urban areas with high levels of harmful particles. This finding is crucial as it highlights the impact of environmental conditions on athletic performance, raising awareness about the need for cleaner air in cities to support not only runners but public health overall.

In 1925, a group of seven students undertook a remarkable experiment, staying awake for 60 hours to challenge the notion that sleep is essential. This study aimed to explore the effects of prolonged wakefulness and contributed to the ongoing conversation about the importance of sleep in our lives. Understanding sleep's role is crucial as it impacts our health, productivity, and overall well-being.

Recent research indicates that the full moon can have a modest impact on sleep patterns, although its effects on mental health remain unclear. This topic is significant as it challenges long-held beliefs about lunar influences, prompting us to consider how natural phenomena might subtly affect our well-being. Understanding these connections can help us better navigate our sleep and mood, especially during full moon phases.

Researchers have made a breakthrough with a genetically engineered fungus that could help combat mosquito populations, which are notorious for spreading diseases. In experiments, mosquitoes were irresistibly drawn to the sweet scent of the fungus, leading to their infection and death. This innovative approach not only offers a potential solution to a significant public health issue but also highlights the promising role of biotechnology in pest control.

Dr. George F. Tidmarsh, the chief of the FDA's drug unit, has been placed on leave, citing a 'toxic' work environment stemming from disagreements over a new program aimed at speeding up medication approvals. This situation highlights the internal conflicts within the agency, which could impact the timely approval of essential drugs, ultimately affecting public health.

If you're looking to enhance your experience on Google Discover, there's good news! A recent article from Popular Science provides practical tips on optimizing your Discover page, making it easier to find content that truly interests you. This matters because a well-curated Discover feed can significantly improve how you interact with news and updates, ensuring you stay informed and engaged with topics you love.

A new photography book titled 'What do you see?' showcases 12 extreme close-ups that reveal the hidden science in everyday life. This innovative approach encourages readers to appreciate the intricate details of the world around them, making science accessible and engaging. It's a reminder that there's always more to discover, sparking curiosity and a deeper understanding of our environment.

Despite the government shutdown, NASA's astronauts aboard the International Space Station continue their vital work. This is significant as it highlights the resilience of scientific endeavors even in challenging political climates, ensuring that important research and experiments in space are not interrupted.

A groundbreaking discovery has been made on the coast of South Africa with the identification of the first-ever hyrax fossil tracks, believed to have been left by a fuzzy elephant relative 126,000 years ago. This finding is significant as it not only sheds light on the behavior and movement of these ancient creatures but also enhances our understanding of the evolutionary history of mammals. Such discoveries are crucial for paleontology, offering insights into past ecosystems and the species that inhabited them.

The International Space Station (ISS) has been a remarkable platform for scientific research and international collaboration for 25 years. As space agencies prepare for future missions to Mars, insights from archaeology can provide valuable lessons on living and working in space. Understanding the challenges faced by astronauts aboard the ISS can help improve mission planning and ensure the success of long-duration space travel. This connection between archaeology and space exploration highlights the importance of learning from past experiences to pave the way for future discoveries.