International Young Scientist Awards

In a groundbreaking discovery, NASA scientists have revealed that Earth’s magnetic field follows a mysterious 540-million-year cycle that significantly influences the planet’s oxygen levels — and potentially the evolution of life itself. This revelation connects ancient geomagnetic patterns with critical changes in Earth’s biosphere, offering new insight into the co-evolution of our planet’s interior, surface environment, and life. Using advanced satellite data and geological records, researchers discovered that fluctuations in Earth’s magnetic field strength correlate with a long-term cycle of weakening and strengthening. These magnetic cycles appear to directly affect the shielding of Earth from solar radiation and cosmic rays. When the magnetic field is strong, the planet is better protected, allowing more stable and oxygen-rich atmospheric conditions. Conversely, weaker magnetic phases may expose Earth to more solar particles, triggering changes in climate and possibly reducing glo...

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss among people aged 50 and older, affecting millions worldwide. It primarily targets the macula—the central portion of the retina responsible for sharp, straight-ahead vision necessary for activities such as reading and driving. However, recent scientific advances have led to the identification of promising strategies aimed at preventing or delaying the onset of AMD. One major breakthrough involves targeting oxidative stress and inflammation, two critical contributors to macular damage. Researchers have found that lifestyle and dietary interventions, particularly those rich in antioxidants like lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help neutralize free radicals and support retinal health. Diets resembling the Mediterranean pattern—high in fruits, vegetables, fish, and healthy fats—have shown to lower the risk of AMD progression. Another preventive strategy is rooted in genetic screening and early diagnosi...

In the era of Industry 4.0 and cyber-physical systems , Design for Sensing & Digitalization (DSD) has emerged as a groundbreaking engineering philosophy. It reimagines the traditional design process by embedding sensing , connectivity , and data intelligence directly into the product or infrastructure from the earliest stages of conceptualization. Unlike conventional approaches, which often add sensors or IoT modules as an afterthought, DSD emphasizes “designing with sensing in mind.” This proactive strategy ensures that systems are optimized for data collection , monitoring , diagnostics , and control throughout their lifecycle. It involves selecting the right sensor types, locations, data protocols, and energy requirements while maintaining robustness, cost-efficiency, and interoperability with digital platforms . DSD enables Digital Twins , predictive maintenance , and smart manufacturing . Real-time feedback loops between the physical and digital layers allow engineers to...

  Researchers have recently uncovered detailed insights into the Vitamin K–dependent blood clotting mechanism, shedding light on a complex biochemical process critical for human survival. Vitamin K plays a central role in the activation of clotting factors, including prothrombin (Factor II), Factors VII, IX, and X, which are essential for effective blood coagulation. The mechanism involves γ-carboxylation of specific glutamic acid residues on these clotting proteins, a modification that allows them to bind calcium ions and adhere to phospholipid surfaces at injury sites.   This γ-carboxylation reaction is catalyzed by the vitamin K–dependent γ-glutamyl carboxylase enzyme, using the reduced form of vitamin K (vitamin K hydroquinone). During the process, vitamin K is oxidized to vitamin K epoxide, which is then recycled back by the vitamin K epoxide reductase (VKOR) enzyme. This regeneration cycle ensures a continuous supply of active vitamin K. Disruption in this mechanism, ei...

Environmental DNA (eDNA) has revolutionized biodiversity monitoring by allowing scientists to detect organisms without direct observation. Traditionally used in water and soil, eDNA methods have now expanded into the air — opening up a groundbreaking approach for tracking terrestrial biodiversity, especially elusive and endangered species.     Airborne eDNA refers to genetic material shed by organisms into the atmosphere via skin cells, hair, feathers, pollen, spores, and other biological particles. These tiny fragments of DNA float through the air and can be captured using air filters or collectors. Once gathered, the samples are processed using advanced molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing to identify the species present in the environment. This non-invasive monitoring technique offers several advantages. It enables the detection of a wide range of organisms including mammals, birds, insects, fungi, and plants, even those not direct...

  In a groundbreaking scientific initiative, NASA is delving deep into the study of mysterious, high-altitude clouds that could potentially interfere with essential communication systems, including radio and GPS signals. Known as "sporadic E layers," these thin, dense regions of charged particles form unexpectedly in the Earth's ionosphere, particularly at altitudes between 90 and 120 kilometers. Despite decades of observation, scientists still lack a full understanding of how these clouds form, evolve, and dissipate. These ionospheric anomalies can reflect or absorb radio waves, causing significant disruptions in communication and navigation systems that rely on stable signal transmission. For industries dependent on satellite data—such as aviation, maritime navigation, defense, and even everyday smartphone use—understanding these disturbances is critical. To better comprehend these phenomena, NASA has launched a research mission called APEEP (Atmospheric Perturbations a...