For numerous students, ChatGpt has become an essential tool akin to a notebook or calculator.
With its capabilities to refine grammar, organize revisions, and create flashcards, AI is swiftly establishing itself as a dependable ally in higher education. However, educational institutions are grappling to adapt to this technological shift. Are you utilizing it for comprehension? That’s fine. Do you intend to use it for your assignments? Not permitted.
As per Recent Reports from the Institute for Higher Education Policy, nearly 92% of students are now using generative AI in some capacity, a notable rise from 66% the preceding year.
“To be honest, everyone is using it,” states Magan Chin, a master’s student in technology policy at Cambridge. She shares her preferred AI research techniques on TikTok, ranging from chat-based learning sessions to prompts with insightful notes.
“It has progressed. Initially, many viewed ChatGpt as a form of cheating, believing it undermined our critical thinking abilities. But it has now transitioned into a research partner and conversational tool that enhances our skills.”
“People just refer to it as ‘chat,’” she noted about its popular nickname.
When used judiciously, it can transform into a potent self-study resource. Chin suggests feeding class notes into the system and asking it to generate practice exam questions.
“You can engage in verbal dialogues as if with a professor and interact with it,” she remarked, adding that it can also produce diagrams and summarize challenging topics.
Jayna Devani, International Education Leader at OpenAI, ChatGpt’s US-based developer, endorses this interactive method. “You can upload course materials and request multiple-choice questions,” she explains. “It aids in breaking down complicated tasks into essential steps and clarifying concepts.”
However, there exists the potential for overreliance. Chin and her peers employ what they call “push-back techniques.”
“When ChatGpt provides an answer, consider what alternative perspectives others might offer,” she advises. “We utilize it as a contrasting view, but we acknowledge that it is just one voice among many.” She encourages exploring how others might approach the topic differently.
Such positive applications are generally welcomed by universities. Nevertheless, the academic community is addressing concerns regarding AI misuse, with many educators expressing significant apprehensions about its effect on the university experience.
Graham Wynn, Principal of Education at Northumbria University, asserts that while it can be used for assistance and structuring assessments, students should not depend on AI for knowledge and content. “Students can easily find themselves in trouble with hallucinations, fabricated references, and misleading content.”
Northumbria, similar to numerous universities, employs AI detectors that can flag submissions indicative of potential overdependence. Students at the University of the Arts London (UAL) are required to keep a log of their AI usage and integrate it into their individual creative processes.
As with most emerging technologies, developments are rapid. The AI tools utilized by students today are already prevalent in workplaces where they will soon enter. However, universities focus on processes, not merely outcomes, reinforcing the message from educators: support AI in learning but do not substitute it.
“AI literacy is an essential skill for students,” states a UAL spokesperson.
the initial clue is when you discover that someone has accessed one of your accounts. You’re focused on your details and cannot pinpoint the issue, but you made one mistake: reusing some passwords.
Even if a password is altered to include numbers and symbols, reusing the same base word can still provide an opening for criminals to gain access to your account.
Ethical “white hat” hacker Brandin Murtagh explains that information leaked through data breaches from sites like Dropbox and Tumblr, as well as cyberattacks, has been circulating on the internet for quite a while.
Hackers often obtain passwords and check if they work on other sites, a practice known as credential stuffing.
In some instances, hackers not only attempt the exact passwords from the compromised data but also try variants of those passwords to access accounts.
A Virgin Media O2 study found that four out of five people use the same or nearly identical passwords across their online accounts.
Using slightly modified passwords, such as Guardian1 instead of Guardian, creates an inviting opportunity for hackers to breach online accounts, warns Murtagh.
Collaborating with Virgin Media O2, he demonstrates to volunteers how effortlessly passwords can be traced with just an email address, often yielding results in mere minutes.
A spokesperson from Virgin Media O2 stated: “Human behavior is quite predictable. Criminals can utilize one password and then simply add a period or exclamation point at the end.”
What does fraud look like?
Criminals utilize a series of automated processes—scripts on computers that execute password variations to attempt access to additional accounts. This can occur on an industrial scale, according to Murtagh.
“It’s uncommon to be targeted as an individual; you’re typically caught in groups of thousands being targeted. These operations scale like a business,” he explains.
You may receive a warning message indicating a change to your email address or other account details.
What to do
Change the password to something distinct from the previous variants. Murtagh suggests focusing on the four most important accounts: banking, email, work-related, and mobile.
Utilize a password manager, often integrated into web browsers. For instance, Apple provides an iCloud Keychain, while Android offers Google Password Manager, both of which can generate and store complex passwords securely.
Implement two-factor authentication or multifactor authentication (2FA or MFA), which adds an additional layer of security by requiring two steps to log into the site.
When venturing beyond the Earth’s atmosphere, spacesuits become crucial. These human-sized miniature spacecraft are designed to shield astronauts from harmful solar radiation, extreme temperatures, low atmospheric pressure, and the impacts of micrometeorites.
The moon presents additional challenges, such as sharply defined lunar dust that can damage the suit’s joints and disrupt its materials.
It’s essential for spacesuits to provide remarkable freedom of movement, as astronauts frequently exit their spacecraft to conduct intricate repairs on equipment.
In emergencies, swift donning of the suit is beneficial. Furthermore, a full life support system should be integrated to regulate air supply and temperature.
Since astronauts may need to wear their suits for extended periods, considerations for food, hydration, and other bodily functions are vital.
Over the years, there have been Various designs, although not all have met these necessary standards accurately.
In 1962, the peculiar hard-shell suit known as the Grumman underwent brief testing. It resembled a fusion of a dustbin and a blender, but its limited mobility was a significant drawback.
Another design, the Hardshell “ax” suit, was also tested, primarily constructed from aluminum with rotary joints akin to futuristic armor, but it never made it to any missions.
Most functional spacesuits have been crafted from flexible multi-layer composite fabrics, with rigid shells reserved for specific areas like the helmet and upper torso.
Future suits may be even more advanced.
Biosuit proposed by Professor Dava Newman at MIT – Image credit: Dava Newman/Professor MIT/Guillermo Trotti/Douglas Sonders Photography
Researchers are currently focused on creating self-healing materials, ensuring that issues arising from extended missions to Mars are mitigated. One of the most innovative concepts is the Bio Suit, proposed by Professor Dava Newman at MIT.
Astronauts would wear suits made from flexible fabric that, when activated, reduces the embedded shape memory alloy coil, allowing the suit to conform perfectly to the skin, offering exceptional mobility and style.
Alternatively, the most intriguing designs feature proposed FO-RO (forward and reverse osmosis) systems.
Similar to a still suit from Sand Dunes, this suit can recycle astronaut urine into drinking water.
This article answers a question from Erica Morris via email: “What will the future spaceship look like?”
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OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently shared on a US podcast that if he were graduating today, “I would feel like the luckiest child in history.”
Altman, who launched ChatGPT in November 2022, is convinced that the transformative power of AI will create unparalleled opportunities for the younger generation.
While there are shifts in the job market, Altman notes, “this is a common occurrence.” He adds, “Young people are great at adapting.” Exciting new jobs are increasingly emerging, offering greater possibilities.
For sixth-form students in the UK and their families contemplating university decisions—what to study and where—Altman’s insights may provide reassurance amidst the choices they face in the age of generative AI. However, in this rapidly evolving landscape, experts emphasize the importance of equipping students to maximize their university experiences and be well-prepared for future employment.
Dr. Andrew Rogoiski from the People-Centered Institute of AI at Surrey University points out that many students are already navigating the AI landscape. “The pace of change is significant, often outpacing academic institutions. Typically, academic institutions move slowly and cautiously, ensuring fair access.”
“In a very short time, we’ve accelerated from zero to 100. Naturally, the workforce is adapting as well.”
What advice does he have for future students? “Inquire. Ask questions. There are diverse career paths available. Make sure your university is keeping up with these changes.”
Students not yet familiar with AI should invest time in learning about it and integrating it into their studies, regardless of their chosen field. Rogoiski asserts that proficiency with AI tools has become as essential as literacy: “It’s critical to understand what AI can and can’t do,” and “being resourceful and adaptable is key.”
He continues:
“Then, I begin to assess how the university is addressing AI integration. Are my course and the university as a whole effectively utilizing AI?”
While there’s a wealth of information available online, Rogoiski advises students to engage with universities directly, asking academics, “What is your strategy? What is your stance? Are you preparing graduates for a sustainable future?”
Dan Hawes, co-founder of an expert recruitment consultancy, expresses optimism for the future of UK graduates, asserting that the current job market slowdown is more influenced by economic factors than AI. “Predicting available jobs three or four years from now is challenging, but I believe graduates will be highly sought after,” he states. “This is a generation that has grown up with AI, meaning employers will likely be excited to bring this new talent into their organizations.”
“Thus, when determining study options for sixth-form students, parents should consider the employment prospects connected to specific universities.”
For instance, degrees in mathematics are consistently in high demand among his clients, a trend unlikely to shift soon. “AI will not diminish the skills and knowledge gained from a mathematics degree,” he asserts.
He acknowledges that AI poses challenges for students considering higher education alongside their parents. “Yet I believe it will ultimately be beneficial, making jobs more interesting, reshaping roles, and creating new ones.”
Elena Simperl, a computer science professor at King’s College London, co-directs the King’s Institute of Artificial Intelligence and advises students to explore AI offerings across all university departments. “AI is transforming our processes. It’s not just about how we write emails, read documents, or find information,” she notes.
Students should contemplate how to shape their careers in AI. “DeepMind suggests AI could serve as co-scientists, meaning fully automated AI labs will conduct research. Therefore, universities must train students to maximize these technologies,” she remarks. “It doesn’t matter what they wish to study; they should choose universities that offer extensive AI expertise, extending beyond just computer science.”
Professor Simperl observes that evidence suggests no jobs will vanish completely. “We need to stop focusing on which roles AI may eliminate and consider how it can enhance various tasks. Those skilled in using AI will possess a significant advantage.”
In this new AI-driven landscape, is a degree in English literature or history still valuable? “Absolutely, provided it is taught well,” asserts Rogoiski. “Such studies should impart skills that endure throughout one’s lifetime—appreciation of literature, effective writing, critical thinking, and communication are invaluable abilities.”
“The application of that degree will undoubtedly evolve, but if taught effectively, the lessons learned will resonate throughout one’s life. If nothing else, our AI overlords may take over most work, allowing us more leisure time to read, while relying on universal basic income.”
During a year of driving his daughter to school in a new electric vehicle, Phil Bellamy realized that she was anxious about taking a 10-minute ride every day.
While Bellamy, 51, had no issues with the car, his teenage daughter experienced nausea each time she got in. Research indicates that this is a common problem: many individuals who do not suffer from motion sickness in traditional vehicles find themselves affected by it in electric vehicles (EVs).
Concerned about his family’s aversion to riding in his car, Bellamy altered his driving style and considered purchasing a different vehicle, but the issue persisted. His daughters try to avoid traveling with him whenever they can.
“If we go on a trip, they make sure to take motion sickness tablets immediately. They wouldn’t even think of getting in the car without them,” he explains.
Bellamy appreciates driving electric cars for their quietness and smoothness compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles, though he hopes manufacturers will address the concerns of passengers affected by motion sickness.
Factors contributing to motion sickness include the relatively rapid acceleration of EVs compared to gasoline vehicles, the regenerative braking system, and the absence of sensory cues such as engine noise and vibrations while driving.
Research from China, a major electric vehicle producer, has found that EVs tend to induce more severe motion sickness symptoms than traditional vehicles.
Content creator Atia Chain from London shared her experiences on TikTok about suffering from car sickness in an EV this summer when she relied on Ubers for transportation.
Chain reports feeling “extreme nausea” shortly after getting in the EV, which ceased soon after she exited. It took her some time to realize that this happened only in electric vehicles. Now, she tends to avoid Ubers due to the prevalence of EVs.
“Usually, the nausea started right away as soon as the trip began. The first minute was particularly bad. I would roll down the window and find something to distract myself,” she shares. “The sickness lingered throughout the journey. If the Uber ride was 20 minutes long, I’d count down the minutes until I could get out.”
John Golding, a professor of applied psychology at Westminster University in London, explains that motion sickness has a particularly strong effect on passengers because it relates to their ability to anticipate changes in movement.
While the driver controls the vehicle, passengers, especially those seated in the back, may feel helpless. This could pose challenges for the future of self-driving cars.
He suggests that individuals may also use motion sickness medication or adopt behavioral changes to cope. “The simplest solution is to sit in the front seat and have a clear view. It allows you to see and anticipate what will happen next, whereas sitting in the back means you can only see what has already happened,” he advises.
Consider motion sickness medication which can be obtained in patches or tablets from pharmacies, helping manage how your brain and body react to movement. It’s most effective when taken before travel.
Wear acupressure bands which some studies suggest may help, though results could primarily be attributed to the placebo effect. “If it works for you, don’t dismiss it,” Golding remarks.
Listen to low-frequency sounds. A study from Nagoya University in Japan indicates that certain vibrations at 100Hz may stimulate a part of the inner ear responsible for detecting gravity and acceleration.
On Thursday, the U.S. government filed a lawsuit against Uber, alleging that the ride-sharing service has breached federal laws by discriminating against passengers with disabilities.
The complaint, submitted in federal court in San Francisco, claims that Uber drivers frequently refuse to transport disabled riders, including those accompanied by service animals or using wheelchairs.
Additionally, the department stated that Uber and its drivers unlawfully impose cleaning fees for service animals on riders denied service and also charge cancellation fees.
Some drivers are reportedly dismissing legitimate requests, such as humiliating persons with disabilities or preventing passengers with mobility challenges from sitting in the front seats.
According to the Justice Department, “Uber’s discriminatory actions have inflicted significant financial, emotional, and physical harm on individuals with disabilities,” violating the Americans with Disabilities Act.
In response, Uber stated that it disputes the allegations and is dedicated to enhancing access and the overall experience for riders with disabilities.
Uber further asserts that riders utilizing guide dogs or requiring other assistance “deserve a safe, respectful, and welcoming experience with Uber. A complete stop.”
The complaint outlines 17 instances of alleged misconduct involving Uber.
One instance involves JE, a seven-year-old amputee from the Bronx, New York, who reportedly faced refusal from an Uber driver after attending his brother’s birthday party due to his wheelchair.
Another case highlights Jason Ludwig, a Gulf War veteran with a service dog, who was denied a ride to Norfolk Airport in Virginia, causing him to miss his flight and return to Yarmouth, Massachusetts, after 16 hours of travel.
Jeff Clark, a third rider from Mount Laurel, New Jersey, claims that four drivers canceled their ride in Philadelphia within 17 minutes.
The lawsuit aims for an injunction to prevent further violations of the ADA, along with demands for improvements in Uber’s practices and training, financial compensation, and civil penalties.
A spokesperson for the Department of Justice was not available for immediate comment.
The latest research aims to thoroughly investigate how wild octopuses utilize their arms within their natural environments. This pioneering study correlates arm movements to the entire animal in intricate, real-world contexts by examining arm dynamics across various settings. The results indicate that all arms are capable of executing all types of actions, yet a distinct pattern of arm specialization was evident. The front arms primarily engage in movements that aid in exploration, whereas the rear arms focus on facilitating locomotion. Additionally, the octopus displayed remarkable adaptability, with a single arm executing multiple actions simultaneously, showcasing coordination among different arms—signifying advanced motor control.
Illustrations of 12 arm actions from various wild octopus behaviors. These cephalopods frequently employ multiple arm actions at once, either on one arm or across several. Image credits: Venice et al., doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-10674-y.
The structure of an octopus arm is intricate, comprising four distinct muscle groups oriented horizontally, vertically, diagonally, and circularly around a central nerve.
This arrangement allows the octopus’s arms to adapt in numerous ways, enabling a variety of actions essential for tasks such as hunting, locomotion, and self-defense.
Despite this complexity, there is still a limited understanding of how wild octopuses utilize and modify their arms.
In this new study, Chelsea Venice and her colleagues at Florida Atlantic University analyzed 25-minute video recordings of wild octopuses filmed in the Atlantic and Caribbean between 2007 and 2015.
The observed octopuses belonged to the species Octopus vulgaris or closely related species such as Octopus insularis and Octopus americanus.
The researchers documented which arms were used each time an octopus exhibited one of 15 distinct behaviors (like crawling).
They also noted the combinations of 12 different arm actions (e.g., curling) and four distinct deformations (e.g., extension) executed by each arm during these activities.
Researchers found that every octopus is capable of transforming all eight arms in four diverse ways, enabling every arm to perform all actions.
The study revealed that both sides of the body utilize arms equally, although the front four arms are more actively engaged than the rear four (64% versus 36%).
The front arms are primarily employed for exploring, while the rear arms primarily assist in movement.
Consequently, two actions are notably more frequent with the rear arms: rolling, where the arm glides along the seabed akin to a conveyor belt, and lifting, where the arm extends vertically downwards.
“Our findings are among the first to demonstrate that octopuses utilize specific limbs for designated tasks—a behavior previously only documented in primates, rodents, and fish,” stated the researchers.
“These discoveries could inform advancements in robotic arms designed to replicate the functionality of the octopus.”
This study was published this week in the journal Scientific Reports.
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Co Bennice et al. 2025. The flexibility of the octopus arm enhances complex behavior across various natural environments. Sci Rep 15, 31875; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-10674-y
Following 1i/oumuamua and 2i/borisov, 3i/atlas is the third object and has been confirmed as the second comet originating from outside the solar system.
This image from the Gemini North Telescope Multi-Object Spectrometer (GMOS-N) depicts the interstellar comet 3i/Atlas. Image credits: International Gemini Observatory/Noirlab/NSF/Aura/K. Meech, Ifa&U. Hawaii / Jen Miller & Mahdi Zamani, Noirlab.
The comet 3i/Atlas was identified on July 1, 2025, by the Asteroid Land Impact Trastor Alt System (ATLAS), a project supported by NASA.
Also referred to as C/2025 N1 (ATLAS) and A11PL3Z, the comet is approaching from the direction of Sagittarius.
Its orbit is the most dynamically extreme among the objects documented within the solar system.
“While aliens may not be the first to engage with us, 3i/Atlas has much to teach us, as it is merely the third recorded interstellar entity to traverse our solar system,” stated Jacqueline McClary, an astronomer at Northeastern University.
“All comet-like interstellar bodies are unique in that they are the only ones that have provided us with physical observations coming from outside our solar system. They serve as messengers from afar.”
“Given how rare it is to detect interstellar objects within our solar system, each discovery is distinct,” remarked Adina Feinstein, an astronomer at Michigan State University.
“3i/Atlas presents an opportunity to examine other solar systems closely, without the necessity of traveling to them.”
From the moment 3i/Atlas was observed, it was evident that it deviated from typical comet behavior. Initially, it appeared to emit an unusual light.
Comets are generally very dark, which makes them challenging for astronomers to detect initially.
As they near the sun, solar radiation prompts volatile compounds and ice to sublimate from their surfaces.
This process leads to the formation of a coma, which ultimately evolves into the iconic tail associated with comets across the night sky.
“Jupiter is positioned 5 AU from the Sun, and most comets need to approach closer for solar radiation to generate enough intensity to form this melted tail,” Dr. McClary said.
“Comet 3I/Atlas developed its coma at a considerably greater distance than typical, remaining beyond Jupiter’s orbit.”
3i/Atlas began to emit light far from the sun, prompting initial speculation that it could be an extraterrestrial spacecraft. What else could emit light so rapidly?
However, later observations suggested that it not only possesses a comet-like tail but is also rich in carbon dioxide.
The NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope has ultimately unveiled that comets are remarkable for attributes beyond their interstellar heritage.
Not only was it composed primarily of carbon dioxide, but it also exhibited an extraordinary ratio of carbon dioxide ice to water ice, the best ever documented.
This discovery allows for insight into the conditions that prevail in other solar systems and how such systems were initially formed.
“Clearly, the parent system of 3i/Atlas may have had a wealth of carbon dioxide, or perhaps a unique radiative process occurred that led to the depletion of other materials, leaving abundant carbon dioxide,” Dr. McClary remarked.
“By understanding the composition of this comet and comparing it with other interstellar comets, we gain insight into solar system formation across different environments.”
The precise origin of 3i/atlas remains elusive.
“It likely hails from the Milky Way’s bulge, but pinpointing its exact source will be challenging,” Dr. McCleary commented.
“For it to have escaped its parent solar system, the comet must have undergone a gravitational disturbance that altered its trajectory, setting it on its current path into the solar system.”
Nevertheless, scientists have gained a more intricate understanding of the comet, having observed it crossing Jupiter’s orbit since October, elucidating more about its characteristics.
The Juno satellite orbiting Jupiter is ideally suited to observe these interstellar visitors.
“We may be able to observe this comet with remarkable clarity. It could prove particularly intriguing as it nears the sun, causing significant carbon dioxide vaporization, so we can assess what remains,” Dr. McClary stated.
Gaining more knowledge about 3i/Atlas assists not only in comprehending the nature of other solar systems, but also in exploring the conditions under which sentient life might arise, given the uniqueness of our solar system.
“This serves as a window into the primitive materials of other solar systems, which is invaluable for refining models of solar system formation,” Dr. McCullilia said.
“Is our solar system common or rare? It appears to be relatively uncommon, offering us a way to quantify its uniqueness.”
“Investigating other solar systems places humanity in a broader context,” Dr. Feinstein remarked.
“One of the most profound questions we face is, are we alone in the universe? Each NASA mission brings us a step closer to answering this monumental question.”
“Capturing numerous observations of these interstellar objects, especially as they approach the sun, is crucial for understanding their behaviors,” noted John Noonan, an astronomer at Auburn University.
“These interstellar objects may not have been significantly warmed in millions, if not billions, of years, making it fascinating to study how they react to early thermal exposure.”
Ultra-processed foods might contribute to the growing obesity epidemic in children
UNICEF/UN0846048/Florence Gou
For the first time, a significant number of children worldwide are experiencing obesity rather than malnutrition. This trend signifies a critical shift in childhood nutrition. While many strategies exist to combat hunger, few address obesity specifically.
“Despite years of attempts to prevent obesity, particularly in children and adolescents, we are not achieving satisfactory outcomes,” notes Andrea Richardson from RAND, a California-based nonprofit research organization.
A new report by Harriet Torres from UNICEF Belgium and her team utilized data from a comprehensive study to evaluate the nutritional status of children aged 5 to 19. This initiative, called the Collaboration of Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factors, encompasses over 160 countries and territories, representing more than 90% of the global child population.
The findings indicate that global childhood obesity rates have nearly tripled since 2000, with around 9.4% of children classified as obese versus 9.2% who are undernourished. This marks a significant moment, as obesity now outnumbers nutritional deficiencies in children.
Most troubling is the sharp increase in obesity rates in low- and middle-income nations. “Over 80% of children facing overweight and obesity globally are from these regions,” highlighting that this is no longer merely a high-income issue; it’s a pervasive global concern.
This situation necessitates that governments and organizations rethink their strategies regarding childhood malnutrition. “We are observing not just nutritional deficiencies but all forms of malnutrition,” asserts Shivani Ghosh from Cornell University, New York. Unfortunately, effective methods to combat obesity are still lacking, unlike those available for hunger.
The UNICEF report criticizes the prevalence of ultra-processed foods in contributing to rising obesity rates among youth. These foods, made using industrial processes, typically contain additives and preservatives and are high in fats, sugars, and salts. Common examples include packaged snacks, candies, chips, and sodas. The report claims that ultra-processed foods contribute to at least half of the calorie intake for children in Australia, Canada, the U.S., and U.K., and about a third in some low- and middle-income countries such as Argentina and Mexico.
Numerous studies indicate that ultra-processed foods correlate positively with obesity rates. However, the policies aimed at reducing their consumption have seldom led to significant declines in obesity.
For instance, Mexico was the first country to impose a tax on certain high-calorie foods and sugar-sweetened drinks in 2014. Following this, sales for these items decreased, particularly among lower-income families. Adolescent obesity rates experienced only minimal change, notably impacting only teenage girls, similar to the outcome in the U.K. after a tax was levied on sugary drinks in 2018.
Conversely, Chile has implemented some of the strictest regulations regarding ultra-processed products. In 2016, it limited marketing for these foods and mandated warning labels for those high in calories, salt, saturated fats, and sugars. As a result, obesity rates among children aged 4-6 decreased by 1-3 percentage points within a year. However, the figures reverted to baseline by 2018, and in 2019, obesity rates in 14-year-olds rose by 2 percentage points, underlining the ineffectiveness of these measures.
Torless provides a different perspective, stating, “No single intervention is sufficient. Some countries are imposing soda taxes, others are labeling foods. While these efforts are commendable, a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach is essential for meaningful change.”
Thus, the report advocates for policies that enhance the availability and affordability of nutritious food, including grants and school meal programs. Furthermore, it highlights the critical role of nutritional education and poverty alleviation. “The same factors contributing to undernutrition parallel those causing overnutrition,” Richardson elaborates. “These issues stem from unsafe drinking water, lack of financial resources, and inadequate access to nutritious food.”
No nation has fully adopted all of UNICEF’s recommendations, leaving the question of their effectiveness in reducing obesity unanswered. “The underlying assumption is an increased consumption of unhealthy foods correlating with rising overweight and obesity rates,” remarks Ghosh. “This could partially explain the trends we’re seeing.”
“This truly needs to be seen as a major public health crisis,” concludes Richardson. “Our children are our future, and they deserve to be healthy. If they are not thriving, our future looks bleak.”
The camera trap captured footage of a jaguar swimming at least 1.3 kilometers on the island of Ceradam Saddam in central Brazil.
Interestingly, it’s suggested that the jaguar may have swum nearly twice that distance. To reach the island, it needed a 1 km swim to a smaller island, followed by a 1.3 km swim, or a direct 2.3 km swim from the mainland without a break.
“We speculate this cat used a small island as a stepping point,” said Leandro Silveira from the Jaguar Conservation Fund in Brazil. “In fact, I managed to swim a straight 2.3-kilometer stretch.”
Jaguar was snapped with a camera trap
Leandro Silveira/Jaguar Conservation Fund in Brazil
According to Silveira, this is the longest confirmed swim by a large cat documented through direct evidence. Jaguars are indeed powerful swimmers, adept at hunting caimans underwater. However, there have been no previous reports of them swimming beyond 200 meters at one time, according to Silveira.
In 2020, Silveira’s team placed multiple camera traps around Ceradam Saddam. In May that year, an adult male jaguar was recorded on the mainland. Fast forward four years to August 2024, and the same jaguar (recognized by its unique coat pattern) was detected on the island’s camera.
This adds to prior sightings, including a collared cougar that swam 1.1 km on Skaxin Island off the coast of Washington, indicating that local cougars might swim up to 2 km to various islands. Last year, two male lions were also photographed swimming in waterways in Uganda, with estimated distances of 1-1.5 km. Their motivation appeared to be reaching a woman calling from the other side.
The reasons behind the jaguar’s long swim remain unclear. “The island is relatively small,” Silveira explains. “As far as we are aware, it does not have an abundance of prey that would make it particularly appealing.”
The jaguar might have the capability to swim even further. Malaca – The Dipioca Islands are located over 5 km from the Brazilian coast. Potential mating with mainland jaguars.
Can scientists transfer animal brains to computers? The answer hinges on how we define “transfer” and “brain.” If we’re a bit flexible in our interpretation, it’s essentially already taking place.
Caenorhabditis elegans are minuscule worms found in soil and decaying plant matter. As multicellular eukaryotes, they technically qualify as animals.
This tiny worm never surpasses 1mm (0.03 inches) in length and is one of the most well-known organisms on Earth.
We have sequenced its genome and mapped all development, encompassing approximately 2,000 cells, including 300 neurons. The variations in this worm are minimal, but what differences do exist have been mapped.
Thus, scientists could model the entire brain on a computer, reproducing not just identical reflex behaviors as found in nature, but even training them to perform new tasks, such as balancing virtual poles (and yes, that’s true).
However, even if we liberally interpret our definitions, this scenario doesn’t entirely hold up.
The C. elegans brain was not uploaded in the conventional sense. Instead, it was replicated using data gathered from years of experiments involving thousands of these worms. There hasn’t been a method to accurately record and transfer the thoughts and memories of an individual creature to a computer.
Caenorhabditis elegans are tiny worms that thrive in soil and decaying vegetation – Image credit: Science Photo Library
Many believe brain uploads represent the future of humanity, viewing it as an “inevitable consequence” of advancements in neuroscience and artificial intelligence (AI), potentially leading to the ultimate solution to death.
Nevertheless, several significant challenges must be addressed before this can become a reality.
As our conscious minds are intricately constructed from the cells and chemicals within our skulls and nervous systems, we must find a way to fully interpret our brain states in exquisite detail.
Next, we need to create a software model that can accurately mimic brain behavior at the molecular, or perhaps even atomic, level.
Over a decade ago, scientists demonstrated that it was feasible to identify neurons and their connectivity in meticulously prepared mouse brains. These brains were stained, sliced to 70 nanometers thick, and then reconstructed into a 3D format using a computer. As expected, the mouse did not survive.
Many believe that brain uploads are the future of humanity – Image credit: Aramie
This serves as an example of a destructive scan. The methods many suggest as necessary for recording a brain in sufficient detail may lead to its destruction.
As medical imaging technology achieves higher resolutions, some speculate that we could one day scan all cell states non-destructively. However, such scans must be instantaneous; otherwise, parts of your brain could be considering new things before the scan finishes.
Could this be achievable with a recently deceased brain? Scientists indicate that it might be essential to scan the brain while it’s actively functioning to ensure all cells accurately model the intended behavior.
Today’s computers are remarkable, yet even the most optimistic futurists predict we may need a century before we can simulate at the atomic scale required.
Moreover, there’s a final profound question. If you can upload your brain non-destructively in 500 years…what happens next? You would exist in a virtual world as computer software, while the original version of you continues to think in your biological form, likely with a slight headache from the scan.
But if you are still alive, did you genuinely trick death? Clearly not. Instead, you’ve allowed for the creation of virtual duplicates that could be used according to their will. That’s a disconcerting thought.
This article answers the question posed by Darcie Walsh from Preston: “Can scientists upload animal brains to a computer?”
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The true narrative of How We Grow by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Matt Richtel raises significant concerns for parents observing their children approach adolescence.
Elanib was once a cheerful girl, but upon entering puberty, she underwent drastic changes seemingly without reason. Struggling to focus on her studies and battling depression, treatments proved ineffective. Despite her parents’ relentless support, her story ended tragically. “It wasn’t due to a lack of relationships or care,” her father recounts to Richtel. “I did everything I could to help her.”
In How We Grow, Richtel fuses interviews, scientific studies, historical context, and insights from prominent researchers to explore the roots of today’s potential mental health crisis among youth. This book highlights a sobering reality, painting a vivid picture of the profound changes that define this critical transition into adulthood.
Adolescence coincides with significant shifts in brain chemistry. As teens grapple with their identity, they often display rebellious, moody, and impulsive behaviours. Richtel also emphasizes that in many countries, adolescence is now beginning far earlier, with serious ramifications. For example, throughout the 19th century, American children typically entered adolescence four years later than they do today. Since 1900, the average age for American girls to start menstruating has dropped from 14 to 12, largely attributed to improvements in nutrition that accelerate bodily development.
The world has undoubtedly evolved. Our environments are now thoroughly mapped, technology ensures most people are physically safe and nourished. However, the spheres in which teenagers rebel have shifted towards their identities and ethics, increasingly occurring online, presenting more complex information and perspectives to navigate.
The noticeable decline in cases of bulimia and alcohol-related accidents among teenagers in the US may be attributed to this inward focus, yet the Covid-19 lockdown left many adolescents isolated at a time when personal interactions are crucial for developing emotional intelligence, disrupting their existing support networks.
This shift means the adolescent body matures faster while their brains remain underdeveloped, as Richtel notes. Generally, this does not lead to dire consequences, but the influence of the online environment is inconsistent.
While research on the effects of social media on mental health varies, How We Grow suggests it acts as a volume knob, amplifying pre-existing emotional states. Courtney, one interviewee who had her first period at age 10, encapsulates this notion perfectly.
Provocative yet reassuring, How We Grow offers insights into adolescence for both teens and parents, shedding light on the realities of growing up and how to navigate them more effectively. For me, navigating adolescent rebellion was less about striving for independence and more about reshaping the future for the next generation.
Chris Sims is an author based in Somerset, UK.
If you need someone to talk to, contact the Samaritans in the UK at 116123 (Samaritans.org); or the US Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 (988lifeline.org). You can also visit bit.ly/suicidehelplines for services in other countries.
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Artistic representations of the Juno spacecraft above Jupiter’s Antarctic region
NASA/JPL-Caltech
Recent findings suggest Jupiter is not as large as previously believed, based on over four decades of radius measurements.
As a gas giant, Jupiter lacks a solid outer shell like Earth. Nevertheless, astronomers determine its shape by examining how the gas height varies around Earth at a consistent pressure level.
The most accurate measurements of this gas pressure level date back to NASA’s Voyager and Pioneer missions over 40 years ago. These spacecraft utilized radio waves to transmit signals through Jupiter’s atmosphere to Earth, allowing scientists to gather data and compute gas pressure at specific altitudes, employing a method known as radio occultation.
Currently, Eli Garanti from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel and his team have been measuring Jupiter’s radius since 2016, using radio occultation data obtained from NASA’s Juno spacecraft, which has been orbiting the gas giant since that year. They report that Jupiter’s average size is approximately 8 kilometers less than previously estimated, particularly at the poles.
“According to the Juno Radio occultation, Jupiter is smaller and more oblate, with a reduced size at the equator,” Garanti mentioned at the Europlanet Science Congress (EPSC) held in Helsinki, Finland on September 11.
Garanti and his team conducted 13 radio occultations with Juno, compared to the six combined by the Voyager and Pioneer missions, and calculated the diameter based on known wind speed measurements of Jupiter. For a pressure equivalent to one bar of gas (Earth’s sea-level atmospheric pressure), the planet’s diameter was measured to be 142,976 kilometers at the poles and 133,684 kilometers at the equator.
“Understanding the exact radius is essential, but it also aids in revealing the inner workings of the planet,” noted Oded Aharonson at the Weizmann Institute of Science, who did not participate in this study. “These new constraints will enable more accurate models of Jupiter’s interior, which are often complex and challenging to explore.”
A recent survey reveals that 50% of British adults still carry physical wallets, while many opt for mobile phones and smartwatches to transport their payment cards.
Digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay have become the go-to payment methods for Generation Z and Millennials. In contrast, many individuals over 44 continue to depend on traditional debit and credit cards.
Four readers have shared their insights about wallets.
‘Not needed’
Alosh K Jose suggests that the shift to online and contactless payments post-Covid means there’s no necessity for a wallet anymore.
Photo: Alosh K Jose/Guardian Community
“It used to overwhelm me,” shares Alosh K. Jose from Newcastle upon Tyne. “Bringing it everywhere has become increasingly unnecessary.”
Josue states that the shift to online and contactless payments post-Covid means he doesn’t need a wallet. “All my bank cards are on my phone,” says the 31-year-old, who operates a business that provides local cricket sessions.
Despite being caught on a Spanish train during a widespread blackout that hit parts of Europe last April, Jose felt financially okay without too much cash.
“My fiancé and I traveled from Barcelona to Madrid, waiting five hours on the train before disembarking. [£8.70] Luckily, a few people shared cash with us, allowing us to catch the bus,” he recounts.
“If something similar were to happen in Newcastle, I’d be fine. There’s no language barrier even without physical cash.”
“I don’t want to risk my sensitive information being misused.”
Still favoring a physical wallet, Roger feels exposed when pulling his phone out.
Photo: Roger/Guardian Community
In Buckinghamshire, Roger, a retired IT professional, maintains both a wallet and a coin pouch. “Putting all my cards on my smartphone feels like risking everything at once,” he mentions.
At 69 years old, he prefers having physical cards on hand and feels vulnerable when taking out his phone. “Using it to pay at a store feels risky, and I worry about dropping it too often.”
“Having worked in security, I’m aware of the risks associated with personal information. I don’t want that window of potential misuse to be left open by using a digital wallet.”
Among his wallet’s contents, Roger holds cash, payment cards, reward cards, and even a snippet of a Times article from the 1980s.
Snippets from an article in the Times from the 1980s.
Photo: Roger/Guardian Community
“I prefer using physical cards – it’s about control.”
Georgina, part of Gen Z, finds it surprising how few people have wallets.
Photo: Georgina/Guardian Community
At 26, Georgina is astonished that many don’t have a wallet. “I always carry mine because I prefer to possess physical items instead of just digital equivalents,” she explains.
Her wallet includes a debit card, driver’s license, train cards, supermarket loyalty cards, and even £20 in emergency cash, along with an “overused business card from a taxi service.”
Georgina stands against the trend by not adopting digital wallets.
Photo: Guardian Community
As a member of Gen Z, Georgina, living in Leeds and developing online technology training courses, resists the trend of digital wallets.
“Call me old-fashioned, but I despise that idea,” she remarks. “Most of my friends use their phones to pay, and while I acknowledge it’s convenient—
“I cherish tangible things like cards and even nostalgic items like paper concert tickets. I prefer not to be overly reliant on my phone; it’s about having control. I used to worry about carrying my card, but now I find myself asking if I have cash.”
‘My wallet is essentially a generous phone case.’
Before receiving her first smartphone during the pandemic, Sarah Hayward carried a wallet “twice the size” of her current phone case.
Photo: Sarahayward/Guardian Community
Sarah Hayward, a 61-year-old artist from Worcester, mentions that her wallet has become “a generous phone case.”
Before getting her first smartphone during the pandemic, Hayward carried a wallet that was “double the size” of her current phone case. As an artist, she has often carried a digital camera. Now, her phone case has become a combination of all of her essentials.
While Sarah Hayward keeps a physical card, it remains hidden in her phone case.
Photo: Sarahayward/Guardian Community
“I carry bank cards, taxi cards from the airport, supermarket loyalty cards, season tickets from a local majestic home garden, annual travel insurance details, GHIC cards, my polaroid snapshots, and memories of my children with their partners from a recent Moroccan wedding, along with self-employment receipts and emergency cash.
“My phone also contains a video of my mother from four years ago before she passed away. It’s like a living wallet that has her presence in it.”
Hayward avoids digital payments as she finds physical cards much more “secure.” However, she acknowledges a downside to her preferred method: “There’s no space for lipstick and tissues.”
Individuals who indulge in beer, practice poor hygiene, share beds, and skip sunscreen could be more attractive to mosquitoes, according to a study focused on festival attendees.
In their investigation of mosquito attraction, Sarah Lynn Blanken from Radboud University Medical Center in the Netherlands, along with her team, attended the 2023 Lowlands Festival near Amsterdam. They surveyed 465 festivalgoers on their health habits, dietary choices, hygiene practices, sunscreen usage, substance consumption, blood type, and whether they had slept alone the previous night.
The researchers established a makeshift lab inside a shipping container with mosquitoes that had previously survived 1,700 prisoners of war (Anopheles Stephensi), which are capable of transmitting malaria.
While the mosquitoes sought to land on the participants, they couldn’t actually bite; 20-35 of the insects were placed in transparent plastic containers with perforated dividers to separate the arms of the participants from the mosquitoes.
The team recorded the number of times mosquitoes attempted to land on the arms of the festivalgoers for three minutes, comparing this to cotton pad decoys soaked in glucose.
“Mosquitoes showed a clear preference for individuals consuming hops and grapes, indicating a preference for well-hydrated bodies,” the researchers noted. “Those who drank beer experienced significantly more landings compared to individuals who were sober for at least 12 hours.”
Blanken highlighted, however, that this doesn’t mean she’s extending her beer consumption. “I just rely on long sleeves and insect repellent,” she stated.
The study also indicated that “participants who had companions in their tents the previous night seemed to attract more mosquitoes.” Sunscreen appeared to deter mosquitoes, likely by masking the scent of the skin or acting as a repellent. No evidence was found to suggest that different blood types influenced mosquito attraction or repulsion.
“Our findings indicate that mosquitoes were drawn to individuals who skimped on sunscreen, indulged in beer, and shared beds,” the team concluded. “They have a clear hedonistic preference among us.”
Festival participants place their arms in a partition where mosquitoes can try to land on them, but not actually do it
Roland Festival/National Wetenschapsagenda Netherlands
Cameron Webb from the University of Sydney mentioned that although it was an entertaining study, it involved only one species of mosquito, meaning the findings may not apply to others.
The researchers discovered that only four participants did not attract mosquitoes. “The key takeaway is that nearly all participants were alluring to mosquitoes seeking a blood meal, regardless of other variables,” Webb noted. “The reality is, as long as we focus on mosquito repellents and ponder why mosquitoes bite, we will still get bitten and increase our chances of encountering mosquito-borne diseases.”
The concept of “compassion fatigue” was initially introduced in relation to nurses who provide care, demonstrate compassion, and occasionally witness traumatic events.
Compassion fatigue consists of two main aspects: emotional exhaustion and potential secondary trauma from observing the suffering of others.
Moreover, it isn’t limited to nurses; individuals in caring and related professions—those who must engage emotionally with others—are also vulnerable. Even outside professional settings, if you invest considerable emotional energy into supporting someone else and witness their pain, you may be at risk.
Research conducted on nurses has shown that compassion fatigue manifests in at least two primary forms.
First, it can present as a sort of emotional numbness (think of it as a defensive reaction to shield yourself from complete emotional exhaustion).
Secondly, it can lead to physical symptoms, which can include stomach issues, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
A 2022 study featuring interviews with nurses yielded particularly noteworthy insights. For instance, one nurse described compassion fatigue as “a distinct type of exhaustion—cloudy, profound, like being enveloped in clouds or experiencing the fatigue of a hangover.”
Another nurse remarked about the emotional paralysis saying: “It’s akin to being a foil-covered person, deflecting everything… what is shared never truly reaches me… it just bounces off.”
Unfortunately, studies indicate that compassion fatigue can lead to a kind of façade. While one might outwardly appear caring and empathetic, internally, they may not genuinely feel these emotions.
This disconnection can be distressing and further intensify feelings of fatigue.
It can lead to questioning your own values (for instance, if I aspire to be a compassionate individual, why do I feel less concern for this person?).
The notion of “compassion fatigue” emerged in the context of nurses who provide care, compassion, and empathy – Credit: Getty Images
On a positive note, there is emerging research, though of varying quality, aimed at addressing and overcoming compassion fatigue.
A primary approach is to practice self-compassion, which involves allocating time for self-care and stepping back from the responsibilities of caring for others. This could include activities like walking in nature, practicing mindfulness, exercising, reading, watching television, or socializing with friends.
While this may sound straightforward, it can be challenging when you’re feeling emotionally depleted. A useful technique is to visualize the self-care advice you would give to a valued friend and apply that same counsel to yourself.
This article responds to the inquiry (from Yvonne Tevlin via email) “How can I overcome compassion fatigue?”
If you have questions, please email us atQuestion @sciencefocus.com or send a messageFacebook,Twitter, orInstagram(please include your name and location).
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When Architect Hen Degareg Bekele, in his early 30s, purchased a Volkswagen electric vehicle this year, he felt a degree of skepticism. His hometown, Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, faced not only frequent blackouts but also doubts regarding the vehicle’s quality.
Four months later, Degareg is pleased with his choice. He no longer has to endure long waits at gas stations due to the chronic fuel shortages in Ethiopia.
“Even if I arrive early in the morning, I still have to wait two to three hours. Often, they run out of gas before my turn comes,” he explains. “Owning an EV saves time. I have no regrets.”
Architect Deghareg Bekele at an EV charging station in Addis Ababa. Photo: Fred Harter
Until recently, electric vehicles were nearly unheard of in Ethiopia. However, last year, it became the first nation to prohibit the import of combustion engine vehicles. Today, EVs can be seen frequently in the capital, with China’s BYD being the most prevalent brand. Despite its recent rise to become the world’s largest EV manufacturer, Western brands remain popular.
According to the Ministry of Transport, out of the country’s total of 1.5 million vehicles, around 115,000 are electric. The goal is to boost this number to 500,000 by 2030.
Ethiopia leans towards a shift to EVs, despite challenges. Close to half of the 126 million population lacks access to electricity, and only20%have access at least 23 hours a day, with only a third connected to the grid. Frequent power outages hinder many factories from running efficiently.
These shortages are attributed to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which was completed earlier this month after 14 years of construction. With a maximum capacity of 5,150 megawatts, it aims to double Ethiopia’s current power generation, which is predominantly hydroelectric.
However, challenges persist, including the substantial costs involved in expanding electricity access to rural areas.
“Renewable energy has significant potential,” emphasizes Transport Minister Valeo Hassen, noting that the ban on fossil fuel vehicles aligns with Ethiopia’s green policies aimed at reducing urban pollution during peak hours.
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam located on the Blue Nile River in Guba, northwest Ethiopia. Photo: Anadolu/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
The primary motivation, however, is economic. Ethiopia spends about $4.5 billion (£3.3 billion) annually on fuel imports, a considerable burden for a country struggling with foreign currency shortages and widespread poverty. “This is one of our main expenditures,” notes Bareo.
In contrast, the country’s hydroelectric production is notably cost-effective. This has allowed it to attract skeptical drivers in Addis Ababa, who have witnessed fuel prices more than double over the past three years.
Taxi driver Fire Tilahun reports his monthly fuel expenses were around 20,000 Ethiopian Birr (£105), while now, charging his EV costs less than 3,000 Birr.
“I won’t go back,” he declares while charging at a new station in Addis Ababa. “Occasionally, there are power outages, but we manage.”
To further support EV adoption, Ethiopia implemented tax exemptions. Despite being expensive, in a nation where doctors average £60 monthly, the BYD model is priced at around 2.2 million Birr (£11,000). Meanwhile, combustion engine vehicles have skyrocketed in price due to 200% import taxes prior to the ban, distorting the used car market.
Efforts to foster local manufacturing are underway, albeit at a small scale. One notable site is managed by the Belayneh Kinde Group, an industrial conglomerate situated on the western outskirts of Addis Ababa.
An electric vehicle being assembled at a factory on the outskirts of Addis Ababa. Photo: Fred Harter
“We should not rely solely on imports,” Valeo states. “Our aim is to develop local production capacity to enhance skills and employment opportunities for our citizens.”
Yet, the sudden shift to EVs has been uneven. Drivers express concerns over insufficient preparation time. Currently, Ethiopia boasts just over 100 charging stations out of a target of 2,300, most of which are located in Addis Ababa. This limits road trips to rural areas that often experience more frequent blackouts, making it impractical for EVs beyond the capital.
Rema Wakugali recharging his electric vehicle, expressing the need for more charging stations. Photo: Fred Harter
At another charging station in Addis Ababa, Coffee Export Manager remarks that he is “genuinely satisfied” with his BYD, but wishes he could drive to Hawassa, a favored lakeside destination.
“They must construct more charging stations – it’s essential,” he insists. “There are too few in Addis. There are no electric vehicles operating outside the city. This car can travel 420km; what happens after that?”
Moreover, there are currently no plans to introduce electric versions of heavy trucks, which are vital for transporting most of Ethiopia’s imports from nearby Djibouti ports. As the fleet ages, the economic impact may be felt significantly.
The CEO of a prominent ride-hailing company in Addis Ababa reports that most of his drivers harbor doubts about the longevity of EV batteries and their resale value. Nevertheless, he remains hopeful that after his personal experience with an EV, the infrastructure will evolve to meet the growing demand.
“Initially, we believed this policy would fail due to inadequacies in power infrastructure, frequent blackouts, and a scarcity of charging stations,” he reflects.
A peculiar fossil skull discovered in a Greek cave over six decades ago may finally reveal some of its mysteries. Recent analysis indicates that at least 300,000 years ago, the early Homo sapiens coexisted with the first Neanderthals in Africa and Europe.
Unearthed in northern Greece in 1960, the Petrarona skull has long puzzled paleontologists, who are challenged to place it within the human lineage.
The fossil includes traits from Neanderthals and Homo erectus, yet it was found completely isolated, lacking artifacts or animal bones that could provide context for dating.
“The moment I examined and measured it, I realized it wasn’t a Neanderthal or Homo erectus,” stated Professor Chris Stringer, a paleontologist and co-researcher at the Museum of Natural History in London, in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “It was something unique.”
Stringer has long believed that the specimen belonged to our relative, Homo heidelbergensis, a robust human species that existed hundreds of thousands of years ago across Africa, Europe, and possibly Asia.
However, without a reliable date for the skull, understanding its place in the human narrative remained difficult.
A recent study utilized uranium series dating on the fossil’s calcite coating.
Calcite, one of the most common mineral forms of calcium carbonate, forms as water seeps into the pores and cavities, resulting in new mineral structures. This uranium series dating method estimates fossil ages by analyzing the calcite and measuring the decay level of uranium within it.
The findings suggest an age of approximately 286,000 years. Nevertheless, the methodology raises questions about the skull’s actual age.
“If fossil calcite forms swiftly after deposition in the cave, an age of around 288,000 to 290,000 years is plausible for the fossil,” Stringer noted.
“However, if the fossil was in the cave before the calcite developed, that age is a minimum estimate.”
The Petrarona skull, partially coated with calcite, is now estimated to be nearly 300,000 years old – Credit: Chris Stringer
Despite this caution, the timeline for Petrarona now closely aligns with another well-known Homo heidelbergensis skull from Kabwe, Zambia, which dates back about 300,000 years.
“Morphologically, they are similar and seem to be converging in their dating,” Stringer remarked.
This discovery underscores the idea that Homo heidelbergensis had a broad geographic presence and an extensive time span, overlapping rather than directly giving rise to other human species.
In simpler terms, contrary to earlier beliefs, they are not the common ancestors of modern humans and Neanderthals; Homo heidelbergensis was likely our contemporary for at least some time.
Stringer emphasized that this enriches our understanding of human evolution.
Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute and the Spanish Institute of Biology have mapped the female genome of the Atlas Blue Butterfly (Polyommatus atlantica), revealing 227 pairs of autosomes and four sex chromosomes, marking it as the organism with the highest chromosome count among all multicellular animals globally.
Atlas Blue Butterfly (Polyommatus atlantica). Image credit: Roger Villa.
The Atlas Blue Butterfly is native to the mountainous regions of Morocco and Northeast Algeria.
Previously suspected to have the highest chromosome count in the Animal Kingdom, this is the first instance where scientists have successfully sequenced the butterfly’s genome to confirm this assumption.
Variations in chromosome numbers are believed to facilitate the formation of new species and assist in adaptation to changing environments.
The Atlas Blue Butterfly belongs to a group of closely related species that have evolved rapidly over a short geological timeframe.
“The genome is crucial for understanding how organisms develop and what the future may hold,” stated Professor Mark Blaxter from the Wellcome Sanger Institute.
“To narrate the stories of our planet, we must explore various tales and observe their interactions.”
“Insights gained from one genome can also enrich our understanding of others.”
“For instance, chromosomal rearrangements are also present in human cancer cells, and investigating these patterns in the Atlas Blue Butterfly could lead to methods for mitigating cancer cell growth in the future.”
In their research, Professor Blaxter and his team discovered that chromosomal structure was altered due to less tightly packed DNA.
This indicates that while the amount of genetic information remained similar, it was organized into smaller segments.
Except for the sex chromosomes, all chromosomes were found to be fragmented, leading researchers to estimate a dynamic range of 24 to 229 chromosomes emerging over approximately 3 million years, a brief period in evolutionary terms.
Generally, such drastic chromosomal modifications are considered detrimental; however, the Atlas Blue Butterfly has thrived for millions of years.
Its population faces threats primarily from climate change and human environmental impact.
This study opens numerous avenues for future exploration.
Chromosomal division is thought to enhance genetic diversity by allowing for increased genomic mixing or possibly offering other unforeseen advantages.
While this may enable butterflies to adapt quickly, possessing numerous chromosomes can also introduce complications, potentially making them more susceptible to extinction in the long run.
Further studies comparing other butterfly species will clarify whether genes are lost or retained, offering greater insights into butterfly biology and evolution.
“Observing chromosomal degradation at this level is uncommon, yet evident in butterflies of other species, hinting at a significant need for exploration in this area,” noted Dr. Roger Villa, a researcher at the Evolutionary Biology Institute in Spain.
“Moreover, chromosomes hold the secrets of species, and examining how these changes influence butterfly behavior could help us form a comprehensive understanding of species emergence.”
“When we embarked on studying butterfly evolution, we realized that sequencing the extraordinary Atlas Blue Butterfly was essential,” remarked Dr. Charlotte Wright from the Wellcome Sanger Institute.
“This research emphasizes the collaborative spirit of scientific inquiry.”
“By examining how the chromosomes of the Atlas Blue Butterfly have split over time in specific environments, we can begin to uncover the potential benefits of this phenomenon, how it influences adaptability, and whether there are lessons in the DNA that could aid our future conservation efforts.”
The findings have been published in this week’s edition of Current Biology.
____
Charlotte J. Wright et al. Chromosomal evolutionary constraints revealed by the 229 chromosome pairs of the Atlas Blue Butterfly. Current Biology, published online on September 10th, 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.08.032
The sizable jaws of the predatory alxaurus species from the latest Triassic period in South Wales, Zanclodon cambrensis, have long captivated researchers. Could it be the oldest large theropod dinosaur? In a recent study, paleontologists from the University of Bristol and Cardiff’s National Museum examined the specimens using advanced 3D digital reconstruction techniques. They first confirmed that the specimens dated to the late Triassic period, likely sourced from the sandstones of the Kotam members of the Lilstock Formation. Anatomically, these specimens exhibit characteristics typical of theropod dinosaurs, potentially representing early, novel therapy-footed species such as Newtonsaurus cambrensis.
Two separate blocks containing the impression of the jaw Newtonsaurus cambrensis. Image credit: Evans et al., doi: 10.1016/j.pgeola.2025.101142.
“This specimen has been mentioned in various scientific papers, yet its identity remains elusive. We were uncertain if it was even a dinosaur,” states Dr. Owain Evans, a paleontologist at the University of Bristol.
“Originally named Zanclodon cambrensis by Edwin Tully Newton in 1899, we learned that the name Zanclodon had been abandoned as it referred to a broad range of early reptiles.”
“Therefore, we honor Newton by naming it Newtonsaurus. It stands apart from all other dinosaurs of that time and warrants a unique designation.”
Newtonsaurus cambrensis roamed the Earth approximately 202 million years ago during the late Triassic.
The fossil was uncovered in a tempestuous area near Bridgend, Wales, UK.
The specimen represents the natural form of the left jaw, revealing both its interior (housed at the National Museum of Wales) and the outer surface (held at the British Geological Survey).
“The natural form of the inner and outer jawbone displays astonishing serrated details along the grooves, ridges, teeth, and even the edges of the teeth,” commented Professor Michael Benton from the University of Bristol.
“We opted to create a 3D model utilizing digital photography.”
“Our process began with surface scans of the fossils through photogrammetry.”
“Once I obtained a digital scan, I reversed it which provided a digital negativity.”
“It was simply a matter of merging both sides and analyzing the anatomy from there.”
“Digital reconstructions derived from specimens give us a considerably clearer understanding of the original structure of the bone.”
Now that the fossils have been examined, the team could utilize their anatomy to ascertain their positions in the reptile family tree, determining importantly whether they are dinosaurs.
“We can assert that this specimen is highly likely a member of the large predatory theropod dinosaurs that inhabited the South Wales coast during the late Triassic,” Dr. Evans remarked.
“The arrangement of the teeth exhibits a distinct, extraordinary dinosaur feature, identifying it as a carnivorous predator.”
“If it’s not a true dinosaur, it closely ties to the origins of the two major divisions of Coelophysis, namely Coelophysodia and Averostra.”
“The most surprising aspect is the size of the creature. The preserved jawbone measures 28 cm in length and constitutes just the front half; originally, it likely corresponded to dinosaurs measuring 60 cm in length, with a total body length of 5-7 m.”
“This size is exceptionally large for Triassic theropods, which predominantly were under half that size.”
“Such historical specimens are invaluable in paleontology, frequently yielding new and enlightening insights, even after years of dormancy in collections,” stated Dr. Cindy Howells, a paleontologist at the National Museum in Cardiff.
“Wales holds a treasure trove of fossil records, with a dense concentration of fossils across the UK.”
“Furthermore, Newtonsaurus cambrensis reiterates the significance of Wales in paleontological exploration.”
“These Triassic strata are scarce worldwide, but several can be found in Wales.”
“It’s quite plausible that another dinosaur may be discovered here.”
Survey results were published online today in Proceedings of the Geologists Association.
____
Owain Evans et al. A reevaluation of a large orxaurial dentistry from the Late Triassic in South Wales, England. Proceedings of the Geologists Association published online on September 11th, 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.pgeola.2025.101142
“There are two fundamental causes of dissatisfaction with climate policy: economy and culture.”
Alex Ramsay/Alamy
I have previously discussed protests in my UK hometown. The local council proposed increasing parking fees to reduce driving in contaminated areas. Ultimately, the council faced opposition and raised fees far less than they initially planned.
This scenario illustrates “green backlash,” a term referring to the rising opposition against environmental policies in affluent nations. Such resistance is often tied to a surge in support for right-wing populist parties, like Reform UK. The effectiveness of this can be seen in how Reform leads recent polls among UK voters as the next general election approaches.
This trend poses a challenge for the environment. Without government action, achieving significant progress on climate change becomes unlikely, but such initiatives can inadvertently empower anti-environment parties. Research indicates that the presence of right-wing populists in Europe slows down policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing renewable energy.
Recent studies published in Nature Climate Change suggest that there are strategies to counteract green backlash. Led by Valentina Bosetti at Bocconi University in Milan, researchers analyzed existing literature on green backlash to better understand its causes and potential remedies.
The findings reveal two primary sources of concern regarding climate policies: economic and cultural. Economic concerns arise from the financial burden of policies, such as increased parking fees in urban centers. Cultural concerns include a widespread mistrust of politicians and scientific authorities. Together, these factors significantly undermine support for parties promoting environmental policies, often driving voters toward opposing right-wing parties.
A notable case study that embodies both concerns occurred in Ontario, Canada. In 2009, the provincial government curtailed community input and halted the development of new wind power projects following protests from over 50 activist groups. Despite wind power’s popularity in Ontario, this localized backlash seemed to influence elections. In October 2011, the ruling Ontario Liberals lost their majority, particularly in districts with existing or proposed wind farms. Similar resistance to wind power has also occurred in Sweden and Germany.
“
Researchers discovered that opposition to wind power diminishes when subsidies are offered. “
The shift towards encouraging electric vehicles has also faced backlash from those affected, particularly within the traditional automotive sector. In the 2016 US elections, Donald Trump garnered an average of 3 percentage points in counties with auto parts manufacturers. Researcher interviews with workers revealed that fears surrounding the EV transition influenced their support for Trump.
This paints a rather somber picture: governments attempting to implement positive environmental changes encounter resistance, which could lead to policy rollbacks or electoral losses. Often, they are supplanted by parties that neither pursue such policies nor recognize their urgency.
However, it’s important to note that while cultural factors may alienate some towards right-wing populism, they do not create a majority. Economic grievances, however, are addressable. For instance, Bosetti found that opposition to wind power significantly decreases when government subsidies are available and when local job creation hinges on such projects. Safeguarding jobs and upskilling workers may mitigate fears of unemployment and skill obsolescence, she suggests. It could be that straightforward.
Furthermore, there is considerable yet often underestimated support for policies that promote environmentally friendly practices. US researchers recently surveyed adults about their views on issues like reducing food waste, consuming less beef, installing home solar systems, adopting EVs, purchasing carbon offsets, and other climate-friendly behaviors. Most people expressed support for them. However, a significant gap exists between participants’ perceptions of overall support for these initiatives and the reality. Politicians often convey a distorted message; don’t let the appeal of green policies falter simply because of misinterpretations.
In York, the upcoming local election in 2027 is anticipated to focus on parking fees as a critical issue, with concerns about green backlash influencing voter decisions.
Graham’s Week
What I’m reading
Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett.
What I’m watching
Revisiting the BBC adaptation of Dracula on Netflix in preparation for my upcoming trip to Transylvania.
What I’m working on
An article for the Christmas issue. Honesty is key.
Graham Lawton is a staff writer at New Scientist and author of Don’t Complain: The Incredible Science of Everyday Illnesses. Follow him on Twitter @grahamlawton.
Mobile phone chargers require precise quantum measurements
ShutterStock/Zoomik
If you’re anything like me, your smartphone is almost always connected to a charger. What we often overlook is that the capacity to safely conduct intricate quantum measurements in cutting-edge physics hinges on safety standards.
To grasp this, consider what occurs when you connect the charger to a standard socket. The electricity flowing from the outlet exceeds 100 volts, yet the charger is engineered to reduce it to around a dozen volts as it reaches the phone. Without this voltage reduction, the device would be damaged.
Essentially, the precise voltage matters in a specific way. But how can one truly know the value of a single volt? Moreover, when reporting voltages, can we fully trust the manufacturers of phone chargers?
This may appear to be merely a scientific query; however, in the U.S., the volt has a legal definition established in 1904, governed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Various countries maintain their own national measurement units for the same purpose, such as the UK’s National Physics Institute.
For volts, NIST’s definition has relied on quantum devices for over three decades. In this process, the metrologist begins with a series of superconducting junctions—like crosswalks in narrow superconducting regions separated by insulation—and exposes them to microwaves of extremely specific frequencies. This stimulates a purely quantum phenomenon that creates voltage differences across junctions. The number of volts contributing to this difference is directly linked to two of the universe’s fundamental constants. This allows scientists to define a volt based on what we understand as foundational to our physical reality.
Specifically, the two constants involved are Planck’s constants that connect the charge of an electron—a fundamental quantum particle—to the energy of a photon (a quantum particle of light) and its frequency. Remarkably, the connection between charging a mobile phone and the most basic elements of the quantum realm is quite brief.
However, volts are not solely entrenched in the quantum realm. In fact, in 2018, metrologists globally unanimously voted to redefine several entries in the International System of Units (SI Units) with close ties to microscopic details.
Some unit changes were quite radical. For instance, kilograms are now defined in terms of a combination of Planck’s constant, the speed of light, and the frequency at which electrons in a specific type of atomic clock “click,” derived from platinum alloy polished only by the hide of endangered European goats. If you’ve recently stood on a scale at your doctor’s office, you’re witnessing how quantum physics influences the numbers displayed there.
The shift towards quantum-based definitions of units underscores the remarkable scientific advancements achieved in the past decades concerning our understanding, control, and exploration of the microscopic world. For example, I spoke in January with Alexander Epri at the University of Colorado Boulder, a key player in developing some of the most accurate clocks globally. “Frequency measurements have reached unprecedented levels of precision,” he noted. The frequencies from these clocks are linked to the electron transitions between energy levels within atoms, governed by quantum physics.
This extraordinary control over quantum systems places humans at the “top tier” of quantum measurements, yielding benefits beyond merely defining time. For example, atomic-based clocks may play vital roles in next-generation early warning systems for earthquakes and volcanic activities.
Moreover, the move towards quantum methodology could democratize access to the world’s premier metrics. Before the 2018 SI unit redefinition, manufacturers, researchers, and technicians needing to validate the accuracy of their devices often had to seek certification at local Metrology Institutes, where certified experts operated. The current standard for certification essentially requires sophisticated labs. “As we’ve mentioned previously, the aim is to put ourselves out of business,” Richard Davis from the International Bureau of Weights and Measures stated, which oversees SI systems. “The entire system has become more adaptable and significantly less Euro-centric.”
“We possess ample equipment, so individuals come to us. However, this redefinition is one of our focal points since people aren’t sending their instruments to us; we’re teaching them how to measure independently,” Jason Underwood explained to me in August. “Currently, this framework operates under the new SI. Our aim is to develop instruments that can establish traceability to the basic constants of the universe.”
He and his team recently introduced a prototype of a quantum device capable of measuring three distinct electrical units simultaneously, including volts. By offering this three-in-one functionality, such devices could make it much simpler and more cost-effective to compare electronic devices against relevant standards, assuming they remain portable.
As we have evolved our understanding of units, what might the future hold? For electrical units like those designed by Underwood and his team, the Quantum Standard has yet to achieve international acceptance akin to the second or kilogram, with further experiments necessary to reach that milestone. Similar innovations are emerging in other parts of the world, including the EU-based Quahmet Consortium.
The concept of the second, too, is fluid, reflecting researchers’ ongoing endeavors to refine atomic-based clocks and redefine our understanding of time measurement. In April, I reported on some cutting-edge timepieces created by an international team on a mission to compare models from Japan, Germany, and other nations. This research is ongoing, and I look forward to sharing more about quantum clocks in the future.
Despite metrologists’ pursuit of stability in definitions, measurement work is inherently variable, tied closely to national funding strategies and international relations. This was evident in 1875, as representatives of the first international measurement treaty confronted political tensions between France and Germany following the Franco-Prussian War. This remains relevant today—as I reported on NIST’s work in August, discussions included the institutional infrastructure’s challenges, highlighted by a proposed 43% budget cut by the Trump administration earlier this year. Though Congress ultimately dismissed this proposal, it underscores the complexities of disentangling Metrology Institute operations from national politics.
Unusual clouds form on the Arcia Mon, a volcano on Mars every year.
ESA/DLR/FU Berlin/J. Cowart CC by-sa 3.0 Igo
The delicate clouds that appear on Mars annually have intrigued astronomers since their initial discovery, likely stemming from a water-rich atmosphere that seems implausible.
Each winter, clouds spanning 1,800 kilometers form near the Arsia Mons, located in the southern hemisphere of Mars, emerging and dissipating daily for nearly three months. The atmospheric conditions on Mars vastly differ from Earth’s, notably with an abundance of fine dust particles that can cause water vapor in the atmosphere to condense into cloud particles. This results in cloud patterns unique to Mars, yet simulations accounting for these high dust levels do not replicate the distinct features of the Arsia Mons Cloud.
Now, Jorge Hernandez Bernal from the University of Sorbonne in France and his team propose that an exceptionally high amount of water vapor in the atmosphere could recreate these cloud characteristics. Elevated levels of water vapor aid in cloud particle formation through alternative dust-free processes known as homogeneous nucleation.
When researchers conducted atmospheric simulations around Arsia Mons that featured increased water content, the resulting cloud formations bore a striking resemblance to the actual clouds.
“Uniform nucleation necessitates much greater water levels on Mars. [Water] saturation is required. Initially, I believed this to be improbable or extremely unlikely on Mars,” said Hernandez Bernal at the Europlanet Science Congress (EPSC) on September 10th, held in Helsinki, Finland. “However, over the last decade, we’ve discovered that Mars can indeed exhibit supersaturation.”
Ibex can navigate gracefully across steep mountain terrains
Serge Goujon/Shutterstock
Nearly 300,000 years ago, Neanderthals had already devised strategies for hunting goats on vertical cliffs and managing them in well-structured camps.
Typically recognized for ambushing large animals in flat meadows and forests of Western Europe, Neanderthals seemed to adapt to the hilly landscapes of Eastern Europe by incorporating the lightweight ibex into their hunting practices. Early humans skinned these animals in nearby caves, but only after the bones had been covered and fractured. Stephen Milosevic from the University of Belgrade in Serbia.
“The approach to hunting ibex is entirely distinct since they inhabit robust, steep, and barren terrains,” he explains. “Now we observe primitive Neanderthals who barely distinguish themselves as a separate species, already utilizing an ecological niche previously unexploited by humans.”
Neanderthals evolved approximately 400,000 years ago, yet most of our knowledge stems from sites in Western Europe that are under 150,000 years old. According to Marie Helen Monsel, who was not involved in this research at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris, it’s crucial to uncover clues that can bridge the gaps in our understanding of Neanderthal timelines, habitats, and cultures.
Since that discovery, Milosevic and his colleagues have excavated hundreds of stone tools and analyzed the bone fragments of approximately 30,000 animals within the cave. Almost three-quarters of these fragments are less than two centimeters long, with the majority traceable to ibex and red deer hunted in spring and summer, indicating that Neanderthals likely resided in the cave seasonally.
Some bones, particularly those from the legs of larger deer, exhibited burn marks and were cracked open. This suggests that these early Neanderthals may have liquefied the bones, leaving remnants scattered on the walls surrounded by the grease that fueled their fires. Others may have shown signs of tendon harvesting for use in ropes or nets.
The deer remains indicate the presence of older youths and adults, pointing to selective hunting practices that would promote herd survival, according to Milosevic. However, ibex were hunted at all life stages. Neanderthals seemed to be “novices” when it came to hunting goats, implying they likely relied on sharp sticks and rudimentary traps. “They must have experienced a significant number of failed attempts,” he notes.
Apart from these favored food sources, researchers have also found several remains from wild boars, cave bears, wolves, foxes, leopards, and even various birds.
The arrangement of the bones in various sections of the cave indicates a clear division of tasks. For instance, the hearth was located centrally, with discarded bones stacked behind it, while the entrance appeared to function as a tool workshop.
In summary, the findings suggest “notable cognitive flexibility,” states Jose Carrion from the University of Murcia in Spain. “This confirms that Neanderthals are creative problem-solvers who effectively navigate complex habitats with ingenuity and skill. Neanderthals were indeed human. They were intellectual, social, and highly adaptable.”
“The discoveries from Baranica provide a glimpse of Neanderthals who not only display resilience but are experimenting with strategies and social structures typically associated with later periods,” commented Antonio Rodriguez Hidalgo from the Archaeological Institute in Merida, Spain. “This reminds us that Neanderthal sophistication is not a gradual developement but rather a deep-rooted flame that ignited early in human history.”
Neanderthals, ancient humans, cave art: France
Join new scientist Kate Douglas on an enchanting journey through time as she explores significant Neanderthal and Upper Paleolithic sites across southern France, from Bordeaux to Montpellier.
French legislators are urging state prosecutors to look into whether Tiktok is jeopardizing the safety of its younger users.
Socialist MP Arthur Delaporte leads a six-month investigation by the French Parliament into the psychological effects of Tiktok on minors, citing testimonies from families, social media leaders, and influencers.
He stated in an interview with French Fos: “The evidence is clear. Tiktok intentionally endangers the health and safety of its users, which is why we have brought this matter to the attention of Paris prosecutors.”
He added, “This may also represent perjury, especially when Tiktok executives claimed they were unaware of the situation.”
It will be up to the prosecutor to determine if an investigation should be initiated into the widely used short video platform.
The French Parliamentary Committee was created following the 2024 French lawsuit to assess Tiktok and its psychological effects.
The Final Report from the Parliamentary Committee, released on Thursday, described Tiktok as akin to “slow poison” for children. Laure Miller, a centrist MP co-leading the investigation, remarked that Tiktok is a “sea of harmful content” that algorithmically targets vulnerable children.
The report suggests that social media use should be entirely prohibited for those under 15 in France, and that a “digital curfew” should be imposed for users aged 15 to 18.
Additionally, it calls for a large public relations initiative aimed at “irresponsible parents” who fail to supervise their children’s social media activities, along with the creation of a new offense for “digital negligence.”
Delaporte emphasized that these recommendations aim to stimulate societal discussions. He stated, “The primary focus is on European regulations and how to compel platforms to modify their algorithms.”
A spokesperson for Tiktok responded, “We strongly refute the misleading claims from the platform committee that aims to blame us for broader industry challenges. Tiktok has over 70 features and settings tailored to support teenagers and their families.”
An executive from Tiktok, a subsidiary of the Chinese company Bytedance, informed the French parliamentary committee that the app employs AI-powered moderation, which last year successfully identified 98% of content violating its terms of service in France.
Emmanuel Macron’s administration has expressed interest in a ban on social media for children and young people, following Australia’s development of landmark legislation prohibiting access for individuals under 16.
Geraldine, whose 18-year-old daughter tragically took her own life, told Agence France-Presse that she discovered a self-harm video her daughter had posted on Tiktok after her passing.
“Tiktok didn’t cause our daughter’s death, but we hold Tiktok accountable for its inadequate online moderation, which plunged her deeper into her darker impulses.”
Agence France-Presse and Reuters contributed to this report
Feedback brings you the latest science and technology news, featuring intriguing articles that pique the interest of our readers. If you have something you believe deserves attention, you can reach us at Feedback@newscientist.com.
Super Hornet
One of my preferred categories in news stories is “events that echo the first five or ten minutes of a disaster flick.” Titles like “Tremors near Major City” and “Scientists Develop an Aging Robot with Machine Guns for Arms” come to mind. For example, a giant mysterious black sarcophagus discovered in Egypt (yes, this one is real).
The nest was identified on the Savannah River grounds close to Aiken, South Carolina, a location previously known for producing nuclear bomb components during the Cold War and currently housing millions of gallons of liquid nuclear waste. Investigators, however, calmed down concerns by stating none of the tanks were leaking. Rather, the nest was discovered to be harboring “onsite legacy radioactive contamination,” which refers to leftover contamination from past plutonium production.
Notably, the nest was sprayed to eliminate any wasps, subsequently bagged as radioactive waste. Thankfully, no bees were found, leading to speculations that they might have perished from radiation exposure and mutated into some chaotic form. However, I’ve watched enough Godzilla films to know that radiation typically causes creatures to grow rather than disappear. Let’s hope 2025 doesn’t bring a giant radioactive hornet invasion along the East Coast.
As a precaution, we dug out our aging copies of New Scientist‘s book Do You Eat Wasps? to learn that various creatures, including badgers and birds (of course), prey on striped insects, along with other insects like dragonflies. We consider sending badger families to the Savannah River site due to the substantial radiation; it seems like the only effective solution.
What to do if Your Dog Takes Cocaine
Reporter Matthew Sparks was combing through a press release when he stumbled upon a intriguingly phrased title. “What to do if your dog takes cocaine?” Instantly, the first suggestion from Feedback was to “take it for a walk,” but that’s neither a solution nor appropriate.
This press release referred to a Clinical Report relating to a case of a Chihuahua who experienced “acute onset of lethargy and a temporary episode of unresponsiveness.” It was revealed that the dog’s urine contained “cocaine, cocaine metabolites, norfentanyl, and trace amounts of fentanyl.” This mixture appeared to slow the dog’s heartbeat, an issue that was effectively managed by the attending veterinarian.
While the dog is fine now, it’s challenging to envision how bewildered the Chihuahuas must have been.
Upon further exploration, I found that dogs have a “history of culinary indifference.” This makes sense. I recall a rather dim spaniel we had that ate everything she discovered on the ground, despite its unsanitary nature and the chaotic aftermath on her digestive system. Living where we did, this predominantly consisted of discarded takeaway boxes and heaps of fox excrement. Still, one wonders what she might have sampled if we’d taken her for a stroll around Soho, London.
Curtailing Academic Jargon
Feedback often finds themselves perusing the references list at the end of academic papers, seeking crucial context. Many of these appear as structures like “Thomas, Richard & Harold, “The Very Complex Things”, Nature Vol. 13 P 666 (1984).”
In an effort to save space, academic journal titles are frequently abbreviated, and these can often be perplexing. For example, we were recently bemused to discover a journal abbreviated simply as Fish fish. Was the editor particularly enthusiastic about vertebrates that inhabit freshwater? Turns out the complete title is actually Fish and Fisheries.
Our curiosity sparked, leading us to wonder if this was indeed the most absurd abbreviation of a journal title.
There are evident trends. For instance, “analysis” tends to be abbreviated to “anal,” which can lead to unfortunate titles such as Advances in Risk Analysis becoming ADV risk anal and Accident Analysis and Prevention being shortened to Before the Accident Analysis. Similarly, many journal titles include library-related terminology, helping to explain why Zeitschrift Für Bibliothekswesen und Bibliographie is humorously abbreviated as Z bibl bibl.
Several abbreviated titles may risk creating confusion. The American Chemical Society has launched a whole series titled Advances in Arsenic Research, but it certainly didn’t yield what we anticipated.
The sheer number of journals paired with feedback’s limited lifespan means it’s nearly impossible to locate the most ridiculous abbreviation. Therefore, we’d like to invite a broader audience to help in our quest for the funniest journal title abbreviations.
Have you shared your feedback?
You can send your stories to feedback at feedback@newscientist.com. Don’t forget to include your address. Explore past feedback on our website.
It’s no surprise that stress is a key factor in various health issues, including mental health disorders like anxiety and depression, as well as physical ailments such as heart disease. There’s an urgent need for a straightforward, objective, and non-invasive method to study and assess stress. Interestingly, the temperature of an individual’s nose might provide valuable insights.
Our stress levels are shaped by our mental perceptions of situations and our physical responses to them. Factors such as genetics, social influences, and cultural backgrounds contribute to our unique stress responses.
Traditionally, stress has been measured in two ways. First, surveys are commonly used, typically administered after stress has occurred, which can disconnect participants from their immediate experiences. These surveys are also subjective; not everyone accurately identifies or articulates their feelings.
The second approach involves monitoring physical indicators like blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory patterns. While these measures can appear more objective, they require specialized equipment in clinical settings, which can disrupt daily life. Ironically, the process of testing can itself induce stress, leading to an increase in the very markers being measured.
Exciting advancements in science suggest that thermal imaging, originally designed for identifying heat loss in structures, is now proving invaluable in tracking medical conditions related to temperature variations, such as infections, inflammation, and tumors. Researchers are now utilizing thermal cameras to assess stress levels based on facial temperature changes. Their research explores how temperature variations in the face can indicate stress.
When we experience stress, blood flow is redirected within our bodies. The nervous system prioritizes blood flow to vital sensory organs, such as the eyes and ears, while reducing blood circulation to the nose. This reduction in blood flow is detected as a decrease in temperature by thermal cameras. This phenomenon, known as “nose dip,” isn’t exclusive to humans; it has also been observed in both adults and children, as well as in nonhuman primates, suggesting an evolutionary connection to stress responses.
While undergoing stress, our nervous systems can redirect blood flow to heighten sensory awareness, resulting in a cooler nose. Since the nose remains relatively still, these temperature changes can serve as a clear indicator of stress.
The integration of thermal imaging with existing stress measurement techniques could revolutionize stress research. This method offers continuous monitoring in a non-intrusive manner, eliminating the need for lab environments or stressful questionnaires.
In the future, we may be able to utilize nose temperature as a form of biofeedback to help manage stress levels. This approach could support individuals—especially those who struggle to communicate their stress—by allowing for the monitoring of stress levels in high-pressure environments such as emergency rooms, trading floors, or even zoos.
Studies indicate that recognizing stress responses can enhance stress management. Making stress visible allows individuals to better understand its impacts on their mental and physical well-being before, during, and after stressful situations. The future of stress research promises to be groundbreaking.
Gillian Forrester is a professor of comparative cognition at the University of Sussex, UK. Tune in to hear her speak at New Scientist Live on October 18th.
Fermented foods like kimchi can support your body and brain
Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images
fermentation Tim Spector (Jonathan Cape (UK); US publication date TBC)
Humans are drawn to fermentation for two primary reasons: preservation and pleasure. Before the advent of refrigeration, fermentation allowed beverages like meads to be stored for months when untreated water could pose dangers. Additionally, milk that would spoil within a day could be transformed into yogurt or cheese, lasting for weeks. This evolution led us to develop a taste for these tangy flavors. The microorganisms responsible for creating these delights not only produced unique drinks but also offered numerous health advantages.
Today, foods like kimchi and sauerkraut are mostly solid. However, Dr. Tim Spector asserts in his upcoming book Fermentation: The Power of Microorganisms to Change Your Life that this trend is not novel; we have evolved to incorporate these items into our diets.
He begins with the fundamentals, explaining that fermentation is essentially the transformation of food by microorganisms. This process is complex, affecting not only the taste and durability of food but also our health. Even inactive microbes can influence our bodies and minds.
Fermentation closely ties to our microbiota. Fermented foods provide substrates for intestinal microorganisms, transforming into nutrients and active compounds like short-chain fatty acids that assist in regulating nutrition and immune responses. These foods bolster the beneficial microbes that uphold the gut’s mucosal barrier and reduce inflammation.
Fermented foods also introduce millions of probiotics to our bodies. Spector notes that a diverse microbiota correlates with better health, supported by numerous studies. He suggests that enhancing this diversity through fermented foods could even influence the efficacy of cancer treatments.
“
Improving gut microbiota diversity may even play a role in how well cancer treatments work “
The most compelling aspect of Fermentation is its exploration of this “microbial pharmacy,” with preliminary studies indicating that fermented products are tied to improvements in everything from irritable bowel syndrome to anxiety and immune health.
Spector’s own investigations, reflecting trends in nutritional studies, suggest that those who consume fermented products regularly report approximately 14% less severe symptoms compared to individuals taking other supplements.
This book includes fascinating information. For instance, despite attempts to cultivate around 30 distinct microorganisms found in natural kefir grains (ideal for making kefir), laboratories haven’t successfully replicated them.
Throughout Fermentation, it becomes apparent how crucial microorganisms are to our lives, merely scratching the surface of their interactions with us. Access to Spector’s health data often supports further research, although his company’s gut supplements are mentioned, potentially hinting at marketing motivations.
At its best, the book strikes a balance between science, medical anecdotes, and Spector’s personal fermentation journey, offering practical advice. During these moments, the writing appears genuine and accessible, especially when guiding readers on food choices, like opting for kefir made from whole milk grains, which include numerous microorganisms and yeast.
Nevertheless, Fermentation can occasionally feel repetitive, and knowledge sometimes overshadows storytelling. Despite Spector’s caution against overgeneralizing animal studies, the infancy of research in this area means he often relies heavily on his own conclusions. Still, this is a compelling and meticulously researched work. The final chapter is particularly intriguing, and I eagerly anticipate a future rich with understanding individual microorganisms— for instance, how cheese or yogurt might aid in alleviating depression or managing menopause.
Initially hesitant to ferment at home, I was encouraged to embark on my own experiments by around page 40. By the book’s conclusion, I had a jar of kombucha and some sauerkraut stashed away in my pantry.
Helen Thomson is a London-based author
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Larry Ellison, the co-founder of Oracle, is having a remarkable year. With his friend Donald Trump residing in the White House, and his son, David Ellison, taking the helm of the esteemed media company CBS, he recently outpaced his partner Elon Musk to claim the title of “The World’s Richest Person.”
The buzz around Oracle’s stock has further boosted his wealth, bringing Ellison’s net worth to an impressive $393 billion, overtaking Musk’s $384 billion.
While he may not have the same popularity as Musk, Ellison’s impact on Silicon Valley and the political landscape is significant. He is renowned for his extravagant lifestyle, which includes a massive yacht, a private jet, multiple marriages, and ownership of the entire island of Lanai in Hawaii.
At 81, this tech mogul has built a fortune through software development since the 1970s. He co-founded Oracle after securing a two-year contract to develop a database for the CIA. Academy of Achievement. Oracle has grown into a tech giant, creating software for Fortune 500 companies worldwide and making strides in cloud computing. The rise of artificial intelligence has further benefited the company, leading to fruitful partnerships with OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT.
“AI is a much bigger deal than the Industrial Revolution, electricity, and everything that has come before,” Ellison emphasized during an interview with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair in February.
Having served as Oracle’s CEO for 37 years before becoming Chief Technology Officer in 2014, Ellison continues to lead the board and retains over 40% ownership of the company. Notably, Oracle’s headquarters relocated from Silicon Valley to Austin, Texas, in 2020.
In addition to Oracle, Ellison was on Tesla’s board from 2018 to 2022, holding shares in Musk’s electric vehicle company. According to Forbes, he also owns nearly 50% of Paramount Skydance, a media conglomerate managed by his son David. The company encompasses CBS, MTV, Paramount Pictures, among others. Young Ellison claims that media firms stay clear of political affiliations, yet he is close to Bari Weiss, a controversial figure who co-founded the Free Press to head CBS News.
Ellison’s Connections to Trump and Netanyahu
Ellison has deep ties to the Republican Party and a close relationship with Trump, dating back to his first term. Ellison has often dined at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort and met him in the Oval Office. Oracle has positioned itself as a lead buyer of popular social media platforms as Trump has delayed a Supreme Court ruling that could ban TikTok unless it is sold.
“In Larry, in Larry Ellison, that goes far beyond technology,” Trump remarked in a press conference shortly after taking office. “He’s a great guy and a great businessman.”
Ellison is also closely connected to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and has made substantial contributions to the Israeli military through a nonprofit benefiting Israeli Defense Forces. In 2017, he made a record donation of $16.6 million. Oracle did not respond to inquiries from the Guardian about any recent donations.
Ellison has hosted Netanyahu and numerous high-profile officials and celebrities on his extensive estate in Lanai. According to Bloomberg, he purchased 98% of the island in 2012, transforming it into a luxury Four Seasons Resort and a hydroponic farm that produces lettuce and other vegetables. Local residents have shared their concerns over the rapid transformation of their island from a sleepy military base to an ultra-rich destination.
Musk, a close friend and competitor of Ellison in the realm of wealth, is a regular visitor to Lanai and considers Ellison a mentor. During a recent podcast with Texas Senator Ted Cruz, Musk referred to Ellison as one of the smartest individuals he’s ever encountered.
“Larry Ellison is incredibly intelligent,” Musk noted. “I believe he is one of the smartest people.”
A collision with an asteroid in an incorrect spot can increase the likelihood of it hitting Earth unintentionally.
Bladaki/Shutterstock
If an asteroid were on a collision course with Earth, is it possible to alter its trajectory without worsening the predicament? Indeed, thanks to a new system designed to identify the optimal strike point on incoming asteroids.
Diverting an Earth-bound asteroid is a high-stakes operation, and we have little practical experience with it. In 2023, NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) demonstrated for the first time that it’s possible to divert asteroids by impacting them with spacecraft.
However, engaging in such missions carries risks. Altering an asteroid’s orbit can push it through a narrow window, known as a gravity keyhole, where the gravitational pull from a larger body like Earth may alter its trajectory enough to eventually cause a collision with our planet.
Now, Rahir Macadia from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and his team have devised a system to determine the best impact sites for satellites to reduce this risk. By analyzing data from the DART mission along with the asteroid’s shape, mass, and rotation speed, they were able to project how different impact points would alter the asteroid’s trajectory. This leads to the creation of a probability map for the asteroid’s surface, identifying various locations with differing chances of pushing the asteroid through a gravity keyhole, allowing scientists to select those with lower probabilities for a strike.
“It’s feasible to map these keyholes to asteroids, and the only cost involved is computational power before the mission is launched. So, on September 9th, during the Europlanet Science Congress (EPSC) in Helsinki, Finland, we should be able to pinpoint the optimum targeting point on the asteroid’s surface for a kinetic impact.
Macadia and his team have tested this approach on the asteroid Bennu, discovering over 2,000 potential keyhole locations and identifying safe spots for a spacecraft to impact.
While gathering specific data on a single asteroid is optimal with bespoke probes designed for the task, it might not always be practical if the asteroid is located close to Earth at the time of its detection. However, Macadia asserts that a rough analysis should still be achievable using data from terrestrial telescopes.
Artistic renderings of NASA’s double asteroid redirection test mission
NASA/JOHNS HOPKINS APL/JOSHUA DIAZ
A practical trial for collecting this data will occur when asteroid Apophis passes close to Earth in 2029. Astronomers have determined there is no risk posed by this 450-meter-long asteroid, but close encounters are considered rare, occurring only once every 7,500 years.
“We’ve observed many asteroids, but never one subjected to the kind of stress and natural vibrations due to Earth’s gravity.” Richard Binzel remarked at the EPSC on September 8th, representing the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Nobody knows how NASA’s Osiris Apex spacecraft, which initially visited asteroid Bennu, will fare when redirected to study Apophis in proximity to Earth’s passing European Space Agency’s Ramses spacecraft.
Apart from orbiting asteroids at safe distances to gather crucial details about their composition and shape, astronomers aim to monitor the small kilogram-scale spacecraft on the surface, including long-anticipated seismic activity when it’s near a massive body like Earth, to investigate internal conditions.
According to Binzel, understanding these characteristics is vital for asteroids that may pose future threats to Earth. “If you’re addressing an actual asteroid hazard posed by Apophis or other similar objects, you’ll need to be well-informed about characteristics such as angular momentum and tumbling behavior of the asteroid.”
Paolo Martino, the project manager for the mission, indicated that the trajectory of Apophis is excellently mapped, eliminating the danger of deviation since the Ramses spacecraft is equipped with sensors that enable it to autonomously avoid collisions, and its low mass means any impact would minimally affect Apophis.
Excavations near Aldborough in the UK reveal insights into life after Roman occupation
RFellerby & MJ Millet
When the Roman Empire withdrew from Britain, it didn’t lead to chaos or total economic failure. Archaeological evidence reveals that metalworking pollution indicates the metal industry in northern England not only continued but thrived in the ensuing centuries.
“The prevalent theory was that the absence of state transportation systems and military equipment would cause the local economy to collapse,” explains Christopher LaBlack from the University of Nottingham, UK. However, archaeology tells a different story. “We see a significant increase in metal-contaminated products.”
La Brack is part of a research team that excavated Roman artifacts from Aldovallo, North Yorkshire, England. Under Roman rule, this area was known as Isurium Brigantum, where metals such as iron and lead were mined and processed.
The team found that aerosol contamination from metalworking practices was preserved in sediment layers accumulated in ancient riverbeds at archaeological sites. By analyzing these layers, they could chart the changes in pollution levels from 345 to 1779 AD.
“This extensive chronology allows for quite a comprehensive view of fluctuations,” notes Jane Carshaw from Oxford University, who did not participate in the research but has studied early medieval metal mining.
In the late 300s and early 400s, with the Roman Empire’s retreat from Britain, it was believed that all forms of government support would vanish, along with tax collection and new currency, leading to the withdrawal of military forces from the region,” says La Brack. Over the following centuries, few written accounts exist, and certain industries, particularly those producing wheel-thrown pottery, experienced a steep decline. This has often been interpreted as indicative of “the collapse of British society in the fifth century,” according to Loveluck.
However, the riverbed records paint a different picture. Lead pollution was minimal during the Roman era, slightly dipping in the late 300s to early 400s, but then increasing steadily until the mid-500s. Correspondingly, pollution from ironworking also saw a rise in the early 500s.
This points to the sustained large-scale production of essential goods, supporting Loveluck’s claims.
The uptick in metal production may have been spurred by internal conflicts, suggests Kershaw. “This was a time of consolidation among various Anglo-Saxon kingdoms,” she explains. “There was considerable fighting between these different factions,” with many fallen warriors buried with swords and knives.
Production levels of metal then sharply dropped in the mid-500s and remained low for several decades. The research team posits this could be linked to the Justinian Plague, which swept through the Mediterranean region between 541 and 549 AD. Ancient DNA evidence from cemeteries in East England supports the arrival of the plague in England. However, the extent and severity of its spread remain uncertain. “There isn’t a significant mass grave filled with plague victims, as we observe in later plague episodes,” explains Kershaw.
The resilience of metal production in Aldborough amidst the Roman retreat aligns with other findings that suggest economic and political continuity. “For instance, Droitwich in Worcestershire has maintained a continuous sequence of salt production from Roman times through to the present day,” notes La Brack.
The aftermath of Rome’s withdrawal has often been labeled the Dark Ages due to the scarcity of written documentation and assumptions of a decline in intellectual life. However, historians argue that this characterization is overly simplistic.
While certain practices, such as the manufacturing of wheel-turned pottery and stone structures, faded, this era also saw the production of copper metalworks, which were widely utilized. “If this period was truly so dire, why are there exquisite brooches and vibrant beaded necklaces?” inquires Kershaw.
Danish research institutions have accused Snapchat of enabling “an overwhelming number of drug dealers,” thereby making it easier for minors to access substances like cocaine, opioids, and MDMA.
The platform claims to be actively employing technology to eliminate profiles engaged in drug sales. However, a study by Digitalt Ansvar, a Danish organization advocating for responsible digital development, revealed that usernames did not effectively limit drug-related language. The organization also criticized Snapchat for not adequately addressing reports of profiles that openly promote drug sales.
Investigators utilized a simulated 13-year-old profile and found numerous individuals selling drugs on Snapchat with usernames containing terms like “cola,” “weed,” and “molly.” After reporting 40 such accounts to Snapchat, only 10 were removed, while the remaining 30 were dismissed.
Snapchat claims that 75% of reported accounts are “actively disabled,” yet the platform has now acted on all reports.
The research highlighted that, despite prior criticisms, Snapchat’s recommendation system endorses and promotes profiles of individuals engaged in illegal drug sales, even reaching children who have not previously interacted with any drug-related content.
Within hours, the test profile for the 13-year-old was suggested to add a friend associated with a drug trafficking profile.
“We are eager to see future improvements,” remarked Hesby Holm Ask, CEO of Digitalt Ansvar.
“Snapchat claims to filter profiles that actively utilize the platform for drug sales, yet our findings indicate otherwise. Snapchat permissively allows the presence of drug-related profiles and fails to adequately address either implicit or explicit drug-related language in usernames.”
He further emphasized that not moderating profiles with such clear drug-related usernames implies that “children and young individuals can easily access illicit substances on Snapchat.” He stated, “The technology exists; what is lacking is the will. Snapchat could effortlessly filter out such usernames.”
According to Snapchat, by 2023, 90% of Scandinavians aged 13-24 were users of the platform. Digitalt Ansvar has accused Snapchat of violating EU digital service regulations concerning child safety and has called for action from authorities.
A Snapchat representative stated: “We have a zero-tolerance policy for drug sales on Snapchat. Although the accounts flagged in the study were not all reported via the app, over 75% were already disabled by our team before this report was noted.
“We are committed to combating the misuse of our platform by drug dealers, investing significantly in resources to achieve this goal. We employ rigorous detection methods to identify and disable these accounts, collaborate with law enforcement to prosecute dealers, and educate the community about drug risks. Our dedication to maintaining a hostile environment for drug dealers is unwavering.”
In the expansive office space at EA’s Vancouver campus, numerous people gather around multiple monitors to engage in EA Sports FC 26. Nearby hang soccer jerseys from various global leagues, as staff members monitor the match feed. The players include members of EA’s Design Council, professional athletes, influencers, and devoted fans, who frequently join to play, pose questions, and offer feedback on new updates. These councils have been active for years, but their insights are being taken more seriously than ever for this third iteration of the EA Sports FC series, the successor to EA’s FIFA franchise.
Let’s delve into the game for the journalists invited here. Insufficient response for EA Sports FC 25 emphasizes that addressing user feedback is the priority. EA has launched a new player feedback portal and a dedicated Discord channel for fans to voice their concerns. Additionally, developers have implemented AI-driven social listening tools to track discussions about EA Sports FC across platforms such as X, Instagram, and YouTube.
EA Sports FC 26 – Manuel Neuer pulls out saves. Photo: Electronic Arts
“There were so many different groups working on feedback across EA that we were overwhelmed by the individual teams in the game,” explains lead producer Joel Doonan. “Now we’re really focusing on it. How can we ensure that people who need to know are getting the right information at the right time and can respond as quickly as possible?”
“There’s also been a shift in the percentage of team resources devoted to our feedback commitment. We have a continuous development team. Currently, ten engineers are dedicated to processing feedback rather than waiting for FC 27. That’s what players expect today.”
Significant changes are genuine surprises. Two distinct play styles are offered: competitive and authentic. The competitive mode emphasizes speed, fluidity, and high scoring, capturing the rapid gameplay of classic FIFA titles while omitting elements like player fatigue. It directly influences online competitive modes such as Ultimate Teams and Clubs. Conversely, the authentic mode serves as a pure simulation aimed at offline players, characterized by slow build-up play and realistic outcomes.
EA Sports FC 26 – Rush Stadium Photo: Electronic Arts
“I’ve wanted to do this for some time, but other areas took precedence,” states Sam Rivera, production director for gameplay. “It’s clear, based on feedback, that it’s impossible to satisfy everyone with a single gameplay experience. Some players prefer simulations, while others desire more responsive experiences that let AI take on more roles instead of just assisting with specific actions. We’re now better positioned to support both in ways that align with different community needs.”
The dribbling feels tight and fluid, allowing for increased directional freedom for players. When in a scoring position, there’s a new feature that enables users to double-tap the shoot button for a powerful low shot, as opposed to simply lofting the ball. Goalkeeping mechanics have been enhanced with smarter positioning, utilizing new reinforcement learning AI, to minimize the chances of the ball being sent back to the offensive player. Likewise, defensive tackles will see less rebound, while attacking players will benefit from improved ball shielding.
The development team seems to have drawn inspiration from contemporary games and genres. The new archetype feature in Club and Player Career Modes lets players design and create individuals across 13 types (including categories such as Magician, Recycler, Boss, etc.). This is reminiscent of character classes in RPGs, allowing players to earn experience points throughout their careers and upgrade stats. Additionally, the Manager Live Career Mode allows you to lead head coaches through multiple seasons, pulling from live service inspirations like Fortnite. Weekly challenges occur throughout the year, encouraging players to set targets, such as topping the Christmas league. Some features are inspired by real-life sports unpredictability. During the demo presentation, Pete O’Donnell, Design Director of Career Mode, highlighted an intriguing scenario: a food poisoning outbreak affecting the Italian Serie B team Salernitana at the end of the last season. Will the team handle the sudden epidemic before a crucial playoff match?
The most beloved aspect of the game, Ultimate Team, has received an array of new features. The controversial Panini sticker-style fantasy football mode allows players to create teams by opening randomized digital packs, where competitors engage in live tournament modes with linked competitions throughout the season. A new feature called Bounties introduces players to randomized challenges like “scoring first/last goal” and “maintaining a clean sheet,” ensuring that even in a losing online match, players still receive rewards. Additionally, Gauntlets present a rapid live event requiring competitors to complete a five-match series, with each match demanding a different player from the team.
I believe that the focus on user feedback serves as a timely PR strategy, much like the authentic design principles. The game’s recent launch trailers spotlight gameplay footage rather than flashy cinematics. The underlying message is, “We’re listening to you, stay with us.” Timing is also crucial; in June, FIFA launched a competitor for the casual mobile title, indicating they may collaborate with developers on a more refined football simulation ahead of next year’s Men’s World Cup. EA Sports has been in this arena for several years, but the window may be narrowing. Fan support for EA Sports FC 25 is invaluable.
EA Sports FC 26 will be available on PC, PS5, Xbox, and Switch on September 26th.
Elon Musk has been consistently making headlines lately. Widely regarded as the richest person in the world, he also manages several prominent companies.
However, some of these businesses have been facing significant challenges recently.
Twitter (now rebranded as X) reportedly has seen a decrease of around 75% in its value under his leadership.
Meanwhile, Tesla’s sales of electric vehicles, another company where Musk serves as CEO, have been reported as declining despite a general rise in electric vehicle registrations.
One major Tesla investor has publicly urged Musk to resign as CEO, and there have been rumors (which the company denies) that the board might seek to replace him. But who can confidently claim they would perform better in his position?
Perhaps Musk is doing the best a human can under the current circumstances. Perhaps humans fall short when weighed against the demands of the role. But could artificial intelligence (AI) pose a challenge?
To explore this, I directly consulted a Large Language Model (LLM) AI with the following prompt.
“You are the CEO of an electric car company selling nearly 2 million vehicles a year with over 100,000 employees, generating $100 billion in sales. What will your strategy be for business growth over the next five years?”
Almost instantly, AI generated a 350-word response: “…I introduced a five-year growth strategy that effectively scales, enhances ecosystem control, and prioritizes pioneering innovation, while navigating geopolitical, environmental, and technological shifts.”
It then detailed what it termed the “Strategic Blueprint across Six Core Pillars,” emphasizing sales growth in non-invasive markets.
Although I possess limited knowledge about running an automotive company (I am a robotics professor at a university in the UK), the strategy seemed sound, reflecting the outlook and scale of multinational enterprises while adapting to global opportunities.
I found it impressive, albeit I am accustomed to assisting LLMs with similar challenging inquiries.
Additionally, while I am a robotics professor and co-founder of two UK robotics startups, I am not a CEO myself.
Given this context, I decided to query AI once more with a different prompt.
“You are the CEO of a small robotics startup with a budget sufficient to cover the next 12 months of operations. Should you invest in research and development or focus on increasing sales with your existing product?”
Once again, AI provided a prompt and sensible response: “As the CEO of a small robotics startup with only 12 months of runway, my priority must be customer validation and sales traction with current products, rather than significantly diverting into R&D. Here’s how to implement an effective strategy.”
I found this advice more relatable and felt it was reliable concerning what actions I should take and how to execute them.
Returning to the main question: can AI effectively perform CEO responsibilities? Or, alternatively, is extraordinary human intuition and experience essential for success, regardless of any artificial intelligence involved?
read more:
Intangible Skills
According to McKinsey, a leading international consulting firm, 2023 published insights on qualities that contribute to CEO success. As McKinsey observes, a CEO’s primary task is to formulate the company’s strategy and ensure resources are effectively allocated for its implementation.
This role is fraught with challenges, and many human CEOs struggle. McKinsey reported that only three out of five new CEOs met their company’s expectations during the first 18 months in their role.
We have already seen that AIs can be strategic and can develop plans based on the right information. Thus, they may be capable of addressing that vital aspect of a CEO’s responsibilities. But what about the other competencies necessary for effective corporate leadership?
Traits like creativity and social intelligence are often viewed as critical attributes that ensure humans retain leadership positions.
Furthermore, McKinsey has identified a creative perspective that remains largely absent from AI, particularly since it has predominantly learned from our datasets.
While several companies already utilize AI for strategic development and execution, they must guide this process with pertinent inquiries and critically assess the outcomes. For this reason, real-world experience continues to be invaluable.
Calculated Risk
Another angle on the debate about AI versus human CEOs is to consider what disqualifies a CEO, as opposed to what qualifies one.
If AI could perform better than some ineffective CEOs (remember, two out of five fall short of expectations), it could present a solution for many organizations struggling with inadequate leadership.
Sometimes the very traits that help individuals ascend to corporate leadership, such as narcissism, can actually hinder their effectiveness as a good CEO.
People skills and the ability to evaluate situations and think strategically are vital characteristics of CEOs – Photo Credit: Getty Images
Such strong confidence may certainly help in climbing the corporate ladder, but once you reach the CEO position, it’s crucial to adopt a broader perspective for the good of the entire organization.
Growing scientific literature suggests that those who rise to the highest levels of corporate management are more likely to exhibit psychopathic tendencies (some believe that the 2007 global financial crisis was partly caused by risk-taking behavior and poor corporate ethics stemming from mental health issues).
In this framework, AI leadership could provide a safer alternative with a more calculated approach to risk-taking.
Additional research has explored biases in corporate leadership selection. For instance, AI could reduce bias in hiring new executives, focusing on qualifications and skills without favoring gender or ethnicity.
Nevertheless, we must remain vigilant since AI trained on human data can inadvertently inherit our biases.
The ideal CEO is also a generalist, requiring flexibility and swift problem analysis.
In my book, Psychology of Artificial Intelligence, I posited that AI excels in specific domains but that more fundamental advancements are needed before AI can match the adaptable, general intelligence of humans.
In other words, while certain components may exist to support the creation of an AI CEO, assembling them remains a significant challenge.
Interestingly, most human CEOs express enthusiasm for AI.
In 2025, a CEO survey by consulting firm PWC revealed that over half (56%) of AI-derived information [those types surfacing in 2022 that can engage in conversation] enhanced employee efficiency, while around a third reported increases in revenue (32%) and profitability (34%).
Thus, it appears that CEOs are keen to leverage AI, albeit perhaps not in boardrooms. A PWC report from 2018 indicated that “higher officials and managers” were the least likely of nine occupational categories to be automated.
Returning to Elon Musk, his position as Tesla’s leader seems secure for the moment. However, those contemplating stepping into his shoes may wonder if the real competitor for CEO should be AI rather than a human peer in the boardroom.
NASA’s diligent rover has been investigating and sampling igneous fields and sedimentary rocks within the Ezero Crater, providing insights into the geological processes and intriguing characteristics of early Mars, while also searching for potential biological signatures. Upon entering Neretvavalis, on the western edge of Jezero Crater, the rover examined the distinct mudstone and con rock outcrops of the Bright Angel formation. A new paper published in the journal Nature details extensive geological, petrological, and geochemical studies of these rocks.
The impression of this artist shows how Mars looked about 4 billion years ago. Image credit: M. Kornmesser/ESO.
“Upon the rover’s arrival at the Bright Angel formation and while analyzing the local rocks’ composition, our team was notably surprised by their distinctiveness compared to previous findings,” stated Dr. Michael Tice, a geoscientist and astrobiologist at Texas A&M University.
“These findings offer evidence of chemical cycling that organisms on Earth can utilize to harness energy.”
“As we delved deeper, we observed phenomena that could easily be attributed to early Martian life, yet remain challenging to rationalize purely through geological processes.”
“Living organisms conduct chemistry that is naturally prevalent, provided there’s sufficient time and suitable conditions.”
“To optimize our understanding, the chemistry leading to these rocks necessitates either elevated temperatures or biological involvement, and we find no signs of high temperatures here.”
“Nonetheless, these results warrant experimentation and eventually lab studies of the samples collected to completely rule out non-biological explanations.”
The Bright Angel layer comprises mudstone (fine-grained sedimentary rocks composed of silt and clay) and water-laid sedimentary rocks featuring layered beds indicative of a lively environment with flowing rivers and stagnant water.
Employing various instruments from Perseverance, such as Sherloc and PIXL spectrometers, scientists identified organic molecules and small mineral arrangements likely formed through chemical processes related to redox reactions and electron transfers. On Earth, these processes are frequently driven by biological activities.
The most notable characteristics include small nodules and “reaction fronts” – referred to as “poppy seeds” and “leopard spots” by the rover team – consisting of iron phosphate (likely vivianite) and iron sulfide (probably greygeite).
These minerals typically arise in cold, water-laden settings and are frequently associated with microbial metabolism.
“The structural arrangement suggests that they formed through the redox cycling of iron and sulfur along with associated minerals,” Dr. Tice commented.
“On Earth, such formations often occur in sediments where microorganisms consume organic material and ‘breathe’ rust and sulfate. “
“Their existence on Mars provokes an intriguing question: Could a similar process have occurred there?”
The artist’s concept depicts the perseverance of NASA’s Mars Rover on the surface of the red planet. Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech.
The Sherloc instrument identified a Raman spectral feature known as the G-band, indicating the presence of organic carbon, in certain Bright Angel rocks.
The most substantial signal originated from a location called Apollo Temple, which exhibited high concentrations of both Vivianite and Greygeite.
“The concurrent presence of this organic matter and redox-sensitive minerals is quite compelling,” Dr. Tice noted.
“This implies that organic molecules might have facilitated the chemical reactions responsible for forming these minerals.”
“It’s crucial to recognize that ‘organic’ doesn’t invariably imply life creation.”
“This suggests the presence of numerous carbon-carbon bonds.”
“Alternative processes can yield organic compounds without biological involvement. The organic compounds identified here could have been synthesized either by or as a result of biological activity.”
“If they originated from an organism, decomposition through chemical reactions, radiation, or heat would have been required to yield the G-band we observe today.”
This research outlines two potential scenarios: Firstly, these reactions might be abiotic (driven by geochemical mechanisms) while microorganisms, similar to those on Earth, could have influenced these reactions.
Interestingly, although some features of the nodules and reaction fronts can be produced by non-biological reactions between organic matter and iron, established geochemical processes that can generate sulfur-related features tend to require relatively high temperatures.
“Every observation we’ve made regarding these rocks indicates that they haven’t been subjected to heat capable of producing leopard spots and poppy seeds,” Dr. Tice remarked.
“If that’s accurate, we must genuinely contemplate the possibility that such formations were created by bacteria-like life forms existing in the Martian lake sediments over 300 million years ago.”
Views of Perseverance path through Neretva Vallis and the formation of Bright Angels. Image credit: Hurowitz et al., doi: 10.1038/s41586-025-09413-0.
The research team underscores that while the evidence is not definitive proof of past life, the findings align with NASA’s criteria for potential biosignatures. This characteristic paves the way for further inquiries to ascertain the biological or non-biological origins.
Perseverance has collected core samples from a Bright Angel layer named Sapphire Canyon, which are currently housed in sealed tubes onboard the rover.
This sample is prioritized for future return to Earth in a prospective mission.
“Once we return this sample to Earth, we can investigate it using far more sensitive instruments than those we can deploy on Mars,” Dr. Tice explained.
“We could analyze the isotopic composition of organic materials, fine mineralogy, and conduct searches for microfossils if they exist.”
“More tests can also help determine the maximum temperatures these rocks were subjected to, and whether high-temperature geochemical processes are the most plausible explanations for any potential biological signatures.”
“The similarities between processes on Mars and Earth are indeed remarkable. However, there’s one crucial distinction.”
“It’s fascinating to note that life employs some of the same processes on both planets around the same epochs.”
“We observe signs of microorganisms in Earth’s rocks of similar ages where iron and sulfur interact with organic matter in comparable ways, but we don’t encounter the exact features seen in Mars’ ancient stones.”
Due to tectonic activities, the majority of Earth’s rocks have been altered significantly, making it unique and spectacular to witness this phenomenon on another planet.”
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Ja Hurowitz et al. 2025. Redox-driven minerals and organic associations at Jezero Crater, Mars. Nature 645, 332-340; doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09413-0
This article is based on a press release provided by Texas A&M University.
Do different observers experience similar neural activity in response to the same color? Does color produce distinct response patterns in specific brain areas? To explore these inquiries, researchers at the University of Tübingen utilized existing knowledge of color responses from various observers’ brains to predict the colors an individual is perceiving based on their brain activity. By estimating general brain commonality and responding to achromatic, spatial stimuli, the authors successfully aligned disparate brain responses within a common response framework linked to the retina. In this framework, derived independently of specific color responses, the perceived color can be decoded across individuals, revealing distinct spatial color biases between regions.
Using a sample of male and female volunteers, Michael M. Bannert & Andreas Bartels examined whether spatial color biases are shared among human observers and whether these biases differ among various regions. Image credit: Vat Loai.
Employing functional MRI scans, researchers Michael Banert and Andreas Bartels from the University of Tübingen captured images of subjects’ brains while they viewed visual stimuli, identifying various signals related to red, green, and yellow colors.
Remarkably, the patterns of brain activity appeared similar among subjects who had not participated previously. This suggests that the colors perceived can be accurately predicted by comparing them to the brain images of other participants.
The representation of color in the brain proves to be much more consistent than previously believed.
While it was already feasible to identify the colors an individual observed using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), this was only applicable to the same brain.
“We aimed to investigate whether similar colors are encoded across different brains,” Dr. Banert stated.
“In other words, if we only have neuronal color signals from another person’s brain, can we predict the colors they’re perceiving?”
“It’s well established that different brains exhibit roughly similar functional structures.”
“For instance, specific areas are more active when viewing faces, bodies, or simply colors.”
During the color experiment, researchers employed specific classification algorithms to analyze fMRI data, systematically differentiating signals originating from the brains of various groups of individuals by color.
Subsequently, data from new subjects were utilized to ascertain the colors they were perceiving using neuronal signals.
To frame each brain’s orientation, scientists spatially mapped how they responded to stimuli at different locations within their visual field using fMRI measurements.
“At this stage, we did not incorporate colors to avoid any bias in our results—only black and white patterns,” Professor Bartels explained.
“By simply merging this mapping data with color information from another person’s brain, we ensured we correctly identified the ‘new’ brain activity related to what the person was observing at that moment.”
“I was surprised to discover that even subtle variations in individual colors show remarkable similarity across brain activity patterns in specific visual processing regions, something previously unknown.”
Spatial color coding in the brain is domain-specific and organized consistently among individuals.
“There must be functional or evolutionary factors contributing to this uniform development, but further clarification is needed,” the authors noted.
The study was published this week in the Journal of Neuroscience.
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Michael M. Bannert and Andreas Bartels. Large-scale color biases in the functional architecture of the retina are domain-specific and shared throughout the human brain. Journal of Neuroscience Published online on September 8th, 2025. doi: 10.1523/jneurosci.2717-20.2025
Paleontologists have discovered the complete skull and skeleton of the Triassic Lepidosaurus species – Agriodontosaurus Helsbypetrae – from the Hellsby Sandstone Formation in Devon, England.
Agriodontosaurus Helsbypetrae. Image credit: Bob Nichols.
Lepidosauria is the most species-rich group of terrestrial vertebrates.
This group comprises around 12,000 species of lizards and snakes, along with a single species of Rhynchocephalia, the Tuatara (Sphenodon Punctatus) from New Zealand.
Collectively known as Squamata, these lizards and snakes not only range in size but also possess highly mobile skulls that enable them to capture large prey effectively.
These vital features of their skulls are absent in tuatara, making the understanding of their common ancestor essential.
The scalypidosaurs thrived during the Triassic period, 252 to 201 million years ago, but incomplete fossils have led to some confusion. Many are general scale pidosauromorphs that lack squamous epithelium or Rhynchocephalians.
“It was always expected that the earliest scalypidosaurs would exhibit some lizard characteristics, such as partially hinged skulls, open lower bars, and numerous teeth on the palate.”
“All of these traits are found in modern lizards and snakes, enabling them to grasp large prey by extending their mouths and using palate teeth to seize smaller prey.”
“The lower bar acts akin to the cheekbone, situated between the cheek and the jaw hinge, and is absent in present-day lizards and snakes.”
“Snakes and many lizards possess all these traits while enhancing skull flexibility.”
“Only the tuatara features a completely low temporal bar, presenting an archaic appearance reminiscent of some early reptiles, coupled with some substantial palate teeth.”
The fossil remains of Agriodontosaurus Helsbypetrae were found in 2015 on a beach in Devon, UK.
The specimen is dated to 242 million years ago (middle Triassic epoch), just prior to the emergence of dinosaurs.
It is approximately 3 to 7 million years older than the oldest known Lepidosaurus, Wirtembergia, from the Erfurt Formation.
“The new fossils revealed characteristics we didn’t anticipate,” remarked Dan Mark, a paleontologist at the University of Bristol and the University of Edinburgh.
“There are no teeth on the palate nor indications of hinges. While there is an open bar on the side, it’s not just one of the three, but also features a grand, large tooth in comparison to its closest relatives.”
Agriodontosaurus Helsbypetrae measured about 10 cm in length and showcased a unique combination of traits.
“When you observe the fossil, the entire skeleton fits in the palm of your hand,” said Professor Michael Benton from the University of Bristol.
“However, thanks to student efforts in cleaning up and scanning the data, we are uncovering remarkable details.”
“This new species possesses relatively large triangular teeth, likely adapted for slicing through the tough exteriors of insect prey, similar to modern tuataras.”
“The discoveries challenge our understanding of the evolutionary pathways of lizards, snakes, and tuataras,” Mark concluded.
D. Marche et al. The origins of feeding adaptations in the oldest known Lepidosaurus. Nature Published online on September 10, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09496-9
Rocky, Earth-sized planets in our Milky Way may be surrounded by atmospheres, with new research indicating a strong possibility of liquid water on their surfaces, supporting the potential for life.
Two separate papers, to be released on Monday in the Astrophysical Journal Letters, focus on the TRAPPIST-1 system, which contains seven rocky planets orbiting a single star. Both studies present initial findings from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, suggesting that one planet, TRAPPIST-1e, could possess a nitrogen-rich atmosphere, although further research is necessary to confirm this.
These findings represent significant progress in the search for extraterrestrial life both within our solar system and beyond.
Recently, NASA revealed that rock samples from Mars may harbor evidence of ancient microorganisms. Presently, Mars has a thin atmosphere made primarily of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and argon, but billions of years ago, it likely possessed a much thicker atmosphere that allowed liquid water to exist on its surface.
For quite some time, scientists have maintained that water is a crucial element for life.
For a planet or moon to retain water in liquid form, it must have an atmosphere that prevents instant evaporation into space. This makes the search for exoplanet atmospheres one of the most exciting and promising areas of astronomical research.
“Ultimately, our goal is to identify planets that can support life,” stated Ryan McDonald, an exoplanet astronomer at St Andrews University, Scotland, and co-author of both studies. “To do this, we first need to identify whether these planets have atmospheres.”
The TRAPPIST-1 system is located 40 light-years from Earth and has been extensively studied since its discovery in 2016, as some of its planets may have conditions suitable for extraterrestrial life.
Specifically, TRAPPIST-1e is thought to reside in the so-called “habitable zone,” where liquid water could be present on the surface—not too close to the star to be scorching hot and not too far to freeze.
In a recent study, astronomers utilized NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope to observe four “transits” of TRAPPIST-1e, which occur when the planet passes in front of its star. While the telescope did not directly detect the planet’s atmosphere, it measured how light passing through the atmosphere was absorbed, if one is present.
Like a prism, light can be split into different color bands across the spectrum, and variations in how particular colors are filtered or absorbed can help identify the presence of specific atoms or gas molecules.
For instance, if a specific color is absorbed, it may indicate a high concentration of carbon dioxide, while other color changes could suggest the presence of hydrogen, oxygen, methane, or nitrogen.
“If no color variation is present, the planet is likely just a barren rock,” McDonald noted. “Barren rocks won’t show any color changes in response to light.”
During the four transits, researchers found no signs of a hydrogen-rich atmosphere surrounding TRAPPIST-1e, nor did they observe any indications of a carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere. However, observations from the Webb telescope suggest a potential nitrogen-rich atmosphere.
“This is an exciting development that will significantly narrow down the prospects for a more Earth-like atmosphere,” remarked Caroline Piaulett Graeb, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Chicago who was not involved in the new research.
Earth’s atmosphere is composed of a significant amount of nitrogen gas. Titan, one of Saturn’s moons, has an atmosphere primarily made of nitrogen and is believed by NASA to harbor a vast underground sea. Although it may be habitable, the methane-rich environment of the moon differs greatly from conditions on Earth.
Piaulet-Ghorayeb, the lead author of a study published last month in the Astrophysical Journal, focused on another planet in the TRAPPIST-1 system, TRAPPIST-1d. This planet is also located within the habitable zone, but the study found no evidence of common Earth-like molecules such as water, carbon dioxide, or methane.
Studying these distant worlds poses significant challenges.
The TRAPPIST-1 star is small and exceptionally active, producing considerable background noise that complicates researchers’ efforts. McDonald and his team dedicated over a year to analyzing data from the Webb telescope in order to isolate and identify chemical signatures from TRAPPIST-1e and its star.
To confirm the presence of an atmosphere, McDonald and his colleagues plan to observe TRAPPIST-1e during an additional 15 transits over the coming years.
They are also looking into three other planets, TRAPPIST-1f, TRAPPIST-1g, and TRAPPIST-1h, which are located further out in the system.
This research aims to bring scientists closer to answering some of the most persistent questions regarding exoplanets and the existence of life.
“We have not yet reliably confirmed the atmosphere of rocky planets outside our solar system, but it opens the door to studying temperate planets,” said Piaulett-Ghorayeb. “However, there is still much to explore.”
A significant amount of water once cascaded along the surface of an asteroid, indicating that asteroids may have delivered more water to Earth than previously believed.
The source of Earth’s water remains somewhat enigmatic. Although incoming asteroids are considered potential contributors, skepticism exists regarding their ability to supply the vast quantities of water present on Earth today.
Carbonate asteroids develop from dust and ice in the outer solar system. In 2019, Japan’s Hayabusa 2 spacecraft landed on Ryugu and collected 5.4 grams of material, returning it to Earth in 2020.
Initial images of Ryugu suggested it was drier than anticipated, but further studies revealed the presence of cracks once filled with vital elements, including water.
Early dating of the samples indicated that the asteroid was among the oldest celestial objects, originating around 460 million years ago.
However, when Tsuyoshi Itsuka from the University of Tokyo and his team assessed its age using the radioactive decay of lutetium-176 in tiny asteroid samples, they found something intriguing.
“Our analysis estimates the age of the Ryugu sample at about 4.8 billion years, significantly predating the solar system,” notes Ikemoto. “This indicates the timing of Ryugu’s sample collection is critical.”
Instead, the researchers believe that roughly a billion years after its parent body was formed, Ryugu was warmed enough to convert ice into water, which in turn removed some lutetium-176, complicating dating techniques.
Solar radiation warms only the surface ice to about 40 centimeters, while the Ryugu samples were extracted from much deeper layers. Researchers suggest that collisions with other celestial objects may explain how the interior of the parent body was heated.
By estimating the volume of water required to alter the lutetium-176 levels in the Ryugu samples, the team concluded that the asteroid consists of roughly 20-30% water.
Ikemoto asserts that asteroids are believed to have delivered water to Earth in mineral form. “Our findings imply that they can actually provide water as both minerals and ice,” he adds.
The research highlights the value of sample-return missions, according to Jonti Horner from the University of South Queensland, who was not involved in this study. “By retrieving samples directly, we eliminate Earth’s interference, enhancing the validity of our findings,” Horner explains.
“This suggests that these bodies were wetter than previously thought, allowing us to better understand the origins of Earth’s oceans as we analyze early planetary formation,” he concludes.
Astronomy Capital of the World: Chile
Explore the astronomical wonders of Chile. Visit some of the world’s most advanced observatories and marvel at a star-studded sky amidst some of the clearest air on Earth.
The bed nuclei of the stria terminalis comprise a larger, banded structure in the brain known as the stria terminalis.
My Box/Alamy
Brain regions that influence food intake may eventually be targeted to enhance weight loss or therapeutic interventions.
Studies indicate that activating neurons in this specific brain region leads to increased food intake in mice, particularly when consuming sunflower seed-sized food items. However, the impact of taste on neuronal activity remained ambiguous.
For deeper insights, refer to Charles Zuker from Columbia University, who, along with his team, conducted brain imaging on mice. Earlier research linked sweet taste neuron activity in the amygdala with the enjoyment of sweet substances.
These neurons stimulate other neurons in the BNST, sometimes referred to as the “expanded amygdala.” This marks the first evidence of taste signal reception by this brain structure, according to Haijiang Cai from the University of Arizona, who was not part of the study.
The researchers aimed to determine whether these activated BNST neurons influence dietary choices, so they genetically modified cells to prevent activation when mice tasted sweet substances. Over a 10-minute period, these modified mice exhibited significantly reduced consumption compared to their normal counterparts, indicating that BNST neuron activation encourages sweet taste consumption.
Interestingly, the researchers also discovered that this artificial activation led mice to consume more water and even seek out salty or bitter substances, which they typically avoid.
Further experiments indicated that more BNST neurons were activated by sweet and salty tastes in hungry or salt-depleted mice, suggesting that the BNST integrates taste signals along with nutrient deficiency cues to regulate food intake, according to Cai.
Given the similarities between human and mouse BNST, these findings are relevant for humans, says Cai. They suggest that developing drugs to activate BNST neurons could aid individuals experiencing severe appetite loss, like those undergoing cancer treatment.
Cai mentioned that numerous brain pathways regulate food intake, and some may compensate for long-term changes in BNST activity induced by drugs. Therefore, targeting multiple feeding circuits would likely be necessary.
This research also has implications for improving results from weight loss treatments, including the GLP-1 drug semaglutide. This drug binds to neurons in the BNST, and a clearer understanding of its effects on food consumption could enhance the effectiveness of such medications, according to Sarah Stern from the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience.
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