Yearly Archives: 2026

Why 90% of Humans Are Right-Handed: The Impact of Upright Walking and Brain Size

Posted on by
Reply

Recent research from the University of Oxford and the University of Reading reveals that bipedalism and increased brain size are key factors contributing to the notable predominance of right-handedness in humans.

Reconstruction of Homo erectus.

According to Thomas Püschel, a researcher at the University of Oxford, “Approximately 90% of individuals globally show a preference for using their right hand.”

“Some researchers propose that this trend has existed since the Neolithic period, while others suggest it has been constant throughout human history,” he adds.

The research highlights that the pronounced lateralization of hand use in humans results in rare occurrences of ambiguous hand preferences or forms of ambidexterity, a stark contrast to findings in other primate species.

Despite some level of hand lateralization in certain primate groups, the consistent handedness seen in humans stands out as a remarkable evolutionary phenomenon that remains largely unexplained.

The study analyzed data from 2,025 individuals representing 41 different monkey and ape species.

Employing Bayesian modeling, the researchers explored evolutionary relationships across species to examine existing hypotheses regarding handedness evolution, including aspects like tool use, diet, habitat, body weight, social structures, brain size, and locomotion.

Interestingly, humans deviated from typical primate patterns, a difference that disappeared when brain size and the relative limb lengths—key indicators of bipedalism—were involved in the model.

Essentially, the upright walking and larger brains of humans clarify our evolution and no longer categorize us as anomalies.

The researchers also estimated the likely handedness of our extinct ancestors, indicating a gradual shift: Ardipithecus and Australopithecus likely exhibited a mild right-handed preference akin to modern great apes.

However, the emergence of the Homo genus, including species such as Homo ergaster, Homo erectus, and Neanderthals, marked a significant increase in right-handedness, peaking in modern Homo sapiens.

A notable exception is Homo floresiensis, a small-brained species from Indonesia, which exhibited a much weaker handedness tendency, aligning with their unique adaptations for a mix of bipedalism and climbing.

The research team posits a two-step evolutionary narrative.

Initially, upright walking liberated human hands from locomotion tasks, introducing new selective pressures for fine manual movements.

As larger brains developed and reorganized, the inclination toward right-handedness strengthened, resulting in the nearly universal pattern observed today.

“This groundbreaking study is the first to assess several major hypotheses concerning human handedness within a unified framework,” remarked Dr. Püschel.

“Our findings indicate that our distinct handedness is likely connected to the evolution of crucial human traits, particularly bipedalism and larger brain size.”

“By examining multiple primate species, we can distinguish which aspects of handedness have remained consistent over time versus those that are unique to humans.”

For the full study, refer to the article published in PLoS Biology here.

_____

Püschel, T. et al. 2026. Bipedalism and brain enlargement explain human handedness. PLoS Biol 24 (4): e3003771; doi: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3003771

Source: www.sci.news

83 Million-Year-Old Crocodile Lizard Fossil Discovered in France

Posted on by
Reply

Paleontologists have discovered a new genus and species of pancinisaur lizard, named Acutodon villeveyracensis, from an upper jaw fossil found in southern France. This discovery extends the presence of this lineage in Europe back by at least 30 million years.

Paleo-artistic restoration of Acutodon villeveyracensis, the oldest known member of the pansinisaurid family found in Europe. Image credit: Olivier Jansen.

Pansinisaurus Anguimorphs represent an evolutionary group of lizards that originated in the Early Cretaceous period.

Currently, this lineage exists in only one surviving species: the endangered Chinese Crocodile Lizard (Sinisaurus crocodilius), found in small forest streams of southeastern China and northern Vietnam.

Scientists estimate that only a few hundred individuals of this species remain, facing threats from habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change.

“The Chinese Crocodile Lizard represents the only extant member of the pan-sinisaurus clade (comparable to sinisaurids),” stated Dr. Olivier Jansen, paleontologist at the Institute of Paleontology, Evolutionary Paleoecological Systems, and Paleoprimates of the University of Poitiers and CNRS, alongside his colleagues.

“This species is concentrated in small subpopulations within the lowland forests of southeastern China and northern Vietnam.”

“They face severe risks from habitat loss and rampant poaching, exacerbated by demand for food, pharmaceuticals, and the illegal pet trade.”

“Chinese Alligator Lizards are also impacted by climate change. Adapted to clean streams in dense vegetation of remote evergreen forests, they depend on consistently moderate temperatures each year.”

“Despite being on the edge of extinction, the evolutionary history of this group remains inadequately understood, and the species may vanish before we unravel the mystery of its origins.”

The newly identified species, Acutodon villeveyracensis, thrived during the Campanian period of the Late Cretaceous, approximately 83 million years ago in what is now France.

“This Cretaceous record marks the oldest occurrence of a pan-sinisaurian lizard in Europe,” the paleontologists emphasized.

“It predates the presence of this clade in Europe by about 30 million years, raising intriguing questions about the paleontological history of pancinisaur lizards.” The holotype specimen of Acutodon villeveyracensis was excavated near Villeverac in the Hérault region of France.

The fossilized specimen consists of an upper jaw bone measuring approximately 2.8 cm (1.1 inches) long, featuring a row of narrow, arched teeth.

This lizard exhibited several unique anatomical traits shared with both modern and extinct alligator lizards, notably the unique tooth replacement structures known as resorption pits.

The researchers concluded that the distinct combination of features warranted the classification of a new genus and species.

“Acutodon villeveyracensis is categorized as a pansinisaur angimorph based on its toothed upper jaw, which shares numerous features with both extant fossils of the Chinese Alligator Lizard and its relatives,” the researchers explained. These features include tall, tapered, and recurved teeth with constricted bases and resorption pits.

By analyzing the skull proportions of existing alligator lizards, scientists estimate that Acutodon villeveyracensis could have exceeded 1 meter (3.3 ft) in length.

“This species was indeed a predator, competing in size and habitat with other large squamates in its ecosystem, such as the terrestrial monsterosaurids and the aquatic mosasaurs,” the researchers added.

The unique alignment of teeth in Acutodon villeveyracensis—characterized by thin, tapered, and recurved teeth—supports a diet that likely included fish. Analogously to the Chinese Crocodile Lizard, it may have also preyed on other small vertebrates like frogs, salamanders, and Albanerpetonidae in the freshwater wetlands of Villevérac (Hérault, France).

The discovery of Acutodon villeveyracensis is detailed in a recent paper published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.

_____

Olivier Jansen and colleagues. A new pancinisaur lizard (Anguimorpha) discovered in the lower Campanian region of Villeverac (Hérault, France). Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, published online on May 20, 2026. doi: 10.1080/02724634.2026.2636649

Source: www.sci.news

How Mercury Might Have Gained Its Surprising Water Supply in Just One Day

Posted on by
Reply
Mercury Ice Deposits

Discovering Mercury’s Ice Deposits

Credit: NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio

Approximately 100 million years ago, dramatic changes transformed Mercury’s surface. Previously dry and ice-free, the planet’s conditions shifted significantly within a single day, coinciding with daytime temperatures soaring above 430°C (806°F).

At Mercury’s poles lie craters known as permanent shadow regions, where sunlight never reaches. NASA’s Messenger spacecraft, which orbited Mercury from 2011 to 2015, confirmed these craters host ice deposits several meters deep. However, their origin remains a mystery.

Prior studies have proposed that a comet-like object, roughly 17 kilometers in diameter, may have impacted Mercury at a speed of approximately 30 kilometers per second. Recent simulations by Parvathy Prem and her team at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory suggest that a larger, slower impactor might be responsible.

“We’ve known for a while that Mercury has ice at its poles, and the idea that these deposits stemmed from impactors isn’t new. However, this is the first time we’ve modeled the entire process and visualized it comprehensively,” Prem stated. “This is my first in-depth look into it.” What happens in this simulation?

The simulation begins with a massive ice and rock chunk colliding with Mercury, creating the expansive Hokusai crater visible on its surface today. Upon impact, the object would have evaporated nearly completely, resulting in a thin but water-rich atmosphere around Mercury.

“To the naked eye, Mercury might seem faint, but at the right wavelength, the planet may emit a brief but noticeable shine,” Prem explained.

While much of the atmosphere would have dispersed due to intense solar radiation, the researchers discovered that slightly more than one-fifth of the water vapor generated by the impactor traveled to the poles, potentially taking refuge in the permanently shadowed regions. This finding aligns more closely with Messenger’s measurements and suggests a larger, slower impactor trapped more water on the surface than previously thought.

If Prem and her team are correct, all these events would have unfolded in just one Mercuryian day, the equivalent of 176 Earth days. “This day may well be the most significant in Mercury’s billion-year history,” remarked Emily Costello from the University of Hawaii.

This research could answer the long-standing question of why Mercury’s polar craters contain ice whereas Earth’s moon has none, despite their striking similarities. “Mercury experienced a massive influx of water recently; the Moon did not,” Costello remarked.

Understanding Mercury’s polar ice deposits may also shed light on the broader narrative of when and how water became present throughout our solar system, including Earth. “Mercury’s polar ice deposits serve as a fascinating geological record of when and how water emerged in the solar system’s interior, and we are now deciphering this record,” Prem noted. The ongoing mission will be supported by the BepiColombo spacecraft, launched in 2018 and set to enter Mercury’s orbit later this year.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Gemini North Telescope Explores the Mysteries of the Crystal Ball Nebula

Posted on by
Reply

Stunning new images captured by the 8.1-meter Gemini North telescope on Mauna Kea, Hawaii, showcase the Crystal Ball Nebula in remarkable detail. This glowing, lumpy mass of gas is intricately shaped by a pair of stars.

This captivating image of the Crystal Ball Nebula was taken by the International Gemini Observatory’s 8.1 m Gemini North Telescope. Image credit: J. Miller & M. Rodriguez, International Gemini Observatory & NSF’s NOIRLab / TA Rector, University of Alaska Anchorage & NSF’s NOIRLab / D. de Martin & M. Zamani, NSF’s NOIRLab.

The Crystal Ball Nebula, located approximately 1,500 light-years away in the constellation Taurus—near the border of Perseus—is officially designated as NGC 1514.

Discovered on November 13, 1790, by the renowned German-British astronomer William Herschel, this nebula is a breathtaking example of celestial beauty.

Utilizing the Gemini Multi-Object Spectrograph (GMOS), the latest images of the Crystal Ball Nebula were captured by the Gemini North Telescope, part of the International Gemini Observatory funded by the NSF and operated by NSF’s NOIRLab.

NOIRLab astronomers classify the Crystal Ball Nebula as a planetary nebula, a term first introduced by Herschel himself. He recognized the spherical shape of these objects in the 1700s, coining the term due to their resemblance to planets—despite the fact that they are entirely unrelated.

Planetary nebulae are formed when a low- or intermediate-mass star expels its outer layers towards the end of its life, creating a spherical gas cloud.

Unlike many planetary nebulae, which typically have smoother shapes, the Crystal Ball Nebula is characterized by its uniquely bumpy gas shells.

As the central star releases this gas, its inner core becomes exposed, with radiation from the core energizing the gas to scorching temperatures, resulting in a colorful glow. For instance, the Crystal Ball Nebula’s temperature is estimated to be around 15,000 K.

Herschel was captivated by the nebula’s dimly lit shell; before his discovery, he believed nebulae to be merely distant collections of stars.

The bright spot at the center of the gaseous shell contradicted this theory. Herschel noted, in 1791: ‘Our judgment, we may venture to say, and it will be, is that the nebula around this star is not of a stellar nature.’

He theorized that the light emanating from the Crystal Ball Nebula originated from a single star, rather than a group of distant stars.

Although the new images may depict a singular bright source at the center—similar to Herschel’s observations—the Crystal Ball Nebula actually harbors two stars.

These two stars form a binary pair that orbits each other with a period of approximately nine years, marking it as the longest known binary star pair within a planetary nebula, according to the astronomers.

Source: www.sci.news

Breakthrough mRNA Vaccine Shows Promise in Protecting Against Multiple Ebola Viruses

Posted on by
Reply
Health officials combating the Bundibugyo virus in the DRC on May 21

Health officials combating the Bundibugyo virus in the DRC on May 21

Michelle Runanga/Getty Images

A groundbreaking mRNA vaccine has been developed that promises long-term protection against lethal viruses in the Ebola family, including the Bundibugyo strain currently present in two African nations.

Over 600 individuals are suspected to be infected with the Bundibugyo virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with two confirmed cases in Uganda. The World Health Organization has classified this outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern.

Bundibugyo virus is part of the ortho-Ebolavirus family, which includes the notorious Zaire and Sudan viruses, all known for causing severe health issues in humans.

While Bundibugyo outbreaks are less common than those of the Zaire strain, which infected over 28,000 people from 2014 to 2016, vaccines for Bundibugyo and Sudanese viruses have yet to be developed, despite the Zaire vaccine being approved.

Recently, Yao Yanfeng and his team at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China reported the successful development of a vaccine that provides protection against all three viruses in animal models.

“The creation of a broad-spectrum vaccine could significantly mitigate outbreaks from multiple ortho-Ebola viruses,” they stated in their recent publication.

The challenge lies in the fact that each Ebola virus has distinct glycoproteins important for infection; however, they all share a common nucleoprotein that encapsulates the virus’s genetic material.

To formulate the new vaccine, Yao and his colleagues combined mRNA coding for each virus’s glycoprotein along with the shared nucleoprotein into a single lipid nanoparticle. These lipid nanoparticles protect the mRNA vaccines until they reach the targeted cells in the body.

After inoculating the mice with the vaccine, the researchers monitored their immune responses and subsequently exposed them to all three viruses. All immunized mice were fully protected against the Zaire and Sudan viruses and showed robust protection against Bundibugyo. Even hamsters infected with the Sudan virus were completely shielded by the vaccine.

The findings indicate the development of a broad-spectrum mRNA vaccine that effectively protects against the Zaire, Sudan, and Bundibugyo viruses. However, researchers emphasize that further trials are essential to confirm its safety and efficacy in humans.

Robert Cross, a professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch, expressed enthusiasm for the innovative direction of medicine, stating, “Ebola vaccines are under research.”

He cautioned that trials in non-human primates are the gold standard for predicting human efficacy, and gaining regulatory approval for vaccines targeting multiple pathogens is a challenging endeavor.

“Securing approval for a vaccine targeting a single virus is notoriously difficult, and the pathway for a multivalent vaccine is even more complex,” Cross noted.

Adrian Esterman, from the University of Adelaide, remarked that while this preclinical study is promising, its applicability is limited to rodents.

“It’s too early to set a firm timeline for clinical application. Progressing from this stage to human trials typically requires several years, as additional animal studies, including trials with primates, are necessary. Manufacturing processes and safety testing also need to be established,” he commented.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

How Political Anger Impacts the Body Differently Than Other Types of Anger

Posted on by
Reply

Sure! Here’s the rewritten content that is SEO-optimized while keeping the HTML tags:

The Influence of Politically-Induced Emotions on Public Action

Ian Francis/Alamy

Feeling overwhelmed by the emotional landscape of world politics? A recent study reveals how political issues evoke distinct bodily sensations compared to everyday emotional experiences. Understanding these differences can help you maintain composure while staying engaged in current events.

“Feeling more is probably beneficial for democracy,” states Manos Tsalis from Royal Holloway, University of London. “To manage your feelings effectively, it’s crucial first to recognize what you’re experiencing. Then, the aim is to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively.”

In the study, Tsalis and his team surveyed around 1,000 participants, asking them to complete body contour maps to identify locations and intensities of emotions like anger, disgust, and hope. They subsequently analyzed how these sensations manifested when participants confronted emotionally charged political terms like “terrorism” and “crime.”

The results formed a digital heat map illustrating how each emotion correlated with physical sensations, intensity levels, and connections prompting either action or feelings of detachment.

Previous studies have shown that emotions are universally experienced in similar ways across different cultures. For instance, depression typically denotes widespread physical deactivation, while anger is associated with heightened energy levels, particularly in the chest, head, and arms.

This new research largely aligns with earlier findings, though it emphasizes emotions linked to political experiences. “During episodes of political-related depression, individuals report heightened sensations throughout their torso and extremities,” notes Tsalis.

Interestingly, political disgust is perceived as a more energetic sensation throughout the upper body, contrasting with non-political disgust that predominantly resonates in the gut. “Political disgust bears similarities to anger,” adds Tsalis.

While the reasons behind these phenomena remain unclear, Tsalis hypothesizes that people may feel overwhelmed by significant political challenges, compelling them to seek collective efforts for change. “Our perception of agency in politics is uniquely different,” he explains. “Individual action often feels insufficient; effective change necessitates a collaborative approach.”

By gaining a deeper understanding of your emotions, you can potentially escape the cycle of destructive doom scrolling. According to Lisa Quad at Brighton and Sussex Medical School in the UK, “We tend to view ourselves as rational beings, but this overlooks the profound impact of our body’s sensations on our decisions and actions.”

Quad and her colleagues have demonstrated that training individuals to better recognize their heartbeats and related physical sensations can significantly alleviate emotional overwhelm, particularly in autistic individuals with anxiety. Being more attuned to your feelings, she suggests, allows you to navigate negative emotions effectively and encourages proactive rather than avoidant behaviors.

Topic:

This version includes SEO-friendly keywords, maintains proper use of HTML tags, and enhances the readability and engagement of the content.

Source: www.newscientist.com

NASA’s Stunning New Image Reveals the Incredible Power of a Supermassive Black Hole

Posted on by
Reply

Recent images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope have illuminated one of the brightest cosmic scenes in the universe.

Messier 77 (M77), commonly referred to as the Squid Galaxy, features swirling tentacles of dust and gas extending into the depths of intergalactic space.

What sets this galaxy apart, located an astounding 47 million light-years from Earth, is the brilliant rays of light emanating from its core.

The new images highlight the remarkable activity of this galactic nucleus. According to Dr. Darren Baskill, an astronomy lecturer at the University of Sussex, “Look how bright the center of this galaxy is compared to the trillions of stars surrounding it,” as reported by BBC Science Focus.

“For many years, the reason behind the incredible brightness of these galactic centers puzzled astronomers, but calculations and observations have shown that the only plausible explanation for such luminous entities is that substantial amounts of gas are spiraling into the supermassive black hole at the galaxy’s center.”







The term “super-sized” inadequately describes M77. With a staggering 8 million solar masses, it boasts a mass double that of Sagittarius A*, the supermassive black hole at the Milky Way’s center.

Furthermore, Baskill notes a significant distinction: “A massive amount of gas is descending in a disk towards the supermassive black hole at the core of M77. In contrast, our Milky Way galaxy is relatively quiet, with only rare stars drifting into its central black hole.”

“This stark difference in gas activity accounts for the dramatic luminosity contrast between M77 and our galaxy.”

Read more:

This content has been rewritten to be more SEO-optimized while retaining the original HTML structure. It includes relevant keywords and maintains a clear and informative style.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Floating Tanks: A Comprehensive Solution for PTSD Recovery Post-Bushfires

Posted on by
Reply
Flotation tanks promising treatment for PTSD

Flotation tanks, often found in luxury spas, show potential for PTSD relief.

Dave Stamboulis / Alamy

A shipping container equipped with three mobile flotation tanks is headed to Maui, Hawaii, aiming to alleviate the mental health crisis following the devastating wildfires—the deadliest in U.S. history. While flotation tanks are typically associated with high-end spas, they offer significant promise in treating anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If the initial deployment proves beneficial, additional units could be dispatched to disaster areas worldwide.

In August 2023, a series of wildfires erupted in Maui, resulting in the tragic loss of 102 lives and the destruction of countless homes and businesses. Since then, there has been an alarming rise in the risk of depression and anxiety, with increased concerns regarding PTSD in the hardest-hit areas.

“Maui lacks the necessary infrastructure to tackle a mental health crisis of this scale,” says Justin Feinstein, a clinical neuropsychologist and founder of a nonprofit dedicated to mental health solutions. “Many individuals are resorting to self-medication. We are witnessing a sharp increase in alcohol consumption, suicidal tendencies, and PTSD cases.”

On May 2nd, Feinstein revealed at the Embodied Mind Summit in Los Angeles that the float unit would provide complimentary sessions for first responders and wildfire survivors, while also gathering long-term data on the efficacy of floatation therapy as a mental health intervention.

Float therapy, or Float-REST (Environmental Stimulus Reduction Therapy), involves lying in a serene pool infused with Epsom salts that allow for effortless floating. The water and air are maintained at body temperature, earplugs minimize noise, and lights are turned off to create an environment free from sensory distractions.

This innovative tank was conceived by neuroscientists in the 1950s to investigate whether the brain requires sensory input to maintain consciousness. The findings indicated that individuals remained aware but reported a profound sense of relaxation.

Feinstein has dedicated over a decade to researching the mental and physical impacts of flotation therapy. His studies suggest that it can significantly reduce anxiety in both volunteers without prior mental health conditions and those suffering from anxiety disorders, depression, and PTSD. Feinstein notes that its calming effects are comparable to those of benzodiazepines, a common class of sedative.

While the precise mechanisms are still being explored, buoyancy is believed to aid in diminishing sensory input and limiting movement, promoting a tranquil state for both body and mind. Studies indicate that within moments of floating, breathing patterns and heart rates decrease, blood pressure drops, and brain activity transitions away from self-referential thinking toward restorative, sleep-like states.

Having resided in Maui since 2020, Feinstein collaborated with Floataway, a UK-based company, to develop a cost-effective, modular float pod that can be easily assembled in a matter of days. The Maui Calm Project aims to deploy these tanks in the region this summer, with the hope of establishing a network of portable floatation units to combat PTSD in disaster-stricken areas.

Sarah Garfinkel, a professor at University College London who examines the physiological basis of PTSD, emphasizes the importance of a relaxing approach in treating this condition. “Hyperarousal is a fundamental aspect of PTSD, often leading to heightened physical responses,” she states. “Floating seems to cultivate a sense of internal safety, which could radically shift our understanding and treatment methods for PTSD. I am truly excited about this research.”

If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to the British Samaritans at 116123 (samaritans.org) or the US Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 (988lifeline.org). For services in other countries, visit bit.ly/SuicideHelplines.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Experiencing the Timeless Wonder of Stonehenge: A Journey Through History

Posted on by
Reply

Majestic Aerial View of Stonehenge

Russell Brown/Alamy

For those eager to experience the wonder of Stonehenge, the most convenient route is along Britain’s A303 road. This ancient Neolithic monument, standing for over 5,000 years, offers one of the most breathtaking vistas for travelers.

Your first sighting of the remarkable stone circles is truly awe-inspiring. But merely driving past it presents a missed opportunity to connect deeply with the site.

While it’s tempting to view Stonehenge as just a magnificent ruin shrouded in mystery, experiencing it from a distance neglects the intimate connection one could have up close. Imagine ascending a hill and witnessing the giant stones slowly rising before you, surrounded by an expansive landscape.

Explore the Origins of Humanity: A Walking Tour in Southwest England

Embark on a journey through the Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Iron Age with this fascinating walking tour that unveils early human history.

Despite extensive research into Stonehenge’s temples, burial sites, and ancient calendars, the site continues to evoke a sense of mystery.

During my visit from Australia, I opted for the Inner Circle Tour led by English Heritage experts, which provided a deeper understanding of the site. As dusk approached, we entered a designated area not open to the public, transforming Stonehenge from a distant silhouette into a magnificent monument rising before us.

James captures a memorable moment at Stonehenge.

James Woodford

We had about 30 minutes to explore, examining the iconic stones from various angles. As our time drew to a close, the sun broke through the clouds, bathing the monument in a warm golden glow. Stonehenge is a powerful reminder of deep time and should be experienced meaningfully, rather than just casually observed from afar.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Australia Faces Historic Diphtheria Outbreak: The Largest in Recent Memory

Posted on by
Reply
Medical workers preparing diphtheria and tetanus vaccines

Preparation for Diphtheria and Tetanus Vaccination

Simanjuntaku/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Diphtheria cases are rising in Australia, marking a concerning trend for the first time since the advent of widespread vaccination in the 1930s.

The nation has reported 230 cases
of this dangerous bacterial infection along with 1 related adult death this year. The surge is attributed to increasing case numbers, primarily affecting remote Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory and Western Australia, and smaller incidences in Queensland and South Australia. Historically, the annual infection rate hovered around zero.

According to Paul Burgess, the Chief Health Officer of the Northern Territory, the latest outbreak stems from an incident dating back to 2022 in Queensland, originally contracted overseas. This highly contagious disease has since spread to Indigenous communities across the Northern Territory and neighboring states, driven by vaccination gaps, high mobility between communities, and crowded living conditions.

Vaccination coverage for diphtheria among five-year-olds in the Northern Territory stands at approximately 92%, but only around 67% of 13-year-olds receive necessary booster shots available through school-based programs. Raina McIntyre from the University of New South Wales noted, “The effectiveness of the vaccine is waning, and booster immunizations are urgently needed.”

This trend partly explains why adolescents and young adults are increasingly falling ill with diphtheria.

Challenges in achieving optimal vaccination rates stem from “increased vaccine misinformation and backlash following the COVID-19 pandemic,” as McIntyre observed. The shortage of healthcare professionals in remote areas further complicates matters.

The diphtheria infection is caused by the Diphtheria bacterium, which affects the skin and respiratory system, producing a toxin that leads to severe complications. Symptoms include painful throat ulcers or a thick gray film in the throat that can obstruct breathing. When toxins enter the bloodstream, severe outcomes, including heart failure and paralysis, may occur.

This bacterium can be transmitted through contact with sores of an infected person or through respiratory droplets.

While treatment can include antibiotics and antitoxins that neutralize the diphtheria toxin, mortality can still occur despite medical intervention.

Before the diphtheria vaccine was introduced, the disease was a leading cause of child mortality worldwide. In Australia, over 4,000 deaths were attributed to diphtheria between the late 1920s and early 1930s.

The Australian government recently announced a funding package of A$7.2 million (£3.8 million) to combat the outbreak, deploying additional healthcare professionals to affected regions for increased vaccination efforts and treatment administration.

Burgess emphasized to the ABC: “We are encouraged by the strong community demand for vaccination in response to this outbreak.”

Globally, the largest diphtheria outbreak since routine immunization began occurred in countries of the former Soviet Union post-1991, with an alarming rate of 140,000 infections and 5,000 deaths resulting from a collapse in vaccination coverage, underscoring that “vaccine program disruptions can lead to outbreaks,” stated McIntyre.

Topics:

  • vaccine /
  • infectious disease

Source: www.newscientist.com

How Earth’s Aging Process Mirrors the Effects of Space Travel

Posted on by
Reply
NASA astronaut Scott Kelly

NASA astronaut Scott Kelly spent 340 days in space on one mission.

NASA

The twin paradox is a classic thought experiment in physics first proposed by Albert Einstein in 1905. This fascinating scenario imagines astronauts journeying through space at nearly the speed of light while their twin remains on Earth. Upon their return, the space traveler discovers their twin has aged significantly more. This discrepancy in aging relates to the relative passage of time experienced by travelers moving at such extreme speeds compared to those stationary on Earth. This concept serves as a reflection on aging in our universe.

While traveling at light-speed remains theoretical, surprising evidence indicates that space travelers actually age more rapidly. Research shows that astronauts spending six months aboard the International Space Station (ISS) age 40 times faster than their Earthbound siblings, according to certain measurements.

As we continue our journey into understanding aging, it’s critical to recognize that many factors exacerbating accelerated aging are becoming increasingly prevalent here on Earth. The encouraging news is that insights gained from protecting astronauts can lead to solutions beneficial for everyone.

To date, about 781 individuals have ventured into space, with varying lengths of stay. While many were briefly aboard, nearly 300 astronauts have completed missions on the ISS, where they typically remain for over six months.

NASA has been vigilant regarding the health impacts of prolonged space missions and is actively researching these effects as we prepare for future Mars expeditions and beyond.

One notable study is the NASA Twin Study. Initiated in 1996, this groundbreaking research involved twin astronauts Scott and Mark Kelly. Both have taken part in shuttle missions, with Scott spending time on the ISS. Following his selection for a year-long ISS mission in 2015, NASA seized the chance to conduct a twin study—a method that assesses the interplay of genetic and environmental factors on health. Although the sample size was limited, significant findings emerged.

Researchers documented changes, particularly in inflammatory markers. Following a year in space, Scott exhibited heightened levels of inflammation and reduced levels of anti-inflammatory cells. These changes are aligned with the characteristics of aging, pinpointing that long-duration space living correlates with accelerated aging markers. Subsequent investigations into other astronauts have confirmed that extended stays in space evoke at least four aging characteristics, including chronic inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Astronauts also face rapid physiological aging symptoms, including declines in cardiovascular health, muscle and bone loss, cognitive impairments, and immune dysfunction. Notably, one cardiovascular measure indicates that astronauts may experience internal aging equivalent to two decades in just six months.

According to research from Daniel Weiner at the Buck Institute on Aging, four space-related factors play significant roles in accelerating aging: the absence of gravity induces muscle and bone atrophy; compressed light-dark cycles disrupt circadian rhythms; exposure to high levels of ionizing radiation; and social isolation, all of which are aging factors.

The negative effects of living in space are comparable to stressors on Earth.

Carly Photography/Getty Images

You may wonder about the relevance of this research to Earthbound individuals. Interestingly, many conditions faced by astronauts share similarities with challenges encountered daily by people. While we may not experience microgravity, a sedentary lifestyle impacts muscles and bones similarly. Moreover, disrupted circadian rhythms and social isolation affect countless individuals, while high levels of ionizing radiation can stem from naturally-occurring radon gas.

Although the mechanisms of aging remain complex, studies involving long-duration astronauts may illuminate these processes. According to Weiner, astronauts serve as exceptional model organisms for aging research; their experiences in space mimic an intense, acute version of chronic stressors contributing to age-related declines in terrestrial populations.

Research efforts focus on discovering anti-aging interventions, benefiting not only astronauts but the broader public as well. NASA remains committed to the health of its personnel and is collaborating with Weiner’s team to uncover molecules that could offset the aging effects of spaceflight. Over the last 70 years, NASA has contributed to various medical advancements, emphasizing the potential societal benefits of their ongoing research endeavors.

Topic:

This version is SEO-optimized while preserving HTML tags and maintaining the essential content of the original text.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Over 1 Billion Birds Die Annually in the U.S. Due to Building Collisions: Here’s Why

Posted on by
Reply

Birds often struggle to distinguish between the outdoors and reflective glass surfaces, leading to collisions with buildings when they mistake reflections of the sky and surrounding vegetation for the natural environment.

Moreover, urban lighting attracts migratory birds at night, increasing the risk of these dangerous encounters.







According to a 2024 study, over 1 billion birds are estimated to perish each year in the United States due to collisions with buildings.

This alarming number exceeds previous estimates, as it includes not only those found deceased at the crash site but also birds that succumbed to injuries while receiving care post-collision.

Researchers are advocating for the construction of bird-friendly buildings, suggesting the addition of visual markers on windows to help reduce these incidents.

This article addresses the question: “How many birds fly into buildings?” (asked by Barry Megan via email).

For any inquiries, feel free to reach out via email at: questions@sciencefocus.com or contact us through Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (please include your name and location).

Explore our ultimate fun facts for more amazing science insights.

Read more:


This optimized content not only retains its original meaning but also includes relevant keywords to enhance SEO performance.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

80 Million Years Ago: How T. rex and Mosasaurs Dominated the Oceans

Posted on by
Reply

Paleontologists have unveiled a colossal new species of Mosasaurus, measuring an impressive 13.2 meters (43 feet) in length, and equipped with serrated teeth, leading to its intriguing name: Tylosaurus rex.

Reconstruction of Tylosaurus rex in the Cretaceous Western North American Interior Seaway. Image credit: Alderon Games / Path of Titans.

Mosasaurs, ancient giant marine reptiles, thrived during the Late Cretaceous Period, approximately 100 to 66 million years ago.

Often likened to dinosaurs, these creatures are actually more closely related to contemporary monitor lizards and snakes.

The family Mosasaurs is categorized into four main subfamilies: Mosasauridae, Plioplatecarpinidae, Tylosauridae, and Halisauridae, each showcasing unique adaptations like flippers, streamlined bodies, and significant size variations.

Among them, Tylosaurid mosasaurs are characterized by a toothless snout, elongated tail, and minimally ossified limbs, adaptations that facilitated their life in open waters.

These ancient reptiles were among the first to achieve true gigantic sizes, surpassing 8 meters (26 feet) in length.

Tylosaurid fossils have been discovered across Europe, Asia, New Zealand, Africa, and Antarctica, with a remarkable abundance along the Western Interior Seaway of North America.

“Everything seems to be bigger in Texas, including mosasaurs,” stated study lead author Dr. Amelia Zietlow, a paleontologist from the American Museum of Natural History.

Dr. Zietlow’s research journey began as a doctoral student, when she identified what seemed to be a misclassified mosasaur fossil from the museum’s collection, previously labeled as Tylosaurus proliger.

Upon comparing her specimen with the holotype Tylosaurus proliger, she and her team concluded that their find, along with over a dozen similar fossils from various institutions, belonged to an entirely different mosasaur family.

This distinction was significant; the fossils of Tylosaurus proliger displayed finely serrated teeth, a rarity among mosasaurs.

While the typical Tylosaurus proliger specimen was found in present-day Kansas and dated to around 84 million years ago, the newly discovered fossils, primarily from Texas, are roughly 4 million years younger.

“The holotype for the newly categorized Tylosaurus rex is an impressive specimen displayed at the Perot Museum, first located in 1979 near Dallas,” remarked paleontologists.

Beyond its massive size, the newly identified Tylosaurus rex showcased a range of adaptations that contributed to its formidable jaw and neck muscles, indicating it was a powerful predator.

“Being approximately twice the length of the largest great white shark, Tylosaurus rex appears to have been a much more aggressive creature compared to other mosasaurs,” explained co-author Dr. Ron Tycosky, curator of vertebrate paleontology at the Perot Museum.

“Studies of well-preserved fossils gathered from across North Texas revealed unprecedented levels of internal conflict within this species, unlike any other Tylosaurus fossils previously documented.”

“Evidence of this aggressive behavior includes the “Black Knight,” a specimen housed in the Perot Museum that is missing the tip of its nose and has a fractured jaw, injuries likely caused by its own kind.”

“Other notable mosasaurus specimens previously known as Tylosaurus proliger, now reclassified as Tylosaurus rex, include the remarkable specimen ‘Bunker’ discovered in 1911 and exhibited at the University of Kansas, as well as ‘Sophie’ at Yale University’s Peabody Museum.”

The research team’s published paper appears in today’s Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History.

_____

Amelia R. Zietlow et al.. 2026. A new giant species of Tylosaurus from Texas (Mosasauridae), and an updated character list for phylogenetic analysis of Mosasauridae. Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History 482; doi: 10.1206/0003-0090.482.1.1

Source: www.sci.news

Why Big Dreams Can Lead to Exhaustion and Suffering: Understanding the Hidden Costs

Posted on by
Reply

Imagine waking up drained instead of refreshed, not because of a lack of sleep, but due to being trapped in relentless, vivid dreams. For many experiencing these “grand dreams,” the repercussions can greatly disrupt daily life.

“These intense experiences linger in my mind, exhausting me and causing constant fatigue,” shares Madame R, a 38-year-old grand dreamer.

Madame R is one of four grand dreamers studied across two centers in France. Despite the scientific explanations for her condition, the phenomenon has been observed for over 20 years. Researchers advocate for recognizing these sleep disturbances as distinct disorders, as supported by detailed case studies from Pierre Geoffroy from the University of Paris.

In her analysis, Madame R noted she has always had extraordinary dreams, a condition that intensified after the birth of her second child. Other subjects included Monsieur W, a 74-year-old whose dreams blur the line between reality and imagination.

Another participant, Monsieur D, 58, reported experiencing excessive dreaming twice weekly for four years. Madame W, 40, stated she cannot recall a moment without dreams, expressing, “It feels like my brain never shuts down at night.”

Dreams can manifest during any sleep stage; however, Geoffroy asserts that due to the narrative-driven nature of these dreams, they likely occur predominantly during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage.

Excessive dreaming could signify extended REM sleep. Polysomnography tests conducted on three of the four dreamers revealed typical REM stages, or slightly reduced sleep duration.

Geoffroy remarked that the polysomnography findings were “not particularly remarkable.” Yet, results indicated increased REM density and microarousals—frequent disruptions that fragment REM sleep. These micro-awakenings could enhance dream recall, leading individuals to feel as if they’ve been dreaming all night.

If a person’s brain consistently remembers their dreams as vivid experiences, they may awaken feeling unrefreshed, despite seemingly adequate sleep data. Ivana Rosenzweig at King’s College London stated, “This doesn’t imply dreaming occurs every second; rather, it questions why the sleep brain fails to let dreams fade, blending them into waking life.”

Researchers also explored if grand dreams correlate with poor mental health, which could contribute to sleep issues. While all participants completed psychiatric assessments, three exhibited signs of depression or anxiety, yet managing these conditions did not alleviate excessive dreaming. Jeffrey pointed out that grand dreams may represent a separate disorder.

Dr. Rosenzweig emphasized that the study “highlights a clinically significant phenomenon that many sleep specialists recognize but is inadequately represented in current diagnostic frameworks.” However, she noted that more extensive research is essential before classifying grand dreams as a unique sleep disorder.

Francesca Siclari from the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience also advocates for further investigation, highlighting, “One major challenge is to determine if excessive dreaming stems from a singular mechanism or represents symptomatic elements across various sleep and psychiatric disorders.”

Rosenzweig and her team anticipate that upcoming research may clarify why some grand dreamers struggle to differentiate between real-life occurrences and dream scenarios. Their ongoing investigations suggest that grand dreams extend beyond atypical sleep disorders, posing fundamental questions regarding the brain’s perception of reality.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

How AI Has Transformed Mathematics: The Biggest Breakthrough in Math History

Posted on by
Reply
Plane Unit Distance Problem

The Plane Unit Distance Problem explores the maximum number of equally sized lines connecting points on an infinite paper.

Noga Alon et al. 2026, OpenAI

An 80-year-old mathematical conjecture, known as the plane unit distance problem, has been solved by OpenAI’s advanced artificial intelligence model. This breakthrough is igniting discussion around the immense mathematical capabilities of AI.

“This is a problem I never expected to see solved in my lifetime,” states Mischa Rudnev from the University of Bristol, UK. “It’s a groundbreaking achievement.”

Tim Gowers commented that the solution represents a “significant milestone in AI mathematics.” He noted in a paper that had it been submitted by a human, it would be accepted without hesitation, highlighting that such groundbreaking evidence of AI-generated solutions is rare.

The plane unit distance problem was deemed by the 20th-century mathematician Paul Erdős as his “most important contribution” to geometry. The challenge lies in determining the maximum number of lines of equal length that can connect numerous dots placed on an infinite paper.

Erdős believed that the optimal arrangement for maximum connections would be a grid layout, suggesting that the number of lines would surpass the number of points only marginally. Persistent efforts to prove his assertion or to discover alternative patterns yielded minimal advances, with the most recent improvements occurring over 40 years ago.

OpenAI’s model revealed that Erdős’s hypothesis was significantly underestimated, demonstrating that a more irregular arrangement of points can yield far more connections.

“Initially, I could hardly believe the results,” remarks Will Sawin from Princeton University. “It convinced me that this achievement is the most remarkable in the realm of AI mathematics so far.”

Details on how the OpenAI model diverges from publicly available AI technology and its training methods remain undisclosed. However, researchers have mentioned that the model is “general purpose” and was not specifically trained for mathematical applications.

AI employed strategies from algebraic number theory to establish extensive lattices in dimensions far exceeding two-dimensional configurations. By creating these more sophisticated shapes, AI translates them into two dimensions to generate representations of the higher dimensions.

“The counterexamples produced by AI are intricate, and while the foundational ideas exist in existing literature, the synthesis to achieve them required ingenuity,” explains Kevin Buzzard from Imperial College London.

While the magnitude of this result is undeniable, it underscores a gap in mathematicians’ consideration of Erdős’s original predictions. Samuel Mansfield from the University of Manchester, England, notes that the complexity of executing an experiment to challenge the conjecture would have eluded many geometry experts lacking advanced number theory knowledge. “This highlights a necessity for interdisciplinary expertise,” he adds. “In hindsight, AI’s adaptability in this area may not be surprising.”

Rudnev emphasized that the problem’s allure lies in its “pure intellectual challenge,” and although it may not directly influence other unresolved questions, it has inspired further research. Sawin, after examining the proof, utilized the techniques unearthed by AI to advance the number of connectable points.

“Similar to many other AI milestones, it didn’t take long for human researchers to internalize, comprehend, and extend upon the AI-derived arguments,” commented Buzzard. “This contrasts sharply with human discoveries that often require extensive validation periods.

Topics:

  • Artificial Intelligence/
  • Mathematics

Source: www.newscientist.com