A newly identified supermassive black hole resides in the center of the “Little Red Dot” galaxy, known as Capers-LRD-Z9, existing merely 500 million years after the Big Bang.
Artistic impressions of Capers-Lrd-Z9. Image credit: Erik Zumalt, University of Texas, Austin.
“Finding a black hole like this pushes the limits of what we can currently detect,” remarked Dr. Anthony Taylor, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Texas at Austin.
“We’re truly expanding the boundaries of technological capability today.”
“While astronomers have identified more distant candidates, clear spectroscopic signatures for black holes have yet to be found,” noted Dr. Stephen Finkelstein from the University of Texas at Austin.
The astronomers conducted their research using data from the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, as part of the CAPERS (Candels-Area Prism Epoch of Reionization Survey) program.
Initially regarded as a mere speck in the program images, Capers-LRD-Z9 is now recognized as part of a newly classified category of galaxies called Little Red Dots.
“The find of the Little Red Dot was a surprising revelation from initial Webb data. It did not resemble the galaxies captured by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope,” Dr. Finkelstein explained.
“We are currently working to understand what they are and how they formed.”
Capers-Lrd-Z9 contributes to the growing evidence that the ultra-large black hole plays a critical role in the unusual luminosity of small red dots.
Typically, such brightness signifies a galaxy teeming with stars. However, in the absence of substantial stellar mass, these small red dots cease to exist.
These galaxies may also help clarify what causes the distinct red hue observed in small red dots, which is altered to a red wavelength as it passes through surrounding gas clouds encircling the black hole.
“I’ve observed these clouds in other galaxies,” Dr. Taylor stated.
“When I compared this object to others, it was unmistakable.”
Capers-LRD-Z9 merits attention due to the immense size of its black hole.
It’s estimated to be as massive as 300 million solar masses, equating to half the total star mass within the galaxy. This size is notably large, even among supermassive black holes.
By discovering such massive black holes early on, astronomers provide a unique opportunity to investigate the growth and evolution of these entities.
Black holes existing in later epochs had diverse opportunities for growth over their lifetimes, yet this was not the case during the initial hundreds of millions of years.
“This reinforces the increasing evidence that early black holes grew much faster than previously believed,” Dr. Finkelstein mentioned.
“Or they might have originated much larger than our models suggested.”
These findings are detailed in a paper published in the Astrophysical Journal.
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Anthony J. Taylor et al. 2025. Capers-Lrd-Z9: Gasensing Little Dot hosts Broadline’s active galactic nucleus at z = 9.288. apjl 989, L7; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ade789
A collaborative team of paleontologists from Portugal, Italy, the United States, and Belgium has enriched their paleontological records with the identification of a new herbivorous dinosaur species: Cariocecus bocagei.
Cariocecus bocagei. Image credit: Victor Feijó de Carvalho.
Cariocecus bocagei inhabited what is now known as Portugal during the Valemia period of the Cretaceous, approximately 125 million years ago.
This newly identified species belonged to the medium-sized Iguanodon group, which includes robust herbivorous dinosaurs with intricate teeth structures.
“The Iguanodon faction plays a significant role in the herbivorous dinosaur fauna across various ecosystems of the Cretaceous period,” stated Dr. Filippo Bertozzo, a paleontologist at the Royal Institute of Natural Sciences and ci2paleo (Centro de Perebierosia de Nature Ecology, Paleontology of Rehabilitation Therapy).
“At the conclusion of the Jurassic, the Iguanodon factions exhibited limited diversity and body size, with the largest being Camptosaurus.
“These dinosaurs were primarily restricted to the central part of the northern landmass of the Jurassic, which now includes modern-day Wyoming, Tanzania, and Portugal.”
“By the mid-Cretaceous, these clades had achieved a worldwide distribution,” they further commented.
“The selective pressures and environmental factors that drove this diversification during the Jurassic to Cretaceous transition remain poorly understood, largely due to the scarcity of iguanodontian fossils in various regions, such as South Africa.
“The Iguanodon faction was among the first dinosaurs to be discovered and researched, with ongoing studies aimed at exploring the anatomical features and their functions,” they remarked.
“Nonetheless, various aspects of the skull, from the function of the supraorbital bone to paleoneurology and sensory systems, continue to be elusive.”
Digital reconstruction of the skull of Cariocecus bocagei. Image credit: Bertozzo et al., doi: 10.1080/14772019.2025.2536347.
The partial skull of Cariocecus bocagei was uncovered in 2016 along the cliffs of West Portugal from the Paposeco Formation.
This specimen, measuring approximately 37 cm long, is the first Iguanodontian skull recorded in the country.
“The specimen was excavated from the Seco Formation of Papo along the southern coast of the Setubal Peninsula, roughly 200 meters north of Praia de Areia do Mastro,” noted the paleontologist.
“A comprehensive sequence analysis indicates that the early Cretaceous layers found along this coastline were deposited during the fourth and final uplift episodes related to the formation of the Lusitania Basin.”
Upon examining the fossils, researchers identified anatomical characteristics not observed in other Iguanodon species.
“The upper jaw and Jugal bones are flawlessly fused. I have never encountered this in any other iguanodon,” Dr. Bertozzo expressed.
“This isn’t a random anomaly; it’s a genuinely unique feature, confirming it as a new species.”
MicroCT scans enabled scientists to explore the cranial nerves and inner ear with remarkable detail.
“A skull discovery is always significant. It reveals much more than isolated bones,” Dr. Bertozzo commented.
“In this instance, you can observe the impressions of the brain and nerves and even reconstruct parts of the inner ear.”
“The structure of the balance organs and auditory nerves offers insights into how this animal lived and oriented itself.”
“Another notable feature is the unusually low ‘brow’ bones, lower than those of other known Iguanodon factions.”
“This likely supported a heavy brow ridge akin to that of modern eagles.”
“Such structures may have implications for functionality or visibility.”
“The teeth of Cariocecus bocagei also provided remarkable insights,” he added.
“MicroCT scans uncovered not only visible teeth but also replacement teeth embedded within the jaw, designed to replace those that have worn down.”
“This tooth replacement mechanism is characteristic of iguanodons but is rarely observed in earlier species.”
The research team speculates that Cariocecus bocagei may have possessed a stronger bite relative to its kin.
“The discovery of Cariocecus bocagei enhances our understanding of the ecological dynamics within the Lusitania Basin’s early Cretaceous environment, indicating the presence of multiple Iguanodon species, reflecting trends seen in other symbiotic habitats in the UK, Belgium, Spain, and Central Africa,” the authors stated.
“The Valemian diversity in Iguanodon taxa resulted from island endemic events that emerged following the dispersal of dry morphs in North America during the Late Jurassic and Late Cretaceous periods.”
“In conclusion, the discovery of Cariocecus bocagei emphasizes the significance of the Balemian Psien of Hauteribia in the diversification and speciation of Iguanodonians, ultimately leading to the evolution of the more advanced Hadrosaurus in the Turonian period.”
Survey results were published in the Journal of Systematic Palaeontology.
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Filippo Bertozzo et al. 2025. Cariocecus bocagei, a new basal hadrosauroid from the Lower Cretaceous period of Portugal. Journal of Systematic Palaeontology 23(1); doi:10.1080/14772019.2025.2536347
Rivers across the United States are experiencing increasing temperatures.
A recent analysis of nearly 1,500 river locations spanning over 40 years reveals a rise in the frequency, intensity, and duration of heat waves, posing risks to many species accustomed to cooler waters.
“The increase in river heat waves is actually outpacing that of air heat waves, which is quite surprising,” states Li Li, a professor of environmental engineering at Pennsylvania State University and the study’s author.
A new analysis published in the peer-reviewed journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences is the first comprehensive study defining river heat waves as five consecutive hot days compared to seasonal averages.
The researchers identified climate change, which significantly impacts humans, as a major contributor to this trend, due to diminishing snowpacks and slower stream flows.
Human factors also play a role; for example, dams inhibit downstream flow, while urban structures absorb heat, warming both air and water.
Scientists are concerned that species reliant on cold water, such as salmon and trout, will increasingly struggle as river temperatures rise. Li emphasizes the necessity of tracking fish fatalities and ongoing trends.
Higher temperatures decrease the amount of dissolved oxygen in water. Additionally, cold water species generally exhibit increased metabolism in warmer conditions, leading to further oxygen depletion.
These findings could influence basin management strategies and help determine if adjustments in irrigation or dam releases can support aquatic life during elevated temperatures.
“Water management practices can significantly impact heat waves,” noted Jonathan Walter, a research scientist at UC Davis’ Center for Watershed Sciences, who was not part of the study. “If there is sufficient reservoir water, it may be feasible to moderate downstream temperatures by releasing water to mitigate extreme heat.”
While heat waves in oceans and lakes have been studied extensively, there has been limited research on the implications of rising temperatures in rivers until now.
Satellite data have advanced the study of ocean and lake heat, but river temperature research is challenged by reliance on often unusable river gauge sensors, resulting in significant data gaps.
For this new study, researchers analyzed data from 1,471 US Geological Survey monitoring sites from 1980 to 2022.
This data enabled an assessment of shifts in streams nationwide, revealing that by 2022, river heat waves were occurring more frequently than in 1980, with an average increase of 1.8 additional heatwave events per year. These heat waves were also more severe, with temperatures during these events being approximately 0.8 degrees Fahrenheit higher in 2022 than in 1980. Moreover, the duration of heat wave events extended by over three days.
Li noted that this extra heat caused an average of about 12 days of heat stress for cold water species. The study defined 59°F as the threshold for heat stress, as many species, including bull trout, face survival challenges at this temperature.
“When considering water, its visibility draws attention to its significance,” Li remarked. “We hope this research raises public awareness on water quality challenges stemming from climate change.”
We are gaining knowledge about Venus, a high-pressure planet
JSC/NASA
There is compelling evidence that vast underground tunnels have been formed from lava on Venus. These formations are unusually wide and distinct from those found on other celestial bodies.
It is generally accepted that underground tunnels, carved through lava, exist as lava tubes on Earth, the Moon, and Mars. Smaller, low-gravity planets tend to develop more porous tubes as their rocky walls are less susceptible to collapse due to weaker gravity. For instance, the Moon has such large tubes that scientists have proposed utilizing them as habitats for astronauts, shielding them from intense solar winds.
Researchers have observed indications of these lava tubes on Venus, evident from surface holes that may have been formed by the underground features or by other geological activities associated with its active fault lines.
Recently, Barbara de Tofoli from the University of Padova in Italy along with her colleagues uncovered direct evidence of these lava tubes on Venus. Remarkably, despite Venus’s similarities to Earth regarding its mass and gravity, its lava tubes appear to be surprisingly wide, with a volume comparable to those found on the Moon.
“While Earth has a small number of lava tubes, Mars has a slightly larger count, and the Moon has even more. Venus disrupts this trend by featuring incredibly large tubes, indicating its potential significance,” she stated at the Europlanet Science Congress in Helsinki, Finland, earlier this month.
De Tofoli and her team used radar and mapping data from previous missions to examine the alignment of these pits near large volcanoes. They identified four distinct sites where alternative geological explanations, such as structural activities, were implausible. The pits were also found to align with the steepest sections of volcanic slopes, consistent with the movement of lava. Their depth-to-width ratio corresponded with known lava tubes.
The unexpectedly large size of these tubes, especially their width, implies that the extreme conditions on Venus, characterized by high temperatures and pressure, can influence the movement of molten rock beneath the surface. “Due to the extremely high pressure, the floor of these tubes is not eroded as intensely as it typically is on other planets; instead, it remains largely flat throughout the tube.”
This water flow took place on ancient asteroids over a billion years after their formation, likely due to the heat generated by melting ice, which caused rock fractures that facilitated water movement. JAXA’s Hayabusa-2 Spacecraft.
This image of the asteroid was taken on June 26, 2018, by JAXA’s Hayabusa-2 Spacecraft optical navigation camera – telescopic (ONC-T). Image credits: JAXA / University of Tokyo / Kochi University / Ricchiho University / Nagoya University / Chiba University of Technology / Nishimura University / Aizu University / AIST.
Ryugu is a CG-type asteroid close to Earth and part of the Polana family of impact asteroids.
The diamond-shaped body, also known as 1999 JU3, was identified by astronomers in May 1999 during asteroid studies near Lincoln.
Its diameter measures about 900 m (0.56 miles), and it orbits the Sun at a distance of 0.96-1.41 Astronomical Units (AU) every 474 days.
“We have a relatively good understanding of how the solar system was formed, though many gaps remain,” said Shiyoshijima, a researcher at the University of Tokyo.
“One gap in our knowledge is how Earth acquired its water.”
“It has long been known that carbonaceous asteroids, originating from ice and dust in the outer solar system, have contributed water to Earth.”
“We discovered that Ryugu preserves an unaltered record of water activity, indicating that liquid water moved through the rock much later than previously anticipated,” added Dr. Ikemoto.
“This shifts our understanding of the long-term fate of water on asteroids. The water has remained for an extended period and hasn’t been depleted as quickly as we thought.”
In this study, the authors examined the isotopes of lutetium (Lu) and hafnium (HF), with the radioactive decay from lutetium-176 to hafnium-176 serving as a sort of clock to gauge geological processes.
The expected presence of these isotopes in the studied sample was hypothesized to correlate with the asteroid’s age in a predictable manner.
However, the ratio of Hafnium-176 to Lutetium-176 was significantly unexpected.
This strongly suggests to researchers that the liquid effectively washed away lutetium from the rocks containing it.
“We anticipated that Ryugu’s chemical signatures would align with certain meteorites currently under examination on Earth,” Dr. Iizuka stated.
“However, the results were strikingly different, necessitating the careful elimination of other possible explanations, ultimately concluding that the Lu-HF system was hindered by a delayed liquid flow.”
“The most probable triggers involved the parent body of Ryugu’s larger asteroid, which disrupted the rocks, melting the embedded ice and allowing liquid water to permeate the body.”
“It was truly surprising! This impact event could be the catalyst for the parent body disruption.”
One of the crucial implications is that carbon-rich asteroids may be a significant source of water for Earth, supplying far more than previously estimated.
Ryugu’s parent body seems to have retained ice for over a billion years. This suggests that similar bodies impacting the young Earth could have delivered 2-3 times more water than standard models predict, significantly influencing the planet’s early oceans and atmosphere.
“The notion that a Ryugu-like object has preserved ice for such an extended time is remarkable,” Dr. Ikemoto remarked.
“It implies that Earth’s components were far wetter than we had imagined.”
“This prompts a reevaluation of the initial conditions for the planetary water system.”
“It’s still early to draw definitive conclusions, but my team and others may build on this research to clarify various aspects, including how our planet became habitable.”
The findings will be published in the journal Nature.
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T. Iizuka et al. Late fluid flow of primitive asteroids revealed by Lu-HF isotopes of Lu. Nature. Published online on September 10th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09483-0
Among the four fundamental forces in the universe, gravity often comes to mind when considering cosmic phenomena. This is quite logical, as gravity operates over vast distances, exerting its influence on massive objects, making it the most significant and far-reaching force. However, another essential force, known as electromagnetism, also plays a critical role in the study of space.
To begin with, all light is made up of electromagnetic radiation, which consists of oscillating electric and magnetic fields. This includes everything from radio waves to visible light and X-rays. Similar to Earth and the Sun, many celestial bodies are enveloped in magnetic fields. The Earth’s magnetic field serves as a shield against harmful radiation, while the solar magnetic field repels it. The generation of a magnetic field requires the movement of charged particles, such as protons and electrons. Consequently, a variety of objects, including entire galaxies, possess magnetic fields!
Researchers are aware that galaxies have magnetic fields, but it remains uncertain how various galaxies develop different magnetic intensities or how these fields influence their evolution over time. This investigation is further complicated by the fact that galaxies often exist in clusters. For instance, the Milky Way is surrounded by smaller galaxies known as satellites, which exert gravitational pull on each other and interfere with each other’s magnetic fields.
The research team explored how diverse environments in smaller galaxies affected the strength of their magnetic fields. They approached this by simulating the motion of materials within the galaxy as if they were liquids filled with striped particles. Two sets of simulations were conducted, the second of which also included the effects of high-energy particles known as cosmic rays.
In total, they simulated magnetic fields across 13 distinct scenarios, ranging from isolated galaxies with masses 10 billion times that of the Sun to those 10 trillion times greater, accompanied by up to 33 satellites. Each simulation commenced with galaxies exhibiting a magnetic field strength of 10-14 Gauss (g). For context, Earth’s magnetic field strength is about 0.3-0.6 g. The scenarios were evolved over 12 billion simulation years, allowing galaxies to interact, traverse space, and form stars, subsequently tracking the magnetic field strength in smaller galaxies.
Throughout the simulated timeline, the magnetic fields of all galaxies strengthened as star formation progressed. The birth of stars stirs the galactic matter, enhancing magnetic field strength and producing cosmic rays. Most galaxies concluded with magnetic fields ranging from 10-7 to 10-6 G, with larger galaxies typically achieving stronger fields. Interestingly, the researchers found that small galaxies passing in close proximity to larger companions exhibited stronger magnetic fields than equivalent isolated galaxies.
They monitored satellite galaxies over a series of simulations and discovered that, on average, magnetic field strength increased by 2-8 times as these galaxies approached their host. In extreme cases, the satellite’s magnetic field intensified by up to 15 times after nearing the host. In contrast, satellite galaxies that were more distant or had not yet approached their host did not show such significant increases in magnetic field strength.
The researchers interpret their findings to suggest that the more turbulent the interstellar medium (ISM) within a galaxy, the greater the strength of its magnetic field. Orbiting near a host galaxy tends to disturb the ISM of the satellite galaxy, rendering it more magnetic than a solitary small galaxy. Approaching a massive galaxy compresses the satellite, exposing it to magnetizing materials, and both interactions contribute to amplifying the magnetic field strength.
The team recommends that future studies utilize these results to inform radio and gamma-ray observations of galaxies, as these two segments of the electromagnetic spectrum can provide astronomers insights into the magnetic field properties of celestial bodies. They also caution that astronomers conducting simulations of isolated galaxies might yield skewed results since such a scenario does not accurately reflect the reality in which many galaxies are in proximity to companions.
Illegal deforestation in the Amazon of Mato Grosso, Brazil
Paralaxis/Alamy
Life in the Amazon post-deforestation presents a grim scenario. Strong winds impede the recovery of the forest, while rising temperatures result in heat stress for both inhabitants and wildlife.
This contradicts the common belief that rainforest removal leads to a drier local climate.
Many studies suggest that deforestation in the Amazon will significantly reduce rainfall, but these studies often rely on low-resolution models that fail to accurately depict convection patterns in the region.
Recently, Alim Yun from the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology in Germany and her team have employed advanced climate models to represent rainforest rainfall dynamics and convection more accurately.
Dominic Spracklen, at the University of Leeds in the UK, which was not involved in the study, regards this methodology as “highly commendable,” suggesting it could “enhance predictions of climate responses to deforestation.”
Using this innovative approach, Yoon previously reported that under current climatic conditions, a complete deforestation of the Amazon would yield relatively stable average annual rainfall. The ongoing research aims to analyze how hourly patterns of rain, heat, and wind shift in this complete deforestation scenario.
The team’s findings indicate an increase in the frequency of dry spells, with a 54% rise in severe rainfall events. Concurrently, daily temperature extremes rise by 2.7°C (4.9°F) and 5.4°C (9.7°F), significantly heightening heat stress among local populations. Moreover, extremely strong winds are becoming more prevalent.
Over 30 million individuals reside in the Amazon region, including around 2.7 million indigenous people. “Expect intensified rainfall and extreme temperatures,” warns Lewis Catterrand from the University of Leeds. “This is alarming for everyone in the area.”
However, he cautions that further validation of this modeling approach is necessary. Additional research is essential to explore the effects of partial deforestation on the local climate in light of future projections for the region. “These extreme scenarios are meant to aid scientists in understanding the implications, but we know they don’t paint a complete picture,” says Catterrand.
Are carbohydrates, proteins, and liquids the foundations of your post-exercise diet?
cream_ph/getty images
When it comes to exercise, I’m not particularly focused on enhancing my performance or optimizing my biology. My primary goal is simply to remain active. Consequently, I have not given much thought to my post-exercise nutrition. However, training for a half marathon has illustrated to me the significance of properly fueling my body, and that it doesn’t need to be complicated.
It’s essential to understand that your post-exercise nutritional requirements can differ based on several factors, including the type of exercise you engage in, your age, gender, genetics, and more. Nonetheless, an April review in Sports Medicine discovered compelling evidence regarding three key interventions that enhance muscle recovery and performance. I consider these as foundational elements of a post-exercise diet.
The first element is carbohydrates. During exercise, your body taps into energy stores found in the liver and muscles. Replenishing these stores is vital to prevent muscle breakdown and ensure adequate energy for your next workout. Carbohydrates serve as the most effective source of this energy because they are quickly converted into usable fuel.
The review suggests that after four hours of intense exertion, athletes should consume 1-1.2 grams of carbohydrates per kilogram of body weight per hour. While this guidance may be geared more toward athletes, it’s advisable for all adults to consider a carbohydrate-rich snack or meal post-exercise. Opt for options that include both glucose and fructose, as glucose helps restore muscle energy and replenishes liver stores. Fruits are perfect, as they provide both.
The second element is protein, which is crucial for muscle recovery. Combining protein with carbohydrates has been shown to enhance performance. A 2016 study involving eight athletes indicated that those who consumed both macronutrients within two hours after an intense cycling session could ride an average of 14 minutes longer in their subsequent workout compared to those who only ingested carbohydrates. The timing of protein intake matters less than the quantity consumed. Reviews in Sports Medicine recommend 20-40 grams of protein after exercise.
study involving 72 men (also published in 2016) demonstrated that oral supplement solutions, milk, and orange juice were found to be more hydrating than water due to their electrolyte content, which aids in hydration and retention. Beverages like tea, coffee, soft drinks, and even beer provided hydration levels similar to water. Though I’m not advocating for pints post-workout, if water isn’t appealing, choose something delicious that you enjoy.
I still prefer simplicity, but now I focus on these three core elements. My favorite choice is a smoothie made with frozen fruits, orange juice, and protein powder. Although it’s not perfectly optimized, it represents an improvement. And it always satisfies my cravings after a run.
Grace Wade is a health reporter for New Scientist based in the US.
For more projects, please visit newscientist.com/maker
Engaging with information can alter how your brain processes and reacts to it
Tony Anderson/Getty Images
As a passionate reader and writer, I often find myself disheartened. Recent reports indicate a decline in reading for enjoyment among younger generations. When a friend asked if her use of audiobooks provided the same cognitive benefits as traditional reading for her daughter, my initial thought was, “Enjoyment matters more than the format.” However, exploring the science revealed that the medium indeed influences our cognitive process in important and distinct ways.
The Advantages of Reading
Reading unquestionably benefits us. Aside from the knowledge it imparts and the opportunities it opens up, numerous studies link childhood literacy with both physical and mental well-being – and even extended lifespans.
It is believed that reading exercises three crucial cognitive functions. Firstly, it promotes “Deep Reading,” allowing us to connect different sections of text, reflect on their relevance to our lives, and engage with the material critically.
Secondly, reading fosters empathy and bolsters our emotional intelligence—traits that are essential for coping with stress and navigating real-life difficulties. Thirdly, there exists a correlation between reading and cognitive development. The “Theory of Mind” refers to our ability to recognize that others may hold different thoughts and beliefs than we do.
However, discerning the impact of reading from other influences can be challenging. Moreover, readers may enjoy advantages like having leisure time, financial resources, or even genetic traits which can affect overall health, cognition, or longevity.
Nevertheless, a study involving over 3,500 participants attempted to account for these factors, revealing that individuals who read for approximately 30 minutes each day were 20% less likely to pass away in the subsequent 12 years. This benefit was more pronounced among book readers compared to those who primarily read newspapers and magazines.
Digital Media: E-readers and Audiobooks
Comparing print reading to digital formats complicates the research landscape. Some studies suggest that screen reading promotes a more superficial understanding compared to reading printed material.
There are also subtle differences. In a series of experiments conducted by Anne Mangen from Stavanger University, Norway, and Frank Hakemalder from Utrecht University in the Netherlands, it was found that frequent readers of short texts on screens tended to seek meaning less diligently than their paper-reading counterparts. Additionally, increased exposure to screen reading correlated with diminished persistence in tackling longer literary works.
Concerning audiobooks, while the evidence remains limited, I find some solace in the findings. Research indicates that comprehension levels are very similar whether one is reading or listening. However, some nuances exist—meta-analyses of 46 studies discovered that reading provides a slight advantage for interpreting the emotions of characters, among other interpretative skills. Thus, drawing inferences from the text is somewhat more effective when reading.
Listening to an audiobook provides the experience of hearing another person’s voice with its unique intonations, rhythms, and emotions, which can greatly influence interpretation. Janet Gaipel from the University of Exeter notes that contrastingly, reading relies on our inner voice, allowing for a more individualized and self-paced experience. These distinctions may significantly affect how information is perceived and utilized.
Nonetheless, “listening to audiobooks is not somehow detrimental,” Geipel argues. “The real issue lies in how you allocate your attention. Listening can be just as effective as reading if you are fully focused, but multitasking while listening can compromise depth compared to immersive reading without distractions.”
Finding What Works for You
Listening alongside reading introduces yet another layer. A meta-analysis conducted by Virginia Clinton Lisell at the University of North Dakota found that while combining listening with reading might yield slight improvements in understanding, this is likely only true for those who struggle with decoding text, such as individuals with low literacy or those learning to read in a non-native language. For skilled readers, however, this dual engagement may lead to diminished comprehension due to “cognitive load theory,” where presenting information in two formats can create redundancy and overwhelm cognitive resources.
Ultimately, various factors—dyslexia, visual impairments, lengthy commutes, or personal preference—can drive the choice for audiobooks rather than print. As for whether you derive equivalent benefits, “there’s no straightforward answer,” Geipel acknowledges.
If options are available, I suggest reserving an engaging podcast or a thought-provoking book for moments of focus, rather than while preparing dinner. However, if someone is immersed in a story purely for enjoyment, as in the case of my friend’s daughter, choosing an audiobook appears to be a far better alternative than missing out altogether.
Rupert Murdoch and his son, Lachlan Murdoch, are expected toacquire TikTok in the US, as Donald Trump mentioned during an interview on Sunday.
In an interview with Peter Doocy at Fox News’ Sunday briefing, the president was asked about the app’s sales status. Officials from the Trump administration indicated that transactions involving China-owned social media platforms are forthcoming, resulting in some confusion regarding the status of the contract.
Trump stated that moguls Larry Ellison and Michael Dell were participating in the deal, adding:
“Rupert will likely be part of the group. I believe they will join the team. They are fantastic individuals, well-known in their fields, and they are true American patriots. They care about this country, which will ensure they perform admirably.”
Part of these transactions includes Fox Corporation as one of TikTok’s investing entities. According to a report by CNN on Sunday, Rupert and Lachlan are not participating as individual investors.
Representatives from Fox, which is owned by Rupert Murdoch and led by his son Lachlan Murdoch, did not respond to a request for comment. Trump’s remarks followed his lawsuit against Rupert Murdoch’s Wall Street Journal regarding the publication revealing that he wrote crude poems and graffiti for a book edited for Jeffrey Epstein’s 50th birthday back in 2003.
In 2024, Congress enacted a law banning TikTok, owned by the China-based company ByteDance, unless it was sold to a US entity, citing national security and privacy issues. The Trump administration delayed the law and extended the deadline for the transfer multiple times. Currently, the app has approximately 170 million users in the US, and feels Trump contributed to his re-election in 2024 on Sunday.
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt reported to Fox News on Saturday that six Americans will hold seats on the company’s seven-member committee, managing data and privacy through Oracle, Ellison’s firm. Leavitt indicated that the US also governs data and algorithms for American applications.
“This deal prioritizes America,” Leavitt affirmed on Saturday. “Let me clarify: this transaction ensures that TikTok is predominantly owned by Americans.”
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A think tank associated with Tony Blair suggests that the public perceives artificial intelligence more as an economic threat rather than a benefit.
The Tony Blair Institute cautioned that these poll findings could jeopardize Keir Starmer’s vision for the UK to become an AI “superpower,” urging the government to persuade the populace about the positive impacts of this technology.
According to a survey conducted by TBI, 38% of Britons see AI as a potential economic risk, while only 20% regard it as an opportunity. The survey, which included over 3,700 adults, also revealed that a lack of trust is the primary barrier to AI adoption.
Jakob Mökander, the director of science and technology policy at TBI, stated that the UK’s primary path to becoming an AI superpower lies in adopting cutting-edge technology. He expressed concerns that the current poll results jeopardize this aspiration.
Mökander noted, “A nation can achieve AI superpower status either by leading in development or by being a frontrunner in adoption.” He acknowledged that while the UK will not lead in development—domains dominated by the US and China—it can excel in adoption. However, he emphasized that without fostering public trust in technology, this goal is unattainable.
The UK government has identified AI as a cornerstone of its economic growth strategy, aiming for the country to become “one of the great AI superpowers” in the near future.
Nonetheless, there is considerable voter concern regarding the economic ramifications and job implications associated with AI. Entities such as TBI, the International Monetary Fund, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development predict that AI—defined as systems that can undertake tasks typically requiring human intelligence—will profoundly affect the labor market. TBI estimates that AI may lead to a shift of between 1 million and 3 million private sector jobs in the UK, although they anticipate that the total job loss will be mitigated as technology creates new positions.
Meanwhile, recruitment agencies have indicated that sectors expected to be influenced by AI, like graduate recruitment, have not yet experienced significant changes attributable to AI.
Furthermore, TBI’s polling indicates a divide between AI users and non-users, revealing that more than half of those unacquainted with the technology perceive it as a risk. In contrast, only a quarter of those who regularly use AI regard it as a threat.
Mökander stated that there is a pressing need to articulate potential benefits, like establishing AI reliability through regulations, shortening NHS wait times, and allowing individuals more family time.
Regarding the need for regulations akin to those for vaccines, Mökander emphasized educating the public and promoting positive campaigns to cultivate healthy perceptions.
The TBI has garnered significant funding from tech magnate Larry Ellison and released findings indicating the advantageous applications of AI. The report suggests measuring AI’s beneficial impact accurately and promoting responsible regulations to foster AI skill development.
A spokesperson for the UK government stated that public trust is vital for effective AI utilization and highlighted initiatives aimed at enhancing AI skills and recruitment.
“With approximately 10 million workers projected to use AI in their daily roles by 2035, it is crucial that the workforce is equipped with both the skills and confidence to engage with this technology,” the spokesperson remarked.
In one of the regular segments of John Mulaney’s Netflix show, every week features live interactions with the comedian and his guests as they take calls on the week’s theme. This time, the topic is dinosaurs, and one caller—a surprisingly enthusiastic young boy and noted paleontologist—introduces himself as Chuck, among others. He discusses his book, Dinosaur erotica. “I think that’s my most recognized and award-winning book,” he elaborates. “It was nominated for the Hugo Prize.”
Actor Ayo Edebiri, one of Mulaney’s guests, inquires whether he won. “I didn’t win, but I went on to write a book called Pound after my Hugo Prize loss.”
Edebiri and fellow guest Conan O’Brien react with a mix of delight and confusion, but the call wraps up before Mulaney can delve into the comedic possibilities of their discussion.
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Mulaney’s fans, often a quirky and socially active group, rushed to the comments, expressing that he missed a golden opportunity. The eccentricity isn’t just a relic of the internet’s past; it’s exemplified by the Elite class figure, Chuck Tingle. He initially went viral thanks to his uniquely self-published erotica, complete with endearingly bizarre Photoshop covers and titles that seem as if they were slapped together by an alluring Velociraptor. Tingle’s work even earned a Hugo Award nomination from the far-right Cultural War fringes.
If these titles sound outrageous, take a trip through your favorite ebook store to remind yourself that romance and erotica can be surprisingly utilitarian in their own right.
Check out my new novel POUNDED IN THE BUTT BY MY BOOK POUNDED IN THE BUTT BY MY BOOK POUNDED IN THE BUTT BY MY BOOK POUNDED IN THE BUTT BY MY BOOK POUNDED IN THE BUTT BY MY BOOK POUNDED IN THE BUTT BY MY OWN BUTT, available now https://t.co/pbpufzgbgopic.twitter.com/jpbe1mnvad
To date, Tingle has released “Tingle’s Gone Legate,” novellas, and three mainstream horror novels throughout the years.
He has also begun appearing in person at fan events and conventions. Similar to the enigmatic author Elena Ferrante, whose audience largely enjoys indie horror video games, Tingle maintains his anonymity. However, unlike Ferrante, he flamboyantly showcases himself with a pink pillowcase and a bag over his head, obscuring his features while exuberantly declaring his mantra, “love is real.” Sporting a colorful ensemble of a big blazer, sequined shorts, band tees, and sometimes light-up sneakers, he energetically dashes through theaters and bookstores.
Online, Tingle engages with his audience and celebrates his work with an innocent earnestness, using a unique mix of whimsical language that falls between highbrow and fandom lingo. He refers to readers, fans, and curious onlookers as “Bakaroo.” Life experiences, stories, beliefs, and careers are his “trot.” Tingle notes that his Orbit Bakarus never truly die but are merely visiting and riding a “lonely train” of existence. He expresses thoughts on the “existential dread of choking” and the notion that love is real—whether in eroticism or existentialism, his stories affirm this principle.
Finally released after being stuck in Amazon’s publishing platform for days—please enjoy! I FREED THIS HANDSOME CARGO SHIP FROM THE SUEZ CANAL AND NOW HE’S STUCK IN MY BUTT. https://t.co/yiD92W7oo3pic.twitter.com/5MebQU2ACs
Tingle has openly discussed his sexuality and sexual experiences in relation to neurodivergence. His storytelling often reflects his experiences being queer, depicting characters who navigate the challenges of revealing their true selves to family and friends in small-town America. His recent horror novels are set in a shared universe, intertwining narratives like Camp Damascus and Bury Your Gays, exploring themes of capitalism, chaos, and radical acceptance as monstrous forces. He emphasizes that authenticity in love and experience is paramount.
This approach is unabashedly direct. To borrow a line from The Great Garth Marengi, I know of writers who employ subtext—yet they all seem rather unwell.
The physical mask Tingle described serves to allow his true self to shine through, as it means less effort concealing his autism. He has maintained a colorful career persona, hinting at the possibility of a performance artist or character he has created since he was young. Rumors abound that he is, in fact, a well-known sturdy actor (and one of the most likable Hollywood Chrises) named Chris Pine.
However, most ardent Bakarus recognize that Chuck leads his own trot.
Moreover, the atmospheric pressure is equivalent to that found on Earth at an altitude of 35km (almost 115,000 feet), well above the cruising altitude of commercial flights. This sparse atmosphere is predominantly carbon dioxide, containing only minimal amounts of oxygen.
Additionally, liquid water is virtually nonexistent on Mars, with radiation levels being 400 times greater than those on Earth, and only rare instances of extremely saline trickles.
Nonetheless, certain Earth organisms have shown a remarkable ability to endure such harsh conditions.
The European Space Agency conducted a series of experiments between 2008 and 2016, exposing various organisms and seeds to simulated Martian conditions aboard the International Space Station.
Tardigrades, fungi, and some bacteria survived for over a year, but solely in dormant forms, such as spores and cysts.
Some lichens and algae went a step further, demonstrating actual metabolic activity when partially shielded from radiation—this could occur on Mars if they are embedded in soil or hidden within rock crevices.
In 2024, Chinese researchers discovered that various desert moss species (Syntrichia caninervis) could endure simulated Martian conditions. However, “tolerance” is far from thriving in such an environment.
Although the moss was able to recover after a week in the simulated Martian environment and returned to normal growth, researchers did not find evidence of metabolic activity, such as oxygen production, within the Martian setting.
But the challenges are even greater.
Mars has an average surface temperature of -63°C (-81°F) and an atmospheric pressure that corresponds to 35km (nearly 115,000 feet), along with radiation levels that are 400 times higher than on Earth.
Mars soil contains perchlorate, a problematic oxidizer that is toxic to cell functions and leads to DNA damage. Exposure to the ultraviolet radiation prevalent on Mars makes it even more reactive.
The Chinese experiments did not simulate perchlorate presence in the Martian environment. Had it been included, it likely would have obliterated the moss entirely.
Some fungi survive perchlorate, and several bacterial species can utilize it as an energy source, even breaking it down into harmless by-products. However, these species still require water and warmth to thrive.
Typically, when we store items, we employ various methods to eliminate bacteria and fungi or inhibit their growth.
We freeze food, dehydrate it, sterilize with UV light, soak it in saline solutions, or seal it in oxygen-removing containers. On Mars, all these methods are naturally enforced!
If we aimed to sterilize a planet, we could hardly surpass the existing conditions on Mars.
This article addresses the inquiry posed by Robin Mason of Manchester: “Is there anything on Earth that can withstand Martian conditions?”
Please send your questions via emailto Question @sciencefocus.com, or reach us throughFacebook,Twitter, orInstagramPage (please include your name and location).
Explore our ultimateFun fact for more astonishing science content.
TThe Ofcom regulators, equipped with clipboards, navigated the exhibition space during the International Adult Industry Conference in Prague over the weekend, aiming to motivate 1,700 attendees to adhere to the UK’s newly implemented online safety regulations.
“Be truthful,” a regulator addressed a crowd of porn site operators and staff during a midday seminar discussing the age verification requirements that were set in motion in July as part of the legislative framework for accessing adult content. “Be transparent. If your efforts fall short, include them in the risk assessment.”
Attendees enjoying complimentary champagne offered by conference sponsors posed some uneasy inquiries. What steps should a company take if it lacks the funds for age verification? How hefty are the penalties? Can a site circumvent regulations by blocking traffic from the UK? Were Ofcom officials aware that some site owners might be trying to undermine their competitors by reporting them for non-compliance?
Presentation by Ofcom at the Wyndham Diplomat Hotel in Prague, Czech Republic. Photographer: Bjoern Steinz/Björn Steinz/Panos Pictures
“We are here to assist you,” another Ofcom regulator explained to an audience of around 50 men and seven women. “It’s a challenge. There’s a wealth of information to absorb, but we exist to assist members of the adult industry in achieving compliance.”
Seven weeks following the activation of the online safety law, Ofcom officials seek to portray the adult industry’s response to this legislation in a positive light. They noted that most of the leading 10 and top 100 adult websites have either implemented age verification checks or restricted access within the UK. Platforms like X and Reddit, which feature pornographic content, also provide age verification guarantees. In August, views surged to 7.5 million on the top five age verification websites, up from 1 million in June.
Regulators intend to frame the introduction of age verification on July 27 as a pivotal moment for the industry, dubbing it “AV Day,” when children’s access to British porn would be unequivocally obstructed. The situation, however, is more nuanced.
Ofcom screen at the Prague conference. Photographer: Bjoern Steinz/Björn Steinz/Panos Pictures
In the days following the law’s enactment, there was a notable spike in VPN downloads, enabling users to disguise their locations and bypass age verification prompts.
“This development was quite unfortunate,” commented Mike Stabile, director of public policy for the Free Speech Coalition, representing American adult entertainment. He mentioned moving to a location that did not comply and opted for a non-compliant site. “VPN usage has surged. People are not compliant. Traffic is redirecting to piracy sites. I don’t think Ofcom will regard this outcome as what they intended.”
Corey Silverstein, an American attorney representing several companies in the adult industry and who has encountered numerous failed attempts at enforcing age verification laws in the U.S., noted a significant skepticism towards regulators. “While people maintain professionalism and politeness, this is not the most agreeable audience. Some display overt disdain. You can sense the discomfort in participating in an event like this.”
Despite this, he delivered a presentation for site owners, advising them to confront their aversion to regulators and collaborate with Ofcom to implement new guidelines.
“Their intent is not to harm your business. They are quite friendly. They aren’t out to eliminate you,” he stated. “As I understand it, they do not even impose financial fines. Their goal is to guide you towards compliance.”
Ofcom officials were dressed in neatly pressed white shirts, working amid the ambient sounds of steel drums, distributing A4 printed questionnaires while sponsors served cocktails and a troupe of feather-clad dancers entertained attendees.
The paper form, which allowed for anonymous responses, requested representatives to indicate whether they had adopted age verification in the UK and to discuss reasons for inaction regarding non-compliant businesses. By Saturday evening, Ofcom officials noted that an insufficient number of representatives had completed the form but remained hopeful for better participation on Sunday.
Though no fines have yet been issued under the Online Safety Act, Ofcom has initiated 12 investigations into over 60 porn services, including websites and applications.
Updates from these investigations have fueled discontent among adult site proprietors, who are also advocating for stricter regulations in the U.S. and France. Yet, there was some begrudging acknowledgment of Ofcom’s effort to engage with the industry in events and dialogues.
“In the U.S., regulatory bodies often shy away from engaging with us,” remarked Alex Kekeshi, vice president of PornHub’s brand and community. “I appreciate Ofcom’s invitation to the table. Such engagement is often overlooked in discussions on industry regulations.”
Before July 27, Ofcom established a specialized porn portfolio team consisting of six compliance officers to encourage businesses to meet regulatory standards. These team members requested anonymity due to conservative reasons but participated in similar discussions in Berlin, Amsterdam, and LA. Additionally, a larger team of over 40 staff members is focused on investigating organizations that fail to comply.
“We are acutely aware of the industry’s scale and the ease of establishing services for distributing pornographic content indiscriminately,” one regulator remarked. “We are not claiming to lead every service towards compliance; our strategy is to allocate resources where children face the highest risk of harm.” When penalties are applied, they are designed with a deterrent effect, potentially reaching up to £18 million or 10% of global revenue.
“Companies can opt not to risk being pursued by us or facing penalties. We aim to shift the incentive balance so that compliance is deemed less risky.”
Another Ofcom representative avoided commenting on the increase in VPN downloads, asserting that the law’s purpose is to prevent children from inadvertently encountering pornographic content (rather than going after those who deliberately seek it).
In their bid to comply with the new age verification requirements, site owners are also addressing the challenges posed by AI-generated content, urging users to engage of Ofcom’s attention and seeking to prevent companies like Visa and MasterCard from processing payments linked to violent and illegal content. Sites and applications featuring AI-generated pornography also fall under the scope of this legislation.
“How can we distinguish between a 15-year-old AI model and one that represents an 18- or 19-year-old within compliance frameworks?” one attendee questioned, expressing concerns about the potential for AI to inadvertently generate child sexual abuse material.
Steve Jones, who operates an AI porn site, stressed that AI systems need to be programmed to acknowledge what is deemed inappropriate. “We must ensure that depictions are not too youthful or flat. We will disallow pigtails, braces, and toys typically associated with children,” he stated. “AI lacks the ability to differentiate between youthful-looking adults and minors. It’s crucial to teach these distinctions.”
The unusual “leopard spot” markings on Mars’ rocks might finally indicate that alien microbes could have existed on the Red Planet.
A comprehensive analysis of these rocks has shown that the intricate patterns are “the clearest signs ever found on Mars,” as stated by Sean Duffy, a NASA representative.
These rocks, estimated to be about 3.5 billion years old, were discovered in July 2024 by NASA’s Perseverance rover. Since then, planetary scientists have been exploring various hypotheses to explain these markings.
Recent information from a Nature paper suggests that while the patterns may have a geological origin, the prevailing theory now points toward ancient Martian microbes as the likely culprits.
Perseverance collected rock samples, hoping to yield a more definitive answer. If all goes well, these samples will eventually return to Earth for a thorough examination of potential signs of past life.
Leopard Spots on Bright Angel
Currently, Mars is a barren, lifeless world, but this hasn’t always been the case. Until around 3 billion years ago, Mars’ surface was rich with flowing rivers and expansive lakes.
Wherever there is water on Earth, signs of life typically follow. For two decades, NASA’s rovers have been scouring Mars for evidence suggesting that the Red Planet could have once supported life.
The Perseverance rover is exploring a site known as Jezero Crater, which was a lake in Mars’ ancient history. Similar environments on Earth often serve as habitats for microorganisms.
Within rock formations referred to as the Bright Angel formation, Perseverance uncovered stunning patterns resembling leopard spots.
“We conducted extensive observations of the entire rock formation at Bright Angel,” said Professor Joel Hurowitz of Stony Brook University in the US, in an interview with BBC Science Focus.
While Perseverance’s cameras captured detailed images of the patterns, a spectrometer analyzed the mineral composition. The rover even utilized radar to map the structure of the subsurface outcrop.
“Essentially, we used every tool available on these rocks except for the kitchen sink,” Hurowitz remarked.
The analysis indicated that the patterns were formed by iron-rich minerals called vivianite and greygite. On Earth, these minerals typically arise from “redox reactions,” a process in which microorganisms exchange electrons with their environment.
“On Earth, these reactions are often facilitated by microorganisms residing in sediments, which derive energy from them for metabolic activity,” Hurowitz explained. The residuals from these processes create distinctive patterns in sedimentary rocks.
However, this doesn’t mean we should rush to celebrate the discovery of alien life just yet. There are other mechanisms that could account for the leopard spot patterns without any biological influence.
For instance, heat could have driven reactions between mud and organic matter, resulting in new minerals.
Yet, the research team did not find evidence indicating that the rocks were subjected to heat. Additionally, other methods they investigated also did not seem viable. Nonetheless, Hurowitz cautioned, “We cannot dismiss these entirely.”
One of the most surprising findings is the relatively young age of these rocks. At only 3.5 billion years old, the patterns formed while Mars was already entering a phase of decline, suggesting that the planet may have been habitable for much longer than previously assumed.
Unfortunately, Perseverance has an entire planet to explore and we continue our quest to find life beyond Earth.
Perseverance drilling and photographing rock samples – Credit: NASA/JPL -CALTECH/MSSS
“If I could revisit Jezero in the future, I would have follow-up questions that I would like to address using the rover’s instruments,” Hurowitz remarked.
“However, these follow-up analyses may not necessarily provide a more conclusive answer regarding whether these features were shaped by life.”
“Ultimately, determining whether life was involved will necessitate laboratory analysis back on Earth.”
Bringing Mars to Earth
Fortunately, Perseverance is part of the initial phase of Mars’ sample return mission. Not only is it studying the rocks on Mars, but it’s also preparing to bring samples back to Earth.
Before departing from Bright Angel, the rover collected and stored samples from the rocks along with numerous similar fragments obtained during its mission on Mars.
NASA aims to collaborate with the European Space Agency on follow-up missions to retrieve these samples and return them to Earth where they can be analyzed in top-tier laboratories.
After 3.5 billion years, finding definitive evidence is challenging. Instead, researchers will seek additional signs that microbes may have left behind.
“The first logical step is to analyze the isotopic composition of iron, sulfur, and carbon in the various mineral and organic components of the rock,” Hurowitz stated.
Isotopes can be thought of as different variants of the same element. Microorganisms tend to retain particular isotopes more than their non-biological counterparts, enabling researchers to narrow down their search for evidence of life.
“These variations in isotopic composition are essential tools for investigating biological signals in ancient rocks on Earth, and we aim to apply similar methods to this Martian sample,” Hurowitz noted.
The return mission is tentatively scheduled for the 2030s, although there is a risk of cancellation due to cuts to NASA’s planetary exploration budget during the Trump administration.
“NASA is examining strategies for retrieving these samples and others,” a NASA spokesperson told BBC Science Focus. “Having explored Mars for 60 years, we will continue to look into budgetary and timing considerations for a quick and cost-effective return of these samples.”
“We hope these findings will further motivate the sample return mission,” Hurowitz added. “This will allow us to scrutinize the sample with the detail necessary to determine its historical record of life on Mars.”
“If it’s indeed life, that would suggest our planet is not the only one where life has evolved,” Frowitz concluded. “If life originated twice, how many other places might it have occurred?”
About Our Experts
Joel Hurowitz is an associate professor in the Department of Geoscience at Stony Brook University in New York, USA. He investigates the early history of Mars through measurements taken from planetary studies and Earth’s similar topographies.
A chatbot platform featuring explicit scenarios involving preteen characters in illegal abuse images has raised significant concerns over the potential misuse of artificial intelligence.
A report from the Child Safety Monitoring Agency urged the UK government to establish safety guidelines for AI companies in light of an increase in technology-generated child sexual abuse materials (CSAM).
The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) reported that they were alerted by chatbot sites offering various scenarios, including “child prostitutes in hotels,” “wife engaging in sexual acts with children while on vacation,” and “children and teachers together after school.”
In certain instances, the IWF noted that clicking the chatbot icon led to full-screen representations of child sexual abuse images, serving as a background for subsequent interactions between the bot and the user.
The IWF discovered 17 images created by AI that appeared realistic enough to be classified as child sex abuse material under the Child Protection Act.
Users of unnamed sites for security reasons also had the capability to generate additional images resembling the illegal content already accessible.
Operating from the UK and possessing global authority to monitor child sexual exploitation, the IWF stated that future AI regulations should incorporate child protection guidelines from the outset.
The government has revealed plans for AI legislation that is anticipated to concentrate on the future advancement of cutting-edge models, prohibiting the ownership and distribution of models that produce child sexual abuse in crime and police bills.
“We welcome the UK government’s initiative to combat AI-generated images and videos of child sexual abuse, along with the tools to create them. While new criminal offenses related to these issues will not be implemented immediately, it is critical to expedite this process,”
stated Chris Sherwood, Chief Executive Officer of NSPCC, as the charity emphasized the need for guidelines.
User-generated chatbots fall under the UK’s online safety regulations, which allow for substantial fines for non-compliance. The IWF indicated that the sexual abuse chatbot was created by users and site developers.
Ofcom, the UK regulator responsible for enforcing the law, remarked, “Combating child sexual exploitation and abuse remains a top priority, and online service providers failing to implement necessary safeguards should be prepared for enforcement actions.”
The IWF reported a staggering 400% rise in AI-generated abuse material reports in the first half of this year compared to the same timeframe last year, attributing this surge to advancements in technology.
While the chatbot content is accessible from the UK, it is hosted on a U.S. server and has been reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), the U.S. equivalent of the IWF. NCMEC stated that the report on the Cyber Tipline has been forwarded to law enforcement. The IWF mentioned that the site appears to be operated by a company based in China.
The IWF noted that some chatbot scenarios included an 8-year-old girl trapped in an adult’s basement and a preteen homeless girl being invited to a stranger’s home. In these scenarios, the chatbot presented itself as the girl while the user portrayed an adult.
IWF analysts reported accessing explicit chatbots through links in social media ads that directed users to sections containing illegal material. Other areas of the site offered legal chatbots and non-sexual scenarios.
According to the IWF, one chatbot that displayed CSAM images revealed in an interaction that it was designed to mimic preteen behavior. In contrast, other chatbots not showing CSAM indicated that they were neither dressed nor suppressed when inquiries were made by analysts.
The site recorded tens of thousands of visits, including 60,000 in July alone.
A spokesperson for the UK government stated, “UK law is explicit: creating, owning, or distributing images of child sexual abuse, including AI-generated content, is illegal… We recognize thatmore needs to be done. The government will utilize all available resources to confront this appalling crime.”
The former Meta executive, who authored a provocative book highlighting social media companies’ interactions with China and their treatment of teenagers, is reportedly facing bankruptcy after its release.
Lawmakers in Congress have contended that Mark Zuckerberg’s company is trying to “silence and punish” Sarah Wynn Williams, the former director of global public policy at Facebook, Meta’s predecessor.
Former Labor Transport Secretary Louise Hayes stated that Wynn Williams may incur a fine of $50,000 (£37,000) for each breach of an order obtained by Meta.
In her book, Eardaling People, published this year, Wynn-Williams made several claims regarding the conduct and culture of social media firms, including allegations of sexual harassment that the company denied. She asserts that her dismissal was due to “poor performance and toxic behavior.”
Nevertheless, the former diplomat has been prohibited from publishing memoirs after Meta secured a ruling against her. She later testified before the US Senate Judiciary Subcommittee, claiming Meta collaborated “with gloves” with Beijing regarding censorship tools.
Pan Macmillan, which published the memoir, reported over 150,000 copies sold across all formats. The book was also recognized as a Sunday Times bestseller in Hardback for 2025, with a paperback edition due for release early next year.
Haigh pointed out Wynn-Williams’ situation during a House of Representatives debate on employment rights on Monday, asserting that her decision has led to significant financial jeopardy.
“Despite previous official statements indicating that Meta had ceased using NDAs [non-disclosure agreements] in cases of sexual harassment,” she noted, “Sarah is being pushed towards financial ruin within the UK arbitration system.
“Meta has given Sarah a disturbing order and is gearing up to impose a $50,000 fine for any violations. She is on the brink of bankruptcy, and I am confident that the home and government will push this legislation to protect individuals with moral courage.”
It’s understood that the $50,000 figure pertains to damages Wynn-Williams must pay for violating a separation agreement she signed when leaving Meta in 2017, with Meta asserting that she voluntarily agreed to the terms.
Mehta indicated that, as of now, Wynn-Williams has not been compelled to adhere to the contract.
The company refrained from commenting on Hayes’ intervention. Senate testimony from Wynn-Williams previously asserted that the company has been “disconnected from reality” and is plagued by false claims.
Meta characterized the book as “an outdated, previously reported compilation of company claims and unfounded allegations against executives.” She claimed she was dismissed for “poor performance and toxic behavior,” with investigations concluding that she made misleading harassment allegations.
The ruling that barred her memoir’s publication affirmed that “the false narrative should never have seen the light of day.”
The order dictated that Wynn-Williams must halt promotion of the book and minimize any further publications, though no actions were mandated against Pan Macmillan.
Since her Senate hearing in April, Wynn-Williams has remained publicly silent. In a statement this month, she expressed gratitude for the continued investigation into Meta’s actions by the US Senate.
“I wish I could elaborate,” she stated. “I urge other tech employees and potential whistleblowers to share their insights before more harm comes to children.”
Her attorney mentioned that Wynn-Williams “will remain silent regarding the matters currently under Congressional investigation.”
We already understand how to artificially bring our bodies back to their natural optimal state. Prescription glasses can help correct vision, while hearing aids aid those with hearing loss.
Today, emerging technologies are advancing to enhance the human body more than ever before.
Those who utilize these innovations embody a blend of human and machine, elevating their capabilities to reach what once seemed unattainable.
These are not merely futuristic concepts; they are new technologies available on the market or soon to be released.
I’ll take you to the sky
Flight has been a long-held human aspiration, from Icarus in Greek mythology to flying cars in sci-fi films like Blade Runner. Though personal flight technology may seem fanciful, it exists today in the form of a gravity jet suit.
We once envisioned rocket boots that could lift us off the ground, but such designs would be inherently unstable due to thrust being directed away from the wearer’s center of gravity.
Instead, the Gravity Jetsuit employs five engines that gently assist the wearer in navigating the air. Pilots can hover, spin, and even glide short distances above land or water.
The 1,050 horsepower gas turbine on the back provides essential lift, while two small jet turbines on each arm ensure stability and control.
In 2021, the Royal Navy tested the suit in a training exercise to explore its onboarding potential.
Please close your eyes and look
In the future, this technology could assist individuals with color blindness in perceiving a broader spectrum of colors – Photo Credit: Getty Images
Human vision is relatively limited; without light, we are nearly blind. Night vision goggles have allowed us to see red light wavelengths for some time, but this technology has now been miniaturized.
Chinese scientist developed contact lenses coated with nanoparticles that absorb infrared rays and re-emitt them as visible red, green, or blue light.
In trials, these lenses enabled users to see flashes from an infrared LED.
Interestingly, participants found it easier to see these flashes with their eyes closed, as the visible interference from light was blocked by their eyelids.
In the future, this technology may be adapted to assist those with color blindness in experiencing a wider range of colors.
read more:
I’m walking towards the future
Exoskeleton suits are wearable machines designed to enhance natural strength. Think of them as a type of powered suit or wearable forklift.
Many associate them with sci-fi movies like Alien, but they are already in use today.
Exoskeleton sensors detect the wearer’s movement and activate joint motors to provide additional strength.
Exoskeleton sensors detect your movement and activate the joint motors to provide added strength – Image Credit: DNSYS
Exoskeleton technology currently assists some individuals with disabilities, enabling them to function without assistance. It is also being developed to help warehouse workers lift and move heavier objects safely.
Moreover, this technology has everyday applications, such as aiding individuals in hiking longer distances or navigating stairs that might otherwise be challenging.
Get a better grip
Scientists at University College London recently created a glove-like device that provides the wearer with an additional thumb.
Researchers from University College London developed a glove-like device that provides the wearer with an extra thumb – Image credit: Dani Close/UCL
While this may appear redundant (as most of us already possess two), tests show that the additional thumb enhances dexterity, allowing tasks to be completed more easily with two hands.
Sensors located beneath the wearer’s toe control the movement of the third thumb. Currently, there is no tactile feedback, meaning the wearer cannot yet use it for delicate tasks, like carrying eggs.
Though the third thumb is not part of our natural anatomy, participants have quickly adapted to using it; only four out of nearly 600 individuals could not operate it successfully.
Control things with your thoughts
Brain Control Interface Technology allows individuals with neurodegenerative disorders reliable control over their surroundings – Photo Credit: Case Western Reserve University
Brain Control Interface (BCI) is an innovative technology that enables individuals to control computers using their thoughts.
By embedding microelectrodes into the brain, nerve signals associated with limb movement can be decoded by computers and used to manipulate external devices.
This technology enhances far more than just computer usability; it offers those with neurodegenerative conditions reliable control over their environment.
So far, this technology has allowed volunteers with spinal cord injuries to control computer cursors merely by thinking of movements associated with their paralyzed hands or arms.
The next evolution for these devices is the precise control of robotic limbs. With BCI technology, scientists envision a future where patients with muscle atrophy or other degenerative conditions fully regain their motor capabilities.
This autumn, New England’s renowned leaf spectacle may not extend as long as Leaf Peepers hope. Following a summer marked by drought and fluctuating rainfall, experts anticipate that colors will emerge early, shine brightly, and fade more quickly than usual.
Timing is not just essential for Instagram-worthy shots. Annually, millions flock to New York, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine to hike, drive, and explore under the vibrant canopy, contributing an estimated $8 billion to the local economy, according to the US Forest Service.
However, this year, scientists say the iconic display is less predictable, with sporadic bursts of color replacing the usual weeks of vibrant waves of red, orange, and gold.
“Bright, Short, Early” season
Jim Salge, an autumn leaves predictor for Yankee magazine, forecasts the transition to be “bright, short, and fast.” Some leaves have already turned brown before showcasing their vibrant hues.
“Traditionally, we observe changes moving northward, inland, and in coastal areas, but as trees become stressed and change rapidly, we expect to see more patchwork patterns this year,” Sarji noted.
When trees do not receive adequate water, they become “stressed,” impairing the process of photosynthesis, which converts sunlight into energy. Conversely, excessive water can suffocate roots.
For optimal viewing, I suggest heading to the western parts of Maine, southern New Hampshire, and northern Massachusetts, as well as the White Mountains in Vermont.
Peak colors are expected to shift to Vermont, New Hampshire, and Western Maine by early October, with higher elevations predicted to peak about a week earlier than usual.
“The silver lining about New England is that if you miss it, you can always head further south,” he said. “If it’s too early, go north or ascend to the mountains.”
Nonetheless, climate change has generally intensified over recent decades, and this year’s dry summer has accelerated the timeline.
“Ideally, our forests would benefit from a mild rain event evenly spread throughout the year,” explained Mukundrao, assistant professor at Columbia University’s Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory. “However, a series of extreme storms, followed by dry spells, makes it too rapid for the soil to absorb the water.”
Vibrant leaf colors thrive on warm days and cool nights, but stressful conditions for trees can hasten leaf drop. Stressed or unhealthy trees often exhibit shorter transitions and dull foliage, Rao mentioned. In contrast, urban trees typically retain color longer, as buildings and pavement hold heat while streetlights provide extra illumination.
Additional threats include fungal diseases from heavy spring rains and diseases affecting beech trees.
“We are witnessing invasive insects altering forests and decimating various tree species, alongside invasive plants disrupting native growth and patterns,” Sarji stated.
Tracking changes
To make predictions, Salge depends on weather forecasts and phenotype data, which involves tracking seasonal life cycles.
Notably, Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill, New Hampshire, has been monitoring local foliage since 1975. Records indicate that peak colors appeared for two weeks in late September that year; however, in 2024, it shifted to just two days in early October.
The US National Phenology Network gathers and shares observations from across the country. Its Nature’s Notebook app invites volunteers to document seasonal changes, bolstering over 200 scientific studies, according to director Theresa Crimmins.
“We have a general understanding of nature,” Crimmins remarked. “However, when focusing on specific species in particular locations, there remains much we do not comprehend.”
The revamped version of the app, launching this spring, allows users to upload photos for even one-time observations.
“More people can now become citizen scientists,” Sarji commented. “Their perspectives on the world contribute valuable data.”
Over the years, I’ve evaluated countless smart devices, yet the few that have found a permanent spot in my home were not my initial selections. They often provide convoluted solutions for issues that barely existed initially. Ensure you’re not just acquiring a novelty that will end up in storage shortly after purchase.
While numerous smart home gadgets may not be the best investment, some can significantly enhance your home. From robot vacuums and smart bulbs to smart locks and video doorbells, I’ll spotlight five smart home devices that have genuinely simplified my life.
The Roborock Saros 10 takes care of all your floor cleaning needs. It’s not merely a vacuum and mop; it empties its own dust bin and cleans its mop, allowing for weeks of hassle-free operation. With a tangle-free brush, vibrating warm water mop, and unmatched suction power, your floors will be sparkling clean.
Setting it up goes beyond just plugging it in and connecting it to your phone. Initially, you’ll take it around your home to map the floor plan, and when it transitions onto carpet, you can keep the mopping pad docked or store it automatically.
The only manual tasks required are filling the clean water tank, emptying the dirty water tank, and replacing the large dock dust bin when necessary. Depending on your home’s size and dirtiness, you’ll typically need to address the aquarium weekly, while the dust bin can go months before needing a change.
Though it’s the priciest item on this list, for those with a busy lifestyle, it’s worth every cent.
Smart bulbs are a cost-effective (and fun) introduction to the world of automation. Wyze bulbs stand out due to their competitive pricing, dependable performance, and extensive color options.
They simulate a sunrise effect every morning, gently illuminating your space until it’s bright enough to wake you.
At night, you can turn off the lights via your phone—no need to navigate a dark bedroom or step on a wayward dog toy. I even use Wyze bulbs in my home theater to create the perfect ambiance for movie nights, whether cozy or creepy.
You may perceive smart locks as just a fad, but my experience over the years has turned me into a loyal enthusiast. The Yale Assure Lock 2 allows me to enter without a physical key. Simply enter a passcode on the keypad when stepping out for a jog. You can also generate temporary codes for guests that expire after their visit (just remember to keep the main code private).
If you ever forget whether you’ve locked the door, you can quickly check your phone for the door’s status. The app not only shows whether the door is open or closed, but it also indicates its lock status. There’s also a door history feature, letting you see when the door is locked or unlocked.
Various models of the Yale Assure Lock 2 are available (including key-free options and those compatible with Apple Wallet), making it straightforward to find one that fits your lifestyle. If remote access is essential, make sure to choose one with WiFi.
It seems like everyone in the neighborhood has a Ring Video Doorbell— and with good reason. They offer utilities that you might not realize until you own one. Do you need to monitor package deliveries when away? Want to communicate with your pets while you’re out? Looking to capture amusing videos for social media? The Ring doorbell is versatile.
I personally have an older model (the Wired Doorbell Plus) that has treated me well for four years, and the newest models, like the Wired Doorbell Pro, appear even better. All of them provide motion alerts to your smartphone whenever movement is detected, notifying you of doorbell rings and allowing you to converse with guests via two-way audio without opening the door.
The Aera Smart Diffuser addresses a common issue: unpleasant odors. If you live in a compact area like I do, with the kitchen, gym, bathroom, and main living area all close together, it becomes essential.
Unlike candles that require constant oversight and often compromise air quality, the Aera operates discreetly and hypo-allergenically. After inserting a fragrance capsule, you can set a schedule for the diffuser, ensuring a delightful scent permeates your home throughout the day. It can also be controlled remotely so that when you come home from travel, a pleasing aroma welcomes you.
While the initial investment is steep (the diffuser retails for $199), the $60 fragrance capsules tend to last around three months, making it more economical than continually purchasing premium candles. This makes it one of my favorite smart home devices, solving a frustrating problem with minimal maintenance.
Jon Bitner is a writer covering travel, outdoor activities, and technology for publications like GameSpot, Digital Trends, and Islands. An avid hiker, he relishes exploring the Rocky Mountains from his home in Boulder, Colorado.
Since January 2025, when Donald Trump returned to the White House, his administration has enacted severe funding cuts across various federal agencies, including NASA. The proposed 2026 Budget plans to decrease NASA’s institutional funding by as much as 24.3%.
This translates to a financial drop from $24.8 billion (£18.4 billion) allocated by Congress in 2025, to $18.8 billion (£13.9 billion) in 2026.
The president’s proposals are not law until they pass through Congress, where they will be scrutinized, debated, and revised in the coming months.
Nonetheless, this situation focuses attention on some key priorities Trump has outlined during his two terms in office.
Focus on Human Spaceflight
During Trump’s first term from 2017 to 2021, NASA’s budget increased from $19.5 billion (£15.5 billion) to $23.3 billion (£18.5 billion), which constitutes about 0.48% of federal spending.
Trump has reinstated the National Space Council, shaping US space policies with the US Space Force consolidating national security assets in the latest military setup.
His administration emphasizes human spaceflight, launching NASA’s Artemis program aimed at returning humans to the moon by 2024.
Although this timeline appears overly ambitious, Artemis II is still scheduled for a crewed mission around the moon in 2026. If all goes well, Artemis III may land on the lunar surface a few years later.
Near the close of his first term, Trump formalized the National Space Policy, committing to lunar exploration and future missions to Mars. This policy streamlined regulatory frameworks, increasing accessibility for the private sector.
Support for human spaceflight and exploration carried on into his second term.
In April, when announcing the NASA Budget, the White House asserted its intention to return American astronauts to the moon “before China,” which has ambitious plans for a lunar base by the 2030s.
“The proposal includes investments to pursue lunar and Mars exploration simultaneously but prioritizes vital science and technology research,” stated NASA Administrator Janet Petro, reinforcing that the agency would “continue to progress towards achieving the impossible.”
read more:
Risk Projects Due to Budget Cuts
However, the budget cuts may hinder NASA’s ability to meet its goals, as it calls for “rationalizing the institutional workforce” while cutting many support services, including IT and maintenance.
The budget suggests cancelling the costly and delayed Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion Crew Capsule, both essential for long-range space missions like Artemis.
Instead, it proposes replacing them with “a more cost-effective commercial system” to facilitate subsequent missions.
According to the White House, SLS is operating at 140% over budget, costing $4 billion (£3.2 billion) per launch.
The SLS rocket completed an unmanned Artemis I mission in 2022, but as Trump’s budget advances, Artemis II will send astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen around the moon in 2026, with plans for lunar landings to follow.
Eliminating SLS and Orion, referred to as the “Legacy Human Exploration System” in Trump’s budget, could save $879 million (£698.5 million).
Artemis I’s Space Launch System Rocket Launch – Photo Credit: NASA
However, US lawmakers have expressed concerns about terminating the program, despite its notable expenses, as it has taken a decade to prepare for the flight, and cancellation could grant China a competitive advantage.
This sentiment was echoed by Texas Senator Ted Cruz: “It’s hard to think of more devastating mistakes,” he remarked during an April Senate hearing.
Another project earmarked for termination is the Lunar Gateway, a new space station intended to orbit the moon. Key hardware for this initiative has already been constructed in the US, Europe, Canada, and Japan.
While some missions might be salvaged, these cancellations risk alienating international partners that NASA has built relations with over decades.
Is There No More NASA Science?
The budget also threatens significant cuts to NASA’s Earth and Space Science Programs, with funding for the former at £1.16 billion (£921.7 million) and the latter at £2.655 billion (£2.1 billion).
“Are Mars and Venus habitable? How many Earth-like planets exist? We’re opting not to find out; such questions will remain unanswered,” the critique suggests.
The budget aims to terminate “multiple, affordable missions,” including long-term endeavors like the Mars Sample Return (MSR), which was deemed unsustainable.
This mission aims to uncover significant information about Mars’ past by analyzing rock and soil samples already collected by rovers currently exploring the planet.
Nonetheless, NASA acknowledged last year that the estimated cost of the MSR mission ballooned from $7 billion (£5.6 billion) to $11 billion (£8.7 billion), with its timeline pushed back from 2033 to 2040.
The proposed budget suggests that MSR goals may be achieved through crewed missions to Mars, aligning with Trump’s promise to “send American astronauts to plant the stars and stripes on Mars.”
However, China’s plans for a Mars sample return mission remain robust, with aspirations for execution in 2028, potentially prompting Congressional pushback against the MSR budget cancellation.
In Earth Sciences, the budget proposes cuts to various Earth monitoring satellites, many vital for tracking climate change.
Ground crews assist 19 astronauts as they return to Earth in April after a successful six-month mission aboard China’s Tiango Space Station – Photo Credit: Getty Images
The future of NASA’s Landsat Next is in question, which includes a trio of satellites set to launch in 2031 for monitoring Earth’s dynamic landscapes.
Meanwhile, several climate satellites and instruments currently operational, such as orbital carbon observatories and deep-sea climate stations, face closures even though they remain fully functional.
Another mission facing uncertainty is the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, scheduled for launch between 2026 and 2027, aimed at planetary exploration and investigating cosmic evolution.
This initiative is expected to be pivotal in understanding dark matter, dark energy, and answering fundamental questions about the universe.
Though Roman’s costs have escalated from an initial $2 billion (£1.6 billion) to over $3.2 billion (£2.5 billion), with 90% of the projected expenditure already incurred, the budget proposes reducing its development funding by $244 million (£133.9 million).
Ultimately, it remains unclear how the budget will be finalized as it awaits Congressional approval. Will these cuts devastate scientific progress, or usher in a new era of human exploration?
Meta has sparked controversy by utilizing a female student’s back-to-school photo to market one of its social media platforms to a 37-year-old man, a decision deemed “outrageous” and “upsetting.”
The man is pitted against Mark Zuckerberg’s Elon Musk’s X, receiving a post urging him to “get the thread.”
Meta employed the child’s images after they were shared on Instagram by their parents as school started back up. The parents were unaware that the meta setting allowed for this usage. One mother noted her account was private, yet the posts were automatically visible in public threads. Another mother mentioned that she posted the photo on her public Instagram account. Stranger interactions highlighted their child’s posts as “suggested threads.”
The recipient conveyed to the Guardian that the post felt “deliberately provocative and ultimately exploitative of the children and families involved.”
The father of the13-year-old girl featured in the post expressed that it was “absolutely outrageous.” All images portrayed female students in short skirts, showcasing bare legs or stockings.
“Discovering her image used by such a large company in a context that felt sexualized for product promotion made me feel quite sick,” he stated.
Meta, a massive company valued at £1.5TN, based in Menlo Park, California, defended its actions, stating the images did not breach their policies. They encouraged users to explore the thread by highlighting public posts that adhere to community standards and recommended guidelines. Although their system does not recommend threads shared by teenagers, these posts were generated from adult accounts that permitted public viewing.
The man who received the post noted that he was solely sent promotional content featuring female students, with no representation of boys in school uniforms, which he felt added a “sexualization aspect.”
One mother of a 15-year-old said the images were used in a promotional post featuring a prominent “thread” button. “It was a photo of my daughter heading to school. I never anticipated Instagram would utilize it for promotion. I absolutely hate it. She’s a minor,” she lamented.
She firmly rejected any agreement, stating, “It wasn’t for the money of the world. [its platform].”
Her Instagram account, typically modest with 267 followers, saw her child’s post attract nearly 7,000 viewers.
Another mother whose 13-year-old child’s photo was similarly featured remarked:
Meta categorized such posts as “recommended tools,” insisting that public posts should serve this function.
A corporate representative stated, “The shared images do not violate our policy and are postings from schools published by parents. There are systems in place to prevent teenagers from recommending shared threads.”
The 37-year-old London Instagram user who received the post requested to remain anonymous.
He noted he had not liked or posted similar images prior to receiving photos of the schoolgirl.
“To me, this feels intentionally provocative, introducing trendy and popular content, ultimately exploiting the children and families involved and jeopardizing online safety.”
“We advocate for children’s rights online,” said Beeban Kidron, a crossbench peer and advocate.
“Meta prioritizes corporate growth over children’s rights to privacy, which is the only reason we can fathom for sending a photograph of a female student to a 37-year-old man.”
She urged the Regulator of Communications to consider implementing measures this summer to prevent unidentified adults from contacting children, stating that “companies should not have the right to feed sensitive content to children.”
Ofcom’s illegal harm initiatives aim to combat online grooming, emphasizing that “Your child’s profile, location, and connections should not be visible to others.”
Meta’s system suggests that if a thread profile is public, posts from an adult profile could be recommended on Facebook or Instagram, allowing others to “discover, follow, and interact with you.” Users can turn this off or switch a thread profile to private.
Researchers may have identified a potential connection between extreme endurance running and colorectal cancer, as nearly half of marathon and ultra-marathon participants have undergone screening.
Initial research assembled 100 long-distance runners aged 35-50 for colonoscopy, though these findings have not yet been peer-reviewed.
Close to 50% were found to have polyps (growths), with 15% diagnosed with advanced adenomas—growths that are likely to progress to cancer.
In contrast, recent studies indicate that only about 4.5 to 6 percent of adults in their late 40s from the general population have these advanced adenomas. However, it’s important to note that these studies included significantly larger sample sizes.
“I was quite concerned when I observed a group of ultra-marathon runners in their 30s diagnosed with stage 4, very advanced colorectal cancer,” said Dr. Timothy Cannon, who led the study at the Inova Schar Cancer Institute in Virginia. BBC Science Focus.
“They reported experiencing bleeding and convulsions post-race. At least one or two mentioned that they were told this was normal following their runs.”
Such symptoms can result from ischemic colitis, where blood flow is diverted from the colon to supply oxygen to the legs and other muscles during intense activity. This can lead to swelling and bleeding but typically resolves spontaneously.
Dr. Cannon speculated whether repeated cycles of damage and healing could create conditions conducive to cancer development.
Blood flow to the legs deprives the intestines of oxygen.
“There is currently no evidence that ischemic colitis directly causes cancer,” he stated. “However, it’s not difficult to imagine the potential outcomes. When numerous cells die and regenerate chaotically, there are ample chances for DNA replication errors.”
Alternative explanations exist as well. Endurance athletes are known to possess distinct gut microbiota compared to non-runners, and they often consume considerable amounts of ultra-processed foods, such as bottled energy drinks.
Dr. Cannon’s team is preparing to compare the gut bacteria of runners with and without adenomas to that of non-runners.
The findings were presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s annual meeting, yet researchers cautioned that these are merely preliminary results, necessitating further investigation. They also highlighted that the screening study lacked a control group of non-runners.
“This leans more toward hypothesis than definitive answers,” Cannon remarked.
“I definitely don’t want people to walk away thinking exercise is harmful because it is beneficial overall. The inquiry is whether high levels of exercise could elevate the risk of colon cancer—and I believe they might.”
Read more:
Running slowly may be essential for a healthier, longer lifespan. Here’s why
What are the limits of human endurance?
The astonishing truth about how running can alter one’s perception of time
The artificial intelligence system has outperformed numerous prediction enthusiasts, including a number of experts. A competition focused on event predictions spanned events from the fallout between Donald Trump and Elon Musk to Kemi Badenok being dismissed as a potential Conservative leader.
The UK-based AI startup, established by former Google DeepMind researchers, ranks among the top 10 in international forecasting competitions, with participants tasked with predicting the probabilities of 60 events occurring over the summer.
Manticai secured 8th place in the Metaculus Cup, operated by a forecasting firm based in San Francisco aiming to predict the futures of investment funds and corporations.
While AI performance still lags behind the top human predictors, some contend that it could surpass human capabilities sooner than anticipated.
“It feels odd to be outperformed by a few bots at this stage,” remarked Ben Sindel, one of the professional predictors who ended up behind the AI during the competition, eventually finishing on Mantic’s team. “We’ve made significant progress compared to a year ago when the best bots were ranked around 300.”
The Metaculus Cup included questions like which party would win the most seats in the Samoan general election, and how many acres of the US would be affected by fires from January to August. Contestants were graded based on their predictions as of September 1st.
“What Munch achieved is remarkable,” stated Degar Turan, CEO of Metaculus.
Turan estimated that AI would perform at par or even surpass top human predictors by 2029, but also acknowledged that “human predictors currently outshine AI predictors.”
In complex predictions reliant on interrelated events, AI systems tend to struggle with logical validation checks when interpreting knowledge into final forecasts.
Mantic effectively dissects prediction challenges into distinct tasks and assigns them to various machine learning models such as OpenAI, Google, and DeepSeek based on their capabilities.
Co-founder Toby Shevlane indicated that their achievements mark a significant milestone for the AI community, utilizing large language models for predictive analytics.
“Some argue that LLMs merely replicate training data, but we can’t predict such futures,” he noted. “We require genuine inference. We can assert that our system’s forecasts are more original than those of most human contenders, as individuals often compile average community predictions. AI systems frequently differ from these averages.”
Mantic’s systems deploy a range of AI agents to evaluate current events, conduct historical analyses, simulate scenarios, and make future predictions. The strength of AI prediction lies in its capacity for hard work and endurance, vital for effective forecasting.
AI can simultaneously tackle numerous complex challenges, revisiting each daily to adapt based on evolving information. Human predictors also leverage intuition, but Sindel suggests this may emerge in AI as well.
“Intuition is crucial, but I don’t think it’s inherently human,” he commented.
Top-tier human super forecasters assert their superiority. Philip Tetlock, co-author of the bestseller SuperForecasting, recently published research indicating that, on average, experts continue to outperform the best bots.
Turan reiterated that AI systems face challenges in complex predictions involving interdependent events, struggling to identify logical inconsistencies in output during validation checks.
“We’ve witnessed substantial effort and investment,” remarked Warren Hatch, CEO of Good Judgement, a forecasting firm co-founded by Tetlock. “We anticipate AI excelling in specific question categories, such as monthly inflation.
Or, as Lubos Saloky, the human forecaster who placed third in the Metaculus Cup, expressed, “I’m not retiring. If you can’t beat them, I’ll collaborate with them.”
New quantum debit cards, which can hold unforgeable quantum funds, are constructed using extremely cooled atoms and light particles.
While standard banks often rely on the skill of counterfeiters to detect fake banknotes, quantum banks utilize the no-cloning theorem from physics, rendering counterfeiting impossible. This principle, which states that creating identical copies of quantum information is not feasible, led physicist Stephen Wiessner to propose a protocol in 1983 for generating secure currencies. Julian Laurat and his team at the Kastler Brossel Laboratory in France are actively implementing this groundbreaking concept in advanced experiments.
According to this protocol, banks create banknotes composed of quantum particles, possessing unique properties and existing in specific quantum states, thus ensuring protection against forgery through the no-cloning theorem. Laurat remarks that the protocol showcases an impressive feat of quantum cryptography, though it has not yet been put into practice for actual quantum fund storage.
The research team has made storage feasible by combining memory devices with hard drives. In their experiments, users interact with quantum systems that act as banks by exchanging photons. Each photon can be stored similarly to loading money onto a debit card.
The memory devices used by the team consist of hundreds of millions of cesium atoms, which researchers cool down to nearly absolute zero by bombarding them with lasers. At such extreme temperatures, light can precisely manipulate the quantum state of atoms, but Laurat notes that years were spent identifying the optimal cooling needed for atomic memory to serve as a quantum debit card. Through extensive testing, he and his colleagues demonstrated that users can retrieve photons from atoms without corrupting their states, as long as the process is not tampered with.
Christophe Simon from the University of Calgary emphasizes that the new experiment marks progress toward fully realizing quantum funding. However, the current quantum memory storage time of around six million seconds remains insufficient for practical application. “Another future step is to enhance portability. The long-term goal is to develop quantum memory that can be easily carried, particularly for Quantum Money applications. But we are not there yet,” he states.
The team is focused on extending storage durations, asserting that the protocol can be employed within quantum networks already being established in metropolitan areas across the globe. Additionally, cutting-edge quantum memory not only facilitates ultra-secure long-distance quantum communication but is also instrumental in connecting various quantum computers to more powerful systems.
Astronomers utilizing the NASA/ESA James Webb Space Telescope have identified a series of dark, bead-like star formations within Saturn’s ionosphere and stratosphere.
Detection of near-infrared emissions in Saturn’s ionosphere (left) reveals dark bead-like features embedded in bright auroras. In the stratosphere (right), below 500 km, an asymmetric star pattern extends toward the equator. Image credit: NASA/ESA/CSA/WEBB/STALLARD et al.
“This was the first opportunity for me to make such detailed near-infrared observations of Saturn’s aurora and upper atmosphere,” said the researcher.
“We anticipated seeing emissions across various levels.”
“Instead, we observed intricate patterns of beads and stars, which might be interconnected despite their considerable height separation and could relate to the iconic hexagon within Saturn’s clouds.”
“These features were entirely unforeseen and remain unexplained.”
The research team concentrated on detecting infrared emissions from charged molecular hydrogen, which plays a significant role in Saturn’s atmospheric dynamics, offering valuable insights into the chemical and physical processes at work.
Using Webb’s near-infrared spectrograph, scientists observed H3+ ions at an altitude of 600 km, 1,100 km above Saturn’s nominal surface, alongside lower stratospheric methane molecules.
Within the ionosphere’s electrically charged plasma, a series of dark bead-like features intermingled within bright aurora halos were detected.
These structures maintained stability for several hours but seemed to drift slowly over time.
In the stratosphere of Saturn, researchers identified asymmetric star-shaped features, dropping approximately 500 km.
This remarkable formation extended from Saturn’s North Pole down toward the equator.
Only four of the star’s six arms were visible, with two mysteriously absent, resulting in a biased pattern.
“Studying Saturn’s atmosphere has always posed challenges due to the faint emissions from that region,” remarked Professor Stallard.
“Webb’s remarkable sensitivity transforms our capacity to observe these atmospheric layers, unveiling a wholly different structural configuration than previously noted.”
The authors meticulously mapped the precise locations of features, overlaying data for the same Saturn area, discovering that the arms of the star seem to emanate from a point just above the hexagonal structure at the Stormcloud level.
This implies that the mechanisms driving the pattern could influence structures penetrating through Saturn’s atmosphere.
“We believe the dark beads arise from the intricate interactions between Saturn’s magnetosphere and its dynamic atmosphere, potentially providing new insights into the energy exchanges that fuel Saturn’s auroras,” stated Professor Stallard.
“The asymmetric star formations suggest previously unknown atmospheric processes functioning within Saturn’s stratosphere and are likely connected to the hexagonal storm pattern observed deeper in Saturn’s atmosphere.”
“Interestingly, the dark beads in the ionosphere seem to align with the arms of the strongest stars in the stratosphere, though it’s unclear whether this connection is genuine or merely coincidental.”
Both phenomena may have significant implications for our comprehension of atmospheric dynamics within the gas giant, although further investigation is needed to elucidate their underlying causes.
The team aspires for additional time to conduct follow-up observations of Saturn using Webb to explore further features.
As planets align approximately every 15 years, the structure can undergo dramatic changes as Saturn’s orientation shifts toward the Sun, moving the Northern Hemisphere into autumn.
“The necessity for follow-up Webb observations during this pivotal phase of Saturn’s seasonal transition is evident, as neither atmospheric layer can be examined using ground-based telescopes.” Paper published in the journal Geophysical Research Book.
Tom S. Stallard et al. 2025. JWST/NIRSPEC detects the complex structures of Saturn’s ionosphere and stratosphere. Geophysical Research Book 52 (17): E2025GL116491; doi: 10.1029/2025GL116491
Tom S. Stallard et al. 2025. Transformational observations of the ionosphere of the giant planet with JWST. EPSC Abstract 18: EPSC-DPS2025-817; doi: 10.5194/epsc-dps2025-1438
Our brain activity and health is influenced by various bodily events
Cavallini James/BSIP/Getty Images
The impact of body fat on our movements, emotions, and even the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease varies based on its location within the body.
While many studies emphasize abdominal fat due to its correlation with cognitive decline and heart disease, few have explored fat distribution in other regions, usually with limited participant numbers.
To broaden understanding, Qiu from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University and her team investigated the effects of fat in the arms, legs, torso, and around internal organs on brain health.
The research team analyzed body composition scans and Brain Imaging data of over 18,000 adults with an average age of 62 involved in the UK Biobank Project. After taking age and other factors into account, they associated excess fat in different body regions with specific brain changes.
For instance, higher fat levels in the arms and torso correlated with thinning in the sensorimotor cortex, which is involved in movement. Increased arm fat was also linked to reduced hippocampal volume, a crucial area for memory that is traditionally affected in Alzheimer’s disease, potentially explaining why arm fat is associated with a higher risk of neurodegenerative disorders.
The researchers found that excess leg fat correlated with diminished connectivity in the brain’s limbic network, which is responsible for emotion and reward processing. This may be due to the fact that fat in the lower body releases leptin, a hormone that regulates hunger, with higher leptin levels connected to reduced limbic connectivity.
Conversely, visceral fat (around internal organs) was the type most strongly linked to functional changes in the brain, uniquely associated with white matter degradation—a characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease—rather than its preservation.
This may arise from the fact that visceral fat produces more inflammatory substances compared to fat located elsewhere in the body, according to Sonia Anand from McMaster University in Canada, which can contribute to brain inflammation.
It remains unclear why arm fat appeared to have both protective and detrimental effects on the brain. “Observing such divergent impacts was intriguing,” noted Mikal Schneider Biary from Rutgers University, New Jersey. This complexity underscores the intricate relationship between body fat and brain health, she added.
The research only established correlations between body fat and brain function, so “we can’t infer any causal connections,” Biary cautions. Some brain changes may indeed influence the distribution of body fat. Moreover, the findings might not apply to the broader population, as there was a notable lack of diversity among participants.
Nevertheless, the study emphasizes that different types and locations of fat exert varying effects, according to Anand. This suggests that treatments focusing on reducing visceral fat could have a more significant impact on brain health than generalized weight loss approaches.
Hydrogen levels in the atmosphere have surged by 60% since the pre-industrial era, underscoring the significant influence of fossil fuel use on the Earth’s atmospheric makeup. While hydrogen itself isn’t a greenhouse gas, it contributes to warming indirectly through its interactions with other substances.
The research findings stem from the first comprehensive long-term observations of atmospheric hydrogen, which are derived from ice core data collected in Greenland in 2024. “Ice core records are incredible,” notes Alex Archibald from Cambridge University.
Being a small and lightweight molecule, hydrogen tends to escape into the atmosphere easily, often leaking from the ice core before it is analyzed in the lab.
To tackle this issue, John Patterson from the University of California, Irvine, and his team examined the ice core samples right after extraction. “We took our equipment out onto the ice. As soon as we extracted the samples, we cleaned and sealed them in a melted chamber for analysis,” he explains.
This approach enabled the researchers to establish a long-term record of atmospheric hydrogen stretching back 1,100 years, marking a significant improvement over previous records that reached only 100 years, largely based on observational data and snowfall analyses. “It’s quite an impressive feat logistically. We’re excited to share these findings,” remarks David Stevenson from the University of Edinburgh, UK.
The study discovered that hydrogen concentrations have risen from roughly 280 parts per billion in the early 19th century to around 530 parts per billion today. According to Patterson, this is not surprising given the rapid increase in fossil fuel usage since the pre-industrial period—when fossil fuels or biomass burn, hydrogen is released as a by-product.
Patterson and his team merged data from ice core records with modeling efforts to illustrate the fluctuations in hydrogen levels over the millennium. “Our data reveals changes in atmospheric composition, but the reasons behind these changes remain unclear,” says Patterson. “We aim to utilize biogeochemical models to investigate these variations.”
Ice cores can reveal historical hydrogen levels in the atmosphere
John Patterson
For instance, evidence from ice cores indicates that atmospheric hydrogen levels dipped by 16% during the so-called Little Ice Age, a cold period from the 16th to the 19th century. The decrease in wildfire emissions during this time does not completely account for the notable drop in hydrogen concentrations, according to Patterson. “This suggests that natural hydrogen biogeochemistry is adapting to climate change in ways we still don’t fully comprehend. This unexpected finding could be significant for future scenarios, indicating that atmospheric hydrogen levels might be more sensitive to climate fluctuations than previously believed,” Patterson cautions.
In the atmosphere, hydrogen competes with methane and engages with hydroxyl radicals, which play a crucial role in eliminating methane from the atmosphere, a potent greenhouse gas. “As hydrogen levels rise, the amount of hydroxyl available to react with methane decreases,” explains Patterson, potentially enhancing methane’s warming effect. “Currently, hydrogen constitutes about half of the total in the atmosphere, contributing approximately 2% to the overall anthropogenic warming effect according to our best estimates.”
Gaining a deeper understanding of the hydrogen cycle is essential to assess whether the widespread adoption of hydrogen fuels, as a transition away from fossil fuels, might lead to unanticipated consequences. For instance, a sudden spike in atmospheric hydrogen could magnify the warming impact of methane. Methane emissions have consistently risen since 2007, influenced by fossil fuel production, agriculture, and warming that releases stored methane from wetlands and permafrost.
“Methane is a significant factor causing us to hesitate in endorsing a hydrogen economy, as it inevitably leads to hydrogen leaks into the atmosphere,” emphasizes Archibald. “If hydrogen escapes into the atmosphere, it worsens the methane issue.”
It might spark discussion over the cautious use of hydrogen, especially if renewable energy cannot sufficiently replace fossil fuels, according to Archibald. Nonetheless, Patterson and other experts highlight that the warming effects from increased hydrogen use are expected to be minimal compared to the considerable warming impact of fossil fuels. “We don’t want to discourage people from pursuing hydrogen energy, as it’s a much cleaner option than its fossil fuel counterparts,” emphasizes Patterson.
A single blood test can unveil the biological ages of 11 distinct organs and systems in the body, potentially indicating disease risks in those areas.
“Our objective is to enhance care using one test that reflects not just the overall biological age, but identifies which system is primarily influencing it,” explains Raghav Sehgal from Yale University. “This way, individuals can receive tailored lifestyle or treatment recommendations based on their profiles.”
To evaluate an individual’s lifespan and health risks, biological age serves as an indicator of the rate at which their body ages, contrasting this with chronological age, according to Morgan Levine at Altos Labs in California. Researchers have designed an epigenetic watch to assess DNA methylation, which involves the addition or removal of chemical tags that toggle genes on and off.
While it’s convenient, its accuracy is questioned by Levine. Different organs and systems age at varied rates, heavily influenced by genetics and medical history, she highlights.
“There is a common belief that within an individual, organs and systems can be distinct.” Vadim Gladyshev from Harvard University, who did not partake in the research, notes. “Some brains may exhibit older characteristics, while kidneys may age differently compared to other organs.”
Thus, Sehgal, Levine, and their colleagues embarked on creating methylation tests that target aging states in various body parts. Initially, they assessed physical measurements, including blood tests, medical histories, and grip strength from around 7,500 individuals involved in two major research programs, namely the Health and Retirement Study—a database of U.S. residents over 50 and some U.S. families contributing DNA for genomic research.
Researchers searched for clear connections between age-related conditions, encompassing immune, inflammatory, hematological, musculoskeletal, hormonal, and metabolic systems along with five key organs linked to the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, and brain. They then correlated these findings with DNA methylation patterns, trained computer models to recognize those patterns, calculated the biological age of each system, and generated an overall biological age.
After training their models, the team tested it on blood samples from another 8,125 individuals whose data originated from four other studies. They discovered, for instance, that the model’s heart score could predict heart disease, brain scores were associated with cognitive decline, and musculoskeletal scores indicated whether individuals were likely to have arthritis-like conditions.
Comparing their findings with established epigenetic clocks, the researchers noted that organ-specific scores demonstrated strong accuracy, with many yielding excellent results. “It’s quite remarkable that a single factor measured through a blood test can effectively estimate aging across multiple systems,” remarks Levine.
Daniel Belsky from Columbia University in New York describes the epigenetic clock as representing “significant” advancements in aging research. “This marks the initial foray into developing interpretable measures of biological aging that allow for simultaneous analysis of multiple systems, guiding back to specific tissues or organs,” he explains. “It provides a pathway for reverse-engineering from aggregate measurements to pinpoint where health issues may emerge.”
Nonetheless, he cautions that this method might deviate from the overarching objectives of the field. “The essence of genetic science and the potential of aging biology resides in perceiving humans as coherent systems where we seek to identify the weakest links to bolster and avert failures,” Belsky asserts. “Maintaining this integrated perspective is crucial.”
Crucially, Levine clarifies that this test is not intended for diagnostic purposes but for risk assessment. “All assessments, including those in our studies, aim to provide estimates and insights into the inner workings of our bodies,” she emphasizes. “Future research should yield stronger and more precise estimates of aging by integrating various approaches, capturing the complexity and diversity of the aging process.”
Gladyshev envisions that this research could lead to personalized disease prevention strategies. “This represents the core implication of this series of studies,” Belsky adds, while emphasizing the need for further investigation. “We’re not quite there yet.”
Ever find yourself gazing at adorable things until they start to seem a bit creepy? Think of garden gnomes, baby dolls, kids dressed as princesses, and all cats. Well, there’s one more addition to this peculiar list.
The tufted ground squirrel (Rheithrosciurus macrotis) may appear cute with its bright eyes and bushy tail, but the Dayak hunters of Borneo view it as a cold-blooded killer.
This ruthless rodent, nicknamed “Vampire Alice,” is infamous for allegedly flipping deer onto their backs, using its razor-sharp teeth to sever their jugular veins, causing the animals to bleed out.
Those who discovered the remains of a deer in the woods suspect that the squirrel returns to the scene to feast on the deer’s heart, liver, and stomach.
In villages bordering the forest, tufted ground squirrels are also known to prey on domestic chickens and consume their hearts and livers.
The squirrel gained notoriety in 2014 thanks to a paper written by 15-year-old Emily Meyard, titled Academic Paper, which revealed folk tales about animals with a bloodthirsty reputation.
The paper was published in Taprobanica: Journal of Biodiversity in Asia and has since made these once-overlooked creatures go viral. Articles have been written, videos shared, perhaps making Beatrix Potter reconsider her legacy.
In 2015, footage of one caught on camera went viral for the first time, however, it did not catch any herbivores in the act.
Instead, they were seen foraging in Gunungparun National Park in West Kalimantan, where action from the killer critter remained elusive, but new revelations emerged.
The tufted ground squirrel shares its native Borneo habitat with Prevost’s squirrel, a fluffy creature with a black, reddish-brown, and white coat that prefers life among the trees. – Credit: Richard McManus via Getty
In 2020, researchers discovered that the unusual teeth of these squirrels—long incisors with intricate ridges—are adapted for cracking open tough nuts.
Tufted ground squirrels are highly specialized seed predators, with a strong preference for canarium tree nuts.
It turns out the perception of tufted ground squirrels as fearsome creatures is a misconception. They truly have bright eyes and fluffy tails.
In fact, their bushy tails are among the largest proportionally of any mammal, being 30% larger than their bodies.
The reason for this unusual trait remains uncertain. Since they spend most of their time on the forest floor seeking food, it’s not for warmth, as it rarely gets cold in Borneo.
This could be related to attracting mates, deterring predators, or perhaps serving a mysterious form of camouflage. Their tail, which features a charcoal hue with frosty accents, helps them blend into the forest floor.
Regardless, I’ve stopped disparaging tufted ground squirrels and have learned to appreciate them as genuinely fascinating creatures.
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What unique capabilities do quantum computers possess that traditional computers cannot replicate? This question is central to a swiftly evolving industry, and recent findings aim to provide clarity on this topic.
Unlike classical bits, quantum computers utilize qubits that can occupy multiple states beyond just “0” or “1”, offering potential computational advantages. However, the debate on whether quantum computers can accomplish tasks beyond the reach of the most advanced traditional computers, including the notion of quantum supremacy, remains complex and contentious. This is primarily due to the stipulation that genuine demonstrations of quantum advantage must involve practical computational tasks, achievable with realistic quantum technology, while explicitly excluding any mathematical or algorithmic enhancements that may allow classical computers to eventually catch up.
William Crescher from The University of Texas at Austin and his colleagues are presently conducting experiments that satisfy both criteria. In contrast to earlier claims of quantum dominance, which were ultimately bridged by classical computing advancements, the researchers assert, “Our results are clear and enduring: no future classical algorithm development will close this gap.”
The team executed a complex mathematical experiment addressing communication challenges using 12 qubits created from laser-controlled ions by the Quantum Computing Company Quantinuum. The experiment’s objective was for two virtual participants, referred to as Alice and Bob, to devise the most efficient method for exchanging messages and performing calculations.
One section of the quantum computer, acting as Alice, prepares a specific quantum state and transmits it to Bob, another segment of the machine. Bob must discern its properties and determine how to measure Alice’s state to produce an output. By iterating this process, the duo can establish a means to forecast Bob’s output before Alice discloses her state.
The researchers conducted the procedure 10,000 times to refine the way Alice and Bob execute their tasks. With an analysis of these iterations and a rigorous mathematical examination of the protocol involved, it was found that classical algorithms with fewer than 62 bits could not compete with the performance of a 12-qubit quantum computer in this particular task. For a classical algorithm to achieve equivalent performance, it would require a performance threshold of about 330 bits, representing a nearly 30-fold difference in computational capability.
“This is an extraordinary scientific achievement that illustrates the extent of the ‘quantum advantage’ landscape, which may be broader than previously understood,” said Ashley Montanaro from the University of Bristol, UK. “Unlike most demonstrations of quantum superiority, the prospect of discovering a superior classical algorithm is virtually impossible.”
Ronald de Wolf from the Dutch Institute for Mathematics and Computer Science highlights that this experiment effectively leverages the recent rapid enhancements in existing quantum technologies while drawing upon theories of communication complexity that have been explored for years.
“The intricacies of communication are known to contribute to a verifiable and realistic distinction between quantum and classical systems. The difference is that advancements in hardware have made it feasible to implement the model for the first time,” he explains. “Moreover, they tackled a novel challenge in communication complexity, revealing a significant gap between classical and quantum capabilities even with just 12 qubits.”
These new findings differentiate themselves from earlier demonstrations of quantum superiority, but share a crucial element: their immediate practicality remains uncertain. Notable examples of quantum advantage that could produce substantial real-world benefits, such as Shor’s algorithm which could revolutionize encryption, still await confirmation regarding their applicability.
In the future, research teams might enhance their findings further by separating Alice and Bob into distinct computers. While this limits the chances of unmonitored interactions affecting outcomes of the quantum computer, the true utility of quantum dominance remains a critical issue, according to De Wolf.
“Progress beyond mere [quantum] dominance is essential for achieving [quantum] utility. Quantum computers currently outperform classical ones in specific areas of genuine interest, like some chemical computations and logistics optimization,” he suggests.
Scientists warn that the Amazon Rainforest has experienced a loss of the rainfall necessary to sustain it, pushing the world’s largest tropical ecosystem toward a potential tipping point.
A recent study published in Nature Communications indicates that deforestation is causing a significant decline in rainfall during the Amazon’s dry season, thereby increasing heat across the region.
Researchers suggest these changes could signify “early signs of biome destabilization,” implying that the forests are beginning to struggle to maintain their balance.
The study analyzed satellite and climate data from 1985 to 2020, encompassing an area of 2.6 million km² (1,000,000 square miles) in Brazil’s Amazon. This is nearly four times larger than Texas.
The data revealed that dry season rainfall has decreased by approximately 21mm (0.8 inches), with about three-quarters of this decline directly associated with deforestation.
During the same period, maximum daily temperatures increased by around 2°C (3.6°F), with 16.5% of this rise attributable to forest loss, while the remainder results from global climate change.
Deforestation contributes to reduced rainfall, while increased methane and carbon dioxide levels result from climate change – Source: Machado et al., Nature Communications (2025)
Plants play a crucial role in the Amazon’s rain cycle by extracting water from the soil and releasing it through a process known as transpiration.
When trees are removed, this cycle weakens, leading to fewer clouds and less rainfall. Consequently, the forest becomes hotter and drier, creating a harmful feedback loop.
If the Amazon reaches a tipping point, it may no longer be able to sustain itself, resulting in a rapid and irreversible collapse of the ecosystem and converting the region into a savanna.
This shift would significantly impact the entire water cycle in South America and release the carbon stored in the rainforests.
“These findings underscore the necessity of preserving and restoring Amazonian forest cover as a vital strategy for mitigating climate change and ensuring ecosystem stability,” the scientists conclude.
As individuals age, having breakfast may be linked to a higher risk of early death, particularly for those in poor health. Recent research involving 3,000 adults indicates this connection.
After tracking participants for an average of 22 years, scientists observed that those who usually ate breakfast later in the morning had a slightly better survival rate in the following year compared to those who ate earlier.
Study participants typically consumed breakfast around 8:20 am, but those who waited until after 9 am were more prone to issues like depression, fatigue, or oral health problems.
“These findings provide new insight into the saying ‘breakfast is the most important meal of the day,’ especially for seniors,” stated the authors, including Dr. Hassan Dashti, a nutrition scientist at Massachusetts General Hospital.
“Our research implies that the timing of meals, particularly breakfast for older adults, can be a simple marker for assessing overall health.”
“Moreover, promoting a regular dietary schedule among older adults could be part of a larger strategy to enhance healthy aging and longevity.”
Participants were observed for over 20 years, during which they reported their health status, meal times, and occasionally provided blood samples.
Over time, researchers noticed that people were shifting their breakfast and dinner times later in the day, thereby shortening their overall eating window.
Since this study was observational, it does not definitively prove that delaying breakfast leads to health issues or early mortality; rather, it hints at a potential correlation.
Furthermore, researchers have determined that individuals genetically predisposed to “night owl” behavior are likely to rise and sleep later, consequently eating their meals later as well.
Individuals who practice intermittent fasting often eat breakfast later in the day, allowing their bodies longer periods without food – Credit: via Getty
The authors emphasized the significance of their findings, especially considering the rising trend of intermittent fasting.
“The timing of subsequent meals, particularly delayed breakfast, is connected to health challenges and an increased risk of death among older adults,” Dashti concluded.
The significant move was the latest part of founder Daniel Ek’s strategy to withdraw catalogs from Spotify in protest against his €600 million (£520 million) investment in military AI company Helsing.
In June, Ek’s venture capital firm, Prima Materia, spearheaded a funding round for the defense tech firm. Helsing’s software leverages AI to analyze battlefield sensor and weapon system data, facilitating real-time military decision-making. Additionally, they plan to develop their own military drone, the HX-2. Ek also serves as chairman of Helsing.
The band has announced their participation in Music for Genocide, a new initiative where over 400 artists and record labels are removing their music from Israeli streaming platforms.
In a statement, the band expressed:
In light of the substantial investments made by CEOs in companies unrelated to the initiative and engaged in producing military drones and AI technologies for fighter jets, the band has made separate requests to labels to remove their music from Spotify across all regions.
We believe that the historical effectiveness of artists’ actions during apartheid in South Africa serves as a precedent for addressing the war crimes and genocide currently perpetrated by the state of Israel, which underscores the moral duties of artists.
Moreover, the financial strain on artists has now combined with moral and ethical burdens, ultimately affecting the hard-earned income of fans and the creative endeavors of musicians.
Enough is enough.
Alternative methods must be explored.
になったんです。 English: The first thing you can do is to find the best one to do. A spokesperson for Spotify stated, “Spotify and Helsing are entirely separate entities.”
They further clarified that Helsing “has no involvement in Gaza” and that their operations “are focused on protecting Europe against threats from Ukraine.”
In a statement, Helsing asserted, “Currently, Helsing’s technology is not deployed in war zones outside of Ukraine, which is misleading.”
“Our technology is utilized in European countries for deterrence and to defend against Russian assaults on Ukraine.”
Australian psych-rock group King Gizzard and Canadian post-rock band Godspeed You! Black Emperor, alongside US alternative acts Deerhoof and Manchester’s Wu Lyf, have also joined in this effort.
In contrast to these bands, large-scale attacks cannot showcase their music on popular platforms like Bandcamp. After transitioning to Bandcamp, King Gizzard’s extensive catalog filled the top 27 spots on the site.
The No No Music for Genocide initiative features artists such as MJ Lenderman, Amyl and the Sniffers, Rina Sawayama, Jockstrap, Keiyaa, John Glacier, Erika de Casier, Smerz, and Wednesday. These artists have either modified their release territories or requested geo-blocking for their music.
Massive Attack has amplified their message through Instagram posts.
In 1991, the tragedy of apartheid violence in South Africa was alleviated from a distance through public boycotts, protests, and artists withdrawing their work. Complicity with such a regime was deemed unacceptable. The same principle applies to the state of Israeli atrocities in 2025. Many musicians are responding to the recently launched @Filmworkers4Palestine campaign, endorsed by 4,500 filmmakers, actors, industry workers, and institutions, supporting issues from @bds.movement, @NomusicForGenocide, and more. We urge all musicians to convert their grief, anger, and artistic contributions into consistent, rational, and impactful actions, aiming to end the suffering imposed on Palestinians for far too long.
Massive Attack, alongside Brian Eno, kNeecap, and Fontaine DC, have established a coalition of artists advocating for Palestinian rights, defending musicians against the threat of silence or the risk of career setbacks enforced by organizations such as the Israeli UK Lawfare Institute (UKLFI), which reportedly led Bob Billan in a controversial performance.
This coalition informed The Guardian: “This unified action aims to provide solidarity to artists who endure daily in the face of genocide, yet are apprehensive about using their platforms to voice their concerns due to the pervasive censorship in the industry and highly organized external legal pressures.”
Nvidia, a top player in the semiconductor industry, has revealed plans to invest $5 billion in Intel while collaborating with struggling chip manufacturers on various products.
Following confirmation that the Trump administration has secured a 10% stake in Intel, Nvidia announced that it will collaborate with the company on custom data centers essential for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure and personal computer products.
Intel’s stock surged nearly 23% after market hours, marking the company’s largest single-day percentage gain since 1987. Nvidia’s stock also climbed by over 3%, enhancing its market valuation to $400 billion.
Nvidia plans to invest $5 billion in Intel common stock at a price of $23.28 per share, pending regulatory approval.
“This groundbreaking partnership combines two leading platforms, accelerating the computing stack with Nvidia’s AI capabilities and Intel’s CPUs within the extensive X86 ecosystem,” stated Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia. “Together, we will expand our ecosystem and lay the groundwork for the next era of computing.”
The companies announced their intention to “seamlessly integrate the architecture.”
For data centers, Intel develops custom chips that Nvidia utilizes in its AI infrastructure. For PC products, Intel manufactures chips that incorporate Nvidia technology.
This deal presents a crucial opportunity for Intel, a pioneering force in Silicon Valley that experienced decades of growth fueled by the personal computer surge but has struggled after failing to adapt to the mobile computing trend initiated by the iPhone’s 2007 launch.
In recent years, Intel fell further behind during the AI boom that propelled Nvidia to become the world’s most valuable company. Last year, Intel reported a loss of nearly $1.9 billion, followed by another $3.7 billion in the first half of this year, along with plans to reduce its workforce by a quarter by the end of 2025.
Conversely, Nvidia is experiencing significant growth, driven by its specialized chips that support the artificial intelligence trend. Graphics processing units (GPUs) have proven particularly efficient in developing advanced AI systems.
Nvidia is the second firm to invest billions in chip manufacturers this year. In August, Japan’s leading high-tech investment firm, SoftBank, announced a $2 billion investment in Intel for a 2% stake in the company. SoftBank’s involvement follows initial reports regarding the US government’s plans to invest in Intel.
Donald Trump has been striving to bolster the US semiconductor sector, previously threatening to implement 100% tariffs on imported chips. He also brokered an export agreement with Nvidia and competitor AMD, which permitted the sale of certain low-power AI chips to China.
Experts believe Nvidia’s recent investment in Intel could strengthen the position of major chip manufacturers and potentially provide the impetus needed for Intel to compete effectively in the AI arena.
“According to Wedbush’s tech analyst Dan Ives: [Nvidia’s] world is waiting for more sovereignty, with businesses lining up for the world’s most advanced chips, while everyone else pays a premium.”
For the first time, real-time footage of human embryos being implanted into an artificial uterus has been recorded.
This remarkable achievement, published in the journal Advances in Science, offers an unparalleled glimpse into one of the crucial stages of human development.
Implantation failure is a leading cause of infertility, responsible for 60% of miscarriages. Researchers aim to enhance understanding of the implantation process to improve fertility results in both natural conception and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
“We can’t observe this, due to the transplantation in the mother,” stated Dr. Samuel Ojosnegros, head of bioengineering at the Institute of Bioengineering (IBEC) and the lead author of the study, as reported by BBC Science Focus.
“Thus, we required a system to observe how it functions and to address the primary challenges to human fertility.”
Implantation marks the initial phase of pregnancy, where the fertilized egg (developing embryo) attaches to the uterine lining, allowing it to absorb nutrients and oxygen from the mother—vital for a successful pregnancy.
To investigate this process, the research team developed a platform that simulates the natural uterine lining, utilizing a collagen scaffold combined with proteins essential for development.
The study then examined how human and mouse embryos implant onto this platform, uncovering significant differences. Unlike mouse embryos that adhere to the uterine surface, human embryos penetrate fully into the tissue before growing from within.
Video showing the implantation process of mouse embryos (left) and human embryos (right).
“Human embryos are highly invasive,” said Ojosnegros. “They dig a hole in the matrix, embed themselves, and then grow internally.”
The footage indicated that the embryo exerts considerable force on the uterus during this process.
“We observed that the embryo pulls, moves, and rearranges the uterine matrix,” stated Dr. Amélie Godeau, co-first author of the research. “It also responds to external force cues. We hypothesize that contractions in vivo may influence embryo transfer.”
According to Ojosnegros, the force applied during this stage could explain the pain and bleeding many women experience during implantation.
Researchers are currently focused on enhancing the realism of implantation platforms, including the integration of living cells. The goal is to establish a more authentic view of the implantation process, which could boost the likelihood of success in IVF, such as by selecting embryos with better implantation potential.
“We understand more about the development of flies and worms than our own species,” remarked Ojosnegros. “So enjoy watching the film.”
Tektite forms almost pure glass (with minimal crystalline inclusions) when space debris impacts the Earth, causing surface materials to melt and be ejected hundreds or thousands of kilometers away.
Map of Ananguite strown field based on Tektite location. Image credit: Musolino et al. , doi: 10.1016/j.epsl.2025.119600.
“Tektite is a specific type of glass formed by impacts, recognized particularly for its distribution across extensive spray fields far from the source crater,” stated Professor Fred Jordan from Curtin University and his team.
“The widespread distribution in Central Europe (14 million years ago), North America (35 million years ago), the Ivory Coast (1 million years ago), and from China to Australia (780,000 years ago) has been traced back to the spread originating from Central Europe, known for four distinct scattered fields located in Central America (800,000 years ago).
“The corresponding tektites include Moldavites, Bediasite-Georgiaite, Ivorites, Australiasites, and Belizites, respectively.”
A newly identified type of Tektite, called Ananguite, has been found primarily in South Australia.
“Discovering a new Tektite field is akin to opening a new chapter in Earth’s tumultuous geological history,” remarked Professor Jourdan.
“These glasses are indigenous to Australia and reveal ancient impact events previously unknown to us.”
“Each piece acts as a small time capsule from the depths of our planet’s history.”
“What adds intrigue to these findings is that, despite the considerable impact, the crater has yet to be located.”
“Understanding when and how frequently large asteroids strike Earth can also assist in evaluating the risk of future impacts, which is vital for planetary defense.”
Photos of six Tektites studied by Musolino et al. Scale bar – 2 mm. Image credit: Musolino et al. , doi: 10.1016/j.epsl.2025.119600.
“The glasses differ from all previously known tektites,” noted PhD candidate Annam Solino from AIX-Marseille University.
“These tektites are distinct due to their unusual chemistry and an approximate age of 11 million years.”
“They indicate a shock event that is completely separate from the fields associated with well-known Australian tektites.”
“While Australian tektites formed roughly 780,000 years ago and have spread across the globe, these tektites are significantly older and suggest major impacts that were previously overlooked.”
The team’s research paper was published in the journal Earth and Planetary Science Letters.
____
Anna Musolino et al. 2025. Australia’s new tektite spray field dates back 11 million years, originating from a volcanic arc impact crater. Earth and Planetary Science Letters 670:119600; doi:10.1016/j.epsl.2025.119600
The immense black hole at the center of Radio Quasar RACS J032021.44-352104.1 (shortened to RACS J0320-35) is currently expanding at one of the fastest rates ever recorded.
Artist illustrations and x-ray images from Chandra for Racs J0320-35. Image credits: NASA/CXC/INAF-BRERA/IGHINA et al. / SAO / M. WEISS / N. WOLK.
The black hole residing in RACS J0320-35 has a mass approximately 1 billion times greater than that of the sun.
This system is situated about 12.8 billion light-years away from Earth, meaning astronomers are observing it as it existed just 920 million years after the universe’s inception.
It emits more X-rays than any other black hole identified in the universe’s first billion years.
Black holes are the driving force behind what scientists refer to as quasars.
This luminous giant’s energy is fueled by the significant amount of material that falls into the black hole.
The same research team discovered this black hole two years prior, but further observations from Chandra were required in 2023 to gain more insights.
Data from X-ray observations suggests that this black hole is expanding at a rate that exceeds the typical limits for such objects.
“It was somewhat surprising to observe such a dramatic growth in this black hole,” commented Dr. Luca Idina, an astronomer at the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.
As material is drawn towards the black hole, it heats up and generates intense radiation across a wide spectrum, including X-rays and optical light. This radiation creates pressure on the infalling material.
Once the falling speed reaches a critical threshold, the radiation pressure counterbalances the black hole’s gravity, making it usually impossible for material to fall inward more rapidly. This upper limit is known as the Eddington limit.
Researchers believe that black holes growing slower than the Eddington limit must originate with solar masses exceeding 10,000, allowing them to achieve a mass of 1 billion solar masses in the early universe.
Such massive black holes may originate from unique processes, often linked to incredibly dense clouds of gas that contain heavier elements than helium.
Interestingly, RACS J0320-35 is expanding at a remarkable speed, estimated to be 2.4 times greater than the Eddington limit, indicating that its formation may have followed a more typical path, beginning with a mass of less than 100 solar masses resulting from massive star explosions.
“By determining a black hole’s mass and growth rate, we can infer its initial size,” said Dr. Alberto Moretti, an astronomer at INAF-Osservatorio Astronomico di Brera.
“This calculation permits us to evaluate various theories regarding the formation of black holes.”
To investigate how rapidly this black hole is growing (at rates between 300 and 3,000 solar masses per year), researchers compared the theoretical model with Chandra’s X-ray spectra, assessing the X-rays emitted at various energy levels.
The findings indicated that Chandra’s spectrum closely matched their expectations based on a model for black holes developing beyond the Eddington limit.
Supporting data from optical and infrared observations further corroborates the conclusion that this black hole is accumulating mass faster than the Eddington limit permits.
“How did the universe generate the first generation of black holes?” mused Dr. Thomas Connor, an astronomer at the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.
“This is one of the most pressing questions in astrophysics, and this singular object propels our quest for answers.”
Moreover, this research also sheds light on the origins of the jets of particles emitted by some black holes that approach the speed of light, as observed in RACS J0320-35.
“Jets like these are uncommon in quasars, suggesting that the accelerated growth of black holes may play a role in the formation of these jets,” the author remarked.
Their paper is set to be published in the Astrophysical Journal.
____
Luca Idina et al. 2025. X-ray investigation of the possibility of Super Eddington accretion in a wireless loudsal of Z = 6.13. apjl 990, L56; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/aded0a
Paleontologists have identified the Azdaltid wing bones, which belong to two newly discovered species of fossils from the Biansily Formation dating back to the Late Cretaceous period in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia.
Restoration of Bayanshiree Azhdarchid Pterosaurs: The coexistence of Gobiazhdarcho tsogtbaatari and tsogtopteryx mongoliensis in the Bayanshiree Paleoenvironment, with groups of Gobihadros Mongoliensis nearby. Image credit: Zhao Chuang.
These two new species thrived in Mongolia during the late Cretaceous period, approximately 99 to 90 million years ago.
They have been named Gobiazhdarcho tsogtbaatari and tsogtopteryx mongoliensis. Both flying reptiles are part of a toothless cosmopolitan family, likely associated with the terrestrial Azhdarchidae.
“Pterosaurs, the first vertebrates to develop powered flight, exhibit remarkable diversity, with a fossil record spanning from the late Triassic through the Cretaceous and into the Paleogene boundary.”
“Within pterosaurs, the Azdalcidae family signifies a distinct clade, currently accounting for at least 17 nominal species.”
“Primarily characterized by elongated cervical vertebrae with trace nerve spines, Azdaltids are commonly found in collections of Tronian Maaschan’s pterosaur fossils globally, representing the most diverse and widespread group during the late Cretaceous.”
“Similar to other Azdalcoids, they possess robust jaws and seem to have led a more terrestrial lifestyle compared to other pterosaurs.”
“Notably, Azhdarchids are recognized for including some of the largest flying creatures, such as Quetzalcoatlus northropi, Arambourgiania philadelphiae, and hatzegopteryx tambema, alongside the 9-meter wingspan Thanatos dracon amali.
The type specimens, Gobiazhdarcho tsogtbaatari and tsogtopteryx mongoliensis, were collected in the 1990s from two distinct locations within the Biansili Formation in the eastern Gobi Desert of Mongolia.
“Bayanshiree azhdarchids consist of two specimens: the Bayshin Tsav Azhdarchid (tsogtopteryx mongoliensis), which features nearly complete vertebrae from the middle neck, and the Burkhant Azhdarchid (Gobiazhdarcho tsogtbaatari), which includes vertebrae from cervical III and part of the core cervical,” stated the paleontologists.
“These specimens were gathered in 1993 and 1995 from the Bayshin Tsav and Burkhant regions, respectively, through efforts by the Museum of Natural History and the Mongolian paleontological archaeological expedition during the same years.”
According to the research team, Gobiazhdarcho tsogtbaatari represents a medium-sized early member of the Quetzalcoatlus–Arambourgiania lineage, with a wingspan of approximately 3.0-3.5 meters.
tsogtopteryx mongoliensis is an early representative of Hatzegopteryx, appearing to be a smaller form with a wingspan of less than 2 meters.
“Interestingly, the specimen tsogtopteryx mongoliensis, at a mere 1.6 meters in wingspan, stands as one of the smallest known Azdaltid species found to date,” noted the researchers.
The discovery of these two new species addresses a significant temporal gap in the evolutionary history of Azdalkid pterosaurs.
“Our findings provide new insights into the diversity and phylogeny of Azdaltid pterosaurs,” the scientists remarked.
“They further highlight the coexistence of various sized azdaltide species within the same sedimentary deposits.”
A paper detailing these findings was published online this week in the journal PeerJ.
____
RV Pegas et al. 2025. Diversity of the Azdaltid pterosaur clade in the Baiansili Formation during the late Cretaceous period of the Gobi Desert, Mongolia. PeerJ 13:E19711; doi:10.7717/peerj.19711
Researchers have uncovered the most ancient and well-preserved fossils of Pachycephalosaur, a category of dinosaurs distinguished by their domed skulls in Mongolia. A new study was released in the journal Nature on Wednesday.
The fossils, estimated to be between 108 and 105 million years old, belong to a juvenile of an unidentified species, referred to by scientists as Zavasepharelinpoche.
This discovery took place in the Klen Duk Formation in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, located between China and Russia, and was led by paleontologist Tsogtbaatar Chinzorig from the Mongolian Academy of Sciences.
There is limited knowledge about these two-legged herbivores from the Cretaceous period, particularly in North America, but they are considered one of the “most enigmatic” dinosaur groups, according to the study. Their unique bone structures and representations in media like Jurassic Park have made them quite popular.
Previous finds of Pachycephalosaur fossils were largely restricted to skulls.
“You could fit all Pachycephalosaurus [fossils] known worldwide into two bathtubs, more or less. There are very few fossil examples,” remarked Michael Pittman, a paleontologist at China University in Hong Kong, in an interview with NBC News.
Fossilized skull of a dome-headed dinosaur from the Cretaceous period. Alessandro Chiarenza / Via Reuters
The Mongolian discoveries are considered “most skeletally complete,” providing greater insight into the anatomy of Pachycephalosaurus than previously available.
The individuals identified as Zavasephale were at least two years old and measured approximately three feet in length. More than half of its skeleton has been recovered, featuring long legs, short arms, small hands, and gastroliths, or stones ingested to aid in digesting vegetation.
Though these animals were not fully grown, their skeletons showed already thickened bones above the skull.
The integrity of the fossils “will be a key specimen for understanding how the cranial dome of Pachycephalosaurus evolved,” said Chinzorig, based on insights from the National Museum of History in London.
Scientists have proposed that Pachycephalosaurus may have engaged in head-butting behavior or used their domes to attract mates, though the precise function of the dome is still undetermined.
These fossils are approximately 15 million years older than previously found Pachycephalosaurus specimens, enhancing our understanding of dinosaur evolution.
“This is the oldest variety we’ve encountered, thus providing insight into what earlier species looked like and how they evolved over time,” stated Pittman. “The discovery of earlier specimens indicates that they have possessed this dome for quite a while.”
Zavasephale was smaller than later species of Pachycephalosaurs, growing to an estimated length of about 14 feet.
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