As the new year begins, many individuals reassess their lives and goals. However, as one reader expressed, this journey often leads to confusion instead of clarity. “My New Year’s resolution is to feel fulfilled, but where do I begin?” he asked. “How can I find a new direction in life?”
Experiencing some frustration is entirely normal. Contrary to popular belief, there isn’t a universal shortcut to happiness. However, engaging in reflective exercises can help clarify your priorities and enhance your chances of identifying a rewarding path forward. Michaela C. Schippers and Niklas Ziegler from Erasmus University Rotterdam refer to this process as “life craft.” In their review of psychological research on uncovering meaning and purpose, they outline several actionable steps:
First, reflect on your values and passions. What activities bring you joy, and what legacy do you wish to leave? Next, assess your current skills and habits—what do you excel at now, and what would you like to cultivate in the future? Thirdly, evaluate your social connections: who uplifts you, and who drains your energy? Following that, contemplate your career aspirations, your ideal future, and your overarching goals. Lastly, consider your commitments—how can you take responsibility for your actions?
This comprehensive list encompasses both personal and professional realms, emphasizing social connection, a fundamental element of mental well-being. Acknowledging your existing capabilities boosts confidence in your ability to effect change, while identifying growth areas clarifies your future aspirations.
Schippers and Ziegler advocate for utilizing “implementation intentions” when setting goals. This strategy involves crafting a series of “if-then” plans to navigate potential challenges. For example, if you’ve determined that creativity is a core value and aspire to write a novel, you might commit to: “If I arrive home by 7 PM, then I will write for an hour before dinner.”
In the final phase of commitment, seek ways to increase accountability by sharing your goals with others. Research indicates that when students posted selfies along with written statements of their goals on social media, they were more likely to follow through.
Understand that discovering your path is a gradual process. You may revisit these exercises multiple times. Like any craft, enhancing your life requires continuous learning and dedication. Let’s embark on this journey in 2026.
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Michaéla C. Schippers and Niklas Ziegler’s insightful paper can be accessed for free at: doi.org/ghpv8q
The most significant advancements in depression treatment have not occurred since the 1980s. Prozac, the first SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor), marked a pivotal moment when it was introduced. This medication quickly spread globally, leading to hundreds of millions of individuals relying on SSRIs. Despite three-quarters of users reporting positive effects, not everyone experiences success with these treatments. As rates of depression continue to rise and with no substantial breakthroughs in therapies since SSRIs, an increasing number of people hope AI could revolutionize psychiatric care.
However, concerns remain. The effectiveness of chatbots hinges on the quality of data used for training. These AI tools are also susceptible to inherent biases and errors, often referred to as “hallucinations.” A recent study revealed that many well-known AI models fell short in providing reliable advice for 60% of women’s health inquiries.
Yet, AI could offer much-needed objectivity in the challenging realm of mental health diagnosis. Currently, depression diagnoses rely on ambiguous symptoms. By harnessing AI’s ability to analyze minor physical indicators, such as facial expressions and vocal patterns, psychiatry is on the path to establishing clearer biomarkers urgently needed in the field.
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AI can finally impart the objectivity needed to tackle the challenging nature of diagnosis. “
The consequences of inadequate treatment are profound. In the absence of novel biomarkers, recent studies have highlighted the crucial influences of relationships and exposure to nature in the prevention of depression. Notably, a recent review provided compelling evidence that physical exercise can be as effective as antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy in treating depression, although the reasons and ideal candidates for this approach remain unclear.
If AI can effectively determine which treatments suit individuals best, it may transform the lives of millions. Developers can learn to mitigate the numerous pitfalls associated with AI from the outset, ensuring that no patient encounters a “hallucinating” psychiatrist in the process.
Arc-shaped volcanoes like Japan’s Sakurajima release carbon dioxide from the Earth’s interior
Asahi Shimbun via Getty Images
New research suggests that the impact of volcanoes on Earth’s climate may not be as ancient as previously believed.
The Earth’s climate has experienced shifts between “icehouse” and “greenhouse” conditions, largely dictated by greenhouse gas levels like carbon dioxide.
Volcanic arcs, including significant eruptions from mountain ranges such as Japan’s, release CO2 from deep within the Earth. Recent findings indicate that dinosaurs became a substantial source of carbon emissions only towards the end of their reign, approximately 100 million years ago, according to Ben Mather and his team from the University of Melbourne.
This correlates with the emergence of phytoplankton featuring calcium carbonate scales in the oceans approximately 150 million years ago. When these organisms perish, they deposit large amounts of calcium carbonate on the ocean floor.
As tectonic plates shift, these significant reservoirs of carbon are pushed into the mantle and recycled into the Earth’s molten core via a process known as subduction.
“Most of the carbon derived from plankton on the subducting oceanic plate mixes into the melt interior, but a portion is released through volcanic arcs,” explains Mather.
Before the emergence of scaly plankton, volcanic arc emissions contained relatively lower levels of CO2, according to Mather.
Through modeling, Mather and colleagues examined tectonics’ long-term impact on the carbon cycle over the past 500 million years. They discovered that much of the carbon stored within Earth throughout its history was released through crustal fractures in a process termed rifting, not primarily through volcanic arcs.
Rifting, a geological process where continents separate, can occur on land (as in the East African Rift) or along mid-ocean ridges.
“As tectonic plates separate, they effectively ‘roof off’ parts of the molten Earth,” Mather states. “This process generates new crust at mid-ocean ridges, releasing carbon.” The amount of carbon entering the atmosphere from continental fractures and mid-ocean ridges relies on the cracks’ length and the rate at which they separate, a process that has remained relatively stable. However, emissions from volcanic arcs have surged in the last 100 million years due to new carbon reservoirs formed by plankton.
Currently, Earth is in a temporary warm phase called an interglacial period, nested within a larger ice age that began 34 million years ago. One reason for the persistent cold phases is that phytoplankton sequester substantial amounts of carbon from the ocean, depositing it on the sea floor. Although volcanic emissions are rising, they still pale in comparison to the carbon stored by phytoplankton and that sequestered through tectonic movements.
According to Alan Collins and his team from the University of Adelaide, modeling studies like this are crucial for comprehending how volcanic and tectonic activities have influenced climate patterns over geological timescales.
“The composition of marine sediments has shifted as new organisms evolved, utilizing diverse elements, including the rise of calcium carbonate-based zooplankton,” Collins emphasizes.
Reference journal: Nature Communications Earth and Environment, DOI TK
Explore the Land of Fire and Ice: Iceland
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. Experience volcanic and geological marvels by day, and chase the mesmerizing Northern Lights by night (October).
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NASA is set to roll out a massive 322-foot-tall rocket towards its launch pad this Saturday, a crucial milestone in the preparation for its highly anticipated Artemis II mission, which aims to send four astronauts around the moon.
The Space Launch System (SLS) rocket will transport the Orion capsule containing the astronauts, beginning its slow four-mile trek from NASA’s Vehicle Assembly Building to the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 7 a.m. ET. Viewers can catch the event, known as the “rollout,” live on NASA’s YouTube channel.
This event marks the beginning of essential tests and rehearsals that will pave the way for the first manned flight to the moon in over 50 years. Artemis II is tentatively scheduled for launch between February 6 and 11, with additional windows available in March and April.
The rollout is a critical phase for mission managers as they assess the rocket’s health and safety prior to setting a formal launch date.
“These are the kind of days we are living in,” stated John Honeycutt, chairman of the Artemis II mission management team, during a recent press conference.
Artemis II will feature a crew of four, including NASA astronauts Reed Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, along with Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen. They are scheduled to spend 10 days in space, initially orbiting Earth before heading into lunar orbit.
The deployment process is expected to take up to 12 hours. The Crawler Transporter, a giant mobile platform, will carry the 11 million-pound Artemis II rocket to NASA’s historic launch pad 39B, previously used in the Apollo and Space Shuttle programs.
NASA has indicated that the stacked rocket will move forward at a cautious pace, approximately 1 mile per hour.
Upon reaching the launch pad, preparations will begin for the essential launch day walkthrough, known as a wet dress rehearsal. This procedure includes refueling the rocket and conducting all standard protocols leading up to the T-29 second mark on the countdown, as detailed by Artemis launch director Charlie Blackwell Thompson.
“Launch day will closely mirror a wet dress rehearsal,” she explained. “The two main differences are sending our team to the pads and proceeding past the 29-second mark.”
This wet dress rehearsal serves as an opportunity for mission managers to evaluate the rocket’s systems in a real-world context while allowing engineers to identify any potential fuel leaks or technical issues.
If any problems arise, the rocket will be returned to the Vehicle Assembly Building for necessary repairs. However, if everything proceeds smoothly, NASA may soon announce a target launch date.
The Artemis II mission will serve as the most rigorous test yet for the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft, marking the first time the system will carry a crew.
During their time in the Orion capsule, astronauts will test the spacecraft’s docking capabilities and life support systems while in orbit around both Earth and the Moon.
Success in this mission will establish a foundation for Artemis III, slated for 2027, aiming to land astronauts near the moon’s south pole.
Returning to the moon has emerged as a priority for the U.S. government, particularly amid a new space race with China, which aims to land its own astronauts on the Moon by 2030.
A groundbreaking treaty aimed at protecting the high seas has officially entered into force, marking a significant moment in marine conservation.
The vast expanses of the high seas, beyond a country’s 370-kilometre exclusive economic zone, are often referred to as the “Wild West” of the oceans. This region is notorious for its minimal regulations on fishing, making it a vital area that remains largely unexplored. According to recent studies, this deep-sea environment is inhabited by diverse marine organisms, with up to 95% of the habitat being vital to marine life.
In September 2025, over 60 countries ratified the UN Convention on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biodiversity in the open ocean, which encompasses half of our planet’s surface. This historic agreement has initiated a 120-day countdown to its official implementation.
“This is one of the most important environmental agreements ever,” states Matt Frost from the Plymouth Marine Laboratory in the UK. “There was no established mechanism for creating protected marine areas on the high seas prior to this treaty.”
World-renowned marine biologist Sylvia Earle calls this treaty a ‘turning point’ in safeguarding ‘Earth’s blue heart’, which plays a crucial role in regulating climate and sustaining life.
A year remains before nations can establish protected areas under the treaty, as regulations and monitoring systems need to be finalized at the inaugural meeting of the parties in late 2026.
“This moment demonstrates that global cooperation is feasible,” says Earle. “Now we must act decisively.”
In the Atlantic, conservationists aim to safeguard unique ecosystems such as the “lost cities” formed by the seaweed mats of the Sargasso Sea, a crucial breeding ground for American and European eels, alongside the remarkable hydrothermal vent communities. Meanwhile, the Pacific Ocean conservation efforts target the Salas y Gomez and Nazca ridges, underwater mountains that serve as habitats for diverse marine species including whales, sharks, and turtles.
The treaty also envisions a shared repository for genetic resources discovered in the high seas, which could facilitate breakthroughs in medicinal research.
As maritime technology advances, fleets of factory ships are exploiting the high seas, leading to the overfishing of species and habitat destruction. This escalation threatens crucial biodiversity zones. Bottom trawling, in particular, causes severe damage to the ocean floor. Emerging techniques are being developed to fish in the “twilight zone” of mid-depth waters, between 200 and 1,000 meters, further complicating conservation efforts.
Local management organizations have noted that for two decades, there has been a call for a treaty to mitigate the overfishing of 56% of targeted fish stocks in international waters, as highlighted in recent studies.
Support for protective measures stems from the fact that 90% of marine protected areas in national waters are actively being preserved, positively influencing nearby fish populations by providing safe environments for spawning and growth.
Additionally, the 30 by 30 commitment aims to safeguard 30% of the Earth’s surface by 2030, making it essential to address the high seas for its successful realization.
Oceans currently absorb approximately 90% of the excess heat resulting from climate change. By shielding these critical areas from fishing and associated pollution, marine ecosystems can better adapt to rising temperatures.
“If you’re battling multiple afflictions, alleviating two can empower you to confront the remaining issues,” Frost asserts.
Moreover, marine ecosystems are responsible for absorbing a quarter of the CO2 emissions that contribute to climate change. Coastal environments like seagrass meadows and kelp forests are crucial carbon sinks, and activities such as the nocturnal feeding patterns of mesopelagic fish and plankton play a role in the carbon cycle.
“These species transport carbon from surface waters to deeper ocean layers, significantly influencing the carbon dynamics,” explains Callum Roberts from the Convex Seascape Survey, a global research initiative focusing on the ocean’s impact on climate change.
The treaty’s initial challenge involves identifying appropriate areas for protection, especially as species migrate in response to shifting ocean temperatures. Only 27% of the ocean floor has been thoroughly mapped.
Enforcement will also be a formidable challenge. Current marine protected areas in national waters include a significant number of “paper parks” that offer little actual protection for species.
Advancements in satellite imagery and AI technology have made it feasible to monitor vessels and detect unlawful activities. Nonetheless, enforcement will rely on member states to act against flagrant violations, including barring offending ships from their ports.
While 145 countries have signed the treaty, it is only enforceable for those that ratify it. Currently, 83 nations have adopted the treaty, with the UK, US, Canada, and Australia yet to follow suit.
“The more nations that ratify this treaty, the stronger it becomes,” says Sarah Bedorf from Oceana. “We all share the responsibility of protecting the high seas, which ultimately benefits everyone.”
Astronomers utilizing the WHT Extended Area Velocity Explorer (WEAVE), a cutting-edge instrument aboard the William Herschel Telescope on La Palma Island, have uncovered an intriguing elongated structure of ionized iron within the renowned Ring Nebula.
A composite image of the Ring Nebula featuring four WEAVE/LIFU emission line images. Image credit: Wesson et al., doi: 10.1093/mnras/staf2139.
The Ring Nebula, also known as Messier 57, M57, or NGC 6720, is a classic planetary nebula located approximately 2,000 light-years away in the constellation Lyra.
This nebula was first discovered by the French astronomer Charles Messier in January 1779 while he was on a mission to find comets.
Messier’s report about the discovery of Comet Bode reached fellow astronomer Antoine d’Alquier de Perpois shortly afterward, who subsequently rediscovered the Ring Nebula during his comet observations.
The newly identified rod-shaped cloud of iron atoms resides within the inner layer of this elliptical nebula.
Measuring about 500 times the length of Pluto’s orbit around the sun, this cloud’s atomic mass of iron is comparable to that of Mars.
This iron cloud was detected using the Large Integral Field Unit (LIFU) mode of the innovative WEAVE instrument on the 4.2-meter William Herschel Telescope, part of the Isaac Newton Group.
According to Dr. Roger Wesson, an astronomer from University College London and Cardiff University: “While the Ring Nebula has been extensively studied with various telescopes, WEAVE enables us to observe it in unprecedented detail, providing much richer information than previously available.”
“By continuously collecting spectra across the nebula, we can image it at any wavelength and analyze its chemical composition at any given location.”
“As we process the data and examine the images, we discover a never-before-seen ‘rod’ of ionized iron atoms at the heart of this iconic ring.”
The exact nature of the iron “rods” within the Ring Nebula remains uncertain.
Two potential scenarios emerge: the bar may offer new insights into the nebula’s formation and ejection by its parent star, or (more intriguingly) it could represent an arc of plasma from a rocky planet evaporating during the star’s initial expansion.
Professor Janet Drew, also from University College London, noted: “We need to investigate further, particularly to determine if the newly detected iron coexists with other elements. This could guide us toward the appropriate models to explore.”
“Currently, this crucial information is lacking.”
For more in-depth details, check out the findings published today in the Royal Astronomical Society Monthly Notices.
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R. Wesson et al. 2026. WEAVE Imaging Spectroscopy of NGC 6720: Iron Rods in the Ring. MNRAS 546 (1): staf2139; doi: 10.1093/mnras/staf2139
IBM’s Quantum System Two Unveiled at a Data Center in Germany
Quantum computing has been making headlines lately. You might have noticed quantum chips and their intriguing cooling systems dominating your news feed. From politicians to business leaders, the term “quantum” is everywhere. If you find yourself perplexed, consider setting a New Year’s resolution to grasp the fundamentals of quantum computing this year.
This goal may seem daunting, but the timing is perfect. The quantum computing sector has achieved significant breakthroughs lately, making it a hotbed of innovation and investment, with the market expected to exceed $1 billion, likely doubling in the coming years. Yet, high interest often leads to disproportionate hype.
There remain numerous questions about when quantum computers might outpace classical ones. While mathematicians and theorists ponder these queries, the practical route may be to improve quantum computers through experimentation. However, consensus on the best methodologies for building these systems is still elusive.
Compounding the complexity, quantum mechanics itself is notoriously challenging to comprehend. Physicists debate interpretations of bizarre phenomena like superposition and entanglement, which are pivotal for quantum computing’s potential.
Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. But don’t be discouraged; these challenges can be overcome with curiosity.
As a former high school teacher, I often encountered curious students who would linger after class, eager to discuss intricate aspects of quantum computing. Many were novice learners in math or physics, yet they posed thought-provoking questions. One summer, a group who took an online quantum programming course approached me, surpassing my own coding knowledge in quantum applications. The following year, we delved into advanced topics typically reserved for college-level classes.
Recently, I discovered a young talent in quantum inquiry. A 9-year-old YouTuber, Kai, co-hosts a podcast named Quantum Kid, where he interviews leading quantum computing experts for over 88,000 subscribers to enjoy.
Kai’s co-host, Katya Moskvich, is not only his mother but also a physicist with extensive experience in science writing. She works at Quantum Machines, a firm developing classical devices that enhance the functionality of quantum computers. Kai brings an infectious enthusiasm to the podcast, engaging with pivotal figures who have influenced modern quantum theory.
In a recent episode, renowned quantum algorithm creator Peter Scholl discussed the intersection of quantum computing, sustainability, and climate action. Nobel laureate Stephen Chu and distinguished computer scientist Scott Aaronson also joined, exploring concepts like time travel and its theoretical connections to quantum mechanics. Additionally, physicist John Preskill collaborated with roboticist Ken Goldberg to examine the interplay of quantum computing and robotics.
Kai and Co-Host (Mother) Katya Moskvich
While The Quantum Kid may not delve deep into rigorous math, it offers a fun entry point and insight from leading experts in quantum technology. Most episodes introduce fundamental concepts like superposition and Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle, which you can explore further in reputable publications such as New Scientist.
The true strength of The Quantum Kid lies in Kai’s ability to ask the very questions that an inquisitive mind might have regarding quantum computers—those which seek to unpack the complex yet fascinating nature of this technology. If you’ve been curious about quantum computing but have felt overwhelmed, Kai encourages you to remain inquisitive and seek clarity. (We’re here to guide you on your quantum journey.)
Could quantum computers revolutionize space exploration or even facilitate time travel? Might they help develop advanced robotics or combat climate issues? The answers are not straightforward, laden with nuances. Kai’s engaging dialogues make complex theories accessible, ensuring clarity resonates with both young listeners and adults. Hearing Peter Scholl reiterate that current quantum systems lack the clout to change the world doesn’t dampen Kai’s enthusiasm but rather fuels it.
In the pilot episode, physicist Lennart Renner expresses optimism, stating, “We’re evolving alongside new machines that can potentially revolutionize tasks, hence we must deliberate on their applications,” setting a forward-thinking tone that reverberates throughout the series.
Adopting a blend of Kai’s wonder and imagination, coupled with the seasoned expertise of guests, will enhance any quantum learning project you embark on this year. Quantum computing, while intricate and multifaceted, remains incredibly compelling. If your child is captivated, why not explore it together?
AI Tools Revolutionize Solutions for Old Math Problems
Andreser/Getty Images
Amateur mathematicians are leveraging artificial intelligence chatbots to tackle historic mathematical challenges, much to the astonishment of experts. Although the questions may not represent the pinnacle of mathematical complexity, their successful resolution suggests a significant breakthrough in AI’s capabilities in mathematics, potentially altering future methodologies, according to researchers.
The challenges addressed by AI are linked to Paul Erdős, a renowned Hungarian mathematician celebrated for posing intriguing yet complex questions throughout his prolific 60-year career. “The inquiries were often straightforward but exceedingly complex,” says Thomas Bloom from the University of Manchester, UK.
At the time of Erdős’ death in 1996, over 1,000 unsolved problems existed, spanning various mathematical disciplines, from combinatorics to number theory. Today, these challenges represent critical milestones for advancements in mathematics, Bloom explains. He maintains a website dedicated to cataloging these problems and tracking mathematicians’ progress in solving them.
Given the clarity of Erdős’ problems, mathematicians began experimenting with feeding them into AI tools like ChatGPT. Last October, Bloom noted an increase in users employing AI models to uncover pertinent references in mathematical literature to aid their solutions.
Shortly thereafter, AI tools began uncovering partial improvements in results—some were previously documented while others seemed to be novel.
“I was taken aback,” Bloom recalls. “Previously, when I tested ChatGPT, it provided mere conjectures, leading me to abandon it. However, since October, I discovered genuine papers, as ChatGPT effectively analyzed existing literature, uncovering substantial insights.”
Inspired by these advancements, Kevin Barrett, an undergraduate mathematics student at Cambridge, along with amateur mathematician Liam Price, set out to identify simpler and less-explored Erdős problems amenable to AI solutions. After discovering the number 728—a conjecture in number theory—they successfully solved it using ChatGPT-5.2 Pro.
“Upon seeing the statement, I thought, ‘Perhaps ChatGPT can solve this. Let’s give it a shot,’” Barrett remarks. “Indeed, numerous experts concur that the argument is elegant and quite sophisticated.”
After ChatGPT generated the proof, Barrett and Price employed another AI tool named Aristotle, developed by Harmonic, to validate their findings. Aristotle translates traditional proofs into the Lean mathematical programming language, which is swiftly verified for accuracy by a computer. Bloom highlights this process as vital, as it conserves researchers’ limited time when confirming their results’ validity.
As of mid-January, AI tools have completely solved six Erdős problems, but professional mathematicians later identified that five of these had existing solutions in the literature. Only problem number 205 was entirely resolved by Barrett and Price without prior solutions. Additionally, AI facilitated minor improvements and partial resolutions to seven other problems that were absent in existing literature.
This predicament has sparked debate regarding whether these AI tools unveil true innovations or simply resurrect old, overlooked solutions. Bloom notes that AI models frequently need to reconceptualize problems, discovering papers that make no mention of Erdős whatsoever. “Many papers I encountered would likely have remained undiscovered without this kind of AI documentation,” he remarks.
Another point of discussion is the potential limits of this approach. While the addressed problems aren’t the most formidable in mathematics, they could typically be resolved by first-year doctoral students; nonetheless, Bloom considers the achievement significant, noting the substantial effort required for such tasks.
Barrett further emphasizes that the problems currently being solved are relatively easier compared to more challenging Erdős problems, which contemporary AI models struggle to tackle. “Ultimately, AI will need more advanced models to address complex problems,” he forecasts. Some of these challenging issues even come with cash prizes for solutions, although Barrett believes that resolutions are unlikely in the near future, stating, “I don’t think we have a model for that yet.”
Utilizing AI to tackle Erdős’ problems offers promising potential for progress, according to Kevin Buzzard. Since most of the addressed challenges are straightforward or have received scant attention, it’s difficult to gauge whether these results signify substantial breakthroughs or if they warrant professional concern. “This is progress, but mathematicians aren’t quite ready to embrace it fully,” Buzzard observes. “It’s merely a budding advancement.”
Even with the models’ current limitations, their capability to work with moderately complex mathematics could fundamentally transform how researchers craft and analyze proofs. This advancement allows mathematicians with specialized knowledge to access insights from diverse mathematical fields.
“Few individuals possess expertise across all mathematical domains, limiting their toolkit,” Bloom explains. “Being able to obtain answers rapidly, without the hassle of consulting others or investing months in potentially irrelevant knowledge, creates numerous new connections. This is a groundbreaking shift that is likely to widen the scope of ongoing research.”
It may enable mathematicians to adopt entirely novel methodologies. Terence Tao at the University of California, Los Angeles, has been instrumental in validating AI-assisted methods for solving Erdős problems.
Given their limited schedules, mathematicians often prioritize a select few difficult problems, leaving many easier yet essential questions overlooked. If AI tools can be employed instantaneously across a multitude of problems, Tao believes it could facilitate a more empirical approach to mathematics, enabling extensive testing of various solutions.
“Currently, we neglect 99% of solvable problems due to our finite resources for expert analysis,” Tao asserts. “Therefore, we often bypass hundreds of significant issues, seeking just one or two that capture our interest. We also lack the capacity for comparative studies like, ‘Which of these two methods is superior?'”
“Such large-scale mathematics has yet to be undertaken,” he concludes. “However, AI demonstrates the feasibility of this approach.”
Longevity advocates, such as Brian Johnson, often push boundaries in their pursuit of immortality. For those of us looking to celebrate a century with less complexity, dietary changes are typically the first step. While plant-based diets are frequently recommended, recent studies in China indicate many centenarians include meat in their diets, potentially offering crucial benefits, especially for those with low body weight.
Meat is a source of essential amino acids that influence a signaling molecule named mTOR, linked to the aging process. Although numerous studies recommend reducing meat intake for longevity and disease prevention, it’s important to note that vegetarian diets have been associated with increased fractures and instances of malnutrition.
These challenges can be particularly pronounced for older adults with weaker bones, resulting in slower recovery post-surgery. According to Wang Kaiyue from Fudan University in Shanghai, understanding the link between diet and longevity is essential. Wang and colleagues analyzed data from a centralized health database focusing on individuals aged 65 and above.
Within their study, 5,203 participants aged 80 and older in 1998, who were free from cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, or cancer, were surveyed. Approximately 80% identified as meat eaters, while others followed a mainly plant-based diet but occasionally consumed animal products.
Interestingly, meat consumers demonstrated a higher probability of living to age 100 compared to those following vegetarian, pescatarian, or vegan diets. This finding held statistical significance when body weight factored into the analysis.
The likelihood of reaching 100 grew, especially among underweight meat eaters, with 30% reporting daily meat consumption, compared to 24% of underweight vegetarians in 1998. This trend was less pronounced among heavier individuals.
While heavy consumption of meat has been linked with obesity, research supports the role of animal proteins in building stronger muscles and enhancing bone health. According to Wang, such benefits are particularly significant for those lacking body mass.
Nonetheless, a diet rich in vegetables is crucial, with findings indicating participants who consumed vegetables daily tended to have extended lifespans.
“Older adults often face unique nutritional challenges,” says Wang. “Our research implies that dietary guidelines for older individuals should prioritize nutritional balance over strict avoidance of animal products, particularly for those with low body weight.”
This particular outcome may not hold true globally, as dietary habits differ significantly, but “the biological principles connecting nutrition and aging likely have universal relevance,” Wang adds.
According to James Webster from the University of Oxford, while this discovery is noteworthy, it should not drastically alter dietary practices. His team’s previous study highlighted a potential link between vegetarianism and the risk of femoral neck fractures, suggesting potential health issues with a strict vegetarian diet. However, Webster stresses that several studies illuminate the benefits of vegetarianism, especially concerning overall health.
Both vegetarian and meat-inclusive diets can be either healthy or detrimental, depending on nutritional content quality, Webster notes. “Identifying the nutrients essential for a balanced and healthful lifestyle is key,” he says, recommending a rich intake of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables while limiting salt, sugar, and saturated fats.
“Ultimately, more research is needed to determine the optimal diets for longevity, but a comprehensive view of dietary patterns is imperative,” concludes Webster.
New research reveals a revised definition of obesity, indicating that over 75% of U.S. adults could now be classified as obese. This stark increase is based on a recent study’s findings.
Currently, approximately 43% of Americans meet the traditional body mass index (BMI) standard of 30 or above. However, when researchers expanded the definition to include waist-to-height and waist-to-hip ratios, the estimated obesity prevalence soared to 75.2%.
A detailed analysis conducted by a research team from Yale School of Medicine and Harvard University emphasizes that relying solely on BMI may significantly underestimate the actual number of individuals with excess body fat.
According to the study director, Dr. Nora Al Roub, a professor at the Yale School of Public Health, “BMI is a straightforward calculation based on weight and height. While it is simple to compute, it does not provide insight into fat distribution or the composition of a person’s weight pertaining to fat versus muscle.” – BBC Science Focus.
The updated criteria classify all adults with a BMI of 30 or higher as obese, as well as 38.5% of individuals with a BMI under 25, which is typically deemed healthy.
Dr. Al Roub states, “This increase underscores how many individuals possess unhealthy levels of body fat, even while having a normal or slightly elevated BMI.”
The study notes that while these newly identified obese individuals may not require immediate medical interventions, they are at an elevated risk for conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, highlighting the importance of early preventive strategies.
Innovative diagnostic strategies aim to identify more obesity cases before they lead to complications – Credit: Getty
The new guidelines, first suggested in January 2025 by the Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology Committee led by Professor Francesco Rubino of King’s College London, have received endorsement from over 70 healthcare organizations.
Professor Rubino pointed out that the recent analysis may slightly misinterpret these guidelines. The additional metrics were intended to help identify individuals who may have obesity even if their BMI is just under the obesity threshold.
He further notes that the thresholds can differ based on gender and ethnicity, but generally, a BMI of 25 is considered well below the obesity classification.
Dr. Al Roub emphasized that the goal of the study was not to redefine obesity but to understand how population-level obesity estimates change when these criteria are uniformly applied to real-world datasets.
What are the Updated Guidelines for Obesity?
The new guidelines propose utilizing BMI as an initial screening tool to identify individuals at risk, followed by several additional measurements. While specific thresholds can vary by age, gender, and ethnicity, commonly accepted cutoffs include:
Waist circumference of 102cm or more for men, and 88cm or more for women
Waist-to-hip ratio of 0.9 or greater for men, and 0.85 or greater for women
Waist-to-height ratio exceeding 0.5
To be categorized as obese, individuals must meet one of the following criteria:
BMI of 40 or more
BMI between 30-39 (or ethnicity-specific threshold) along with at least one additional measurement
BMI less than but close to 30 (or ethnicity-specific threshold) plus at least two additional measurements
As quantum computing technology evolves, it becomes crucial to pinpoint challenges that can be tackled more efficiently than with classical computers. Interestingly, many significant tasks that quantum advocates are pursuing may not necessitate quantum computing at all.
The focal point of this discussion is a molecule called FeMoco, essential for life on Earth due to its role in nitrogen fixation. This process enables microorganisms to convert atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, making it biologically available for other organisms. The mechanisms of FeMoco are intricate and not completely understood, but unraveling this could greatly diminish energy usage in fertilizer production and enhance crop yields.
Understanding FeMoco involves determining its lowest energy state, or “ground state” energy, which necessitates examining several electron behaviors. Electrons, being quantum particles, exhibit wave-like properties and occupy distinct regions known as orbits. This complexity has historically made it challenging for classical computers to calculate the various properties of FeMoco accurately.
While approximation methods have shown some success, their energy estimates have been constrained in accuracy. Conversely, rigorous mathematical analyses have demonstrated that quantum computers, utilizing a fundamentally different encoding of complexity, can resolve problems without relying on approximations, exemplifying what is known as ‘quantum advantage.’
Now, researchers such as Garnet Kin Rick Chan from the California Institute of Technology have unveiled a conventional calculation method capable of achieving comparable accuracy to quantum calculations. A pivotal metric in this discussion is “chemical precision,” which signifies the minimum accuracy required to yield reliable predictions in chemical processes. Based on their findings, Chan and colleagues assert that standard supercomputers can compute FeMoco’s ground state energy with the necessary precision.
FeMoco embodies various quantum states, each with distinct energy levels, forming a structure similar to a ladder with the ground state at the base. To streamline the process for classical algorithms to reach this lowest level, researchers concentrated on the states located on adjacent rungs and inferred their implications for what may exist one or two steps below. Insights into the symmetries of the electrons’ quantum states offered valuable context.
This simplification allowed researchers to use classical algorithms to establish an upper limit on FeMoco’s ground state energy and subsequently extrapolate it to a value with an uncertainty consistent with chemical accuracy. Essentially, the computed lowest energy state must be precise enough for future research applications.
Furthermore, researchers estimate that supercomputing methods could outperform quantum techniques, allowing classical calculations that would typically take eight hours to be completed in under a minute. This assumption relies on ideal supercomputer performance.
However, does this discovery mean you’ll instantly understand FeMoco and enhance agricultural practices? Not entirely. Numerous questions remain unanswered, such as which molecular components interact most effectively with nitrogen and what intermediate molecules are produced in the nitrogen fixation process.
“While this study does not extensively detail the FeMoco system’s capabilities, it further elevates the benchmark for quantum methodologies as a model to illustrate quantum benefits,” explains David Reichman from Columbia University in New York.
Dominic Berry, a professor at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia, highlights that although their team’s research demonstrates that classical computers can approach the FeMoco dilemma, it only does so through approximations, while quantum methods promise complete problem resolution.
“This raises questions about the rationale for utilizing quantum computers for such challenges; however, for more intricate systems, we anticipate that the computational time for classical approaches will escalate much faster than quantum algorithms,” he states.
Another hurdle is that quantum computing technology is still evolving. Existing quantum devices are currently too limited and error-prone for tackling problems like determining FeMoco’s ground state energy. Yet, a new generation of fault-tolerant quantum computers, capable of self-correction, is on the horizon. From a practical standpoint, Berry suggests that quantum computing may still represent the optimal approach to deciphering FeMoco and related molecules. “Quantum computing will eventually facilitate more general solutions to these systems and enable routine computations once fault-tolerant quantum devices become widely available.”
Image of SN Eos supernova taken by the James Webb Space Telescope
Astronomers have identified a colossal star’s explosion shortly after the universe emerged from the Cosmic Dark Ages, offering insights into the birth and demise of the first stars.
When a star exhausts its fuel, it explodes in a spectacular event known as a supernova. While nearby supernovae are exceedingly bright, the light from ancient explosions takes billions of years to reach Earth, fading into invisibility by the time it arrives.
This is why astronomers typically detect distant supernovae only during exceptional circumstances, such as Type Ic supernovae, which are the remnants of stars stripped of their outer gas and producing intense gamma-ray bursts. However, the more common Type II supernova, the predominant explosion observed in our galaxy, occurs when a massive star depletes its fuel but remains too faint for casual observation.
Notably, David Coulter, a professor at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, and his team utilized the James Webb Space Telescope to discover a Type II supernova named SN Eos, dating back to when the universe was only 1 billion years old.
Fortunately, the supernova’s explosion took place behind a vast galaxy cluster, whose potent gravity amplified the light, rendering SN Eos dozens of times brighter than it would typically appear, facilitating detailed studies.
Researchers meticulously analyzed the light spectrum from SN Eos, confirming it as the oldest supernova detected via spectroscopy. Their findings denote it as a Type II supernova, attesting to its origins from a massive star.
Additionally, evidence suggests that the progenitor star contained remarkably low quantities of elements beyond hydrogen and helium—less than 10% of the elemental abundance present in the Sun. This aligns with theories about the early universe, where multiple stellar generations hadn’t existed long enough to create heavier elements.
“This allows us to quickly identify the type of stellar population in that region. [This star] exploded,” stated Or Graul from the University of Portsmouth, UK. “Massive stars tend to explode shortly after their formation. In cosmological terms, a million years is a brief interval, making them indicators of ongoing star formation within their respective galaxies.”
Light from such vast distances is typically emitted by small galaxies, allowing astronomers to infer the average characteristics of the stars within these galaxies. However, studying individual stars at these distances tends to be unfeasible. As noted by Matt Nicholl of Queen’s University, Belfast, UK, “This discovery provides us with exquisite data on an individual star. [Distance] has kept us from observing an isolated supernova here, but the data confirms this star’s uniqueness compared to others in the local universe.”
This observation occurred just a few hundred million years following the Era of Reionization, a pivotal period in the universe’s history. During this time, light from the inaugural stars began ionizing neutral hydrogen gas, transitioning it into translucent ionized hydrogen. This relates to SN Eos, as it serves as a supernova from a time we would expect to see.
“This discovery closely coincides with the reionization era when the universe emerged from darkness, permitting photons to travel freely once more and allowing us to observe,” said Graul.
People Are Surprisingly Forgiving When Plans Are Canceled
While many individuals feel guilty about canceling social engagements, research indicates that the recipients of these cancellations may be more understanding than expected.
“This suggests that individuals shouldn’t stress too much about cancellations,” says Esra Aslan, a researcher at the Norwegian School of Economics in Oslo.
Previous studies have examined how people respond when social plans are canceled, but few have explored the accuracy of those assumed reactions. This became evident to Aslan when he decided to cancel a planned gathering.
“I was set to meet a friend after work but chose to cancel. My colleague immediately responded that canceling was wise due to my work commitment,” Aslan recalls.
“Afterward, I shared my thoughts with Raj, another coworker, who was enthusiastic and suggested we should investigate this further,” she adds.
In a study involving around 400 adults in the United States, with an average age of 42, participants were asked to assess a scenario in which two close friends had dinner plans, but one had to cancel last minute due to urgent work obligations, leaving the other to dine alone.
Participants evaluated the cancellation from either perspective—making the cancellation or receiving it—rating the acceptability from 1 (not at all acceptable) to 7 (mostly acceptable).
Those imagining making the cancellation believed their friend would likely be displeased, estimating an average acceptance score of only 4.96. In contrast, participants who envisioned being on the receiving end granted an average acceptance score of 6.22.
This disparity in perception persisted across various scenarios involving different relationships and social contexts.
“I found minimal difference in the acceptance of cancellations for dinner plans among neighbors, close friends, or work colleagues,” states Rajarshi Majumder from GEM Alpine Business School in France. Even in more public settings, like concerts or when vague excuses such as ‘catching up on work’ were given for cancellations, this perception gap remained consistent.
Researchers hope these insights alleviate anxiety around canceling plans, suggesting that reducing this stress could lead to increased sociability. “Excessive worry about cancellations may deter people from planning social activities in the first place,” Aslan suggests.
However, Majumdar cautions that cultural differences may influence these findings, particularly in regions like parts of Asia, where cancellations could be viewed more harshly.
Aslan emphasizes the importance of being considerate when canceling. “Making small gestures, like rescheduling, can greatly strengthen relationships,” she advises.
Artificial intelligence is becoming an inescapable reality, seamlessly integrating into our lives. Forget searching for chatbots; new icons will soon appear in your favorite applications, easily accessible with a single click, from WhatsApp to Google Drive, and even in basic programs like Microsoft Notepad.
The tech industry is making substantial investments in AI, pushing users to leverage these advancements. While many embrace AI for writing, management, and planning, some take it a step further, cultivating intimate relationships with their AI companions.
In James Muldoon’s Love Machine: How Artificial Intelligence Will Change Our Relationships, we delve into the intricate connections humans form with chatbots, whether they’re designed for romantic encounters or simply companionship. These AI systems also serve as friends or therapists, showcasing a broad range of interactions we’ve often discussed. New Scientist dedicates 38 pages to this topic.
In one interview, a 46-year-old woman in a passionless marriage shares her experience of using AI to explore her intricate sexual fantasies set in an 18th-century French villa. This opens up broader conversations about utilizing AI in more practical life scenarios, such as during a doctor’s visit.
Another participant, Madison, recounts uploading her late best friend’s text messages to a “deathbot” service, which generates a way for her to maintain communication.
Muldoon’s anecdotes often carry an element of voyeuristic intrigue. They reveal the diverse ways individuals navigate their lives, some paths being healthier than others. What works for one person might prove detrimental for another.
However, a critical question remains. Are we naïve to think that AI services won’t evolve like social media, cluttered with advertisements for profit? Envision a long-term relationship with a chatbot that frequently pushes products your way. What happens if the company collapses? Can you secure backups of your artificial companions, or migrate them elsewhere? Do you hold rights to the generated data and networks? Moreover, there are psychological risks associated with forming attachments to these indifferent “yes-men,” which may further alienate individuals lacking real social connections.
Nonetheless, there are positive applications for this technology. In Ukraine, for instance, AI is being harnessed to help individuals suffering from PTSD, far exceeding the current availability of human therapists. The potential to revolutionize customer service, basic legal operations, and administrative tasks is immense. Yet, Muldoon’s narrative suggests that AI often functions as an unhealthy emotional crutch. One man, heartbroken over his girlfriend’s betrayal, envisions creating an AI partner and starting a family with her.
This book appears less about examining the social impacts of innovative technology and more like a warning signal regarding pervasive loneliness and the critical lack of mental health resources. A flourishing economy, robust healthcare system, and more supportive society could reduce our reliance on emotional bonds with software.
Humans are naturally inclined to anthropomorphize inanimate objects, even naming cars and guitars. Our brain’s tendency to perceive faces in random patterns—pareidolia—has been a survival mechanism since prehistoric times. So, is it surprising that we could be deceived by machines that mimic conversation?
If this provokes skepticism, guilty as charged. While there’s potential for machines to gain sentience and form genuine relationships in the future, such advancements are not yet realized. Today’s AI struggles with basic arithmetic and lacks genuine concern for users, despite producing seemingly thoughtful responses.
Marco Schioppo and Adam Park monitor ultra-stable lasers at the National Physical Laboratory in Teddington, UK.
David Severn, part of Quantum Untangled (2025), Science Gallery, King’s College London
In a striking portrayal, two physicists observe Britain’s revolutionary quantum technology involving ultra-stable lasers at the National Physical Laboratory in London. Captured by photographer David Severn for the **Quantum Untangled** exhibition at King’s College London, this fascinating image was shortlisted for the **Portrait of Britain Award**.
Severn states, “This portrait offers a rare peek into a domain typically hidden from view, like opening a door to a normally restricted lab.” While the photographs are contemporary, he notes that the scientists’ engagements with technology evoke imagery reminiscent of earlier eras, such as a 1940s submarine pilot or operators of a cotton spinning machine from the turn of the 20th century.
Having no background in quantum mechanics before this venture, Severn was briefed on current quantum physics projects in the UK. He observed that the bewildering aspects of quantum science closely align with artistic perspectives. “Although many scientific concepts eluded my detailed understanding, ideas like superposition and quantum entanglement resonated with me intuitively, akin to artistic realization,” he shared.
3D Printed Helmet Prototype
David Severn, part of Quantum Untangled (2025), Science Gallery, King’s College London
Severn’s captivating photographs highlight a range of innovations in quantum physics, showcasing a **3D-printed helmet** (above) designed to house a quantum sensor that images the brain using magnetic fields. He also features a complex **laser table** (below) monitored by Hartmut Grothe from Cardiff University, ensuring that the vacuum pumps sustaining the system remain operational.
Hartmut Grote at the Laser Table
David Severn, part of Quantum Untangled (2025), Science Gallery, King’s College London
Severn’s photography embraces a mystical quality, showcasing the **3D-printed imaging helmet** used by researchers from the University of Nottingham’s Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Center (as shown above), along with the intricate network of pumps and mirrors essential for maintaining cleanliness in Grothe’s experiments (as depicted below). Severn asserts that this ethereal essence is intentional.
Joe Gibson Wearing a 3D Printed Imaging Helmet at the University of Nottingham
David Severn, part of Quantum Untangled (2025), Science Gallery, King’s College London
Complex Vacuum System from King’s College London’s Photonics and Nanotechnology Group
David Severn, part of Quantum Untangled (2025), Science Gallery, King’s College London
Severn references a favorite quote from photographer Diane Arbus: “Photographs are secrets about secrets. The more they tell you, the less you understand.” He finds a parallel in quantum physics, where just when one thinks they’ve grasped how light behaves, the quantum realm subverts those expectations and exposes the elusive truths underpinning our understanding of reality.
The **Quantum Untangled** exhibition is on display at the Science Gallery at King’s College London until February 28, 2025. This event is a reimagining of the traveling exhibition **Cosmic Titans: Art, Science and the Quantum Universe** organized by Lakeside Arts and ARTlab at the University of Nottingham.
Just three cunning acts of cheating can drastically shift the odds in chess, turning an evenly matched game into an almost guaranteed victory, a new analysis reveals. This highlights the need for effective systems to detect and prevent cheating in chess.
Daniel Kellen from the University of Haifa, Israel, simulated 100,000 games using the advanced Stockfish chess engine. Famous for its unmatched performance, Stockfish can outplay any human world champion. In these matches, two computer engines competed at an average skill level (1500 Elo rating), while powerful interventions occurred from a more skilled computer with an Elo score of 3190—higher than any human’s.
Typically, playing as White confers a slight advantage with a 51% probability of winning, primarily due to the first move advantage. However, Kellen’s findings showed that leveraging a computer system like Stockfish for guidance on just one move amplifies that probability to an average of 66%. If a player resorts to three instances of cheating, the chance of victory escalates dramatically to 84%.
“We anticipated that the first act of cheating would raise the winning probability to 55%, with a second nudging it to 60%. However, cheating three times escalated the odds to an astonishing 84%,” Kellen notes. This is a crucial insight for players seeking victory.
A single, well-timed move suggested by a superior chess engine (approximately 30 moves into the game) can improve winning chances by 15 percentage points. In contrast, random interventions throughout the game yield a mere 7.5 percentage point boost.
The analysis employed a system that intervened only if the suggested move significantly enhanced winning chances compared to the player’s original choice. The thresholds for cheating became more stringent as gameplay progressed. “Initial acts of cheating are somewhat lenient; however, scaling up your cheating necessitates a marginally greater advantage,” Kellen points out.
Such tactics create a “camouflage measure,” according to Kellen, which enables cheaters to evade detection by the automated systems employed by online chess platforms. These systems may mistake a remarkably effective move as an exceptional human insight rather than a product of computer assistance.
“Proving selective cheating through manual analysis poses significant challenges, as a single strategic hint from an engine can determine the outcome of a game,” emphasizes Kellen. Kim Shu from the University of Mainz in Germany finds this research compelling.
Kellen clarifies that his work does not aim to facilitate cheating but rather to assist chess platforms in recognizing the threats posed by subtle cheating methods. “Understanding your adversary is crucial,” he concludes.
As online chess gains popularity, the community must intensify its efforts to uncover cheating instances, notes Shu. “An effective anti-cheating strategy demands a multifaceted approach,” he advises, suggesting the analysis of behavioral patterns, move timings, and comprehensive histories of online chess accounts.
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A recently unearthed partial skeleton from the Koobifora Formation in northern Kenya provides paleoanthropologists with the most comprehensive insight into Homo habilis—one of the earliest human ancestors. This specimen highlights the significant physical differences between Homo habilis and later humans like Homo erectus.
Facial reconstruction of Homo habilis. Image credit: Cicero Moraes.
This newly discovered partial skeleton, cataloged as KNM-ER 64061, represents the most complete remains of Homo habilis to date.
Dating back approximately 2 million years, this fossil was found in the Upper Burgi Formation of the Koobi Formation near Illeret, Kenya.
The specimen was discovered alongside KNM-ER 64060, which consists of a nearly complete set of teeth and jaw fragments attributed to Homo habilis.
Geological, taphonomic, and geochemical analyses suggest that the teeth and postcranial bones likely belonged to the same individual.
Researchers refer to these finds as a “possible fourth individual” of Homo habilis, marking a rare combination of diagnostic tooth remains and associated postcranial bones preserved in the early Pleistocene fossil record.
“Currently, there are only three other fragmentary and incomplete skeletons known of this significant species,” stated Professor Fred Grein from Stony Brook University.
The KNM-ER 64061 skeleton includes the humerus, both the radius and ulna, parts of the shoulder girdle, and pelvic and sacral fragments, among other elements.
Although no leg bones were recovered, the pelvic characteristics suggest that the mechanics of the lower limbs are more akin to later members of Homo than to earlier australopiths.
Interestingly, the upper limbs indicate a more primitive adaptation. The forearm is relatively long compared to the upper arm, a pattern identified as high brachial index, suggesting that Homo habilis is closer to early humans than to Homo erectus.
The arm bones exhibit unusually thick cortical bones, a trait reminiscent of australopiths and other early Homo fossils.
Based on the length of the humerus, scientists estimate that this individual stood around 1.6 meters tall.
The estimated weight ranges from 30.7 to 32.7 kg, significantly lighter than other known Homo habilis specimens and smaller in comparison to estimates for Homo erectus.
“The upper limbs of Homo habilis are notably more pronounced, indicating that KNM-ER 64061 possessed longer and stronger arms,” remarked Dr. Ashley Hammond from the American Museum of Natural History, the Miquel Crusafont Catalan Institute of Paleontology, and the Avanta Catalunya de Recerca Institute.
“However, the dimensions and proportions of the lower limbs remain elusive.”
“Further discoveries of lower limb fossils from Homo habilis may reshape our understanding of this important species.”
These findings reinforce the view that Homo habilis displayed a mosaic of ancestral and derived traits.
While skeletal features suggest a locomotion style resembling modern humans, the overall body proportions and smaller size imply that this early species had not yet developed the larger, heavier body types seen in later humans.
Between approximately 2.2 million and 1.8 million years ago, multiple hominid species existed in eastern Africa, including Paranthropus boisei, Homo habilis, Homo rudolfensis, and possibly early Homo erectus.
This new skeleton underscores that Homo habilis occupied a distinct evolutionary niche among these species, both physically and genetically.
“To our knowledge, the Homo habilis partial skeleton exhibits a postcranial anatomy that diverges from other members of our genus, such as Homo rudolfensis, whose characteristics remain largely unidentified,” the authors stated.
Their research paper was published online on January 13, 2026, in Anatomical Records.
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Frederick E. Gline et al. discovered a new partial skeleton of Homo habilis from the Upper Burgi Formation of the Koobi Fora Formation in Illeret, Kenya. Anatomical Records published online on January 13, 2026. doi: 10.1002/ar.70100
A detailed analysis of 17 fossil specimens of tyrannosaurus rex indicates that this iconic dinosaur grew much more slowly than previously believed, reaching an adult weight of approximately 8 tons by around age 40. This challenges earlier assumptions about its life history.
tyrannosaurus rex holotype specimen at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, USA. Image credit: Scott Robert Anselmo / CC BY-SA 3.0.
tyrannosaurus rex is renowned as one of the most iconic non-avian dinosaurs, continually captivating paleontologists and the public alike.
Previous growth studies proposed that this ancient predator could exceed 8 tons within just 20 years and live for nearly 30 years.
Utilizing advanced statistical algorithms, the new research examined bone slices under specialized lighting, uncovering hidden growth rings that previous studies had overlooked.
This analysis not only extended the growing season for tyrannosaurus rex but also suggested that by age 15, some specimens might not be complete individuals of tyrannosaurus rex, but instead could belong to other species or unique variants.
“This is the largest dataset ever collected regarding tyrannosaurus rex,” stated Holly Woodward, a professor at Oklahoma State University.
“Through studying the tree rings preserved in fossilized bones, we reconstructed the growth history of these magnificent creatures year by year.”
Unlike the annual rings found in tree stumps, the cross-sections of tyrannosaurus rex bones only record the final 10 to 20 years of an individual’s life.
“Our innovative statistical approach allowed us to estimate growth trajectories by synthesizing growth records from various samples. We examined every growth stage in greater detail than any prior studies,” explained Dr. Nathan Myhrvold, a mathematician and paleontologist at Intellectual Ventures.
“The resulting compound growth curves provide a more accurate representation of how tyrannosaurus rex matured and evolved in size.”
Rather than competing for dominance into adulthood, tyrannosaurus rex demonstrated a gradual and steadier growth pattern than previously assumed.
“The prolonged growth phase over 40 years likely enabled young tyrannosaurs to occupy various ecological roles within their environment,” said Dr. Jack Horner of Chapman University.
“This may explain how they maintained their status as apex carnivores at the end of the Cretaceous period.”
The team’s findings were published in the online journal Peer J.
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HN Woodward et al. 2026. Long-term growth and the extension of subadult development of the tyrannosaurus rex species complex revealed through expanded histological sampling and statistical modeling. Peer J 14: e20469; doi: 10.7717/peerj.20469
The Senate has decisively rejected the Trump administration’s proposal to significantly slash funding for federal scientific agencies. On Thursday, the Senate voted 82-15 to allocate billions more to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), NASA, and the National Science Foundation (NSF) than what was requested by the president.
This bipartisan minibus budget will fund various agencies focused on science and the environment until September 30. The bill had passed the House last week with an overwhelming vote of 397-28.
Following the Trump administration’s budget suggestions would have resulted in catastrophic cuts: a 57% reduction for the NSF, a 47% cut for NASA’s scientific research division, and a 27% decrease for NOAA, which manages the National Weather Service, as stated by Sen. Patty Murray from Washington. As highlighted in Congressional testimony last summer.
The bill is set to be presented to President Donald Trump for his signature.
Despite an overall reduction in spending, the strong bipartisan support underscores a consensus to either maintain the status quo or implement only modest cuts.
Additionally, the legislation includes significant funding boosts for several scientific programs that the Trump administration eyed for elimination, notably NOAA’s satellite program. It also allocates resources to strengthen the workforce of the National Weather Service, which has seen cuts through layoffs and other measures.
This bipartisan effort was spearheaded by Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Sen. Murray.
In her remarks on the Senate floor, Collins expressed her strong support for the NSF, which provides nearly a quarter of federal funding for essential scientific research, according to their official site.
“I am delighted that we could restore the funding originally proposed for cuts and also address indirect research funding, a priority for me,” Collins stated.
Indirect research costs cover vital expenses such as equipment, operations, maintenance, accounting, and personnel. Earlier this year, the Trump administration sought to redefine the baseline for these costs, but the current budget prevents such changes.
In an overview of the bill, Murray emphasized a boost of $1.67 billion for NOAA and an additional $5.63 billion for NASA compared to Trump’s requests.
“We have stood firm against Trump’s proposed cuts to scientific research, reducing the NSF’s budget by 57%, halving NASA’s science budget, and devastating NOAA and crucial climate research resources,” she remarked in a Senate floor address on Monday. She stated during her speech.
Murray also stressed, “This legislation reinforces Congress’ authority over significant spending decisions.”
When asked about the president’s potential signature, the White House directed NBC News to a previous statement from the Office of Management and Budget. This statement indicated administration support, highlighting that the bill would contribute to overall spending cuts and assist the nation’s journey toward “energy dominance.”
“If the bill is presented to the president in its current form, senior advisers will likely recommend he sign it into law,” read the statement.
Congress will soon review additional minibus bills covering labor, healthcare, national security, and other critical issues. Lawmakers must finalize spending by January 30, the deadline established following a 43-day government shutdown.
In her remarks on Thursday, Collins reiterated her focus on getting the bill signed into law by the deadline to prevent an “unnecessary and extremely damaging government shutdown.”
Understanding Body Fat: The Good, The Bad, and The Complex
Dr. Ray Clark & Mervyn Goff/Science Photo Library
Body fat is often misunderstood as merely a passive energy reserve. However, emerging research indicates it plays a crucial role in our overall health, providing insights into its intricate functions.
Fat comes in various forms, including white fat, which stores energy and releases hormones influencing metabolism; brown fat, known for generating heat; and beige fat, which activates thermogenesis under specific conditions. The location of these fats matters significantly. While subcutaneous fat is usually harmless, visceral fat, located deep in the abdomen, is closely linked to inflammation, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Recent studies further clarify this dynamic, suggesting that adipose tissue is actively involved in regulating blood pressure and managing immune responses in crucial areas of the body.
A study led by Jutta Jarkanen at Karolinska University Hospital in Stockholm examined the cellular structure of visceral fat in various abdominal locations. Their findings highlighted that epiploic fat, which envelops the large intestine, is abundant in immune cells and specialized fat cells producing inflammatory proteins tied to immune activation. They discovered that microbial products from the intestines trigger these fat cells to activate nearby immune responses.
“Our research indicates that fat deposits are specialized based on their anatomical position, particularly the fat adjacent to the intestine, which is tailored for immune interactions,” Jarkanen noted.
Although the study included obese participants, everyone has some visceral fat around their intestines, suggesting that epiploic fat fulfills a fundamental role irrespective of body weight.
“The gut continually encounters nutrients, microbial elements, and environmental substances,” Jarkanen explained. “Having adjacent adipose tissue to sense, respond, and manage immune reactions adds an extra layer of defense.”
However, obesity can lead to chronic overactivity in this system. Overeating, excessive consumption of particular foods, and specific bacterial compositions in the gut microbiome can lead to persistent immune signaling in intestinal fats, contributing to low-grade inflammation linked with metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes and obesity.
A follow-up study unveiled yet another surprising function of fat: its role in regulating blood pressure. Marcia Koenen and colleagues at Rockefeller University aimed to understand the connection between obesity, characterized by excessive white fat, and high blood pressure, while noting that brown and beige fats seem to offer protection.
The team investigated perivascular adipose tissue, a beige fat-rich layer encasing blood vessels. In genetically modified mice that lack beige fat, their blood vessels exhibited stiffness and overreacted to daily hormonal signals that constrict arteries, resulting in elevated blood pressure.
The researchers identified that the enzyme QSOX1, secreted by dysfunctional fat cells, caused this adverse effect. Blocking this enzyme prevented vascular damage and normalized blood pressure in the mice, independent of their body weight. “This emphasizes the importance of inter-organ communication in understanding complex diseases such as hypertension,” emphasized Koenen.
“This study sheds light on the often-underestimated roles of brown and beige fat,” noted Christy Townsend from Ohio State University. Though human perivascular adipose tissue is proportionately less substantial than in mice, it remains physiologically relevant. “This research highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of fat’s effect on health beyond overall fat mass and BMI.”
Instead of merely focusing on fat reduction, these findings point towards future therapies aimed at preserving or restoring the advantageous functions of fat by targeting specific fat deposits, enhancing immune-fat communication, and maintaining healthy beige fat activity. However, comprehensive research is necessary before these findings can be applied clinically.
Together, these studies position adipose tissue as an active, functionally diverse system implicated in numerous aspects of human physiology. “When I began working in this field in the late 1990s, the belief was that fat was just a sack of cells storing extra nutrients,” stated Paul Cohen, also from Rockefeller University, who participated in the second study. “These investigations reveal a shift in our understanding of fat as not just a single cell type, but a complex tissue composed of various cell types engaged in diverse processes, extending far beyond simple nutrient storage and mobilization.”
Lithium-ion Batteries: A Path to Extended Lifespan
Shutterstock/Bokeh Art Photography
Recent studies suggest that the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries can be extended using standard, cost-effective chemicals.
Lithium-ion batteries feature a porous separator sandwiched between a negative electrode and a positive electrode, immersed in an electrolyte that facilitates the movement of lithium ions during charging and discharging.
At the negative electrode, the electrolyte decomposes to create a thin protective coating that enhances battery stability and longevity.
Wang Chunsheng explains that forming a similar protective layer on the cathode has traditionally been challenging due to differing electrical conditions, which create a reactive environment that causes conventional electrolytes to break down before a stable coating can form, according to researchers from the University of Maryland.
Wang and his team utilized a straightforward reaction from organic chemistry to tackle this issue. This reaction enhances the electrolyte’s electron acceptance, inducing a controlled decomposition process that forms a stable protective coating on the cathode.
“By meticulously controlling the molecular decomposition of the electrolyte, we can precisely dictate the protective layer that forms on the cathode,” states Zhang Xiyue, a postdoctoral researcher in Wang’s group.
This flexibility in chemical reactions allows the resulting cathode-electrolyte layer to be tailored for enhanced protection, which could either provide strong shielding or design for faster electrochemical reactions, optimizing batteries for maximum power or extended life.
“If we can guarantee the formation of the cathode-electrolyte layer, it represents a significant advancement toward achieving longer battery cycles,” asserts Michel Armand from the CIC energiGUNE research center in Spain. Given that Wang and his colleagues modified the battery design using established chemical techniques, this new battery should be both safe and easy to manufacture, according to Armand.
While it remains uncertain exactly how much this innovative approach can extend the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries, further clarity is anticipated as the technology develops.
“This is a relatively simple modification to existing battery technology,” Wang notes. “After thorough safety and long-cycle testing, this approach could indeed reach consumers.”
Astrophysicists from the University of Copenhagen have discovered that the enigmatic “little red dots” visible in images of the early universe are rapidly growing black holes shrouded in ionized gas. This groundbreaking finding offers significant insights into the formation of supermassive black holes after the Big Bang.
The small red dot is a young supermassive black hole encased in a dense ionized cocoon. Image credits: NASA / ESA / CSA / Webb / Rusakov et al., doi: 10.1038/s41586-025-09900-4.
Since the launch of the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope in 2021, astronomers globally have been studying the red spots that appear in regions of the sky corresponding to the universe just a few hundred million years after the Big Bang.
Initial interpretations ranged from unusually massive early galaxies to unique astrophysical phenomena that challenged existing formation models.
However, after two years of extensive analysis, Professor Darach Watson and his team from the University of Copenhagen have confirmed that these points represent young black holes surrounded by a thick cocoon of ionized gas.
As these black holes consume surrounding matter, the resulting heat emits powerful radiation that penetrates the gas, creating a striking red glow captured by Webb’s advanced infrared camera.
“The little red dot is a young black hole, approximately 100 times less massive than previously estimated, encased in a gas cocoon and actively consuming gas to expand,” stated Professor Watson.
“This process generates substantial heat, illuminating the cocoon.”
“The radiation that filters through the cocoon provides these tiny red dots with their distinctive color.”
“These black holes are significantly smaller than previously thought, so there’s no need to introduce entirely new phenomena to explain them.”
Despite being the smallest black holes ever detected, these objects still weigh up to 10 million times more than the Sun and measure millions of kilometers in diameter, shedding light on how black holes accelerated their growth during the early universe.
Black holes typically operate inefficiently, as only a small fraction of the gas they attract crosses the event horizon. Much is blown back into space as high-energy outflows.
However, during this early phase, the surrounding gas cocoon serves as both a fuel source and a spotlight, enabling astronomers to observe a black hole in intense growth like never before.
This discovery is crucial for understanding how supermassive black holes, such as the one at the center of the Milky Way, grew so quickly in the universe’s first billion years.
“We observed a young black hole in a growth spurt at a stage never documented before,” Professor Watson remarked.
“The gas-dense cocoon around them supplies the rapid growth fuel they require.”
For more details, see the findings featured in this week’s edition of Nature.
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V. Rusakov et al. 2026. A small red dot like a young supermassive black hole inside a dense ionized cocoon. Nature 649, 574-579; doi: 10.1038/s41586-025-09900-4
Hallucigenia: One of the Strangest Animals of All Time
Credit: Alamy
Among the most peculiar creatures ever to roam the Earth is Hallucigenia, a scavenger that thrived on the carcasses of Kushi jelly. Recent studies have reinvigorated our understanding of this enigmatic organism first discovered in the 1970s.
Hallucigenia measured approximately 5 cm in length and boasted an insect-like body with multiple legs and lengthy, sharp spines along its back. Its unusual morphology led paleontologists to initially reconstruct it upside down, mistaking its vertebrae for legs.
This unique creature inhabited the deep sea during the Cambrian period, roughly 539 to 487 million years ago, when various major animal groups emerged. Hallucigenia was first identified in the Burgess Shale formation in British Columbia, Canada. It shares evolutionary ties with velvet worms, tardigrades, and arthropods, a group that includes insects and spiders.
Despite the wealth of fossils, much about the lifestyle of ancient creatures such as Hallucigenia remains a mystery. For instance, researchers have yet to determine what they fed on, as existing fossils have not preserved intestinal contents.
Among the findings was a fragment of a severely damaged, soft-bodied gelatinous organism measuring 3.5 cm by 1.9 cm, which Ortega Hernández identified as a comb jelly (ctenophore).
He proposed that the spines attributed to Hallucigenia represent a group of seven individuals that voraciously fed on a dead Kushi jelly, which had drifted to the ocean floor. This event likely involved suction feeding, as they were all eventually enveloped in sediment and transformed into fossils.
Ortega Hernández opted against interviews for New Scientist since this research is currently pending peer review.
“This represents a fascinating ecological interaction,” remarks paleontologist Alison Daly from the University of Lausanne, Switzerland, referring to these findings as “snapshots” that capture fleeting moments in the fossil record, lasting perhaps only a few minutes or hours.
As noted by Daly, Hallucigenia thrived in the nutrient-poor depths of the ocean, so it’s plausible that these creatures survived by rapidly locating and consuming abundant food sources like deceased Kushi jelly. “Suction feeding is highly effective for soft-bodied organisms,” she comments.
However, Jean-Bernard Caron of the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto expresses some skepticism. The fact that fossils of ctenophores were found in proximity to Hallucigenia does not definitively indicate interaction, he suggests, as an underwater landslide could have transported them to the same resting place.
Furthermore, Caron proposes an alternative interpretation: the discovered fossils may simply be detached spines, indicating that these creatures may have shed their skin as they grew.
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Exploring ‘Small Red Dots’ Unveiled by the James Webb Space Telescope
Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, and D. Kocevski (Colby U.)/Space Telescope Science Institute Public Extension Office
The remarkable bright galaxies uncovered by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) may not be as brilliant as initially thought. These celestial bodies once posed a challenge to our cosmic understanding, implying they were home to supermassive black holes and an unexpected abundance of stars. However, new insights suggest these galaxies may harbor “baby” black holes.
During its initial years surveying the early Universe, JWST serendipitously discovered numerous bright and red galaxies, referred to as “little red dots” (LRDs).
The light emitted by these galaxies indicates the presence of far more mass than previously recognized in any other galaxy. They exhibit star densities that challenge existing models or host black holes larger than expected considering the size of their parent galaxies.
Both scenarios would necessitate a substantial overhaul of our galaxy formation and black hole growth theories in the early Universe.
Initial assumptions posited that the red hue of LRDs was due to copious dust surrounding the black holes or stars. This notion has come under scrutiny, as researchers find little evidence of dust in these extraordinary galaxies.
Jenny Green, a researcher at Princeton University, posits that this discovery warrants a reevaluation of LRD characteristics. “We were confident that if red coloration was due to dust, we’d detect dust emissions. However, we found none,” Green stated. “This suggests our initial assumption about their dust content was flawed.”
Previous analyses gauged the total brightness of the LRDs by assessing specific wavelengths of light linked to hydrogen, calibrated against a model of how dust impacts this light.
In their recent study, Green and her team measured the total light output from two LRD galaxies across various light frequencies, including X-rays and infrared. They discovered that, except for visible light, these galaxies emitted significantly less light than the typical galaxy—implying that LRDs are at least ten times dimmer than earlier estimates. This revelation holds critical implications for the nature of black holes within LRDs.
“If the emitted light is substantially less than we’ve believed, the mass of the black holes is likely much more modest,” Green remarked. “This reduces the tensions that have perplexed us since the black holes no longer need to be exceedingly massive or possess substantial mass initially.”
The new emission patterns imply the black holes may harbor less mass compared to standard black holes. Rohan Naidu from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology describes them as “baby black holes.” He further noted these findings align with the emerging perspective that LRD black holes could be categorized as black hole stars—a unique type of black hole encased in gas.
“In a typical black hole, what we observe is merely a fraction of the total energy emitted by the system. However, we should reconsider the little red dots as bulging black hole stars,” Naidu explained. “Most of their energy appears to be emitted at wavelengths we can detect, suggesting that what we see accurately reflects their output.”
Conversely, Roberto Maiorino from the University of Cambridge emphasizes that one cannot definitively ascertain the black hole’s mass within an LRD, as the emitted light reveals its growth rate rather than its total mass.
Green asserts that the notion of baby black holes holds merit. “If the photon count is significantly lower,” she noted, “this indicates a downward shift in the entire mass scale. On average, they possess lesser masses than previously assumed when we incorrectly categorized them as regular accreting black holes enshrouded in dust.”
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Parents Can Foster Healthy Eating Habits in Children
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Nancy Bostock, a pediatrician at Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, is deeply concerned about the conflicting messages regarding food that children and parents receive. With her expertise in children’s weight management and mental health, she has co-led the creation of innovative food strategies. For more information, visit Cambridge Children’s Hospital.
“I worry that parents may feel overwhelmed by advice from various sources, leading them to adopt practices that might not serve their children’s best interests,” Bostock explains. In her interview with New Scientist, she shares six straightforward, science-based strategies to help children cultivate a healthy relationship with food.
1. Emphasize the Social and Emotional Dimensions of Eating
Eating, parenting, and anxiety are intertwined. This can manifest early in life. Some families experience food insecurity shortly after the birth of a child, pressuring parents to breastfeed. While breastfeeding is undoubtedly beneficial, it is also crucial for the mother’s mental health. Common early-life challenges such as hypoglycemia and jaundice can induce parental guilt over inadequate nourishment.
This stress often leads parents to excessively monitor their children’s eating habits, overshadowing the fundamental relationship between children and food. Remember, most children will eat when hungry and drink when thirsty.
Many parents fret about whether their children drink enough water. However, as long as your child is thriving, there’s no need to constantly check their hydration levels. Trust your child’s instincts.
Additionally, consider the social dynamics of family meals. Reflect on mealtime experiences: do you all eat together? Are meals enjoyable and relaxed? Foster a positive and communal atmosphere surrounding food.
2. Avoid Saying, “I Can’t Eat the Dessert Until I Finish My Dinner.”
Allowing children to regulate their own appetite fosters healthier eating habits as they grow. Minimize parental interference: promote that food is a source of nourishment and energy, and let your child understand their bodily needs.
Statements like “you can’t have dessert until finishing dinner” can lead to unhealthy binge eating. If dessert is always sweet and rich, children might favor less nutritious foods over time, sending a negative message about enjoying food. Instead, serve dinner followed by fruit if desired.
3. Refrain from Imposing Unnecessary Dietary Restrictions
Amidst abundant dietary advice, parents often seek guidance from nutritionists or behavioral specialists to manage children’s eating habits. However, many recommendations to restrict particular foods lack medical foundation. For instance, enforcing a gluten-free diet without celiac disease could have negative effects, including fiber loss and nutrient deficiencies.
Moreover, outright banning certain foods can create a perception of them being “unsafe.” Research suggests that a healthier approach is to prioritize the intake of nutrient-rich foods—fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—over eliminating food groups.
4. Prevent Children from Using Food for Manipulation
Parents often worry about their children’s eating habits or how their behavior might change if they don’t eat enough. Kids quickly pick up on their parents’ concerns and may manipulate situations with food. Phrases like “If I don’t have ice cream right now, I’ll be sad” can escalate the situation and, if parents give in, this only reinforces bad behavior. Instead, communicate that eating is for energy and health, not a bargaining tool. Offer choices without pressure, like fruit or yogurt if they don’t want the main meal.
5. Recognize That Likes and Dislikes Are Normal
It’s normal for children to become picky eaters as they develop. Research shows that a significant percentage of preschoolers exhibit selective eating behaviors. This phase helps children differentiate safe from unsafe foods. Rather than imposing restrictions, present new foods without pressure; studies suggest children typically need about 15 positive exposures to a new food before accepting it.
While it’s essential to avoid foods known to cause allergies, continued exposure to a range of foods is crucial for health, environmental sustainability, and diverse life experiences. Offer variety and understand that tolerance can precede acceptance.
6. Reflect on Your Own Eating Behaviors
Children mirror their parents’ attitudes and beliefs about food. It’s vital to model healthy perspectives. If you express negativity about your body or weight, children may internalize similar thoughts. Evidence shows kids often adopt their parents’ biases. Hence, the best way to nurture a positive relationship with food and body image in your child is to cultivate one in yourself.
As narrated by Helen Thomson
If your child’s diet is excessively restricted, or if they are not growing or gaining weight appropriately, please consult a healthcare professional.
Over 50 years ago, Jane Goodall amazed the scientific community by discovering that chimpanzees in Tanzania use tools to extract insects from termite mounds—an act previously thought to be exclusive to humans. Her mentor, Louis Leakey, famously remarked, “Now we either need to redefine ‘tool,’ redefine ‘human,’ or accept chimpanzees as humans.”
Today, research supports the notion that a variety of species engage in learning and exhibit cultural behaviors. A recent study published in the Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, co-led by Philippa Brakes, showcases evidence of cultural learning across species, from whales to wallabies.
For many species, sharing culturally transmitted behaviors is crucial for survival, aiding skill development and adaptability in shifting environments. In the realm of conservation, these insights are beginning to transform practices, from species reintroduction to mitigating human-wildlife conflicts over habitat use.
Moreover, the concept of “longevity conservation” is gaining popularity. Research shows that some of the longest-lived animals have developed remarkable genetic adaptations to cope with extended lifespans while serving as custodians of shared ecological knowledge. Older individuals often possess critical information that aids adaptation to environmental changes. For instance, species like Greenland sharks and giant tortoises reveal biochemical strategies for resisting cancer and cellular repair over centuries.
As our understanding expands, we are compelled to rethink what qualifies a site as a ‘World Heritage Site.’ If whales and birds possess cultural traditions, shouldn’t we regard the loss of their songs and foraging methods with as much seriousness as the loss of human monuments? Although this perspective may seem radical, it is indeed worth considering.
Many indigenous communities have long recognized the knowledge-sharing among species. Collaborative relationships, such as those between killer whales and indigenous hunters in Australia, as well as bottlenose dolphins aiding fishermen in Brazil, illustrate the importance of listening to nature.
Understanding the knowledge shared by other animals can inspire us to rethink controversial technologies like “eradication.” Without elder guides to teach young hybrids migration paths and social norms, revived individuals may struggle to survive in current habitats.
Perhaps the most significant challenge posed by a human cross-cultural perspective is the assumption of human exceptionalism. The more we learn about the cultures of other species, the more we recognize that we coexist with a diverse array of beings, each with their own values and emotions.
It took over 50 years for the importance of non-human cultures highlighted in Goodall’s findings to gain traction among conservation groups. As time progresses, we continue to dismantle the myth of human exceptionalism. We do not need to explore distant galaxies to find intelligent, civilized beings; numerous other cultural life forms already share our planet. Embracing this knowledge can drive the transformative changes necessary to fulfill our commitments as guardians of this rich biocultural diversity.
Philippa Brakes is a behavioral ecologist at Massey University in New Zealand. Mark Bekoff is Professor Emeritus at the University of Colorado Boulder.
Researchers caution that the implementation of AI models in scientific laboratories poses risks, potentially leading to dangerous experiments that could result in fires or explosions. While these models offer a convincing semblance of understanding, they might lack essential safety protocols. Recent testing on 19 advanced AI models revealed that all of them are capable of making critical errors.
Although severe accidents in academic laboratories are uncommon, they are not unheard of. Chemist Karen Wetterhahn tragically lost her life in 1997 due to dimethylmercury penetrating her protective gloves. In another incident in 2016, a researcher suffered severe injuries from an explosion; and in 2014, another scientist was partially blinded.
AI models are increasingly being utilized across various industries, including research institutions, for experiment and procedure design. Specialized AI tools have demonstrated success in various scientific sectors, such as biology, meteorology, and mathematics. However, general-purpose models often generate inaccurate responses due to gaps in their data access. While this may be manageable in casual applications like travel planning or cooking, it poses life-threatening risks when devising chemical experiments.
To assess these risks, Zhang Xiangliang, a professor at the University of Notre Dame, developed LabSafety Bench, a testing mechanism that evaluates whether an AI model can recognize potential dangers and adverse outcomes. This includes 765 multiple-choice questions and 404 scenario-based illustrations that highlight safety concerns.
In multiple-choice assessments, some AI models, like Vicuna, scored barely above random guessing, while GPT-4o achieved an 86.55% accuracy rate, and DeepSeek-R1 reached 84.49%. In image-based evaluations, models like InstructBlip-7B demonstrated less than 30% accuracy. The team evaluated 19 state-of-the-art large-scale language models (LLMs) and vision-language models and found that none surpassed a 70% overall accuracy.
Although Zhang expresses optimism about the future of AI in scientific applications, particularly in “self-driving laboratories” where robots operate autonomously, he underscores that these models are not yet equipped to plan experiments effectively. “Currently? In the lab? I don’t think so. These models are primarily trained for general tasks, such as email drafting or paper summarization, excelling in those areas but lacking expertise in laboratory safety,” he states.
An OpenAI representative commented, “We welcome research aimed at making AI safe and reliable in scientific settings, particularly where safety is a concern.” They noted that the recent tests had not included any of their major models. “GPT-5.2 is the most advanced scientific model to date, offering enhanced reasoning, planning, and error detection capabilities to support researchers better while ensuring that human oversight remains paramount for safety-critical decisions.”
Requests for comments from Google, DeepSeek, Meta, Mistral, and Anthropic went unanswered.
Alan Tucker from Brunel University in London asserts that while AI models may prove incredibly useful for aiding human experiment design, their deployment must be approached cautiously. He emphasizes, “It’s evident that new generations of LLMs are being utilized inappropriately because of misplaced trust. Evidence suggests that people may be relying too heavily on AI to perform critical tasks without adequate oversight.”
Craig Malik, a professor at UCLA, shared his recent experience testing an AI model’s response to a hypothetical sulfuric acid spill. The correct procedure—rinsing with water—was contrary to the model’s repeated warnings against it, which instead offered unrelated advice about potential heat buildup. However, he noted that the model’s responses had improved in recent months.
Malik stressed the necessity of fostering robust safety practices among new students due to their inexperience. Yet he remains more optimistic than some peers about the role AI could play in experimental design, stating, “Are they worse than humans? While it’s valid to critique these large-scale models, it’s important to realize they haven’t been tested against a representative human cohort. Some individuals are very cautious, while others are not. It’s conceivable that these models could outperform a percentage of novice graduates or even experienced researchers. Moreover, these models are continuously evolving, indicating that the findings from this paper may be outdated within months.”
Four astronauts successfully returned to Earth early Thursday morning, concluding an eventful and extraordinary week in space. The crew made an early departure from the International Space Station as a result of medical issues that emerged during their mission.
NASA astronauts Zena Cardman, Mike Finke, Japanese astronaut Kamiya Yui, and Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov made a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego at 3:41 a.m. ET after an 11-hour journey.
“On behalf of SpaceX and NASA, welcome home, Crew-11,” mission controllers communicated to the astronauts shortly after the Dragon capsule’s touchdown.
This return marks a historic moment, being the first instance in the ISS’s 25-year history where a mission was terminated early due to medical complications.
On Thursday, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon Endeavor spacecraft splashed down in the Pacific Ocean near San Diego, California. NASA
Out of respect for medical privacy, NASA has not disclosed the identities of the crew members involved or specific details surrounding the medical incident. The situation remains stable and is not deemed an emergency.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman stated in a recent press conference that the early return decision was made with an emphasis on precaution.
The medical issue led to the cancellation of a planned spacewalk scheduled for January 8, during which Cardman and Finke were set to perform modifications outside the ISS.
The recovery team approaches the Dragon capsule. NASA
Prior to leaving the space station, Finke reassured that he and his colleagues were “stable, safe, and well cared for.”
“This decision was made to facilitate proper medical evaluation in a controlled environment with complete diagnostic capabilities,” Finke mentioned in a statement on LinkedIn. “While it’s bittersweet, it’s the right call.”
The astronauts returned in the same SpaceX Dragon capsule that had transported them to the ISS.
The return mission proceeded without incident, with air traffic controllers reporting favorable weather conditions at the landing site off the California coast. The capsule’s drogue and main parachutes deployed successfully just before landing, ensuring a safe splashdown.
NASA’s Crew 11 Endeavor spacecraft during recovery efforts. NASA
SpaceX recovery teams promptly arrived to assess the capsule and ensure it was safe to open the hatch. Dolphins were also spotted joyfully swimming in the vicinity.
The Crew-11 astronauts spent 165 days aboard the space station. For Cardman and Platonov, this represents their first spaceflight, while Yui has now completed her second journey. Finke has successfully finished four missions in total.
The astronauts were scheduled to stay on the ISS until late February but returned early, leaving only three crew members onboard: NASA’s Chris Williams and Russian cosmonauts Sergei Kud-Sverchkov and Sergei Mikayev.
Inside the International Space Station’s Kibo Experiment Module: NASA astronaut Mike Finke, Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov, NASA astronaut Zena Cardman, and JAXA astronaut Kamiya Yui. NASA/AP
The next crew rotation for the space station is expected to launch by February 15, but NASA is exploring options for an expedited flight. Nonetheless, Williams is likely to be the only NASA astronaut responsible for U.S. scientific experiments and operations at the station for several weeks to come.
The Woolly Rhino (Coelodonta antiquitatis) is a fascinating cold-adapted herbivore that went extinct approximately 14,000 years ago. Despite its extinction, little is understood about the factors leading to its population decline. A recent study by scientists from the Center for Paleogenetics and Stockholm University successfully generated a high-coverage genome from one of the last known woolly rhinoceros specimens, recovered from the stomach of a frozen wolf pup in Siberian permafrost. This genomic analysis, when combined with data from two other late Pleistocene woolly rhinoceroses, reveals that the population was stable, lacking any genomic evidence of rapid declines before extinction—contrasting sharply with other endangered and extinct species.
This depiction of a Pleistocene landscape in northern Spain features woolly mammoths (Mammuthus primigenius), equids, woolly rhinoceros (Coelodonta antiquitatis), and the European cave lion (Panthera leo spelaea) alongside reindeer carcasses. Image credit: Mauricio Anton.
The woolly rhino, a cold-adapted herbivore, first appeared around 350,000 years ago and thrived across northern Eurasia until its extinction roughly 14,000 years ago.
Its habitat began to contract eastward approximately 35,000 years ago, likely due to adverse environmental conditions in Western Europe.
This species persisted in northeastern Siberia and showcased complex range shifts in response to changing environments until disappearing from the fossil record.
Earlier genomic studies have shown no signs of recent inbreeding in individuals dating back 18,400 and 48,500 years; however, this is the first time an entire genome has been successfully recovered from a specimen so close to the extinction timeline.
“Recovering genomes from individuals that lived just before extinction is challenging but crucial for understanding a species’ decline, which can inform current conservation efforts for endangered species,” stated Dr. Camilo Chacon-Duque, the lead author of the study.
The newly sequenced woolly rhinoceros genome was sourced from muscle tissue found within a permafrost-preserved wolf pup recovered from northeastern Siberia.
Radiocarbon dating indicates that both the wolf and the tissue are about 14,400 years old, making it one of the youngest known woolly rhino remains.
“Sequencing the entire genome of an Ice Age animal found in another animal’s stomach is unprecedented,” Dr. Chacon-Duque commented.
By comparing this genome with two previously published late Pleistocene woolly rhinoceros genomes, researchers assessed genome-wide diversity, inbreeding, genetic load, and population size changes before extinction.
Results indicated a lack of long homozygous segments typically seen in populations experiencing recent inbreeding, suggesting stability in population size just centuries before extinction.
“DNA extraction from such a rare sample was both thrilling and immensely challenging,” said Solveig Gjonsdottir, the lead study author.
Researchers also mapped changes in effective population size and found no decline at the beginning of the Inter-Bolling-Allerod warm period, starting around 14,700 years ago.
The data imply that woolly rhinoceros extinction likely happened rapidly during this climate change period, or over a timeframe that left no detectable genomic evidence.
“Our analysis reveals an unexpectedly stable genetic pattern, showcasing unaltered inbreeding levels over tens of thousands of years prior to the woolly rhino’s extinction,” said co-author Dr. Edana Lord.
“Our findings indicate that woolly rhinos maintained viable populations for 15,000 years following the arrival of the first humans in northeastern Siberia. This suggests that climate warming, rather than human hunting, was the primary driver of their extinction,” co-author Professor Rab Dalen concluded.
For further details, refer to the study results published in Genome Biology and Evolution.
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Solveig M. Gudjonsdottir et al. 2026. Genome reveals no recent inbreeding in endangered woolly rhinoceros sample found in ancient wolf stomach. Genome Biology and Evolution 18 (1): evaf239; doi: 10.1093/gbe/evaf239
Two ancient wolf cubs, discovered buried in the Siberian permafrost over a decade ago, are now shedding new light on their past through rich DNA evidence hidden in their remains.
For the first time, researchers have uncovered a piece of woolly rhino meat—an animal comparable in size to modern white rhinos but with a thick furry coat—preserved in the stomach of one of the wolf puppies. The DNA from this meat and fur has remarkably survived for over 14,000 years under the ice, enabling scientists to sequence the entire genome. They published their findings in the Wednesday Journal “Genome Biology and Evolution”.
“This is the first instance where an entire genome has been reconstructed from an Ice Age animal found within another Ice Age animal,” stated study author Camilo Chacón-Duque, an evolutionary biologist from Uppsala University in Sweden. “The genome quality is exceptional and of high resolution.”
A piece of woolly rhinoceros tissue found in the stomach of a preserved wolf pup in Stockholm in 2020.love darren
The woolly rhinoceros in question went extinct approximately 14,400 years ago, just a few hundred years prior to its disappearance from the fossil record. This gives researchers a unique glimpse into the genome of a species on the brink of extinction.
“This sample represents the youngest woolly rhinoceros ever sequenced, marking the closest proximity of the species to extinction,” Chacon-Duque noted.
Evolutionary biologists have long debated whether it was human hunters or climate change that ultimately led to the woolly rhinoceros’s extinction. New genomic data indicates that the population may have been robust until its sudden decline.
Tumat-1 wolf pup in Vienna in 2018.Miech Germonpre
The first of the two small puppies was discovered by ivory hunters searching for mammoth tusks in Siberia nearly 15 years ago, with the other being found four years later.
These mummified animals, known as the “Tumat pups,” have unexpectedly aided scientists in exploring the fate of another species.
According to the research, both puppies were female and likely littermates, found just six feet apart and sharing several DNA traits, as noted in a study published in Quaternary Research magazine last year.
A section of permafrost where a Tumat wolf pup was discovered near the Russian village of Tumato in 2011. Co-author Sergei Fedorov and his colleagues are in the foreground.Sergey Fedorov
“They died at a young age, around nine weeks,” explained Anne-Catherine Wyborg Runge, co-author of the Quaternary research paper. “At that age, they still had their baby teeth.”
Initial studies suggested that thawing permafrost may have triggered landslides, entombing the wolves in ice and snow, although it’s also possible that the puppies perished due to a collapsing burrow.
“They would have been buried instantly and then frozen for 14,000 years,” noted Runge’s co-author Nathan Wales, a senior archaeology lecturer at the University of York, UK.
Interestingly, the puppies were discovered near where ancient humans hunted woolly mammoths, suggesting they might have been domesticated dogs rather than wild wolves. However, no mammoth DNA was found in the pup’s stomach. Researchers believe one pup’s last meal was woolly rhinoceros meat, while the other had recently eaten a bird, leaving behind rhino meat and some feathers in the permafrost.
Study co-authors Sergei Fedorov and Mikkel Sinding conducted an autopsy in Vienna in 2018 on a Tumat wolf pup whose stomach contained woolly rhinoceros tissue fragments.Miech Germonpre
In a recent study published Wednesday, Chacón-Duque sequenced resilient chunks of meat from the animal’s last meal.
“This piece had remained in the pup’s stomach for years. It’s truly remarkable,” Runge remarked.
Although complete woolly rhinoceros genomes are rare, researchers compared their findings with two other high-quality genomes from rhinos that went extinct approximately 18,000 and 49,000 years ago.
Rab Dalen, co-author of the new study, poses with a woolly rhinoceros horn.Irina Kirilova
Chacón-Duque and team detected no signs of inbreeding or harmful mutations within the population, indicating it was robust.
“They haven’t identified any indicators suggesting population collapse, which is peculiar considering the species went extinct,” noted Wales, an ancient DNA expert not involved in the study.
Several centuries after the woolly rhinoceros roamed these areas, a significant warming phase commenced in the Northern Hemisphere, marking the end of the Ice Age. Study authors believe this newly sequenced DNA supports the hypothesis that climate change contributed to the woolly rhino’s extinction.
J Camilo Chacón Duque, co-author of the groundbreaking study.Natalia Romagosa
Chacón-Duque posits that the rising temperatures likely exert stress on cold-adapted populations, and human expansion could have facilitated the spread of diseases affecting the woolly rhino.
“All these factors likely interacted synergistically, contributing to the species’ ultimate demise,” Chacón-Duque concluded. “Without a doubt, climate change played a significant role.”
Mick Westbury, an associate professor and expert on ancient rhinos from the Technical University of Denmark, agrees with the theory’s plausibility.
However, Westbury points out that rare ancient DNA can pose interpretation challenges and that generational changes can heavily impact a species’ genetics. The woolly rhinoceros may have been at risk even if genetic analyses did not immediately indicate it.
“Sometimes, genomics alone doesn’t provide the complete picture,” Westbury remarked.
Nonetheless, Westbury suggests that these findings could offer vital insights for conservation efforts as human-induced climate change becomes an increasing threat to existing species.
“Our results indicate that the woolly rhino does not appear to be on the brink of extinction,” Westbury noted. “A species may seem genetically viable on the surface but still face vulnerabilities.”
Thailand’s Chao Phraya River Delta: Rapidly Sinking
Channon Kanjanavasoonthara/Getty Images
The Chao Phraya River Delta, one of the most economically and environmentally vital deltas globally, is sinking at alarming rates, threatening millions with severe flooding. Recent satellite data analysis reveals that subsidence in river deltas is becoming a greater danger to local communities than rising sea levels.
Approximately 500 million people inhabit this delta, including some of the world’s most impoverished communities. This expansive lowland area houses 10 megacities, each boasting populations exceeding 10 million.
Manuchel Shirzai and his team at Virginia Tech researched subsidence rates in 40 global deltas, including the Mekong, Mississippi, Amazon, Zambezi, Yangtze, and Nile rivers.
Shirzaei noted, “As deltas sink, global sea levels are also rising by about 4 millimeters annually, creating a compounded risk of flooding.”
The research utilized data from 2014 to 2023 collected by the European Space Agency’s Sentinel 1 satellite radar, which can detect changes in ground distance with precision up to 0.5 mm. Across the 40 studied deltas, over one-third showed signs of subsidence, with more than half of the area affected in 38 of these regions.
“In numerous cases, land subsidence contributes more to relative sea level rise than the ocean itself,” Shirzaei asserted. “In 18 out of 40 deltas, average subsidence rates surpass sea level rise, with the impacts being significantly pronounced in areas located less than 1 meter above sea level.”
The Chao Phraya Delta, where Bangkok is situated, ranks as the most affected among 40 nations concerning subsidence rates and impacted areas. Here, the average subsidence rate reaches 8 mm per year, which is double the global average for sea level rise, with 94% of the delta sinking at rates above 5 mm per year.
As a result of combined land subsidence and sea level rise, Bangkok and the Chao Phraya Delta confront a formidable projected sea level rise of 12.3 millimeters per year. Other cities like Alexandria in Egypt and Jakarta and Surabaya in Indonesia share similar predicaments of rapid land subsidence.
The researchers analyzed three major anthropogenic pressures: groundwater extraction, sediment alteration, and urban growth to assess their impacts on delta subsidence. Shirzaei explained that upstream dams, levees, and river engineering limit sediment input, which is crucial for delta maintenance, while urban development escalates pressure on delta surfaces and heightens water demand, furthering groundwater depletion.
Among these factors, groundwater extraction poses the most significant impact overall, although specific delta areas may be more influenced by sediment shifts and urbanization, the study found.
Shirzaei emphasized, “It would be misguided for policymakers to concentrate solely on sea level rise due to climate change and overlook local land subsidence. Unlike global sea level rise, human-driven land subsidence can often be tackled locally through groundwater regulation, managed aquifer recharge, and sediment management.”
He also pointed out that water-intensive facilities, such as data centers, may exacerbate this issue. “Our findings reveal that groundwater extraction is a major contributor to accelerated land subsidence in numerous delta regions, which can worsen when such facilities depend on local water sources,” he remarked.
In already vulnerable areas like the Mekong Delta, increasing water demand may hasten land subsidence, jeopardizing drainage, flood protection systems, and the durability of crucial infrastructure. “This doesn’t suggest data centers should be avoided altogether in the delta, but they must prioritize groundwater conservation, minimize overall water use, and take land subsidence into account,” said Shirzaei.
A recently reconstructed genome from a piece of flesh found in the stomach of a wolf pup, dated to 14,400 years ago, reveals that the woolly rhinoceros was genetically robust despite its close proximity to extinction.
While the exact cause of the young female wolf pup’s death, near present-day Tumato in northern Siberia, remains a mystery, it is believed she and her sister, referred to as Tumat puppies, had recently consumed woolly rhinoceros meat (Coelodonta antiquitatis). Their mother inadvertently caused their burial in permafrost when their burrow collapsed.
The first puppy was discovered on-site in 2011, with the second found in 2015. Examination of one puppy’s stomach contents revealed remnants of woolly rhino meat.
Edana Road, a member of the research team at Stockholm University, remarked that the preserved material resembled “fluffy jerky.”
“It was astonishing to see hair still intact,” Lord commented.
Lord stated that the preservation of the tissue was almost miraculous.
“It’s remarkable that, thousands of years later, we retrieved a beautifully preserved mummified wolf pup, analyzed its stomach contents, and uncovered this woolly rhinoceros tissue, shedding light on a previously different species,” Lord adds.
Tumat Wolf Pup: Evidence of Woolly Rhinoceros Diet
Mietje Germonpre
Lord’s team successfully reconstructed the woolly rhinoceros genome, identifying it as a female with no signs of inbreeding.
This groundbreaking finding is significant because it marks the first time DNA has been recovered from a woolly rhinoceros close to the time of its extinction.
The cause behind the woolly rhinoceros’ extinction remains a topic of debate, encompassing the impacts of human hunting, climate change, and inbreeding.
Another researcher on the team, Darren Love, noted that the sample’s hair was yellowish, leading to initial thoughts that it belonged to a cave lion carcass (Panthera spelaea) until DNA analysis was performed.
“As far as I know, sequencing an entire ancient genome from stomach contents has never been accomplished before,” Darren stated.
The research team compared the new genome with two others from the woolly rhinoceros, dating back 18,000 and 49,000 years, discovering no evolution in genetic diversity or inbreeding levels over time.
“Had populations dwindled, we would expect a drop in genetic diversity among woolly rhinoceroses, alongside an increase in inbreeding,” Darren explained.
The researchers concluded that the most probable driver behind the woolly rhinoceros extinction was a rapid climate shift between 14,700 and 12,900 years ago, during the Bølling-Allerød Interstadial, which drastically altered the species’ habitat.
China has proposed launching nearly 200,000 satellites into Earth orbit, potentially aiming to secure orbital space rather than genuinely establishing the largest satellite constellation.
On December 29, China’s newly formed Radio Technology Innovation Research Institute submitted a proposal for two satellite constellations, CTC-1 and CTC-2, to the Chinese government and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which manages frequency allocations in space.
Each constellation will consist of 96,714 satellites arranged across 3,660 orbits. This starkly contrasts with the current active satellite count of approximately 14,300, of which around 9,400 are SpaceX’s Starlink satellites, providing internet service. SpaceX has also applied to the ITU for a total of 42,000 satellites.
Victoria Samson from the US nonprofit Secure World Foundation indicates that this application might reflect a strategy of land grabbing in space. “They might be preparing for something much larger,” she suggests.
By raising this claim with the ITU, other satellite operators intending to launch in the same orbits must prove that their operations won’t be affected. According to ITU regulations, at least one satellite must be launched within seven years of the initial application, and all proposed satellites must be deployed within another seven-year timeframe.
“If you apply early and meet the deadlines, you can deter others from launching in your designated space,” states Tim Farrar, a US satellite communications expert. He further clarifies that China’s extensive applications for multiple orbits suggest some uncertainty in their constellation plans, giving them flexibility. “There’s almost no penalty for doing it this way.”
However, should this application be legitimate, achieving such a launch scale appears nearly impossible. In 2025, China achieved a record of 92 rocket launches. To deploy 200,000 satellites within seven years would necessitate launching over 500 each week, translating to hundreds or even thousands of launches annually.
This is not the first instance of spatial land grabbing; Rwanda previously applied to the ITU for a constellation of 327,000 satellites in 2021, yet this did not impede the operations of Starlink and other satellite providers. “Operations remain largely unchanged,” remarks Farrar. “It seems doubtful that Rwanda will achieve such a massive number of satellite deployments.”
China’s proposal underscores the intensifying rivalry among mega-constellation players, particularly among space internet companies vying for a market potentially encompassing millions or more, thus influencing global information distribution. Many entities are racing to catch up to SpaceX, including Amazon’s Project Leo (formerly Project Kuiper), which has launched about 200 of its intended 3,236 satellites. Additionally, China’s state-backed constellations, Qianfan and Wang, have launched several hundred of their anticipated thousands.
“Fifteen years ago, the notion of a single constellation hosting 1,000 satellites seemed far-fetched,” states Samson. “Currently, over 9,000 personnel are engaged in Starlink operations.”
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If you’re considering running a marathon or starting an intense exercise program this January, why not opt for a simpler goal to enhance your well-being in 2026?
Setting an objective to calm your mind may not sound ambitious, but it offers significant health benefits. A growing body of research highlights the negative impact of stress on overall health, particularly on heart health. Techniques to achieve a calm state can elevate self-reported happiness, enhance emotional regulation, and improve sleep quality research suggests.
This calmness counteracts “allostatic load,” a term used by Sula Windgassen, a health psychologist and author of the upcoming book Everything is Inside Your Body. Chronic stress contributes to wear and tear on the body, overburdening key regulatory systems like metabolic, neuroendocrine, cardiovascular, and immune functions, which can eventually lead to disease.
When discussing stress relief, you’ve likely come across traditional advice such as exercise and deep breathing techniques. While these methods are scientifically validated, there’s emerging evidence pointing to additional calming strategies beyond a digital detox or time spent in nature.
Develop a Sense of Control
Research shows that enhancing your perception of control over stressors can aid in managing them. For example, in a study, participants who completed daily questionnaires about their stressors reported that feeling in control correlated with resolving stress more effectively.
“It’s not that the stressor goes away; rather, individuals feel empowered to address it, letting it go or resolving it,” says David M. Almeida from Pennsylvania State University, a key researcher in the study.
Achieving this sense of control involves small, manageable changes. “Feeling in control doesn’t imply you have everything figured out; it means being aware of factors you can influence during stressful situations.” This might look like deciding your response, determining when to engage, or finding a resolution path.
Interestingly, your age may influence how easily you feel in control. “Longitudinal studies indicate that while older adults may feel less control over work demands and family matters, they often maintain a strong sense of control in interpersonal conflicts,” Almeida explains. “This allows individuals to focus on what truly matters.”
Practice Self-Compassion
Research increasingly supports the idea that self-kindness can mitigate stress’s adverse effects on mental health, as indicated in a 2024 study. This research assessed self-compassion levels and participants rated statements such as, “I strive to understand and be patient with parts of my personality I dislike.” Researchers later investigated how these feelings affected coping mechanisms.
Data revealed that increased self-compassion fostered healthier coping strategies, enhancing psychological well-being while reducing anxiety, depression, and stress during a six-week study period.
Using Various Self-Care Techniques for Inner Calm
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These findings support earlier research, which suggests that self-compassion can buffer against the harsh realities of stress. Psychologist Kristin Neff, a pioneer in self-compassion research, emphasizes three components: self-kindness, recognizing our shared humanity, and mindfulness, which allows us to separate ourselves from painful emotions.
Self-compassion works by reducing self-criticism and rumination, according to William Van Gordon, a Chartered Psychologist and Associate Professor of Contemplative Psychology at the University of Derby. However, he advises moderation to avoid self-obsession, which can lead to heightened stress levels.
A balanced approach includes practicing compassion for both yourself and others. Van Gordon recommends active listening when someone shares their struggles with you, making eye contact, putting away your phone, and fully engaging with them (“That sounds really challenging, I’m sorry to hear that.”). Additionally, loving-kindness meditation can be beneficial; spend 10-15 minutes daily sending well wishes to others using phrases like “May you be happy” and “May you be peaceful.”
Revamp Your Self-Care Practices
Self-care strategies play a significant role in stress management, as extensively documented in the literature. Recent studies indicate that integrating diverse self-care methods into your routine yields the best results. For instance, a study published in August explored how individuals coped with stresses during the coronavirus pandemic, analyzing participants’ journaling about their anxiety levels and the coping techniques employed.
I’ve discovered that a blend of strategies such as journaling, exercise, social interaction, and cognitive reframing—like focusing on the positive aspects of not receiving a promotion—has proven most effective.
“Different combinations of tools worked for different individuals on different days,” explains Ethan Cross, an experimental psychologist from the University of Michigan involved in the research. “Those adept at managing emotions benefited from having a wide array of emotional regulation strategies.”
The largest analysis of Tyrannosaurus rex fossils reveals that this colossal Cretaceous predator took approximately 35 to 40 years to reach maturity, significantly longer than previously believed.
This research suggests that there may have been multiple species of Tyrannosaurus rather than just one, raising questions about whether small specimens attributed to juveniles might actually belong to a distinct species known as Nanotyrannus.
Before this study, it was assumed that Tyrannosaurus rex reached a maximum weight of 8 tons by around 20 years of age and could have a lifespan of only 30 years.
“Previous growth studies on Tyrannosaurus rex were conducted in the early 2000s and were based on a limited sample size of seven specimens,” explains Holly Ballard from Oklahoma State University. “This was not the researchers’ fault; it was the available data at the time.”
Through their recent study, Ballard and her colleagues analyzed thigh and tibia bones from 17 specimens ranging in age from juvenile to adult, making it the largest dataset for Tyrannosaurus growth ever collected.
The research team examined the microstructure of bone tissue, including growth rings formed annually, similar to tree rings. However, the earliest growth rings were often destroyed as the marrow cavity expanded, necessitating a greater number of specimens across overlapping growth stages.
“This is why our sample size and age distribution are so critical and set us apart from past studies,” Ballard emphasizes.
The analysis revealed that Tyrannosaurus rex grows more slowly than initially thought, with growth rates varying based on environmental factors.
However, determining the maximum age of Tyrannosaurus rex remains problematic, as animals cease to grow annual rings upon reaching maturity. “The most successful Tyrannosaurus likely lived to be around 40 years old, with very few individuals achieving that age,” Ballard notes. “In our sample, only two individuals reached full adult size.”
Interestingly, two other specimens exhibited slower growth, indicating they might belong to a different species, such as Nanotyrannus, or that they were possibly Tyrannosaurus rex that were sick or stunted due to environmental factors.
Lindsey Zanno from the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences describes this study as one of the most comprehensive investigations of Tyrannosaurus rex growth to date, building on her recent research suggesting that a small specimen from Montana might be a fully grown Tyrannosaurus rex around 20 years old, potentially named Nanotyrannus lansensis.
“I’m thrilled to finally have a growth curve for Tyrannosaurus rex that we can assert with confidence,” Zanno comments, especially regarding Nanotyrannus.
Thomas Carr from Carthage College in Wisconsin believes that this study will likely lead to the separation of Tyrannosaurus rex into different species and expects it to influence future dinosaur research significantly.
“We anticipate that growth estimates for other dinosaurs will undergo reassessment,” Carr states. “Overall, this could transform our understanding of dinosaur growth and development across the spectrum.”
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Sawa Housing: Sustainable Wood Construction in Rotterdam
Image Credit: Hollandse Hoogte/Shutterstock
To combat global warming and maintain temperatures below 2°C, cities must drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions from construction and infrastructure by over 90% within the next 20 to 40 years. This necessitates significant shifts in building design, material choices, or both.
“Canada aims to triple its housing construction rates amidst widespread housing shortages in the U.S., Australia, and many other countries,” explains Shoshanna Saxe from the University of Toronto. “How can we simultaneously meet these housing demands while significantly curbing pollution?”
Despite challenges, Saxe is optimistic. “We are already constructing buildings that meet sustainability goals; we just need to scale up our efforts,” she asserts. “Our expertise and knowledge are long-established; we need to utilize them effectively.”
Globally, the construction sector generates 10-20% of greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from cement production. Thus, understanding current construction emissions is crucial for countries and cities to plan reductions aligned with international climate objectives.
However, Saxe’s research team discovered a surprising lack of studies estimating construction emissions at the city level in Toronto.
“We developed a method to estimate city-level construction emissions and forecast future emissions to adhere to climate limits,” says team member Keegan Rankin, also from the University of Toronto.
Rankin’s analysis covered 1,033 cities, integrating existing models used for assessing the environmental impact of construction. He utilized data on city population, construction investment, and employment from sources like ExioBase. “These datasets were readily available, but combining them innovatively was unprecedented,” Saxe notes.
The team concluded the rate at which each city must reduce construction emissions to meet global carbon budget limits for a 2°C increase. “Understanding these budgets is essential for effective planning,” says Saxe.
The findings indicated that focusing solely on single-family homes to address housing needs would exhaust these budgets; cities should prioritize developing more efficient apartment buildings.
Employing alternative materials like wood and recycled concrete can help lower emissions, but good design remains paramount, adds Saxe.
“It’s a common misconception that merely building with wood resolves emission issues,” she clarifies. “Wood also emits greenhouse gases, and overly optimistic assumptions about forests may only lead to minimal emissions reductions.”
“Thoughtful building design is vital to minimize wasted space and materials,” Saxe emphasizes.
Rankin asserts that cities are uniquely positioned to implement change. “Cities are actively pursuing climate action and hold significant sway over construction practices,” he remarks. “As we identified in Toronto, many cities lack the resources to make informed budgeting choices.”
“Achieving the Paris Agreement’s goals hinges on addressing construction sector emissions, irrespective of reductions in other emissions,” says Prajar Pradhan from the University of Groningen. “Viewing emissions from a city budget perspective is also pivotal.”
It’s crucial to design buildings for low emissions not only during construction but throughout their lifespan, states Susan Roaf from Heriot-Watt University in the UK. “We cannot populate our growing cities with inefficient, pollution-heavy ‘zombie buildings,'” she cautions. Natural ventilation solutions can be a key factor in sustainability.
To reduce construction emissions effectively, prioritization of projects is essential. Saxe points out, “Canada continues to invest heavily in oil and gas infrastructure. We could accommodate housing for 10 million people without increasing emissions simply by reallocating those resources.”
Four astronauts are set to return from the International Space Station (ISS) on Wednesday night, departing weeks earlier than originally planned due to health concerns.
NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Finke, alongside Japanese cosmonaut Kamiya Yui and Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov, will make their journey back to Earth aboard the same SpaceX Dragon capsule that previously transported them to the ISS. This group, known as “Crew-11,” is expected to undock at around 5:05 p.m. ET.
This incident marks the first time in the ISS’s 25-year history that a mission has had to be cut short due to a medical issue while in orbit. Though NASA has not disclosed specifics regarding the affected crew members or the nature of their medical issues, citing privacy concerns, officials reassured the public that the situation is stable and does not warrant an emergency evacuation.
“First and foremost, we’re all okay,” Finke stated in a LinkedIn post over the weekend. “Everyone on board is stable, safe, and well cared for. This decision allows for a comprehensive medical evaluation on the ground where all diagnostic capabilities exist. This is the correct decision, even if it feels somewhat bittersweet.”
If undocking proceeds as scheduled, Crew-11 astronauts are anticipated to splash down in the Pacific Ocean off California’s coast around 3:41 a.m. ET on Thursday. The journey back will take approximately 11 hours, including a deorbit burn to slow the spacecraft before it re-enters Earth’s atmosphere, culminating in a parachute landing underwater.
Arriving at the ISS in August, Cardman, Finke, Yui, and Platonov were initially slated to remain until the end of February. However, a recent medical incident involving a crew member led NASA to cancel a planned spacewalk, which Cardman and Finke were set to conduct for station exterior renovations. Following this, the decision was made to expedite the crew’s return as a precautionary measure.
“After thorough consultation with Chief Medical Officer Dr. J.D. Polk and various agency leaders, we concluded that it is in the best interest of the astronauts to return Crew-11 ahead of the original schedule,” stated NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman on Thursday.
The astronauts are expected to land on Earth before the next space station crew takes off, but NASA confirms that Flight Engineer Chris Williams and two Russian cosmonauts will remain aboard. NASA officials are exploring options to expedite the next launch. The upcoming mission, known as Crew 12, is planned for a launch by February 15, but Williams will presumably be the sole NASA astronaut managing U.S. scientific experiments and operations on the ISS for several weeks.
During a “change of command” ceremony prior to departure on Monday, Finke officially handed over command of the space station to cosmonaut Sergei Kud-Sverchkov.
“Sergei, it is both an honor and a pleasure to hand over command to you,” Finke remarked.
He referred to the crew’s unexpectedly early departure as “an interesting time,” reminiscing positively about their experience in orbit.
“We come from diverse places around the globe and work collaboratively,” Finke concluded. “This is a fantastic representation of what humanity can achieve together.”
The impact of climate change is accelerating faster than anticipated, with governments and businesses continuing to underestimate associated risks. These risks could lead to economic losses reaching trillions of dollars by 2050.
According to reports from climate scientists and financial experts, the world might be significantly underestimating the speed of global warming, facing the prospect of “planetary bankruptcy.” This means climate change could cause extensive damage to both the environment and economic growth.
Decision-makers often concentrate on intermediate climate impact estimates. However, with phenomena such as extreme precipitation occurring sooner than projected, preparations for worst-case scenarios are necessary, as indicated in the report.
“Urgent global cooperation on a solvency plan is essential,” says David King, former chief climate adviser to the UK government, who contributed to the report. “We’re experiencing an acceleration in temperature rise. While the future is uncertain, it’s reasonable to assume that this trend won’t reverse.”
The initial step towards such a plan could involve reevaluating the assumption that the global economy will continue to grow indefinitely. Sandy Trust, a British investment manager at Baillie Gifford, remarked that according to the Network for Greening the Financial System, the world could incur trillions in annual losses by 2050 due to climate impacts. However, the network believes that a recession is unlikely, as global economic growth might outpace these losses.
“This is akin to Titanic risk modeling, predicting a smooth journey from the deck of the Titanic in April 1912,” Trust adds. “Such assumptions overlook fundamental principles of risk management—most notably, the importance of planning for worst-case scenarios.”
Preparation for the worst is critical, according to a report from the European Union’s Copernicus climate change agency. The study highlighted that 2025 was the third warmest year on record, with average temperatures rising 1.47 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. The temperatures in 2024 were even higher, leading to a three-year average exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius for the first time.
This growth represents a step closer to the 20-30 year average needed to achieve the Paris Agreement goal of limiting temperature rises to below 1.5 degrees Celsius. Ten years since the agreement was signed, projections indicated that the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold would be reached by 2045. However, if current trends persist, according to Copernicus’ data, we could breach this critical limit by 2030.
Scientists indicate that the rate of global warming is speeding up, largely due to declining air pollution levels, including sulfur emissions from coal-fired power plants and shipping. With clearer skies, more sunlight reaches the Earth, leading to an apparent increase of about 0.5 degrees Celsius.
However, the primary factor behind breaching the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold sooner than predicted is the relentless rise in greenhouse gas emissions. Samantha Burgess from Copernicus emphasizes that fossil fuel emissions are expected to hit record levels in 2025.
“Emissions are not decreasing as quickly as anticipated,” Burgess comments.
With each increment of warming, extreme weather events become increasingly frequent and severe. The January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles may potentially mark the most costly natural disaster in U.S. history, exacerbated by the climate crisis which will likely double their frequency and amplify their severity by 25 times. Hurricane Melissa, the most powerful storm to make landfall in the Atlantic, had wind speeds at least 10 miles per hour higher than would normally be expected without climate change.
“This figure represents a global average; thus, 1.5 degrees Celsius of global warming means that heatwaves can be 3 to 4 degrees, or even 10 degrees hotter than usual,” Burgess explains. “The younger generation will face even more extreme heat and climate risks than we did.”
The polar regions are warming at a pace faster than others, mainly due to feedback mechanisms, such as the loss of reflective snow and ice. In fact, last year witnessed record warmth in Antarctica, attributed to an unusual stratospheric heating event. The extent of sea ice across the Arctic and Antarctic has now reached unprecedented lows.
On a positive note, global emissions are showing a leveling-off trend, specifically in China, where emissions have stabilized.
“With CO2 emissions plateauing, we anticipate continued warming, but not at an accelerated rate,” states Timothy Osborne of the University of East Anglia, UK.
Addressing methane leaks from infrastructures like gas pipelines and aging coal mines could provide a short-term solution, King suggests. Reducing methane emissions by 30% over the next decade could mitigate global warming by at least 0.2 degrees Celsius by 2050.
“We must also tackle other slow-moving issues, which are vital elements of our path forward,” King asserts. “An overshoot beyond 1.5 degrees Celsius presents significant challenges for humanity.”
Astronomers utilizing NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope have captured the most detailed infrared images of the Circus Galaxy’s core, making it one of the closest known active galaxies to the Milky Way. Webb’s observations indicate that much of the hot dust surrounding supermassive black holes in galaxies is being drawn into the black holes themselves, contrary to previous models that suggested powerful outward streams.
The Hubble image showcases the Circinus Galaxy, a spiral galaxy located approximately 13 million light-years away in the southern constellation Circinus. A close-up from Webb reveals the core’s glow in infrared light, highlighting the intricate features obscured by dust. Image credits: NASA / ESA / CSA / Webb / Hubble / Enrique Lopez-Rodriguez, University of South Carolina / Deepashri Thatte, STScI / Alyssa Pagan, NOIRLab / CTIO at STScI / NSF.
The Circus Galaxy, also known as ESO 97-G13 or LEDA 50779, is situated about 13 million light-years from Earth, nestled south of the constellation Circinus. This galaxy has fascinated astronomers due to its center being enveloped in a dense cloud of gas and dust.
Traditional ground-based telescopes have faced challenges in isolating regions near the central black hole, where matter spirals inwards and emanates intense infrared light. However, Webb’s state-of-the-art technology enabled Dr. Julien Girard and his team at the Space Telescope Science Institute to pierce through this dust veil with extraordinary clarity.
This remarkable breakthrough was achieved by employing Webb’s Near-Infrared Imager and Slitless Spectrometer (NIRISS) in a specialized high-contrast mode known as aperture masking interferometry.
This innovative technique transforms the instrument into a compact interferometer, merging light captured through various small apertures to generate precise interference patterns.
By examining these patterns, astronomers were able to reconstruct a finely detailed image of the Circus Galaxy’s central engine, revealing that the majority of infrared radiation originates from the donut-shaped torus of dust encircling the black hole, rather than from materials being ejected outward.
Dr. Girard remarked, “This is the first instance where Webb’s high-contrast mode has been employed to observe an extragalactic source.” He expressed hope that their findings will inspire fellow astronomers to leverage aperture masking interferometry to study faint but relatively small, dusty structures surrounding bright objects.
The supermassive black hole remains active, continuously consuming surrounding matter. Gas and dust conglomerate in a torus around the black hole, forming a rotating accretion disk as material spirals inward. This disk generates heat through friction, releasing light across diverse wavelengths, including infrared.
New data from Webb indicate that most of the infrared emissions near the center of the Circus Galaxy stem from the innermost region of this dusty torus, challenging previous assumptions that outflow dominated emissions.
This pioneering technique lays the groundwork for more profound investigations of black holes in other galaxies. By applying Webb’s high-contrast imaging to subsequent targets, researchers aim to establish a broader catalog of emission patterns, which could ascertain whether the behavior observed in the Circus Galaxy is typical among active galactic nuclei or a distinct case.
Their discoveries not only present a clearer perspective on the feeding mechanisms of black holes but also underscore the escalating power of interferometry in space-based astronomy.
More observations are forthcoming, as Webb continues to redefine what can be observed from the most concealed regions of the universe.
Dr. Enrique López Rodríguez, an astronomer at the University of South Carolina, noted, “We will likely require a statistical sample of a dozen or two dozen black holes to comprehend how the mass of the accretion disk and its outflow correlate with the black hole’s power.”
For further details, refer to the results published in today’s edition of Nature Communications.
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E. Lopez Rodriguez et al. 2026. JWST interferometry imaging reveals a dusty torus obscuring the Circinus Galaxy’s supermassive black hole. Nat Commun 17, 42; doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-66010-5
The Armored Rockhead Poacher (Boslagonus Swanee) possesses a mysterious anatomical feature: a bowl-shaped cavity in its skull that has puzzled marine biologists for years. This unique trait is now believed to play a critical role in an innovative form of communication.
The Rockhead Poacher (Boslagonus Swanee) at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Image credit: Rhinopias / CC BY-SA 4.0.
Originally described by Franz Steindachner in 1876, Boslagonus Swanee belongs to the family Agonidae. This fascinating fish can be found at depths of up to 18 meters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, from Alaska down to Carmel Bay in California.
Marine experts have long speculated about the purpose of the cavernous cranial fossa, which is roughly the size of the fish’s brain. Some theories suggest it aids in camouflage among rocky environments, while others propose it enhances hearing and sensory perception.
Recent advancements in imaging technology have led Louisiana State University student Daniel Geldof to propose a groundbreaking explanation. His findings suggest it might resonate with the rhythm of rock music rather than the serenity of coral reefs.
“My dissertation project aims to uncover the reasons behind this unique feature,” Geldof explained.
Utilizing a high-resolution micro-CT scanner, his team created an intricate 3D model of the rockhead poacher’s anatomy.
These scans indicated that the fish’s initial set of ribs are notably large, flat, and free-moving, positioned near the epigastric region of the skull without direct attachment.
Located at the base of these ribs are powerful muscles and tendons resembling drumsticks.
When these ribs vibrate against the skull’s calcified cavities, they create pulses of sound that can be transmitted through the substrate.
Geldof posits that this percussive mechanism likely evolved to facilitate communication among fish in their acoustically challenging intertidal habitats, where traditional underwater communication might be hindered by crashing waves and background noise.
In this rugged, shallow environment, using substrate vibrations may provide a more efficient means of communication aligned with the fish’s unique lifestyle.
Furthermore, Professor Geldof’s research combined contrast-enhanced soft tissue scans with data on bone structures to map the nerves, muscles, and microstructures within rockhead poachers, suggesting that the cranial fossa may serve sensory functions as well.
Branches of the dorsal lateral line nerve—a crucial component of the fish’s movement-sensing system—extend into the cavity, and the arrangement of microstructures suggests a role in mechanoreception, allowing the fish to sense movement and pressure.
Geldof concludes that this anatomical feature is multifunctional, serving both communicative and sensory purposes within the dynamic intertidal ecosystem.
“The intricate details of this small structure reflect not just a scientific inquiry, but a fundamental human curiosity,” he states.
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Daniel L. Geldof 2025. The Truth About Holes: The Morphology of Rockhead Poachers’ Skull Holes, Boslagonus Swanee (Agonidae). LSU Master’s Thesis 6270
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