Origins

• Astronomers have detected glycolaldehyde, a type of sugar commonly found in raspberries, within interstellar space. • The discovery proves that complex organic molecules, such as sugars, can form naturally in the harsh environment of space without the need for a planetary surface. • This finding is significant because it suggests that the chemical building blocks necessary for life may be widespread throughout the universe.

• Astronomers have detected erythrulose, a natural sugar typically found in raspberries, within interstellar clouds of dust and gas near the center of the Milky Way. • This marks the first time this specific sugar has been identified in interstellar space, providing new evidence of complex organic molecules existing outside our solar system. • The discovery is significant because these sugars are considered key building blocks for the origins of life, suggesting the chemical precursors for life are widespread in the universe.

If we don’t know the source, not only do humans remain at risk but wildlife can suffer needlessly via retaliationWhile virologists and public health departments were palpitating over the news of an Andes virus infectious disease outbreak on a cruise ship (13 cases, three deaths), in the Democratic Republic of the Congo the Bundibugyo virus, the root of the current Ebola outbreak (currently more than 1,250 cases and at least 362 deaths), was smouldering under the radar.Bundibugyo virus is a horrifying, highly fatal pathogen. Symptom onset is sudden and includes headaches, diarrhoea, malfunctioning kidneys and liver, and, less frequently, internal and external bleeding (hence the term “haemorrhagic disease”). Grimly, contagiousness remains after death, meaning the family and loved ones of the deceased can be exposed when they wash and clothe the body in preparation for the funeral. Continue reading...