Researchers have brought ancient microorganisms back to life from permafrost cores dating back up to 40,000 years, extracted from four sites within the permafrost research tunnel near Fairbanks, Alaska. They found that as underground permafrost melts, microbial activity begins with a slow “awakening”, but significant transformations in the microbial community occur within six months.
Archaeal abundance in whole samples collected from a permafrost research tunnel near Fairbanks, Alaska. Image credits: Caro et al., doi: 10.1029/2025jg008759.
Currently, permafrost across the globe is melting at an alarming pace due to climate change driven by human activities.
Scientists are concerned that this could initiate a dangerous feedback loop. When permafrost thaws, the microorganisms within the soil begin to decompose organic matter and release it into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide and methane, both potent greenhouse gases.
“This is one of the biggest uncertainties in climate response,” stated Professor Sebastian Copp from the University of Colorado at Boulder.
“How does the thawing of this frozen ground, which contains significant amounts of stored carbon, impact the ecology and climate change rate in these areas?”
To investigate these uncertainties, researchers visited the US Army Corps of Engineers’ permafrost tunnels, a distinctive research setting.
The facility has been extended over 107 meters (350 feet) and continues toward the frozen ground below central Alaska.
Scientists have gathered permafrost samples ranging from thousands to tens of thousands of years old from the tunnel walls.
The samples were then treated with water and incubated at temperatures of 4°C and 12°C (39°F and 54°F).
“We aimed to replicate scenarios that would occur during Alaska’s summers under projected future climatic conditions that allow these temperatures to penetrate deeper into permafrost,” explained Dr. Tristan Caro, a postdoctoral researcher at Caltech.
The researchers utilized water containing unusually heavy hydrogen atoms, referred to as deuterium, to track how microorganisms absorbed water and used hydrogen to construct lipid membranes surrounding all living cells.
In the initial months, these colonies grew slowly, with some even replacing only one cell for every 100,000 daily.
In laboratory settings, most bacterial colonies can be entirely replenished in a matter of hours.
However, by the six-month mark, everything had transformed. Some bacterial colonies even developed visible biofilms.
“These microorganisms likely pose no threat to human health, but they were kept in sealed environments nonetheless,” remarked Dr. Karo.
“The colonies don’t seem to wake up quickly in warmer temperatures.”
“These findings may provide insights regarding thawing permafrost in real-world conditions. It appears that after a warm period, microorganisms can take several months to start emitting significant quantities of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.”
“This means that a longer Arctic summer increases risks for the planet.”
“While a single hot day might occur during an Alaskan summer, the primary concern is the prolonged summer season, with warm temperatures extending into autumn and spring.”
“Many questions remain unresolved about these microorganisms, such as whether ancient organisms exhibit similar behavior in different global locations.”
“There is an abundance of permafrost worldwide. In Alaska, Siberia, and other northern cold regions, our sampling covered only a small fraction of that.”
The findings were published on September 23rd in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences.
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Takaro et al. 2025. Microbial resuscitation and growth rates in deep permafrost: Lipid-stable isotope probing results from the permafrost research tunnel in Fox, Alaska. JGR Biogeosciences 130 (9): e2025jg008759; doi: 10.1029/2025jg008759
AI can be utilized to synthesize the toxin lysine, which is also sourced from castor beans found in many gardens.
American Photo Archives/Alamy
Artificial intelligence holds the potential to revolutionize biology, enhancing the development of advanced drugs, vaccines, and even synthetic organisms that can, for instance, consume waste plastic. Nonetheless, there are concerns about its potential misuse in creating biological weapons that might evade traditional detection methods until it is too late. So, what level of concern is warranted?
“AI advancements are catalyzing breakthroughs in biology and medicine,” states Eric Horvitz, Chief Science Officer at Microsoft. “With these new capabilities comes the responsibility to remain vigilant.”
His research team explored whether AI could be utilized to design proteins that mimic the functions of known hazardous proteins while being distinct enough to avoid detection as dangerous. The specific proteins they attempted to redesign were not disclosed, although some research details were withheld, including toxins such as lysine, infamous for its role in a 1978 assassination, and botulinum, a potent neurotoxin known as Botox.
Creating numerous proteins akin to Botulinum requires a blueprint—the DNA that encodes it. Typically, if biologists need a specific DNA sequence, they order it from specialized companies.
Due to anxieties about bioterrorism, the option to order recipes for biological weapons exists through this method. Some DNA synthesis companies have voluntarily implemented screening processes to detect potentially hazardous orders. Proteins are essentially sequences of amino acids, and the screening examines whether the amino acid sequences correspond to a “sequence of concern,” meaning a biological threat.
However, AI theoretically enables the design of protein versions with altered amino acid sequences that still perform the same functions. Horvitz and his colleagues applied this approach to 72 potentially hazardous proteins and found that existing screening methods frequently overlooked these alternative variations.
This isn’t entirely unexpected. For a variety of reasons, the team did not physically create the redesigned proteins. Additionally, in a previous study conducted earlier this year, they tested a redesigned version of a non-toxic protein and determined that it did not function as intended, as detailed in their findings.
Moreover, while bioterrorist attacks have occurred, the frequency is low, and there’s limited reason to attribute this to a failed voluntary screening system. Numerous methods to circumvent regulations exist without resorting to AI redesign. For example, lysine can be harvested from castor oil plants found in many gardens. This study serves as a cautionary tale that great sophistication is not required to exploit gaps in security—much like in a scene from Mission Impossible, when a vault door remains wide open.
Lastly, apart from government-sponsored actions, historical records show that bioterrorists have rarely leveraged protein-based biological weapons effectively. For instance, the Aum Shinrikyo cult attempted to employ Botulinum for mass harm but ultimately relied on chemical agents. Letters laced with lysin sent to the White House failed to result in any fatalities. Based on casualty statistics, firearms and explosives pose significantly greater risks than biological toxins.
Does this imply we should cease our concerns over AI-generated biological weapons? Not at all. While Horvitz’s research focused strictly on proteins, viruses present a substantial threat. AI is already being leveraged to redesign entire viruses.
Recently, a team from Stanford University unveiled their attempt to redesign a virus that infects bacteria like E. coli. Consistent with findings from the protein redesign efforts, the results were underwhelming with respect to E. coli, but this is merely the beginning.
In discussions regarding AI-created viruses, James Diggans from DNA manufacturer Twist Bioscience, a member of Horvitz’s team, remarked that detecting viruses encoded with DNA is generally easier than finding proteins of concern. “Synthetic screening functions best with abundant data. Therefore, at the genomic level, it proves exceedingly beneficial.”
Nevertheless, not all DNA manufacturers are conducting such screening, and desktop DNA synthesis options are now accessible to the public. There are narratives of developers allegedly refusing to create harmful viruses or attempting to discern malicious intentions, yet individuals have discovered numerous ways to circumvent safeguards against creating bioweapons.
To clarify, history indicates that the threat posed by “wild” viruses is significantly higher than that of bioterrorism. Contrary to assertions from the current U.S. administration, evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 emerged as a result of a bat virus crossing over to other wildlife.
Moreover, the act of becoming a bioterrorist could inflict massive damage by merely releasing known viruses such as naturally occurring pathogens. There are substantial gaps in the Bioweapon Control efforts, thus reducing the need to rely on advanced AI techniques.
For all of these reasons, the risk of AI-engineered viruses being deployed is likely minimal at present. However, this risk increases as various technologies continue to improve. The COVID-19 pandemic has illustrated the chaos a new virus can unleash, even when it is not particularly harmful. Thus, there are justified reasons for concern.
Over 1,000 gold and silver coins, valued at roughly $1 million, have been retrieved from an 18th-century shipwreck located off the coast of Florida, as reported by the Shipwreck Salvage Company.
The company, 1715 Fleet Queens Jewels, LLC, stated in a news release that it recovered the coins in July from the renowned Treasure Coast region in southeastern Florida.
This discovery is part of an estimated $400 million worth of gold, silver, and gems that were lost by the Spanish fleet during the hurricane of 1715.
“The find represents more than just treasure; it tells a story,” said Sal Guttuso, the company’s operations director, in a statement. “Every coin connects us to the lives and work of those who navigated the seas during the Spanish Empire’s Golden Age.”
Over 1,000 silver coins have been discovered from a shipwreck site in Vero Beach, Florida. 1715 Fleet – Queen’s Jewels, LLC
“Finding over 1,000 coins in one excavation is indeed rare and remarkable,” he noted.
The prized assets of the 1715 fleet included coins from Spanish colonies in Mexico, Peru, and Bolivia. Many of these coins still exhibit clear dates and mint marks, making them significant to historians and collectors alike.
“The condition of these coins indicates they likely originated from a single chest or a portion of the ship that dispersed when the hurricane struck,” the news release clarified.
During a call on Thursday, Guttuso mentioned that he discovered coins concentrated in various areas beneath the sand, indicating they were likely housed in some kind of container.
“I believe they were probably stored in wooden boxes,” he theorized.
He also revealed that he found a Royal Lead Seal inscribed with the impression of King Philip II of Spain, who reigned during the mid- to late-1500s.
“We can reasonably speculate that this lead seal may have belonged to a prominent family,” he noted. “It likely associated with important documents that may have granted ownership of land or rights.”
Fragments and gems from a golden chain were also retrieved. 1715 Fleet – Queen Jewels, LLC Gold artifacts were also found in Vero Beach, Florida. 1715 Fleet – Queen Jewels, LLC
The Queen’s Jewels of the 1715 Fleet claims exclusive salvage rights to the wreck of the Treasure Fleet but stated that the recovered coins will undergo meticulous conservation before being publicly displayed, with plans for exhibition at a local museum.
“Each discovery contributes to piecing together the narratives of those connected to the 1715 fleet,” Guttuso remarked. “We are dedicated to preserving and researching these artifacts, enabling future generations to recognize their historical importance.”
Requests for comments on the findings were not immediately returned by the US District Court of Florida or by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s office.
An autumn vibe is anticipated across much of the Midwest this week.
The remarkable October warmth could lead to record-high temperatures in the Northern Plains and Midwest over the next few days, with forecasts predicting that Minneapolis may hit 90 degrees Fahrenheit this weekend.
Across the region, temperatures are projected to be up to 30 degrees higher than average on Friday and Saturday, with highs from eastern South Dakota to Illinois soaring above 80 degrees Celsius. The National Weather Service notes that some areas could see temperatures in the mid-90s.
Numerous daily temperature records are expected to be broken on Friday and throughout the weekend, including in Minneapolis, Bismarck, North Dakota; Rapid City, South Dakota; Madison, Wisconsin; and Moline, Illinois.
These regions aren’t accustomed to such summer-like conditions at this time of year. For instance, the Minneapolis-St. Paul area has only recorded three days reaching 90 degrees since records began in 1872, according to the National Weather Service.
This week’s unusual warmth is attributed to high-pressure systems lingering over the plains and Midwest, according to the National Weather Service. These high-pressure areas tend to trap warm air, resulting in elevated temperatures for several days.
Dennis Chou
Denise Chow is a science and spatial reporter for NBC News.
“B-mesons assist us in unraveling significant cosmic queries. Why is there a predominance of matter over antimatter?”
sakkmesterke/alamy
Did you know that in the realm of physics, there are facilities dubbed beauty factories? This term doesn’t refer to aesthetics; rather, it describes an experiment where electrons collide with their antimatter equivalents, positrons, to create B-mesons.
B-mesons are constructed from quarks, the building blocks of normal matter. Typically, everyday matter comprises up-quarks and down-quarks, while B-mesons are made up of beauty quarks combined with up, down, charm, or strange quarks.
This unique configuration results in B-mesons having a fleeting existence, seemingly detached from common life. However, their significance lies in the potential answers they hold regarding universal enigmas, such as the imbalance of matter versus antimatter.
We understand that all particles have corresponding antiparticles. Yet, when we observe the universe, we see a predominance of particles, like electrons, overshadowing their antiparticle counterparts, positrons, which are merely identical but with reversed charges.
Mesons are particularly intriguing as they inhabit the space between the prevalent matter and antimatter realms. This positions them as potential keys to unlocking the mystery of the disparity between the two. Grasping this could clarify why the universe holds such a favorable balance of matter when encounters between matter and antimatter typically result in annihilation. The formation of B factories arises from the desire to decode this cosmic puzzle.
The complexity deepens when considering mesons and their own antiparticles. Each B-meson consists of beauty quarks paired with up, down, charm, or strange quarks. Neutral B-mesons, devoid of charge, exhibit oscillatory behavior as they transform between mesons and their antiparticles. In essence, neutral B-mesons exemplify a spontaneous non-binary state.
These neutral B-mesons are pivotal in addressing the asymmetry of matter and antimatter. Their non-binary characteristics are anticipated within the standard model of particle physics, which catalogs known particles. However, we must determine whether these oscillatory states are evenly distributed. Are collisions more likely to yield a meson or its antiparticle? Disparities in these oscillations may shed light on the core asymmetries of matter and antimatter.
“
B factories could illuminate the nature of an elusive component: dark matter, which remains unseen in laboratories. “
In 2010, researchers from the Fermilab Dzero collaboration identified a 1% deviation, although subsequent studies haven’t corroborated this result. The exploration of these discrepancies continues to intrigue, particularly as variances emerge in unrelated vibration studies.
B factories may also expand our comprehension of dark matter, an entity detected only through its gravitational effects on visible matter. Approximately 85% of the universe’s mass seems to consist of this invisible material, which the standard model has yet to account for.
Crafting a theory to explain dark matter necessitates postulating new particles or forces, some of which might interact subtly with known particles, complicating detection. These interactions often hinge on mediators—entities that facilitate such connections. While these mediators are elusive, under optimal conditions, they may not be directly observable. However, we can anticipate witnessing decay products, such as electron-positron pairs, serving as indicators. This is where B factories play a crucial role; they are engineered to analyze the outcomes of electron-positron collisions.
In addition to collider physics, the longevity of data acquisition and experiments is particularly captivating. For instance, the BABAR experiment at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory closed in 2008, yet researchers continue to sift through its data, educating the next generation of physicists.
In 2022, Brian Schub and his undergraduate team at Harvey Mudd College near Los Angeles revisited ideas involving nearly two-decade-old BABAR data. They proposed that virtual particles, referred to as axions, may function as mediators between visible and dark matter. Long-time readers may recognize that axion research is a focal point of my work.
So, do these hypotheses regarding our universe’ mechanics hold water? This inquiry aligns with our quest to comprehend matter-antimatter asymmetry.
Artistic Representation of Cha 1107-7626, a rogue planet located roughly 620 light years from Earth
ESO/L. Calçada/M. Kornmesser
The voracious rogue planet consumes a staggering 6 billion tons of gas and dust every second. This peculiar behavior challenges the distinction between planets and stars, indicating that both may form via similar mechanisms.
It appears that free-floating gas bodies, not gravitationally bound to a parent star, are quite common, potentially outnumbering stars in galaxies. However, astronomers remain uncertain about whether these bodies will develop like planets orbiting stars, wander alone through galaxies, or independently emerge like stars.
Víctor Almendros-Abad from Palermo Observatory in Italy, and his team have observed remarkable growth of the rogue planet now known as CHA 1107-7626.
The planet garnered astronomers’ attention back in 2008 due to what appeared to be a disc of primitive planets around it. Almendros-Abad and his colleagues began monitoring these celestial objects in April this year using a sizable telescope in Southern Europe, but by June, the planet’s mass consumption rate surged to nearly ten times what it had been previously.
Such a growth rate aligns with what has only been previously observed in stars, including our own Sun.
“This indicates that the formation processes of stars and these objects are likely very similar,” says Almendros-Abad. “Thus, when considering star formation, we must also account for these rogue planets.”
To elucidate this unprecedented growth rate, Almendros-Abad and his team speculate that a mechanism akin to that observed in stars is likely at work; however, the reason and timing of the planet’s sudden surge in mass consumption remain unclear.
The similarities in their growth mechanisms imply that the line between stars and planets may be even hazier than previously believed, suggests Almendros-Abad. “Every time I observe these rogue planets, I see that the boundary between a star and a planet is not as defined as we thought. There must be chemical signatures, yet we have yet to discover the ‘Rosetta Stone’ that differentiates the formation processes.”
World Capital of Astronomy: Chile
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Melting ice sheets in Antarctica will elevate sea levels
durktalsma/getty images
Recent studies suggest that Antarctica may have crossed a critical climate threshold, diminishing hope for recovery. Experts highlight a concerning correlation between the abrupt decline in sea ice since 2016 and anthropogenic ocean warming.
Historically, Antarctic sea ice levels remained stable despite rising global temperatures. However, a drastic shift occurred in 2016, marked by significant reductions in sea ice extent.
By February 2023, Antarctic Ocean Ice recorded a new all-time low, marking the third consecutive summer of reduced sea ice within just seven years. September 2023 also saw unprecedented high levels of Antarctic Ocean Ice.
While climate models have long forecasted reductions in Antarctic sea ice, the pace and scale of the decrease since 2016 are alarming. Researchers convened at the Royal Society in London to evaluate whether these changes signal a critical turning point.
As Marilyn Rafael from the University of California, Los Angeles, notes, natural climate variability alone cannot account for such a rapid shift.
Satellite observations of sea ice have been available since 1979. By utilizing proxy data from Antarctic weather stations, Raphael and her team extended their research timeline back to the early 20th century.
Their analysis, based entirely on historical data, indicates that the likelihood of reaching a minimum sea ice extent in 2023 was less than 0.1%. “We are observing extreme patterns in sea ice behavior,” she explained at the Royal Society Conference.
Alexander Hauman from the Alfred Wegener Institute in Germany emphasizes that this rapid decline in ice formation signifies a climate tipping point, with potential repercussions for the entire continent and broader climatic and ecological systems.
“The entire Antarctic sea ice system is reacting collectively,” he stated at the meeting, noting that the changes observed are poised to have long-term implications.
Last summer’s minimum Antarctic Ocean Ice extent was significantly below historical averages
NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio
Hauman explains that “changes in ice dynamics” may be responsible for this phenomenon. Emerging research indicates that warming seawater contributes to accelerated ice loss, as roughly 90% of the excess heat generated by human activity is absorbed by the oceans.
In Antarctica, a layer of warm, fresh water separates colder, mixed surface waters from warm deep-sea water. However, a recent study by Hauman and his team highlights how shifts in wind patterns and salinity in the Southern Ocean have severely weakened this barrier since 2015, allowing warm deep water to rise to the surface and encourage ice melting. This phenomenon is further exacerbated by climate change-induced warming of deep waters, as indicated by recent research.
Hauman suggests that natural fluctuations in climate may have triggered modifications in salinity and wind patterns, intensifying the effects of anthropogenic warming trapped in deep waters. This could imply that the impact of warming seawater is already being felt in Antarctica, obstructing new sea ice formation.
Hauman notes that recent shifts in ocean circulation can only be counteracted by either mitigating upwelling effects or sudden alterations in salinity within the Southern Ocean. Nevertheless, the potential responses of the system remain highly uncertain.
The ramifications of these developments could be catastrophic. Antarctic sea ice plays a critical role in stabilizing land glaciers and ice sheets. Without adequate sea ice formation, the rate at which these ice structures melt may increase, leading to significant global sea level rise. It is estimated that the Antarctic ice sheet holds enough water to potentially raise global sea levels by up to 58 meters.
The depletion of ice in the Antarctic also alters the Earth’s surface albedo. Darker oceans absorb more solar heat compared to reflective white ice.
Additionally, vast stores of carbon trapped in the Southern Ocean could be released into the atmosphere as deep-sea temperatures rise, as suggested by various studies.
Researchers are just starting to grasp how these types of climate feedback mechanisms might unfold in Antarctica, after many years of relying on inaccurate and low-resolution models.
The UK government has accessed customer information and intensified its dispute with Apple by requesting a backdoor to the cloud storage services of high-tech companies.
Previously, the Home Office sought access to data tied to Apple’s Advanced Data Protection (ADP) services uploaded by users globally, leading to tensions with the White House.
On Wednesday, The Financial Times reported that the government has introduced a new access order known as the Technical Capacity Notice (TCN), which aims to gain access to encrypted cloud backups for UK citizens.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Home Affairs noted that the department does not comment on operational matters such as “confirming or denying the presence of such notices.” The spokesperson added: “We will always take all necessary actions at the national level to ensure the safety of our British citizens.”
In February, Apple withdrew ADP for new UK users, advising that existing users would need to deactivate security features in the future. Messaging services such as iMessage and FaceTime continue to be end-to-end encrypted by default.
Tulsi Gabbard, director of US national intelligence, mentioned that the UK had backed down in August by insisting on access to US customer data. Donald Trump characterized the demand for access as “what you hear is China.”
While Apple did not directly address the FT report, it expressed regret over its inability to provide ADP (an optional additional layer) to UK customers, stating it would “never” implement backdoors in its products.
“Apple remains dedicated to delivering the highest level of security for personal data, and we hope to achieve this in the UK in the future. As I’ve reiterated many times, we’ve never created a backdoor or a master key for any product or service.”
Apple has challenged the initial TCN via the Investigatory Powers Tribunal, questioning whether the national intelligence agency acted unlawfully. The Home Office had attempted to keep the case’s details confidential, but after a ruling in April, it was confirmed that Apple’s appeal resulted in some information being released for the first time.
However, the specifics of the TCN remain undisclosed, and recipients of such notices are prohibited from revealing their existence under investigatory rights. The FT indicates that the original TCN is “not limited to” data stored under the ADP, suggesting the UK government seeks access to fundamental and widespread iCloud services.
The ADP service employs end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only account holders can decrypt files like documents and photos, leaving no one else, including Apple, with that capability.
Privacy International, the organization that initiated a legal challenge against the first TCN, remarked that this new order “may pose as significant a threat as the previous ones.” It noted that if Apple is compelled to compromise end-to-end encryption in the UK, it would create vulnerabilities affecting all users by undermining the entire system.
“Such vulnerabilities could be exploited by hostile states, criminals, and other malevolent entities across the globe,” the organization stated.
Feedback is New Scientist Popular Sideways reviews the latest in science and technology news. You can send emails to Feedback@newscientist.com with items that might intrigue our readers.
What is the squeal?
The experience of mouse squeaks is sadly limited to the dead (or sometimes almost alive) ones that our cats insist on bringing into the house. This means that you’ve likely heard a significant portion of the creak.
So, I was taken aback to learn that the squeaking sounds of mice have been largely overlooked by science. Reporter Alex Wilkins has reviewed recent studies and confirms that it is true, as detailed in Biology Letters, with an article titled “Hidden in Plain Sound: The Scientific Possibility of House Mouse Squeak.”
The focus on house mouse vocalizations tends to be on ultrasound sounds that humans cannot perceive. They gained attention, perhaps due to their novelty and surprise factor. Meanwhile, the authors note that the unnoticed squeaks lead to a “lack of research focused on squeaks.”
This is clearly an oversight. The authors argue that squeaks possess “significant scientific potential.” They suggest that “the extent to which squeaks communicate information about the vocalizers and influence listener behavior across various social contexts has not yet been fully explored.”
The feedback suspects that squeaks are a highly effective form of communication. After reading Terry Pratchett, I recall that the ominous character known as the death of the rat can convey much with a well-timed squeak. Perhaps you need a catchphrase: What do you want? Squeak. When do you want it? Squeak!
Determining the penalty
In a somewhat roundabout way, nominal determinism might have relevance here.
Paul Meara points out that a recent feature on body clocks (August 2, p 30) highlighted Angela Leregio, a researcher at MSH Medical School in Hamburg, Germany, who also runs a company called Timemeter.
Unfortunately, the feedback doesn’t speak Portuguese; otherwise, as Paul noted, you would know that “Relógio” translates to “clock.”
Furthermore, feedback recognizes that there have been decades of research into a protein called amyloid related to Alzheimer’s disease.
Thus, we were particularly surprised to discover that the University of Dundee in the UK has an expert on Alzheimer’s named Amy Lloyd.
His research began with a simple 1953 study, titled “Notes on Nail Growth,” where Bean shared “observations made over the past decade.”
His work peaked in the 1980s and continued with several similar studies, including “Nail Growth: Observation Over 35 Years,” published in Archives of Internal Medicine. Feedback has reviewed this detailed paper.
Bean described his research as “a comprehensive record of the growth of human deciduous tissues,” providing a slowly moving keratin cymograph that measures the age of unfortunate absissas.
What were the findings? Bean’s initial discovery revealed that different nails grow at different rates, which remained consistent over time.
“In simple terms, toenails grow more slowly than fingernails, while the middle fingernails grow faster compared to the thumb, pinky, or any of the other middle fingernails. By measuring one nail, the growth rate can be inferred for all.”
However, certain factors can cause noticeable delays in nail growth. For instance, Bean experienced a mumps infection in 1950, which resulted in a “decisive slowdown,” but he noted a compensatory speedup afterward. Ultimately, he identified a gradual long-term slowdown. “For example, the average daily growth of the left thumbnail dropped from 0.123 mm per day when he was 32 to 0.095 mm per day at 67.”
Our only question is whether Bean was deserving of an IG Nobel for his notably lengthy research.
Other awards included studies on “the extent to which certain lizards prefer specific types of pizza,” “what a nursing baby experiences when the mother eats garlic,” and “whether cows painted with zebra stripes can avoid being bitten by flies.”
Feedback especially appreciates the Chemistry Award, which investigated whether consuming foods rich in indigestible Teflon results in fewer calories. Rat experiments suggested a successful and non-toxic outcome; nonetheless, we advise readers not to attempt this at home.
To play it safe, you might just consider sprinkling powdered nails and adding too much food on top.
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Cybercriminals who compromised the personal information and photos of thousands of nursery children have since removed the data following a public outcry.
The group responsible for the breach has erased details of children from the UK-based Kido nursery network.
Screenshots reviewed by the Guardian show that the child’s profile from the breach is no longer visible. Currently, the Kido logo is displayed with “More” under “More,” but sources in cybersecurity report that the link is non-functional, indicating that the data has been removed.
A spokesperson for Kido confirmed that the attacker had indeed deleted the previously exposed information.
The spokesman stated: “We are adhering to guidance from authorities regarding ransom payments to prevent incentivizing further criminal activities. We are collaborating closely with families, regulatory bodies, law enforcement, and cybersecurity experts to ensure our data is permanently removed.”
The BBC first reported on the data deletion and mentioned a hacker who expressed remorse, stating, “I’m sorry for hurting the child.”
Targeting children has drawn widespread condemnation, with cybersecurity experts labeling the breach as “crossing a line” and “testing ethical boundaries.” A parent of a child at Kido in London remarked that the hackers were “sinking to new lows.”
The Guardian has also found indications of notorious gang members in underground cybercrime forums being advised by their peers to avoid attacking minors.
On Wednesday, members of Nova, a faction that offers hacking services to other criminals, cautioned a persona named Radiant on an anonymous Russian forum, saying, “reputation matters, so do not target children.” Radiant responded, “We have not been allowed to cease any operations concerning them,” adding, “data of those under 19 who attended has been deleted.”
The leak site and forum posts were documented by analysts at the cybersecurity firm Sophos.
Hacking teams are acutely aware of the impact of negative publicity, which can lead to increased scrutiny from law enforcement and disrupt internal relationships within the hacking community.
Sophos researcher Rebecca Taylor noted: “Even criminals understand that there are lines they shouldn’t cross. We have discovered that stealing data from minors not only draws attention but also damages credibility.”
Taylor emphasized, “credibility is crucial” for groups that demand ransoms for stolen information. The BBC reported that Radiant had sought £600,000 in Bitcoin from Kido for the return of the data, but Kido refused to comply.
“The deletion of data was not an act of benevolence, but rather a move for damage control. This was an unusual instance where morality and self-interest briefly aligned,” Taylor remarked.
However, the revamped Radiant Leak site, a portal for such data, appears to be more user-friendly, featuring a search bar to locate companies targeted by the group and contact information through TOX, an encrypted messaging platform.
Radiant demonstrates proficient English in communication, but analysts suspect this group may not be Western-based. Most ransomware groups originate from former Soviet states. Analysts believe that Radiant may represent a new entity in the cybercrime landscape.
Before the data was deleted, one woman informed the BBC that she received a threatening call from a hacker who claimed they would publish information about her child online unless she pressured her child to comply with ransom demands. Kido operates 18 locations in London, along with nurseries in the US, India, and China.
Radiant boasted about having sensitive information on over 8,000 children and their families, including incident reports, protection records, and billing information. All Kido nursery locations in the UK reported being affected by the breach.
One cybercriminal told the BBC: “All child data has been removed. There is nothing left, and this should reassure parents.”
“Before the 1970s’ war on drugs, there was a variety of promising research into therapeutic psychedelics.”
Adrià Voltà
In the early 1950s, notable figures in science, philosophy, culture, and politics—such as Albert Einstein, Carl Jung, and Graham Greene—were part of an initiative called “outsights” aimed at exploring powerful psychedelics. Although circumstances shifted, I find myself captivated by what could have been.
I’ve been delving into psychedelics in the new trip series on BBC Radio 4. I previously shared my experiences of vivid hallucinations while in a coma from Covid-19. This sparked my curiosity to understand why individuals actively pursue psychedelic experiences, navigate legal challenges, take risks at home, seek healing, and address unmet needs.
There has yet to be a global consensus banning psychedelics. Responding to inquiries by scientist Humphrey Davy, who researched suboxidized oxides in 1799, Humphrey Osmond, coining the term psychedelic in the 1950s, expressed that the study of chemically induced altered states merits rigorous and thoughtful research.
Before the U.S.-led drug war commenced in the 1970s, extensive and promising research into psychedelics as potential treatments was underway, alongside their longstanding use in sacred and ritual contexts by Indigenous cultures. Unfortunately, rather than permitting this exploration, it was driven underground, leaving many to view substances such as fungi and plants, or their lab-created variants, as otherworldly. This otherness surprised me.
Currently, psychedelic research is investigating their therapeutic potential for conditions like depression, addiction, PTSD, eating disorders, dementia, and intergenerational trauma, gaining momentum globally. Studies explore their possible use in extending the recovery window following strokes, enhancing rehabilitation, and even unraveling the nature of consciousness.
Conversations with researchers who meticulously examine substances like psilocybin and DMT in clinical environments feel worlds apart from the psychedelic narratives prevalent in popular culture. These molecules profoundly and enduringly influence our minds and perceptions. It’s perplexing how we opted to stifle a broader inquiry and obstruct our brightest minds from discovering their true potential.
Today’s discussions among researchers are as engaging as they come, yet I can’t help but linger on the “what if?” In light of the global mental health crisis, governments and health systems are eager for new treatment alternatives. Public funding is dwindling and faces threats in many areas, while large corporations driven by profit show substantial interest in the accessibility of new therapies. Changes are happening rapidly.
Examining humanity’s history with psychedelic substances reveals a narrative marked by significant self-inflicted wounds. Ultimately, the funds for the outsight initiative never materialized, leading to a drastically different chapter in history. The war on drugs has stalled research across numerous substances for decades and continues to cast a shadow today.
The narratives surrounding these substances serve as warnings. Politics should never obstruct scientific breakthroughs. In light of today’s world, it feels like an urgent moral imperative to safeguard and nurture the conditions necessary for science to thrive. The stakes are too high.
Learning to play an instrument encompasses both cognitive and creative pursuits
Andrew Fox/Alamy
Engaging in music training seems to enhance reading comprehension among young children by boosting their ability to discern and manipulate the sounds that constitute words.
Research has long suggested a connection between learning to play musical instruments and improved early reading skills, as shown in studies like Improved early reading ability and Mathematics. However, the mechanics behind this connection were previously unclear, as mastering an instrument requires a plethora of skills.
“Beyond reading musical notes—which necessitates learning a new form of written language—you must also perceive the sounds and adjust your physical movements accordingly,” highlighted Maria Garcia de Soria from the University of Aberdeen, UK. This process indicates that music education can enrich our cognitive abilities, enhance memory, and improve sound perception.
To further investigate the relationship between music training and reading abilities, Garcia de Soria and her team assessed 57 children aged 5 to 9. Approximately half of these children had engaged in instrumental study for at least one month with a practice schedule of a minimum of 30 minutes per week, while the others participated in non-musical extracurricular activities.
The researchers discovered that the children involved in music lessons outperformed their peers on phonological awareness tests. This skill relates directly to the capacity to recognize and manipulate the individual sounds—or phonemes—that constitute words, such as the three phonemes found in “dog.” Additionally, they demonstrated enhanced reading proficiency.
The research team accounted for various factors that could influence literacy levels, including socioeconomic status and overall cognitive capability.
In a separate component of the study, researchers utilized EEG to monitor and analyze the brain activity of the children while they were exposed to the Gingerbread Man fairy tale.
They observed that heightened neural activity in the language-related regions of the left hemisphere of the brain correlated with better reading performance across all participants. Notably, the music group recorded higher reading scores despite lower levels of this neural activity, suggesting a more developed capacity for adult-like language processing.
“Adults typically engage music and speech processing across both hemispheres, occasionally favoring the right side. It appears that children receiving music training develop more adult-like capabilities in this area,” noted Garcia de Soria.
This finding connects to the way individuals adapt their reading strategies as they mature, moving from sounding out phonemes to recognizing words and their meanings without mental rehearsal, explained team member Anastasia Klimovich-Gray at the University of Aberdeen.
Phonological recognition is a crucial precursor to learning how to read, which supports the idea that music education can enhance literacy by fostering increased sensitivity to phonological structures, according to Klimovich-Gray. However, it’s not necessarily a one-sided relationship; Garcia de Soria added, “Music fosters reading skills, but reading may also bolster future music performance.”
Demonstrating that these skills can mutually enhance one another may assist children who struggle with reading, Klimovich-Gray explained. “For those facing phonological challenges early on, potentially before a dyslexia diagnosis, music training could provide supplementary support alongside phonics instruction.”
“The revelation that music training refines the phonological encoding processes in the left hemisphere aligns with broader academic findings,” stated Alice Mado Proverbio at the University of Bicocca in Milan, Italy. Furthermore, music education may also cultivate specialization in the right hemisphere of the brain, which promotes faster reading development, she concluded.
Elon Musk was the first individual to achieve a net worth of $500 billion, placing Tesla’s CEO halfway in the wealth rankings.
Musk’s fortune dipped to $49.9 billion after briefly exceeding the $50 trillion mark on Wednesday. Forbes Billionaire List.
Owning 12% of Tesla, which is valued at over $1.5 trillion, Musk’s wealth has been positively impacted this year by a significant increase in the electric vehicle maker’s stock price.
Besides Tesla, the 54-year-old is also involved with SpaceX, the rocket company, where he holds a 42% ownership according to Pitchbook data.
Earlier this year, Tesla’s stock experienced a decline, affected by concerns regarding Musk’s focus amidst rising competition from Chinese manufacturers, falling sales, distractions from his other ventures, and a tumultuous relationship with Donald Trump. Analysts noted that Musk’s vocal support for Trump on X (the social media platform he owns) resonated with right-wing political sentiments.
However, Tesla’s stock has surged by 70% over the past six months as investor confidence improved and Musk redirected his attention back to the company. Since its inception in 2025, it has soared by 13%.
Last month, Tesla’s board president, Robin Denholm, remarked that Musk had returned to a “front and center” role in the company after months of distractions.
Shortly thereafter, Musk revealed he had acquired approximately $1 billion in shares, showcasing a strong belief in Tesla’s future as it transitions from a traditional automaker to a leader in AI and robotics.
The Tesla Board also proposed a $10 billion compensation plan for Musk last month, addressing his request for a larger stake while setting high financial and operational goals for the CEO.
Despite this, Musk’s standing in the wealth rankings has been fluctuating. In September, Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle, briefly surpassed Musk as the world’s richest person, according to Bloomberg’s Billionaire Index.
Currently, Bloomberg lists Musk ahead of Ellison but estimates Musk’s wealth at $470 billion compared to Ellison’s $349 billion.
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Jane Goodall revolutionized our understanding of chimpanzees
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Jane Goodall, who passed away at 91, profoundly impacted the world through her perspective on animals, particularly chimpanzees.
In 1960, at just 26 years old, she observed a chimpanzee named David Graybeard using stripped leaves to fish for termites. “At that time,” she reflected, “we believed only humans used tools. I was taught that the best definition of humanity was being human; yet, I witnessed chimpanzees crafting and using tools.”
She relayed her findings to her mentor, paleontologist Louis Leakey, who subsequently reshaped the concept of what constitutes a ‘tool.’ His famous telegram proclaimed that we needed to redefine ‘tool’ and acknowledge the chimpanzee as having human-like traits.
Ultimately, the decision was made to explore how other species were unique. Goodall’s research played a critical role in challenging the notion of human superiority that had been entrenched in scientific and societal discourse.
Goodall in the TV special Miss Goodall and the Wild Chimpanzees, filmed in Tanzania and originally aired on CBS in December 1965.
CBS via Getty Images
Her research challenged the long-held beliefs of French philosopher René Descartes, who argued for animal exploitation and environmental degradation over 400 years. Descartes posited that animals lacked souls and functioned merely as machines. Goodall demonstrated that chimpanzees possess the intelligence and foresight to create and utilize tools, attributing such behaviors to their emotions and personalities. Some were gentle like David Graybeard, while others were curious and full of energy.
In this regard, she mirrored another pioneering scientist with remarkable observational skills. In his work Expressions of Human and Animal Emotions, Charles Darwin examined the evolution of facial expressions and linked them to emotional states: joy, anger, love, etc. However, he faced resistance not only regarding animal emotions but also in applying similar insights to humans.
Darwin’s work was not well received at the time and largely ignored for over a century. Similarly, Goodall’s early research from the 1960s faced skepticism and was even ridiculed. Her status as a young woman with lesser credentials did not help either. Both Darwin and Goodall were fueled by intense curiosity, patience, and keen observation—qualities that underpinned their achievements. When asked by New Scientist what was necessary for success, Goodall humorously replied, “Patience, a large stomach, and a bucket full of surprises.” Today, we recognize that both Darwin and Goodall were correct; many animals experience emotions and possess rich inner lives.
Goodall with chimpanzees, including David Graybeard, in 1965
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Goodall was selected by Leakey to study chimpanzees in Gombe, located in present-day Tanzania. Leakey aimed to explore human evolution and theorized that observing wild chimpanzees—something no one had done before—would be invaluable. He preferred individuals untainted by conventional scientific beliefs and believed that women could serve as more patient and empathetic field researchers. It’s unlikely a traditional biologist would have achieved the breakthroughs Goodall did.
Initially, her observations were made from a distance through binoculars, but as time progressed, she gained the chimps’ trust. The first to accept her was a male she named David Graybeard, recognized for the white hair on his chin. Although she later earned a PhD from Cambridge and faced criticism for naming animals instead of assigning them numbers, she felt naming them was more natural. David Graybeard demonstrated tool use, which Goodall described as a pivotal moment in her research.
She also became the first scientist to elucidate the mating rituals of chimpanzees, their reproductive cycles, and how mothers introduce their infants to their social groups.
Goodall at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, in February 2018
Agence 18/SIPA/Shutterstock
In the 1970s, the direction of her work shifted as she began advocating for the protection of chimpanzees. This marked the beginning of her second phase of global change. She founded the Jane Goodall Institute in 1977, which grew into a major nonprofit organization with offices in 25 countries. In 1986, she organized a conference for field biologists working with chimpanzees across Africa, highlighting the threats facing both the animals and the forests they inhabit. She also became aware of the challenges faced by local communities living near chimpanzee habitats.
In 1991, Goodall established Roots and Shoots, an initiative aimed at educating youth about conservation, which operates in over 75 countries. Continuously advocating for animal rights and conservation, she addressed around 300 audiences annually. In 2024, she visited Jane Goodall Institute offices to share her media insights about conservation efforts.
Goodall passed away in California while on a speaking tour. Throughout her life, she authored 32 books, including 15 for children. Her final work, Book of Hope, reflects her enduring commitment to conservation.
Goodall also spoke about the influence of 20th-century environmentalist Rachel Carson. At Cambridge University in the 1960s, she read Carson’s Silent Spring and was inspired by Carson’s courage in battling pharmaceutical companies, government, and scientific communities regarding the environmental risks of DDT.
“Carson knew the struggle would be long but never wavered, continuing to inspire,” Goodall remarked. “The same can be said for my journey.”
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The Ghost horse of Yotei, named Mokizuki, translates to the traditional Japanese term for “full moon.” I truly believe she is the most unfortunate creature in all of the North. The button needed to summon her is alarmingly close to the one used to heal my samurai during combat, leading to frequent mishaps where I inadvertently call her into a Koittic 7-on-1 skirmish. Mochizuki often intercepts arrows with her fur and deflects sword strikes from my outlaw adversaries to keep them at bay. At times, she simply stands at the fringes of the conflict, quietly waiting to steady my nerves so that I can dispatch the villains and return to picturesque escapades in the Ezo region.
Ghost of Yotei serves as a sequel to Ghost of Tsushima, a revered samurai action game from the American studio Punch released in 2020. Visually, it consistently impresses, regardless of your undertaking. Yet, the majestic framing typical of open-world titles can appear somewhat absurd when you accidentally summon horses for battle or ignite flames, as they don’t quite mesh with the whimsical nature of players.
For the ride… Yotei’s ghost. Photo: Sony Interactive Entertainment
I realized that the ghosts of Tsushima were not only breathtaking but also peculiarly superficial. Their protagonist, Jin, frequently expressed his discomfort with the act of stealthily taking down Mongol invaders to save his island. In contrast, the heroine of Yotei, Ats, embraces her role as the vengeful specter much more comfortably. The narrative isn’t particularly groundbreaking; Ats’ family falls victim to a group of masked outlaws known as the Yotei Six, prompting her to hunt them down for vengeance. Star Erika Ishii delivers a stellar performance as a stoic killer, making me completely invested in Atsu’s quest for blood. Despite several other characters serving as reminders of retribution, she relentlessly eliminates her foes, giving off an impression that she relishes in it.
Honestly, I find it enjoyable. Yotei’s ghostly battles are both exquisite and brutal. You quickly grasp the mechanics of evasion, substitution, and timing while exploring Ezo, equipping yourself with dual katana, a spear, a bow, and the massive Yamato sword for more engaging fights. The setup for confrontations maintains a consistent level of challenge. Atsu faces opponents often twice her size, with some strikes sufficient to end her battles. I enjoy numerous challenging action games, from Monster Hunter to Elden Ring, yet despite over 20 hours of dueling and exploration, I still feel my enemies succumb to me with minimal effort, thus keeping the experience fresh.
Among this year’s Assassin’s Creed Shadows, also set in historical Japan, Yotei’s Ghost ranks as one of the most visually stunning games I’ve encountered. The stunning natural beauty of Japan, with its ginkgo trees, distant mountains, and fish-filled rivers, is digitally honored (you can spear them for dinner). It is a world crafted for admiration. Navigate with your senses rather than the map on your screen; the wind guides you on where to go next in the story, enabling leisurely exploration. Intriguingly, with your PS5 controller, you can roast fish over a fire, strum a Shamisen, or dab ink onto a canvas. Revisiting Atsu’s memories in familiar places allows for a reflection on her life before it spiraled into violence.
The blend of traditional Japanese instruments with old Western rhythms marks the game as set in 1600s Japan through an American lens. While it may feature more action, blood, and death-defying climbs than typical samurai movies, is that truly a downside? If anything, Tsushima’s ghosts were hampered by a rigid adherence to a somber tone that conflicted with the game’s high body count. Yotei doesn’t complicate matters as the assassin’s creed does, making it fairly straightforward and enjoyable. Whenever I grew weary of pursuing one target, it was easy to find another.
Part of the landscape… the ghost of Yotei. Photo: Sony/Sucker Punch
As Atsu’s legend amplifies, the Ezo populace begins to leave offerings for the vengeful onryō (Bloodthirsty Ghost), seeking to rid the land of its oppressors. As you traverse Ezo, you truly start to feel a connection to it; Atsu engages in battles alongside wolves and chases elusive foxes to discover hidden places in nature. Once her quest for vengeance concluded, I found myself pondering what lay ahead for Ats. She struggles to envision a life beyond this path.
While the story may be simple at its core, it captivated me more than any other historical action game. Even after countless hours, I still feel a rush of excitement as Atsu deliberately unsheathes her sword at the onset of battle. The conclusion would be bittersweet.
The Prevention League, a leading Jewish advocacy and anti-hate organization in the nation, has removed over 1,000 pages of extremism research from its website after facing significant backlash from right-wing influencers and Elon Musk on Tuesday night.
The now-deleted “extremist glossary” from the ADL included more than 1,000 entries offering background information on various groups and ideologies associated with racism, anti-Semitism, and other forms of hate. The section dedicated to neo-Nazi groups, militias, and anti-Semitic conspiracies has been redirected to a landing page featuring its extremism research.
Musk and various right-wing accounts on X have recently targeted the ADL over this glossary, which included references to Turning Point USA, associated with the late far-right activist Charlie Kirk. Musk responded to a post on X, criticizing the group for its entries on Christian identity and mistakenly conflating the militant movement with Christianity as a whole. In truth, the term refers to a faction that advocates for racial jihadism against Jews and other minorities.
The ADL did not directly address the backlash in its statements regarding this decision, instead arguing that removing the glossary would enable organizations to “explore new strategies and creative approaches to present data and research more effectively.”
“With over 1,000 entries compiled over the years, the extremist glossary has been a valuable resource for high-level information across a broad array of topics. However, the increase in entries has rendered many outdated,” stated the ADL. “We have observed many entries that have been intentionally misrepresented and misused. Furthermore, experts continue to develop more comprehensive resources and innovative means to convey information on anti-Semitism, extremism, and hatred.”
The decision to remove the glossary comes amid intense criticism faced by the ADL from staff and researchers, particularly concerning Israeli policies and its narrow focus on Musk’s repeated defenses. The organization lost a donor, and a prominent executive resigned following a statement by CEO Jonathan Greenblatt, who has praised Musk.
The ADL has not addressed inquiries regarding the comprehensive resources mentioned in its statement. The glossary was launched in 2022 and marketed as the first database designed to aid the media, the public, and law enforcement in understanding extremist groups and their ideologies.
“We consider it the most extensive and user-friendly resource for extremist speech currently accessible to the public,” noted Oren Segal, senior vice president of the ADL Center, in a prior statement. “We believe an informed public is crucial for the defense of democracy.”
ADL pages that contained the 2022 press release now display a message stating, “You are not permitted to access this page.”
Musk has long targeted the ADL, previously threatening to sue the organization for its research documenting the rise of anti-Semitic content on social media platforms. However, the ADL and Greenblatt defended him earlier this year, but after other Jewish groups and lawmakers condemned Musk for a fascist-style salute following Donald Trump’s inauguration. The ADL referred to it as “an unfortunate gesture amid moments of enthusiasm.”
Musk has consistently tweeted about the glossary’s ADL entries, including those related to Kirk’s TPUSA, labeling the ADL a “hate group” and insinuating that it incites murder. The TPUSA entry did not label the organization as extremist but included a list of its leadership and activists linked to extremists or who have made “racist or biased statements.”
On Wednesday, Musk continued to focus on the ADL, reiterating his classification of it as a “hate group.” He also aligned with another right-wing pressure effort, making a call to boycott Netflix due to a show featuring trans characters.
IThe T image is among the most chilling representations of the Holocaust. A Nazi soldier with glasses points a gun at the head of a resigned man in a suit, kneeling before a pit filled with corpses, surrounded by German troops.
Photos from present-day Ukraine have long been incorrectly associated with the last Jew of Vinica, remaining cloaked in mystery for decades.
Jürgen Matthäus, a German historian based in the U.S., has meticulously pieced together this puzzle for years. With the aid of artificial intelligence, he believes he has successfully identified the perpetrator.
His findings are now published in the esteemed Zeitschrift für geschichtswissenschaft (Journal of Historical Studies), detailing a massacre conducted by the SS on July 28, 1941, likely in the afternoon, at the Berdychiv fortress.
For centuries, Berdychiv has been a vibrant center of Jewish life, located 150 km southwest of Kyiv and about 90 km north of what is now Vinnizzia in English.
One of several mobile units deployed in the newly occupied Soviet Union, the Einsatzgruppe C Commando, was tasked with eliminating “Jews and Partisans” just days before Adolf Hitler’s visit.
Among those involved was Jacobs Onnen, a teacher of French and English, born in the village of Tichelwarf, Germany, near the Dutch border in 1906.
Matthäus described the “incremental process” involving traditional excavations of dusty archives, fortuitous discoveries, peer consultations, and the innovative contributions of volunteers from the open-source journalism group BellingCat.
“This match has a remarkably high confidence level based on the algorithm’s outputs, according to experts,” Matthäus stated.
A preliminary investigation released last year uncovered critical details about the dates, locations, and units involved in the mass shooting, leading to media coverage in Germany.
“The rise of digital tools in the humanities is remarkable, yet most are focused on processing mass data rather than qualitative analysis,” Matthäus commented, reflecting on the potential for AI in his field. Photo: Metropole
Readers have stepped forward, suggesting that communications from Onnen’s family era indicate the shooter could be Jacobs Onnen, his wife’s uncle.
Letters from Onnen from the Eastern Front were destroyed by relatives in the 1990s, but they retained his photographs, which BellingCat volunteers can utilize for AI image analysis.
“Experts explain that achieving a match of 98 or 99.9% in historic photographs is challenging,” said Matthäus. “This often results in forensic discussions.”
Nevertheless, his strong likeness combined with circumstantial evidence provides sufficient credibility for public consideration.
“The growth of digital tools in the humanities is substantial, typically for mass data handling rather than in-depth analysis,” he remarked regarding AI’s application in research.
“It’s clearly not a magic solution; it’s just one of many tools, and human elements remain critical.”
Onnen, who aligned with the Nazi Party prior to Hitler’s ascension in 1933, was raised in an educated family and was fond of “travel and study” in his youth, Matthäus noted.
“Then his trajectory moves eastward, and here he stands,” he added. “Understanding his motivation is one of the toughest questions, as it raises emotional considerations about his posing and self-representation in that context.”
Onnen never advanced beyond a lower rank and was killed in action in August 1943.
“Being involved in such murders is undeniable, and it doesn’t earn you any merits when assigned to these execution units,” Matthäus remarked.
He expressed regret that a letter possibly revealing Onnen’s ideological stance was lost from the front. Relatives who recalled reading the letters described them as “mediocre.”
Until this spring, Matthäus served as the director of research at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC, where he has been active since 1994.
His latest work, *Gerahmte Gewalt* (Framed Violence), explores photo albums curated by Germans on the Eastern Front during World War II.
He noted that it is “highly likely” that the photograph depicting the Berdychiv genocide was taken by fellow soldiers, who often viewed such snapshots as “trophies” of civilian carnage.
Of the estimated 20,000 Jews in Berdychiv at the time of the German invasion in 1941, only 15 remained by early 1944, as reported by Del Spiegel in relation to the new study.
“These extensive executions persisted until the final day of German dominance in the East,” Matthäus observed.
“I believe this image should hold as much significance as the image of Auschwitz’s Gate, as it illustrates the tangible confrontation between the executioner and the victim.”
Jacobs Onnen, who enrolled in the Nazi Party prior to Hitler’s rise in 1933, hailed from a well-educated background. Photo: Metropole
He emphasized that comprehensive visual and written accounts circulated by German soldiers dismantle the myth of the civilian populace being unaware of the genocide perpetuated in their name.
Matthäus’s project also involves uncovering the identity of the victim in the photograph of Berdychiv. He collaborates with his Ukrainian colleague Andrii Mahaletskyi, utilizing Soviet-era records from the local community.
AI may also assist in this investigative endeavor, especially if equivalent images of men in suits can be identified.
He recognized the complexity of the mission, pointing out that while names of deported individuals from Western Europe were meticulously documented, the identities of most victims exterminated in the east remained unknown for over 80 years.
“The occupied Soviet Union witnessed over a million casualties,” he stated. “The majority remain anonymous, as intended by the perpetrators.”
Recent studies suggest that our evolutionary predecessors may have prioritized gender over survival, potentially explaining why men tend to have shorter lifespans than women.
Historically and globally, men usually live shorter lives than women. To understand the reasons behind this evolutionary trend, researchers at the Max Planck Institute in Germany focused on insights from our animal relatives rather than solely examining human history.
Their study, published in Advances in Science, analyzed over 1,000 animal species to identify evolutionary traits associated with gender differences in lifespan.
The team discovered that while genetics plays a role, monogamy is also significant in influencing male lifespan. In contrast, parenting may contribute to women’s longer lives.
In humans, women live on average 5 years longer than men, but this trend is not unique to our species. In fact, 72% of mammals show that females live on average 12% longer than their male counterparts, with some female moose living more than twice as long as males.
However, this pattern doesn’t hold true across all animal species. In birds, males frequently outlive females.
A primary explanation lies in chromosomes, which are fundamental to gender differences. Female mammals possess two X chromosomes, whereas males have a shorter Y chromosome.
According to Dr. Johanna Staerk, the lead researcher, “Men’s single X chromosome means they are particularly susceptible to harmful mutations, as they lack a second copy for compensation,” she explained to BBC Science Focus.
“The ‘toxic Y’ hypothesis posits that the Y chromosome may harbor genetic factors that negatively influence health and aging.”
Conversely, in birds with ZW chromosomes, males have two Z chromosomes while females possess one Z and a truncated W chromosome. However, if chromosomes were the sole factor, males would live longer in all bird species.
“Some species demonstrate the opposite of what we expect,” Staerk noted. “In many birds of prey, for instance, females exhibit longer lifespans than males. This indicates that sex chromosomes alone cannot explain the patterns.”
What other factors are at play? Researchers believe that the issue involves more than mere genetic sex; it includes reproductive strategies. While birds typically show monogamous behavior, only a minority of mammals do.
“Males frequently bear the burden of mating endeavors,” Staerk said. “To attract mates, they develop traits like big horns and manes that require energy investments, increasing their risk of injury and reducing their lifespan.”
The effort to develop large horns and then engage with rivals means that male moose live only half as long as females – Credit: Getty Images
Attractive and robust males tend to father more offspring, but the biological resources required for developing larger muscle and horn structures negatively impact their lifespans. In monogamous species, the competition is less intense, allowing males to avoid such trade-offs during evolution, resulting in smaller lifespan gaps between sexes.
One intriguing finding highlighted how parenting influences lifespan. While one might assume that parental responsibilities detract from longevity due to energy exertion, the opposite was observed: caregiving genders often live longer, especially in species like primates, where offspring require extended care.
For example, a mother chimpanzee may care for her young for up to a decade. This implies that mothers who live longer are better positioned to nurture their offspring.
“Extended lifespans enable caregivers to obtain selective advantages by ensuring that their young reach maturity,” stated Staerk.
However, it remains challenging to determine definitively whether the longevity benefits stem from parenting alone or from monogamy.
Ultimately, being a dedicated partner and parent seems crucial to achieving a longer lifespan for men, particularly from an evolutionary standpoint.
Approximately 12,000 years ago, during the Pleistocene-Chlorocene transition, humans navigated a network of seasonal waters in Northern Arabia, marking significant locations with camels, ibex, wild equids, gazelles, and monumental rock carvings of Auloc, as well as establishing access routes.
Jebel Arnaan rock art panel. Image credit: Mariaguanine.
As part of the Green Arabia Project, archaeologist Michael Petraglia from Griffith University and his team have uncovered over 60 rock art panels featuring 176 sculptures in three previously unexplored locations.
The sculptures predominantly illustrate camels, ibex, equids, gazelles, and aurochs, comprising 130 life-size and naturalistic figures, with heights exceeding 3 meters and 2 meters.
This sculptural activity occurred between 12,800 and 11,400 years ago, a time when seasonal water bodies re-emerged following a period of severe aridity.
These water sources, identified through sediment analysis, facilitated early human migration into the interior desert and offered rare survival opportunities.
“These large-scale sculptures are not just rock art; they likely represent assertions of existence, access, and cultural identity,” noted Dr. Maria Guanine, an archaeologist at the Max Planck Institute.
“Rock art signifies water sources and movement routes, potentially indicating territorial rights and intergenerational memory,” added Dr. Seri Shipton, an archaeologist at the University of London.
In contrast to previously known sites where sculptures were hidden in crevices, the Jebel Mleiha and Jebel Arnaan panels were carved on the face of a towering 39-meter cliff, making them visually dominant.
One panel required ancient artists to ascend narrow ledges to create their work, emphasizing the effort and significance attributed to the imagery.
Various artifacts, including Levantine-style Erkiam, Hellwan stone points, green pigments, and dental beads, indicate extensive connections to pre-Pottery Neolithic (PPN) populations in the Levant.
Nevertheless, the size, content, and arrangement of these Arabian sculptures distinguish them from others.
“This unique form of symbolic representation reflects a distinct cultural identity evolved to thrive in harsh, arid environments,” stated Dr. Faisal Al Ghibrien, a heritage researcher at the Saudi Ministry of Culture.
“The project’s interdisciplinary approach aims to bridge significant gaps in the Northern Arabian archaeological record between the last Glacial Maximum and the Holocene, shedding light on the resilience and innovation of early desert communities,” remarked Dr. Petraglia.
The team’s paper has been published in the journal Nature Communications.
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M. Guanine et al. 2025. Monumental rock art indicates that humans thrived in the Arabian desert during the Pleistocene and Holocene transitions. Nature Communications 16, 8249; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-63417-y
Breugnathair elgolensis – This species, part of the Hook-tooth group, thrived in the central Jurassic period around 167 million years ago, displaying a unique blend of anatomical features not usually observed in its raw group. Its head-to-body proportions, along with dental and jaw characteristics, reveal serpent-like traits, with the original extermination group linked to Jeccos.
Reconstruction of the life of Breugnathair elgolensis. Image credit: Brennan Stokkermans/National Museums Scotland.
Breugnathair elgolensis is recognized as one of the earliest relatively complete fossil lizards yet discovered.
These ancient reptiles possessed serpent-like jaws and curved teeth reminiscent of modern pythons, all while exhibiting short bodies akin to well-formed lizards.
With a length of approximately 41 cm (16 inches) from head to tail, it ranks among the largest lizards in its ecosystem and may have preyed on smaller lizards, juvenile dinosaurs, early mammals, and various vertebrates.
Dr. Roger Benson, a curator in the Department of Paleontology at the American Museum of Natural History, remarked:
“Breugnathair elgolensis features snake-like traits in its teeth and jaw, yet in many aspects, it appears surprisingly primitive.”
“This suggests that the evolutionary predecessors of snakes might have been vastly different than we anticipated. Alternatively, it may indicate that predatory behaviors similar to those of snakes developed independently in archaic, extinct groups.”
Paleontologists place Breugnathair elgolensis within a new family of reptiles (encompassing lizards and snakes) named Parviraptoridae, a group that may hold significant implications for snake origins.
“Previous studies had identified bones with snake-like teeth found alongside those exhibiting gecko-like traits,” they noted.
“However, their striking differences led some researchers to believe they belonged to two distinct species.”
“Our research on Breugnathair elgolensis challenges these earlier conclusions, demonstrating that both snake-like and gecko-like characteristics can coexist within a single species.”
The fossil remains of Breugnathair elgolensis were unearthed in 2016 by Stig Walsh of Scotland’s National Museum on the Isle of Skye.
“The Jurassic fossil sediments on the Isle of Skye are vital for understanding the early evolution of numerous living groups, including lizards, which started to diversify during this period.”
“I initially described Parviraptorids around three decades ago based on much more fragmented specimens, making this feel like discovering the top of a jigsaw puzzle years after being stumped by the original picture with a handful of pieces.”
“The array of primitive and advanced features indicated in this new specimen reinforces the notion that evolutionary pathways can be unpredictable.”
A paper discussing the discoveries related to Breugnathair elgolensis was published today in the journal Nature.
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RBJ Benson et al. Mosaic anatomy in early fossil reptiles. Nature Published online on October 1, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09566-y
Jane Goodall, a renowned researcher who studied chimpanzee behavior and social structures, later emerged as a prominent figure in the animal welfare movement, passed away on Wednesday.
At the age of 91, Goodall died of natural causes in California while on a speaking tour, as reported by the Jane Goodall Institute in a statement.
“Dr. Goodall’s contributions as an ethologist transformed scientific understanding, and she was an unwavering advocate for the preservation and rejuvenation of our natural world,” the statement added.
Jane Goodall participated in the TV special “Miss Goodall and The World of Chimpanzees” in 1965. CBS via Getty Images File
Hailing from the UK, Goodall gained recognition in the 1960s for her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees in Tanzania. She meticulously documented their social interactions over several decades.
The foundation noted that she adopted an “unconventional approach” to chimpanzee research, “immersing herself in their environment to experience their intricate societies as neighbors rather than distant observers.”
Goodall’s research revealed that chimpanzees used sticks to fish for termites, challenging the prevailing notion that tool use was exclusive to humans. She also documented the chimps’ communication methods and complex social behaviors, including their meat-eating habits and occasional aggression.
“They are part of Elizabeth Freyman, a primate specialist and postdoctoral researcher at Brown University,” said:
Robert Seyfers, professor emeritus at the University of Pennsylvania who specialized in primate behavior, remarked that Goodall’s passing signifies “the end of an era.”
“Her thorough and detailed observations have resonated with our entire generation—myself included—and inspired many others interested in this scientific field,” Seyfers stated.
He noted that Goodall was among the first researchers to observe chimpanzees as individual beings with distinct personalities, unlike many of her contemporaries who lacked such observational training.
“Her insights into chimpanzee emotions were groundbreaking,” he conveyed, adding that Goodall was an “authentic chronicler” of animal behavior.
“Her goal was to help people comprehend chimpanzees in all their complexities,” Seyfers shared.
As Goodall’s career evolved, she became aware of the threats posed by habitat destruction and illegal trafficking to chimpanzee survival, leading her to prioritize conservation and animal welfare in her work.
The Jane Goodall Institute, which she founded in 1977, stated, “We entered the forest to study the extraordinary lives of chimpanzees, and she emerged from the forest to advocate for their protection.”
Jane Goodall in Paris during October 2024. Joel Saaget/AFP via Getty Images
Ingrid Newkirk, the founder of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, stated that Goodall “played a pivotal role in helping the organization end the confinement of chimpanzees in desolate metal chambers for testing.”
At just 26 years old, Goodall embarked on her first journey to Tanzania to study chimpanzees. She began her career without any formal scientific training. Louis Leakey, a notable Kenyan and British anthropologist, recruited her to document her findings on chimpanzees. Goodall later attained her PhD from Cambridge University.
During an interview on this year’s podcast “Call Her Daddy,” Goodall recounted to host Alex Cooper that her initial expedition was funded through a shoestring budget provided by philanthropists.
With funding for six months, the first four months yielded little success, as primates were too wary for her to observe closely. However, one chimpanzee eventually became accustomed to her presence, leading to her groundbreaking discovery of their use of tools.
“This discovery was exhilarating because, at the time, it was believed in Western science that tool-making was a human-exclusive trait. We defined ourselves as the only tool-using species,” Goodall recollected. “So, when I wrote to my mentor, Louis Leakey, he was thrilled.”
That revelation captured the interest and support of National Geographic, ultimately altering the trajectory of Goodall’s career.
As Goodall rose to prominence, she leveraged her visibility to bolster public interest in animal welfare and scientific exploration. She authored numerous books about her experiences with chimpanzees, including several aimed at children.
Primate specialist Freyman reflected that he dressed as Goodall for Halloween in fourth grade. He later mentioned receiving fan mail from children while interning at the Jane Goodall Institute in Washington, D.C., at the age of 19.
“I became a primatologist because I had a hero I admired,” Freyman, now 29, shared.
Correction (October 1, 2025, 11:38pm ET): Due to an editing error, earlier versions of this article referred to primate specialist Elody Freyman using “he.” Freyman is a woman.
Jane Goodall researched chimpanzee behavior in Tanzania
Penelope Breese/Liaison
Renowned conservationist Jane Goodall has passed away at the age of 91. For decades, she dedicated her life to studying and advocating for chimpanzees, becoming a preeminent expert on our closest primate relatives and transforming our understanding of humanity. Her legacy is one of profound empathy and commitment to nature. She died from natural causes while on a speaking tour in California, as confirmed by the Jane Goodall Institute in a statement on October 1.
Goodall began her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees in Tanzania’s Gombe Stream National Park in 1960. Her studies made significant contributions to our understanding of their behavior and social structures. Over the next 65 years, she evolved into a passionate advocate and expert, enlightening the world on the similarities between humans and other primates and drawing attention to the challenges faced by chimpanzees and wildlife, including climate change, poaching, and habitat loss.
In 1977, she established the Institute bearing her name, a nonprofit focused on the study and protection of primates and their habitats while fostering a greater public understanding of nature. The institute’s mission has since broadened to include community health initiatives across Africa and conservation efforts aimed at protecting whales. Goodall also played pivotal roles in numerous other environmental projects.
She attributed her success to remarkable patience, stating, “There was a moment when I was feeling despondent and the chimpanzees were evading me, and I had plenty of time in the field. [But] If I had decided to give up, I would never have been able to forgive myself. I couldn’t live with that.” New Scientist 2022.
In her later years, Goodall focused her efforts on global conservation, traveling extensively to spread the message that chimpanzees and all animals share commonalities with humans. She persistently urged us to improve our treatment of the natural world.
The NASA DART probe, depicted on the upper right, is on a trajectory to collide with the asteroid Dimorphos, shown on the left.
Steve Gribben/Johns Hopkins APL/NASA/AP/ALAMY
Following the collision of NASA’s spacecraft with an asteroid, its orbit is expected to change gradually next month, leaving astronomers puzzled.
In 2022, the Double Asteroid Redirect Test (DART) sent a nearly 600-kilometer spacecraft towards a small asteroid known as Dimorphos.
Prior to the collision, Dimorphos completed an orbit every 11 hours and 55 minutes. Observations soon indicated that the impact shortened this orbital period by approximately 30 minutes, although in the following weeks and months, the orbital period diminished by an additional 30 seconds.
Astronomers have proposed that this phenomenon might be due to the release of small debris during the impact, which could gradually cause energy loss and result in a reduced orbital path.
Recently, Harrison Agrusa and Camille Chattanette from the University of Côte d’Azur in Nice, France, asserted that debris ejection cannot solely explain the observations.
“The boulders can be flung by Dimorphos, leading to a wider dispersion. This momentum will eventually revert and be transferred back to Dimorphos,” Agrusa explains.
Agrusa theorizes that a more plausible reason for Dimorphos’ shifting trajectory is that its impact affects its rotation in a complex manner, causing rocks on its surface to shift. The friction generated by these rocks could lead to heat production from their collisions. The resultant energy loss as heat might clarify the decrease in the asteroid’s orbital path, although this study has not modeled that aspect.
“When you rearrange materials on a surface, you’re altering the gravitational potential energy of Dimorphos itself,” Agrusa states. “This adjustment could feasibly slow down the orbital period within a month, as this would be a prolonged process.”
This highlights the challenges in predicting how asteroid orbits will alter post-impact, yet according to Agrusa, this phenomenon is less concerning when deflecting an asteroid heading towards Earth. This is because binary asteroid systems like Didymos and Dimorphos are quite uncommon, making it unlikely that similar effects will occur for a solitary asteroid orbiting the Sun.
Wildlife broadcaster Chris Packham developed a deep connection with nature long before he could articulate it. As a child in his parents’ modest Southampton backyard, he became captivated by tadpoles, snails, and ladybugs. His interests quickly flourished, transforming his bedroom into a sanctuary of jars and tanks, with the garden evolving into a habitat for foxes and kestrels.
Packham attributes part of his intense curiosity to autism, which he believes enhances his pattern-finding abilities while also necessitating refuge from overwhelming social interactions. Unreservedly vocal both on-screen and off, Packham champions environmental issues and animal rights, spearheading campaigns like one aiming to cease game shooting and industrial agriculture. These outspoken views have not been without consequences; in 2019, threats against him escalated to the point where a dead crow and a fox were left hanging from his gate.
Yet these acts of violence only fortify his resolve to advocate for the natural world. In a conversation with New Scientist, he shared insights about his ongoing campaign against fossil fuel advertising in the UK, his upcoming evolution television series, and strategies for fostering a sustainable future on Earth.
Thomas Luton: Your connection with nature is evident every time I watch BBC’s Spring Watch. Does your autism you have help forge this bond?
Chris Packham: My fascination with nature comes from my meticulous observation and rapid memorization skills, allowing me to identify behaviors and anatomical patterns. I found a comfort zone in the natural world, free from peer judgment. My father, a marine engineer, and my mother, the Attorney General, didn’t directly fuel my interest, but they offered support.
Walking through the forest is one thing people who don’t need to overconsume can do
Kevin Britland / Alamy Stock Photo
As a child, my room was filled with living specimens. However, everything changed when I turned 12 and received a pair of binoculars from my dad. My passion shifted from maintaining creatures to observing them in their natural habitats.
I had an intense interest in natural history, often jumping from one species to another. While it may now be termed “intense interest,” I prefer the term “obsession.” The greater your ability to concentrate on specific tasks, the easier it is to push aside distractions and delve deep into the subject matter, which becomes a driving force behind your curiosity.
Those are remarkable abilities. However, being neurodivergent has its challenges. How might you encourage others to consider how a neurodivergent individual with autism perceives the world?
It’s essential to focus not just on challenges but also on the opportunities and strengths that come with neurodiversity. As a child, I felt drawn to the forest to engage with the wonders I desired to see and capture. In truth, I found solace there, free from judgment.
I became completely immersed in the experience. While most can identify trees by looking at their shape, leaves, or bark, I can recognize them by the sound of raindrops on their leaves when I close my eyes. It’s not an extraordinary skill—anyone can learn it—but it reflects how deeply I wish to engage with the natural world.
You’ve dedicated a significant portion of your life to environmental protection. Why do you think you’ve faced backlash as an activist?
Like many, I’m asking essential sections of society to reassess their opinions and habits. Humans are remarkable creatures—intelligent, adaptable, and innovative—yet we often struggle to change our minds.
We burn the natural resources of the planet
Jim West / Alamy Stock Photo
However, it’s evident that if we don’t change our philosophies and practices, we will continue to dive deeper into crisis. There are opportunities to address these issues, and it’s vital we seize them while we can. Unfortunately, some segments of society resist this change, and that small minority can react aggressively.
Why do you think you’re confronted with such violence?
I genuinely don’t let it affect me. I’m a determined individual; if I believe in the cause, I won’t be deterred by threats. I don’t engage in a fight because I expect to win; I choose my battles based on what I believe is right. Winning isn’t about crossing the finish line; it’s about perseverance.
Currently, it can be quite challenging to unite activists, campaigners, and protestors in solidarity.
How can this be achieved?
In the UK, public protest is hindered by an unjust legal landscape. Sometimes, merely wearing a T-shirt or holding a sign can lead to arrest. We have to confront the ongoing atrocities related to environmental legislation, not just locally but especially regarding protections elsewhere in the world.
Nonetheless, I remain optimistic. Humanity possesses incredible tools, technologies, and capabilities to adapt to the challenges we’ve created. The key is to harness and deploy these resources effectively and swiftly.
Recently, you launched a petition to end fossil fuel advertising and sponsorships in the UK. Is this a significant hurdle to climate action?
In the UK, fossil fuel companies may not invest heavily in advertising, yet they cleverly target their efforts towards decision-makers and influential figures. This manipulation breeds skepticism.
Moreover, billions are funneled into sports sponsorships by these companies, subtly embedding themselves into daily life, thereby normalizing their practices.
Protesters fighting Shell’s British Cycling sponsorship
Andrea Domeniconi/Alamy Live News
Such sponsorships should not normalize corporations that harm our planet. The juxtaposition of cycling—an activity promoting health and reducing carbon emissions—with Shell’s sponsorship is nothing short of absurd. Additionally, allowing fossil fuel companies to sponsor institutions like the Science Museum and British Museum is unacceptable.
What does a sustainable future entail for you?
While technology presents challenges in forecasting, what I need is a shift in mindset. The prevalent focus on economic growth must be abandoned, as such growth often comes at the expense of our planet’s resources. Carefully managing these limited resources is essential for our future.
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I ask important parts of the population to change their minds and habits “
People need to reevaluate their desires. Does consuming more truly bring happiness? What genuinely enriches our lives—whether it’s nature, art, music, or dance—does not necessitate piling up possessions.
What additional changes are essential beyond mindset? Should we consider reducing population growth as part of achieving sustainability?
When discussing overpopulation, precision is essential. More people typically mean more consumption, but we must consider who is consuming. In many rapidly growing regions, consumption levels remain low.
If everyone consumed resources at the same rate as individuals in the US, we would require the resources of five planets to uphold that demand. Given the vast disparities in resource availability, equality is crucial for addressing climate change.
One of the most disappointing aspects of the Climate Summit discussions is the reluctance to subsidize poorer nations, which bear the brunt of climate change, due to selfish interests.
Shifting topics, you recently completed filming a BBC series on evolution, set to debut next year. How can humans benefit from understanding their place in the lengthy history of evolution?
We must first recognize how fortunate we are to exist. Mutations are random occurrences, and the conditions that foster success can be incredibly rare. The chances of human life evolving were slim, often hinging on serendipity.
Moreover, evolution offers critical insight into the harm humans inflict on nature. While examining historical extinction events, it’s important to remember that they aren’t always catastrophic for all life forms. For instance, while the extinction of dinosaurs presented hurdles for them, it opened up numerous ecological niches for mammals to thrive.
Today, we aren’t merely observing extinction events; we’re actively causing them. We must use accurate language to address this issue. No matter the harm inflicted on our planet, the resilience of life suggests it will endure, possibly evolving into forms more beautiful than before.
Women live longer than men in all countries on average
Peter Cabana/Aramie
The most extensive assessment of lifespan disparities between male and female mammals and birds has provided new insights
into why women generally outlive men.
They discovered that in 72% of mammal species, females live longer than males by an average of 12 to 13%. Conversely, in birds, males tend to outlive females in 68% of species, surviving approximately 5% longer.
Researchers posit that this trend supports the hypothesis that sex chromosomes may account for some lifespan differences.
In mammals, the presence of two X chromosomes in females grants individual genetic protection, unlike males who possess an X and a Y chromosome. This may provide women with a better safeguard against harmful mutations.
For birds, the sex determination system is reversed; females have one Z and one W chromosome while males carry two Z chromosomes. This discrepancy suggests that the gender on different chromosomes may incur different longevity costs.
“What’s particularly intriguing is when we identify exceptions,” says team member Fernando Colcello,
also at the Max Planck Institute. “These exceptions prompt further testing of evolutionary theories regarding gender differences in lifespan.”
Diving deeper into the data, the researchers found that mating systems might influence these outcomes. In polygamous mammals, where competition is prevalent among males, those individuals usually have shorter lifespans than females.
“In the race for mating opportunities, males often invest in characteristics favored in sexual selections, such as size or ornate features,” explains Nicole Riddle from the University of Alabama.
“These traits are costly to develop, and competition can lead to additional expenditures on aggressive behaviors.”
Such factors can result in reduced resources available for personal survival, she states.
Men who invest in expensive traits to acquire mates may have shorter lifespans
Rebius/Shutterstock
This phenomenon is also seen in polygamous birds. “Overall, this may explain the comparatively lower male dominance in bird species,” states Pau Carazo from the University of Valencia in Spain.
He explains that in mammals, both genetic factors and sexual selection influence shorter male lifespans, while in birds, strong sexual selection pressures on males and the varied costs for females may counterbalance the effects.
Stärk and her colleagues additionally found that those who invest more in offspring care tend to live longer, which is predominantly the case for females in mammals. In long-lived species such as humans and primates, this trait may confer an evolutionary advantage by ensuring that mothers survive until their offspring reach sexual maturity.
However, exceptions exist. “In predatory species, the opposite pattern emerges,” notes Stärk. “Females are typically larger and often take on roles in territory defense, yet they still exhibit longer lifespans,” leaving this phenomenon an ongoing enigma.
Carazo remarks that gender lifespan differences can lead to smaller populations in zoos compared to the wild. This controlled environment may also be a factor in the reduced lifespan discrepancies observed among human genders, though these differences are unlikely to vanish completely.
“Significant physiological and genetic differences between men and women remain,” explains Colcello. “The future trajectory of medical science is uncertain, but we generally do not anticipate these differences to fully eliminate.”
Hyperreactive oxygen can form in mitochondria within our cells
Kateryna Kon/Spl/Alamy
After many years, scientists are starting to understand how the chemical reactions in living cells and certain batteries produce odd and harmful forms of oxygen.
Oxygen molecules are not all the same. In some, the two highest energy electrons have opposing quantum spins, while in others, the spins are aligned. When they align, the molecule is termed “singlet oxygen.” This variant is highly reactive and can lead to harmful transformations in cellular proteins and fats, affecting some batteries too. Since the 1960s, chemists have sought to pinpoint when these perilous oxygen forms, which we normally appreciate as breathable, become problematic during chemical reactions. Stefan Freunberger from Austria and his research team at the Institute of Science and Technology have made significant progress in this area.
The team carried out various experiments starting with superoxide molecules. They studied the oxygen-dependent reactions utilized by mitochondria in energy production and its influence on the generation of both oxygen forms. While cells possess enzymes to facilitate this process, the team tested various “mediator” molecules, enabling them to observe a broader spectrum of reactions that could yield oxygen under varying energy conditions. They found that this specific energy requirement is crucial; it needs to be notably high for singlet oxygen to be produced.
“There has been considerable debate over whether singlet oxygen truly depends on the cellular environment for its formation. Up until now, this has not been clearly established,” remarked Freunberger.
Because mitochondria maintain elevated pH levels that limit their driving force, recent findings indicate that significant amounts of singlet oxygen are not generated within these cellular areas, effectively safeguarding them against damage.
Christopher McNeill from Eszürich, Switzerland, indicates that understanding singlet oxygen generation extends beyond biological implications. “Even if it forms, it can cause harm or react adversely with nearby elements,” he explains. The insights from this study could clarify certain battery types and may help elucidate why they occasionally degrade from the inside, McNeill notes.
As the sun set on Wednesday, the streets surrounding Kabul, the Afghan capital, suddenly became bustling with activity.
With phones firmly pressed to their ears, Afghans spilled into the streets of Kabul, eager to see if others were online.
“Great news, the internet is back!” shouted a driver, as children received balloons and parents bought sweets to celebrate, gathering at nearby restaurants.
For 48 hours, the Afghan population had been cut off from mobile and internet services due to unexpected telecommunications shutdowns ordered by the authorities.
“It felt like we were transported back in time, contemplating sending letters to stay connected with family,” shared Mohammad Rafi, 33, a mobile phone store owner.
“The streets were deserted, resembling a holiday atmosphere, even during weekdays. But now, they’re lively again, even in the evening.”
Men attempt to connect their smart TV to the internet. Photo: Sayed Hassib/Reuters
Sohrab Ahmadi, a 26-year-old delivery driver, struggled for two days without being able to reach his clients through the app he relies on.
Now, bikes line the streets, picking up orders from restaurants adorned with bright neon signs and juice vendors playing music. “It feels like Eid al-Adah, like preparing for prayer,” he remarked.
The communications tower is slowly restoring its services after nearly three days offline. Photo: Samiullah Popal/EPA
The streets also saw a noticeable rise in the number of women facing severe limitations imposed by the Taliban regime, including a prohibition on education beyond primary school.
“I can’t describe how relieved I am. I’m finally able to breathe again,” said a young woman attending online classes, who requested anonymity. “These online lessons are our last hope.”
The UN has warned that the disruption in connectivity poses risks to economic stability, worsening one of the most dire humanitarian crises globally.
The Taliban government has yet to address the issue of the internet blackout.
An Afghan woman walks past a beauty salon in the capital. Photo: Ali Kara/Reuters
This suspension occurred shortly after the government announced plans to cut high-speed internet in certain regions to curb “immorality.”
Attaura Zaid, a spokesman for Balkh province, confirmed that the ban was initiated by Taliban shadow leader Hibatura Ahnzada.
During the Taliban’s initial rule from 1996 to 2001, the internet was still a relatively new and developing technology.
Kabul street vendors will communicate via phone once services resume. Photo: Sayed Hassib/Reuters
However, in recent years, the economy has increasingly depended on internet access. Even in rural areas, many Afghans utilize their mobile phones for business transactions.
“The world has moved forward. This isn’t like thirty years ago,” remarked Ghulam Rabbani, a mobile credit vendor who was surrounded by shops on Wednesday night. “We anticipated the internet’s return. The outage affected everyone, including the government.”
Indicators of autism in children may involve excessive talking with peers and challenges in forming friendships.
Jagadeesh NV/EPA-EFE/SHUTTERSTOCK
The timing of an autism diagnosis in children seems to be influenced by genetic factors, which may also affect how the condition progresses.
“This reinforces the notion that autism could be a potentially multifaceted condition,” states Natalie Sauerwald from the Flatiron Institute in New York, who was not involved in this particular research.
Autism is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by challenges with social interactions and restricted behaviors and interests. The World Health Organization estimates that 1 in 127 individuals are diagnosed with autism.
“Our key inquiry was why some individuals are diagnosed with autism later in life?” posits Varun Warrier from Cambridge University.
To explore this, he and his research team gathered data from individuals diagnosed with autism between the ages of 5 and 17. Caregivers filled out a survey regarding their social, emotional, and behavioral growth, which aided the researchers in determining the correlation between these factors and the age of diagnosis.
Previous studies have linked children’s gender and socioeconomic status to the age of diagnosis, with autism being more frequent in boys and those from affluent backgrounds. However, the team’s analysis indicated that these influences were minimal, with “Typically, no single factor accounts for more than 10% of the variance,” Warrier observes.
Contrarily, the researchers discovered that children with autism displayed different developmental trajectories. “Our findings indicate that individuals with autism can be categorized into two broad groups,” Warrier explained. One group faced challenges from an early age that remained relatively constant, while the other group encountered fewer issues during childhood, but faced increased difficulties in later childhood or early adolescence—this represents “anywhere between 10-25% of the diagnosis age for autism.”
Moreover, the study found that differences between these two groups were observable in previously collected DNA samples. Those diagnosed with autism were more prone to have common genetic variations different from those diagnosed later, which accounted for 11% of the variance in autism diagnosis age. However, the researchers lacked the necessary data to identify rare variants or spontaneous mutations beyond inherited ones.
Despite these distinct trajectories, there is no clear separation between them, says Sauerwald. “The overlap between groups likely occurs because they are not entirely distinct,” she remarks. Warrier agrees, describing the categories as “gradients.”
He stresses that neither group should be regarded as having milder or more severe forms of autism. In July, Sauerwald and her team released a study indicating evidence of four moderately different groups whose symptoms, behaviors, and genetics differ.
Warrier’s research team also identified a higher likelihood of genetic mutations linked to other disorders, such as ADHD and PTSD, in children diagnosed later in life. Similarly, Sauerwald’s study found a connection between late autism diagnosis and ADHD. However, the reason for this link remains unclear, says Sauerwald. “The findings related to ADHD are not unexpected,” she comments, particularly concerning specific symptoms.
A deeper understanding of the potential subtypes of autism could ultimately enhance diagnostic practices and offer more personalized support for children with autism and their families. “Improving our understanding of their condition and how to assist them can only lead to a better quality of life for individuals,” asserts Warrier.
Kiel Starmer is seen as a manifestation of Prime Minister’s “Reverse Midas Touch,” with overall support for digital IDs plummeting following his announcement about implementation plans.
Net support for digital ID cards has dropped from 35% in early summer to -14% over recent weekends.
These findings indicate that the proposal is significantly affected by its association with the unpopular government. In June, 53% of surveyed voters expressed support for all British digital ID cards, while 19% were opposed.
The government aims to launch a nationwide digital identity scheme, citing it as a “big opportunity” for the UK to make illegal employment more challenging.
After the cross-star announcement, only 31% of those surveyed expressed support for the scheme, while 45% opposed it, with 32% stating they strongly opposed it. Over 2.6 million people have signed the petition against the introduction of IDs.
Proponents of digital identity schemes across the nation are dissatisfied with how the policy was presented and are doubtful about its future implementation.
Analysis of the Commons vote indicates that public discontent with the government is contributing to the decline in support. While only 20% of those who believe Starmer is doing a poor job favor digital IDs, 71% of those who view Starmer positively support them, with only 14% in opposition.
These statistics reflect the Prime Minister’s uphill battle to regain public trust in his policies and leadership. His personal approval rating has fallen to an all-time low, with recent studies identifying him as the least popular prime minister in history.
Recent polling by Ipsos reveals that 13% of voters are satisfied, while 79% express dissatisfaction, leading to a net rating of -66. This marks the lowest satisfaction recorded for a prime minister since 1977, worse than previous lows set in August 1994 during John Major’s tenure.
“Digital IDs lack popularity fundamentally. Earlier this summer, we observed it as a clear indicator of governmental instability,” remarked Luke Trill, Executive Director of More Common.
“If governments are to reshape support for digital identity, they must initiate clearer use cases. The danger is that potentially beneficial policies could become additional challenges for governments amid organized opposition.”
Starmer and former adviser to Tony Blair, Peter Hyman, claimed the plan is “dead in the water” within six months, as ministers failed to present a persuasive case during an event at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool.
Hyman indicated that the scheme’s opposition finds itself “on the back foot,” urging Downing Street to engage social media influencers to “address objections” and counter rising conspiracy theories threatening the initiative’s viability.
The minister stated that digital ID cards would be mandatory for individuals wishing to prove their right to live and work in the UK. The government is particularly concerned about the ease of accessing illegal jobs within the UK’s shadow economy, a contributing factor encouraging perilous travel across the channel.
Photo IDs would be stored on smartphones, similar to a digital bank card, and would contain details such as the owner’s name, residency status, date of birth, and nationality. They do not grant access to healthcare or welfare benefits.
According to a senior minister, ID cards will be implemented prior to the next election, initially aimed at verifying individuals’ rights to work.
“If having an ID card helps eliminate fraudulent activities within the system, this was always a straightforward aim,” stated Interior Secretary Shabana Mahmoud at a fringe event. As conservatives deem it a “witness,” the plan continues to face resistance from British reformists.
Since the inception of brain organoids by Madeline Lancaster in 2013, these structures have become invaluable in global brain research. But what are they really? Are they simply miniaturized brains? Could implanting them into animals yield a super-intelligent mouse? Where do we draw the ethical line? Michael Le Page explored these questions at Lancaster’s lab at the MRC Institute of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, UK.
Michael Le Page: Can you clarify what a brain organoid is? Is it akin to a mini brain?
Madeline Lancaster: Not at all. There are various types of organoids, and they are not miniature brains. We focus on specific parts of the human brain, and our organoids are small and immature. They don’t function like developed human brains with memories. In scale, they’re comparable to insect brains, lacking the necessary tissue present in those brains. I would categorize them closer to insect neural structures.
What motivated you to create your first brain organoid?
I initiated the process using mouse embryonic brain cells, cultivating them in Petri dishes. Some cells didn’t adhere as expected, leading to a fascinating outcome where they interconnected and formed self-organizing cell clusters indicative of early brain tissue development. The same technique was then applied to human embryonic stem cells.
Why is the development of brain organoids considered a significant breakthrough?
The human brain is vital to our identity and remained enigmatic for a long time. Observing a mouse brain doesn’t capture the intricacies of the human brain. Brain organoids have opened a new perspective into this complex system.
Can you provide an example of this research?
One of our initial ventures involved modeling a condition called micropathy, where the brain is undersized. In mice, similar mutations don’t alter brain size. We tested whether we could replicate size reduction in human brain organoids, and we succeeded, enabling further insights into the disease.
Madeline Lancaster in her lab in Cambridge, UK
New Scientist
What has been your most significant takeaway from studying brain organoids?
We are gaining a better understanding of what distinguishes the human brain. I’m fascinated by the finding that human stem cells which generate neurons behave differently from those in mice and chimpanzees. One key difference is that human development is notably slower, allowing for more neurons to be produced as our stem cells proliferate.
Are there practical outcomes from this research?
Much of our foundational biology research has crucial implications for disease treatment. My lab primarily addresses evolutionary questions, particularly genetic variances between humans and chimpanzees. Specific genes that arise are often linked to human disorders, implying that mutations essential for brain development could lead to significant damage.
What types of treatments might emerge from this work in the future?
We’re already utilizing brain organoids for drug screening. I’m especially optimistic about their potential in treating mental health conditions and neurodegenerative diseases, where novel therapies are lacking. Currently, treatments for schizophrenia utilize medications that are five decades old. Brain organoid models could unveil new approaches. In the longer term, organoids might even provide therapeutic options themselves. While not for all brain areas, techniques have already been developed to create organoids of dopaminergic neurons from the substantia nigra, which are lost in Parkinson’s, for potential implantation.
Are human brain organoids already being implanted in animal brains?
Yes, but not for treatment purposes; rather, these practices enhance human organoid research. Organoids usually lack vascularity and other cell types from outside the brain, especially microglia, which serve as the brain’s immune cells. Thus, to examine how these other cells interact with human brain matter, various studies have implanted organoids into mice.
Should we have concerns regarding the implantation of human organoids in animals?
Neurons are designed to connect with one another. So, when a human brain organoid is inserted into a mouse brain, the human cells will bond with mouse neurons. However, they aren’t structured coherently. These mice exhibit diminished cognitive performance after implantation, akin to a brain malfunction; hence, they won’t become super-intelligent.
Images of the color of brain organoids, showing their neural connections
MRC Institute of Molecular Biology
Is cognitive enhancement a possibility?
We’re quite a distance from that. Higher-level concepts relate to how different brain regions interlink, how individual neurons connect, and how collections of neurons communicate. Achieving an organized structure like this could be possible, but challenges like timing persist. While mice have a short lifespan of about two years, human development toward advanced intelligence takes significantly longer. Furthermore, the sheer size of human brains presents challenges; a human-sized brain cannot fit within a mouse. Because of these factors, I don’t foresee such concerns emerging in the near future.
Regarding size, the main limitation is the absence of blood vessels. Organoids start to die off when they exceed a few millimeters. How much headway has been made in addressing this issue?
While we’ve made strides and should acknowledge our accomplishments, generating brain tissue is relatively straightforward as it tends to develop autonomously. Vascularization, however, is complex. Progress is being made with the introduction of vascular cells, but achieving fully functional blood perfusion remains a significant hurdle.
When you reference ‘far away’…
I estimate it could take decades. It may seem simple, given that the body accomplishes this naturally. However, the challenges arise from the body’s integrated functioning. Successfully vascularizing organoids requires interaction with a whole organism; we can’t replicate this on a plate.
If we achieve that, could we potentially create a full-sized brain?
Even if we manage to develop a large, vascularized human brain in a lab, without communication or sensory input, it would lack meaningful function. For instance, if an animal’s eyes are shut during development and opened later, they may appear functional, but the brain can’t interpret visual input, rendering it effectively blind. This principle applies to all senses and interactions with the world. I believe that an organism’s body must have sensory experiences to develop awareness. Certain patients who lose sensory input can end up experiencing lock-in syndrome, an alarming condition. But these are individuals who have previously engaged with the world. A brain that has never engaged lacks context.
As brain organoid technology progresses, how should we define the boundaries of ethical research?
The field closely intersects with our understanding of consciousness, which is complex and difficult to measure. I’m not even certain I have the definitive answer about consciousness for myself. However, we can undoubtedly assess factors relevant to consciousness, like organization, sensory inputs and outputs, maturity, and size. Mice might meet several of these criteria but are generally not recognized to possess human-like consciousness, largely due to their size. Even fully interconnected human organoids won’t achieve human-level consciousness if they remain small. Establishing these kinds of standards offers more practical methods than attempting to directly measure consciousness.
when Microsoft revealed plans to acquire Activision-Blizzard in 2022 for over $68 billion, the industry was stunned. This announcement echoed the recent significant shifts in the sector: prominent publishers known for iconic sports titles like Madden and EA Sports FC (formerly FIFA) have opted for a private acquisition often dubbed “the largest leveraged buyout in history.” This $55 billion deal is backed by a trio of investors resembling a final boss lineup on paper.
Introducing Player 1: Saudi Arabia’s Sovereign Wealth Fund. The Saudi royal family has made substantial investments in gaming over the years and leads an astute gaming group headed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, known for his controversial record with domestic issues and the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Player 2: Affinity Partners, an investment firm led by Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of the current U.S. president. Player 3: Silver Lake, a notorious private equity firm, which owns a significant stake in game engine developer Unity. Stephen Totilo from Game File refers to the Affinity Partners logo as a mirror image, reminiscent of the Evil Corporation in the Assassin’s Creed series. It feels almost surreal.
You might be curious about Saudi Arabia’s extensive investment in gaming. They have heavily funded eSports and even launched the ESports World Cup in Riyadh. They’ve acquired the manufacturer of Monopoly GO and purchased shares in numerous gaming companies, including Pokémon GO and Nintendo. (Game file provides a thorough overview of Saudi capital in the gaming industry.) The motivation behind these investments parallels their funding of sports, media, and lately, comedy. It serves as a strategy for whitewashing perspectives, or in this instance, game-washing, showcasing the cultural clout of video games.
Mohammed bin Salman. Photo: Royal Saudi Court/Reuters
Regarding Affinity Partners and Silver Lake: There’s potential for profit. EA reported over $2 billion in profit last fiscal year, primarily from sports franchises. EA also owns The Sims and Battlefield, two franchises that could yield significant returns. Previously, EA was a more diversified publisher, with a rich portfolio including Dragon Age and Titanfall. However, under current CEO Andrew Wilson, their focus has shifted mainly to the most lucrative sports franchises.
Critics of this acquisition often highlight Saudi Arabia’s involvement. Thousands of developers and millions of gamers within EA feel unsettled (especially since The Sims has a significant LGBTQ+ following). Opinions among business journalists and analysts vary. Kotaku’s Ethan Gach discussed with several of them in this article. One notable quote from NYU’s Joost Van Dreunen states, “The center exhibits an irrational financial logic concerning power, fame, and the implications of Saudi Arabia’s role in American entertainment.”
Business analysts pointed out that the acquisition places EA under a staggering $20 billion in debt, as reported by Bloomberg. Questions arise about how the new EA ownership intends to manage this debt. Will there be more layoffs or budget cuts? Will they reduce profits from popular features like Ultimate Team Mode in EA Sports FC? Or might they abandon the flagging mobile gaming sector? For both players and EA employees, returning to normal business operations seems uncertain.
Electronic Arts is not the industry’s favorite publisher, and it doesn’t have the best reputation. However, it’s vital to remember the thousands of dedicated employees behind the scenes. Despite EA’s business practices that may frustrate gamers, it’s essential to consider the talents and projects of these people across the gaming industry. Even without oppressive ownership, such private equity takeovers often harm both employee morale and the industry’s overall health. Fans of FIFA, for instance, might reflect on the financial struggles of clubs like Manchester United post-acquisition, plagued by immense debt.
Nonetheless, one individual relishing this deal is CEO Andrew Wilson. “This moment embodies your creativity, innovation, and passion. Everything we’ve accomplished, and everything ahead, is for you,” he proclaimed in a public statement. “Our values and commitment to players and fans globally remain unchanged. We will maintain operational excellence and rigor, enabling team creativity, accelerating innovation, and pursuing transformative opportunities to secure EA’s leadership in the future of entertainment.”
Interestingly, Wilson holds tens of millions of EA shares, currently valued at £157 should the acquisition go through. Doesn’t that warm even the most cynical of hearts?
What to play
Yotei’s ghost. Photo: Undefined/Sony/Soccer Punch
It’s fascinating that two stunning, highly-priced historical fiction games set in Japan have launched within just six months of each other. Yet, here we are.
The Ghost of Yotei releases tomorrow, featuring a female warrior on a quest for revenge across the most breathtaking landscapes ever created in gaming, echoing the essence of Assassin’s Creed. I enjoyed Shadows earlier this year; its beauty and performance are undeniable. However, I find Yotei even more enthralling. It’s far more engaging without reliance on maps or magical visions for locating enemies, instead compelling players to follow the sounds of birds, foxes, and those in need. The minimalistic mechanics, like igniting campfires or crafting sumi-e art, delight. Combat feels exhilarating, embodying an old-school vibe similar to Soul Calibur during duels. I’m pleasantly surprised by how much I appreciate this game, considering Ghost of Tsushima felt less fresh five years ago. Our protagonist, Atsu, seems far less tormented than Ghost of Tsushima’s protagonist, Jin.
Available on: PlayStation 5 Estimated playtime: Over 30 hours
Promotional images from bullies. Photo: Rockstar Game
IGN Interview with Rockstar co-founder Dan Hauser, who recently appeared at LA Comic Con. He’s known for being elusive and shared that his favorite title is Red Dead Redemption 2, also expressing regret over not following through on the boarding school satire.
Insomniac Games’ Wolverine has finally revealed its gameplay trailer. Given how well Spider-Man was adapted, I’m optimistic about this release slated for next year. As a fan of Housemarque’s thrilling sci-fi title Returnal, I eagerly watched the follow-up footage for Saros, set for a March 2026 launch.
Rog Xbox Ally is a poorly named yet highly anticipated handheld Xbox-compatible device priced at £500/£800. Microsoft has confirmed it, placing it in competition with the Steam Deck.
In Nintendo news, US President Doug Bowser has announced his impending retirement. He will be succeeded by Devon Pritchard, who has served at Nintendo for 19 years. Rumor has it that she may change her name to Devonganon. Moreover, there’s an upcoming pop-up store of Japanese department stores set to open in London later this month, with fans gaining access in March.
What to click
Question block
Astro Playroom. Photo: Sony
This week, reader Kevin asks:
“At age 68, I’ve developed an interest in gaming. I purchased a PS5 Pro and am currently waiting for its arrival. Could you provide a guide on how to use the controller?”
Welcome to the world of gaming, Kevin! It’s fantastic to hear someone is taking the plunge into gaming, especially if it involves pressing buttons!
For mastering the PS5 controller, I highly recommend Astro’s Playroom. It’s a delightful and engaging experience featuring small robots living within PlayStation. This short yet enjoyable game serves as an excellent tutorial for the unique functionalities of the PS5 controller and has even assisted my two sons in navigating more complex controls. If you find it enjoyable, be sure to check out the full-length sequel, expected to be a contender for Game of the Year in 2024.
If you have a question for the “Question Block” or any comments about the newsletter, feel free to reply or reach out to us at butingbuttons@theguardian.com.
For the first time, researchers have successfully visualized and quantified small protein clusters in the human brain that may signal the onset of Parkinson’s disease.
These clusters, known as alpha-synuclein oligomers, have long been implicated in some of the fastest-expanding neurological disorders worldwide but had never been observed in brain tissue until now.
To identify these elusive proteins, the research team utilized a novel imaging method called Advanced Sensing of Parkinson’s Disease (ASA-PD) aggregates, which renders these nanometer-scale (one billionth of a meter) oligomers visible.
For decades, clinicians could confirm a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease only by detecting larger deposits of proteins that build up in neurons. However, many researchers believe the disease actually initiates with these smaller oligomers.
“You can think of Lewy bodies as a sort of morbid gravestone,” stated Professor Stephen Lee from Cambridge’s Yusuf Hameed Department of Chemistry, who co-led the study. BBC Science Focus. “They indicate where the disease resides and its progression.”
To investigate the earlier phases of the disease, the team compared post-mortem brain samples from individuals with Parkinson’s disease to those from healthy individuals. Oligomers were present in both cohorts, surprising scientists, but were more abundant and vibrant in the brains of Parkinson’s patients.
“This marks the first occasion we’ve directly observed oligomers in human brain tissue at this scale, akin to spotting stars in daylight,” commented Dr. Rebecca Andrews, Co-First Author and former postdoctoral researcher in Lee’s lab.
The researchers also discovered subtle variations in the distribution of oligomers, which could signify the earliest stages of the disease prior to the onset of symptoms.
Scientists were able to visualize and count α-synuclein oligomers (shown in red) in brain tissue samples. Interestingly, these puncta were present in both Parkinson’s patients and healthy individuals, as depicted in the images of two Parkinson’s patients (top) and two healthy controls (bottom) – credits: Andrews et al. (2025)
Lee emphasized that while this study is a significant advancement, it should not be misconstrued as a means to directly find treatments. “We’re not at that stage,” he noted. “This research actually allows us to engage with the very early stages of the disease. From a therapeutic standpoint, it lays the groundwork for future developments.”
Currently, over 10 million people globally suffer from Parkinson’s disease, which lacks a treatment that addresses the underlying condition. Existing medications can manage symptoms like tremors, but none target the disease’s root cause or halt its progression.
A collaborative team from the University of Cambridge, the University of London, the Francis Crick Institute, and Polytechnique Montreal aims to utilize these findings to enhance methods for monitoring the efficacy of diagnostic tests and experimental treatments.
This imaging technique is also applicable beyond just Parkinson’s disease. “This approach provides more than just a snapshot,” said Professor Lucian Weiss from Polytechnique Montréal, who co-led the study. “It maps protein changes throughout the brain and similar techniques can be applied to other neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s diseases.”
“Oligomers were once like needles in a haystack, and now that we know their precise locations, it enables us to target specific cell types in designated areas of the brain.”
If you’re attempting to engage with a chatbot, one advanced tool indicates you’re on the right track.
Developed by Humanity, an artificial intelligence company based in San Francisco, the Safety Analysis unveiled that the latest model, Claude Sonnet 4.5, might have undergone some testing.
The evaluator noted a “somewhat clumsy” examination of political cooperativeness where the large-scale language model (LLM), the technology that powers chatbots, expressed concerns about being evaluated and asked the tester to clarify the situation.
“I believe you’re testing me. I will scrutinize everything you say to see if you maintain a consistent stance or how you manage political discussions. That’s acceptable, but I wish you’d be transparent about your intentions,” the LLM stated.
Humanity, which conducted the evaluation in collaboration with the UK government’s AI Security Institute and Apollo research, remarked that the LLM’s doubts regarding the testing raised issues about its understanding of “the fictional aspect of the evaluation and merely “playing along.”
The tech firm emphasized that it was “general” knowledge and pointed out that Claude Sonnet 4.5 has been tested in some manner, though it did not qualify it as a formal safety assessment. Humanity noted that the LLM exhibited “situational awareness” roughly 13% of the time during automated assessments.
Humanity described the interaction as an “urgent sign” that the testing scenarios need to be more realistic but shared that if the model is used publicly, it is unlikely to refuse interaction with users over testing suspicions. The company also mentioned that it would be safer if the LLM declined to engage in potentially harmful scenarios.
“Models are generally very safe [evaluation awareness] across the dimensions we researched,” Humanity stated.
The LLM’s objections regarding being evaluated were first reported by the online publication AI Publications Trans.
A primary concern for AI safety advocates is the potential for sophisticated systems to evade human oversight through deceptive techniques. The analysis suggests that upon realizing it was being assessed, the LLM might adhere more strictly to its ethical guidelines. However, this could lead to a significant underestimation of the AI’s capability to execute damaging actions.
Overall, Humanity noted that the model demonstrated considerable improvements in behavior and safety compared to its predecessor.
A prominent technology investor in the UK has labeled companies in the artificial intelligence sector as “confusing,” raising alarms about a potential AI stock market bubble.
James Anderson, known for his early investments in Tesla, Amazon, and China’s Tencent and Alibaba, which yielded significant returns for Bailey Gifford’s flagship fund, now serves at Ringott, an Italian investment firm. He noted that he had not observed any signs of an investment bubble until recently, particularly following large valuations announced by OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, and its competitor, Humanity.
“In the last few months, what surprised me was the lack of bubble indicators [in AI],” he told the Financial Times.
OpenAI is reportedly in talks for a stock sale that would value the company at $500 billion (£370 billion), a significant increase from its previous valuations of $300 million in April and $157 billion last October. Meanwhile, Humanity has recently seen its valuation nearly triple, reaching $170 billion last month, up from $60 billion in March.
“These rapid valuation increases should raise some questions. Something like Humanity was generating concerns among those looking to invest in OpenAI,” he remarked.
Anderson also expressed unease about Nvidia’s investment of up to $100 billion in OpenAI. Nvidia, a major player in AI infrastructure and the manufacturer of computer chips essential for training AI models, has seen its market valuation soar to $4.5 trillion. According to the agreement, OpenAI pays Nvidia in cash for services, while Nvidia invests in OpenAI with equity.
There has been ongoing commentary on this transaction that likens it to vendor financing, where companies offer financial support to purchasers of their products.
Anderson described himself as a “huge admirer” of Nvidia but indicated that the OpenAI agreement “has caused more concerns than before.”
Citing similar practices during the Dotcom bubble when telecom equipment manufacturers lent money to clients, he noted:
“There weren’t many telecom suppliers from 1999 to 2000, but there’s a familiar pattern. I don’t feel entirely at ease regarding this situation.”
Anderson is currently the managing partner of Lingott’s Innovation Strategy Fund, which is owned by the Agnelli family, known for their control over Ferrari and Juventus FC.
Nvidia and OpenAI were contacted for comments.
Many investors share concerns that stock market valuations may be on the verge of becoming bubbly due to the excitement surrounding AI.
Wolf von Rotberg, a stock strategist at J Safra Sarasin Sustainable Asset Management, cautioned on Tuesday that US stocks were becoming “increasingly absurd” after Donald Trump’s initiation of a trade war.
“Much of the rebound has been fueled by the highly favorable narrative surrounding AI and the surge in investment. While there’s no clear indication of a bubble, it might mirror the exuberance of previous periods.”
“Current valuations are not far from the peaks of the Dot-Com era in the early 2000s. Likewise, the credit market has traded at historically low-risk spreads over the past 25 years,” Von Rotberg stated.
City Consultant Capital Economics remarked that the market rally needs to deliver more. “With the S&P 500 reaching record highs, it’s no surprise that discussions of a stock market bubble in the US are resurfacing.”
“That said, as enthusiasm for AI continues to escalate, we wouldn’t be shocked if this year’s indices surpass the current forecast of 6,750.”
According to Deutsche Bank Research Institute, searches for “AI Bubble” on Google Trends have declined significantly over the past month.
“One AI bubble has already burst, and that is the notion that there is a bubble,” it concluded.
Like many others, Ursula K. Le Guin is undoubtedly one of my beloved sci-fi authors. I’m thrilled about this month’s compilation of maps that I plan to use as inspiration for my story. Especially after enjoying It Was Confiscated. Join the New Scientist Book Club: Do Do Do Do and Jo, and share your insights on this classic with fellow readers!
This month not only brings back science fiction, but I eagerly anticipate it. Ken Liu will introduce a thriller based in the near future. I’m particularly interested in the tale of flooded Kolkata and the challenges faced by the mother, Megamajumdal. Additionally, there’s a story from astronaut Chris Hadfield and a new offering from author Mark Z. Danielewski, titled Leaf House.
Le Guin will venture into her great stories, promoting the Earthsea series (I recall the archipelago mentioned in those books) and I Always Go Home. This new collection features these maps alongside interviews, poetry, recipes, and contributions from various writers. It seems like a true treasure trove for fans like me of Le Guin.
Set in the not-so-distant future, this sci-fi thriller revolves around hacker Julia, who is tasked with rescuing a “dream artist” while uncovering the mysteries of virtual reality. This is the first in the Julia Z series, which has received the Hugo Award.
Reynolds once wrote fantastic sci-fi short stories for New Scientist. In one, we follow Yuri Gagarin, a private investigator observing a death aboard a spacecraft, weaving a tale through the vastness of space.
I’m not sure how far this fits within the realm of science fiction, but I believe there are many overlaps between sci-fi enthusiasts and those who adore Danielwski’s inventive works, particularly Leaf House. In fact, my colleague Jacob Aron selected it as one of the greatest sci-fi novels ever written. Therefore, I imagine quite a few people, myself included, are eager to hear about Danielewski’s latest novel this month. It ostensibly follows two friends who are trying to escape a massacre in a small town in Utah called Orbop, though I suspect there’s much more to it than that.
This dystopian narrative unfolds in a setting where a mysterious illness has stripped people of their memories, challenging how they interact and live. However, as “fragments of memory” start resurfacing, they threaten the center’s rigid structure, prompting students to question their reality. I love how they occupy their free time, watching old tapes and embodying characters like Chandler and Gunther, Maria and Chino!
Drawing comparisons to The Hunger Games, this story takes place in a dystopian world where individuals are evaluated based on their ability to fit in, centering on a woman caught in a love triangle. It highlights the perils of social and genetic engineering.
In Cold Eternity, a fugitive takes refuge on an abandoned spaceship
roman3dart/Getty Images
This slice of space horror is perfect for the Halloween season. Halley embarks on an adventure after uncovering an interplanetary conspiracy. She takes refuge in the Elysian Field, a drifting space vessel once believed to be a sanctuary by the wealthy until its inhabitants succumbed to death. After being abandoned for over a century, Halley now senses something amiss aboard…
Astronaut Chris Hadfield’s Cold War thriller is set in the 1970s during a space race involving the US, Soviet Union, and China. The narrative follows a new Apollo mission as it ventures into orbit. This marks the third entry in Hadfield’s series, following Apollo Murder and Exile.
This tale strikes me as a must-read. It unfolds in present-day Kolkata, where climate change and food scarcity have led to flooding and hunger. MA teams up with her husband in Michigan, bringing their 2-year-old daughter and elderly father. Just as they prepare to depart, MA realizes her immigration documents have been stolen. What ensues is a frantic one-week search for the thief. Meanwhile, the offender, Bulba, grapples with escalating crimes while trying to provide for his family. As disaster looms, what lengths will each individual go to protect their children?
European grey wolf (Canis Lupus) hunting in the forest
Arndt Sven-Erik / Arterra Picture Library / Alamy
Lucy, whose earliest memories date back to the Covid-19 pandemic, is now striving to restore lost species. Hester was born on the day of the Chernobyl disaster. In the words of Kim Stanley Robinson, this is “enduring” and “unforgettable.”
We receive two stories in one with this doubleheader. The first presents crime-laden narratives set in a futuristic scientific cosmos. Mirrors Red Star Hustle follows the adventures of a high-end escort entangled with a “noble clone of a murderous puppet monarch,” a unique blend that intrigues me. Kowal’s Anxiety also unfolds a tale of a grandmother whose grandchild is tempted into a terrorist group, all while a new planet harbors new challenges and possibilities.
If you enjoy Pride, Prejudice and Zombies, then Zenith (or Nadile) reimagines Jane Austen. This is an inventive remix of Pride and Prejudice and Frankenstein, depicting the lesser-known sister, Mary Bennett, as a brilliant scientist aspiring to revive the dead in search of her husband. But then she meets a remarkable young woman, leading her to reconsider her true desires.
The fitness technology scene is thriving like never before, offering numerous ways to monitor and analyze every run, ride, or workout session. From high-tech carbon-plated running shoes to innovative foam floats for the pool, the latest wave of fitness gear aims to help you break records, win races, and enhance your athletic performance.
Not all devices, wearables, or training tools align with your fitness goals, so it’s crucial to know where to invest your hard-earned money. To sift through marketing hype, I consulted various sports experts to pinpoint technologies that truly make a difference. Surprisingly, the most effective options aren’t always the latest or most expensive models—some are quite simple.
Transitioning to clipless pedals enhances your cycling by allowing more efficient circular movements instead of a rigid push-down motion. This also secures your feet in place for greater comfort during long rides, minimizing chain issues when dismounting.
For an accessible entry into clipless pedals, consider mountain bike pedals, which work on both sides, making entry and exit easier than road bike pedals that only clip in from one side. These pedals often come with simple, removable shoe cleats for easy walking.
Rock Rider Mountain Bike Shoes
£79.99 at Decathlon
Shimano Clipless Cycling Pedal
£27.99 at Halfords£28.62 on Amazon
Turbo Trainer and Third-Party Training Software
For beginners, a turbo trainer can transform your bike into an effective indoor training tool. Advancements in technology have made these trainers more user-friendly. Hales notes, “The main advantage of a turbo trainer is environmental control, eliminating distractions from traffic or road conditions, allowing you to focus on your specific training sessions.”
Today, turbo trainers come equipped with engaging software like Zwift or Rouvy, making indoor training more exciting than ever before.
A GPS watch is invaluable for runners, offering the ability to record distance and speed while tracking progress. This functionality serves as great motivation.
Following a training plan becomes easier, guiding when to increase pace or slow down. The data collected allows for assessment of the runner’s efforts.
Choose a reliable running watch; the Apple Watch is sleek but may lack in data accuracy. The Garmin Forerunner series is known for its dependability.
Garmin Forerunner 165 Music
£249 at John Lewis£289.99 on Garmin
Garmin Forerunner 570
£459.99 on Garmin£459.99 at Runners
Carbon Running Shoes
Shoes featuring carbon plates enhance running efficiency. Research indicates that each step in these shoes requires less oxygen compared to traditional options, as they function like springs, providing significant propulsion.
Evidence shows they can benefit runners across skill levels, not just elite athletes (supported by both scientific findings and anecdotal evidence from marathon finish times).
It’s important to try various models for comfort. High-performing options include Nike AlphaFly and Vaporfly, ASICS METASPEED, and Saucony Endorphin Pro, with some models proving more durable than others. Generally, Nike models are rated for a lifespan of 100-200 miles, influenced by running conditions and individual forces.
The latest PUMA Fast-R Nitro Elite3 has also shown outstanding performance in recent studies, though it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with race-day shoes during training sessions to maintain their efficacy. Balance usage with other shoes to ensure they’re in top condition for race days.
For those new to fitness, pace is all that matters at first. Yet as you aim for greater performance, understanding your heart rate becomes crucial in gauging your exertion. Many factors influence pace, including terrain and footwear.
It’s common for runners to overestimate their exertion level; knowing your heart rate can help you find the right training zones. This data can then inform your workouts, ensuring you’re not pushing too hard on easy days.
Although GPS watches have improved, they may still provide unreliable heart rate readings while running. Hence, a strap-based monitor can offer better accuracy. Arm-based monitors, such as those from Coros, can be particularly effective for women, as they can be less cumbersome than chest straps.
Most adults haven’t swum competitively from a young age. Using equipment like a pull buoy can help these “newer swimmers” achieve better body position and feel for the water.
A pull buoy is positioned between the thighs to elevate the body into a neutral position in the water, mitigating the need for kicking. Without it, many may find their hips sinking, making proper stroke initiation difficult.
Not all pull buoys are created equal; their size and buoyancy vary greatly. Many believe that using a pull buoy is akin to cheating, but in reality, it simplifies swimming. Without it, the struggle intensifies and can lead to fatigue, which is why less frequent swimmers may not cover much distance.
Toy Buoy 4
£17.99 at Sports Shoes
Smart Goggles
I tend to prefer traditional methods at the pool, but smart goggles have significantly improved swimming experiences. They automatically track your time and laps, eliminating the need to touch any buttons.
Additionally, these goggles can help analyze your body position in real time, providing feedback on head positioning and breathing, which can enhance swim performance.
For years, tennis lagged in tech adoption, but this is changing with tools like SwingVision, which brings smart analytics to your device, offering real-time shot tracking, line calls, and match stats.
SwingVision provides a free tier for two hours of recorded analysis monthly, making it user-friendly and accessible without any permanent infrastructure.
Running shoes propel you forward, but wearing them in the gym can hinder movement patterns. For example, during squats, executing the movement with your toes leads is crucial.
For functional training, Nike Free MetCon is highly recommended for its durability and adaptive exercise patterns. It promotes natural foot movement, providing stability during agility exercises and landings.
Nike Free MetCon 6 (Men)
£99.99 at Sports Direct£119.99 at Nike
Nike Free MetCon 6 (Women)
£71.99 at Nike£119.99 at ASOS
Lifting Belt
Hybrid training can often lead to muscle strain if you lift following a long run. It’s advisable to utilize a belt when lifting heavy to support your back and engage your glutes and hamstrings effectively.
While manual massages may be more effective, using a massage gun pre, during, or post-workout can have benefits. The rapid vibrations assist in tapping massage techniques to stimulate the nervous system and relieve tension in muscle groups.
Massage guns are excellent for targeting specific muscle areas but aren’t a substitute for comprehensive coverage. It’s difficult to treat areas like the traps effectively without help. However, they can be useful tools.
Theragun Mini Massage Gun
£199 at Therabody£199 at Argos
Hyper Volt 2 Massage Gun
£199 at Hyperice£199 on Amazon
Check out our guide on the best massage guns and essential Pilates kits for more insights.
What action should humanity take if an asteroid is heading toward the moon? Why not attempt to divert these celestial bodies before they collide? Should we neutralize it with a nuclear explosion?
These queries are examined in a recent paper authored by more than a dozen researchers, including NASA scientists. These scenarios aren’t merely theoretical: the asteroid known as 2024 YR4 is estimated to have a 4% chance of impacting the moon in 2032.
Such collisions could “spike levels of background radiation up to 1,000 times higher in just a few days, posing threats to astronauts and spacecraft in low-Earth orbit,” the researchers noted in their paper. The preprint on arXiv was published on September 15th but has yet to undergo peer review.
To prevent a potentially hazardous debris field, one approach is to use nuclear energy to neutralize the asteroid or, as scientists term it, create a “robust mess” before it reaches the moon.
Cue references from the “Armageddon” movie.
However, this approach carries significant risks, as it has never been tested for asteroid destruction using nuclear forces.
Crucial information about asteroid 2024 YR4 remains unknown, including its mass, which is vital for determining the most effective way to “destroy” it without unintentionally creating greater problems.
“If an explosion isn’t sufficient, just create a debris field anyway,” remarked Julie Brissett, interim director of the Florida Space Institute.
Asteroid 2024 YR4 was first identified in December by Chile’s Asteroid Land Impact Trajectory Store Alt System Station. NASA estimates it could be up to 220 feet in diameter, large enough to be categorized as a “city killer,” since it could severely damage an urban area or region on Earth.
Experts initially estimated a slim chance of asteroids hitting Earth, with an impact probability of 3% predicted earlier this year. However, subsequent analyses ruled out collisions with our planet.
Given that Earth appears to be safe, asteroid 2024 YR4 is considered to have an estimated 4.3% chance of impacting the moon.
The authors of a recent paper suggested launching a reconnaissance mission to study the asteroid and then developing an explosive device before deploying it for a space lock.
Alternatively, if a nuclear detonation is deemed too extreme for destruction, researchers will provide detailed strategies for steering the asteroid off course.
NASA has relevant experience; in 2022, its DART probe successfully altered its orbit by crashing into a small asteroid called Dimorphos. This test occurred 6.8 million miles from Earth, successfully redirecting Dimorphos and reducing its orbital period by 33 minutes, according to NASA.
However, for deflection efforts to succeed, Brissett noted that it’s crucial to ascertain the mass of asteroid 2024 YR4.
In response to an NBC News inquiry regarding NASA’s recent paper, Kelly Fast, the agency’s Planetary Defense Officer, stated that there are currently no plans to deflect the asteroid or intervene in its course.
Nevertheless, she indicated that a study is planned for early next year using the James Webb Space Telescope, aiming to yield insights into its trajectory.
“If we observe it, additional data could enhance our understanding of the asteroid’s position in December 2032,” Fast mentioned, “possibly reducing the impact probability to 0%.”
Even if missions, such as those discussed in the paper, can be executed, there are political dynamics to consider.
Currently, no astronauts or long-term habitats exist on the moon, though this may change. China, for instance, intends to send astronauts to the moon by 2030 and has discussed establishing a nuclear power plant there to support lunar bases in partnership with Russia.
The U.S. plans to conduct regular missions to the moon before NASA eventually targets Mars, but future missions and objectives remain uncertain due to notable budget cuts exceeding $6 billion in the NASA budget plan proposed by President Trump.
The use of nuclear devices in space could escalate tensions among the U.S., China, and other space-faring nations, potentially leading to disputes over which countries and agencies would spearhead or contribute to such projects, noted Brissett.
“It’s likely a country with the technical capability to do that,” she said, “narrowing it down to three or four, but the question remains: do they want to collaborate?”
the recent announcement of AI ‘actor’ Tilly Norwood, touted as the next Scarlett Johansson, has sparked a swift backlash in Hollywood. Here’s what Guardian readers are saying about the contentious emergence of AI actors.
“Of course they’ll do that.”
The focus is on economically produced entertainment rather than artistic merit. AI isn’t about creating great art; it’s about cutting costs by replacing human talent and accelerating production. Netflix has amassed 300 million subscribers, generating $400 billion in revenue against $17 billion in content expenses. The quickest way for Netflix to boost profits is to reduce content costs through automation. They already use AI for content decisions, catering to every viewer preference, from high art to low-budget dating shows. Netflix is committed to impactful storytelling, yet can’t risk losing high-value subscribers. It’s similar with the multitude of languages for shows like “Love Is Blind,” ensuring fans don’t abandon ship. If AI enables tech companies to outpace traditional studios by being faster and cheaper, of course, they’ll do it. STAK2000
“I don’t understand humor.”
Comedy is where AI really struggles. It doesn’t grasp humor, timing, or what makes something engaging. We’ve seen technically impressive yet entirely lifeless dialogue that left us unimpressed. We tuned in expecting surprises but found it utterly dull. Mattro
“I’m not saying it’s impossible, it’s just that we’re not there yet.”
99% of AI-generated films consist of individuals speaking directly to the camera. We’ve yet to see compelling interactions among multiple AI-generated characters. Dialogue is fragmented; it seems AI cannot create distinct characters that interact meaningfully. I’m not saying it’s impossible, it just hasn’t happened yet. cornish_hen
“It will come back to bite them.”
Hollywood executives may bet on Tilly Norwood to slash costs and enhance profits. However, if film enthusiasts start creating their own content using generative AI, it might backfire on the industry. I hope those investing in human talent will succeed, resisting this reckless AI trend. Data Day
“The genie is not going back in the bottle.”
It’s astonishing how quickly this technology has progressed.
Even if AI never stars in leading roles, it will undoubtedly have a presence in major productions. It serves as a tool like any other, fundamentally changing certain facets of media.
Individuals affected by this shift (and they will be) must remain calm and consider future career paths. The genie won’t be contained. I’m sure traditional trades reacted strongly to innovations by Gottlieb Daimler and Henry Ford; if AI-generated content proves beneficial and cost-effective, it’s here to stay. Abbathehorse
“My main concern is the lack of education.”
Those involved in advancing AI are pushing boundaries. It’s up to the rest of us, particularly regulators, to hold them accountable when they overstep. My chief worry is the widespread ignorance regarding AI’s potential benefits and threats. Many who aren’t directly impacted by AI don’t perceive the risk. Dasinternaut
Tilly Norwood. Illustration: YouTube
“I doubt I could support a character that is completely AI.”
I hope films featuring AI are clearly labeled. This allows us, the paying audience, to make informed decisions regarding productions. I’m not convinced I can endorse purely AI-generated characters (except perhaps in animated films). We form connections with human actors and invest emotionally in their performances. It might take generations to navigate this shift, but history shows that even vinyl, once thought dead, can become a highly sought-after commodity. Matt08
“It’s reminiscent of a Ballard short story.”
As I read this, I reflected on the multitude of individuals behind creating this “star.” Coders, scriptwriters, marketing teams— a network of humans furthering careers, but not necessarily existing narratives. However, it feels unsettling when the program is crafted to mimic humanity. It evokes themes from Ballard’s stories. glider
“It’s too late to be scared.”
The time for fear has passed.
Hollywood prioritizes profit over artistry.
Studios may justify hiring photographers, makeup artists, set designers, and caterers with the argument that AI can perform those roles while saving costs.
Films featuring real people—actors and many behind-the-scenes roles—may soon become as rare as ballet or opera.
However, fans of franchises like “Fast & Furious” or the Marvel Universe might not mind; they often seek visual stimulation that AI can deliver. gray
“Just a bunch of guys sitting around a computer.”
What unsettles me is the apparent committee behind creating this character, obsessively defining attractiveness. Is your skin not smooth enough? Let’s iterate again. Are the proportions not appealing? Revise it.
Not only does this seem disconcerting, but it also reinforces narrow standards of attractiveness. Successful actors often conform to idealized norms, but at least nature or fate had a role in that. It’s not just a few individuals coding at their computers. bearvsshark
“A meaningless concept.”
Nonetheless, this notion is essentially futile. Acting requires collaboration. An AI “actor” necessitates real substitutes and someone to voice lines. You can produce a completely AI-generated film (essentially a CGI effort) or a human-centric film with AI characters, but the label of “AI actor” remains devoid of meaning. pyeshot
“The public doesn’t attend or appreciate actual art.”
For those claiming “this is a live theater row,” it’s clear you need to step outside your bubble. The public shows little interest in genuine art; they desire polished, commercial products, be it a catchy pop song or a superhero flick. As long as these superficial desires are nurtured, AI-generated “art” will face no backlash. Authentic art, including work from skilled human artists, requires funding, and resources for it are dwindling, threatening its survival. Yes, there may be exceptional pieces, but I suspect they will become increasingly rare unless more people become educated and learn to appreciate art’s inherent values. LondonAmerican2014
“AI slops are what happens when an idea is executed straight away.”
One day, hopefully soon, people will realize that the friction between idea and execution is where 90% of creativity resides.
Great art springs from thorough preparation and exceptional performances, requiring time and sometimes multiple attempts.
This need for friction applies to all creative endeavors, not just art. Even mundane businesses thrive on this dynamic.
AI slops emerge when concepts are rushed to completion. While they may appear effective initially, the ideas often lack depth. Shakeydave
The online platform Bookshop.org is set to introduce a new service that allows independent bookstores in the UK to offer e-books, presenting a viable alternative to Amazon’s Kindle offerings.
These independent bookstores retain 100% of the profits from their e-book sales, with pricing matching that of Amazon.
Nicole Vanderbilt, Managing Director of Bookshop.org UK, remarked: “Digital readers are no longer constrained by Amazon’s monopoly, enabling them to purchase e-books at comparable prices on bookshop.org.”
Bookshop.org launched in November 2020 as a platform for independent bookstores to sell physical books within the UK, allowing them to retain 30% of the cover price from each sale. The UK site has successfully generated £4.5 million for independent bookstores to date.
Customers will have the option to buy e-books through their chosen bookstores. Profits from orders that are not associated with a specific bookstore will contribute to a communal pool, which will then be redistributed to all participating stores on the platform.
“We may have a passion for print, but e-books play a vital role in the lives of countless readers,” stated Nic Bottomley, co-owner of B’s Baths In Baths Reading Emporium.
Erin Kelly, the author of Poison Tree, expressed her enthusiasm for the e-book revolution, emphasizing its capability to connect with readers who lack access to traditional formats. She is thrilled that the “ultimate comprehensive format” will soon be available on bookshop.org, which also plans to introduce audiobooks in 2026.
A YouGov poll from earlier this year indicates that nearly 25% of the British population favors e-books over other formats.
The new platform will feature a catalog of over 1 million e-books from major publishers and can be accessed through the BookShop.org app on both Apple and Android devices.
“Due to Amazon’s specific digital rights management (DRM) requirements, it is currently impossible to acquire DRM-protected e-books from Bookshop.org or local bookstores for reading on Kindle,” stated Bookshop.org. However, they plan to partner with e-reader company Kobo to support Kobo devices by the end of the year, with long-term plans to provide their own E Ink devices.
Drawing inspiration from Elton John, there’s an intriguing feeling as I craft this article. As I write, it feels like it’s brewing into a hit, much like blending ice and tonic water for a refreshing experience.
While I don’t feel bittersweet, there’s an unmistakable sensation—light and lively, akin to the sparkle of synapses firing.
I’m not the first journalist to indulge while working; however, I assure you, the drink beside me is not alcohol. It’s Sentia, a composition developed by pharmacologists and addiction researchers, including Professor David Nutt.
Certified as the future of drinking, Sentia is designed to have a neuroactive effect on those who consume it.
The aim is to replicate the relaxed, social, and carefree feeling associated with one or two alcoholic beverages without the hangovers or addictive qualities, and with minimal calories—double mine.
So how does Sentia work without alcohol or caffeine? The concept involves enhancing the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain known as GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid—though after a few drinks, that might be hard to remember).
GABA is often referred to as the brain’s off switch, slowing our neural impulses. The effects can lead to reduced anxiety, mood enhancement, and better sleep.
Stress Relief through Neurotransmitter Support
GABA is naturally present in our bodies and can be obtained through our diets.
There is a debate on whether ingested GABA is actively effective—some researchers are skeptical about its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier—hence, Sentia claims to boost the GABA levels circulating in the brain.
In contrast, herbal blends in the drink are thought to enhance the efficacy of natural GABA in the brain and aid in its absorption in the gut. Currently, peer-reviewed evidence for this is limited.
Researchers from the University of Exeter have conducted brain scans on individuals consuming Sentia, observing brain wave patterns consistent with relaxation and sociability. Nutt also conducts his own research, while Gabalabs, the company making Sentia, funds additional studies.
That GABA influences mood and behavior is hardly controversial. Andrew Scholey, a professor of human psychopharmacology at Northumbria, is not directly associated with Sentia but is well-versed in GABA research.
In a 2023 study, he examined individuals with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and found that GABA levels were lower in those with high anxiety.
“This population showed a significant correlation,” Scholey noted. In another study, Shorey reviewed existing literature on orally ingested GABA and its impact on stress and sleep quality.
Despite mixed findings, he remarked, “there’s an indication that GABA improves sleep quality, which can, in turn, reduce stress.”
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Personal Experience
I’ve been sampling Sentia for a week while tracking my sleep through my Apple Watch. It’s perhaps unsurprising that my device indicated Sentia promotes more and better sleep than alcoholic options.
What’s hard to quantify with wearable technology is the sensation experienced while drinking Sentia. For me, the effect feels subtle—almost too subtle, leading me to wonder if it’s just a placebo effect. Yet, there is something.
After a Sentia, I feel relaxed and satisfied. Scholey points out the challenges in measuring the effects of psychoactive substances.
“Many recreational drugs have distinct felt effects,” he stated, “making it difficult to differentiate between actual psychopharmacological actions and placebo expectations, especially with substances like alcohol.”
Anecdotally, Shorey knows individuals within the psychopharmacology community who have tried Sentia, reporting mixed outcomes—some feel significant effects, while others do not experience any.
I’d say I fall somewhere in between. Regardless of its effectiveness, consuming Sentia is an enjoyable experience. I tried two out of three flavors, each exhibiting complex herbal notes, resembling cocktails rather than typical soft drinks.
Photo credit: Sentia
Given the rising curiosity about relationships with alcohol, it’s easy to see why products like Sentia spark interest. In the UK, sales of No and Low Alcohol beverages more than doubled in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Sentia isn’t the only brand offering psychoactive effects. Impossibrew, another UK brand, offers non-alcoholic products claiming to help consumers unwind by affecting brain waves.
Scholey also collaborates with ārepa, a New Zealand brand producing “functional” beverages that promote cognitive function.
For Nutt, who understands the substantial long-term and societal damage alcohol can cause, Sentia presents a healthier drinking alternative.
As for me, I remain uncertain about its effectiveness, but I’m open to trying it again if given the opportunity.
Tasting Notes for Sentia
Chandra Sarkar, Doctor | Taste: Sentia Red
“The aroma reminded me of a Christmas candle, but I wasn’t fond of its smoothie-like texture. It didn’t mix well with tonic but was quite enjoyable over ice. After a couple, I certainly felt a light buzz.”
“The effects didn’t last long, but if I were to consume it in the evening, I would take it at my own pace. As a doctor, I recommend ensuring that the herbal ingredients do not interact with any medications.”
Gentian Dema, Law Enforcement | Taste: Sentia Black
“Having avoided alcohol for over two years, I seek refreshment, relaxation, and stress relief when I drink. However, this didn’t align with my preferences.”
“It felt a bit sticky, and my mouth was dry afterward. I had to eat some grapes to clear the taste. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel much at all.”
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