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For many years in Uganda’s Kibale National Park, two groups of chimpanzees coexisted, engaging in grooming, socializing, and territory patrols within their communities.
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Then, in a shocking turn of events, one group violently attacked the other, igniting years of conflict likened to human civil wars.
When the violence erupted in 2015, John Mitani, a professor emeritus of anthropology at the University of Michigan with over 20 years of research on chimpanzees, described the chaos: “It was just chaos. They started screaming and chasing each other.”
In the three years following the outbreak, Mitani and his colleague Aaron Sandel, an associate professor of anthropology at the University of Texas, documented how the chimpanzees’ social networks began to erode. By 2018, the two factions known as Western Ngogo and Central Ngogo chimpanzees “stopped sharing territory and began engaging in aggressive behavior, even killing each other,” Mitani reported.
At least 28 chimpanzees, including 19 infants, have been killed in this period, according to the initial research published in Science.
Mitani remarked, “Individuals who once aided each other now view one another as enemies.”
This marks the second observed instance of chimpanzee factions splitting and turning violent. Given that chimpanzees and bonobos are humans’ closest genetic relatives, the findings may offer insights into human behavior.
“Civil wars afflict people. How can you turn a neighbor against you? This study of chimpanzees highlights how group identity evolves and how lethal aggression arises,” Sandel noted.
Following the social collapse, one-sided violence escalated. The Western chimpanzees, initially a minority group, were responsible for all subsequent attacks post-split in 2018. While their numbers rose from 76 to 108, the Central chimpanzee population has steadily decreased.
Attacks have been brutal, with a Western chimpanzee reportedly tearing an infant from its mother’s arms and killing it.
Sandel highlighted that chimpanzees often utilize gang violence when targeting adult or adolescent males.
“Five or ten chimpanzees will overwhelm an individual, holding them down, biting, beating, and dragging them,” he explained. “The violence can be horrifying.”
Mitani remarked, “It’s distressing to witness.”
“The situation deeply troubles me,” he expressed.
Researchers seek answers regarding the reasons behind the collapse of social structures.
Since 1995, chimpanzees at Ngogo have been closely monitored, with structured documentation of their behavior. The recent study utilized 10 years of GPS tracking, 30 years of demographic data, and 24 years of detailed observations.
The team examined chimpanzee social networks by observing individual males for an hour, recording proximity, interactions, and grooming behaviors. They noted recurring patterns of overlapping social dynamics that ultimately led to a breakdown.
Mitani and Sandel propose that the group’s large size might have played a role in the violent divide. While typical chimpanzee groups consist of around 50 individuals, the Ngogo community boasted about 200, possibly straining social connections and heightening competition for resources.
Additionally, the death of five adult males from disease prior to the split could have disrupted critical social ties. Following this, a new alpha male emerged in 2015, further complicating social dynamics.
“That’s a significant factor,” Mitani explained, noting that such shifts typically occur every 6-8 years, often increasing aggression and altering relationships.
Approximately 50 years ago, the late Jane Goodall and her team observed a series of assaults that led to group fragmentation in Tanzania’s Gombe National Park. The main group hunted down and killed all males from the splinter group.
Researchers subsequently termed this conflict the “Four Years’ War.”
Anne Pusey, a professor emeritus of evolutionary anthropology at Duke University, studied these interactions until 1975, and noted that conditions preceding the killings were “remarkably similar” to those seen in Ngogo.
In Gombe, changes in alpha leadership, a shortage of mating females, and the deaths of amicable older males precipitated violent behavior.
Pusey remarked, “These social bonds deteriorated, leading to hostility.”
Joseph Feldblum, an evolutionary anthropologist with experience studying Gombe, stated that the recent findings align with historical observations.
“Such behavior is infrequent, yet exists within the natural repertoire of chimpanzees,” he noted.
Mitani expressed concern over the future of the Ngogo central group, suggesting they may be “doomed” based on past events at Gombe.
“The signs are evident,” he stated.
With the ongoing violence against infants and exclusion of females, Mitani concluded, “We might be witnessing an extinction event.”
What can we learn from the violent behaviors displayed by our closest relatives?
Sandel emphasized that while cultural differences are often blamed for human warfare, this explanation does not apply to chimpanzees.
“Chimpanzees lack ethnicity, religions, and political ideologies, which are often identified as causes of human conflicts, especially internal strife like civil wars.”
Instead, researchers believe the violence is rooted in the breakdown of friendships and rivalry escalation. Sandel suggested that these dynamics may play a more pivotal role in human civil wars than commonly recognized, proposing that small gestures of reconciliation could be vital for peace.
Mitani reminded us that humans diverged from chimpanzees 6 to 8 million years ago. He cautioned against viewing violence against neighbors as an inherent human trait simply because it is observed in chimpanzees.
“We have evolved,” Mitani asserted. “As a species, we have become increasingly cooperative and socially inclined, often helping not only our neighbors but even strangers. This capability is not shared by chimpanzees.”
Source: www.nbcnews.com
Parkinson’s Disease: Neurological Insights and Treatment Advances
Image Credit: Dr. Gopal Murthy/Science Photo Library
A potential breakthrough drug, referred to as Compound X, has demonstrated significant improvements in mobility and balance for mice exhibiting Parkinson’s-like symptoms. This innovative treatment enhances the brain’s waste-processing capabilities, effectively removing toxic protein aggregates. However, the research team has yet to disclose the specifics of this compound.
“With intellectual property considerations, we recognize that Compound X represents a pivotal advancement, potentially serving as the first disease-modifying intervention for Parkinson’s disease,” stated Zhao Yan from Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne.
Parkinson’s disease affects over 10 million people globally, characterized by the progressive loss of nerve cells involved in movement control. This degeneration is widely believed to originate from the build-up of misfolded proteins called α-synuclein, due to a malfunction in the brain’s waste disposal system—the glymphatic system. Recent studies aimed to determine if enhancing this system could alleviate symptoms.
To explore this hypothesis, Yang and her colleagues employed a novel mouse model mimicking Parkinson’s disease. This model utilizes repeated nasal administration of misfolded alpha-synuclein, promoting its spread throughout the brain and causing severe motor deficits—more accurately reflecting human Parkinson’s disease compared to traditional models that rely on toxin exposure. Yang showcased her findings at the Oxford Glymphatic and Brain Clearance Symposium in the UK on April 1st.
The team administered weekly doses of alpha-synuclein to 20 mice over four months. After two months, they introduced Compound X—an FDA-approved drug administered four times a week in synergy with methylcellulose, which enhances drug solubility. Preliminary studies indicated that Compound X could increase slow brain waves, known to support glymphatic function, although its specific impact on brain waste clearance warranted further investigation, Yang noted.
The remaining group of mice received only methylcellulose as a control. The progression of Parkinson’s symptoms paralleled early-stage human patients, including alterations in smell and sleep patterns, according to Yang.
Subsequently, all mice underwent a locomotion test involving navigation on a slender rod. Remarkably, 80% of the mice treated with Compound X successfully completed the task, compared to only 10% in the control group.
In another assessment requiring balance on a rotating rod for five minutes, nearly all Compound X-treated mice maintained their position throughout the duration, while the control group averaged just three minutes.
Further analyses revealed that Compound X enhanced slow-wave activity during deep sleep and facilitated fluid circulation within the glymphatic system. Notably, this treatment reduced α-synuclein aggregates in the mice’s motor cortex by approximately 40% compared to the control group.
“This discovery holds significant potential,” emphasized Duan Wenzhen from Johns Hopkins University, Maryland. “The medical community requires treatments that can decelerate disease progression. Current therapies only alleviate symptoms temporarily, lacking efficacy in altering the disease’s trajectory.”
The research team aspires to obtain regulatory approval for human trials targeting early-stage Parkinson’s patients within the upcoming year. “Our ultimate goal is to provide treatment that addresses the early stages of the disease, where the most significant benefits are realized,” Yang concluded.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
“Miniature Wife” Starring Matthew Macfadyen and Elizabeth Banks
Credit: Peacock
Miniature figures have long captivated audiences within science fiction and fantasy, a tradition that traces back to Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels. The concept of shrunken characters has graced numerous classic films, from Bridal of Frankenstein to modern hits like Ant-Man and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. The new Peacock limited series, Miniature Wife, pays homage to these films but falls short of being a noteworthy addition to the genre.
Based on Manuel Gonzalez’s 2014 short story, Miniature Wife follows Elizabeth Banks as Lindy Littlejohn, a once-celebrated author turned university professor overshadowed by her scientist husband, Les (Matthew Macfadyen). Lindy’s feelings of insignificance in both her personal and professional life are amplified when she becomes literally small due to Les’s experimental invention, designed to shrink objects to 1/12th of their original size.
Lindy’s most pressing dilemma is that Les has not yet found a stable antidote for the shrinking process. His failed attempts often lead to catastrophic results. Complicating matters further, Lindy navigates a plagiarism scandal involving a student’s accidental publication of a story under her name in the New Yorker. An emotional tangle with Les’ colleague, Richard (OT Fagbenle), also arises, whose affections for her are stronger than her feelings for him.
Meanwhile, Les strikes a deal with a sinister oligarch (Ronnie Cheng) that pressures him to produce an antidote within 30 days, jeopardizing all his work if he fails. The series often drags with dull office politics, including dealings with a demanding scientist named Vivienne (Zoe Lister-Jones) who becomes Lindy’s new boss. Subplots concerning their college-age daughter, Lulu (Sofia Rosinski), and Lindy’s best friend Terry (Sian Clifford) feel like unnecessary padding, contributing to a scattered narrative.
Creators Jennifer Ames and Steve Turner could have benefitted from trimming the number of episodes, currently awkwardly balancing comedy and drama at around 45 minutes each. Miniature Wife showcases Lindy’s clumsy adaptations to dollhouse life, coupled with the strains of her rocky marriage to Les amid extraordinary circumstances.
“We all suck,” Lulu candidly remarks about the Littlejohn family, and she’s not wrong. Both Lindy and Les are portrayed as unlikable individuals whose relationship deteriorates under pressure. While this could work in a dark comedy context, attempts to depict the Littlejohns as a couple worth rooting for fall increasingly flat. Banks and Macfadyen’s chemistry is lacking, with Macfadyen often treating robberies as emotional expressions.
As a science fiction piece, Miniature Wife is convoluted, filled with complex jargon that ultimately lacks substance. Its special effects struggle to match the more straightforward visuals of Lily Tomlin’s 1981 comedy, The Incredible Shrinking Woman. Les lamentably claims to have created “a little monster,” yet he has only triggered mild annoyances.
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Changes in predator populations may have driven early humans to develop innovative tools
Raul Martin/MSF/Science Photo Library
Approximately 200,000 years ago, a decline in megafauna may have compelled early humans to transition from heavy stone tools to more lightweight hunting kits designed for smaller prey. A recent study supports the notion that this change in hunting strategy could have sparked a rise in cognitive capabilities among our ancestors.
For over a million years, various early human species relied on heavy stone tools such as axes, kitchen knives, scrapers, and stone balls. These robust tools were essential for hunting and butchering large herbivores, including extinct relatives of modern elephants, hippos, and rhinos.
Between 400,000 and 200,000 years ago, archaeological evidence shows a notable increase in smaller, sophisticated tools alongside the fading of traditional heavier tools. Our species, Homo sapiens, emerged during this timeframe.
Circa 200,000 years ago, heavy stone tools vanished from the archaeological record of the Levant, while the presence of diverse, lightweight masonry toolkits—like blades and precision scrapers—increased.
Research led by Vlad Litov, a professor at Tel Aviv University, revealed a correlation between these technological advancements and a significant decline in large herbivores, potentially due to overhunting.
The researchers analyzed archaeological findings from 47 sites across the Levant, spanning the Paleolithic period, which lasted from around 3.3 million years ago to 12,000 years ago. Their analysis of dated stone artifacts in relation to animal remains uncovered a compelling trend.
Findings indicate a drastic reduction in the biomass and specimen count of giant herbivores exceeding 1,000 kilograms correlating with the disappearance of heavy tools 200,000 years ago. Conversely, the availability of smaller prey increased alongside more sophisticated small tools.
Supporting the connection between tool technology and prey type, the researchers noted that sturdy stone tools were still in use in regions with abundant large game, such as southern China, until about 50,000 years ago.
Heavy-duty tools and their evolution to lightweight alternatives used by early humans
Vlad Litov et al., Institute of Archaeology, Tel Aviv University
Previous theories suggested that advancements in technology stemmed from increasing intelligence and creativity due to evolutionary pressures. However, Litov and his research team propose a different perspective: reliance on smaller prey may have catalyzed the evolutionary growth of larger brains in modern humans.
“As large herbivores dwindled, humans increasingly depended on smaller prey, necessitating varied hunting strategies, advanced planning, and the implementation of lightweight, intricate toolsets,” states Litov. “This cognitive evolution was a byproduct of adapting to new prey types, rather than the initial driver of this adaptive transformation.”
“There is more to this adaptation than merely prey size,” says Seri Shipton from University College London. He notes preliminary evidence indicating mass hunting of medium-sized ungulates like horses and bison, with signs of enhanced cognitive abilities and planning emerging during the Middle Paleolithic.
Nicolas Tessandier from the French National Center for Scientific Research also maintains some reservations. “Human adaptation to new fauna underscores adaptability rather than mere intelligence,” he posits. “Producing powerful tools for hunting large herbivores was equally astute.”
Litov recognizes that prior research has shown advanced cognitive functions present early in human evolution, notably in the development of Homo erectus around two million years ago. However, he emphasizes that switching from large to smaller prey had major consequences for human society. A single ancient elephant carcass could sustain a group of about 35 hunter-gatherers for months. As these high-calorie resources vanished, reliance on smaller prey reduced the yield per animal.
“Energetically, we had to gather numerous smaller ungulates, such as fallow deer, to replace the loss of one elephant,” explains Litov. This shift likely stimulated diverse cognitive and behavioral changes, including cooperative hunting strategies, advanced techniques, and enhanced social collaboration and organization. “Such adaptations may have contributed to the evolution of larger brains in later species, including Neanderthals and Homo sapiens,” he adds.
“In my view, the decline in large prey familiar to hominins likely intensified competition among groups,” asserts Shipton. “It was probably an iterative process where the reduction of larger prey prompted cognitive shifts that facilitated access to smaller prey.”
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Discovery Tour: Archaeology, Human Origins, and Paleontology
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Welcome to Feedback, your go-to source for the latest in science and technology news. If you have suggestions or feedback on topics we should explore, email us at feedback@newscientist.com.
The Earth is vast, populated with a diverse range of interests. Here at Feedback, we have a penchant for unique tourist attractions along America’s scenic highways — such as the world’s largest collection of miniature representations of the world’s biggest objects.
Recently, science historian Richard Fallon drew our attention to what is likely the world’s only sculpture park dedicated to foraminifera. For those unfamiliar, foraminifera are single-celled organisms, primarily ocean dwellers with hard outer shells. Their fossil record is abundant and detailed, as they are preserved in vast quantities.
Located in Zhongshan, China, this Foraminifera Sculpture Park opened in 2009, and we acknowledge our delayed recognition of it. Nestled in a hillside park, visitors can stroll through 114 large sculptures. Describing these works is challenging without diving into terminology for irregular three-dimensional forms, but fans of Barbara Hepworth’s curvilinear sculptures might find some familiarity here.
On TripAdvisor, the Foraminifera Sculpture Park boasts a 5-star rating, albeit from a single review by a user named Eudyptes—who seems to have a specific fondness for foraminifera sculptures. Eudyptes is the scientific classification for the crested penguin.
We’d love more testimony about this attraction. Unfortunately, our editorial team turned down our request to visit China solely for this purpose, as well as a proposed visit to the Slavic International Toilet Museum in New Delhi.
On that note, we invite our readers to share any scientifically inclined sites that might be even more niche. Just to clarify, we are not seeking suggestions for popular attractions like the Icelandic Penis Museum or the British Vagina Museum. Maybe a unique museum focused solely on moss or Western blot images exists?
It’s not uncommon for academics to incorporate humor in their paper titles, but referring to them in abstracts is rare. Typically, abstracts summarize key study points in about 200 words, varying from concise brilliance to confusing jargon.
However, physicist Leonard Susskind submitted a paper to arXiv titled “Is time reversal in de Sitter space a spontaneously broken gauge symmetry?” His summary includes an intriguing answer: “Yes, but with a twist: Time reversal is indeed a gauge symmetry, albeit hidden by spontaneous symmetry breaking.”
While the last part might puzzle many, we were particularly drawn to Susskind’s acknowledgment of his colleagues for their ongoing discussions. He humorously noted, “I’m almost 86 years old and I can’t wait for my readers to catch up.” His insightful summaries have landed on our list of favorite academic summaries, proving that humor can make complex subjects more relatable.
We owe our readers a heartfelt apology for an oversight. A few weeks back, we critiqued accounting firm PwC’s venture into estimating the moon’s future economy. We expressed skepticism about monetizing lunar assets, but reader Alex Collier raised an intriguing question: Could this entrepreneurial spirit imply the moon is actually made of cheddar?
If you have a story to share with Feedback, email us at feedback@newscientist.com. Don’t forget to include your home address. You can find this week’s and past Feedback stories on our website.
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Trillions of mutations in our cells can change each of us every day
Peter Aprahamian/Getty Images
Beyond Inheritance
by Roxanne Kamsi
Riverhead Books (April 21st)
With approximately 30 trillion cells in the human body, around 1% are replaced daily. Unfortunately, this cellular renewal is prone to errors. As a result, there can be numerous DNA mutations occurring in our bodies each day.
“You are genetically a little different today than you were yesterday, and you will be different again tomorrow,” notes Roxanne Kamsi in her book, Beyond Inheritance: A New Understanding of Ever-Mutating Cells and Health.
These mutations can vary from minor changes in single DNA letters to the loss of entire chromosomes. While some mutations are lost when cells die, many accumulate over time. By the end of life, each of your cells could harbor thousands of mutations.
While many may associate these mutations with cancerous growths, Kamsi highlights that non-cancerous mutations can lead to various health issues as well.
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Since Darwin, many thinkers have recognized that the forces of evolution must also operate within the body.
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Some mutations can have beneficial effects. For example, the formation of purple “bruises” arises from mutations during development that impact blood vessels. Additionally, mutations in skin cells may influence melanin production, creating skin patches in lines known as Blaschko lines.
This phenomenon occurs throughout the body and across all developmental stages, demonstrating that we are all mosaics composed of various cellular types. These variations can provide certain cells with distinct advantages.
When blood stem cells divide, one cell remains a stem cell while the other becomes a blood cell. If both divide at the same rate, they maintain a balanced progeny. However, mutant cells that divide more rapidly can skew this balance over time. By age 70, it’s estimated that one in ten individuals may have a predominance of mutant blood cells, increasing risks for heart attack or stroke.
This scenario resembles an evolutionary struggle among cells, where those with even slight growth advantages gradually emerge as dominant. Remarkably, Kamsi points out that post-Darwinian thinkers understood that evolutionary principles operate within our bodies, a notion that was largely forgotten after the advent of modern genetics in the 20th century.
Numerous so-called clonal diseases, including certain cases of endometriosis, illustrate this idea, as uterine cells may grow on other organs. Moreover, many mutations can be elusive to detect, especially in hard-to-study organs like the heart or brain.
However, not all mutations spell trouble. A surprising section of the book reveals how new mutations can correct inherited conditions, with research suggesting that liver cells have evolved mechanisms to tackle issues such as fatty liver disease. Yet, advantageous mutations remain the exceptions, not the rule.
While I have some critiques about the writing style and structure of this book—there are digressions about personal attributes that seem unconnected to the main content—the core message is invaluable. This book synthesizes various studies to convey essential information that should resonate with the medical community and beyond. Our bodies are composed of cells that constantly mutate and compete, often aligning with their own interests rather than our health.
Kamsi asserts, “By abandoning the outdated idea that all cells possess identical DNA and embracing the unsettling reality that each cell’s genetic code varies slightly, we can pave the way for a new era in medicine.”
While I remain skeptical about this new era, the implications are profound. Although Kamsi does not explicitly state it, her work addresses how multicellularity weakens as cellular diversity and selfishness increase—a theme of fragmentation against a backdrop of unity.
Kamsi explains that this accumulation of mutations may be a fundamental cause of aging. Conditions associated with premature aging often correlate with DNA repair issues, which facilitate the rapid accumulation of mutations.
Regardless of whether the influx of selfish mutations is a primary cause or merely a contributing factor to aging, the notion of halting aging remains misguided. While certain drugs may slow mutation accumulation and gene editing may repair some, such interventions are ultimately transient.
Even if organ transplants become commonplace, the brain will face inevitable malfunctions. Research on individuals who died in accidents has revealed approximately 1,500 mutations in each analyzed neuron. The relentless wave of mutations cannot be fully contained.
We cannot stem this tide once we begin life in the womb. Dr. Kamsi posits, “Humans are the first beings to try to shape their own genetic destiny.” However, the logical conclusion remains that the most effective way to extend lifespan would involve redesigning the human genome to significantly decrease mutation rates.
While this may one day be feasible, it’s crucial to note that such new beings would no longer be considered human.
Power, Sex, and Suicide: Mitochondria and the Meaning of Life
by Nick Lane
Mitochondria, the powerhouse of our cells, were once independent bacteria before merging symbiotically with our ancestors, facilitating complex life. As Lane discusses, their distinct nature continually shapes our lives.
Mutants: On Human Form, Diversity, and Error
by Armand Marie Leroi
Emphasizing our shared condition as mutants, Leroi discusses extraordinary cases such as babies born with single eyes. Sadly, some conditions, like albinism, can be life-threatening, yet they provide insights into our developmental processes.
Old Man’s War
by John Scalzi
Does old age signify the end? Not in Old Man’s War, a thrilling sci-fi adventure. I won’t spoil the plot, but the sequel is equally compelling and a must-read.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
Emperor Penguins at Risk of Extinction by 2100
Stefan Christmann/naturepl.com
Antarctica is witnessing a dramatic decline in two iconic species—the emperor penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri) and the Antarctic fur seal (Arctocephalus gazella), both of which are now classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Meanwhile, the southern elephant seal (Mirounga leonina) has been downgraded from “Least Concern” to “Vulnerable.”
The IUCN Red List is recognized globally as the most comprehensive evaluation of the conservation status of animal, fungal, and plant species.
Data from the IUCN reveals that satellite imagery indicates a staggering loss of about 10%—over 20,000 adult emperor penguins—between 2009 and 2018. Projections estimate that their population will be cut in half by the 2080s.
“We’ve determined that human-induced climate change represents the most critical threat to emperor penguins,” stated Philip Trathan of the British Antarctic Survey and a member of the IUCN Species Survival Committee. “Early spring sea ice collapse is already impacting colonies throughout Antarctica, further alterations in sea ice will influence breeding, feeding, and molting habitats.”
The population of Antarctic fur seals has plummeted by over 50%, dropping from more than 2 million adult seals in 1999 to approximately 944,000 in 2025, primarily due to climate change.
In addition, southern elephant seal numbers have been severely affected by avian influenza, resulting in over 90% mortality among newborns in certain colonies, according to the IUCN.
Sharon Robinson from the University of Wollongong, Australia, along with colleagues, highlighted in 2022 that emperor penguins are among Antarctica’s most endangered species, potentially facing extinction by 2100.
“Global warming, which warms the oceans and melts sea ice, is eradicating the breeding grounds essential for successful reproduction of emperor penguins,” Robinson noted. “Like many birds and mammals, penguin chicks require safe environments for development, yet human activities are swiftly dismantling these critical habitats.”
Robinson, along with Dana Bergstrom from the University of Wollongong, also stressed the urgent need for attention. The 2025 survey offered alarming updates on the plight of emperor penguins and fellow Antarctic species.
“Of over 60 known emperor penguin colonies around the coastline, about half have exhibited increased reproductive failure or complete loss of breeding success due to early ice loss since 2016, with 16 colonies affected more than once,” Bergstrom explained. Fast ice refers to the sea ice that clings to the coast or seabed.
“This context adds to the already dire situation on the Antarctic Peninsula, where premature sea ice collapse has led to drowning chicks,” she stated.
The fate of the emperor penguin is “inextricably linked to climate policy,” according to the World Wildlife Fund. “To mitigate severe impacts, it’s critical to transition from fossil fuels and restrict global temperature rise to as close to 1.5°C as feasible,” WWF emphasized.
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Computational cancer researchers leverage machine learning technology to tackle a significant challenge: the vast amounts of data available for training machine learning models. Despite this abundance, training is hindered by inconsistent data formats, structures, and properties. Consequently, when scientists apply various cancer types and data cleaning procedures, the resulting models can yield vastly different outcomes.
Researchers have identified the disparity between available and usable datasets as a considerable obstacle for scientists lacking specialized bioinformatics training. Furthermore, varied processing strategies make it difficult to equitably compare new machine learning techniques and identify the most effective method for specific cancer research tasks—such as classifying patient samples into benign or malignant categories.
To address this issue, a collaboration between researchers in Japan and the United States has resulted in the development of a comprehensive database tailored for machine learning applications. This database, named MLOmics, encompasses genetic and molecular information from over 8,000 cancer patients. Similar to a well-organized library, MLOmics offers cancer data that can be directly utilized by computer models, eliminating the need for extensive preprocessing.
In constructing MLOmics, the team gathered patient samples from 32 cancer types sourced from publicly available databases like the Cancer Genome Atlas. Data collection included four distinct types of molecular information, consisting of two forms of DNA products: Transcriptomics data, data on repetitive DNA regions termed Copy Number Variations, and information about chemical DNA tags known as Methylation. The team meticulously labeled experimental sources affecting data quality, eliminated contamination from non-human samples, and removed unlabeled values specific to transcriptomics data.
For the copy number variation data, researchers focused on cancer-specific repeats, identifying and labeling recurrent aberrant repeats along with corresponding genes in those regions. They also adjusted the methylation data to eliminate biases from various experimental platforms. Each processed molecular data type was then assigned a standardized identifier to mitigate discrepancies in naming conventions.
Subsequently, a coding pipeline was established to assess data quality and consolidate each patient’s molecular data types into a unified dataset—an approach known as multi-omics, as it integrates various molecular measurements. The researchers matched each patient’s sample to its relevant cancer type, resulting in an organized dataset suitable for analysis.
The research team developed 20 task-aware datasets across three categories of machine learning problems, providing crucial metrics for model evaluation in each. Their objective was to showcase how other scientists can effectively utilize MLOmics for a range of common tasks.
The first category focuses on classification, including six datasets that assist scientists in training models to categorize samples as malignant or benign. The second category, clustering, incorporates nine datasets that reveal natural groupings among samples based on molecular patterns when predefined labels are absent. The final category, data completion, features five datasets aimed at addressing incomplete molecular data resulting from experimental or technical challenges, showcasing how models estimate or fill in missing values—a common occurrence in real-world scenarios.
The MLomics database is organized into three sections, each offering detailed usage guidelines. The first section includes task-aware cancer multi-omics datasets in comma-separated values (CSV) format. This format is ideal for large genomic datasets, as programming languages like Python and R have built-in functions for effective reading, writing, and analysis. The second section offers code files to facilitate model development and application of evaluation metrics, while the final section contains links to supplementary resources to enhance biological analyses and ensure the database is accessible to all researchers, regardless of their educational background.
In conclusion, the researchers assert that MLOmics represents a vital resource for the cancer research community, enabling researchers to concentrate on developing superior algorithms instead of data preparation. They highlight the accessibility of MLOmics for non-specialists and its support for interdisciplinary and broader biological research. The team is committed to continuously updating MLOmics with new resources and tasks to align with advancements in the field.
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Recent research from Germany reveals that Neanderthals captured the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) approximately 125,000 years ago, likely valuing its shell as a tool more than its modest meat yield.
European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) beside the leg of a straight-tusked elephant (Palaeoloxodon antiquus). Image credit: Nicole Viehofer / MONREPOS – LEIZA.
Professor Sabine Gaudzinski-Windhauser of MONREPOS and Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz stated, “Recent findings on Neanderthal prey selection reveal a fascinating overlap with their ecological adaptability—showing similarities with the subsistence activities of Homo sapiens in the Upper Paleolithic.”
“Their diet ranged beyond traditional medium-to-large mammals like horses, bovids, and deer to include numerous small mammals such as leopards, birds, and reptiles, even incorporating massive straight-tusked elephants (Palaeoloxodon antiquus), which could weigh up to 135 tons.”
“Additionally, evidence indicates that Neanderthals consumed freshwater and marine resources, including shellfish and crabs, throughout the Mediterranean Basin and southwestern Iberian Peninsula.”
The latest study investigated fragments of a 125,000-year-old turtle shell unearthed in Neumark-Nord, a renowned Paleolithic site in present-day Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.
Utilizing advanced 3D scanning technology, researchers discovered cut marks on the interior surfaces of many of the 92 shell fragments. This indicates that Neanderthals carefully slaughtered these turtles, severing their limbs, removing internal organs, and thoroughly cleaning the shells.
“Our findings provide the first evidence that Neanderthals hunted and processed turtles beyond the Mediterranean region and north of the Alps,” remarked Professor Gaudzinski-Windhauser.
Researchers believe that the turtle identified was a European pond turtle, which was not primarily utilized as a food source.
Professor Gaudzinski-Windhauser added, “Given that the site is rich in large, high-yielding animal remains, this possibility can be virtually dismissed.”
“It seems they had an ample surplus of calories.”
“The pond turtle weighs about 1 kilogram and offers relatively low nutritional value, yet they are fairly easy to catch. Children may have participated in hunting them, as their shells could have been crafted into tools.”
“Furthermore, they might have been pursued for their taste or potential medicinal properties, a notion supported by subsequent research on indigenous populations.”
“Our results illuminate Neanderthal ecological flexibility and intricate survival strategies that extend well beyond mere calorie maximization.”
The team’s results were published in today’s edition of Scientific Reports.
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S. Gaudzinski-Windhauser et al. 2026. Shell Play: Neanderthal Use of the European Pond Turtle (Emys orbicularis) in the Landscape of the Last Interglacial Period North of Neumark (Germany). Scientific Reports 16, 8628; doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-42113-x
Source: www.sci.news
Paleontologists have discovered remarkable specimens of early reptiles, specifically Captorinus aguti, dating back 289 million years. These preserved fossils showcase three-dimensional skin coverings, a complete shoulder girdle, rib cages including cartilage, and astonishingly, protein remains that are nearly 100 million years older than any previously known examples.
Captorinus aguti. Image credit: Michael Debraga.
The transition from aquatic to terrestrial life marked a key milestone in vertebrate evolution. Early amniotes required new breathing techniques to adapt to the dry environment.
Initially, these early amniotes relied mainly on throat and skin respiration, but as they evolved, later amniotes utilized their ribs and thorax for more efficient lung ventilation.
Due to the rarity of soft tissue fossilization, direct evidence of this evolutionary transition has been limited.
“Captorinus aguti is a notable lizard-like species that plays a crucial role in understanding the early development of amniotes,” stated Ethan Mooney, a doctoral candidate at Harvard University.
“Growing over five centimeters long, these reptiles were among the first to explore terrestrial habitats, exhibiting thriving populations at that time.”
Three exceptionally preserved Captorinus aguti specimens were discovered in a unique cave system near Richards Spur, Oklahoma, encased in fine clay and oil, which revealed unprecedented structural features.
In one specimen, researchers identified a segmented cartilaginous sternum, sternal ribs, intermediate ribs, and structures connecting the thorax to the shoulder girdle.
This discovery enabled scientists to reconstruct the complete respiratory apparatus for early amniotes for the first time in the fossil record.
Professor Robert R. Rice, a paleontologist at the University of Toronto and Jilin University, explained, “We propose that the respiratory system in Captorinus aguti represents an ancestral state of rib-assisted respiration recognized in modern reptiles, birds, and mammals.”
“The utilization of thoracic musculature marked an evolutionary innovation that facilitated the terrestrial conquest by the early ancestors of modern reptiles and mammals,” he added.
“This innovation likely spurred the rapid diversification of early amniotes, paving the way for their dominance on land.”
“Such adaptations enabled these creatures to lead a more active lifestyle,” Mooney concluded.
Employing synchrotron infrared spectroscopy, researchers also uncovered remnants of original proteins preserved in bones, cartilage, and skin. These organic molecules, unprecedented in Paleozoic fossils, are approximately 100 million years older than the oldest examples found in dinosaurs.
“The discovery of protein remnants is extraordinary,” remarked Mooney. “It significantly enhances our understanding of soft tissue preservation in the fossil record.”
This groundbreaking finding is detailed in a recent paper published in the journal Nature.
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R.R. Rice et al. Mummified Early Permian Reptiles Reveal Ancient Amniote Breathing Apparatus. Nature, published on April 8, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41586-026-10307-y
Source: www.sci.news
Evolution of Tools: Early Humans Innovate for Smaller Prey
Raul Martin/MSF/Science Photo Library
A notable decline in megafauna populations approximately 200,000 years ago prompted ancient humans to pivot from robust stone tools to lighter, more versatile hunting kits for capturing smaller animals, according to a groundbreaking study. This research bolsters the theory that the shift to hunting smaller prey played a pivotal role in enhancing the cognitive abilities of early humans.
For over a million years, diverse early human species relied on heavy stone toolkits, including axes, kitchen knives, scrapers, and stone balls. Evidence indicates these tools specifiably targeted large herbivores, such as now-extinct relatives of elephants, hippos, and rhinos.
Between 400,000 and 200,000 years ago, the emergence of smaller, advanced tools coincided with the disappearance of heavier implements. Our species, Homo sapiens, emerged during this transformational period.
About 200,000 years ago, heavy tools vanished from archaeological records across the Levant, while the quantity of sophisticated, lightweight stone toolkits—such as blades and precision scrapers—increased significantly.
Research led by Vlad Litov, a professor at Tel Aviv University, establishes a compelling connection between these technological advancements and the dramatic decline of large herbivorous mammals, likely caused by overhunting.
Researchers meticulously cataloged archaeological evidence from 47 Paleolithic sites—covering 3.3 million to 12,000 years ago. Cross-referencing stone artifacts with animal remains revealed a distinct pattern.
The findings show a marked decline in large herbivores exceeding 1,000 kilograms, coinciding with the disappearance of fundamental stone tools 200,000 years ago. Conversely, the presence of smaller prey and innovative small tools rose significantly.
Supporting the correlation between tool types and prey availability, previous research indicates durable stone tools persisted in areas like southern China—where large game remained abundant—until about 50,000 years ago.
Comparative Analysis: Heavy Stone Tools vs. Lightweight Tools
Vlad Litov et al., Institute of Archeology, Tel Aviv University
Previously, it was posited that technological advancements were driven by an inherent rise in intelligence among humans, potentially influenced by unknown evolutionary pressures. However, Litov and his colleagues suggest that the reliance on smaller prey may have been a significant factor in the brain’s evolution across modern humans.
“As megaherbivores dwindled, humans increasingly turned to smaller prey, demanding novel hunting methods, enhanced planning capabilities, and the use of more intricate, lighter toolkits,” states Litov. “This cognitive evolution was thus a response to new adaptive needs, rather than its initial driver.”
“It’s essential to consider more than just prey size,” states Seri Shipton from University College London. He mentions evidence suggesting mass hunts of medium-sized ungulates like horses and bison, indicating that cognitive developments and advanced planning were already occurring during the Middle Paleolithic period.
Nicolas Tessandier from the French National Center for Scientific Research adds a critical perspective. “Human adaptations to new fauna reflect resourcefulness rather than sheer intelligence,” he explains. “The development of effective technologies for hunting large herbivores was equally strategic.”
Litov acknowledges that earlier studies demonstrate cognitive abilities in ancient hominins, particularly Homo erectus specimens dating back around 2 million years. However, he contends that the transition from large to small prey had far-reaching implications for human development. An ancient elephant carcass could have sustained about 35 hunter-gatherers for an extended period. With this high-calorie resource’s disappearance, relying solely on smaller prey could drastically reduce caloric returns.
“To match the energy yield of one elephant carcass, we had to acquire numerous smaller ungulates, like fallow deer,” Litov explains. This necessity may have spurred cognitive and behavioral transformations, such as enhanced cooperative hunting strategies and better planning, laying the groundwork for increased brain sizes in later hominins like Neanderthals and Homo sapiens.
“In my view, the decline of large prey likely escalated inter-group competition,” notes Shipton. “It’s possible this dynamic created a feedback loop where diminishing large prey spurred cognitive advancements, allowing access to diversified smaller prey.”
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The Behavior of Two Different Particles Linked by Quantum Entanglement
Science Photo Library / Alamy
We have a groundbreaking method to measure quantum entanglement in solids, paving the way for significant advancements in quantum technology and fundamental physics.
Researchers face limitations in quantifying quantum entanglement—the phenomenon that correlates the behavior of distant quantum particles. The Bell test is one technique that assesses whether two particles are entangled or facilitates the intentional creation of entanglements in quantum computing setups.
However, detecting entangled particles within a material is far more complex. This capability is critical in developing advanced quantum computing and communication devices that rely on entanglement.
Allen Scheie from Los Alamos National Laboratory, along with his team, has dedicated over 50 years to refining this technology, and they have now confirmed its effectiveness.
“We have verified that it works flawlessly, and we’re taking steps to extend its application across various materials,” Scheie stated.
The innovative technique involves bombarding a sample material with neutrons and capturing them with a detector. Since the 1950s, studying the properties of these neutrons has allowed researchers to unveil the arrangement and behavior of quantum particles within substances. Scheie and his colleagues utilized this approach to calculate quantum Fisher information (QFI), a metric that indicates the minimum number of entangled quantum particles necessary to influence a neutron in a detected manner.
The research team applied their method to various magnetic materials, including well-documented crystals of potassium, copper, and fluorine. Team member Pontus Laurel emphasized that their findings closely aligned with computer simulations of the quantum architectures of these crystals, affirming the reliability of their new approach. “The experimental and theoretical predictions matched surprisingly well,” he stated.
Laurel added that while previous studies explored QFI and similar metrics as potential “witnesses to entanglement,” their group has established a clear, dependable, and broadly applicable measurement technique. Much of their effort focused on perfecting the nuances, enabling experiments with diverse materials, including those suitable for future device development.
Notably, their method remains effective irrespective of whether a robust mathematical model exists for the material, even when the samples are incomplete. “That’s the remarkable aspect: you can measure quantum Fisher information under any circumstances,” Scheie remarked. The research was presented at the American Physical Society Global Physics Summit on March 17th in Denver.
Within the next month, the researchers aim to enhance their methodology by measuring QFI (quantum equivalent at the transition point from water to ice) in materials approaching a phase transition. At this juncture, theoretical models often falter or predict skyrocketing entanglement, creating a prime opportunity for groundbreaking quantum discoveries, according to Scheie.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
Visualization of the Western Boundary Current in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation
Credit: NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio
The latest buoy measurements indicate that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), crucial for regulating Europe’s climate, is weakening across four distinct latitudes. This represents the strongest evidence yet that this pivotal ocean current system is slowing and may be nearing collapse.
The AMOC is part of a global oceanic conveyor belt that transports warm, salty water from the Gulf of Mexico to the North Atlantic, helping maintain milder temperatures in Western Europe compared to those in Canada or Russia. As this water cools and sinks, it continues south along the ocean floor on the western side of the Atlantic.
Analysis of historical ocean temperature data suggests a 15% decline in the AMOC since 1950, with computer models predicting a potential closure within decades. However, direct measurements have only been reliable for roughly 20 years, making definitive conclusions difficult.
Recent research in the Western Atlantic has provided compelling evidence of an AMOC slowdown.
“Our findings indicate that Atlantic circulation is indeed weakening at the western boundary, and data from multiple latitudes supports this consistent signal across the broader North Atlantic,” said Qianjiang Xing from the University of Miami, Florida, who led the study.
In 2004, a collaborative effort led by the University of Miami established a series of moorings named RAPID-MOCHA from the Bahamas to the Canary Islands. These measurements, encompassing temperature, salinity, and velocity, allow scientists to estimate pressure changes across the Atlantic, providing insight into how much water is being effectively stored, according to team member Shane Elipot, also from the University of Miami.
Water moves from areas of high pressure to those of low pressure, but the Earth’s counterclockwise rotation causes deflection to the right, leading to reverse circulation. Thus, pressure changes can be indicative of AMOC strength variations.
The latest analysis of RAPID-MOCHA data reveals that AMOC flow is decreasing at a rate of approximately 90,000 cubic meters per second each year—a faster decline than previously observed. This indicates that the AMOC weakened by about 10% from 2004 to 2023.
However, the variation in certainty surrounding this reported change is quite significant. To address this, the study also examined pressure dynamics from three mooring arrays installed along the western Atlantic coast—near the West Indies, the U.S. East Coast, and Nova Scotia, Canada. Results show considerably lower uncertainty and a more pronounced weakening of the AMOC.
“This represents the strongest direct observational evidence to date of AMOC weakening, aligning with long-held model predictions,” commented Stefan Rahmstorf from the University of Potsdam in Germany, who was not involved in the study.
Scientists speculate that freshwater from the melting Greenland ice sheet is diluting the AMOC’s intensely salted waters, impeding their sinking action and thus weakening the southward flow along the ocean floor of the western Atlantic. The observed declining trends across four latitudes in the Western Atlantic point to this phenomenon.
“We anticipate these changes to be evident deep within the western boundary,” team members assert, including David Smeed from the UK National Marine Centre. “This strengthens our confidence in that interpretation.”
“They provide the first robust evidence of a consistent weakening of overturning across various latitudes in the Deep West,” claims René van Westen, a professor at Utrecht University in the Netherlands, who did not participate in the study.
Elipot emphasized the need for ongoing observations to clarify whether the AMOC is on the brink of collapse, a scenario that could lead to significantly colder winters in Europe and disrupt monsoon patterns in Asia and Africa.
“This trend suggests we might be approaching a tipping point,” he notes.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
Stunning new images from the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope showcase two young stars, Tau 042021 (left) and Oph-163131 (right), encircled by planet-forming disks. This unique perspective provides invaluable insights into the formation of worlds similar to ours.
Composite images of protoplanetary disks Tau 042021 (left) and Oph 163131 (right). Image credits: NASA / ESA / CSA / Webb / Hubble / ALMA / ESO / NAOJ / NRAO / G. Duchêne / M. Villenave.
“Protoplanetary disks emerge around newly formed stars,” stated Webb astronomers.
“As gas clumps collapse within larger molecular clouds, a thick disk of unused gas and dust orbits the newborn star.”
“This dust gradually collides and coalesces, forming planetesimals that can develop into planets over time.”
“Some planetesimals that don’t evolve into full-fledged planets remain as asteroids or comets orbiting the star.”
“Gas not consumed in this process will eventually be expelled by the star’s radiation over millions of years, leading to the disappearance of the protoplanetary disk.”
“This phenomenon explains how our solar system formed, shaping the asteroids, comets, gas giants, and terrestrial planets we recognize today.”
By studying other protoplanetary disks from earlier epochs, we can enhance our understanding of how solar system formation occurs and how various planets throughout the galaxy came into being.
The captivating images of protoplanetary disks Tau 042021 and Oph 163131—designated as 2MASS J04202144+2813491 and 2MASS J16313124-2426281—were captured using Webb’s NIRCam and MIRI instruments.
Tau 042021 lies approximately 450 light-years away in the constellation Taurus, while Oph 163131 is about 480 light-years distant in the constellation Ophiuchus.
“What distinguishes these objects is the orientation of their disks towards Webb’s perspective,” the astronomers explained.
“This alignment blocks most of the bright light from the central young star, allowing the fine dust in the disk to be illuminated by reflected starlight, creating a nebula above and below the disk.”
“The resulting images resemble colorful floating tops in space, providing not only a breathtaking view but also critical data for understanding the organization of planet-forming disks.”
“The dust distribution within and surrounding the disk profoundly influences how and where planets form.”
Source: www.sci.news
Paulsepia mazonensis has captivated the scientific community as a cephalopod species first identified in 2000 from a remarkable 300-million-year-old specimen. This fascinating creature has earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the world’s oldest octopus. Recent research has led to its reclassification as a distant relative of the nautilus, offering new insights into the timeline of octopus evolution, according to paleontologists.
Depiction of old cadmus collapse in the Mason Creek Basin, highlighting various Mason Creek fauna, including the polychaete Esconites zelus and the elasmobranch shark Bandringa rayi. Image credit: Franz Anthony.
Originally described from isolated siderite concretions, Paulsepia mazonensis has been recognized as the oldest known octopus, predating earlier estimates by over 150 million years. This revelation raises significant questions regarding our comprehension of cephalopod evolution, according to Dr. Thomas Clements, a paleontologist from the universities of Leicester and Reading.
This intriguing fossil from the Late Carboniferous Maisonkrieg Lagerstätte (311 to 360 million years ago) possesses distinct features, including a ‘sack-like’ fused head and mantle, symmetrical fins, and a pair of eyespots, alongside arms and specialized tentacles, yet lacks evidence for an inner or outer shell.
In a recent comprehensive study, researchers revisited this enigmatic fossil alongside several new specimens.
Employing advanced analytical methods, they uncovered a previously unrecognized radula, the toothed tongue characteristic of most molluscs.
Analysis of the alveolar bone suggests that Paulsepia mazonensis is more aligned with the shelled nautilus than previously thought.
This organism experienced significant decomposition prior to fossilization, leading to its ambiguous classification for decades.
“We conclude that Paulsepia mazonensis is synonymous with the Old Cadmus poli, based on morphological evidence,” the researchers confirmed.
This reinterpretation resolves a longstanding mystery regarding octopus evolution and unveils the oldest preserved nautilus soft tissue ever documented.
Through synchrotron micro-X-ray fluorescence elemental mapping, the team identified dental ossicles concealed within the concrete matrix of Paulsepia mazonensis.
The morphology of radial elements indicates that Paulsepia mazonensis does not correspond to coronal octamers but represents the oldest soft-tissue nautilus fossil discovered to date.
This reclassification challenges the Paleozoic origin of octopuses, further supporting a mid/late Mesozoic origin for crown octopuses while diminishing the credibility of the colloid affinity related to controversial Cambrian soft-bodied fossils like Nectocaris pterix.
The findings accentuate the complexities in interpreting exceptionally preserved soft tissue at the Masonkrieg Lagerstätte and underscore the necessity for thorough reevaluation of enigmatic consolidated soft-bodied fossil materials.
The team’s research paper has been published today in Proceedings of the Royal Society B.
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Thomas Clements et al. 2026. Synchrotron data reveals characteristics of nautiloids Paulsepia mazonensis refuting the Paleozoic origin of octopods. Proc Biol Sci 293 (2068): 20252369; doi: 10.1098/rspb.2025.2369
Source: www.sci.news
A fascinating protist species known as the blue spot stentor demonstrates remarkable movement by perceiving physical shapes. This finding implies that even the most basic life forms can utilize geometry for survival.
blue spot stentor. Image credit: Hokkaido University Physical Behavior Laboratory.
Measuring just 1mm in length, the blue spot stentor belongs to the protist family Tentriidae.
According to Dr. Shun Echigoya from Hokkaido University, lead author of the study, blue spot stentor exhibit complex behaviors that toggle between free-swimming and anchoring to substrates.
While swimming, the blue spot stentor generates propulsive force through hair-like structures called membranous bands located at the anterior end.
These cells adjust their movement in response to light and chemical signals while exploring their environment.
During swimming, the blue spot stentor elongates into a trumpet shape and anchors itself to the substrate using a fixation organ at the back.
When anchored, blue spot stentor also creates external vortices via its membranous band, forming an oral apparatus that traps bacteria and small ciliates for food.
However, the researchers noted that being anchored may increase vulnerability to predation.
Thus, selecting anchor points in a varied environment is crucial for the blue spot stentor.
For this study, Dr. Echigoya and colleagues crafted small chambers with controlled shapes, simulating the structures microorganisms encounter in natural aquatic habitats.
Some chambers featured smooth surfaces, while others included narrow spaces imitating edges, angles, and corners.
“We adjusted geometric characteristics such as corner angles and depths to provide varied anchorage options,” Dr. Echigoya elaborated.
“We documented the microorganisms’ behaviors through video recordings and supplemented them with numerical simulations for detailed analysis.”
The researchers observed behavior that was anything but random.
Initially, the cells swam freely, but as they neared the surface, their behavior transformed.
Their bodies became subtly asymmetrical, allowing them to glide along walls using the coordinated beating of their cilia.
Over time, they navigated toward smaller crevices, where they secured themselves to the surface.
“We were surprised by the effectiveness of this minimal strategy,” Dr. Echigoya stated.
The blue spot stentor does not require cognitive awareness of its surroundings; it can interact physically with surfaces simply by altering its shape to find suitable nooks.
“Our findings indicate that even slight physical features in natural environments significantly influence where microorganisms thrive and how they proliferate,” remarked Dr. Yukinori Nishigami, study co-author from Hokkaido University.
“The microscopic landscape is filled with tiny crevices and safe spaces.”
“Possessing the ability to locate and inhabit these protected niches may explain how microorganisms survive, disperse, and establish communities.”
The complete findings are published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
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Echigoya Shun et al. 2026. Geometric preference of anchor sites in unicellular organisms: blue spot stentor. PNAS 123 (9): e2518816123; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2518816123
Source: www.sci.news
James Watson’s The Double Helix: A Look at Its Enduring Legacy
There’s a compelling case to be made for The Double Helix, a celebrated science memoir by James Watson, as one of the greatest science books ever written. However, I hesitate to recommend it due to its troubling content, particularly given Watson’s controversial reputation.
According to Nathaniel Comfort from Johns Hopkins University, Watson’s narrative doesn’t just recount scientific progress; it portrays science as a vivid adventure shaped by individual personalities. This compelling storytelling has inspired countless readers to pursue careers in science.
The Double Helix details Watson’s collaboration with Francis Crick on deciphering DNA’s structure between 1951 and 1953, integrating data from Rosalind Franklin and Maurice Wilkins. Yet, Watson’s narrative often distorts the true nature of this collaboration, portraying himself as the primary talent.
Critically, Watson’s account has been scrutinized by scholars. Matthew Cobb, a biologist and science historian, asserts that the book blends fact and fiction misleadingly. Comfort echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that Watson’s work lacks precise boundaries between memoir and novel.
Watson’s villainization of Rosalind Franklin, for instance, reflects a narrative tactic borrowed from Truman Capote’s groundbreaking 1966 work In Cold Blood, which redefined the true crime genre. Cobb argues that Wilkins was the real antagonist, overshadowed by Watson’s portrayal.
When The Double Helix was released in 1968, Watson’s derogatory comments about Franklin mirrored the prevailing attitudes of that era. Patricia Fara, a historian from the University of Cambridge, recounts how these perspectives were accepted as commonplace within scientific circles at the time.
Today’s audience, however, is rightly disturbed by these views, along with Watson’s general rudeness towards others, which often comes across as immature and unkind.
Comfort posits that Watson’s memoir has been mischaracterized; he suggests it’s comedic in essence, from the opening line to its conclusion. Yet, some scenes, particularly those depicting conflicts with Franklin, might not resonate with modern sensibilities.
Despite Watson’s unfavorable self-portrayal, portraying himself as lazy and vain, Comfort insists that this structural unreliability adds complexity to the narrative. Their investigations reveal that the relationships between Crick, Watson, and Franklin were more joined than Watson suggests.
Regardless of its many flaws, The Double Helix has proven captivating and engaging, achieving the remarkable feat of becoming a bestseller with over a million copies sold.
Cobb acknowledges its significant impact on science and literature, yet queries whether it should truly be classified among the great science books, given its ethical violations and misrepresentations of scientific endeavor.
So, is it worth your time today? Cobb recommends reading it, but suggests viewing it more as a novel. However, be prepared for unlikable characters, as they hardly embody the best of human nature.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
Particle Collisions Inside STAR Detector of RHIC
Credit: Brookhaven National Laboratory
A groundbreaking discovery involving rare particles formed from high-energy proton collisions may illuminate one of physics’ greatest enigmas: the emergence of mass from empty space. This finding could reshape our understanding of particle mass acquisition.
According to quantum chromodynamics (QCD), the prevailing theory describing the strong forces binding quarks in protons and neutrons, a vacuum is not empty; it teems with transient disturbances in the underlying energy of space, known as virtual particles. These disturbances include fleeting quark-antiquark pairs.
While these pairs typically vanish as soon as they appear, QCD posits that injecting sufficient energy into the vacuum can transform them into real, detectable particles with mass.
The STAR Collaboration, an international group of physicists at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider in New York, has successfully observed this intriguing phenomenon for the first time.
By bombarding protons in a vacuum, they created a spray of particles, anticipating that some would be quark-antiquark pairs originating from the vacuum. However, as quarks cannot exist independently, they rapidly amalgamate into composite particles.
Luckily for the researchers, these specific particles reveal clues about their formation. Quarks and antiquarks exhibit correlated spins, reflecting their shared quantum state inherited from the vacuum.
The researchers discovered that this spin correlation remains intact even as the quarks and antiquarks evolve into larger particles known as hyperons, which decay in less than a billionth of a second. Identifying these spin-aligned hyperons following proton collisions confirmed that their constituent quarks originated from the vacuum.
“This is the first time I’ve witnessed the entire process,” remarked Tu Chowdungmin, a member of the STAR collaboration.
“I’m thrilled to see this measurement,” added Daniel Bohr, who was not part of the research team and is affiliated with the University of Groningen, Netherlands. He noted that many mysteries still loom around quarks, such as their inability to exist isolated. “This experiment is particularly intriguing for that reason.”
Tu believes this research opens new avenues to directly examine vacuum properties, potentially enabling scientists to investigate how particles acquire mass. QCD theory suggests that quarks gain additional mass by interacting with the vacuum, though the exact mechanisms remain unclear.
Alessandro Bachetta, a researcher at the University of Pavia in Italy, emphasized that the results are not yet definitive, as reconstructing particle collision events can be convoluted. Researchers must first effectively eliminate alternative explanations that could produce similar signals, he stated.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
Archaeologists from Colorado State University have uncovered evidence that Native Americans were crafting dice and engaging in games of chance as far back as 12,000 years ago, predating similar practices believed to have originated solely in the Old World.
Prehistoric Native American dice from various locations: (a, d) Signal Butte, NE (mid-Holocene); (b) Agate Basin, WY (early Holocene); (c, f) Agate Basin, WY (Late Pleistocene); (e, g) Lindenmeyer, CO (Late Pleistocene); (h) Irvine, WY (Late Holocene). Image credit: Department of Anthropology, Smithsonian Institution, American Museum of Natural History/University of Wyoming.
“Historians often regarded dice and probability as innovations unique to the Old World,” explains Colorado State University’s Robert Madden, a doctoral student and author of the study.
“Our findings reveal that ancient Native American societies were deliberately producing objects designed for random outcomes, utilizing these results in organized games much earlier than previously believed.”
The earliest artifact identified by Madden originates from the Folsom site, dating between 12,800 and 12,200 years ago.
Unlike modern cubic dice, these were double-sided devices known as binary lots, crafted from bone, either flat or slightly rounded, and typically oval or rectangular in form, designed for easy handling and tossing onto a surface.
Each side of these binary lots was marked differently, distinguished by surface treatments, colors, or other visible alterations, similar to heads or tails on a coin, with one side designated for scoring.
When tossed, these dice would always land with one side facing up, yielding a binary (two-outcome) result.
Scores were determined by the numbers displayed when thrown together.
“These tools are simple yet purposeful. They are intentionally made for generating random outcomes, not mere leftovers from bone processing,” Madden stated.
This study also introduces a new morphological test for identifying North American dice in archaeological contexts, moving beyond subjective comparisons.
The test was developed through an analysis of 293 historical Native American dice sets cataloged by ethnologist Stewart Culin in his 1907 work, North American Indian Games.
The research reexamines previously collected artifacts, assessing whether they meet the new, objective criteria for dice, allowing for a systematic evaluation of the archaeological record.
Most of these artifacts had been excavated prior but lacked a clear standard for identification, which hampered their inclusion in broader analyses.
By applying this novel approach, Madden identified over 600 probable and diagnostic dice from sites that span significant periods in North American prehistory, from the late Pleistocene through to European contact and beyond.
“Most of these items had already been discovered and documented,” Madden noted.
“What was lacking was a standardized method to recognize these artifacts.”‘
“Our research does not claim that Ice Age hunter-gatherers practiced formal probability theory,” Madden clarified.
“However, they intentionally made, observed, and utilized random outcomes in repeatable, rule-based scenarios, tapping into probabilistic principles like the law of large numbers. This insight reshapes our understanding of the global evolution of probabilistic thought.”
The study further highlights the extensive range and sustainability of Native American dice games.
Dice artifacts were discovered at 57 sites across 12 regional areas, reflecting diverse cultures and survival strategies from Paleoindian to Archaic and late prehistoric periods.
“The versatility and endurance of these games underscore their cultural significance,” Madden stated.
“Games of chance provided structured, neutral environments for ancient Native Americans, facilitating interactions, trade, alliances, and the management of uncertainty. In this context, they served as essential social tools.”
The study has been published in Ancient History of America.
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Robert J. Madden. Pleistocene Probability: The Origins and Antiquity of Native American Dice, Games of Chance, and Gambling. Ancient History of America published online on April 2, 2026. doi: 10.1017/aaq.2025.10158
Source: www.sci.news
Jupiter’s system boasts four large moons, including Ganymede, the largest moon in the solar system, while Saturn’s system is primarily influenced by Titan, its giant moon. Recent simulations indicate that Jupiter’s powerful magnetic field created gaps in its primordial disk, facilitating the capture and retention of significant moons like Io and Ganymede. In contrast, Saturn’s weaker magnetic field has resulted in a more sparsely populated satellite system.
Jupiter’s strong magnetic field creates a cavity in its surrounding disk, whereas Saturn’s weak field leads to a different disk evolution. Image credits: Yuri Fujii / L-INSIGHT / Kyoto University / Shinichiro Kinoshita
“The largest planets in our solar system, Jupiter and Saturn, also have the most extensive satellite systems,” stated Dr. Yuri Fujii, a researcher with Kyoto University and Nagoya University, alongside colleagues.
“Currently, Jupiter is known to have over 100 moons, while Saturn’s total, including its rings, exceeds 280 moons.”
“However, not all these moons are alike. Jupiter’s moon family includes four large bodies, while Saturn’s is heavily influenced by its single large moon, Titan.”
“The disparity between these satellite systems has intrigued astronomers for years, especially since both planets are gas giants.”
“Theories surrounding satellite formation provide various explanations, yet recent studies of stellar magnetic fields suggest a reevaluation of these notions is necessary.”
“A longstanding debate exists regarding magnetic accretion and satellite formation, particularly whether internal cavities in Jupiter’s disk could lead to the accumulation of materials that foster moon formation.”
A comprehensive model that elucidates the differing structures of satellite systems like those of Jupiter and Saturn could be applicable to exoplanetary systems beyond our own.
“Validating planet formation theories is challenging since we rely solely on our solar system. However, numerous satellite systems in proximity offer detailed observational opportunities,” Dr. Fujii noted.
To investigate the thermal evolution of Jupiter and Saturn and track changes in their magnetic fields, researchers simulated the internal structures of the young gas giants.
Additionally, they modeled the circumplanetary disks surrounding both planets and conducted N-body simulations to observe satellite formation and migration.
Results indicated that the structural differences in the satellite systems of Jupiter and Saturn are attributed to their disk compositions, influenced by the strength of their magnetic fields.
Specifically, Jupiter’s robust magnetic field is believed to have formed a magnetospheric cavity, trapping moons such as Io, Europa, and Ganymede.
Conversely, Saturn’s young magnetic field lacked the strength to create a cavity, making it difficult for moons to survive within its disk.
“Our findings suggest that upcoming surveys may discover compact exomoon systems around gas giants, along with several distant moons around Saturn-like gas giants,” the research team concluded.
For more details, refer to the study published on April 2nd in Nature Astronomy.
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Yu Fujii et al. Different architectures from magnetospheric cavity formation of Jupiter and Saturn’s satellite systems. Nat Astron published online on April 2, 2026, doi: 10.1038/s41550-026-02820-x
Source: www.sci.news
The crew of NASA’s historic Artemis II mission honored the late Carol Wiseman, the wife of astronaut Reed Wiseman, by proposing to name a moon crater in her memory. This poignant moment was broadcast live on a NASA livestream.
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Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen informed mission control on Monday that his team aimed to “honor our mission by naming two craters on the moon.”
One of the craters is named after Carol Wiseman, the wife of Artemis II commander Reed Wiseman, who succumbed to cancer in 2020 at the age of 46.
“We lost a loved one. Her name was Carol, and she was the mother of Katie and Ellie, Reed’s daughters,” Hansen expressed.
He referred to the crater as a “bright spot on the moon.”
“We like to call it Carol,” Hansen noted.
Following Hansen’s heartfelt eulogy, the crew linked arms and floated in zero gravity, with both Wiseman and NASA astronaut Christina Koch visibly emotional.
Carol Wiseman “dedicated her life to helping others as a registered nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.” NASA reported.
“Despite his numerous professional accolades, Mr. Reed views his journey as a single parent as the greatest challenge and most rewarding period of his life,” according to Wiseman’s NASA biography.
Wiseman was named commander of the Artemis II mission in 2023. Prior to the launch, he voiced concerns about the time away from his family that the mission entailed.
“As a single father of two daughters,” he said, “it would be simpler to stay home and watch soccer on weekends, but we have four individuals capable of exploring unique opportunities in our civilization.”
The Artemis II crew also suggested naming the second crater “Integrity,” inspired by the name of their Orion spacecraft.
Following the mission, the naming proposal will be formally submitted to the International Astronomical Union, which will decide on the naming of the crater and its features.
The Artemis II team of four accomplished the mission’s lunar flight on Monday, reaching a record distance from Earth. At the mission’s peak, the astronauts were approximately 42,752 miles away, surpassing the record set by the Apollo 13 crew in 1970.
“By achieving the greatest distance ever traveled by humans from Earth, we pay tribute to the extraordinary efforts and achievements of our predecessors in space exploration,” Hansen communicated to mission control upon confirming the milestone.
“We will continue our journey further into space until Mother Earth brings us back to what we cherish most,” he stated. “But most importantly, we challenge this generation and the next to ensure this record does not last.”
Wiseman, Koch, Glover, and Hansen commenced their journey home, officially exiting the moon’s sphere of influence at 1:25 p.m. Tuesday, approximately 41,000 miles from the moon. NASA confirmed.
After 10 days in space, the crew is set to return to Earth on Friday, splashing down off the coast of San Diego.
Source: www.nbcnews.com
We now clearly understand that light is both a wave and a particle.
Anna Bliokh/Getty Images
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In 1937, physicist Clinton Davison received the Nobel Prize for uncovering that electrons—once purely viewed as particles—could showcase wave-like behaviors. He famously critiqued: “The perfect child of physics […] turned into a two-headed gnome.” This illustrated that waves and particles are not mutually exclusive, with both light and electrons as prime examples.
Davison was not alone in this contemplation. A decade earlier, Albert Einstein engaged in a heated debate with Niels Bohr regarding the perplexing nature of light. Their discourse relied on Gedanken Experiments, as they lacked the technological means to conduct experimental observations. However, by 2025, Einstein and Bohr’s once-theoretical concept was enacted in labs, demonstrating light’s duality as both wave and particle.
The nature of light has long sparked debate. In the 17th century, mathematician Christian Huygens defended the wave theory of light, countered by physicist Isaac Newton’s particle theory. Huygens published his work, Treatise on Light, but his legacy was overshadowed by Newton’s prominence upon his passing in 1690.
In 1801, physicist Thomas Young conducted the iconic double-slit experiment, a key effort to elucidate light’s true essence. It was akin to proclaiming, “I am a wave,” to his contemporaries. This consensus persisted until the resurgence of debate in 1927 between Einstein and Bohr, revisiting not just the double-slit experiment but the very nature of light itself.
The experiment involved directing light through two narrow parallel slits towards a screen. If light behaved as particles, one would expect to see two distinct light spots. However, Young and later physicists observed a stunning interference pattern—a series of alternating dark and light stripes indicative of wave characteristics, resulting from the constructive and destructive interference of light waves.
What continued to fuel the discourse nearly a century later was Einstein’s adherence to earlier experiments involving photons impacting gold, suggesting a particle-based explanation for light, while simultaneously assessing hints of light’s particle nature throughout the experiment.
The complexity of quantum theory added another layer, asserting that interference patterns emerged even when single photons traversed one at a time. Scientists found it challenging to conceptualize a single photon navigating through two slits simultaneously, further complicating the understanding of light’s dual characteristics.
Bohr’s solution came through the principle of complementarity, claiming that while photon behavior could be visualized through various experiments, the properties of waves and particles could never be simultaneously observed.
Niels Bohr and Albert Einstein in a historical photo
Alamy
In a theoretical construct, Einstein suggested adding a spring mechanism to detect photon passage through the slits, proposing that observing spring deformation could hint at a photon behaving like a particle while still showcasing wave-like characteristics on the screen. He believed this could provide glimpses of both light heads.
Bohr countered using the uncertainty principle, asserting that measuring photon behavior—whether it be momentum or position—would inherently obscure the other property, thus erasing the interference pattern. Their discussions, while unresolved, became foundational in quantum mechanics.
According to Philip Treutlein from the University of Basel, modern physicists see the debate settled, yet a century passed before experimental validation was achieved. This was largely due to the complexity of manipulating subatomic particles like photons, necessitating extremely precise experimental conditions. Collaborative efforts from teams at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) and MIT have now made it possible to test these phenomena in laboratory settings.
Utilizing ultra-cold setups and advanced measurement techniques, researchers demonstrated the effects of photons on atomic structures, akin to detecting a gentle breeze through rustling leaves. Their experiments confirmed the trade-off Bohr predicted between interference pattern clarity and momentum disturbance, validating the quantum theory’s predictions.
In closing, the latest findings show that photons indeed manifest both wave and particle properties concurrently, a revelation made possible through modern nuclear physics advancements. The possibility of observing both aspects of light without the typical exclusion has transformed our understanding of light’s nature.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
Astronomers have utilized the Near Infrared Spectrometer (NIRSpec) on the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope to analyze the atmosphere of TOI-5205b, an extrasolar gas giant orbiting a dim red dwarf star. These groundbreaking observations reveal that the atmosphere is surprisingly deficient in heavy elements, raising intriguing questions regarding the formation and evolution of such “forbidden” alien worlds.
The Jupiter-sized planet TOI-5205b has a surface temperature of 737 K and orbits at a distance of 0.02 astronomical units from its parent star, TOI-5205. Image credit: Sci.News.
TOI-5205b is a short-period gas giant with only 1.03 times the radius and 1.08 times the mass of Jupiter, completing its orbit in just 1.63 days.
Discovered in 2022, this planet orbits the TOI-5205, an M4-type star with approximately 39% of the Sun’s size and mass.
The system, also known as TIC 419411415, is located about 283 light-years away in the constellation Vorissa.
“Short-period Jupiter-mass planets are among the first exoplanets found around Sun-like main-sequence stars, yet their formation processes are still not fully understood,” explained Dr. Caleb Cañas from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.
“The increasing number of short-period giant exoplanets around M dwarfs adds further complexity to gas giant planet formation theories.”
“These worlds are challenging to form through nuclear accretion due to the low disk masses and longer orbital time scales of M dwarfs, which hinder the efficient creation of massive planetary cores necessary for runaway gas accretion.”
“These planets exemplify an extreme formation regime for mid-to-late M-type dwarfs since the significant planet-to-star mass ratio demands a core mass exceeding the estimated dust mass of the protoplanetary disk.”
Astronomers used Webb’s NIRSpec to observe three separate transits of TOI-5205b.
To their surprise, they discovered that the concentration of heavy elements in the planet’s atmosphere, relative to hydrogen, is lower than found in the gas giants of our solar system, including Jupiter. Remarkably, it is even less metallic than its host star.
This finding sets TOI-5205b apart from all other studied giant planets.
Furthermore, the observations revealed the presence of methane and hydrogen sulfide in the planet’s atmosphere, corroborating previous findings.
To better understand their results, the researchers employed an advanced model of the planet’s interior, predicting that TOI-5205b’s overall composition is about 100 times richer in metals than its atmosphere.
“We observed a significantly lower metallicity than what models predicted for the planet’s bulk composition, based on measurements of its mass and radius,” noted Dr. Shubham Kanodia of Carnegie Science.
“This suggests that heavy elements migrated to the interior during formation, indicating that the interior and atmosphere are not currently mixing.”
“In essence, our findings imply that the planet’s atmosphere is notably carbon-rich and oxygen-poor.”
For more information on these findings, check out the latest publication in Astronomy Magazine.
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Caleb I. Cañas et al. 2026. GEMS JWST: TOI-5205b’s transmission spectroscopy reveals significant contamination of the star and a metal-poor atmosphere. A.J. 171, 260; doi: 10.3847/1538-3881/ae4976
Source: www.sci.news
Dairy Farm Digesters: Harnessing Biogas from Cow Manure
Rudmer Zwerver/Shutterstock
During World War II, farmers in Germany and France found innovative ways to harness energy. They covered fertilizer reservoirs to capture methane and secure their own fuel supplies. Today, anaerobic digesters, the advanced version of that technology, are promoted by governments as a means to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from dairy farms. However, researchers warn that investments in these digesters may lead to unintended consequences for both climate and public health.
Rebecca Larson from the University of Wisconsin-Madison asks, “Is this funding more effective for climate change mitigation than other strategies, like solar panel installations?” She recognizes that although digesters are effective for livestock emissions, it’s crucial to explore all options.
Agriculture is responsible for approximately one-third of global human emissions, with cow burps contributing one-third of that in the U.S. alone. Industrial dairy farms manage large quantities of cow manure and often flush it into lagoon systems.
The commercial-scale use of digesters began in the 1970s. Now, there are over 17,000 digesters primarily on farms in the European Union, while the U.S. and England each have around 400. In China, millions of small farms use brick digesters to optimize waste management.
When organic waste decomposes anaerobically, it not only releases methane but also carbon dioxide. This is typical in sewage treatment plants and waste lagoons. However, utilizing sealed digesters allows for the recovery of biogas, which can be generated more efficiently and utilized for heat, electricity, or even as natural gas for vehicles. This process mitigates methane emissions, a greenhouse gas significantly more potent than CO2. The digested waste is then repurposed as fertilizer and bedding.
Following digestion, methane emissions from stored fertilizers can be reduced by up to 91%. Yet, a recent analysis of methane emissions from 98 California dairy farms indicates a more complex scenario. Approximately 1.7 million dairy cows are housed in factory farms across the state, which has invested $389 million in digester construction—more than anywhere else in the U.S.
Although digesters reduced point-source methane emissions from 91 kg to 68 kg per hour across two-thirds of the participating farms, emissions spiked temporarily during construction. This anomaly remains unexplained, potentially tied to fertilizer slurry disturbances during installation.
Due to their heated environments, digesters may produce methane at a faster rate than traditional lagoons and can occasionally leak. The study found that in some cases, leakage rates were over 1000 kg per hour, highlighting a potential risk in efficiency.
Alyssa Valdez from the University of California, Riverside, emphasizes that high leak rates serve as a warning. Despite this, California’s leak notification program remedied 20% of identified issues. Studies suggest digesters can still reduce fertilizer emissions by about half.
“When gas leaks occur, operators incur financial losses, creating an incentive to minimize emissions,” states Angela Bywater from the University of Surrey, UK. However, digesters can also lead to increased ammonia production from fertilizers, raising environmental contamination concerns.
The prevailing debate focuses on how aggressively governments should support digesters. California’s favorable policies appear to encourage the growth of factory farms, as incentives are linked to biogas production under the Low Carbon Fuel Standard. According to a preprint study, receiving such incentives can increase dairy herd size by an average of 860 cows.
Brent Kim of Johns Hopkins University warns, “Taxpayer funding that inflates fertilizer value may distort market dynamics, making fertilizers more valuable than milk. We should consider viable climate change solutions that don’t inadvertently sustain harmful industry practices.”
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Source: www.newscientist.com
Innovative Strategies for Migraine Relief
Sergey Khakimullin/Getty Images
About one-third of migraine sufferers find no relief from standard treatments. However, new research suggests that utilizing the brain’s waste-clearing system could introduce innovative treatment methods. A particular drug that is typically used to manage high blood pressure demonstrated the ability to effectively eliminate chemicals from the brains of mice that contribute significantly to migraines. Consequently, the mice showed minimal facial pain.
Around 60% of migraine patients experience considerable discomfort during episodes.
Globally, approximately 1 in 7 people suffer from migraines. Symptoms include pain, pressure, and tingling in areas such as the cheeks, jaw, forehead, and behind the eyes, often worsened even by light touch. “Just brushing your hair can result in excruciating pain for those living with migraines,” stated Adriana Della Pietra, who presented findings at the Oxford Glymphatic and Brain Clearance Symposium in the UK on April 1.
Conventional treatments for migraines, including triptans, aim to reduce inflammation and lower the levels of a neurotransmitter known as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a key player in migraine pathology. CGRP is a major factor driving migraines, targeted by many standard treatments. “Unfortunately, many individuals do not respond to these medications and are frequently trapped in a cycle of debilitating pain,” commented Valentina Mosienko from the University of Bristol, UK, who was not involved in the study.
In previous studies, researchers discovered that prazosin, a medication prescribed for high blood pressure, alleviated facial pain caused by traumatic brain injuries in mice. Traumatic injuries can impair the brain’s waste disposal system, known as the glymphatic system, and prazosin enhanced fluid flow from brain cells through this system. Interestingly, it also appeared to benefit some migraine models used as control groups.
To delve deeper, the research team administered prazosin to one group of mice in their drinking water over six weeks, comparing against a control group that received standard water. Subsequently, both groups were subjected to migraines induced by CGRP injections.
After 30 minutes, the researchers applied progressively thicker plastic filaments to the mice’s foreheads. This technique, normally non-painful, became more detectable as the filaments increased in thickness. The findings showed that mice receiving prazosin managed to endure significantly thicker filaments without flinching compared to control mice. Della Pietra noted that the prazosin group behaved similarly to mice that hadn’t received CGRP injections.
Further analysis revealed that prazosin not only reversed the impairment of the glymphatic system caused by CGRP but also likely enhanced the clearance of CGRP and other pain-transmitting molecules, as reported by Della Pietra.
Research teams are eager to examine whether similar results can be replicated in humans. “If it proves effective in humans, that would be a tremendous breakthrough,” Mosienko added. “Since this drug is already in use, we have established safety for its application.”
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Source: www.newscientist.com
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is officially classified as a human condition. However, many dog owners have observed similar traits, such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and a tendency to become easily distracted in their canine companions.
Research indicates that approximately 20 percent of dogs display ADHD-like behaviors. These dogs often skip training classes, captivated instead by the instructor’s shoelaces or engaged in rambunctious parkour.
While these lovable rogues are delightful, their behavior can make training challenging. Common signs of ADHD-like behavior in dogs include excessive barking, biting, chasing, and stealing.
If these symptoms hinder your dog’s daily activities—such as learning new commands or interacting positively with you—it may indicate an ADHD-like disorder.
A recent study reveals that different dogs experience ADHD-like traits variably. Higher instances of hyperactivity and inattention are particularly common in young male dogs that spend extended periods alone at home.
It’s essential to remember that different dog breeds exhibit varying behavioral traits. For instance, breeds like Cairn Terriers, Jack Russells, and German Shepherds display more impulsive behaviors, whereas Chihuahuas, Rough Collies, and Chinese Crested Dogs are less likely to show these traits.
If you find yourself dealing with a challenging dog, understand that their behavior is not intentional. Much like individuals with ADHD, dogs process their environment differently due to various genetic and environmental factors.
Fortunately, there are effective strategies to help manage these behaviors. Professional behavior therapy can be beneficial, but often, increased exercise and engagement can lead to significant improvements.
Short, frequent training sessions that utilize positive reinforcement (i.e., treats) to reward good behavior can yield excellent results. Additionally, calming enrichment activities like lick mats or puzzle toys can provide much-needed stimulation.
This article addresses the query from Rhys Brooks via email: “Does my dog have ADHD?”
For further questions, please reach out to us at: questions@sciencefocus.com or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (please include your name and location).
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For the first time, humanity has witnessed the far side of the moon with their own eyes, as stunning new photos are being unveiled.
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In the most eagerly awaited moment of the Artemis II mission, four astronauts orbited the moon on Monday, capturing breathtaking photos and making meticulous observations from the Orion spacecraft.
NASA astronauts Reed Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen took countless pictures of the moon’s rugged landscape, vast impact craters, and dark plains.
The first newly released photo, shared by the White House on X Tuesday morning, depicts an “Earthset” taken from the far side of the moon, as the Earth fades from view.
This captivating image serves as a modern reinterpretation of the iconic “Earthrise” photograph captured during the Apollo 8 mission in 1968. Unlike Apollo 8’s images, which showed the Earth coming back into view, this new photo captures the Earth as it disappears behind the moon.
The White House also released stunning new photographs taken by Artemis II astronauts of a solar eclipse from space. This extraordinary event occurred Monday evening as the sun slipped behind the moon during the mission’s several-hour lunar flight.
Astronauts became the first humans to witness a solar eclipse from the moon. This groundbreaking image captures the dark moon with the sun’s outer atmosphere, the corona, glowing around its edges.
Source: www.nbcnews.com
The moon’s near side is visible to the right, marked by distinct dark patches, while the far side remains unseen from Earth.
NASA
In a historic event, humans have returned to the moon for the first time since Apollo 17 in 1972. On April 6, four astronauts from NASA’s Artemis II mission circled the far side of the moon, reaching unprecedented distances from Earth.
Mission Commander Reed Wiseman emphasized that this journey marks a significant beginning, surpassing Apollo 13’s record of 400,171 kilometers set in 1970. “Let’s inspire this generation and the next to ensure this distance record is challenged,” he stated during a NASA livestream. During the mission, the Artemis team proposed naming two newly discovered craters: “Integrity,” after the Orion capsule, and “Carol,” in honor of Wiseman’s late wife.
Throughout the flyby, the astronauts engaged in both window-side observations and cabin communications with mission control in Houston, Texas. The crew comprises NASA astronauts Wiseman, Christina Koch, and Victor Glover, alongside Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen.
As Orion orbited behind the moon, the sun appeared smaller in the sky, culminating in a rare solar eclipse not observable from Earth. The astronauts donned eclipse glasses to view the sun and witness its corona, potentially allowing them to capture unprecedented lunar details free from atmospheric interference.
Artemis astronauts experienced an extraordinary solar eclipse.
NASA
The astronauts captured stunning details of the lunar surface, showcasing its vibrant color diversity. While the moon appears gray from Earth, close-up observations reveal hues of green, brown, and even orange, attributed to chemical changes in the lunar soil. “The rapid transformations of the Earth as we orbit the moon are breathtaking,” Hansen noted.
As they orbited the Moon, the crew observed previously unseen regions. They took special interest in the Terminator—the boundary separating day from night—where deep shadows accentuate the landscape’s features. “The visual magic of the Terminator, with its bright islands and dark valleys, is captivating,” Glover remarked.
The astronauts expressed deep emotions witnessing the moon’s diverse terrain up close, imagining what it would be like to traverse its surface. “The moon is a real entity in the universe, not merely a distant poster in the sky,” Koch stated.
NASA astronaut Reed Wiseman took this breathtaking photo of Earth from the Orion spacecraft.
NASA/Reed Wiseman
The Orion capsule reached its closest point to the lunar surface, approximately 6,545 kilometers away. This milestone will stand until the Artemis IV mission, which plans a landing in 2028.
As Orion returns to Earth, expected on April 10, the astronauts will splash down in the Pacific Ocean off California’s coast. Following their return, the team will analyze notes, photos, and scientific findings in preparation for advancing the Artemis program.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
Many people believe that food becomes less enjoyable as we age. While age plays a role, various other factors contribute to this phenomenon.
We are born with around 9,000 taste buds located on the papillae of the tongue. These taste buds regenerate every few weeks.
However, this regeneration slows down as we age. After around age 50, there is often an overall decline in taste buds, and existing ones may become less sensitive.
Not everyone experiences this decline uniformly, but some may find that food loses its appeal as they age. Still, it’s not solely about age.
Factors such as genetics, dental issues, medications, chronic health conditions, smoking, and nasal problems can also affect our sense of taste.
Moreover, our sense of smell significantly impacts how we perceive flavor. As we age, the number of olfactory receptor cells and the function of nasal mucous membranes decline, dulling our taste perception.
Temporary loss of smell, such as during a cold, can create similar effects, rendering food significantly bland.
As our sense of taste weakens, food preferences often shift. Salty and sweet flavors become more pronounced, leading many to favor these tastes as they age.
However, caution is essential; increased salt intake can affect blood pressure, while consuming sweets can lead to weight gain.
So, can we prevent our sense of taste from dulling? While we can’t halt the aging process, certain habits may enhance our taste perception.
For instance, staying well-hydrated helps maintain saliva production; avoiding smoking (which harms taste buds), managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, and reviewing medications that cause dry mouth can all help.
Incorporating sharp flavors can also invigorate our taste experience. Foods like citrus fruits, sorbets, and mint often strike a stronger chord with our taste buds.
Marinating foods with vinegar, dressings, mustard, herbs, and spices can significantly enhance flavor and is often a better approach than merely increasing salt and sugar.
While it’s common for some individuals to experience a decline in taste as they age, with mindful habits and a touch of culinary adventure, many can continue to savor vibrant flavors well into their later years.
This article addresses the question posed by Kian Wilkinson from Lancaster: “Can we prevent our sense of taste from becoming dull as we age?”
If you have any questions, feel free to email us at: questions@sciencefocus.com or reach out via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (please include your name and location).
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Astronomers from the Hobby-Eberly Telescope Dark Energy Experiment (HETDEX) have discovered colossal hydrogen halos, known as Lyman-alpha nebulae, surrounding over 30,000 galaxies dating back 10 to 12 billion years. This groundbreaking finding indicates that the essential materials for galaxy formation were far more plentiful than previously believed.
A giant halo of hydrogen gas, as revealed by HETDEX data and captured in deep imaging from the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope. This ancient star system, 11.3 billion years old, radiates from the collective light of its myriad galaxies, with the brightest areas highlighted in red. Image credit: Erin Mentuch Cooper, HETDEX/NASA/ESA/CSA/STScI.
Hydrogen gas presents a unique challenge to astronomers, as it doesn’t emit light independently.
However, when located near energy-emitting objects—like galaxies packed with stars radiating UV light—hydrogen can glow due to this energy.
Detecting hydrogen halos demands significant time and precision, as the specialized instruments needed are often in high demand.
Previous astronomical surveys have identified some of these halos but typically focused only on the most luminous and extreme examples.
Furthermore, targeted observations of early galaxies are often too zoomed in, leading to the omission of larger halos.
HETDEX’s observations are actively filling this observational gap. This research uses the Hobby-Eberly Telescope at McDonald Observatory to map over 1 million galaxies and deepen our understanding of dark energy.
“We collected nearly half a petabyte of data, not just on these galaxies, but also on the intergalactic space,” stated Dr. Karl Gebhardt, the principal investigator of HETDEX and chair of the astronomy department at the University of Texas at Austin.
“Our observations encompass a sky area capable of hosting more than 2,000 full moons. The extent is extraordinary and unprecedented.”
“The Hobby-Eberly Telescope ranks among the largest telescopes worldwide,” Dr. Dustin Davis, a HETDEX scientist and postdoctoral fellow at UT Austin, remarked.
“HETDEX’s instruments yield 100,000 spectra per observation, providing a vast quantity of data and a treasure trove of exciting discoveries on the horizon.”
To locate hydrogen halos, astronomers examined the brightest 70,000 of the 1.6 million early galaxies cataloged by HETDEX.
Utilizing supercomputers at the Texas Advanced Computing Center, they assessed how many showed signs of surrounding halos.
According to the research team, these halos can span tens to hundreds of thousands of light-years across.
Some appear as simple, football-shaped clouds enveloping individual galaxies, while others take on irregular forms housing multiple galaxies.
“These formations are intriguing,” said Erin Mentaci-Cooper, HETDEX data manager and researcher at UT Austin.
“They resemble giant amoebas with tentacles extending into the cosmos.”
Results of this study were published on March 11, 2026, in a paper in the Astrophysical Journal.
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Erin Mentouch Cooper et al. 2026. Lyα Nebula in HETDEX: The largest statistical census connecting Lyα halos and blobs across cosmic noon. APJ 1000, 38; doi: 10.3847/1538-4357/ae44f3
Source: www.sci.news
New research reveals that a remarkable collection of over 700 Ediacaran fossils from the late Ediacaran period indicates that significant animal groups, including the early ancestors of vertebrates, began diversifying millions of years earlier than previously believed.
The Ediacaran-Cambrian transition marked one of the most crucial turning points in Earth’s biological history.
However, the fossil evidence presents a fragmented view of this significant change, as Ediacaran biological communities are quite different from those of the Cambrian, leaving key moments of evolution elusive.
Dr. Gaorong Li from the University of Oxford states, “Our findings bridge a critical gap in the narrative of early animal diversification.”
“For the first time, we show that complex organisms typically associated with the Cambrian existed during the Ediacaran, indicating they evolved much earlier than fossil records previously suggested.”
In their study, Li and colleagues analyzed over 700 specimens from recently identified fossils in Yunnan province, China.
This fossil group, dating back 554 to 539 million years, is part of the intriguing Egawa biota.
Unlike many Ediacaran fossil sites that predominantly showcase traces of life on sandstone, these fossils are preserved as carbonaceous membranes, mirroring preservation styles found in renowned Cambrian sites like Canada’s Burgess Shale.
Dr. Luke Parry from the University of Oxford commented, “This groundbreaking discovery offers insight into a transitional phase in biological communities. The unique characteristics of Ediacaran life paved the way for the recognizable groups we categorize today.”
“Upon first examining these specimens, we recognized their uniqueness and the unexpected nature of our findings.”
The fossil group includes some of the earliest known relatives of deuterostomes, a category which now encompasses humans and vertebrates such as fish.
Among the specimens are ancestors of modern starfish alongside their close relative, the acorn worm (Ambulacraria), characterized by a U-shaped body attached to the seafloor with a stalk and tentacles for food capture.
Dr. Frankie Dunn from the University of Oxford noted, “It’s captivating that such exotic organisms thrived during the Ediacaran period.”
“We’ve discovered fossils that are distant relatives of starfish and sea cucumbers, and the search for more continues.”
The bicephalic fossils from the Egawa biota suggest that chordates (animals with backbones) also existed during this period.
Other noteworthy discoveries among the fossils include worm-like bilateral animals featuring complex feeding adaptations, as well as rare specimens believed to be early comb jellies.
Many specimens display unique anatomical features that do not correspond to any known Ediacaran or Cambrian species.
Dr. Ross Anderson from the University of Oxford stated, “Our findings suggest that the apparent scarcity of these complex faunas in other Ediacaran sites may highlight preservation discrepancies rather than an actual lack of diversity.”
“Carbonaceous compactions like those found in Egawa are uncommon in rocks of this age, indicating that similar communities may remain unpreserved elsewhere.”
For more on this pivotal discovery, refer to the research paper published in Science.
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Gaorong Li et al. 2026. Dawn of the Phanerozoic: The late Ediacaran transitional fauna of southwestern China. Science 392 (6793): 63-68; doi: 10.1126/science.adu2291
Source: www.sci.news
Recent nanoscale analysis of Bennu sample OREX-800066-3, obtained from NASA’s groundbreaking OSIRIS-REx mission, reveals organic compounds and minerals are strategically clustered in distinct regions. This indicates that water once altered the asteroid in a heterogeneous and localized manner.
Mosaic image of asteroid Bennu captured by OSIRIS-REx’s PolyCam instrument on December 2, 2018, from a distance of 15 miles (24 km). Image credit: NASA / NASA Goddard Space Flight Center / University of Arizona.
Classification of Bennu as a primitive carbonaceous asteroid marks it as one of the best-preserved remnants from the early Solar System.
While meteorites are typically viewed as a source of primitive asteroid material, they face risks of alteration during atmospheric entry and potential contamination on Earth.
In contrast, the samples returned by Bennu are regarded as truly pristine, significantly enhancing the reliability of the findings derived from them.
In a recent study, scientists at Stony Brook University employed nanoscale infrared and Raman spectroscopy to analyze the chemical composition of OREX-800066-3 samples, achieving a spatial resolution ranging from 20 to 500 nanometers per pixel.
All analyses were conducted without exposing the samples to air, preserving sensitive chemical bonds and organic functional groups crucial for accurate detection.
Furthermore, both techniques utilized are non-destructive, which is vital considering the irreplaceable nature of these samples.
At the nanoscale, the fundamental building blocks of asteroid mineralogy and organic chemistry can be investigated within these precious specimens.
The new analysis pinpointed distinct chemical domains, including regions rich in aliphatic compounds, carbonate materials, and nitrogen-containing organic substances.
This finding indicates that water-induced alterations on Bennu are chemically heterogeneous.
Interestingly, nitrogen-rich organic functional groups are preserved despite extensive water-mediated changes.
“These findings have extensive implications for planetary science and astrobiology,” stated Mehmet Yeşiltas, a professor at Stony Brook University.
“They illustrate the survival of chemically sensitive nitrogen-containing organic matter through water alterations in small solar system bodies, impacting fundamental questions about the formation and preservation of organic complexity within primitive planetary material.”
“This may shed light on how organic compounds linked to prebiotic chemistry were delivered to early Earth via carbonaceous asteroids, potentially influencing the chemical processes that led to the origin of life.”
The full study result will be published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
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Mehmet Yesiltas et al. 2026. Nanoscale infrared spectroscopy reveals the complex organo-mineral assemblage of asteroid Bennu. PNAS 123 (14): e2601891123; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2601891123
Source: www.sci.news
The Importance of Iodized Table Salt
Tatyana Baibakova/Alamy
During my college years, a dedicated biology lecturer emphasized the significance of iodine in our diets. He passionately advocated for the use of iodized salt, highlighting its positive impact on public health and its role in boosting the entire population’s IQ. His teachings echo in my mind every time I stroll through the salt aisle at the supermarket.
Recently, however, I’ve noticed a scarcity of iodized salt amidst an array of artisan salts like Cornish sea salt, Himalayan pink salt, and gourmet smoked salts. The few remaining iodized options appear outdated and unappealing. This raises an essential question: Are we inadvertently reversing the health benefits associated with this simple ingredient?
Iodine is a vital dietary mineral essential for thyroid function, aiding in the production of hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and heart rate.
During pregnancy, adequate iodine intake is crucial, as thyroid hormones govern fetal brain development. Studies estimate that even minor iodine deficiencies can reduce a child’s IQ by 0.3 to 13 points. Iodine remains vital throughout childhood and adulthood, as deficiencies can lead to goiter and cognitive impairment.
Natural iodine sources include seafood and seaweed, while milk also contains this important mineral due to iodine supplementation in livestock feed. However, soil iodine levels vary significantly, with some regions facing deficiencies that historically led to high goiter prevalence.
Switzerland pioneered iodized salt in 1922, dramatically reducing goiter cases and boosting children’s height and intelligence, a phenomenon described by economist Dimitra Politi as an “infusion of IQ.” This public health initiative facilitated higher graduation rates and increased college enrollment.
In the U.S., iodized salt became available in 1924, contributing to the notable IQ increase in the 20th century. A notable endocrinologist stated that, “Five cents per person per year can improve the intelligence of the entire population” (New York Times, 2006).
Despite its historical significance, iodized salt now faces a decline in popularity. The aesthetic appeal of Himalayan salt competes heavily, and misconceptions about additives have some parents avoiding iodized options altogether.
Compounded by the rising trend of consuming processed and non-iodized foods, many people are shifting away from iodized salt. Additionally, dietary changes, such as the increase of plant-based diets, further diminish iodine intake.
A concerning study revealed a doubling of Americans with insufficient iodine levels since 2001, with nearly half of pregnant women not meeting the recommended intake.
Similar trends are observed in the UK and Australia, where studies indicate that iodine levels among reproductive-age women are alarmingly low, affecting both maternal and fetal health.
Public health experts in the U.S., U.K., and Australia recommend reintroducing iodized salt into diets to maintain cognitive function, thyroid health, and prevent goiter recurrence.
In this age of trendy supplements, many are investing in products like zinc and ginkgo biloba, overlooking iodine’s crucial role in health. It’s puzzling when iodine supplements are neglected, especially with many facing deficiencies.
Regardless of trends, I will continue to seek iodized salt in supermarkets, albeit with trepidation, wondering what my former lecturer would think if I favored the aesthetically pleasing pink salts.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
Recent computational simulations indicate that icy giant planets like Uranus and Neptune may contain quasi-one-dimensional superionic carbon hydrides. This groundbreaking discovery could change how scientists perceive planetary interiors.
Diagram depicting hexagonal hydrocarbon compounds anticipated under conditions similar to those in Neptune. In this framework, carbon forms the outer helical chain (yellow), while hydrogen forms the inner helical chain (blue), aligning with the quasi-one-dimensional superionic behavior suggested by simulations. Image credit: Cong Liu.
Density measurements of Uranus and Neptune reveal that these colossal planets possess an unusual, hot, icy interlayer situated beneath an atmospheric envelope of hydrogen and helium, and above a rocky core.
While these layers are believed to comprise water, methane, and ammonia, extreme internal conditions likely result in exotic phases.
The physics associated with these high-pressure, high-temperature regions can lead to unconventional states of matter, prompting theorists and experimentalists to predict and recreate the phenomena they might encounter.
Dr. Cong Liu and colleagues at the Carnegie Institution for Science employed advanced computing and machine learning to conduct quantum physics simulations of hydrogenated carbon at pressures ranging from about 5 million to 30 million times atmospheric pressure (5-3,000 gigapascals) and temperatures of 4,000-6,000 K.
These simulations indicated the development of an ordered hexagonal framework where hydrogen atoms traverse helical paths, resulting in a quasi-one-dimensional superionic state.
Superionic materials are remarkable as they exist in a unique state between solids and liquids. Atoms of one type maintain their crystal arrangement, while atoms of another type gain mobility.
“This newly predicted carbon-hydrogen phase is particularly noteworthy because the movement of atoms isn’t entirely three-dimensional,” explained Dr. Ronald Cohen, also from the Carnegie Institution for Science.
“Rather, hydrogen preferentially migrates along distinct helical paths contained within the organized carbon structure.”
The direction of this atomic motion significantly influences heat and electrical transport within the planet’s interior.
This behavior has implications for understanding internal energy redistribution, electrical conductivity, and potentially the generation of magnetic fields in ice giants.
Additionally, this discovery broadens our comprehension of how simple compounds behave under extreme conditions and suggests that even basic systems can remarkably organize into complex phases.
“Carbon and hydrogen are prevalent in planetary materials, yet their combined behavior under giant planetary conditions remains poorly understood,” Dr. Liu remarked.
These findings are published in a study in Nature Communications dated March 16th.
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C. Liu et al. “Prediction of thermally driven quasi-one-dimensional superionic state of hydrogenated carbon under giant planetary conditions.” Nat Commun, published online on March 16, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41467-026-70603-z
Source: www.sci.news
Michael Pollan: “Psychedelics have a way of staining the windshield of experience”
Casey Clifford/Guardian/Ivine
Author Michael Pollan, renowned for exploring themes of plants, food, and psychedelics in bestseller works like Omnivore’s Dilemma and How to Change Your Mind, now shifts his focus to the complex topic of consciousness in his latest book, The World Appears: A Journey into Consciousness. Pollan delves into scientific and philosophical insights, weaving literary perspectives throughout. In a recent interview with New Scientist, he reflects on the exploration of writing a book that often leaves him with more questions than answers.
Olivia Goldhill: Let’s begin with a challenging question: How do you define consciousness?
Michael Pollan: Consciousness can be easily defined as a subjective experience, which distinguishes beings with awareness from inanimate objects. Embracing an experience means being aware of it, which leads us to consider the implications of “subjectivity.”
Another intriguing definition arises from philosopher Thomas Nagel, who posed the question, “What’s it like to be a bat?” Although bats differ vastly from us, we can still conceptualize their experiences. If an organism can perceive its existence, it possesses consciousness.
Traditionally, consciousness was thought to reside in the cortex, the brain’s latest evolutionary development. However, I’ve come to understand that consciousness often begins with emotional experiences—not merely cognitive thought. Researchers like Antonio Damasio, Mark Solms, and Anil Seth highlight that consciousness starts with basic emotions such as hunger or itchiness, emerging from the brainstem. This realization underscores that consciousness is an embodied phenomenon; we need vulnerable bodies and profound emotions to truly experience it.
You discuss the limited understanding of consciousness and the scientific challenges involved. Do we require a new scientific approach?
Current physical sciences maintain an objectivity that excludes the qualitative, first-person experience of consciousness. This bifurcation, dating back to Galileo, has confined subjective qualitative matters to theology. While subjective experiences are indeed vital, the adequacy of existing scientific tools to address them is debatable.
We must also analyze consciousness from within. Blind Spot, a book that profoundly influenced my understanding, reveals that science itself results from human consciousness. Our chosen issues and measurement methods stem from our own awareness.
Thus, a novel scientific paradigm may be essential, one that incorporates first-person perspectives. One effort endeavors to connect this through integrated information theory, which posits a subjective experience defined by five axioms, seeking structures that support such experiences. The attempts, while intriguing, have yet to be convincing.
You propose that plants possess memory and intelligence, even hinting at plant consciousness.
I differentiate between sensation and consciousness. Sensation entails awareness of the environment and the ability to assess whether changes are beneficial or detrimental, resulting in a basic form of awareness without self-awareness. I believe plants exhibit this capability.
My exploration into what some refer to as “plant neurobiology” yielded fascinating discoveries. Plants possess around 20 senses compared to our six; they navigate mazes, and when they detect the sound of caterpillars munching, they respond by injecting toxins into their leaves. They send signals to nearby plants alerting them to predators and selectively share resources with kin.
Interestingly, plants respond to the same anesthetics as humans. For instance, when Venus flytraps are exposed to anesthetics, they fail to react to nearby flies. This raises intriguing questions: what do plants lose in consciousness under anesthesia? This provokes thought regarding their cognitive capacities.
It may comfort some to hear your perspective that artificial intelligence lacks consciousness.
Specifically, I am discussing the imminent development of artificial intelligence models. While computers can mimic thoughts, they can’t replicate real emotions, which possess inherent qualitative aspects tied to our physical being.
In my book, I introduce Kingson Mann, who endeavors to create an AI with a “vulnerable body” designed to feel. When I inquired about the authenticity of such feelings, he expressed uncertainty.
How have your past investigations into plants and psychedelics informed your current research on consciousness?
My fascination with plants has roots in my earlier works, and they matter deeply to me. My psychedelic experiences also shaped this exploration. One profound moment occurred in my Connecticut garden, where I sensed a consciousness among the poppies, which seemed to gaze back at me with kindness.
My challenge remains: how to interpret these psychedelic insights. William James suggested we treat such experiences as hypotheses and seek further validation or contradiction. This perspective guided my journey.
Christof Koch recounts his radical psychedelic experience in my book, leading him to rethink established notions of consciousness tied strictly to the brain, illuminating the extraordinary potential of psychedelics in understanding consciousness.
Psychedelics influence how we perceive the world and can “stain the windshield of experience,” which makes it impossible to disregard consciousness. Once you grasp that concept, it can become an obsession.
I appreciate your thoughts on psychologist Russell Hurlbert’s experiment tracking thoughts, though you seem to dispute his claim of limited thoughts.
While I may struggle to articulate my thoughts, I believe they exist and merit expression. James described this as a “hunch”—a threshold of understanding that may take time to articulate.
However, Hurlburt inferred that my inability to instantly contextualize thoughts indicated a cognitive void I was filling with situational elements. While I found our discussions intriguing, I also found them illuminating.
“
Consciousness is a private space where we think whatever we want, and we offer it to businesses
“
For over fifty years, Hurlburt has observed real variations in thought processes among individuals. We often assume the term “thinking” is universal, yet distinct forms exist—some think in words, others in images, and some experience what he terms “unsymbolized thinking.” Notably, verbal thinkers are fewer than often presumed.
Does contemplating consciousness enhance or diminish our consciousness?
Alison Gopnik articulates “spotlight consciousness” (focused attention) and “anti-lantern awareness” (exploratory awareness). I initially sought immediate answers to the consciousness dilemma. Yet, through discussions with my artist wife and Zen teacher Joan Halifax, I learned the value of embracing uncertainty. Understanding consciousness is complex yet essential, and protecting our unconsciousness is paramount.
If comprehending consciousness proves potentially impossible, what motivates this pursuit?
Ultimately, the journey of discovery matters more than definitive answers. James’s insights into the intricacies of our minds captivated me, leading to greater appreciation for previously overlooked aspects of consciousness. My hope is that this work enhances your awareness of consciousness more than before you read it.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
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Trucks transporting soybeans on Amazon roads
Lalo de Almeida/Folhapress/Panos
The detrimental effects of Amazon deforestation on climate change have been acknowledged for years. Climate scientists and environmental activists have consistently emphasized the need to protect rainforests. Recently, the Brazilian government has weakened environmental regulations for major industrial projects in the region, heightening the risk of ecological harm. Photographer Lalo de Almeida has been documenting these changes, capturing the evolving landscape of the rainforest as well as areas where new development projects are being initiated.
In the featured image, Almeida depicts numerous trucks transporting soybeans along a road near Milituba, expected to connect to a new railway system that will transport soybeans to the Tapajos River. Additionally, another photograph shows three men gathering soybeans from a truck that has experienced an accident—an all-too-frequent occurrence for individuals engaged in this line of work.
Collecting soybeans from an overturned truck
Lalo de Almeida/Folhapress/Panos
Almeida’s photography not only highlights the extensive agribusiness influence in the Amazon but also emphasizes the local communities often overlooked in political discussions. “Indigenous territories along the railway route, riverside communities, and conservation areas are all being affected, yet the residents of these regions have not been consulted,” he states.
Learn more about the new soybean transportation routes. The children seen playing in a canoe in the image below reside in a village on indigenous land threatened by upcoming oil exploration projects.
Children playing near Santa Isabel in the Uaca Indigenous Territory
Lalo de Almeida/Folhapress/Panos
On a more positive note, some workers are constructing power transmission towers within the Waimiri Atroari Indigenous territory. This large-scale endeavor seeks to engage the community and minimize environmental impact.
Assembling transmission towers within Waimiri-Atroari territory
Lalo de Almeida/Folhapress/Panos
Nonetheless, significant damage has already occurred. Almeida documents a charred Brazil nut tree near an illegal spur road, emphasizing the deforestation and land seizure threats in the area. The twisted remains starkly illustrate the consequences of prioritizing development over environmental preservation.
Burnt remains of Brazil nut trees in deforested area
Lalo de Almeida/Folhapress/Panos
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Source: www.newscientist.com
Scanning electron micrograph of mouse nerve cells affected by misfolded amyloid and beta proteins, believed to cause Alzheimer’s disease.
Linnea Lundgren/Linear Imaging/Science Photo Library
Research is increasingly focused on utilizing the brain’s waste disposal system to potentially slow or mitigate Alzheimer’s disease. A recent technique has demonstrated success in removing toxic protein aggregates associated with Alzheimer’s from mouse brains, leading to improved memory and learning test results.
This technique targets a receptor known as DDR2, traditionally associated with lung health. “Inhibiting the DDR2 pathway could theoretically decrease amyloid beta protein levels while simultaneously enhancing waste removal,” explains Jia Li from Guangzhou Medical University, China. “We are optimistic that we can ultimately reverse Alzheimer’s disease.”
The buildup of misfolded proteins, such as amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, is considered a primary trigger for Alzheimer’s. While existing medications can remove amyloid aggregates, they often do not significantly alleviate symptoms. Thus, research is shifting towards innovative strategies, including enhancing the glymphatic system responsible for waste clearance in the brain.
Lee and colleagues plan to further investigate receptors in cell membranes that may boost glymphatic function as one of their roles. DDR2, studied extensively for its role in pulmonary fibrosis, is also implicated in Alzheimer’s disease by Jinsu and his team at Guangzhou Medical University. Pulmonary fibrosis occurs when the extracellular matrix surrounding cells fails, leading to excessive collagen deposition and oxygen supply limitations.
Research indicates that the malfunctioning extracellular matrix is associated with amyloid and tau proteins in Alzheimer’s disease. “This restriction of oxygen can hinder cognitive functions like thinking and memory,” states Lee.
To explore DDR2’s role, the researchers reviewed human tissue databases and discovered DDR2’s scarcity. However, they found substantial amounts in brain samples from Alzheimer’s patients. “We confirmed that DDR2 is prevalent in Alzheimer’s disease brain tissue for the first time,” notes Su.
Through various experiments in human and primate cells, along with mouse models, researchers propose that DDR2 regulates the cellular dysfunction responsible for the disease’s symptoms. This is substantiated by findings that three cell types increase DDR2 in their membranes during Alzheimer’s: reactive astrocytes, surrounding amyloid beta masses; perivascular fibroblasts, which alter activity prior to Alzheimer’s onset; and choroid plexus epithelial cells that are crucial for cerebrospinal fluid production, essential for the glymphatic system.
These findings suggest that targeting DDR2 could impact multiple facets of Alzheimer’s simultaneously, as noted by Siju Gu from Harvard University. Yet, due to the complexity of the condition, he remains cautious about potential reversibility of Alzheimer’s disease.
The researchers developed a monoclonal antibody aimed at blocking the DDR2 receptor. In mouse models of Alzheimer’s, this intervention improved spatial learning and memory, alongside reduced DDR2 levels, fewer amyloid plaques, and enhanced glymphatic activity.
“The mouse model results are promising and highlight the role of glymphatic function and cerebrospinal fluid dynamics in brain health,” Gu remarked. “This suggests DDR2 could be a viable target for Alzheimer’s disease therapies.”
Cesar Cunha from Denmark’s Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research expressed appreciation for the researchers’ focus on more than just amyloid plaques, noting their model relates to a rare inherited form of Alzheimer’s that typically arises earlier. Its applicability to the more common late-onset Alzheimer’s remains uncertain.
Professor Hsu, however, indicates that DDR2 upregulation occurs in both familial and late-onset Alzheimer’s, suggesting the treatment has potential widespread efficacy. DDR2 expression appears to increase with age, a factor alongside hypoxia, both recognized risk factors for late-onset Alzheimer’s.
Currently, researchers are embarking on clinical trials that use tracers to monitor DDR2 levels in Alzheimer’s patients’ brains, aiming to determine the antibodies’ delivery paths. They are also developing smaller antibodies to facilitate more efficient crossing of the blood-brain barrier.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
Exciting new findings reveal that the star SDSS J0715-7334, formed in the halo of the Large Magellanic Cloud, migrated to the Milky Way billions of years ago, as uncovered by a dedicated team of undergraduate students at the University of Chicago.
Milky Way Galaxy illustrating the position of SDSS J0715-7334. The red line represents the star’s path, while the blue line indicates the expected trajectory for stars formed in the Large Magellanic Cloud. Image credits: Vedant Chandra / SDSS Collaboration / ESA / Gaia / A. Moitinho, AF Silva, M. Barros, C. Barata, University of Lisbon / H. Savietto, Fork Research.
The Big Bang initiated the universe, creating a hot, dense soup of energetic particles.
As the universe expanded, this primordial material cooled, leading to the formation of neutral hydrogen gas.
Denser regions of this gas collapsed under gravity after hundreds of millions of years, resulting in the birth of the universe’s first stars made of hydrogen and helium.
These ancient stars burned brightly but lived fast, generating heavier elements through nuclear fusion, which were dispersed into the cosmos upon their explosive deaths.
This enriched material then contributed to the formation of subsequent stars that were diverse in their elemental composition.
“Heavy elements, referred to as metals by astronomers, were produced through stellar activities, including nuclear fusion and supernova blasts,” noted Alex Gee, a professor at the University of Chicago.
“The discovery of a star with extremely low metal content indicated to the students that they had found something extraordinary.”
SDSS J0715-7334 is remarkable, containing only 0.005% of the metal content found in our Sun, making it the least metallic star ever recorded, surpassing the previous record holder by over double.
This star, identified using data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS), is located approximately 80,000 light-years from Earth.
Its orbital analysis confirms its origin in the Large Magellanic Cloud, from where it journeyed into the Milky Way billions of years ago.
“This ancient celestial traveler provides invaluable insights into the conditions of the early universe,” said Professor Gee.
“Big data initiatives like SDSS empower students to take part in groundbreaking discoveries.”
“We studied a variety of elements within this star, and we found all of them to have very low abundances,” explained Ha Do, one of the University of Chicago students involved in the discovery.
The team’s research paper is published in the journal Nature Astronomy.
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AP via others. A near-primitive star from the Large Magellanic Cloud. Nat Astron published online on April 3, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41550-026-02816-7
Source: www.sci.news
In today’s fast-paced world filled with screens and distractions, quality sleep is increasingly rare. Alarmingly, over 1/3 of the US adult population is not achieving the recommended amount of sleep nightly.
However, a select few possess unique biological advantages, allowing them to thrive on much less sleep.
Believe it or not, around 1 to 3 percent of the population are “short sleepers” who function optimally on just 4 to 6 hours of sleep each night.
What’s even more fascinating is that scientists are beginning to uncover the reasons behind this phenomenon. They are exploring whether others may eventually gain this ability.
This suggests that, in the not-so-distant future, you may only need four hours of sleep for optimal functioning.
Natural short sleepers do not achieve their unique traits through mindset or willpower; it is a biological adaptation.
Recent research has identified specific genes that allow some individuals to sleep significantly less without negatively impacting their health.
A notable discovery involves a gene called December 2nd, which regulates orexin levels—a brain chemical that enhances alertness.
While low orexin levels can lead to narcolepsy, those who are naturally short sleepers seem to produce elevated amounts, enabling them to stay awake on less rest.
When researchers introduced this mutation into mice, they found that these mice required less sleep without experiencing cognitive decline typically associated with sleep deprivation.
Since then, at least seven genes have been implicated in this unique sleep pattern, consistently yielding shorter sleep cycles without apparent drawbacks.
According to Professor Guy Leszziner, a neurologist and sleep expert, the evidence points to genetic factors as the key determinant of natural short sleepers.
Such individuals are rarely seen in clinics, as their unique sleep patterns are often mistaken for normalcy unless pointed out by someone close.
“Short sleepers often don’t realize their patterns are unusual until others highlight it,” he explains. “There may be others with similar patterns, particularly if there’s a family history, so it feels normal to them.”
While natural short sleepers are genetically uncommon, research into their mechanisms is rapidly gaining momentum.
This leads to intriguing possibilities: instead of waiting for nature to endow us with this gift, could we one day engineer it?
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CRISPR is a revolutionary gene-editing technology granting scientists the capability to alter DNA with astounding precision. Initially part of bacterial defense systems, it now stands as one of the most potent tools in modern biology.
This technology employs enzymes as “programmable scissors.”
By assigning short genetic addresses to these enzymes, scientists can direct their actions precisely within the genome. Once they cut, the cell’s repair mechanisms can delete genes, correct mutations, or insert new DNA.
Currently, CRISPR is mainly utilized for treating genetic conditions such as sickle cell disease. However, as technology progresses, many researchers speculate it could extend to enhancing human capabilities, including sleep.
At GITEX Global, Dr. Trevor Martin, CEO of genetic engineering firm Mammoth Biosciences, shared:
“They don’t just persevere; they actually require only three hours of sleep. While we discuss longevity, imagine if everyone had access to that!”
His company is focused on creating new CRISPR tools that are smaller and simpler to introduce into human cells than earlier versions.
“Our mission is to eradicate genetic diseases,” he states in BBC Science Focus. “We are developing CRISPR technology capable of extensive editing in every cell in the body.”
While Mammoth is currently addressing rare genetic conditions like familial chylomicronemia syndrome, Martin emphasizes the broader potential of this technology, stating, “There’s no reason to stop there.”
So, how feasible is it to edit someone to become a short sleeper? Leszziner asserts it’s theoretically achievable, though complex.
“In theory, if all responsible genes can be identified, altering someone’s genetic makeup is possible,” he explains. “However, it is not as straightforward as simply removing or modifying one gene.”
Social considerations also come into play. “If everyone suddenly had three to four extra hours each day, society would need a significant reconfiguration,” Leszziner notes. “Would those hours be utilized for work or enjoyment? The answer remains uncertain.”
Concerns may arise that, even if such a treatment becomes available, access could be limited to a privileged few.
Fortunately, Martin reassures that this technology is inherently designed for accessibility.
“The incredible aspect of genetic medicine, often overlooked, is that it can be a one-time solution,” he explains. “You won’t need continuous medication; a single visit to a healthcare provider could suffice. While cost is a topic, lengthy medical infrastructures won’t be necessary.”
For now, transforming someone into a short sleeper remains hypothetical. Yet, the science of sleep efficiency is expanding rapidly, and CRISPR technology is progressing even faster.
For the first time, researchers can plausibly assert that it might be feasible to increase your waking hours by three to four hours each day.
This may not happen today or tomorrow, but soon, a day will come when sleeping just four hours will be a reality. Prepare yourself to grasp that potential!
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Source: www.sciencefocus.com
