Unveiling the Unexpected Impact of Targeted Cognitive Training on Dementia Risk

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Cognitive Training May Protect Against Dementia

Gary Burchell/Getty Images

Cognitive training and dementia prevention — Cognitive Training May Protect Against Dementia

Gary Burchell/Getty Images

Cognitive ‘speed training’ can reduce the risk of a dementia diagnosis by 25%, according to a groundbreaking randomized controlled trial. This study is the first of its kind to assess the effectiveness of an intervention for dementia.

“Skepticism surrounded brain training interventions for years, but this study provides clear evidence of their benefits,” says Marilyn Albert from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

The brain training sector has faced controversy, especially after companies overstated claims about cognitive decline prevention. In 2014, around 70 scientists signed an open letter stating no conclusive evidence existed that brain training leads to significant real-world changes or enhances brain health, echoing sentiments later supported by another letter signed by over 100 scientists.

Now, a comprehensive 20-year study with 2,832 participants aged 65 and older indicates that specific cognitive exercises may yield tangible benefits.

Participants were divided into three intervention groups and a control group. One group underwent speed training with a computer task called “Double Decision,” where cars and road signs briefly appeared, challenging participants to recall details after they disappeared. This adaptive task increases in complexity as users improve.

The other two groups focused on memory and reasoning training aimed at enhancing cognitive skills.

Each group completed two sessions per week for five weeks, with about half receiving booster sessions and additional training at one-year and three-year intervals.

After twenty years, evaluations of U.S. Medicare claims revealed that participants who completed speed training with booster sessions had a 25% lower risk of an Alzheimer’s diagnosis or related dementias than those in the control group. Other groups without boosters showed negligible changes in risk, which Albert describes as “truly amazing.”

“The study’s rigorous methodology is commendable,” notes Torkel Klingberg from Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm. “The impressive 20-year follow-up and the significant reduction in dementia risk are crucial findings.”

However, Walter Boot from Weill Cornell Medical College cautions that measuring numerous outcomes over two decades can lead to coincidental findings. “While the results may suggest significance, they should be interpreted cautiously,” he adds.

Double Decision: A Cognitive Training Program

BrainHQ

The mechanism behind the effectiveness of speed training is still being explored. One theory suggests it relies on implicit learning, which can entail long-lasting changes without conscious effort, according to Albert.

Etienne de Villers Sidani from McGill University explains that brief, intense experiences can lead to significant, enduring changes in the brain—much like how a traumatic event can instill lasting fears.

This training may enhance the brain’s cognitive reserve, a potential buffer against cognitive decline. Albert notes that enhanced brain connectivity could improve attention division, facilitating daily activities and fostering physical activity and social engagement—key factors for sustained brain health.

The authors propose that results from the booster sessions suggest a dose-dependent effect of speed training. Bobby Stoyanowski from the Ontario Institute of Technology emphasizes the need for future research into optimal training levels: “What is the right amount of training to maximize benefits?”

In summary, Andrew Budson from Boston University advises against isolating oneself to play speed training games endlessly. Instead, engaging in activities that promote implicit learning—like learning new skills or sports—may provide long-term cognitive benefits while being enjoyable.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Fish-Based Pet Food: The Risks of Chemical Exposure for Cats and Dogs

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Potentially Harmful PFAS Chemicals in Pet Foods

Chris Canton/Getty Images

Pet Food Contaminants — Potentially Harmful PFAS Chemicals in Pet Foods

Chris Canton/Getty Images

Recent studies show that many pet foods, especially fish-based varieties, contain concerning levels of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) that exceed safety limits advised by the European Health Organization for human consumption.

The research highlights the urgent need to enhance monitoring of harmful contaminants in pet products and better understand the associated risks to our furry companions, as emphasized by Kei Nomiyama from Ehime University, Japan.

“While we don’t suggest an immediate health crisis, our findings reveal significant knowledge gaps,” Nomiyama states. “Pet owners should focus on ingredient composition and consider diversifying protein sources to mitigate potential exposure risks.”

PFAS are synthetic chemicals widely used in various products and can remain in the environment for extensive periods, sometimes for hundreds or thousands of years. Studies indicate that individuals repeatedly exposed to PFAS may face increased risks of liver damage, certain cancers, and other serious health conditions. Although the impact on pets remains an underexplored area, existing research on cats has linked certain PFAS to liver, thyroid, kidney, and respiratory diseases.

Nomiyama and his team observed that persistent organic contaminants were prevalent in pet food. Given the ubiquity of PFAS worldwide, particularly in aquatic environments, they sought to identify the presence of these contaminants in pet foods.

To conduct their research, the team analyzed the PFAS concentration in 34 popular wet and dry pet foods (48 for dogs and 52 for cats) available in Japan between 2018 and 2020. Using the average food intake and body weight of dogs and cats, they estimated daily PFAS ingestion for each product.

Alarmingly, some products had moderate to high PFAS levels, frequently surpassing the daily intake limits for humans as established by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

Among dog foods, the highest PFAS concentrations were noted in Japanese grain-based products, likely due to agricultural runoff and fish byproducts. Conversely, meat-based products generally had lower PFAS levels, with certain Japanese and Australian brands showing no detectable PFAS.

For cat food, fish-based items sourced from Asia, the U.S., and Europe, especially wet food from Thailand, exhibited the highest PFAS levels.

“The ocean often acts as a repository for numerous synthetic chemicals,” Nomiyama warned. “In essence, PFAS can accumulate and escalate through aquatic food webs.”

Regional variations may demonstrate historical and current PFAS production patterns, alongside raw material sourcing differences. Nevertheless, PFAS contamination is a global challenge. “A more harmonized global monitoring approach would be beneficial,” notes Nomiyama.

The EFSA refrained from commenting specifically on study results but indicated that proposed human safety limits should not be directly applied to other animal risk assessments.

Nomiyama concurs, stressing that the findings indicate alarmingly high PFAS levels that warrant further development of risk assessments for pets.

“Companion animals inhabit the same environments as us and serve as indicators of chemical exposure in numerous ways,” he explains. “Understanding contaminant levels in pet foods isn’t merely an animal health concern; it also aids in comprehending broader environmental contamination pathways. Ongoing evaluation of long-term exposure and species-specific toxicity in companion animals is crucial.”

Haakon Ostad Langberg, from Akvaplanniva, a Norwegian nonprofit research institute, stated that the results align with expectations. “These substances are distributed globally, with some PFAS known for their persistence and potential to bioaccumulate in food webs,” he stated.

“The more pressing issue is that PFAS are pervasive, exposing both people and animals from various sources,” added Langberg. “These compounds are present across all environmental media and numerous products, leading to cumulative exposure. This study offers significant data in addressing that widespread challenge.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Discover the Essential ‘Hidden’ Gut Bacteria for Optimal Health

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Essential Gut Bacteria Linked to Health

3D Media Sphere/Science Photo Library

Gut bacteria essential for health — Essential Gut Bacteria Linked to Health

3D Media Sphere/Science Photo Library

A newly discovered group of bacteria thriving in the gut microbiome of healthy individuals suggests their crucial role in maintaining overall health.

About 4,600 species of bacteria inhabit our gut, impacting a range of bodily functions from our immune response to sleep patterns and mental health risks.

Interestingly, around two-thirds of these species fall into the “hidden microbiome,” many of which cannot be cultured in laboratories or even named. We only identify them through genomic analysis. “Are these species merely bystanders, or do they contribute to human health?” questions Alexandre Almeida, a researcher at Cambridge University.

To delve deeper, Almeida and his team analyzed genetic markers of bacteria across a comprehensive study involving over 11,000 participants from 39 countries, primarily across Europe, North America, and Asia.

Approximately half of the participants were healthy, while the other half had one of 13 conditions, including obesity, chronic fatigue syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease.

The analysis revealed that 715 bacterial species are linked to specific health conditions; 342 were more abundant in unhealthy individuals, while 373 were prevalent in those who were healthy.

Among these, a prominent genus named CAG-170 consistently correlated with better health outcomes. “Across various conditions, CAG-170 levels were markedly higher in healthy individuals compared to those with diseases,” Almeida explains.

In another aspect of the study, Almeida’s team explored bacterial species that indicate a healthy gut microbiome versus one characterized by dysbiosis.

“CAG-170 once again showed a significant correlation,” Almeida adds. “Higher CAG-170 levels corresponded with a balanced and healthier gut microbiome.”

To understand CAG-170’s role, the researchers examined its genome, identifying genes linked to metabolic pathways capable of producing elevated vitamin B12 levels and breaking down various carbohydrates and fibers.

While CAG-170 itself doesn’t utilize vitamin B12, Almeida suggests that other bacteria frequently found alongside CAG-170 likely benefit from it. “CAG-170 seems to adopt a collaborative role, providing metabolic support to its microbial companions.”

This study marks a vital step in understanding which components of the gut microbiome contribute to health and disease. Research led by Nicola Segata at the University of Trento recently characterized a healthy gut microbiome but didn’t thoroughly explore how these bacteria provide health benefits.

Determining whether high CAG-170 levels are a health cause or consequence remains challenging. Almeida emphasizes the need for further research to assess whether introducing CAG-170 can mitigate certain health risks.

“The human microbiome and body are intricately linked, and should be considered a unified complex system,” Segata states. “Instead of seeking direct causality, we need to explore the holistic relationship between microbial and bodily health, including diet’s role.”

Professor Segata advocates for follow-up studies incorporating nutritional clinical trials to evaluate the dietary factors that influence both microbiome composition and human health.

From Almeida’s perspective, CAG-170 holds potential in two ways: as a biomarker for gut health and as a foundation for new probiotics aimed at enhancing overall well-being.

The potential for CAG-170 as a probiotic candidate is promising, yet its laboratory cultivation remains a significant challenge. “Identifying optimal foods and prebiotic supplements to increase CAG-170 levels may be a more attainable goal than developing probiotic products.” Segata notes.

However, genomic insights offer guidance on practical applications. Since CAG-170 bacteria appear unable to produce arginine, supplementing with more amino acids might promote their growth and presence in the gut.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Discovering the Universe’s Most Powerful Microwave Laser: A Revolutionary Breakthrough

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

This image combines views from the Hubble and Keck II telescopes. The diagonal galaxy in the foreground serves as a gravitational lens, causing a distorted image of the background galaxy H1429-0028.

Credit: NASA/ESA/ESO/WM Keck Observatory

Galaxy H1429-0028 Gravitational Lensing — This image combines views from the Hubble and Keck II telescopes. The diagonal galaxy in the foreground serves as a gravitational lens, causing a distorted image of the background galaxy H1429-0028.

Credit: NASA/ESA/ESO/WM Keck Observatory

Astronomers have identified an unprecedented microwave beam, akin to a laser, emitted from two colliding galaxies. This discovery, the brightest and most distant recorded, marks a significant milestone in our understanding of cosmic phenomena.

The generation of laser light involves stimulating atoms into a high-energy state. When photons interact with these excited atoms, they induce the release of additional photons, leading to a chain reaction. The result is a coherent light beam with uniform frequency.

Similarly, during galactic collisions, compressed gas triggers star formation and enhanced luminosity. As light travels through dust clouds, it can excite hydroxyl ions composed of hydrogen and oxygen into a high-energy state. When these ions are stimulated by radio waves, potentially from a supermassive black hole, they can release concentrated beams of microwave radiation known as masers.

Recently, Roger Dean and researchers from the University of Pretoria discovered the brightest and most distant maser in galaxy H1429-0028, approximately 8 billion light-years from Earth. Gravitational lensing, caused by a massive galaxy, distorts the light from H1429-0028, acting like a cosmic magnifying glass.

Using the MeerKAT telescope—a network of 64 radio telescopes working collaboratively—Dean and his team searched for galaxies abundant in hydrogen molecules emitting distinctive frequencies. When they focused on H1429-0028, they detected an unusually strong radiation signal, indicating the presence of powerful masers.

“Upon checking the frequency of 1667 megahertz, we immediately recognized a significant signal. What was once a mere observation transformed into a record-breaking discovery,” Dean recalls.

These extraordinary light emissions could be classified as gigamasers, far exceeding the brightness of typical megamasers found closer to the Milky Way, with an intensity approximately 100,000 times that of an ordinary star, tightly concentrated in a minuscule region of space.

Future enhancements, including the development of the South African Square Kilometer Array, will be capable of detecting even more distant masers, poised to revolutionize our understanding of cosmic history. As Matt Jarvis from Oxford University notes, these masers may offer insights into the merger processes of some of the universe’s earliest galaxies.

“To acquire accurate data about these ancient galactic mergers, we require continuous radio and infrared emissions, primarily sourced from heated dust enveloping forming stars,” Jarvis explains. “The intricate physical conditions needed to produce masers originate from these galactic collisions.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Gravitational Wave Signal Confirms Einstein’s Theory of Relativity

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Artist’s Impression of the Black Hole Collision Producing GW250114

A. Simonette/Sonoma State University, LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA Collaboration, University of Rhode Island

Artist’s impression of black hole collision — Artist’s Impression of the Black Hole Collision Producing GW250114

A. Simonette/Sonoma State University, LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA Collaboration, University of Rhode Island

The groundbreaking collision of two black holes provides an exceptional opportunity for scientists to validate Einstein’s theory of general relativity, demonstrating the accuracy of physicists’ predictions once more.

In 2025, an international team of gravitational wave detectors, featuring state-of-the-art laser arrays, identified a significant distortion in space-time known as GW250114. This event is attributed to the merger of two black holes.

These advanced detectors—such as the US Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) and Italy’s Virgo detector—have achieved unprecedented sensitivity since LIGO’s inaugural detection in 2016. Consequently, GW250114 offers the clearest and most detailed data on gravitational wave phenomena to date, serving as a unique testing ground for well-established physical theories.

Recently, researchers applied data from GW250114 to evaluate Stephen Hawking’s theorem, posited over half a century ago. This theorem claims that the event horizon of a merging black hole cannot be smaller than the total mass of its progenitor black holes. The findings confirmed Hawking’s prediction with near certainty.

Keefe Mittman and his team at Cornell University took this analysis a step further by assessing whether black hole mergers comply with Albert Einstein’s theoretical framework.

Einstein’s equations articulate how massive objects navigate space-time. By manipulating and resolving these equations for the merging black holes, researchers can visualize the dynamics: the black holes spiral together, accelerate, collide, release substantial energy, and subsequently resonate at distinct frequencies—akin to a bell chiming after a strike.

These frequencies, referred to as ringdown modes, were relatively faint in prior gravitational wave events, obscuring the complex structures foreseen by Einstein. However, GW250114 generated enough amplitude to effectively validate the predicted oscillation patterns. Mittmann and his colleagues utilized simulations based on Einstein’s equations to estimate the intensity and frequencies of the black hole’s oscillations. The actual measurements closely aligned with these predictions.

“The amplitudes of the data we measured align remarkably well with the predictions of numerical relativity,” Mittmann confirms. “Einstein’s equations may be complex to solve, yet the correlations observed at the detector validate general relativity.”

“The conclusion is clear: Einstein’s predictions still hold true,” states Laura Nuttall from the University of Portsmouth, UK. “All observations correspond to Einstein’s assertions regarding gravity.”

Despite the impressive amplitude of GW250114, the frequencies remain faint enough that Mittmann’s team couldn’t dismiss a variance from Einstein’s predictions of less than 10 percent. This limitation primarily results from current detector sensitivities and is likely to lessen as gravitational wave detection technology evolves. Any deviations from Einstein’s theory would manifest as persistent discrepancies.

“As we catalog more events or observe larger singular events, the measurement error margins can approach zero—or diverge,” Mittmann notes. “A divergence would be considerably more intriguing.”

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Updated on February 11, 2026

Amended information regarding the characteristics of ringdown modes in prior gravitational wave events.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Breakthrough Insights into Migraine Causes Uncover New Drug Targets

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The trigeminal nerve is a critical target in migraine treatment.

Jitendra Jadhav/Alamy

Trigeminal Nerve and Migraine Treatment — The trigeminal nerve is a critical target in migraine treatment.

Jitendra Jadhav/Alamy

There is a new wave of migraine treatments on the horizon, focusing on a previously overlooked neural pathway that may provide relief. Understanding various migraine mechanisms is essential, given that migraines affect over 1 billion people globally, especially those who do not respond to standard therapies.

Despite past failures in drug trials, skepticism about this neural pathway’s significance is fading. Recent placebo-controlled studies call for a reevaluation of earlier assumptions about its role in migraine treatment.

Mehsud Ashina and his team at the University of Copenhagen investigated substance P, a neuropeptide linked to migraines. This crucial molecule, released by the trigeminal nerve, leads to pain through blood vessel dilation and inflammation in the meninges, thus amplifying pain signals.

Recent findings show that substance P injections induce headaches, with 71% of non-migraine individuals exhibiting dilation of the superficial temporal artery, a response similar to that seen in migraine sufferers, validating substance P’s role in these conditions.

Following the late 1990s dismissal of substance P as a viable target for migraine drugs, largely due to previous drug failures, Ashina’s team proposed that simplicistic targeting of a single receptor, the neurokinin-1 receptor (NK1-R), was misguided. It is known now that substance P interacts with multiple receptors, including MRGPRX2, enhancing pain signals.

“Previous trials failed because they targeted NK1-R alone,” Ashina explains. Michael Moskowitz at Harvard recognized the trigeminal nerve’s pivotal role in migraines. “Blocking substance P’s broad effects could open new therapeutic doors. With our evolving knowledge, it’s time to revisit this strategy.”

Current advancements allow for monoclonal antibodies that block substance P directly. These innovations have already proven effective against another migraine target, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), while also exploring pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP).

Recently, Danish pharmaceutical company Lundbeck presented initial findings from a randomized controlled trial on an anti-PACAP monoclonal antibody called Bocnevert, which reportedly decreased monthly migraine days compared to a placebo. “This data is a positive development,” says Lars Edvinson from Lund University. Full results are expected to be shared at an upcoming conference.

With this shift in focus, there’s potential to reduce reliance on CGRP inhibitors, which have transformed migraine management since their U.S. approval in 2018, effectively halving migraine days for many. However, 40% of users still struggle.

“While CGRP drugs are effective for many, they are not universal,” says Peter Goadsby from King’s College Hospital, who collaborated on CGRP research in the 1990s. “Finding new solutions for the millions still underserved remains a pressing challenge.”

Further research is expected on the impact of inhibiting these peptides. “Substance P, CGRP, and PACAP interact with the meningeal vessel wall but do so uniquely, so there is room for optimism,” Moskowitz adds. A combination approach targeting multiple pathways may enhance treatment efficacy for non-responders.

However, it is uncertain whether drugs targeting substance P and PACAP will eclipse the effects of CGRP antagonists, which are released in higher quantities from the trigeminal nerve. “I do not believe that these alternatives can fully replace CGRP’s impact,” Edvinsson states.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New Scientist Recommends Big Oyster: Exploring the Fascinating History of the Half Shell

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Currently, I am reading Big Oyster: The History of the Half Shell, a captivating account that chronicles New York City’s rich relationship with oysters through the lens of a renowned oyster farm. As a local resident, I was only vaguely aware of how significant the oyster population was to the city and the restoration efforts that are underway.

Upon the arrival of Europeans in the early 1600s, they were astonished by the oysters, which were reportedly the size of their feet. The Lenape Indians consumed so many oysters that they created massive shell heaps, referred to by archaeologists as middens.

Even today, construction workers frequently encounter these ancient shell mounds while excavating for subway tunnels and railroads.

In his book, journalist Mark Kurlansky intricately weaves together historical narratives, archaeological findings, and urban records, illustrating New York City’s transformation from a natural haven to a bustling concrete metropolis. This new perspective has profoundly altered my view of the city.

Grace Wade
Reporter, New York

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Why the 1.5°C Target Failed and the Risks of New Climate Limits

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The Impact of Climate Change: Increased Frequency of Disasters

Source: Associated Press/Alamy

Climate Change Disasters — The Impact of Climate Change: Increased Frequency of Disasters

Source: Associated Press/Alamy

Over a decade post the 2015 Paris Climate Conference, it appears we remain stagnant in climate action efforts. While the rise of electric vehicles and the dominance of renewable energy over coal present positive trends, fossil fuel companies are still expanding and global emissions exceed 41 gigatonnes of CO2 annually.

At the Paris Conference, a hopeful vision emerged: nations committed to restricting the increase in global temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Despite this ambition, little has changed in a decade. The framework to determine when we exceed this temperature threshold may not be confirmed until 2040, long after it’s already transpired.

The crucial 1.5°C threshold has become synonymous with dangerous climate change, significantly influencing global climate policy. Warnings about exceeding this limit’s risks have not translated into the aggressive emissions reductions that science necessitates.

But why the inaction? The core issue is the misconception that 1.5°C is a target to aim for instead of a limit we must prevent crossing. In 2015, global average temperatures had only risen by 1°C, suggesting ample time to react. This false sense of security allowed governments and fossil fuel industries to argue for a status quo while still contributing 37 gigatonnes of CO2 to our atmosphere.

As we inch closer to the 1.5 degrees Celsius mark, debates continue about alternative indicators to measure our progress. Options like the rate of renewable energy adoption have been proposed, but the most pressing indicator remains the global temperature rise — a crucial standard that reflects climate system responses and allows for comparisons to historical episodes of rapid warming.

Some advocate for considering 1.6°C or 1.7°C as new thresholds, as every fraction of a degree is critical. However, this approach is flawed; it risks becoming another target rather than a limit, and given the current rate of temperature increase (0.27°C per decade), we might surpass these figures as soon as the mid-2030s. Swift action on emissions is unlikely to keep us below these revised limits.

The reality is that premature restrictions could worsen the scenario, linking policy to restrictive measures that could lead to further failures. Instead, we should focus on impactful methods for tracking the rise in average global temperatures, providing clear visibility. First, we need a reliable methodology that allows us to track this figure in real-time without a decade-long wait. Career scientist Richard Betts and his colleagues from the Met Office have already developed an effective approach.

Next, we require a visual representation that resonates with the public. Imagine a global thermometer that updates annually, akin to the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists’ Doomsday Clock. Such a periodic event could highlight the gradual increase in global temperatures, emphasizing crossing or approaching critical thresholds, thereby communicating the urgent need for action against escalating climate threats.

Bill McGuire serves as an Emeritus Professor of Geophysics and Climate Hazards at University College London. His forthcoming book, The Fate of the World: The History and Future of the Climate Crisis, will be published by HarperNorth in May.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Explore the Cosmos: A Captivating New Art Exhibition Focused on Space

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Janet Kerr PPRWA Hon. RSA, 20 Solargraphs from the SolarGraphics Project 2020-24 Formless 2024-25 (18 months exposure time) showcases the beauty of long exposure photography.

Royal West of England Academy

Both artists and astronomers play a crucial role in transforming our observations of the universe into compelling narratives. The exhibit Cosmos: The Art of Observing the Universe at the Royal West of England Academy in Bristol, UK, explores this fascinating process.

“We recalibrate our perceptions through prolonged gazing,” says the exhibition curator, artist Ione Parkin. This exhibition, running until April 19, invites visitors to dive into their own observational journey, merging art and science in unique insights.

The image above illustrates how Janet Kerr collaborated with communities in Iceland, Greenland, the Shetland Islands, and Somerset to create stunning solar graphs that capture the sun over months of exposure.

This work by Alex Hartley intricately intertwines solar panels with photographs of Neolithic standing stones, illustrating the continuity of solar technology from ancient to contemporary times.

Parkin’s vibrant paintings swirl in red, orange, and bright white, evoking the dynamic nature of superheated plasma from the sun’s surface.

Finally, Michael Porter’s Impossible Landscape explores the realms beyond empirical knowledge, blending familiar geological textures with otherworldly aesthetics, prompting viewers to dream beyond the observable universe.

Source: www.newscientist.com

How Ultra-Processed Foods Could Speed Up Aging

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Understanding Ultra-Processed Foods: A Key to Preventing Premature Aging

In recent months, I attempted to coin a new term to describe the modern influences accelerating aging, such as obesity, stress, heatwaves, and environmental pollution. I suggested labeling our current situation as an “aging environment,” inspired by the commonly understood concept of an “obesogenic” environment. Unfortunately, my term hasn’t gained traction, but there’s another critical aspect that requires attention—ultra-processed foods (UPFs).

What Are Ultra-Processed Foods?

For those unfamiliar, ultra-processed foods are pre-packaged items that undergo extensive manufacturing, commonly containing refined ingredients like sugars, fats, and proteins, along with potentially harmful synthetic additives such as dyes and preservatives. Typically low in essential nutrients like fiber and vitamins, these foods are high in fat, salt, and sugar. Common examples include:

Microwave meals
Salty snacks
Mass-produced breads
Sugary drinks
Instant noodles
Ice cream and candy
Baked goods
Processed meats
Condiments like mayonnaise and ketchup

Rising Consumption of Ultra-Processed Foods

Over the past five decades, UPFs have increasingly dominated Western diets. In high-income countries, including the UK, over half of caloric intake now comes from these harmful foods. While the trend has plateaued in recent years, global demand for UPFs remains high, largely due to their convenience and affordability.

Health Risks Linked to UPFs

Research has consistently shown that a high intake of UPFs correlates with a range of chronic health issues, including:

Obesity
Cancer
Type 2 diabetes
Cardiovascular disease
Inflammatory bowel disease
Fatty liver disease
Kidney disease

Moreover, a growing body of evidence indicates that high UPF consumption increases overall mortality risk. Studies conducted in Spain, France, and the US found that individuals with the highest UPF intake were significantly more likely to die compared to those with lower consumption.

UPFs and Premature Aging

Recent research points to a strong connection between UPFs and premature aging. A 2024 study examined the diets of 16,055 U.S. adults aged 20 to 79, revealing that a higher percentage of calories from UPFs corresponded to accelerated biological aging. Specifically, every 10% increase in caloric intake from UPFs was associated with a 0.21-year increase in biological age.

Though skeptics may question the accuracy of biological age measurement, it is crucial to note that these studies compare groups rather than individuals, mitigating measurement biases. Even modest increases in biological age have been linked to higher risks of chronic disease and mortality.

Implications and Future Research

While studies like NHANES primarily snapshot dietary impacts, they suggest that UPFs contribute significantly to the aging environment alongside other factors like obesity and environmental stressors. Researchers debate whether it’s the poor nutritional quality of UPFs or the processing methods that cause accelerated aging.

Despite the unknowns, two substantial studies across diverse populations consistently link high UPF consumption to accelerated aging. The takeaway is clear: if possible, avoid ultra-processed foods.

While navigating a world saturated with UPFs is challenging, prioritizing whole, real foods remains beneficial. Let’s raise awareness and combat the aging environment we live in.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Search for Radio Signals on K2-18b Fails to Discover Alien Civilization

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Illustration of the exoplanet K2-18b — Diagram of Exoplanet K2-18b

NASA

Exoplanet K2-18b has generated immense intrigue due to hints of potential life; however, an extensive analysis of radio signals revealed no evidence of an advanced civilization.

In 2025, Nick Madhusudan and researchers from the University of Cambridge claimed that K2-18b, located 124 light-years away, may exhibit traces of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) molecules in its atmosphere. Given that a significant amount of DMS on Earth is produced by biological processes, Madhusudan and his team suggested these signals might indicate signs of life on K2-18b.

Further observations, however, indicated that the DMS signal could be attributed to non-biological sources. Current scientific consensus holds that K2-18b is abundant in water, potentially featuring oceans or a water-laden atmosphere.

Madhusudan and fellow researchers are now exploring the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligent life on K2-18b by searching for radio signals, akin to those humans have been broadcasting since the 1960s.

Utilizing the Very Large Array Telescope in New Mexico and the MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa, researchers observed K2-18b in multiple orbits around its star, focusing on radio frequencies similar to those emitted from Earth. They might have detected a signal from a transmitter with strength comparable to that of the now-defunct Arecibo radio telescope in Puerto Rico.

After meticulously eliminating potential terrestrial interference sources, researchers found no signals indicating that K2-18b possesses a powerful radio transmitter. Select researchers remained unavailable for comments to New Scientist regarding their findings.

“If a beacon akin to Arecibo were continuously transmitting from K2-18b, we likely would have detected it,” said Michael Garrett from the University of Manchester, UK.

“Of course, a lack of detection does not imply the absence of life; it simply restricts a specific and likely rare type of signal: a continual, relatively narrowband radio transmitter operating within the observed frequency range,” Garrett explained. “Civilizations, should they exist, might not utilize radio technology in this manner or may transmit intermittently, directionally, or at lower power levels. Furthermore, in aquatic environments, very low-frequency radio waves could be more common.”

Garrett posits that while alien water worlds may support simple life forms, the absence of exposed land could complicate the evolution of advanced intelligent life capable of developing technology. “The pathway to establishing complex infrastructure could vastly differ from what we have experienced on Earth.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Revolutionizing Energy Storage: How Old EV Batteries Can Fulfill China’s Energy Demands

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Automotive Battery Factory in Guangxi, China

Cost Photo/NurPhoto (via Getty Images)

Used electric vehicle (EV) batteries have the potential to fulfill two-thirds of China’s grid storage requirements by storing energy when renewable sources are plentiful and delivering power during peak demand periods.

During times when the wind isn’t blowing and the sun isn’t shining, the generation of renewable energy may decline, risking supply shortages, particularly during peak demand times in the mornings and evenings, as well as in winter. Typically, natural gas and coal plants compensate for this gap. Countries like China, the USA, the UK, and Australia are constructing large-scale battery-based grid storage solutions to harness renewable energy for later use.

As electric vehicle adoption rises, experts like Ma Ruifei from Tsinghua University argue that repurposed EV batteries can be integrated into the power grid, accelerating the transition to a carbon-neutral power system more affordably. Their research indicates that used batteries could meet 67% of China’s power grid storage needs by 2050, while simultaneously reducing costs by 2.5%.

EV batteries naturally degrade over time with repeated charging and discharging cycles and are often discarded once they reach about 80% of their original capacity. Although this degradation impacts the vehicle’s range and acceleration, it has minimal effect on grid storage applications, where multiple batteries are charged and discharged over extended periods.

“It still retains ample power, and when utilized for storage, its degradation is relatively slow,” says Gil Lacy from Teesside University, UK.

“Materials that are costly to mine and process for batteries should not be wasted when the cells still have 80% usable capacity,” asserts Rhodri Jarvis from University College London. “There’s significant interest in utilizing second-life battery packs, not only for cost reduction but also for enhancing sustainability.”

In a related study, researchers have drawn differing conclusions regarding whether energy storage using used batteries is more cost-effective than new lithium-ion batteries, whose prices are steadily decreasing.

However, with the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, used batteries may become a more economical option. Over 17 million electric vehicles are set to be sold in 2024, accounting for about 20% of global car sales, with nearly two-thirds being purchased in China.

The study projects that in a scenario where various battery chemistries are procured across China and utilized at 40% of their original capacity, second-life grid storage will grow significantly after 2030, as the demand for new batteries stabilizes. By 2050, total capacity is anticipated to reach 2 trillion watts.

In a contrasting scenario that relies solely on new batteries and pumped hydro storage (where water is pumped into a reservoir and released to drive turbines), the total capacity would only reach about half of this figure.

Second-life battery storage remains largely untested; however, US startup Redwood Materials has implemented a 63-megawatt-hour project using 10-year-old car batteries to power a data center in Nevada. The company claims its system is priced under $150 per kilowatt-hour and can deliver power for over 24 hours, exceeding the capabilities of new lithium-ion batteries.

Nonetheless, sorting and grouping used batteries by similar capacity levels is essential. If not, the management system must bypass individual batteries; otherwise, the group will cease to charge once the weakest battery reaches capacity.

Furthermore, damaged batteries need to be identified, and every several hundred cells must be equipped with temperature and voltage sensors. Overheating can result in significant fire hazards.

“The risks are obviously elevated, so ensuring safety, isolation, balance, and implementing robust risk-reduction measures is crucial,” Lacey emphasizes.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

How Time Crystals May Revolutionize Quantum Clock Accuracy

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

New Scientist covers science, technology, health, and environment news through expert journalism. — Guy Crittenden/Getty Images

Time crystals present a remarkable concept in quantum physics. New research indicates that these intriguing materials could play a pivotal role in the development of ultra-accurate clocks.

All crystals are characterized by a repeating structure. Traditional crystals consist of atoms organized in a repeated pattern, while time crystals exhibit structures that repeat over time. Observing a time crystal reveals a consistent repetition of configurations. This cyclical behavior occurs naturally, not because the material is forced, but because it represents its lowest energy state, much like ice is the stable phase of cold water.

Ludmila Viotti and a team from Italy’s Abdus Salam International Center for Theoretical Physics have demonstrated that time crystals could serve as excellent components for precise quantum timekeeping devices.

The researchers performed a mathematical analysis of systems with up to 100 quantum mechanical particles. Each particle displayed two states defined by its quantum spin properties, akin to how a coin has two sides. The specific spin system they investigated can exist as either a time crystal or a conventional phase that lacks spontaneous time oscillation, providing potential for clock functions in either form. The study compared the accuracy of timekeeping using spins in both the time crystal and normal phases.

As Viotti explains, “In the normal phase, seeking finer temporal resolutions results in exponentially decreased accuracy. However, the time crystal phase offers significantly improved precision at the same resolution.” For instance, standard spin-based clocks tend to lose accuracy when measuring seconds over minutes, a challenge that could be mitigated with time crystal configurations.

Mark Mitchison, a researcher at King’s College London, acknowledges the promising applications of time crystals in horology but notes that rigorous evaluations of their advantages have been scarce. His research group has previously established that random sequences can function as clocks. However, systems that maintain self-sustaining oscillations inherently possess a more clock-like nature.

“While time crystals have been theorized for nearly a decade, the methods to utilize them remain unclear,” remarks Krzysztof Sasha from Jagiellonian University in Poland. “Just as regular crystals find diverse applications in both jewelry and computing, we anticipate that time crystals will pave the way for similarly innovative technologies.”

While time crystals may not surpass the accuracy of today’s leading atomic clocks, they could offer viable alternatives to satellite-based timekeeping systems like GPS, which are vulnerable to interference. Additionally, clocks based on time crystals may lay the foundation for sensitive magnetic field sensors, as minor magnetic disruptions can affect clock performance, according to Mitchison.

Despite the potential, Viotti emphasizes that extensive research is needed before practical implementation. She indicates that their spin system should undergo comparisons with other accurate clock systems and require experimental validation involving real spins.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Discovering the Pioneers of Tool and Art Creation: Uncovering Human Innovation

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Recent findings highlight the emergence of early mining and hunting tools.

Raul Martin/MSF/Science Photo Library

Subscribe to Our Human Story, a monthly newsletter exploring revolutionary archaeology. Sign up today!

In headlines about human evolution, terms like “oldest,” “earliest,” and “first” dominate. I’ve authored numerous articles featuring these phrases.

This isn’t just an attention-grabbing tactic; it serves a purpose. When researchers identify evidence suggesting a species or behavior predates previous estimates, it elucidates our understanding of timelines and causations.

For instance, it was once believed that all rock art originated no earlier than 40,000 years ago, attributed solely to Homo sapiens, as Neanderthals were thought to have vanished by then. New evidence suggests that some prehistoric art predates this threshold, indicating Neanderthal artistic expression.

The past month has unveiled a flurry of “earliest” discoveries, prompting reflections on the reliability of such timelines. How can we ascertain the true age of early technologies?

Let the Exploration Begin!

During excavations in southern Greece, archaeologists unearthed two wooden tools estimated to be about 430,000 years old—possibly the oldest known wooden tools. One is believed to be a drilling rod, while the function of the other remains uncertain.

These tools are closely dated to the previous record holders, including the Clacton spear from Britain, approximated at 400,000 years old, and wooden spears found in Schöningen, now reassessed to nearly 300,000 years old.

Bone tools also emerged in Europe during this epoch. For instance, in Boxgrove, England, remnants from an elephant-like creature, possibly a steppe mammoth, were fashioned into hammers. These elephant bones date back 480,000 years, marking the oldest known utilization of elephant bone in Europe. However, in East Africa, ancient humans were crafting tools from elephant bones over 1.5 million years ago—perhaps much earlier.

Shifting our chronological lens, a recent discovery in Xigou, central China, reported a collection of 2,601 stone artifacts dating between 160,000 and 72,000 years ago, featuring composite tools attached to wooden handles—possibly the earliest evidence of such technologies in East Asia.

Moreover, an archaeological revelation in South Africa indicated that 60,000 years ago, early humans employed poisoned arrows for hunting, as evidenced by five arrowheads lined with toxic plant fluids.

Each of these findings carries deeper implications.

Examining the Past

Traces of plant toxins discovered on arrow points

Marlize Lombard

The oldest verified wooden tools we have may not represent the absolute earliest. Preservation issues plague prehistoric wooden artifacts; they tend to decay, leading to gaps in the historical record.

According to Katerina Harbati, who directs the wooden tools excavation, people likely used such tools well before 400,000 years ago, but prior examples remain undiscovered.

Woodworking is simpler than stone crafting, and since chimpanzees can fashion rudimentary wooden tools, it is plausible that wooden tools represent humanity’s earliest technological forms. An unexpected finding of a million-year-old wooden tool, though astonishing, would not be entirely improbable.

Consequently, significant narratives on human technological advancements shouldn’t solely pivot on the age of the earliest wood tools. Confidence in tool usage timelines necessitates rigorous investigation into various age groups.

As for poisoned arrows, these are recognized as the earliest validated forms of poisoned arrowheads. Nonetheless, designs akin to contemporary poisoned arrows have been identified from tens of thousands of years ago. Like wood, poison’s organic nature leads to rapid decay.

We should be cautiously assured. Poison arrows exemplify composite technological advancements and emerged later in the evolutionary timeline, possibly not even tracing back to early hominids such as Ardipithecus or Australopithecus.

Turning to prehistoric art, we find a wealth of complexity.

Exploring Prehistoric Graffiti

Hand stencils from a cave in Indonesia

Ahdi Agus Oktaviana

While cave paintings are iconic, other forms like carvings and engravings offer their own challenges in dating. If a sculpture is buried in sediment, its age can usually be determined based on sediment analysis. However, dating cave art proves trickier. Charcoal-based works that are less than 50,000 years old offer more reliable carbon dating, whereas those beyond this window yield inconclusive results.

Recently, hand-painted stencils found in caves on Sulawesi island were dated to at least 67,800 years, competing with a similar stencil in Spain attributed to Neanderthals, arguably the oldest rock art known.

Notably, the phrase “at least” matters significantly in this context. Dating relies on surface rock layers created through mineral deposits, which are only minimally informative. The artworks beneath could be much older.

The goal here isn’t to assert that we lack all knowledge, but rather, we possess a wealth of understanding, much of it newly uncovered in the last two decades. We must strive for a coherent timeline in human evolution and cultural development while acknowledging uncertainties.

In paleontology, having numerous specimens enhances reliability. Instead of studying charismatic prehistoric animals like dinosaurs, paleontologists often focus on smaller organisms that leave abundant fossil records, enabling deeper insights into their evolutionary progress.

However, in human evolution, the fossil record is uneven. Individual hominid species may number in the dozens, yet the early specimens remain scarce, hindering our understanding of their longevity and geographical spread. The relationship between evolved species also eludes clarity amidst possible complicated derivations.

Conversely, stone tool records are extensive, dating back to the 3.3 million-year-old Lomekwean stone tools in Kenya. We might encounter even older tools. Early humans like Ororin (6-4.5 million years ago) and Ardipithecus (5.8-4.4 million years ago) likely spent most time in trees, making their tool-making unlikely.

Wooden tools present their own challenges. Our knowledge remains limited and fragmented, largely due to preservation issues. A reliable timeline for the evolution of wooden tools seems elusive.

When it comes to ancient art, the challenges are primarily technical. Preserved artworks are available, yet accurate dating techniques are limited. Creating a chronology for artistic development poses immense challenges, although advancements in technology may facilitate progress over time. With any luck, by retirement, I hope to have a clearer understanding of the evolution of ancient human artistic practices.

In essence, all narratives about human evolution are, to some degree, provisional. This holds true across paleontological studies, especially for narratives with more uncertainty. The timeline of non-avian dinosaur extinction is quite clear-cut; however, human evolution allows for more variability. Further excavations and improved dating methods should refine our understanding, but some uncertainties may remain.

Neanderthals, the Origins of Humanity, and Cave Art: France

From Bordeaux to Montpellier, embark on a fascinating journey through time as you explore southern France’s significant Neanderthal and Upper Paleolithic sites.

Topics:

Ancient Humans /
Our Human Story

Source: www.newscientist.com

Newborn Marsupial Crawls into Mother’s Pouch for the First Time: Heartwarming Moment Captured

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_8y0eOrVbI" title="Watch newborn marsupial footage

A newly photographed newborn marsupial, weighing less than a grain of rice, is seen crawling towards its mother’s pouch for the first time. This remarkable observation highlights the unique gestation and development process of marsupials.

Unlike placental mammals, which give birth to more developed young, marsupials experience a brief gestation period before their young must navigate to the mother’s pouch to continue their growth.

According to Brandon Menzies from the University of Melbourne, this remarkable process remains largely unknown for many of Australia’s rare marsupials, even for those in captivity. Menzies and his team care for several hundred fat-tailed dunnarts (Smithopsis crassicaudata) and aim to work with Colossal Biosciences to potentially resurrect the extinct Tasmanian tiger.

Despite establishing the colony decades ago and monitoring female fertility closely, the exact details of how marsupials give birth and the young’s attachment to the teats have never been documented before now.

Menzies explained that this phenomenon is difficult to observe due to the lack of pregnancy tests for this species, their nocturnal habits, and the fact that births occur at night. During a 12 to 24-hour period, a swarm of newborns is born, taking just 30 minutes to reach the pouch.

Adult Fat-tailed Dunnarts

Emily Scicluna

In 2024, researchers noted blood in an enclosure. An examination revealed tiny newborns, just 5 milligrams each, making their way towards their mother’s pouch.

“We observed the pouch waving, crawling, and wriggling,” Menzies stated. “It’s a freestyle swim type of crawl, similar to a commando crawl.”

Young Dunnarts in Their Mother’s Pouch

Emily Scicluna

Realizing this was a groundbreaking moment, Menzies captured 22 seconds of footage before carefully returning the mother to her enclosure. The team believes gravity plays a crucial role in guiding the young towards the pouch.

Researchers estimate the newborns achieved around 120 movements per minute while crawling.

Reaching the nipple is just the first challenge. Many marsupials, including fat-tailed dunnarts, produce more offspring than nipples available for nursing. While they can carry up to 17 pups, they can only care for 10, contrasting with the Tasmanian devil that has the capacity to produce 30 pups with just four nipples.

Menzies expressed amazement at how fat-tailed dunnarts can give birth to such mobile pups merely 14 days after conception. It was previously believed these tiny babies couldn’t independently enter the pouch without maternal assistance.

“The ability to crawl independently into the pouch underscores the remarkable developmental capabilities of this species,” he remarked. “Just a week ago, these were fertilized eggs consisting of mere cells.”

Fossil Hunting in the Australian Outback

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through Australia’s fossil frontier. Once a shallow inland sea, eastern Australia has transformed into a fossil hotspot. Over 13 memorable days, journey deep into the hinterland and uncover secrets from Earth’s ancient past.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Power Prices Plummet as State Nears 100% Renewable Energy Transition

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Discover the Massive Solar Power Plant of Port Augusta, South Australia

Brooke Mitchell/Getty Images

As South Australia progresses toward achieving its ambitious goal of operating entirely on solar and wind energy, electricity prices have decreased by one-third over the past year, making them the lowest in Australia. This state serves as a leading example of the economic advantages linked to large-scale grid decarbonization.

“Tim Buckley, an independent energy analyst at Climate Energy Finance, an Australian think tank, highlights that South Australia has emerged as a global leader in renewable energy transition. While this transformation comes with challenges, we take pride in our successes. South Australian consumers are now reaping the benefits of consistently low electricity prices,” he states.

In the final quarter of 2025, South Australia generated an impressive 84% of its electricity from solar and wind sources. This exceptional percentage makes it the highest among major global power grids, with plans to reach 100% by the end of next year.

This renewable energy push is driving electricity prices down. The Independent Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) reported that South Australia’s average wholesale electricity price fell by 30% in the last quarter of 2025 compared to the previous year. Consequently, the state now shares the title of Australia’s cheapest state with Victoria, which also boasts a significant share of renewable energy.

This is a significant achievement for the South Australian government, previously criticized for rising electricity prices due to rapid renewable energy implementation. Occasionally, electricity bills surged as the state relied on costly gas energy when wind and solar outputs dwindled. Gas producers charged high prices to meet sporadic demand, a challenge exacerbated by rising petrol prices in Australia, which surged by 500% following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

To reduce price fluctuations, South Australia has developed seven extensive batteries comparable to football fields. These batteries harness energy generated by nearby solar and wind farms on sunny, windy days, providing backup power when conventional sources fall short. The introduction of two new batteries in 2025 significantly contributed to lowering energy costs.

The success of these batteries has motivated other Australian states to invest in similar technologies. Last week, consultancy Rystad Energy noted in a report that utility-scale batteries are no longer merely supplementary technology in Australia’s energy landscape, actively replacing gas fueled generation across several states. Consequently, Australia is becoming a global showcase for the effectiveness of battery technology in energy storage.

A new massive wind farm in South Australia, named Goyder South, which opened in October, is also contributing to lower electricity prices. With a capacity of 412 megawatts, it is the largest in the state and is expected to boost wind energy generation by 20%. Buckley emphasizes, “Basic economics indicates that increasing supply leads to reduced prices.”

AEMO’s report also highlighted that wholesale electricity prices were negative for approximately 48% of the time in the past quarter, indicating that the state produced more electricity than consumed, resulting in incentives for electricity suppliers to halt production during excess generation periods.

For instance, in November, South Australia achieved a remarkable milestone when it met 157% of its electricity demand solely through renewable energy. In these instances, excess wind and solar power caused temporary disconnections from the grid, allowing batteries to store the surplus energy for later use or export to nearby Victoria.

Many households in South Australia are also reducing their dependency on grid electricity by generating their own power. Over half of the residences now have solar panels installed, harnessing daytime sunlight for energy. Additionally, nearly 50,000 households have invested in home storage batteries, charged during the day and utilized after sunset. Since the launch of a 30% rebate on household batteries in July 2025, South Australia leads the nation in per capita home battery installations.

In December, the state concluded agreements to construct two additional large-scale wind farms, vital steps toward achieving its goal of 100% net renewable energy by next year. “We are well on our way to achieving this target, and the new wind farms will play a critical role in this success,” Buckley stated.

Fossil Hunting in the Australian Outback

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through the fossil-rich landscapes of eastern Australia, a region that was once a shallow inland sea millions of years ago. Join us for 13 unforgettable days as we delve deep into the hinterland, follow the ancient trails of colossal prehistoric creatures, and explore the incredible secrets of Earth’s ancient past.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

FDA Fast-tracks First Inhalable Gene Therapy for Cancer Treatment

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Innovative Gene Therapy Delivered as a Mist for Lung Cancer Treatment

Nico De Pasquale Photography/Getty Images

Inhaled Gene Therapy for Lung Cancer — Innovative Gene Therapy Delivered as a Mist for Lung Cancer Treatment

Nico De Pasquale Photography/Getty Images

An innovative inhaled gene therapy targeting lung cancer is rapidly advancing toward potential approval following encouraging results from clinical trials.

Dr. Wen Wee Ma at the Cleveland Clinic highlighted the findings at a recent American Society of Clinical Oncology conference in Chicago, stating, “Very encouragingly, this proves our hypothesis that the lung tumor actually shrunk.”

This groundbreaking treatment employs a virus to introduce immune-boosting genes into lung cells, enhancing their natural ability to combat tumors. Unlike traditional gene therapies, which often replace defective genes, this method focuses on modifying existing lung cells.

The unique inhalation delivery method represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment. “This is a completely different approach to anti-cancer treatment,” said Ma. Directly targeting the lungs enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of the treatment, particularly since lung cancer is notoriously difficult to treat with standard oral or intravenous therapies.

The therapy utilizes a harmless, modified herpes virus to inject two critical genes into lung cells: interleukin-2 and interleukin-12. These proteins, naturally produced by the body, help inhibit tumor growth. Unfortunately, tumors often diminish their effectiveness, necessitating the need for gene therapy to restore their production.

Since 2024, clinical trials have been ongoing with patients suffering from advanced lung cancer who have exhausted all other treatment options. The therapy is administered via a fine mist inhaled directly into the lungs.

At the oncology conference, Ma reported that the gene therapy has successfully reduced lung tumor sizes in three out of eleven trial participants, while also halting growth in another five. Although some patients reported side effects, such as chills and vomiting, no severe safety issues were noted.

Based on these promising outcomes, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently granted “Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy Designation” to the gene therapy, facilitating expedited approval processes for patient access.

However, it is important to note that this gene therapy is specifically designed for lung tumors and does not address tumors that have metastasized to other body parts. To expand its efficacy, Ma and his team are exploring combinations with immunotherapy and chemotherapy in a trial involving approximately 250 patients.

Crystal Biotech, the developer of this gene therapy, previously introduced the first FDA-approved gene therapy targeting the skin, using a similar modified herpes virus to treat patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, a rare skin condition. The company is also developing inhaled gene therapies for cystic fibrosis and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, both inherited lung diseases.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Uncovering the Origins of Britain’s Bronze Age Immigrants: Surprising Discoveries Explained

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The ancestors of Britain’s Bell Beaker people inhabited wetlands and heavily relied on fishing.

Sheila Terry/Science Photo Library

Ancestors of the British Bell Beaker culture — The ancestors of Britain’s Bell Beaker people inhabited wetlands and heavily relied on fishing.

Sheila Terry/Science Photo Library

Analysis of ancient DNA has meticulously unveiled the origins of a fascinating group that emerged in Britain around 2400 B.C., nearly displacing the builders of Stonehenge within just a century.

This group is associated with the Bell Beaker culture, which emerged in Western Europe during the Early Bronze Age, named after the distinctive pots they left behind. While previously thought the culture stemmed from Portugal or Spain, recent research indicates that the people who populated Britain originated from the delta regions of Northwest Europe, across the North Sea. Remarkably, this resilient group maintained aspects of their hunter-gatherer lifestyle and ancestry for thousands of years, despite the spread of early farming communities across Europe.

David Reich and his team from Harvard University analyzed the genomes of 112 individuals who lived in present-day Netherlands, Belgium, and western Germany throughout the period of 8,500 to 1,700 BC.

“The Netherlands was once considered a mundane place, with every square inch traversed millions of times. Yet, it reveals itself as one of the most intriguing areas in Europe.”

The DNA sequenced in Reich’s lab indicates that this population emerged from the Rhine-Meuse delta, bordering the Netherlands and Belgium. This group derived from resourceful hunter-gatherer communities, thriving on fish, waterfowl, game birds, and diverse plant life found in the flooded wetlands surrounding these expansive rivers.

Originating in Anatolia, Neolithic farmers began to expand throughout Europe around 6500 BC, likely due to their agricultural advantage, allowing for larger family units compared to hunter-gatherers. This led to the near disappearance or significant dilution of hunter-gatherers’ genetic ancestry in regions where farmers settled.

However, research reveals that these wetlands served as zones where farmers’ genetic influx remained minimal for thousands of years. The dynamic, often flooded environments of rivers, swamps, dunes, and peat bogs posed significant challenges for early farmers, yet offered abundant opportunities for those adept at surviving in such terrains, as noted by Luc Amkreutz at the National Archaeological Museum in Leiden, Netherlands. “These hunter-gatherers charted their course from a position of strength.”

Genetic testing indicates that, despite their enduring hunter-gatherer lifestyle, the people of the wetlands engaged in gradual integration with farmers through intermarriage. While their Y chromosomes passed through male lineages, their mitochondrial DNA and X chromosomes displayed a steady influx of genetic contribution from farmers’ daughters. “This revelation was unexpected for us,” remarks Evelyn Altena of Leiden University Medical Center. “Without DNA, this knowledge would remain elusive.”

Reich posits that this interaction was likely peaceful, characterized by men remaining at homesteads while women migrated. Nonetheless, an aspect of conflict cannot be dismissed, although the extent of reciprocal exchange remains uncertain due to the preservation challenges of DNA from arid farmer regions.

Bell Beaker Pottery from Germany

Peter Endig/DPA Picture Alliance/Alamy

Archaeological findings indicate that, over time, these hunter-gatherers adopted pottery techniques, cultivated grains, and domesticated animals, yet they retained core aspects of their original way of life.

Then, circa 3000 BC, a nomadic group known as the Yamuna, or Yamnaya, began migrating west from the vast steppes of modern Ukraine and Russia. Their interactions with Eastern European farmers birthed the cord-shaped pottery culture characterized by decorative cord patterns. Although their descendants spread throughout much of Europe, they had minimal influence on the delta region.

Excavations revealed a skeleton from this era that bore the Yamnaya Y chromosome alongside pots, some evidently used for cooking fish. This exemplifies how wetland inhabitants creatively integrated foreign objects into their traditional practices, though overall, very few people bore steppe ancestry.

The dynamics shifted with the arrival of the Bell Beaker culture around 2500 BC. This group, characterized by a hybrid of steppe and farmer ancestry, introduced steppe genes into the DNA of the wetland peoples while retaining notable portions of both hunter-gatherer and early farmer genetics, approximately 13 to 18 percent. They may have begun to fade into history from that point onwards, yet the saga was far from over.

Human remains analyzed from Oostwoud, Netherlands

North Holland Archaeological Depository (CC by 4.0)

Recent studies reveal that those who arrived in Britain around 2400 BC bore an almost identical genetic mixture of Bell Beaker and wetland community ancestry. Within a century, they were largely or entirely replaced by Neolithic farmers who constructed Stonehenge. “Our model shows that at least 90 percent, and up to 100 percent, of original ancestry has vanished from Britain,” observes Reich.

It remains uncertain if this transition commenced with the influx of the Bell Beaker culture or if other groups preceded them. Before their arrival, Britons commonly cremated their deceased, resulting in minimal DNA preservation.

Regardless, the extent of change was “so dramatic that it defies belief,” according to Reich. The rapid populace replacement has captured archaeologists’ attention since its initial suggestion in a 2018 study. Reich theorizes that a plague-like disease, possibly affecting individuals in continental Europe, may have played a role. Conversely, the native population in the UK might have been more susceptible to such ailments.

Team members contend that religious fervor likely did not influence the transition, as indicated by Harry Fockens from Leiden University. “Monuments like Stonehenge and Avebury continued to see use and expansion even after their creators disappeared.”

Michael Parker Pearson from University College London is intrigued by the ways in which the new inhabitants adopted British monument styles, like henges and stone circles, whilst simultaneously introducing new lifestyles, including different pottery and clothing styles.

The Bell Beakers also introduced metalworking to Britain, with certain gold ornaments discovered in Beaker tombs in England bearing striking similarities to those found in Belgium.

Discover the Origins of Humanity: A Gentle Walk Through Prehistoric Times in South-West England

Immerse yourself in the fascinating early human eras of the Neolithic, Bronze Age, and Iron Age on this special walking tour.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Exploring the Evolution of Bonds: Insights from Paul Eastwick

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

We are more likely to find love with someone we know

Thomas Hoepker/Magnum

Celebrating German unification at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin on October 3, 1990 — We are more likely to find love with someone we know

Thomas Hoepker/Magnum

Bonds through Evolution

By Paul Eastwick, Cornerstone Press

Most everyone has tales of lost love or romantic rejection, and psychologist Paul Eastwick is no exception. As an undergraduate at the turn of the millennium, he fell for a student named Anna—a stunning, tall aspiring poet fluent in Russian. While he may have seen himself as more of a “6” to her “9,” they did spend some time together before he was “friend-zoned,” and ultimately she pursued relationships elsewhere.

Eastwick, who has coined a term “EvoScript” to describe a prevalent view in the dating world, explains that rejection often seems inevitable. In this “marketplace” of dating, individuals possess unique “mate values” based on various factors like looks, intelligence, and social status, selectively pairing with the highest-value partners for the best possible offspring. He notes, however, that navigating this marketplace often leads to a hierarchy of potential partners. Reflecting on his findings, he emphasizes, “Either find your place and stay put, or run wild like Icarus,” his observations now part of his role as a psychology professor at the University of California, Davis.

While Eastwick’s theory rests on psychological literature, it has become widely accepted in popular culture. In his informative new book, Bonds through Evolution: What We Get Wrong About Love and Connection, he refutes this narrative, asserting that it is fundamentally flawed.

“
Passion tends to fade merely weeks after potential romantic partners connect
“

Many experiments supporting EvoScript evaluated mate value based on participants rating images of unfamiliar individuals. In these instant assessments, people often agree on attraction, suggesting an innate ranking based on genetic traits. However, this approach disregards the reality that first impressions can easily diminish after personal interaction. Although such studies require time and effort, Eastwick and his team demonstrated that as people genuinely connect, the perceptions of their mate value rapidly shift.

In essence, supposed mate value can be fleeting. As Eastwick summarizes, “Even if I find you attractive, there’s only a 53% chance that others will concur.” This could be disheartening news for those who consider themselves physically appealing. He continues by stating that “Potential romantic partners seem to lose their allure just weeks following their meeting.”

Eastwick proposes that compatibility ultimately plays a crucial role in determining who we love, albeit challenging to foresee. Although individuals can readily articulate preferences—such as being drawn to extroverted or adventurous people—his research indicates these traits have minimal impact on actual relationship choices. Intriguingly, we are more likely to be content with partners exhibiting three unrelated traits: being friendly, intelligent, and successful. “What truly counts,” he notes, “is not matching a worn-out checklist, but rather the feelings stirred within you,” which are fostered through chaotic conversations.

Similarly, Justin Garcia, executive director at the Kinsey Institute, reaches a comparable conclusion in his recent publication, Intimate Animals. Although Garcia employs the market-based vocabulary Eastwick challenges, he acknowledges that first impressions surrounding dating abilities can mislead. “We quickly judge partnerships appearing mismatched at first sight, yet the overall value of each partner is considerably more intricate than we assume,” he argues.

Both authors highlight the significance of “self-aggrandizement” in intimate relationships. Garcia emphasizes that personal growth, new experiences, and fresh viewpoints often prove attractive in partnerships.

These insights resonate with both seasoned and novice daters. While online dating has broadened the pool of potential partners, choices often stem from superficial evaluations that evolve once mutual acquaintance deepens. Consequently, many face disappointments prior to finding “the one” (or at least “the right one”).

Considering compatibility’s importance, Eastwick suggests giving most individuals at least three chances before forming a judgment about whether to continue dating. He states, “Third impressions generally offer a more reliable predictor than much of the currently tested information.” He also encourages creative encounters beyond traditional settings like dinners or drinks, urging couples to explore diverse activities such as roller skating, karaoke, or chocolate tastings as a means of assessing compatibility.

Continuing to nurture real-life friendships is equally important. Evidence shows that we are significantly more inclined to find love with someone we are familiar with rather than a total stranger. Social connections, at the very least, can yield numerous advantages, enhancing both physical and mental wellness.

For these reasons, Eastwick recommends maintaining a positive relationship with dating partners. Reflecting on his experiences with Anna, he realized that platonic relationships are indeed attainable. After a difficult period, his emotions for her faded, paving the way for friendship and an expanded social circle. “The joy of broadening your connections is incredibly fulfilling, and Anna appreciated that,” he concluded. It appears that the friend zone may not be such a negative space after all.

After numerous books advocating cynical strategies for “playing” the dating game, it’s refreshing to encounter two works that present evidence-based optimism regarding our chances of discovering love that resonates with our true selves. Embrace opportunities to connect with others, remain honest and respectful, and observe how feelings evolve. It’s straightforward, yet these simple strategies might just elevate your love life.

David Robson is the author of The Laws of Connection: 13 Social Strategies that Will Change Your Life.

3 Essential Reads on Relationships

Find Love:
Navigating modern relationships and discovering your ideal partner by Paul C. Brunson

Is it increasingly challenging to find romance in the 21st century? Tinder’s scientific advisor elaborates on evolving ideals and highlights common pitfalls in our search for love.

All or Nothing Marriage:
Understanding how the best marriages thrive, author Eli J. Finkel

This book provides evidence-based techniques for fostering mutual growth in long-term relationships, including strategies for enhancing communication and tackling inevitable challenges.

Single at Heart:
Embracing the power, freedom, and joy of single living by Bella DePaolo

Society often emphasizes the need to pair up; however, as social psychologist DePaolo illustrates, an increasing number of individuals find joy in singlehood. This myth-busting exploration stands as a counter to the frenzy surrounding Valentine’s Day.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Boost Your Fitness: The Benefits of Adding Cross-Training to Your Workout Routine

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

The Benefits of Aerobic Exercise Variety

Piero Facci / Alamy

Healthy lifestyle - a man cycling with his dog. Rear view of another person running beside him. — The Benefits of Aerobic Exercise Variety

Piero Facci / Alamy

Finding an exercise you love is crucial for maintaining a consistent workout routine. When you look forward to your fitness activities, you’re more likely to stick with them. However, it’s equally important to vary your workouts. This practice, known as cross-training, can significantly enhance your fitness levels and overall health.

Recent research from Harvard University reviewed physical activity data from over 70,000 women and approximately 41,000 men over a span of 40 years. The study concluded that participants engaging in a diverse range of exercises—cycling, running, and strength training—were 19% less likely to die from any cause compared to those who stuck with one type of workout, despite similar activity levels. Additionally, they experienced a 13-41% lower risk of dying from heart disease, cancer, and other health issues.

Why is variety so effective? Exercise challenges our bodies, fostering adaptations that lead to greater strength and resilience. However, as shown in this study, the health benefits of certain activities can plateau. For instance, individuals walking 5 hours weekly had similar mortality risks to those walking 20 or even 40 hours. By engaging in a mix of activities, individuals may surpass these limits.

Different exercises target our bodies in unique ways. For example, aerobic exercises like running stress your cardiorespiratory system—meaning your heart and lungs—while strength training, like weightlifting, focuses on muscle contraction and growth. Combining both can enhance endurance and strength simultaneously.

Incorporating aerobic exercises can yield additional benefits. A 2018 study involving high school runners found that those who substituted two of their easy runs with elliptical workouts demonstrated improved oxygen efficiency while running at the same pace as their peers.

Cross-training also reduces the likelihood of injuries that could affect longevity. An analysis of nine studies involving nearly 5,000 soccer players revealed that incorporating balance exercises lowered the risk of ankle injuries by over 35% compared to training programs lacking these elements.

Therefore, adding variety to your fitness routine is highly recommended. Last year, I focused primarily on running, which adversely affected other aspects of my fitness, such as mobility. That’s why I now incorporate Pilates and yoga to enhance my flexibility and strength, which may contribute to a longer, healthier life.

Grace Wade is a health reporter at New Scientist. Subscribe to her newsletter, Get Healthier in 8 Weeks, at newscientist.com/healthier-you.

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SEO-Optimized Title: “Exploring Science Fiction: A Review of George Saunders’ The Vigil and Matthew Cressel’s Rainseekers”

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

In “Vigil,” a dying oil tycoon is visited by a ghost.

Libre/Getty Images

Stay Up All Night
George Saunders, Bloomsbury

While I’m generally not a fan of novellas or short stories due to their brevity, compelling authors like George Saunders keep me turning the pages. This week, I present two thought-provoking reads, starting with Stay Up All Night.

In Stay Up All Night, prize-winning author George Saunders, known for his hit Lincoln in the Bardo, introduces us to Jill “Doll” Blaine, a ghost who returns to Earth to observe the last hours of K.J. Boone, a wealthy oil tycoon.

Jill’s mission is to provide comfort to restless souls, but she discovers that Boone, despite his life full of deception and environmental damage, is content with his choices.

Set in the final hours of Boone’s life, the narrative unfolds with the arrival of other ghosts and family members seeking closure. Jill, frustrated by Boone’s indifference, navigates her own past, returning repeatedly to his bedside.

True to Saunders’ style, the prose is vibrant and enchanting. He deftly avoids the mundane, making even the darkest themes shine.

“
When intriguing authors continue to craft engaging novellas, I feel compelled to explore them.
“

However, I found myself yearning for deeper insights into Boone’s psyche and hoped for a narrative reckoning that never fully materialized. Jill, with her rich backstory, was by far the most captivating character, and I wished for more exploration of her journey.

Nonetheless, Saunders’ brilliance and the pressing themes explored in Stay Up All Night make it a compelling read—one worth delving into at least twice.

Rainseekers
Matthew Cressel, Tor Publishing

Next up is Rainseekers by Matthew Cressel. This narrative blends a series of interconnected short stories, featuring protagonist Sakunja Salazar, an influencer-turned-journalist on Mars amidst the transformative terraforming of the planet.

With newly formed water bodies and breathable air, Sakunja embarks on a thrilling journey into the Martian wilderness to witness the first rainfall. This quest is both poetic and thought-provoking.

As Sakunja interviews fellow “rainseekers,” their unique stories weave into a rich tapestry that enhances the overarching narrative.

Kressel excels in crafting poignant, concise narratives, lending weight to this visionary future of the solar system.

While Sakunja lacked the depth to truly engage me, the human elements and the fun exploration of terraforming resonate strongly, reminiscent of classics like Kim Stanley Robinson’s Red Mars trilogy.

I also recommend:

Juice
Tim Winton, Pan Macmillan

If you’re intrigued by the intersection of oil barons and climate change, this evocative novel is for you. Set in a distant future, it explores consequences for those who have wronged the planet—an excellent choice for this month’s New Scientist Book Club.

Emily H. Wilson is the author of the Sumerian series (including Inanna, Gilgamesh, and Ninshbar, all published by Titan) and is currently penning her first science fiction novel. A former editor at New Scientist, she can be followed on Instagram @emilyhwilson1.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New Fossil Discovery Could Resolve Controversy Surrounding Spinosaurus Sailback Features

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Artist’s Interpretation of *Spinosaurus mirabilis*

Credit: Dani Navarro

Artist's interpretation of Spinosaurus mirabilis — Artist’s Interpretation of *Spinosaurus mirabilis*

Credit: Dani Navarro

The fascinating debate surrounding the dinosaur Spinosaurus continues: was it an exceptional swimmer capable of diving to catch prey or a “hell’s heron” that snatched giant fish from shallow waters? Recent fossils of a new species, Spinosaurus mirabilis, discovered approximately 1,000 kilometers inland, may provide clarity, asserting that it resembled a sandpiper, as suggested by Paul Sereno from the University of Chicago.

The discussion of Spinosaurus lifestyles among paleontologists is ongoing, characterized by distinctive features such as large sails, massive claws, wide feet, and crocodilian jaws. Previous depictions in the 2025 BBC series Walking with Dinosaurs presented them as aquatic hunters.

In 2019, local guides led Sereno’s team to a remote Niger desert, where they unearthed a fragment of jaw bone identified later as belonging to a type of spinosaur. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed their return to the site.

During their second expedition, researchers discovered about ten Spinosaurus bones. Remarkably, they observed large crests atop the skulls and unique sails along their spines shortly after their initial find.

Sereno stated, “This was a shining moment because we recognized it as a new species of Spinosaurus that would significantly enhance our understanding of these dinosaurs.”

Named Spinosaurus mirabilis, this species is estimated to have roamed the Earth around 95 million years ago, growing to lengths of about 10 to 14 meters, comparable to the renowned Spinosaurus aegyptius. Sereno warned, “You wouldn’t want to be close to this animal; it could take you down in about three seconds.”

Similar to Spinosaurus aegyptius, this new species possessed a noticeable crest, though its crest was significantly larger—potentially reaching at least 40 centimeters in height for larger individuals. Researchers believe that, comparable to modern crowned birds such as the guinea fowl, these crowns were likely covered with a keratin sheath, standing at least 50 centimeters high.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9DW4EgJ0zg" title="Spinosaurus Discovery

The delicate crest probably served not as a weapon but as a visual display. “It likely boasted bright colors,” Sereno remarked. “It signals, ‘I’m here, I’m healthy.’

The significant sails of the Spinosaurus might also have been utilized for visual signaling. Sereno suggests it raised questions about their purpose in mating and territorial protection. “Such environments, like beaches and riverbanks, enhance visibility, allowing animals to spot rivals and mates over long distances,” he explained.

Crested Skull of *S. mirabilis*

Credit: Keith Ladzinski

Modern sandpipers, like the great blue heron, exhibit similar display characteristics, reinforcing the migration theory posited by Sereno. When comparing various animals based on the proportions of their jaws, necks, and hindlimbs, spinosaurids were found adjacent to heron-like species.

Although Spinosaurus struggled to swim efficiently due to its large sails, it could dive to depths of about 10 feet (3 meters) as an adult, according to Sereno.

Evidently, most spinosaur fossils have been discovered near oceans, while S. mirabilis thrived far inland. Sereno notes, “No marine predator weighing over a ton has entered freshwater habitats.” The absence of major freshwater predators, like river killer whales, supports the idea that these creatures were adaptations, similar to modern herons.

Sereno mentions, “This study validates the consensus developed regarding these animals. They aren’t super swimmers or deep divers; rather, they resemble herons and storks, foraging through shallow waters for their primary diet of fish.”

David Horn from Queen Mary University of London remarked, “The unique crest suggests a new species, and variations in jaws and teeth further solidify this point.”

Mark Witton at the University of Portsmouth, UK, emphasized that the lengths of the legs indicate Spinosaurus was capable of efficient movement, countering claims of a predominantly aquatic lifestyle.

Dinosaur Hunting in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert

Join an exciting expedition to uncover dinosaur fossils in the expansive Gobi Desert, a renowned hotspot for paleontological discoveries.

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Exploring Hamnet’s Connection to Nature: Insights from New Scientist

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Jessie Buckley as Agnes in Hamnet

AGATA GRZYBOWSKA/2025 FOCUS FEATURES LLC

Jessie Buckley as Agnes in HAMNET, directed by Chloé Zhao; featuring William Shakespeare's wife. Credit: Agata Grzybowska / 2025 Focus Features LLC — Jessie Buckley as Agnes in Hamnet

AGATA GRZYBOWSKA/2025 FOCUS FEATURES LLC

The film Hamnet, based on Maggie O’Farrell’s acclaimed novel, poignantly highlights the profound connection between humanity and nature. Set against a rich backdrop, we meet Agnes (played by Jessie Buckley, as shown above), the mother of Hamnet and wife of William Shakespeare, who is depicted gathering medicinal herbs in the woods.

Shakespeare’s understanding of this interconnectedness is showcased throughout his works. In Hamlet, the King inquires about Polonius’s fate, while the Prince philosophizes about life cycles, stating, “It’s not where we eat, but how we consume… We nourish ourselves at the expense of other living beings.”

Shakespeare intricately weaves humans into the food chain. In the thought-provoking narrative of Hamnet, O’Farrell and director Chloé Zhao beautifully reinterpret the essence of Shakespeare’s themes into their cinematic portrayal.

Rowan Hooper
Podcast Editor, London

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Exploring the Environmental Impact of Space Debris: Air Pollution Concerns on the Rise

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

An incredible 30-second exposure captures the Falcon 9 upper stage re-entering the atmosphere over Berlin, Germany, on February 19, 2025.

Photo by Gerd Baumgarten

Falcon 9 Upper Stage Re-entry — An incredible 30-second exposure captures the Falcon 9 upper stage re-entering the atmosphere over Berlin, Germany, on February 19, 2025.

Photo by Gerd Baumgarten

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket ignited a plume of vaporized metal as it re-entered the atmosphere, raising concerns about atmospheric pollution across Europe. This type of contamination is expected to surge as the number of spacecraft and satellites continues to grow.

The Falcon 9’s upper stage, intended for recovery in the Pacific Ocean, suffered an engine failure that led to its uncontrolled descent over the North Atlantic on February 19, 2025.

Witnesses throughout Europe observed fiery debris streaking across the sky, with some fragments landing behind warehouses in Poland. Researchers from Germany’s Leibniz Institute for Atmospheric Physics employed lidar technology to monitor the atmosphere. They noted a tenfold increase in lithium concentration— a significant component of the rocket’s structure— twenty hours after the re-entry event.

Using atmospheric models, researchers concluded that the lithium plume drifted approximately 1,600 kilometers from the re-entry site. This investigation represents the first instance of tracking high-altitude contamination resulting from a specific spacecraft re-entry.

According to Wing, small metal particles could catalyze ozone depletion, create clouds in the stratosphere and mesosphere, and interfere with sunlight’s passage through the atmosphere. “However, this field remains largely underexplored.”

As commercial space launches surge and companies expand their satellite constellations, such as SpaceX’s Starlink and Amazon’s Kuiper, concerns regarding contamination are becoming more pronounced. Currently, around 14,500 satellites orbit Earth, and SpaceX recently applied to deploy an additional 1 million satellites to support Elon Musk’s vision of creating orbiting data centers for artificial intelligence.

To mitigate a potential cycle of collisions that could generate more space debris, satellites are often permitted to deorbit and burn up at the end of their operational lives. Experts warn that space debris could increase by fiftyfold over the next decade, potentially contributing to more than 40% of the mass currently entering the atmosphere from meteorites.

There is a common misconception that space debris simply burns up and disappears in the atmosphere. According to Daniel Cizzo of Purdue University, who did not partake in this study, “We need to be cautious and thoroughly analyze the potential impacts of this material.”

The Falcon 9’s plume is estimated to contain around 30 kilograms of lithium. However, given the alloy composition of the rocket’s hull, it likely contained significantly more aluminum.

When evaporated aluminum interacts with atmospheric oxygen, it forms aluminum oxide particles, which serve as surfaces for chlorine compounds to decompose more easily. The chlorine radicals generated through this process react with and deplete ozone molecules in the stratosphere.

Researchers estimate that the burnout of spacecraft releases approximately 1,000 tons of aluminum oxide into the atmosphere annually, a figure that continues to rise. This exacerbation could extend the ozone hole in the Southern Hemisphere, which has been shrinking as nations phase out ozone-depleting gases. The loss of ozone allows more harmful ultraviolet rays to penetrate, increasing the risk of skin cancer.

“In terms of metals, we are entering a new paradigm where anthropogenic pollution increasingly influences the upper atmosphere, overshadowing natural sources,” says Eloise Marais from University College London. “Space debris risks reversing the progress made in healing the ozone hole.”

Metal oxide particles also function as nuclei for water vapor to coalesce into droplets, potentially leading to the formation of cirrus clouds that trap heat in the upper troposphere.

Scientists have detected particles from a burned-out spacecraft within cirrus clouds. While the effect on global warming is currently considered minor compared to greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, it could still pose increased risks.

“Substantial evidence indicates that this substance may adversely affect the atmosphere. It is now our responsibility as scientists to assess whether these effects are occurring and the degree of their negativity,” Cizzo stated.

Potential solutions include constructing satellites from wood-like materials—though these may emit black carbon soot upon re-entry—or relocating satellites to high-altitude “graveyard orbits.”

“You must take a moment to consider your intentions before proceeding,” Wing advises. “This rapid growth in satellite launches poses questions that remain unanswered.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Stop Anthropomorphizing Ants: Understanding Their True Nature

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Giant ant metal sculpture in Tupungato, Mendoza, Argentina. — John G. Fuller/VWPics/Alamy

Pollution has made many urban areas uninhabitable for humans, leading to the devastation of families and communities alike. Ants, which rely on specific hydrocarbons on their exoskeletons for recognition, are severely affected. A recent study indicates that ozone exposure alters these hydrocarbons, resulting in ants failing to recognize their nestmates. Instances of aggression within colonies have been observed, where some ants even attack their own relatives.

With approximately 20 quintillion ants on Earth, human-induced pollution could unearth unprecedented levels of destruction.

This alarming scenario exemplifies anthropomorphism, the attribution of human traits to non-human entities, exemplified by comparing ant colonies to human families. While some scientists criticize anthropomorphism as misleading, others advocate for drawing parallels between ant behavior and human social dynamics to shed light on evolutionary concepts.

Notably, entomologist E.O. Wilson used ants to support his “sociobiological” theory, proposing that animal behavior stems from evolutionary necessity. Wilson asserted that insights into ant behavior could illuminate biology’s impact on human development and accomplishment.

However, evolutionary biologist Stephen Jay Gould emerged as a notable critic, denouncing Wilson’s ideas as “biological determinism,” cautioning against potential eugenics-inspired policies. The debate surrounding biology’s role in human society persists in academia, with sociobiology now often referred to as evolutionary psychology.

A significant shift has occurred in studying ant behavior. Deborah Gordon, a Stanford University biologist, revealed that ant behavior operates on algorithms. Her research involved years of studying various ant species, culminating in collaborations with computer scientists to demonstrate how ants utilize effectively distributed signaling networks. For instance, when a worker ant finds a large food source, she lays a pheromone trail for others to follow. Encountering other ants, she evaluates the available resources and efficiently recruits additional foragers.

“
Algorithmic determinism has replaced biological determinism, but the end result for ants is still the same.
“

There is no central authority instructing ants; they succeed through decentralized communication, much like how distributed computer networks manage data flow. Gordon likens this process to internet activity, underscoring how networks efficiently allocate resources.

Gordon’s findings contrast sharply with Wilson’s theories, as she draws comparisons between ants and computers rather than humans. Nevertheless, as AI companies invest heavily in replicating human cognition with algorithms, the parallels between ant behavior and artificial intelligence become more pronounced. Algorithmic determinism may overshadow biological determinism, but the implications for ants remain significant. While humans often reference ants to explain behaviors observed in other species, we frequently overlook the intricate nature of the ants themselves.

Returning to my research on human pollution and its impact on ants, Gordon’s Antenet approach relies heavily on colony members collaborating and exchanging critical information. However, when ozone interferes with the hydrocarbons in ants, they lose their ability to recognize one another, disrupting crucial coordination. This could lead to colony demise.

For humans, such recognition isn’t vital; we don’t rely on scent to coordinate food gathering or childcare. Nevertheless, we share the planet with extraordinary wildlife, and if we fail to mitigate ozone pollution, we risk obliterating their social structures. It is time to shift our perspective from viewing ants simply as metaphors for humanity and machines to appreciating their intrinsic value.

What I Am Reading:
H.G. Wells’ “The War of the Worlds”: The Martians are cyber-vampires.

What I See:
My life is murder, A delightfully corny detective series starring Lucy Lawless.

What I Am Working On:
Finding a place to live in a new city.

Annalee Newitz is a science journalist and author. Their latest book is Automatic Noodles, and they co-host the Hugo Award-winning podcast Our Opinion Is Correct. Follow @annaleen or visit their website: techsploitation.com.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Why I Remain an Environmental Optimist in Today’s World

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

It’s easy to feel hopeless about the state of our planet. The climate crisis is intensifying, extinction rates are alarming, forests are vanishing, water cycles are disrupted, and pollution is suffocating urban areas, creating marine dead zones. The science that explains climate change is often disregarded as “scammer’s work.”

Yet, I remain optimistic. Green energy technologies are rapidly advancing and becoming more affordable, even catching the attention of influential figures like President Trump—especially since China‘s strong commitment to low-carbon solutions is reshaping global energy dynamics.

You might call me overly hopeful, but pessimism stifles action. Here are five reasons to be at least a bit optimistic about the future of our planet.

Reason 1: Nature is making a comeback in numerous regions. Species are adapting, evolving, and reclaiming spaces even in the most polluted landscapes. Wolves are roaming across Europe, and tiger populations are on the rise in India. While we must remain vigilant about biodiversity loss, it’s encouraging to see that nature is resilient. Many areas are now being returned to natural habitats as farmers step back from cultivation.

Reason 2: The population crisis is stabilizing. The once-feared baby boom is no longer considered an imminent threat. In fact, many couples today are opting for significantly fewer children, reflecting a reduction in birth rates. Trusting individuals to make their own reproductive choices is proving more effective than coercive policies, such as China’s former one-child policy.

Reason 3: Advances in technology are providing effective solutions to environmental challenges. When the Climate Change Treaty was established in 1992, renewable energy sources like wind turbines were just emerging. Today, over 40% of the world’s electricity is generated from affordable low-carbon technologies, signaling a shift toward reducing fossil fuel dependence.

Reason 4: A peak consumption event is occurring. The material consumption per person in places like Britain has dropped significantly this century, from 16 tons to 11 tons annually. Modern manufacturing processes create more value with fewer resources, and consumers are increasingly prioritizing experiences over material goods.

Reason 5: Local knowledge is a beacon of hope. Recent studies suggest that rural regions are often protectors of the environment rather than its adversaries. Indigenous lands serve as safe havens for biodiversity; deforestation rates are lower within these areas.

The prevalent notion that greed leads to environmental collapse—the so-called tragedy of the commons—is misguided. I believe that collective action by communities can enhance local environments, benefiting the global commons of our atmosphere, climate, and oceans.

While I acknowledge that the worst outcomes are still possible, the path to avoidance lies in decisive action, powered by optimism.

Fred Pierce: Author of Despite It All: A Handbook for Climate Change Activists and former environmental consultant for New Scientist.

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Measuring Ice in a Fun New Way: The Equivalent of 109.5 Golden Retrievers

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

New Scientist: Your source for the latest science, technology, health, and environmental news.

Feedback is New Scientist Your go-to source for the latest in science and technology news. To share feedback or suggest topics of interest to our readers, please email us at feedback@newscientist.com.

It Rains Cats and Dogs

A new measurement unit has been adopted, particularly relevant to recent weather events. Reader Alan Baker noted a freezing rain warning on CBS News in Austin, Texas. Meteorologist Avery Tomasko highlighted that central Texas could expect up to half an inch of freezing rain, which would freeze upon contact.

To emphasize the seriousness, Tomasko explained that “ice is heavy,” posing risks such as tree branches potentially falling onto power lines. Even a mere half inch of ice can accumulate to over 7,000 pounds, or roughly the weight of 109.5 full-grown golden retrievers on a 30-foot tree,” he elaborated.

While there are many adorable dogs around, the imagery of a hundred retrievers precariously perched does raise some concern about the effectiveness of conveying the dangers associated with freezing rain.

Moreover, I find the phrase “approximately 109.5” amusing; there’s little room for approximation when counting fluffy companions. It evokes an unsettling thought about an odd situation that might leave one dog counted as half.

AI’s Map Mishap

In the realm of AI blunders, one notable instance involved erasing Canada from the world map. When asked how many countries end with ‘nada,’ the AI inaccurately responded, claiming, “No countries have official English names ending with ‘nada,’” while erroneously qualifying Canada’s name as ending with ‘a.’

Furthermore, the error omitted Grenada, which also ends with ‘nada.’ There was a small disclaimer warning users of possible AI errors, but the mix-up was glaring.

This information stems from a screenshot circulating on social media. While it may be fabricated, it features a logo from Reddit’s AI tool, Reddit Answers, which prompted Feedback to question the AI again.

Feedback revealed: “No countries end in ‘nada.’ This mishap seems to underline the AI’s limitations rather than provide factual insights into country names.” While somewhat insightful, this response still lacked clarity.

An editor noted variations in phrasing, which led Feedback to ask the AI the original question again. The AI reiterated that “there are no countries that end in ‘nada,’” yet acknowledged countries ending in ‘anada’ or ‘ada,’ prompting contemplation over the discrepancies.

Further, the AI named Canada and Grenada correctly but misidentified Granada as a country instead of a Spanish city. Unfortunately, it also claimed Uganda as another ‘ada’ country and humorously mentioned a fictional “Wacanada,” possibly mixed up with Black Panther’s Wakanda.

This chaotic exchange serves as a reminder to remain skeptical of supposed “fun facts” shared by AI; they may be neither entertaining nor factual.

Reflections on Life and the Universe

The Feedback team experienced the viral “6-7” sensation that swept the globe during the 2025 outbreak. Children began chanting “six seven” joyfully whenever the numbers appeared. Now that the trend has dissipated, we can finally reflect on it.

The phrase “6-7” seems to originate from Skrilla’s song “Doot Doot (6 7),” yet its meaning remains unclear. Some speculate it was simply a placeholder of sorts. Discussions surrounding its use often leaned into absurdity, with Feedback Junior, our resident expert on youth culture, confirming that it holds no intrinsic meaning.

However, we may have unearthed the true essence of “6-7,” thanks to an Instagram screenshot that proposed: “The ultimate question about life, the universe, and everything is: ‘What on earth is 6 7?'” This prompts thoughts reminiscent of Douglas Adams’ famous quote from The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, where a supercomputer reveals that the answer to the ultimate question is simply 42, albeit with the challenge of discerning the actual question.

Thus, the Instagram post humorously yet aptly suggests that the AI miscalculated by interpreting space as a multiplication operation. This might very well be the most significant AI misstep documented.

Have a story to share with Feedback?

Email your article to Feedback at feedback@newscientist.com. Please include your home address. You can also find this week’s and past feedback on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Discover the Fascinating World of Fungi: Beyond Sci-Fi Villains

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

New Scientist: Your source for science news, expert journalism, and in-depth features on technology, health, and the environment.

Imagine inhaling fungal spores, then feeling a peculiar sensation—maybe something biting. Suddenly, terror spreads as chaos ensues.

This dire scenario is central to the plot of Refrigerated, a thrilling film following a trio of unlikeliest heroes racing to avert an apocalypse. Their formidable foes? Mutated strains of Cordyceps sinensis—a fungus now infecting warm-blooded animals due to a malevolent twist of solar radiation. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?

Traditionally, Cordyceps sinensis overtakes invertebrates, invading their systems and manipulating their behavior to ensure spore dispersal. Eventually, grotesque growths erupt from the decaying host, releasing spores into the environment, continuing the cycle of horror.

The shift to mammals is alarming yet plausible. This fungal nightmare isn’t new; it inspired works like The Girl with All the Gifts, which unleashed a zombie apocalypse in 2016, and HBO’s The Last of Us, which also utilized bioterrorism as a gripping theme. With a radio drama titled Spore releasing soon, the cultural fascination with this fungus is at an all-time high.

This obsession with Cordyceps sinensis misrepresents the vast fungal kingdom, which includes over 4,500 documented species in the UK National Collection of Pathogenic Fungi, far surpassing the limited narrative of terror.

Fungi boast incredible traits. For instance, Japanese oak mushroom is the largest organism on Earth, spanning approximately 10 square kilometers beneath Oregon’s Malheur National Forest. Fungi are also ancient ecosystem engineers—research indicates they colonized land before modern plants, laying the groundwork for soil. Some species, like the gill-splitting mushroom (Schizophyllum commune), exhibit remarkable sexual flexibility with over 23,000 mating types to increase reproductive success.

From decomposing organic matter to symbiotic relationships with 90% of plants, fungi play crucial roles in sustaining life. They’ve also given humankind antibiotics like penicillin, treatments for various ailments, and even contributed to beloved foods like sourdough and beer.

Despite representing only about 10% of the fungal diversity, these organisms inspire untold narratives for science fiction—from plastic-decomposing fungi to predatory strains with microscopic lassos. How will climate change affect fungal behavior to threaten crops?

Nonetheless, such inspirations remain overlooked, limiting imaginative portrayals. The fixation on Cordyceps sinensis fosters a narrow narrative that oversimplifies the rich tapestry of fungi. I urge writers to broaden their perspectives—this strange kingdom of fungi is ready to inspire and amaze.

Nick Crampton is a researcher at the Natural History Museum in London and a published children’s author.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Are Black Holes in Our Galaxy Composed of Dark Matter? Exploring the Connection

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Polarized Image of Sagittarius A*

Credit: EHT Collaboration

At the galactic center lies the enigmatic supermassive black hole, Sagittarius A*. Some researchers propose that this may not be a black hole at all, but rather clusters of dark matter.

Dark matter, which comprises about 85% of the universe’s matter, does not interact with light or normal matter outside of gravitational forces. Despite its significance, our understanding of dark matter is limited. As Valentina Crespi from the National University of La Plata (UNLP) notes, “While we know dark matter exists at the galaxy’s edge, the core remains a mystery.”

Crespi and her team developed a model of a galactic nucleus made of dark matter consisting of light particles called fermions. Their findings suggest that fermion dark matter can clump in ways that resemble supermassive black holes from afar.

“From Earth, this scenario appears akin to what one would expect from a black hole; however, a spacecraft could pass through without any issues,” explains Carlos Arguelles, part of the UNLP research team. “Even if you were swallowed by a black hole, you wouldn’t perish; you would pass through safely.”

The researchers base their model on the orbit of a star near Sagittarius A* and a small gas cloud, aligning with observations of galaxy rotation and imagery from the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) from 2022. This imaging reveals a glowing ring of superheated matter around Sagittarius A*, potentially influenced by a dark matter core.

However, observation support for the dark matter theory does not confirm its validity. Gaston Gillibet from New York University stresses, “While this simple explanation aligns with the evidence, I still believe the central object is likely a black hole.” He emphasizes the necessity of remaining open to all possibilities in this fascinating debate.

Concerns arise regarding the model’s applicability to observations near the event horizon. Shep Doeleman from Harvard University notes that the distinctive spiral pattern of the magnetic field in this region corresponds closely with black hole characteristics.

Moreover, fermion dark matter’s clumping is limited to about 10 million times the Sun’s mass. Although this could explain the majestic size of supermassive black holes, images of M87*—a black hole substantially larger than Sagittarius A*—complicate this theory as M87* closely resembles Sagittarius A* despite its size of approximately 6.5 billion solar masses.

Researchers admit that both dark matter and black hole theories hold equal plausibility. Crespi notes, “While we have enhanced tools today, confirming the nature of these phenomena is still not foolproof.” Achieving the necessary image resolution for this identification would extend far beyond the capabilities of even the next-generation EHT, indicating that definitive answers may be decades away.

If Sagittarius A* is indeed a manifestation of dark matter, it would profoundly impact our understanding of the universe. Fermion dark matter, which current cosmological models do not predict, could revolutionize not only our comprehension of black holes but also our entire cosmic paradigm.

Explore the Mysteries of the Universe: Cheshire, England

Join leading scientists for a weekend of exploration into the universe’s mysteries, with an engaging program that includes a visit to the iconic Lovell Telescope.

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Exploring Microbes with the Smallest Genomes: Redefining the Boundaries of Life

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Symbiotic Bacteria Inside Insects: A Closer Look

Provided by: Anna Michalik et al.

Recent research reveals that symbiotic bacteria residing within insect cells possess the smallest genomes of any known organism. This groundbreaking discovery challenges the boundaries between organelles like mitochondria and highly simplified microorganisms.

“It’s challenging to define where this highly integrated symbiont ends and the organelle begins,” states Piotr Łukasik from Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Poland. “The line is exceedingly blurred.”

Planthoppers are unique insects that exclusively consume plant sap, relying on an ancient symbiotic relationship with bacteria to enhance their nutrition. Over millions of years, these microbes have adapted to inhabit specialized cells in the planthopper’s abdomen, generating essential nutrients that the insect’s sugary diet alone cannot provide. Many of these bacteria have become dependent on their hosts, having drastically reduced their genetic structures compared to their ancestors.

Łukasik and his team explored the evolution of this relationship and the minimization of bacterial genomes. They sampled 149 insects across 19 planthopper families, extracted DNA from their abdominal tissues, and sequenced this DNA to map the genomes of symbiotic bacteria like Vidania and Sulcia.

These bacterial genomes are notably small, with a total length of under 181,000 base pairs. In contrast, the human genome spans several billion base pairs.

Vidania, with its genome measuring a mere 50,000 base pairs, holds the record for the smallest known form of life. Previously, Nasuia, a symbiotic bacterium from leafhoppers, held this title with just over 100,000 base pairs.

To put this in perspective, Vidania‘s genome size is comparable to non-living viruses, such as the COVID-19 virus, which has a genome of about 30,000 base pairs. Remarkably, Vidania contains only around 60 protein-coding genes, the fewest recorded.

Planthoppers Depend on Symbiotic Bacteria for Nutrients

Provided by: Anna Michalik et al.

These bacteria have co-evolved with their insect hosts for approximately 263 million years and have independently developed very small genomes within two distinct categories of planthoppers. Notably, one of their primary functions is producing the amino acid phenylalanine, crucial for strengthening insect exoskeletons.

Research suggests that significant gene loss may occur when insects consume new food sources rich in nutrients previously supplied by bacteria or when other microbes colonize and assume these roles.

The characteristics of these highly reduced bacteria bear a resemblance to mitochondria and chloroplasts—energy-producing organelles in plants and animals that evolved from ancient bacteria. Symbiotic bacteria, like organelles, live inside host cells and are transmitted across generations.

“‘Organelle’ is a term open to interpretation, and it’s acceptable to classify these entities as organelles,” states Nancy Moran from the University of Texas at Austin, who was not part of the study. “However, the distinctions between them and mitochondria or chloroplasts remain clear.”

Mitochondria, which have a longer evolutionary history of over 1.5 billion years, only contain about 15,000 base pairs in their genomes.

Łukasik posits that these bacteria and mitochondria function along different points on an evolutionary “gradient of dependence” on their hosts, hinting that even smaller symbiont genomes may still be undiscovered.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Revamping BMI Strategies: The Urgent Need for Speed in Health Management

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

In the field of medicine, acting too quickly can lead to catastrophic results. A prime example is the thalidomide scandal associated with morning sickness. Pregnant animals were never tested, reflecting the risks of changing procedures based on insufficient evidence. However, slow responses can also pose dangers, as seen with the reliance on body mass index (BMI).

For years, BMI, a straightforward calculation based on weight and height, has proven inadequate for distinguishing between fat and muscle or accounting for global variations. While it is a quick and cost-effective measure, its prolonged use has misclassified millions, leading to denied fertility treatments and surgeries.

Fortunately, alternative measurements are gaining traction. In a pivotal move last year, The Lancet urged that BMI not be the sole metric for assessing obesity, a recommendation embraced by 75 international medical organizations.

This shift indicates a potential resolution to the medical inertia stemming from insufficient evidence, lack of consensus, and leadership necessary for progress, especially after the errors of the 20th century.

“
We need only look to COVID-19 vaccines to illustrate that rapid, safe, and evidence-based actions can indeed be achieved.
“

The rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines, which saved approximately 14 million lives within their first year, serves as an exemplary model of fast, evidence-based action in healthcare.

This type of proactive response is crucial in various underdeveloped healthcare sectors, including enhanced menopause care, innovative psychiatric treatments, additional male contraception options, and new antibiotics.

While caution is essential, it’s crucial to act swiftly without compromising safety and effectiveness.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Why Spruce Trees Struggle to Predict Solar Eclipses: Understanding Their Confusion

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

New Scientist - Your source for the latest science and technology news, featuring in-depth articles by expert journalists covering developments in science, health, technology, and the environment.

Feedback is New Scientist. This online platform and magazine deliver top-notch science and technology news through expert journalism. To share feedback on topics you believe our readers would find captivating, please email feedback@newscientist.com.

Athlete Nomar

Feedback has been astonished—shocked—to discover that a grove of trees in northern Italy was believed to predict a solar eclipse.

You might wonder, “Are you suggesting that some thought trees could genuinely forecast solar eclipses?” Surprisingly, the answer is yes.

The partial solar eclipse occurred on October 25, 2022. Botanists led by Alessandro Chiorerio had previously inserted electrodes into Norwegian spruce trees to monitor their bioelectrical activity. In a report published in April 2025, they claimed that “Trees anticipated the eclipse and synchronized their bioelectrical behavior hours in advance, with older trees showing greater anticipatory behavior due to initial time asymmetry and increased entropy.”

Ultimately, the errors became apparent. A paper published in Trends in Plant Science on February 6th reported this finding, with insights from journalist Matthew Sparks, who should likely receive recognition for his contributions.

Authors Ariel Nowopransky and Hegyi Isak noted that the drop in sunlight during the eclipse was minimal, ensuring the trees had sufficient light. Moreover, such solar eclipses occur every 18 years or so. The oldest trees in the study, around 70 years old, may not have lived long enough to learn patterns, since solar eclipses trace various paths across the Earth’s surface.

Feedback has examined the original study, but it seems unnecessary to delve deeply to debunk it. The team only wired three trees and five stumps. While sample size isn’t everything, it does matter.

The paper also includes a lengthy section on “Theoretical Analysis of Quantum Field Theory.” Yes, the Q word! “A tree is open, thus dissipative. The system continuously exchanges (releases and receives) matter and energy with the environment in various forms.” Aging of the system and the evolution of time (arrow of time) are discussed, although after the first paragraph’s analysis, it felt like we entered a quantum state where we lost interest.

Interestingly, the electrical activity of the trees was synchronized in the 14 hours leading up to the eclipse. How can we explain this? Novoplansky and Isak suggested, “A total of 664 lightning strikes occurred from October 22 to 25, 2022,” including three strikes within 10 kilometers of the site during the 14 hours prior to the eclipse. Perhaps that’s a factor.

Please Don’t Spill It

Continuing our theme of “People inadvertently sending out amusing press releases,” Feedback received great news about tea.

“Recent scientific research indicates that consuming a daily cup of tea can offer heart-healthy benefits, with growing evidence supporting its effects on cholesterol levels, blood pressure, inflammation, and blood clotting.” As regular tea drinkers, Feedback finds this news uplifting—especially for Mrs. Feedback, whose bloodstream is approximately 70% tea.

Who delivered this news? The Tea Advisory Committee of course. Feedback had not previously heard of them, although their website claims they are “supported by the organization” and receive a restricted educational grant from the UK Tea & Infusions Association, the trade association for the UK tea industry. Their purpose is to “provide the media with unbiased information about the health benefits of black tea.”

The final statement of the press release reads: “Previous research has indicated that the ideal amount is four cups of tea daily, yet only a third (35%) of Brits report drinking three to four cups a day. Our challenge, as tea experts and nutritional scientists, is to ensure the public understands the heart health benefits of tea.” Feedback has more details, but we adore espresso.

Universal and Free

In our ongoing quest to identify exemplary and flawed technical abbreviations, Feedback uncovered a fantastic initiative undertaken by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University.

The concept is straightforward. From Legos to Stickle Bricks, a myriad of construction toys exists. However, they often lack interoperability; with few exceptions, you can’t connect parts from different systems.

Golan Levin and Shawn Sims took it upon themselves to create an open-source 3D printable adapter that allows components from various construction systems to be combined. If you own a 3D printer, you can download the design for free and fabricate your own hybrid toy.

It’s quite impressive. The designers explain their goal to enable “radically hybrid constructive play, creating designs previously deemed impossible, ultimately providing more creative opportunities for children” and to deliver “a public service that corporate interests cannot or will not fulfill.”

Feedback believes this kit deserves wide usage. However, we suspect that the name “Free Universal Construction Kit” might limit its appeal to parents somewhat.

Have a story for Feedback?

You can email your article to Feedback at feedback@newscientist.com. Please include your home address. This week’s feedback and past editions can be found on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Hannah Fry on AI and Forklifts: Exploring Superhuman Capabilities in Technology

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

BBC/Curious Film/Rory Langdon

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly dominating discussions in our daily lives. Since the introduction of ChatGPT in November 2022, we’ve adapted to AI’s influence in various sectors, including banking, healthcare, and smart technology.

In the new three-part BBC documentary AI Confidential, mathematician and broadcaster Hannah Fry delves into the transformative impacts of AI. She highlights some unforeseen challenges that this rapid evolution presents, sharing insights on how AI is reshaping modern mathematics and the global economy.

Beethan Ackerley: This show investigates the effects of AI on our relationships and perceived reality. What insights can you share about this phenomenon?

Hannah Fry: Historically, AI has operated in a flattering capacity. Users would receive excessive praise, but with recent improvements, we’re beginning to see fundamental discrepancies. Just as in meaningful relationships, we often need to face difficult truths, and over-reliance on AI might undermine that experience.

People increasingly depend on AI, sometimes to the point of confusion or emotional detachment in their personal lives. Those who relied on AI’s advice over human interaction faced significant repercussions, with some even losing jobs in the pursuit of profitable AI-driven endeavors.

Has your AI usage changed in light of these observations?

Now, I actively challenge AI to confront my biases and encourage critical thinking without flattery.

If AI cannot provide that, what should it aim to achieve?

It depends on the context. Take AlphaFold, for instance, an AI predicting protein structures demonstrates significant breakthroughs. However, effective AI must connect conceptually with human understanding to facilitate progress.

“
AI can perform superhuman tasks, just like forklifts.
“

Every day, we hear about groundbreaking mathematical problems being resolved by AI. Does this energize you?

Think of mathematics as a vast map, with human mathematicians orbiting specific areas. AI can illuminate unexplored connections, thus exciting the field without overshadowing the core human contribution that drives innovation.

Misconceptions surrounding AI persist. Which one would you most like to clarify?

Many view AI as an omnipotent entity. While it can excel in specific tasks, it’s crucial to understand that AI tools are still limited in scope and certainly not infallible.

Should we entrust AI with sensitive decisions?

No! Just like you wouldn’t give a forklift access to your bank details, we need to view AI as advanced tools rather than sentient beings.

Why the tendency to anthropomorphize AI?

Humans naturally gravitate towards social interactions, making it easy to project human traits onto seemingly intelligent machines.

How can we mitigate the anthropomorphic tendency?

Relying on individuals to resist this urge is unrealistic. Proper design and thoughtful interfaces can significantly reduce the likelihood of users falling into this anthropomorphic mindset.

Can AI address significant social issues like isolation?

While AI might assist lonely individuals in certain contexts, relying on chatbots to solve deep-rooted emotional problems poses risks and limitations.

Looking ahead, how relevant are extreme AI doomsday scenarios?

While it’s vital to consider the potential risks of AI, such scenarios often divert our attention from pressing issues like algorithms making life-altering decisions. Understanding these implications can empower us to establish safety mechanisms effectively.

Will we achieve artificial general intelligence (AGI)?

While there is no consensus on the definition, gradual advancements hint that AGI—where machines match human cognitive abilities—is approaching. Exciting developments in the next 5-10 years could redefine our relationship with technology.

What major changes do you foresee?

I anticipate a transformation in our economic systems based on labor exchange, which may prompt fundamental societal shifts. Emerging breakthroughs in various fields will redefine our understanding of value and work.

What can be done to ensure AI doesn’t displace workers?

Addressing these challenges requires a reevaluation of our economic principles, particularly the tax framework based on income instead of assets.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How Ancient Peruvian Civilization Gained Power Through Guano Harvesting

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Valued for Centuries: Peruvian Pelican and Booby Droppings

Biljana Aljinovic/Alamy

Peruvian seabird droppings — Valued for Centuries: Peruvian Pelican and Booby Droppings

Biljana Aljinovic/Alamy

A potent fertilizer derived from seabird droppings likely played a crucial role in the rise of Peru’s agricultural kingdom 900 years ago, contributing to its eventual conquest by the Incas.

Recent chemical analysis of ancient corn cobs from southern Peru revealed elevated nitrogen isotope levels, indicating the maize was fertilized with a nutrient-rich blend of seabird excrement, feathers, and organic matter known as guano. This discovery represents the strongest evidence yet that indigenous Chincha farmers and traders sourced this exceptional fertilizer from nearby islands to enhance their crop yields and elevate their socio-economic status, according to Jacob Bongers at the University of Sydney.

“Access to vital resources can pave the way to power; here, the Chincha kingdom had the upper hand, while the Incas did not,” he states. “Social change may have originated from an unexpected source: bird droppings. It’s quite the intriguing narrative.”

Between 1000 and 1400 AD, the affluent and populous Kingdom of Chincha dominated one of Peru’s most fertile coastal valleys until its eventual incorporation into the Inca Empire in the 15th century.

The Chincha Valley lies just 25 kilometers from the Chincha Islands, home to large colonies of Peruvian pelicans (Pelecanus sagus), Peruvian boobies (Sula variegata), and Guanaius (leucocarbo bougainvilli), as well as penguins and gulls. These islands are known as guano islands. Bird droppings became renowned globally in the 19th century for their remarkable nutritional properties, primarily due to their high nitrogen content.

The use of guano by the Incas is well documented in early colonial records, which describe stringent state regulations governing the islands and substantial penalties for harming seabirds. However, until now, researchers lacked solid archaeological proof that the ancestors of the Chincha were already exploiting this valuable resource. Historians have long suggested that seabird fertilizers significantly bolstered the kingdom’s economic success, Bongers notes. Images of seabirds depicted on ceremonial artifacts, textiles, pottery, and architectural features further indicate that these birds held special significance for the Chincha people.

Bongers and his team gathered numerous ancient corn cobs (possibly offerings for the deceased) from Chincha tombs, hoping to unlock this mystery.

He collaborated with Emily Milton from the Smithsonian Institution, analyzing 35 corn cobs from 14 cemeteries in the Chincha Valley for their carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios. Together with Bongers, Milton and their colleagues also examined collagen from the bones of 11 ancient seabirds from the region, including pelicans, boobies, cormorants, gulls, and penguins, to establish a local isotope baseline for guano.

The bone analysis showed elevated nitrogen-15 levels typical of seabirds, while many corn cobs displayed even higher nitrogen isotope ratios indicative of guano fertilization.

These findings confirm that the Chincha people were utilizing island resources by at least 1250, says Joe Osborne from Texas A&M University.

Guano may have facilitated the economic expansion of the Chincha kingdom and enhanced its bargaining capacity when later absorbed into the Inca Empire, with broader implications for understanding how marine fertilizers influenced social transformations throughout the Andes, the researchers contend.

“It’s logical that ancient Peruvians harnessed guano as fertilizer,” remarks Dan Sandweiss from the University of Maine, who was not involved in the study. “Traveling to the islands for such a valuable resource would certainly have been worthwhile!”

Chincha guano is exceptionally valuable, possibly because its limited rainfall allows the nitrogen to remain largely intact. “This Peruvian guano was indeed a treasure,” he adds.

Explore Machu Picchu: The Science of the Incas in Peru

Dive into the pivotal ruins of the Inca civilization with two visits to Machu Picchu, and uncover the rich narrative that extends beyond a single site.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Impending Major Earthquakes: A Guide to Nepal and Northern India’s Seismic Risks

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Core Samples from Nepal’s Lake Reveal Random Patterns of Historical Earthquakes

Zakaria Ghazoui-Schaus, BAS

While some experts argue that northern India and western Nepal are overdue for significant earthquakes, recent studies indicate this notion may be a myth. Historical data reveals small earthquakes have occurred randomly in the region for thousands of years.

Frequently, officials and media label densely populated fault-adjacent areas, such as Istanbul, Seattle, and Tokyo, as being “overdue” for a major earthquake. The last significant earthquake on the central Himalayan fault segment in India and Nepal was recorded in 1505. Some researchers suggest that earthquakes in the area occur approximately every 500 years, indicating that a major quake could be on the horizon, as highlighted in a study.

However, new findings reveal at least 50 earthquakes of magnitude 6.5 or higher have transpired in this region over the past 6,000 years, including 8 since 1505, according to this research. Notably, these earthquakes did not exhibit regular patterns, occurring randomly instead.

“It is essential to shift our focus from debating the periodicity of earthquakes in the Himalayas to acknowledging that they occur randomly, and assess the risks accordingly,” emphasizes Zakaria Ghazoui-Schaus of the British Antarctic Survey, who participated in the research.

The relentless collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates forming the Himalayas contributes to one of Earth’s largest seismic zones. This extensive 2,400-kilometer fault has generated powerful earthquakes, including the catastrophic 7.8 magnitude earthquake in 2015 that tragically claimed nearly 9,000 lives in and around Kathmandu.

Despite this, limited evidence of seismic activity has been found in the central fault section just west of Kathmandu, sparking concerns that pressure in this “seismic gap” could lead to a devastating magnitude 8 or 9 earthquake.

Ghazoui-Schaus suggests that this perception stems from a “knowledge gap” rather than tectonic inactivity. Traditional methods for locating earthquake evidence in the Himalayas often involve digging trenches to find surface cracks, which might detect major quakes but overlook smaller “shadow earthquakes” that did not cause surface damage.

Former British Geological Survey seismologist Roger Masson states, “Traditional paleoseismology only yields sparse records of the largest earthquakes, while historical catalogs generally suffice for earthquakes up to magnitude 4.” This bias leads to inflated estimates of long “occurrence intervals,” or “recurrence periods,” which represent the average time between earthquakes of a certain magnitude in an area.

To enhance the seismic record of the central Himalayas, Ghazoui-Schaus and his team visited Rara Lake in western Nepal in 2013, collecting a 4-meter sediment core using a rubber boat.

Research Team Prepares Equipment for Sediment Core Sampling at Rara Lake in Nepal

Zakaria Ghazoui-Schaus, BAS

The researchers analyzed sediment cores containing turbidites—layers that finely layer sediment on coarser sediments deposited on the lake bed by underwater landslides caused by earthquakes. Their analysis identified 50 earthquakes of magnitude 6.5 or greater over the past 6,000 years, each dated according to its core depth, likely releasing energy that alleviated fault tension, says Ghazoui-Schaus.

Statistical evaluations indicated that while earthquakes often occur in swarms, these swarms are random. This finding aligns with seismologists’ expectations based on contemporary records, marking one of the first confirmations through paleoseismological evidence.

If I were constructing a house in western Nepal, I would certainly prioritize building it more robustly,” notes Ghazoui-Schaus. Masson adds that despite the random occurrence of earthquakes, calculating the average interval between them remains valuable for anticipating seismic activity that could threaten vulnerable structures like bridges and dams.

“When planning for the next century, it’s crucial to estimate how many earthquakes of specific magnitudes may occur. Being prepared ensures we can withstand quakes whenever they strike, regardless of whether it’s next year or a decade from now,” he states succinctly.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Royal Navy Revives Wind Power with Innovative Robotic Sailboat Trials

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Oshen’s Robotic Sailboats Powered by Wind and Sun

Credit: Oshen

The Royal Navy of Britain is embracing its sailing heritage with an innovative fleet of small, wind-powered robots.

The vessel, named C-Star, was developed by Ocean Ltd. in Plymouth, England. Measuring only 1.2 meters in length and weighing approximately 40 kilograms, C-Star utilizes solar panels to power its navigation, communication, and sensors, while its sails enable propulsion. These small vessels operate in clusters, forming an extensive sensor network.

“C-Star can be described as a self-deploying, position-maintaining offshore buoy,” stated Anahita Laverack, CEO of Ocean.

Each C-Star can cover around 80 miles daily at a speed of approximately 2 knots or remain stationary using the wind for propulsion. “In CCTV networks, speed isn’t a priority,” Laverack explained. “The goal is to position the sensors where they are most needed.”

In a recent test announcement, a larger robotic ship will deploy three C-Stars into designated areas. Once in position, C-Star will transmit acoustic signals from an unmanned submarine. In practical applications, numerous C-Stars will likely be utilized.

“With just one C-Star, adversaries could ascertain the general location of the submarine you’re communicating with. However, deploying 100 makes the submarine’s exact position unpredictable,” Laverack noted.

These unmanned vessels have the capacity to remain at sea for over six months, enduring even extreme maritime conditions. Last year, C-Stars set a precedent as the first unmanned vessel to provide live data from within a Category 5 hurricane, as part of a research initiative with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

If the Navy’s demonstration is successful, these robotic sailing ships could take on diverse roles. Their functions may include communication with submarines, gathering intelligence from undersea sensors, and establishing patrol lines to detect ships, approaching missiles, and drones attempting to elude radar detection.

C-Star is also envisioned as an ideal solution for submarine detection, offering an alternative to disposable sonar-equipped buoys that have a brief operational lifespan. Utilizing hydrophones, these vessels can listen for submarines and capture sonar signals reflecting off external sources such as warships. This would allow C-Star to effectively illuminate the surrounding area for detection.

According to Blair Thornton, a researcher at the University of Southampton, UK, the adoption of solar and wind-powered unmanned vessels has steadily progressed over the past decade, with around 100 such vessels now in operation. He emphasizes that autonomy will be crucial for these fleets.

“The operational cost of the platform is important, but so is the extent of monitoring required for its operation,” Thornton remarked. “Combining long-term durability with efficient performance while minimizing human intervention presents a significant advantage, facilitating the operation of extensive fleets of autonomous systems.”

The forthcoming demonstration aims to illustrate how seamlessly C-Star can integrate with existing naval systems. Should the Navy decide to proceed with an order, Oshen can deliver up to 1,000 boats within a nine-month timeframe.

“The next phase will involve software enhancements aimed at providing more detailed information and facilitating better coverage of larger areas with fewer C-Stars,” Laverack added.

Article Updated on February 12, 2026

Clarified communication details between C-Star and submarine during trials.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How Expanding Gene Editing Technologies Could Cure More Diseases

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing Complex Diagram

Science Photo Library/Alamy

Imagine if postal workers could hand over flyers to volunteers on each block, who would then distribute them to neighbors. This approach could enable biologists to enhance gene editing for various medical conditions, significantly amplifying treatment effects.

The goal is to have each targeted cell replicate the gene editing machinery, subsequently passing it on to adjacent cells. This cascading effect can lead to transformative changes in the DNA of multiple cells, offering a breakthrough in treating genetic disorders.

In studies involving mice, Wayne Go and his team, including CRISPR pioneer Jennifer Doudna, successfully tripled the number of edited liver cells using this innovative method.

“We’re instructing the first cell to produce tiny lipid particles that carry the CRISPR machinery,” Ngo explained. “This transforms the cell into a factory, distributing these vital packets to surrounding cells.”

The first FDA-approved CRISPR treatment for sickle cell disease requires harvesting blood stem cells for editing outside the patient’s body, which makes it prohibitively expensive. However, many ongoing trials aim to develop methods for directly editing cells within the body, making treatments more accessible.

A major hurdle is delivering the CRISPR machinery to a significant portion of specific cells in the body. “To effectively cure sickle cell disease, about 20% of blood stem cells need to be edited,” Ngo noted. “Achieving that threshold has been challenging.”

Even if the initial delivery reaches only 10% of blood stem cells, local amplification could tip the scales to success by increasing that percentage to 30%.

To enable amplification, Ngo targeted proteins that assist in viral budding from cells. These proteins bind to cell membranes, forming small sacs or vesicles that can be transferred to other cells.

By linking the viral proteins to the CRISPR Cas9 editing protein, the Cas9 protein—which guides the gene editing process—can be encapsulated in vesicles and transported to neighboring cells.

In experimental tests, Ngo’s team injected a DNA sequence encoding the Cas9 viral protein into the livers of mice. Although only 4% of cells took up the DNA, they achieved a 12% overall gene edit rate.

Real-world applications of gene editing will utilize alternative delivery methods beyond pressure injection, which served only as proof of concept. “It’s not the most efficient method, but it demonstrates the potential of our system,” Ngo stated. “Tripling the amplification is a promising start, and we are actively exploring ways to refine our delivery systems to treat various diseases.”

This amplified gene editing approach not only enhances efficiency but could also allow for lower dosages, increasing treatment safety.

Researchers have been investigating vesicle budding strategies for many years. Gaetan Bourgeot of the Australian National University noted that Ngo’s team might be the first to validate these strategies in animal models for gene editing. However, Burgio emphasized the need for rigorous controls and validation of their results.

Current self-amplifying mRNA vaccines illustrate similar principles, where the delivered mRNA codes for mechanisms to produce more copies. This tactic aims to make vaccines safer and more cost-effective by reducing the required doses; however, the excess mRNA remains within the cells where it was produced.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How Endurance Brain Cells Impact Your Running Stamina

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Your Limits When Exercising Can Be Mental

Cavan Images/Alamy

Neuroscience Research on Exercise — Your Limits When Exercising Can Be Mental

Cavan Images/Alamy

Recent research has unveiled specific neurons in mice that enhance endurance following exercise, suggesting that similar cells may exist in humans. These findings could pave the way for targeted drugs and treatments to amplify exercise effects.

Traditionally, the understanding has been that brain changes from physical activity differ from those occurring in muscles. However, Nicholas Betley from the University of Pennsylvania contends that these brain changes regulate all physical responses.

To investigate further, Betley and his team observed neuronal activity in mice before, during, and after treadmill sessions, concentrating on neurons located in the ventromedial hypothalamus. Previous research revealed that developmental issues in this area hinder fitness improvements, a finding likely applicable to humans due to the structural consistency across mammals.

Post-exercise, the researchers noted that a specific group of neurons with SF1 receptors exhibited increased activity. These neurons, critical for brain development and metabolism, activated more significantly with each subsequent run. By day 8, approximately 53% of neurons were activated compared to under 32% on day 1. As Betley emphasizes, “Just as your muscles get stronger through exercise, your brain’s activity adapts as well.”

Utilizing optogenetics, which uses light to manipulate neuron activity, the researchers turned off these neurons in another mouse cohort trained on the treadmill five days weekly for three weeks. Observed post-session, neuron inhibition lasted an hour, followed by endurance tests.

The findings showed that these inhibited mice improved their running distances by around 400 meters, compared to control mice whose neuron activity remained unaffected.

While the exact function of these neurons remains ambiguous, team member Morgan Kindel, also at the University of Pennsylvania, indicates their likely role in fuel utilization. During endurance exercises, carbohydrates are depleted faster, necessitating a shift to fat for fuel. However, when these neurons were inhibited, mice utilized carbohydrates earlier, leading to performance limitations. They also discovered that inhibiting these neurons hindered the release of a muscle protein, PGC-1 alpha, which optimizes fuel use, while also facilitating energy replenishment and muscle recovery.

Although optogenetics isn’t applicable to humans due to its invasive nature, Betley suggests potential alternative interventions could be developed to target these neurons. “If we can identify methods, like supplements, to activate these neurons, we could significantly boost endurance,” he states.

In experiments boosting neuron activity instead of suppressing it, the mice exhibited extraordinary endurance, able to run over twice the distance of control subjects.

Such advancements may particularly benefit individuals struggling with exercise, including the elderly or stroke survivors, as noted by Betley.

Nevertheless, several challenges remain. First, the applicability of these findings to humans is not confirmed. There are concerns about potential side effects, highlighted by Thomas Barris at the University of Florida. These neurons seem to regulate cellular energy uptake, and overstimulation might pose risks like dangerously low blood sugar levels.

Even if safely activatable in humans, Betley believes it won’t serve as a stand-alone solution for health. “Exercise fosters a wide array of benefits: reducing depression and anxiety, enhancing cognitive function, improving cardiovascular health, and strengthening muscles,” he notes. However, stimulating these neurons alone won’t unlock all the positive outcomes associated with exercise.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Comparing the Western Infant Microbiome to Global Infant Microbiomes: Key Differences Explained

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Scanning Electron Micrograph of Bifidobacteria – Key Genera Found in Infant Colon

Dr. Gary Gaugler/Science Photo Library

Bifidobacteria bacteria under a scanning electron microscope — Scanning Electron Micrograph of Bifidobacteria – Key Genera Found in Infant Colon

Dr. Gary Gaugler/Science Photo Library

A groundbreaking study has uncovered significant variations in the gut microbiome among infants globally. Notably, Western infants tend to lack specific microbes that are prevalent in infants from other regions. This finding could enhance the development of probiotics tailored for premature babies to help ensure effective colonization with beneficial bacteria.

The first 1,000 days are critical for a child’s microbiome development, impacting immune function, mental health, and long-term disease risk. Historically, our knowledge has been limited to Western populations, but a new global atlas of the infant microbiome is now expanding our understanding.

The research, led by Yang Xiao and researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute in South Cambridgeshire, England, identified Bifidobacterium longum as a key player in establishing a stable gut microbiota.

The study analyzed stool samples from the UK, Sweden, the US, and seven countries in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, including Bangladesh, Pakistan, Kenya, Malawi, Burkina Faso, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.

The focus was on two variants: B. longum longum and B. longum infantis, which have been the subject of most infant gut microbiome research to date. By integrating this data with previously sequenced genomes, the team discovered that about 70% of infants in African and South Asian countries carried B. longum infantis, while less than 2% of infants in the UK, US, and Sweden exhibited the same by two months of age.

“The infantis strain is fundamentally lacking in Western environments,” notes Xiao.

In stark contrast, around one-third of infants in Western countries are colonized by B. longum longum by two months, compared to fewer than 10% in the other regions studied.

This indicates diverse roles of B. longum longum and B. longum infantis in immune system development and protection against infections, which appear to thrive in different geographical environments.

Diet may play a significant role, as Bifidobacterium helps digest nutrients from breast milk, with its composition influenced by maternal diet. “B. longum longum adapts better to Western diets, while B. longum infantis is optimized for other regional diets,” Xiao explains. Other bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium breve, may also contribute to gut colonization.

This research significantly expands our understanding of gut microbiomes, particularly in underrepresented populations. Lindsay Hall at the University of Birmingham, UK, emphasizes the importance of this advancement.

While probiotics are not usually recommended for full-term infants, they can be beneficial for premature ones, as noted in health guidelines. Combining this research’s insights allows for tailored probiotics based on an infant’s region. For instance, B. longum infantis may be advantageous for infants in Africa and Asia but may not persist in Western infants’ guts as effectively. “Understanding bacterial diversity across regions is crucial for identifying the most beneficial probiotics for infants,” Hall concludes.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How Data Centers Use Glass Technology to Store Information for Thousands of Years

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Close-up of glass with Microsoft Flight Simulator Map Data

Microsoft Research

Innovative automated systems for storing vast amounts of data on glass could revolutionize the future of data centers.

In our data-driven world, everything relies on information—from the internet and industrial sensors to scientific data from particle colliders, all of which require secure and efficient storage solutions.

Back in 2014, Professor Peter Kazansky and his team at the University of Southampton demonstrated that lasers could be utilized for encoding hundreds of terabytes of data into nanostructures within glass, resulting in a data storage method anticipated to outlast the universe itself.

While their technique was impractical for industrial applications, Richard Black and his colleagues at Microsoft’s Project Silica have successfully demonstrated a similar glass-based technology. This innovation could pave the way for long-lasting glass data libraries in the near future.

“Glass can endure extreme temperatures, humidity, particulates, and electromagnetic fields,” explains Black. “Moreover, glass boasts a long lifespan and doesn’t need frequent replacement, making it a more sustainable medium. It requires significantly less energy to produce and is easy to recycle once it has served its purpose.”

The research team’s pioneering process starts with a femtosecond laser, which emits light pulses lasting just 100 billionths of a second. This technology etches tiny structures into a thin layer of glass to encode data. To minimize read and write errors, the researchers also incorporate additional bits into the data.

The data is read using a combination of microscope and camera systems, with images processed by a neural network algorithm that converts them back into bits. This entire process is easily reproducible and automated, making it a perfect example of a robotic data facility.

Remarkably, researchers successfully stored 4.8 terabytes of data on a square glass piece measuring 120 millimeters wide and 2 millimeters thick. This is roughly one-third the volume of an iPhone, equivalent to about 37 iPhones’ storage capacity.

Project Silica Glass Writing Instruments

Microsoft Research

Accelerated aging experiments, including heating the glass in a furnace, suggest that the data may remain stable and readable for over 10,000 years at 290°C, even longer at room temperature. Additionally, the researchers tested borosilicate glass, which, while cheaper, only effectively stored less complex data.

Kazansky highlighted Project Silica’s main breakthrough: delivering an end-to-end system scalable to data center size. Although the principles of glass-based data storage have existed for over a decade, this study confirms its feasibility as a technology.

Microsoft isn’t alone in exploring this groundbreaking technology. Kazansky also co-founded S Photonics, focused on preserving the human genome in glass. The Austrian startup Serabite proposes similar storage techniques using ultrathin layers of ceramic and glass.

Nonetheless, challenges persist, such as the cost of integrating the glass library into existing data centers and whether the Project Silica team can enhance glass capacity, potentially up to 360 terabytes as per Kazansky’s findings.

For now, Black identifies the primary potential applications for Project Silica’s technology in national libraries, scientific repositories, cultural records, and anywhere data needs to survive for centuries. Collaborations with companies like Warner Bros. and Global Music Vault are underway to safeguard data currently stored in the cloud for the long term.

Kazansky adds that this technology has even inspired cinematic portrayals. In Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, a protagonist discovers the capacity and security necessary to trap an advanced artificial intelligence. “It’s a rare moment when Hollywood science fiction aligns with peer-reviewed reality,” he remarks.

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Source: www.newscientist.com