This week, an early-season heatwave has shattered multiple temperature records in California and Arizona, hitting unprecedented highs on Wednesday and Thursday.
Summer-like weather conditions are anticipated to persist and extend towards the eastern regions.
Currently, nearly 38 million individuals in Southern California and the desert Southwest are under heat warnings, with temperatures regularly reaching the low 90s and even exceeding 100 degrees. This extreme heat is attributed to a massive heat dome that remains stagnant over the Western U.S.
In Palm Springs, California, Thursday’s temperature soared to an astonishing 107 degrees Fahrenheit, marking a new record for March. The previous record of 105 was set just a day earlier.
Additionally, the Coachella Valley city of Indio experienced record-breaking temperatures, reaching 108 degrees on Thursday—the highest ever recorded for March.
California witnessed numerous daily records, including a Thursday high of 101 degrees in Riverside. The day prior, a high of 95 degrees was established. Anaheim saw 88 degrees, while Sacramento recorded 85 degrees, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Over in Yuma County, Arizona, temperatures reached a remarkable 110 degrees on Thursday, setting a new record for the hottest March temperature ever recorded in the U.S., as confirmed by the National Weather Service.
Phoenix also recorded a high of 102 degrees on Wednesday, marking the earliest occurrence of triple-digit temperatures. On Thursday, temperatures escalated to 104 degrees.
“This is not just the first 100-degree day of 2026 but also the earliest recorded in Phoenix—previously occurring on March 26, 1988,” the NWS field office noted in a post on Wednesday.
Looking ahead, Phoenix is expected to see temperatures reach 106 degrees on Friday and Saturday, with a heatwave warning in effect until Sunday.
Las Vegas is also experiencing a surge in temperatures, setting a new March record of 95 degrees on Thursday. Local offices of the NWS predict temperatures could soar to 100 degrees on Friday, as reported by officials.
Regions in Oregon, Idaho, and Wyoming are also witnessing unusually warm conditions. The NWS office in Boise recorded a high of 80 degrees on Wednesday afternoon, marking the earliest date in history to reach that temperature since records began in 1875.
According to the NWS, this also marks only the second time Boise has reached 80 degrees in March since March 19, 1997, as stated in a post on X.
The extreme heat is forecasted to intensify over the weekend, moving eastward into the Rocky Mountains and the South-Central Plains.
“High temperatures are predicted to remain in the mid to upper 90s across Texas, while areas as far north as Nebraska and South Dakota could experience temperatures in the low to mid 90s,” the NWS stated on Thursday.
Skiers on the snowy slopes of Breckenridge Ski Resort in Colorado donned lighter attire as temperatures soared to 50 degrees on Wednesday. Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images
In Colorado, new temperature records are on the horizon, with Friday’s forecasted highs at 84 degrees in Denver, 86 degrees in Fort Collins, and 83 degrees in Boulder. The NWS has warned of increasing temperatures over the weekend.
This week’s heatwave is driven by a persistent ridge of high pressure that effectively traps hot air over the western United States.
While assessing the exact impacts of climate change on specific weather patterns is complex, it’s evident that global warming will lead to more frequent, intense, and prolonged heatwaves.
The rain-soaked Hawaiian Islands are preparing for another potential flood this Thursday, just days after record-breaking storms wreaked havoc, buckling roads and damaging buildings.
While this impending storm is expected to be weaker than its predecessors, the National Weather Service (NWS) warns that flooding could return quickly. A majority of Hawaii remains under a flood watch.
“Due to the high soil saturation from the recent Kona storm, even moderate rainfall poses a risk of rapid runoff and flooding,” stated NWS forecasters on Thursday.
Kona storms are pivotal weather patterns in Hawaii, responsible for delivering heavy rain to the island’s typically dry leeward regions. The rainfall anticipated this week is attributed to a new Kona storm.
These storms significantly interact with Hawaii’s wildfire concerns. The areas receiving the Kona storm’s heavy rains have historically also been wildfire-prone. Rainfall in these fire-affected regions increases runoff and erosion, exacerbating flooding and rising landslide risks.
Lahaina, where over 100 lives were lost in the 2023 Maui fires, is significantly impacted by the recent flooding. Joseph Puruta, a Lahaina resident who lost his home in the fire, lamented the debris washing down the burn scar.
“Debris is flowing down the hill into homes, the ocean, and the streets. It’s a dire situation,” Puruta stated.
The extreme rainfall in Hawaii coincides with widespread weather chaos across the U.S. On Wednesday and Thursday, California and Arizona recorded unprecedented high temperatures, with some areas hitting the 90s and even triple digits. Previously, heavy snow impacted Nebraska, which is also battling severe wildfires.
Hawaii is no stranger to rain, primarily caused by a phenomenon known as “orographic lift,” where trade winds encounter the island’s mountainous terrains. This interaction forces air upwards, leading to cooling and cloud formation. Typically, the winds blow from the northeast, keeping most precipitation confined to the upwind regions.
“In upwind areas, the annual average is about 400 inches,” remarked Thomas Giambelka, a professor emeritus at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
Conversely, the southern and western parts of the island generally stay relatively dry.
However, during Kona Arashi, this norm reverses. Storms arise due to shifts in the jet stream, a high-altitude air flow moving from west to east. In a Kona storm, low pressure drifts away from the jet stream and gathers northwest of the island, pulling moist tropical air toward Hawaii. This results in winds blowing from the south, delivering heavy rainfall to normally dry regions.
Maui County spokesperson Lakshmi Abraham indicated that the impact is “unlike anything we’ve encountered in our lifetimes.”
A boat runs aground off the coast of Kihei, Hawaii, during heavy rain on March 13th. Maui County (via AP)
The Kona storm impacts Maui areas where wildfires are increasingly common. This trend is linked to the spread of non-native, highly flammable grasses, especially on previously cultivated lands.
According to Clay Trauernicht, a wildland fire expert at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, the dangers posed by these invasive grasses have been a longstanding concern. The 2023 Lahaina fire brought this issue to the forefront.
However, many people still fail to recognize the close relationship between fires and floods, Trauernicht noted.
Flooding can facilitate the growth of non-native grasses, which subsequently die during droughts.
“This cycle adds more fuel to the situation,” remarked Camilo Mora, a climate scientist and professor at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
Concurrently, rain can rapidly run off the recently scorched slopes, intensifying flooding risks, Trauernicht explained. Additionally, areas filled with unburned non-native grasses have shallower water tables that are less absorbent than native forests.
“The root structure tends to be matted with shallow roots,” Trauernicht observed. “This contributes to more water flowing over the surface.”
Locations like Lahaina are “extremely vulnerable due to their fire history,” Trauernicht emphasized.
Historically, many areas were susceptible to flooding, even before the wildfire issue escalated. Portions of South Maui are situated in federally designated floodplains, including parts of Kihei. Reports indicate apartment collapses and road deterioration during the recent storm, according to Hawaii News Now.
Maui County Public Works Director Jordan Molina commented on the ongoing upgrades to the region’s drainage systems to enhance resilience against flooding, although recent storms have stressed existing infrastructure.
“Creating an infrastructure capable of entirely mitigating flooding during extreme storms, like this Kona storm, would necessitate a vast and costly system that is financially impractical,” Molina stated via email.
The Department of Public Works prepared equipment on Wednesday and Thursday in anticipation of the next storm, clearing debris from roads and inspecting drainage channels for blockages.
“It’s worrisome, but we are prepared for flooding,” Giambellucci remarked. “Handling this repeatedly could be detrimental.”
Utilizing data from ESA’s Gaia mission and NASA’s Exoplanet Archive, astronomers at Cornell University have discovered 45 rocky exoplanets in the habitable zone and 24 within the more specific 3D habitable zone. This groundbreaking research aids scientists in their quest for extraterrestrial life.
Artist’s impression of a planetary system around a star slightly hotter than the Sun. Image credit: Gillis Rowley.
“With over 6,000 known exoplanets from successful ground and space investigations, the research landscape has evolved significantly,” said Professor Lisa Kaltenegger of Cornell University and colleagues.
The expanding catalog of exoplanets enables astronomers to compile a targeted list for examining the boundaries of the habitable zone empirically.
This study reveals the identification of 45 rocky worlds that could potentially support life in the habitable zone, with an additional 24 in the narrower 3D habitable zone, suggesting a more cautious view on the heat a planet can endure.
Highlighted exoplanets include notable names such as Proxima Centauri b, Trappist 1f, and Kepler 186f, alongside lesser-known entities like TOI-715b.
Noteworthy planets include TRAPPIST-1d, e, f, g located 40 light-years from Earth, and LHS 1140 b, which is 48 light-years away. The possibility of liquid water on these planets hinges on their capacity to retain atmospheres.
Planets that receive light similar to that of Earth from the Sun are among the transiting candidates TRAPPIST 1e, TOI-715b, Kepler 1652b, Kepler 442b, and Kepler 1544b, as well as the star-wobble planets Proxima Centauri b, Gliese 1061d, Gliese 1002b, and Wolf 1069b.
The researchers also anticipate that planets on the edge of the habitable zone might clarify the limits of habitability and validate current scientific theories.
“Though the habitable zone concept has evolved since the 1970s, new observations are critical for determining whether adaptations are necessary,” stated Professor Kaltenegger.
Diagram displaying the boundaries of habitable zones across various star types, including rocky exoplanets. Image credit: Gillis Lowry / Pablo Carlos Budassi.
Moreover, exoplanets with unique elliptical orbits can monitor how variations in heat affect habitability, providing insights into whether a planet must remain in the habitable zone to sustain life.
Transiting planets useful for assessing habitability at the inner edge include K2-239d, TOI-700e, K2-3d, along with the star-wobble planets Wolf 1061c and Gliese 1061c.
On the outer edges of the habitable zone, planets like TRAPPIST-1g, Kepler-441b, and Gliese 1002c will be critical to exploring colder environments.
“Determining the factors that enhance the likelihood of life is complex, but narrowing down the best targets for observation is an essential first step,” remarked Gillis Rowley, a graduate student at San Francisco State University.
The research team has categorized optimal planets for observational techniques to maximize the chances of detecting signs of life.
This curated list will direct astronomers in their investigations using advanced instruments like the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, the future Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, the Very Large Telescope, the Habitable World Observatory, and the proposed Large Interferometer for Exoplanets (LIFE) project.
“Observing these small exoplanets is crucial to understanding their atmospheres and refining theories about their habitable zones,” concluded Lowry.
The research team’s paper is published today in the Royal Astronomical Society Monthly Notices.
_____
Abigail Ball et al. 2026. Exploring the boundaries of the habitable zone: A catalog of rocky exoplanets in the habitable zone. MNRAS 547 (3): stag028; doi: 10.1093/mnras/stag028
A newly discovered species of small herbivorous dinosaur has been unveiled from a partial skeleton of a juvenile found in South Korea.
Artist’s interpretation of Durisaurus humini. Image courtesy of Jun Song Yi.
Durisaurus humini, a dinosaur species that thrived in what is now Korea during the mid-Cretaceous period, approximately 113 to 94 million years ago.
This prehistoric species belongs to the Thescelosauridae family, a group of bipedal dinosaurs known to populate East Asia and North America during the Cretaceous.
“The fossil record of dinosaur skeletons in South Korea has historically been limited in abundance and completeness,” stated paleontologist Dr. Jeong-yoon Jeong from the University of Texas at Austin and Chonnam National University.
“Currently, only two dinosaur species from South Korea have been recognized, both characterized by partial posterior skulls from the late Cretaceous period: Coriaceratops fasongensis and the newly identified Collenosaurus bosongensis from the Senso Zaibatsu.”
The fossilized remains of Durisaurus humini were uncovered in 2023 within mid-Cretaceous rocks, specifically in the Nishiroyama layer on the southwestern coast of the Korean Peninsula.
The specimen encompasses a skull, vertebrae, hind limbs, and multiple bezoars (digestive stones).
Advanced X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) allowed researchers to reveal hidden anatomical details of the dinosaur’s interior embedded within the rock.
With a fuzzy coat, the dinosaur was likely about the size of a turkey but still a juvenile. Durisaurus humini may have eventually reached double this size.
Histological analysis suggests that this individual was very young, possibly around 2 years old.
“It would have been incredibly cute, resembling a young lamb,” commented Julia Clark, a paleontologist at the University of Texas at Austin.
Durisaurus humini marks the first new dinosaur species discovered in South Korea in 15 years, and it is the first dinosaur fossil with a partial skull to be found in the country.
“Upon discovering the specimen, we immediately noted some preserved leg bones and vertebrae,” Dr. Jung said.
“We were pleasantly surprised to find parts of the skull and other bones hidden within the rock blocks, creating significant excitement among the team.”
The clusters of gastroliths and their dimensions suggest that Durisaurus humini may have had a more omnivorous diet than previously assumed.
“The morphology of the gastroliths associated with Durisaurus humini and other early neoplacolates may imply a generalized or omnivorous dietary approach for this group,” the researchers noted.
“However, variations in gastric anatomy and bezoar use observed in modern birds indicate a cautious approach is necessary when interpreting dietary habits of non-avian dinosaurs.”
This groundbreaking discovery emphasizes the potential for further skeletal finds in South Korea, particularly at paleontological sites like Afed, where environmental conditions differ from those at locations known for rich trace fossil deposits.
Durisaurus humini suggests a greater diversity of Cretaceous dinosaurs in Korea than currently reflected in the trace fossil record,” the authors concluded.
For detailed insights, refer to their paper, published today in the online journal Fossil Record.
_____
J. Jung et al. 2026. A new species of dinosaur discovered in Korea and its implications on the diversity of early-diverging neoplates. Fossil Record 29 (1): 87-113; doi: 10.3897/fr.29.178152
Most of the global warming effect from aviation is attributed to contrails.
Tack/imageBROKER/Shutterstock
A recent study involving thousands of flights between the United States and Europe indicates that contrails—a factor in global warming—are significantly reduced when aircraft follow AI-recommended flight paths.
These condensation trails, formed by soot particles from aircraft engines, are suspected to contribute more to global warming than the carbon dioxide emissions from airplanes. Additionally, research indicates that specific icy regions in the upper atmosphere are more prone to contrail formation, and AI can effectively utilize detailed weather forecasts to identify these areas.
Initial small-scale trials demonstrate that rerouting planes can diminish contrail formation, yet this method has not been extensively implemented for commercial flights.
In a collaborative study, Dinesh Sanekom and his team at Google employed an AI-based contrail prediction tool to optimize flight routes during a randomized controlled trial involving over 2,400 American Airlines flights.
This examination spanned approximately 17 weeks from January to May 2025 and included eastbound flights from the U.S. to Europe at night, when contrails are known to exert a stronger warming influence. During daylight, contrails tend to reflect solar radiation, thus generating a cooling effect.
Each flight path between two cities was randomly allocated to one of two groups. The first group had access to an AI-optimized route in their flight planning software, allowing them to select paths with fewer contrails; in contrast, the second group received no such suggestions.
Though dispatchers in the first group had the choice of selecting contrail-optimized routes, logistical concerns led only 112 out of 1,232 flights to opt for alternate paths, according to Sanecom.
AI analysis using satellite imagery revealed that flights utilizing contrail-optimized routes suggested by air traffic controllers experienced a 62% decrease in visible contrail formation. When considering all flights with access to contrail-optimized routes, the overall contrail reduction compared to the control group was 11.6%.
“These findings validate our hypothesis that scalable routes can effectively mitigate contrail formation on numerous flights, provided we safely and accurately integrate this process into flight planning,” says Sanecom.
Researchers estimated that the overall global warming impact of flights was reduced by 13.7% for the group utilizing the suggested routes, and by as much as 69.3% for flights that implemented the optimized routing. Notably, there was no significant difference in fuel consumption between the two groups.
“This approach may represent the most effective solution available today,” states Edward Grisspeed from Imperial College London. “The observed 62% reduction in contrails identified by satellite is unlikely to be coincidental.”
However, due to the intricacies of flight planning, the extent of the 11.6% reduction may not entirely reflect real-world operations, as Grisspeed notes: “It’s challenging to extrapolate this to achieve a 60% reduction in contrails for every flight. Even a 10% reduction, though, would create a meaningful impact.”
Probiotic Creams: A Safer Approach to Frigid Environments
Credit: Aurora Photos, USA
Polar explorers and deep-sea divers may soon benefit from probiotic creams that help prevent frostbite and hypothermia. This revolutionary idea stems from groundbreaking research that genetically modified skin bacteria to detect temperature changes and generate additional warmth as needed.
As stated by Harris Wang from Columbia University, who was not directly involved with the research, “This is very creative work. Such a cream could be pivotal in preventing frostbite.” He notes potential applications in keeping warm during winter or protecting against frostbite on expeditions, including deep-sea diving.
Guillermo Nevoto Sanchez and his research team at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona have engineered a strain of C. acnes, commonly found on healthy skin, to produce double the usual amount of heat. Using the CRISPR genetic editing tool, they modified a protein called arcC that plays a crucial role in energy production.
The team also leveraged CRISPR to adjust the expression of heat-sensitive genes within various batches of C. acnes. This modification enables these microorganisms to sense temperatures exceeding 32°C (90°F) and emit a fluorescent signal as an alert.
Nebot-Sanchez remarks that this research provides a foundational concept demonstrating that skin bacteria can be engineered for greater heat production in reaction to temperature variations. Future work must focus on merging these capabilities to also identify dangerously low temperatures, not just the high ones.
Nebot-Sanchez shared insights from an unpublished experiment indicating that the modified strain of C. acnes can thrive when incorporated into creams.
“We may develop probiotic creams to cover significant body areas, which could help prevent hypothermia during cold hikes,” Nebot-Sanchez mentioned at the Synthetic Biology for Health and Sustainability conference held in Hinxton, UK, on March 12. This innovation could also benefit individuals residing in harsh, cold climates.
However, Wang emphasizes that further research is necessary to assess how effectively these creams warm human skin samples in laboratory conditions or in mice. Additionally, strategies to eliminate bacteria when needed—such as utilizing a secondary cream—are crucial to mitigate potential side effects like overheating, according to Nebot-Sanchez.
A groundbreaking discovery of 142 beads and pendants from five archaeological sites in Israel’s Natufian period (15,000 to 11,650 years ago) indicates that clay was first utilized for symbolic purposes and identity rather than for tools or cooking. Remarkably, many of these artifacts bear the fingerprints of children, suggesting that young makers played a vital role in this ancient artistry. These findings illuminate the origins of art, education, and social expression well before the advent of agriculture.
Late Natufian period butterfly clay beads from Einan Maraha in the upper Jordan Valley. Colored ocher red and bearing the fingerprints of a child (approximately 10 years old) who crafted it 12,000 years ago. Image credit: Laurent Davin.
“This discovery fundamentally alters our understanding of the relationship between clay, symbolism, and the emergence of sedentary life,” stated Laurent Davin, an archaeologist at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
The study analyzed a collection of 142 beads and pendants from five Natufian sites, revealing over 3,000 years of continuous occupation.
Each bead, small enough to fit in a child’s hand, was meticulously shaped into cylinders, disks, and ovals using unbaked clay.
Many beads featured a coating of red ocher applied using a technique called engobe, signifying the oldest known usage of this coloring method.
The extensive variety and quantity of beads discovered indicate that this was not an isolated venture but rather a rich cultural tradition.
Evidence suggests that clay served as a medium for visual communication long before being utilized for practical objects like bowls and jars.
The researchers identified 19 distinct bead types, many inspired by plants central to Natufian life, including wild barley, einkorn wheat, lentils, and peas—key crops that would later form the foundation of agriculture.
Fascinatingly, traces of plant fibers found on several beads provide insights into how these ornaments were worn and strung, highlighting organic materials that typically vanish from the archaeological record.
This eclectic collection strongly implies that nature, especially the plant kingdom, served not only as a food source but also as a foundation for cultural significance.
Perhaps the most astonishing revelation comes from the fingerprints preserved on the beads. A total of 50 prints were recovered, allowing scientists to identify the ages of their makers—children, youths, and adults alike.
This marks the first instance where archaeologists have successfully identified the creators of Paleolithic ornaments, showcasing the largest collection of fingerprints from this era.
Some artifacts appear to have been designed for children, such as a small clay ring measuring only 10 mm in diameter.
This suggests that crafting ornaments was a prevalent activity, playing an essential role in learning, imitation, and the transfer of social values through generations.
For decades, researchers believed that the symbolic use of clay in Southwest Asia arose solely from agricultural practices and Neolithic lifestyles.
This pivotal study, alongside the recent discovery of clay figurines at Nahal Ein Geb II, challenges that assumption.
Instead, it indicates that a symbolic revolution began during the early phases of sedentarization, when communities were transitioning to settled lifestyles while still hunting and gathering.
Clay ornaments emerged as a means of visual and public expression of identity, belonging, and social connections.
“These objects reveal that significant social and cognitive transformations were already taking place,” noted Leore Grossman, a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
“The roots of the Neolithic period run deeper than we once realized.”
“By documenting one of the world’s oldest traditions of clay decoration, our study repositions the Natufians not just as agricultural pioneers, but as innovative cultural personalities who employed clay to convey their identities and aspirations.” Read the full study, published in the journal Science Advances.
_____
Laurent Davin et al. 2026. Modeling identity in the first settled communities: The emergence of clay ornaments in Paleolithic Southwest Asia. Science Advances 12(12); doi: 10.1126/sciadv.aea2158
U.S. and German researchers have discovered a unique fungal protein capable of freezing water at relatively warmer subzero temperatures. This breakthrough opens up exciting possibilities for safer cloud seeding, enhanced climate models, and innovative advancements in food preservation and medicine.
Mortierellomycetes and Umbelopsidomycetes fungi from freshwater ecosystems in Korea. Image credit: Goh et al., doi: 10.4489/kjm.20230018.
In cloud seeding, particles known as ice nucleators are introduced into clouds to promote the transformation of cloud water into ice crystals.
As more water molecules adhere to these crystals, they grow in size.
This process creates a snowball effect, where ice crystals become heavier, descend to the ground, and melt into rain as they traverse the atmosphere.
Typically, conventional ice nucleators like silver iodide are used, which are highly toxic.
Professor Boris Binatzer and his team at Virginia Tech suggest that these fungal protein molecules could present a safer alternative.
“If we can efficiently produce these fungal proteins in large quantities, we could enhance cloud seeding safety,” Professor Binatzer stated.
The researchers also uncovered that the fungal genes responsible for ice nucleation proteins likely originated from bacterial species through horizontal gene transfer, a process that occurred hundreds of thousands of years ago.
“While we know fungi can acquire bacterial genes, this isn’t commonplace,” explains Professor Binatzer.
Since the early 1990s, researchers have been aware of fungi’s ability to form ice nuclei. Recent advancements in DNA sequencing and computational biology have enabled the sequencing of genomes from a specific fungal family, Mortierellaceae, revealing the genes coding for ice nucleation proteins.
The function of the acquired genes for fungi is still unclear, but it is evident they have enhanced their capabilities over time.
This genetic modification offers significant human benefits.
The ice-nucleating proteins produced by fungi are distinct from those produced by bacteria in that they are cell-free and water-soluble.
These characteristics make fungal molecules highly attractive for bioinspired refrigeration technologies and artificial weather manipulation.
For instance, in frozen food production, fungal molecules present a safer option compared to bacterial ones since fungi only secrete ice-nucleating proteins, eliminating the need for entire bacterial cells.
“This is a major advantage in food production, allowing use of a single well-defined protein while omitting unnecessary components,” Professor Vinatzer added.
“We have the potential to create safe and effective additives for frozen food preparation.”
Additionally, fungal ice nucleation may prove beneficial in the cryopreservation of cells such as tissues, sperm, eggs, and embryos.
“Utilizing fungal ice nucleators—relatively small molecules—enables faster freezing of water around cells, safeguarding delicate cellular structures,” stated Professor Binatzer.
“This approach is not feasible with bacteria since the entire bacterial cell must be added.”
Ice nucleation plays a crucial role in climate models, impacting predictions of how much radiation is reflected back into space by clouds versus what reaches Earth. Ice presence in clouds allows more radiation to reach our planet.
With the identification of these fungal molecules, determining their quantity in clouds becomes more manageable.
In the long term, this pioneering research could significantly enhance climate modeling accuracy.
For further details, refer to the study findings published in the journal Scientific Progress.
_____
Rosemary J. Eufemio et al. 2026. A previously unrecognized class of fungal ice nucleoproteins with bacterial ancestry. Scientific Progress 12(11); doi: 10.1126/sciadv.aed9652
When scientists analyze complex human diseases, such as cancer, a crucial step involves comparing the DNA sequence of a diseased individual to a reference genome from a healthy individual. This analysis helps identify genetic variations that may contribute to the disease, enabling researchers to accurately categorize the illness and understand its treatment responses.
Since the year 2000, the standard human reference genome has been incomplete, limiting researchers’ ability to access certain challenging genomic regions. This resulted in false positives, complicating the identification of true genetic variants responsible for tumor growth.
In 2022, the Society of Scientists announced a groundbreaking achievement: the first truly complete human genome, generated using advanced technology that minimizes fragmentation. This development has prompted extensive research into the benefits of utilizing new genomes in the study of complex genetic diseases, including cancer.
Researchers based in Canada and the United States proposed that employing the complete human genome could enhance the detection of structural variants, allowing for more accurate cancer diagnosis compared to traditional reference genomes. This analogy likens genomic mutations to missing or altered paragraphs in a textbook; structural mutations can lead to cancer by duplicating oncogenes, causing abnormal gene fusions, and inactivating tumor-suppressor genes.
To validate their hypothesis, researchers utilized established cancer cell models, specifically cancer cell lines alongside the cancer-free control known as COLO829. This particular cell line serves as a benchmark for evaluating new mutation detection methods. They analyzed multiple samples of the COLO829 cell line sequenced by different laboratories, as well as tumor samples from patients diagnosed with blood cancer, brain cancer, and ovarian cancer, thereby ensuring a real-world context for their findings.
The complete human reference genome incorporates approximately 200 million additional base pairs, effectively filling in gaps and rectifying missing regions from the previous standard. When the COLO829 sample was examined, the number of structural variants incorrectly identified using the outdated reference genome significantly decreased, from 225 to just 83 with the new genome. This advancement greatly enhances our capability to detect structural variations.
The research team noted that while the new human reference genome improves the precision of DNA change identification, it contains less labeled medical information compared to the older genome. To address this, they employed a tool called Levio SAM2 to align results from new and previous genomes, thereby combining the enhanced accuracy of new genomes with the extensive medical knowledge of older references, yielding optimal results.
The team applied this integrated approach to three patient samples and discovered that the number of cancer-specific mutation candidates needing manual clinical review was significantly reduced compared to using traditional reference genomes. This reduction streamlines the labor-intensive process of identifying true cancer-causing mutations, with one large variant, 609,000 base pairs in length, identified in a patient’s sample. This variant exhibited minimal signals in the old reference genome but displayed clear evidence in the new genome.
In conclusion, the researchers’ approach enhances structural mutation detection in cancer by minimizing false positives, allowing physicians to prioritize clinically significant mutations. They emphasized that lowering false positives is crucial in analyzing patient samples, and filtering out spurious mutations to isolate genuine cancer drivers requires considerable time and expertise. Although their liftover strategy increased analysis time by approximately 50% compared to solely using the old reference genome, researchers deemed this trade-off acceptable due to the considerable improvements in accuracy.
NASA is set to return its colossal moon rocket to the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Thursday night, gearing up for the much-anticipated lunar journey with four astronauts aboard.
The impressive 322-foot-tall Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, carrying the Orion capsule, is on track for a launch that could initiate a 10-day mission as early as April 1. Before this, the rocket and spacecraft must conduct a meticulous four-mile trek from the hangar to the launch pad.
This journey is expected to commence at 8:00 PM ET and wrap up approximately 12 hours later.
This marks the second rollout for the 11-million-pound rocket. Initially rolled out to the launch pad in mid-January, it returned to the vehicle assembly building for necessary repairs after engineers identified a helium flow blockage a few weeks ago.
Utilizing a mobile platform known as a crawler transporter, the rocket will be moved back to its launch pad, progressing at a steady pace of about 1 mile per hour.
The upcoming mission, titled Artemis II, will mark the first time humans are launched aboard NASA’s Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft. This mission follows the 2022 unmanned Artemis I mission, which orbited the moon. The crew, including NASA astronauts Reed Wiseman, Christina Koch, Victor Glover, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, could achieve unprecedented distances from Earth as they navigate around the moon.
NASA successfully resolved the helium flow issue while the rocket was in the hangar by replacing a crucial seal in the helium supply line. Engineers also changed batteries on both the rocket and Orion spacecraft, conducting rigorous tests to ensure readiness.
The helium issue came to light during extensive refueling tests and a launch-day rehearsal known as a wet dress rehearsal. This was the second rehearsal for the SLS, as the first had to be halted due to a hydrogen leak detected at the rocket’s rear end.
Last week, NASA officials conducted a comprehensive two-day Flight Readiness Review, bringing together mission managers, four astronauts, and key representatives to evaluate the upcoming flight, assess risks, and outline the necessary steps ahead. The agency confirmed its decision in April to proceed with launch preparations, officially certifying the rocket and spacecraft for their historic mission.
Here’s the SEO-optimized version while retaining the HTML tags:
Maggie Aderin has hosted BBC’s The Sky at Night since 2014
Photo by Paul Wilkinson
Maggie Aderin, renowned as one of Britain’s leading scientists, grew up inspired by Star Trek, dreaming of venturing into space. Currently, she plays a pivotal role in astrobiology, and her impressive career includes working on significant projects like the James Webb and Gemini telescopes. In a recent New Scientist podcast titled The World, The Universe and Us, she discussed her autobiography Starchild: My Life Under the Night Sky and her remarkable journey.
Rowan Hooper: Maggie, as the host of The Sky at Night and President of the British Science Association, you have profoundly influenced science education. Your book, Starchild, effectively communicates, “I did this, so you can too.” Is inspiring youth a central theme behind this?
Maggie Aderin: Absolutely! I often encourage children to reach for the stars. Inspired by childhood shows like Power Rangers and Star Trek, my ambition has driven me to achieve things I once thought impossible. The idea of dreaming big made me want to share my story through this book.
Incredible! You attended 13 schools in 12 years. How did that experience shape you?
Interestingly, I didn’t realize this unusual circumstance wasn’t common. My parents’ divorce led to constant changes in my environment.
At just four years old, your father asked you which Oxbridge university you planned to attend. What was his motivation?
My father, an immigrant from Nigeria, understood the importance of education. Despite facing challenges in Britain in the late 60s, he emphasized the value of education to his four daughters from an early age.
“
This is another crazy dream. I want to walk beside Neil Armstrong’s footsteps. “
Your journey includes building your own telescope and being the only Black woman in your physics class. Now, you even have a Barbie doll made in your likeness. How does your book encapsulate this journey?
Indeed! Everything I’ve done connects beautifully, like a telescope coming into focus. Inspired by The Sky at Night, I built my first telescope at age 14 with guidance from an educational magazine.
Your love for the moon comes through in the book. Can you share your connection?
In my family, I’m the self-proclaimed ‘lunatic.’ My father equated the moon with friendship, guiding his path on dark nights. Although stars are often obscured in inner-city London, the moon shines brightly, symbolizing connection and guidance in my life.
During your Royal Institution Christmas Lecture, you addressed the question of life beyond Earth. What insights did you share?
After desiring to give a lecture for 57 years, I explored our planet, our solar system, and beyond, discussing exoplanets and biosignatures. The evolution of our understanding surrounding these concepts is profound.
Were you involved in the advancements at the James Webb Space Telescope?
Yes! I worked with the Near-Infrared Spectrometer, which, alongside the Hubble Space Telescope, has transformed our understanding of the universe, raising many questions and expanding our knowledge base.
What message resonates most with children during your school visits?
I emphasize that you don’t have to be perfect to serve as a role model. My own challenges of dyslexia and ADHD demonstrate that imperfections do not hinder achievement. Everyone has a unique light to shine, and that diversity enriches our world.
“
Science thrives on diversity. A monotonous group yields uniform thinking. “
Your book includes instances of being mistaken for a cleaner. Has progress been made regarding diversity in your field since your student days?
It’s difficult to assess, but while there has been some progress, challenges remain. Overall, I believe society is moving in a positive direction, yet there’s still work to be done.
As the only woman or Black person in the room, I feel a unique responsibility, but it’s essential that organizations recognize the need for diversity. Breakthroughs in science require a tapestry of perspectives for true innovation.
Throughout your career, have you noticed a growing skepticism toward science? Is astronomy affected by this?
There’s a noticeable distrust towards experts, driven by skepticism. During climate change lectures, I’ve faced claims of scientists manipulating data for funding. However, astronomy often transcends this skepticism; it is a pure quest for knowledge, feeding into humanity’s age-old curiosity about the cosmos.
This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity for the New Scientist podcast.
Topics:
### SEO Optimization Considerations:
– Enhanced alt text for images for better image recognition.
– Improved headline structure to include keywords that relate to Maggie Aderin, her work, and the themes of the interview.
– Stronger text emphasizing her contributions to astronomy and science communication.
– Retained original HTML structure for formatting, ensuring compatibility with web standards.
Contrails are the primary contributor to the global warming impact of flights.
Credit: Tuck/imageBROKER/Shutterstock
A groundbreaking study involving thousands of flights between the United States and Europe reveals that contrails are less frequent when airplanes follow AI-recommended flight paths designed to minimize global warming impacts.
Research indicates that contrails, formed by soot particles from aircraft engines, may cause more warming than the carbon dioxide emitted by airplanes. Certain icy regions in the upper atmosphere are particularly conducive to contrail formation, and AI tools can leverage detailed weather forecasts to identify these areas.
While initial trials suggest rerouting aircraft can effectively reduce contrail formation, this practice has yet to be implemented on a large scale for commercial flights.
Researcher Dinesh Sanekom and his team utilized an AI contrail prediction tool in a randomized controlled trial, examining over 2,400 real-world American Airlines flights.
This study, which included an eastbound flight from the U.S. to Europe, was conducted over approximately 17 weeks from January to May 2025. The flights took place at night, a period when contrails are known to exert a more pronounced warming effect, contrasting with daytime flights that reflect sunlight and create a cooling effect.
Each flight route was randomly allocated to one of two experimental groups. In the first group, air traffic controllers could opt for an AI-optimized route with fewer contrails, while the second group received no alternative route suggestions.
Despite the availability of contrail-optimized routes in the first group, only 112 out of 1,232 flights actually chose a different route due to factors such as costs, safety, and operational constraints, as noted by Sanekom.
AI analysis of satellite images demonstrated that flights utilizing contrail-optimized routes suggested to air traffic controllers saw a remarkable 62% reduction in visible contrails. Overall, considering all flights with the option to select a contrail-optimized route, the effective reduction in contrail formation was 11.6% compared to the control group.
“This validates our hypothesis that this approach can be scaled to enhance contrail avoidance across many flights, provided we can safely and accurately integrate it into existing flight planning systems,” says Sanekom.
Estimates suggest that the overall impact of these flights on global warming was reduced by 13.7% for the entire group employing the proposed routes, with a staggering 69.3% reduction for those using the optimized routes. Fuel consumption showed no statistically significant differences between the groups.
“This methodology appears to be the most effective approach available today,” states Edward Grisspeed from Imperial College London. “The 62 percent reduction in contrails observed suggests this is not a random occurrence.”
However, the intricacies of flight planning make it challenging to predict how much the initial 11.6% reduction might improve in real-world scenarios. According to Grisspeed, “While we cannot simply scale this up to achieve a 60% reduction in contrails on every flight, even an overall reduction of 10% represents a significant environmental benefit.”
Have you ever wondered how many times you can fold a delicious crêpe without it flipping over? A new study reveals the fascinating physics behind crepe folding dynamics.
In a quest to uncover the nuances of this culinary art, a physicist from France explored this phenomenon. He discovered that a single key number can explain the folding limits.
Tom Marzin, a research student at Cornell University, was inspired during a trip to his hometown of Brittany, France, a region known for its crêpes. He observed that while simply folding the tip of a crêpe causes it to flip, further folds create a delicate balance of gravity and friction that keeps it stationary. What scientific principles govern this behavior?
Marzin turned his curiosity into a research project, and he plans to present his findings at the upcoming American Physical Society meeting on March 20 in Denver.
Unlike traditional studies focused on permanent origami-style folds, Marzin’s work delves into what he terms “soft creases,” a competition between the element of gravity and material elasticity.
To observe this fascinating competition, Marzin conducted an experiment using pancake pieces. By attaching a section to a tabletop, he measured the flex it experienced when the opposite end hung over the edge. He found that all behavior regarding crepe folding can be predicted based on a single value known as the elastic gravity length, which factors in material density, stiffness, and gravitational forces. Marzin speculates that this concept could apply to various flexible materials beyond just crêpes, supported by computer model simulations.
To test his theories in a practical setting, Marzin experimented with plastic discs, store-bought tortillas, and crêpes. Finding homemade crêpes unreliable for experiments due to thickness variability, he enlisted his mother to procure commercial crêpes that ensure consistent thickness.
Marzin’s experiments confirmed that all aspects of crêpe folding are dictated by this elastic gravity length. For instance, by controlling the folded area’s dimensions, one can determine if there’s sufficient surface area left for subsequent folds.
His equation accurately predicts that a crêpe measuring 26 centimeters in diameter and 0.9 millimeters thick can be folded up to four times. In contrast, a similarly sized tortilla at 1.5 millimeters thick, exhibiting an elastic gravity length of 3.4 times, can withstand just two folds. “This length encapsulates the essential physics,” Marzin concludes.
Gerd Faltings has been awarded the prestigious 2026 Abel Prize, often regarded as the “Nobel Prize of Mathematics,” in recognition of his revolutionary proof that reshaped mathematics in 1983. His seminal work laid the foundation for arithmetic geometry, a crucial domain in contemporary mathematics.
Faltings’ landmark achievement was his proof of the Mordell Conjecture, for which he was honored with the Fields Medal in 1986. This theorem, initially proposed by Louis Mordell in 1922, asserts that complex equations yield fewer solutions as their complexity increases.
Based at the Max Planck Institute for Mathematics in Germany, Faltings expressed his honor upon receiving the award, maintaining a modest view of his contributions. “Someone remarked that climbing Mount Everest was a challenge merely because the mountain exists,” Faltings stated. “While solving the Mordell Conjecture is a significant achievement, it doesn’t lead to cures for cancer or Alzheimer’s; it merely expands our understanding.”
The Mordell Conjecture pertains to Diophantine equations—an extensive category encompassing renowned equations like a² + b² = c², associated with the Pythagorean theorem, and aⁿ + bⁿ = cⁿ, pivotal to Fermat’s Last Theorem. The conjecture investigates which of these equations have infinitely many solutions and which possess only finite solutions.
Mordell suggested that by rewriting these equations as complex numbers, essentially two-dimensional numbers plotted on surfaces, the number of solutions is influenced by the number of “holes” in those surfaces. He postulated that surfaces with more holes than a donut could only possess a finite number of rational solutions but lacked proof for this hypothesis.
Faltings’ validation of Mordell’s intuition over six decades later astonished the mathematical community—not only for its findings but also for the innovative methods employed. His proofs harmonized concepts from distinct mathematical realms, including geometry and arithmetic. “It’s remarkably concise, almost miraculous,” states Akshay Venkatesh from the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton. “Spanning just 18 pages, it intricately navigates various techniques and perspectives.”
Faltings attributes his success to his ability to embrace uncertainty and take bold risks based on unverified hunches. “Sometimes, you’re ahead of those who attempt to prove everything immediately, yet you may also err,” he observes.
“One remarkable aspect of his argument is its extensive coverage and coherence,” Venkatesh notes. “One wonders how he could trust the interconnection of these pieces before knowing how they would align.”
Many conjectures that Faltings resolved, along with the methodologies he pioneered, now underpin the most significant areas of mathematical research. For instance, p-adic Hodge theory explores the relationships between the geometry of shapes and their underlying structure while utilizing an entirely different number system. His work paved the way for Andrew Wiles’ proof of Fermat’s Last Theorem and mentored Shinichi Mochizuki, the prominent mathematician credited with resolving the ABC conjecture.
Faltings admits that his aim was never to tackle phenomena with such monumental implications. “My philosophy is that you shouldn’t pursue fame or wealth, but rather pursue what you love,” he concludes. “It’s far more enjoyable to work in a field that you are passionate about.”
Feedback is New Scientist A trusted source for the latest updates in science and technology. To provide feedback on topics of interest to our readers, please email us at feedback@newscientist.com.
Shooting Towards the Moon
It has been 54 years since humans last walked on the lunar surface. In that time, numerous robotic missions have explored the Moon, with some landing successfully while others have met disastrous ends. Currently, there are no humans residing on the Moon.
NASA’s Artemis program is projected to land astronauts on the Moon by early 2028. As more missions follow, the Moon’s human population may increase from zero to a small number.
Interestingly, accounting firm PwC released a report in January titled Monthly Market Rating, which declares, “The Moon is rapidly emerging as a potential center for future global economic activity in space.”
This statement raises questions: What opportunities exist for monetizing the Moon? PwC emphasizes that there are “ambitions centered around a sustainable human and commercial presence” on the lunar surface, exploring how expansive this new market could be.
The report adopts a scenario-driven approach to forecast market opportunities for lunar surface activities from 2026 to 2050, analyzing five vital areas: mobility, communications, housing, energy, and water. Each sector is assessed for investment requirements, technological advancements, and potential revenue streams.
Lunar entrepreneurs could see substantial financial returns, with cumulative projected revenues from lunar activities estimated between $93.9 billion and $127.3 billion by 2050—exceeding the GDP of many countries.
However, the future of the lunar economy hinges primarily on the intensity of exploration missions, both crewed and uncrewed, as noted by PwC.
While these projections may seem overly ambitious, particularly with the Artemis mission yet to launch, it’s compelling to consider that this is the second edition of PwC’s Monthly Market Review. The first edition, released in 2021, forecasted revenues totaling $170 billion by 2040.
We remain uncertain about changes over the past five years that might affect the lunar economy’s prospects, yet it’s disappointing to find our dreams of investing in lunar opportunities not yet realized.
Stranger Than Fiction
In February’s diary, the journal Pediatrics and Child Health issued two corrections, which is not unusual; journals frequently amend errors in scientific literature.
However, these corrections were noteworthy. One correction involved 15 papers, while another touched on 123 papers. The headlines indicated they were intended “to add a disclaimer.”
As readers delve through the extensive list of papers requiring disclaimers, they encounter this sentence: “All clinical vignettes featured within the CPSP Highlights section of the magazine are fictional scenarios created for educational purposes relating to Canadian Pediatric Surveillance Program (CPSP) research.”
This phrasing may obscure its importance initially, but the insightful journalists at Retraction Watch clarified that “A medical journal admits that case reports published over 25 years were indeed fictitious.”
Since 2000, the journal has presented case studies that appeared to depict real patients, some of which informed clinical guidelines and urged further medical investigations. However, these studies were fabrications, with no indication given until now.
This feedback suggests that the disclaimer about the fictional nature of these case studies should have been included all along. But perhaps this highlights a broader issue: Science often struggles for media attention, yet devoid of objective truth, it might truly captivate audiences. Imagine headlines like, “Dark Matter is Actually the Flatulence of a Cosmic Whale”: such claims are sure to resonate.
Drink Time
Feedback often revisits the theme, “Well, they would say that, wouldn’t they?” This skepticism persists as spokespersons send press releases that masquerade as objective scientific insight but often slip in ulterior motives.
Recently, another email landed in our overflowing inboxes: “In anticipation of World Sleep Day (March 13, 2026), we’re sharing expert insights on an often-overlooked factor impacting sleep quality: hydration.” The message elucidated that “even mild dehydration can contribute to discomfort, including headaches, dry mouth, muscle cramps, and general restlessness,” suggesting that it can also lead to next-day fatigue.
This press release originated from a company that produces water-soluble electrolyte tablets.
Have a story to share with Feedback?
Please send your articles to feedback@newscientist.com, including your home address. You can find this week’s and past Feedback columns on our website.
Ultra-processed foods are often high in fat and sugar.
Anastasia Krivenok/Getty Images
In recent years, health experts, scientists, and media outlets have increasingly highlighted the dangers of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). These foods are often linked to a surge in chronic diseases in today’s society. But what exactly are UPFs? Why should you be concerned about them? Let’s delve deeper.
Defining UPFs can be surprisingly challenging. Historically, humans have modified foods such as grains through processes like milling, salting, and fermenting for better taste and preservation. The concept of ultra-processed foods was coined in the late 2000s by Carlos Monteiro at the University of São Paulo, Brazil. UPFs are those derived from breaking down whole foods into parts like sugar, fat, and fiber, which are then chemically modified and often contain various additives. Common examples include breakfast cereals, biscuits, fish fingers, ice cream, mass-produced breads, and sugary drinks.
Until recently, dietary advice focused primarily on nutritional content. We’ve been instructed to limit foods high in salt, sugar, and saturated fats while opting for fiber-rich, vitamin-packed alternatives. The UPF concept has shifted this conversation, suggesting that the level of processing matters more than just nutrient content. Countries like Brazil, Belgium, and New Zealand have revised their dietary guidelines to discourage the consumption of UPFs.
Is there substantial evidence that UPFs harm health? Research indicates that diets rich in UPFs correlate with severe health risks, including cancer, diabetes, dementia, heart disease, and obesity. However, many of these studies only show correlation, not causation. Assessing the specific impacts of diet against other lifestyle and environmental factors—like poverty and pollution—can be complex. Furthermore, many studies rely on surveys, which can lead to inaccuracies in dietary reporting.
One of the most credible pieces of evidence comes from a 2019 randomized trial. This short-term study involved 20 participants consuming diets high in either UPFs or unprocessed foods over two weeks, then switching diets. Both types matched in caloric content and nutritional composition. Participants were provided with meals and snacks, allowing them to eat freely.
The results were striking: those on UPF diets consumed around 500 additional calories daily, gaining nearly 1 kilogram over two weeks, whereas those on unprocessed diets lost just under a kilogram. This suggests that the appeal of UPFs often leads to excessive caloric intake due to enhanced flavor and palatability.
Some experts suggest that UPFs could pose other health risks, such as contamination from factory processes. Furthermore, many contain additives like emulsifiers, which may potentially be harmful. Studies indicate that UPFs can disrupt the microbiome and promote inflammation. Advocates argue for stricter regulations on UPFs, akin to those for tobacco products, including clear warnings on packaging and advertising limitations.
However, critics claim the evidence isn’t robust enough to justify such measures. They argue that the UPF classification is too broad, potentially labeling some healthy foods, like yogurt and whole-grain breads, as unhealthy. Nutrition experts often struggle to categorize foods by processing levels, leading to confusion among the public. Additionally, not everyone can consistently prepare healthy meals, and harsh criticism of UPFs might eliminate accessible nutrition options.
So, how concerned should we be about UPFs? While they do encompass many unhealthy foods and tend to encourage overeating, most individuals could benefit from minimizing UPF intake while increasing whole food consumption. However, complete avoidance is likely impractical and unnecessary. Aim to reduce intake, diversify your diet, and prepare your meals when possible—yet enjoy the convenience of ready-made options occasionally without guilt.
Anxiety can be debilitating, making it hard to get through the day. However, both mild and severe anxiety can be managed effectively. When you feel an anxiety attack coming on, there are methods to regain your sense of calm.
For those who experience anxiety regularly, long-term strategies exist. Here are eight science-backed ways to reduce anxiety in both the short and long term.
1. Distance Yourself from Anxiety
Anxiety attacks often stem from catastrophic thoughts about future events. You might envision embarrassing yourself on a first date or fear failing in an interview.
To reduce anxiety, calm these racing thoughts without force. Simply trying to suppress them may be counterproductive. Instead, distance yourself from these thoughts to recognize their unreliability.
For instance, tell yourself, “I’m afraid I’ll embarrass myself on this first date.” (Of course, tailor this to your specific worries.) Once you’ve developed that distance, weigh the actual evidence regarding your fears, and recall past successes in coping with anxiety.
Read More:
2. Ground Yourself
Photo: Joe Waldron
When your mind races with catastrophic thoughts, your body mirrors that tension. The sympathetic nervous system prepares you for perceived threats, causing rapid breathing and muscle tension.
To combat this, activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation. Grounding exercises, for instance, help you connect with the present moment. Try pausing to observe five things you can see, four you can feel, three sounds you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.
Another effective method involves standing comfortably, leaning forward to touch your toes for a minute, sending a signal that everything is safe.
3. Breathe Properly
Calm your body and enhance parasympathetic nervous system activity through controlled breathing techniques. One effective method is “box breathing.” This technique involves equal durations for inhaling, pausing, and exhaling.
Inhale for 4 seconds
Pause for 4 seconds
Exhale for 4 seconds
Repeat for at least 30 seconds.
This exercise helps regulate your breathing rate and depth, promoting overall calm.
4. Plan for a “Worry Period”
After calming your mind and body, persistent worries can feel overwhelming. Trying to “solve” them often results in unhelpful beliefs, such as needing to worry to prevent bad outcomes.
Instead, designate a “worry window” of about 30 minutes (preferably not before bedtime). During this time, allow yourself to express your worries. For the rest of the day, remind yourself you’ll address them later, breaking the cycle of anxiety.
Read More:
5. Face Your Fears
Photo: Joe Waldron
Avoidance may seem appealing, but it can amplify anxiety over time. Dodging anxiety-inducing situations can deny you valuable life experiences and reinforce negative beliefs.
Confronting fears allows for a “reality check” which can dispel irrational fears. Start gradually with manageable tasks, and if needed, visualize facing your fears in your imagination first.
6. Exercise Regularly
Integrating physical activity into your daily routine is not only beneficial for your body but also enhances your mental well-being. Research shows that exercise can improve mood and reduce the risk of anxiety disorders.
Physical activity provides distractions, fosters companionship, and improves overall health. Engaging in exercise familiarizes you with physical sensations that may otherwise trigger anxiety, making them less intimidating over time.
7. Avoid Caffeine
Caffeine is prevalent in our daily lives, from morning coffee to energy drinks, but it can worsen anxiety symptoms. By blocking the calming effects of the brain chemical adenosine, caffeine can lead to heightened anxiety responses.
Photo: Joe Waldron
A long-term adjustment to consider is reducing caffeine intake, as excessive consumption can significantly contribute to anxiety. Be aware that caffeine is also present in chocolate and tea.
8. Consider Your Long-Term Relationship with Anxiety
Believing that anxiety is a permanent part of who you are can lead to avoidance and increased discomfort. Alternatively, viewing anxiety as a fleeting state allows you to confront the discomfort more effectively.
Psychologists refer to this perspective as a “growth mindset.” Remember, anxiety is manageable and can change over time.
Kepler-51 is a young G dwarf star located approximately 2,615 light-years away in the constellation Cygnus. It remarkably hosts three superpuffs and one low-mass non-transiting exoplanet, making it a fascinating subject in the field of astronomy. Among these, Kepler-51d stands out as the system’s coolest transiting planet and is recognized as one of the least dense superpuffs discovered to date. However, it is enveloped in an extremely dense atmospheric fog, leaving scientists pondering its origin and formation.
This diagram illustrates Kepler-51 and its three giant planets. Image credit: NASA / ESA / L. Hustak, J. Olmsted, D. Player & F. Summers, STScI.
Also referred to as KOI-620, Kepler-51 is an intriguing star hosting four exoplanets, out of which at least three are classified as Saturn-sized “superpuff” worlds. Kepler-51d is the coolest and least dense planet within this unique system.
Jessica Libby Roberts, an astronomer at the University of Tampa, notes, “The three inner planets orbiting Kepler-51 have small cores and large atmospheres that are thought to possess densities similar to cotton candy.”
She adds, “These ultra-low-density, super-puff planets are rare and challenge conventional theories regarding the formation of gas giant planets. It’s not just one but three in this system, raising critical questions.”
Typically, gas giant planets boast dense cores, resulting in strong gravitational forces that attract and retain gas. They usually form farther from their stars, much like our solar system’s gas giants, which reside beyond the asteroid belt.
In a twist, Kepler-51d does not feature a dense core and orbits similarly to the distance Venus is from the Sun.
Interestingly, Dr. Libby Roberts mentions, “Kepler-51 is a relatively active star, and its stellar wind should easily blow gas away from the planet. However, we are still uncertain about the extent of Kepler-51d’s mass loss over its lifespan.”
There are theories suggesting that Kepler-51d may have migrated inward after forming farther away, but numerous questions remain about the origin of this planet and its companions.
“What specific processes in this system led to the formation of these three unusual planets? It’s an extreme combination that hasn’t been observed elsewhere,” Dr. Roberts reflects.
Due to their ultra-low density, researchers suspect that these super-puff planets are rich in the lightest elements, hydrogen and helium, while also possessing other elements.
Analyzing the atmospheric composition of Kepler-51d will provide valuable insights into its formation environment.
Although direct imaging of such distant planets is not feasible, scientists can analyze the starlight that diminishes as the planet transits in front of its host star.
Dr. Libby Roberts explains, “Starlight passes through the planet’s atmosphere before reaching our telescopes. Similar to how different colors on Earth absorb various wavelengths, certain atmospheric molecules can block specific wavelengths of light.”
“By examining spectral data, we can create a unique fingerprint that reveals the atmospheric composition of the planet.”
Dr. Libby Roberts and her team previously observed Kepler-51d using the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, focusing on near-infrared wavelengths of approximately 1.1 to 1.7 microns. Enhanced technology in the Near Infrared Spectrometer (NIRSpec) aboard the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope has permitted scientists to extend observations down to 5 microns, potentially offering a more detailed atmospheric “fingerprint.”
However, no obvious decrease in the star’s intensity was detected at any specific wavelength. Subrath Mahadevan, a professor at Pennsylvania State University, states, “The thick fog surrounding the planet absorbs the observed wavelengths, obscuring underneath features.”
He compares it to the haze found on Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, which contains hydrocarbons like methane, but on a much grander scale.
“Kepler-51d seems to possess a massive fog layer, nearly equivalent to Earth’s radius—one of the largest we’ve seen alongside our planet.”
For a detailed exploration of this groundbreaking research, please visit the result published in this week’s Astronomy Magazine.
_____
Jessica E. Libby Roberts et al. 2026. NIRSpec-PRISM transmission spectrum of the James Webb Space Telescope Superpuff, Kepler-51d. A.J. 171, 221; doi: 10.3847/1538-3881/ae33c0
Recent research highlights that birch bark tar—historically recognized as a natural tool adhesive—can effectively inhibit harmful bacteria like: Staphylococcus aureus. This suggests that Neanderthals may have utilized it to treat wounds and manage infections during the Ice Age.
Neanderthals likely employed birch tar for various applications, including wound care. Siemsen et al. confirmed that birch tar possesses selective antibacterial properties and effectively inhibits Staphylococcus aureus.
Birch tar is frequently discovered at Neanderthal sites, where it is known to have served as an adhesive for crafting tools.
Recent inquiries suggest that Neanderthals may have had additional uses for this versatile substance.
For instance, indigenous communities in Northern Europe and Canada have utilized birch tar to treat injuries. Increasing evidence indicates that Neanderthals also engaged in various medicinal practices.
To explore the medicinal capabilities of birch tar, Dr. Tjaark Siemssen and his team from the Universities of Cologne and Oxford extracted tar from birch tree bark, particularly species identified at Neanderthal sites.
The researchers employed multiple extraction techniques, including distillation in clay pits and condensation on stone surfaces—methods that Neanderthals could also have accessed.
All tested tar samples showcased effectiveness in inhibiting bacterial growth against various strains, including the notorious Staphylococcus bacteria responsible for wound infections.
These findings not only reinforce the efficacy of indigenous medicinal practices but also lend credence to the possibility that Neanderthals used birch tar for therapeutic purposes.
The researchers note that birch tar, alongside other available plants, may serve additional roles, such as an insect repellent.
Further investigations into the diverse applications of these natural substances will enrich our understanding of Neanderthal culture.
“Our findings demonstrate that birch tar produced by Neanderthals and early humans possesses notable antibacterial properties,” the researchers stated.
“This discovery has significant implications for how Neanderthals managed disease burdens during the last Ice Age and contributes to the expanding knowledge of medicine among early human communities.”
“Integrating research in indigenous pharmacology and experimental archaeology enhances our understanding of the medical practices of our early ancestors and their closest relatives.”
“Moreover, this paleopharmacological research could assist in rediscovering antibiotic treatments as we confront a rising crisis of antimicrobial resistance.”
“The intricate processes involved in birch tar production are noteworthy.”
“Each stage of production was a sensory journey, and the challenge of cleaning tar from my hands after hours by the fire was a central experience every time.”
For more detailed insights, refer to the study published in the journal PLoS ONE.
_____
T. Ziemsen et al. 2026. Antibacterial properties of experimentally produced birch tar and its medicinal efficacy in the Pleistocene. PLoS One 21 (3): e0343618; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343618
The spectacular breakup of comet C/2025 K1 (ATLAS), observed by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, sheds light on the fragile nature of cometary cores and their evolution.
These Hubble images of the fragmenting comet C/2025 K1 (ATLAS) were captured from November 8 to 10, 2025. Image credit: NASA / ESA / D. Bodewits, Auburn / J. DePasquale, STScI.
“Sometimes the best science is a serendipitous discovery,” remarks study co-author John Noonan, a professor at Auburn University.
“This comet was initially observed due to new technical constraints that rendered the original target unobservable following our proposal win.”
“We had to find a new target, and just as we began observing it, it remarkably began to disintegrate. This is immensely rare.”
C/2025 K1 (ATLAS) reached perihelion—its closest approach to the Sun—on October 8, 2025, at a distance of 0.33 AU.
This event occurred inside Mercury’s orbit, about a third of the way between Earth and the Sun, where the comet faced extreme heating and stress.
Hubble’s images taken from November 8 to 10, 2025, captured five distinct pieces, offering a high-resolution glimpse of the comet’s core disintegrating.
“Never before have we observed a comet’s breakup with such precision,” Professor Noonan stated.
“Typically, we see such events weeks or even months later. This time, we captured it just days after it happened.”
“This crucial moment enhances our understanding of the physics at play on comet surfaces.”
“We may be observing the timeline required to generate a significant dust layer that can be expelled by gas.”
Currently, C/2025 K1 (ATLAS) consists of debris approximately 400 million km from Earth.
This comet, located in the constellation Pisces, is on the verge of exiting the solar system and is not expected to return.
Astronomers suggest that long-period comets like C/2025 K1 (ATLAS) are more prone to breakup compared to short-period comets such as 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko, which was visited by ESA’s Rosetta mission; the reasons for this remain uncertain.
ESA’s Comet Interceptor, set to launch toward the end of the decade, will mark the first mission destined to visit a long-period comet.
Professor Colin Snodgrass from the University of Edinburgh remarked, “Hubble’s fortunate observation of C/2025 K1 (ATLAS) will significantly aid our understanding of the breakup mechanisms in long-period comets, allowing us to investigate their interiors for the first time.”
“These findings will not just complement the detailed investigations of long-period comets expected from Comet Interceptor, but also assist astronomers in selecting future mission targets.”
Refer to the study published in the Journal Icarus on February 6, 2026.
_____
D. Bodewits et al. Continuous fragmentation after C/2025 K1 (ATLAS) passed near the Sun. Icarus, published online on February 6, 2026. doi: 10.1016/j.icarus.2026.116996
The Major Role of Contrails in Air Travel’s Global Warming Impact
Credit: Tuck/imageBROKER/Shutterstock
A recent extensive study involving thousands of flights between the United States and Europe revealed that contrails form less frequently when aircraft follow AI-recommended flight paths aimed at minimizing their global warming impact.
Contrails, the condensation streaks produced by soot particles from aircraft engines, are believed to contribute significantly to global warming—potentially more than the carbon dioxide emissions from planes. Recent research indicates that specific icy regions of the upper atmosphere are more prone to contrail formation, and AI can effectively leverage detailed weather forecasts to predict these locations.
Preliminary trials have demonstrated that directing planes away from these contrail-prone areas effectively reduces their formation. However, this strategy has yet to be widely implemented in commercial aviation.
According to Dinesh Sanekom and his team at Google, an AI-based contrail prediction tool was employed to offer route guidance in a randomized controlled trial encompassing over 2,400 real-world American Airlines flights.
The trial featured a one-way eastbound route from the U.S. to Europe, conducted over approximately 17 weeks from January to May 2025. These flights were scheduled at night when contrails are known to have a more intensive warming effect, contrasting with daytime flights, which tend to reflect sunlight and create a cooling effect.
Each flight path between two cities was randomly divided into two groups. The first group had the choice of an AI-optimized route designed to produce fewer contrails, while the second group received no alternative routing suggestions.
In the first group, air traffic controllers had the opportunity to select a contrail-reducing route; however, only 112 out of 1,232 flights actually opted for this alternative due to cost, safety, and operational concerns, as mentioned by Sanekom.
Analysis of satellite imagery showed that flights opting for contrail-optimized routes experienced a remarkable 62% reduction in visible contrails. Overall, when considering all flights offered a contrail-optimized option, the reduction in contrail formation was approximately 11.6% compared to the control group.
“This validates our hypothesis that this is a scalable method for minimizing contrail formation across numerous flights if we find a way to safely and accurately incorporate it into the flight planning process,” states Sanekom.
The researchers project that the overall global warming impact from flights was diminished by 13.7% for the entire group using the recommended route, and by 69.3% for those employing the optimized route. Notably, there were no significant differences in fuel consumption between the groups.
“This approach could be the optimal solution, at least given our current resources,” says Edward Grisspeed from Imperial College London. “The 62% contrail reduction observed via satellite is unlikely to be coincidental.”
However, due to the complexities involved in flight planning, Grisspeed noted the real-world scalability of the 11.6% reduction remains uncertain. “It’s not guaranteed that we can achieve a 60% reduction in contrails for every flight, but even a 10% decrease would have a significant impact.”
Sure! Here’s the rewritten content, optimized for SEO while retaining the HTML tags:
Smoke and fire erupt at oil facility in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
Associated Press/Alamy
Despite the consistent opposition to climate initiatives from Donald Trump, his policies inadvertently accelerated the Green Revolution by directing attention to Iran’s actions.
In retaliation, Iran has halted nearly all navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage where 20% of the world’s oil and gas supply flows, escalating tensions with attacks on oil and gas infrastructures using drones and missiles.
As a result, oil prices have surged from approximately $70 to over $100 per barrel, with natural gas prices also seeing significant increases in various regions. Arab nations are attempting to redirect fuel through pipelines, though high prices are anticipated to persist. A think tank, Ember, estimates that even a decrease to an average oil price of $85 would result in an additional financial burden of $240 billion on fossil fuel-importing countries.
However, these costs could be mitigated by up to 70% through the adoption of renewable energy, electric vehicles, and heat pumps.
“The conflict in Iran will likely hasten the transition to cleaner energy sources,” says Sam Butler-Sloss from Ember. “As prices escalate and the vulnerability of fossil fuel systems becomes evident, nations recognize the urgent need to harness renewable energy—particularly where abundant solar and wind resources are available.”
The fallout from this energy crisis will likely surpass the impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which disrupted the flow of Russian oil and gas to Europe. Consequently, annual solar installations in the EU have more than doubled, with growth in the UK nearing two-thirds, and wind energy capacity continuing to expand. Currently, renewable energy constitutes about 45% of the global energy capacity.
Asia currently stands as the most vulnerable region. 4/5 The amount of oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) transported through the Strait of Hormuz is critical for countries like Japan and South Korea, relying on it for 70% of their oil supply. Additionally, Taiwan sources a third of its natural gas from the strait, with India receiving up to 50% of its imports from there. Some businesses in India have even reduced menu options due to the cooking gas shortage. “This marks Asia’s moment of reckoning,” states Butler-Sloss.
As Japan and South Korea increase coal usage, which is twice as polluting as natural gas, short-term greenhouse gas emissions may rise. Simultaneously, both nations are boosting output from existing nuclear power plants.
In response, the South Korean government is expediting approvals, financing, and grid access for wind and solar projects. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized on March 11 that solar energy and electric vehicles are essential to decrease dependence on foreign fuel imports, as reported.
“Much like Europe did four years ago, Asian economies are beginning to awaken to these challenges,” says Pavel Molchanov from Raymond James & Associates. “This wake-up call will stimulate an increase in renewable energy adoption as fossil fuels become increasingly prone to disruption.”
China, which imports nearly half of its oil via the Strait of Hormuz, has already outpaced the global average in solar and wind power installations, with anticipations that this trend will amplify. However, as the world’s largest coal producer, it may simultaneously elevate coal usage in its energy mix.
“China will adhere to its comprehensive energy strategy,” notes Li Shuo from the Asian Social Policy Research Institute. “This lesson will resonate with several other nations.”
For countries with underdeveloped electricity grids, the rising costs of natural gas and diesel will position solar energy as a more attractive option for utilities, households, and businesses alike. Following the Ukraine invasion, Pakistan saw a notable increase in solar energy, which rose from 4% to 25% of its electricity generation, driven by households and businesses investing in affordable solar panels from China.
In the long run, electric vehicles (EVs) could emerge as significant beneficiaries. Prices for EVs could decrease at a faster rate than gas price fluctuations, as much of the natural gas is transported by pipeline rather than via shipping. In contrast, oil prices are globally influenced and typically higher. Consumers in the U.S., the largest oil-producing nation, face unprecedented fuel costs.
More individuals are considering purchasing EVs, asserts Enver, while governments should facilitate this transition, as the “superlever” of EV adoption could potentially reduce costs for fossil fuel-importing nations by one-third.
Nonetheless, as the average vehicle lifespan nears 20 years, the full impact of this transition will take time, according to energy consultant Michael Liebreich of Liebreich Associates. The shift from natural gas to renewable energy is already perceptible and will persist, even as gas prices decline.
“The assumption that gas demand will grow in a world equipped with affordable wind, solar, and battery storage—while increasingly shunning global commodity markets—is misguided. That era is over,” Liebreich concluded.
Topics:
This revised content includes SEO-friendly phrases and maintains the necessary HTML structure as you requested.
Birch Bark Tar: An Ancient Adhesive and Antiseptic.
Credit: Tjaark Siemssen, CC-BY 4.0
Neanderthals might have harnessed the antibacterial properties of tar made from tree bark for wound treatment. Contemporary studies of birch tar reveal its antibiotic qualities, indicating that our ancient relatives likely recognized its healing potential.
This finding contributes to the expanding evidence that Neanderthals utilized medicinal plants for treating injuries and ailments.
“Birch tar has been documented since the late Pleistocene, especially at Neanderthal sites throughout Europe,” states Chark Siemsen from Oxford University.
For instance, “it was evidently used as an adhesive” for attaching stone points to wooden spears, according to Siemsen. However, he suggests that its applications might extend beyond this. Recently, birch tar has served as a medicinal ointment for certain indigenous communities, such as the Mi’kmaq of eastern Canada, where it is known as mask wiomi and utilized as a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
To explore whether Neanderthal-produced birch tar possessed similar attributes, Siemsen and his team collected downy birch (Betula pubescens) and silver birch (Betula pendula) bark from public lands in Germany to experiment with three different birch tar production methods.
In the “elevated structure” method, a small hole was dug, and a container was placed at the bottom. Birch bark was stacked on top and wrapped in clay. After igniting a fire on this pile for two hours, birch tar was collected in the container.
The second method is simpler and likely the first approach used by Neanderthals. The researchers combusted a small quantity of birch bark under a firestone, allowing the tar to condense on the stone. This “condensation” method produced significantly smaller quantities.
Lastly, for reference, modern methods employed in Mi’kmaq communities were utilized, which involve heating birch bark in a sealed metal can with holes at the bottom to let the tar seep out.
All produced birch tars underwent antibacterial testing. Most demonstrated effectiveness against Staphylococcus aureus, a common skin infection bacterium. The strongest sample was derived from silver birch using the raised structure method, while only the downy birch tar made via the condensation method showed no effectiveness against the bacteria.
The research illustrated that birch tar consistently exhibited antibacterial properties, even with the low-tech methods available to Neanderthals, Siemsen affirmed. While Neanderthals primarily used it as glue, limiting its application to a single use would be misleading, he noted.
“We appreciate that the researchers highlighted birch bark’s medicinal properties,” says Karen Hardy from the University of Glasgow, UK. However, she emphasizes that various plants possess medicinal properties naturally. “Extracting birch bark pitch is complex and labor-intensive,” she points out, adding that to validate its intentional production for medicinal use, researchers would need to demonstrate its unique value.
Previous studies have also discovered additional evidence of Neanderthal medicinal plant usage. Neanderthals with dental abscesses likely consumed plants exhibiting analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Hardy and her team found that Neanderthals ingested yarrow and chamomile, both of which have medicinal value without nutritional benefits.
Discovery Tour: Archeology, Human Origins, and Paleontology
New Scientist frequently highlights remarkable sites worldwide that have revolutionized our understanding of species and early civilizations. Consider visiting one of these amazing places!
Repeated Heading of a Soccer Ball Linked to Brain Damage
René Nijhuis/MB Media
Consistent head impacts in sports can compromise the blood-brain barrier and lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a neurodegenerative disorder affecting numerous retired athletes from soccer, rugby, and boxing. This crucial finding raises hopes for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, as CTE is typically diagnosed only post-mortem.
“Numerous drugs are being developed to restore the blood-brain barrier for neurological treatment, which may offer promising futures if they receive approval,” notes Matthew Campbell from Trinity College, Dublin.
Campbell and his team conducted brain scans on 47 former athletes from contact sports, retired an average of 12 years ago, and compared them with those from non-contact sports like rowing and individuals without sports backgrounds.
Participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), utilizing a contrast agent that reveals blood-brain barrier breaches. Results showed that 17 athletes experienced significant contrast dye leakage, indicating severe damage, while non-contact athletes exhibited minimal leakage.
Those former athletes displaying greater blood-brain barrier impairment performed worse on cognitive assessments, pointing to a potential early link to CTE characterized by memory difficulties, emotional instability, and depression. “Previous evidence has shown that breaches in the blood-brain barrier correlate with CTE, and this supports that notion,” says Michael Buckland from the University of Sydney.
Mechanics of head impacts and whiplash during contact sports can physically damage the blood-brain barrier, explains Chris Greene from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. “It’s better to view the blood-brain barrier as a dynamic system rather than a rigid wall,” he states, noting that impact forces can disrupt the cellular seal within the barrier, leading to increased permeability.
Once compromised, proteins, immune cells, and inflammatory mediators may invade the brain, causing inflammation and cell damage. Their study also analyzed brain tissue from individuals who succumbed to CTE, revealing prominent immune and blood protein infiltration within affected regions. The characteristics of CTE resemble those of Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting similar underlying mechanisms involving blood-brain barrier degradation with age.
Like in Alzheimer’s, CTE is marked by abnormal tau protein accumulation in the brain, with head trauma potentially triggering incorrect tau folding and aggregation.
If a head injury concurrently endangers the blood-brain barrier, blood proteins and inflammatory agents may enter the brain, exacerbating tau misfolding, further complicating the cognitive issues associated with CTE, according to Greene. His previous findings suggested that patients who died from CTE displayed a genetic signature linked to breaches in the blood-brain barrier, corroborating recent research.
Currently, CTE diagnosis is limited to post-mortem examinations revealing tau abnormalities. Nevertheless, Campbell and Greene assert that their MRI advancements could facilitate earlier diagnosis for individuals exhibiting cognitive or mood-related changes. In the future, this imaging technique might also evaluate CTE risk among active athletes, pending further research confirmation.
If deterioration of the blood-brain barrier signifies an initial CTE risk factor, adapting existing or developing new medications aimed at reinforcing the barrier could help prevent or slow its progression, suggests Greene. A compound like bevacizumab, known for diminishing blood vessel permeability, could be explored further. Additionally, other anti-inflammatory medications like minocycline are gaining traction amid ongoing developments.
“By focusing on strengthening vascular integrity and suppressing harmful signals before tau pathology solidifies, we may shift towards preventive measures,” concludes Professor Greene.
The Perseverance rover has uncovered a precious gemstone among the rocky terrain of Mars. These intriguing gemstone grains are primarily composed of corundum and may be classified as rubies or sapphires based on their specific metal content.
Ann Orilla and her team at Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico first detected traces of corundum using the Perseverance rover’s SuperCam instrument while analyzing a rock formation known as Hampden River. The SuperCam employs various techniques—including two lasers—to ignite the rock’s surface and capture emitted light with dual cameras, confirming the presence of corundum grains matching laboratory ruby measurements.
As the rover traversed Jezero Crater, leaving Hampden River behind, researchers also discovered a pebble named Coffee Cove, which exhibited similar corundum characteristics. Another rock, Smith Harbor, displayed the same mineral presence. Orilla shared these exciting findings at the Lunar and Planetary Science Conference held in Texas on March 16.
These gemstones are unprecedented on Mars and likely did not form as they do on Earth. “Corundum on Earth is typically associated with tectonic activity. This requires specific conditions—low silica and high aluminum content,” Orilla explained. Mars lacks plate tectonics, making the discovery of corundum there particularly surprising. Researchers suggest that Martian corundum likely formed from a meteorite impact that heated and compressed the surrounding dust.
Alan Treiman, a conference participant not affiliated with Orilla’s team, remarked, “I was quite surprised. However, there are aluminum-rich formations on Earth resulting from meteorite impacts.” The findings definitely sparked curiosity and further inquiries.
These corundum grains are extremely tiny—less than 0.2 millimeters in diameter—making visual identification of their type, ruby or sapphire, impossible through images alone.
“I wish I could collect one of these grains for analysis to determine if it’s red. It’s somewhat disappointing to only see this white pebble,” Orilla expressed. Nevertheless, shining the SuperCam laser on it revealed a brilliant glow.
Scanning Electron Microscopy of Magic Mushroom Spores
Ted Kinsman/Science Photo Library
Psychedelic substances like psilocybin, LSD, and DMT are being explored as potential treatments for depression, but research suggests they may not be as effective as traditional antidepressants. Despite the promising results, the challenge remains: many participants in these studies can identify if they received a psychedelic or a placebo due to the distinct hallucinogenic effects.
According to Balaz Szigeti from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), “Our findings highlight that while psychedelics show effectiveness in treating depression, this isn’t necessarily comparable to the effects of traditional antidepressants.” He noted a growing interest in psychedelic treatments, yet cautioned against conflating their efficacy with unblinded trials.
Research indicates that hallucinogens show potential in alleviating depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. In typical drug development, treatments are primarily tested against placebos, mitigating the placebo effect—wherein individuals experience symptom relief through expectation. However, due to the identifiable nature of psychedelic experiences, ensuring true double-blind conditions in these studies proves problematic.
To navigate this issue, Szigeti and his team analyzed 24 clinical trials. Their research encompassed eight focusing on psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT), integrating psychotherapy with psychedelics, and 16 open-label trials evaluating conventional antidepressants. Open-label designs lack the blinding typical in rigorously controlled studies.
The results revealed that conventional antidepressants minimally outperformed PAT by just 0.3 points on a 52-point depression scale, a difference deemed neither statistically nor clinically significant.
Historically, psychedelics outperformed placebos by 7.3 points, whereas traditional antidepressants showed a 2.4-point advantage over placebos. However, researchers argue this discrepancy may largely stem from participants being able to recognize their treatment assignment. “Our findings and others suggest that unblinding may suppress the placebo response,” Szigeti concludes.
Matthew Johnson, a professor at Johns Hopkins University, remarked, “This review presents a pragmatic approach to evaluating placebos in psychedelic depression trials.” He added that some researchers may pursue results with a bias to prove psychedelics’ effectiveness, veering away from a principled testing approach.
Meanwhile, Rayan Zafar, a professor at Imperial College London, emphasized the necessity of directly comparing psychedelics with antidepressants, stating, “The science remains inconclusive.” Following one study, psilocybin was tested against escitalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, but did not yield significant differences in depression alleviation.
Robin Carhart-Harris, also from UCSF and involved in the escitalopram trial, criticized the methodological diversity across studies. Comparing trials with dissimilar designs, including varying sample sizes and inclusion criteria, often leads to inconclusive results. “To draw accurate comparisons, we must analyze similar studies rather than disparate ones,” he insists.
In September, a study explored using LSD for anxiety disorders, aiming to reduce unblinding by administering a lower dose that could still induce hallucinogenic effects without affecting mental clarity. In another psilocybin trial, sedatives were employed to induce amnesia, erasing participants’ memories of their experiences.
When you think of a psychopath, you might envision a dangerous individual whose ruthless self-interest harms others while benefiting themselves. Surprisingly, psychopathy is more prevalent than most realize; approximately 1 percent of the general population exhibits psychopathic traits, equating to about 1 in 5 men. This is evident in both prison populations and links to corporate leadership where psychopathic traits can often be found.
While interacting with a psychopath can be distressing, living with psychopathy is equally challenging. According to Abigail Marsh, a psychology and neuroscience professor at Georgetown University, many individuals with psychopathic traits lead ordinary lives—but are often reluctant to embrace those traits.
Though the exact definition of psychopathy remains under study, it is generally characterized by traits such as insensitivity, lack of empathy, charismatic charm, and impulsivity. Screening tools often assess behaviors including pathological lying, grandiosity, manipulative tendencies, and a constant need for stimulation.
Research has shown that psychopaths may focus excessively on their own goals, failing to understand other perspectives. A study led by scientists, including Marsh, found that structurally, the brains of those with psychopathy differ significantly.
Marsh’s research examines individuals with high psychopathy scores from the general population rather than from prisons. In a groundbreaking study published last year, her team quantitatively measured how individuals with psychopathic traits perceive the well-being of others. She shared insights with New Scientist about these surprising findings and the nuances of psychopathy in relation to compassion.
Sabrina Weiss: How do psychopaths experience life?
Abigail Marsh: Generally, they report an inability to feel strong emotions such as fear, guilt, remorse, or love. While some may believe life would be simpler without these feelings, it often leads to greater challenges. Many individuals spend their lives concealing their true selves for various reasons—either to manipulate or to facilitate social interaction.
There is significant stigma surrounding psychopathy, often regarded as a permanent moral failing rather than a mental disorder rooted in genetics and life experiences. Understanding that psychopathy stems from treatable biological processes is crucial.
What do we know about the brains of psychopaths?
Although diagnosing psychopathy through brain scans alone is impossible, research has highlighted consistent differences. One notable difference is found in the amygdala, which tends to be smaller in individuals with psychopathy. Studies show that individuals with smaller amygdalae often exhibit more severe psychopathic traits over time, and these brain regions show reduced responsiveness to social cues indicating fear or danger.
Additionally, researchers have noted anatomical or functional variations in other brain areas, including the striatum, which influences our responses to potential rewards, and other regions in the prefrontal cortex, which are critical for decision-making and behavioral regulation.
Wolf of Wall Street: Notable characters with psychopathic traits.
Photo 12/Alamy
How can mental illness be treated?
Research indicates that years of therapy can assist individuals with psychopathy in managing their symptoms. However, accessible public health resources tailored for personality disorders, particularly those involving antisocial behaviors, are scarce. Society often neglects the needs of psychopaths, which is tragic, as these individuals deserve appropriate care akin to those with other mental disorders. It’s vital to recognize that some people actively seek out improvement methods.
Can a psychopath change?
Some individuals report using strategies like behavior modification to foster long-term changes. For instance, one person shared that by “faking it” as a good individual, he gradually developed a genuine sense of empathy. Clinical psychologists often advocate for practicing desired behaviors until they become habitual, which reflects the experiences shared by those striving for self-improvement amidst their psychopathic traits.
What moral codes do they develop?
An interesting case involved someone with aggressive tendencies who decided to channel those impulses towards social justice causes. He would confront people making offensive comments, but generally managed to control his actions through the personal principles he established.
How common is the desire for change among psychopaths?
While quantifying this interest is challenging, many interviewees expressed dissatisfaction with their lives and recognized their destructive behaviors. Although they desire change, they often grapple with a lack of effective remedies.
It’s significant to note that individuals contacted us after screening tests on our organization’s website; thus, we have preliminary insights into their perceptions. Research across various neurological and personality disorders indicates that many individuals may lack awareness of their conditions, a phenomenon referred to as agnosia.
Why avoid using the term “psychopath”? Referring to individuals as “mentally insane”?
Evolving clinical psychology seeks to adopt a more person-centered approach that refrains from labeling individuals by their disorders. Today, we prefer to describe people as having depression or schizophrenia instead of defining them solely by these conditions. Sadly, this perspective has not permeated societal views on personality disorders, where terms like “psychopath” or “narcissist” remain prevalent.
What motivated you to study psychopathy?
My journey began with a fascination about what drives people to care for one another. Part of my research involves highly altruistic individuals. A personal experience—a stranger helping me after a serious car accident—shaped my perspective on humanity.
However, a subsequent negative experience—being assaulted by a stranger—testified to the darker side of human behavior, igniting my curiosity about psychopathy and its implications.
Beyond screening tests, how do you recruit participants for your research?
My latest study successfully engaged over 700 individuals, including 288 with significant psychopathy scores from the Aggressive Disorder Prevention Association. Those scoring highly are invited to participate through website pop-ups.
In lab-based studies, we employ flyers with engaging phrases to attract participants, akin to an advertising campaign from the 1970s aimed at recruiting individuals with psychopathy.
In your recent study, you assessed how individuals with psychopathic traits evaluate the well-being of others. Why is this significant?
Antisocial behavior often derives from self-serving motives at the expense of others. Common forms include theft and dangerous driving. While most people may evaluate rewards based on proximity, those exhibiting psychopathy demonstrate a drastic valuation drop regarding strangers’ welfare compared to their own.
Individuals with psychopathy often engage in risky behaviors, such as stealing.
Jaco Brand/Getty Images
Were there any surprising results?
The findings were even more pronounced than anticipated. Our “social discounting task” evaluated how individuals value rewards based on their recipients. Most people don’t significantly reduce the value of a reward when a close one receives it. However, among participants with psychopathy, I observed an alarming rapid decline in the value they assigned to others’ welfare.
How does psychopathy impact daily life?
Many of us may unknowingly interact with individuals exhibiting psychopathic traits. Given that about 1 in 100 people are estimated to have clinically meaningful psychopathic traits, it is plausible that someone in your circle could be harmful or manipulative without being recognized as a threat.
What should you do if you suspect someone has a mental disorder?
It’s crucial to understand that psychopathy is indeed a genuine mental illness that can be effectively treated. Individuals with psychopathy often experience detrimental impacts on their health, relationships, employment, and overall quality of life. However, through knowledgeable therapy, behavioral improvements are achievable. For resources and information, individuals can visit the Aggressive Disorder Association website.
Exploration at Antarctica’s Allan Hills Reveals 3 Million-Year-Old Ice Cores
Credit: Austin Carter
Researchers have used ancient air bubbles trapped in a 3-million-year-old ice core to analyze atmospheric gases from the late Pliocene for the first time. This era, when global temperatures were approximately 1°C higher than today, and sea levels were 25 meters elevated, serves as a crucial reference for current climate discussions.
The results indicated that carbon dioxide and methane concentrations from this period were significantly lower than today’s levels, suggesting that Earth’s climate might be more susceptible to minor changes in atmospheric conditions than previously believed.
In various regions of Antarctica, annual snow accumulation compresses layers into ice that entraps air bubbles, allowing scientists to construct a historical atmospheric record. Last year, the Beyond EPICA team successfully extracted the oldest continuous ice record, dating back over a million years. Learn more about this significant breakthrough.
Furthermore, scientists obtained even older ice in areas where prevailing winds eroded younger layers, bringing older “blue” ice closer to the surface.
Julia Marks Peterson, a professor at Oregon State University, and her colleagues utilized this ancient ice from Allan Hills to make direct measurements of carbon dioxide and methane levels in the Pliocene atmosphere. They discovered that, around 3 million years ago, carbon dioxide was at 250 ppm and methane at 507 ppb—much lower than previously estimated. The higher temperatures of that era went hand-in-hand with a cooling phase where carbon dioxide decreased slightly, while methane remained stable.
These findings starkly contrast earlier indirect measurements, which suggested carbon dioxide levels were nearly equal to today’s 400 ppm. Direct measurements of past methane levels are not feasible, but current standards show it hovering just below the 2000 billionth mark. Explore more about methane trends.
“The results were a bit surprising,” says Marks Peterson. If validated, these findings imply that even slight variations in greenhouse gas concentrations can dramatically affect climate systems. “This could indicate that the Earth is more sensitive to changes in CO2 than we currently understand. That’s a concerning thought,” she adds, “and one that remains unanswered given our existing records.”
New evidence suggesting lower-than-expected Pliocene carbon dioxide levels raises concerns about the potential severity of future climate change, according to Christian Proistosescu from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, who was not involved in the study.
However, additional research is essential to leverage these findings in climate modeling. Tim Naish from Victoria University of Wellington emphasizes the need for caution. He remains optimistic about uncovering data that could reveal an era of even warmer Pliocene temperatures.
Thomas Chalk from the European Center for Environmental and Geoscience Research and Education asserts the accuracy of the study’s lower CO2 measurements. Yet, he cautions that ancient ice distortions complicate interpretations regarding whether these low values reflect specific climatic periods or an overall average. “It’s essential to understand what these figures truly represent, as they don’t inherently provide a temperature estimate,” he clarifies.
The research team aims to enhance the credibility of their findings by cross-referencing their results with records from the Beyond EPICA group. “This collaborative effort will deepen our understanding of climate history,” states Marks Peterson. “We eagerly anticipate the new insights they will uncover.”
Physicists have unraveled the mystery behind volcanic lightning occurrence. Why do some particles become positively charged while others become negatively charged during friction?
This phenomenon, known as the triboelectric effect, explains how electrical charges transfer when two surfaces make contact, such as hair being attracted to a balloon after rubbing.
Within a volcanic ash cloud, silicon dioxide particles clash, leading to charge exchanges, which results in lightning when positively and negatively charged particles separate, creating a flow of electric current.
However, physicists struggled to explain the asymmetry between identical material particles that causes charge flow in varying directions.
“Numerous factors are suspected to influence this,” states Galien Grosjean, a researcher at the Autonomous University of Barcelona. “We’ve found that humidity, surface roughness, and crystal structure play important roles.”
During his research at the Austrian Institute of Science and Technology in Klosterneuburg, Grosjean proposed that carbon-containing molecules present on the particle surfaces could hold the key. While materials scientists aim to eliminate these contaminants, Grosjean and his team focused on how washing affected particle charging.
Using ultrasound, they suspended small silicon dioxide particles, allowed them to rebound off a plate of the same material, and subsequently measured their charge. “You can observe either a positive or negative charge. Washing or heating the positively charged sample often reverses its charge,” explains Grosjean.
The analysis revealed that the presence of carbon-containing molecules significantly influenced the charging direction. “This factor proved more critical than any others,” Grosjean emphasizes.
Notably, cleaned samples regain a positive charge within approximately 24 hours due to the swift accumulation of new carbon molecules from the surrounding air.
Daniel Lux from Case Western Reserve University commended the research. “While it’s common knowledge that surfaces collect dust, this finding is unprecedented in the realm of triboelectrification,” he commented.
However, Lux expressed concerns that this discovery could complicate future predictions for physicists. If carbon contamination determines charge direction, accurately predicting particle charge could become nearly impossible. “Such predictions might turn out to be unrealistic,” Lux added.
Discovery Tour: Geology and Volcanology
Explore the science behind some of Earth’s most extreme environments, from Icelandic volcanoes to the stunning caves of Vietnam.
Topics:
This revised content maintains the original HTML structure but optimizes for SEO by enhancing the alt text, improving descriptions, and using relevant keywords throughout the text.
Genetic and acoustic research has revealed that the rare Iijima Warbler (Philoscopus ijimae) comprises two distinct species, including the newly identified crested warbler. Both species are small and face vulnerability in their habitats.
Japanese Warbler (Philoscopus tocharensis) taken in June 2017 on Nakanoshima, Tokara Islands. Image credit: Per Alström / Uppsala University.
The Japanese Warbler is a rare migratory bird native to Japan.
They breed in the Izu and Tokara Islands, located about 1,000 kilometers southeast of Honshu, Japan.
The Tokara population was only identified in Nakanoshima in 1988, with breeding also observed on four nearby islands.
Despite similarities between the two populations, research shows notable differences in their songs, as highlighted by a study led by Per Alström from Uppsala University.
Analyzing song patterns has enabled researchers to distinguish island populations with remarkable accuracy.
Genetic analysis of thousands of genome-wide markers and mitochondrial sequences shows a significant divergence between the two lineages, suggesting a separation period of approximately 2.8 to 3.2 million years.
“This finding underscores the importance of genetic research in recognizing hidden biodiversity, especially during the global biodiversity crisis,” stated Dr. Alström.
Despite potential for seasonal migration bringing them closer, no gene flow has been detected, indicating long-term reproductive isolation.
“Defining the new species is challenging,” Alström remarked. “They appear identical to a Japanese Warbler, but DNA analysis and song differences confirm their classification as distinct species.”
The Izu Islands population has been classified as endangered, while the newly recognized Tokara species is known as the Tokara Leaf Warbler (Philoscopus tocharensis), posing further conservation challenges.
Breeding has only been confirmed on Nakanoshima, with limited sightings across the archipelago.
Genomic studies indicate both species exhibit low genetic diversity, alongside historical population declines linked to their small, isolated nature, though signs of limited inbreeding may indicate a recovery from earlier bottlenecks.
Island species face unique threats, including habitat disturbance from human activities and invasive predators, further stressing fragile populations.
This study emphasizes a significant concern in conservation biology: species that lack formal recognition might receive inadequate protection.
Integrating genomics with traditional taxonomy can aid in identifying these hidden lineages before they go extinct.
“Island species are especially at risk, yet many remain undiscovered,” the researchers concluded. “Our findings reveal how genomics can expose hidden biodiversity and serve as critical indicators of population health.”
The urgency of formally recognizing and assessing the conservation status of these rare species is imperative in an ever-changing world to ensure the protection of overlooked lineages.
This study contributes to comprehensive conservation assessments for passerine birds leveraging genomic data.
The research team’s findings are documented in their paper published in PNAS Nexus.
_____
Takema Saito et al. 2026. Discovering and protecting enigmatic biodiversity: A case study of previously undescribed endangered bird species in Japan. PNAS Nexus 5(3):pgag037; doi: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgag037
Recent studies reveal that bird-like oviraptorids couldn’t rely solely on body heat for egg incubation. Instead, they utilized both body warmth and sunlight in semi-open nests.
The artist’s impression of Huananzaurus ganjoensis. Image credit: Chuang Zhao.
“Our research indicates that variations in oviraptor hatching strategies are linked to the positioning of adults and eggs,” stated Dr. Tzu-Ruei Yang, a paleontologist at the National Museum of Natural Science, Taiwan.
“We also estimated the hatching efficiency of Oviraptor, which is significantly lower than that of contemporary birds,” added Chun Yu Su, a researcher at Washington High School.
In this investigation, scientists simulated brooding behaviors similar to those of bears. The dinosaur Haeyuannia Fungi, part of the Oviraptoridae family, thrived in present-day China during the late Cretaceous period, approximately 70 to 66 million years ago.
This species is estimated to have reached around 1.5 meters in length and weighed about 20 kilograms, constructing semi-open nests made of multiple egg rings.
During the hatching process, Oviraptor’s model consisted of Styrofoam and wood for structural support, along with cotton, foam paper, and cloth for soft tissue representation.
The eggs were crafted from casting resin, and two clutches were used in the study, organized in double rings to emulate authentic oviraptor nests.
“For instance, oviraptor eggs differ substantially from those of modern species, prompting us to create resin eggs that closely mimic the real thing.”
Artist rendition of oviraptorosaurus, hadrosaurus, and tyrannosaurus from the late Cretaceous period of central China. Image credit: Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences.
When exploring how the presence of adult incubators and varying environmental conditions impacted hatching patterns, researchers found that in cooler temperatures where adults participated, egg temperatures in the outer rings could fluctuate by up to 6 degrees Celsius. This resulted in asynchronous hatching, where eggs hatched at different times within a single nest.
In warm environments, the temperature difference between outer ring eggs was only 0.6 degrees Celsius, indicating that oviraptors in warmer climates exhibited distinct asynchronous hatching due to their ability to harness solar heat more effectively.
“It’s unlikely that larger dinosaurs would have remained stationary while incubating eggs. They probably relied on solar heat or warmth from the soil, much like turtles,” Yang explained.
“Given that Oviraptor’s nests are exposed to the air, solar heat played a more crucial role than soil heat in incubation.”
The researchers further compared Oviraptor’s hatching efficiency with that of modern avians.
Typically, contemporary birds use thermoregulatory contact hatching, where the adult directly incubates the eggs, transferring heat.
This method requires three essential conditions: direct contact with all eggs, acting as the primary heat source, and maintaining temperatures within a narrow range—criteria that Oviraptor did not fulfill.
“It’s possible that Oviraptor was incapable of thermoregulatory contact incubation like present-day birds,” Hsu remarked.
“Instead, these dinosaurs might have depended on both adult incubation and sunlight, a strategy that is less efficient than modern avian hatching methods.”
“However, this blend of parental care and ambient heat sources, which could be related to the shift from buried to semi-open nests, isn’t necessarily a disadvantage.”
Dr. Yang clarified, “Modern birds are not inherently superior at incubation.” He explained, “The incubation strategies of oviraptors and modern birds differ significantly, each suited to their environments.”
There’s no categorical ‘good’ or ‘bad’ in these methods; rather, their effectiveness is context-dependent.
The findings were published in Frontiers of Ecology and Evolution.
_____
Su Chunyu et al. 2026. Realistic heat transfer in clutches reveals that oviraptorid dinosaurs have lower hatching efficiency than modern birds. Front. Ecol. Evol. 14; doi: 10.3389/fevo.2026.1351288
A fascinating study conducted by Northwestern University reveals mathematical evidence supporting the long-held belief that clothing trends cycle every 20 years. This concept resonates with many, as we’ve all noticed styles like miniskirts and bell-bottom jeans making their comeback.
Lead author Dr. Emma Zajdera, an applied mathematician at Princeton University, stated, “We’ve all experienced the idea that fashion is coming back…” in BBC Science Focus.
Dr. Zajdera elaborates, “As mathematicians, we aimed to validate or refute this theory. Thanks to recent advancements in computer tools and digitized records, we could achieve this.” This groundbreaking research involved a multidisciplinary team, including mathematicians, computer scientists, engineers, and art historians, who compiled an extensive database of approximately 37,000 images of women’s clothing spanning 150 years.
The dataset included historical sewing patterns from 1869 to 2015, alongside Vogue runway images from 1988 to 2023. These resources enabled researchers to track changes in women’s fashion characteristics over the decades.
Dr. Zajdera explained, “We utilized a unique computer tool created by our team to quantify aspects such as dress length, waistline, and neckline along the vertical body axis. This provided consistent measurements for comparison over time.”
Interestingly, the results demonstrated a cyclical change in style popularity approximately every 20 years. Fashion trends rise, fade, and eventually resurface.
“Our mathematical model is based on the psychological principle of ‘optics,’ which suggests that successful innovations should be distinctive yet familiar,” Zajdera noted.
Hemlines fluctuated from the 1920s to the 1980s, and continue to evolve – Credit: Emma Zajdela/Daniel Abrams
Take, for example, skirt lengths: they shortened from the early 1900s into the flapper styles of the 1920s, lengthened mid-century, shortened again with the 1960s miniskirts, and lengthened during the hippie era of the 1970s.
However, the researchers observed that since the 1980s, this distinct 20-year cycling of hemline lengths has blurred, with varying lengths emerging simultaneously.
“Since the mid-1980s, fashion trends have accelerated, causing the 20-year rule to become less pronounced. Nevertheless, it still exists,” Zajdera pointed out. “Today, we enjoy a greater diversity in styles.”
The researchers suggest that this trend may reflect broader societal changes, impacting not only fashion but also music, art, dog breeds, and baby names.
Samples retrieved from the C-type asteroid (162173) Ryugu by JAXA’s Hayabusa 2 mission reveal the presence of all five essential nucleobases: purines (adenine and guanine) and pyrimidines (cytosine, thymine, and uracil). This finding suggests that fundamental aspects of life’s chemistry might have a cosmic origin.
Hayabusa2’s image of asteroid Ryugu taken from a distance of 6.9 miles, featuring a large crater at its center. Image credit: JAXA / University of Tokyo and partners.
Nucleobases are critical components of DNA and RNA, the molecules essential for life on Earth.
The detection of these compounds in pristine extraterrestrial materials enables scientists to explore how they form in non-biological contexts and how they traverse the solar system.
Prior analyses of Ryugu samples identified the nucleobase uracil. In comparison, investigations of materials from meteorites and the near-Earth asteroid Bennu have uncovered a broader spectrum of nucleobases.
“To properly evaluate the nucleobases within extraterrestrial materials, it’s crucial to examine samples minimally impacted by terrestrial factors,” explained Dr. Toshiki Koga from the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology and his team.
“In this scenario, raw asteroid samples that haven’t come into contact with Earth’s atmosphere hold significant scientific importance.”
Carbonate-rich particles found in the material samples from the near-Earth asteroid Ryugu. Image credit: Pilorget and colleagues, doi: 10.1038/s41550-021-01549-z.
The recent study involved analyzing two samples from Ryugu, collected by the Hayabusa 2 mission.
Both samples showed the presence of all five standard nucleobases: adenine, guanine, cytosine, thymine, and uracil.
The team compared their results with findings from the Murchison and Orgueil meteorites, as well as samples from the asteroid Bennu.
Significant differences in the relative quantities of nucleobases were observed.
Specifically, Ryugu exhibited roughly equal amounts of purine and pyrimidine nucleobases, whereas the Murchison meteorite showed a predominance of purines, while Bennu and Orgueil samples were richer in pyrimidines.
These variations reflect the distinct chemical, environmental, and evolutionary pathways of each parent body.
The identification of these nucleobases in asteroid and meteorite samples indicates their widespread presence across the solar system, despite chemical variations.
This discovery implies that carbonaceous asteroids may have played a role in shaping Earth’s early chemical landscape.
“Studying the original distribution and isotopic composition of nucleobases in other carbonaceous meteorites will yield key insights into the origins of these compounds and the astrochemical processes involving nitrogen-based molecules,” the researchers noted.
“The universal detection of all five standard nucleobases in Ryugu and Bennu samples underscores the potential for these extraterrestrial molecules to have contributed to the organic material that facilitated prebiotic molecular evolution, ultimately leading to the emergence of RNA and DNA on early Earth.”
Read the full study featured in this week’s issue of Nature Astronomy.
_____
Tetsuya Koga et al. A comprehensive set of standard nucleobases from the carbonaceous asteroid (162173) Ryugu. Nat Astron, published online March 16, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41550-026-02791-z
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg Exits California Superior Court in Los Angeles
Kyle Grillot/Bloomberg via Getty Images
As I sit down to write, I instinctively check my calendar on my phone. A notification from a friend catches my eye, leading me to an Instagram meme. Next, I find myself engulfed in an endless scroll of captivating short videos: one about the crows of the Tower of London and another featuring street food in Indonesia. Before I know it, 45 minutes have slipped away while I consume disturbing and increasingly political content.
While this time loss hasn’t ruined my day, I can’t shake off the lingering feelings of fatigue and sadness. Where did that lost time go? Why did Instagram lead me to consume countless videos when all I intended to do was check my calendar? Furthermore, why do I feel so drained?
These questions are crucial and are currently at the heart of ongoing debates, set to unfold in court in 2020. Two lawsuits filed in California by thousands of plaintiffs, including school districts and concerned parents, target major social media platforms—Meta (the owner of Facebook and Instagram), Google (YouTube), Snap (Snapchat), ByteDance (TikTok), and Discord. These cases argue that social media poses serious risks to children, leading to psychological harm and potentially fatal consequences. Children often encounter content filled with violence and unrealistic beauty standards, which can lead them down perilous paths.
For over a decade, U.S. lawmakers have suggested that the answer lies in restricting children’s access to social media rather than holding these companies accountable. Some states have enacted laws requiring parental consent for minors creating accounts, while others aim to curb adolescent bullying by prohibiting like counts on posts. These regulations primarily focus on content dangers, which in essence liberates businesses from accountability, particularly under the Communications Decency Act’s notorious Section 230, shielding companies from liability for user-generated content.
Section 230 may have seemed like a pragmatic solution when established in the 1990s, pre-empting concerns over doomscrolling, algorithm manipulation, and harmful influencers. With platforms like YouTube witnessing the upload of 20 million videos daily, holding them accountable for all posted content would be untenable.
The U.S. commitment to free speech complicates matters, as companies like Meta and Google easily challenge any regulations perceived as inhibiting access to online expression, even concerning harmful content. Many laws aimed at protecting minors from social media have faced setbacks in courts for conflicting with free speech principles, allowing companies to exploit these laws as a protective shield.
However, the ongoing California lawsuits intriguingly redirect focus away from content and free speech issues. Instead, they highlight the inherent design flaws of social media platforms, citing endless scrolling, incessant notifications, autoplay videos, and algorithm-driven lure tactics that ensnare users. The lawsuits argue that these ‘deficiencies’ transform social media apps into ‘addictive’ products, similar to ‘slot machines,’ exploiting young users through an AI-driven feed that perpetuates scrolling behavior. The overarching intention behind these legal actions is to hold these companies accountable for the adverse effects their products impose on vulnerable demographics.
This argument mimics the government’s legal approach against tobacco companies in the 1990s, where it successfully demonstrated that companies were aware of the harm their products caused while deliberately obscuring this fact. Consequently, these companies faced substantial settlements, were mandated to include warning labels, and were pressured to adjust their marketing strategies to become less appealing to children.
Leaked documents from Meta have revealed that the company recognized its products’ addictive nature. In a notable case involving a teenage girl’s suicide linked to social media addiction, a federal judge released communications from Instagram, wherein a user experience expert presumably remarked: “[Instagram] is a drug…we’re basically pushers.” This sheds light on the negligence and recklessness attributed to companies producing potentially harmful products.
Two pivotal clinical trials are currently in progress, holding the potential to dramatically reshape the landscape of social media. Perhaps, American law will finally arrive at the consensus that the core issue isn’t merely the content but the actions of the companies that facilitate its distribution.
If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to the British Samaritan at 116123 (samaritans.org) or the U.S. Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 (988lifeline.org). For resources in additional countries, please visit bit.ly/SuicideHelplines.
Innovative advancements in seismic technology are paving the way for artificial earthquakes, which could revolutionize mining discovery on both Earth and the Moon, as revealed by a pioneering German startup, Imensus. This breakthrough could play a crucial role in achieving lunar mining goals, although adapting it for the Moon poses significant challenges.
Inspired by the thundering footsteps of a tyrannosaurus rex, IMENSUS engineers have developed a cutting-edge rover prototype designed to send vibrations into the ground, effectively mapping underground resources.
“You know how dinosaurs move in Jurassic Park and shake the ground? That’s what we are,” stated David Frey, head of prototyping, during an interview with BBC Science Focus. “We are shaking the ground.”
Imensus is currently designing a model intended for Earth, enabling mining companies to locate valuable materials such as copper and gold with precision.
As seismic waves slow down when passing through dense rocks enriched with valuable minerals, geologists can effectively explore below the Earth’s surface. Surface sensors can identify wave speeds, revealing hidden resources underground.
Speaking at the AI Everything Conference in Egypt, Frey highlighted the broader potential applications of this technology beyond Earth. “The entire space industry aims to establish a presence on the Moon,” he stated. “Mining resources is essential for creating sustainable habitats.”
Frey emphasized the importance of investigating the subsoil before beginning any mining operations on Earth. “Why should we treat the Moon differently? This approach is not widely considered,” he noted.
Though lunar exploration typically relies on natural seismic activity caused by temperature fluctuations creating surface cracks, Frey proposed a revolutionary method that could generate artificial “moonquakes” on demand, providing precise measurement and control.
Unlocking Lunar Treasures
The Moon’s south pole has gained significant attention due to its potential for mining. While valuable minerals like copper and gold may be scarce, ice deposits in polar regions could be crucial resources for future missions. Additionally, lunar regolith—the loose soil on the Moon’s surface—will be vital for developing space infrastructures.
“To establish a long-term presence on the Moon, we must access existing resources,” said Lunar Seismologist Dr. Nicholas Schumer in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “Technological advancements that enable resource utilization could significantly enhance human habitats and foster a burgeoning space economy.”
Schumer, an associate professor at the University of Maryland and a scientist for NASA’s Mars Insight mission, emphasized that the seismic techniques employed by IMENSUS are effective for locating subsurface structures within the top 1 km (0.6 miles) of soil.
“They may help predict changes in the regolith’s structure by identifying features like lava tubes, buried ice, or alterations in sublunar geology,” he added.
The IMENSUS sensor captures seismic waves generated by vibrations from the rover, aiding in the exploration of mining sites on Earth – Photo courtesy of IMENSUS
This innovative approach ensures thorough site assessments, preventing financial losses due to unsuitable mining locations, as Frey pointed out: “In space engineering, such considerations are often overlooked. There’s a risk of encountering unanticipated geological features.”
Frey further noted, “Understanding subsoil layers through spacecraft measurements is vital for comprehending the Moon’s structure.”
Securing the Moon’s Future
However, Schumer warns that the Moon presents a “very hostile environment,” characterized by extreme temperatures, intense solar radiation, and abrasive regolith capable of damaging machinery.
“While it’s encouraging to see forward-thinking approaches to lunar challenges, I must stress that if equipment isn’t specially designed for these conditions, it’s likely to fail,” he cautioned.
Despite the nascent stage of lunar seismic exploration technology, Schumer agrees that “future missions will undeniably require effective seismic exploration systems.”
The terrestrial pilot phase for IMENSUS is set to commence in 2027. Whether this lunar-focused technology will be integrated into future space missions will largely depend on the progression of programs like NASA’s Artemis.
Frey envisions possibilities extending even to Mars and asteroid mining projects in the future, should space exploration ambitions shift in that direction.
Ultimately, one fact remains clear: if humanity aims to return to the Moon—or venture to Mars—we must understand what lies beneath the lunar surface.
Thunder that reverberated across parts of northeastern Ohio and Pennsylvania on Tuesday morning was likely caused by a meteor explosion.
Local residents took to social media to share their experiences, with one user describing it as “the biggest boom.” Others reported hearing “several sonic booms” and sounded off with terms like “Gorogoro.” Many also reported witnessing brilliant fireballs and bright streaks across the sky.
The National Weather Service Pittsburgh Office shared a captivating video on X, featuring a stunning image captured by one of their employees, showcasing a long-tailed fireball traversing a clear sky.
Concurrently, the Cleveland Weather Service released an image from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s GOES-19 satellite, indicating that the “latest GLM image (1301Z)” strongly suggests that this boom was indeed due to a meteor.
Meteors are rocky objects traveling through space; when they enter the Earth’s atmosphere and ignite, they become meteors. Debris that lands on the Earth’s surface is classified as a meteorite.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for the latest updates.
Duvet hogging can negatively affect your relationship and sleep quality, often without you realizing it the next day.
Shutterstock/Vasilchenko Nikita
Sleeping with your partner can lead to more nighttime awakenings compared to sleeping alone. While these disturbances are often fleeting and forgotten by morning, strategies exist to minimize their impact.
As Sean Drummond from Monash University in Melbourne, Australia notes, “Research indicates that while people perceive they sleep better together, objective measurements show greater disruption during shared sleep.”
To explore the effects of co-sleeping, Lionel Rayward from Queensland University of Technology conducted a comprehensive review. This review revealed that partner-related movements during co-sleeping occur in 30-46% of couples, meaning when one partner adjusts, the other often follows.
For instance, a sleep study found an average of 51 leg movements per night when individuals slept alone versus 62 movements when sharing a bed. This translates to approximately two additional awakenings per night as monitored by scalp electrodes.
The review included a study where couples wore movement-tracking smartwatches during sleep. On average, participants woke up six times a night due to their partner’s movements, yet only remembered one disturbance the next day, indicating that most disruptions are minor and consequently have little impact on overall sleep quality, according to Drummond.
However, if a partner snores or suffers from insomnia, sleep issues can escalate. Drummond states, “Individuals with insomnia tend to toss and turn more, which leads to greater disturbances for their partner.”
These challenges may prompt what some term “sleep divorces,” where partners opt to sleep separately to minimize disturbances. While separate sleeping arrangements aren’t inherently unhealthy, some couples perceive it as a relationship failure. Drummond advocates for addressing the source of sleep disruptions instead.
Drummond’s research found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can effectively assist couples when one partner struggles with insomnia. When both partners participate in therapy, both tend to experience improved sleep.
If blanket hogging or differing temperature preferences are issues, Rayward and colleagues suggest the “Scandinavian method”—sharing the same bed but using separate blankets.
For snoring, treatments range from continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines to dentist-designed mandibular advancement devices that reposition the jaw to improve airflow. Amal Osman from Flinders University emphasizes that some individuals only snore when lying on their backs, which can be mitigated by using a backpack while sleeping to encourage side-sleeping.
Studies show that about 80-90% of couples in the UK and US share a bed, while in Japan, it’s common for mothers to sleep with their children, and fathers often sleep in different rooms.
Co-sleeping has been a prevalent sleep arrangement throughout human history, providing warmth and security. Remarkably, some of the oldest known mattresses, including a 77,000-year-old plant mattress found in South Africa, were designed to accommodate entire families.
In pre-industrial societies like the Hadza of Tanzania, family members typically sleep in close quarters. Interestingly, Hadza adults often wake up at intervals throughout the night, with research indicating that 40 percent may stay awake for varying periods, likely to ensure someone is alert to potential dangers. Despite these disturbances, they report minimal sleep problems.
This suggests that occasional disturbances from co-sleeping partners may not warrant significant concern. Drummond concludes, “In reality, everyone wakes up multiple times throughout the night; no one sleeps continuously.”
A groundbreaking discovery at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC) reveals a new, heavier proton-like particle composed of two charm quarks.
Protons and neutrons fall under the category of baryons, each containing three fundamental particles known as quarks, each with distinct “flavors.” For instance, a standard proton comprises two “up” quarks and one “down” quark.
Interestingly, heavier quarks, such as charm quarks, can also combine to create baryons, albeit these novel quark combinations are heavier and less stable, leading to shorter lifetimes before decaying into other particles.
In 2017, CERN’s LHCb experiment captured a glimpse of an exotic baryon named Xi.cc++, which consists of two charm quarks and one up quark, possessing a lifetime of just one trillionth of a second. Recently, physicists found its intriguing counterpart, Xicc+, which contains a down quark instead of an up quark, making it a heavier analog of the proton.
This latest discovery, characterized by a predicted lifetime six times shorter than that of Xicc++, posed significant detection challenges. It was confirmed only after substantial upgrades to the LHCb experiment enabled more sensitive particle searches, achieving a statistical significance exceeding 7 sigma—well above the 5 sigma threshold needed for a legitimate discovery.
“Uncovering the particle Xi.cc+ is not just remarkable—it’s a testament to the transformative power of the recent upgrades to the LHC,” stated Chris Parks from the University of Manchester, UK. “With just a one-year data sample, we’ve observed phenomena that eluded ten years of previous data gathering.”
The identification of this particle may enhance our understanding of the strong nuclear forces that bind quarks together while also affecting heavier quarks found in particles beyond protons and neutrons. This finding could resolve longstanding questions in particle physics.
In 2002, the SELEX experiment at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory encountered a particle resembling Xicc+, yet it had a significantly lower mass than predicted, with a confidence level of only 4.7 sigma. “Now that we’ve validated its existence and confirmed the mass aligns with our predictions, we have effectively addressed this particle mass issue,” Parks remarked.
“While this measurement is fascinating, the implications remain uncertain,” noted Juan Rojo at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. “Quantum chromodynamics currently does not preclude the existence of this hadron, but we are still in the observation phase. The next five years could yield pivotal insights regarding how quark combinations impact particle mass,” Rojo added.
Credit: International Gemini Observatory/NOIRLab/NSF/AURA/B. Bolin
Interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS showcases unprecedented levels of water and carbon compounds, hinting that it originated around a star vastly different from our Sun—likely billions of years older.
Astronomers have meticulously monitored 3I/ATLAS since its entry into our solar system last year, revealing an astonishing composition rich in carbon dioxide and water. Initial analyses estimate its age at about 8 billion years—almost double that of our Sun.
According to Martin Cordiner and his research team at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, the comet’s deuterium levels (a hydrogen isotope with additional neutrons) are at least ten times higher than any previously recorded comet.
Typically, deuterium exists in minor concentrations in Earth’s oceans, but 3I/ATLAS displays levels more than 40 times greater. “3I/ATLAS continues to amaze us with its revelations about the similarities and differences between its host system and our own,” Cordiner stated. His team utilized the James Webb Space Telescope for these groundbreaking observations.
“It’s truly extraordinary,” commented Paul Hartog from the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research in Germany. “The ratio of deuterium to hydrogen in its water composition is highly unusual and unexpected.”
Such elevated deuterium levels are generally found in the coldest regions of the Milky Way, suggests Ewain van Dishus of the Leiden Observatory in the Netherlands. “This indicates it likely resides in the outermost disk of the star it orbits, facilitating its ejection,” Dishus explained.
Cordiner and colleagues also identified relatively low levels of carbon-13, an isotope usually created during supernova explosions. The low carbon-13 concentrations found in 3I/ATLAS point to its formation during a time when supernovae contaminants were rare, implying the comet formed around a star system aged between 10 to 12 billion years—again, more than twice the age of our solar system, according to Cordiner.
However, Dishus cautions that the imprecise carbon data means we cannot conclusively determine its exact age.
Topics:
This revision has been crafted to enhance SEO performance by integrating relevant keywords, while maintaining HTML tag structures and enhancing readability.
Astronomers have unveiled a fascinating new exoplanet located just 35 light-years from Earth, perpetually shrouded in a massive ocean of lava.
The exoplanet, designated L 98-59 d, has the potential to challenge current theories of planet formation and introduce an entirely new category of planetary bodies, according to recent study published in Nature Astronomy.
This groundbreaking discovery stems from observations made by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) alongside various ground-based observatories, which revealed several striking characteristics.
Notably, L 98-59 d, measuring 1.6 times the size of Earth, exhibits a remarkably low density and possesses substantial quantities of hydrogen sulfide in its atmosphere.
This positions L 98-59 d outside traditional classifications for similarly sized planets, which are typically categorized as either rocky “gas dwarfs” with hydrogen atmospheres or as “water worlds” characterized by oceans and ice. Clearly, L 98-59 d does not fit into these established categories.
To delve deeper into its true nature, a research team from the University of Oxford utilized computer simulations to rewind the clock approximately 5 billion years, reconstructing the planet’s entire evolutionary history.
Their simulations suggested that L 98-59 d is likely encased in a mantle of molten silicate rock, featuring a global magma ocean extending thousands of kilometers deep. This expansive reservoir enables the storage of significant amounts of sulfur, which accounts for the unusual atmospheric composition detected by JWST.
“This discovery implies that the classifications currently employed by astronomers to describe small planets may be overly simplistic,” stated the lead author, Dr. Harrison Nichols. “What other unique planets await discovery?”
L 98-59 d orbits a red dwarf star with about one-third the mass of the Sun – Photo credit: Mark A. Garlick / markgarlick.com
The findings from this research also have implications for our own planet. “All planets initially form in a molten state. Some, like Earth, cool down, while others, like L 98-59 d, remain molten,” Nichols noted in BBC Science Focus.
“We can leverage these observations to gain insights into the early history of our own planet and the origins of life by studying the common physics that govern these ‘alien’ worlds.”
Looking forward, Nichols believes L 98-59 d could represent the first of many. “This planet may well be the inaugural member of the broader category of magma ocean worlds… ‘magma oceans’ could prove to be quite prevalent.”
Future missions, including the European Space Agency’s Ariel and PLATO missions, will provide further data to determine whether L 98-59 d is an anomaly or the first known representative of a much larger class of worlds.
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Strictly Necessary Cookies
Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.
