Andean Bear by Sebastian Di Domenico – Finalist, Sony World Photography Award 2026, Latin American Professional Award
Credit: Sebastian Di Domenico
Sony World Photography Award
This stunning Andean bear emerges from a moss-covered branch in Colombia’s Chingaza Ecopalacio Reserve. Photographer Sebastian Di Domenico captured this moment while guiding hikers through the lush forest.
“Suddenly, one of the hikers pointed to the bear above us,” said Di Domenico. His breathtaking photograph earned him a spot as a finalist this year at the Sony World Photography Award.
Believed to be a male around five years old, this bear was seen for the first time in this area. Di Domenico speculates that it may have been attracted by a potential mate since another bear was spotted nearby. “We believe they may have been mating in the tree that day,” he explained.
Unfortunately, habitat destruction caused by agriculture, road construction, and mining threatens the survival of this species (Tremarctos ornatus). Widespread issues like crop looting, livestock predation, and illegal hunting exacerbate their decline. “This bear species ranges from Venezuela to Bolivia, but much of its historical habitat has been drastically altered by human activities,” Di Domenico noted. Currently, it is classified as critically endangered. You can find more information at the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
For Di Domenico, this photograph emphasizes the urgent need to protect Andean bears. “Sightings like this are incredibly rare, and capturing this unique species in its natural habitat sends a crucial message,” he stated. “This bear is the only bear species native to South America and is a vital icon of the tropical Andes.”
Join us for the Sony World Photography Award 2026. The exhibition will take place from April 17th to May 4th at Somerset House, London.
In 2017, Molly Russell tragically passed away in her bedroom in Harrow, London. The thought-provoking film Molly vs The Machines chronicles her father’s quest for truth, unveiling that the inquest ruled Molly’s death as a suicide, heavily influenced by harmful social media content related to self-harm.
This powerful documentary highlights Molly’s life amid the rapid rise of social media, revealing whistleblower testimonies that expose the industry’s knowledge of the associated risks, yet their reluctance to implement necessary safeguards.
Society has normalized Big Tech’s intrusion into our private lives, even within the sanctity of our own homes. This critique resonates deeply as we listen to Molly’s friends reflect and ponder, “How can we reclaim our bedrooms as private spaces?”
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Anatomy Textbooks May Need Revision: Discovering the Penis’s Primary Erogenous Zones
SOPA Images Limited/Alamy
The latest neuroanatomical research reveals that the primary erogenous zone of the penis is the zonula delta, an area that has been overlooked in anatomy textbooks and surgical training. This triangular zone, found on the ventral side of the penis, where the head meets the shaft, is particularly vulnerable during circumcision.
“While this may seem obvious to those familiar with male sexual sensations, our study scientifically validates the existence of this region of the ventral penis as the epicenter of sexual sensation,” stated Alfonso Cepeda-Emiliani from the University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
Given this scientific insight, the delta frenulum could be considered the “male G-spot.” Eric Chan, president-elect of the International Society of Sexual Medicine, noted, “It’s one of the most pleasurable sites for male sexual stimulation.”
Cepeda-Emiliani and his team conducted an exhaustive mapping of the sensory nerves in 14 cadaveric penises from donors aged between 45 and 96. They meticulously sliced the penises into fine sections and stained them to highlight nerve structures for microscopic examination.
Traditional anatomy textbooks suggest that male genital sensitivity is primarily concentrated in the glans, the bulbous head of the penis. However, findings from Cepeda-Emiliani’s research indicate that the zonula delta boasts a denser concentration of nerve endings, making it significantly more sensitive.
The delta zonula also exhibited the highest density of sensory corpuscles, specialized touch receptors that consist of clusters of nerve endings. Up to 17 corpuscles were found grouped together in the zonular delta, while in the glans, they were more dispersed. Notably, sensory corpuscles within the delta include Krause’s corpuscles, which detect minute vibrations that contribute to sexual arousal and pleasure.
The frenulum delta was first identified by Ken McGrath of Auckland University of Technology in 2001, named for its triangular shape located between the V-shaped wings of the glans on the penis’s underside. Although McGrath dubbed it the male G-spot due to its potential for sexual pleasure, the term did not gain widespread acceptance.
Recent research corroborates the subjective experiences of individuals who report that stimulation of this “G-spot” induces intense pleasure and uniquely specialized sensations, highlighting gaps in sexual medicine and urology training, as noted by Cepeda-Emiliani and colleagues.
Surgeons performing circumcisions must be aware of the nerve-rich delta frenulum. When making an incision to remove the foreskin, the impact on this delicate neural network is profound, necessitating careful consideration to avoid unnecessarily deep or wide incisions that could lead to the complete removal of the frenulum. Retaining some or all of it is crucial for preserving sensitivity.
Dr. Kesley Pedler from Port Macquarie Base Hospital in Australia stated she did not learn about the zonular delta or its significant nerves during her surgical education. “Most respected urological surgical anatomy textbooks fail to mention the zonular delta, even in their latest editions,” she asserted. Dr. Pedler now performs circumcisions only when clinically necessary, emphasizing the importance of preserving nerve structure in this area.
Circumcision rates vary, with only a small proportion of boys in the UK and Australia undergoing the procedure, while approximately half of newborn boys in the US are circumcised. Whether such surgeries affect sexual sensation remains a topic of debate.
A large study in Belgium discovered that uncircumcised men reported experiencing greater sexual pleasure, attributed to stimulation of the zonular delta compared to circumcised men. Conversely, a US survey indicated that there was no discernible difference in orgasm quality, suggesting that circumcised individuals might compensate for any sensitivity loss in the zonular delta region.
The existence of the female G-spot, similarly, has faced skepticism in the medical community, with some practitioners denying its occurrence altogether. This skepticism stems from the lack of distinct nerve structures found in expected vaginal locations. However, studies show that many women identify an erogenous zone several centimeters along the vagina’s front wall, and ultrasound research reveals that the clitoris becomes engorged with blood during sexual arousal, leading to heightened sensitivity in the vaginal walls.
Cepeda-Emiliani and his team are now embarking on similar detailed studies focused on cadaveric vaginas and clitorises to further explore sexual anatomy.
A pale cloud of water ice drapes over the Tharsis volcano on Mars
NASA/JPL/MSSS
Before humanity ventured to Mars, the planet was desolate. Yet, it underwent significant geological activity, with processes of accretion, melting, and cooling, creating its distinctive features like craters, canyons, and volcanoes—all occurring in silence, without witnesses. Aside from those observing from afar, only in the most recent chapters of its history has Mars witnessed consciousness.
The allure of Mars has captivated humanity throughout the ages. This planet, a prominent celestial body for prehistoric civilizations, displayed red hues and variations in brightness, hinting at a story. Its ancient names—Nirgal, Mangala, Aukak, and Harmakis—echo with a weight that transcends time, almost fossilized from an era long past. For millennia, Mars has symbolized profound forces, representing blood, conflict, and passion.
The advent of the telescope revealed a small, orange disk with polar ice caps and shifting dark markings, shaped by seasonal changes. Yet, these early observations led to fantastic tales of a dying world, enriched by the imagination of astronomer Percival Lowell, who spun stories of desperate Martians constructing canals to combat encroaching deserts.
This compelling narrative captivated the public. However, with the Mars Mariner and Viking missions, our understanding of the planet transformed dramatically. We now possess a wealth of knowledge about Mars, far surpassing any previous understanding, revealing an unexpected world full of new possibilities.
Despite the excitement, Mars appeared lifeless. Researchers sought any evidence of life, from microbial forms to ancient civilizations, but none was found. Just as in previous eras, stories proliferated to fill this void—tales of microfossils obscured by geological layers, ruins buried within sandstorms, and mythical figures that emerged from the Martian lore. These narratives help animate Mars, a cherished symbol echoing humanity’s innate curiosity and storytelling instincts.
Thus, we came to Mars. What began as an abstract concept now stands as a tangible destination.
This excerpt is from Kim Stanley Robinson’s thought-provoking book, Red Mars, featured in New Scientist Book Club’s latest recommendations. Join us and delve into the world of literature together here.
Experiencing water splashing on my face during a spacewalk was surreal. It swiftly migrated from my nose to my nostrils, obstructing my sight and impeding my breathing. While we knew a return to the International Space Station was urgent, a pressing question lingered: how long until the water completely blocked my airway?
Venturing outside the ISS is akin to stepping into an otherworldly realm. Within the confines of the station, you’re enveloped in a familiar safety. However, outside, you’re engulfed by the cosmic void—an environment indifferent to your existence. Without my spacesuit, survival would be impossible within mere minutes.
The vast expanse of stars seen during a spacewalk is breathtaking. On one occasion, I was maneuvered across the station using a robotic arm, feeling disoriented as Earth vanished from view. In that moment, I grasped the three-dimensional nature of space—an epiphany sparked by my understanding of astrophysics—which allowed me to perceive a sponge-like structure adorned with bubbles amidst radiant light. Reliving that moment has become a constant pursuit, yet it remains elusive.
The disaster occurred on July 16, 2013, during Luca Parmitano’s second spacewalk.
NASA Johnson
Throughout our six extravehicular activities, a significant water leak emerged on July 16, 2013. Feeling the cold liquid seep into my helmet was unsettling, yet I adhered to protocol. I reported the situation, assuring ground control that I was fit to continue.
As I awaited guidance, concern grew about the source of the water. In the absence of gravity, water behaves unpredictably due to effective capillary action moving from one surface to another.
Many visualize spacesuits as depicted in films like Gravity or The Martian, with oversized helmets obscuring the astronaut’s face. In reality, a spacesuit helmet is compact, minimizing gaps that could let water penetrate. Unfortunately, this tiny space filled quickly. Once I felt water clogging my ears, hearing became increasingly challenging, and soon, communication with ground control began to falter.
As dusk fell during my orbit of Earth, I faced yet another challenge. With sunset occurring every 45 minutes, most EVAs happen at night. While my helmet light illuminated nearby objects underwater, distant visibility dwindled with the accumulating water.
At that moment, pinpointing the water’s origin was irrelevant. What mattered was a ticking timer reminding me to act decisively. Every moment counted—time was running out.
Before venturing into space, I was trained as a pilot, fighter pilot, and test pilot. The first lesson of emergency response was clear: maintain control, assess the situation, and take decisive action.
For me, this meant charting a course back to the airlock. I utilized handrails on the ISS to navigate my way, asking myself if I could see the next handle and how to reach it. Following the tether leading to the airlock, I began my journey back.
Luca Parmitano’s spacesuit began to fill with water again during tests after abandoning the spacewalk.
NASA
Navigating in a spacesuit is more challenging than it appears. The suit is pressurized, requiring significant muscle effort to move against that pressure. This lack of strength in fingers makes grasping objects, like handles, feel akin to squeezing a tennis ball.
The final leg of the spacewalk stretched on, feeling eternal. In reality, I spent just seven fleeting minutes in the airlock without communication with ground control. I later learned they were unaware of my ordeal, as my heart rate remained steady, illustrating my controlled reactions.
I can vividly relive that spacewalk; it exists in my memory, though it hasn’t fundamentally changed me. However, operationally, this experience transformed protocols. The culprit was identified as a blocked filter, prompting changes to pre-spacewalk procedures—such as checking the filter and adding a snorkel to my suit to allow breathing even in the event of flooding. This adjustment ensures this incident will never repeat.
I challenge anyone who deems astronauts’ tasks extraordinary. What we accomplish is indeed remarkable, but it should not elevate our status. We are ordinary individuals trained for extraordinary challenges.
Data centers designed for AI operations generate substantial heat, leading to elevated temperatures in surrounding areas, creating significant data center heat islands. This phenomenon currently impacts around 340 million individuals worldwide.
The construction of data centers is projected to rise dramatically. According to JLL, data center capacity is expected to double between 2025 and 2030, with AI contributing to half of this demand.
The researcher Andrea Marinoni from the University of Cambridge observed a steady increase in energy consumption by data centers, predicting a surge in the near future and sought to evaluate the resultant impact.
Researchers analyzed land surface temperatures using satellite data over the last two decades, correlating findings with geographical coordinates from over 8,400 AI data centers. To ensure accuracy, they focused solely on data centers situated in less populated regions.
The findings revealed an average temperature rise of 2°C (3.6°F) in the vicinity of operational AI data centers, with peaks reaching as high as 9.1°C (16.4°F).
This temperature spike is not confined to the immediate area around the data center; the impact was observed up to 10 kilometers away, with a reduction in intensity of merely 30% at a distance of 7 kilometers.
“The results we obtained were quite surprising,” Marinoni states. “This could pose a significant problem.”
Using demographic data, estimates reveal that over 340 million individuals reside within a 10-kilometer radius of a data center, experiencing higher temperatures due to their proximity. Marinoni noted that regions such as Mexico’s Bajío and Spain’s Aragón recorded a temperature increase of 2°C (3.6°F) during the 20-year span from 2004 to 2024, attributable to this phenomenon.
Researcher Chris Priest of the University of Bristol highlighted the need for further investigation into whether the heat produced by structures themselves contributes to the overall thermal effects, suggesting that buildings exposed to sunlight could play a role.
Regardless, Marinoni emphasizes that data centers are still contributing to rising surface temperatures. “My key message is to proceed cautiously in the design and development of data centers.”
2026 marks a significant milestone as humanity embarks on its bold journey to colonize Mars.
Later this year, NASA’s ESCAPADE rover is set to launch towards Mars, laying the groundwork for future manned missions. For more details, read about the rover’s objectives here.
Future settlers aim to create self-sustaining cities on Mars, transforming its harsh landscape and opening new possibilities for humanity beyond Earth. This endeavor also has the potential to extend the survival of human consciousness.
Elon Musk has expressed his ambition to land on Mars within two years, as noted in 2024 on X. He has often referenced Kim Stanley Robinson’s acclaimed novel, Red Mars, published in 1992.
Set in 2026, Robinson’s narrative doesn’t rely on extraterrestrial conflicts or futuristic technologies. Instead, it delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by humans, highlighting debates surrounding the sanctity of intelligent life versus the need for solar system exploitation.
Robinson’s prophetically accurate depiction of the future includes a world dominated by powerful multinational corporations, overshadowing the United Nations. The author suggests that the UN operates as a mere tool for these corporations, predicting a future where corporate interests dictate global affairs.
His vision resonates with early predictions by Pulitzer Prize-winning science writer David Dietz, who forecasted rampant resource overexploitation and an increase in competition, leading to rising prices and a decline in luxury goods.
Robinson’s Red Mars illustrates how future generations will navigate environmental challenges. Climate change is a key factor motivating humanity to leave Earth, and the protagonist, Anne Claiborne, views Mars as a new beginning rather than a mere resource. “You can’t simply erase the surface of a planet that’s 3 billion years old,” she notes during discussions on terraforming.
The character Frank Chalmers reflects on past ecological disasters on Earth, drawing parallels to today’s ambitious “climate megaprojects,” such as glacier stabilization and large-scale re-greening efforts.
Red Mars also continues the tradition of classic speculative fiction, focusing on human conflict and societal division as the settlers grapple with how best to cultivate their new home. This central theme is further developed in Robinson’s sequels, Green Mars and Blue Mars.
Anne’s concerns about the ethical implications of creating breathable air on Mars echo a profound respect for potential undiscovered native life. “It would be unscientific and, worse, immoral,” she asserts.
The depth of Robinson’s characters and narratives makes Red Mars a treasured work, earning both the Nebula Award and the British Science Fiction Society Award, and has been subject to numerous attempts at a screen adaptation, including interest from director James Cameron before he focused on the Avatar universe.
The prequel, Green Mars, was also included in NASA’s Mars rover Phoenix lander in 2006 as part of an interplanetary library, a nod to Robinson’s influence on the genre to this day.
Outside of his Mars Trilogy, Robinson has expressed caution regarding future technological advancements and governance in his works. His novel, 2312, published in 2012, envisions a world facing extreme heat and rising sea levels while reflecting on humanity’s slow response to climate issues.
In the same year, he addressed the future of technology and society at the Humanity+ conference, emphasizing the need for inclusivity in tech advancements, stating, “[It] has to be for All People Plus,” hinting at underlying societal tensions.
The New Scientist Book Club is currently reading Red Mars by Kim Stanley Robinson. Join us for a collective reading experience here.
Scientists propose a groundbreaking method to alter the course of potentially hazardous asteroids using a giant magnet. This innovative approach, known as non-contact orbital velocity adjustment (NOVA), aims to mitigate the challenges associated with traditional kinetic impactor techniques, which involve colliding a spacecraft with an asteroid to redirect it. However, as of now, this method remains untested, leaving its effectiveness uncertain.
Günther Kletechka from the University of Alaska Fairbanks introduced the NOVA concept at the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference in Texas on March 17th. He focused on the NOVA application for the asteroid 2024 YR4, which was initially thought to be on a collision course with Earth or the Moon in 2032. Fortunately, subsequent observations indicated it would safely pass by.
This asteroid, less than 70 meters in diameter, represents a manageable target for location adjustment. The proposed spacecraft features a large, superconducting magnet that is approximately 20 meters wide, powered by a nuclear fission reactor. A small booster would maintain its orbit around the asteroid, allowing it to stay within 10 to 15 meters of the surface and interact with its iron content.
While a magnet could theoretically deflect a solid iron asteroid, most asteroids consist of smaller fragments held loosely together in what is known as a rubble pile. “It’s a pile of rubble with virtually zero tensile strength, so you can’t push the whole body effectively,” stated Kletechka during his presentation. He cautioned that kinetic impactors could fragment such asteroids, creating debris that may fall to Earth.
In contrast, the NOVA spacecraft would gradually extract pieces from the rubble pile and trap them in a magnetic field at its center. Each collected fragment would increase both the spacecraft’s mass and magnetic field strength, easing the extraction of subsequent pieces. This technique allows the spacecraft to slowly shrink and control the asteroid’s movement.
To delay the trajectory of YR4 effectively, Kletechka estimates that at least 170 days of continuous operation would be essential. Although he believes that this electromagnetic deflection strategy is feasible, he acknowledges significant uncertainties. The precise quantity of iron in 2024 YR4 remains undetermined, although educated guesses suggest it’s adequate. Furthermore, maneuvering a spacecraft so close to an asteroid for extended periods has not been attempted before and poses unique challenges.
“Including this tool in our Earth’s defense arsenal is beneficial, especially since the likelihood of exacerbating the problem is virtually nonexistent,” Kletechka remarked.
Credit: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign/L. Brian Stauffer
During my first year of graduate studies, I shared an office with an older graduate student who was quietly conducting pivotal research. Upon conversing with him, I discovered he was “working with Tony on the theory of glasses.” It soon became evident to me that the physics behind glasses posed significant complexities and that I should have recognized Tony’s name sooner. My initial meeting with Anthony James Leggett was enlightening—a courteous British gentleman in his 70s, with the wisdom of a seasoned educator and an undeniable sparkle in his eye. He was a Nobel laureate, knighted by the British Empire, recipient of numerous accolades, and a pioneer in quantum theory, notably examining the enigmas of cold quantum realms. He passed away on March 8, leaving behind a legacy fueled by his integrity, curiosity, and numerous aspiring scientists, yet to many, he simply remained Tony.
Born in 1938 in South London, Leggett attended a Jesuit school where his father instructed in physics and chemistry. Originally earning a degree in classical literature, philosophy, and ancient history from Oxford University, he ultimately succumbed to the allure of physics, pursuing it further at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) for his doctorate.
At that time, UIUC served as a hub for physicists delving into novel quantum materials. Many of these materials exhibited extraordinary characteristics only at ultra-low temperatures. Leveraging his prior expertise in cryogenics, Tony redirected his focus towards the peculiarities of helium-3. He recounted a memorable encounter with physicists John Bardeen and Leo Kadanoff, who introduced him to their groundbreaking experiments with ultracold helium. Although he attempted to encapsulate these discoveries mathematically, initial distractions led him to maintain an intricate relationship with helium-3 over the next decade.
In a serendipitous twist during a rain-soaked 1972 vacation, he met experimentalist Robert Richardson, whose discussion of helium-3 experiments significantly impacted Leggett’s research career. Following their conversation, Leggett aimed to develop a formal proof demonstrating the impossibility of observed phenomena aligning with established quantum mechanics. This moment hinted at potential discrepancies within the framework of quantum physics itself.
Leggett’s subsequent investigations revealed that while quantum principles held, helium-3 exhibited unprecedented traits rarely seen in other cryogenic systems. As researchers explored the unusual behavior of materials under extreme cold, they uncovered effects like superconductivity, where electrons cohesively pair in a unique quantum state—enabling perfect electrical conductivity. Intrigued by whether helium-3 could exhibit comparable superfluid qualities, Leggett meticulously delved into its properties.
Ultimately, Leggett crafted a comprehensive theory around ultracold helium-3, establishing that its atoms can form multiple types of superfluids and introducing a novel form of symmetry breaking, elucidating previously obscure experimental results.
Richardson had won the Nobel Prize for his 1966 helium-3 research, while Leggett received his Nobel Prize for groundbreaking theoretical contributions in 2003.
Anthony Leggett: Nobel Prize in Physics 2003
Credit: Jonas Ekströmmer/AFP via Getty Images
Reflecting on the announcement of his Nobel Prize in 2003, Leggett expressed the elation felt by many during that early morning news. His former graduate advisor, Smitha Vishveshwara, attested to his profound kindness and wisdom, which inspired countless individuals at UIUC. Tony joined the university in 1983, and I had the privilege of working with him as a postdoctoral fellow starting in 2002. He was often deep in thought, too busy at his roundtable in the Institute for Condensed Matter Physics, now bearing his name, to engage with anyone.
Beyond his groundbreaking work on superfluid helium-3, Leggett was passionate about broader questions that questioned the foundations of quantum physics. He delved into intriguing theories regarding whether the quantum realm might apply to large-scale objects—a notion he explored in an interview post-Nobel Prize celebration. Leggett noted, “If we genuinely adhere to quantum theories, I believe the perceptions we hold about the physical world will differ significantly by AD 3000.” He intriguingly speculated about a potential evolution in physical understanding, pondering new paradigms that may emerge.
Exploring Quantum Physics Frontiers
To probe the fascinating boundaries of quantum mechanics, Leggett, alongside Anupam Garg, developed a mathematical test in 1985 for assessing the quantum characteristics of large objects. This experiment, now known as the Leggett-Garg inequality, evaluates object behavior over time—offering insights into whether quantum laws govern these entities. Researchers worldwide have since executed the Leggett-Garg experiment on various systems, including photons and minuscule crystals—sparking advancements in quantum physics.
His inquiries regarding the intersection of macroscopic occurrences and quantum phenomena laid the groundwork for another Nobel Prize-winning experiment last year. John Martinis, from the quantum computing company QoLab, highlighted that collaboration on a large-scale circuit experiment stemmed from ideas Leggett initially discussed in the early ’80s. The work confirmed the manifestation of quantum effects in systems of superconducting circuits, echoing Leggett’s extensive knowledge that inspired Martinis and his team as they approached lab construction.
Underlining Leggett’s keen observational talents, David Waxman, a former student, noted, “Tony had an exceptional ability to perceive what others might overlook—he saw potential where many dismissed a mere fluctuation on a graph as trivial.”
Leggett consistently advised young physicists to advocate for their inquiries. He remarked, “If conventional wisdom mystifies you, take time to unravel it, and don’t succumb to peer pressure asserting that it is well understood.” He emphasized that “research conducted with integrity is never fruitless,” allowing for new perspectives to emerge from long-abandoned ideas.
Although I departed UIUC in spring 2020, I can still envision him—an intellectual giant—engaged in profound contemplation at his desk. I firmly believe he never ceased his quest for knowledge, perpetually inclined to uncover nature’s hidden secrets. I wish I had explored the unexplored research awaiting revelation within his desk drawers.
NASA/JPL-California Institute of Technology/ASU/MSS S
Thinking about the readers brings me joy. In Red Mars, the narrative unfolds in the current year, even though I penned this novel from 1989 to 1991. Reflecting on how my predictions for this decade diverge from reality adds a fascinating layer to the reading experience.
This phenomenon is common in science fiction. As years pass, the narrative evolves from envisioning a hypothetical future to representing past speculative ideas. It provides invaluable insight into the mindset of that era, which is often difficult to recover.
Exploring vintage science fiction offers a window into the hopes and fears people held about potential realities, transforming these texts from mere inaccuracies to poignant statements about their context.
Consequently, science fiction is a reflection of its time, even when set in the future. It functions as a time capsule, transporting readers to past ideologies and thoughts.
Upon revisiting Red Mars, it fascinates me how well it aligns with the actual trajectory of the 2020s, despite not being an intended prediction. The U.S. and Russia as waning powers working tandem against emerging nations? Check. The ascent of China and India? Double check.
Additionally, themes of ecological and economic fragility punctuated by climate change and geopolitical conflicts resonate eerily with current events. These issues hint at an evolving social order and ongoing discussions about its shape. Humanity has been in a state of upheaval for ages, but change is on the horizon—because stagnation is untenable in any capacity.
I find it intriguing to reflect on the technological insights from the book, noting both predicted advancements and missed opportunities. Some predictions blend past visions with the reality of today. For instance, if one considers the evolution from videotapes to platforms like YouTube, or John Boone’s fictional Dick Tracy-esque watch equipped with the AI ‘Pauline’—it serves as an early seed for the sophisticated AI in my later work, particularly in 2312. Such speculation underscores the unpredictable nature of forecasting the future.
When I crafted this trilogy, we had just begun to uncover breathtaking insights about Mars, significantly influenced by the Mariner and Viking missions. These explorations gifted us a tangible vision of a new realm—one that, while barren, held immense potential.
The emergence of the terraforming concept was timely, raising the question: could we modify Mars to allow human habitation? The newfound suitability of Mars, with its water potential, gravity, and essential nutrients, left many pondering transformation possibilities. These discussions blended speculative fiction with scientific imagination, underscoring the foundational plausibility of my narratives.
Now, after 35 years, our understanding of Mars and human biology has dramatically evolved. The aspiration for human settlement now appears considerably more daunting than before. Recent discoveries reveal that Martian sand contains toxic perchlorates, a potent reminder of the planet’s hostile environment.
Moreover, we’ve delved deeper into how Martian low gravity may impact human health and the harmful effects of unshielded cosmic radiation on our systems. Current proclamations by some billionaires about imminent Mars colonization remain ungrounded in reality. The vision of restoring Mars to a thriving environment akin to Earth’s is, unfortunately, a fantasy rather than a forthcoming reality.
Like many, I share hope for Mars’s future. While I still dream of visiting, I envision it akin to our current expeditions to Antarctica—establishing a scientific base where researchers can thrive for limited periods, akin to crews at McMurdo Station.
These visitors’ lives could parallel characters in chapters 3 and 4 of my book. Their experiences, while fraught with possible health repercussions, would be pursued for the sake of innovation and discovery. Their projects would garner interest, reminiscent of current research efforts in Antarctica—though perhaps not as intensely.
Human presence on Mars would symbolize another chapter in our Anthropocene narrative. It’s arguably the most realistic iteration of a science fiction tale available. If we extend the timeline considerably and achieve a harmonious relationship with Earth, full habitation and terraforming of Mars may one day materialize.
A significant barrier to our Mars ambitions, more pressing than toxicity, is our ongoing environmental neglect on Earth. We must resolve our self-created issues before venturing beyond our planet. Once we establish equilibrium here, Mars will remain ready for future projects—representing a reward for our success.
Keep this in mind when encountering sensational claims suggesting humanity’s imminent habitation of Mars. As the author of the Mars Trilogy, I call such assertions fantasy.
To conclude, while the speculative aspects of Red Mars are compelling, I believe the story’s heart lies in its characters and their intertwining journeys. These elements propel the narrative and shape the reader’s emotional experience.
Reflecting on my time since writing Red Mars, I recently revisited the book, finding joy in experiencing it anew—not as a memory but as fresh reading. That realization brought immense satisfaction.
The characters—Nadia, Maya, John, Frank, Sax, Anne, Michelle, Hiroko, Arkady, Phyllis, Vlad, Ursula, Spencer, and all their companions—jumped vividly to life in my imagination. They are distinct from me and their origins remain a mystery; they arrived with their tales, a beautiful gift. The intertwining of their relationships, political maneuvers, terraforming efforts, and life experiences weave together a rich history, echoing my esteemed teacher Fredric Jameson’s notion of history.
I’m incredibly grateful that this story continues to resonate with readers and I hope you find joy discovering it.
The New Scientist Book Club is currently reading Red Mars by Kim Stanley Robinson. Please join us and read together here.
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From a scientific perspective, “touching” an object is more complex than it seems. For all objects with mass, it appears they are touching, but in reality, they aren’t in physical contact. This phenomenon can be explained by two main factors.
First, the structure of atoms plays a crucial role. Atoms consist of positively charged protons and negatively charged electrons. Protons, along with neutral neutrons, form the nucleus at the center of the atom, while electrons orbit this nucleus.
According to the principles of electromagnetic force, opposite charges attract and like charges repel. When two atoms approach one another, their outer electrons typically repel due to their similar charges, leading to the sensation of not truly touching.
Another essential concept is Pauli’s Exclusion Principle. In simple terms, this principle states that no two electrons in the same atom can occupy the same quantum state, meaning their “orbitals” must differ.
This leads to a short-range repulsive force, referred to as Pauli’s Repulsion, affecting electrons and, consequently, atoms. Combined with electromagnetic forces, these interactions typically result in atoms repelling each other.
So when you “touch” an object, the atoms or molecules involved are usually repelled by one another, creating a small repulsive force that prevents real contact.
For instance, when you sit in a chair, you’re essentially floating on a cushion of subatomic repulsive forces.
While we may perceive that we are in contact with our surroundings, what we actually sense is a repulsive force – Credit: Getty
The reality is slightly more intricate. When we touch an object, a minimal chemical interaction may occur.
Some atoms can overcome electromagnetic repulsion, allowing them to exchange or share electrons with those of the object, forming bonds. This leads to the forces commonly associated with “friction,” but fundamentally, Pauli repulsion prevents true contact.
When you “touch” something, your body perceives this sensation, thanks to specialized sensory organs known as mechanoreceptors. These receptors respond to pressure and vibration, sending electrical signals to the brain, which interprets these signals as the sensation of “touch.”
Ultimately, these mechanoreceptors are detecting small repulsive forces between atoms and molecules, rather than direct physical contact. Hence, “touch” can be regarded as an illusion.
This article addresses the question raised by Josh Greene from Leeds: “Have you ever touched anything technically?”
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at:questions@sciencefocus.com or send us a messageFacebook,Twitter or Instagram (please include your name and location).
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By integrating infrared observations from the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope with visible-light images from the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, astronomers have unveiled a stunning new perspective of Saturn, showcasing its atmospheric bands, storms, and brilliantly reflective rings.
Comparative images of Saturn in infrared (Webb, left) and visible light (Hubble, right). Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STScI/A. Simon, NASA-GSFC/M. Wong, University of California/J. DePasquale, STScI.
A newly released image of Saturn emphasizes the dynamic features of the gas giant’s vibrant atmosphere.
Webb’s observations reveal a long-lived jet stream, referred to as a “ribbon wave,” traversing the northern mid-latitudes, influenced by atmospheric waves that are difficult to detect otherwise.
A small dot just below the jet stream indicates the remnants of the 2011-2012 “Spring Storm.”
Additionally, several storms scattered across Saturn’s southern hemisphere are evident in the Webb image.
The astronomers noted, “All these atmospheric formations are shaped by powerful winds and waves beneath the visible cloud layer, making Saturn an ideal natural laboratory for studying fluid dynamics under extreme conditions.”
“The iconic hexagonal jet stream at Saturn’s north pole, discovered by NASA’s Voyager spacecraft in 1981, displays some sharp edges that are also faintly visible in both images.”
“It continues to be one of the solar system’s most intriguing weather phenomena.”
“Its persistence over decades underscores the stability of particular atmospheric processes on giant planets.”
“These famous hexagons are likely to be observed in high resolution for the last time until the 2040s, when Arctic winters shift into 15 years of darkness.”
Recent Webb observations indicate that Saturn’s poles appear a distinct gray-green, emitting light at approximately 4.3 microns.
The researchers suggest, “This unique coloration might arise from a layer of high-altitude aerosol in Saturn’s atmosphere, scattering light differently in those latitudes.”
“Another possibility includes auroral activity, wherein charged particles interacting with the planet’s magnetic field produce a glowing luminescence near the poles.”
In Webb’s images, Saturn’s rings are notably bright due to their composition of highly reflective water ice.
The scientists explained, “Both images depict the ring’s surface illuminated by the sun; however, the Hubble image shows less illumination, creating a shadow beneath the planet.”
“Subtle features of the ring, like spokes and patterns in the B ring (the thick central region), exhibit differences between the two observatories.”
“The outermost ring, known as the F ring, appears thin and sharply defined in the Webb image, but glows only faintly in the Hubble image.”
“Saturn’s orbit around the sun, combined with Earth’s position in its annual path, dictates the varied angles from which we observe Saturn’s face and rings.”
“These observations from 2024, captured 14 weeks apart, indicate that Earth is moving away from northern summer and approaching the 2025 equinox.”
“As Saturn transitions into the southern spring and late southern summer of the 2030s, both Hubble and Webb will increasingly enhance their views of its hemisphere.”
Evidence of Ancient Human Butchery on Lehringen Elephant Bones
Image Credit: VOLKER_MINKUS
In the backroom of the distinguished Schöningen Research Museum in Germany, a collection of mismatched cardboard boxes reveals archaeological treasures. Discovered in Rehringen, a village located 150 kilometers away, these boxes hold invaluable artifacts.
In 1948, researchers uncovered 125,000-year-old bones from the Paleoloxodon antiquus species in the bed of an ancient lake at Rehringen. While elephant bones from this period are somewhat common, this particular find included a 2.3-meter-long spear lodged between the ribs, marking a significant archaeological milestone.
This yew spear, identified as the oldest complete spear ever discovered, provides powerful evidence suggesting that Neanderthals were skilled big game hunters rather than mere scavengers. However, this remarkable discovery faced challenges. Alexander Rosenbrock, a dedicated school principal and amateur archaeologist, led the excavation, but a series of complications arose during the retrieval of the bones.
After digging began, a portion of the bones was improperly extracted before Rosenbrock and his team could arrive. Some bones were even reported stolen, and without a camera, he struggled to document their positions accurately. This led to a lengthy seven-year legal battle over the remains. Ultimately, Rosenbrock secured rights to keep the artifacts in Verden, where they unfortunately faded into obscurity before his passing in the 1950s.
Over the following 75 years, doubts lingered regarding the circumstances surrounding Rehringen’s find. Were the spear and bones simply coincidentally located together? Despite two examinations, researchers initially found no clear signs of butchery on the elephant bones.
The 1948 Excavation of Rehringen
Credits: Archives of the Cultural Heritage Office of Lower Saxony
Fast forward to 2025, Ivo Verheijen, Schöningen’s resident bone expert, began a meticulous examination of the Rehringen findings.
“We were informed there were just a few boxes,” Verheijen explained. “Upon arrival at the museum to collect them, we discovered numerous boxes piled in the attic!”
The Schöningen Center, located merely 300 meters from an active archaeological excavation site, has been operational since the mid-1990s. This site is notably home to 10 spears, around 300,000 years old, along with the Clacton and Rehringen spears, forming part of a limited collection of discovered spears from the Paleolithic era.
In 2017, the Schöningen team further solidified their expertise when they discovered a complete elephant. As a result, Verheijen was well-versed in handling ancient elephant bones before teaming up with Rehringen.
As Verheijen rummaged through the boxes, he uncovered a freshwater shell along with an excavation label, which intriguingly turned out to be an old 50 million mark banknote from the post-World War I inflation period. “It’s fascinating to have such unique labels,” he remarked.
This initiative resembled a cold-case investigation for Verheijen and his team. Thankfully, the collection comprised not only bones of elephants and other species but also invaluable records of Rosenbrock’s pioneering work, preserved and shared by his daughter Waltraut Deibel-Rosenbrock after his passing.
Verheijen quickly deduced that the Lehringen elephant had been intentionally slaughtered. “I immediately identified some distinct cut marks,” he stated. “It’s astonishing that these were overlooked for so long.”
Evidence of Cut Marks on Elephant Bones
Image Credit: Ivo Verheijen
The elephant, likely a solitary male standing over 3.5 meters tall at shoulder height, may have also been over 30 years old. It is suspected that he had been slaughtered both externally and internally, with organs removed shortly after death. This implies that the elephant likely perished with the spear embedded in its side, making the proximity of the bones and weapon no mere coincidence.
Neanderthals utilized flint tools to extract what they could from the carcass, leaving behind the rest for scavengers. While some bones showed signs of butchering, remains of bears, beavers, and aurochs were also discovered, indicating that Neanderthals frequently hunted and processed animals in proximity to the lake.
Verheijen speculates that modern elephants tend to move toward water when injured. Thus, after sustaining an injury from a spear, the elephant probably made its way towards the lake. This suggests that multiple spears may have been involved, and the hunters pursued the wounded creature until it collapsed, potentially breaking one spear in the process. The investigation will continue as the team plans to re-examine the spear.
Even at this early stage, the project has painted a vivid picture of what could be one of the most detailed Neanderthal hunting scenes ever documented.
Verheijen is also working diligently to preserve the Rehringen bones for future display. “This site holds great importance in Neanderthal history in Germany,” he emphasizes. “For reasons unknown, it has been largely forgotten, and our goal is to restore its rightful recognition.”
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A female sperm whale holds her newborn calf above the water until it can swim on its own.
Project CETI
The recent birth of a sperm whale was notably supported by ten other females within its pod, marking an unprecedented instance of assisted childbirth outside of primate species.
In July 2023, researchers monitoring a sperm whale pod in the Caribbean since 2005 noticed the eleven females gathering at the surface. Remarkably, they were flying a drone at the time and captured this event on record.
As the birth commenced, the calf’s flukes gradually revealed themselves over a 30-minute period during which the accompanying females coordinated in a synchronized formation to ensure the safety of both the mother and her calf.
Upon the calf’s arrival, the female whales circled and took turns watching over it, keeping it afloat to ensure it could breathe properly, as newborn sperm whales lack buoyancy and cannot stay at the surface by themselves for the initial hours.
This groundbreaking observation of assisted childbirth in non-primates was highlighted by Shane Gero, a team member at Project CETI in New York.
Such intricate behaviors were previously believed to be exclusive to humans but are now emerging in non-human species as well.
“Sperm whale societies thrive on strong female leadership,” Gero explains. “It’s fascinating to witness intergenerational support during childbirth among females, even those not related by blood.”
When a short-finned pilot whale approached approximately 18 minutes post-birth, the adult female sperm whales exhibited defensive behaviors.
The newborn sperm whale emerges from the water after giving birth, supported by an adult female.
Project CETI
“They consistently placed at least one adult whale between the newborn calf and the approaching pilot whale,” reports Giovanni Petri from Northeastern University London. “The adult females displayed aggression towards the pilot whale, changing direction and even ramming into it.”
Researchers deployed underwater audio recording devices to monitor the vocalizations of the sperm whales. Another study highlights the significance of these findings.
“The acoustics of this event were remarkable,” states Petri. “Statistically significant shifts in vocal patterns were noted during critical moments such as labor and interactions with the pilot whale.”
These behavioral changes were unlike the usual vocal shifts observed in the pod, returning to normalcy following the birth.
By merging audio analysis with observation, the researchers “established a connection between the behaviors of the sperm whales and their vocalizations,” Petri noted.
Gero also mentioned they have yet to determine the sex of the calf but expressed hope to see it thrive in the following months, and a name will be given if they encounter the calf again. They know, however, that it has survived the crucial first year, a period characterized by high calf mortality rates.
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A revolutionary computer language has discovered a significant error in a widely cited physics paper for the first time. Researchers highlighted the groundbreaking analysis, raising concerns about the prevalence of errors in academic literature. “How many more publications contain mistakes?” they pondered.
Advanced software is increasingly utilized to help mathematicians validate proofs for accuracy and logical consistency through a method known as formalization. This technique has been suggested as a potential solution to longstanding mathematical conundrums, including Shinichi Mochizuki’s extensive proof of the ABC conjecture.
Recently, Joseph Tooby-Smith from the University of Bath aimed a formalization language called Lean at the realm of physics. In his analysis of a 2006 study on the stability of the two Higgs doublet model (2HDM), which has been extensively referenced, he uncovered an error discrediting the theorem.
Formalizing theorems can act as foundational elements for crafting more intricate mathematical proofs. Tooby-Smith noted that his project was intended to be a simple addition to a comprehensive initiative known as PhysLib, inspired by the established MathsLib database. “We’re not setting out to disprove theories; we aim to create results that everyone can utilize,” he explained.
This error pertained to a claim made by the original author suggesting that a specific condition C would reliably resolve the problem. Yet, Tooby-Smith demonstrated that an alternative condition C fails to yield a stable solution.
While Tooby-Smith acknowledged the serious implications of the discovered error for the paper’s credibility, he indicated it’s improbable that it would significantly impact subsequent studies that referenced it. Nonetheless, he expressed concern over potential similar errors in numerous physics papers, emphasizing the need for formalization to become standard practice in research presentations.
According to Tooby-Smith, physicists often provide less detailed explanations of their theories than mathematicians, which can lead to overlooked errors. “Many physicists are less focused on the fine details; thus, mistakes are more likely to slip through,” he remarked.
Kevin Buzzard, a professor at Imperial College London, affirmed the transformative power of formalization in mathematics and encouraged similar treatment in theoretical physics. “We experimented with this style of mathematics, and it yielded fascinating results,” he stated.
The real advantage of formalization lies in the vast collection of previously formalized theorems, enabling mathematicians to efficiently build upon them and train AI models for quicker theorem formalization. However, gathering the extensive sample data needed for physics might be a considerable challenge.
“Ideally, we would amass a million lines of physics data, but achieving this could be labor-intensive. Initially, the machines may struggle, requiring human intervention, but eventually, automation will prevail,” Buzzard emphasized.
The author of the original physics paper has not yet responded to requests for comments from New Scientist. However, Tooby-Smith reported that he notified them of his findings, received their acknowledgment, and was told that an erratum would be forthcoming.
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Industrial activities, including mining, smelting, and electronics manufacturing, generate significant environmental waste that contaminates soil. These wastes often contain toxic metals detrimental to both flora and fauna..
Soil remediation can be a complex undertaking. Conventional methods, like landfilling contaminated soil, are costly and can degrade soil quality. To address these issues, researchers and farmers are exploring innovative plant-based solutions for soil cleanup, notably through a process called Phytoremediation, which involves the use of plants that absorb heavy metals. Enhancing these plants with growth-promoting microorganisms bolsters root development and nutrient accessibility, subsequently boosting plant vitality.
In addition to phytoremediation, farmers utilize treatments derived from burning organic matter in low-oxygen conditions, known as biochar. Biochar effectively binds heavy metals in the soil, reducing their toxicity to plants. However, there is limited research on the synergistic effects of combining microorganisms with biochar for soil remediation.
A research team from Portugal conducted experiments to determine if combining biochar with microorganisms could enhance phytoremediation effectiveness. They examined the effects of biochar augmented with two specific microorganisms: the bacteria Pseudomonas liatans EDP28 and the fungi Rhizoglomus irregulare, both recognized for their plant growth-promoting capabilities.
The objective was to assess whether soil treatments could decrease copper contamination and enhance sunflower growth in mined soil, which contained an average of 1,080 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of copper—over three times the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s recommended limit of 100 to 300 mg/kg.
In a controlled greenhouse setting, the researchers established experiments involving three different microbial treatments: P. Reactance bacteria, R. Irregular fungi, and a blended microbial treatment combining both. They prepared pots with contaminated mine soil, added these microbial treatments, and introduced sunflower seedlings, along with varying doses of biochar (0%, 2.5%, and 5% by weight). This resulted in 12 unique treatments, including three with only biochar, three with just microorganisms, and one control without any additives.
After a period of 12 weeks, the researchers evaluated the growth of sunflower seedlings. They began by measuring chlorophyll, the green pigment crucial for photosynthesis. Using a specialized machine that transmits red and infrared light through the leaves, they found that while biochar did not influence chlorophyll levels, the microbial inoculum significantly increased chlorophyll content, thereby enhancing the plants’ photosynthetic capacity.
Subsequently, they measured the length of the plants’ roots and shoots before drying them to calculate total dry weight. Surprisingly, biochar addition appeared to hinder plant growth; sunflowers with 2.5% and 5% biochar exhibited shoot lengths that were 22% and 26% shorter and had shoot masses that were 46% and 49% less, respectively, compared to those grown without biochar.
However, the microbial inoculants, especially the mixed bacteria and fungi combination, mitigated the adverse effects of biochar and actually promoted plant growth. Compared to plants without microorganisms, those receiving the mixed inoculum showed an increase of 48% and 45% in shoot length and a boost of 122% and 137% in dry biomass at 2.5% and 5% biochar treatments, respectively.
Copper content was assessed by dissolving soil, roots, and shoots in water and acid, followed by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy to quantify copper atoms. Results revealed higher copper concentrations in plant roots than in shoots across all treatments, with biochar-treated plants having root copper levels that increased by an average of 38% compared to controls. This contrasted with earlier studies suggesting biochar might hinder metal uptake.
Interestingly, the effects of microorganisms on copper levels proved inconsistent. The mixed inoculum raised root copper concentrations by 51% in the 2.5% biochar treatment, while it had no significant impact in the 5% scenario.
In conclusion, biochar enhanced the phytoremediation efficiency of sunflowers by boosting copper accumulation in roots, albeit at the expense of plant growth. Conversely, microbes enhanced the chlorophyll content, benefiting both growth and photosynthesis. The research team advocates for larger-scale field studies with microbial inoculants and biochar to explore practical applications further.
NASA officials have announced that future heat shields will be optimized with a more transparent outer material to enhance performance. However, for the Artemis II mission, the heat shield design will remain unchanged.
To mitigate risks to astronauts, mission managers are altering the Orion spacecraft’s reentry trajectory. Instead of the usual atmospheric reentry that simulates a “bouncing stone” effect to reduce thermal stress, this mission will feature a faster, steeper descent to minimize exposure to extreme temperatures.
NASA has confirmed that this revised plan is the result of extensive testing. Isaacman expressed his “complete confidence” in the heat shield during a January update.
During a media event in July, Wiseman echoed this sentiment, stating: “If we adhere to NASA’s new atmospheric entry path, this heat shield will be safe for flight.”
Countdown to the Moon Landing: Two Years Remaining
A significant critique of the Artemis program focuses on its timeline. Nearly four years have passed since Artemis I took flight, and until recently, the next launch, Artemis II, was slated for another two-year wait.
Critics argue that compared to agile private companies like SpaceX, NASA’s slower improvement cycles lead to longer wait times, jeopardizing program security.
Dryer emphasized that “the infrequent launches of space systems pose major structural and safety risks that have been acknowledged for years,” asserting, “We have a limited window to identify potential failure modes.”
NASA’s Space Launch System rolls out from the Vehicle Assembly Building at Kennedy Space Center on January 17. Joe Radle/Getty Images
To address these challenges, Isaacman has initiated vital improvements to the Artemis program, including the addition of more missions and an accelerated launch schedule.
The Artemis III mission, which was originally set to land astronauts on the moon in 2028, is now scheduled to launch into low Earth orbit in mid-2027 for essential technology tests and demonstrations. NASA’s detailed strategy for landing on the lunar surface also includes a second spacecraft—a lander developed by SpaceX or Blue Origin. This lander will rendezvous with Orion in lunar orbit to transport astronauts to the moon. Artemis III is positioned to conduct these critical maneuvers. However, challenges persist in the commercial sector, as reported in a recent report, revealing that SpaceX’s Starship lander is “at least two years behind schedule, with expectations for additional delays.”
Under the revamped strategy, NASA aims to achieve a lunar landing by the Artemis IV mission in 2028.
Key changes include the target of launching Space Launch System rockets approximately every 10 months, compared to the previous three-year intervals, according to Isaacman.
The overall progress hinges on the success of the Artemis II mission, which could provide a much-needed boost for NASA and the American public.
“Whenever the White House seeks positive news, they turn to NASA,” Melroy remarked.
When discussing psychopathy, many envision a dangerous individual whose self-serving actions harm others while benefiting themselves. This trait is more prevalent than one might think; approximately 1% of the population experiences psychopathic traits, with research indicating a significant link between psychopathy and leadership roles in corporate settings.
Yet, living with psychopathy can be challenging. Abigail Marsh, a psychology and neuroscience professor at Georgetown University, explores the lives of individuals with psychopathic traits who lead seemingly ordinary lives. Surprisingly, many do not aspire to become psychopaths.
While the precise definition of psychopathy is still under investigation, it typically includes traits such as emotional insensitivity, lack of empathy, and impulsiveness. Screening tools assess behaviors like pathological lying and manipulative tendencies.
A recent study, available here, indicates that psychopaths have an intense focus on their own goals and struggle to understand the perspectives of others. Researchers, including Marsh, have found physical differences in the brains of those with psychopathic traits.
By focusing on individuals with high psychopathy scores from the general population, Marsh’s team recently quantified how psychopathic individuals perceive others’ well-being. In an interview with New Scientist, Marsh discusses her unexpected findings and the complexity of feeling compassion towards individuals with psychopathy.
Interview with Abigail Marsh: Understanding Psychopathy
Sabrina Weiss: How do psychopaths generally perceive life?
Abigail Marsh: Psychopaths often report a lack of strong emotions, including fear, guilt, and love. While some believe this could simplify life, many find their existence more challenging, often “hiding” their identities to navigate social situations. This stigma, usually seen as a moral failing, actually stems from similar roots found in other mental health issues, involving genetics and life experiences.
Investigating the Brain: What Do We Know?
While brain scans cannot “diagnose” psychopathy, they do reveal consistent differences in certain areas such as the amygdala, which is often smaller in individuals with psychopathic traits. Research from my lab indicates that children with smaller amygdalae may show more severe psychopathic behaviors over time, coupled with reduced responsiveness to others’ emotions.
The Wolf of Wall Street: A portrayal of psychopathic traits.
Photo 12/Alamy
Treating Mental Illness: What Are the Options?
One analysis suggests that three years of therapy can aid psychopaths in managing their emotions. Unfortunately, available resources for treating personality disorders remain limited. The societal perception that psychopaths elicit no sympathy makes their need for care often overlooked, despite our moral obligation to provide it.
Can Psychopaths Change Their Behavior?
Some individuals manage significant behavior changes through personal determinations, including fostering relationships they don’t want to jeopardize or simply “faking it” until it feels natural. Others create personal moral codes to guide their behavior, demonstrating that improvement is indeed possible.
How Common is the Desire for Change?
While quantifying this desire is challenging, many individuals express discontent with their behaviors and aspire for change. This is especially evident among those who seek assessments through the organization I co-founded, raising awareness about psychopathy.
Choosing Inclusive Language: Why Does It Matter?
The field is evolving toward a more compassionate, person-centered approach. For instance, we now refer to “individuals with psychopathy” rather than using stigma-laden terms. However, the tendency to label still prevails, particularly concerning personality disorders.
Exploring the Roots of Interest in Psychopathy Research
My fascination began with understanding altruism and evolved through personal experiences that highlighted both the good and bad in human nature, leading to my current research interests.
Recruitment for Research:
My latest study involved over 700 participants with psychopathy scores, primarily recruited through the Aggressive Disorder Prevention Association. A thoughtful approach to advertising has been crucial to our participant recruitment.
Exploring Psychopathy’s Impact on Society
With around 1% of the population exhibiting psychopathic traits, it’s essential to recognize the potential presence of individuals within your social circles. These traits can lead to manipulative or harmful behaviors that significantly affect others.
What to Do If You Suspect Someone of Psychopathy?
Remember, psychopathy is a legitimate mental health issue that can be addressed. Individuals with psychopathy face numerous challenges in their lives and relationships, but dedicated therapeutic support can lead to meaningful changes. Visit the Aggressive Disorder Association website for resources and assistance.
Feedback is New Scientist A popular source for the latest science and technology news. Share your thoughts with us at feedback@newscientist.com.
Exploring Unique Units of Measurement
In our recent exploration of the world’s most unusual units of measurement, Feedback presented an interesting case involving polar bears as units of snowpack. Reader Steve Tees inquired about the meaning of “shed load” in the context of traffic delays.
Since then, we’ve received an influx of emails suggesting alternative phrases to express large quantities.
Two readers, Bryn Glover and John Newton, both linked the term to highway incidents, commenting, “The truck was certainly dropping a load.”
F. Ian Lamb proposed viewing “shed loads” as examples of “endogenous relative scaling (ERS) units,” indicating that individual perceptions of size can vary widely based on personal experiences. For instance, £1,000 could seem insignificant to a millionaire but immense to someone living in poverty. Ian invites readers to share more examples of ERS units.
William Croydon provides another perspective, noting that “shed” is a term utilized in nuclear physics. In particle physics, measuring small particles colliding requires a unit with a tiny cross-sectional area.
According to William, the “barn” unit is 100 square femtometers (10-28 square meters), which is approximately the cross-section of a uranium atom’s nucleus. Essentially, this small measurement corresponds to the ease with which a nuclear reaction may be initiated.
William also mentioned that smaller units, or “huts,” have been discussed, albeit with uncertainty regarding their dimensions. Online research led to two variants: the “outhouse,” which is one millionth of a barn, and the “yoctoban,” defined as 10-24 barn, humorously dubbed as a shed in a barn.
In any case, as William points out, even numerous sheds would be “too small to cause problems on the highway.”
Tony Lewis humorously suggests that while Steve Tees wants to know the size of the “xxxx warehouse” blocking traffic, it must indeed measure the equivalent of “xxxx warehouses.”
Pencils and Shakespeare
Feedback regarding the book Puzzle Advisor by Rob Eastaway highlights how William Shakespeare may have been influenced by the mathematics of his era.
Feeling a kinship with Shakespeare, Feedback notes the recent surge of interest in various adaptations of Hamlet, including Riz Ahmed’s modern take and the gender-swapped Scarlet, all of which delve into themes of moral corruption.
Interestingly, Rob’s book mentions that graphite was in use during Shakespeare’s lifetime for writing instruments, suggesting the Bard may have opted for a pencil over a quill for some of his witty compositions.
This was reported in Stationery News, headlined “2B or not 2B?” The article suggests any pencil Shakespeare used would likely have been of pure graphite, implying it would have been 9B rather than 2B.
The Enigma of Hexagonal Water
Reader Joseph Orechino shared an email promoting the supposed health benefits of “hexagonal water,” claiming it is “10 times healthier than lemon water.”
This type of water allegedly undergoes a treatment that arranges its molecules in a hexagonal formation, though many experts agree that such structures are unstable and short-lived.
Despite the scientific skepticism, the allure of hexagonal water persists, with our archives revealing past attempts to create wine from it and other quirky concepts like “vibrating interactive water.”
The feedback poses an intriguing question: Why hexagons? To maximize water’s potential, a pentagram might be a more magical arrangement, although it might lead to accidental symbolism when a bottle is turned upside down.
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Let me be upfront: I’m not an expert in gardening. In fact, I’ve managed to kill remarkably hardy plants—including a cactus! Although I appreciate the beauty of flowers, this review reflects the perspective of a novice gardener who struggles to cultivate blooms.
Despite my lack of gardening skills, David George Haskell clearly possesses deep knowledge of flowering plants. His latest book, How Flowers Created Our World, is rich with insights drawn from his own garden and his involvement in habitat restoration projects. Haskell’s deep affection for flowers shines through every page.
Haskell is a biologist at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, and a seasoned author with several books on botany and ecology. His previous work, Wild and Broken Sounds, explored animal communications and the threats they face from human activities such as noise pollution and deforestation.
His core thesis asserts that society’s perception of flowering plants is fundamentally flawed. Haskell argues that in many Western cultures, flowers are often dismissed as fragile ornaments—pretty but devoid of strength or significance.
“
Flowering plants emerged during the dinosaur era and swiftly dominated the landscape. “
This misunderstanding contributes to flowers being viewed as “feminine,” leading many men to shy away from floral garnishes on beverages—instead opting for traditional ales, ironically brewed from flowering plants.
However, Haskell emphasizes, “Flowers have the power to change the world.” The emergence and diversification of flowering plants during the late dinosaur period were pivotal in transforming ecosystems and spurring the evolution of various life forms. Rainforests, bees, savannahs, meadows, and even humans are intricately linked to the survival of flowering plants.
To illustrate his points, Haskell dedicates eight of the book’s nine chapters to exploring different facets of flower ecology, each centered around a specific flower species.
He begins with the Magnolia, a flower that has remained largely unchanged for 100 million years, serving as a window into the history of the earliest flowering plants. Angiosperms, as flowering plants are known, appeared during the age of the dinosaurs and quickly established dominance—addressing the long-standing debates regarding their exact timeline.
As flowering plants ascended, they relegated many ancient plant groups to the periphery of ecosystems. Most of what we consider “trees” are flowering plants, as are all grasses. Haskell writes, “Earth is a planet of flowers.”
Transitioning from magnolia to goat’s beard, he showcases how rapidly and innovatively flowering plants evolve. He argues that the repeated duplication of genomic fragments is fundamental, creating a vast genetic reservoir and allowing angiosperms to develop numerous advantageous traits.
Orchids exemplify the intricate relationships flowering plants form with insects, birds, and fungi, while seagrasses illustrate how flowering plants create entire ecosystems, offering habitats for various wildlife and reshaping their environments.
In the latter half of the book, Haskell focuses on the profound connection between humans and flowering plants. Using roses as a case study, he highlights the diverse scents flowers produce and their significance in human relationships, as well as their role in the perfume industry. Linnaeus’s modern classification system was partially based on his studies of tea plants. Essentially, all major grains like wheat and corn are flowering plants. Without these vital species, sustaining the global population would be impossible.
Though Haskell passionately argues for the significance of flowering plants, this fervor can sometimes lead to overgeneralizations. He portrays a pre-angiosperm world as dull and largely devoid of color and scent, not giving credit to the ancestral visual signals that date back to early complex animals during the Cambrian period. The exact colors of primitive marine life and flora remain a mystery.
Likewise, chemical communication, an ancient evolutionary trait, is widespread and not fully understood in the vast oceans.
Despite minor critiques, Haskell rightly emphasizes the critical role of flowering plants in our ecosystems and the necessity of preserving their biodiversity. In the final chapter, he delves into the future of flowers, fluidly discussing emerging concepts such as wildflower gardens and rewilding efforts.
My only reservation regarding this book is its structure. Haskell presents the idea that “flowers are cool” in a rather simplistic manner, stringing together loosely connected essays rather than crafting a cohesive narrative. Readers shouldn’t expect a gripping story; instead, they are invited to savor Haskell’s poetic prose.
I can’t help but think Haskell may have been inspired by Marcel Proust. In In Search of Lost Time, the narrator recalls memories through the taste of a madeleine. Haskell encourages readers to appreciate the tens of millions of years of evolution evident in magnolia petals and stamens.
While Haskell’s narrative style differs from my preferred directness, his works are well-researched, insightful, and vividly articulate. They possess great depth and merit.
Michael Marshall is a science writer based in Devon, UK, and the author of Genesis Quest.
Discover how plants can “hear” caterpillars munching and even exhibit learning and memory. Gagliano emphasizes that these capabilities often remain unnoticed due to their slower pace of operation compared to humans.
Explore the concept of a “wood wide web”—a network of roots and fungi enabling trees to communicate with one another. Simard’s research has been pivotal to our understanding of this intricate natural phenomenon.
Fungi, a unique and often misunderstood group of organisms, are central to our lives. Sheldrake dives into their roles in food production and the profound experiences they can provide.
Key Components of a New Rubidium Atom Cooling Setup
Tomasz Kawalec CC BY-SA 4.0
A groundbreaking quantum device utilizing giant rubidium atoms may redefine temperature measurement.
While some nations utilize Celsius or Fahrenheit to measure temperature, physicists universally rely on Kelvin. This unit signifies “absolute temperature,” where 0 Kelvin represents the lowest temperature permitted by physical laws. However, confirming the accuracy of a 1 Kelvin measurement is a meticulous endeavor.
“When making absolute temperature measurements, one typically purchases a temperature sensor calibrated against another sensor, and the chain continues. Ultimately, one of those sensors was previously sent to the American Standards Institute,” explains Noah Schlossberger from NIST in Colorado.
Schlossberger and his team have developed an innovative device leveraging quantum mechanics to directly measure Kelvin, eliminating the need for extensive sensor calibrations.
This device, a compact metal and glass structure housing trapped rubidium atoms, employs lasers to displace outer electrons far from the atomic nucleus, resulting in significantly enlarged atoms. Subsequently, the researchers cool these atoms to roughly 0.5 milliKelvin—about 600,000 times cooler than room temperature—using lasers and electromagnetic fields.
Consequently, the outer electrons of rubidium atoms exhibit heightened sensitivity to minute temperature fluctuations. When exposed to certain quantum states, these electrons “jump,” allowing the device to function effectively as a temperature sensor. Established mathematical models can accurately relate the temperature difference necessary for such jumps, facilitating a new Kelvin definition.
The International Bureau of Weights and Measures similarly defines Kelvin via various quantum constants. Yet, institutions like NIST often resort to non-quantum devices for calibration. The new quantum device aims to deliver a calibration-free definition of Kelvin.
According to Schlossberger, “Every rubidium atom behaves identically in the same conditions. You can replicate a device anywhere in the world, and it will perform the same way.” This uniformity is crucial for maintaining high-precision instruments, such as atomic clocks, which require operation at very low Kelvin temperatures.
However, the prototype still faces challenges: it struggles with accurately detecting quantum states and is currently too cumbersome for practical use. Researchers are actively refining the design for enhanced practicality and precision.
Northern tamandua (a type of anteater) using a fig tree toilet
Tropical Canopy Ecology Project
Numerous arboreal mammals, such as opossums, three-toed sloths, and ocelots, share unique latrines found high within forest canopies.
Jeremy Quiroz Navarro, an independent ecologist from Costa Rica, initially discovered one of these latrines 30 meters above a Strangler fig tree while searching for a camera setup location. He encountered a platform scattered with feces of varying colors and textures, leading him to realize this was just one of many consistent latrine sites associated with Ficus Türkheimii.
Quiroz Navarro and his team installed a video trap at one of these latrines in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. After two months, they astonishedly identified 17 different mammal species utilizing this site.
“It was incredible,” he remarked. “This number approximates the total diversity of canopy mammals found in these cloud forests.”
The latrine received about three visits daily. Wildcats known as margays marked their territory by spraying urine, while porcupines utilized the area and rubbed their scent onto branches. Observations also included opossums, capuchin monkeys, coatis, howler monkeys, and weasels.
Even the three-toed sloth, previously believed to defecate exclusively on the ground, was observed doing so in the canopy.
Researchers explored an additional 170 trees, discovering more latrines, but exclusively on this particular species of strangler fig. Anecdotal evidence now suggests that strangler figs may serve similar purposes in other regions, including Honduras and Borneo, according to Quiroz-Navarro.
Mexican hairy dwarf porcupine
Tropical Canopy Ecology Project
This shared latrine provides a “fascinating and highly unusual” glimpse into arboreal behavior, commented Neil Jordan from the University of New South Wales, who was not involved in the study. “Studying animals at 30 meters high in the canopy is quite challenging, so it’s understandable that this has remained undiscovered until now.”
Additionally, some terrestrial animals, such as rhinos and hyenas, are known to utilize communal toilets as well. These sites serve various purposes: allowing animals to mark territory, exchange information, provide navigational cues, and concentrate scents to deter predators.
Strangler figs are impressive plants that gradually envelop their host trees, often leading to their demise. Ficus Türkheimii develops branches at the tree crown’s height, creating a structure deemed “comfortable and protective” by Quiroz Navarro.
The branches, which extend up to 12 meters, also act as vital pathways over rivers, emphasizing their significance within the forest ecosystem.
These trees attract climbers, some of whom camp on the latrine platform. Quiroz-Navarro expresses concern that such activity may disrupt the communication pathways between different forest areas, potentially causing wider ecological repercussions.
Scientists are gearing up to inject thousands of tons of carbon dioxide into the Amazon rainforest in a groundbreaking experiment addressing one of the most pressing questions in climate change. Will increased CO2 emissions stimulate tree growth and help absorb atmospheric carbon? Or is this optimistic outlook misguided?
AI-Induced Scary Stories: A Cautionary Tale
Always think twice before heeding advice, especially if it originates from an AI. This issue uncovers seven notable failures, including an AI that opted to deceive and hide its errors.
Procrastination: Beyond a Simple Delay
Using procrastination tactics to dodge your to-do list might indicate deeper issues at play. Psychologists suggest that stress could be the underlying cause, but there are effective methods to help reduce procrastination.
The New Space Race: A Contest for Cosmic Control
The universe has never truly been at peace. Now, nations are no longer pretending otherwise. Space is on its way to being recognized as a domain that demands active defense and competition.
Plus: Discoveries and Insights
Oral Microbiome: New studies bridge the gap between dentistry and medicine, confirming the essential link between oral health and overall well-being.
Fart Walk: Exploring the surprising benefits of a post-meal “fart walk,” which extend beyond mere comfort.
Q&A: Our experts tackle your burning questions: What’s the worst online action for the planet? Should you try an ice roller? What spans the world’s longest oil spill? Is my dog manipulating me for treats? Why do we empathize with villains in cinema? What is the “returnee effect”? Discover the most secretive locations where scientists work, and… much more!
Issue No. 431: Released on Thursday, March 26, 2026
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Holly is a dedicated staff writer for BBC Science Focus, where she expertly manages the well-loved Q&A section. She boasts an MSc (Special Award) in Earth Sciences, specifically in Space and Climate Physics from UCL, with a keen focus on Astronomy and Earth Sciences. Prior to her role at Our Media, Holly served as a geo-environmental consultant and engineer, passionately pursuing her interest in exoplanets during her free time, while also providing essential insights on ground risk and remediation across northern England.
With nine years of experience as a regional editor for a well-regarded theater website, Holly excels in curating and developing engaging content for the digital landscape. In addition to her writing, she is a talented artist and illustrator, contributing regularly to the craft website Gathered. Her diverse portfolio includes collaborations with esteemed brands like RSPB, English Heritage, Disney, Pilot, and Brother, as well as leading publications such as BBC Good Food Magazine, Home Style Magazine, and Papercraft Inspiration Magazine.
Apart from her professional endeavors, Holly has a passion for photography and a keen interest in antiques, showcasing her multifaceted skills and interests.
Researchers have discovered a new species of the Tassiere genus, a group of aggressive and mainly flightless ducks, in the icy waters off the southern coast of Chile.
Beak color patterns in adult specimens: Chiloe steamer duck (A) and Magellanic steamer duck (B). Image credit: Bernabé López-Lanús and Mariano Costa.
Known as Tassiere, this small genus of waterfowl exhibits intriguing ecological traits, including most species being flightless. Their unique name comes from their distinctive movement over water, where they flap their wings like paddles.
These ducks are notably territorial, aggressively defending their habitats from rival species.
According to Argentine ornithologists Bernabe López-Lanús and Mariano Costa, “Natural history of Tassiere is often marked by a mix of certainties and errors throughout time.”
Interestingly, some Tassiere species may include both flying and non-flying individuals within a single population, blurring traditional species classifications.
The researchers employed bioacoustics to analyze the vocalizations of all known steamer duck species. They employed a combination of field recordings, archived databases, and spectrogram analysis.
While some calls, like the quick “click” sounds used for marking territory, are similar across species, others are distinctive. The “raspy growl” contact call revealed a consistent, species-specific acoustic pattern.
“This call is typically produced alone or precedes territorial vocalizations,” the researchers noted.
Male specimens of the newly identified species produced calls with a unique “dome-shaped” frequency profile, which contrasts with the “scalene triangle” pattern seen in closely related species like the Magellan Steam Duck (Taquiere Puteneres).
This new bird, named the Chiloe Steamer Duck (Tassiere Kettle), is endemic to the Chiloe and Aysén regions of Chile. Its range extends around 40 degrees south latitude, from northern Valdivia and the Chiloe regions to the Taitao Peninsula.
While this species frequents protected coastal environments, rich in macroalgae and inland waterways, the Magellanic steamer duck thrives in more exposed, wave-battered coastlines further south.
“Reproductive adults compete for optimal foraging sites, often found within underwater forests of Macrocystis pyrifera (commonly known as kelp),” the researchers stated.
This habitat boasts dense refugia rich in diverse invertebrates, such as amphipods, gastropods, polychaetes, and juvenile fish, which these birds typically access by diving.
This discovery emphasizes the importance of sound in modern taxonomy and reveals hidden biodiversity even within well-studied species, particularly in remote and complex environments.
“Cases like the discovery of Tassiere Kettle demonstrate that bioacoustics is essential for understanding the taxonomy of challenging species, even when sample sizes are limited,” the authors concluded.
Bernabe López-Lanús and Mariano Costa. 2026. A new species of steamer duck (Anseriidae: Tassiere) from the Chiloé region of Chile, confirmed as a distinct taxonomic group from Taquiere Puteneres. Audio Lunis 5:2-65
A clone of the beloved craggy Yoshino cherry tree, famously cut down in Washington, D.C. two years ago, has bloomed for the first time this spring, marking what federal officials call a “crowning achievement” in horticulture.
The National Arboretum reported that the plant material used to propagate these Yoshino cherry tree clones was collected during the summer of 2024. This iconic tree was one of the many lining the shores of the Tidal Basin, situated between the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial.
Stumpy clones bloom for the first time this spring. National Arboretum
The new clone is thriving, having established its own root system and been significantly nurtured. Currently, it remains in a designated research area until the National Park Service plans to replant it, which could be as early as next spring.
Richard Olsen, director of the arboretum, expressed hope: “We anticipate that the legacy and spirit of these iconic cherries will inspire future generations of cherry blossom enthusiasts worldwide and strengthen our cultural connections for years to come.”
A cherry tree stump in Washington’s Tidal Basin, set to be cut in 2024. Mandel Gunn/AFP via Getty Images
Stumpy gained fame while standing at the Tidal Basin near the National Mall. It became a social media sensation in 2020 when a Reddit post humorously compared its condition to “the user’s love life,” yet conveyed a heartfelt appreciation.
This distinctive tree, known for its hollow trunk, was among 158 trees removed in 2024 as part of an initiative to reinforce the sea wall bordering the National Mall.
The night prior to its removal, a tourist relayed to NBC News that Stumpy embodied the characteristics of an “ugly duckling,” capturing attention for its uniqueness.
“It stands independently and truly stands out,” she remarked.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg departs from Los Angeles court amid major social media addiction trial
Credit: John Putman/Anadolu via Getty Images
A California jury has made a groundbreaking ruling, finding social media giants Meta and YouTube liable for negligence impacting a young woman’s mental health. This significant verdict marks a pivotal moment that could reshape the future of social media regulation.
The jury mandated that the companies pay $3 million in damages, compensating for economic losses and emotional distress suffered by the plaintiff. However, the jury has yet to determine punitive damages, which would impose additional penalties on the companies due to their actions.
The young woman at the heart of this trial, referred to as KGM in court documents, successfully argued that the addictive features of social media resulted in her severe anxiety and depression. Although TikTok (owned by ByteDance) and Snapchat (owned by Snap) were initially involved in the lawsuit, they reached a settlement prior to the trial’s commencement.
This case is not isolated; thousands of similar lawsuits are pending against social media firms across the United States. Many of these cases allege that social media products are addictive and harmful. Notably, a related case in New Mexico concluded on March 24, resulting in a verdict against Meta for failing to protect children from exploitation. That case resulted in the company being ordered to pay $375 million in damages.
The critical question that arises now is whether such legal actions will lead to meaningful changes in social media products deemed harmful. In the U.S., free speech laws pose challenges in advocating for reforms on social media platforms. A significant statute, Section 230, shields companies from liability for user-generated content. However, this landmark decision could signal a turning point, as the prevailing laws often hinder successful litigation against tech giants.
The New Mexico case has now advanced to a second phase, where a judge will adjudicate on the necessary changes Meta should implement to its social media platforms moving forward.
A spokesperson for Meta expressed disagreement with the ruling and announced plans to appeal both cases. Similarly, Jose Castañeda, a spokesperson for Google, which owns YouTube, indicated that the company intends to challenge California’s decision. With several more cases on the docket, if this trend continues, profound changes in the social media landscape may soon emerge.
Thanks to a groundbreaking study from Yale University, we may need to rethink the definition of a “shark.”
Evolutionary biologists conducted a DNA comparison among various shark species and their close relatives—including rays, skates, and chimeras—to explore their evolutionary links.
Surprisingly, they found that sharks are not necessarily more closely related to one another than they are to these similar species, challenging the traditional classification of sharks as a single biological group.
According to Chase Brownstein, a doctoral candidate at Yale, “Our study casts doubt on the idea that all sharks, apart from rays and skates, share a common ancestor.” BBC Science Focus.
This research can be interpreted in two ways: either sharks do not form a natural group unless they share an exclusive common ancestor, or rays and skates may simply be categorized as another type of shark.
In total, researchers analyzed the genetic data of 48 different species, studying their complete genomes.
“The genome contains all the genetic information found in our cells,” explained Thomas Near, a professor of ecology and evolutionary biology at Yale. BBC Science Focus.
“By examining entire genomes instead of just a handful of genes, we can gain deeper insights into the relationships between organisms.”
Professor Brownstein elaborated on their approach, stating they explored “how various methods of sampling DNA sequences across the genome impact our understanding of relationships among sharks, rays, and other cartilaginous fishes.”
Evidence from their study was inconclusive. While examining specific DNA segments called exons, they found indications that all sharks might belong to the same family.
Conversely, other analyses suggest that certain shark species, like frilled and horse sharks, could be more closely related to rays than to other sharks.
This implies that these unusual sharks may be distant relatives, separated from the broader shark lineage much earlier in their evolutionary history.
Scientists previously believed that all sharks, excluding other species like rays, shared a common ancestor. The study suggests that some shark species may be genetically unique and distantly related to other sharks on the evolutionary tree. – Credit: Chase Brownstein
If sharks are indeed a distinct group, biologists can utilize this genetic data to estimate when sharks first emerged in evolutionary history.
“We estimate that this group originated roughly 300 million years ago,” stated Brownstein. “ThisTimestamp corresponds to the last time we shared a common ancestor with modern amphibians, or perhaps slightly later.”
The scientists noted that sharks, skates, and rays represent one of the most ancient lineages of vertebrates—animals characterized by stiff, segmented backbones.
“They are the earliest jawed vertebrates to diverge from their ancestors, providing crucial insights into the first animals to evolve jaws and bony skeletons,” Brownstein continued. “Our aim is to bring attention to this often overlooked segment of the vertebrate tree.”
Ancient Evidence of Dog Care in Punarbashi, Turkey, dating back 15,800 years.
Credit: Kathryn Killackey
A groundbreaking discovery at a 15,800-year-old archaeological site in Turkey has revealed the oldest known evidence of dog domestication. Genetic studies indicate that our canine companions were already widespread across Europe 14,300 years ago, during a time when humans were primarily hunter-gatherers and agriculture had yet to develop.
Determining the precise timeline for dog domestication is complex, especially due to the genetic similarities shared between Canis lupus familiaris (domestic dogs) and Canis lupus (gray wolves). Initially, it was believed that the earliest dogs dated back to around 10,900 years ago. However, earlier fossils resembling dogs have been found, as far back as 33,000 years ago, indicating the presence of ancestral dogs that were not fully domesticated.
To further examine the history of dogs, Dr. Lachie Scarsbrook and his team at the University of Oxford analyzed genetic material from various early dog-like remains unearthed at different archaeological sites in Europe.
The oldest confirmed dog remains were discovered at the Pinarbaş Ruins in central Anatolia, Turkey, dating back to the Upper Paleolithic period (15,800 years ago). These findings are currently the earliest direct evidence of dog existence, with more substantial evidence emerging around 5,000 years ago.
“By at least 15,800 years ago, dogs possessed physical and genetic traits akin to modern breeds,” noted Scarsbrook.
Researchers genetically verified that remains from Gough’s Cave, located in Somerset, England, belonged to a dog that lived approximately 14,300 years ago. The genetic cohesiveness between these two ancient dogs suggests a shared ancestor, a phenomenon that sparked intrigue among researchers, given the geographical distance between the cultures associated with these dogs.
The genome analysis indicates that these two Paleolithic dogs originated from a population that traversed across Europe between 18,500 and 14,000 years ago.
Despite their impressive range, Scarsbrook notes, “It’s unlikely dogs traveled across Europe independently.” Instead, the researchers propose that the Epigravettian culture played a role in their introduction, as evidenced by past archaeological findings indicating ancient human interactions.
14,300-Year-Old Dog Jawbone from Gough’s Cave, England
Credit: Natural History Museum
During significant periods, these ancient peoples migrated from the Italian peninsula into Western Europe and southeast into Turkey, fostering interactions that likely resulted in cultural and technological exchanges.
Dogs provided hunter-gatherers with enhanced hunting capabilities, protection from predators, and warmth during chilly nights, according to Scarsbrook.
Research at Gough’s Cave and the Pinarbaş ruins indicates the nature of ancient human-dog relationships. “These findings highlight the foundations of modern human-dog interactions,” states team member William Marsh from the Natural History Museum in London.
Isotope analysis has revealed that the Pinarbash community not only fed their dogs fish but also consumed it, indicating a profound bond between humans and canines. Dogs were buried similarly to humans, pointing to symbolic treatment of these animals about 15,000 years ago, notes Marsh.
At Gough’s Cave, the mixed diet of humans and dogs suggests a connection rich in symbolism. Instead of typical burial practices, some cultures there appear to have practiced ritual cannibalism, with evidence of bones showing mutilation marks and carvings.
Interestingly, similar markings were discovered on a dog jawbone from Gough’s Cave, suggesting parallels in treatment between humans and dogs, positing emotional ties as well, per Marsh. “They undoubtedly felt bonded to these animals, but the complexity of these expressions remains hard to interpret,” he reflects.
Scarsbrook hypothesizes that the domestication of dogs began during the Last Glacial Maximum, roughly 26,000 to 20,000 years ago. “Circumstances were dire for both wolves and humans in northern Eurasia during this period, pushing them southward and compelling interactions that may have initiated a unique companionship,” he states.
Exploring the Origins of Humanity Through Prehistoric Times in South-West England
Join a gentle walking tour that delves deep into the Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Iron Age, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of early humans.
The glymphatic system facilitates the removal of brain waste products.
Klaus Renau/Science Photo Library
Researchers have discovered a groundbreaking drug that enhances the brain’s waste disposal system, effectively eliminating proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease. A sedative commonly used in medical settings, when paired with a blood pressure stabilizer, shows promise in safely and efficiently clearing these toxic proteins, potentially delaying the disease’s onset by up to seven years.
“This is a significant advancement,” states Siju Gu from Harvard University, who was not part of the study. “While it may benefit individuals with neurodegenerative disorders, it could also enhance brain function in healthy individuals.”
The brain utilizes the glymphatic system, a vital network of channels surrounding blood vessels, to eliminate metabolic waste, directing it into the lymphatic system for blood disposal. This system is most active during deep sleep stages, wherein slow brain waves facilitate waste removal. However, its efficiency declines with age, especially in Alzheimer’s disease.
To assess dexmedetomidine’s effects in humans, Paul Dagham and his team at Applied Cognition, a pharmaceutical firm in California, enlisted 19 adults averaging 60 years of age. After a night of sleep deprivation in a controlled environment, blood samples were collected for baseline measurements.
Participants then received a four-hour infusion of dexmedetomidine alongside midodrine, a medication that mitigates low blood pressure, a common side effect of the sedative. Following a nap, additional blood samples were collected.
This experiment was replicated a few weeks later, with participants receiving a placebo and saline instead. The resulting analysis revealed that the combination of dexmedetomidine and midodrine, dubbed ACX-02, effectively removed amyloid and tau proteins—two proteins predisposed to misfolding and aggregation—better than the placebo treatment.
Dagham estimates that if ACX-02’s effects persist for several years, it could defer Alzheimer’s disease onset or progression by about seven years based on typical misfolded amyloid levels in those at risk. “This could significantly impact individuals at risk,” a research team member noted, including Jeff Iliff from the University of Washington.
Further analysis indicates that ACX-02 enhances the number of slow brain waves during sleep transitions and increases cerebral fluid flow, accelerating waste removal. Moreover, blood vessels appear to dilate and contract more effectively, enabling better fluid propulsion through the glymphatic system.
Though antibody therapies targeting amyloid plaques, such as lecanemab and donanemab, have received approval in the US and UK, their efficacy on symptoms remains minimal and they may cause hemorrhaging and swelling in the brain. “Innovative treatments are urgently needed. We know that the antibodies for Alzheimer’s are ineffective and can induce serious side effects,” asserts Natalie Beth Corner from the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Bonn.
No severe side effects were noted in Iliff’s trial. By enhancing the glymphatic system, there is less activation of the brain’s immune cells compared to antibody treatments, reducing risk factors associated with side effects, Dagham explains. ACX-02 additionally targets both amyloid beta and tau, which could augment its cognitive benefits. The research team plans to explore this further in patients with early Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Gu recognized that prior attempts to eliminate misfolded amyloid beta and tau in Alzheimer’s patients yielded limited success. However, he emphasized that if this novel approach proves safe and effective, it could see widespread application. “It may also benefit individuals with other neurodegenerative disorders linked to protein misfolding, such as Parkinson’s disease,” he states. Iliff adds that developing dexmedetomidine tablets could help treat diminished alertness due to sleep deprivation.
Cloning involves creating genetically identical copies, yet extensive research over the last 20 years reveals unexpected complexities. Clones often accumulate additional mutations, and if the cloning process is repeated, these mutations can reach lethal levels. This discovery presents important implications for cloning in agriculture, conservation, and even medical applications involving humans.
The core issue lies in the numerous mutations within clones. Adult somatic cells may accumulate more mutations than gametes (egg or sperm cells). Researchers such as Teruhiko Wakayama from the University of Yamanashi in Japan suggest that the cloning process may also contribute to these mutations. “While we once believed clones were identical to their originals, the accumulated mutations present significant challenges,” Wakayama states. “Our goal is to confirm that these mutations do not lead to complications.”
Historically, cloning mammals was deemed implausible because cellular differentiation adds various chemical tags that regulate gene activity. The successful birth of Dolly the sheep in July 1996 demonstrated that transferring the nucleus of an adult cell into an empty egg could effectively reprogram the genome, enabling cell growth. Shortly after, in October 1997, Wakayama created the first cloned mouse, Kumulina.
To evaluate the efficacy of his team’s cloning technique, Wakayama initiated cloning experiments in 2005. “Similar to how a reproduced painting loses detail, we aimed to assess the quality of the clones against the original,” he explains.
By 2013, Wakayama’s team had successfully generated over 500 mice from a single donor across 25 cloning generations, claiming, “Each cloned mouse exhibited no physical anomalies and maintained normal lifespan and health.” However, this level of success has not been replicated in other species. Cloned dogs continue to face health complications, and no primate has been cloned using adult cells to date. Initially, Wakayama believed repeated cloning in mice could extend indefinitely, yet by the 58th generation, not one clone survived.
To uncover the reasons behind this decline, the research team sequenced the genomes of ten different mice from various generations. They found an average of over 70 mutations per clonal generation, three times higher than in the naturally bred control group. Notably, after the 27th generation, significant mutations began to accumulate, even leading to the loss of the entire X chromosome.
This issue may stem from evolutionary mechanisms that protect gametes from mutations while allowing adult somatic cells to accrue more mutations. Recent studies suggest mutations accumulate eight times faster in blood cells compared to sperm. Thus, if the original cloned adult cell harbored numerous mutations, so too would the resulting clones.
Wakayama also posits that the nuclear transfer process may induce additional mutations. “It’s plausible that physical shock during nuclear transfer can damage the DNA,” he remarks. “If we can devise gentler nuclear transfer techniques, we might lower the mutation rate in cloned embryos—but we’re still seeking solutions.”
Shukrat Mitalipov, a professor at Oregon Health and Science University, remains skeptical. “The mutation rate evident in cloned subjects probably reflects the genomic nature of donor cells rather than being an inherent consequence of nuclear transfer,” he states.
While human cloning is prohibited in many regions, researchers like Mitalipov are exploring nuclear transfer’s potential for generating tissues and organs that are compatible for treatments, as well as for creating sperm and egg cells for infertility therapies. Wakayama’s findings highlight the necessity of thorough donor cell screening to prevent deleterious mutations. “Evaluating donor cell populations for harmful mutations is vital; if needed, gene editing could correct identified issues.”
Nevertheless, if the cloning process itself is responsible for inducing mutations, it presents additional challenges. Nonetheless, these findings do not signal that cloning techniques entail insurmountable risks. The mutation rate per generation remains relatively low, and safety screenings can be conducted post-cloning. However, they underscore the complexities inherent in cloning technology.
Evidence of Neanderthal hunting: Elephant bones from Lehringen, Germany
Credit: VOLKER_MINKUS
In the back room of the modern Schöningen Research Museum in Germany, old cardboard boxes house a fascinating discovery: remnants from Rehringen, a village 150 kilometers away.
In 1948, 125,000-year-old Paleoloxodon antique bones were excavated from an ancient lake’s bed in Rehringen. While such bones are not uncommon, this particular set contained a remarkable 2.3-meter-long spear embedded between the ribs.
This yew spear is recognized as the oldest complete spear ever discovered. The Rehringen Spear stands as the only known spear found alongside the skeleton of an extinct species. Since Neanderthals were the only humans in Europe at the time, this spear provides critical evidence that they hunted large game rather than scavenged. This was a groundbreaking discovery.
However, challenges arose. The excavation led by Alexander Rosenbrock, a local school principal and amateur archaeologist, revealed that around half of the bones were removed before he, his daughter, and volunteers arrived at the scene.
By the time Rosenbrock reached the site, some bones had already been stolen, and without a camera, he couldn’t sketch the crucial positions of the bones and spear. A lengthy legal battle ensued over the discovery, ultimately allowing Rosenbrock to keep the findings in Verden, which contributed to their obscurity. Sadly, the teacher passed away in the 1950s without publishing his findings.
Over the next 75 years, skepticism around Rehringen emerged. Were the spear and bones truly found together, or was it mere coincidence? Researchers accessed the findings twice but concluded that the elephant bones lacked evidence of butchery.
Excavation at Rehringen, 1948
Credit: Archives of the Cultural Heritage Office of Lower Saxony
Fast forward to 2025. Ivo Verheijen, the bone expert at Schöningen, began investigating the Rehringen finds.
“We were informed of just a few boxes,” Verheijen noted. “But upon reaching the museum, we discovered truckloads stored in the attic.”
The Schöningen Center, located 300 meters from an active excavation site since the mid-1990s, previously uncovered 10 spears around 300,000 years old from a nearby quarry. The Rehringen spear, alongside the Clacton spear, represents one of the oldest weapons from the Paleolithic era.
In 2017, the Schöningen team made headlines by discovering a complete ancient elephant, granting Verheijen substantial experience with these bones before switching his focus to Rehringen.
As he examined the artifacts, Verheijen removed an old box containing a freshwater shell from Rehringen and metadata from the excavation. He revealed that the label was a 50-million-mark banknote from the post-World War I inflation era, pointing out, “It used to be printed on one side only.”
This project resembled a cold-case investigation for Verheijen and his team. Fortunately, the box contained not just elephant bones but also flint tools and documentation of Rosenbrock’s work, preserved by his daughter Waltraut Deibel-Rosenbrock after his passing.
It didn’t take long for Verheijen to determine that the Lehringen elephant was slaughtered. “I quickly spotted distinct cut marks,” he stated. “It’s surprising that they weren’t previously noted.”
Cut marks found on an elephant rib
Credit: Ivo Verheijen
The elephant’s remains belonged to a young male, over 3.5 meters tall at the shoulder. Verheijen noted that solitary males are often easier targets for hunters.
Examination revealed that not only had the animal been butchered externally, but internal organs had also been removed, indicating that it was freshly dead when Neanderthals approached. It is highly probable that it died with the spear embedded in its side, suggesting a direct correlation between the bones and the weapon found on-site.
Early humans utilized simple flint tools to extract as much as possible from the carcass, leaving behind bones for scavengers. Interestingly, not every bone displayed signs of butchery—bear, beaver, and aurochs remains were also present, indicating that Neanderthals regularly hunted near the lake.
Verheijen suggested that modern elephants often head towards water when injured. Therefore, after being speared, the elephant likely made its way toward the lake, where it may have been pursued until it collapsed. One spear ultimately broke underneath it, which could explain some of the scene’s findings. The research team plans to further analyze the spear.
Even in its initial phases, the project has already painted a vivid picture of Neanderthal hunting behavior.
Verheijen aims to preserve Rehringen’s bones for exhibition, emphasizing, “This site is among the most significant Neanderthal locations in Germany. Despite being previously overlooked, we are dedicated to giving it the recognition it deserves.”
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“Richard Dawkins brilliantly made us think in terms of genes”: Rereading “The Selfish Gene”
In 1976, Richard Dawkins published a groundbreaking book titled after the compelling concept of the selfish gene, which he conceived while teaching animal behavior to his doctoral supervisor. This metaphor became a worldwide bestseller and remains one of the most significant works on evolution.
Fifty years later, the selfish gene continues to resonate, revealing the power of genetic selfishness as a compelling meme—an idea Dawkins introduced in the book. This perspective allows readers to understand evolutionary processes more intuitively, helping to explain behaviors ranging from blood-sharing among vampire bats to the mimicry of bees by orchids.
When Charles Darwin formulated his theory of natural selection, he emphasized that individuals compete for resources, acting primarily in their own interests. However, this theory doesn’t always apply, particularly in the case of social insects like worker bees that sacrifice their reproduction for the queen’s benefit. Darwin addressed this by proposing that in these species, families function as single entities, reflecting a self-interested behavior in a broader sense.
By the mid-20th century, a renewed focus on the synthesis of evolutionary biology and genetics provided mathematical explanations for evolution through genetic variation. Influential biologists George Williams and W.D. Hamilton explained altruistic behaviors through genetic adaptations, demonstrating that worker ants contribute to their mother’s reproductive success as a means of ensuring the continuation of their genes.
Dawkins’s work brilliantly illustrated complex mathematical concepts in an accessible manner, moving beyond earlier notions that evolution was simply about species survival. His insights laid the groundwork for a more comprehensive understanding of biological processes and genetics.
Critics argue that Dawkins merely popularized existing theories; however, selfish gene played a crucial role as a touchstone for biological concepts that have influenced both scientists and the public. Some claim that his insights on gene function simplify the complexities of biology; genes work within an intricate system involving various cellular components.
One major concern is that the book promotes genetic determinism—the idea that our behaviors are entirely governed by our genes. We may encounter similar misconceptions with the oversimplifications presented by the Human Genome Project, suggesting there are genes responsible for everything from intelligence to disease susceptibility.
It is worth noting that while Dawkins emphasized genetic selfishness, he also acknowledged the critical roles of cooperation and symbiosis. Although the metaphor of selfishness remains powerful, it may overshadow these important concepts.
Despite criticisms, Dawkins’s ability to depict animal behavior from a genetic lens has significantly influenced the scientific community and the public’s understanding. His background as an ethologist, studying the evolutionary basis of animal behavior, inspired many, including myself, to pursue careers in this field. This enduring relevance underscores the continued impact of his metaphor, even in the face of some outdated ideas.
In Europe, gas cookers and ovens can slowly leak dangerous chemicals, posing health risks to inhabitants. Almost 10% of homes inspected across the UK, Netherlands, and Italy had leaks exceeding exposure limits for the carcinogenic chemical benzene.
“Living with a gas burner is akin to living with a smoker,” asserts Drew Michanowitz from PSE Health Energy in Oakland, California. “Sidestream smoke produces similar benzene levels indoors.”
Naturally, methane and natural gas can harbor several volatile organic compounds (VOCs), some of which are known to be harmful, such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, and hexane. Benzene is particularly concerning due to its links to serious health issues, including cancer (especially leukemia), immune suppression, anemia, and excessive bleeding.
Previous research has identified high benzene concentrations in natural gas sourced from the North Sea and the Netherlands. However, the extent of human exposure remained unclear until Mihanovic’s team collected gas samples from 72 homes across the UK, Netherlands, and Italy.
When compared to levels found in the United States, benzene concentrations were alarmingly higher—nine times greater in Italy, 37 times higher in the UK, and an astonishing 66 times higher in the Netherlands.
The research team sealed kitchens in 35 homes to monitor for gas leaks, estimating that 9% of these homes could exceed safety limits set by the UK and the European Union. No level of benzene exposure can be considered safe.
“These levels are just from gas leaks,” said Mihanovic. “Other sources of benzene could elevate actual concentrations even further.”
“Natural gas leaks could represent a significant source of benzene contamination based on existing sources and household ventilation rates,” commented Nicola Carslaw from the University of York, UK, who was not part of the study. “Individual household behaviors also play a huge role.”
Mihanovic believes the surveyed homes accurately reflect a broad population. Interestingly, stove leak rates in Europe were lower on average than those previously recorded in the US. This may indicate either fewer leaks in Europe or that uninspected homes may present a higher leak rate.
For Paul Monks, a researcher at the University of Leicester in the UK, the solution is clear. “An increasing body of evidence regarding indoor air pollution linked to gas stoves underscores the need to transition away from them for improved health and environmental benefits,” Monks says.
Induction stoves offer numerous advantages, being energy efficient, non-polluting, low fire risk, and eliminating the chance of larger explosions. However, some individuals remain attached to gas cooking, according to Mihanovic.
Cooking with gas can also release pollutants like benzene and nitrogen oxides, with leaks presenting a larger hazard, as cooking durations are generally short with extractor fans often in use.
Most detected leaks fell below levels that would typically trigger a smell. Mihanovic suggests increasing gas odorants to detect more of these slow leaks, but notes that “our sense of smell is imperfect, varying greatly from person to person.”
While adequate ventilation can improve indoor air quality when outdoor air is clean, initiatives aimed at boosting energy efficiency often compromise ventilation rates. “We have a long road ahead in evolving building codes to address energy efficiency alongside ventilation and indoor pollution sources,” he stated. For example, implementing heat recovery ventilation systems could enhance airflow while minimizing energy loss.
Recent research findings suggest that long-term cryo-sleep and revival may no longer be purely science fiction. A study published in PNAS reveals intriguing advancements.
Scientists from Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU) and Erlangen University Hospital successfully froze mouse brain tissue and restored its functionality upon thawing.
Although only a fraction of the brain tissue was revitalized, the neurons retained the ability to transmit electrical signals, sustaining complex processes essential for memory and learning.
“Before conducting the experiment, we weren’t sure it would succeed,” stated Dr. Alexander German, first author of the study from the Department of Molecular Neurology at Erlangen University Hospital, as reported by BBC Science Focus.
“Public focus is likely to transition from ‘pure science fiction’ to ‘serious scientific and technological challenges.’”
Nature’s Cryo-Sleep Solutions
Interestingly, nature already exhibits cryo-sleep capabilities. Siberian salamanders can endure temperatures as low as -50°C (-58°F), remaining in a dormant state for years in permafrost until conditions are favorable for revival.
This remarkable resilience is attributed to their liver, which produces glycerol—a natural antifreeze that inhibits the formation of ice crystals within cells.
Ice formation has historically obstructed human cryopreservation efforts, as crystals damage the intricate nanostructures of living tissues.
Current cryoprotective agents have their own drawbacks; many are toxic to sensitive cells, and fluctuations in their concentrations can disrupt fluid balance in tissues.
The Siberian salamander, the coldest amphibian on Earth, employs an extraordinary evolutionary strategy to freeze and thaw safely – Photo credit: Getty
The research team employed a technique known as vitrification. This process replaces much of the tissue fluid with a blend of cryoprotective agents, cooling the molecules rapidly enough to stabilize them in a glass-like state. While both ice and glass are hard solids, glass’s random structure prevents crystallization and subsequent mechanical damage.
German and his team utilized a custom solution called V3, meticulously optimized to reduce toxicity while inhibiting ice formation.
Focusing on the hippocampus—a brain region crucial for memory and learning—the researchers processed slices of mouse hippocampus, approximately three times thicker than a human hair, through increasingly concentrated V3 solutions before rapidly cooling them to -196°C (-321°F) on a copper cylinder chilled with liquid nitrogen, and storing them at -150°C (-238°F) for durations ranging from 10 minutes to 7 days.
Upon thawing, the structural integrity of the neurons was preserved, and electrical recordings confirmed that the neurons were active and communicating within hippocampal circuits.
The breakthrough was evidenced by the presence of long-term potentiation (LTP), a vital process that strengthens connections between frequently used neurons, serving as the cellular foundation for learning and memory—it continued to function effectively.
This was a significant finding for German, as LTP is a rigorous measure of brain function, dependent on a complex interplay of cellular mechanisms, including signaling chemicals, receptor activation, calcium ion processing, and a cascade of molecular events that fortify neuronal connections.
The successful maintenance of these processes post-vitrification indicates that the tissue emerged in remarkably good condition.
“This result demonstrates that the synaptic machinery remains sufficiently intact to support de novo plasticity after complete cryoarrest,” German stated.
Bridging Science Fiction and Reality
The immediate applications are terrestrial rather than interstellar. Surgeons who excise brain tissue during epilepsy surgeries often need to analyze it rapidly. With effective vitrification techniques, these samples could be preserved for re-examination years later.
Germany’s spin-off company, Hiber, is actively working on developing reliable technology for preserving human neural tissue, aimed at advancing drug discovery and disease research.
German also noted that the physics underlying long-term storage is surprisingly encouraging. When tissue drops below its glass transition temperature, molecular movement and chemical degradation essentially halt.
However, he mentioned that radiation could pose more significant challenges, especially if this technology is utilized in future long-distance space missions.
The vitrified tissue on the left remains intact, while the tissue on the right is compromised by crystallization and cracking – Photo credit: Alexander German
Expanding from Tissues to Organisms
Scaling up from thin tissue slices to entire organs—or even whole organisms—poses considerably different challenges.
In thin slices, antifreeze can diffuse from all surfaces effectively. In intact organs, however, delivery and removal through blood vessels becomes complex due to the blood-brain barrier.
If thawing occurs unevenly, the tissue risks cracking or partial recrystallization, jeopardizing the structure that vitrification aims to protect.
“Our PNAS study serves as proof of principle for neural cryobiology, rather than demonstrating cryostasis for complete organisms,” German emphasized.
“This study shows that adult mammalian brain tissue can recover near-physiological circuit function after being completely stopped in cryogenic glass without ice. This point addresses the concern that adult brain tissue is too fragile for cryopreservation.”
For German, the significance of this research is less about cinematic science-fiction narratives and more about tangible scientific advancements. “The cold version of the science fiction concept isn’t solely about interstellar travel; it’s about gaining time,” he explained.
“If medicine can develop more effective methods to preserve tissues, organs, and potentially patients, we may pave the way for better treatment options in the future.”
I first visited Chernobyl in 2016, marking three decades since the catastrophic Reactor 4 explosion. Anticipating a desolate and silent landscape defined by radiation, I was surprised to witness a beaver swimming beneath the nuclear power plant’s structure.
The April 26, 1986, explosion led many to believe that the surrounding environment would remain biologically barren for generations. The exclusion zone, characterized by the highest radiation levels, spans about 2,600 square kilometers in Ukraine, roughly equivalent to the area of Luxembourg.
When considering adjacent regions in Belarus, the affected landscape increases to over 4,500 square kilometers. This scale made it challenging to envision a thriving future for Chernobyl, once thought of merely as wasteland.
In the aftermath of the disaster, evidence supported this bleak perception. The nearby pine forest, heavily contaminated, displayed orange-red needles and became known as the Red Forest. Initial studies indicated a disturbing decline in small mammals and invertebrates within contaminated zones.
Trees in the Red Forest absorbed radiation from the dust plume created by the disaster – Credit: Getty
By 2016, I watched as a black head emerged from the cooling pond beneath Reactor 4, a reminder that this water was initially designed to prevent nuclear reactors from overheating. Now, it supported wildlife, with beavers acting as normal citizens of this unique ecosystem.
Chernobyl is often imagined as a realm of grotesque mutations—two-headed fish and other horrors. Contrary to this, I observed white-tailed eagles and migratory ospreys hunting as if in any other wetland. A great egret actively fished in the reactor’s shadow, while a gray wolf briefly appeared from the reeds, retreating rather than patrolling a desolated land.
Public expectations of Chernobyl evoke scenes of destruction, silence, and visible decay. However, nearly 40 years post-disaster, the exclusion zone has evolved into an extraordinary ecological experiment, shaped by time and the absence of human presence. Conventional ecological principles no longer apply, allowing for the emergence of unique wildlife.
Typically, large animals are the first to vanish following an environmental catastrophe due to their slow reproduction and expansive habitats. Surprisingly, in Chernobyl, such species are flourishing.
Large mammals, such as wolves, have returned in greater numbers than expected. Brown bears have reappeared, and European bison roam abandoned fields. Przewalski’s horses, introduced in the late 1990s, now thrive freely, while beavers populate rivers and canals, along with deer, wild boar, elk, and lynx reclaiming territories once heavily managed by agriculture.
Radiation doesn’t seem to deter them; rather, scientists emphasize that the absence of human interference has played a significant role. Without hunting pressure and habitat destruction, large wildlife has adapted and even thrived.
While some may expect dire consequences from radiation, scientists like Dr. Germán Orizaola reveal that ecological dynamics and the lack of human presence contribute significantly to wildlife adaptability.
2. Blackened Frogs
An obvious illustration of radiation’s effect can be seen in regionally distinct frogs. Eastern tree frogs in the exclusion zone exhibit noticeably darker pigmentation than those in other parts of Ukraine. As noted by Dr. Orizaola, “If you show me a frog, I’ll tell you whether it came from inside or outside Chernobyl.”
These contaminated frogs are, on average, 40% darker than their counterparts outside the zone, linked to melanin levels that help combat radiation damage.
Some frogs around Chernobyl lost all their green color and turned completely black – Credit: Germán Orizaola
Oryzaola’s findings indicate that this darkness isn’t purely a result of radiation but reflects natural selection favoring darker pigmentation.
3. Fungi That Eat Radiation
Chernobyl’s fungi present even more peculiar examples of adaptation. Scientists have discovered a dark, melanin-rich fungus thriving within abandoned reactor sites and other highly radioactive areas.
These fungi flourish on walls and rubble in environments where most life cannot survive. Interestingly, some fungi seem to exhibit increased growth rates in high radiation environments.
Researchers hope the fungus could help clean up radioactive sites – Credit: Getty
4. Evolving Dogs
Hundreds of stray dogs, descendants of pets abandoned during the 1986 evacuation, still inhabit the exclusion zone. Notably, recent studies reveal these dogs have developed genetic differences compared to other Ukrainian populations.
A 2023 study examined 302 stray dogs, evidencing significant genetic divergence driven not solely by radiation but by factors such as isolation, limited movement, and changes in diet.
Dogs in restricted areas often interact with humans visiting the area – Credit: Getty
5. “Forest with No One”
For years, one of the unsettling aspects of Chernobyl was not what was visible, but what was absent. Initially, researchers noted the unusual silence in many parts of the exclusion zone, indicative of a lack of biodiversity.
This phenomenon, termed the “empty forest effect,” described landscapes rich in structure yet lacking certain critical layers of fauna.
With the passage of time, the soundscape has evolved. Today, many areas once defined by silence now resonate with the calls of birds, such as warblers and nightingales, many of which are returning even to still-contaminated regions.
Birds are more affected by radiation than larger animals, but they managed to return to Chernobyl – Credit: Getty
What Chernobyl Really Teaches Us
This April marks four decades since the disaster, but firm conclusions regarding its ecological impact are still elusive. Wildlife resurgence primarily stems from human absence, though the effects of radiation continue to exert subtle biological pressures across varying scales.
As science writer Mary Missio notes, the no-go zone represents not a return to a primitive past but the emergence of a novel ecosystem forged through chance and abandonment. Ultimately, Chernobyl reveals how ecosystems can unexpectedly respond when familiar rules are disrupted, highlighting the profound effects of human absence on the natural world.
On its way to Jupiter, ESA’s JUICE spacecraft observed the rare interstellar comet, 3I/ATLAS, gathering crucial data from an object originating beyond our solar system.
This stunning image of 3I/ATLAS was taken by the Navigation Camera (NavCam) aboard JUICE in November 2025. Image credit: ESA/Juice/NavCam.
3I/ATLAS, discovered on July 1, 2025, by the NASA-funded ATLAS survey telescope in Rio Hurtado, Chile, is an extraordinary interstellar comet. Also referred to as C/2025 N1 (ATLAS), this comet entered our solar system from the direction of the constellation Sagittarius.
The comet features the most dynamically extreme orbit ever recorded in the solar system, showcasing its interstellar origins and remarkable speed.
On October 30, 2025, 3I/ATLAS reached its closest perihelion to the Sun, coming within 1.4 AU (astronomical units) of Earth, just inside Mars’ orbit.
“From the moment of its discovery, we understood that the unique shape of its orbit would allow JUICE to observe it from a different perspective than Earth,” explained Dr. Marco Fenucci, a mathematician and near-Earth object dynamist at ESA’s Near-Earth Object Coordination Center.
Predictions indicated that JUICE would be the closest spacecraft to 3I/ATLAS in November 2025, shortly after it reached perihelion.
“Preparing for payload pointing campaigns and flybys generally requires about nine months,” noted Angela Dietz, JUICE spacecraft operations manager. “When ATLAS appeared, we recognized that time was limited.”
JUICE commenced 3I/ATLAS observations on November 2, 2025, continuing until November 25. The closest approach occurred on November 4, at approximately 0.4 astronomical units.
Utilizing five instruments—JANUS, MAJIS, UVS, SWI, and PEP—the spacecraft conducted extensive measurements of the interstellar visitor.
Due to thermal limitations, observations were restricted to six 45-minute slots and one final 4-hour slot.
These sessions yielded 126 scientific files, totaling 11.18 gigabits of invaluable data.
However, scientists must wait for the results, as high bitrate downlinks are feasible only after JUICE enters the cold cruise phase in mid-January 2026.
The eagerly awaited data downlink happened over two 11-hour passes on February 17 and 20, 2026, using ESTRACK’s New Norcia and Malargüe deep space antennas.
“What we do is a collaborative effort, and the ability to optimize this campaign in such a short timeframe is something we take pride in,” stated Dietz.
“Jupiter’s icy moons are frequently visited, with flybys occurring just weeks apart.”
“The successful 3I/ATLAS campaign enhances our confidence that JUICE can efficiently meet scientific objectives on short notice and effectively manage complex operations within tight schedules,” commented Federico Giannetto, JUICE spacecraft operations engineer.
Recent scientific research has unveiled two previously unknown species of marsupials within the remote rainforests of New Guinea’s Vogelkop Peninsula. The Pygmy Longfinger Possum (Dactylonax Kambuyai) and Wow Glider (Thus ayamalensis) are believed to have vanished around 6,000 years ago. These discoveries indicate that New Guinea’s rich forests may still conceal remnants of an ancient animal kingdom.
Pygmy Longfinger Possum (Dactylonax Kambuyai), a female spotted in the Kralik area of the Vogelkop Peninsula. Image credit: Carlos Bocos.
Professor Tim Flannery from the Australian Museum states: “The identification of a ‘Lazarus taxon’ is a remarkable event, especially when it was thought to be recently extinct.”
“The uncovering of two species once believed to be extinct for millennia is truly exceptional.”
“This discovery underscores the crucial need to conserve these unique biological regions and highlights the significance of collaborative research in safeguarding hidden biodiversity.”
The pygmy long-tailed possum and the ring-tailed glider, known through Pleistocene fossils found in Australia and New Guinea, inhabit secluded lowland forests of the Vogelkop Peninsula.
“Vogelkop represents an ancient section of the Australian continent, now part of New Guinea,” remarked Professor Flannery.
“Its forests may still harbor even more hidden aspects of Australia’s natural history.”
The Pygmy Longfinger Possum boasts striking stripes and remarkable adaptability, featuring one finger on each hand that is twice as long as the next longest finger.
This species is thought to have vanished from Australia during the Ice Age, a period notorious for the extinction of iconic megafauna, including the diprotodon and the marsupial lion.
Wow Glider (Thus ayamalensis), a subadult from the South Solon area of the Vogelkop Peninsula. Image credit: Arman Muharmansyah.
The ring-tailed glider is closely related to the Australian Glider (Petauroides) and marks the first new genus of marsupials identified in New Guinea since 1937.
Smaller than its relatives, this species features furless ears and a strong, prehensile tail, forming lifelong pair bonds and typically raising just one pup annually.
Similar to sugar gliders, these marsupials reside in tree hollows high within the forest canopy and face threats from logging practices.
“The glider, known locally as tous among some Tamburou and Maybrat communities, is deemed sacred,” shared Lika Koline, a Maybrat community member.
“It symbolizes the spirits of our ancestors and plays a key role in educational practices such as initiation ceremonies.”
“Our meticulous collaboration with Tamburou Elders was essential, and without the involvement of Traditional Owners, this identification would not have been feasible.”
“We are immensely proud that Papuan researchers have contributed to these groundbreaking findings. Our gratitude extends to the communities in Misool, Maybrat, and Tambulo for their continued support in this research,” stated Dr. Aksamina Yohanita from the University of Papua.
A detailed study discussing these findings was published on March 6th in the Australian Museum Records.
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Tim F. Flannery et al. 2026. “Reemergence after 6,000 years: A modern record of the ‘extinct’ Papuan marsupial, Dactylonax Kambuyai (Marsupial: Petauridae), revised phylogeny and zoogeography of the genus Dactylonax.” Records of the Australian Museum 78 (1): 17-34; doi: 10.3853/j.2201-4349.78.2026.3003
Astronomers utilizing ESO’s Very Large Telescope (VLT) and VLT Interferometer (VLTI) in Chile have made groundbreaking discoveries by directly observing two giant gas planets forming within a planet-forming disk around the star Whispit 2. This research offers one of the most detailed insights into planetary system formation to date, highlighted by distinctive gaps and rings of surrounding material, which suggest the likelihood of additional alien worlds in the vicinity.
Images captured by ESO’s Very Large Telescope illustrate a young planetary system orbiting the star WISPIT 2. Image credit: ESO / Lawlor and colleagues.
“WISPIT 2 represents our clearest glimpse into the early stages of planetary formation,” stated Dr. Chloe Lawler, a researcher from Galway University.
“This discovery enables us to study entire planetary systems, rather than just individual planets in isolation,” noted Dr. Christian Ginski, also associated with the University of Galway.
“Such observations are crucial for enhancing our understanding of how nascent planetary systems evolve into mature systems like our own,” he added.
The first protoplanet found in the WISPIT 2 system, designated WISPIT 2b, was identified last year and has a mass nearly five times that of Jupiter, orbiting at a distance approximately 60 times that between the Earth and the Sun.
“Discovering this new world in formation showcases the remarkable capabilities of our current astronomical instruments,” commented Dr. Richelle van Capelveen from the Leiden Observatory.
Subsequent observations detected additional objects near WISPIT 2, with measurements from the VLT and VLTI confirming their planetary nature.
The newly identified planet, WISPIT 2c, is located four times closer to its host star and is twice as massive as WISPIT 2b.
Both planets are gas giants, akin to the outer planets in our solar system.
To validate WISPIT 2c, astronomers employed the SPHERE instrument on the VLT, followed by VLTI’s GRAVITY+ instrument to confirm it as a planet.
“Our study leveraged recent enhancements to GRAVITY+, which were essential for detecting such a clear planet in proximity to its star,” stated Dr. Guillaume Bourdaro from the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics.
Both planets orbiting WISPIT 2 manifest in distinct gaps within the surrounding dust and gas disk, a phenomenon caused by each planet’s gravitational influence.
The material remaining around each gap forms unique dust rings within the disk composition.
In addition to the gaps hosting the two planets, at least one smaller gap exists further out in the WISPIT 2 disk.
“This narrower and shallower gap may indicate the presence of a third planet, possibly with a mass akin to Saturn,” Lawler speculated.
The findings are set to be detailed in an upcoming article in the Astrophysical Journal Letters.
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Chloe Lawler and colleagues. 2026. Direct spectroscopy confirmation of the young embedded protoplanet WISPIT 2c. APJL 1000, L38; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ae4b3b
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