Exciting news from New Guinea! Two marsupial species, believed extinct for over 6,000 years, have been rediscovered.
The Ring-tailed Gliders and Pygmy Longfinger Possums, previously known only from fossils in Australia, were recently observed on the Vogelkop Peninsula in Papua, Indonesia, thanks to the support of local indigenous communities.
Renowned researcher Tim Flannery and his team at the Australian Museum in Sydney undertook years of investigative work, including analyzing peculiar sightings and misidentified specimens, to confirm that these remarkable animals had returned to life.
With photographic evidence and active collaboration with local communities, researchers have verified these animals’ existence. However, their habitat is under threat from logging activities. The specific ecological requirements and range of these rediscovered species are still largely unknown, complicating conservation efforts.
Scott Hucknull, a professor at Central Queensland University, remarked that this discovery is “more significant than finding a live quoll in Tasmania.”
One notable species, the Wow Glider (Thus ayamalensis), is closely related to Australian gliders in the genus Petaurodes. However, distinct features like its prehensile tail and furless ears have warranted its classification into a separate genus.
Local indigenous communities often regard gliders as sacred and protected animals, potentially contributing to their previous obscurity in scientific literature.
“This is one of the most photogenic animals and beautiful marsupials I’ve ever encountered,” Flannery stated.
The Pygmy Longfinger Possum (Dactylonax Kambuyai) is a striking striped creature characterized by an unusually long finger on each hand, which aids its survival.
As Flannery explains, “They possess unique ear adaptations that may help them detect the low-frequency sounds of larvae within wood, allowing them to extract food from decaying trees.”
The exact location of this species remains confidential to protect it from potential wildlife traders.
Flannery cautions against capturing these animals. “They are challenging to maintain in captivity due to their specialized diet—potential pet owners should be forewarned: they don’t last long in confined environments.”
Fossils trace back to approximately 3 to 4 million years ago have been uncovered in archaeological sites in Victoria and New South Wales, Australia, but significant gaps exist in the fossil record, leaving much about the genus a mystery.
Hucknull notes, “The smallest fossil species are undifferentiated from their modern counterparts. The Dactylonax Kambuyai has now been confirmed alive in West Papua.”
“Pocket-sized, peculiar, and adorable,” says Hucknull, emphasizing the ecological significance of this unique species.
Researcher David Lindenmayer from the Australian National University in Canberra commented on the significance of these discoveries while expressing concern over deforestation and habitat destruction in New Guinea. “It provokes questions about what has been lost in Australia due to similar land clearing practices.”
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While direct evidence of extraterrestrial life remains elusive unless aliens reside close to our solar system, the search for signs of life beyond Earth continues. Astrobiologists typically seek biological markers such as oxygen molecules and ozone in the atmospheres of exoplanets as indicators of potential life.
However, the presence of these chemicals doesn’t guarantee life; they could arise from unknown non-biological processes. More definitive proof of intelligent extraterrestrial beings might come from identifying signs of technological activities in space, known as technosignatures. Established in 1984, the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) focuses specifically on detecting these technosignatures, particularly through radio signals.
From 2006 to 2020, the SETI@home project collaborated with researchers exploring excessive radio emissions from space via the Arecibo Telescope. Over 14 years, SETI@home collected approximately 400 days of observation time, resulting in billions of detected radio emissions. Unfortunately, most of these signals are likely due to radio frequency interference, benign celestial objects like pulsars or gas clouds, rather than a single extraterrestrial source.
To refine their data analysis, the team recently developed an algorithm designed to filter out interference and pinpoint signals from fixed sources. This advancement positions researchers to re-observe these locations using the 500-meter Fast Radio Telescope.
The algorithm’s goal is to differentiate between natural cosmic signals and potential technosignatures. The team established three criteria for detecting such signals: they must remain stable within a narrow frequency range, exhibit a consistent pulsation, and contain a periodic structure spanning several seconds.
A key consideration is that signals sent intentionally for detection may differ significantly from random radio waves emitted from an alien atmosphere. The principles governing these interactions, such as the Doppler shift, complicate the analysis. Researchers theorize that intelligent civilizations would generate radio signals at a near-constant frequency, easily distinguishable from natural noise.
In their algorithm development, researchers integrated artificial data points that simulate the potential detection of distinct technosignatures, referred to as birdie candidates. If a birdie is flagged for further analysis, it validates the algorithm’s effectiveness. Adjustments to the algorithm’s sensitivity were made based on whether birdies were included or excluded from deeper scrutiny.
To tackle the complexities of data filtering and scoring, the team divided tasks into manageable segments, allowing simultaneous processing on multiple machines. Running the algorithm on 2,000 connected processors, filtering took about 15 hours, while scoring required 1.6 days. Two iterations of the algorithm on SETI@home data were completed, including one with 3,000 birdies for comparative analysis. The Birdie system helped determine which algorithm settings surpassed specified energy thresholds, leading to the identification of 92 targeted signal candidates for re-observation using 23 hours of observation time gained through FAST.
Currently, work is ongoing to analyze these signals, and as of July 2025, researchers have re-observed 80 out of the 92 candidates. Although no direct evidence of extraterrestrial intelligence has been discovered yet, the team remains optimistic that future inquiries utilizing specialized radio telescopes will yield promising results. However, the high costs and demands associated with radio telescope usage mean that SETI will likely continue to collaborate with other astronomers to maximize data collection from available observations.
Recent research highlights an extraordinary extremophile organism, Deinococcus radiodurans, known for its remarkable resilience. This unique microbe can endure the harsh conditions of radiation, frigid temperatures, and arid environments typically encountered during interplanetary transport. New findings suggest that Deinococcus radiodurans also possesses outstanding resistance to the extreme transient pressures generated by impact ejection from Mars. Consequently, this raises the possibility that such resilient life forms could traverse between planets in our solar system following a significant asteroid impact.
Artist’s impression of an asteroid. Image credit: Mark A. Garlick, Space-art.co.uk / University of Warwick / University of Cambridge.
Impact craters are prevalent on the surfaces of numerous celestial bodies, with the Moon and Mars being among the most cratered.
Scientific findings indicate that asteroid impacts can propel materials across space, as evidenced by the discovery of a Martian meteorite on Earth.
Furthermore, researchers have long speculated that asteroids could also launch microscopic life forms into space.
This theory, known as the lithopanspermia hypothesis, suggests that life could be ejected into space and potentially land on other planets.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers from Johns Hopkins University, led by Kariat (KT) Ramesh, simulated conditions under which microbes like Deinococcus radiodurans could be expelled into space due to an impact force.
The researchers placed the bacteria between two steel plates and applied pressure with a third plate, demonstrating that these microbes can withstand pressures of up to 3 GPa (30,000 times Earth’s atmospheric pressure).
By analyzing gene expression, they were able to observe biological stress responses within the bacteria under varying pressures.
While samples subjected to 2.4 GPa started to exhibit membrane damage, the unique structure of the bacterial cell envelope accounts for a survival rate of 60% among the microorganisms.
The transcriptional profiles indicated that these resilient bacteria prioritize repairing cellular damage in the aftermath of an impact.
“While we have yet to confirm the existence of life on Mars, if it exists, it likely shares similar survival capabilities,” Ramesh remarked.
“This study suggests that life could endure being ejected from one planet and travel to another.”
“These findings significantly alter our understanding of the origins of life on Earth,” remarked Dr. Lily Chao, also from Johns Hopkins University.
“Our research indicates that life can survive massive impacts and eruptions, implying that life may travel between planets. Perhaps we are all Martians!”
These findings were published in this week’s edition of PNAS Nexus. For detailed insights, refer to the study.
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Lily Chao et al. 2026. Extremophiles can withstand temporary pressures associated with impact ejection from Mars. PNAS Nexus 5(3):pgag018; doi: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgag018.
Recent images from the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope and the ESA’s Euclid mission showcase the intricate multi-shell structure of the fascinating planetary nebula NGC 6543, famously known as the Cat’s Eye Nebula.
This mesmerizing image from Euclid encapsulates the panoramic view of the Cat’s Eye Nebula. Image credits: NASA / ESA / Hubble / Euclid Consortium / J.-C. Cuillandre & E. Bertin, CEA Paris-Saclay / Z. Tsvetanov.
The Cat’s Eye Nebula, located roughly 4,300 light-years away in the constellation Draco, has intrigued astronomers for decades due to its complex, multi-layered architecture.
“Planetary nebulae,” as they are called, derive their name from their round appearance in early telescopic observations; they are actually colossal gas clouds expelled from stars nearing the end of their life cycle,” the Hubble and ESA astronomers explained.
This insight was initially uncovered in 1864 using the Cat’s Eye Nebula itself. Studying its light spectrum allows scientists to identify individual molecules, a characteristic that differentiates planetary nebulae from stars and galaxies.
Near-infrared and visible-light imagery from the Euclid mission illustrates the arcs and filaments of the nebula’s luminous core, enveloped in a mist of vibrant gas debris that is retreating from the star.
“This ring was expelled from the star prior to the formation of the central nebula,” the astronomers noted.
“The entire nebula is prominently set against a backdrop brimming with distant galaxies, exemplifying how local astrophysical wonders and the farthest reaches of the universe coexist in today’s astronomical surveys.”
In this remarkable image, Hubble captures the swirling gas core of the Cat’s Eye Nebula. Image credits: NASA / ESA / Hubble / Z. Tsvetanov.
Through a wide-field lens, Hubble has captured stunning high-resolution visible-light images of the nebula’s swirling gas core.
The data reveals an intricate tapestry of features that appear almost surreal, including concentric shells, high-velocity gas jets, and dense knots shaped by impact interactions,” the researchers stated.
“These structures are believed to document the transient mass loss from the dying star at the nebula’s center, creating a cosmic ‘fossil record’ of its final evolution.”
“The combination of Hubble’s focused observations and Euclid’s deep-field data not only emphasizes the nebula’s delicate structure but also situates it in the broader cosmic landscape explored by both telescopes.”
“Together, these missions offer a rich, complementary view of NGC 6543, illuminating the subtle interplay between a star’s end-of-life processes and the vast universe that surrounds it.”
The unprecedented mild winter weather affecting large parts of the Western United States combined with the most severe snow drought in decades has experts bracing for an intense wildfire season.
Snowfall across nearly every western state is significantly below average, providing insufficient time for accumulation before the spring thaw. Concurrently, warmer-than-average winter temperatures have contributed to a drier season than typical, escalating concerns over wildfire risks and diminishing water supplies.
“Snowfall in Colorado’s mountains has reached a 40-year low,” remarked Russ Schumacher, director of the Colorado Climate Center at Colorado State University.
Schumacher noted that Colorado’s October-to-February period, usually rich in snowfall, has been “by a wide margin” the warmest on record. In Fort Collins, the number of days hitting 60 degrees in winter has nearly doubled, increasing from 22 to 43.
Low snowfall due to a snow drought in the western United States affected Breckenridge, Colorado, on January 22nd. Hyun Chan/Denver Post via Getty Images
Consequently, Colorado has not experienced the typical snowstorms, with many storms delivering rain rather than snow, particularly in mid- and low-elevation areas.
This issue extends far beyond Colorado. Measurements of snow water equivalent across the western U.S. indicate that snowpack levels are well below average, with some basins recording less than 50% of their usual levels.
“Most regions are below 50% of average, meaning they would typically have more than double the snow,” stated Noah Molotch, a geographer from the University of Colorado Boulder.
Only a few basins in the western U.S. are seeing snow levels near average. Natural Resource Conservation Services
Molotch, alongside his team, monitors snowfall across the western U.S. and reports that this year is among the driest on record, with only the southern Sierra Nevada, parts of northwestern Wyoming, and minor regions in Montana, Idaho, and northern Washington experiencing near-normal snowfall.
Numerous areas continue to suffer from a “severe snow drought,” he added.
Research indicates that snow drought and premature snowmelt could intensify the wildfire season during summer. When forests and grasslands receive significantly less snow, or if the snow melts sooner, there’s increased potential for vegetation to dry out and serve as fuel for wildfires.
In Colorado, the recent Blue Bell Fire led to an evacuation order in Boulder last weekend, burning approximately 1.5 acres. Although quickly contained, it highlighted the state’s vulnerability under warmer, drier, and windier conditions.
“The absence of severe fire weather isn’t the issue,” Molotch stated. “These snow drought conditions clearly contribute to a potentially severe wildfire season.”
A sign indicating a “Protected Watershed Area” near a snow-covered hillside on February 8 near Salt Lake City, Utah, where around 95% of the water supply is reliant on mountain snowpack. Mario Tama/Getty Images
Schumacher pointed out that climate change could be influencing these trends. While linking yearly snowfall variations directly to global warming can be challenging, it is clear that climate change increases the likelihood of above-average temperatures, even in winter.
“Attributing the lack of precipitation to climate change is complex, but extreme temperatures exhibit a clear connection to global warming,” he stated.
Diminishing mountain snowpack poses a serious threat to water supplies in the West. The snow that accumulates in winter is essential for replenishing rivers and streams that support cities, agriculture, and hydroelectricity.
“This is critical for our water supply,” noted Molotch.
Without a stabilization of snow levels, the reservoirs in the western U.S. risk running dry.
“These challenges aren’t unique to Colorado. The Colorado River Basin is in a particularly precarious position as it is already overallocated, leading the federal government to face tough decisions regarding reductions in allocations,” Molotch explained.
The upcoming weeks could bring substantial snowfall to parts of the West, including Colorado and Utah; however, the current forecast offers little optimism.
A skier at Alta Ski Area in the Wasatch Mountains on February 8. High-altitude resorts like Alta enjoy sufficient snow, while lower-altitude resorts are resorting to artificial snowmaking. Mario Tama/Getty Images
Schumacher expressed a growing sense of resignation, as his winter optimism fades.
“As we approach early March, unfortunately, time is running out for a turnaround,” he lamented. “The hope now is that this year will merely be a disappointing one and not one for the record books.”
Cats possess a remarkable ability to adjust their bodies mid-fall, allowing them to land gracefully on their feet, a phenomenon known as the cat righting reflex.
According to Yasuo Higurashi from Yamaguchi University, the cat’s thoracic spine is especially flexible, providing the agility needed to rotate their body during a fall.
It’s widely understood that cats almost always land on their feet. When you drop a cat upside down, it instinctively twists its body to ensure a safe landing.
This impressive skill has puzzled scientists for over a century, leading to three primary theories about how cats achieve this feat.
The first theory suggests they use a propeller-like motion with their tails, turning their bodies in the opposite direction. However, Greg Barr, a physics author, notes that the tail isn’t crucial, as cats can accomplish this without it. His work, Falling Cats and Basic Physics, supports this observation.
The second theory, the bend-twist model, posits that cats bend their bodies at nearly right angles. This allows their front and back halves to rotate independently, enabling all four legs to align correctly upon landing.
The third model, referred to as tuck-and-turn, illustrates how cats first rotate their front half while extending their hind legs, then switch positions to ensure safe landing.
To explore feline behavior, Higurashi and his team conducted two experiments. The first involved assessing the spinal flexibility of five deceased cats, revealing that their thoracic spines can rotate three times more than their lumbar spines.
The researchers filmed high-speed videos of two adult cats falling from one meter, finding that the front half completes its rotation slightly faster than the rear.
According to Gbur, these experiments made him reconsider the significance of the tuck-and-turn model, suggesting a stronger reliance on the bending and twisting motions during a fall. His observations indicated that the front of a falling cat appears to orient itself before the back.
These models are not mutually exclusive, as Gbur emphasizes, pointing out that nature often employs complex and effective methods rather than simple solutions.
Interestingly, the study revealed a tendency for cats to rotate predominantly to the right when falling. While one cat consistently displayed this behavior, another did so six out of eight times. Gbur speculates that this may relate to the asymmetric arrangement of a cat’s internal organs, affecting their rotational preferences.
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Rising Sea Levels: Increased Risk of Storm Surge Flooding in Coastal Cities
Credit: Thomas Wyness / Alamy Stock Photo
Many studies on the impact of future sea level rise have neglected to acknowledge that current sea levels are higher than previously estimated, resulting from a significant “methodological blind spot.” This oversight indicates that flooding and erosion may commence sooner than anticipated.
Katarina Seeger and Philip Minderhoud, researchers at Wageningen University in the Netherlands, evaluated 385 peer-reviewed studies addressing coastal vulnerability. They found that 90% of these studies failed to consider critical factors—such as ocean currents, tides, temperature, salinity, and wind—when assessing sea level variations. This oversight led to an average underestimation of coastal water levels by 24 to 27 centimeters.
Addressing this gap could potentially increase projections of individuals likely to experience flooding, estimating an increase of up to 68%, impacting approximately 132 million people by 2100. Areas significantly affected include Southeast Asia and Oceania, which often feature sea levels averaging a meter higher than previously calculated, with some regions seeing several meters’ difference.
“If representatives from these vulnerable regions attend global discussions to seek assistance, it may be frustrating, as their risks are grossly underestimated. This scientific miscalculation could affect outcomes for future generations,” Minderhoud stated during a briefing.
While predictions suggest that sea levels may rise by as much as 1 meter by the century’s end, many studies begin with baselines that are inaccurately low. Thus, the adverse effects will likely manifest sooner than expected.
Of the studies evaluated, 46 were referenced in the latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the premier source on global warming impacts, including rising sea levels.
The Earth’s rotation causes it to bulge at the equator, while denser mantle sections exert a greater gravitational pull on overlying water. To accurately determine the elevation of a specific area, measurements must be compared to the geoid, which depicts mean sea level worldwide.
However, in some regions, actual sea levels can be several meters above the geoid due to wind and ocean currents accumulating water or thermal expansion caused by rising temperatures. Additionally, coastlines may shift due to sediment deposition in rivers or groundwater extraction beneath coastal areas.
Instead of comparing satellite observations to the geoid for insight into coastal water levels and land elevation, many researchers relied on unadjusted geoid sea levels. Even those who attempted calculations often encountered errors caused by differing geoid models for land and ocean elevations. Alarmingly, less than 1% of surveys accurately determined the current sea level at the coastline in question.
“The Coastal Research Community may not have full access to these critical sea level datasets as we are primarily focused on the coastal land aspect,” Seeger remarked during the briefing.
Climate scientists and oceanographers must collaborate more closely with geographers and environmental scientists who assess coastal impacts, emphasized Matt Palmer from the UK’s Met Office.
“It could be said that the crucial final details got lost in translation,” he noted. “Ensuring that the last mile of information is handled adeptly is vital; otherwise, the integrity of the entire effort is compromised.”
The implications of this issue extend to matters of climate justice, said Palmer. The underestimation of sea levels is particularly critical in low-income nations, including various deltas in Africa and Asia. Limited data on gravity fluctuations and lower geoid accuracy contribute to this challenge in regions that are most susceptible to rising sea levels.
The scientific community advocates for enhanced data collection in low-income regions, particularly through the installation of tide gauges for accurate sea level measurements, according to Joan Williams from the UK National Marine Centre.
“Coastal sea levels are influenced by various local factors, necessitating long-term, well-calibrated regional measurements as the gold standard,” she stated.
“Where Are They?” is the question posed by the renowned Italian-American physicist Enrico Fermi during a discussion with a colleague in the early 1950s, hinting at the existence of extraterrestrial life. Fermi conducted calculations suggesting that alien civilizations should exist and have visited Earth in the past. He argued that the absence of extraterrestrial outposts raises important questions about civilization itself.
For decades, astronomers have referenced this pivotal conversation to explore the Fermi Paradox, which questions why we don’t see signs of other civilizations in the galaxy if they exist. Various hypotheses have emerged, including the Great Filter theory, suggesting a barrier that prevents civilizations from achieving the technology to communicate with one another. Alternatively, the Zoo Hypothesis posits that extraterrestrial beings are aware of humanity and opt not to make contact to avoid confusion. It is also possible that aliens are already among us or that unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) or interstellar objects like ‘Oumuamua could indicate alien presence.
Some solutions to the Fermi Paradox involve assumptions regarding technological growth, evolution, or intelligence itself. Recently, researcher Robin HD Corbett suggested a more routine solution. His argument is based on the Copernican Principle of Mediocrity, which implies that if alien civilizations are akin to humans, it’s not surprising we haven’t encountered them.
Corbett presents two main considerations for a “radical secularity” solution to the Fermi Paradox. Firstly, there are limits to technological advancement; even if alien civilizations are more advanced, they lack faster-than-light travel or other impossible technologies. Secondly, while numerous alien civilizations may exist, they are not ubiquitous.
Regarding technology, Corbett points out that the laws of physics inhibit any civilization from developing a warp drive to quickly traverse the galaxy. Practical limitations, including engineering challenges and ecological concerns, compel civilizations to pursue sustainable technologies rather than pursuing grand projects detectable from afar, like an artificial ring around a star or radio beacons broadcasting for thousands of years.
The existence of civilizations similar to ours carries significant implications. If they exercise similar rational thought, guiding their space exploration decisions with cost-benefit analyses, they might find that the effort required to explore other civilizations may outweigh the benefits, especially without groundbreaking technology.
Corbett further claims that space exploration would likely be conducted by autonomous, perhaps self-replicating, machines known as von Neumann probes equipped with advanced AI, capable of traveling at 1/1000th the speed of light. Concerns about uncontrollable AI escalation may increase costs, leading civilizations to limit their exploratory efforts.
Corbett concludes that if alien civilizations are located far from Earth, they may have abandoned their search for others millions of years ago, leaving us in silence. Scientists, particularly those working on the new wireless array, should be mindful that extraterrestrial beings may closely resemble humans.Star Trek‘s Vulcans suggest limitations on future technologies, further complicating our quest for contact. Corbett also posits that UAPs discovered on Earth are likely not alien in origin, concluding that extraterrestrials may find humans too ordinary to warrant their attention.
Artwork of Hibodus sharks—predators from the late Permian period that outlasted mass extinctions.
Credit: Christian Darkin/Science Photo Library
The largest mass extinction in history led to the loss of over 80% of marine life. Remarkably, certain ecosystems continued to thrive, and various species, including apex predators, managed to survive this catastrophic event.
This research indicates that the survival of specific ecosystems was influenced by their unique species compositions. A similar pattern may be observed in today’s marine ecosystems, which are under significant threat from climate change.
Approximately 252 million years ago, the end-Permian extinction was likely triggered by extensive volcanic eruptions in present-day Siberia, causing rapid global warming and diminishing ocean oxygen levels. Notably, some groups, like trilobites and eurypterids (sea scorpions), faced total extinction, while others experienced dramatic losses. In the aftermath, new species groups emerged, including dinosaurs and ichthyosaurs.
Despite the extinction of numerous species, researchers speculate that ecosystems may have become less complex. A functioning ecosystem relies on diverse interdependent species—plants that produce energy, herbivores that consume them, and predators that eat herbivores. Top predators may face extinction as they depend on prey for survival. Thus, a significant extinction event, such as the one at the end of the Permian, would simplify ecosystems.
To investigate this hypothesis, Baran Kalapunar and a team from the University of Leeds assessed preserved remains from seven marine ecosystems globally, both before and after the extinction. They analyzed the ecosystem structures based on the species present. Kalapunar declined to provide an interview as the study is yet to undergo peer review.
Even with species losses reaching 96%, five of the seven ecosystems sustained at least four trophic levels.
In regions, particularly near the poles, slow-moving herbivores caused the most significant damage, while free-swimming organisms, such as fish, were less severely impacted.
Ecosystem recovery varied based on proximity to the equator. Tropical ecosystems were primarily populated by low-trophic-level species, while those nearer to the poles experienced the addition of trophic levels as fish predators relocated away from extreme heat near the equator.
These findings imply that present-day marine ecosystems also respond differently to climate change and other anthropogenic impacts.
“I’m not aware of any other study that encompasses so many regions,” states Peter Roopnarine from the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. He concurs with the conclusions that many ecosystems sustain trophic levels despite extinctions, as previous smaller-scale studies indicated.
However, Roopnarine cautions against placing too much emphasis on the specifics of researchers’ ecosystem models. The fossil record does not clarify which organisms survived and which did not, requiring researchers to combine all photosynthetic organisms together without predicting outcomes if these species became extinct. “These findings are firmly supported by the fossil record, yet it remains incomplete,” he remarks.
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X and Y chromosomes engage in competition to favorably skew sex ratios.
Katerina Conn/Science Photo Library
Have you ever noticed a family where almost all the children are boys or girls? While often just random chance, a detailed analysis of a Utah family tracing back to the 1700s offers a fascinating biological explanation: the “selfish” Y chromosome may suppress female births.
According to James Baldwin Brown at the University of Utah, “This family is of great significance. Selfish genes, like the ones highlighted, have been documented across various organisms, yet studying them in humans remains challenging.”
In most mammals, male cells feature one X and one Y chromosome. During sperm formation in the testes, half receive Y chromosomes and half receive X chromosomes, leading to a theoretical 50:50 male-female birth ratio. However, certain chromosome variations can skew this outcome, producing an unequal number of male or female offspring. For instance, some selfish chromosomes hinder other sperm’s capability to reach the egg, while others eliminate non-selfish sperm. “This phenomenon has puzzled scientists for over a century,” adds Nitin Phadnis, also from the University of Utah.
The competition between selfish X and Y chromosomes can significantly skew sex ratios. Such variations are not just limited to humans; selfish chromosomes affecting sex ratios have been observed in various animals. The challenge lies in identifying currently active selfish chromosomes. “Even having several boys consecutively can often occur by chance,” Baldwin-Brown clarifies.
To prove that sex ratio bias is not a mere coincidence, it requires analyzing multiple generations. Using the Utah Population Database, which catalogs millions, Baldwin-Brown, Phadnis, and their team focused on 76,000 individuals.
The researchers employed two distinct statistical methods, both isolating the same families as significant outliers. Over seven generations, 33 men shared the same Y chromosome, resulting in 60 male and 29 female offspring out of 89 children.
Due to data anonymization, genetic analysis remains elusive. “It would be invaluable to connect with these individuals to sequence their sperm and investigate further,” says Baldwin-Brown. “However, navigating the ethical requirements and funding this endeavor is quite challenging.”
Sarah Zanders from the Stowers Medical Research Institute in Missouri speculates that a selfish Y chromosome might be at play but acknowledges the sample size is still too small for conclusive evidence. While analyzing microbes, her team detected significant sex ratio biases, yet larger sample evaluations yielded less remarkable findings.
Infidelity poses an additional complication, Zanders noted. “Though I’m not a human expert, I suspect many father assignments could be iffy,” she reflects. Baldwin-Brown acknowledged the possibility. “Despite this, there remains robust data that appears trustworthy,” he assures.
Understanding the selfish Y chromosome extends beyond theoretical implications, Phadnis suggests. Such mechanisms could be a factor in rising male infertility rates, as a trait that diminishes half of all sperm would severely impact fertility. Moreover, studies indicate selfish chromosomes may induce infertility in certain individuals.
The research team now aims to analyze sperm samples for discrepancies in the X and Y carrying sperm ratios.
This latest examination focuses on the selfish Y chromosome for various reasons. It is simpler to trace male lineage, and another potential cause for a higher female birth ratio could stem from a deadly mutation rather than merely a selfish X chromosome.
Selfish genes aren’t exclusive to X and Y chromosomes. More broadly, DNA that enhances inheritance probabilities above 50% is referred to as a gene drive and has been discovered in various species. CRISPR technology can create artificial gene drives, with potential applications in combating malaria and controlling pest populations.
Let’s begin with an important fact: No matter what you’ve heard, you are not eating the equivalent of a credit card’s worth of microplastics every week.
You can read more about the confusion around this assertion in the article here.
However, the claim has sparked concerns, particularly after multiple studies reported microplastics accumulating in various environments—ranging from the highest mountains to the deepest ocean trenches, and even in isolated polar regions. Microplastics have also been detected in human tissues, including the heart, liver, kidneys, breast milk, and bloodstream.
Given their prevalence and potential health implications, it’s understandable to be worried, but is it truly warranted?
The ubiquity of microplastics can be traced back to the remarkable properties of plastics. The invention of Bakelite in the early 20th century marked a shift in how materials were produced—created from synthetic compounds rather than sourced from nature.
As plastic became more affordable and widespread, its applications flourished, impacting food packaging, electronics, medical devices, and more. Unfortunately, this durability also leads to a significant environmental issue; microplastics have been released into ecosystems for over a century, persisting for long periods. Consequently, these particles have made their way into the tissues and bloodstreams of various species, including us.
These microplastics are often present in everyday items we consume, such as salt, beer, and drinking water, as detailed here.
Yes, microplastics could likely be within you, but there’s no need to panic just yet. Assessing the health implications of pollutants involves several factors.
Firstly, consider the size of the microplastics, which varies significantly. Secondly, what concentration is required to elicit effects? Lastly, we must examine whether the effects are indeed harmful. Much of the current research is animal-based, which raises questions about its applicability to humans.
Microplastics and Credit Cards
In recent years, alarming headlines have often cited vague information about microplastic sizes or relied on inflated studies that use unrealistically high doses, not reflective of typical human consumption.
For example, widely circulated claims suggested that the average person ingests around 5 grams of microplastics a week—the amount in a credit card. This assertion stems from a 2019 study that employed questionable methodologies and can easily be debunked.
According to a more accurate assessment, most individuals consume only around 0.0041 milligrams per week—less than a grain of salt. This slower rate suggests that it would take over 1.2 million weeks, or 23,000 years, to consume the equivalent of one credit card’s worth of plastic.
If you were immortal, perhaps you could worry about it.
Research indicates that the average person accumulates about 12.2 milligrams of microplastics in their lifetime, but only around 41 nanograms might actually be absorbed by the body based on a study by the same researcher.
New concerns have also emerged surrounding the methodologies used to investigate microplastics within bodily tissues. Some studies employ vaporization techniques that analyze smoke for microplastics, potentially leading to false positives due to similar chemical structures released from fat.
Effects of Microplastics on Human Health
While we know that microplastics are present in our bodies, their effects remain unclear. Some studies indicate that microplastics may lead to behavioral changes and inflammation in animal models; however, these studies often utilize unrealistically high doses—1 gram per day for rodents, for example.
Other studies in pigs showed that a weekly dose of 1 gram affected gene expression and induced oxidative stress in the pancreas, yet this dosage vastly exceeds typical human exposure.
Reports from the World Health Organization have cautioned that most animal studies utilize concentrations of microplastics well above what humans typically encounter. Moreover, microplastics are processed differently in human bodies compared to rodents, complicating data interpretation.
Preliminary human studies have detected microplastics accumulating in plaques and have correlated the presence of these plastics with higher instances of heart attacks and strokes. However, correlation does not entail causation—it’s critical to avoid jumping to conclusions.
Investigating the impact of microplastics on human health is multifaceted. While these small particles carry chemicals capable of disrupting bodily processes, it is essential to recognize that not all these chemicals are absorbed immediately. Studies have demonstrated that the amount of chemicals leaching from microplastics is minimal under average conditions, as addressed in this report. Additionally, the body can excrete certain chemicals, negating long-term accumulation risks.
Concerns also revolve around the potential introduction of other hazardous substances linked to microplastics. Moreover, they may disrupt immune functions or even cause cell damage and inflammation. However, comparative assessments regarding the risks of microplastics versus other pollutants—such as air quality or dietary excesses—remain uncertain.
While it’s natural to fear the health risks posed by microplastics, we need definitive evidence to gauge their danger accurately. This discussion taps into our anxiety surrounding pollution. Just because we don’t consume a credit card’s worth of plastic each week doesn’t mean that the issue isn’t serious. However, the field of microplastic research is still nascent, and comprehensive data on their effects in humans is lacking.
Until further research emerges, I’ll focus my concerns elsewhere.
This week, AI chatbot Claude experienced an outage. Users reported being unable to access services via the Anthropic website, with the issue persistent for approximately a week. Similar outages have impacted various technology giants, government websites, and even hospitals. What is driving this surge in service disruptions?
The primary vulnerability of today’s internet lies in its heavy reliance on cloud computing. This shift has resulted in numerous services depending on just a few key providers like Amazon and Microsoft. During the early days of the internet, businesses operated on their own infrastructure—akin to a self-sufficient local store. When an issue arose in one area, others remained unaffected, but now, if a cloud provider faces difficulties, the repercussions resonate across multiple platforms.
Frequently, user-access issues stem from simple human errors. One notable incident underscoring these risks was the 2024 outage caused by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike, which inadvertently released software configuration files that rendered millions of Windows computers inoperative—affecting airlines, banks, and emergency service centers globally.
Joseph Jarneki from the Royal United Services Institute indicates that large-scale outages are typically not premeditated. Cybercriminals tend to focus on smaller targets instead of provoking major tech companies, preferring to extract ransom payments when preying on vital services.
Tim Stevens from King’s College London highlights that ransomware attacks are increasingly directed at local authorities and crucial infrastructure. Hackers tend to infiltrate essential services such as water supplies and municipal governments, where they can hold operations hostage for payment.
The UK has witnessed such incidents, including ransomware attacks on Hackney Council, Gloucester City Council, and Leicester City Council, along with similar challenges faced by the NHS and local water suppliers. Stevens notes an ongoing cat-and-mouse game between hackers and cybersecurity experts. Unfortunately, it appears hackers currently hold the upper hand. “In recent discussions, it’s been indicated that we’re losing ground. We’re not just behind; we’re actually losing,” Stevens confessed.
State-sponsored hackers from countries like Russia and China typically do not aim to disrupt cloud providers on a large scale. “While they do target these entities, their intentions are highly focused rather than destructive,” emphasizes Jarnecki.
According to Sarah Krebs from Cornell University, cyberattacks are increasingly utilized in nations operating within a “gray zone”—a fluctuating state of unease that signifies neither full-scale peace nor active warfare. This tension often manifests as calculated disruptions aimed to weaken adversaries.
Krebs explains, “This approach acts similarly to economic sanctions; much of our GDP and overall economic stability hinges on the Internet. Disabling it critically impairs adversaries’ abilities to generate wealth, subsequently hindering their resource capabilities for warfare.”
Importantly, Krebs notes that Russia and China aren’t the sole practitioners of such tactics. Western nations, too, engage in cyber operations. Notably, intelligence agencies such as GCHQ and MI6 have previously compromised al-Qaeda computers, resulting in significant operational disruptions—these covert operations remain classified and occur behind the scenes.
Stevens mentioned, “It’s clear that Western intelligence and security agencies are conducting cyber operations against Russian assets. However, the legal frameworks often restrict the scope and intensity of these operations, which can be a source of frustration within the community.”
Claude has since resumed functioning, but Anthropic has yet to address inquiries from New Scientist regarding the recent outage effects.
Paleontologists from the University of Toronto Mississauga have uncovered numerous tooth impressions in the fossilized bones of three juvenile Diadectes, one of the earliest large herbivorous vertebrates to traverse land. This groundbreaking finding represents the earliest direct evidence of predator-prey interactions between terrestrial carnivores and herbivores.
Skeletal reconstruction of Diadectes sideropelicus. Side view illustrating left and right tooth and hole marks. Image credit: Young et al., doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-38183-6.
Paleontologists have long been aware of the existence of apex predators in the Permian landscape; however, clear physical evidence confirming their dependence on the early large herbivores has remained elusive.
In contrast to the Mesozoic Era, renowned for its dinosaur bite marks, the earlier fossil record reveals scant direct evidence of such predator-prey encounters.
“Our findings indicate that the predator-prey hierarchy emerged earlier than previously understood,” stated lead author Professor Robert Rice, a paleontologist at the University of Toronto Mississauga.
“While these interactions are well-documented in the ‘age of reptiles,’ there has been limited information regarding them in the Paleozoic era, when terrestrial vertebrates first evolved into large apex predators and herbivores.”
In this study, Professor Rice and colleagues analyzed the disarticulated skeletons of three juvenile Diadectes, dating back to the early Permian period.
The fossils were unearthed in the Mud Hill area of the Vale Formation located in Texas, USA.
The paleontologists documented five distinct types of bone damage: shallow notches, deeper holes, grooves along the shafts, conical punctures, and small holes.
Notably, many marks were concentrated around cartilage-rich joints, indicating predators had stripped away muscle and pried open connective tissues.
Some grooves ran parallel to the long axis of the bone, consistent with the motion of tearing flesh.
“The holes, pits, cuts, and wrinkles present on these three juvenile herbivores’ skeletons point to the presence of large predators in this area, such as Varanopus and Dimetrodon,” said lead study author Jordan M. Young, a researcher at the University of Toronto Mississauga.
“Scavengers and small arthropods also took part in this ‘Paleozoic feast.’”
Evidence of arthropod perforation was found where the cartilage of the bone ends would have been.
The study was published in the Journal on February 26, 2026, in a Scientific Report.
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JM Young et al. 2026. The earliest direct evidence of trophic interactions between terrestrial apex predators and large herbivores. Scientific Reports 16, 6977; doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-38183-6
Changes in hominid facial size and shape over time are not just significant for taxonomic and evolutionary relationships; they also indicate vital functional adaptations. Recently recovered and well-preserved, the Australopithecus skulls, especially the 3.67-million-year-old StW 573, commonly referred to as “Littlefoot,” discovered in Sterkfontein, South Africa, have greatly enriched the fossil record. Although StW 573 is nearly complete, post-depositional damage has resulted in some displacement and fragmentation of the facial skeleton. In a groundbreaking new study, paleoanthropologists set out to digitally reconstruct the surface of StW 573.
Facial reconstruction of StW 573. Image credit: A. Beaudet.
The Littlefoot fossil was uncovered in 1994 in a cave in Sterkfontein, South Africa.
This specimen, also known as StW 573, got its name from the four small leg bones discovered amidst a box full of animal fossils that ultimately led to the skeleton’s recovery.
In the 2010s, paleoanthropologist Ronald Clark suggested that Littlefoot might belong to Australopithecus prometheus, while others argued for Australopithecus africanus, a hominid species found at the same site, or even a distinct species within the Australopithecus genus.
Although many aspects of StW 573’s skeleton have been extensively studied, the face has been distorted due to millions of years of geological processes, making physical reconstruction methods ineffective.
In a recent investigation, Dr. Amélie Baudet of the Universities of Poitiers and the University of the Witwatersrand, along with her team, digitally reconstructed the facial bones, producing one of the most complete Australopithecus faces to date.
The researchers evaluated nine facial linear measurements and applied 3D geometric morphometry to compare Littlefoot with various extant great apes and three other Australopithecus fossils.
Findings indicated that Littlefoot’s overall facial size, eye socket shape, and general facial structure bore more resemblance to East African fossils than to younger South African specimens, a counterintuitive result given the lack of complete facial fossils for comparison.
“Given Littlefoot’s geographical origins, this pattern is unexpected and implies a more dynamic evolutionary history than previously believed,” remarked Dr. Baudet.
“For instance, Littlefoot may represent a lineage closely linked to East African populations, whereas later South African hominins developed more distinct facial features through regional evolutionary mechanisms.”
The study also uncovered evidence of selective pressures acting on the orbital region (around the eyes), potentially related to shifts in visual capabilities and ecological behaviors.
“Although our study is limited to a single anatomical region and a small number of comparative fossil specimens, it enriches our understanding of the links between Australopithecus populations across Africa, indicating that the orbital region may have been under evolutionary pressure during that time,” said Dr. Baudet.
“Human facial evolution suggests that our faces have become less prominent and more adaptable over time, but the timeline and inherent evolutionary mechanisms remain elusive.”
Professor Dominic Stratford from the University of the Witwatersrand and Stony Brook University commented, “This study challenges the idea that early human evolution took place in isolated regions. Instead, it supports the concept of Africa as a unified evolutionary landscape, where populations adapted to ecological pressures while remaining interconnected through common ancestry.”
“The face is crucial for primates’ interactions with their environment, serving essential functions in digestion, vision, respiration, smell, and nonverbal communication.”
“In this light, the face is an essential anatomical area for understanding how humans have adjusted and interacted with their surroundings.”
“With only a handful of Australopithecus fossils preserving nearly complete facial structures, Littlefoot offers a rare and invaluable reference point,” asserted Dr. Baudet.
“The anatomical regions of Littlefoot’s face associated with vision, respiration, and feeding will provide further vital insights into our evolutionary history.”
The study results were published in this month’s issue of Comptes rendus palevol.
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Baudet, A. & others. 2026. Virtual reconstruction and comparative study of the face of StW 573 (“Little Foot”). Comptes rendus palevol 25(3):43-56; doi: 10.5852/cr-palevol2026v25a3
Newly Discovered Tiny Fossil: Purgatorius
This shrew-sized mammal is recognized as the oldest known ancestor of all primates, including humans. Initially believed to be confined to northern North America, its range now extends hundreds of kilometers to the south. This week’s article in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, detailed in a recent paper, challenges conventional theories about the biogeography of early primates and suggests that their diversification occurred rapidly following the end-Cretaceous mass extinction.
Shortly after the Cretaceous mass extinction, the earliest known primates like Purgatorius McKivevelli adapted quickly, specializing in an omnivorous diet that included tree fruits and archaic ungulate mammals. Image credit: Andrei Atutin.
The origins and early biogeographical history of primates is a fascinating yet contentious subject. The oldest primates, Purgatorius, are small tree-dwelling mammals that first emerged in North America around 65.9 million years ago.
Previously, Purgatorius fossils were only found in northern regions such as Montana and Saskatchewan, creating an incomplete understanding of their evolutionary history.
Paleontologist Stephen Chester from the City University of New York and his colleagues describe the southernmost fossil of Purgatorius in their new paper.
The specimens were meticulously recovered from ancient sediments in the Coral Bluffs area of the Denver Basin in Colorado.
“This discovery fills a critical gap in our understanding of the geographic distribution and evolution of our earliest primate ancestors after the dinosaur extinction,” Dr. Chester stated.
The fossils analyzed by the team consist of small teeth that display a distinctive combination of features, indicating they may belong to an earlier, previously unidentified species of Purgatorius.
“The presence of these fossils in Colorado reveals that ancient primates likely originated in the north before expanding southward, rapidly diversifying post-end-Cretaceous mass extinction,” Chester explained.
While scientists previously believed Purgatorius was absent from southern regions during this period, new findings suggest that this assumption was primarily due to limited fossil sampling.
“Our results demonstrate that small fossils can easily be overlooked,” Dr. Chester remarked.
“More intensive searches, especially utilizing screen-cleaning techniques, will likely uncover numerous significant specimens.”
The study further questions long-held assumptions about the habitats of early primates.
“The ankle bone of Purgatorius suggested tree-dwelling characteristics, and we initially suspected its absence from southern Montana was due to extensive forest destruction following an asteroid impact 66 million years ago,” Chester noted.
“Yet, our paleobotanical colleagues indicate that plant recovery in North America was rapid, leading us to believe that Purgatorius likely existed further south—we just haven’t looked hard enough.”
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Stephen GB Chester et al. “Southernmost Origin of Purgatorius: Insights into the Biogeographic History and Diversification of the Oldest Primates.” Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, published online March 2, 2026. doi: 10.1080/02724634.2026.2614024
The gut and oral microbiomes play a crucial role in determining the severity of reactions in individuals with peanut allergies. This may clarify why reactions can vary greatly in intensity among allergic individuals.
According to Rodrigo Jimenez Sais from the Autonomous University of Madrid, “The central question is why some individuals experience more severe allergic reactions than others.”
A peanut allergy arises when the immune system incorrectly identifies proteins from peanuts as harmful, leading to an excessive production of specific antibodies. This immune response can result in symptoms like itching, swelling, and nausea, or in severe cases, anaphylaxis—a life-threatening condition characterized by breathing difficulties.
Since various microbiomes significantly influence our immune systems, Jiménez-Saiz and his team hypothesized that body microorganisms could affect allergy severity.
To test this, they administered peanuts to three groups of non-allergic mice: germ-free mice without a microbiome, mice with a minimally diverse microbiome, and mice with a rich, healthy microbiome.
After 40 minutes, researchers discovered that two proteins, Ara h 1 and Ara h 2, crucial for peanut allergies, were present at elevated levels in the germ-free and minimally diverse microbiome mice compared to those with a diverse microbiome.
Additionally, the mice with a diverse microbiome harbored abundant levels of a beneficial bacteria called Lotia, especially the Lotia R3 strain, which aids in digesting peanuts in the intestines.
To explore whether Lotia R3 could mitigate anaphylaxis risk, the researchers induced severe peanut allergies in another group of mice with minimal microbiome diversity.
They then introduced Lotia R3 and injected peanut paste into all subjects’ intestines. After 40 minutes, while all mice experienced anaphylaxis, those treated with Lotia R3 had an average body temperature drop of just 2%, compared to 3.5% in untreated mice—a notable difference, given that severe drops in temperature can lead to hypothermia and organ failure.
Moreover, levels of MMCP-1, an immune molecule that surges during anaphylaxis, were significantly lower in the blood of mice treated with Lotia R3. According to Mohamed Shamji from Imperial College London, “The findings are compelling. If similar immune responses occur in humans, we could anticipate a decrease in anaphylactic severity.”
In a complementary study involving 19 individuals with peanut allergies, researchers noted that those with higher peanut tolerance exhibited significantly higher levels of Lotia and considerably fewer bacteria in their saliva than those suffering from severe allergies. This indicates that the presence of these bacteria—both in the gut and oral cavity—may impact an individual’s anaphylaxis risk.
Lotia probiotics hold promise for reducing the severity of anaphylaxis during peanut allergies, according to Shamji. “There’s a significant need for such interventions,” he remarks, especially considering they could alleviate fears of accidental peanut exposure and minimize side effects during oral immunotherapy, which involves gradually introducing allergens to desensitize patients.
The research team aspires to eventually conduct a clinical trial, administering either Lotia probiotics or a placebo to participants with peanut allergies prior to their exposure to low doses of peanuts, as explained by Jimenez-Saiz.
The X and Y chromosomes can compete to skew the sex ratio in their favor.
Katerina Conn/Science Photo Library
Have you ever noticed a family with mostly boys or girls? While it often seems coincidental, a Utah family study dating back to the 1700s suggests a biological reason—the “selfish” Y chromosome may reduce female births.
“This is a significant family,” says James Baldwin-Brown from the University of Utah. “Selfish genes have been identified in many organisms, but studying their effects in humans has been challenging.”
In mammals, male cells contain one X and one Y chromosome. As sperm develop, half carry X and half carry Y, leading to a balanced male-female offspring ratio. However, certain genetic variations can disturb this balance, producing more males or females. Some selfish chromosomes may even interfere with sperm navigation, while others eliminate non-carrier sperm, though the mechanisms are not yet clear. “This question has persisted for a century, and we still seek answers,” explains Nitin Phadnis, also from the University of Utah.
In various species, selfish X and Y chromosomes compete, attempting to tilt the sex ratio to their advantage. Evidence suggests that humans may harbor similar selfish genes, yet identifying active ones proves difficult. “It’s statistically probable to have five or six boys consecutively,” Baldwin-Brown notes.
To demonstrate that the observed sex ratio bias isn’t just chance, researchers must investigate multiple generations. Utilizing the Utah Population Database, which contains data on millions, this study focused on 76,000 individuals.
By applying two distinct statistical analyses, the researchers identified specific families as significant outliers. Over seven generations, 33 men passed down an identical Y chromosome. Of their 89 offspring, 60 were male, while only 29 were female.
The data, having been anonymized, restricts direct genetic testing. “It would be enlightening to de-anonymize these samples and request consent for sperm analysis,” Baldwin-Brown states. “However, the ethical considerations involve extensive paperwork and resources.”
Sarah Zanders from the Stowers Medical Research Institute in Missouri hopes her team has identified a selfish Y chromosome, though the sample size remains small. In her research on microbes, her team observed unexpected sex ratio biases, but these disappeared in larger sample sizes.
Infidelity also complicates findings, Zanders suggests. “While I lack expertise in human behavior, television has taught me that father misattribution could be more common than assumed.” Baldwin-Brown reassures, “We have substantial, reliable data.”
Understanding the selfish Y chromosome has broader implications beyond mere academic interest. According to Phadnis, these chromosomes might contribute to rising male infertility rates. A mechanism that eradicates half of all sperm could logically lead to reduced fertility. Studies suggest that selfish chromosomes can cause infertility in certain subjects.
The research team intends to analyze sperm samples for discrepancies in X and Y sperm proportions.
In this recent study, they focused specifically on the selfish Y chromosome for several reasons: tracing male lineage is simpler, and an increased female proportion may also stem from lethal mutations—not just a selfish X chromosome.
Notably, selfishness isn’t confined to X and Y chromosomes. Genes that enhance inheritance chances above 50% are referred to as gene drives, with various types identified in the animal kingdom. CRISPR technology allows for the creation of artificial gene drives, potentially aiding in malaria control and pest management.
Discover the QuEra Quantum Computer Based on Cryogenic Atoms
Credit: Cuella
An innovative algorithm called phantom code has the potential to enable quantum computers to execute complex programs error-free, addressing a critical barrier to the broader adoption of quantum technology.
Initially, many physicists were skeptical about the viability of quantum computers due to their susceptibility to errors that are challenging to rectify. Various types of quantum computers are already operational and have shown promise in facilitating scientific research and exploration. Nevertheless, the industry is still grappling with the challenge of minimizing computational mistakes.
Traditional error correction techniques permit quantum computers to store information accurately, but their computational demands can be substantial. According to Shayan Majidi of Harvard University, this creates inefficiencies.
To tackle this issue, Majidi and his research team concentrated on complex calculations that require numerous steps, often resulting in prolonged execution times and heightened error risks.
Quantum computers utilize basic units known as qubits. These computations frequently involve logical qubits: clusters of qubits cooperating to lower error rates. In order to avoid computational inaccuracies, devices manipulate these logical qubits. For instance, physical qubits are usually subjected to lasers or microwaves to connect multiple logical qubits or alter their quantum states.
The phantom code innovation allows the entanglement of multiple logical qubits without necessitating any physical manipulations, hence its moniker “phantom.” This efficiency translates to fewer actions required for calculations, thereby diminishing the likelihood of errors.
In their experiments, Majidi and his colleagues ran computer simulations to evaluate the phantom code on two distinct tasks: preparing specialized qubit states that are essential for computations, and simulating simplified models of quantum materials. Their findings indicated that this method yielded results that were up to 100 times more accurate than conventional error correction methods by minimizing the need for physical operations.
While phantom codes may not be applicable to every quantum computing task, according to Majidi, they are particularly useful in scenarios that demand extensive entanglement. This method doesn’t generate new entanglements; instead, it optimally utilizes existing ones. As Majidi puts it, “It’s not a free lunch; it’s just a lunch that was already there, and we weren’t consuming it.”
Mark Howard, researchers at the University of Galway in Ireland, liken the selection of error-correcting codes for quantum computing to choosing protective armor. While plate armor may provide superior protection at the expense of weight and versatility, phantom code offers flexibility but requires more qubits compared to traditional strategies, making it a partial solution to quantum error challenges.
Dominic Williamson and his team at the University of Sydney in Australia point out that the competitive viability of phantom codes versus other error correction methods remains uncertain and may hinge on future advancements in quantum hardware.
Majidi’s team is collaborating closely with colleagues developing quantum computers based on extremely cold atoms. He envisions that insights gained from phantom code, along with an understanding of qubit capabilities, will pave the way for new strategies tailored specifically to both tasks and hardware implementations in quantum computing.
Understanding the Link Between Air Pollution and Dementia
Air pollution is commonly linked to respiratory illnesses, but recent studies suggest a troubling connection to another serious health concern: dementia.
A recent study published in JAMA Neurology indicates that increased exposure to fine particulate matter may exacerbate neurological changes associated with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
The researchers stress that further investigation is essential, yet evidence of this correlation is compelling.
A meta-analysis published in July 2025 by The Lancet Planetary Health reviewed data from over 29 million individuals across multiple countries from the late 1980s and early 1990s. The findings highlighted the detrimental effects of PM2.5 (particulate matter), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and soot on cognitive health.
The study concluded that “the diagnosis of dementia is significantly linked to long-term exposure to fine particulate matter pollution.”
This ongoing research has identified a growing body of evidence, building on earlier publications. For instance, a 2017 study in The Lancet established a connection between living near major roads and elevated dementia rates, as discussed in this landmark research.
But what specific problems does air pollution cause, and how can we address them?
Most air pollution originates from burning fossil fuels, alongside natural sources like sandstorms. – Photo credit: Getty Images
The Role of Particulate Matter in Health
Air pollution manifests in various forms, with particulate matter (PM) being a prominent type. This term encompasses microscopic particles suspended in the air, including dust, smoke, and liquid droplets that are often invisible to the naked eye.
Particulate matter is categorized by size, ranging from fine (PM0.1) to coarse particles (PM10).
Notably, PM2.5 is exceptionally small, measuring less than 1/30th the width of a human hair. Its minute size allows it to remain airborne for extended periods, making it easily inhalable.
According to Dr. Holly Elser, an epidemiologist and co-author of the recent JAMA Neurology study, “[PM2.5 pollution] is linked to numerous health outcomes.” These outcomes range from asthma and lung cancer to heart disease and, increasingly, dementia.
The complexities surrounding PM2.5 arise from its myriad sources. “While traffic is a significant contributor, it is not the sole source,” says Dr. Hanen Kreis from the University of Cambridge, who studies urban mobility’s health impacts.
Additional sources of PM2.5 include power plants, factories, construction sites, wildfires, and biomass burning, as well as natural occurrences like sandstorms.
The toxicity of PM2.5 particles varies depending on their origin. Understanding their chemical composition is vital for addressing their health impacts.
Researchers have identified two principal pathways for PM2.5 to infiltrate the central nervous system: “through the olfactory nerve (via the nose) or through the bloodstream by crossing the blood-brain barrier.”
How PM2.5 Affects Brain Health
Due to PM2.5’s diminutive size, it can penetrate deep into the lungs, facilitating its entry into the bloodstream and ultimately reaching the brain. There, it can induce inflammation and oxidative stress, resulting in neuronal and vascular damage over time, according to Dr. Kreis.
Other hypotheses exist regarding pollution’s influence on cognition. For instance, pollutants may travel through the olfactory pathway to the hippocampus, the brain’s memory center, leading to the accumulation of harmful amyloid and tau proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Research has also indicated that PM2.5 can restrict cerebral blood flow, cause microvascular damage, and heighten the risk of vascular dementia.
Color MRI scan of the brain of a 68-year-old Alzheimer’s patient – Photo credit: Science Photo Library
Air pollution levels are notably higher near busy roads, but research shows that its concentration diminishes significantly with distance from traffic.
A 2017 study published in The Lancet analyzed data from over 6 million residents in Ontario, revealing that individuals living within 50 meters (165 feet) of a major road face a 7 to 12% increased risk of dementia compared to those residing over 200 meters (approximately 650 feet) away.
Moreover, the overall burden of PM2.5 is directly associated with dementia risk. Dr. Kreis notes that each 10 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3) increase in PM2.5 correlates with a 17% increase in dementia risk.
For perspective, the average PM2.5 level around central London’s roads in 2023 was 10μg/m3.
For nitrogen dioxide (NO2), another pollutant primarily released from fossil fuel combustion, every 10μg/m3 increases the relative risk of dementia by 3%. In 2023, the average roadside NO2 level in central London was 33 μg/m3.
Ultimately, fossil fuel combustion represents the largest contributor to air pollution, particularly PM2.5.
Mitigating Exposure to Air Pollution
If you reside or work near a busy road, it may be challenging to significantly lower your air pollution exposure. Yet, given that many individuals live in metropolitan areas, addressing this issue must be a priority. Dr. Kreis advocates for “targeted policy measures and a shift from fossil fuels to clean energy” as essential solutions.
Nevertheless, it’s beneficial to be informed about air quality variations (which often worsen on warm afternoons but improve following rain).
On days when the air quality index exceeds 100, indicated as “unhealthy to breathe,” minimizing outdoor activities is advisable. If going outside is unavoidable, wearing a fit-tested N95 or KN95 mask can help protect against PM2.5 exposure.
For those indoors on poor air quality days, utilizing an air purifier or fan can enhance indoor conditions. Good-quality models can be obtained for around £100, making them a cost-effective solution.
Additionally, when navigating urban environments, consider opting for less trafficked routes with more greenery, as Dr. Kreis does when biking. Fewer vehicular emissions mean lower pollution levels, and vegetation can significantly absorb air pollutants; research suggests that substantial plant coverage can reduce pollution concentrations by as much as 50%.
PM2.5 concentrations are notably elevated on the London and New York subway systems. Some research indicates that levels in certain London Underground stations can be up to 18 times greater than street level, prompting medical professionals to recommend masks in these environments.
During traffic jams, close your car windows and turn off your engine to minimize exposure. At home, ensure proper ventilation while cooking.
Awareness is a crucial first step. As Dr. Elser emphasizes, it’s important to acknowledge that while air pollution is a risk factor for dementia, it is just one of many.
When we think about infamous fictional psychopaths, like the chillingly calculating Patrick Bateman from American Psycho, they often embody the image of a scammer. But what about real-life psychopaths?
Research indicates that psychopaths are more inclined to lie to achieve their goals, exhibiting remarkable fearlessness, almost as if they have ice in their veins.
You might assume that their cold demeanor makes it hard to detect their deceit. Surprisingly, studies suggest that psychopaths are not significantly better at lying than others.
For instance, a study from the 1980s revealed that convicted psychopaths were easily identifiable, much like non-psychopaths using lie detectors. However, it’s important to note that while lie detector tests are commonly employed, they are notoriously unreliable.
In a more recent 2016 study, researchers found that criminals tend to lie frequently. Notably, psychopaths often exhibit a heightened tendency to lie during psychological tasks. Yet, they still encounter cognitive costs from lying, such as making more errors and responding more slowly.
Though psychopaths lack the moral and emotional barriers that typically hinder lying for most people, they cannot escape the psychological challenges associated with creating believable lies.
Interestingly, while psychopaths may not have a natural talent for lying, there is emerging evidence that they can learn to become more effective liars.
A 2017 study discovered that students with high psychopathic traits demonstrated significant improvement during tasks that required them to lie convincingly. They could lie faster than others, indicating that the mental strain of lying decreases along with reduced neural activity related to deceit.
In summary, psychopaths may not excel at lying initially, but they have a propensity to lie more frequently and improve at it more swiftly than others.
This article addresses the question posed by Lyle Morse via email: “Are psychopaths really good at lying?”
To submit your own questions, please email questions@sciencefocus.com or reach out via social media: Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. (Don’t forget to include your name and location.)
For more fascinating scientific insights, visit our Ultimate Fun Facts page.
The Shahed-136 Drone: Iranian Innovation and U.S. Replication
Pictorial Press/Alamy
The Shahed-136 drone, a cost-effective attack drone developed by Iran’s Shahed Aviation Industries, is now being deployed against advanced U.S. military technologies. Despite the U.S. military’s reliance on high-tech weaponry, why are they countering this drone powered by a motorcycle engine?
Measuring 2.6 meters in length, the Shahed-136 can carry a payload of 15 kilograms over approximately 2,500 kilometers. It achieves a speed of around 185 km/h, which is significantly slower than conventional cruise missiles or bomb-laden aircraft, yet its price point is notably low—approximately $50,000 each.
Currently, hundreds of Shahed drones are utilized by Russia in its offensive operations against Ukraine. Countering them necessitates a comprehensive air defense strategy, incorporating fighter jets, ground-based missiles, and interceptor drones. These drones are also employed by various groups, including Houthi forces in Yemen.
In recent conflicts, Iran has deployed Shahed drones as part of their military response against U.S. and Israeli forces. In an interesting twist, the U.S. military introduced the Low-Cost Unmanned Combat Attack System (LUCAS), a product made by Arizona-based Speckleworks. This system is a reverse-engineered version of the Shahed-136, illustrating how Iran’s design is now weaponized against them.
LUCAS is versatile and can be enhanced with reconnaissance gear or warheads for ground strikes. The FLM136 is reportedly named as a homage to the Shahed 136 from which it was inspired.
The U.S. military’s reverse-engineering of the Shahed-136 followed the capture of Iranian-backed militia units in Iraq and Syria. A test launch from a U.S. Navy ship was successfully carried out last year.
Professor Anthony King from the University of Exeter posits that inexpensive attack drones like the Shahed serve as a form of “graffiti bug,” reminiscent of Nazi Germany’s V-1 flying bombs used during World War II.
These economical devices can be mass-produced and deployed in large quantities, overwhelming enemy defenses until they crumble, or diverting significant assets and rendering prolonged combat infeasible. This strategic approach leaves opponents vulnerable to subsequent offensives.
“We are intercepting them with weapons that are significantly more expensive than Shahed, and often the targets of these attacks are cheaper than the defenses we employ,” stated King. “This dynamic transforms the economic landscape of warfare in fascinating ways.”
Interestingly, it has been suggested that Iran may have drawn inspiration from a Cold War-era project, where Germany and the United States collaborated to create a device aimed at neutralizing Soviet radar systems, referred to as the Dornier Die Drone Anti-Radar.
Ian Muirhead, a professor at Manchester University and a former military member, suggests that while Shahed drones will not replace advanced drones or manned aircraft, they are increasingly making an appearance in warfare. Western military forces are now recognizing the effectiveness of such weaponry, inspired by lessons from the Ukraine conflict.
“Complex and costly modern weaponry can prove inefficient in extensive conflicts, particularly when resources are stretched thin,” Muirhead remarked. “Deploying thousands of inexpensive drones can swiftly overwhelm defenses using unfriendly firepower.”
“It’s purely an economic discussion. If defense costs exceed attack costs, the balance of power shifts,” Muirhead concluded.
Radio signals are a fundamental element of the first contact subgenre in science fiction. Carl Sagan’s Contact features a compelling narrative that centers around Liu Cixin’s discovery of encrypted radio signals from the planet Vega. Another notable work, The Three-Body Problem by Vince Gilligan, explores the ramifications of a scientist establishing covert radio contact with extraterrestrial beings. The story of Pluribus focuses on the consequences of scientists following instructions transmitted to Earth through radio signals. What is the likelihood of us receiving alien radio signals, or vice versa?
A team of researchers from Pennsylvania State University and the California Institute of Technology delved into this intriguing question. They identified radio signals as a critical component in the quest for intelligent extraterrestrial life. Astronomers have established that intelligent species, like humans, can create machines that both generate and detect radio signals.
The research team specifically focused on a subset of radio transmissions from Earth that relay signals between ground stations and spacecraft located far from our planet. This system is known as NASA’s Deep Space Network, or DSN. It comprises three sites located in the United States, Spain, and Australia, each featuring 70-meter (230 feet) and 34-meter (112 feet) radio antennas.
The detectability of signals from these antennas depends on several factors, including the strength of the signal, the duration of the observation, the bandwidth of the signal, and the required distinction from background noise. Using a formula based on the typical input power of DSN signals, the researchers calculated the possible distance at which extraterrestrial intelligence could detect signals from Earth. They assumed that the telescope used by an alien civilization would have specifications similar to those of Earth’s signals. Using the observation time of the Green Bank Telescope of 30 minutes, they estimated that signals could be detected within a radius of approximately 7 parsecs, equating to 200 trillion kilometers or 100 trillion miles, which is only about 0.02% of the Milky Way’s diameter.
Following this analysis, the astronomers posed two related questions: First, from which direction in the sky is Earth likely to be detected by radio signals? Second, in what direction are the planetary systems most likely to send radio signals to detect extraterrestrial life?
To answer the first question, the researchers examined the distribution of DSN signals transmitted from Earth to various satellites and telescopes, including the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). By comparing the DSN patterns to those that extraterrestrial intelligence might generate, astronomers could identify where distant observers are most likely to detect signals from Earth. They utilized publicly available DSN schedules to map the sky and assess where and when antennas were transmitting radio signals.
Their findings revealed that a significant portion of Earth’s radio signals emanate from spacecraft like the Advanced Composition Explorer, the Deep Space Climate Observatory, and the Solar Heliosphere Observatory, primarily along the Sun’s apparent path in the sky, known as the ecliptic. Remarkably, up to 79% of Earth’s deep space radio signals are within 5° of the ecliptic, with minor but notable peaks directed towards Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn, and the JWST.
These insights bring several implications for the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. First, astronomers should prioritize scanning for radio signals from distant planetary systems, especially where exoplanets transit between Earth and their host star. This could increase the likelihood of capturing stray signals from alien civilizations directed at their own satellites and probes positioned near the ecliptic.
Second, astronomers should focus efforts during times when exoplanets orbiting their stars pass behind one another. This increases the probability that a distant observer might detect Earth’s signals to 12%. If alien civilizations are broadcasting signals towards stars resembling Jupiter or Mars, there are substantial chances of detection.
Lastly, as most of Earth’s deep space radio signals are concentrated near the ecliptic, astronomers should particularly investigate stars positioned close to this ecliptic plane. These stars are more likely to be recipients of signals from Earth, and they may even be attempting to reply. Following this strategy, the researchers identified 128 star systems within a seven parsec radius of Earth where civilizations possessing intelligence could potentially detect signals from Earth through DSN communications and vice versa. Therefore, for the most promising avenue in the search for extraterrestrial life, attention should be directed along the path of the Sun.
Promotional Still from Skysurfer Ultralight Aircraft
Credit: Hunter Kowald/skysurferaircraft.com
The concept of passenger transport drones is coming to life, albeit in a rudimentary form. Currently in operation are modified cargo drones, primarily used for transporting combat casualties and criminal elements.
Heavy-lift drones are essentially advanced versions of popular quadcopters. Numerous DIY drone videos reveal that the fundamental technology is relatively straightforward. However, achieving safety certifications for passenger transport aircraft can take years. Companies like Volocopter, E-hang, and Eve Air Mobility are working diligently to meet certification requirements within the next year or two.
Meanwhile, commercial cargo drones intended for agricultural and industrial purposes are becoming larger and more affordable. For instance, the DJI FlyCart 100, launched last year, can carry up to 85 kilograms and retails for just over £10,000. While not certified for human transport, there’s no guarantee some operators won’t attempt to use them for such purposes.
In Ukraine, the constant threat of drone attacks presents obstacles for medical evacuations. Unmanned ground vehicles, remotely controlled by humans, are currently the preferred method for transporting injured individuals. As of August 2025, Oleksandr Shirsky, Supreme Commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, stated: aerial drones are being explored for this role.
“The development of such drones is essential, as expedited medical care during the ‘golden hour’ significantly increases survival rates,” said Roy Gardiner, affiliated with the non-profit organization “Defense Tech for Ukraine”. “Creating large multicopter drones capable of swiftly evacuating injured soldiers is a pressing priority, and both parties have confirmed developments are in progress.”
Using cargo drones for evacuation is far from optimal. Unlike helicopter ambulances equipped with onboard medical personnel, drones lack real-time patient monitoring. Still, aerial drones have the potential to transport individuals from conflict zones to medical facilities quicker and more efficiently than ground-based alternatives.
Unauthorized Drone Transport of Individuals
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Criminal organizations may also utilize drones for human transport. A recent DroneSec report from an Australia-based intelligence firm indicates a rising interest in drones that carry humans. It showcases a video where the militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan employs heavy-lift drones for short-distance passenger movements during training.
“These drones pose significant risks, as they could facilitate human trafficking across fortified borders,” indicates Robert Bunker from C/O Futures, an American consulting firm. “Criminals are often the first to innovate and disregard safety and regulatory standards.”
Small drones are already being exploited to smuggle contraband into prisons, and larger models may be capable of extracting inmates. They also present opportunities for transporting armed individuals to secure locations.
“This is an escalating concern that necessitates strategic planning, particularly concerning facilities and borders with formidable physical barriers like high walls, rivers, and canyons,” Bunker stated.
While commercial passenger drones are being designed with rigorous safety protocols and comprehensive testing, the allure of drone transportation remains strong for adventurous individuals seeking alternative means of travel.
Michael Pollan’s Exploration of Consciousness in ‘A World Appears’
Addictive Stock Creative / Aram
What is consciousness? This enduring question stands at the forefront of scientific inquiry, challenging our understanding of the human experience. Our familiarity with consciousness can often hinder its objective study. Science maintains an emphasis on objectivity, presenting a paradox in evaluating a phenomenon that is inherently subjective.
This dilemma is central to Michael Pollan’s compelling new book, The World Appears: A Journey into Consciousness. Pollan, known for transformative works such as The Omnivore’s Dilemma and How to Change Your Mind, delves into the intricacies of consciousness in a manner that is both enlightening and thought-provoking, capturing my interest as a science journalist.
Pollan approaches the topic with a genuine curiosity, grappling with the profound questions surrounding how and why both humans and other organisms experience consciousness. His explorations are as intriguing as the subject itself, and at times, they require deep reflection.
Over a span of five years, Pollan engaged with a variety of disciplines including artificial intelligence, plant biology, Victorian literature, and Buddhist philosophy to understand consciousness better. Managing such a broad scope of topics into a cohesive narrative is no small feat, and Pollan adeptly crafts his book into four chapters, each representing a deeper layer of consciousness.
Pollan’s initial insights stem from personal experiences with magic mushrooms, which led him to perceive the sentience of plants in his garden. His explorations prompted discussions with researchers studying similar phenomena. Noteworthy findings, such as plant roots possessing the ability to solve mazes, offer fascinating insights. While he is not yet convinced that plants have consciousness, he considers them sentient—existing in a realm just shy of awareness.
The second chapter shifts focus to emotions and feelings, presenting an intriguing yet troubling pitfall in understanding consciousness. Pollan introduces a series of scientists working on endowing machines with consciousness, including those programming computers to seek sustenance in a digital habitat. This reduction of consciousness to mere survival instincts raises unsettling questions: Is consciousness merely a byproduct of basic needs? This notion challenges our understanding and sense of wonder, a tension Pollan vividly addresses throughout the text.
The subsequent chapters address thought and self—a territory often neglected by scientists. Pollan wisely turns to philosophers and artists who have contemplated consciousness’ enigmas for much longer. He speculates that consciousness might arise from specific configurations of matter, typical in neural networks. However, this material perspective can undermine the richness and vibrancy inherent in the concept of consciousness.
Pollan ultimately posits that the materialist view of consciousness has reached an impasse. While not all scholars agree, he advocates for exploring ideas that challenge mainstream thinking, proposing that consciousness may not emerge solely from the brain or body but could be woven into the very fabric of reality, similar to fundamental forces like gravity.
Concluding his journey, Pollan acknowledges that he knows less about consciousness than he did at the outset. This sentiment resonates with me, echoing Christoph Koch—a prominent authority on consciousness—who suggests that acknowledging our limitations in understanding may pave the way to new possibilities. Pollan emphasizes that approaching consciousness as a practice, rather than a puzzle, allows us to engage fully with the present moment, a perspective I wholeheartedly support.
A new class of weight loss medications is generating excitement with remarkable results, and for many, it delivers. However, if you reach your desired weight after months of weekly injections and choose to discontinue the medication, here’s what you should know: the chances of regaining the lost weight are high.
Research indicates that obese individuals can shed 15% to 20% of their body weight within approximately a year. When treatment is halted, studies suggest you might regain about two-thirds of the weight you shed over the next 12 months.
These medications, commonly referred to as GLP-1 agonists, are available under various brand names like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. They imitate naturally occurring hormones that induce feelings of fullness, thereby suppressing appetite and promoting weight loss. However, these effects persist only while you’re actively taking the drug.
This applies whether the medication is used for cosmetic weight loss or as preventive care against conditions linked to weight, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
The solution might seem straightforward: continue taking the medication. Yet, not everyone can sustain weekly injections for life due to factors like high costs and potential side effects.
“Being in treatment permanently typically isn’t what people seek, especially if they’re funding it themselves,” states Professor Susan Jebb, a nutritionist at the University of Oxford. “People aspire to lose weight and sustain it.”
About half of the people who initiate weight loss medication will discontinue it within a year. If you fall into this category, there’s a significant chance you’ll regain lost weight, but there’s also a range of strategies to help maintain your progress.
Transitioning off weight loss drugs involves cultivating healthy habits and managing appetite – Credit: Getty
Understanding Weight Gain Challenges
After any type of weight loss, whether achieved naturally or through medication, the risk of regaining that weight exists. This dilemma has been a longstanding challenge for nutritionists.
“Maintaining weight loss is a significant hurdle in effective weight management. We have numerous methods to assist individuals in losing weight, yet the focus on sustaining weight loss is lacking,” emphasizes Jebb.
After substantial weight loss, the body’s inclination is to reclaim the original weight. Consuming even modest meals can result in weight gain due to heightened hunger levels coupled with a slowdown in metabolism.
Weight loss medications complicate this issue. While they simulate satiety hormones such as GLP-1, they can diminish the body’s natural fullness signals. Consequently, ceasing the medication may intensify hunger, making maintenance tricky.
As a result, weight regain can occur swiftly. Research by Jebb’s team at the University of Oxford found that patients typically regain their previous weight within two years of discontinuing the treatment. However, individual responses vary widely.
“There is considerable variability,” Jebb remarks. “Determining why some individuals succeed while others don’t remains unclear.” Until further insights arise, Jebb and other nutritionists advise reverting to established recommendations of diets and exercise. While this may not be ideal, particularly following struggles with conventional methods, it remains the best course of action available.
Read more:
Preparations for Discontinuation
According to Professor Giles Yeo of the University of Cambridge, preparing for success prior to ending weight loss medications is vital.
“Utilize your time on medication to cultivate new habits,” suggests Yeo. “With appetite suppression, you’ll find it more manageable to adopt healthier eating behaviors.”
When hunger is suppressed, it’s easier to modify eating patterns such as emotional or mindless snacking, he explains.
Establishing sustainable habits during medication use can provide a significant advantage in maintaining weight loss long-term, according to Yeo.
Increasing physical activity isn’t necessarily a weight loss strategy but effective for preventing weight regain – Credit: Getty
Yeo also advocates for incorporating exercise into your routine while on weight loss medications. Studies reveal that physical activity aids weight maintenance, with a Danish study from 2024 showing participants in a post-medication exercise regimen were more likely to retain at least 10% of their weight loss.
“This emphasizes how beneficial exercise can be,” Jebb points out. “This finding particularly applies to individuals committed to structured and supervised exercise routines.”
Effective Appetite Management Strategies
While establishing healthy habits is crucial, managing appetite without medication poses additional challenges, particularly when cravings strike. However, smart dietary choices can mitigate these urges.
Focus on nutrient-rich foods such as protein and fiber instead of carbohydrates.
“Both protein and fiber travel further along the digestive tract and naturally stimulate GLP-1 release, enhancing feelings of fullness,” explains Yeo. “Your aim is to maintain elevated GLP-1 levels through your diet. While it won’t reach levels achieved through medication, striving for this is essential.”
Research suggests that certain foods, like eggs, can enhance satiety. One study found that consuming eggs for breakfast could lead to prolonged fullness compared to higher-carb options like cereal or toast, consequently decreasing lunch intake.
Other protein-rich foods such as red meat, fish, tofu, and Greek yogurt may yield similar benefits.
Additionally, incorporating certain ingredients like fat or fiber can slightly increase GLP-1 levels. Foods like berry, olive oil, nuts, avocados, oats, lentils, beans, green onions, onions, and asparagus are recommended.
Lastly, practicing mindful eating by consuming meals slowly can significantly improve feelings of fullness, even if the portion sizes remain consistent.
“Eating slowly, increasing fiber intake, incorporating more protein, and reducing sugar are all beneficial strategies,” Jebb states. “There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution; these are all incremental improvements we know work.”
High-fiber foods like beans, legumes, and vegetables can promote satiety, slow energy release, and enhance fullness compared to refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta – Credit: Getty
Looking Ahead for Weight Management Solutions
While developing healthier eating habits and increasing physical activity can be beneficial, these measures may not be sufficient to prevent weight regain for everyone.
“Reducing food intake requires conscious effort, and many struggle to implement this independently,” comments Jebb. “If you’re using these medications, genetic predispositions to overweight may play a role.”
Yeo notes these strategies may only benefit a subset of the population, primarily those whose weight issues are more attributed to lifestyle than genetics.
“Obesity exists on a spectrum,” he explains. “The severity of one’s obesity and its underlying causes will largely influence the effectiveness of any approach.”
For individuals needing medical assistance to sustain weight loss, help is on the horizon. Pharmaceutical companies are innovating low-dose weight loss medications, available in both pill and injection forms, intended to aid gradual weaning off while minimizing weight regain.
Nevertheless, research indicates that even temporary weight loss can yield long-lasting health benefits.
“Taking the time to reach a healthy weight will produce positive long-term outcomes,” asserts Yeo. “And the longer you maintain a healthy weight, the better your future prospects. Thus, even if you regain some weight, the benefits of the drugs remain considerable.”
Why do cats prefer to sleep on their sides? It’s a puzzling question that every cat owner has asked. Although the answer remains elusive, one thing is clear: our feline friends have their quirks! Recently, research published in Current Biology indicates that cats tend to favor sleeping on their left side. This curious behavior is just the kind of unexpected trait we’ve come to love about cats.
Interestingly, there may be a very good reason behind this left-side preference. Cats are notorious for napping—so much so that there’s a vibrant community of cat lovers sharing zillions of sleeping cat videos on YouTube! Researchers in Europe and Canada analyzed 408 of these videos and found that in nearly two-thirds of them, the cats were comfortably curled up on their left side.
Behavioral lateralization is quite common in the animal kingdom, where many species tend to show a preference for one side. For instance, while most humans are right-handed, kangaroos demonstrate left-handed tendencies, and Asian elephants often exhibit a favored front leg.
The human brain, like that of many vertebrates, has hemispheres that specialize in different functions. The left hemisphere is generally linked with language processing, while the right focuses on spatial awareness and shapes.
The nerve pathways from the brain cross over at the base, meaning the right hemisphere governs the left side of the body, and vice versa. When cats wake up after sleeping on their left side, the right hemisphere—which is attuned to spatial awareness and quick movements—becomes activated first.
This instinctual behavior harks back to their wild ancestors, who needed to escape quickly from predators. Even though domesticated cats might not face as many threats, they’re still at risk. How often have you spotted a cat napping in the middle of the road?
Additionally, another compelling reason for this left-side preference stems from the right hemisphere’s faster response to emotionally stimulating stimuli—like moving toys or prey. This might explain why a sleep-heavy cat transitions into action so rapidly when it’s time for breakfast!
This article explores the question, “Why do cats prefer to sleep on their left side?” posed by Natasha Rita from Truro.
If you have more questions, feel free to email us at questions@sciencefocus.com or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (please include your name and location).
For more intriguing science facts, don’t miss our Ultimate Fun Facts page.
Scientists from the United States, Europe, and China utilized the Ultraviolet Spectrometer (UVS) on NASA’s Juno spacecraft to meticulously map the auroral patch structure on Ganymede, Jupiter’s moon, revealing similarities to Earth’s auroras. Their groundbreaking research indicates that interactions between magnetic fields and charged particles could be the universal driver of auroras, enhancing our understanding of magnetospheres across the solar system.
Artist’s concept of the aurora borealis on Jupiter’s moon Ganymede. Image credits: NASA/ESA/G. Bacon, STScI/J. Saur, University of Cologne.
Ganymede stands out as the only known moon to possess its intrinsic magnetic field, creating a miniature magnetosphere nested within the vast magnetosphere of Jupiter.
The auroral emissions primarily stem from oxygen at wavelengths of 130.4 nm and 135.6 nm, triggered by precipitating electrons.
In a recent groundbreaking study, researcher Philippe Gusbin from the University of Liège and his team examined ultraviolet observations of Ganymede conducted on June 7, 2021, by the Juno spacecraft.
They identified multiple auroral spots in Ganymede’s leading downstream hemisphere.
These patches typically measure about 50 km in size, with brightness levels soaring to around 200 Rayleigh.
“Auroras on Ganymede are driven by the precipitation of electrons into its thin oxygen atmosphere,” explained Gusbin.
“Previous observations of Ganymede’s auroras were limited in detail due to the spatial constraints of ground-based methods, which couldn’t resolve the fine structures commonly observed in planetary auroras.”
The morphology and scale of Ganymede’s auroras closely resemble the auroral ‘beads’ found on Earth prior to magnetospheric substorms and in Jupiter during ‘dawn storms.’
The lack of a similar patch in the southern hemisphere could stem from observational geometry, but it may also reflect an asymmetry tied to Ganymede’s location in Jupiter’s plasma disk.
“Auroral ‘beads’ are also present in the auroras of Earth and Jupiter, where they correlate with substorms and dawn storms—major magnetospheric reorganizations that release significant energy and induce intense auroral activity,” noted Dr. Alessandro Moirano, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Liège and the National Institute of Astrophysics in Rome.
This discovery implies that similar physical processes may govern magnetospheres, despite variations in scale and environmental conditions.
“Juno’s close flyby of Ganymede lasted under 15 minutes, and it will not revisit Ganymede, leaving us unsure about the frequency of these patches or how they may evolve,” remarked Dr. Bertrand Bonfont, an astrophysicist at the University of Liège.
“Fortunately, ESA’s JUICE mission is currently en route to Jupiter and is set to arrive in 2031. This mission will conduct detailed observations of Ganymede.”
“Equipped with a similar ultraviolet spectrometer to that of Juno, this spacecraft will facilitate long-term observations that could reveal more about the evolution of Ganymede’s aurora and potentially uncover new mysteries.”
For further reading, refer to a paper published in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
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A. Moirano et al. 2026. High spatial resolution ultraviolet observations of Ganymede’s aurora patches by Juno. Constraints on the magnetospheric source region. A&A 706, L16; doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/202558379
A groundbreaking study from the University of Pennsylvania reveals that prehistoric humans and Neanderthals interbred with a notable sexual bias, with male Neanderthals mating more often with female modern humans. This pattern may explain the scarcity of Neanderthal DNA in the human X chromosome and highlight the impact of social behaviors on our genetic lineage.
Prehistoric mating preferences help explain why modern humans carry small amounts of Neanderthal DNA in their genomes, particularly absent from the X chromosome. Image credit: Gemini AI.
“In addition to the X chromosome, there’s a significant gap in Neanderthal DNA referred to as the ‘Neanderthal desert’,” stated lead author Dr. Alexander Pratt, a researcher at the University of Pennsylvania.
“Historically, we believed these gaps resulted from certain Neanderthal genes being biologically harmful to humans, leading to their removal through natural selection,” he added.
New genomic analyses indicate that long-standing mating preferences, not genetic incompatibilities, influenced which Neanderthal DNA sequences were retained in modern human genomes.
This research illustrates how social interactions have shaped the human genome and challenges the notion that evolution is solely driven by the “survival of the fittest.”
“Our findings indicate a distinct sexual bias, with gene flow predominantly occurring from male Neanderthals to anatomically modern human females, which explains the limited presence of Neanderthal DNA on modern human X chromosomes,” remarked Dr. Platt.
“Approximately 600,000 years ago, anatomically modern humans and Neanderthals diverged, creating two separate evolutionary paths,” added Professor Sarah Tishkoff, the study’s senior author.
“While our ancestors evolved in Africa, Neanderthals adapted to life in Eurasia, yet this separation was not permanent.”
“Over millennia, human groups migrated into and out of Neanderthal territories, resulting in genetic exchanges during their encounters.”
To assess whether Neanderthal X chromosomes contained modern human alleles, researchers analyzed conserved DNA in three Neanderthal samples: Altai, Chagyrskaya, and Vindija.
They compared this data with that of a diverse genome from Africa, which hadn’t historically interacted with Neanderthals.
“Our analysis revealed a significant discrepancy,” noted co-author Dr. Daniel Harris from the University of Pennsylvania.
“While modern humans lack the Neanderthal X chromosome, the Neanderthal X chromosome contained 62% more modern human DNA compared to other chromosomes.”
This mirrored result indicates that if reproductive incompatibility existed, modern human DNA would also be absent in Neanderthal X chromosomes.
However, the presence of modern human DNA in Neanderthal X chromosomes rules out biological incompatibility as a barrier to reproduction.
The lingering explanation lies in the sexual bias in mating practices.
Given that women possess two X chromosomes and men only one, the direction of mating plays a crucial role.
If Neanderthal males mated more frequently with modern human females, fewer Neanderthal X chromosomes would integrate into the human gene pool, while more human X chromosomes would enter the Neanderthal population.
Mathematical models verified that this bias adequately explains the observed inheritance patterns.
While other factors such as gender-biased migration could lead to similar results, these scenarios are often complex and vary over time and geography.
“Our findings suggest that mating preferences offer the simplest explanation for these patterns,” concluded Dr. Platt.
For more details on this research, refer to the journal Science.
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Alexander Pratt et al. 2026. Interbreeding between Neanderthals and modern humans showed significant sexual bias. Science 391 (6788): 922-925; doi: 10.1126/science.aea6774
Utilizing the Highly Sensitive Wide-Field K-Band Imager (HAWK-I) on ESO’s Very Large Telescope (VLT), astronomers have captured stunning new images of the emission nebula RCW 36. These images reveal the vibrant cradles of newly formed stars and intriguing substellar entities known as brown dwarfs.
This captivating VLT/HAWK-I image of emission nebula RCW 36 features dark clouds forming the head and body of a bird of prey, with filaments extending as wings. Below, a fascinating blue nebula hosts a newly formed giant star, illuminating the surrounding gas. Image credit: ESO / de Brito de Vale et al.
Situated approximately 2,300 light-years away in the constellation Hera, RCW 36—also known as Gum 20—is one of the nearest massive star-forming regions to our solar system.
This nebula is part of the expansive star-forming complex known as the Vera Molecular Ridge.
RCW 36 houses a star cluster that dates back around 1.1 million years.
The most massive stars in this young cluster are two O-type stars, alongside several hundred lower-mass stars.
“Embedded star clusters are active sites of very recent star formation located within dense molecular gas clouds in the Milky Way,” explained Dr. Afonso de Brito de Vale, a student and researcher at the Spanish Institute of Astronomical Sciences and the Bordeaux Institute of Astrophysics.
“Within these clouds, stellar and substellar nuclei emerge from local gravitational instabilities, evolving through accretion and contraction processes that expel surrounding gas and dust.”
The hawk-like nebula RCW 36 has been vividly captured by the VLT’s HAWK-I instrument.
“While the most obvious star in this image may be a bright young star, our primary interest lies in the hidden, faint stars known as brown dwarfs—objects that cannot undergo hydrogen fusion in their cores,” Dr. de Brito de Vale noted.
“HAWK-I is perfectly designed for this task, as it operates in infrared wavelengths, where these cold, failed stars are more easily detectable and can correct for atmospheric turbulence using adaptive optics, resulting in exceptionally sharp images.”
“Beyond providing essential data on the formation of brown dwarfs, we have captured a stunning image of a massive star seemingly ‘pushing aside’ clouds of gas and dust, reminiscent of an animal breaking free from an egg.”
“Perhaps a space hawk is watching over the baby star as it ‘hatches’.”
The team’s findings have been published in the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics.
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ARG de Brito de Vale et al. 2026. A substar group of Vera’s young massive star cluster RCW 36. A&A 706, A149; doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/202557493
Recent findings from the University of Kansas have unraveled a long-standing astrophysical mystery, revealing how the intricate interplay of gravity and magnetospheric plasma divides the radio emissions of a club pulsar—a remnant of the supernova witnessed by ancient astronomers in 1054 AD—into perfectly aligned “stripes.”
This composite image showcases the Crab Nebula, with the club pulsar centrally positioned. Image credit: X-ray – NASA / CXC / ASU / J. Hester et al.; Optics – NASA / HST / ASU / J. Hester et al.
In 1054 AD, Chinese astronomers documented an exceptionally bright new star, the most luminous object in the night sky after the moon, visible even in broad daylight for 23 days. This spectacular celestial event was also noted by Japanese, Arabian, and Native American astronomers.
Today, the Crab Nebula, found where this bright star once shone, is cataloged as Messier 1 (M1) or NGC 1952, located approximately 6,500 light-years away in the Taurus constellation.
Initially identified in 1731 by British physician and astronomer John Beavis, the Crab Nebula was later rediscovered in 1758 by French astronomer Charles Messier. Its name, reflecting its appearance, is derived from a painting by Irish astronomer Lord Rose in 1844.
The central star of the Crab Nebula is the Crab Pulsar, scientifically known as PSR B0531+21.
Due to their proximity and visibility, studying the Crab Nebula and its pulsars offers astronomers vital insights into the nature of nebulae, supernovae, and neutron stars.
“In the presence of a gravitational field, light does not travel in straight lines because space itself is curved,” he explains.
“What seems straight in flat spacetime appears curved under strong gravitational influence. Hence, gravity functions as a lens in curved spacetime.”
While gravitational lensing has often been discussed in relation to black holes, this case uniquely illustrates a “tug of war” between plasma and gravity creating the observed signals.
“In black hole imagery, gravity solely shapes the structure,” notes Professor Medvedev.
“In contrast, both gravity and plasma are at play in the club pulsar. This research presents a novel application of this combined effect.”
“An intriguing pattern emerges in the pulsar’s spectrum,” Professor Medvedev adds.
“Unlike a conventional broad spectrum like sunlight—which offers a continuous range of colors—the Crab’s high-frequency interpulses display discrete spectral bands. It’s like observing a rainbow with only selected ‘colors’ visible, leaving significant gaps in between.”
A large mosaic image of the Crab Nebula, a six-light-year wide remnant of a supernova explosion. Documented by Japanese, Chinese, and Native American astronomers around 1054 AD. Image credit: NASA / ESA / J. Hester / A. Loll, Arizona State University.
Typically, pulsar radio emissions are broader, noisier, and less organized compared to those from club pulsars.
“In the case of club pulsars, the stripes are exceptionally distinct, contrasting sharply with the complete darkness that separates them,” explains Professor Medvedev.
“There are shining bands and voids in between, with no gradual transition. No other pulsar displays this kind of banding. This uniqueness makes the club pulsar both intriguing and complex to comprehend.”
While former models could replicate the striped pattern, they failed to account for the high contrast actually seen in club pulsars.
Professor Medvedev has found that the plasma material surrounding the club pulsar contributes to the diffraction of electromagnetic pulses, which significantly influences the neutron star’s distinct zebra pattern.
By integrating Einstein’s theory of gravity into his analysis, Medvedev discovered its crucial role in shaping the club pulsar’s zebra stripe pattern.
“Prior theoretical models could reproduce the striped pattern, but not the observed contrast. Including gravity bridged that gap,” asserts Professor Medvedev.
“The plasma in a pulsar’s magnetosphere acts as a defocusing lens, while gravity serves as a focusing lens. Plasma tends to scatter light rays, whereas gravity draws them inward. When these dual effects converge, certain paths will offset each other.”
The synergy between defocused magnetospheric plasma and focusing gravity creates in-phase and out-of-phase interference bands of radio intensity, producing zebra stripes in club pulsars.
“The nature of symmetry suggests there are at least two pathways for light,” Medvedev observes.
“When two nearly identical paths converge on an observer, they create an interferometer. The signals amalgamate, reinforcing each other at specific frequencies (in phase) to yield bright bands, while at others (out of phase), they cancel each other out, generating darkness. This concept encapsulates the essence of interference patterns.”
“Little additional physics appears necessary to qualitatively explain the stripes.”
“Yet, quantitative enhancements could be implemented; the current model includes gravity in a static, lowest-order approximation.”
“Since pulsars rotate, incorporating rotational effects might lead to significant quantitative, if not qualitative, changes.”
Mikhail V. Medvedev. 2026. Theory of the dynamic spectrum of club pulsar high-frequency interpulse stripes. Plasma Physics Journal, in press. arXiv: 2602.16955
For years, the fossil record of pachycephalosaurs (dome-headed dinosaurs) has primarily consisted of fossilized skulls. In contrast, the postcranial remains of young pachycephalosaurs have remained largely unexplored. Recent paleontological findings have unveiled the youngest known example of a pachycephalosaur body, shedding light on how these fascinating dinosaurs grew and moved during their early months of life.
Reconstruction of the life of the pachycephalosaur individual CMNFV 22039 in a typical environment of the Upper Maastrichtian French Formation. Image credit: Caitlin Lindblad.
Paleontologist Brian Moore from Carleton University and his team noted that pachycephalosaurs predominantly comprised small, bipedal dinosaurs (ranging from 2 to 6 meters long) found in Asia and North America during the Santonian to Maastrichtian periods (85 to 66 million years ago).
This clade is particularly recognized for its unique frontal and parietal bones, which merge to create a bulbous dome on their skulls.
The cranial elements surrounding this dome are occasionally integrated into the structure, often featuring nodes, spikes, and other decorative traits.
Notably, the frontoparietal dome is the most resilient part of the pachycephalosaur skeleton (besides the teeth), resulting in a fossil record that heavily favors partial skull remains.
Consequently, much of the understanding regarding the ontogeny and phylogeny of pachycephalosaurs relies significantly on skull morphology.
The recently described pachycephalosaur specimen, cataloged as CMNFV 22039, dates back to roughly 67 million years ago during the Maastrichtian period of the Late Cretaceous.
This fossil was discovered in the French Formation, the youngest of the five Maastrichtian formations located in southern Saskatchewan, Canada.
Remarkably, this dinosaur was likely under a year old at the time of its death, marking it as the youngest known pachycephalosaur from fossil records.
“Despite its small size (estimated at just 90 centimeters or 3 feet), the skeleton displays several features characteristic of pachycephalosaurs,” the paleontologists confirmed.
These findings indicate that many traits used to identify adult pachycephalosaurs were present from a very young age.
Additionally, they provide insight into how juvenile pachycephalosaurs moved. In comparison to adults, the hindlimbs of juveniles were proportionately longer, suggesting that they had a more agile physique during their early development.
As the dinosaur matured, its body seemingly transitioned to the more robust proportions observed in adults, indicating a shift in physical capabilities as it increased in size and weight.
“The relatively long hind limbs of juveniles compared to those of adults imply a likely negative ontogenetic allometry in the hind limbs,” the researchers concluded.
The team’s findings are detailed in a paper published in the February 26th issue of the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.
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Brian R.S. Moore et al. Posterior skull of ontogenetically youngest known pachycephalosaur (Dinosauria: Ornithischia). Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, published online on February 26, 2026. doi: 10.1080/02724634.2026.2616325
The concern over sleep quality has become a common fixation for many. This is largely due to the booming sleep industry, which provides everything from wearable trackers that monitor sleep patterns to melatonin supplements designed to enhance your sleep experience. But is our anxiety over sleep justified?
Conventional wisdom suggests aiming for approximately 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep. This advice conveys that insufficient sleep can lead to serious health issues such as dementia and diabetes. However, as highlighted in this week’s cover story, adhering strictly to these sleep norms can be detrimental. Many individuals may adopt an “insomniac identity,” even if they do not genuinely suffer from insomnia. In fact, at least one-third of self-identified insomniacs report satisfactory sleep.
Recent studies reveal that our perceptions about sleep significantly influence cognitive performance. Beliefs about sleep quality can impact our abilities more than actual sleep data. Furthermore, the rigid 8-hour guideline is more flexible than commonly believed. Research shows that consistently getting over 6 hours of sleep does not lead to documented adverse effects, while 7 hours of sleep may actually contribute to longevity, with no additional benefits derived from longer sleep durations. It’s crucial to recognize that worrying about sleep often exacerbates the problem rather than alleviates it.
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The sleep industry might help us realize that most people are sleeping better than they think. “
There are solutions available. The sleep industry has the potential to shift its focus toward technology that tracks and shares individual sleep data, which could help those mistakenly believing they suffer from insomnia understand their actual sleep quality. This may lead to more achievable sleep goals set by health organizations and medical professionals, while also clarifying that occasional sleep deprivation is manageable.
On a personal note, knowing that the difficult standards imposed on us may not be as absolute as we perceive can provide relief. Your preoccupation with sleep might have become more of a hobby than a concern, but perhaps it’s time to explore new interests.
Deborah Ferguson (UT Austin), Bhavesh Khamesra (Georgia Tech), Karan Jani (Vanderbilt University)/LIGO
The universe is expanding at an accelerating rate, leaving scientists perplexed about the source of this mysterious phenomenon known as dark energy, which comprises approximately 68% of the universe. Understanding dark energy is a critical challenge for astrophysics today.
Interestingly, some astrophysicists propose a link between black holes and dark energy. Supermassive black holes exert an incredible gravitational pull, drawing in matter, yet the underlying question remains: how can they contribute to the expansion of the universe?
The theory suggests that when matter falls into black holes, it transforms into a type of radiation that exerts pressure on the surrounding space, leading to an expansive force. Although these effects are minuscule individually, the sheer number of black holes could result in a significant cumulative impact, pushing galaxies away from each other.
Initially regarded as a fringe theory, this idea has gained traction amongst cosmologists who believe it could help elucidate several cosmic mysteries. “It’s controversial, but it’s gaining acceptance,” stated Kevin Crocker, a cosmologist at Arizona State University.
According to Nyaesh Afsholdi, a cosmologist at the University of Waterloo, black holes could be pivotal in understanding dark energy, given their complexity and the unusual nature of their singularities.
Understanding Black Hole Singularity
At the center of each black hole lies the astrophysical singularity, where gravity compresses matter to infinite density—a realm of physics not yet fully understood. As Gregory Tarr, a cosmologist at the University of Michigan, suggests, black holes prevent singularities from forming by converting collapsing material into dark energy.
Tarr elaborates that this process is reminiscent of the early universe, where radiant energy transformed into matter. In a black hole, the reverse process could occur, maintaining gravitational stability.
“Understanding how a single dust particle converts to radiation is complex,” explains Massimiliano Rinaldi, a physicist at the University of Trento, Italy. Yet, this conceptual transition may not be as far-fetched as it sounds.
This article is part of a special issue on the crisis in cosmology. Check the complete package here
Traditionally, it was believed that black holes only influenced their immediate surroundings. However, as Croker points out, “It’s not just localized effects; the cumulative impact of numerous black holes can significantly alter cosmic dynamics.”
Even a large influx of matter into a single black hole may not propel universal expansion, but if black holes throughout the universe collectively absorb matter, their gravitational effects could accelerate cosmic inflation.
Evidencing Cosmologically Connected Black Holes
The first substantial evidence of cosmologically linked black holes emerged in 2023, suggesting mysterious expansions throughout the universe, aligning with observations of black holes maintaining growth relative to cosmic expansion. According to Crocker, despite their perceived dullness, even supermassive black holes actively participate in higher cosmic dynamics, as dark energy appears in tandem with their formation.
Critics argue that the precise behavior of these cosmologically connected black holes remains unknown. Rinaldi stresses the lack of exact mathematical models, complicating the understanding of their merger behaviors. However, as research progresses and new data emerges, hope for breakthroughs remains.
The evolution of this theory from fringe to mainstream reflects growing acceptance among cosmologists, especially in light of puzzling results from the Dark Energy Spectroscopy Instrument (DESI) in Arizona.
DESI Insights
DESI is mapping millions of galaxies across the universe, providing insights into cosmic expansion over time. Recent findings indicated that dark energy could be diminishing, challenging established cosmological models that assert its constancy. “Seeing such data was surprising,” remarked Tarr; “dark energy appears to vary over cosmic epochs.”
If dark energy originates from cosmologically linked black holes, the DESI observations reconcile several cosmic enigmas, aligning black hole formation trends with dark energy dynamics.
The interplay of dark matter and dark energy forms the framework of the universe.
Volker Springel/Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics/Scientific Photo Library
The Hubble tension, which highlights differing expansion rates derived from various cosmological measurements, underscores the need for clarity. Integrating cosmologically grouped black holes into current models could bridge gaps between conflicting data regarding cosmic expansion.
While numerous theories have attempted to address discrepancies surrounding dark energy, many rely on speculative elements beyond conventional physics. The concept of cosmologically connected black holes, however, remains a relatively conservative yet promising pathway to resolving ongoing mysteries.
Recent investigations by Tarr, Crocker, and colleagues have unveiled what they denote as a “three-legged chair” of evidence supporting their hypothesis, linking particle physics observations to cosmic expansion behaviors.
Neutrinos, often dubbed “ghost particles,” present a challenge in this model due to their elusive nature and negligible mass. Remarkably, if ordinary matter inside black holes can transform into dark energy, this might adjust the universal mass metrics, opening pathways for new discoveries.
Is this evidence sufficient to elevate the notion of cosmologically linked black holes from speculative to mainstream scientific theory? Crocker believes so: “We now possess three key pieces of evidence to lend credence to our hypothesis.”
Encouragingly, interest in this area of research is burgeoning, evidenced by the increased collaboration among physicists and cosmologists, underscoring the growing recognition of the potential importance of cosmologically connected black holes in the accelerating universe scenario.
As ongoing observations from DESI and other large-scale cosmic surveys yield fresh data, uncovering links between black holes and cosmic expansion continues to be a dynamic area of study. Nyaesh Afsholdi aptly characterizes this inquiry as a detective story, with more researchers joining the pursuit of understanding the enigmatic role black holes may play in the speeding expansion of our universe.
Recently, cosmologists using the Dark Energy Spectroscopy Instrument (DESI) announced observations suggesting that the enigmatic dark energy, believed to be responsible for the universe’s expansion, may be diminishing. If validated, these revelations challenge the notion of dark energy as a fixed cosmological constant, a key element in the framework of the lambda CDM model, which seeks to explain cosmic evolution.
Should these findings hold, they could pave the way for more refined theoretical models. Researchers are actively exploring new perspectives on dark energy and even revisiting concepts related to dark matter and gravity.
Moreover, if dark energy’s intensity continues to wane, the implications could extend significantly. This change may inspire proponents of alternative cosmologies to reconsider our understanding of the universe’s ultimate fate and delve deeper into the fabric of space-time. Eric Linder, a physicist and cosmologist at the University of California, Berkeley, remarked, “There are certainly intriguing possibilities that could revolutionize physics.”
The Lambda CDM model proposes a brief period of exponential expansion in the early universe, referred to as inflation. This concept appears to elucidate why the universe is so isotropic, flat, and homogenous at extensive scales. However, it faces criticism, notably from physicist Paul Steinhardt of Princeton University. He bluntly stated, “Inflation doesn’t work,” asserting that it necessitates improbable initial conditions and introduces excessive flexibility, resulting in scenarios that many find implausible.
Circulating Universe
Steinhardt has long championed an alternative notion known as the periodic universe, positing that the universe undergoes cycles of expansion, contraction, and rebirth. For this hypothesis to hold, dark energy must exhibit evolution.
“It requires a type of decaying dark energy that halts the universe’s expansion, causes deceleration, and eventually leads to contraction, triggering a rebound and a new cycle,” Steinhardt explained. Current DESI data indicates at least the initial phase of this deceleration.
This does not imply that DESI’s outcomes validate periodic cosmology. Potential systematic errors may arise in analysis and measurement, and it is entirely plausible for dark energy to weaken without leading to contraction or rebound. However, if the decline of dark energy is confirmed, it would bolster Steinhardt’s long-standing proposition. “I tend to be very conservative and patient,” he noted. “But what I’m suggesting is, the game is on.”
Similarly, the DESI results have reinvigorated another contentious idea. Broadly stated, string theory posits that the universe’s fundamental constituents are incredibly tiny strings embedded in hidden extra dimensions. The vibrations of these strings correspond to the particles and forces we identify. This theory captured attention in the 1980s, hinting at a possible unification of quantum theory and general relativity, often dubbed as “the theory of everything.”
A periodic universe will undergo cycles of beginnings and endings.
Science Photo Library / Alamy Stock Photo
However, string theorists have historically struggled to create universe models incorporating small positive cosmological constants. In research published in 2018 and 2019, Cumrun Vafa and his colleagues proposed a framework known as the Swampland conjecture, designed to differentiate between consistent theories of particles, forces, and space-time, and those that do not align with a coherent quantum gravity theory. They suggested that dark energy cannot remain a constant but should function as a field with fluctuating energy levels, similar to the phenomena believed to have induced inflation.
Initially, this idea contradicted widespread views regarding the constancy of dark energy over cosmic timescales. Vafa reflected on this by stating, “People used to argue that dark energy is constant, thereby discrediting string theory.”
Hidden Dimensions
Despite skepticism, Vafa and his team persisted. In 2022, they proposed a model involving a “big hidden extra dimension” estimated to be around the size of a micrometer, gradually evolving over cosmic time. As the geometry of this dimension varies, it alters the observable energy in the universe. “This isn’t an exotic scenario,” Vafa explained, adding, “[From a string theory perspective], as the hyperdimension changes, both dark energy and dark matter respond to it.”
It’s evident why DESI’s findings captivate string theorists. Vafa’s model predicts a slow decline of dark energy — a trend now being observed. When Vafa and his team analyzed DESI data in conjunction with other cosmological observations in 2025, their model aligned remarkably well with the data, surpassing Lambda CDM in fit, nearly mirroring earlier models that allowed for dark energy evolution. Vafa expressed enthusiasm, noting, “This is why I’m incredibly excited. I’m very satisfied.”
It is essential to recognize that the DESI results do not deliver unequivocal proof for string theory. The preference for evolving dark energy over a static cosmological constant hinges on the integration of other cosmological datasets. Furthermore, models unrelated to string theory that avoid hidden dimensions can equally accommodate current data.
Nevertheless, should the DESI findings be sustained, increasing statistical significance may eliminate an empirical hurdle for string theory and challenge claims that it fails to yield testable predictions. “We formulated this model years ago,” Vafa noted. “The data now reflects exactly what we expected.”
Hidden dimensions from string theory might indeed be real
Science Photo Library
To leverage the potential of observational evidence supporting string theory, theorists like Vafa must develop a more precise model that offers accurate predictions surpassing those of non-string theories and validates a wider array of cosmological data. Interestingly, this framework already indicates other testable signs, such as deviations from the standard understanding of dark matter’s evolution and differences from general relativity at micrometer scales.
While some cosmologists remain skeptical regarding the profound implications of DESI’s findings, others, such as Pedro Ferreira, a cosmologist at the University of Oxford, underscore that “dark energy operates within specific scales, and this discussion is valid.” Ferreira noted, “[When it comes to quantum interactions], we may not have the ability to delve that deeply.” In contrast, others acknowledge that these discoveries might extend far beyond cosmology and could offer insight into the intricate quantum structure of space-time. As Mike Turner, a cosmologist at the University of Chicago, remarked, “Cumrun Vafa’s work is the most intriguing I have encountered. Here is where cosmology converges with particle physics, studying fundamental concepts that could yield enormous implications.”
This year marks the rise of bunker-themed narratives dominating television.
Kicking off in January, season 2 of Fallout (available on Amazon Prime Video) immerses viewers in a colorful alternate reality set centuries post-nuclear devastation. Here, the privileged reside in underground “vaults,” while others navigate a perilous wasteland filled with monsters and mercenaries. Vault-dweller Lucy embarks on a quest to confront her nefarious father, Hank, alongside The Ghoul, a gritty radioactive gunslinger.
Following closely is the second season of Paradise (on Disney+), premiering this month. This tale unravels after a cataclysmic volcanic tsunami wipes out civilization, forcing America’s elite to seek refuge in Colorado’s mountains. Secret agent Xavier Collins, on a mission to uncover the truth behind U.S. President Cal Bradford’s murder, sets out to find his wife, Terry, all amid brewing political conflicts within the Corralado bunker.
Anticipation builds for season 3 of Silo (coming soon to Apple TV). Set in a dystopian future where Earth’s atmosphere becomes toxic, society collapses, leaving citizens confined to a structured, dark underground existence with no recollection of their past due to historical records being obliterated 140 years ago. When engineer Juliet discovers shocking evidence of a conspiracy within Silo’s leadership, she starts to question whether the surface is indeed as fatal as they’ve been led to believe.
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No matter what flavor of bunker fiction you prefer, all roads lead to a hole in the ground. “
Additional fictional bunkers echo the disaster movie genre, such as Greenland 2: Immigration and the musical Of End. This resurgence in bunker-themed narratives is no coincidence, especially as the novel I Never Knew a Man, set in an underground prison, went viral on TikTok in 2024.
While the concept is not new—dating back to Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Poison Belt from 1913—its current popularity highlights widespread global anxiety. This anxiety reflects a world where responsibility is often outsourced and where the fortunate few seek safety from external threats; rumors abound of celebrities acquiring doomsday bunkers.
Ultimately, regardless of the flavor of bunker fiction, themes of violence and survival intertwine. Whether through the clever narrative of Fallout, the intricate murders in Paradise, or the convoluted conspiracies in Silo, all narratives converge in a metaphorical “hole in the ground,” illustrating our collective fascinations with dystopian endings and the shrinking horizon of the future.
Perspectives on this phenomenon diverge. Some view it as surrendering to our inherently selfish nature, resigning ourselves to the doom we envision. Alternately, others, including myself, interpret it as a call for meaningful change—a purifying fire that compels us to reconsider societal structures. The characters we cherish in bunker fiction could not emerge without such transformative events. I find relatable figures in Fallout, Paradise, and Silo, reinforcing the idea that bunker fiction mirrors real-life aspirations for change.
Bunker Bradley Garrett, Penguin Books This striking nonfiction guide explores the mindset of those preparing for an apocalypse, revealing a complex understanding of contemporary apocalypse culture.
Bethan Ackerley is an associate editor at New Scientist. With a passion for science fiction, comedy, and anything eerie, follow her on Twitter @inkerley.
Can Magnesium Supplements Improve Sleep and Energy Levels?
Maria Korneeva/Getty Images
In the 1600s, affluent individuals in England frequented the Epsom Common well, believed to contain healing waters. Despite its bitter taste, the water is recognized for its powerful laxative effects, which many found beneficial for relieving discomforts caused by a rich, meat-heavy diet. “Visitors drink several glasses of this unique water, noting the beneficial effects,” reported one satisfied customer . This was later attributed to the high concentration of magnesium sulfate, commonly known as Epsom salt.
Fast forward to today, and the health benefits of magnesium are once again in the spotlight, with many dubbing it “the supermineral of the modern era.” Social media is filled with testimonials claiming that magnesium supplements can enhance sleep quality, boost energy levels, improve mental clarity, promote healthy bowel movements, support heart health, and alleviate conditions such as muscle pain, anxiety, migraines, and PMS symptoms. However, with various forms of magnesium available, it’s essential to determine their efficacy.
Magnesium is undoubtedly crucial for health, participating in numerous enzymatic reactions and aiding in critical bodily functions. It stabilizes structures such as DNA and ATP (adenosine triphosphate), facilitates nerve signal transmission, muscle contraction, and regulates heart rhythm. Nutrition experts advocate obtaining magnesium from a balanced diet rather than relying solely on supplements, as whole foods also provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Rich sources of magnesium include nuts, seeds, leafy greens, whole grains, legumes, meats, seafood, dark chocolate, and some beers. Individuals with sufficient dietary magnesium likely won’t benefit from additional supplements, as their bodies may simply excrete the excess.
However, obtaining adequate magnesium from food sources is increasingly challenging due to the prevalence of processed foods lacking in this vital mineral. Furthermore, soil depletion from intensive farming practices has diminished magnesium levels in fresh produce, leading to studies indicating that around 35-50% of individuals in the UK, USA, and Australia are not receiving adequate magnesium.
Certain individuals are at an increased risk of magnesium deficiency, including those with conditions like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease that impede nutrient absorption, as well as people with diabetes or alcohol use disorders that lead to heightened magnesium excretion. During pregnancy, I experienced severe leg cramps due to diminished magnesium levels, which can hinder muscle relaxation post-contraction. Athletes are particularly susceptible, as intensive training and sweating can deplete magnesium reserves. Additionally, certain medications, including immunosuppressants and chemotherapy drugs, can also lead to magnesium loss.
Symptoms of magnesium deficiency may include muscle soreness, fatigue, cognitive difficulties, irritability, and sleep disturbances, but these can arise from various other issues, thereby facilitating marketing for magnesium supplements.
Understanding the Various Types of Magnesium Supplements
Magnesium Taurate: One of the Four Supplement Forms Enriched with Amino Acids
Stepan Popov/Alamy
Magnesium supplements are available in numerous forms, including magnesium salts combined with various anions. For example, magnesium’s interaction with sulfates in Epsom salt enhances bowel movement by drawing water into the intestines, similar to magnesium oxide and magnesium citrate. In contrast, supplements that merge magnesium with amino acids and other organic compounds present mixed evidence regarding benefits for mental clarity, muscle health, and cardiovascular function. These include magnesium glycinate, L-threonic acid, malate, and taurate. However, it’s crucial to note the amino acids in these supplements can also be sourced easily through a nutritious diet.
Magnesium lotions or skin sprays, as well as Epsom salt baths, present alternative methods of magnesium absorption, although they may not be as effective as oral supplementation, with debates ongoing regarding skin permeability . The efficacy of magnesium absorption through the skin remains unclear. Some propose that the perceived relief from Epsom salt baths is due to the warm water rather than magnesium itself.
Personally, I opt out of magnesium supplements as I believe a well-rounded diet suffices. Nonetheless, evidence suggests they may benefit conditions such as insomnia and mild anxiety for individuals lacking magnesium-rich foods in their diet, and they might also relieve muscle pain for athletes under higher magnesium demands.
Conversely, there’s a lack of substantial studies regarding magnesium’s effects on energy and concentration. If you find magnesium supplements beneficial, it’s generally safe to continue their use, even if merely a placebo effect, but exercise caution against excessive intake. A historical note: Richard Evelyn, an English lord, died in 1670 from consuming too much Epsom salt. His brother, diarist John Evelyn, reported that the cause was due to “drinking excessive Epsom water when in good health.”
Mehdi Namazi aims to revolutionize communication through quantum entanglement.
Along with his team at Qunnect, he has dedicated nearly a decade to developing a device that enables the sharing of quantum-entangled light particles (photons), making secure communication a reality.
Located at Qunnect’s headquarters in Brooklyn, New York, a state-of-the-art table is filled with lasers, lenses, special crystals, and other components essential for manipulating light. All of this technology will be elegantly packaged in striking magenta boxes and dispatched to those advancing future communication technology.
Against the backdrop of the iconic New York skyline, Namazi unveils an electronic device that may seem unremarkable at first. However, when stacked, these boxes form what the company refers to as the Carina rack, capable of performing extraordinary quantum functions.
In February, the Qunnect team used these racks for “entanglement swapping” over a 17.6-kilometre fiber-optic connection between Brooklyn and Manhattan through commercial data centers.
Entanglement exchange involves transferring entangled properties from one photon pair to another. Once photons are entangled, they demonstrate extreme sensitivity to tampering, making it exceedingly difficult to steal information without detection. This swapping technique extends the essence of unhackable communication to long-distance quantum internet applications.
Qunnect successfully exchanged quantum entanglements among 5,400 photon pairs every hour while the network operated autonomously for several days. Previously established experiments recorded significantly lower rates of entanglement exchange.
Before the Carina Rack can perform its magic, entangled photons must be generated using another device. At the heart of this “entanglement source” lies a glass and metal box containing rubidium atoms vapor, illuminated by laser light to produce photon pairs. Namazi recounts how precise adjustments to the laser beam’s angle increased the number of entangled photons produced.
Once generated, the Carina Rack transmits these photons through a fiber network to laboratories across New York City, including prestigious institutions like New York University and Columbia University.
Namazi illustrates how one might set up a personal entanglement sharing system to send super-secure messages. “With two Carina racks, we can distribute entanglements within hours,” he states.
Qunnect maintains one such rack in a Manhattan-based commercial data center managed by QTD Systems. When asked, QTD’s Peter Feldman echoed Namazi’s assurance: “You don’t need to know anything about quantum physics.” The systems that sustain photon entanglement in Qunnect’s network can be operated remotely, allowing autonomous function for weeks.
Qunnect’s Advanced Quantum Network
Knecht
The quest for an unhackable quantum internet is not confined to New York City. Numerous metropolitan quantum networks are emerging globally, including those in Hefei, China, and Chicago, Illinois. However, challenges remain, particularly in addressing the loss of photons over extensive distances.
Namazi emphasizes that quantum entanglement could have immediate applications. By integrating entangled photons into classical light streams, malicious interception attempts can be detected, serving as a quantum tripwire.
Another practical use is authenticating the identity of individuals exchanging sensitive information based on their location. Collaborating with Alexander Gaeta at Columbia University, Qunnect is actively exploring these capabilities. In a single New York borough, numerous financial institutions could significantly benefit from such advancements, as indicated by Javad Shabani at New York University. “Once the infrastructure is established, the demand will follow, probably from just across the street.”
While the quantum internet is still in its infancy, I was impressed by the extent of operational technology during my drive from Qunnect’s headquarters to QTD’s data center. As I crossed one of New York’s bridges, I pondered the multitude of entangled photons traversing the city—a bustling metropolis with endless potential.
Applying crushed silicate rocks, like basalt, in agricultural fields could potentially eliminate up to 1.1 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere each year while simultaneously enhancing crop yields, according to global assessments of this innovative method. Nevertheless, some scientists express skepticism about the feasibility of these claims.
This approach, termed enhanced rock weathering, accelerates the natural process of rock breakdown by rain. For millions of years, this mechanism has facilitated the transfer of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to oceans, helping to regulate Earth’s climate during historical greenhouse periods. Farmers, for generations, have employed crushed limestone to enrich soil nutrient uptake in crops.
“The primary benefit of this method is its ability to mitigate atmospheric CO2 through a chemical reaction,” states Chuan Liao, a researcher at Cornell University, New York. “It also offers additional advantages such as the potential introduction of magnesium and calcium, aiding in soil nutrient enhancement.”
As global emissions persist in escalating, the United Nations climate agency emphasizes the necessity for effective carbon removal solutions to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius over pre-industrial temperatures. Countries like Brazil are advocating for enhanced rock weathering as a strategy to mitigate emissions and reduce fertilizer expenses. Mati Carbon, an Indian startup, achieved the top award of $50 million in Elon Musk’s XPRIZE competition last year, showcasing the large-scale potential for carbon removal through this technique.
Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere undergoes dissolution in rain, forming carbonic acid, which reacts with silicate rocks to trap CO2 in bicarbonate ions. These ions can flow into rivers and oceans, either remaining dissolved for extensive periods or being absorbed into the calcium carbonate structures of marine life such as clams, corals, and sea urchins. Fragmenting the rock enlarges its surface area, enhancing carbon dioxide absorption.
According to the study, considering the volume of rock that farms can accommodate, accelerated rock weathering could contribute significantly, potentially saving up to 5 billion tons of CO2 annually this century. Liao and his colleagues conducted a “reality check” on these estimates by evaluating the rate at which farmers have adopted other innovations like irrigation, and how effectively weathering can occur in various regions.
The models explored limited versus extensive implementation of enhanced weathering and identified a potential removal range of 350 million to 750 million tons of CO2 annually by 2050, escalating to 700 million to 1.1 billion tons by 2100. For context, global fossil fuel CO2 emissions are projected to reach approximately 38 billion tons by 2025.
Initially, Europe and North America will lead this removal effort, but as supply chains for silicate rock are established and costs decline, regions in Asia, Latin America, and sub-Saharan Africa may emerge as frontrunners. Increasing temperatures and precipitation patterns could further accelerate weathering processes in these areas, providing farmers with the opportunity to monetize carbon removal credits for each ton of rock applied.
“For future farmers in the Global South, there will be fewer obstacles to sustainable practices,” notes Liao.
However, Marcus Siedung and colleagues from the Thünen Institute for Climate and Smart Agriculture in Germany raise essential concerns in their recent paper. They highlight significant uncertainties surrounding the accelerated rock weathering estimates; for instance, drought conditions can amplify carbon release, undermining the intended benefits. Siedung suggests that the estimation of 1.1 billion tons being removed is likely overstated.
In calcium-rich soils, rainfall may weather the carbonate instead of the crushed rock, resulting in a reversal of carbon absorption back into the ocean, leading to CO2 release instead of removal. Furthermore, low pH soils can react with crushed rock, resulting in negligible carbon uptake. As acidity diminishes, CO2 emissions from soil microbes may intensify.
Moreover, the carbon released during the mining and transportation of rocks to farms may surpass the amount removed, according to Siedung.
“I approach this with skepticism,” he asserts. “It’s crucial to ensure that CO2 is genuinely captured; otherwise, we risk miscalculating the benefits of carbon removal.” He emphasizes the complexities of the geochemical processes involved.
Others warn that weathering rocks could introduce toxins into the food chain. The olivine used in Liao’s projections entails heavy metals such as nickel and chromium.
Most residual rock from current mines is also likely polluted with metals, states David Manning from Newcastle University, UK. Countries may need to open numerous basalt quarries, which could be a lengthy and costly endeavor.
“To eliminate one gigaton of CO2 annually, approximately five gigatons of rock would be needed each year, and it remains unclear where this rock will be sourced from—this poses a significant challenge to scalability,” Manning concludes.
Discover the latest science fiction novel by Adrian Tchaikovsky
Roberto Ricciuti/Getty Images
March brings exciting new releases for science fiction enthusiasts. This month, we revisit Adrian Tchaikovsky’s acclaimed Children of Time series, featuring a giant mantis shrimp. The narrative even offers a unique retelling of Moby Dick(), set against a cosmic backdrop. Fans of cozy sci-fi mysteries, horror, or thrilling European adventures will find plenty to enjoy!
Emily H. Wilson, a noted science fiction critic, praises Tchaikovsky’s latest work, emphasizing its gripping premise. Set centuries in the future, it follows scientist Alice and Cato, a human-sized mantis shrimp, as they explore a distant planet fraught with danger, in search of their missing crew member.
In a bold reinvention of Moby Dick, our protagonist navigates a post-apocalyptic Earth, relying on “cerebrospinal fluid harvested at great risk from a leviathan-like space creature” for survival. This imaginative twist promises to captivate audiences!
Capturing Moby Dick’s iconic breach in the 1956 adaptation
Snap/Shutterstock
Originally published in 1936, this gripping detective novel envisions an alternate 1985 Britain, where a women-only survivor emerges from a toxic pandemic. TV presenter Graham Norton introduces this thought-provoking addition to 20th-century science fiction.
Author Ober, known for his work on the Netflix series OA, narrates the tale of The Thinker. After her home is destroyed by a floating machine named The Construct, she escapes into a void. Six months later, as The Construct approaches, she rallies to confront its threat. The depiction of this mystical void, filled with intriguing landscapes, is captivating.
In a narrative intersecting with Interview with a Vampire and Wolf Company, the story unfolds in 2084, where librarian Christian Cartwright safeguards humanity’s painful memories. After the tragic loss of his lover Isolde, he resurfaces her digital consciousness, unraveling a long-standing conspiracy.
Book enthusiasts will appreciate this engaging blend of horror and science fiction. Set in 1899, creative illustrator Sonia Wilson is tasked with cataloging an extensive insect collection owned by enigmatic scientist Dr. Halder. Yet, as she ventures into the North Carolina woods, she stumbles upon Halder’s eerie research on flesh-eating parasites.
Explore Cecile Pin’s new novel featuring Jupiter’s moon Europa
NASA/JPL-Caltech/SETI Institute
After being nominated for the Women’s Fiction Award with her debut novel Wandering Soul, Cecile Pin’s second science fiction endeavor sounds equally thrilling. The narrative follows Ollie, born during the Challenger disaster of 1986, as he embarks on a decade-long mission to Europe as an astronaut. What challenges await him upon his return?
This “mystery fiction intertwined with social commentary” is set in a futuristic world where technological advancements allow for incubation in lieu of pregnancy, empowering women to control their reproductive choices. As Larkin’s second daughter grows, Eva questions the decisions that shaped her existence.
An intriguing mystery unfolds aboard an interstellar vessel in Olivia Waite’s new novel
Freestylephoto/iStockphoto/Getty Images
This sequel to a cozy sci-fi mystery series is set aboard the interstellar cruise ship Fairweather. Follow detective Dorothy Gentleman as she unravels the case of a mysterious baby left on her nephew’s doorstep. With the ship cruising through the stars, fertility-related dilemmas take a backseat.
Lastly, while not strictly science fiction, a fascinating exploration of modern sci-fi and fantasy writing is available. Walton and Palmer delve into the essence of these genres, examining their creation and perception—essential reading for science fiction aficionados!
Optimize Your Sleep: Load Your Plate with Fiber and Plants
Source: Olga Pankova/Getty Images
Boosting your fiber intake can significantly enhance your sleep quality. Consuming a diverse array of fruits, vegetables, and nuts may help you fall asleep faster and experience deeper sleep. This finding emerges from the most comprehensive study to date examining how our dietary choices impact sleep quality.
“Incorporating more dietary fiber and a variety of plant-based foods is already recommended for overall health, poses minimal risks for most individuals, and may enhance sleep quality,” says Hagai Rothman at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel.
While previous research indicated a relationship between fiber-rich, plant-based diets and improved sleep, those studies often relied on participants recalling meals from surveys, sometimes weeks or months later. Additionally, typical sleep measurements, usually obtained through movement trackers, struggle to differentiate between deep and light sleep, both vital for assessing sleep quality.
By analyzing sleep and dietary data from over 3,500 adults, averaging 53 years old and older, Rothman and his team offer the clearest insights yet. “Past research did not take into account this breadth of dietary and sleep variables,” notes Marie-Pierre Saint-Onge at Columbia University in New York City.
Participants documented their food intake using a mobile app immediately after meals over two consecutive days. At night, they wore a device approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for sleep tracking, equipped with sensors that monitored snoring, blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing patterns.
These measurements allowed researchers to estimate the duration of different sleep stages: light sleep (N1 and N2), deep recovery (N3), and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep—where dreams occur.
The study employed a computational model to predict the effects of 25 dietary factors on nightly sleep quality while controlling for variables such as age, gender, caffeine consumption, and previous day’s dietary and sleep data. “By controlling for the previous day, we were able to explore how that day’s choices influenced sleep the following night,” Rothman explains.
Participants consuming more than the cohort average of 21 grams of fiber daily—a quantity comparable to about 2.5 cups of peas—often reported better sleep quality than those with below-average fiber intake. For instance, those with higher fiber intake spent 3.4% more time in deep sleep (N3) and 2.3% less time in light sleep, enhancing restorative sleep vital for a healthy brain and body, according to St. Onge.
Although the exact mechanism behind fiber’s effects remains uncertain, research indicates that gut bacteria ferment fiber into short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, which alters gut-brain signaling, reducing inflammation and promoting deeper sleep, Rothman suggests.
Additionally, individuals with higher fiber intake exhibited slightly lower heart rates at night compared to those with lower levels. A lower nighttime heart rate generally signifies deeper rest and repair, easing the heart’s workload. “Even a one beat-per-minute difference [seen between high and low fiber groups] might seem minor, but persisting over years can substantially impact cardiovascular health,” emphasizes St. Onge.
Further analysis showed that those who consumed five or more plant-based foods daily fell asleep slightly faster and had lower heart rates during sleep compared to individuals eating fewer plant-based items. A wider variety of plants offers diverse vitamins, minerals, and beneficial molecules like polyphenols that contribute to reduced inflammation and promote a restful state, Rothman adds.
To verify these findings, further clinical trials are required, ideally conducted in sleep clinics where participants are randomly assigned to varying levels of fiber intake and consumption of a wider or narrower array of plant-based foods, St-Onge suggests.
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