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fortunately for us, the memory of the Covid lockdown has become a distant past. After several years, we’ve stepped back into life, rebuilding our careers and relationships, exploring the world anew. However, that’s not the case for everyone. Acclaimed composer Jessica Curry has crafted a captivating and refined soundtrack and has recently released projects like Everyone’s Dear Esther and Esther’s Dear Esther. After being diagnosed with a degenerative illness in her mid-20s, she began her own quarantine at the onset of the pandemic, remaining at home for almost five years. During that time, she was unable to create or write, and her world felt as though it was crumbling.
“Like many, I endured a challenging pandemic,” she reflects. “I witnessed my father passing away on Zoom, along with my aunt and other family members. Following the discovery of a tumor in my ovaries, I had major abdominal surgery, but the surgery was unsuccessful in 2022. It was only then that I found myself able to listen to music again.”
Last year, the turning point came when Curry decided to revisit her music. Although she wasn’t ready to start composing, she began organizing her works after years of low productivity. This led to the creation of *Shield Song*, an album that prominently features new interpretations of her favorite pieces. The album is enveloped in an ethereal choir sound performed by the esteemed London choir. “Shield Songs represent a gathering, almost a manifesto. What do I stand for as a composer? What is my legacy? I thought it might be my final statement.”
A recording session aimed at capturing the song with a beautiful ethereal voice. Photo: Jessica Curry
The album comprises four pieces that evoke joy. It is based on a game about an apocalypse viewed through the lens of a quaint English village, for which Curry received a BAFTA for the soundtrack. The game was developed by The Chinese Room, a studio co-founded by Curry and her husband, Dan Pinchbeck. He praised the stunning idyllic surroundings and deeply emotional scores, influenced by composers Elgar and Vaughan Williams. This music remains among her most beloved works.
“I’ll still get emails about it in ten years,” she shares. “So many fans have tattoos inspired by it. I often receive messages from people who listen to death metal but love this soundtrack. While the game centers on human relationships, I wanted to reimagine the music.”
Another reason *Rapture* resonates in the new album is its thematic parallel between isolation at the end of the world and experiences during the Covid years. “Games are about the human experience—what does it mean to love?” she reflects. “Interestingly, many themes connect to global events, like the pandemic, and how we cope with them.” Curry describes the shield songs as a reflection on love and sorrow, yet they also offer a hopeful exploration of human resilience. The four tracks draw from the enduring light of her anti-war requiem, first performed in 2011, responding to the nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, infused with a sense of optimism for the future.
The album also features a blend of works from The Chinese Room’s VR sci-fi adventures. The titular track is a haunting choral piece inspired by John Dowland, while the remaining tracks lean toward experimentation, showcasing her evolving musical direction. “You could say it’s mine, but it blends minimalism with a classical twist, and it evokes a cinematic quality,” Curry explains. “It has that epic space opera feel, and I loved how everything came together in the score.”
After selling The Chinese Room to SUMO Digital in 2018, Curry set off on her own journey, while Pinchbeck remained as creative director, guiding the BAFTA Award-winning game *Oil Rig Horror Adventure*, before departing in 2023. “Maybe we’re insane,” she muses, “but I believe we have a talent for creating games, Dan and I. We have stories to tell.” Although Curry is still battling illness and apprehensive about going out—especially given the aggressive attitudes some have towards masked individuals—she has returned to composing.
“For the first time in a long while, I can truly hear music in my mind,” she expresses. “I never imagined I’d experience that again, and I believe it will yield something new. This will be Jessica Curry, but I am not the same person I was before. When something profoundly bad happens, you transform.”
A collaborative team of physicists from Germany, Finland, India, and Japan has identified a new isotope of the synthetic element Seaborgium.
Mossat et al. Report on the discovery of the new isotope Seaborgium-257. Image credit: P. Mossat, GSI/Fair.
Seaborgium is a synthetic chemical element with the symbol SG and atomic number 106.
This element was first synthesized in 1974, and currently, there are 14 known isotopes. The most stable isotope, Seaborgium-271, has a half-life of about 2.4 minutes.
The newly discovered isotope, Seaborgium-257, decays through spontaneous fission and alpha particle emission, possessing a half-life of 12.6 ms.
“Our progress is hindered by a scarcity of high-quality lead-206 targets necessary for the production of Seaborgium-257, using a powerful beam of Chromium-52 from the GSI/Fair Linear Accelerator Unilac,” they explained.
Utilizing the advanced gas-filled recoil separator TASCA (transactinide separator and chemical device), researchers recorded a total of 22 decays of Seaborgium-257.
“Our findings regarding Seaborgium-257 provide intriguing insights into the shell effects influencing the fission properties of ultra-heavy nuclei,” they mentioned.
“One significant outcome suggests that the next lightweight yet unknown isotopes may undergo nuclear fission within a brief timeframe of 1 nanosecond to 6 microseconds.
“This upper limit for the anticipated half-life is close to the current experimental capabilities unless a so-called K-extra-character state exists.”
“This excited state, stabilized by quantum effects, exhibits extended fission lifetimes and potentially allows for the exploration of short-lived nuclei.”
“Recently, notable advancements were achieved with the discovery of the 60-NS Rutherford 252 through a long-lived K-amplitude state, edging towards the stability threshold.”
“The quest for the isotopic limits of elements is a natural extension of these experiments, mapping the boundaries of hyper-heavy nuclear stability.”
“To date, no K-atroscopy states have been identified in Seaborgium isotopes.”
Nonetheless, in this current experiment, the team also irradiated a lead-208 target and found strong evidence of a K-isomer state in Seaborgium-259.
“Our results concerning the K-Crossic state of Seaborgium-259 open avenues to investigate the K-isomer phenomena in other isotopes, paving the way for the synthesis of short-lived Seaborgium-256 isotopes.”
The team’s results were published in the journal Physical Review Letters.
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P. Mossat et al. 2025. Investigating the shell effect in fission: a new hyperstable nucleus 257SG. Phys. Rev. Lett. 134, 232501; doi:10.1103/s7hr-y7zq
It’s affordable, frequently subpar, and often ends up stuffed in a bottle or hidden among other miscellaneous items, takeout menus, and birthday candles in kitchen drawers.
Referred to as “First Technology,” these budget-friendly electronic gadgets are becoming more prevalent, ranging from mini fans and electric toothbrushes to portable chargers and LED toilet seats.
However, there is a significant issue lurking behind these low prices. Many of these gadgets are challenging to repair, lack recycling options, and are often discarded rapidly. E-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally, and experts indicate that rapid technology advancement plays an increasingly crucial role.
In the UK, over 11.4 billion of these small electronic devices (including steam gadgets) are purchased annually, with nearly half (589m) disposed of simultaneously.
“We’ve been consuming fast food. There was fast fashion. Now we’re in the era of fast technology,” states Scott Butler, executive director of Material Focus. “We’re not technological moralists, but our concern lies with the volume of low-quality, cheap, and flimsy products flooding the market, which ultimately ends up in the trash or unused.”
Studies reveal that over a third of the British population views their purchases as disposable, primarily due to low prices, according to Butler. “[It] may be inexpensive, but it’s not disposable. In reality, anything that plugs in, runs on batteries, or has a cable is far from garbage. These items are rich in valuable metals and can be reused,” he adds.
Butler highlights “FAD” first technology as a key issue, often involving cheap items bought for specific occasions, like mini fans during the UK’s warmer months or festive Christmas jumpers. Last year, around 7.1 million mini fans were sold in the UK, with over 3.5 million being discarded or forgotten in drawers afterwards.
“We just experienced a heat wave, and I’m certain mini fan sales surged during that time. While it’s perfectly fine to try and cool down, we’re missing out on the potential for longer-lasting alternatives that can be beneficial beyond the summer,” he noted.
Environmental scientist and advocate Laura Young states that Fast Tech poses a new kind of environmental threat, not just due to the toxic chemicals some devices may contain but also because of their sheer volume and disposability.
“We’ve never encountered this level of disposable technology before,” she remarks. “Many people may not even realize that these small devices contain electronic components.
Many users are unaware that e-vapor products contain batteries. Photo: Bennphoto/Shutterstock
“Many users of steam products have asked, ‘Is there a battery in there?’
“All electronics, including toasters, kettles, washing machines, laptops, iPads, and mobile phones, all feature either wall power or rechargeable options. There is no such thing as disposable technology.
While it’s unlikely that the prevalence of fast technology in the market will soon wane, Butler emphasizes the need to shift our mindset. “Ultimately, these items are available because people purchase them. If there’s no demand, they obviously won’t be on the shelves.”
There’s also a drive for better repair, reuse, and borrowing options. Young points out community initiatives like repair cafes and tool libraries, where equipment can be borrowed instead of purchased anew.
“I joined the Tools Library and no longer purchase DIY tools.” Adapting to fast technology requires “a different mindset,” as she puts it, moving away from the notion of needing to own everything.
Honey sourced from Australian stingless bees, often referred to as sugar bag honeybees, has long been a vital food source and a traditional remedy for ailments such as itching and pain among Indigenous Australian communities. A recent study has examined the antibacterial properties and chemical composition of honey from three species of Australian stingless bees: Tetragonula carbonaria, Tetragonula hockingsii, and Austroplebeia australis. The results revealed these honeys possess strong antibacterial capabilities against various human pathogens, exhibiting efficacy on par with or superior to that of most European honeys derived from Apis mellifera.
Antibiotic resistance poses a significant global health issue.
Numerous natural substances have developed complex defenses against microbial threats and may serve as potential therapeutic agents.
While the medicinal qualities of European honey have been extensively researched, the therapeutic potential of Australian stingless bee honey is still in its early stages.
Kenya Fernandez, a researcher from the University of Sydney, noted:
“Unlike honey from European honeybees, which predominantly depends on hydrogen peroxide for its antibacterial effects, the honey from Australian stingless bees demonstrates high levels of hydrogen peroxide along with non-peroxide activity, making it a robust and versatile candidate for therapy.”
The study found that the honey retained antibacterial properties even without hydrogen peroxide, indicating that these traits are inherent to the honey.
“Bee Manuka honey’s notable non-oxide antibacterial activity is a key factor behind its commercial success,” Dr. Fernandez added.
“In contrast, the consistent antibacterial effectiveness of heat-treated non-toxic honey from Australian bees—regardless of various locations and nectar sources—highlights the unique qualities of these bees.”
Professor Dee Carter at the University of Sydney remarked:
Researchers are hopeful that this reliability will enhance the potential for commercial health applications.
Nonetheless, challenges concerning scalability persist. Each stingless bee hive produces roughly 0.5 liters of honey annually, complicating large-scale production.
“Although the yields are modest, these hives require less upkeep than traditional bee hives, enabling beekeepers to manage a greater number of hives,” stated Dr. Ross Groag from the University of Sydney.
“Encouragingly, the commercial value of honey may foster the growth of more hives and pave the way for scalability in commerce.”
“In the past year, native stingless bee honey has made strides toward local and global commercialization, having received endorsements from Australian and New Zealand food safety authorities.”
“This regulatory backing is crucial in establishing a niche market for high-value, low-volume products.”
The survey results were published on May 21st in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology.
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Kenya E. Fernandez et al. 2025. Potent antibacterial activity and unique physicochemical properties of honey from Australian stingless bees Tetragonula carbonaria, Tetragonula hockingsii, and Austroplebeia australis. Applied and Environmental Microbiology 91 (6); doi:10.1128/aem.02523-24
Google may be compelled to implement a range of modifications in its search operations, including allowing internet users to select alternative services, following suggestions from the UK’s competition regulator to strengthen regulations on the company.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is set to classify the leading search engine as having “strategic market status,” a designation that empowers regulators to impose stricter controls on major tech firms deemed to hold substantial market influence.
The CMA expressed its intention to introduce tailored regulatory measures for U.S. companies, which may include offering users a “selection screen” to ensure a fair ranking of search results, thereby gaining more oversight on content usage, including AI-generated responses.
Should the CMA finalize its decision in October, Google will be the first company subjected to new regulatory powers established this year.
CMA CEO Sarah Cardell highlighted that this announcement signifies a “major milestone” in the newly enacted regulatory framework stemming from recent digital market, competition, and consumer legislation.
Cardell remarked, “These proportionate measures will create greater opportunities for UK businesses and consumers, providing them with more choices and control over their engagement with Google’s search services, as well as fostering innovation within the UK’s tech industry and the economy at large.”
Google has stated that this move could significantly impact businesses and consumers in the UK.
“We are worried that the breadth of CMA’s considerations is excessive and unfocused, and that various interventions are being contemplated prior to the collection of sufficient evidence,” stated Oliver Bethell, senior director at Google.
A novel theory proposed by Gunther Kettetschka, a researcher at Fairbanks University in Alaska, suggests that we exist in three dimensions rather than the single dimension we perceive continuously, with space serving as a secondary byproduct.
Time, not space and time, can be a single fundamental property in which all physical phenomena occur. Image credit: M. Weiss/Harvard – Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics.
“These three dimensions of time constitute the fundamental layers, akin to the canvas of a painting,” Dr. Kettetschka stated.
“While space exists in three dimensions, it is not the canvas itself; rather, it resembles the paint on the canvas.”
“These concepts starkly contrast established physics, which maintains that our reality comprises a single time dimension alongside three spatial dimensions.”
“This is referred to as space-time, a notion developed over a century ago that regards time and space as a single entity.”
Dr. Kettetschka’s mathematical model, which integrates time and space, seeks to provide a unified explanation of the universe.
Understanding time’s dimensions beyond our daily experience is challenging. Theoretical physicists have explored numerous variations.
This latest research contributes to a long-term body of work among theoretical physicists exploring ideas beyond mainstream physics.
“Prior three-dimensional time proposals largely consisted of mathematical constructs lacking concrete experimental connections,” Dr. Kettetschka noted.
“My research transforms intriguing mathematical concepts into physically testable theories through various independent validation methods.”
“This theory has the potential to predict unknown particle properties and aid in uncovering the origin of mass, ultimately addressing one of physics’ greatest enigmas.”
The concept of three-dimensional time includes multiple independent trajectories, similar to time and space. It can be visualized as three axes of temporal motion, akin to the spatial X, Y, and Z axes.
Imagine walking straight ahead, perceiving time as we typically do. Now envision another path intersecting the first, allowing lateral movement.
If you could traverse sideways while remaining in the same moment of ‘normal’ time, you’d recognize that scenarios may slightly differ, potentially representing alternate versions of the same day.
Following this vertical path lets you explore various outcomes of the day without advancing forward as we understand it.
The existence of these alternative outcomes represents the second dimension of time, while the third dimension pertains to the transition from one outcome to another.
“This theory addresses issues confronted by earlier three-dimensional time theories based on traditional physics,” Dr. Kettetschka highlighted.
“For instance, previous theories often presented ambiguous cause-and-effect relationships when discussing multiple time dimensions.”
“The new theory utilizes more complex mathematical frameworks to ensure clear precedence of effects caused, even in the context of multiple time dimensions.”
According to the 3D time perspective, the second and third dimensions are particularly conceptualized by theoretical physicist Yitzhakuber at the University of Southern California, likely manifesting at extreme energy levels, such as those present in the early universe and high-energy particle collisions.
This innovative approach might help confront significant challenges within the realm of unresolved physics: unifying quantum mechanics—the behavior of particles at the most minute scale—with gravity, towards an overarching quantum gravity theory.
The theory of quantum gravity has the potential to evolve into a grand theory encompassing the universe and all related theories.
A central goal of this elusive unified theory is to integrate the four fundamental forces of nature: electromagnetic, strong nuclear, weak nuclear, and gravity.
The standard model of particle physics unifies the first three forces, while gravity is addressed through Albert Einstein’s theory of general relativity.
Since the two frameworks are incompatible, physicists are striving for a theoretical synthesis. Pinpointing the origin of particle mass is crucial to this endeavor.
Dr. Kettetschka is optimistic that the three-dimensional time theory can be beneficial.
This framework effectively replicates the masses of known particles like electrons, moons, and quarks, providing insights into why these particles possess their specific masses.
“Achieving unity may necessitate a fundamental reassessment of the very nature of physical reality,” Dr. Kettetschka remarked.
“This theory demonstrates how perceiving time as three-dimensional can elegantly resolve multiple physics puzzles within a cohesive mathematical framework.”
His paper was published in the journal Report on Advances in Physical Science.
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Gunther Kletetschka. 2025. 3D Time: Mathematical Framework for Fundamental Physics. Report on Advances in Physical Science 9:2550004; doi:10.1142/s2424942425500045
The identification of human footprints in White Sands, New Mexico, estimated to be between 21,000 and 23,000 years old, was a significant advancement in our comprehension of the earliest inhabitants of the Americas. However, this research faced scrutiny concerning the dependability of radiocarbon dating materials, such as common aquatic plant seeds Rupiah Silhosa and coniferous pollen grains. A recent study, spearheaded by University of Arizona researcher Vance Holiday, indicates that the ancient mud from Perelora ceotero, the third material utilized for dating the footprints, dates back to approximately 20,700 to 22,400 years ago.
Ancient human footprints found in White Sands National Park, New Mexico, USA. Image credit: Bennett et al. , doi: 10.1126/science.abg7586.
Historically, scientists believed that humans entered North America roughly 16,000 to 13,000 years ago.
However, the footprints found at White Sands indicate that human presence in the area dates back to between 23,000 and 21,000 years ago. This timeline offers insights into the development of culture in North America.
The remnants of 10,000-year-old prints, uncovered nearly a century ago at a site near Clovis, New Mexico, led to a classification of artifacts long considered to represent the earliest known cultures in North America.
Critics have challenged two prior studies over the last four years, asserting that ancient species and pollen in the soil used for dating the footprints are unreliable indicators.
“The record is consistently strong, and it’s challenging to explain it all,” Dr. Holiday stated.
“As I mention in my publication, it would be an extraordinary coincidence for all these dates to be inaccurate.”
Thousands of years prior, the white sands formed from a series of lakes that eventually dried up.
Wind erosion created layers of plaster on the sand dunes that now characterize the region.
The footprints were excavated from stream beds that once fed into this ancient lake.
“Wind erosion has erased part of the narrative, leaving that segment lost. The remainder is buried beneath the world’s largest accumulation of plaster sand,” Dr. Holiday remarked.
For their latest research, Dr. Holiday and his team returned to White Sands in 2022 and 2023, excavating new trenches to gain deeper insights into the lakebed’s geology.
“We’ve put in considerable effort to explore this area,” stated Jason Windingstad, a doctoral candidate at the University of Arizona.
“You essentially find yourself questioning everything taught about North American populations.”
The authors recognize that their research hasn’t addressed lingering questions posed by critics since 2021: Why are there no artifacts or settlements left by the individuals who made the footprints?
“This is a valid inquiry. Some footprints discovered during the 2021 survey belong to a trackway that was created in mere seconds,” they explained.
“It is entirely plausible that hunter-gatherers would act with caution to avoid leaving resources in such a brief timeframe.”
“These individuals were aware of their resources and were distanced from their replacements.”
“They wouldn’t abandon artifacts casually. It doesn’t make sense for you to be viewing a debris field.”
The team’s recent findings will be published in the journal Advances in Science.
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Vance T. Holliday et al. 2025. Perelorace Geochronology supports the last Glacier Max (LGM) age of human tracks in White Sands, New Mexico. Advances in Science 11 (25); doi:10.1126/sciadv.adv4951
Images and videos from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory showcase over 10 hours of test observations before being revealed. The event was live streamed on Monday from Washington, DC.
Keith Bector, an associate professor from the University of Wisconsin-Madison physics department, has contributed to the Rubin Observatory for nearly a decade as a system verification scientist, ensuring that all components of the observation deck function properly.
He mentioned that the team was present as images streamed in real-time from the camera.
“In the control room, there was a moment when all engineers and scientists gazed at these images. We were able to observe more details about stars and galaxies,” Vector explained to NBC News. “Understanding this on an intellectual level is one thing, but on an emotional level, I realized I was part of something truly extraordinary, all happening in real-time.”
One of the newly released images enabled the Rubin Observatory to identify galaxies billions of light-years away, alongside asteroids in the solar system and stars in the Milky Way.
“In fact, most of the objects captured in these images exhibit light that was emitted before our solar system was formed,” highlighted Bechtol. “We are witnessing light that reflects billions of years of the universe’s history, and many of these galaxies have never before been observed.”
Astronomers are eagerly awaiting the first images from the new observatory, affirming that experts will aid in unraveling some of the universe’s greatest mysteries and revolutionizing our understanding.
“We are entering the golden age of American science,” stated Harriet Kang, acting director of the Energy Department of Science. She elaborated in a statement.
“We anticipate that the observation deck will provide profound insights into our past, future, and potentially the fate of the universe,” Kang remarked during a Monday event.
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory is collaboratively managed by the Energy Agency and the National Science Foundation.
Named after an American astronomer renowned for uncovering evidence of dark matter in space, the observatory is situated atop Cerro Pachon, a mountain in central Chile. It is designed to capture around 1,000 images of the southern hemisphere sky each night, covering the entire visible southern sky every three to four nights.
These early images stem from a series of test observations and mark the commencement of a bold decade-long mission to scan the sky continuously, capturing all visible details and changes.
“The entire observatory design is centered on this capability, enabling you to point, shoot, and repeat,” Bechtol noted. “Every 40 seconds, the view shifts to a new part of the sky. Imagine bringing the night sky back to life in a way we’ve never experienced before.”
By repeating this process nightly over the next decade, scientists aim to create extensive images of the visible southern sky, tracking bright stars, moving asteroids in the solar system, measuring supernova explosions, and observing other cosmic phenomena.
“Utilizing this groundbreaking scientific facility, we will delve into many mysteries of the universe, including the dark matter and dark energy that fills our cosmos,” stated Brian Stone, Chief of Staff of the National Science Foundation, in a statement.
In the last decade, quantum computing has evolved into a multi-billion dollar sector, attracting investments from major tech firms like IBM and Google, along with the U.S. military.
However, Ignacio Cirac, a trailblazer in this field from Germany’s Max Planck Institute for Quantum Optics, provides a more measured assessment: “Quantum computers are not yet a reality,” he states, because creating a functional and practical version is exceedingly challenging.
This article is part of our special feature that delves into how experts perceive some of science’s most intriguing concepts. Click here for more information.
These quantum systems utilize qubits to encode data, in contrast to the traditional “bits” of conventional computers. Qubits can be generated through various methods, ranging from small superconducting circuits to ultra-cold atoms, yet each method presents its own complexities in construction.
The primary advantage lies in their ability to leverage quantum attributes for performing certain calculations at a speed unattainable by classical computers.
This acceleration holds promise for various challenges that traditional computers face, such as simulating complex physical systems and optimizing passenger flight schedules or grocery deliveries. Five years ago, quantum computers appeared poised to tackle these and numerous other computational hurdles.
Today, the situation is even more intricate. Certainly, the progress in creating larger quantum computers is remarkable, with numerous companies developing systems exceeding 1000 qubits. However, this progress also highlights the formidable challenges that remain.
A significant issue is that as these computers scale up, they tend to generate increased errors, and developing methods to mitigate or correct them has proven more challenging than anticipated. Last year, Google researchers made notable strides in addressing this problem, but as Cirac emphasizes, a fully functional useful quantum computer remains elusive.
Consequently, the list of viable applications for such machines may be shorter than many previously anticipated. Weighing the costs of construction against the potential savings reveals that, in many scenarios, the economics may not favor them. “The most significant misconception is that quantum computers can expedite all types of problems,” Cirac explains.
So, which issues might still benefit from quantum computing? Experts suggest that quantum computers could potentially compromise the encryption systems currently employed for secure communications, making them appealing to governments and institutions concerned with security. Scott Aaronson from the University of Texas at Austin notes this.
Another promising area for quantum computers is in modeling materials and chemical reactions. Because quantum computers operate within a framework of quantum objects, they are ideally suited for simulating other quantum systems, such as electrons, atoms, and molecules.
“These are simplified models that don’t accurately reflect real materials. However, if you appropriately design your system, there are numerous properties of real materials you can learn about physics.” Daniel Gottesman from the University of Maryland adds.
While quantum chemical simulations might seem more specialized than flight scheduling, the potential outcomes (such as discovering room-temperature superconductors) could be groundbreaking.
The extent to which these ambitions can be realized heavily relies on the algorithms guiding quantum computations and methods for correcting those pesky errors. This is a complex new domain, as Vedran Dunjko of Leiden University in the Netherlands points out, prompting researchers like himself to confront fundamental questions about information and computation.
“This creates a significant incentive to investigate the complexity of the problem and the potential of computing devices,” Dunjko asserts. “For me, this alone justifies dedicating a substantial portion of my life to these inquiries.”
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Do dogs possess their own thoughts and emotions? What about pigeons, honeybees, earthworms, or jellyfish? Your answer likely reveals a human tendency to attribute consciousness to familiar creatures, while skeptically viewing “simpler” beings like invertebrates.
In truth, we can never be fully sure that other beings possess awareness. “The subjective nature of experience means absolute certainty is unattainable. You can’t even be 100% certain about other humans,” says Jonathan Burch, an author at the London School of Economics, in his work The edge of the senses.
This article is part of our concept special, exploring how experts perceive some of the most surprising ideas in science. Click here for more details.
Despite this uncertainty, evidence can be gathered. We must first clarify what consciousness entails. Philosopher Herbert Feigle’s framework divides consciousness into three layers.
The most basic layer involves raw sensations of the present, including external perceptions and internal emotions such as pain, joy, excitement, and boredom. The second layer, “sapiens,” allows for reflection on our experiences, such as “This is the worst pain I’ve ever felt.” The final layer encompasses our sense of self, recognizing our existence through past and future.
Research into animal consciousness primarily centers on sensation. “Much of this research focuses on pain, but there is a trend toward exploring positive emotions like joy,” says Christine Andrews from York University, Toronto. For instance, fish in pain may swim toward an area of a tank infused with painkillers.
Social behavior provides evidence for the second type of sensation. “Animals acquire much of their knowledge and skills socially,” Andrews states. Even insects exhibit this behavior. For example, fruit flies learn about mating by observing other fruit flies.
Some remarkable findings have revealed that certain animals recognize cultural contexts, such as recent studies showing mice providing “first aid” to unconscious companions. Researchers are also investigating episodic memory—the capacity to reflect on past experiences—and have found it in various mammals, including rats and chimpanzees, as well as birds like scrub jays.
Although we are gathering substantial evidence about sensation, the neurobiological foundations of consciousness remain unclear. “However, these findings may not universally apply to other species with distinct neural structures,” Andrews notes, referencing various studies on mammals that discuss involved brain regions. For example, while insects do not possess a human-like brain, there is strong evidence that they can experience pain, confirming a sensory component.
This challenges the prevailing assumptions of many biologists, but may not be a significant leap for the general public. The notion of animals as intricate automata represents “an anomaly in Western science,” explains Burch. “Non-Western cultures, and indeed many individuals in the West outside academia, have consistently regarded animals as sentient beings.”
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When observing the universe, we realize it can sustain life—if it couldn’t, we wouldn’t be here. This notion has been articulated numerous times throughout history, but it lies at the core of the philosophical debate known as the principle of humanity. While seemingly straightforward, it holds complexities.
This article is part of our special concept series, examining the intriguing perspectives scientists have on some of the most unexpected concepts in science. Click here for more information.
The universe seems to be delicately balanced on the edge of habitability, which leads to what scientists call “tweaking problems.” Several fundamental constants, from the mass of neutrons to gravity, require precise values for life to exist. “If some of these constants were larger, it could destabilize all atoms,” says Luke Burns from Western Sydney University, Australia.
The principles of humanity originated as a way to explain why the universe appears to be in this seemingly favorable condition, distilled into a simple idea: the universe must be this way, or we wouldn’t be here to observe it.
There are two central formulations of this principle, both articulated in a 1986 book by cosmologists John Barrow and Frank Tippler. The weak principle states that the basic constants of the universe must be in a state compatible with the existence of life—at least here and now. The strong principle goes further, asserting that these constants must lie within a range conducive to life, implying that the universe is designed to support it. This notion of “necessity” indicates that the universe exists to foster life.
If the weak principle suggests, “A tree falls in the forest and life must be able to thrive there,” the strong principle posits, “This planet is destined to have a forest where the tree can flourish.”
For contemporary scientists, the weak principle acts as a reminder of potential biases in our observations of the universe, especially if conditions are not uniform everywhere. “If we lived in a universe different from our current one, we’d find ourselves in conditions where life was feasible,” notes Shawn Carroll from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland.
As for the strong formulation of the principle, some physicists, like Burns, find it useful. He is exploring various multiverse models and sees the strong principle as a practical benchmark. This implies there’s a 100% chance at least one life-supporting universe will arise within the multiverse framework. Therefore, the closer a multiverse model approaches this 100% likelihood, the more plausible it becomes. Conversely, if the probability is around 50%, he views it as a solid signal of the model’s validity. “But if it hits a square meter, we have a problem,” he states.
Despite its utility, most physicists regard the strong principle as overly deterministic. It implies life was always meant to be present, according to Elliot Thorber from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. “However, the likelihood is minimal; life could have failed to emerge, and we would still be making the same observations.”
Where does that leave us? The strong extrinsic principle offers a solution to the fine-tuning dilemma, yet many consider it an irrational conclusion. In contrast, the weak principle doesn’t clarify why our universe’s constants are finely tuned, though it remains a valuable analytical tool for researchers. As principles go, this topic is quite complex.
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My child is extraordinary. He enters the kitchen, glances at me, and articulates enchanting words: “Could I please have a cheese and tomato sandwich?” Moments later, that very snack materializes in front of him.
Other young animals express their hunger through sounds and murmurs, but only humans possess advanced grammar and vocabulary systems that enable precise communication.
This narrative is part of our themed special, showcasing expert perspectives on some of science’s most astonishing concepts. Click here for additional insights.
Research into animal behavior reveals that these creatures exhibit many traits previously thought to be exclusive to humans—from culture to emotional depth, and even aspects of morality. While language may seem to set us apart, “I believe language gives us a unique status as a species,” says Brian Relch from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
Given this context, one critical area of research focuses on how language originated and why it evolved solely within our human lineage.
Psychologist Simon Edelman from Cornell University proposes in The Magical Power of Language that there is a straightforward evolutionary rationale. Alongside his colleague Oren Korodny, now at Hebrew University in Jerusalem, he theorizes that the origins of language may date back approximately 1.7 million years, coinciding with early humans developing the ability to create stone tools—a skill beyond the capabilities of non-human animals.
The notion is that tool-making locations functioned as learning environments, where novice tool creators required guidance from experienced individuals. Proto-language may have developed as a way for mentors to instruct their students, possibly explaining why both language and tool-making appear to necessitate cognitive structures that organize thoughts in a coherent sequence.
However, around a decade ago, a pivotal experiment questioned this narrative. In 2014, Shelby Putt from Illinois State University and her team investigated how individuals learn to create tools, exposing 24 volunteers either to expert instructions or to direct demonstrations while occasionally engaging their attention. Surprisingly, both approaches proved effective, indicating that intricate tool-making may not rely on verbal language.
This does not imply that Putt views language and tool-making as entirely disconnected. She posits that creating complex tools required individuals to structure their thoughts and organize them to achieve their task. She asserts that this ability led to an expansion of brain regions associated with working memory, enabling easier mental manipulation of concepts.
Nonetheless, Putt suggests that humans utilized these cognitive frameworks to devise language, enhancing communication and potentially increasing survival odds.
All these scenarios presume that language functions fundamentally as a communication tool among individuals. However, an alternative perspective on the evolution of language emphasizes the ways it aids individuals in organizing their thoughts when confronted with complex tasks.
Some, including prominent linguist Noam Chomsky, argue that this may have driven language evolution, suggesting it had no relation to tool-making. These researchers propose that language emerged approximately 70,000 years ago, possibly due to random genetic mutations that reconfigured brain circuitry.
Ultimately, the origins of language remain a subject of debate. If Chomsky and his associates are correct, the development of language was less about magic and more about fortunate circumstances.
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Countless unique asteroids traverse the solar system, amidst millions of distant stars and galaxies captured in the inaugural images released by the Vera C. Rubin Observatory.
“These stunning galaxies were photogenically disrupted by asteroids,” noted Željko Ivezić during a press briefing on June 23rd at Washington University in Seattle, presenting images that showcase several asteroids zipping past two spiral-armed galaxies.
Within just 10 hours of observing the night sky, the telescope, positioned in the pristine atmosphere atop a mountain in the Chilean desert, detected 2,104 previously unknown asteroids. Among these, seven have trajectories that come close to Earth, yet none poses a threat, according to Ivezic.
Researchers identified and tracked newly discovered asteroids in images taken over 10 hours
NSF-DOE VERA C. RUBIN OBSERVATORY
Although telescopes are not primarily designed to detect near-Earth objects, they are intended for a comprehensive study of the universe over a decade. However, their features are also conducive to spotting asteroids. “You need to survey the sky rapidly with a vast field of view,” Ivezic explained.
Asteroids were identified by scrutinizing areas of the sky and noting what was in motion. In the composite image shown by Ivezić during the briefing, the asteroids appeared as colored streaks against the backdrop of brighter objects in deeper space. This enhances our understanding of the neighboring celestial bodies. “We weren’t surprised,” he said. “There’s an impressive simulation.”
Throughout a decade-long research initiative, the telescope is anticipated to identify around 5 million new asteroids, surpassing the total discovered in previous centuries.
Asteroids are marked with a colored dot in front of an image of a galaxy visible in the southern sky
NSF-DOE VERA C. RUBIN OBSERVATORY Copyright: NSF-DOE VERA C. Rubin Observatory
The new detections are reported daily to the US Minor Planet Center, which analyzes orbital paths and identifies objects that could threaten Earth. “In under 24 hours, the world will be informed about potentially hazardous objects,” Ivezic stated.
Matthew Payne from the Minor Planet Center remarked that it’s estimated only 40% of close Earth objects capable of posing a threat have been discovered. An exponential increase in detections from the Vera Rubin Observatory will hasten the identification of the remaining objects.
A substantial rise in observations of other solar system entities—from main belt asteroids between Mars and Jupiter to objects further out beyond Neptune—is anticipated to offer fresh insights into our immediate cosmic neighborhood. “It’s expected to truly revolutionize solar system science,” Payne concluded.
Adult male mouse with two fathers and possessing their own offspring
Yang Chang Wei
For the first time, male mice with two fathers have successfully produced offspring. This significant advancement paves the way for the possibility of two men having a genetically related child, although there are still numerous obstacles to overcome before this could be realized in people.
Yang Chang Wei in Shanghai, China, achieved this by merging two sperm cells with eggs stripped of their nucleus. The research team also reprogrammed seven areas of sperm DNA through a process called epigenome editing to facilitate embryo development.
Out of 259 embryos transferred to female mice, only two male offspring survived and grew, highlighting the low success rates. After mating with a female, both offspring were found to be descendants of the father, exhibiting normal size, weight, and appearance.
Generating a mouse with two fathers has proven far more challenging than producing one with two mothers. The initial report of a viable mouse with two mothers, named Kaguya, surfaced in 2004.
While Kaguya was genetically modified, Wei and his team successfully created similar paternalless mice in 2022 utilizing only epigenome editing without altering DNA sequences. This method was also instrumental in developing motherless mice.
The birth of mammals with two fathers or mothers is notably significant due to the concept of imprinting, which occurs as most animals possess two sets of chromosomes.
During the formation of eggs and sperm, chemical markers are applied to these chromosomes, activating certain genes while deactivating others. These alterations are termed “epigenetic” because they do not modify the actual DNA sequence, yet they can influence gene expression during cell division.
Crucially, the epigenetic programming of mothers differs from that of fathers; genes marked “active” in sperm may be marked “inactive” in eggs, and vice versa.
This discrepancy means that if an egg contains two sets of paternal chromosomes or maternal chromosomes, it will struggle to develop correctly. A gene that should be turned on in one chromosome could become overactive if only one copy of both is present or if both copies are included.
In Kaguya’s scenario, researchers managed this issue by removing some genes, normalizing overall gene activity. However, creating a mouse with two fathers necessitates additional alterations.
Earlier this year, a different team from China managed to produce mice with two fathers after implementing 20 genetic modifications to standardize gene activity, but these mice exhibited neither full health nor fertility.
Although modifying gene activity through genetic alterations aids in researching imprinting in laboratory animals, it remains unpalatable for human application, especially considering the unknown implications of genetic modifications.
For their epigenetic approach, Wei and his team employed modified versions of the CRISPR protein, typically utilized for gene editing. These modified proteins, like standard CRISPR versions, are designed to locate specific sites in the genome. When these sites are identified, the modified proteins can add or remove epigenetic labels without altering the DNA itself.
This research marks a significant breakthrough. Helen O’Neill, University College London, stated, “We confirm that genome imprinting is the primary barrier to mammalian reproduction overnight and demonstrate that it can be surpassed.”
Since this technique does not involve direct genetic modification, it may, in theory, allow same-sex couples to have genetically related children. However, a considerably higher success rate is necessary before such a method can be deemed acceptable for human use. “While this study on producing offspring from same-sex parents is encouraging, it is unlikely to translate to humans due to the vast number of eggs required, the large pool of surrogate women necessary, and the low success rate,” explained Christoph Galichet from the Sainsbury Welcome Centre in the UK.
The low success rate can be attributed to various factors. Firstly, merging the two sperm cells resulted in some embryos containing two Y chromosomes, leading to underdevelopment. Additionally, for effective epigenome editing, all seven targeted sites in the embryo must be successfully modified, and there might have been off-target effects in some instances.
It’s plausible that animal success rates and health could be enhanced by modifying more than seven sites; however, these modifications likely wouldn’t be applicable to human use, considering the differing sites that require changes in humans compared to mice.
If a human baby were to be conceived using this method, the mitochondria within the cell—containing a small amount of DNA—would originate from the egg donor, essentially making it three contributing genetic sources.
In 2023, a Japanese team reported the birth of a mouse puppy with two fathers through a distinct method involving the conversion of mouse stem cells into eggs. However, it remains uncertain whether the puppies thrived into adulthood, and no successful attempts have yet been made to transform human stem cells into eggs.
Building strong friendships may seem like a natural process—finding joy in each other’s presence, sharing laughter, and bonding over common interests. However, the unspoken dynamics of different types of friendships can often be complex. Recent research has shed light on the significance of these relationships in our overall happiness. Yet, there are strategies for nurturing meaningful connections.
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Jeffrey Hall, Director of the Relationships and Technology Labs at the University of Kansas, is among the researchers examining ways to cultivate friendships. He suggests viewing friendships as a spectrum—from mere acquaintances to our closest confidants who remain by our side.
“The fundamental requirement is mutual liking and a communication frequency that allows the relationship to develop,” he states. “Trust and a sense of safety in sharing secrets are expected, along with prioritizing each other above others.”
Time invested in a friendship is crucial, as highlighted by Hall’s research. In a series of studies, he had participants recently relocated to a new city map out their social lives. He found that individuals must spend about 57-164 hours with someone before they are deemed “friends,” while developing “good” or “best” friendships typically requires around 200 hours together.
The quality of time spent together is also vital. “Engaging in daily activities—eating, drinking, playing, exploring—helps cement these bonds because we want to share those moments with them,” says Hall, co-author of the upcoming book Social Biome, which delves into these themes. Conversely, being compelled to interact through work or study does little to foster genuine friendships.
It’s common to find ourselves gravitating toward individuals who share common traits. Over the last decade, anthropologist Robin Dunbar from Oxford University identified seven key attributes in “pillars of friendship.” These pillars represent deep connections stemming from shared language, culture, education, career experiences, interests, worldviews, humor, and musical tastes.
He notes that we may share only one or two of these pillars with around 150 people we identify as friends, while only five close companions and about six to seven truly good friends exist in our lives, as mentioned in his book Friends: Understanding the Influence of Our Most Important Relationships.
Interestingly, friends may even share similar brain activity patterns. In a 2018 study, Carolyn Parkinson at UCLA had students watch a series of videos in an fMRI scanner. The results showed that she could predict friendships based on similarities in their brain responses to the clips, indicating that closer friends often have synchronized neural activity.
As discussed in my book, Connection Law, Parkinson’s research explores the concept of shared reality. This idea suggests that having a mutual perspective on the world enhances relationships. “These individuals focus on similar aspects of life and share similar emotional responses to their experiences,” she notes.
Can these connections exist digitally? Hall believes they can. “Communicating via phone or video with loved ones is likely just as beneficial as in-person interactions,” he asserts. “Creating regular opportunities for digital communication can help maintain and enrich these relationships.”
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Can you envision the impression a 4D hexagon might create as it travels through a 3D kitchen table? It might seem implausible, yet some individuals can perceive it.
One such individual was mathematician Alicia Bourstott, daughter of logician George Bourg. In the early 20th century, she devised models of shapes while moving through three-dimensional objects. Years later, when mathematicians could verify her work with computer programs, they found that Stott had an uncanny ability to accurately depict these shapes.
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For many of us, geometry recalls images of pencils, rulers, triangles, and circles. It evokes the complex questions posed in school involving parallel lines and angles. However, as Boole Stott’s experience illustrates, scholars have been expanding the scope of geometry for some time.
Geometry can transcend the conventional realm of 2D and 3D shapes. A prime example is Albert Einstein’s theory of gravity, known as general relativity, which intertwines with time to form a four-dimensional stage where the universe unfolds.
Moreover, geometry can also explore dimensions that defy physical reality. Take meteorology, for example. Atmospheric data encompasses multiple “dimensions” such as latitude, longitude, temperature, pressure, wind speed, and more.
Researchers visualize these dimensions as shapes extending into higher dimensions, aiding in understanding atmospheric behavior. “From this, we can implement mathematical models to explain what occurs. [those properties] In numerous dimensions,” states mathematician Snezana Lawrence of Middlesex University in London.
For theoretical physicists, extra dimensions appear to be essential for a complete understanding of the universe, with some suggesting that our reality might be a “projection” from a higher dimension. While this idea might sound peculiar, under certain simplified assumptions, physicists can perform calculations related to fundamental particles and black holes.
Some physicists have even proposed the concept of “all theories,” a curious geometric idea that may lead to a unified explanation of the universe and everything within it. One of these concepts is the “amplituhedron,” introduced by Jaroslav Trnka from the University of California, Davis, and Nima Arkani Hamed at the Institute for Advanced Study in New Jersey. Imagine it as an abstract, multidimensional crystal that offers an alternative perspective on the fundamentals of particle physics.
Another concept is “causal dynamic triangulation,” developed by Renate Roll at Radboud University in the Netherlands. This approach stitches together various geometric shapes to craft an explanation of space-time that seems to embody characteristics of both quantum mechanics and general relativity—two concepts that are traditionally seen as incompatible. She asserts that it serves as a testable reflection of both abstract geometric theories and true properties of the universe, as observed in the cosmic microwave background radiation.
Neither of these ideas has yet been universally accepted in all theories. However, some believe that a fresh perspective on physics is essential for progress. There is a growing consensus that this perspective may be expressed through the language of geometry. While the truth of this notion remains to be seen, it is evident that geometry encompasses far more than just hexagons.
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In the initial two billion years of Earth’s existence, our planet was dominated by a combination of bacteria and their relatives, the Archaea. This period can be described as “slimeball Earth,” marked by a critical merger that shaped the future of life on our planet.
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One of these ancient cells engulfed a bacterial cell, and remarkably, the bacterium survived. Together, they replicated, leading the engulfed bacteria to evolve into mitochondria, which serve as the energy source for these early cells.
Nick Lane from University College London discovered that mitochondria enabled these cells to express an extraordinary 200,000 times more genes, fostering growth and the emergence of varied life forms. This new combination eventually evolved into complex eukaryotic cells, resulting in nearly every organism observable without a microscope, including humans.
Coexistence is fundamental to our existence, a factor that continues to sustain us today. Over 80% of terrestrial plant species engage in symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi, which provide essential nutrients while plants supply the fungi with carbohydrates. Without this interaction, oxygen as we know it would be nonexistent. The soil itself is a product of symbiosis among fungi, bacteria, and plants—an ecological partnership that took root when life transitioned from sea to land roughly 500 million years ago.
When many think of “symbiosis,” they often envision entities coexisting peacefully, like the clownfish and anemone or the vibrant ecosystems of coral reefs. Lichens, too, symbolize the intimate connections among distinct life kingdoms. Generally, we perceive symbiosis as a benevolent arrangement characterized by mutual benefit.
However, experts suggest viewing symbiotic relationships on a spectrum, ranging from parasitism to mutualism. Katie Field from the University of Sheffield, UK, points out that reciprocity isn’t always altruistic; partners often give in hopes of future benefits.
To illustrate this spectrum, consider the diverse strategies employed by orchids. Their minuscule seeds contain very few resources and must parasitize mycorrhizal fungi to access the sugars and nutrients needed for germination. As they develop leaves, some species begin to establish a more reciprocal relationship with the fungus, shifting from parasitism to mutual benefit.
Conversely, older orchids might provide sustenance for younger ones, while certain species may remain parasitic indefinitely, never developing photosynthetic leaves. “There’s a whole cycle of different stages of symbiotic interactions,” Field remarks.
Another significant perspective on symbiosis is its potential as a key to a sustainable future. Leguminous plants such as pulses, beans, and lentils utilize symbiotic bacteria to convert atmospheric nitrogen into fertilizer. Recent studies indicate that these plants have adapted mechanisms from existing cellular structures for this purpose.
This revelation could pave the way for other crops, notably grains like wheat and corn—staples that account for half of human caloric intake—to produce their fertilizers. Giles Oldroyd from the Crop Science Center at Cambridge University is exploring this avenue, with hopes of significantly reducing the reliance on chemical fertilizers in agriculture.
Oldroyd is conducting field trials using modified crops to harness the power of symbiosis, with a clear mission to minimize the use of chemical fertilizers. “I’m committed to this goal,” he states.
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Traditionally, we envision particles as tangible objects—tiny, point-like entities with specific properties like position and velocity. In reality, however, particles are energetic fluctuations within an underlying field that fills the universe, and they cannot be directly observed. This concept can be quite perplexing.
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Furthermore, there exists a layer of complexity due to quasiparticles, which arise from intricate interactions among the “fundamental” particles found in solids, liquids, and plasma. These quasiparticles possess fascinating properties of proximity, suggesting the potential for exotic new materials and techniques, challenging our established notions of particles.
“When discussing what particles are, the topic can become quite convoluted,” states Douglas Natelson from Rice University in Houston, Texas. He describes quasiparticles as “excitations in a material that exhibit many characteristics associated with particles.” They can have relatively well-defined positions and velocities and can carry charge and energy. So why aren’t they considered actual particles?
The answer lies in their existence. Natelson likens this to fans performing “waves” in a stadium. “We can observe the waves and think, ‘Look! There’s a wave, it’s of a certain size, moving at a specific speed.’ But those waves are essentially a collective phenomenon, resulting from the actions of all the fans present.”
To create a quasiparticle, physicists often manipulate materials like metal substrates subjecting them to extreme temperatures, pressures, or magnetic fields. Subsequently, they study the collective behavior of the intrinsic particles.
One intriguing phenomenon recognized in the 1940s involved a “hole,” which describes a lack of negative electrons that should normally be present. By analyzing these holes as if they were independent entities, researchers were able to develop semiconductors that power modern laptops and smartphones.
“Essentially, modern electronics hinge on both electrons and holes,” remarks Leon Balents from the University of California, Santa Barbara. “We continuously utilize these quasiparticles.”
Over the years, we have uncovered an entire spectrum of exotic quasiparticles. Magnons emerge from spin waves, a fundamental quantum property related to magnetism. Cooper pairs, present at low temperatures, can transmit charge without resistance in superconductors. The list expands, continually growing as physicists predict and observe peculiar new types with strange names, such as pi tons, fractures, and even wrinkles.
Among the more thrilling discoveries is the non-Abelian anyon. Unlike typical particles, these quasiparticles possess the ability to retain memory of how they were altered.
The practicality of these quasiparticles remains uncertain, according to Balents. Nonetheless, major companies like Microsoft have heavily invested in research involving quasiparticles.
The ongoing investigation raises fundamental questions about particle nature itself. If quasiparticles exhibit particle-like characteristics, one must consider whether the “fundamental” particles (e.g., electrons, photons, quarks) might emerge from a more profound underlying framework.
“Are what we classify as fundamental particles truly elementary, or could they be quasiparticles arising from more basic fundamental theories?” ponders Natelson. “An eternally looming question.”
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Killer whales demonstrate strong social interactions
Shutterstock/Tory Kallman
Orcas off the coast of North America have been observed engaging in a unique behavior, grooming each other with kelp—showcasing an intriguing instance of marine mammals utilizing tools.
For several years now, scientists have closely monitored a population of 80 endangered killer whales in the Pacific region between British Columbia and Washington. Researchers employed drones to capture a bird’s-eye view of these whales’ activities.
Since analyzing the footage from summer 2024, they have noted Orcas manipulating kelp chains in a peculiar manner. “It’s quite strange,” states Rachel John from the Whale Research Center in Washington, “but whales are known for their quirky behaviors.”
The footage reveals Orcas snapping off kelp stems at the seabed by using their teeth and rocking back and forth on their heads. The segments they break off are approximately the length of their beak-like snout. Remarkably, the Orcas consistently target specific parts of the kelp rather than randomly selecting pieces.
After breaking the kelp, the whales rub it between their heads and the sides of their pod mates, taking turns to groom each other for extended periods—sometimes lasting up to 12 minutes.
“What’s fascinating is that they lack appendages like hands, so they accomplish this using deliberate body movements,” adds John.
Known as “kelping,” this behavior, observed among Orcas, could be a social variation of existing grooming habits. “The social bonds in this group are exceptionally strong, and physical contact is a known way to reinforce these ties,” explains John.
This behavior was observed across all ages and genders within the pod, with the data suggesting that whales of similar ages were more likely to engage in this “kelping” behavior together. Importantly, it may serve as a form of hygiene, says John. The team found that Orcas were more inclined to scrub each other with kelp if they had any skin issues.
While it’s premature to ascertain any health benefits from this behavior, Olaf Meynecke from Griffith University in Australia expresses interest in having researchers compare the skin bacteria of Orcas with kelp properties to identify any correlations.
“It makes perfect sense that they would explore what resources the oceans provide to mitigate skin infections,” comments Meynecke. He believes this behavior may be prevalent among other Orca pods as well as various whale species.
The killer whale populations in the southern regions are critically endangered and are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Currently, their population averages around 73 years. These creatures are highly social, forming close-knit family groups led by their mothers and grandmothers.
Each whale receives a tracking number from the Whale Research Center and is meticulously monitored by researchers, photographers, and whale watchers.
According to Giles, “I would argue that this is the most studied whale population globally, regardless of species, due to the extensive research conducted over the last 50 years.”
What led to this remarkable behavior going unnoticed by researchers for decades?
The issue lay in their perspective.
Weiss remarked, “This behavior is truly inexplicable. It’s predominantly underwater, with approximately two feet of kelp wedged between the two animals.”
Recently, researchers have begun utilizing drones to observe whales from the sky. As drone technology has advanced, so too has the quality of the data gathered.
“A major breakthrough during the 2024 field season was our acquisition of a new drone,” Weiss revealed.
He mentioned that researchers first noticed a whale nudging another whale’s horn in April, followed by about 15 minutes of them rubbing against each other.
Once this unusual behavior was recognized, its occurrence began to increase significantly.
“We started observing it frequently. At least one whale exhibits this behavior every day when we fly the drone,” Weiss said.
Researchers believe this behavior may have been ongoing all along.
Giles noted, “We simply lacked the appropriate perspective. This behavior may have existed since ancient times. We’ve only scratched the surface of understanding these animals.”
For years, Southern resident whales have been at the forefront of conservation efforts. The Marine Mammals Commission reports that these whales face numerous threats, such as decreased prey availability, toxic pollution, and disturbances from ship noise. Studies indicate that without urgent intervention, Southern resident killer whales could face extinction.
Weiss emphasized that these new insights highlight the necessity of protecting the species.
“Through these discoveries, I’ve realized that the later stages of our study present even more to uncover, and we must ensure their survival to learn it,” he stated. “This isn’t just a group of 73 whales; it’s a distinct culture and society. These whales possess a rich array of traditions that trace back thousands of years.”
Illustration of TRAPPIST-1, a red dwarf star with at least seven orbiting planets
Mark Garlick/Alamy
Investigating the atmosphere surrounding the TRAPPIST-1 star system, one of the most promising locations in the galaxy, may prove even more challenging for astronomers than previously anticipated due to sporadic radiation bursts emitted by the stars.
First identified in 2016, TRAPPIST-1 is a diminutive red star located about 40 light years from Earth and is known to orbit at least seven planets. Several of these planets are situated within habitable zones that could support liquid water, making them prime candidates for astronomers searching for signs of extraterrestrial life.
For life to be sustainable, these planets must retain an atmosphere. Up to now, extensive observations from the James Webb Space Telescope have shown no signs of atmospheres on any of the planets.
Now, Julien DeWitt from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and his team have detected minor bursts emanating from TRAPPIST-1 for several minutes each hour. These radiation surges seem to complicate the planets’ capacity to capture light filtering through their atmospheres — if they exist — which is essential for determining the chemical makeup of any atmosphere.
Using the Hubble Space Telescope, DeWitt and his team searched for specific ultraviolet wavelengths from TRAPPIST-1 that would be absorbed by hydrogen. If a planet detected this light more than anticipated while transiting in front of the star, it could suggest that hydrogen was escaping from its atmosphere.
Although they found no definitive evidence, significant variabilities in different observations hint that extra light is being emitted at certain times. Hubble data can be divided into 5-minute increments, showing that this additional light is fleeting. DeWitt and his team deduce that these must be microflares — akin to solar flares from our sun, but occurring more frequently.
TRAPPIST-1 is quite faint, requiring astronomers to observe for extended periods to gather enough light. “Furthermore, there’s this flaring activity, which coincides with the timing of the transiting planets,” DeWitt states. “It’s particularly difficult to draw any conclusive insights regarding the existence of [atmospheres on the exoplanets],” he adds.
DeWitt and his colleagues also assessed whether these flares could impede a planet’s ability to retain its atmosphere. They found that one planet, TRAPPIST-1b, which the James Webb Space Telescope had already failed to detect atmospheric evidence for, could lose an equivalent of 1,000 times the hydrogen found in Earth’s oceans every million years. However, it’s often challenging to pinpoint which of these flares actually impact the planet. DeWitt suggests many uncertainties and various scenarios still need exploration.
Such stars can exhibit varying activity levels, but TRAPPIST-1 appears to be experiencing a more active phase, states Ekaterina Ilin from the Dutch Institute of Radio Astronomy. “This outcome isn’t completely unexpected or otherworldly; it’s just unfortunate. It’s more active than we had hoped,” she remarks. “In a way, it adds new layers to interpreting these flares, especially if you consider them.”
Geologists have identified rocks that originated in the deep sea during the early Jurassic era, around 180 million years ago, indicating a deficiency of oxygen in the ocean. These rocks were enriched with carbon atoms, specifically Carbon 12 compared to heavier carbon atoms, known as Carbon-13. Carbon-13 is denser than Carbon-12 due to having an additional neutron. Atoms belonging to the same element but with varying neutron counts are referred to as Isotopes, and the decrease in the ratio of carbon-13 to carbon-12 in rock samples is termed Negative carbon isotope distal.
Previous studies have demonstrated that during the early Jurassic, the release of photocarbon 12 into the atmosphere led to a doubling of carbon dioxide levels and an increase in ocean temperatures by 5°C, equivalent to about 9°F. This warming event is known as the Toarcian Marine Anoxia Event.
Sadly, the specific triggers for this carbon 12 release remain unclear, as there is no defined timeline for the Toarcian events. Previous estimates suggested that rock sections exhibiting low carbon isotopic ratios spanned between 300,000 to 1.5 million years. This uncertainty complicates comparisons between Toarcian warming events and more contemporary warming occurrences. Consequently, an international research team recently employed a high-precision dating technique to ascertain the exact duration of these events.
The team analyzed the Sakuradani tick section in the Tab Basin, Japan. During the early Jurassic, this region was accumulating sediment, including mud, sand, and organic matter near the coastline. The section, approximately 90 meters thick (or about 300 feet), contained layers with negative carbonate isotopic distals. Within the slope, these layers extend from around 33 meters deep to 45 meters deep.
Researchers also identified three layers of rock formed from volcanic ash both above and below the layer containing distal carbon isotopes. The upper ash layer is located about 16 meters within the rock section, while the lower ash layer can be found at approximately 49 and 51 meters. The researchers utilized volcanic ash minerals to accurately date the crystallization age of the layers. They reported that the volcanic ash layers are approximately 182.3 million, 182.5 million, and 182.9 million years old, from youngest to oldest.
These observations indicate that 62 meters (approximately 200 feet) of rock between the ash layers accumulated over a span of 400,000 years. Considering the sediment volume deposited during this time, the researchers concluded that the rock sections with distal carbon isotopes required more than 300,000 years to develop. They estimated that the duration of the Toarcian marine anoxic events was significantly shorter than earlier assumptions, lasting less than 417,000 years, with a minimum duration of 169,000 years.
With this information, the team sought to connect the Toarcian warming event and the associated carbon isotope distal to its source. They hypothesized that the event was at least partially related to volcanic activity during the early Jurassic period, which altered the composition of the surface rocks. This surge of magma to the surface could have caused the rocks to emit carbon dioxide and methane, leading to a rise in global temperatures and releasing 12 photocarbons.
The researchers concluded that volcanic activity was likely responsible for the marine anoxia events during the Toarcian period. They noted that earlier scientists had proposed volcanic mechanisms for other warming events of a similar nature. They recommend that future studies explore the direct impacts of the marine anaerobic events during the Toarcian and quantify the extent of carbon release that occurred.
Even if you haven’t experienced smartphone theft personally, you likely know someone who has. Last year alone, 80,000 mobile phones were reported stolen in London. For those affected, losing a costly device can feel devastating, and navigating the tedious process of replacing it, which holds all your vital information, can be frustrating. So, what can be done to prevent phone theft and better safeguard your personal data?
The explanation involves various factors, including how criminals exploit stolen phones, alongside the failure of tech companies focused on user-friendly designs over security measures, and the lack of coordinated international strategies. In short, it’s a multifaceted issue.
Some victims have expressed frustration with the police for their perceived lack of action against phone thieves. NAV Dugmore, who hails from Wolverhampton, England, had her iPhone snatched just moments after she exited Euston Station in London. “Honestly, it hurt me,” she recalls. “We need better systems to deter them from using stolen phones. I think the police could do more.”
The Metropolitan Police informed her that other thefts had occurred in the same vicinity recently, admitting that the chances of recovery were “nonexistent.” Although Dugmore activated face recognition on her phone, it was unlocked when the thief grabbed it, allowing them to quickly spend £300 at various London stores. The most painful loss for her was a photo of her three young children that wasn’t backed up.
When a phone like Dugmore’s is stolen, it enters a grim cycle with multiple potential fates. The simplest scenario for thieves is to sell the phone, frequently exporting it to other countries. Some may also sell the devices for parts at non-official repair shops. According to Daniel Green, a police inspector in London, the thief was connected to a gang that ships the stolen devices out of the country.
More elaborate crimes can occur as well, such as removing SIM cards to disguise the phone’s identity and using another mobile to access text messages, emails, and websites that require two-factor authentication. This can be somewhat mitigated by setting up a PIN on the SIM card, yet this requires action before theft occurs.
Thieves mainly target unsecured phones, but even safeguarding your device with a PIN isn’t foolproof, warns James O’Sullivan, who runs an app called Nuke, designed to assist those whose phones have been stolen. Thieves might simply observe you enter your PIN or employ clever tactics to outsmart your security measures. For instance, if you trigger and then cancel the emergency SOS feature on an iPhone, access via face or fingerprint recognition is temporarily disabled, necessitating a PIN entry the next time. A skilled thief could document you while you unwittingly do this, preparing to capture the input after reclaiming the phone.
Unlocked devices expand the criminals’ possibilities. Thieves can access online banking apps and cryptocurrency wallets, even scamming the victim’s friends and family for emergency funds. They can also share fraudulent links through social media, fishing for further login information and private data.
What measures can we take? At least the UK government acknowledges the issue. In the latter half of last year, they initiated a crackdown aimed at pressuring smartphone manufacturers to permanently disable stolen devices. They also pledged to conduct research aimed at understanding the dynamics of phone theft and devising solutions.
In theory, technology exists to render stolen phones useless. Each device carries a unique IMEI code, allowing reported stolen codes to be blocked on mobile networks. However, blocked phones can still access the internet through Wi-Fi. For years, the Met Police has urged tech firms to enhance protocols to restrict access to cloud services on stolen phones, making them less desirable to thieves. So far, both Apple and Google have not complied.
This also becomes problematic when trying to enforce restrictions across countries, similar to IMEI blocks. Green hopes that manufacturers will create permanent kill switches to effectively eliminate the incentive for phone theft altogether. “I don’t know if that’s a problem for them,” he remarks. “We need to push more. We’re trying to pick up the pieces on the sidelines, which is a tall order.”
Jordan Hare, a former digital forensics expert with law enforcement now working for private security firm S-RM, states that many phones already possess security features capable of thwarting the most determined criminals. For instance, certain devices will lock automatically if they detect sudden movements, such as being grabbed by a thief.
The issue arises because many of these protective measures are disabled by default. Hare emphasizes that companies design for user convenience, often at the expense of security awareness. “Opting in for these features doesn’t benefit the average consumer, who may not even know they exist,” he explains. “An opt-out approach where users are informed that certain settings are enabled and why they should remain on would be far more effective.”
Meanwhile, other admirable security features, like locating your phone via a web browser, fall short in practicality. If the phone is tracked far from its original location, there’s little a police officer can do without extensive paperwork for search warrants.
Dugmore experienced this firsthand with her stolen iPhone. “The last known location was about ten miles from where my phone was taken,” she recounts. “The police indicated that they wouldn’t be able to retrieve it.” When approached for comment, the Metropolitan Police told New Scientist: “Unfortunately, the investigation couldn’t progress due to the lack of CCTV in the area. We’re aware of the victim’s concerns.”
Most prominent smartphone manufacturers, including New Scientist Samsung, Xiaomi, and Google, did not respond. However, Apple did provide a statement.
“For more than a decade, we’ve been actively addressing this issue through hardware, software, and customer support,” an Apple representative stated. “We are committed to investing in industry-leading tools and features designed to empower users against theft,” although they did not clarify why some security features aren’t activated by default.
Ultimately, preventing smartphone theft hinges on ensuring manufacturers remove any appeal that criminals might find in stolen devices. They possess the capability to control hardware and software, developing features that could entirely secure your phone, its applications, and components against misuse or resale. However, O’Sullivan asserts that it doesn’t appear to be a priority. “To be candid, stolen phones generate considerable profit for those selling new devices.”
wIs the hat on a path to oblivion? This is a question that often crosses my mind while experiencing the second installment of Kojima Hideo’s hypnotic, enigmatic, and patiently paced cargo management simulator series. It’s due, in part, to the lengthy, tranquil treks that transcend the surreal landscape of Mexico and Australia, granting ample time for reflection on that small yet significant detail and to ponder the intricacies of what you just witnessed. Additionally, such questions often illuminate deeper truths.
The ability to engage in prolonged contemplation is a hallmark of the artistry embedded in this game. No one is scribbling notes to uncover Doom. The Middle Ages scrutinizes the cutscenes of Marvel’s counterparts for insights. It’s uncommon for any game to invite this level of examination. However, Death Stranding 2 diverges from convention, excelling in both atmosphere and narrative delivery, while maintaining a tactile storytelling quality that enriches its extensive gameplay system. The tension between these elements renders it compelling. Initially, each aspect demands courage, but over time, you’ll savor both experiences.
For those who missed the inaugural Stranding, yes, this is indeed the sequel in a series that revolves around transporting cargo between waypoints, whether on foot or via vehicles. Like a post-apocalyptic Amazon delivery driver, it provides essentials, technology, and luxurious packages. The first game introduced a mystical shift that allowed the deceased to return as spectral entities known as Beach Things (BTS). When a BT claims a human life, it results in a tragic event termed a “void-out.”
Screenshot from Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
With humanity divided and isolated in subterranean bunkers, the protagonist, Sam Porter Bridges (Norman Reedus), is tasked with connecting the remaining enclaves of American civilization to a global technological network known as the “chiral network,” thereby restoring hope for a brighter future. He accomplishes this by traveling across the continent with Lou, a supernatural infant carried in an artificial womb. At the start of this sequel, he enjoys a secluded existence in Mexico with Lou, who has now grown into a toddler.
And believe me, these are significant cliff notes. Death Stranding 2 opens with an impressive six-minute cutscene aimed at immersing players in the peculiar sci-fi universe and poetic metaphors crafted by the Isle. Unraveling this mystery constitutes half the enjoyment (the other half is cargo shifting), but even if you’re not fully invested in the world, it operates on a dreamlike logic that feels intuitive. It’s uncertain whether this environment resembles something we recognize or if it has always been a blend of Icelandic tundra, snow-capped mountains, and colorful deserts, or perhaps it once resembled the Australian landscapes of Death Stranding 2. The crucial point is that it feels coherent throughout.
While it is contemplative, this is not a game about watching Sam retire for 50 hours and revel in fatherhood. He is inevitably drawn back into action, reconnecting Mexican and Australian populations to the Chiral Network for a venture named Ngubridge, a logistics company backed by an enigmatic benefactor and featuring returning character vulnerabilities (Rare Saidoo). If that sounds rather dull, consider it a quirky scenario with fragile Greta Garbo gloves around her neck!
Elle Fanning in Death Stranding 2. Photo: Sony Interactive Entertainment
A colorful cast surrounds DHV Magellan, a ship featuring more A-listers than the Cannes red carpet, aiding Sam in his missions. Seydoux, George Miller, Guillermo Del Toro, Nicolas Winding Refn, Elle Fanning, and Shioli Kutsuna deliver equally stellar performances alongside veteran voice actor Troy Baker as Chief Villain Higgs. The principal characters function mainly as poetic devices and unique metaphors. Rain (Kutsuna) is an optimistic outcast who summons rain each time he steps outdoors. Tarman (Miller) sacrificed his hand to supernatural tar and now guides the boat through its mysterious waters. Hartman (Darren Jacobs) faces death and rebirth every few minutes. Though they ought to be too peculiar to elicit sympathy, rare moments link their stories with human emotions in a poignant manner. If you don’t feel a lump in your throat watching Rain and Tomorrow (Fanning) sing together, then it’s not only Deadman who’s lost their humanity.
Interestingly, package delivery is showcased at the pinnacle of gameplay standards. It may sound mundane, but the intricate workings of these detailed systems easily draw you in. In the previous installment, combat felt secondary, but this time, missions clash not only with BTS but also other humans, benefitting from a fluid mechanic that fires hand-held bullets and executes neck snaps. You can craft ladders, climbing ropes, and other gear when the risk of attack is heightened. The joy resonates as much in preparation as in action. It feels rewarding to impose order on a chaotic world that might otherwise seem disordered. It’s likely why many of us baked countless loaves of banana bread during the lockdown.
The Isle originally drafted a story for Death Stranding 2 before the Covid-19 crisis but restructured it entirely after enduring lockdown alongside the rest of the world. The effects are evident. We promise to shield you from the profound loneliness embodied in Sam’s role as a porter who traverses desolate landscapes.
Effectively, you can interact with other players, albeit at a distance, sharing equipment, constructing structures, and leaving holographic signs and commendations for others in your game. This feature serves as a satirical commentary on entrapment. Over time, the world becomes cluttered with flickering icons and increasing structures, leading to a constant bombardment of “like” symbols. It feels akin to the attention spans dulled by social media, but it’s likely no coincidence.
The first game presented a surprising advantage. The two sequels do not. Many of the thrilling and tedious elements that defined the first are also present here, yet they have been refined, rendering the gameplay mechanically rich and meaningful. Combat feels more impactful, the world maps exhibit greater craftsmanship, and the missions offer enhanced variety. Tasking them with recreating the same gameplay in an entirely new narrative could feel like a jest, but it presents layers of mechanical depth that are anything but trivial.
Among the many themes Death Stranding 2 seeks to convey, the most prominent is that you are never truly alone. Global calamities, vast technologies, and even the specter of death may abstract the ways we connect, yet they can never fully sever our bonds. Not bad for a game centered on delivering packages.
OpenAI has taken down online content regarding Jony Ive’s recent partnership with the hardware startup IO following a trademark dispute.
The AI firm has retracted promotional content, which comprised a video featuring Ive, the former Apple designer of the iPhone, talking with OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman about the $6.4 billion (£4.8 billion) agreement. Nonetheless, you can still watch the 9-minute video on YouTube.
OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, was compelled to respond after receiving a legal notice from IYO, a startup specializing in AI-powered earphones.
OpenAI stated it had removed the page from the website announcing the acquisition of IO. This deal involves Ive’s company which will lend creative and design expertise across the organization. OpenAI emphasized that the dispute does not impact the transaction itself.
Promotional videos featuring Jony Ive and Sam Altman. Photo: YouTube
“This page is temporarily down after a court order resulting from a trademark lawsuit filed by IYO regarding the use of the name ‘io.’ We disagree with these claims and are exploring our options,” remarked a spokesperson for OpenAI.
Ive departed from Apple in 2019 after a 27-year tenure as one of the company’s prominent product designers.
The IO promotional video detailed Ive and Altman’s ambitious visions for the partnership revealed last month. Originally from the UK, Ive expressed, “I feel a growing sense that everything I’ve learned over the past 30 years has led me to this moment.”
In the video, Altman mentioned that he had tested prototype devices from Ive, stating, “I believe this is the most exciting technology the world has ever seen.”
The outcomes of the Ive-OpenAI collaboration are not anticipated until next year. Reports indicate that these AI-integrated devices will be “seamless” and will offer comprehensive insights into users’ environments and lives. According to the Wall Street Journal, they will be designed to sit on a user’s desk alongside the MacBook Pro and iPhone.
Ive has shared his concerns about the “unintended” adverse effects of smartphones, although Altman has clarified that this new initiative isn’t aimed at phasing out the iPhone.
“I don’t think the goal is to replace the phone, just like smartphones didn’t replace laptops. It’s an entirely new category,” Altman stated in a Bloomberg interview in May.
Trifid (top right) and Lagoon (center) nebula view from Vera C. Rubin Observatory
NSF-DOEVERA C. Rubin Observatory
The stunning pink and blue regions of this stellar nursery, along with dense clusters of surrounding galaxies, mark the initial insights from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory.
These images were crafted from about 10 hours of observations atop Chile’s Celopachen Mountain, serving as tests to illustrate the types of captures Rubin can produce. The telescope’s extensive mission to monitor the night sky, recognized as a legacy study of space and time, is set to commence later this year.
The initial image (above) showcases the Trifid Nebula, a striking pink and blue formation located in the upper right corner, where numerous young stars emerge from a star-forming region. At the image’s center lies the Lagoon Nebula, a large expanse of interstellar gas and dust. To create this visual, astronomers amalgamated 678 individual photographs taken by Rubin over a span of seven hours.
A close-up of the full Virgo cluster as seen from Vera C. Rubin Observatory
NSF-DOEVERA C. Rubin Observatory
The subsequent image focuses on the Virgo cluster, a composition of thousands of galaxies recognized by astronomers for ages. While the brightest members are visible through a basic telescope, Rubin’s detailed capture presents the entire cluster and its surrounding galaxies. For a more comprehensive view, check out the full zoom-out image showcased in the video below, which reveals around 10 million galaxies.
These represent only 0.5% of the 20 billion galaxies that Rubin will observe throughout its lifespan, assisting in unraveling the enigmas of dark matter and exploring the potential for a mysterious ninth planet within our solar system.
Observatory photos will be unveiled during the live stream today at 4 PM (11 AM EDT).
IIf you wandered onto the set of M3GAN 2.0 last year, you might have stumbled upon M3GAN, an eerie humanoid doll. Alison Williams shares with a nervous chuckle, “The challenge is whether to turn her around to face the wall or send her back to her room. Neither option feels right.”
In the sequel to the sci-fi horror film, Williams reprises her role as Gemma, a robotics expert-turned-advocate against the reckless development of AI after creating M3GAN for orphans. (She is also a producer on the sequel.)
Discussing M3GAN’s challenging role via a video call from her New York hotel room, Williams noted that the character was sometimes portrayed by a 15-year-old dancer named Amie Donald, but often by a robotic doll operated by a small team. “After a while, her eyelids get sticky,” Williams explains. “The handler uses a brush to apply lubricant to her eyes, and if you catch yourself thinking she’s alive, that’s a problem.”
Williams is best known for her breakout role as Marnie in Lena Dunham’s landmark series, Girls. Her first significant film project post-Girls was the Oscar-winning dark comedy, Get Out. Both IT and M3GAN were relatively low-budget films that became cultural phenomena. M3GAN particularly tackles racial politics and the perils of AI, highlighting M3GAN’s own disarray.
Williams has long been intrigued by AI. She knows Sam Altman, co-founder and CEO of OpenAI, who developed ChatGPT, and engaged with robotics experts while preparing for her role as Gemma. The film raises ethical questions about AI, exploring not only the threats posed by AI gone rogue but also the “rights” of our devices. “It’s easy to anthropomorphize something like our little robot vacuum at home,” she remarks.
Is she apprehensive about AI taking over jobs in the near future? She chuckles, “If you pose a question that begins with ‘me,’ the answer is always yes. I have an endless capacity to worry about things.”
Yet she suggests that whether it’s human acting or other work, “We will all be replaced eventually. But so far, especially in art, I haven’t witnessed anything that replicates human output in a way that truly feels human.” She smiles, adding, “But it’s not that it doesn’t concern me.”
M3GAN poses questions about the technology we give to children. “You wouldn’t give your child cocaine,” Gemma asserts in M3GAN 2.0. “So why hand them a smartphone?” With three sons of her own, Williams is cautious about this. “He asks such profound questions; it’s incredible. Often, I don’t have answers.” Recently, she shared an explanation about rocket launches using ChatGPT. “Watching his reaction reminded me of Gemma observing a child interacting with M3GAN. It struck me how I had to note to take him to the library to get a book next time. It’s hard to justify logically,” she adds. “It felt like an instinctive decision.”
A cultural phenomenon… I’m dating Daniel Kaluuya. Photo: Justin Rubin/PA
Parenting is the focal point of a new podcast that Williams launched this month alongside two friends, early childhood educator Hope Klemer and therapist Jamie Oppenheim. It originated from a group chat delving into motherhood, aging, and life’s complexities. Upcoming episodes will touch upon the guilt many mothers grapple with, a theme echoed in M3GAN 2.0. Do our expectations of mothers evolve? “I certainly hope so,” Williams responds. “Guilt thrives in the absence of a community where you can express those feelings.”
She expresses frustration regarding the prevalent “mama content” on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, often portraying an idealized version of motherhood. “Many times, it just makes people feel bad. The emotional toll can be immense,” she shares with a laugh, addressing the unrealistic portrayals of influencer-packed lunches filled with nutritious options. “Without our nanny, I would be a mess, especially while my husband is working in London. I’m so grateful for her support. It’s unrealistic to expect anyone to handle everything alone. What about the help?”
“We were easy targets”…(From left) Lena Dunham, Zosia Mamet, Jemima Kirke, and Williams in Girls. Photo: PR’s Distribution Material
In another podcast episode, she tackles societal standards regarding aging and the unrealistic expectations of beauty. With a chuckle, she remarks, “But there’s not much that can be done about my forehead now. Yet, someone could glance at me and think, ‘I should be able to have a wrinkle-free forehead.’ No, my lack of wrinkles doesn’t make me better than you.”
Williams reflects on the perception that once celebrities achieve fame and fortune, maintaining genuine friendships can become challenging. “I don’t walk the world feeling like a celebrity,” she notes. “I experienced that during my twenties while shooting in New York, but now, dropping my son off at kindergarten makes me feel like a regular person among others. My job might be public and unique, but I’m still just a person.”
Recently, she realized that her son is at the same age she was when she began considering acting as a possible career (his father, Alexander Dreymon, is also an actor). They met while filming the 2020 thriller Horizon. Williams recalls how movies like Mary Poppins shaped her perception of acting, “Julie Andrews was like a goddess to me.”
Her parents, former NBC News anchor Brian Williams and producer Jane Stoddard Williams, encouraged her education (Yale) over entering the acting world as a child. “I’m thankful they didn’t push me into this industry too early. It was tough enough starting my career at 23 when Girls premiered.”
Williams’ experience is rather atypical. Growing up in a household with famous parents meant her father, Brian Williams, reached millions before the media landscape shifted dramatically. In 2015, his reputation was called into question when it was revealed he embellished a story about being shot at while covering the Iraq War, leading to a six-month suspension and eventual departure from NBC.
What was it like to navigate such circumstances as a family? “When you feel the weight of public scrutiny and chatter, it can be daunting,” Williams admits. “It’s a harsh side of the media; they often turn on their own.”
In discussing the criticism surrounding “nepotism babies,” Williams approaches the topic positively, recognizing her advantages. “One of the privileges is the ability to pursue acting without the stress of providing for myself. Growing up around people who were doing what I aspired to do—like the Hanks family—made it feel attainable. By high school, I was already working as a production assistant for Robert Altman on Horizon, landing a spot in a star-studded ensemble alongside Meryl Streep. That experience surely gave me a head start.”
Gratitude is a recurring theme in Williams’ life. She feels fortunate not to be starting her career now. There was a considerable buzz surrounding Girls during its six-year run ending in 2017, but she can’t fathom what it would be like navigating social media scrutiny today. (Williams left Instagram in 2020, feeling the platform became increasingly toxic and cynical.) “We treated each episode as if it mattered significantly,” she reflects.
“When she’s been working for a while, her eyelids can get sticky”… with Gemma (Alison Williams), Cady (Violet McGraw), and M3GAN in the original film. Photo: Geoffrey Short/Universal Pictures
While some criticisms were valid—like the predominantly white setting of the show—several were driven by misogyny, undermining constructive critique. Williams laughs, recalling how some reviews failed to refer to the characters by name, instead labeling them as “daughters of famous parents.” “We were easy targets, and I acknowledge that,” she admits.
For a while, Williams struggled with people conflating her identity with her character, Marnie, who grapples with sociopathy. “I wanted to create distance because I thought it was important for people to respect the act of acting. Our characters were heard and seen, but we chose not to reveal that. It felt odd for people not to recognize the characters as distinct from us.”
Despite the challenges, she emphasizes that the experience was overwhelmingly positive. Is there a chance for a reunion? “I would love that,” Williams responds. “I know Zosia [Mamet, who played Shoshanna] is promoting spin-offs. I’m eager to find my own path to elbow into that. I want us all back together; working on that show was a blast and marked the start of my career, a time I now recognize as exceptionally special.”
For fans of Girls, a reunion would be an ideal scenario: four dynamic women against the backdrop of an unsettling AI doll.
Juan Salvo (Ricardo Darín) Faces the Deadly Snowfall in Buenos Aires
Mariano Landette/Netflix
Forever Netflix
Creating impactful art comes down to specificity. While this notion might undermine broader statements, it’s a guiding principle for me. The focus isn’t on appealing to the lowest common denominator; rather, it’s about the unique elements of artists that resonate and captivate audiences.
Perhaps that explains the surge of TV apocalypse narratives. Forever offers a refreshing perspective. This new Netflix series is inspired by a beloved comic book series from 1957, crafted by the renowned Argentinian writer Hector German Oesterheld.
The show draws upon themes from Oesterheld’s 1969 story reboot, echoing his growing anti-imperialist sentiments. This narrative, intertwined with the realities of violence linked to the Argentine military dictatorship, deserves greater recognition globally.
On a summer evening in Buenos Aires, Juan Salvo (Ricardo Darín) and his friends congregate in a basement for a game of Traco. Amidst laughter and whiskey, they experience an unusual phenomenon: the snow that has only fallen thrice in Buenos Aires’s recorded history turns lethal, killing anyone who touches it almost immediately.
Trapped indoors, Juan is uncertain about the fate of his ex-wife Elena (Carla Peterson) and daughter Clara (Mora Fiss). Dressed in a waterproof suit and gas mask, he braves the treacherous streets as panic rises in the community, igniting debates on resource sharing among survivors.
This narrative is rooted in genuine violence and delusions, yet it deserves greater fame.
Though I haven’t read the original comics due to limited availability in the UK, the modern adaptations seem effective. A notable update involves the protagonist’s backstory as a soldier from the 1982 Falklands War, enriching his role as a leader among survivors while his unresolved trauma contributes to the haunting visions he faces.
The storyline of Forever echoes that of many apocalyptic dramas, albeit with distinct nuances that elevate it within the genre. The Spanish series maintains authenticity by preserving its Argentine context rather than setting the drama in the typically overused NYC or London backdrop, making room for unique elements ranging from architecture to societal issues.
Before watching, I was unaware of Argentina’s history and how Oesterheld and his four daughters (two of whom were pregnant) vanished during the 1977 military dictatorship. The significance of this new series sheds light on the families affected during that tragic time. An Updated Search suggests that he may have been connected to other families due to his missing grandchildren’s plight. This tragic backdrop imbues the adaptation with depth, far surpassing its peers.
Some weaknesses in Forever do exist: the pacing of the initial three episodes feels sluggish and the treatment of female characters is somewhat lacking. Nonetheless, it remains a deeply engaging survival drama, with the narrative complexity increasing in the latter half. Plus, here’s a pleasant surprise—the series has been renewed for a second season following its sleeper success on Netflix.
I Also Recommend:
The Mist Directed by Frank Darabont When a mysterious fog envelops the town of Bridgeton, residents are forced to either stay indoors or confront a deadly threat. This Stephen King adaptation offers a surprising twist with a new ending.
I’m Still Here Directed by Walter Salles Elsa Sanchez, the widow of comic book writer Hector German Oesterheld, seeks justice against the Argentine military regime. Her journey parallels Eunice Paiva’s story, captured in this remarkable film about her husband’s assassination under a Brazilian dictatorship.
Bethan Ackerley is a sub-editor at New Scientist. She has a passion for science fiction, sitcoms, and all things eerie. Follow her at @inkerley
The Art and Science of Crafting Science Fiction
Engage in science fiction writing this weekend, focusing on the creation of new worlds and innovative artworks.
Being located in the Northern Hemisphere, my recommendations for observing the night sky are often limited by this perspective. Thus, in this edition, we shift our focus to the stunning views offered by the Southern Hemisphere, particularly the Milky Way during this time.
Every visible star belongs to our galaxy; when I gaze at the night sky, I’m encountering the Milky Way. Stargazers refer to the Milky Way as the luminous bands of stars and cosmic dust found toward the core of our spiral galaxy. This plane is tilted approximately 60 degrees relative to the solar system, enabling us to see the inner edge of the spiral arm that faces away from our location. Viewed in three dimensions, it resembles a curved arc across the sky.
This view is significantly enhanced in the Southern Hemisphere due to the Earth’s tilt. Stargazers in the southern part of the globe have the advantage of looking toward the galaxy’s center, while those in the north gaze away from it into a star-bereft region. This positioning allows for a clearer view of numerous constellations near the galactic core, including Centaurus and Sagittarius.
Regardless of your location on Earth, we share the same sunlit side, making this the optimum time for celestial observation. However, the Southern Hemisphere offers year-round visibility of the Milky Way—a perk of our planet’s tilt plus the benefits of darker nights during this season.
A decade-old study indicates that one-third of the global population is unable to see the Milky Way, a figure likely increasing due to growing light pollution. I encourage you to seek a remote location on a moonlit night; a new moon, around June 25th, would be ideal. It typically takes your eyes about 40 minutes to adjust to darkness, so if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, you might need to wait until after midnight for optimal conditions.
Some of my most unforgettable nights under the stars occurred in the Southern Hemisphere. The first was at Mount Cook, New Zealand, in early June, and the second was at Warrumbungle National Park, Australia, in April. On both occasions, I was utterly amazed by the sight of the Milky Way, as captured in the image of Uluru, Australia.
If you’re stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere, make sure to look for the Milky Way. You might even spot two of our neighboring galaxies: the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds. Neither of these is visible from the Northern Hemisphere but can be located near the southern celestial pole.
Abigail Beall is the editor of New Scientist and author of Art of Urban Astronomy. Follow her @abbybeall
For additional projects, visit newscientist.com/maker
Strategies to Prevent Nightmares, Such as Avoiding Scary Movies
Andrii Lysenko/Getty Images
Experiencing nightmares weekly may accelerate aging and significantly increase the chances of early death.
“Individuals with more frequent nightmares experience faster aging and a higher risk of premature death,” states Abidemi Otaiku from Imperial College London.
In collaboration with his team, Otaiku examined data from over 183,000 adults aged between 26 to 86 who participated in several studies, initially self-reporting their nightmare frequency over a span of 1.5 to 19 years.
The findings revealed that individuals reporting weekly nightmares are over three times more likely to die before reaching 70 compared to those who do not experience nightmares.
Moreover, the researchers noted that the frequency of nightmares is a more potent predictor of preterm birth than factors such as smoking, obesity, poor diet, or inadequate physical activity. Otaiku presented these findings at the European Neurological Society Conference 2025 held in Helsinki, Finland, on June 23rd.
The team additionally assessed participants’ biological ages by measuring telomere lengths, small DNA sequences at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division; short telomeres linked to premature aging. This segment of the study also included approximately 2,400 children aged 8 to 10, while adults contributed further biological age data using epigenetic clocks.
According to Otaiku, their research established a consistent connection between frequent nightmares and accelerated aging across various ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds. “Even in childhood, those with frequent nightmares exhibit shorter telomeres, indicating faster cellular aging,” he remarked. In adults, this accelerated biological aging accounts for roughly 40% of their heightened risk of death.
Regarding the reasoning behind this association, Otaiku suggests two main factors. The first is the elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol triggered by nightmares. These levels are linked to faster cellular aging. “Nightmares elicit a more intense stress response than what is typically experienced upon waking, often rousing us with pounding hearts,” he explained.
The second factor involves sleep disruption, which hinders the body’s overnight cellular repair processes. Poor sleep quality is associated with an increased risk of various health issues, including heart disease.
For those wishing to reduce their occurrence of nightmares, Otaiku suggests straightforward strategies, such as avoiding scary movies and addressing mental health issues like anxiety.
“This is a fascinating finding with a number of biological underpinnings,” said Guy Restiner from the NHS Foundation Trust at Guy and St. Thomas. However, he emphasized that further research is necessary to identify causal relationships, noting that nightmares can be associated with various medical conditions and medications that may impact the findings as individuals age.
RAchel Reeves and her fellow government officials are eager to promote stock market investments among more Britons. She recently stated, “When you invested in stocks and stock markets, you could achieve better returns and had a substantial amount in your cash savings account.”
The encouraging news is that the emergence of DIY tools and mobile applications has made investing simpler than ever. However, the extensive range of options can make it challenging to determine where to begin.
For novice investors lacking the time or confidence to manage their portfolios, a “robo-advisor” is a wise choice. These may seem like concepts from sci-fi films, but they are essentially online platforms that utilize technology to automate processes. Most are app-based and typically provide pre-designed investment portfolios customized to individual preferences.
Generally, you complete a brief questionnaire to identify your objectives and determine the level of investment time and risk you’re comfortable with.
In most cases, the longer your investment horizon, the more risk you can afford to take. However, it’s crucial to assess your personal approach to risk. Historically, stocks have generated more significant returns than savings accounts, but they also carry the potential for losses and fluctuations.
A pre-assembled portfolio usually invests in a range of exchange-traded funds (ETFs). These low-cost funds track the performance of specific indices, such as the UK or US stock markets, government bonds (like UK gilt or US Treasury bills), or commodities such as gold.
The app consolidates these fund selections to formulate a balanced portfolio that distributes funds across diverse assets.
So, which app (if any) is the right fit for you? We’ve explored some of the most popular options and compared their offerings.
Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) track selected indices, such as the UK and US stock markets or government bonds. Photo: Hannah McKay/Reuters
Nutmeg
Who? Nutmeg, one of the pioneers in the robo-advisor market, launched in 2012 and was acquired by investment firm JPMorgan Chase in 2021. The UK platform boasts over 200,000 users and has seen more than £4.5 billion invested through the app.
Minimum investment: ISAs and pensions start at £500, while lifetime ISAs and junior ISAs require £100.
Investment Choice: Nutmeg offers various service tiers that influence costs. With fully managed options, investors can select from 1 to 10 risk levels, and the team actively monitors and adjusts the portfolio. The fixed allocation option features five risk levels, with the portfolio determined by the investment team annually.
Fee: For the fully managed option, Nutmeg charges a total fee of 0.98%. If investing £3,000, the annual fee would be about £29.40. The fee for fixed allocations is 0.65%, roughly £19.60 in the same scenario.
We like: Nutmeg’s transparency regarding performance allows users to see how a fully managed portfolio has performed over the past decade. For instance, a 6/10 risk portfolio yielded 43.4% over ten years, significantly exceeding the average return of 36.7% with similar funds. The 5/10 risk portfolio grew by 31.9% during the same timeframe, against a comparison of 36.7% with its peers.
Any other? Those seeking additional assistance can access complimentary guidance for general inquiries or receive full financial advice starting from £900.
MoneyBox
MoneyBox reportedly has over 1.5 million customers. Photo: Mundishima/Arami
Who? Founded in 2016, MoneyBox focuses on savings and investment, boasting over 1.5 million users and overseeing assets exceeding £10 billion.
Minimum investment: You can initiate an account with just £1.
Investment Choice: MoneyBox provides three primary options: cautious, balanced, and adventurous. The cautious option minimizes risk with a portfolio comprising only 15% company stock, 40% bonds, and 40% cash, whereas the adventurous option allocates 80% to stocks, 15% to cash, and 5% to bonds.
Fee: A single monthly subscription fee encompasses transaction costs. Subsequently, in addition to a platform fee of 0.45%, there’s an actual investment cost of 0.17% for core funds. Thus, anyone investing £3,000 in a balanced fund will incur approximately 0.85% in total costs, around £25.60 annually.
We like: The Roundup function. By linking your bank account or credit card to the app, you can round up your spending to the nearest pound, automatically investing the difference. For instance, if you spend £1.87, 13p will be rounded up to £2 and invested. This is a convenient method to enhance your contributions.
Any other? Confident investors may opt to select their own ETFs to invest in rather than choosing a pre-made portfolio. Alternatively, those interested in picking specific companies have limited options, as only US stocks are currently available.
Doddle
Who? DODL, a newcomer that debuted in 2022, is operated by wealth management powerhouse AJ Bell, established in 1995. DODL simplifies the process with lower minimum investment amounts than its parent firm, although it offers limited investment choices.
Minimum investment: Direct debits can start from £100 or £25 per month.
Fee: The annual fee includes 0.15% for management, £1 monthly, and 0.31% for core investments, totaling around £19.30 yearly for those investing £3,000.
Investment Choice: DODL offers a selection of off-the-shelf funds categorized by risk, from cautious to global growth. You can also pick individual stocks, browsing by region (UK or US) and sector (financial, health, technology, etc.).
We like: The variety of themed investment options. This enables access to relevant ETFs based on emerging trends. For example, the “Above the World” theme invests in the HSBC FTSE All-World index, comprising multiple large companies globally, with a fee of 0.13%. Other themes include the “home team” for UK-centric investments and the “robo revolution” for funds focused on robotics companies.
Any other? Enjoy competitive interest rates of 4.25% (variable) on uninvested cash.
DODL’s “Robo Revolution” fund invests in robotics companies. Photo: costfoto/nurphoto/rex/shutterstock
Wealthify
Who? Established in 2014 and currently owned by insurance leader Aviva, Wealthify serves around 100,000 users with a strong emphasis on simplicity and avoiding jargon.
Minimum investment: Currently, ISAs start at £1, and pensions require £50, but from June 25th, junior ISAs will also start at £1 while stocks and shares ISAs and pensions will begin at £500.
Investment Choice: Wealthify has five risk levels: cautious, tentative, confident, ambitious, and adventurous. The cautious portfolio contains 85% government debt assets and just 5% company stock. In contrast, the adventurous options comprise 74% stocks and 14% government bonds, including investments in real estate and infrastructure.
Fee: A platform fee of 0.6% covers portfolio management costs. The investment cost can be 0.16% for typical portfolios and 0.7% for ethical options. This results in an annual fee of £22.80 for a £3,000 investment in a standard portfolio or £39 for ethical options. There’s no minimum fee.
We like: The Outlook page provides a concise overview of investment regions and assets, offering a convenient way for investors to gain insights without extensive research.
Any other? Wealthify showcases numerous customer service awards on its site—a reminder to consider factors beyond fees and investment variety. Always conduct your own research and review independent evaluations before choosing a provider.
MoneyFarm
Who? Originating in Italy, MoneyFarm expanded to the UK market in 2016. It currently supports around 160,000 active users and manages over £5 billion in assets, backed by major investment firms including M&G and Allianz.
Minimum investment: £500.
Investment Choice: Managed funds feature seven risk levels, regularly revised by their investment teams. For example, the 6/7 risk option includes 72% developed market company assets and 10% from emerging markets, while the 2/7 risk option primarily invests in bonds.
Fee: Those investing £3,000 in a proactively managed option incur a 0.3% fee in addition to a 0.75% management fee, totaling approximately £31.56 a year. For fixed allocation options adjusted annually, the management fee ranges from 0.17% to 0.45%, resulting in a total of around 0.62% or about £18.60 annually.
We like: The platform provides a clear breakdown of each portfolio, detailing investments by asset type, region, and sector, along with concise explanations.
Any other? Similar to many of these apps, MoneyFarm allows you to apply environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria to your investments, which can lead to tailored options excluding industries like heavy polluters and companies with poor human rights records. However, opting for this may increase costs.
Some ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) track the prices of products, such as gold. Photo: LeonhardFöger/Reuters
You need to know
Before opting for a robo-advice app or service, ensure that the firm is regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Make sure the provider is a member of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSC), which safeguards up to £85,000 in funds should the provider collapse.
Most platforms have various account types available, but ISA stocks and shares typically offer the best returns. You can contribute up to £20,000 per year into an ISA, allowing all interest and growth to be exempt from HMRC, keeping all your earnings intact.
Regarding fees, expect a percentage of your investment to be charged. For instance, investing £1,000 with a 1% fee would incur a £10 annual charge. However, be sure to verify the exact fees, as minimum charges may apply.
Deep within the shadowy oceans, a variety of curious and enigmatic creatures inhabit the depths, such as the frilled shark (Chlamydoselachus anguineus), which has been known for over a century, yet much of its lifestyle remains elusive.
We gain insight into their appearance through the occasional specimens caught in deep-sea fishing nets across the globe.
These sharks typically measure about 2 meters (6.5 feet) in length, with smooth, tube-like brown or gray bodies and dorsal fins positioned lower on their backs, close to the tail of their elongated form.
The most peculiar characteristic is found at the front end. The frilled shark possesses six prominent gill slits, exceeding the number found in most other sharks.
Indeed, there are five other known species in the frilled shark taxonomic order, Hexanchiformes, which include the Sixgill and Seven Gill sharks.
The name “frilled shark” derives from the unique ruffled edges of its gill slits, with the extended tips of the gill filaments visible.
The first pair of gill slits connects beneath the throat, resembling a lacy collar.
Moreover, their mouths are larger, akin to those of lizards, compared to typical sharks. Inside, they feature a series of three-pronged teeth resembling tiny tridents.
Studies of the stomach contents from rare specimens reveal that frilled sharks employ their three-pronged teeth to capture soft-bodied squid.
They are also reported to occasionally consume fish and other shark species. Unlike many sharks, pregnant female frilled sharks do not lay eggs; rather, the eggs hatch internally.
The newborn sharks begin life as embryos, attached to egg yolks, which serve as a nutritional source during their development.
Photos of the frilled shark (Chlamydoselachus anguineus) were taken in collaboration with the University of the Zoological Museum in Hamburg. – Photo credit: Aramie
One mystery that remains unsolved is the duration of their pregnancy. If other deep-sea sharks are indicative, it could take several years before a frilled shark pup emerges into the ocean.
Often mischaracterized as “living fossils,” frilled sharks garnered significant attention in 2022 after a viral video showcased rare footage of live frilled sharks in Japan, prompting news outlets worldwide to clarify misconceptions.
These creatures likely exist for decades.
However, it is indeed true that the oldest known fossils of frilled sharks date back to the late Cretaceous period, approximately 80 million years ago, displaying surprisingly little change through time.
The fossils indicate that the ancestors of frilled sharks exhibited similar deep-sea swimming behaviors.
This suggests that these unusual-looking sharks have been gracefully navigating the oceans with their snake-like bodies for millions of years, and although their young are rarely observed, they continue to thrive today.
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I received invitations to experience the homes of an architect in Buenos Aires, a Vogue designer in Hong Kong, a community organizer in Sydney, and a writer in Paris.
In reality, I spend my time watching episodes of “Never Too Small” on YouTube. Never Too Small is a media company that produces magazines and online documentaries focused on “designing and living with small footprints.” For me, “Never Too Small” equals “the source of my favorite TV shows.” I enjoy watching while snacking on toast.
New episodes are released every week, totaling over 100. Their duration, usually under 10 minutes, is just right. The calming visuals of historic architecture and busy urban streets exude charm. The gentle background music envelops you like a warm bath. As you dive into these videos, you realize you can’t have just one; suddenly, over 100 episodes feel like just a handful. It’s reminiscent of that moment when you first taste chocolate and are told it’s simply an “occasional” treat.
At its core, this series aims to illustrate that one doesn’t need a grand cathedral to feel comfortable as a human being. This appeals to the Australian mindset, often suggesting that without property—taking up a day and a half of each day—we might as well be dead. (Just blame Banjo Patterson or McLeod’s Daughters.) Even a participant in “Grand Designs” hinted that his fixation on grand Aussie homes was somewhat rebellious! He might not have used those exact words, but you get the drift. Rarely do we see people worldwide transforming tiny townhouses and pint-sized apartments into remarkably cozy homes—more so than the dreams spun by the girls from McLeod’s.
Now, I’ve come to love the concept of “too small.” I adore compact spaces. I dream of curling up to the 16th, slipping into an envelope, and surrendering myself to a petite mail slot belonging to a small beret-wearing rabbit. That said, I must admit: some of these dwellings don’t feel small at all!
“Is this small?” I sometimes ask my partner while enjoying toast. “Is this truly small?” he returns, as we both get lost in the ambiguity. Which one is “smaller”? Is it simply a trick of perception? These spaces even feature courtyards!
The viewing area—so crucial at the start of each episode—is undeniably charming. “I live in a tiny house, and I don’t complain about it,” you might think, but do you have a Wes Anderson-inspired décor? Or perhaps a community library with great ventilation? What about a cabin where you can sleep under the stars (while still in bed; after all, you’re not a caveman)? If not, then these diminutive homes are uniquely special.
It’s intriguing how these spaces evolve. (It’s disheartening when an owner describes their previous space as “monotonous,” as it resembles their current apartment closely.) The bus is often the first to go, and I find myself in the way. If they enjoy dining out, the oven might also be sacrificed. Occasionally, there’s neither a bathtub nor an oven, but rather a climbing wall instead.
The hosts are always impeccably dressed, stylish sneakers on their feet, engaging in fascinating activities. Even their pets seem to have a deeper understanding of life (you can just tell by the raised eyebrows). “When hosting dinner parties, we pull out this custom bench seat to accommodate 8-10 guests,” they boast. Can you imagine being someone who hosts a dinner party? Picture knowing 8-10 people!
The renowned writer, scientist, and sage Johann Wolfgang von Goethe once mused about life’s complexities. Yet, I find tranquility in observing others’ clever homes via video. We’re all just a recycled wooden dining table or a small piano away from pure bliss. Let’s not shy away; embrace the beauty of being too small.
You might have come across videos online featuring Donald Trump and Elon Musk. These clips recreate iconic scenes from shows like Breaking Bad. Additionally, you may have seen footage of them dancing to the classic hit “YMCA” at the Great Year Day Party.
The catch is that while one of these scenarios actually took place, the other is a fabrication created using artificial intelligence (AI). You may recall both events, but can you tell which one is *?
In psychological terms, the “source monitoring framework” illustrates how we identify the origins of our memories.
This framework treats the source of a memory as a cohesive unit of information, encoded alongside other elements of our experiences.
However, the “tags” that denote the origins of a memory can easily fade, leaving other aspects intact.
As a result, AI-generated clips may blur in our minds with actual events, which is a growing concern as the quality of AI videos continues to improve.
Many of us hold fragmented memories but often struggle to distinguish what’s real from imagined scenarios – Credit: Gary Yowell via Getty
This dissociation between memory content and its origin is a common occurrence. You may recognize the actor on screen, yet find yourself unable to recall any other films or shows he has appeared in.
Her research indicates that when certain ideas are suggested to us, we may foster them in our own minds but later forget their original source, leading us to confuse them with genuine experiences.
According to Loftus’s findings, AI can easily plant numerous false memories in our minds, particularly when we consume artificial content in environments similar to those where we consume authentic news.
This raises critical questions about how to label AI-generated content and how to help people remember that it is fictional.
*For clarification, the dance at the New Year’s Eve party was indeed real.
This article responds to the inquiry (posed by Christopher Wiley of Birmingham): “Does artificial intelligence give us false memories?”
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IThis April, Daisy Elicek stumbled upon something peculiar while browsing TikTok. She discovered videos featuring her 84-year-old father, George Tsaftarides, who operates a small tailoring business in Ohio. However, the video she encountered did not originate from Tsaftarides’ official page, but rather from an account claiming to be a “sad old man” at risk of losing his cat sanctuary, boasting nearly 41,000 followers.
The video text expressed, “I poured my love into my life because I couldn’t bear to close the cat shelter,” suggesting that the sanctuary would sell slippers to raise extra funds. This plea resonated with many viewers, leading to comments from millions and tens of thousands of users. One commenter wrote, “I just ordered two! Sending love to these kittens.” Another added, “Thank you for everything you do for these babies.” Others inquired about a GoFundMe link to donate directly to the cat shelters.
Yelichek and her father were taken aback. Tsaftarides does not operate any shelters. The accounts promoting these funding requests appear to be part of scams aimed at selling mass-produced slippers. Some followers who actually ordered the slippers received fuzzy footwear labeled “Made in China,” indicating they were not handmade by an elderly man running a struggling cat sanctuary.
“These individuals are using my identity for profit, but I can’t understand why,” Tsaftarides stated. “It’s theft, it’s dishonest, and it’s wrong.”
Tsaftarides isn’t the only TikTok user to have their likeness misappropriated. Charles Ray, an 85-year-old retiree from Michigan, has also been targeted by accounts using doctored video clips of his portrait. He began his own TikTok account in January to share jokes with his followers.
“At the start of the year, my pastor made a joke about a frog, and I thought, ‘This should make people smile,’ so I found a way to create an account and made a joke, and it took off from there,” he recounted.
Ray’s videos all follow a similar formula. Shot in selfie mode, he delivers a quick joke. He was disheartened to discover his content was used not only to “spread joy” but also to exploit and scam others. In one clip, he appears to be rubbing his eyes, while another repost suggests he is crying. One video uses a clip of a woman sobbing about an unrelated topic, while another includes a user in a hospital bed.
Since Yelichek first identified the misuse of her father’s image, she has cataloged over 100 accounts using unrelated videos to promote mass-produced items like slippers, headphone cases, and blankets. According to a list compiled by Yelichek and analyzed by the Guardian, around 20 accounts can be traced across Instagram and YouTube, employing similar tactics.
At one point, Yelichek reached out to the account, which had manipulated her father’s image, pleading for them to cease their actions. The individual behind the account claimed to be a struggling 17-year-old boy in Greece.
“I understand your situation, but I hope you can understand mine as well,” he responded.
This scam resembles a video trend on TikTok that has successfully promoted sales for small businesses through heartfelt messages about struggling local shops and eateries. A typical post imitates a community appeal for support.
In the case of Yelichek’s viral video, many commenters moved by the fabricated tale attempted to amplify it, mentioning the names of celebrities and generating further engagement that TikTok seems to prioritize. One comment noted, “Fun fact,” regarding another similar video claiming to support a diligent cow sanctuary. “If you engage, you’ll receive more replies! See other popular channels like Chapel Lawn and Taylor Swift to reach more people.” The video states that these accounts also recontextualize clips from genuine TikTok users to create misleading narratives before deleting them, which amassed 1.4 million likes and 26,000 comments.
Tsaftarides feels particularly frustrated, as his own content, which he intended to promote small businesses—including his own—has been co-opted to market mass-produced products.
“We aim to showcase our store and educate people about sewing,” he explained. “I won’t profit from my TikTok account.”
Yelichek mentioned that she and her father filed a police report with the Jackson Township police in Ohio. The local police have been actively working to liaise with social networks to address the issue of identity theft and remove the stolen content. While Yelichek noted that Instagram has removed several of the profiles she reported, TikTok—a platform grappling with a more significant issue—has been less responsive.
“When we comment on [these videos] and label them as spam, our comments are often swiftly deleted, leading TikTok to assert they’re not violating their community guidelines,” Yelichek shared, along with a screenshot of the message.
TikTok users who are wise to the scheme have taken to commenting on the videos to label them as scams. Like Yelichek, some users have noted that TikTok has responded to their reports by claiming the content doesn’t violate community guidelines.
In an official statement, TikTok emphasized that their community guidelines prohibit any accounts or content that infringe upon others’ intellectual property rights. Reports of copyright infringement may require proof of ownership, such as links to the original content or evidence of the infringing material. Meta echoed similar sentiments, stating the same Terms of use on Instagram prohibit posting content that violates intellectual property rights, including copyrights and trademarks, and such infractions can be reported on Instagram. For more information, please visit their Help Page.
Ray, the 85-year-old jokester, also attempted to report the fraudulent video but received a response indicating that the flagged content did not violate TikTok’s community standards. Like Yelichek, he has faced frequent removal of his comments cautioning followers against scams, lamenting that he “hasn’t received any assistance from TikTok” and is unsure how to communicate further with the platform.
In a statement, TikTok reiterated its commitment to combating copyright violations, noting that 94% of content removed for breaching community guidelines regarding fake engagement in the last quarter was removed in response to reports.
Meanwhile, some users are becoming increasingly aware of this specific type of emotional manipulation. In recent viral videos, warnings about fraudulent posts claiming to support cat shelters, cow farms, and other heartbreaking narratives are spreading like wildfire.
While awareness increases, misleading videos continue to circulate. Instead of being disheartened, Ray has opted to create a video, recalling that many of his 13,000 followers express anticipation for his daily posts.
“Everything going on today makes people need a reason to smile,” he stated. “If my followers can smile, even briefly forget their troubles, then that’s all I hope to achieve—making people smile. This isn’t going to stop me.”
Feel free to let me know if you’d like any further changes!
Groundbreaking research indicates that middle-aged individuals in the initial stages of Alzheimer’s disease may become more sociable.
Utilizing data from nearly half a million Britons over 40, the study revealed that those at a high genetic risk for Alzheimer’s are more likely to enjoy positive social lives, have happy family relationships, and experience less isolation.
“This finding was remarkable for us,” stated Dr. Scott Zimmerman, a senior researcher at Boston University. BBC Science Focus.
“We anticipated finding evidence of withdrawal from social networks, possibly due to changes in social activities and mood regulation. Instead, we encountered the opposite.”
Research published in American Journal of Epidemiology, concluded that individuals showing early signs of Alzheimer’s may engage more with family and friends, noting subtle changes in cognitive functions, and may receive additional support through daily interactions.
Dementia has often been linked to feelings of social isolation and loneliness. However, it remains unclear whether such loneliness is a risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s or if social withdrawal stems from the disease itself.
These findings imply that adults genetically predisposed to Alzheimer’s are unlikely to withdraw socially years prior to a formal diagnosis when significant symptoms emerge.
“Their social life may expand,” explained co-author Dr. Ashwin Kotwal, an associate professor of medicine at UCSF. He noted that this study does not contradict previous research on Alzheimer’s and social withdrawal but rather enhances the understanding of the relationship.
“This study suggests that the connection between social isolation and dementia risk, supported by other research, is not simply a result of early symptoms leading to withdrawal,” said co-researcher Dr. Louisia Chen, a postdoctoral researcher at Boston University. BBC Science Focus.
“This underscores the importance of maintaining social connections for better brain health.”
Adults in their 40s, 50s, and 60s with a genetic predisposition to dementia showed a greater tendency to thrive socially – Credit: Skynesher via Getty
In addition to genetic predispositions, various lifestyle factors can influence the development of dementia, including exercise habits, smoking, blood pressure, glucose levels, sleep patterns, mental health, and medication use.
These modifiable factors may explain around 30% of Alzheimer’s cases, with loneliness potentially being one of them.
“In an era marked by decreasing social engagement, we hope families, communities, and policymakers will explore ways to foster healthy social interactions throughout people’s lives,” remarked Dr. Jacqueline Torres, an associate professor of epidemiology and biostatistics. BBC Science Focus.
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About our experts
Dr. Scott Campbell Zimmerman is a senior researcher in epidemiology at Boston University’s Faculty of Public Health.
Dr. Ashwin Kotwal is an assistant professor of medicine in the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine’s Department of Geriatric Medicine. He co-leads UCSF’s social connection and aging lab, focusing on the health impacts of loneliness and social isolation among older populations.
Dr. Louisia Chen is a postdoctoral researcher in epidemiology at Boston University’s Faculty of Public Health. Her work focuses on how social determinants over the life course contribute to the risks and disparities related to dementia.
Dr. Jacqueline Torres is a social epidemiologist at the UCSF School of Medicine and an associate professor of epidemiology and biostatistics. Her current research examines how policies, families, and communities influence population health, particularly during middle and late stages of life.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are swiftly rising in popularity worldwide; in 2024, 22% of new car sales were electric, up from 18% in 2023. Research indicates that an increasing number of people perceive EVs as superior to traditional gasoline and diesel vehicles. Anecdotal experiences on feeling unwell in an electric vehicle’s passenger or rear seat have sparked social media discussions and raised questions among prospective buyers about motion sickness.
Nonetheless, several academic studies provide scientific explanations for why some individuals may experience more sickness in EVs.
“Increased illness in EVs can be attributed to a lack of prior experience, both as drivers and passengers. The brain depends on past experiences in other vehicle types, complicating the estimation of motor skills.”
While EVs are becoming increasingly accepted, conventional gasoline vehicles still hold a strong presence. Drivers have a long-established familiarity with gas cars, enabling them to adapt more readily to specific cues. For instance, a person who has predominantly driven combustion engine cars will anticipate acceleration after the engine revs, which signals a change in speed. In contrast, electric vehicles produce minimal engine noise.
Research has identified connections between certain features of electric vehicles and motion sickness. A study conducted in 2024 found a significant correlation between motion sickness severity and seat vibrations in EVs. Meanwhile, a separate 2020 study revealed that the absence of engine noise may play a critical role in exacerbating feelings of nausea.
“Those accustomed to driving conventional vehicles learn to perceive car movements through cues such as engine revs, vibrations, and torque. Therefore, experiencing an EV for the first time presents a unique movement environment that the brain needs to adapt to,” explains Emond.
Furthermore, regenerative braking technology in EVs, which enables the motor to convert kinetic energy into electricity while slowing down, results in smooth deceleration. This gradual slowing can lead to a higher likelihood of motion sickness.
A piece of 2024 research indicated that this phenomenon may serve as a key trigger for motion sickness in EVs. The authors noted: [“regenerative braking] might direct motion sickness.”
Motion sickness is believed to arise from inconsistencies among varied sensory inputs. The brain receives simultaneous signals from the body, particularly from the inner ear, which maintains balance, alongside visual information. When there’s a conflict between these signals, the brain interprets this “neurological mismatch” as a conflict situation.
“Improved understanding of self-movement is critical for predicting motor skills to mitigate motion sickness. When the estimations of motor skills by the brain vary from actual experiences, this conflict can reach a threshold that triggers symptoms resembling ‘motion sickness,'” states Emond. “If such a conflict continues, it can lead to physiological reactions often associated with motion sickness.”
Predicting vehicle movement is crucial for mitigating motion sickness, which means that drivers are generally less likely to experience such symptoms. They have the foresight of what to expect.
As these vehicles provide fewer cues about upcoming movements, the interaction between predicted and experienced motion may contribute to the heightened incidence of motion sickness in EVs.
“When navigating a new movement environment, the brain must form new habits, lacking any prior experience to guide it. This is akin to how most individuals feel nauseous in zero-gravity contexts,” remarks Emond.
As the adoption of EVs continues to increase, researchers are exploring potential solutions to combat car-related nausea. Various studies propose that motion sickness in autonomous electric vehicles might be alleviated using visual signals, such as interactive displays and ambient lighting, or through vibration cues that enable passengers’ brains to anticipate movement changes, thereby reducing sudden sensations during electric vehicle rides.
In 2019, the Australian radio telescope detected a fascinating signal emanating from the vicinity of Proxima Centauri, the nearest star to Earth.
This signal, designated as breakthrough listen candidate 1 (BLC1), exhibited all the characteristics of a “technosignature,” which may suggest the presence of intelligent life.
The signal comprised a single discernible narrowband wavelength and displayed a Doppler shift (indicating movement), was precisely localized in the sky, and persisted for several hours, capturing the attention of researchers.
These features imply that the signals are unlikely to be attributed to natural phenomena.
Nonetheless, some complications have surfaced regarding the extraterrestrial explanation. It was discovered that the signal was present in other observations of Proxima Centauri during the same timeframe, and notably, even when the telescope was not aimed at the star.
A subsequent observation the following year failed to detect the signal. An analysis of all the data collected by the Breakthrough Listening Project later identified similar signals from various other targets, including blank sky. This strongly indicates that the source of the signal was probably radio interference.
The BLC1 mirrors another narrowband radio signal detected in August 1977, famously referred to as “Wow!”
This potential “technosignature” lasted a full 72 seconds and could not be readily explained by natural occurrences.
However, the precise location of the signal in the sky was never identified, and follow-up searches of the area yielded no further signals.
There is ongoing debate regarding the origins of “Wow!”, but no clear evidence exists yet to confirm it as a product of extraterrestrial civilizations.
However, scientists are not solely focused on alien signals.
NASA describes Oumuamua as “the first confirmed object from another star to visit our solar system.” Its name means “the first messenger to arrive from afar” in Hawaiian – Illustration Credit: Science Photography Library
Discovered in 2017, ‘Oumuamua (depicted above) was identified as an elongated, reddish rocky object traveling through the solar system at extraordinary speed.
Its peculiar shape and trajectory led some astronomers to speculate that it might be a “solar sail” from a distant alien civilization.
However, this theory is considered improbable, as its unusual characteristics can also be explained without resorting to alien hypothesis.
Still, scientists have yet to intercept or discover anything that definitively indicates an exciting “alien” origin.
This article addresses the query posed by Lester to Daniel Howell: “Have we ever intercepted anything from an alien?”
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Spider-like organisms dwelling near methane seepage seem to infiltrate the seabed, consuming microbes within their bodies that oxidize energy-dense gas. This discovery broadens the understanding of entities that rely on symbiotic associations with microorganisms in these alien settings.
Shana Goffredi from Occidental College, California, along with her team, has investigated marine arthropods named for their resemblance to ahinides, which thrive near three distinct methane seeps in the Pacific Ocean. They previously identified three new species from the sea spider genus Celico Sura, noted to be plentiful exclusively near these gas seepages.
In contrast, other sea spider species, which do not inhabit methane seep regions, primarily feed on various invertebrates. However, researchers have found that these newly identified sea spiders primarily acquire nutrition by ingesting a specific range of bacterial species residing in their bodies. These bacteria are capable of converting methane and methanol from the seepage into energy, something the sea spiders alone would not access.
Scientists observed that bacteria remained confined to the spiders’ exoskeletons, resembling “microbial fur coats,” and formed clusters that Goffredi describes as “volcanic-like.” The bacterial layer exhibited patterns resembling marks from a lawnmower, indicative of feeding by the spider’s robust “lips” and three tiny teeth.
To confirm that ocean spiders were actually consuming the bacteria, researchers employed radioactive labeling techniques to monitor the assimilation of methane carbon by laboratory sea spiders. “I observed methane being absorbed into the microorganisms on the spider’s surface, and subsequently traced carbon molecules migrating into the spider’s tissues,” Goffredi explains.
Researchers believe that ocean spiders do not consume all microorganisms growing on their exoskeletons. The species inhabiting the exoskeleton differ from those typically found in their surroundings, indicating a selection process is at play, Goffredi remarks. “The spiders are clearly cultivating and nurturing a unique microbial community.”
Sea spiders are not the first to cultivate microorganisms for chemical energy. “With every observation of these ecosystems near methane seeps, this phenomenon becomes increasingly evident,” notes Eric Cordes from Temple University, Pennsylvania. He previously collaborated with Goffredi on related studies, revealing a similar symbiosis in tube worms. The rich biodiversity near methane seepage is sustained not by solar energy but rather through methane and other chemicals. “That’s truly remarkable,” he remarks.
Cordes emphasizes that bacteria might also be transported along the surface of sea spiders. Unlike livestock on a farm, they gain superior protection and access to pastures. For instance, if methane seepage shifts to another area of the seabed, sea spiders could transfer bacteria to new locales. “Sea spiders maintain these organisms in an ideal habitat,” he adds.
The discovery of Litoria Tylerantiqua indicates that Australian tree frogs (Perodrius) were already present in Australia when the continent was still attached to Antarctica and South America.
Artist Reconstruction of Litoria Tylerantiqua (right) alongside the previously described species Platyplectrum casca (left) from Margon in southeast Queensland. Image: Samantha Yabsley, https://www.instagram.com/shy_art.
Litoria Tylerantiqua lived in Australia during the early Eocene period, approximately 55 million years ago.
The fossilized frog bones were retrieved in the 1990s by paleontologists at the University of New South Wales while screenwashing clay samples from the Tingamara fossil frog site in Margon, Queensland.
“About 55 million years ago, Australia, Antarctica, and South America were connected as the last remnants of Gondwana,” stated Dr. Roy Furman and his colleagues at the University of New South Wales and the Australian National University.
“During this era, the global climate was warmer, facilitating forested corridors linking South America and Australia.”
“Previously, Australia’s oldest tree frogs were believed to have originated from the late Illuminocene (around 26 million years ago) and the early Miocene (approximately 23 million years ago).”
“Fossils from the late Illuminocene have been discovered in the Northern Territory’s kangaroo wells and the Etadunna formation in Lake Palancarina, South Australia. Furthermore, the Riversley World Heritage Area in Queensland unveiled an early Miocene tree frog.”
“This new species extends the fossil record of Perodrids by roughly 30 million years, bringing it closer to the timeframe when Australian tree frogs diverged from their South American counterparts,” they noted.
“Previous estimates based on molecular clock analyses suggest that Australian and South American frogs diverged approximately 33 million years ago.”
Litoria Tylerantiqua is the only other known frog from Margon, also identified as Platyplectrum casca (previously categorized as Lechriodus Casca), recognized as the oldest frog species in Australia.
Both have existing relatives in Australia and New Guinea, showcasing incredible resilience over time.
“Despite their fragile nature, these frogs have surprisingly thrived, surviving numerous major extinction events since their origin around 250 million years ago.”
“Current global extinction threats, fueled by human activities like rapid climate change and the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, pose significant challenges for frogs. The fossil record reveals how certain frog groups have navigated past adversities, potentially by adapting to less-threatened habitats.”
“This insight might guide future conservation efforts, such as relocating endangered frogs to safer environments.”
“If fossil records show similarly structured frogs occupying very different habitats, today’s frogs could potentially benefit from reintroductions into comparable environments.”
The findings are detailed in a study published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.
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Roy M. Furman et al. New fossil discoveries for early Eocene perodrids from local faunas of Southeast Queensland, Margon, Tingamara, and frog molecular lineages. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology published online on May 14, 2025. doi:10.1080/02724634.2025.2477815
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