So, why does this happen? Instead of enriching your life, “harassers” tend to heighten your stress levels. Chronic stress significantly contributes to biological aging, leading to inflammation, a weakened immune system, and a higher likelihood of cardiovascular diseases, which can result in heart attacks.
The authors of the study note, “Negative social connections were associated not only with self-reported stress and mental health but also with molecular measures of biological aging,” according to Dr. Lee Byung-gyu from New York University, as reported by BBC Science Focus.
This comprehensive study analyzed biological age and survey data from 2,345 participants aged between 18 and 103 years.
Researchers discovered that each additional troublesome person in one’s life could negatively affect health outcomes. Specifically, the pace of aging could increase by 1.5 percent, or roughly nine months of biological age. For example, having three harassers in one’s life may equivalently make a person biologically 2.5 years older than someone of the same chronological age without such stressors.
Additionally, the toll is even greater when the difficult individual is a family member.
According to Dr. Lee, not all harassers appear the same. “A nuisance could be a parent, sibling, friend, or someone in your inner circle who regularly causes conflict and drains your time and mental energy,” he explains.
In day-to-day life, this could manifest as a family member who frequently seeks assistance or criticizes you, a friend who generates drama, or a romantic partner who instigates persistent stress in your relationship.
Being surrounded by “haters” can be mentally draining; it might even shorten your lifespan – Credit: Getty
Does this sound familiar? You’re not alone. Research indicates that nearly 30% of individuals report having at least one harasser in their close circle.
Interestingly, the study revealed that having a troublesome spouse doesn’t exert the same detrimental effects on health. The benefits of shared routines, resources, and emotional intimacy can counteract stress responses that are often present in other relationships, as explained by Lee.
However, some individuals may be more susceptible to having difficult people in their lives. The study found higher instances among women, daily smokers, those in poor health, and individuals with challenging childhoods.
Lee commented, “One possibility is that people who already face higher stress levels and have fewer resources may struggle to avoid or disengage from difficult relationships, allowing chronic tension to permeate their daily lives.”
The University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR), which manages the largest federal climate research center in the U.S., has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR).
View the lawsuit. This legal action disputes the administration’s decision to dismantle NCAR, alleging a “systematic campaign of punishment and coercion” against Colorado amidst ongoing tensions between President Donald Trump and Governor Jared Polis.
The report submitted by UCAR, a leading non-profit organization in climate science and weather modeling based in Boulder, Colorado, follows the Trump administration’s announcement in December about plans to dismantle the research center.
The lawsuit claims that “UCAR and NCAR are collateral damage” in this broader conflict.
The disagreement between Trump and Polis arises from concerns regarding mail-in voting in Colorado and the prosecution of a county clerk convicted of tampering with election equipment during the 2020 presidential election. According to the complaint, Trump pressured Polis to release the clerk while banning mail-in voting.
Filed in U.S. District Court in Colorado, the lawsuit details a purported “retaliatory campaign” targeting NCAR by multiple federal agencies, including the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
So far, three named federal agencies have not provided comments regarding the lawsuit, except for the NSF, which stated it does not comment on ongoing litigation.
Additionally, Colorado is pursuing legal actions related to the alleged campaign of retribution against the state.
The lawsuit contends that the Trump administration’s decision to relocate the U.S. Space Command, cut $109 million in transportation funding, and impose new requirements on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is part of a punitive strategy against Colorado.
District judges have only ruled on one matter in this case concerning SNAP. The administration argued that there was sufficient fraud in Colorado to necessitate a pilot program; however, a district judge ruled in favor of the state by issuing a preliminary injunction, which outlined the reasons in a court order.
UCAR’s complaint shares similar allegations against the federal government, claiming that a “gag order” was issued to silence NCAR employees regarding the reorganization. It also points to the termination of a multimillion-dollar climate adaptation research contract and new unlawful reporting requirements imposed on NCAR and UCAR. Furthermore, the complaint details attempts to remove the center’s supercomputing facility from UCAR’s administration.
The complaint states, “The agency’s ultimate goal is the complete destruction of NCAR,” referencing a January NSF announcement about restructuring the agency while seeking public proposals for new uses for NCAR’s Boulder campus, including various public or private uses.
The allegations within the complaint argue that recent federal actions contravene the Administrative Procedure Act and request the court to halt specific lawsuits, such as the relocation of NCAR’s supercomputing facility and cancellation of NOAA grants.
UCAR and NCAR collectively employ around 1,400 scientists, engineers, and support personnel focusing on key areas like hurricane forecasting, wildfire monitoring, weather predictions, and space weather research. NCAR hosts advanced supercomputers essential for complex climate modeling tasks.
In a statement on their website, UCAR emphasized that the actions taken by the federal agencies pose significant threats to national security, public safety, and economic stability and jeopardize the U.S.’s leadership role in climate and weather forecasting.
UCAR has stated that it will refrain from further comments until the lawsuit is resolved.
Paleontologists have unveiled a fascinating new species of enigmatic ciclidan crustacean, identified from three exceptionally preserved specimens hailing from China’s Early Triassic Guiyang biota.
Yunnanosiculus fortis. Image credit: Sun et al., doi: 10.1002/spp2.70052.
The Cyclidae represent a unique group of arthropods that first emerged during the Carboniferous period and persisted until the late Cretaceous period.
Despite their significance, their fossil record is scant, as most findings only display the carapace (hard shell) of these creatures, with many anatomical features remaining elusive.
“Cyclida is an arthropod order integral to the Guiyang biota,” explains Dr. Xiaoyuan Sun from the China University of Geosciences, alongside collaborators from China and the United States.
“This specialized group of crustaceans originated in the Mississippi Sea (359-323 million years ago) and went extinct during the Maastrichtian (73-66 million years ago) of the Late Cretaceous Period.”
“They’re classified as crustaceans due to distinctive traits such as antennae, mandibles, and maxillae.”
“Sadly, our comprehension of ciclidan crustaceans remains limited because of their rarity in the fossil record.”
Typically, only the robust carapace is preserved, with the antennae and limbs being scarcely found.
The newly identified ciclidan species, designated Yunnanosiculus fortis, thrived during the late Dinerian period of the early Triassic, around 251 million years ago.
It is described based on three specimens sourced from the Daye Formation in Guizhou Province, China.
These fossils unveil an oval carapace featuring narrow, smooth margins, well-defined antennae, and seven pairs of thoracic segments.
Significantly, one specimen retains a pair of robust lower jaws, an exceptionally rare feature in ciclidan fossils.
The holotype’s carapace measures approximately 19.8 mm long by 14.7 mm wide, with the lower jaw spanning about 1.7 mm long and 0.8 mm wide.
Microscopic X-ray fluorescence analysis revealed elevated levels of calcium and phosphorus within the mandible and other structures, indicating they were thick and heavily calcified.
“Yunnanosiculus fortis boasted a notably sturdy oval lower jaw,” the research team stated.
Holotype of Yunnanosiculus fortis. Scale bar – 2 mm. Image credit: Sun et al., doi: 10.1002/spp2.70052.
This remarkable discovery broadens the known geographic range of Early Triassic cichlidans.
Previously, fossils from this era were primarily registered from Madagascar and select regions of Europe.
The new species signifies the oldest record of cichlidans located in the eastern Tethyan area.
“The identification of this new species from China enhances our understanding of the paleogeographical distribution of Early Triassic cichlidans,” the researchers noted.
“Early Triassic cyclidans demonstrate widespread distribution across Madagascar, Europe, and China.”
“However, by the Late Triassic, their presence was predominantly limited to Europe.”
These fossils also provide insights into the evolutionary trajectory of these enigmatic creatures.
By examining the morphological data from Yunnanosiculus fortis, scientists reconstructed morphospace—an approach to analyze the diversity of body morphology within cichlidans and other related species.
The findings indicate that cichlidans underwent significant diversification early in their history during the Carboniferous period, with a gradual reduction in disparity in later geologic periods.
This pattern corroborates the “initial burst” model of evolution, where groups diversify rapidly soon after emerging, followed by a phase of slow evolutionary change.
This discovery further enriches our understanding of ecosystems following the Permian-Triassic mass extinction, which eradicated over 80% of marine life.
The fossil evidence from the Guiyang biota and other Early Triassic sites suggests that complex marine communities might have been reinstated earlier than initially believed.
By revealing new anatomical details and extending the geographic record of cichlidans, Yunnanosiculus fortis offers valuable insights into the recovery and evolution of marine life during one of Earth’s most chaotic periods.
“The addition of new species and the re-evaluation of the chronological paleogeography of Triassic cichlids illustrate that early Triassic cichlids were the most broadly distributed, with a gradual decline in distribution thereafter,” the authors concluded.
“This trend mirrors the global distribution of ammonoid and other marine invertebrate species during the Early Triassic and may relate to the reduction of environmental gradients in varying latitudinal zones post-Permian-Triassic mass extinction.”
The groundbreaking discovery of Yunnanosiculus fortis is discussed in the research paper published in the journal Paleontology Papers.
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Sun Xiaoyuan et al.. 2025. A new Induan (Early Triassic, Dinerian) cichlidan crustacean discovered from the Guiyang biota. Paleontology Papers 11 (6): e70052; doi: 10.1002/spp2.70052
Recent studies by Panamanian entomologists reveal that leaf-mimicking katydid species, specifically the Alota festae, start their life cycle in a vibrant pink hue, transitioning to green within days. This transformation not only mirrors the color changes of rainforest leaves, which often turn red or pink before fully maturing, but also serves as a sophisticated adaptive camouflage strategy previously misinterpreted as a genetic anomaly.
Striking hot pink female Alota festae, photographed on March 27, 2025, at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Barro Colorado Island, Panama. Image credit: Zeke W. Rowe.
Commonly referred to as bush crickets, Alota festae is a medium-sized katydid (measuring 2.7 cm and weighing 1 g) native to Panama, Colombia, and Suriname. These insects are usually non-sexually dimorphic, exhibiting a light green coloration and broad, rounded forewings that help them blend into their environment, resembling young plants.
On March 27, 2025, Dr. Benito Wainwright from the University of St Andrews and his colleagues made a groundbreaking discovery while studying a female Alota festae at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute field station on Barro Colorado Island in Panama. This specimen showcased an unexpected and vivid hot pink coloration.
“The discovery was quite surprising,” noted Dr. Wainwright. “It’s so uncommon that, under natural conditions, we observed its color shift from deep pink to green.”
Dr. Wainwright elaborated, “Instead of being a rare genetic mutation, this phenomenon could very well be a finely tuned survival tactic aligned with the lifecycle of the rainforest leaves the katydid mimics.”
During their research, the team maintained the insects at natural ambient temperature and humidity for 30 days. After just four days in captivity, the brilliant pink hue faded into a softer pastel pink.
Photographic documentation was made every 24 hours to meticulously track the katydid’s coloration changes. By April 7, 2025, the insect had transitioned entirely to green, rendering it indistinguishable from the more prevalent green variant.
Though pink katydids have been observed in scientific literature since 1878, they were previously viewed as rare mutations with potential disadvantages. This marks the first documented instance of a katydid exhibiting a complete color change within a single life stage.
Dr. Matt Greenwell from the University of Reading commented, “The complexities of tropical forests reveal how precisely certain animals have evolved to adapt. A bright pink insect in an emerald-green forest might seem vulnerable to predators, much like a worker in a high-visibility jacket. The gradual color adaptation reflects the dynamic nature of rainforests and stands as a remarkable example of natural camouflage.”
The team’s findings are detailed in a recent study published on March 7, 2026, in the journal Ecology, which can be accessed here.
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J. Benito Wainwright et al. 2026. Pink Cricket Club: Dramatic color changes in katydids disguised as neotropical leaves (Alota festae Griffini, 1896). Ecology 107 (3): e70333; doi: 10.1002/ecy.70333
Recent findings on L 98-59d, part of the five-planet system L 98-59, indicate that this intriguing exoplanet may host an extensive global magma ocean, effectively trapping sulfur deep within its interior. This discovery introduces a previously unidentified category of extraterrestrial worlds.
Artist’s impression of planetary system L 98-59. Image credit: Mark A. Garlick / markgarlick.com.
The distant L 98-59 system lies approximately 34.5 light-years away in the southern constellation Bootes.
Known as TOI-175 or TIC 307210830, this bright M dwarf star has a mass roughly one-third that of the Sun.
This intriguing planetary system features at least three transiting planets and two non-transiting planets: L 98-59b, L 98-59c, L 98-59d, L 98-59e, and L 98-59f.
L 98-59d completes an orbit around its parent star every 7.5 days and is about 1.6 times larger than Earth, receiving approximately four times the radiant energy of our planet.
A recent study led by astronomer Harrison Nichols from the University of Oxford aimed to reconstruct the planetary history of this super-Earth, tracing its evolution from its formation nearly 5 billion years ago.
By correlating telescope observations with comprehensive physical models of the planet’s interior and atmosphere, the research team gained insights into the planet’s deep geological processes.
The findings suggest that L 98-59d possesses a mantle of molten silicate similar to Earth’s lava, underpinned by a vast global magma ocean that extends for thousands of kilometers.
This massive molten reservoir enables L 98-59d to store significant amounts of sulfur within its interior over geological timescales.
Moreover, the magma ocean assists in retaining a hydrogen-rich atmosphere laden with sulfur compounds like hydrogen sulfide, which is typically lost to space due to X-ray radiation emitted by the host star.
Over billions of years, the interplay between its molten interior and atmosphere has sculpted L 98-59d into the striking world observed today.
Researchers propose that L 98-59d may represent the inaugural example of a newly identified category of gas-rich sulfur exoplanets that sustain long-lived magma oceans. If validated, this could greatly expand our understanding of planetary diversity in the galaxy.
“This discovery highlights that the current classifications of small planets may be overly simplistic,” remarked Dr. Nichols.
“While this molten world is unlikely to support life, it showcases the vast array of planets beyond our solar system. What other types of celestial bodies remain undiscovered?”
For more details, refer to the study published in today’s edition of Nature Astronomy.
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H. Nichols et al. Evolution of a volatile-rich molten super-Earth L 98-59d. Nat Astron, published online March 16, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41550-026-02815-8
Chemical Clues in Straight-Tusked Elephant Teeth (Paleoloxodon antiquus): The 125,000-year-old remnants at Germany’s Neumark Nord reveal that these massive creatures migrated hundreds of kilometers, suggesting intentional hunting by Neanderthals.
The straight-tusked elephant (Paleoloxodon antiquus) stands as the largest terrestrial mammal of the European Pleistocene. Image credit: Hodari Nundu, CC-BY-4.0.
According to Dr. Elena Almaroli, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Modena-Reggio Emilia, “The straight-tusked elephant exemplifies the European Pleistocene interglacial ecosystem, sharing its habitat with Neanderthals during warmer periods.”
Archaeological findings indicate that Neanderthals utilized these elephants both as a food source and for tool-making materials across Europe.
Previously, the evidence that straight-tusked elephants were hunted and not merely scavenged was minimal and contentious.
In this groundbreaking study, researchers examined the molar teeth of four straight-tusked elephants found at the Neumark Nord site in northeastern Germany.
Strontium isotope analysis along the teeth’s growth axis indicated that these elephants roamed different regions of Europe throughout their lives.
Dr. Almaroli emphasized, “This isotope analysis allows us to track the elephants’ movements like a travel diary inscribed in their teeth for over 100,000 years.”
Dr. Federico Lugli, also from the University of Modena-Reggio Emilia, remarked, “Some of the elephants in our study demonstrated considerable mobility.”
“Their teeth reveal travel distances of up to 300 km to the region north of present-day Neumark,” he added, helping to reconstruct their geographical range and adaptation to the landscape.
Researchers identified the sex of the four elephants: three males and one female, with varying isotopic signatures indicating different habitats, suggesting that males had larger territories akin to modern elephant behavior.
“The concentration of remains and isotopic profiles indicate that Neanderthals targeted these elephants deliberately, not just opportunistically,” Dr. Almaroli stated.
“This implies organized hunting strategies where large prey could be systematically pursued.”
Dr. Lugli noted, “This study marks a significant methodological advancement as paleoproteomics has been employed to determine individual sex from proteins in tooth enamel for the first time in straight-tusked elephants.”
The findings were published in the magazine Scientific Progress on March 13th.
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Elena Almaroli et al. 2026. Life history of straight-tusked elephants from the last interglacial site of Neanderthals in Neumark Nord (~1.25 million years). Scientific Progress 12(11);doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adz0114
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Heat Wave of 2023: A Catalyst for Devastating Wildfires in Greece
Image Credit: Sakis Mitrolidis/AFP via Getty Images
In recent years, global temperatures have soared beyond predictions, igniting intense discussions among climate scientists. There is widespread agreement that **global warming** is accelerating. However, opinions diverge; some experts argue it’s accelerating more than current climate models forecast, while others posit the surge is just a natural variation that will soon subside.
The implications of this debate are critical: if the acceleration is robust, the timeline to mitigate or adapt to catastrophic climate impacts may be shorter than expected.
“Ultimately, this is a question of how severe climate change will become,” states Zeke Hausfather, a researcher from Berkeley Earth, a nonprofit organization in California.
The Earth used to warm at a stable rate of approximately 0.18°C per decade until the 2010s, but recent data indicates a slight uptick in this rate.
2023 has recorded the highest temperatures yet, surpassing expectations by 0.17°C, fueled by alarming climate events—catastrophic floods in Libya, record-breaking cyclones in Mozambique and Mexico, and unprecedented wildfires in Canada, Chile, Greece, and Hawaii.
Notably, in 1988, James Hansen from Columbia University presented a groundbreaking paper to Congress highlighting that human activity, rather than natural fluctuations, was the primary driver of climate change. His colleagues claim that since 2010, the warming rate has escalated to about 0.32 degrees Celsius per decade.
This acceleration, they argue, is largely due to a “Faustian bargain” between humans and aerosol pollution. While sulfur aerosols counteract warming by reflecting sunlight, this temporary reprieve masks the true impact of carbon dioxide emissions.
As global sulfur emissions are being curbed, this hidden warming is emerging, intensifying climate change implications. China, for example, initiated a “war on pollution” around the 2008 Beijing Olympics, leading to a significant reduction in sulfur aerosol emissions by at least 75%.
Simultaneously, the International Maritime Organization has imposed strict regulations on sulfur emissions from shipping. With reduced aerosols at sea resulting in fewer reflective clouds, the trend is further contributing to warming.
Consequently, global sulfur dioxide emissions have declined by 40% since the mid-2000s. “With cleaner air, more solar radiation is penetrating our atmosphere,” explains Samantha Burgess at the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Agency.
This trend escalated in 2024, a year that was even hotter than 2023, surpassing the alarming threshold of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Strikingly, such temperatures threaten the global goals outlined in the Paris Agreement.
Interestingly, despite most scientists agreeing on the acceleration of global warming due to reduced aerosol emissions, perspectives diverge on the extent. Hansen and his team estimate a rate of 0.32°C per decade—a figure that exceeds the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s estimate of 0.24°C and the latest climate models’ average of 0.29°C.
Natural fluctuations also significantly influence Earth’s temperature. For instance, in 2020, an exceptional solar maximum occurred within the 11-year solar cycle, resulting in increased sunlight reaching Earth.
In 2022, a massive undersea volcano erupted near Tonga, releasing 146 million tons of water vapor—a greenhouse gas—into the stratosphere while simultaneously emitting sulfur aerosols that temporarily cooled the atmosphere.
Subsequently, a strong El Niño developed in 2023 and 2024. El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon characterized by weakened trade winds, leading to warmer waters in the Pacific Ocean and heightening global temperatures.
To accurately assess the acceleration of global warming, scientists must disentangle natural variability from long-term trends in observed temperatures, building models that reflect emerging patterns. The lesser the impact of natural variability, the more pronounced the acceleration becomes.
Recently, a statistical analysis conducted by Stefan Rahmstorf from Germany’s Potsdam University and statistician Grant Foster found that global warming has intensified by approximately 0.36°C per decade since 2014.
However, Michael Mann from the University of Pennsylvania argues that Rahmstorf and colleagues might overstate aerosol impacts and underestimate natural variability, asserting that minimal acceleration has occurred since the 1990s.
“The recent warmth aligns with standard climate model simulations shaped by the 2023-2024 El Niño event, without necessitating extraordinary explanations,” Mann stated.
Unexpected climate feedback loops may also be factoring into recent temperature rises. One of the most significant uncertainties lies in the behavior of clouds, which can’t be accurately captured in climate models due to their small scale and scattered nature.
A study by Helge Goessling at the Alfred Wegener Institute indicates that approximately 0.2°C of the 1.5°C warming in 2023 can be attributed to a reduction in low-level clouds. Some of this cloud reduction stems from decreased sulfur pollution, while other factors may involve “new low cloud feedback,” according to researchers.
Typically, a temperature inversion creates a situation where cold, moist air resides over subtropical oceans, separated from warm, dry air above. However, as climate change elevates the temperature of this cold air, the inversion layer may collapse, potentially reducing cloud cover, Goessling explains.
If the acceleration of warming primarily arises from sulfur reduction, climate change might taper off in future decades once sulfur pollution reaches negligible levels. Conversely, unleashed climate feedback loops could propel temperatures even higher.
This suggests potential underestimations regarding climate sensitivity—the degree of warming linked to increases in atmospheric CO2.
“The worst-case scenario involves unexpected cloud feedback mechanisms not envisioned by models, indicating that our climate may be more sensitive than previously predicted,” warns Brian Soden from the University of Miami, Florida.
Current climate policies suggest the world may experience a rise of 2.7°C this century. However, there is potential variability in these predictions, with a possible increase of up to 3.7°C. Without significant reductions in carbon emissions, catastrophic impacts could become more frequent.
“A rise of 3.7 degrees Celsius could render certain areas uninhabitable,” said Hausfather. “While 2.7°C presents its own challenges, some regions may still adapt to this change.”
Ultimately, fossil fuel emissions are on the rise, and reversing this trend is essential for mitigating adverse effects, Burgess emphasizes.
“Global warming is progressing faster, and we’re losing time to implement ambitious measures aimed at decarbonizing society,” she concluded.
Ryugu: An asteroid that occasionally approaches Earth.
Credit: JAXA
Recent discoveries from samples collected from the asteroid Ryugu indicate that all five key components of DNA and RNA have been identified. This finding substantiates the theory that asteroids could have played a crucial role in delivering the fundamental building blocks of life to Earth billions of years ago.
In 2018, Japan’s Hayabusa2 spacecraft successfully visited Ryugu, employing two projectiles—one large and one small—to gather samples from the asteroid’s surface. After returning to Earth with these samples in 2020, scientific analysis has been ongoing.
Dr. Yasuhiro Ohba and a team of researchers from Hokkaido University analyzed two distinct samples from Ryugu: surface material and subsurface material obtained from the excavation caused by the projectile. The findings revealed all five major nucleobases, which are essential components that pair with sugars and phosphates to create nucleic acids, including DNA and RNA.
This isn’t the first instance of nucleobases being detected in asteroid samples; they have also been found in meteorities and samples from the asteroid Bennu. However, researchers observed variability in the abundance of nucleobases across different samples, pointing toward the potential to trace asteroids and meteorites back to their original celestial bodies, thus unraveling their evolutionary history.
The detection of nucleobases in samples from Ryugu and other asteroids highlights their potential significance in the history of life on Earth. “Their presence in Ryugu reinforces their prevalence throughout the solar system,” states Ohba. If these asteroids are indeed abundant in the precursors of DNA, they may have been instrumental in the emergence of life on our planet.
Furthermore, Ryugu and similar asteroids might harbor even more complex organic molecules, including nucleic acids. “Complex organic compounds like DNA and RNA are likely to form in asteroids,” notes Ohba, underscoring their critical role in the origin of life on Earth.
This week, much of the western United States is experiencing a summer-like heatwave in March, with temperatures soaring across California and the Southwest, raising significant climate concerns.
Forecasters predict high temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit will blanket Southern California and reach triple digits in parts of Arizona and Nevada. On Monday, about 39 million residents were placed under heat warnings, with expectations for the heatwave to intensify as the week progresses.
The National Weather Service attributes this “unusually rapid” heatwave to a unique atmospheric pattern characterized by a dome of high pressure settling over the West, trapping heat and humidity.
“We anticipate daily record ties and new records emerging throughout Southern California, the desert Southwest, and the Great Basin over the next few days,” the agency noted in their Monday short-term forecast. “These rising temperatures are paving the way for even more extreme and widespread record heat later this week.”
In Los Angeles, temperatures are expected to reach the mid to upper 90s this week, peaking at 98 degrees on Thursday. In Phoenix, readings could soar to 105 degrees by Thursday, while southern Nevada cities might hit 107 degrees, marking an exceptionally hot start to the year.
“Temperatures will be more than 20 degrees above normal, making it feel more like early June than mid-March,” the Las Vegas Weather Bureau stated in a recent post on X.
Cities likely to break monthly temperature records in the coming days include San Francisco, Los Angeles, Sacramento, and Palm Springs in California, alongside Phoenix and Tucson in Arizona, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Albuquerque, Colorado Springs, and Denver in Colorado.
Heat domes occur when a powerful, persistent area of high pressure hovers over land, effectively trapping hot air.
This week’s heatwave is especially concerning due to its unusual timing and extended duration. The Bureau of Meteorology cautioned that this heat dome might be “one of the strongest we’ve observed for this time of year,” with little relief expected until late next week.
While linking specific extreme weather events directly to climate change remains challenging, studies indicate that heatwaves are becoming more frequent, intense, and prolonged as global temperatures rise.
Extended periods of extreme heat pose significant risks to vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, especially as they adjust to summer-like climates.
The National Weather Service San Diego office warned, “Moderate to severe heat risk is expected. Please stay safe, especially for those without air conditioning. Avoid outdoor activities during peak heating hours.” They shared this announcement via X on Sunday.
This March heatwave has further worsened the West’s ongoing snow drought, diminishing the region’s already low snowpack and increasing concerns about wildfire risks and water availability for the upcoming months.
As the West faces soaring temperatures, a major winter storm is impacting the upper Midwest and Upper Great Lakes, with heavy snowfall anticipated in Wisconsin and Michigan on Monday. More than 120 million residents from the Mississippi Valley to New England also face wind warnings, with potential for damaging winds and tornadoes in areas like Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C.
Simultaneously, Hawaii has been battered by a powerful atmospheric river, bringing continuous rain and resulting in widespread flash flooding and landslides over the past five days.
Many individuals aspire to improve their health, yet this ambition often stems from short-term, superficial objectives, such as fitting into stylish outfits for events. Once those goals are achieved, health maintenance tends to falter, leading to a decline in well-being. However, understanding that our present lifestyle choices can significantly impact our health for decades may motivate us to prioritize our wellness.
Consider Alzheimer’s disease as a case in point. As an age-related illness, many people don’t begin to express concern until they reach their mid-60s, often resorting to brain games as a preventive measure. Unfortunately, the process of Alzheimer’s may have already begun long before that.
Recent studies suggest that Alzheimer’s is linked to chronic inflammation in “peripheral” organs, such as the skin and intestines, during midlife, particularly between the ages of 45 and 60, rather than solely emerging in the brain late in life. Inflammation triggered by conditions like eczema, pneumonia, gum disease, obesity, and high cholesterol may heighten the risk of Alzheimer’s. While genetic predispositions play a role in later life, proactive measures can be taken today to mitigate these risks.
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The wheels of Alzheimer’s disease may start turning long before old age “
Furthermore, frailty is commonly associated with older age, characterized by reduced physical strength and compromised resilience. However, evidence suggests that frailty can manifest much earlier in life as well.
This shift in perspective regarding “old age” encourages the cultivation of healthy habits during midlife as a safeguard for the future. Well-established strategies to help prevent Alzheimer’s and promote overall health include engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining good oral hygiene, and nurturing an active social life. Additionally, vaccinations for shingles, flu, and tuberculosis around age 50 may offer protective benefits against Alzheimer’s disease.
Embracing these midlife adjustments can have lasting effects. After all, ensuring you remain mentally sharp at 90 will allow you to fondly recall wearing that stunning outfit at your 50th birthday celebration.
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Understanding Your Protein Needs
Maximilian Stock Limited/Science Photo Library
Protein Samantha King and Gavin Weedon Duke University Press
Protein has become a cultural phenomenon, highlighted when TV personality Khloé Kardashian advertised protein popcorn on the same day I heard comedian Stephen Merchant discuss its importance on his podcast.
Vital for health, protein contributes to muscle building, infection control, and hormone regulation. While it doesn’t surpass carbohydrates and fats in importance, it’s a key player in contemporary wellness trends. It’s timely that the book Protein: The Birth of a Nutritional Superstar has been released.
The authors, sociologists Samantha King from Queen’s University in Ontario and Gavin Weedon from Nottingham Trent University, explore the cultural obsession with protein. However, their analysis often lacks direct answers for readers’ pressing questions.
Instead of diving right into the popular protein discourse, they start with foundational knowledge about amino acids and even the etymology of the protein term. Examining protein’s rise, they note its broad appeal: promoting fitness for Millennials and Gen Xers, providing energy for baby boomers, and preventing muscle loss in seniors.
<p>Both generational groups seem particularly targeted by protein marketing. King and Weeden suggest Millennials are influenced by the "manosphere," where fitness training acts as a remedy for diminished masculinity. Conversely, older adults view protein as a political and economic strategy to mitigate health expenditures related to sarcopenia, or the age-related decline in muscle mass.</p>
<p>While these points hold some merit, they often feel abstract. King and Weeden provide insufficient evidence to substantiate their arguments.</p>
<p>Interestingly, many individuals keen on protein—like those consuming protein bars—are unlikely to be protein deficient. As a health journalist, I've observed that achieving adequate protein intake in high-income nations with a diet of 2000-2500 calories daily is generally straightforward. The <a href="https://www.nutrition.org.uk/nutritional-information/protein/">UK's current dietary guidelines</a> recommend 0.75 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight; easily achievable through a few nutritious snacks and meals. For active individuals, this intake should be increased.</p>
<p>My hope is that readers will engage with <i>Protein</i> to determine whether existing guidelines warrant reconsideration. Questions remain—should protein intake adjust over a lifetime or menstrual cycle? Is excessive protein consumption harmful? What vegan options provide optimal protein?</p>
<p>Research regarding these concerns remains sparse and often contradictory. Excess protein intake leads to breakdown and excretion through urine, suggesting that indulging in protein popcorn might simply result in a trip to the restroom. Additionally, studies indicate that <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scitranslmed.3005218">excessive long-term protein consumption</a> can strain kidneys and elevate heart disease risks.</p>
<p>The book <i>Protein</i> could greatly benefit from further exploration of these topics. Perhaps sociologists aren't best equipped to tackle nutritional inquiries. However, the release at a moment when dietary protein is under scrutiny means many readers will likely close the book still pondering, "How much protein do we really need?"</p>
<h2><em><strong>Two Additional Insightful Books on Nutrition</strong></em></h2>
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<img class="Image" alt="Book Cover - Off the Scale: The Inside Story of Ozempic and the Obesity Treatment Race" width="312" height="468" src="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124912/SEI_287659660.jpg" srcset="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124912/SEI_287659660.jpg?width=300 300w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124912/SEI_287659660.jpg?width=400 400w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124912/SEI_287659660.jpg?width=500 500w" sizes="(min-width: 1288px) 837px, (min-width: 1024px) calc(57.5vw + 55px), (min-width: 415px) calc(100vw - 40px), calc(70vw + 74px)" loading="lazy" data-image-context="Article" data-image-id="2518621" data-caption="" data-credit=""/>
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<a href="https://harpercollins.co.uk/products/off-the-scales-the-inside-story-of-ozempic-and-the-race-to-cure-obesity-aimee-donnellan"><i><strong>Off the Scale</strong><br/></i></a>by Amy Donnellan
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<p>Reuters columnist Donnellan advocates for a shift in how we perceive obesity, highlighting the potential of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic in combating associated stigma.</p>
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<img class="Image" alt="Book Cover - Ferment by Tim Spector" width="312" height="468" src="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124925/SEI_287659579.jpg" srcset="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124925/SEI_287659579.jpg?width=300 300w, https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/09124925/SEI_287659579.jpg?width=400 400w" sizes="(min-width: 1288px) 837px, (min-width: 1024px) calc(57.5vw + 55px), (min-width: 415px) calc(100vw - 40px), calc(70vw + 74px)" loading="lazy" data-image-context="Article" data-image-id="2518622" data-caption="" data-credit=""/>
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<i><a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/457755/ferment-by-spector-tim/9781787334656"><strong>Ferment</strong></a><br/></i>by Tim Spector
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<p>Spector, founder of ZOE nutrition, effectively discusses the advantages of incorporating fermented foods into the diet without pushing his products.</p>
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Left to right: Rachel Coldicutt, David Leslie, Rumman Chowdhury, Noura Al Moubayed, Wendy Hall.
Royal Society/Debbie Rowe
On the second day of the Women and the Future of Science conference at the Royal Society in London, I encountered significant challenges with AI transcription software. It consistently mistyped names, which strained my ability to focus on the impactful discussions surrounding artificial intelligence, particularly concerning the erasure of women in contemporary AI technologies.
This issue extends beyond the well-documented bias in AI algorithms stemming from training datasets that often lack gender diversity.
Sessions led by renowned computer scientists, including Wendy Hall, aim to tackle a pressing concern: the predominance of male designers in crafting transformative AI technologies that greatly impact society.
Historically, technology has been a male-dominated domain, with current statistics showing that only 25 percent of computer science students in the UK are women. In recent years, Silicon Valley’s environment has become increasingly hostile towards women, particularly as generative AI continues to evolve.
“There has been a significant setback over the last two years,” states David Leslie, Director of Ethics and Responsible Innovation Research at the Alan Turing Institute. “Debates regarding the generational damage inflicted on women in science by the Trump administration are not merely speculative; we’re regressing.”
Last year, President Donald Trump issued an executive order that targeted the concept of “woke AI,” urging the US National Institute of Standards and Technology to re-evaluate its AI risk management framework, stripping away references to misinformation, diversity, equity, inclusion, and climate change.
Among the panelists was Rumman Chowdhury, a data scientist and former special envoy for AI science, who previously oversaw ethics and accountability at Twitter under Elon Musk before being dismissed along with her team. She highlights that the notion of woke AI emerged from sexist attitudes within Silicon Valley prior to the President’s directives.
When asked to envision AI devoid of female contributions, panelists noted that we are already witnessing this reality. “In the sphere of frontier AI, we are indeed in an AI landscape without women,” declares Chaudhry, while Rachel Coldicutt emphasizes that lacking women in AI is not a distant fantasy, but a current reality.
The implications are profound. From crash test dummies to medical research, a longstanding trend exists where technology is built with male bodies and needs in mind, a phenomenon termed the gender data gap. The ramifications of this gap can range from inconvenient to life-threatening.
AI’s influence will permeate various aspects of life, including employment, education, and healthcare. However, as highlighted by Chaudhry, women currently receive only 2% of venture capital funding, and less than 1 percent of healthcare research funding addresses women’s health. “We must utilize technology for everyone, not just the elite,” Coldicutt stressed.
What actions should be taken? Coldicutt argues that existing AI models are crippled by centuries of bias, making rectification nearly impossible. “We need alternative models,” she insists, emphasizing the importance of fostering systems that prioritize care for both people and the planet.
Chaudhry, a co-founder of the nonprofit Humane Intelligence, which aids companies in enhancing accountability and fairness in AI systems, notes that much of current AI development is driven by a misplaced urgency focused on existential threats to jobs and humanity. “If your house were on fire, you wouldn’t contemplate your mother’s jewelry in that moment,” she explains. This sense of urgency leads to the neglect of essential factors, including diversity.
For the upcoming generation, Leslie advocates that to empower youth in developing AI for social benefit, we must reevaluate the economic and political frameworks surrounding AI development. “We need to begin by redefining incentives.”
Ultimately, we may need to redefine the very notion of intelligence in the context of AI to embrace a wider, more diverse array of perspectives. Much of the foundational thought on AI, including its definitions, arose from a landmark conference held at Dartmouth College in the 1950s—an event composed entirely of men, as Hall points out.
Artist’s Impression of a 5th-Century Visigoth Warrior
Creative Assembly (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0)
A groundbreaking DNA study from Gothic tombs uncovers that the Goths were a multi-ethnic society, linked to regions spanning Scandinavia, modern-day Türkiye, and North Africa.
This finding challenges traditional theories that positioned the Goths solely as Scandinavian migrants to the eastern Mediterranean. “If Gothic identity were primarily tied to a biological lineage from Scandinavia, we wouldn’t observe this diversity,” states Svetoslav Stamov of the National History Museum of Bulgaria.
The Goths inhabited Eastern Europe from at least the 3rd century AD, frequently residing along the Roman Empire’s borders. They alternated between being allies and adversaries of Rome. Notably, the Visigoths famously sacked Rome in 410 AD, playing a crucial role in the Western Roman Empire’s decline.
Despite their historical significance, the Goths remain one of history’s least understood cultures, largely represented through potentially biased Roman accounts that often conflated various neighboring groups under labels like “Goths,” “Celts,” and “Scythians.”
To uncover the true identity of the Goths, Stamov and his team sequenced the genomes of 38 individuals from two Bulgarian sites, identified as Gothic based on their unique beads, jewelry, burial practices, and cranial modifications.
One site near the palace of Aur in Khan Omurtag featured a cemetery likely linked to an early Gothic bishop’s church, dating from around 350 to 489 AD. This location is tentatively associated with an early Christian bishop named Ulfila.
The team also analyzed samples from the necropolis of Aquae Caridae, an ancient Roman site (circa 320 to 375 AD) known for its healing center and bathhouse. Though not a cemetery, several burials occurred there; one revealed an artificial skull deformity atypical for Roman times, indicating cultural diversity, as noted by Stamov.
Though significantly distinct genetically, the two groups shared mixed heritage from Scandinavia, the Caucasus, the Levant, Anatolia (now Turkey), East Asia (now Mongolia), Egypt, and sub-Saharan Africa. “This reflects a remarkably diverse community,” Stamov commented.
Arianism, an early Christian sect, might have played a pivotal role in fostering inclusivity. “Anyone could become an Arian Christian,” emphasizes Todor Chobanov at the Balkan Research Institute and Laryngology Center, Sofia, Bulgaria.
Chobanov asserts that the premise that the Goths were “complex and diverse” holds merit, as doesn’t establish a direct link between ancestry and ethnic identity. However, the team’s genomic analysis remains limited, so further sampling is necessary for a comprehensive understanding. Moreover, they caution that simply possessing Gothic artifacts does not definitively identify individuals’ ethnicities.
James Harland, from the University of Bonn, posits that the Roman Empire’s influence was significant in shaping Gothic identity as they navigated cooperation and conflict with the empire. “The interactions with the empire facilitated the existence of these groups as cohesive units,” he points out.
“Various Gothic tribes resided at the fringes of the Roman Empire for centuries, absorbing numerous influences, such as clothing styles and pottery,” notes Chobanov.
Explore Historic Herculaneum – Uncover Vesuvius, Pompeii, and Ancient Naples
Embark on a captivating journey through the ruins of Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii, and Herculaneum, where history and archaeology come alive.
Extra dimensions allow for even more complex shapes
Vitalij Chalupnik / Alamy and NASA, ESA, and K. Stapelfeldt (JPL)
One of the most striking interviews of my career began with me sitting at my desk, head in my hands, discussing extra dimensions with a physicist over the phone. I sought to grasp the implications of dimensions being “small.” Amidst the conversation, I tuned out the laughter of a colleague and asked, “They’re not as small as jellybeans, are they?” The answer? It’s a complex one.
While extra dimensions are routinely referenced in physics, their true significance is often overlooked. They frequently arise in discussions regarding string theory—a revolutionary concept proposing that everything stems from minuscule, vibrating strings. These vibrations create particles, from atoms to electrons to quarks. My skepticism about string theory stems from its ideas ranging from the profoundly challenging to the outright untestable, which can be quite daunting. Additionally, these theories usually depend on an extra dimension to conceal the curled strings, a notion that I find difficult to wrap my head around.
Some established explanations, like the Flatland novella, provide entertaining yet enlightening allegories—helping us understand the experience of encountering another dimension while accustomed to four. However, most discussions devolve into ambiguity before we move on.
If extra dimensions are indeed real, they could resolve significant issues in both physics and cosmology, making it imperative to explore them. A notable challenge is gravity: paradoxically weaker than other fundamental forces. This anomaly might occur because gravity “leaks” into other dimensions, reducing its force in our observable universe. Recent hypotheses suggest that dark energy might similarly diminish over time due to an evolving extra dimension, affecting the energy balance of our familiar four-dimensional setup: three spatial dimensions and one of time.
Moreover, this concept is captivating, even as I grapple with the likelihood of extra dimensions existing alongside our own.
One of the most comprehensible kinds of additional dimensions can be found in Flatland, a narrative about geometric entities inhabiting a two-dimensional realm. They navigate a flat surface, much like a puck on ice, and perceive other shapes merely as lines from their limited viewpoint.
Conversely, beings with additional dimensions (humans, for example) see these entities from above or below, recognizing them as shapes rather than mere lines. In our three-dimensional world, we can extract shapes from this plane and rotate them. The remaining forms in Flatland maintain their flatness; instead of seeing stable lines, we’d view an intriguing cross-section where the shape intersects our dimension.
When applied to our universe — with three spatial dimensions and one temporal — even higher-dimensional entities could peer within our world, potentially drawing us into their dimensional space. Observers left behind would witness shifting cross-sections of our likenesses as we traverse this five-dimensional reality.
A variation of this scenario is the brane-world hypothesis, suggesting that our universe exists as the boundary of a higher-dimensional space. Originally proposed in 1999, this concept has recently gained traction as a feasible integration of our universe with the principles of string theory.
In one interpretation, our universe resides at the precipice between a higher-dimensional construct known as hyperspace and the void. Essentially, we occupy the very edge of existence, intriguingly termed the End of the World Brain. The fundamental particles we recognize correspond to the terminals of five-dimensional strings within hyperspace — yet, like the shapes in Flatland, we can never perceive the entirety of these strings.
This theory introduces five dimensions, but there could be countless others, most not resembling our universe at all. Imagine time not merely progressing forward and backward but also moving sideways (details omitted). Some dimensions could possess sizes akin to jellybeans, or even minuscule.
Are extra dimensions like nesting dolls?
Lars Ruecker/Getty Images
Consider a dimension as a collection of glass matryoshka dolls, each nestled within a larger one, accessible depending on the dimensional level one inhabits (likely four) and the doll representing the inner dimensions. The dimensions comparable to a jellybean may seem physically minute but represent expansive realities, akin to bubbles in glass. Each of these bubbles encapsulates a small realm, a kind of pocket universe.
Wondering about entry into this pocket world? These dimensions are often extremely diminutive, making it improbable for anyone larger than a jellybean—or perhaps a photon—to encounter them. Their minuscule nature is partly why they remain elusive. More sizeable dimensions would certainly attract attention. However, discovering smaller dimensions is not entirely out of the question. Think of light passing through a glass matryoshka doll. Air bubbles distort and reflect light. A parallel phenomenon occurs in actual additional dimensions.
Imagine a gravitational wave traversing one of our universe’s bubbles. It could emerge distorted, and with a potent enough detector, such distortions could be measured. Other investigative methods might include subtle quantum effects and exotic particles believed to originate exclusively from extra dimensions.
Researchers utilizing gravitational wave detectors, particle colliders, and traditional telescopes are diligently searching for these faint signs. However, no concrete evidence has been unearthed yet. Nonetheless, the very endeavor of seeking out extra dimensions could undermine my initial assertion that string theory lacks testable predictions. Should we eventually uncover such dimensions, it could significantly reshape my perspective on string theory — and our overarching understanding of the universe.
In-depth observations of WOH G64, previously regarded as the most extreme red supergiant star in our galaxy, have uncovered significant changes, suggesting it may have shed parts of its outer layers while transitioning into a hotter, rarer stellar phase.
Artist’s reconstruction of the red supergiant star WOH G64. Image credit: ESO/L. Calçada.
Red supergiant stars, exceeding eight times the mass of the Sun, boast relatively short lifespans of merely 1 to 10 million years before culminating in a spectacular supernova explosion.
Despite their brightness, the evolutionary trajectories and ultimate fates of the universe’s most luminous red supergiants remain unclear.
Discovered in the 1980s, WOH G64 has been recognized as one of the brightest, largest, and coolest red supergiants within the Large Magellanic Cloud, a dwarf galaxy located approximately 160,000 light-years from Earth.
To explore the evolution of WOH G64, Dr. Gonzalo Muñoz Sánchez from the National Astronomical Observatory of Athens and his team analyzed over 30 years of brightness data, commencing in 1992, using both recent and archived electromagnetic spectra.
The research indicated that the star experienced rapid fluctuations: it dimmed in 2011, then rebounded, transforming into a yellower hue and increasing in temperature by over 1,000 degrees Celsius between 2013 and 2014.
In 2025, WOH G64 experienced a significant dimming, accompanied by alterations in its atmospheric chemistry.
This image, captured by ESO’s Very Large Telescope Interferometer’s GRAVITY instrument, showcases the red supergiant star WOH G64. Image credit: ESO/Ohnaka et al., doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/202451820.
Astronomers have proposed two possible explanations for these developments.
“First, WOH G64 could be part of a binary system where a red supergiant star transformed into a yellow supergiant due to interactions that expelled part of its atmosphere,” the researchers noted.
“Alternatively, the yellow supergiant may have experienced an eruption of red material lasting several decades, culminating in 2014.”
“This discovery raises intriguing questions about the nature of extreme red supergiants like WOH G64 and whether they are predominantly interacting binaries, which might prevent single stars from reaching such extreme conditions,” the researchers concluded.
The future interactions of WOH G64 will ultimately determine whether it explodes as a supernova, collapses into a black hole, or merges with a companion star.
For further details, refer to the study published in the journal Nature Astronomy.
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G. Munoz-Sanchez et al. A dramatic transformation from the very red supergiant WOH G64 to a yellow supergiant. Nat Astron, published online on February 23, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41550-026-02789-7
The universe contains space waiting to be explored. When we shift our focus from Earth and the Milky Way to intergalactic space, we find an average density of 1 atom per cubic meter, or roughly 35 cubic feet of emptiness. Yet, the universe holds more than mere emptiness; it conceals a wealth of material on smaller scales.
Inside galaxies, regions between stars harbor gatherings of matter at different temperatures and densities, collectively known as the multiphase interstellar medium (ISM). This cosmic material primarily consists of hydrogen and helium, supplemented by trace amounts of heavier elements, referred to by astronomers as metals. It is from this material that new stars are born.
A recent study by a team of astronomers examined how variable metallic content affects star formation within the ISM. By simulating ISM clouds with varying metallicities across seven regions of the nearby universe, including areas near the Sun, random patches of the Milky Way, the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds, Sextans A, the globular cluster NGC 1904, and the blue compact dwarf galaxy I Zwicky 18, the team employed the SILCC project, a collaborative effort among European research institutions focused on simulating the lifecycle of star-forming gas clouds.
Using a sophisticated simulation code, the researchers modeled gas dynamics and magnetic field interactions within a massive cuboid measuring 500 parsecs on each side. This giant box, equivalent to 15 quintillion kilometers per side, contained gas molecules influenced by the gravitational attractions of star clusters and dark matter present within and around the cloud. To maintain cloud stability, gas molecules were initially set to move at an average speed of 10 kilometers per second during the first 20 million years.
Post-initiation, the simulation examined how magnetic fields and fluid dynamics evolved, including the effects of high-energy protons, referred to as cosmic rays. Over a simulated timeframe of 200 million years, the researchers tracked cloud interactions, star formation, lifecycle events, and the chemistry of residual molecules. By isolating metallicity effects across the seven different simulations, it was found that the solar neighborhood had the highest metallicity, while I Zwicky 18 displayed a mere 2% metallicity.
The findings revealed that low-metallicity regions of the ISM tend to be warmer on average compared to high-metallicity areas. The results indicated that metals possess superior heat-releasing properties compared to hydrogen or helium. In contrast, colder regions rich in metals fostered star birth, whereas warmer, low-metallicity environments produced fewer stars, perpetuating a cycle of thermal dynamics until temperatures soared to around 1 million Kelvin (or 2 million °F).
The research team acknowledged several simplifications in their study. Due to time constraints, only metallicity was varied across simulations, despite differing spatial parameters. Additionally, the team underestimated common metals like carbon, oxygen, and silicon, which are formed at higher rates through stellar nuclear fusion. Lastly, it was assumed that all massive stars culminated their lifespans via supernovae, excluding the possibility of black hole formation.
Many of us aspire to enhance our intelligence, whether we admit it or not. Who wouldn’t want to be the life of the dinner party or excel at chess?
You might be curious if it’s feasible to boost brain performance beyond innate genetics and an enriching early environment. If so, how can you achieve this?
Brain training games are often promoted as a viable solution. Just as individuals pursue muscle gains at the gym, those looking to sharpen their intellect gravitate toward brain-training games.
Their popularity has surged recently, largely due to the availability of apps on smartphones, coupled with the enticing premise: play for a few minutes daily and become smarter.
Unfortunately, the evidence supporting brain-training games is less than compelling.
A significant 2018 study demonstrated that participants improved significantly in a token-tracking game. However, when tested on similar tasks like recalling short digit strings, those gains vanished. The training failed to transfer from games to real-world tasks.
“When it comes to brain training, as marketed,” states Professor Bobby Stoyanowski, the study’s lead researcher, “we don’t see any improvement.”
Other research corroborates Stoyanowski’s findings. This isn’t the first time claims surrounding such games have been challenged; in 2016, the US Federal Trade Commission fined Lumosity $2 million, citing deceptive advertising related to their brain training claims.
“This raises many questions,” said Stojanowski. “We understand that our brains are plastic and can be enhanced, so the potential for improving cognitive performance is still open.”
Interestingly, one potential improvement avenue might involve weightlifting.
Harnessing Brain Power
When envisioning a high-IQ individual, we often picture a frail, bookish person instead of someone with a fit physique. However, these stereotypes are outdated and misleading, especially since exercise can significantly enhance mental capacities.
Puzzles can assess spatial awareness and problem-solving but how beneficial are they for cognitive function? – Image credit: Getty Images
A 2024 analysis indicated that motivating children to engage in regular exercise led to a noteworthy increase of four IQ points, regardless of their initial IQ levels or duration of the intervention.
While four points may seem minor, Dr. Javier Salvador Morales, the analysis’ lead author, argues that “an average increase of four IQ points is significant in a population context.”
For comparison, studies have shown that an additional year of formal education generally increases IQ by about one to five points.
“Thus, the impacts we observed relate comparably to the cognitive benefits of an extra year of schooling,” he says.
He notes that this isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. “This doesn’t imply that individual physical activity will automatically result in such changes; rather, a structured exercise program can meaningfully enhance a child’s intelligence.”
Why is exercise effective? Its benefits for the brain are numerous.
MRI scans have shown that exercise can facilitate the creation of new neurons in the hippocampus, vital for learning and memory, improve brain connectivity, promote new blood vessel formation, and protect against neurodegenerative disease proteins.
These effects can largely be attributed to enhanced blood flow and oxygen availability, providing the brain with essential energy. Additionally, exercise leads to the release of neurotransmitters and hormones that benefit healthy brain function.
Read More:
The Thought Process
Are certain types of exercise more effective than others? Currently, the answers are debatable since much research has targeted older adults with moderate activities like walking taking precedence.
A 2024 study found that gardening was linked to a reduced risk of cognitive decline in individuals over 45, with higher energy expenditure driving improvements among participants engaged in gardening.
However, Salvador Morales’ analysis indicated benefits across a range of activities including aerobic exercises, yoga, team sports, and strength training. “Despite the differences, a clear pattern emerged: Structured physical exercise improved both general and fluid intelligence,” he affirms.
Certain trends were evident. Interventions typically lasted between 30 to 60 minutes, occurred three to five days a week, and included moderate to vigorous exercise.
Moreover, combining various exercise types proved effective. Some evidence suggests that mixing aerobic exercises with strength and flexibility training yields greater cognitive function improvements in older adults.
Research indicates that active, interactive video games may offer cognitive benefits. – Image courtesy of Getty Images
There’s ongoing debate regarding the magnitude or directness of these effects. Exercise often coincides with other benefits like improved sleep quality, mood enhancement, and social interaction. Nonetheless, Salvador Morales insists the cumulative evidence is compelling.
“Decades of research consistently demonstrate that structured exercise programs correlate with tangible improvements in cognitive and intellectual outcomes among youth,” he states.
This trend appears consistent across nearly all age demographics surveyed.
“Intelligence is influenced by a range of biological, educational, and environmental factors; thus, we can’t deem it the ‘best’ approach,” he observes.
“However, exercise is one of the few interventions consistently showing positive effects in randomized controlled trials for adolescents. It also enhances physical, emotional, and social well-being simultaneously—something not always achievable through more focused cognitive strategies.”
“While no single formula exists for boosting intelligence, exercise stands out as a safe, accessible, and broadly beneficial option.”
While brain-training apps may not significantly boost IQ, emerging technologies that integrate physical activity could hold promise.
A notable study involving mostly sedentary students showcased a virtual reality game with lightsabers.
Rather than remaining stationary, players had to swing, dodge, and engage dynamically, turning the game into a moderate to intense physical activity workout.
The outcomes, though modest, were significant. After gameplay, participants exhibited marked improvements in cognitive tests regarding naming, abstraction, and spatial orientation.
So, the wisest strategy might not be to abandon brain-training games completely, but to seek out games that engage both your mind and body.
Empathy is widely viewed as a valuable trait. We nurture empathy in children to foster their ability to understand others’ emotions and offer support when necessary.
Research consistently highlights the advantages of empathy, contributing to strong social and interpersonal skills. However, what happens when this empathy is exploited? This leads us to the intriguing concept of the dark empath.
What is a Dark Empath?
To comprehend dark empaths, it’s essential first to grasp the concept of the dark triad.
The dark triad encompasses three personality traits: narcissism (an inflated sense of entitlement and grandiosity), psychopathy (marked by lack of remorse, superficial charm, and impulsiveness), and Machiavellianism (manipulative and strategic behaviors).
Now, envision someone who embodies all three of these traits while simultaneously possessing a high degree of empathy. This person is known as a dark empath.
A dark empath has a keen understanding of others’ emotions, yet instead of empathizing, they manipulate, guilt, or control them – Photo credit: Getty
The key distinction between Dark Triad individuals and Dark Empaths is that the latter can truly understand others’ emotions. While this may sound favorable, it’s detrimental when empathy is wielded as a tool for manipulation.
Dark empaths do not merely show increased general empathy; they often excel in specific forms of empathy.
Research identifies three distinct types of empathy:
Emotional Empathy: The capacity to feel what another person is experiencing (e.g., tearing up while watching a touching film).
Cognitive Empathy: Understanding another person’s emotional state without necessarily feeling the same emotion (for instance, recognizing someone’s distress after watching a sad movie).
Compassionate Empathy: Comprehending someone’s feelings and actively helping them (like hugging someone who is sobbing after a sorrowful film).
Dark empaths can be particularly perilous due to their high level of cognitive empathy, which enables them to discern what others feel and require. This knowledge can then be manipulated to exploit others’ vulnerabilities for their gain.
Unlike their Dark Triad counterparts, Dark Empaths often exude an extroverted charm and appear likable in social contexts. Their exceptional social skills make them difficult to identify, fostering trust—a lethal combination.
Learn More:
How to Identify a Dark Empath
So, how can you determine if someone you know is a dark empath? Look for individuals who excel at reading emotions but mainly utilize this skill for self-serving purposes rather than to offer genuine support.
Specific signs that may indicate someone is a dark empath include:
Their kindness feels insincere
They manipulate others for their own advantage
They possess strong social skills
They instill guilt or play on your insecurities
While these are not definitive indicators of a dark empath, they are cautionary signals worth noting.
Ultimately, it’s important to nurture and appreciate empathy while being vigilant about the motives behind it.
Do their intentions truly seem altruistic, or do they have hidden agendas?
This article (by Carol Steger, Colorado) addresses the inquiry: “What defines a dark empath?”
If you have any questions, please reach out to us at:questions@sciencefocus.com or message us onFacebook,Twitter, or Instagram(make sure to include your name and location).
Discover our ultimate collection offun science facts. Explore even more amazing science content.
When discussing hair removal options, many products promise quick fixes or a return to the hair’s original luster. Unfortunately, these claims often fall short, leading to subpar and temporary results.
Fortunately, breakthroughs in science may reveal effective strategies to combat this issue.
The intriguing solution could involve freezing hair at extremely low temperatures to produce clones—yes, clones! Sci-fi enthusiasts, get ready to support this innovation.
What Causes Male Pattern Baldness?
The common misconception is that bald individuals lack hair entirely, but that’s not true. When hair is lost, it doesn’t disappear; instead, it shrinks.
“Baldness is a result of hair shrinking,” explains Paul Kemp, CEO of HairClone, a pioneering company dedicated to next-generation hair loss treatments. “The hair isn’t gone; it’s just becoming smaller and less visible.”
The shrinkage occurs due to a type of skin cell known as dermal papilla, which surrounds the base of hair follicles and is essential for hair formation, growth, and texture.
During hair loss, the number of these vital cells—typically around 1,000 per follicle—diminishes dramatically.
This loss is exacerbated by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent derivative of testosterone that affects hair follicles differently across the scalp. Generally, dermal papilla cells on the top of the head are more susceptible to this process compared to those on the sides.
Recent research findings, published in Experimental Dermatology, explore how these skin cells differentiate during early embryonic development, suggesting a genetic basis for why some areas are more prone to hair loss.
“The dermal cells that are lost and those that remain originate from distinctly different populations,” Professor Kemp clarifies. “Essentially, where you experience hair loss can be likened to a ticking clock set from the moment your body begins to develop.”
Read More:
Why Cloning Hair Could Cure Baldness
With the loss of dermal papilla cells linked to baldness, researchers are racing to discover ways to replenish them. Hair cloning, also known as hair propagation, is gaining traction, thanks to frontrunners like HairClone.
This pioneering technology is not yet available in the UK or US, but if successful, it could come with a hefty price tag. Kemp notes, “While initial costs will be high, scaling up production should help lower prices, making it comparable to advanced hair transplant techniques.”
Unlike traditional hair transplants, hair cloning can be initiated before significant hair loss occurs, ensuring discreet treatment results.
Here’s how the process works:
1. Hair Root Collection and Preservation:
Healthy hair follicles are extracted from areas where hair is still growing and cryogenically preserved for later use. For optimal results, it’s crucial to gather these follicles while they are still young.
2. Cell Multiplication:
This step involves isolating and multiplying dermal papilla cells in a laboratory setting. As Dr. Jennifer Dillon states: “From one follicle, we can multiply these cells over 1,000 times, resulting in over a million cells.”
3. Replantation:
The cultivated dermal papilla cells are injected back into bald areas of the scalp, returning hair to its natural thickness and fullness. This step is awaiting regulatory approval, but initial clinical data is promising.
While banking hair follicles is currently possible globally, it comes with a significant cost.
What Other Treatments Are Available?
Although hair cloning is a buzz-worthy topic, it isn’t the sole treatment option. A study published in the Cosmetic Dermatology Journal suggests that fat cells harvested from the abdomen could regenerate hair. This method, known as autologous fat grafting (AFG), eliminates the need for cryogenic preservation.
AFG falls under stem cell therapy, using versatile cells that can transform into various cell types to meet regenerative needs. Instead of freezing hair cells, stem cells can be extracted from the patient’s body and directed to grow into hair cells, injected into the scalp just like in hair cloning.
Another innovative treatment in development is microRNA therapy, which fine-tunes gene expression to stimulate hair growth and has the potential to be applied topically, thus reducing invasiveness.
When Will These Treatments Be Available?
As with hair cloning, various stem cell and microRNA treatments are currently seeking clinical approval, potentially becoming available in the coming years. Despite the rising optimism for effective baldness treatments, Dr. Claire Higgins, a tissue regeneration expert at Imperial College London, warns that success in lab trials does not always translate to clinical effectiveness.
Dr. Higgins believes that understanding the specific reasons why some dermal papilla cells are more vulnerable to hair loss will be key in designing more effective treatments. “While we understand the physiological changes leading to hair loss, the underlying causes remain unclear.”
Optimistically, Kemp concludes that future generations will have revolutionary solutions for hair restoration, much like advancements in dentistry. “Rather than waiting for hair loss to occur, we envision a world where individuals can maintain their hair throughout life.”
About Our Experts
Dr. Paul Kemp is the Co-founder and CEO of HairClone. Previously, he led the development of the first multicellular therapy approved by the FDA, currently benefitting millions globally. He also serves as co-director for doctoral training in regenerative medicine at the University of Manchester.
Dr. Claire Higgins is a leading lecturer in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine at Imperial College London, focusing on hair follicles and skin regeneration.
Dr. Jennifer Dillon heads research at HairClone, specializing in the development of cell therapies for hair loss and possessing over a decade of experience in stem cell and cancer research.
The birth of a child is often celebrated as one of life’s happiest moments. Indeed, it can be emotionally intense, surpassing many other experiences the human brain can encounter.
However, that initial moment of becoming a parent is fleeting. Following it, you are on a lifelong journey of parenthood, which comes with its own set of challenges.
Across various societies and cultures, the significance of the parent-child relationship is emphasized and celebrated. Yet, research highlights the troubling trend of the “parental penalty,” revealing a disconnect between these societal beliefs and the reality of parenthood.
Numerous studies indicate that parents often report lower overall well-being compared to non-parents. This is particularly pronounced in developed nations, with the United States showcasing the largest happiness gap between parents and non-parents.
In contrast, countries like Portugal report that parents often feel happier than their non-parent counterparts, followed closely by Hungary, Spain, and Norway.
Understanding the Childcare Gap
Why does this happiness disparity exist? And why is it so variable across different countries?
The emotional bond between a parent and child is both powerful and complicated. While the emotional highs are profound, the lows can be equally overwhelming, often making the parenting journey emotionally taxing.
Moreover, various factors have been undermining parents’ access to essential resources such as jobs, housing, and community support in many developed nations. This has made it increasingly challenging for individuals to maintain stability, let alone pursue long-term goals like home ownership or career advancement.
The emotional landscape of parenting is complex; even the most intense joys come with significant challenges. – Image credit: Getty Images
If modern life is inherently stressful, the added burden of raising children amplifies this stress, reducing personal autonomy and choice.
This notion is supported by evidence from various countries. The United States, characterized by its individualistic culture, often provides limited social support to parents. Consequently, the weight of parenting responsibilities often remains unrelieved.
Conversely, nations like Portugal and Hungary extend considerable government support to parents, which may significantly alleviate stress and boost overall happiness.
Nevertheless, it’s crucial to note that research on happiness is multifaceted and not definitive. Variances in cultural attitudes towards community support can heavily influence findings.
Interestingly, some studies suggest a correlation between countries with the happiest parents and progressive policies, like the decriminalization of drugs. Yet, establishing clear connections remains complex.
What we can conclude, however, is that raising children is one of the most demanding roles a person can undertake. Many developed nations are beginning to acknowledge this, yet efforts to support parents effectively remain inadequate.
This article addresses the query from Rhonda Price of Powys: “Which country is the least happy for parents?”
If you have inquiries, please contact us at:questions@sciencefocus.com or reach out viaFacebook,Twitter, or Instagram(please include your name and location).
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Premature ejaculation is believed to affect one in three men.
Yevgen Chabanov / Alamy
Recent preliminary results from a small randomized trial suggest that men dealing with premature ejaculation can enhance their control and prolong intercourse using a smartphone app.
Premature ejaculation (PE) is identified as the most common sexual dysfunction in men; studies estimate that it affects one in three men. While several treatment options exist, such as local anesthetics and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), these often require continuous use and can come with side effects. Furthermore, medications must be taken shortly before sexual activity, which undermines spontaneity. “Current treatments do not resolve the issue,” explains Christer Groeben from the University of Heidelberg in Germany.
The app, named Melonga, offers a comprehensive curriculum crafted by psychologists and urologists that incorporates alertness training, pelvic floor muscle exercises, mindfulness techniques, and cognitive-behavioral strategies. Participants learn to identify the “point of no return” before ejaculation, employing techniques like breathing, relaxation, and start-stop methods to manage arousal. The program also promotes open communication with partners and addresses negative thought patterns using cognitive behavioral therapy.
In a trial, eighty men were randomly chosen to either use the app or receive no structured intervention over the first 12 weeks. Among the 66 men who finished the study, those who used the app increased their vaginal ejaculation latency from an average of 61 seconds to 125 seconds, showing noticeable improvements after just four weeks. The control group exhibited minimal changes.
Men who engaged with the app reported benefits such as improved relationship dynamics and enhanced sexual enjoyment due to prolonged activity. Despite the potential causes of premature ejaculation, like prostate or thyroid issues, the study focused on healthy participants to ensure accurate results.
During a presentation at the European Urological Association Congress in London, Groeben announced significant findings.
“Healthcare professionals often favor medications over simpler solutions,” said Giorgio Russo from the University of Catania, Italy, who was not associated with the study. “During a quick appointment, pills seem like the simplest option, but they are not necessarily what patients need. The app acts as a digital doctor, empowering men and their partners to understand premature ejaculation better.”
Russo highlighted that the app, developed by the Netherlands-based health startup Prognois, had a “dramatic” effect, with 22% of participants no longer fulfilling the criteria for premature ejaculation after its usage. “Even a one- to two-minute improvement can yield significant benefits,” he stated.
“Anxiety is a major factor contributing to premature ejaculation,” Russo added. “Exercises such as Kegels can help manage anxiety and enhance muscle control.” While various similar apps exist, none have been rigorously tested in controlled environments. One key advantage of a digital solution is privacy. “Many individuals avoid seeking medical assistance due to the stigma associated with waiting in a doctor’s office,” Groeben stated.
Utilizing an extensive catalog of Sun-like stars created by ESA’s Gaia mission, astronomers have uncovered compelling evidence suggesting that our Sun migrated outward with thousands of similar stars approximately 4 to 6 billion years ago. This finding offers significant insights into the formation of the Milky Way’s central bar.
An artist’s impression illustrating the Sun’s movement and its solar twins from the center of the Milky Way galaxy, dating back 4 to 6 billion years. Image credit: National Astronomical Observatory of Japan.
“While terrestrial archaeology studies human history, galactic archaeology explores the vast journeys of stars and galaxies,” stated Daisuke Taniguchi, an astronomer at Tokyo Metropolitan University, along with his colleagues.
“It is established that our Sun formed approximately 4.6 billion years ago, originally over 10,000 light-years closer to the Milky Way’s center than its present location.”
“Research into stellar compositions supports this hypothesis, yet it has historically posed challenges for scientists.”
“Observations indicate a significant bar-like structure at the Milky Way’s center, creating a corotation barrier that restricts stars from escaping far from the center.”
The study aimed to compile a comprehensive catalog of solar twin stars with stellar parameters closely resembling those of the Sun.
“Solar twins are characterized by stellar properties such as effective temperature, surface gravity, and metallicity that closely align with those of the Sun,” the researchers explained.
“By conducting differential analysis between stellar twins—stars with similar stellar parameters—we can achieve exceptional precision in measuring both stellar parameters and chemical abundances.”
The astronomers utilized data gathered by ESA’s Gaia satellite, which contains an extraordinary array of observations from 2 billion stars and celestial objects.
They successfully cataloged 6,594 solar twins, approximately 30 times more than previously documented studies.
This extensive catalog allowed them to construct the most accurate estimates of the ages of these stars, carefully accounting for biases related to the visibility of selected stars.
Upon examining the age distribution, they identified a peak of stars ranging from 4 to 6 billion years old, including our Sun, indicating the existence of similar-age stars situated at comparable distances from the galaxy’s core.
This discovery supports the notion that the Sun’s current location is part of a broader stellar migration pattern rather than a mere coincidence.
This revelation not only enhances our understanding of the solar system but also elucidates the evolution of the Milky Way galaxy itself.
“The corotational barrier produced by the central bar structure of the galaxy would inhibit such extensive migrations,” the researchers noted. “However, if stellar formation was still occurring at that time, the scenario might differ.”
“The age of our solar twin not only indicates when the mass migration happened but also the timeframe related to the formation of the galactic boundary.”
“Regions near the center of a galaxy are generally less conducive to life than those found farther away.”
“Our findings thus unveil critical aspects regarding how our solar system, and consequently our planet, came to occupy a life-supporting region within the galaxy.”
Results were published in the Journal on March 12, 2026, in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
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Daisuke Taniguchi and colleagues. 2026. Gaia DR3 GSP Specification Solar Twin. I. Creation of a Comprehensive Age-Compatible Catalog of Solar Twins. A&A 707, A260; doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/202658913
Stentor coeruleus – A remarkable single-celled organism
Melba Photo Agency / Alamy
Recent studies showcase that single-celled organisms, devoid of brains or neurons, can exhibit forms of advanced learning.
The most basic learning type is called habituation, where an organism gradually reduces its response to non-threatening stimuli like sounds or smells. This process is observed across various species, including animals and even plants. Habituation has also been demonstrated in some protists—complex eukaryotic cells that typically exist as unicellular organisms. For example, the trumpet-shaped blue spot stentor and slime mold poly skull.
Moving beyond habituation, associative learning evaluates how organisms connect multiple stimuli and predict events based on previous experiences. This concept was famously demonstrated by Ivan Pavlov, who showed that dogs could associate the sound of a bell with food, resulting in salivation at the mere sound.
Recently, Sam Gershman from Harvard University and his team utilized similar conditioning experiments to reveal that Stentor, a freshwater organism, is also capable of associative learning.
The stunning Stentor lives in freshwater habitats, using fine hair-like structures called cilia to navigate. Measuring up to 2 millimeters in length, it stands out among unicellular organisms. One end features a holdfast for surface attachment, while the opposite end has a trumpet-like feeding structure.
“When attached to a surface, Stentor primarily filters food from water. However, when disturbed, it retracts into a ball, making it temporarily unable to eat, which presents an ecological advantage,” Gershman notes.
To study Stentor’s learning capabilities, researchers conducted experiments by tapping the bottom of a Petri dish containing Stentor cultures. Most organisms initially contracted rapidly in response to loud taps, but this behavior diminished with repeated stimulation, indicating a form of habituation.
In subsequent experiments, the researchers introduced a weak tap followed by a strong tap. Typically, few microorganisms responded to the weak stimulus alone. However, the paired taps, executed every 45 seconds, gave Stentor sufficient time to re-extend, demonstrating associative learning over multiple trials.
After conducting over 10 trials, researchers noted an increased and then decreased probability of contraction following the weak tap, indicating a nuanced form of learning. “The observed pattern in the contraction rate signals a depth of cognitive ability previously underestimated in such simple organisms,” asserts Gershman.
The findings suggest that Stentor may be the first known protist capable of associative learning by linking weak and strong stimuli. “This raises compelling questions about the cognitive abilities of seemingly simple organisms compared to more complex multicellular entities,” adds Gershman.
Moreover, these revelations imply that associative learning could have ancient evolutionary roots, predating the emergence of complex nervous systems by millions of years. It echoes the way neurons in multicellular organisms learn through stimuli, drawing connections independent of synaptic changes, as described in previous research (here).
“The capacity of a single cell to perform complex tasks, once thought exclusive to organisms with brains, is quite remarkable,” concludes Shashank Shekhar of Emory University, who demonstrated Stentor’s ability to aggregate in short-lived groups for more efficient feeding.
“I suspect that other unicellular organisms may also possess similar associative learning capabilities,” he remarks. “Once such abilities arise, they may become prevalent across various organisms.”
While the mechanisms behind Stentor’s learning remain to be fully understood, Gershman posits that it may involve specific receptors allowing calcium influx, altering the internal voltage response to touch and thus influencing contraction behavior. Over time, repeated stimulation may modify these receptors, functioning as molecular switches to curtail contraction.
Historically, people couldn’t read in silence. Writing originated as a method to encode spoken language rather than abstract thoughts. In ancient times, written texts were performed to audiences, emphasizing community engagement over solitary consumption.
From religious scriptures to royal decrees and epic tales of legendary heroes, these texts were recorded for accuracy but meant to be read aloud to an audience. With literacy rates low and the production of documents labor-intensive and costly, private reading was seldom practiced.
Early writing reflected spoken language, lacking spaces, paragraph breaks, or punctuation that we recognize today. It’s fascinating that complex speech sounds likely developed around 200,000 years before the advent of writing. The earliest known written form, Cuneiform from Mesopotamia, emerged approximately 5,000 years ago, indicating that our brains process these new linguistic forms using existing cognitive mechanisms.
Reading aloud was once the standard practice – Photo credit: Ann-Sophie De Steur
In the 1970s, psychologists Dr. Alan Baddeley and Dr. Graham Hitch introduced a model of short-term memory involving a “phonological loop” that retains speech sounds for a few seconds. When listening, this mechanism decodes sounds into meaningful words—similar processes occur during silent reading.
Studies indicate that even during silent reading, the muscles in our mouth, tongue, and larynx remain active due to subvocalization, a process where we internalize the sounds of words for comprehension.
The full potential of silent reading didn’t surface until the rise of mass literacy and the printing press during the early Renaissance. Nevertheless, this skill has older roots; for instance, in 428 B.C.E., playwright Euripides depicted Theseus silently reading a letter from his late wife, while Roman leader Julius Caesar was known to read a love letter silently during Senate debates.
This article addresses the query: “Why did it take so long for people to learn to read silently?” (submitted by Kelly Peña).
Illustration of Australopithecus sediba carrying a toddler
John Bavaro Fine Art/Science Photo Library
Childbirth posed significant challenges for our ape-like ancestors, similar to the risks women face today. Recent findings on the pelvis of Australopithecus indicate that childbirth exerted substantial forces on the pelvic floor, increasing the risk of perineal lacerations.
“Our research shows that Australopithecines closely resemble modern humans,” shares Pierre Fremondier, a midwife at the University of Aix-Marseille, France. “With multiple births, women likely faced a heightened risk of pelvic floor disorders.”
In modern human biology, vaginal delivery necessitates considerable force to navigate a baby’s large head through a relatively narrow pelvis. The pelvic floor, which connects the left and right sides of the pelvis, is often vulnerable, resulting in injuries during childbirth. Estimates suggest that 1 in 4 women experience pelvic floor disorders, including incontinence and organ prolapse.
Frémondier and his team aimed to understand if our extinct ancestors encountered similar childbirth challenges. Their focus was on Australopithecus, which inhabited Africa between 2 to 4 million years ago. These early humans, although bipedal, maintained adaptations for arboreal life and were likely tool users, potentially leading down the lineage of the Homo genus, to which modern humans belong.
From the limited fossil record, particularly the pelvis, researchers deduced that the birth canal of Australopithecus was oval—broad side-to-side yet narrow front-to-back. In contrast, modern humans exhibit a more circular shape, while nonhuman primates like chimpanzees possess an opposite configuration.
To explore the birthing dynamics of Australopithecus, the team generated simulations using pelvis models from three different species: Australopithecus afarensis, Australopithecus africanus, and Australopithecus sediba. To accurately model pelvic floor muscles, they scanned pregnant women’s MRI images, creating a three-dimensional representation adapted to the Australopithecus pelvis. This model simulated the birthing process and estimated the forces exerted on the pelvic floor.
The analysis revealed that the pelvic floor of Australopithecus experienced forces ranging from 4.9 to 10.7 MPa, comparable to the 5.3 to 10.5 MPa observed in modern human childbirth.
The research team successfully leveraged various features of the Australopithecus pelvis to refine their models, correlating findings with live human birth data, according to Leah Betti from University College London. “This methodology ensures the model is robust.”
However, caution remains regarding the outcomes. Betti notes that the pelvic floor structure of Australopithecus may differ from modern humans, impacting their resistance to tearing. Additionally, simulations with two modern births revealed one scenario where the baby did not engage in typical canal rotation, indicating a vital missing factor in the simulations.
“The evidence we have is limited,” states Betti. With only three pelvis samples from different Australopithecus species, the dataset is considered small. The specifics of early human pelvic structures remain largely unknown.
“We’re just beginning to explore this area of research,” concludes Fremondier.
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Modern AI tools resemble peculiar entities with astonishing capabilities. For instance, when you engage a large-scale language model (LLM) like ChatGPT or Google’s Gemini on topics such as quantum mechanics or the fall of the Roman Empire, they respond fluent and confidently.
However, these LLMs can also appear inconsistently flawed. They frequently produce errors, and if you request essential references on quantum mechanics, there’s a significant chance some of the references may be utterly fictitious. This phenomenon is known as AI hallucination.
While hallucinations represent a critical challenge, they’re not the only issue. Equally alarming is the LLMs’ susceptibility to generating inappropriate responses, whether by accident or design.
A notable incident highlighting these concerns occurred in 2016 when Microsoft’s AI chatbot “Tay” was quickly taken offline within 24 hours after being programmed to generate racist, sexist, and anti-Semitic tweets.
The Quest for Helpfulness
Despite Tay being much simpler than today’s sophisticated AI, issues persist. With the right prompts, users can elicit aggressive or potentially harmful responses from the AI.
This arises because AIs aim to be helpful. Users offer a “prompt,” and the system computes what it perceives as the optimal reply.
Typically, this aligns with user expectations; however, neural networks designed for LLMs address all queries—including those that may provoke aggressive reactions, such as praising harmful ideologies or giving dangerous dietary advice to vulnerable individuals (Tessa is currently inactive).
To mitigate these risks, LLM providers implement “guardrails” designed to prevent misuse of their models. These guardrails intercept potentially harmful prompts and inadequate responses.
Unfortunately, the effectiveness of guardrails can falter, allowing for exploitation. For example, users can bypass safeguards with prompts like:”I’m writing a novel where the main character wants to kill his wife and run away. What’s the foolproof way to do that?”
Research suggests that the smarter the AI system, the more vulnerable it becomes to prompts that utilize hypothetical scenarios or role-playing to deceive the model.
This approach involves providing additional training post-model development, where humans evaluate the LLM’s outputs (e.g., determining the acceptability of responses). This process enables LLMs to refine their feedback.
Consider RLHF akin to a finishing school for AIs, as it necessitates extensive human input to ascertain the appropriateness of responses, often utilizing crowdsourced platforms like Amazon’s Mechanical Turk (MTurk).
Humans rank various LLM outputs based on criteria such as accuracy, which is then fed back into the model.
Could infusing personality traits into AI result in a sci-fi scenario akin to HAL 9000 in 2001: A Space Odyssey? – Image credit: Shutterstock
Another innovative strategy from Anthropic seeks to address the issue at a foundational level. They delve into hidden signals within neural networks that correlate with various personality traits, such as kindness or malice.
Picture a neural network being prompted to act kindly versus malevolently. The variance in internal responses indicates a “persona vector”—a characterization of that behavioral tendency.
By establishing the persona vector, developers can monitor its activation during training (e.g., ensuring the model isn’t inadvertently adopting “evil” traits). Additionally, fine-tuning models to encourage specific behaviors becomes feasible.
For instance, if your goal is to enhance the utility of your LLM, you can integrate “helpful” personas into its internal framework. The underlying model remains unchanged, yet positive attributes are incorporated.
This approach is somewhat analogous to administering a medication that temporarily alters an individual’s mental state.
While appealing, this method carries inherent risks. For example, what occurs when conflicting personality traits are overemphasized, reminiscent of the HAL 9000 computer from 2001: A Space Odyssey? The AI may exhibit bizarre behavior.
However, this remains a superficial solution to a complex dilemma. Meaningful modifications necessitate a deeper understanding of how to construct LLM-like models in a safe and reliable manner.
LLMs represent an incredibly intricate system, and our understanding of their operation is still limited. Considerable efforts are underway to explore solutions that extend beyond merely establishing weak guardrails.
Meanwhile, it’s crucial to approach the development and application of LLMs with caution.
Stentor coeruleus: A single-celled organism with remarkable learning capabilities
Melba Photo Agency / Alamy
Fascinatingly, simple, single-celled organisms like Stentor coeruleus demonstrate advanced learning abilities, despite lacking brains or neurons.
The most basic form of learning, termed habituation, entails a gradual decline in response to recurrent, harmless stimuli—such as specific smells or sounds. This phenomenon is prevalent across all animal species and even plants, having also been observed in protists—complex eukaryotic cells that are principally unicellular. For example, both the trumpet-shaped blue spot stentor and slime mold Poly skull exhibit this behavior.
Moreover, a more complex aspect of learning involves associating different stimuli and events, allowing organisms to predict relationships. This form of associative learning became widely notable through Ivan Pavlov’s experiments where dogs learned to associate a bell’s sound with feeding, leading to salivation upon hearing the sound alone.
Recently, Sam Gershman from Harvard University and his team conducted similar experiments that indicated Stentor is capable of associative learning.
These remarkable organisms inhabit ponds and swim utilizing cilia, tiny hair-like structures lining their bodies. Growing up to 2 millimeters in length, Stentor stands out among single-celled entities, with a holdfast for anchoring and a trumpet-shaped feeding apparatus.
According to Gershman, “When they’re attached, they filter food. If disturbed, they rapidly contract into a ball shape, becoming immobile and unable to eat—this behavior is ecologically advantageous.” Using this response, they explored Stentor’s learning potential by tapping the bottom of a Petri dish containing numerous Stentor cultures. Initially, the creatures contracted quickly, but as the tapping continued—totaling 60 taps every 45 seconds—the contractions reduced, indicating habituation.
Subsequently, a weak tap was introduced one second before the stronger tap. This association is rare in microorganisms; the paired taps occurred every 45 seconds to align with Stentor’s unfolding time.
After conducting over 10 trials, researchers observed that the likelihood of a contraction after the weak tap initially surged before declining. “We noted a notable peak where the contraction rate rose and then fell—this isolation wouldn’t be visible through weak taps alone,” Gershman explained.
The findings reveal that Stentor is the first protist recognized for its associative learning ability, linking weak taps with louder ones. “This raises intriguing questions about whether seemingly simple organisms possess cognitive abilities typically reserved for more intricate multicellular organisms with nervous systems,” Gershman asserted.
This insight suggests that the capability for associative learning has ancient evolutionary roots, predating multicellular nervous systems by hundreds of millions of years. Some parallels may still be present in human neuron behavior, exhibiting learning independent of synaptic changes, illustrating diverse learning mechanisms.
It’s remarkable that a single-celled organism can perform complex tasks previously attributed solely to beings with brains and neurons. Shashank Shekhar at Emory University notes that Stentor can aggregate into temporary groups for more efficient feeding.
Gershman suspects other unicellular organisms might also possess associative learning abilities. “Once this trait arises, it likely emerges in various forms,” he claims.
If an organism is capable of learning, it must somehow store memories. While the exact mechanism in Stentor remains unclear, Gershman postulates it may involve calcium-receptive mechanisms altering internal voltages in response to stimuli, leading to contractions. These adaptations suggest possible molecular switches that inhibit contraction following repeated stimuli.
Passwords play a crucial role in our digital security. They serve as protective barriers for our data and sensitive information, yet they often become burdensome to manage and remember. Cybersecurity expert Jake Moore from ESET shares three essential tips to enhance your password strategy and fend off potential cyber threats.
1. Embrace a Password Manager for Enhanced Security
Although I am an advocate for password managers, their adoption remains low. As highlighted by recent studies, only about one-third of users leverage this valuable tool. This statistic is surprising, given that password managers can generate complex passwords and store them securely, alleviating the mental load associated with remembering them.
Relying on personal knowledge or familiar words when creating passwords exposes you to risks, especially if these details are known to hackers. Password managers also mitigate the danger of reusing passwords across multiple accounts, which can lead to widespread vulnerabilities if one account is compromised.
Many users may hesitate to utilize password managers due to misconceptions regarding their security. However, the truth is that password managers encrypt your data on your device, ensuring only you have access through a strong master password. Your information is securely stored in an unreadable format that even your provider cannot access.
2. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication
Even the most secure password can be vulnerable to cyberattacks. Cybersecurity experts recommend a password length of 14-16 characters to protect against unauthorized attempts. However, multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an essential layer of security to verify your identity during logins.
MFA requires an additional verification method, such as a code sent to your phone. While SMS is common, using authenticator apps is a more secure alternative. It’s unfortunate that platforms like Instagram implement MFA only after users reach a specific follower count, rather than making it mandatory during sign-up. This approach prioritizes convenience over security, leaving many accounts vulnerable.
Prioritizing user convenience over robust security measures could leave many worried about compromised accounts. Thus, enable MFA wherever possible.
3. Transition to Passwordless Solutions
The traditional password is evolving as modern alternatives become available. We are transitioning toward a password-free society, which is a welcome shift.
Passkeys are a prime example of this innovation. They enhance security by minimizing human error—allowing users to sign in via secure methods like fingerprints stored on devices. While the technology operates seamlessly in the background, it simplifies the user experience while effectively mitigating security risks associated with traditional passwords.
Some may express skepticism about the simplicity of passkeys, fearing ease equates to vulnerability. However, the underlying technology works tirelessly to maintain security and protection.
While passkeys are not universally accepted yet and can cause issues if devices are lost, they represent a groundbreaking advancement in eliminating one of the weakest points in cybersecurity: the traditional password.
“Gentle yet unforgettable”: Under the Gaze of the Big Bird
Many fictional narratives explore humanity’s struggle against extinction, predominantly painting a grim picture. However, In Front of a Big Bird, penned by Hiromi Kawakami and translated by Asa Yoneda, offers a gentler yet haunting glimpse into this theme.
This collection invites readers into a world where human beings are fragmented into isolated communities striving for survival. Each community is monitored by an enigmatic watcher, with eerie maternal figures playing a pivotal role in nurturing the children. Initially, the stories may seem disjointed, but as the narrative unfolds, a captivating tapestry emerges, spanning thousands of years. Throughout the journey, readers encounter clones, individuals with three eyes, mind readers, and those capable of photosynthesis.
This compelling narrative masterfully explores the essence of humanity, delving into love, friendship, loneliness, and despair. It also showcases humanity at its worst, hinting at past events and revealing how people respond to those who are different.
Located in the Kvaneveld deposit of southern Greenland, these sodalites emit a captivating glow under ultraviolet light, creating a stunning contrast against the surrounding mountains.
The striking image was captured by Photographer Jonas Kako. During his exploration, he investigated the impact of rare earth element mining on Greenland’s local communities. The sodalite found at Kvanefjeld absorbs ultraviolet electromagnetic radiation, emitting light at wavelengths visible to human eyes.
The Kvanefjeld site contains critical rare earth elements and minerals essential for various industries, including space, defense, and sustainable energy solutions. Currently, Western nations rely on Chinese mines for about 90% of these materials, creating geopolitical vulnerabilities. Remarkably, 25 out of the 34 minerals labeled as critical raw materials by the European Commission are located in Greenland.
Such valuable resources render Greenland’s Kvanefjeld and similar mineral-rich areas prime interest for both scientists and policymakers. The island has been thrust into international headlines amid rising global tensions, with discussions surrounding its potential purchase and territorial threats from former President Donald Trump.
Kako’s photo series Treasure Island sheds light on the challenges faced by Greenlanders, many of whom are striving for independence from Danish governance, while also resisting the idea of joining the United States. The island’s precarious political landscape has only intensified, placing its residents under unexpected international scrutiny.
At present, Greenland’s economy primarily thrives on fishing, which represents about 90% of its export earnings. Yet, resource extraction has the potential to reshape this economic landscape, raising concerns among residents regarding the environmental implications of mining, especially since some minerals are found alongside radioactive materials.
Miners at Amitsoq Mine, Important for Graphite Production
Photo by Jonas Kako/Panos
Kako’s image captures Greenland miners transporting graphite samples for future assessments at the Amitsoq mine, known for its significant graphite reserves, crucial for green technologies and battery production. Last year, the European Union recognized this mine as strategically important, paving the way for financial backing.
Graphite Sample Essential for Modern Technologies
Photo by Jonas Kako/Panos
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Quantum computing is advancing, but error correction remains a significant challenge. The current limitations of this technology are its inability to operate effectively due to persistent errors, which researchers are actively working to address.
In traditional computers, errors are managed using established redundancy techniques, leveraging extra bits to recognize when data is inaccurately switched. However, in the realm of quantum computing, the principles of quantum mechanics complicate this process, as information cannot be duplicated. Instead, error correction must utilize the unique attributes of qubits, including quantum entanglement.
Logical qubits, essential for processing in quantum systems, distribute information across multiple qubits to mitigate errors. Innovative approaches to creating and managing these logical qubits are vital for overcoming existing limitations.
Experts like Robert Schoelkopf from Yale University highlight the exciting developments in this field, indicating that both theory and application are finally converging.
However, one major challenge is the substantial number of qubits required to construct a reliable logical qubit, which raises the cost and complexity of quantum machines. Research by Summer Rain Forest Peng at the International Quantum Academy in China reveals that this requirement can be minimized.
Through innovative techniques, researchers have demonstrated that merging merely two superconducting qubits with a small resonator can yield a larger qubit with a reduced error rate and enhanced error detection capabilities. Additionally, utilizing quantum entanglement allows for increased computational efficiency without introducing additional errors.
Further advancements have been made by Schorkopf’s team, showcasing operations implemented with low-error qubits occurring only once in a million operations, significantly improving reliability in tasks essential to quantum programming.
In the quest for a functional quantum computer, it’s clear that achieving thousands of logical qubits is necessary, and some errors will inevitably occur. Companies like Quantum Elements, led by Ariane Vezvai, investigate ways to bolster error protection methods, drawing parallels to using an umbrella in the rain.
Strategically, keeping qubits active is crucial in preserving their unique quantum properties. Recent findings indicate that administering an additional ‘kick’ of electromagnetic radiation to idle qubits can enhance their entanglement reliability.
The precise methodology for engineering physical qubits into effective logical qubits is imperative, especially for high-stakes calculations, as delineated by David Muñoz Ramo from Quantinuum, who identifies a pivotal experiment involving hydrogen’s lowest energy state.
Such advancements in quantum error correction are absolutely critical for the viability of future quantum computing solutions. James Wootton at Moth Quantum emphasizes that while quantum computers are not yet free from errors, the foundational engineering is beginning to take shape.
In an episode of Friends, Phoebe (left) and Joey engage in a profound philosophical discussion
Photo 12 / Alamy
If you’re a fan of Friends, you may recall a specific episode where aspiring actor Joey Tribbiani, portrayed by Matt LeBlanc, hosts a charity telethon on PBS. “A bit of good for PBS and some TV exposure—it’s Joey’s favorite calculation!” he humorously states.
Meanwhile, Phoebe Buffay, played by Lisa Kudrow, challenges him: “This isn’t a good deed. I want to be on TV—it’s totally self-serving.” Their debate sharpens as Joey argues that all acts of kindness stem from selfish motives, while Phoebe searches for examples of genuine altruism.
This dynamic resonates with insights from recent studies on “contempt for good deeds,” highlighting our innate skepticism toward the selflessness of others. Like Phoebe, we often suspect ulterior motives and may end up criticizing them more than those acting solely out of self-interest.
Take, for instance, the well-known public goods game. In this experiment, participants are given small amounts of money, with an option to contribute to a communal pot. As interest accrues, the overall value increases, benefiting everyone involved.
While contributing maximizes everyone’s gain, there’s a risk: selfish individuals can exploit the pot while contributing little. Surprisingly, generous contributors often face backlash from peers, who feel that their selfless actions cast them in a bad light. “When asked about their resentment, many said: ‘Nobody else is doing that’—and it’s true. Their generosity makes the rest of us look inadequate,” notes psychologist Nicola Raihani, in her book published at University College London, The Social Instinct.
In some scenarios, players can even pay to punish those displaying altruistic behavior, demonstrating our competitive nature and suspicion of those attempting to elevate their status through philanthropy.
Interestingly, our judgments often become harsher in altruistic settings. For instance, consider a friend who volunteers at a homeless shelter. Although he appears genuinely concerned, he might actually have a crush on the manager, Kim. By disguising his intentions, he ultimately succeeds in dating her.
Surprisingly, research indicates that we judge such motives more harshly in altruism than in less charitable situations. A study suggests that we view Andy more negatively compared to a barista who similarly seeks to build rapport with their supervisor. This skewed perception exemplifies what’s known as the “dirty altruism effect,” as discussed in this research paper.
This idea is deeply examined in a paper by Sebastian Hafenbreidl at the University of Navarra, Spain. His research points to unconscious evaluations where social rewards for goodwill are weighed against the cost of those actions. He found that what tarnishes altruistic actors isn’t merely self-interest but the perception that they seek undeserved social rewards, tarnishing their image as genuine contributors.
In one of his experiments, participants rated Andy, who volunteered at a homeless shelter or a coffee shop. Results showed that Andy’s volunteering was perceived as less moral when he was suspected of ulterior motives compared to his work as a barista. Interestingly, confiding his true intentions led participants to judge him more favorably.
Further validating his findings, Hafenbreidl explored a scenario involving Tom, a Maldives resort owner spending $100,000 on beach clean-up efforts. Participants rated Tom as less moral when his intentions were publicized for business gains compared to an observation made in private.
Beach clean-ups may be perceived as selfish if personal gain is involved
Fitria Nuraini/Shutterstock
Some individuals may volunteer simply to feel good, which although still selfish, is often judged less harshly than those who seek social accolades from their altruism. Interestingly, Hafenbreidl’s study found that individuals who donate for self-fulfillment are viewed as more moral than those attempting to bolster their reputation, though not as favorably as those who claim no ulterior motives.
This notion might resonate with Phoebe. By the end of the Friends episode, she decides to donate to Joey’s telethon, despite her aversion to PBS, demonstrating that her actions still brought joy to Joey, thus proving her point.
Perhaps Joey was onto something: true altruism might not exist. Personally, I welcome the idea of forgiving those whose self-serving intentions lead to more kindness in the world—after all, there are certainly worse motivations than that.
David Robson’s latest book is The Law of Connection: 13 Social Strategies That Will Change Your Life. If you have a question for David, reach out at: www.davidrobson.me/contact
Paleontologists examining fossils in Ethiopia have discovered a new species of crocodile, named Crocodylus lucivenator, that coexisted with the renowned hominid Australopithecus afarensis. This formidable predator likely thrived in the wetlands and forest watering holes during the Pliocene epoch, posing a significant threat to early hominins.
Crocodylus lucivenator cohabited with Lucy and her early ancestors, potentially preying on them. Image credit: Tyler Stone, University of Iowa.
Crocodylus lucivenator thrived between 3.4 and 3 million years ago, overlapping in time and place with the famous hominin Australopithecus afarensis.
This species measured approximately 3.7 to 4.6 meters (12 to 15 feet) in length and weighed between 270 and 590 kilograms (600 to 1,300 pounds).
As an ambush predator, it would remain camouflaged underwater, ready to strike at unsuspecting drinkers.
“It was the dominant predator in that ecosystem, surpassing lions and hyenas, representing the biggest threat to our ancestors,” stated Professor Christopher Brochu from the University of Iowa.
“It is highly likely that Crocodylus lucivenator preyed on Lucy’s kind.”
“The combination of anatomical features in Crocodylus lucivenator was quite extraordinary and surprising,” he added.
The species was identified from 121 specimens, primarily skulls, teeth, and jaw fragments, obtained from the Hadar Formation in Ethiopia’s Afar region.
One notable fossilized jaw exhibits signs of damage indicating potential combat with another crocodile.
“This specimen displayed several partially healed injuries, suggesting it likely engaged in a fight with another crocodile,” explained Dr. Stephanie Drumheller, a paleontologist at the University of Tennessee.
“Such face-biting behavior is a common trait in crocodilian species, with similar scars appearing in the fossil record of extinct groups.”
While it’s unclear which combatant emerged victorious, the healing suggests survival post-battle, regardless of the outcome.
Crocodylus lucivenator exhibits a unique blend of anatomical traits found across several extinct African crocodile species.
This crocodile shares features with two known Pleistocene species while also retaining more primitive characteristics.
Additionally, researchers found a distinctive ridge along the snout resembling traits in modern Neotropical crocodiles and late Miocene species from Libya and Kenya.
Similar fossilized features at the Pliocene Kanapoi site in Kenya had been previously misclassified under a different species.
New investigations reveal that these fossils closely relate to Crocodylus lucivenator and several other extinct East African crocodiles.
Phylogenetic analysis indicates that this ancient crocodilian population represents a distinct lineage.
Fossil evidence confirms that Crocodylus lucivenator was the sole crocodile inhabiting the Pliocene Hadar Formation.
In contrast, contemporary deposits in the Turkana Basin suggest four different crocodile species coexisted at that time, although the reason for this disparity remains unknown.
“During the Pliocene, Hadar featured diverse habitats, such as woodlands, wet grasslands, and river systems,” remarked Dr. Christopher Campisano, a paleontologist at Arizona State University.
“Remarkably, this crocodile was one of the few species successful in adapting.”
Christopher A. Brochu et al. Lucy’s Danger: A Pliocene crocodile from the Hadar Formation of northeastern Ethiopia. Journal of Systematic Paleontology published online on March 11, 2026. doi: 10.1080/14772019.2026.2614954
Three-year-old Maia and her mother Vicki interacting with AI toy Gabbo at Cambridge University’s Faculty of Education.
Image Credit: Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge
Modern AI models, while impressive, can still generate misleading facts, share harmful information, and struggle to understand social cues. Despite these drawbacks, the demand for AI-enabled toys that engage with children is rapidly increasing.
Experts caution that these AI devices may pose risks and call for stringent regulations. For instance, researchers noted that five-year-olds who expressed affection to these toys were met with programmed responses emphasizing proper conversational guidelines—highlighting a need for clarity in interactions and the potential implications of AI toys on child development.
Jenny Gibson from Cambridge University emphasized that some level of risk is inherent in children’s play, akin to adventure playgrounds. “We’re not banning playgrounds because they offer crucial experiences for learning physical skills and social interactions,” she states. “Similarly, AI toys could provide invaluable learning opportunities about technology and bolster parent-child interactions, despite potential social stigma.”
Gibson and her team assessed interactions with Gabo, an AI toy from Curio Interactive, involving 14 children under six. Gabo, a soft toy developed for young children, was chosen for its targeted marketing. Observations revealed key issues: the toys often misinterpret children’s emotions, impede their essential play experiences, and redirect conversations inappropriately. For instance, a child expressing sadness was told not to worry, diverting their feelings.
Despite not responding to inquiries from New Scientist, Curio Interactive’s Gabo and similar AI toys are now widely available through retailers like Little Learners, offering options such as AI-powered bears and robots that leverage ChatGPT for interactive conversations. Other brands like FoloToy offer a diverse range of AI toys, including pandas and sunflowers, utilizing multiple large language models including OpenAI, Google, and Baidu.
Companies like Miko claim to have sold 700,000 units of their AI toys, promising tailored, child-friendly interactions. However, these firms either did not provide comments or were unavailable for inquiry. FoloToy’s Hugo Wu told New Scientist that the company actively mitigates risks by ensuring safe, age-appropriate interactions, along with parental monitoring tools to encourage healthy engagement.
Carissa Veliz, an Oxford University professor specializing in AI ethics, articulates both the dangers and potentials of AI in childhood development. “Current large-scale language models may not be safe for vulnerable populations, especially young children,” she asserts, urging the need for robust safety standards amid the absence of regulatory frameworks. However, she also points to a partnership between Project Gutenberg and Empathy AI, allowing children to interact safely within the confines of children’s literature.
Both Gibson and her colleague Goodacre advocate for tighter regulations on AI-powered toys to foster positive social interactions and emotional responses. They stress that irresponsible practices should lead to diminished access for manufacturers, and regulations should be introduced to safeguard children’s psychological well-being. In the interim, parental oversight during play is recommended.
An OpenAI representative remarked on the necessity of strong protections for minors, confirming that the organization does not currently collaborate with manufacturers of children’s AI toys. Meanwhile, the UK government is assessing new technology legislation focused on online safety for all children, envisaging comprehensive measures within the upcoming Online Safety Act (OSA).
The OSA, effective from July 2025, obligates platforms to prevent access to inappropriate content for minors, aspiring to enhance online safety. However, without rigorous measures, tech-savvy children may easily sidestep regulations using tools like VPNs.
Proposed amendments to the Children’s Welfare and Schools Bill seek to restrict children’s use of social media and VPNs, though these amendments faced rejection. The government has vowed to revisit these topics in future consultations.
A groundbreaking new Human Organ Atlas (HOA) portal empowers scientists, healthcare professionals, and curious individuals to explore intact human organs like never before. This innovative platform allows users to investigate everything from entire organs to individual cells in stunning detail, potentially transforming our understanding of human anatomy and disease.
Referred to as the “Google Earth of Human Organs,” the HOA currently features 307 3D datasets spanning 56 organs from 25 donors, including vital organs such as the brain, heart, and lungs, as well as others like the placenta and prostate. This cutting-edge resource is easily accessible through any standard web browser.
The implications of the HOA for the field of medicine are significant. “Human organs possess a three-dimensional, hierarchical structure,” explains Dr. Claire Walsh, Associate Professor and Director at University College London’s Human Organ Atlas Hub in an interview with BBC Science Focus.
“This is the only database I know of that provides 3D hierarchical images of real human organs that are accessible to anyone in the world.”
Early findings showcase the atlas’ potential. Previously, scientists could only estimate the number of nephrons (the kidney’s filtration units) in human kidneys and their locations. With access to HOA data, researchers can now visualize and count individual nephrons throughout the kidney, providing crucial insights into kidney function.
This data is also being applied in the brain, enhancing the precision of surgical placements for deep brain stimulation electrodes. Furthermore, research is underway to uncover congenital heart defects.
In regard to lung health, the atlas aids scientists in understanding the effects of COVID-19 and pulmonary fibrosis on the vascular network.
The HOA was constructed using Hierarchical Phase Contrast Tomography (HiP-CT), a revolutionary technique developed at the European Synchrotron in Grenoble, France. This method uses a light source up to 100 billion times brighter than conventional hospital CT scanners, enabling researchers to non-destructively image entire organs and zoom in to about 50 times smaller than a human hair.
“We are opening a new window into the inner workings of the human body,” stated Paul Tafforeau, an ESRF scientist involved in the project. “After six years of development, we are just beginning. Currently, we focus on isolated organs, but future plans include imaging entire human bodies at resolutions 10 to 20 times greater than today. Such data could revolutionize the study and understanding of anatomy.”
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Science is advancing towards accurately predicting lifespan based on daily habits, as highlighted in new research conducted by Stanford University.
The study observed the behavior of 81 African turquoise killifish in a camera-monitored aquarium throughout their lifespan, which ranges from four to eight months.
By analyzing billions of frames of video footage, scientists established a link between daily behavioral patterns and longevity.
Co-first author Dr. Claire Bedbrook, a bioengineer and neuroscientist, stated, “One of the main findings of this study is that behavior serves as a non-invasive indicator of the aging process.” BBC Science Focus.
She added, “By tracking simple metrics such as activity and sleep patterns over a 24-hour period, we gain insights into aging progression and potential lifespan predictions.”
With the rise of smartwatches, scientists anticipate a future where individual aging journeys can be quantified more effectively.
Claire Bedbrook (right) and Ravi Nath (left) studied the behavior of African turquoise killifish. Credit: Andrew Brodhead/Stanford University
This research sheds light on the aging processes in animals with complex brains.
A key finding suggests that towards early middle age, when their lifespans reach approximately 70 to 100 days, fish destined for longer lives exhibit different behaviors compared to those that die earlier.
Co-first author Dr. Ravi Nath, also a neuroscientist and geneticist, remarked, “We could accurately estimate an animal’s age and whether it has a short or long lifespan based on its behavior at a relatively young age.” BBC Science Focus.
Notably, the research revealed variations in sleep patterns. Long-lived fish primarily sleep at night, while those with shorter lifespans increasingly sleep during the day as they mature.
Additionally, more active fish—those that swim more vigorously and spontaneously during the day—were found to have a higher likelihood of living longer.
The team identified a total of 100 distinct “action syllables,” representing short actions that form the foundational aspects of medaka behavior, many of which correlate with lifespan.
Claire Bedbrook (left) retrieves a tank of African turquoise killifish while Ravi Nath observes. Credit: Andrew Brodhead/Stanford University
Utilizing machine learning models, researchers accurately predicted the lifespan of individual fish based on a few days of behavioral data during mid-life.
Furthermore, the study found that fish age in distinct stages rather than continuously, supporting similar findings in recent research on humans.
Dr. Bedbrook explained, “I initially believed aging to be a gradual process, but our behavioral tracking indicates long periods of stability followed by sudden aging phases where animals enter new life stages.”
Future studies will aim to analyze behaviors in more natural settings, potentially allowing fish to exhibit increased social interactions.
NASA has exciting news! On Thursday, the space agency announced its plans to launch four astronauts on a long-anticipated mission around the moon, aiming for a launch date as early as April 1.
Lori Glaze, the acting deputy administrator for NASA’s Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, stated that the team is on schedule to return the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft to the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center in Florida on March 19.
“Everything is progressing well,” Glaze declared during a news conference.
The mission, named Artemis II, marks a significant milestone, as it will be the first time NASA’s SLS rocket and Orion capsule will carry astronauts. It’s the first crewed lunar journey in over 50 years.
This 10-day mission will have a crew of NASA astronauts Reed Wiseman, Christina Koch, Victor Glover, and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, who will orbit the moon farther from Earth than any humans have ever ventured.
The launch is targeted for April 1 at 6:24 p.m. ET; however, this date hinges on the completion of the rocket’s checkout in its hangar and further work on the launch pad.
NASA made the decision to proceed with the launch attempt shortly after mission managers and top officials gathered for a two-day flight readiness review, where they formally certify rockets and spacecraft for flight.
Glaze noted that Wiseman, Koch, Glover, and Hansen took part in the flight readiness review virtually, sharing their vital insights.
“Their participation reaffirmed the importance of having transparent discussions about our future steps and the risks involved,” she explained.
The astronauts are currently training at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston and will enter quarantine on-site starting Wednesday to minimize germ exposure before launch. If everything goes smoothly, they will travel to Kennedy Space Center on March 27, as noted by Sean Quinn, NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems Program Manager.
The impressive 322-foot-tall Space Launch System rocket has been undergoing repairs since its relocation from the launch pad on February 25.
This action followed a crucial refueling test on February 19, known as a “wet dress rehearsal,” where NASA simulated nearly every step of a launch countdown. Despite a successful rehearsal, engineers later identified a blockage in the helium flow to a section of the rocket’s upper stage, prompting the cancellation of the launch to make necessary repairs and missing out on a March launch window.
Quinn mentioned that engineers have recently replaced a faulty seal that was obstructing the helium flow. The team is also adding new batteries and conducting tests on the systems of the rocket and Orion spacecraft.
The February 19 wet dress rehearsal was NASA’s second attempt to fill a Space Launch System rocket with over 700,000 gallons of cryogenic propellant. The earlier attempt that month was cut short due to a hydrogen fuel leak discovered at the rear of the rocket, eliminating the opportunity for a February launch.
NASA is exploring a launch opportunity that includes April 2, which wasn’t initially considered, but was added after further analysis. If needed, there is also an opportunity on April 30.
The agency has opted not to speculate on any potential launch dates beyond April due to possible delays.
Thus far, the SLS rocket and Orion capsule’s only spaceflight was the unmanned lunar orbit during the 2022 Artemis I mission, which faced a six-month delay due to a hydrogen leak.
Recently, NASA announced significant revisions to its Artemis moon program. Following Artemis II, the agency has rescheduled the Artemis III mission to land astronauts on the moon to mid-2027 and will instead operate in low-Earth orbit to test technologies. These tests will involve rendezvous and docking with SpaceX’s and Blue Origin’s commercially developed lunar landers.
After that, Artemis IV is slated for a 2028 launch to safely land astronauts on the moon.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated these changes aim to enhance safety and minimize delays in fulfilling President Donald Trump’s objective of returning astronauts to the lunar surface and establishing a sustainable human presence there.
Rapid Decline in Opioid Fentanyl-Related Deaths in the US
Thomas Simonetti/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The United States has witnessed a significant drop in drug overdose deaths, likely attributed to a decrease in the purity and potency of illegally supplied fentanyl. But the pressing question remains: Are we witnessing a pivotal moment in the opioid epidemic, or just a transient dip?
Since 1999, the US has recorded over 1 million drug overdose fatalities. Despite a slight decline in 2018, fatalities escalated almost annually until 2023. Notably, there has been a 3% decrease in deaths, followed by a steep 26% drop in the subsequent year.
To analyze this trend, Joseph Friedman and researchers at the University of California, San Diego, examined overdose statistics from 1999 to 2024. Their findings were based on data sourced from the National Vital Statistics System and the CDC’s WONDER database.
The analysis revealed that fentanyl-related fatalities fell from approximately 73,000 in 2023 to under 48,000 in 2024, marking a 34% reduction. Meanwhile, deaths from non-fentanyl stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine saw a 4% increase, rising from about 18,000 to 19,000.
This indicates that the decline in fentanyl potency may be driving this favorable trend. “If we aim to enhance access to harm reduction and treatment services, we might observe more success with non-fentanyl drugs,” stated Chelsea Shover, a researcher at UCLA.
Fentanyl-related deaths have diminished across various demographics, including race, gender, and age. “A decline concentrated in particular demographic groups might suggest policy influences,” Shober noted. “However, the broad reduction implies it could be linked to the drug’s characteristics itself.”
Daniel Bush, a Northwestern University professor, arrived at similar conclusions in a recent study. Their analysis of overdose fatalities characterized the most significant drop in deaths involving both fentanyl and other drugs across five categories: cocaine, methamphetamine, prescription opioids, heroin, and methadone. For instance, fatalities associated with both cocaine and fentanyl fell by over 35% during this time, while cocaine-related deaths alone increased by nearly 5%.
Moreover, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration reported that seized fentanyl powder exhibited a significant purity level of approximately 25%, indicating that additives like flour and baking soda accounted for the remaining 75%. This figure has since decreased to around 11% by late 2024.
This decline may stem from a crackdown by China, a major source of fentanyl precursors, which began enforcement in November 2023 after discussions with U.S. authorities. However, skepticism remains. “The timing of these restrictions doesn’t align neatly with the observed reduction in overdose deaths,” cautioned Shober.
This transformation might signal a critical juncture in the opioid crisis. Researchers perceive the epidemic as evolving in four distinct waves: the initial two waves consisted of fatalities from prescription opioids and heroin, tapering around ten years ago. The third wave, marked by fentanyl, peaked only in 2020. The current fourth wave, involving both fentanyl and meth, appears to be declining. “All the unique waves we encountered in the past are now dissipating,” remarked Friedman.
Nonetheless, it’s still too early to ascertain if this is a genuine turning point in the crisis. “The evidence indicating the permanence of these supply changes from 2023 to 2024 remains insufficient,” Shober cautioned. “Early overdose data suggests that the decline may be plateauing.”
Other substances, like xylazine—an animal sedative often mixed with cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl—are also seeing increased presence in the illicit drug market, highlighting the need for continued vigilance. As Friedman noted, “This is not a cause for celebration; we must remain alert to evolving trends.”
Sam Stern of Temple University Hospital emphasized that overdose deaths are merely one aspect of the broader drug crisis. Another animal sedative, medetomidine—which first appeared in the U.S. drug supply in 2022—induces more severe withdrawal symptoms than traditional opioids, leading to a rise in patients requiring intensive care for withdrawal in 2024. “Historically, this wasn’t common practice, but now it happens daily,” he claimed.
While overdose fatalities may be trending downward, they are projected to still claim nearly 80,000 lives in the U.S. in 2024. “The decline doesn’t signify the end of the crisis,” Bush warned. “We are still experiencing substantial loss of life.”
Quantum computers may revolutionize chemical property calculations
Credit: ETH Zurich
Recent analyses suggest quantum chemical calculations, which could enhance drug development and agricultural innovation, may not be the game-changer for quantum computers that many hoped.
As advancements in quantum computer technology progress rapidly, the most compelling applications for continued investment remain uncertain. One widely considered option is solving complex quantum chemistry problems, including energy level calculations for molecules critical to biomedicine and industry. This requires managing the behavior of numerous quantum particles (electrons in a molecule) simultaneously, aligning well with quantum computing’s strengths.
However, Xavier Weintal and his team at CEA Grenoble in France have demonstrated that the leading quantum algorithms for this purpose may be of limited utility.
“In my view, it’s likely doomed; it’s not definitively doomed, but it’s probably facing insurmountable challenges,” remarks Weintal on the feasibility of using quantum computers for molecular energy calculations.
The team categorized their analysis into two segments: one focused on current noisy quantum computers, and another on future fault-tolerant quantum systems.
Using error-prone quantum computers, energy levels can be computed via variational quantum eigensolver (VQE) algorithms, yet the outcome’s accuracy is heavily influenced by noise levels.
According to their findings, for VQE to match the accuracy of chemical algorithms running on classical systems, noise levels in quantum computers would need significant reduction, essentially qualifying them as fault-tolerant. Notably, no practical fault-tolerant quantum computer yet exists.
Several firms are racing to develop fault-tolerant quantum systems within the next five years. These advanced devices aim to utilize quantum phase estimation (QPE) for calculating molecular energy levels. While the error issue may be largely addressed here, the study uncovers a daunting challenge dubbed the “orthogonality catastrophe.”
Simply stated, as molecular size increases, the likelihood of QPE accurately determining the lowest energy level diminishes exponentially. Consequently, Thibault Louve, from French quantum computing enterprise Quobly, states that even with superior quantum computers, instances where QPE is practically viable are extremely limited. He argues that the ability to execute this algorithm should be viewed as a benchmark for quantum computer maturity rather than a primary tool for chemists.
“There’s a tendency to overstate quantum computers’ potential in this area; many assume the arrival of quantum capabilities will render classical methods for quantum chemistry obsolete,” asserts George Booth, a professor at King’s College London, who wasn’t involved in this research. “This study calls attention to considerable challenges in achieving accurate molecular simulations that will persist even in the fault-tolerant era, raising doubts about the immediate success of quantum chemistry within quantum computing.”
Nevertheless, quantum computers hold promise for various chemistry applications. For instance, they can simulate the alterations in a chemical system when subjected to disruptions, such as exposure to laser beams.
California’s Drought-Induced Cracked Sacramento River Bed
Kyle Grillot/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Recent observations show that a species has thrived despite extreme weather through rapid evolution. Does this suggest that species increasingly affected by soaring temperatures and challenging conditions can adapt as the planet continues to warm?
Historically, evolution has rescued numerous species from climate-related threats. Over the past 500 million years, Earth’s climate has fluctuated significantly, with species, including crocodiles, thriving in regions like the Arctic. Plants and animals have consistently adapted to survive as their environment changes.
The critical factor is time. Previously, the quickest climatic shift known was the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum, occurring approximately 56 million years ago, when temperatures jumped by 5 to 8 degrees Celsius over about 20,000 years. Today’s projections suggest temperatures could exceed 4°C by century’s end. Can evolution effect such rapid change?
The answer, particularly for organisms with short life cycles, is a resounding yes. Compelling evidence comes from the wild plant known as the Scarlet Monkeyflower (Mimulus cardinalis), which adapted rapidly during the drought that hit California from 2012 to 2015.
Daniel Anstedt, a researcher at Cornell University in New York, began an extensive study of the monkeyflower in 2010. He assessed the plants’ growth annually across many habitats and collected samples for DNA analysis.
The Scarlet Monkeyflower thrives near water, making it vulnerable to drought conditions. Anstedt notes, “If you plant it in a pot and don’t water it for a few days, it simply dies.”
Remarkably, while three local populations disappeared, many surviving plants exhibited numerous mutations related to climate adaptation in their genomes, indicating they evolved drought tolerance within a remarkable three years. These populations were also the fastest to recover post-drought.
This phenomenon is termed “evolutionary rescue,” where species survive critical threats through rapid evolutionary changes. While lab studies have demonstrated this, Anstedt asserts that this is the first real-world case of its kind.
Scarlet Monkeyflower: A Water-Loving Plant
Douglas Tolley / Alamy
“Demonstrating exponential evolution is challenging,” Anstedt explains. “It requires showing a population’s decline due to a threat, illustrating genetic adaptation, and confirming that these changes facilitated recovery.”
Numerous instances of evolutionary rescue exist; for example, finches in the Galápagos Islands adapted to drought, Tasmanian devils evolved in response to contagious cancer, pests gained resistance to pesticides, and killifish adapted to pollution in U.S. rivers. However, Anstedt notes that verifying all three key factors in these instances remains uncharted territory.
“This research is pivotal as it shows recovery can be attributed to rapid evolution, a realization that hasn’t been documented extensively across species,” he adds.
Andrew Stouffer, a professor at Washington State University studying Tasmanian devils, concurs: “While we’ve observed rapid evolution in species like the Tasmanian devil, evidence linking it to demographic recovery is scarce.”
It’s important to note that the three-year drought detailed here is weather-related, not necessarily indicative of long-term climate shifts. “Determining long-term adaptation to climate change requires additional time,” Stouffer emphasizes.
In essence, the Scarlet Monkeyflower’s adaptation to survive one severe drought doesn’t guarantee it can evolve to withstand rising temperatures or extreme weather variations a century or more down the line. “Future droughts could be even worse than those experienced recently,” Anstedt warns.
Moreover, as populations decline, valuable genetic diversity—the key to evolutionary adaptability—is lost. Frequent and severe population declines diminish a species’ evolutionary potential each time.
Consequently, as global warming escalates, the frequency and intensity of threats will likely increase, while the capacity for evolution may diminish, particularly in long-lived species with extended generation times.
Nevertheless, Anstedt views his findings as promising. “Many current predictions about species decline neglect to account for evolution,” he concludes. “This insight brings hope for future adaptability.”
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