The Unusual Microbial Alliance Reveals the Evolution of Complex Life

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Stromatolites are rock-like structures formed by bacteria in shallow water

Lkonya/Shutterstock

SEI 262018132 — Stromatolites are rock-like structures formed by bacteria in shallow water

Lkonya/Shutterstock

Microorganisms in the remote bays of Western Australia are interconnected through tiny tubes, suggesting early stages of complex life evolution.

In Shark Bay, known by the Indigenous name Gathaagudu, microbes create slimy, multi-layered assemblages called microbial mats. This challenging environment, buffeted by tidal shifts and temperature fluctuations, has fostered bacterial communities alongside another single-celled organism known as Archaea, which have thrived here for tens of thousands of years. These microorganisms often coexist symbiotically, forming layered sedimentary structures known as stromatolites.

“The mats develop under hypersaline conditions with elevated UV levels. It withstands cyclones. Despite facing numerous threats, they persist,” comments Brendan Burns from the University of New South Wales in Sydney.

He posits that these contemporary microbial communities may resemble those that existed billions of years ago when complex life first emerged. This evolution might have been driven by a mutual dependence between bacteria and Archaea, leading to the formation of more complex cells known as eukaryotes.

Burns and his team returned some of these microbial mat communities to the lab to cultivate the organisms in high-salinity, low-oxygen conditions.

They successfully cultured only one type of bacterium, stromatodesulfovibrio nilemahensis, and a newly identified archaeon named Nearachaeum marumarumayae, a member of the Asgard Archaea group. These archaeal bacteria, named after the gods’ abode in Norse mythology, are regarded as the closest relatives to the eukaryotic cells that comprise the bodies of animals, plants, and humans.

According to team members, “These organisms seem to directly interact and share nutrients,” states Iain Duggin of the Sydney Institute of Technology. Although there is no direct evidence yet, the complete genomic sequence obtained allows for speculation regarding the metabolic processes of both organisms.

The genomic analysis indicated that bacteria synthesize amino acids and vitamins, while the Archaea produce hydrogen and various compounds, such as acetic and sulfuric acids. Both sets of products are unique, indicating a dependency on each other.

The researchers also observed indications of direct interaction between the two species. “We have observed what we refer to as nanotubes,” notes Duggin. “These microscopic tubes, seemingly produced by bacteria, establish direct connections to the surface of the Asgard cells.”

3D reconstruction based on electron microscope images showing cell membranes of Archaeon (blue) and bacteria (green), with nanotubes (pink) between them

Dr. Matthew D. Johnson, Bindusmita Paul, Durin C. Shepherd et al.

In addition to their interactions, the Archaeon cells generate vesicle chains that resemble SAC-like structures utilized for transporting molecules along extracellular fibers. Duggin notes that these nano-sized vesicles appear to engage with the nanotubes formed by the bacteria.

“While nanotubes may be too slender for conduits, they facilitate a type of multicellular binding that enhances resource sharing,” asserts Duggin.

The researchers identified a protein similar to human muscle proteins, a genomic sequence coding for a previously unknown protein, and a protein consisting of about 5,500 amino acids, which is substantial for ancient species. “While I can’t claim it’s directly connected to human muscle proteins, it suggests that their evolutionary origins may trace back much further,” says team member Kate Mischey from the University of New South Wales.

“What fascinates me most are the direct connections formed by nanotubes between bacteria and archaea,” comments purilópez-garcía from Parisa Clay University, France. “Such interactions have not been documented in prior cultures.”

However, discerning the exact behaviors of bacteria and Archaea is challenging, remarks Buzz Baum from the MRC Institute of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK. “It’s a complex relationship of conflict and cooperation,” he notes. “They interact, share, and sometimes clash, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of each other’s presence.”

Duggin believes the prevalent dynamic is more cooperative than combative. “These organisms coexisted in our culture for over four years, suggesting a level of harmony rather than contention,” he adds.

Burns and his colleagues propose that their findings may reflect an early stage in the evolution of eukaryotic cells within microbial mats. Roland Hatzenpichler at Montana State University aligns with this perspective.

“The study’s outcomes indicate that the newly identified Asgard Archaea engage directly with sulfate-reducing bacteria,” he remarks.

However, Lopez Garcia cautions that these interactions may not date back beyond 2 billion years. “While these archaeal and bacterial forms are modern, the microbial environments they inhabit may provide insights into ancient ecosystems,” he explains.

According to Hatzenpichler, we may be on the verge of better understanding the similarities between recent microorganisms and the cells they collaborate with to form primitive nucleated cells. “We’re now in an advantageous position to uncover deeper truths,” he concludes.

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The Challenges of Creating a Viable Quantum Broadcasting Station

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Can I broadcast quantum information?

Weiquan Lin/Getty Images

Distributing quantum information akin to traditional broadcasting may not be feasible, even with mathematical models designed to work around quantum mechanics’ inherent limitations.

It is a well-established fact that quantum copy machines cannot exist due to the no-cloning theorem, which is a fundamental principle of quantum physics that prevents the duplication of quantum states. However, physicists have explored the possibility of transmitting or broadcasting copies of quantum information to multiple recipients without breaching this law.

To achieve this, researchers must permit the quantum copies to differ slightly and integrate additional information processing steps for the receivers. Recently, Zhenhuan Liu from Tsinghua University in China and his team demonstrated that these methods might be impractically complex.

“There’s no ‘Ctrl+C’ in the quantum realm,” Liu states. “If you aim to send quantum information to several receivers, there are no quick fixes. You must generate sufficient copies and transmit each one individually.”

The researchers honed in on the previously discussed “virtual quantum broadcast” protocol. In this model, information is adjusted so that various states maintain correlations with each other, although not with identical physical replicas. The messages received are not precise duplicates but share enough characteristics to be valuable. This is analogous to a television network broadcasting slightly different episodes of a serialized drama to each household while generally maintaining the narrative flow. While this protocol is certainly functional, team member Xiangjing Liu at the National University of Singapore questioned its efficiency.

The team analyzed the effort required by recipients to ensure that the information they received, despite not being identical, remained useful. Their mathematical assessment indicated that viable quantum broadcasts may not be realistic.

Counterintuitively, even this optimized approach to quantum broadcasting demands more resources compared to methods like drafting individual letters for each recipient, akin to how group texts send messages to everyone simultaneously, according to team member Yunlong Xiao from Singapore’s scientific research institutions.

“If your sole objective is to simply relay quantum states across various locations, it’s questionable whether exploring virtual quantum broadcasts is a viable method,” says Seok Hyun Lee at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology in Korea. He believes this protocol has never been considered a practical guideline for quantum communication but rather an investigation into the fundamental limits of quantum information theory.

Paolo Perinotti from Pavia University in Italy acknowledges the mathematical significance of the team’s efforts but also suggests it is unlikely to provide immediate benefits to quantum technology.

Looking forward, researchers are keen to explore the theoretical implications of this current analysis. It helps us comprehend the correlations permissible when manipulating quantum states, regardless of whether they are distributed over space or transmitted sequentially in time. Xiangjing Liu notes that this work could form the basis of a new framework for understanding quantum processes, emphasizing a clearer distinction between time and space compared to traditional methods.

topic:

Quantum Computing/
Quantum Physics

Source: www.newscientist.com

How the World Works: A Compelling Case for Becoming an Engineer

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Microfluids enable chips such as this to simulate biological organs

Wladimir Bulgar/Science Photo Library

How the World Flows

(Oxford University Press, by Albert Folch, now available)

What do rainbows, inkjet printers, human skin, pregnancy tests, and fish gills have in common?

To explore this, you must delve into what Albert Folch, a bioengineering professor at the University of Washington, terms the “liliptian fluid world.” Here, we encounter the fascinating realm of microfluidics, which manages liquids at a miniature scale—from tiny veins in the human body to microchannels etched into lab chips.

Folch’s new book, How the World Flows: Microfluids from Raindrops to COVID Tests, is an astonishing journey through the numerous ways microfluidics influence our world. He credits his neurobiologist wife in the acknowledgments for encouraging him to write about not just microfluidic chips, which have become crucial in chemistry, biology, and medical research, but also about the “device” of microfluidics found in nature.

This allows the book to paint broader pictures, examining both current technologies and historical examples, from handheld DNA sequencing devices to how the tallest trees draw nutrients from the soil. Folch also explains phenomena like capillarity in paper—enabling writing—and discusses the fundamental mechanics of a candle and the workings of an automobile engine.

Each of the 18 chapters is brief and introductory, starting with a personal story about a historical figure, such as inventors, athletes, and chefs, making the material more relatable.

Physics concepts in How the World Flows, like viscosity, surface tension, and gravity, are presented without complex equations but instead through straightforward explanations rooted in real-world contexts.

At times, I’ve yearned for deeper detail regarding the devices and processes Folch discusses. Additionally, the coverage of recent innovations, including chip-sized devices that replicate entire organs, feels somewhat limited compared to the wealth of historical context.

Nevertheless, as I read, I felt I was absorbing a wealth of knowledge about everyday phenomena. Microfluids have become essential in understanding our bipedalism due to sweat, why lakes don’t drain into the Earth, and how all vertebrates can perceive each other’s calls. There’s even a section on the complex engineering found in a mosquito’s proboscis!

Folch’s writing exudes enthusiasm and warmth, though he occasionally slips into the realm of popular science writing that can obscure the overall tone of the book. For instance, many scientific contributions are intertwined with childhood anecdotes, which can shift from relatable to hagiography.

I also found it remarkable that a book could make microfluidics accessible to those without rigorous educational backgrounds.

Despite this, the strength of How the World Flows lies in its diverse cast of characters and its emphasis on the significance of microfluidics in shaping our world.

Above all, this book has the potential to inspire young readers to consider a future in engineering. It also serves as a reminder of the intricate complexity and wonder of any object under a microscope, fueling our curiosity.

Source: www.newscientist.com

The Earliest High-Speed Radio Burst Illuminates Early Star Formation

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A magnetar, a type of neutron star, can be the source of fast radio bursts

Science Photo Library/Alamy

A peculiar burst of light from the early universe aids astronomers in mapping elusive gases found between galaxies, much like flashlights in dark spaces.

The Fast Radio Burst (FRB) is an extremely brief yet potent burst of radio frequency emissions that has puzzled astronomers since its discovery in 2007. Currently, we know of only a few thousand instances in the universe, leaving much still to be understood about them, especially as most originate from galaxies neighboring the Milky Way.

Now, Manisha Kaleb from the University of Sydney, Australia, along with her research team, has identified a remarkably distant FRB, tracing back to a galaxy that existed merely 3 billion years post-Big Bang.

Kaleb and her collaborators first detected a burst designated 20240304B using the South African Meerkat Radio Telescope in March 2024, corroborating their findings with observations from the James Webb Space Telescope. They determined that the burst originated from a small, faint galaxy that appeared relatively youthful, characterized by rapid star formation.

“This discovery is extraordinarily distant,” stated Jason Hessel from the University of Amsterdam, Netherlands. The FRB 20240304B is from an epoch in the universe’s timeline known as the ‘midday’ of the universe, a period when the rate of new star formation peaks. This hints that during the galaxy’s formative years, this FRB—and possibly others—may have stemmed from a young star that underwent a supernova and collapsed into a magnetar, according to Hessel.

A key reason astronomers focus on FRBs lies in their ability to shine a light on ionized gases and lost electrons from radiation emitted by stars, which constitute most of the universe’s matter. Understanding its distribution is crucial for unraveling how larger structures—such as stars and galaxies—form. However, like the FRB, this gas remains largely invisible unless illuminated by a light source.

“This luminous flash reveals all the ionized material between us and the origin of the flash, allowing us to map both the gas and the magnetic fields amidst the stars and galaxies,” Hessel added.

The discovery of FRB 20240304B implies that the universe’s first stars were actively ionizing their surroundings, which can help establish a timeline of when these stars first ignited, according to Anastasia Fialkov from Cambridge University. The insights gleaned will only enhance with the detection of even more distant FRBs.

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Captured a Single Electron at an Unmatched Speed

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Rapid detection of individual electrons proves challenging

agsandrew/shutterstock

Now, detecting a solitary electron with a resolution of a trillion can be achieved in a mere second. This breakthrough could be crucial for advancing new generations of quantum electronic devices.

While conventional electronic circuits are packed with numerous electrons, their interactions often diminish their efficiency and performance. Is it possible to effectively manage a single electron to create a speedy and efficient circuit that operates with one electron at a time? Masaya Kataoka from the UK’s National Institute of Physics (NPL) and his team have advanced this objective by developing highly precise techniques for electron detection.

They introduced two electrons at different locations within a thin layer of the semiconductor gallium halide arsenide. The charged particles moved rapidly toward each other. When their paths drew near, the force between the electrons caused them to diverge, altering their trajectories. The researchers tracked one of the electrons and leveraged this deflection to identify the other electrons. They managed to detect it within 6 trillion interactions, which is roughly 100 times quicker than previous methods.

“Our experiments can be regarded as electrons acting as the world’s smallest sensors, detecting the world’s smallest object,” remarks Kataoka.

Team member John Fletcher at NPL explains that interactions among electrons can occur over trillion-second intervals. With this timescale now achievable, researchers are beginning to explore what two electrons do within a device and leverage this knowledge to design new electronic innovations.

Vyacheslavs Kashcheyevs from the University of Latvia believes this work could mark a pivotal point in the creation of a new generation of electronic devices reliant on high-speed single electrons. He elaborates that a single electron is inherently a quantum entity, which means future devices may harness their quantum characteristics directly, similar to their current applications in quantum computing and communication.

Researchers envision that a single-electron device could accomplish tasks akin to those performed by quantum devices that utilize a single photon, yet it would be significantly smaller. Such electron-based devices could even be integrated onto chips for convenience, says Christian Flindt from Aalto University in Finland. He emphasizes that this detection method will serve as the foundational building blocks for these potential applications.

The findings are also expected to enhance the understanding of electrical currents. Rolf Haug from Hannover University of Leibniz, Germany, notes that the current standards used for measuring current could be refined by implementing the “electron pump” utilized by the team to inject electrons in their experiments, he states.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Bacteria Enhance the Effectiveness of Cancer-Killing Viruses

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Herpes Virus Assists in Treating Severe Skin Cancer

Science Photo Library/Alamy

The virus exhibits significant promise in treating various cancer types, yet immune responses limit its use primarily to tumors located near the skin’s surface. Current research demonstrates that employing genetically modified bacteria to envelop these viruses may mitigate this issue, effectively slowing the advancement of aggressive tumors in mouse models.

Several treatments utilizing oncolytic viruses have received global approval for targeting cancers of the skin, brain, and head and neck. These methods often involve injecting engineered viruses directly into tumors, which then disperse and destroy cancer cells.

However, targeting deeper tumors necessitates injecting the virus into the bloodstream, where the immune system swiftly eradicates it before it can reach the desired site.

To circumvent this challenge, Zachary Singer and his team at Columbia University, New York, are using genetically modified Salmonella Typhimurium bacteria that do not elicit a strong immune response. These bacteria have been engineered to harbor the genome of Seneca virus A, a virus shown to effectively eliminate human cancer cells in laboratory and animal studies.

“We are adopting a Trojan horse strategy where bacteria conceal the virus [from the immune system],” remarks Singer. These bacteria are designed to infiltrate cancer cells and release copies of the viral genome upon entry.

To test their hypothesis, researchers induced neurotumors on mice’s backs. A week later, they administered the bacteria carrying the virus. This was referred to as a capsid, which entered about half the mouse’s blood. The other group received Seneca virus A without the bacteria.

Within a day, they noted that fluorescent-tagged capsids had concentrated within the tumor, a reaction that typically dampens the immune response. In contrast, capsids remaining in the bloodstream or reaching healthy tissue were swiftly eliminated by the immune system, according to Singer.

On average, tumors in the Seneca virus A-only group reached their maximum size in 11 days, necessitating euthanasia for ethical reasons. Conversely, tumors in the capsid group took 21 days to reach the same size, with no mice experiencing notable side effects.

“The data appears truly remarkable,” states Guy Simpson from the University of Surrey, UK. The findings have shown effectiveness against rapidly growing tumors, particularly those arising from neurons, but he suggests it may be even more beneficial for slower-growing tumors.

In a separate aspect of the experiment, the researchers discovered that the capsid entirely eradicated human lung tumors implanted on mouse backs, yet they did not include controls that received Seneca virus A on its own.

Before human trials, additional studies on mice and non-human primates should assess its efficacy against a broader spectrum of tumors, including pancreatic cancer, which has notoriously low survival rates, advises Simpson.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Brain Activity May Indicate Future Friendships Among Strangers

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Movie nights may have deeper significance

South_agency/Getty Images

Research indicates that individuals are more inclined to forge friendships if their brains react similarly to movie clips, implying that neural responses can forecast relationships.

Humans typically gravitate toward others with similar mindsets, a phenomenon that helps to explain why prior studies have identified neural parallels among friends. However, the question remained whether these similarities emerged because friends experienced similar upbringings or were attracted to those with comparable thought processes.

Carolyn Parkinson and her team at UCLA gathered brain scans from 41 students before they entered a graduate program. During the scan, participants viewed 14 diverse film clips, ranging from documentaries to comedies, covering topics like food, sports, and science. The researchers then assessed neural activity across 214 regions of each participant’s brain.

Two months later, participants completed a survey along with an additional 246 students in the program. The findings showed that those who were closer to Mark in terms of friendship tended to display more similar neural responses than those further removed in the social network, particularly in areas of the left preorbital cortex associated with subjective value processing. This correlation held true even after accounting for personal tastes based on individual enjoyment and interest in the clips.

After two months, the neural similarity between friends remained consistent, suggesting that initial friendships may form based on proximity before evolving into closer relationships over time. This was further supported when the researchers analyzed changes in friendships over the interim. Participants approaching this phase exhibited notable neural similarities compared to those whose activity drifted among 42 brain regions. These connections remained significant even after considering variables such as age, gender, and hometown. “The sociodemographic factors seem to account for some variations observed, at least in terms of measurable factors,” stated Parkinson.

Many of these brain regions are part of networks that facilitate understanding narratives, which may explain the similarity in how individuals perceive the world around them. “Individuals with like-minded thought processes find it easier to connect,” noted Robin Dunbar from Oxford University. “When they communicate, they intuitively grasp what others are thinking because it’s aligned with their own thought patterns.”

Dunbar, who did not participate in the study, expressed that these results resonate with long-held assumptions. “It’s akin to random groups of people unintentionally forming bonds based on compatibility; they are inherently attracted to one another,” he explained. “In essence, close friendships are not merely coincidental; they are composed and cultivated.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

This Small Stone Tool Could Change Our Understanding of Human History

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The recent findings in Sulawesi, Indonesia, have revised the timeline for early human sea crossings, adding complexity to the puzzle of their creators.

Archaeologists have unearthed stone tools at a location in South Sulawesi, called Cario, dating back at least 104 million years. Given that Sulawesi is encircled by swift and deep waters, anyone who created these tools would have had to navigate the open ocean.

“This represents the earliest known evidence of early human presence in Sulawesi,” says Professor Adam Brumm from the Australian Center for Human Evolution Research at Griffith University, which co-directed the research. BBC Science Focus.

“It now seems evident that early hominins managed to cross the Wallace Line, leading to isolated populations on distant islands.”

The Wallace Line serves as a critical biogeographical boundary between mainland Asia and Wallacea Island. “For land mammals that don’t fly, such as those in Sulawesi, crossing from the edge of mainland Asia to the nearest Wallacea island would have been nearly impossible due to the vast distances and swift currents,” Brumm explained.

Earlier discoveries indicated that hominins arrived at nearby Flores Island approximately 102 million years ago, evolving into species like Homo floresiensis (nicknamed “The Hobbit” due to its stature) and Homo luzonensis.

However, as of now, no fossils have been discovered in Sulawesi, leaving the identity of the tool’s maker an enigma.

“We suspect it was an early Asian human species, possibly Homo erectus,” Brumm remarked. “I doubt they used boats for this journey. The colonization of the island likely occurred accidentally as they might have clung to logs or natural vegetation ‘rafts’ that were formed during tsunamis.”

These stone tools, excavated from Cario in Sulawesi, have been dated to over 104 million years ago. The scale bar is 10 mm. – Credit: MW Moore/University of New England

If Homo erectus made it to Sulawesi more than a million years ago, they may have been carving out their own evolutionary niche.

“In Flores and Luzon, fossil discoveries indicate that hominins on these islands underwent evolutionary changes, leading to unique new species that are small and distinct,” noted Brumm. “Though we have yet to find human fossils in Sulawesi, the possibility of similar events occurring on the island cannot be ruled out.”

What’s next for Brumm and the team? “We’re continuing our excavations,” he stated. “Human fossils are incredibly rare, but millions of hominins have existed and perished over the last million years, so there might be preserved remains of these toolmakers out there.”

“We hope to discover a fossil—or two—with persistence (and a bit of luck), as finding one would be an extraordinary breakthrough, perhaps even a game changer.”

Research details will be published in Nature.

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About our experts

Adam Brumm is a professor of archaeology at Griffith University. His work has accumulated over 21 years of funding for research in Indonesia. His published studies include many in Nature, spanning topics from the discovery of new human fossils in Wallacea (the island region between Asia and Australia) to recent insights into human evolution.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Paleontologists Discover New Extinct Species of Forest Wallabies

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists from Australia have unveiled fossilized remains of a new species within the extinct kangaroo genus Docopseud.

Greater Forest Wallaby (Dorcopsis Hageni). Image credit: Melvin Toullec/CC by-sa 4.0.

The newly identified species is part of the tribe Dokopshini, which currently includes six species of New Guinea forest wallabies.

However, this group has a fragmented fossil record that starts in the Australian mainland during the late Miocene epoch.

To date, two additional species of fossil forest wallabies have been described: Dorcopsoides buloloensis from the early Pliocene in southeastern Australia and Docopseudofossil from the late Miocene Alcuta Formation on the continent.

The new species, Dorcopsoides cowpatensis, is smaller than its relatives and exhibits varying combinations of dental characteristics and skeletal conditions.

“New Guinea forest wallabies are not well-known scientifically, and there is limited fundamental information regarding their diet and habitat,” noted Professor Gavin Prideaux of Flinders University.

“The existing forest wallabies are adorable and unique, featuring a slightly melancholic, whippet-like visage.”

“Their robust, curved tails function similarly to those of grey kangaroos, aiding in slow movements, almost acting as a fifth limb.”

The fossil of Dorcopsoides cowpatensis was unearthed at Kaupat Hill in the Alkuta Station of the Northern Territory.

“Forest wallabies likely migrated from Australia to New Guinea around 12 million years ago, disappearing from Australia for reasons still unclear over the past five million years,” remarked Dr. Isaac Kerr of Flinders University.

“During this time, low sea levels regularly connected the islands of New Guinea and mainland Australia, rather than being separated by the currently flooded Torres Straits.”

“Thus, early Australian mammals ventured into New Guinea’s rainforests.”

“However, once the Torres Strait was submerged again, these animal populations became isolated from their Australian counterparts, which did not endure the severe aridity characteristic of most of Australia.”

“Although Dorcopsoides cowpatensis shares many traits with contemporary forest wallabies, it inhabited remarkably different ecosystems.”

“Its environment comprised dry, scrubby bushes surrounded by thick forests, extensive marshes, and ephemeral streams and lakes.”

“These species are believed to have made quick, albeit brief, transitions from dense foliage to more open regions, foraging on leaves, fruits, and fungi.”

Research results were published in Alcheringa, the Australian Journal of Palaeontology.

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Isaac Kerr & Gavin J. Prideaux. New fossil kangaroo species of the genus Docopseud (Macropodina, Macropodinae) from the Onyeba Regional Fauna in the Late Miocene, Central Australia. Alcheringa published online on July 30th, 2025. doi:10.1080/03115518.2025.2521772

Source: www.sci.news

New Research Suggests Caffeine May Decrease Effectiveness of Some Antibiotics

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers from the University of Tübingen and Würzburg have found that components of our everyday diet, including caffeine, can influence bacterial resistance to antibiotics. They observed that E. coli bacteria adjust complex modulation cascades to respond to chemical signals from their immediate environment, potentially impacting the effectiveness of antibiotics.

This diagram illustrates a 3D computer-generated image of a group of E. coli. Image credits: James Archer, CDC.

In a systematic screening, Professor Ana Rita Brochado and her team examined the effects of 94 different substances, including antibiotics, prescription medications, and dietary components, on the expression of critical gene regulators and transport proteins in E. coli bacteria.

Transport proteins function as pores and pumps within bacterial membranes, regulating the movement of substances in and out of cells.

A precisely adjusted balance of these mechanisms is crucial for bacterial survival.

“Our data reveals that certain substances can exert subtle yet systematic influences on gene regulation in bacteria,” explained doctoral student Christoph Vincefeld.

“These findings indicate that even everyday substances, which lack direct antibacterial properties, like caffeinated beverages, can impact specific gene regulators that modulate transport proteins, thereby modifying bacterial import and composition.”

“Caffeine initiates a cascade of events starting with the lob gene regulator, resulting in alterations in several transport proteins in E. coli. This effect reduces the uptake of antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin,” Professor Rita Brochado added.

“Consequently, this diminishes the antibiotic’s effectiveness.”

The researchers characterize this effect as an “antagonistic interaction.”

The diminishing efficacy of certain antibiotics also applies to salmonella enterica, a close relative of E. coli.

This suggests that even similar bacterial species can react differently to identical environmental cues, likely due to variations in transport pathways and how they contribute to antibiotic absorption.

“This foundational study on the effects of commonly consumed substances highlights the significant role of science in addressing and resolving real-world challenges,” stated Professor (Doshisha) Karla Pollmann.

“This research contributes meaningfully to the understanding of what is termed ‘low-level’ antibiotic resistance, which does not result from classical resistance genes but rather through regulation and environmental adaptation.”

“These insights could influence future treatment strategies involving drug or dietary component modifications.”

The results will be published online in PLOS Biology.

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C. Vincefeld et al. 2025. Systematic screens reveal regulatory contributions to chemical cues in E. coli. Plos Biol 23(7): E3003260; doi: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3003260

Source: www.sci.news

A Mysterious Whale Species Roamed Australia’s Waters 25 Million Years Ago

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Small, toothed mammals represent the most unusual of all whales. If they were still around today, they would be as symbolically Australian as kangaroos. A new paper published this week in The Linnaean Society’s Journal of Zoology details a recently identified species named Janjucetus lullardi, derived from a 25 million-year-old specimen unearthed in Victoria, Australia.

Janjucetus lullardi — 25 million years ago, a calf and its mother swam in the shallow waters off the coast of Victoria. Image credit: Ruairidh Duncan.

“Currently, some of the most iconic species of whales, including blue and humpback whales, are whale veil.” I noted, said LeAilid Duncan, a paleontologist from Monash University.

“These marine giants utilize a hairy filter in their mouths called Baleen to sift through plankton.

“In contrast, these mammals had bodies measuring less than 3 meters, with large eyes and short jaws filled with teeth.”

“Despite this description, we know that mammalian whales lacked Baleen.”

“They appeared to be derived from the major evolutionary lines leading to today’s toothless giants.”

All known mammalian species thrived during the late Oligocene epoch, approximately 27 to 23 million years ago.

Interestingly, three of the four identified species were found along the Victoria Surf Coast, southeast of Melbourne.

“The first mammal was uncovered in 1932 and was named in 1939 Mammalian Coraliber,” the paleontologist remarked.

“It featured a blunt jaw bone with a rich supply of blood and nerves for its facial and lip muscles.”

“Notably, the teeth show signs of wear on the gums, indicating they foraged for abrasive prey (along with gritty substances) from the seafloor.”

“In 2006, a local naturalist discovered the first fossil of a species named after him, Janjucetus hunderi.

“This whale had a sturdy triangular snout with sharp teeth and strong muscles to close its powerful jaw.”

“However, the exact differences in the lifestyle of Mammalian Coraliber and Janjucetus hunderi compared to other whales remain largely unclear, hinting at a diverse range of behaviors.”

The fossilized remains of Janjucetus lullardi, dating back 25 million years, were found in 2019 by school principal Ross Dallard along the coast of Yang JUC in Victoria.

“Janjucetus lullardi measured about 2 meters in length. It’s compact enough to fit in a standard single bed,” the researcher noted.

“This may be the first fossilized whale discovered in Australia, and potentially the first fossils of a juvenile whale found in this region.”

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Ruairidh J. Duncan et al. 2025. Insights into the mystiology of immature teeth from the Australian Oligocene and mammals (Cetacea: Mysticeti) morphology, phylogenetics, and ontogeny. The Linnaean Society’s Journal of Zoology 204 (4): ZLAF090; doi: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlaf090

Source: www.sci.news

Scientists Caution Against Invasive Longhorn Mites Linked to Debilitating Aerlicia Infection

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Invasive mites are increasingly spreading to various regions of the country, as rising temperatures can aggravate serious symptoms and facilitate the transmission of lesser-known infections that may occasionally lead to death.

In May, researchers from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station in New Haven made a significant finding: ticks with elongated holes have become carriers of bacteria responsible for Ehrlichia infection. The rise in cases has raised substantial alarm.

“I hesitate to say it’s a brewing storm,” remarked Goudarz Molaei, director of the lab’s mite testing program. “Climate change will ultimately eliminate winters in our region, allowing these mites, among others, to remain active year-round.”

Milder temperatures, which have already resulted in shorter winters, heighten the risk of long-hole mites and other varieties awakening early from hibernation and biting.

The longhorn ticks, originally from East Asia, have now been identified in at least 21 states, including Michigan, where the first sighting was reported at the end of June. Researchers are uncertain how the tick entered the U.S., but it likely arrived via imported livestock or other animals.

Goudarz Molaei, an entomologist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experimental Bureau, discovered Ehrlichia Chaffeensis in longhorned mites. This pathogen can lead to a potentially fatal tick-borne disease known as ehrlichiosis.
Nidhi Sharma / NBC News

In 2017, the first longhorned mites were identified in New Jersey, although the species may have been present in the U.S. as early as 2010.

“These are prevalent research findings,” noted Dana Price, an associate research professor of entomology at Rutgers University.

Modeling indicates that regions from southern Canada down through the U.S. are suitable environments for longhorned mites.

In summary, there are dual threats. As the geographic range of longhorned ticks expands, the duration of their activity and the potential for disease transmission also increase, scientists warn.

Ehrlichiosis is already so common that the affected region is informally labeled the “ehrlichiosis belt,” which stretches north to Connecticut and New York, including parts of Arkansas.

Both the lone star and black-legged ticks have long carried Ehrlichia Chaffeensis. The infection sends about 60% of patients to the hospital and results in mortality in 1 in 100 cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Individuals who contract the infection typically experience fever, chills, muscle pain, headaches, and fatigue within 1-2 weeks post-bite. If left untreated, the infection can lead to serious complications, including brain and nervous system damage, respiratory failure, uncontrolled bleeding, and organ failure.

Since 2000, the number of reported cases of ehrlichiosis has steadily increased, with the CDC documenting 200 cases in 2000 compared to 2,093 in 2019. Research suggests that annual ehrlichiosis cases are likely severely underreported; according to a study from Rutgers University, 99% of cases go undetected.

Researchers are capturing long-horned ticks for testing for Ehrlichia Chaffeensis.
Nidhi Sharma / NBC News

This month, the CDC reported that emergency room visits related to tick bites in July were more frequent than in the previous eight Julys. Early in July, officials closed Pleasure Beach, a popular swimming location in Bridgeport, Connecticut, due to the discovery of multiple ticks, including longhorn ticks this summer.

Manisha Jutani, a commissioner for the Connecticut Department of Public Health, stated that as climate change makes the “tick season” more predictable, residents should take precautions such as wearing long pants and inspecting themselves and their pets for ticks after spending time outdoors.

“The reality is that with the changes we see in the climate, outdoor exposure poses infection risks, and we may encounter pathogens more frequently,” Jutani remarked.

While longhorn ticks generally prefer livestock blood over human blood, entomologists note that their unique reproductive biology poses a significant public health threat. Like bees, they can reproduce without a mate, enabling a single female to generate a population of thousands.

Moreover, feeding on the same host can allow them to ingest pathogens carried by other ticks. This co-feeding transmission method is commonplace among many tick species.

Molaei expressed concern over the recent identification of bacteria that cause ehrlichiosis in longhorned ticks, raising alarms about other pathogens that ticks might acquire and transmit to humans. Longhorned and lone star ticks, the original carriers of Ehrlichia, typically feed on similar hosts, like white-tailed deer.

Jennifer Pratt contracted ehrlichiosis in 2011 and underwent several months of antibiotic treatment.
Courtesy Jennifer Pratt

“We share this world with numerous important mites and must learn to coexist with them,” Molaei stated. “The essential factor is to protect yourself.”

The World Health Organization indicates that over 17% of global infectious diseases are spread by vectors carrying viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens among animals. Tick-borne diseases in the U.S. make up 77% of reported vector-borne diseases, with CDC data showing that cases have more than doubled in the last 13 years.

Jennifer Pratt was bitten by a tick during this surge. She contracted ehrlichiosis from a tick bite in North Carolina in the summer of 2011.

When she struggled to lift her 2-year-old son, a nurse friend urged her to seek immediate medical attention, suspecting a tick-borne infection.

After being diagnosed, Pratt was on antibiotics for several months due to her illness. The infection caused her shoulder to lock—a rare but serious complication of tick-borne diseases—forcing her to undergo physical therapy and take three months off work.

Full recovery from the lingering effects of the infection took over a year.

“The best way I could describe it,” she recalled, “was that I felt like death.”

A few years later, as she started to recover, she was also diagnosed with Lyme disease and Babesiosis, both resulting from the same tick bite.

Pratt co-founded a nonprofit advocacy organization, Tick-Borne Conditions United, to raise awareness about the dangers of tick-borne diseases, especially lesser-known infections like ehrlichiosis.

“My mission in life is to help people recognize and confront the realities of tick-borne diseases,” Pratt said. “It’s vital that we raise awareness about this growing threat.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Glacial Melt in Juneau, Alaska Triggers Flooding, Evacuations, and Resident Alarm

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Glacial explosions, which occur when natural ice and sediment dams collapse, sending floods downstream, have emerged as an issue in Europe, Central Asia, and South America.

According to a report in Global, glacial explosion floods have claimed over 12,000 lives worldwide. The majority of these fatalities were concentrated in two events: the Huaraz flood in Peru in 1941 and the 2013 Kedarnath flood in India.

A 2023 survey published in Nature Communications revealed that approximately 90 million people across 30 countries reside in areas with glacial lakes, with around 15 million potentially affected by glacial explosions, particularly in India, China, and Pakistan.

Research conducted in 2023 identified over 120 glacial lakes in Alaska, with 106 having drained since 1985, many situated in remote locations, according to recent findings.

To address this year’s risks, Juneau has installed extensive barriers along the river to prevent widespread flooding in vulnerable areas. The funding for these barriers was partially sourced from Juneau residents living in flood-prone zones.

“We are still evaluating the barriers, but we believe they have significantly reduced property damage compared to the 2024 incident,” stated Nahak McFadden, spokesperson for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

How Do Glacial Explosions Occur?

Glaciers, often referred to as slow-moving rivers of ice, descend the mountains’ slopes. During colder seasons, these ice masses accumulate as snow compresses into ice. In the summer, meltwater either escapes or the glaciers destabilize, leading to ice loss.

Initially, water flowing from the glacier enters rivers and eventually reaches the ocean.

Sometimes, the flow of meltwater is obstructed by glacial ice plugs, causing water to pool and form tunnels beneath the glacier, destabilizing these ice plugs.

“If sufficient water builds behind an ice plug, it can float the ice and move beneath it. The warm water initiates a cycle of positive feedback, thermally eroding the ice,” a researcher noted.

“Once triggered, they can unleash catastrophic flooding that surpasses even the most significant floods caused by rainfall or thaw,” he added.

Glacial explosions typically occur in Alaska during August when the meltwater reaches its peak, though they can happen at any time.

After drainage, glaciers may slowly move downhill, causing ice to crumble and restart the buildup cycle. Capps indicated a pattern where one explosion occurs annually.

Alaska is home to numerous lakes surrounded by glaciers capable of causing explosive floods. However, most of these locations are remote, minimizing risks to communities and infrastructure.

“In such a critical area like Suicide Basin upstream of Juneau, challenges arise primarily due to the infrastructure located downstream,” he pointed out.

Explosions can also occur if water overflows natural dams, known as moraines, composed of rocks and debris.

“Most often, but not exclusively, failures occur in moraine-formed lakes, leading to sediment being washed away,” Capps explained.

What Role Does Climate Change Play?

Globally, glaciers are retreating. While some glaciers may grow during seasons of heavy snowfall and cooler temperatures, many diminish under the sun or during periods of low snowfall. Overall, there’s a longstanding decline in global glacial mass.

The World Glacier Monitoring Service tracks data from 60 “reference” glaciers, each with mass balance assessments spanning over 30 years.

“The declines are significant and consistent globally,” mentioned Pelt, who monitors glacial mass changes in Washington’s North Cascade range. “2023 marked the first year where all 60 glaciers recorded a loss in mass balance concurrently, a trend that continued into 2024.”

Research indicates that glaciers have been thinning since 1985, as they retain less water behind progressively shorter and thinner ice barriers. The occurrence of these explosive events has remained relatively stable over time.

As glaciers recede, some flood-prone areas may cease to function.

“I believe the danger will lessen for residents in Alaska,” Pelt stated. “The glaciers are thinning and retracting, reducing the likelihood of robust ice dams forming.”

However, researchers are wary that glacial dams at higher altitudes and in colder regions might become unstable as global temperatures rise, potentially leading to newly formed lakes and explosion-prone areas.

In Juneau, the barriers successfully held after implementation following last year’s disaster. The Startz family had a minor pond in their yard along with a thin layer of glacial silt on their grass.

Homeowners in flood-risk zones contribute over $600 annually for protective measures.

“If these barriers prove effective, then I’m more than willing to pay that extra fee,” remarked Stars on Tuesday. “We can’t repair a glacier.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Do Trees Harbor Microbiomes? An Obvious Yet Profound Inquiry

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“Each tree on Earth houses a multitude of microorganisms, many of which remain unrecognized by science.”

ShutterStock/Emvat Mosakovskis

A few years back, I enjoyed an enlightening afternoon in an ancient forest near London, discovering the crucial link between aging trees and biodiversity. My guide, Lynn Bodhis, a mycologist from Cardiff University, explained that as trees age over centuries, the inner trunk begins to decompose due to fungal activity. This phenomenon, known as “heart rot,” is a natural aspect of a tree’s life cycle, creating invaluable habitats for various species of insects, birds, and mammals. Unfortunately, as older trees diminish, the heart rot phenomenon is also waning, lacking the necessary old trees to continue its role. Bodhy and her colleagues are dedicated to preserving this essential process by promoting the early aging of younger trees.

While it didn’t strike me at the moment, heart rot is part of the tree microbiome, akin to a diverse mix of bacteria, archaea, fungi, protists, and viruses. The concept of microbiomes wasn’t commonly discussed then, but groundbreaking research published in Nature has revealed that trees possess microbiota as varied and remarkable as our own.

We’ve known for some time that the surfaces of trees (trunks, roots, leaves, etc.) harbor diverse microbiota. However, recent studies indicate that their interiors are similarly diverse. Each tree on our planet contains myriad microorganisms, many of which are unfamiliar to the scientific community.

This discovery is both significant and enlightening. It’s intuitive to consider diversity in trees, given that microbiota thrive in various natural settings, including smaller plants. Yet, this research unveils microbial ecosystems that were previously overlooked, shedding new light on trees—not merely as individual organisms but as holobionts, integral components of Earth’s ecology.

Essentially, like humans, trees are composite entities, consisting of both hosts and their associated microorganisms. If the microbiota of trees proves as vital to their biology as human microbiota are to us, these communities could play a pivotal role in efforts to sustain biodiversity and combat climate change.

The researchers involved in this study examined wood samples from the trunks, branches, and roots of 150 living trees spanning 16 species in forests in northeastern United States. They conducted what is referred to as the Microorganism Census, discovering that the interior wood of trees is teeming with microorganisms, including not just bacteria associated with heart rot but also a variety of other bacteria, fungi, and archaea. Additionally, each tree species is home to its unique microbiota.

If the tree microbiota is essential to biology, it could aid in the fight to preserve biodiversity.

The interior of tree trunks consists of two types of wood: outer sapwood and inner heartwood. The sapwood is alive and primarily responsible for transporting water from the roots to the leaves, while heartwood is non-living and serves mainly structural purposes (which eventually deteriorate due to heart rot). Researchers have established that the microbial communities in these two wood types differ significantly.

While only a limited number of species were sampled, it is plausible that all trees harbor similar microbiota across various wood types. The studied 16 species represent 11 genera, all of which have a global presence.

What roles do these microorganisms fulfill? It’s still largely unknown, but researchers suggest they likely contribute to tree health and the overall health of forests. They are possibly involved in the essential ecosystem services trees provide, such as offering habitats for numerous plants and animals, producing clean water, and acting as carbon sinks. Globally, wood holds approximately 60 years’ worth of current emissions according to studies over the past six decades. Trees could absorb more, helping to cap global warming to less than 2°C above pre-industrial levels, necessitating healthy, expanding forests. A deeper understanding of tree microbiota may facilitate this goal, according to researchers.

This concept of mutualism is gaining traction. While microorganisms are often viewed as adversaries of biodiversity, they are foundational to the world’s ecosystems. As primary agents of organic matter decomposition, they drive vital biogeochemical cycles that supply the biosphere with essential elements like carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur. Moreover, they coexist with most plant species and are integral to what many refer to as Earth’s “life support system.” However, alarming trends suggest that the overall microbiota on Earth is declining.

It’s premature to conclude whether this trend extends to tree microbiota, but now that we are aware of their existence, we must ensure they are conserved.

What I’m reading

I’ll be diving into this as I plan my visit to Romania’s Carpathian Mountains next month.

What I’m watching

It resembles a storybook. I’m a huge fan of Mark Gattis, and his new drama is fantastic.

What I’m working on

For upcoming articles, we’re closely monitoring food intake again, including urine pH measurements.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Is This the Most Memorable Acronym in Science? It Definitely Stinks!

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Feedback is your go-to source for the latest in science and technology news from new scientists. Share your intriguing finds with us at Feedback@newscientist.com for potential inclusion.

And inhaling…

To achieve success in science, having good ideas and conducting effective experiments is beneficial. However, mastering the art of crafting a catchy acronym is essential. If you can distill a description of your project into an acronym, you’ll be onto something great.

That’s how I came up with names like Antarctic Moon, Neutrino Detector Arrays (Amanda), and Telescope Axis Exchange (CoSTAR) in the Modified Optical Space. Unfortunately, some folks resort to manipulating letters to craft the acronyms they desire—leading to humorously awkward titles like the BMJ 2014 paper titled “Title”Search for humor and luxurious acronyms: A completely inappropriate name of a critical clinical trial (science): qualitative and quantitative systematic research.”

A hat tip to Raif Sheeben, Yoel Zimmerman, and their team for a July survey in NPJ Food Science. They developed a “chemical language model for predicting molecular taste,” a machine learning model capable of forecasting the flavor of chemicals based on their molecular structure. Trained on over 15,000 compounds, the researchers successfully categorized tastes into four distinct groups.

Remarkably, this model achieved over 91% accuracy and can assist in flavor creation. Naturally, the team dubbed it a flavour analysis and recognition transformer, or ‘fart’ for short.

Food engineer Andy Clayton flagged this, humorously pointing out that “regardless of its value, one can’t read it without laughing.”

We encourage readers to share their stories about the most ridiculous acronyms and cringe-worthy attempts they’ve encountered in their pursuits.

No surprises here

Feedback called upon readers for “Shit, Sherlock”: an illustration of scientific endeavors that invest extensive time and effort to demonstrate something rather obvious. Your responses have been coming in since.

Maggie Jacobs highlighted an article from Discover about The psychological benefits of loneliness, referencing a 2023 study. This research examined whether individuals reap benefits from maintaining a balance between solitude and social interactions, concluding there was no evidence of an ‘optimal balance.’ It found no negative consequences, especially when people consciously chose to spend time alone. As Maggie aptly states, “When people choose their activities, they tend to be happier.”

For extra context, the study’s authors utilized the outdated term “selective” to suggest individuals are intentionally engaging in activities rather than opting for a more contemporary term like “intentional.”

Meanwhile, Ernest Ager pointed out the obvious title of a The Conversation article: “Can you spot a ‘fake’ accent? It depends on where you’re from.” While it seems straightforward, the findings were even clearer: people from the US, Canada, and Australia are less adept at identifying fake versions of various UK accents than those native to the UK.

Farewell to Tom

We were saddened to hear of Tom Lehrer’s passing on July 26th. He was a brilliant satirical singer-songwriter renowned for his clever takes on mathematics. His song element has undoubtedly become his most recognizable tune. Thanks to countless devoted chemistry educators, Feedback appreciates his satirical take on nuclear warfare in songs like When we go, we all go together and his delightfully dark love songs such as Masochistic Tango.

In 2022, Lehrer made all of his music available under copyright, so you can access it freely at Tomlehrersongs.com. We highly recommend checking out the site for a treasure trove of lesser-known tracks that weren’t part of his popular albums.

For instance, we hadn’t encountered his piece Love Song by a Physical Anthropologist before. It humorously critiques that “every traditional love song that addresses the physical attributes of a beloved individual limits its praise to features like hair, eyes, and lips, whereas physical anthropologists can utilize an extensive array of descriptive adjectives” and hence, “I love you / she is beautiful, she is enchanting / it is traumatic, vascular, riffipilous, laryngeal production / my gal of metriocephaly.”

We were curious to discover, via Opalescentopal on Bluesky, some of the clever antics Lehrer pulled while serving in the US military. Notably, he worked for the NSA, and one of his papers is now publicly available at his discretion, titled “Defeating the gambler with his heartfelt enemies.” It delves into enduring mathematical challenges.

At the conclusion of the 1957 paper, there are six references, one of which is humorously attributed to “Lobachevsky,” relating to analytical and algebraic topology, claiming it discusses a topology of infinitely differentiable Lemanian local Euclidean metrics. [sic] This is actually a joke, referencing Lehrer’s own “Lobachevsky” rather than a legitimate mathematical paper.

This is how people play the long game. A very long game, indeed, Tom.

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You can send your stories to feedback@newscientist.com. Please include your home address. Current and past feedback is also available on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Introverts, Extroverts, and Beyond: Exploring New Personality Types

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

An insightful scientist. Science News and extensive articles from expert journalists focusing on scientific, technological, health, and environmental advances.

Growing up, it was a tradition for my peers to join scouts when they turned 9 or 10. My parents gifted me a scout uniform accompanied by a matching scarf and a leather toggle to secure it at the collar.

We sat in a circle on the ground, each perched on small stools, as our leader spoke to us seriously. After discussing the essence of being a junior scout, he instructed us to pay close attention as he recited the scouting pledge, which we solemnly repeated.

It was the first moment I realized I was different; as I articulated those words, the others appeared captivated by this rite of passage. Yet, unlike them, I felt no emotional connection to the sacred bonds forged with fellow inductees or those who had come before us—just the emptiness of mere words.

Most people find it challenging to envision a state where one doesn’t feel a deep-seated affinity or loyalty to any group. This experience is rare; some consider such psychological tendencies as disorders to be addressed. However, over my 40 years as a clinical psychiatrist, I’ve come to understand that many of my patients (and I) being indifferent to group memberships isn’t necessarily a psychological issue.

Otroverts is a term embraced by individuals who don’t feel bound to merge their identities with others. We all begin life as otroverts until childhood cultural influences solidify our attachments to various identities and groups.

The struggle to identify with a group can lead to social implications in cultures structured around participation. However, being outside these groups can have its advantages: free from implicit rules and influences of belonging, unoften brings originality and emotional autonomy.

By being on the outside, you’re free to think and create unfettered. GroupThink loses its hold, allowing you to discern your thoughts from the collective’s gravitational pull, enabling you to explore ideas without the fear of undermining the group’s notion of what constitutes a “good” idea.

Since you can’t be expelled from a group you aren’t part of, fears of social rejection diminish. There’s no need for external validation or relying on others for emotional support; you don’t feel compelled to prove your worth to anyone.

Our society often blurs the line between connection and belonging. Yet it’s essential to recognize that those who find it challenging to connect may struggle to foster a sense of belonging, but that doesn’t mean they lack connection entirely. In reality, free from the distractions of pop culture, cliques, family disputes, and political factions (all of which relate to otroverts), one can truly bond with those who resonate on a deeper level.

History showcases many independent thinkers who maintain emotional detachment from any group, allowing them to recognize the fanaticism of groupthink long before deviating into it. Orwell is a notable example.

Sadly, it appears that individuals often need to rise from the ashes of destructive group dynamics before they can grasp their rightful path as independent thinkers.

We might learn from the otrovert perspective that while community has its merits, we must remain acutely aware of its darker tribal undercurrents.

Rami Kaminsky is a psychiatrist and author of The Gift of Not Belonging.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

How Aging Can Still Lead to Good Health for Years

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Alistair Berg/Getty Images

One of the more challenging perspectives on aging is the prospect of enduring poor health later in life. A common narrative is that although life expectancy has increased, the health span has not kept pace.

This perspective is shifting towards a new measurement of our later years, emphasizing “essential ability”—how well individuals can engage in the activities they value rather than solely focusing on chronic disease diagnoses. Viewed this way, those born in affluent nations during the 1950s appear poised to experience the longest and healthiest lifespans compared to any previous generation.

Nonetheless, it remains uncertain whether future generations will benefit similarly, as rising rates of obesity, pollution, and increasingly sedentary lifestyles could negate past advantages.

As of 2023, over three-quarters of the US population is living with at least one chronic condition, with more than half of middle-aged adults experiencing two or more. However, when considering health in terms of intrinsic competence, a diagnosis does not necessarily herald the end of well-being, as effective management can allow individuals to maintain their health.

People born in the 1950s in a rich country are set to lead the longest and healthiest life ever

Unfortunately, the narrative of a chronic disease epidemic has been fueled by certain figures, such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who recently reduced funding for research into mRNA vaccine technologies. This funding could critically assist in prolonging lives and mitigating disease impacts.

Nevertheless, there is cause for hope. For instance, GLP-1 medications present a groundbreaking method for managing obesity, and preliminary findings from recent studies indicate promising new avenues for alleviating Alzheimer’s disease.

Such innovations should serve as a reminder to policymakers that if our aim is to extend healthy living, investing in biomedical research is an essential ally, not a detractor.

Source: www.newscientist.com

In 2024, a Record Surge in Hot and Humid Days Recorded

Posted on August 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Shanghai endured prolonged extreme heat and humidity in 2024

Reuters/Nicoco Chan

The planet faced an unprecedented number of perilous hot and humid days in 2024, as climate change heightened global humidity levels to new extremes.

The worldwide average of humid heat days exceeded the 1991-2020 baseline, reaching 35.6 days last year—a rise of over 9.5 days compared to the previous high recorded in 2023. Climate Report 2024 Status as published by the American Weather Society.

During hot and humid weather, cooling becomes challenging as moist air hinders the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating. This makes such conditions exceptionally hazardous for human health. Kate Willett, who contributed to the report at the UK Met Office, states, “Your body starts to really struggle to offload the heat, so it’s really dangerous.”

Meteorologists track “wet bulb temperature” to assess heat and humidity. This involves utilizing a wet cloth on a thermometer bulb to illustrate the cooling effect of evaporation. High humidity diminishes the evaporation’s cooling effect, causing wet bulb temperatures to approach those of dry air.

As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere can retain more moisture, leading to not only stronger rainfall and storms but also heightened humidity levels. Willett notes that 2024 is “exceptionally” humid and ranks just behind 2023 in moisture content.

Certain regions, including the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and East China, have experienced extreme temperatures of 31°C (88°F) over short periods, with wet bulb temperatures surpassing 84°F multiple times, as indicated in the report. At such levels, prolonged exposure is deemed extremely hazardous and potentially fatal to human health.

Historically, scientists have considered a wet bulb temperature of 35°C as the survival threshold, beyond which individuals cannot endure outdoor conditions for more than a few hours without dire consequences. However, recent research published in 2022 suggests that the actual limit may be significantly lower, around 31°C. “Over 30°C is where your body really struggles,” Willett explains.

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Scientists Develop a Second Novel Carbon Molecule

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers have stabilized ring-shaped carbon molecules by adding “bumpers” to protect the atoms.

Harry Anderson

An innovative variety of whole carbon molecules is currently under investigation at standard room temperature. This marks only the second instance of such research since the synthesis of the spherical buckyball 35 years ago. These advancements may lead to the development of materials that offer substantial efficiencies for emerging electronic and quantum technologies.

Carbon molecules composed of circulating rings can display unique chemical characteristics and, similar to buckyballs and carbon nanotubes, can conduct electricity in unexpected ways. Nonetheless, these rings are fragile and often disintegrate before researchers can analyze them.

“Cyclic carbons are fascinating molecules that we’ve been endeavoring to create for quite some time,” said Harry Anderson from Oxford University. Traditionally, it was essential to maintain a sufficient length for studying the molecules, but Anderson and his team have discovered a method to stabilize cyclic carbon at room temperature.

This process involves modifying the cyclic carbon structure. The researchers have achieved this with unprecedented molecular constructs—specifically, rings consisting of 48 carbon atoms known as cyclo[48]Carbon, or c₄₈. They augmented the c₄₈ by incorporating a “bumper” that prevents the 48 atoms from colliding with one another or with additional molecules.

“There are no unnecessary embellishments,” remarked Max Fonderius from Ulm University, Germany. “Simplicity possesses an exquisite elegance.”

A new configuration called Cyclo[48]carbon [4]Catenan remains stable for approximately two days, allowing researchers to investigate c₄₈ for the first time. Interestingly, the molecule’s 48 carbons behaved as if they were arranged in infinite chains, a formation that enables charge transfer between atoms indefinitely.

This remarkable conduction ability suggests that cyclic carbon could be utilized in a variety of next-generation technologies, including transistors, solar cells, semiconductors, and quantum devices. Nonetheless, further inquiry is necessary to validate this potential.

Innovative techniques for stabilizing cyclic carbon may also inspire other scientists to explore exotic carbon molecules. “I believe there is likely a competitive race happening right now,” said von Delius. “Consider this elongated ring as a stepping stone toward the creation of an infinite chain.”

Von Delius further explained that a solitary chain of carbon molecules could prove to be even superior conductors than the rings like C₄₈. “It’s truly remarkable, and it represents the next significant advancement,” he stated.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

AI Capable of Translating Imagined Speech into Spoken Language

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Individuals with paralysis utilizing a brain-computer interface. The text above serves as a prompt, while the text below is decoded in real-time as she envisions speaking the phrase.

Emory BrainGate Team

A person with paralysis can convert their thoughts into speech just by imagining what they want to say.

The brain-computer interface can already interpret the neural activity of a paralyzed individual when attempting to speak physically, but this requires significant effort. Therefore, Benyamin Meschede-Krasa from Stanford University and his team explored a less effort-intensive method.

“We aimed to determine if there was a similar pattern when individuals imagined speaking internally,” he notes. “Our findings suggest this could be a more comfortable method for people with paralysis to use the system to regain their ability to communicate.”

Meschede-Krasa and his colleagues enlisted four participants with severe paralysis due to either amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or brainstem stroke. All had previously had microelectrodes implanted in motor areas linked to speech for research purposes.

Researchers instructed participants to list words and sentences and to visualize themselves saying them. They discovered that the brain activity mirrored that of actual speech; however, the activation signal was typically weaker during the imagined speech.

The team trained AI models to interpret and decode these signals utilizing a vocabulary database containing up to 125,000 words. To uphold the privacy of individuals’ thoughts, the models were programmed to activate only when a specific password, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, was detected with 98% accuracy.

Through various experiments, the researchers found that the models could decode what was intended to be communicated correctly up to 74% of the time when spoken as a single word.

This demonstrates a promising application of the approach, though it is currently less reliable than systems that decode overt speech attempts, according to Frank Willett at Stanford. Ongoing enhancements to both the sensors and AI over the coming years may lead to greater accuracy, he suggests.

Participants reported a strong preference for this system, describing it as faster and less cumbersome compared to traditional speech-attempt based systems, as stated by Meschede-Krasa.

This notion presents an “interesting direction” for future brain-computer interfaces, remarks Maris Cavan Stencel in Utrecht, Netherlands. However, she points out the need for a distinction between genuine speech and the thoughts individuals may not necessarily wish to share. “I have doubts about whether anyone can truly differentiate between these types of mental speech and attempted speech,” she adds.

She further mentions that the mechanism requires activation and deactivation to ascertain if the user intends to articulate their thoughts. “It is crucial to ensure that brain-computer interface-generated communications are conscious expressions individuals wish to convey, rather than internal thoughts they wish to keep private,” she states.

Benjamin Alderson Day from Durham University in the UK argues that there’s no reason to label the system as a mind reader. “It effectively addresses very basic language constructs,” he explains. “Though it may seem alarming if thoughts are confined to single terms like ‘tree’ or ‘bird,’ we are still a long way from capturing the full range of individuals’ thoughts and their most intimate ideas.”

Willett underscores that all brain-computer interfaces are governed by federal regulations, ensuring adherence to the “highest standards of medical ethics.”

Topic:

Artificial Intelligence/
Brain

Source: www.newscientist.com

Ultra-Cold Atoms Defy Entropy and Resist Heating Up

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Some atoms simply refuse to follow entropy

Shutterstock / Mendin

Repeated energization of vast collections of atoms should result in the disruption of their established structures, yet quantum effects appear to resist these changes.

The expected outcome for a physical system is “thermalization,” where everything becomes hot and eventually turns into a puddle of water. Intuitively, one might think that continuously throwing rocks at a sculpture would accelerate this process. Hanns-Christoph Negerl and his team at the University of Innsbruck in Germany conducted experiments that mimic this notion using some of the coldest atoms on Earth, but they observed no heating.

“We anticipated witnessing the opposite,” Negerl shares. The researchers utilized roughly 100,000 cesium atoms, cooling them down to billionths of absolute zero through laser and electromagnetic pulses. At this chilling temperature, atomic behavior becomes entirely quantum. They arranged the atoms in numerous single-layer tubes and employed additional laser pulses to “kick” them repeatedly.

These kicks were intended to provide the atoms with extra energy, which should have resulted in heating and varying speeds. However, team member Yanliang Guo reported that they observed no such changes, regardless of the kick intensity or the adjustments made to the interactions between atoms. The atoms continued to display remarkably similar speeds, behaving as if they were “frozen” within a singular quantum state.

The concept of quantum particles generating heat isn’t new, tracing back to the 1950s. The timing of such occurrences has long been a topic of debate among physicists. Team member Manuele Landini noted that while previous experiments revealed mechanisms for heating atoms, this current investigation may have unveiled novel physics by exploring an alternate range of parameters.

The mathematical framework explaining these phenomena is complex and often contradictory. Adam Ranson from the University of Lille in France commented that calculating whether interacting atoms will heat up is quite challenging, often resulting in researchers simplifying equations to two or three atoms. There exists a theory suggesting that the quantum states of highly interactive atoms can align in a manner that prevents energy absorption, but Ranson believes this picture remains incomplete.

Experiments like those conducted recently act as quantum simulators capable of deeper insights, although Rançon emphasized that further exploration of kick strengths and interactions is still needed.

Robert Connick at Brookhaven National Laboratory in New York has been developing mathematical models relevant to such experiments that project the unusual behavior of atoms. He posits that discovering systems resistant to energy absorption could inspire new developments in quantum technologies, offering a stable quantum state for long-term reliable detection or data storage. “Thermalization poses a significant threat to maintaining quantum effects,” he explains.

Researchers are already planning follow-up experiments to align atoms in thicker tubes, manipulate different tubes, and investigate the possibility of “freezing” their speeds.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

A Newly Discovered Diabetes Subtype in Young People in Sub-Saharan Africa

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Classical type 1 diabetes may not be the most prevalent diabetes subtype in sub-Saharan Africa

Milomei/Aramie

Recent studies suggest that some individuals in sub-Saharan Africa diagnosed with type 1 diabetes may actually have a newly identified, non-autoimmune variant, necessitating a reassessment of current treatment approaches.

Diabetes affects every individual’s ability to produce or utilize insulin, a hormone essential for regulating blood sugar levels. However, the underlying causes differ. In classic type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune reaction destroys insulin-secreting beta cells within the pancreas, aided by “autoantibodies.”

Research led by Jean Claude Nyabou Cut from the University of Exeter reveals that approximately two-thirds of young sub-Saharan Africans diagnosed with type 1 diabetes lack these autoantibodies. This indicates that their insulin shortage might not be immune-related. Additionally, these individuals exhibit a lower predisposition to type 1 diabetes, suggesting an entirely new diabetes variant.

Studies have indicated autoantibodies are less prevalent among sub-Saharan Africans compared to their counterparts in affluent regions such as Europe. The reasons behind this discrepancy remain unclear, primarily due to the scarcity of comprehensive data regarding type 1 diabetes in Africa.

To address this gap, Kat and his colleagues conducted the first multicountry investigation of the condition across sub-Saharan Africa. They assessed three diabetic autoantibodies and the associated genetic factors in 894 Black Africans from Uganda, Cameroon, and South Africa, all of whom were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and receiving insulin treatment.

The findings revealed that 35% of participants possessed autoantibodies, low insulin levels, and an elevated risk of type 1 diabetes. Conversely, the remaining 65% exhibited no autoantibody production, slightly higher insulin levels, and a median genetic risk score that was 18% lower. Despite this, they still experience insulin deficiency and a higher risk of type 1 diabetes compared to non-diabetic individuals. Notably, features typical of type 2 or malnutrition-related diabetes were absent.

Researchers including Silvana Obici from Stony Brook Medicine in New York contend that the predominant form of diabetes in sub-Saharan Africa is fundamentally different from classic type 1 diabetes.

The research team additionally compared their findings with data from over 3,000 participants in the US from the Search for diabetes in youth study. Autoantibody-negative type 1 diabetes was identified in only 15% of Black American participants and 9% of White American participants. Intriguingly, among Black Americans without autoantibodies, the genetic risk for type 1 diabetes was similarly low as that observed in the African cohort. This indicates that among White individuals, autoantibody absence does not equate to a non-autoimmune form of diabetes.

The presence of this new non-autoimmune diabetes subtype among both Black Africans and Black Americans highlights the potential influence of both genetic and environmental factors. Some hypotheses suggest it could be linked to an unidentified gene that induces “beta cell vulnerability,” as noted by Soumya Adhikari from Texas Children’s Health. Other possibilities include chronic infections, childhood malnutrition, environmental toxins disrupting beta cells, or the existence of atypical autoantibodies.

This emerging diabetes subtype may necessitate tailored treatment protocols, emphasizing the need for further research, according to Dana Douberry at the Colorado School of Public Health.

“Currently, insulin remains the primary treatment for this new diabetes subtype due to insulin insufficiency,” Katt acknowledges. However, identifying the fundamental causes of these subtypes is critical for improved management, asserts Daverea.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

In 2024, We Experienced a Record High of Dangerous Hot and Humid Days.

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Shanghai endured extreme heat and humidity for days in 2024

Reuters/Nicoco Chan

SEI 262102987 — Shanghai endured extreme heat and humidity for days in 2024

Reuters/Nicoco Chan

The Earth recorded an unprecedented number of hazardous hot and humid days in 2024, as climate change escalates global humidity to alarming levels.

The worldwide average of humid heat days on land surpassed the 1991-2020 average, reaching 35.6 days last year, an increase of over 9.5 days from the previous record in 2023. Climate Report 2024 Status published by the American Weather Society.

Under hot and humid conditions, it is challenging for individuals to cool down, as moist air diminishes the evaporative cooling impact of sweating. Such weather poses serious risks to human health. Kate Willett from the UK Met Office, who contributed to the report, states, “Your body starts to struggle to shed heat, making it very dangerous.”

Meteorologists measure heat and humidity using “wet bulb temperature.” This is typically done by wrapping a wet cloth around a thermometer bulb, demonstrating the cooling effect of evaporated water. The readings indicate temperatures lower than in a dry bulb, as high humidity limits the cooling effect of evaporation and brings the wet bulb temperature closer to that of dry air.

As the globe heats up, the atmosphere can retain more moisture, leading to increased heavy rainfall, storms, and higher humidity levels. Willett describes 2024 as “exceptionally” humid, second only to 2023 due to higher moisture levels.

Specific regions, including the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and East China, have reached 31°C (88°F) within a short time span, with wet bulb temperatures exceeding 84°F multiple times, according to the report. At these levels, extended exposure outdoors is deemed extremely perilous and potentially lethal.

Traditionally, scientists consider a wet bulb temperature of 35°C the threshold for human survival, as people cannot withstand outdoor conditions for more than a few hours before succumbing. However, research published in 2022 suggests that the actual limit may be lower, around 31°C. “Over 30°C, your body really struggles,” Willett explains.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Why There’s No Consensus on the Implications of Quantum Physics

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

What does interpretation mean in quantum theory?

ShutterStock/Cyber Magic Man

If you were to poll a thousand physicists, you’d find no consensus. This assertion applies to a multitude of subjects, including the nature of the universe, the composition of dark matter, and the quest for perfectly efficient wiring. Recently, the team at Nature raised inquiries that sharply delineated the field’s divisions. They conducted a survey of 1,100 physicists regarding their preferred interpretations of quantum mechanics. The outcome? They exhibited “significant disagreement.”

This does not surprise me. In my reporting, I frequently encounter physicists who interpret the results of quantum experiments in varied ways. They might all analyze the same equation or experimental outcome but arrive at different narratives about reality.

So, how significant is this discord, and what does the quest for interpretation really entail? To begin with, it’s peculiar how things unfold within quantum mechanics, a discipline we’ve explored for over a century amid a plethora of unfortunate tests. There’s no denying the robust success of quantum mechanics, a remarkable framework governing the actions of the extremely small or the extremely cold. This theory not only passes all evaluations with distinction but also leads to technological innovations like transistors that power electronic devices and fiber optics for the internet. “Quantum mechanics is remarkably successful, both theoretically and practically,” asserts Peter Lewis from Dartmouth College in New Hampshire.

However, while physicists can articulate equations and construct devices, if I may put it bluntly, they don’t always agree on what these equations signify. They fail to reach consensus on how quantum mechanics describes the observable realities of our world. Research published in Nature indicates that the Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics discourages contemplation on the nature of quantum entities, prompting physicists to focus merely on calculations. Others endorse the many-worlds interpretation, which necessitates belief in an infinitely expansive universe or a hyper-deterministic theory. Notably, only 24% of physicists expressed complete confidence in their chosen interpretations.

Discrepancies also surfaced regarding fundamental aspects of quantum theory, such as wave functions, the enigmatic link between particles referred to as quantum entanglements, and the iconic double-slit experiment that confirmed all matter possesses hidden wave-like attributes. “Moreover, some scientists, even those in similar camps, exhibit varied understandings of their chosen interpretations,” Elizabeth Gibney highlighted in her analysis of the research.

Lewis observes that this scenario—a blend of extraordinary technical advancement and complete philosophical bewilderment—is unparalleled in the annals of science. Navigating this situation remains a challenge. Some physicists perceive it as a discredit to the field, while others argue it’s a positive aspect of scientific diversity. I found myself wrestling with the term “interpretation” to discern which viewpoint I align with the most. What does this term actually imply, and what criteria make an interpretation viable or competitive? Ultimately, I returned to the source material.

“For me, interpreting quantum mechanics transcends mere physics; it veers into philosophy or perhaps psychology,” noted Jeffrey Harvey from the University of Chicago. I recall his class as being a mathematical challenge, and I vividly remember the excitement of discovering that the waves in the abstract Hilbert space “exist.” However, I struggle to remember any clear arguments surrounding the interpretations of the complex mathematical outcomes we examined. Harvey expresses hesitance in teaching various interpretations, citing competition from established “mental models” over experimentally discernible frameworks. When two interpretations stem from the same equation and yield identical experimental predictions, why favor one over the other? “This reflects an agnostic stance. I’d prefer to keep an open mind rather than feel compelled to choose,” Harvey explained.

Jontae Hans, located at the University of Newcastle in the UK, contends that the term interpretation is often utilized too broadly. Some interpretations effectively extend quantum mechanics by adding or modifying core equations. “The challenge lies in the fact that interpretations are viewed differently, as well as the specific issues faced by quantum mechanics,” Lewis states. The Nature survey revealed respondents’ insights across eight interpretations, some of which augment the foundational quantum mechanics rules, while others simplify them, leaving the question of their necessity open for debate, as seen in the Copenhagen interpretation.

To grasp this distinction, consider the famous Schrödinger equation. This is the equation physicists employ to predict outcomes related to quantum objects. Several interpretations of quantum mechanics (e.g., the many-worlds interpretation) rely on the original Schrödinger equation as it was initially formulated. Conversely, a theory termed “decoherence” seeks to uncover why quantum effects are infrequently observed in our macroscopic world, incorporating additional symbols and numbers into the Schrödinger equation that signify new physical processes. Hans asserts that this technically renders the latter an extension rather than merely an interpretation. In such cases, experimental tests could potentially reveal whether our reality necessitates modification of the Schrödinger equation.

This could provide evidence compelling researchers like Harvey to abandon agnosticism. Hans suggests that a successful extension of quantum mechanics could explain numerous experiments whose predictions are already highly accurate, while also insisting that different interpretations can yield clearly distinct and testable predictions.

At the same time, all three researchers acknowledged that many physicists manage to perform their daily tasks without delving into the complexities of quantum mechanics interpretations. This partly explains why my class with Harvey didn’t cover quantum mechanical interpretations; I was primarily taught how to apply the theory. “I don’t perceive it as a problem in terms of innovation and applications in most areas of quantum mechanics. [Interpretation] is mainly a philosophical concern,” Lewis remarks.

Nonetheless, it doesn’t mean that interpretations lack merit, even when competing interpretations don’t yield differing experimental predictions. “While physicists may find interpretations less integral to physics, they can significantly influence how innovative ideas emerge. In that regard, I believe the diversity of mental models fosters exploration of new concepts arising from quantum mechanics,” says Harvey.

Moreover, even philosophical perspectives hold weight, especially regarding the growth of quantum mechanics. For Lewis, this historically unprecedented divide between utility and meaning in quantum mechanics might offer insights into the limitations of science and the philosophical boundaries regarding what can or cannot be understood. The fact that quantum mechanics, a mathematical model explaining the world exceptionally well, still lacks consensus on its significance is telling.

Hans similarly argues that assigning meaning is a fundamental aspect of physics. When discussing this, they often reference social media posts from people like Elon Musk. While I may not have seen them, I’m struck by the tremendous simplifications in their claims. “For me… it’s all about developing equations; it’s about engineering. While some are inclined to pursue engineering careers, I haven’t followed that path. This doesn’t imply engineers lack curiosity; rather, I feel some tension stemming from existential concerns. It’s a question that has kept physicists awake for centuries, and it will likely persist into the future.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Extraordinary Impact of Nature on Our Brains Uncovered in a New Book

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Spend time in green spaces to enhance working memory and attention.

Luke Hayes/Millennium Images, UK

Nature and the Heart

Mark Berman (Vermillion, UK; S&S/Simon Element, USA)

Mark Berman is on the verge of initiating a transformation, and I consider myself already aligned with his vision. You might have encountered his insights in New Scientist regarding the remarkable advantages of nature walks, the therapeutic impact of plants, and the enchantment of urban greenery.

If this sounds familiar, you may presume that Berman’s Research couldn’t offer anything new. However, you would be mistaken. Nature and the Heart caters to everyone, regardless of prior knowledge. It’s designed not only to inform and entertain but also to motivate action.

This narrative outlines how a once troubled boy forged a groundbreaking field in environmental neuroscience by transitioning from law studies pursued under his mother’s nursing influence and his father’s legal career to engineering as an undergraduate student.

Central to this is a fortuitous encounter between psychologists Steve and Rachel Kaplan from the University of Michigan, who introduced attentional restoration theory (ART). This concept posits that engaging with nature can help regain our focus, and by the time Berman met them as a graduate student, Kaplan had already amassed substantial evidence to support this theory.

Berman’s audacious plan involved quantifying these effects by analyzing people, their environments, and their interactions through methods including brain imaging, behavioral testing, computational neuroscience, and statistical analyses.

In his book, Berman reflects on his initial experimental proposal, met with skepticism from John Jonides, a cognitive neuroscientist at the University of Michigan, who said, “It’s crazy. It won’t work.”

The author champions a revolution to ‘naturize’ our homes, schools, offices, and cities.

Yet, Berman persevered, uncovering astonishing findings. A mere 50-minute walk in a park significantly improved individuals’ working memory and attention by 20%, irrespective of their enjoyment of the experience or the weather conditions. Remarkably, it was unnecessary for them to actually walk.

This improvement is notable, but why is attention restoration necessary? As Berman highlights, attention is a crucial resource for many cognitive and emotional functions, and our attention is often drained by an overstimulating environment. By restoring this resource, nature acts as a superpower, enhancing intelligence, happiness, reducing stress, increasing productivity, and fostering compassion.

Some of Berman’s discoveries are breathtaking. For instance, individuals suffering from clinical depression gained fivefold benefits from a walk in the park compared to participants in the original study. Moreover, having ten additional trees on a block in Toronto increased residents’ perception of well-being by 1%.

His research also leads to delightful and innovative findings. In one study, his team employed the JPEG standard in digital image compression to analyze how the human brain processes information regarding natural landscapes versus urban settings. This research demonstrated that urban and natural images with similar complexity levels taxed the brain differently, with nature being less taxing. They even created an app to provide “repair scores” for nearby walking routes.

Berman’s research addresses significant inquiries. How does nature capture attention? What scene elements encourage recovery? How can architecture leverage these effects? It also tackles intriguing questions, such as the allure of galley-style fonts (inspired by the curves of serif typefaces) and the appeal of Jackson Pollock’s abstract paintings (which reflect fractals).

Above all, he is driven by a desire to effect positive change. His work serves as a call to action, urging the implementation of a “natural revolution.” “We should fundamentally reevaluate the design of all constructed spaces,” he advocates. “The natural revolution necessitates a serious commitment from people on a grand scale.”

Source: www.newscientist.com

Living at High Altitudes Could Help Combat Obesity

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Research reveals obesity rates among children in Colombia’s hilly capital, Bogotá

Guillermo Legaria/Getty Images

A study involving over 4 million children in Colombia suggests that living at high altitudes may help in preventing obesity.

This outcome is consistent with existing research. Higher altitudes are thought to reduce obesity, potentially due to increased energy expenditure at lower oxygen levels. Most studies, however, have focused primarily on adults.

To explore the effect on children, Fernando Lizcano Rosada from Lhasavanna University in Chia, Colombia, along with his team analyzed data concerning 4.16 million children from municipalities up to age 5, sourced from the Colombian Institute of Family Welfare.

The participants were categorized into four groups based on the altitudes where they resided.

In two low-altitude areas, about 80 out of every 10,000 children were classified as obese. In contrast, at altitudes of 3,000 meters or higher since 2001, this rate dropped to 40 per 10,000.

However, at elevations above 3,000 meters, the prevalence rose again, reaching 86 out of 10,000. The researchers caution that this might be a statistical anomaly since it is based on data from only seven municipalities and 11,498 individuals, substantially fewer than the data for the other altitude groups.

“That’s a valid observation,” states David Stencel from Loughborough University, UK. He notes that a dose-response relationship would have strengthened the findings.

Stencel also underscores that the study is observational, meaning it does not definitively prove that high altitudes reduce obesity risk. “The research takes into account various confounding factors,” he explains, including measures of poverty. Yet, he adds, “we cannot account for everything.”

Nevertheless, he sees this research as a promising commencement. “It establishes a relationship that calls for more tailored studies to verify the hypothesis independently.”

Lizcano Rosada posits that metabolism may be heightened at higher altitudes, leading to increased energy expenditure.

This claim is plausible, Stencel agrees. “Some studies indicate that resting metabolic rates may be elevated at high altitudes,” he notes. For instance, a 1984 study found that climbers tended to lose more weight at high altitudes partly because fat from food was burned or expelled before being stored as tissue.

More recent studies suggest that lower oxygen levels may lead to accelerated metabolism and increased levels of leptin, the hormone related to satiety, while levels of ghrelin, often associated with hunger, are reduced.

If it is indeed true that high altitude diminishes obesity risk, Stencel notes that the practical application of this knowledge in combating obesity remains ambiguous. Nonetheless, Lizcano Rosada asserts that personalized advice could be beneficial, acknowledging that diverse environmental factors contribute to obesity across various locales.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Body Fat Levels May Indicate Mortality Risk in Young Adults – Sciworthy

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers have established a connection between being overweight or obese and various illnesses and health issues. Heart disease, some types of cancer, and additional conditions such as mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Beyond specific diseases, obesity is also associated with an increased risk of premature death.

Health organizations in the US and around the world utilize the Body Mass Index, or BMI, to assess whether individuals are overweight or obese. For instance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization both classify overweight as having a BMI over 25 and obesity as a BMI exceeding 30. In simple terms, a person who is 1.8 meters tall (approximately 5’11”) and weighs 90.7 kilograms (about 200 lbs) has a BMI of 28.

While doctors recognize that BMI can serve as a valuable metric in healthcare, some point out its limitations. Athletes with considerable muscle mass may be classified as overweight due to their muscle’s greater weight compared to fat. Additionally, body fat percentages can vary based on ethnicity and gender, suggesting that the standard BMI approach may not accurately reflect every individual’s health.

Recently, researchers from the University of Florida explored whether alternative body composition measurements provide a better prediction of mortality risk in young adults compared to BMI. They analyzed data from the National Health Nutrition Test Survey (NHANES), which was conducted in the US between 1999 and 2004 and connects to an index that indicates if participants had passed away by 2020. The study included data from 4,252 adults aged 20 to 49.

The researchers assessed whether high BMI, elevated body fat percentage, or increased waist circumference were more effective predictors of mortality within 15 years. They defined higher-risk body composition as (1) a BMI over 25, categorizing this as overweight or obese. Causes of mortality they investigated included deaths from any cause, referred to as all causes, heart disease, and cancer.

Findings revealed that body fat percentage is a stronger predictor of mortality in young adults than BMI. Specifically, there was no statistically significant link between overweight or obese BMI and cancer-related or all-cause mortality. In contrast, both high body fat percentage and large waist circumference were significantly related to deaths from all causes and heart disease. However, none of the three body composition measurements were found to be statistically related to cancer mortality.

Researchers acknowledged certain limitations in their study. First, the body fat percentage thresholds they applied were derived from another research and are not universally accepted metrics like BMI. Second, as they focused solely on mortality risk in young adults, BMI could still be a strong mortality predictor in older adults. Lastly, while they observed mortality rates, various diseases and health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, are still linked to higher BMI.

Nevertheless, the research team concluded that BMI may not provide a comprehensive view of body composition, suggesting that other measures, such as body fat percentage, could be more beneficial in healthcare settings. They proposed that future studies should investigate these findings in older populations and explore additional health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Scientists Encourage Use of Hair-Based Toothpaste: Here’s Why.

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

If your teeth are facing damage, innovative toothpastes may soon appear on the market in the coming years. Some of their ingredients may surprise you.

Toothpaste derived from your own hair could offer an effective and eco-friendly method to safeguard and restore damaged tooth enamel during the initial stages of decay, according to new research from King’s College London.

The research team has found that keratin, a protein present in hair, skin, and nails, creates protective layers that emulate the structure and function of natural tooth enamel when interacting with saliva. In their experiments, scientists extracted keratin from animal wool, which is similar to human hair.

The Science Behind the Hair Toothpaste: Explainer (Credit: King’s College London)

Enamel loss and decay are ongoing issues for dental professionals. Factors such as acidic food and drinks, aging, and inadequate oral hygiene contribute to the gradual deterioration of the teeth’s protective layer.

This deterioration can result in tooth sensitivity, discomfort, and, ultimately, tooth loss. “Unlike bone and hair, enamel does not regenerate,” states Dr. Sherif Elshalkawi, Senior Author and Consultant of Prosthetics at King’s College London. “Once lost, it is gone forever.”

While fluoride toothpaste can help slow the process, this groundbreaking keratin-based solution has shown potential to stop it completely.

When combined with naturally occurring minerals in saliva, it forms a dense crystal-like layer that shields teeth, sealing off exposed nerve channels. As these nerves are responsible for sensitivity, this novel treatment not only aids in preventing enamel breakdown but also alleviates current symptoms.

This research has been published in Advanced Healthcare Materials, detailing how scientists extracted keratin from animal wool to form a structured scaffold on the teeth that continues to attract calcium and phosphate ions, ultimately creating a protective enamel-like coat.

This substance can be used daily in regular toothpaste or applied professionally as a gel, similar to nail polish, for targeted restorative treatment. El Sharkawi suggests that this affordable, sustainable method could be available to the public in the next two to three years.

“Keratin presents a revolutionary alternative to existing dental care practices,” comments Sara Gamea, a doctoral researcher at King’s College and lead author of the study.

“It not only draws on biological waste such as hair and skin for a continuous supply but also reduces reliance on conventional plastic resins often used in restorative dentistry, which are harmful and less durable.”

“Keratin also offers a more natural appearance than these alternatives, as it can better match the original tooth color.”

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Top Image: Dr. Sherif Elshalkawi presents the animal wool utilized in this groundbreaking treatment (credit: King’s College London)

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Early Homo and Australian Ropithecus Lived Together in Ethiopia 2.5 Million Years Ago

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recently discovered human fossils from the Ledi-Geraru Research Project in a remote region of Ethiopia indicate an early presence of Homo around 2.78 million years ago and a previously unidentified species, Australian, dating back 2.63 million years.

Forensic facial reconstruction of Australopithecus afarensis. Image credit: Cicero Moraes/CC by-sa 3.0.

The timeline from approximately 3 to 2 million years ago represents crucial phases in human evolution.

This encompasses the genus Homo and Paran Solo Pass, which first appeared in fossil records alongside the ancestors of Australopithecus afarensis, a species that eventually vanished.

“We typically viewed human evolution as a linear trajectory from ape-like ancestors to modern humans. However, Homo sapiens researcher Brian Villmoare from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, states that our understanding must adapt.”

“Humans have diversified into various niches multiple times throughout our history.”

“Our evolutionary tree reflects patterns not unique to us. Similar events occurred across different life forms.”

“This is something we should observe more frequently in the record of human fossils.”

“Nature has explored numerous paths toward humanity, particularly as climates became drier in East Africa, leading to the extinction of more ape-like species.”

Dr. Villmoare and his co-authors uncovered 13 human teeth at the Ledi-Geraru site in Ethiopia.

They determined that while some fossils belong to the genus Homo, others include upper and lower teeth sets from an unnamed species, Australian.

This new species differs from Australopithecus afarensis, which was first identified nearby at Khadar around 2.95 million years ago.

“The coexistence of both species in the same area suggests that human evolution resembles a branching tree rather than a linear progression,” said Dr. Villmoare.

The Ledi-Geraru site is also where paleontologists discovered the earliest jaw of Homo in 2013, dating back 2.8 million years.

“Recent findings of Homo teeth from sediments aged between 2 and 2.8 million years confirm the timeline of our lineage,” stated Dr. Villmoare.

“We know what the earliest teeth and jaws of Homo look like, but our findings extend beyond that.”

“This underscores the critical need for additional fossil discoveries to differentiate between Australian and Homo, and to explore potential overlaps in their fossil records.”

“There has been considerable geological activity in this region,” noted Dr. Christopher Campizzano, a geologist at Arizona State University.

“Numerous volcanic eruptions released ashes containing feldspar crystals, allowing scientists to date them.”

“We can date the eruptions that occurred in the landscape where these fossils were found.”

“These fossils are situated between volcanic deposits, facilitating age determination.”

“We are dating the volcanic ash from eruptions that coincided with the deposition of these fossils.”

“As this new research highlights, this was a pivotal era for human evolution,” said Professor Ramon Arrowsmith from Arizona State University.

“Geology provides critical insights into the age and characteristics of sedimentary layers, including those containing fossils.”

“Whenever an exciting new discovery occurs, paleontologists recognize that further information is essential,” commented Dr. Kay Reid, a paleontologist at Arizona State University.

“We need more fossils, which emphasizes the importance of training individuals to explore and identify new fossil sites.”

“The more fossils we uncover, the better we can understand our distant ancestors and the unique journey of survival that led to our existence.”

The findings are documented in a publication released today in the journal Nature.

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B. Billmoare et al. New discoveries of Australian and Homo from Ledi-Geraru, Ethiopia. Nature, published online August 13, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09390-4

Source: www.sci.news

Can Exoplanets Orbiting TRAPPIST-1 and Other Red Dwarfs Support Life?

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A protective atmosphere, a welcoming sun, and abundant liquid water make Earth a remarkable place. Leveraging the extraordinary capabilities of the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers are on a mission to uncover just how unique and extraordinary our planet truly is. Is it possible for a temperate environment to exist elsewhere, perhaps around a different type of star? The TRAPPIST-1 system offers an intriguing opportunity to explore this question, as it contains seven Earth-sized planets orbiting red dwarf stars—the most common type in the Milky Way.

The artist’s concept depicts TRAPPIST-1d passing in front of a turbulent star, showing the other planets in the background. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/Joseph Olmsted, STSCI.

TRAPPIST-1 is a super cool dwarf star situated 38.8 light-years away in the constellation Aquarius.

These stars are slightly larger than Jupiter, comprising only 8% of our Sun’s mass. They rotate quickly and emit UV energy flares.

TRAPPIST-1 is home to seven transiting planets designated TRAPPIST-1b, c, d, e, f, g, and h.

All these planets are similar in size to Earth and Venus, or marginally smaller, with very brief orbital periods of 1.51, 2.42, 4.04, 6.06, 9.21, 12.35, and 20 days, respectively.

They may all be tidally locked, meaning the same side always faces their star, akin to how the same side of the moon is always turned towards Earth. This results in a permanently night side and a permanently day side for each TRAPPIST-1 planet.

“Ultimately, we aim to discover whether similar environments to those we enjoy on Earth exist elsewhere, and under what conditions they might thrive,” stated Dr. Caroline Piaulett Graeb, an astronomer at the University of Chicago and the Trottia Institute for Planetary Research.

“At this stage, we can exclude TRAPPIST-1d as a potential twin or cousin of Earth, even as Webb enables us to investigate Earth-sized planets for the first time.”

Dr. Piaulet-Ghorayeb and her team utilized Webb’s NIRSpec (near-infrared spectroscopy) instrument to capture the transmission spectra of the TRAPPIST-1d planet.

They found no common molecules typically present in Earth’s atmosphere, such as water, methane, or carbon dioxide.

However, they have outlined several possibilities for the exoplanet that warrant further investigation.

“There are multiple reasons we might not detect an atmosphere around TRAPPIST-1d,” Dr. Piaulet-Ghorayeb mentioned.

“It may have a very thin atmosphere, similar to Mars, which is challenging to identify.”

“Alternatively, thick, high-altitude clouds may obscure certain atmospheric signatures.”

“Or it could be a barren rock with no atmosphere whatsoever.”

In any case, TRAPPIST-1d faces challenges as a planet orbiting a red dwarf star.

TRAPPIST-1, the host star of the system, is known for its volatility and often emits high-energy radiation flares that can strip away the atmosphere of nearby small planets.

Nevertheless, scientists remain eager to search for atmospheric signs on the TRAPPIST-1 planets, as red dwarfs are the most prevalent stars in our galaxy.

If these planets can retain an atmosphere here, it suggests they could potentially do so anywhere, even under the harsh conditions of stellar radiation.

“Webb’s sensitive infrared instruments allow us to probe into the atmospheres of these small, cold planets for the first time,” said Dr. Bjorn Beneke, an astronomer at the Institute for Planetary Research at Montreal University.

“We are using Webb to identify atmospheres on Earth-sized planets and define the thresholds between those that can and cannot sustain an atmosphere.”

Results will be published in Astrophysical Journal.

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Caroline Piaulett Graeb et al. 2025. Restrictive conditions on the potential secondary atmosphere of the temperate rocky exoplanet TRAPPIST-1d. APJ 989, 181; doi:10.3847/1538-4357/ADF207

Source: www.sci.news

Fossilized Teeth Might Belong to a Newly Discovered Species of Early Hominins

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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Model of Australopithecus Hominin

Credit: Cro Magnon/Alamy

In Ethiopia, 13 human teeth have been found within volcanic ash layers dating between 26 to 2.8 million years ago. Researchers indicate that some of these teeth are attributed to the genus Homo, hinting that others may belong to a newly identified human lineage, suggesting a coexistence of both species.

“They shared resources and everything was fine,” says Kay Reed from Arizona State University. “I cannot be certain at this point.”

Previous finds suggested that early members of several Homo species existed in this region about 3 million years ago, including Australopithecus afarensis, the species of the well-known Lucy Fossil.

The emergence of the first representatives of the genus Homo around 2.5 million years ago showcases characteristics increasingly reminiscent of modern human traits. So, what unfolded during that period? To delve into this, Reid and her colleagues have been excavating at Ledi-Geraru, an area rich with volcanic deposits from this pivotal epoch.

In 2013, her team unearthed a chin from a 2.8 million-year-old Homo species, pushing back the timeline for the origin of this genus. Recently, her team identified 13 teeth across three distinct layers of ash.

The oldest and youngest dental specimens (dated 2.79 and 2.59 million years) also belong to the genus Homo, as per the team’s findings. Nevertheless, they postulate that the teeth from the middle layer (dated 2.63 million years) are from Australopithecus. All excavation sites are within a kilometer of one another.

“We anticipated discovering more Homo specimens, yet we also encountered Australopithecus,” Reid remarks.

Molar teeth from Ledi-Geraru, possibly from an unidentified Australopithecus species

Brian Billmore: University of Nevada Las Vegas

Moreover, Australopithecus teeth exhibit distinctive features when compared to A. afarensis and other members of the genus, leading the team to speculate that they may belong to a new species. If this hypothesis holds, it indicates a more intricate and expansive evolutionary tree leading to modern humans than previously assumed.

“This is a significant finding,” states John Hawks from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. However, he cautions against drawing firm conclusions based merely on a handful of teeth.

“When fossils span a timeframe of 200,000 years, as these teeth do, it’s challenging to assert that they coexisted,” remarks Hawks. “That’s a vast period.”

There are also concerns about the identification of distinct species from these teeth. “Many fossils exhibit characteristics that overlap with various species. It’s feasible to categorize smaller samples into distinct groups—some resembling Homo and others more akin to Australopithecus,” Hawks explains.

“The issue remains statistical; the measurements do not indicate that these teeth are substantially different. They fall within the overlapping size ranges of early Australopithecus and early Homo species.”

Neanderthals, Ancient Humans, Cave Art: France

Join New Scientist’s Kate Douglas for an enchanting journey through time, exploring significant Neanderthal and Upper Paleolithic sites in southern France, spanning from Bordeaux to Montpellier.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Small Discs Can Ascend to the Upper Atmosphere Solely Using Solar Energy

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Illustration of a solar-powered levitating disc

Schafer et al. Nature

SEI 261839461 — Illustration of a solar-powered levitating disc

Schafer et al. Nature

A tiny disc, roughly the size of a nail, has the potential to ascend to high altitudes in sunlight while carrying sensors through some of the coldest and thinnest parts of the atmosphere. These swarms, flying higher than commercial aircraft and balloons, could reveal new insights regarding Earth’s evolving weather and climate.

These floating devices harness a phenomenon known as photophoresis. This was initially discovered over 150 years ago when chemist William Crookes invented a radiometer, a device with black and white feathers that spin when they are exposed to sunlight. The wings absorb light and release heat, increasing the momentum of nearby gas molecules. Due to the difference in temperature between the black and white sides of the wings, the black side emits more momentum, allowing the air to flow in one direction with sufficient force to turn the wings.

“We’ve embraced this lesser-known physics to develop applications that could benefit many people, enhancing our understanding of how weather and climate change unfolds over time.” Ben Schafer from Harvard University.

To create the levitating disc, Schafer and his team designed a device that spans 1 cm, composed of two sheets of aluminum oxide filled with microscale holes. When illuminated, the lower sheet, which contains alternating layers of chromium and aluminum oxide, heats up more than the top layer, similar to the black sides of the radiometer blades. This generates a directional airflow that moves upwards instead of sideways.

Under white LED and laser illumination — set to an intensity that mimics about 50% of natural sunlight — this upward force successfully lifted the device. This represents progress over previous solar-powered flyers, which required light intensity significantly brighter than sunlight. However, the tests were conducted under laboratory conditions with air pressure much lower than Earth’s surface pressure.

Fortunately, such low pressure conditions are common at higher altitudes, especially in the Mesosphere, which spans 50-85 km above the Earth. Researchers indicate that increasing the disc’s size to 3 centimeters could enable it to carry a 10-milligram payload to hard-to-reach research areas at altitudes of 75 km. Schafer has co-founded a startup, Rare Feed Technology, aiming to commercialize fleets of these high-flying devices for environmental monitoring and communications.

After sunset, computer modeling indicates that these discs could utilize the heat radiating from Earth’s surface to remain airborne. “If they can stay afloat during the night, that represents a significant advancement instead of simply descending and landing.” Igor Bargatin from the University of Pennsylvania, who is conducting similar research.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

ADHD Medications Lower the Risk of Crimes, Substance Abuse, and Accidents

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

ADHD symptoms can be effectively managed through medication and therapy

Alex Di Stasi/Shutterstock

SEI 261892997 — ADHD symptoms can be effectively managed through medication and therapy

Alex Di Stasi/Shutterstock

A study involving 150,000 participants in Sweden found that individuals using medications to control their symptoms face a diminished risk of suicidal behavior, criminal charges, substance misuse, accidental injuries, and traffic incidents. Prior research supports this, yet the team behind this latest study claims it’s the most substantial evidence available to date.

“This represents the best methodology, akin to a randomized trial,” states Zheng Chang from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden.

When considering medications for ADHD management, the wider impact of avoiding these treatments might not be fully recognized, according to Samuelle Cortese from the University of Southampton, UK. He suggests parents often become preoccupied with immediate academic challenges but should also consider potential long-term outcomes.

“Neglecting ADHD can be risky,” he emphasizes. “Current evidence indicates that treatment lowers these risks.”

Individuals with ADHD frequently struggle with attention and exhibit impulsivity. Randomized controlled trials indicate that medications are effective in handling immediate symptoms.

Such trials involve randomly assigning individuals to either receive treatment or not, regarded as the gold standard in medical research. However, no randomized studies have yet evaluated the broader effects of ADHD medications, forcing researchers to rely on observational studies, which do not definitively prove that medication leads to noted behavioral changes.

Recently, Chang, Cortese, and their team executed a method known as target trial emulation. They utilized Swedish medical and legal records to compare patients who began ADHD medication promptly after diagnosis with those who delayed.

The results indicated that those using ADHD medications were 25% less likely to face criminal charges or experience substance problems. They also recorded a 16% reduction in traffic accident involvement, a 15% lower risk for suicide attempts, and a 4% decrease in accidental injuries.

“Understanding if medication can influence daily life beyond mere symptom alleviation is invaluable,” stated Adam Guastella during an interview with the UK Science Media Centre at the University of Sydney, Australia. “This knowledge will also assist governments and policymakers in recognizing the potential societal benefits of comprehensive care, including mental health and criminal justice outcomes.”

If you need someone to talk to, please reach out: UK Samaritans: 116123 (samaritans.org); US 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 (988lifeline.org). Find more helplines at bit.ly/suicidehelplines for other regions.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

A Jacket That Breaths: Thins Out with Sweat to Prevent Overheating

Posted on August 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The jacket becomes thicker when it dries (left) and thinner when it gets wet (right)

Xiaofeng Jiang/Nanjing Aviation University Astronaut 2023

If you think you’ll be wearing your jacket indefinitely once the sunshine fades, a material that decreases in thickness when you sweat could be a game changer.

Researchers have previously created self-adaptive materials that help cool individuals in high temperatures by emitting excess heat as infrared radiation. However, these materials generally operate in only one direction and are not effective for retaining warmth in cooler environments.

Xiuqiang Li, a Chinese astronaut, along with his team, has crafted a jacket that consists of layers that dry and flatten when wet. This unique property allows the jacket to become thicker in cooler surroundings and thinner in warmer conditions, primarily due to human perspiration. “The amount of sweat produced serves as a timely and straightforward indicator of the body’s actual thermal needs,” notes Li.

The design of the clothing resembles that of standard down jackets but incorporates layers of cellulose derived from bacteria. This is further bolstered with polyester to ensure that the fabric’s outer layer can expand effectively. Li’s team discovered that the cellulose layer does not dry in a predictable manner and remains fixed at a certain angle for up to 12 hours, working effectively after 200 cycles of transitioning from flat to curved.

The team examined how much heat the material emitted while being worn under varying moisture levels. They found it to feel as cool as standard polyester shirts when wet, yet nearly as warm as down jackets when in a similar condition.

These assessments were akin to wearing the material directly against bare skin. “Theoretically, when the material is layered over other clothing items, such as t-shirts, the sweat produced can permeate through these inner layers, potentially triggering a response that causes thinning,” states Xiaofeng Jiang, who is also from Nanjing Aviation University.

With these insights, the team aims to enhance the fibers to ensure they generate enough warmth to be worn without additional layers.

Li believes that scaling up the production of these materials should be feasible, as bacterial cellulose is readily obtainable and cost-effective; however, the team must first confirm that it can withstand the durability expected from conventional clothing.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

mRNA Drugs: A Shield Against Nearly All Viral Infections

Posted on August 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Illustration of a protein complex binding to DNA in the production of vital signaling molecules known as interferons.

Martin McCarthy/Getty Images

Weekly inhaler puffs, similar to those used for asthma, might safeguard you against viral infections that could make winters challenging.

This promising idea stems from encouraging animal studies involving mRNA therapies aimed at activating our natural viral defenses. “We can consider this a universal antiviral agent,” states Dusan Bogunovic from Columbia University in New York.

To fully realize this potential, the development of mRNA technology used in vaccines will be essential, but recent funding cuts in the US for mRNA vaccine initiatives pose a significant concern. “I would be surprised if this doesn’t impact such progress,” Bogunovic mentioned.

Beyond recognizing and neutralizing viruses with antibodies, our bodies have multiple inherent defenses. For instance, upon detecting a viral invasion, cells emit a critical signaling molecule called interferons. This activates around 1000 genes, resulting in the production of various antiviral proteins, each playing distinct protective roles. Some obstruct viral entry into cells and hinder the release of other viral particles.

While not all antiviral proteins are effective against every virus, their strategic combination can yield significant results. “Our innate immune system is remarkably robust,” Bogunovic observes.

Bogunovic points out that the rapid replication of respiratory viruses presents a challenge. However, if the body can proactively prepare these defenses, it could reduce viral replication and ensure that infections remain less severe, even before the immune system fully kicks in.

There were hopes of using interferon as a broad-spectrum antiviral, but the potential for severe side effects warranted caution. Thus, Bogunovic and his team are focusing instead on creating an antiviral agent composed of a select group of 1000 proteins induced by interferons.

They chose 10 specific proteins and introduced them into cells via mRNAs that encode these proteins. The mRNA delivery system allows for temporary protein production within targeted cells, which is critical as preformed proteins are often too large to enter cells in adequate amounts.

Experiments where human cells were infected with a range of viruses, including influenza and Zika, demonstrated that this mRNA cocktail effectively enhanced viral protection. This could provide the necessary head start in the body.

The team subsequently administered these mRNAs to the lungs of Golden Hamsters. The mRNA combination afforded strong protection against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes Covid-19, drastically reducing viral loads in comparison to untreated counterparts. “I thought, ‘This could actually be a universal antiviral,’” Bogunovic says.

Present antiviral medications are typically limited to specific viruses; hence, broad-spectrum treatments are immensely valuable. The breakthrough of antibiotics such as penicillin, which can eliminate a wide array of bacteria, has transformed medical practice.

Moreover, some combinations of proteins activated by interferons may work particularly well against specific viruses, Bogunovic mentions. This same methodology could also help in formulating specialized antiviral agents.

Effectively delivering mRNA to a significant number of vulnerable cells remains crucial. Further advancements are required, as targeting specific cell types with mRNA continues to be challenging.

“This scenario is certainly intriguing and could lead to significant developments, but we are still a distance from implementing practical and adaptable solutions,” states Aris Katzourakis from Oxford University. “This research emphasizes the vast potential of mRNA technology extending beyond vaccines. The current trend of mRNA vaccine funding in the US will likely and regrettably hinder progress in both domains.”

While antibiotic resistance remains a pressing issue, Bogunovic believes it is unlikely that viruses will develop resistance to this type of antiviral approach, given its combination of various interferon-triggered proteins that target multiple phases of the virus’s lifecycle. This combined strategy has already yielded successes in HIV treatments.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Incredible Workouts to Enhance Your Sleep Quality

Posted on August 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Yoga has emerged as the leading practice for enhancing sleep

ShutterStock/Drazen Zigic

After a poor night’s sleep, the last thing I feel like doing is working out, even though I know it could help me rest better. The idea of intense physical activity when I’m sleep-deprived doesn’t seem appealing. However, I was astonished to discover that pushing yourself at the gym may not be the most effective strategy for improving sleep.

A recent review of 22 studies involving over 1,300 adults suffering from insomnia evaluated how seven exercise-related interventions influenced sleep. It was found that gentler activities like yoga and Tai Chi contribute more positively to sleep quality than intense workouts, such as strength training and aerobic exercises.

Yoga (as shown in the image) has been linked with an increase in total sleep time by nearly 2 hours compared to the control group, surpassing the effects of cognitive behavioral therapy. Traditional insomnia treatments boost sleep by merely about an hour, while Tai Chi results in a 52-minute increase. Instead of helping individuals sleep longer, exercising diminished the frequency of awakenings and shortened the duration it took to fall asleep.

I must admit I found these findings surprising. I had thought one reason exercise helps improve sleep is because it tires you out. However, the results suggest this isn’t the case; intense physical activity had minimal impact on sleep.

Then what about those gentle exercises that are major contributors to better sleep? Their effectiveness may lie in their focus on breath control and bodily awareness. Research indicates that mindfulness practices, along with activities like Yoga and Tai Chi, diminish the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, which manages our fight or flight responses. This leads to reduced blood pressure, heart rate, and levels of the stress hormone cortisol, ultimately alleviating depression and anxiety symptoms that can disrupt sleep.

However, these findings don’t suggest that other types of exercise lack value for those with insomnia. In fact, walking and jogging showed the most significant reductions in insomnia severity index scores, which assess sleep quality alongside its effects on mood, attention, and memory. Although walking and jogging didn’t seem to improve sleep duration, the reduced severity scores might indicate that mild aerobic activities assist in mitigating the daytime impacts of insomnia.

I truly appreciate this kind of research. I believe that exercise encompasses more than just pushing your body to its limits. If I’m not physically drained, I can find myself thinking that my workouts don’t matter, but that’s simply not accurate! Interestingly, reducing the intensity seems to have its unique advantages, including enhanced sleep quality. Plus, unrolling my yoga mat feels more manageable after a night of poor sleep than logging miles on the treadmill.

Grace Wade is a health reporter for New Scientist based in the US

These articles are published weekly at NewsCientist.com/Maker

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Discovered the Largest Black Hole in the Universe to Date

Posted on August 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers have been monitoring the largest black holes observed in space thus far.

Through a combination of two distinct measurement techniques, researchers have recently identified that these colossal black holes possess nearly 10,000 times the mass of the ultra-massive black holes at the center of our galaxy.

This colossal black hole is situated five billion light-years from Earth, at the core of the Cosmic Horseshoe, one of the largest known galaxies. This massive galaxy seems to gather all the galaxies in its vicinity, meaning both it and its black hole have reached their ultimate sizes.

The black hole itself weighs an astonishing 36 billion times the mass of our sun.

The discovery is particularly remarkable given that these black holes are inactive, lacking the typical surrounding luminous dusty disc.

Instead, a recent study published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society utilized a combination of two established methods to ascertain the size of this mega black hole.

“The ‘golden’ method generally depends on the kinematics of stars, meaning we measure how the stars move within the galaxy,” noted Carlos Mello in an interview with BBC Science Focus. He is a PhD student at a federal university in Brazil that led the research.

The speed of stars situated at the center of a galaxy correlates closely with the mass of its supermassive black hole. Scientists report that these stars are moving at astonishing velocities, around 400 kilometers (249 miles) per second, indicating an extraordinarily large black hole.

“However, this technique is most efficient for nearby galaxies where telescopes can better resolve the area surrounding the black hole,” Mello explained.

Given that the Cosmic Horseshoe is five billion light-years away, astronomers also employed a second method that utilizes the gravitational lensing effect of galaxies.

The Cosmic Horseshoe is known for the nearly perfect ring of light formed by a gravitational lens that bends light from a background galaxy – Credit: NASA/ESA

Gravitational lenses occur when light from a distant galaxy passes by a massive “lens” object, in this case, the black hole within the Cosmic Horseshoe. The gravity from this “lens” distorts the incoming light much like a magnifying glass, amplifying the light from the background galaxy while altering its appearance.

Astronomers can utilize this distortion to gauge the mass of the lensing object.

“The Cosmic Horseshoe is exceptional because it enables us to leverage both of these powerful methods simultaneously. This gives me greater confidence in the measurements of the black hole and its mass,” Mello remarked.

Both the galaxy and its black hole have achieved immense scales by merging with neighboring galaxies. This is the typical growth process for galaxies over time; ultimately, no surrounding galaxies can merge without reaching significant mass increases.

The Cosmic Horseshoe has reached this advanced stage, existing within a bubble of relatively few bright galaxies nearby.

“This discovery provides a unique insight into the culmination of galaxy and black hole formation,” Mello stated. “By examining this system, we can enhance our understanding of how other galaxies and their ultra-massive black holes evolve over cosmic time.”

About Our Experts

Carlos Mello is a doctoral student at a Federal University in Brazil.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Online Couples May Experience Lower Relationship Satisfaction

Posted on August 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The way couples first connect can influence their relationship quality

Good face/interpretation

A global study involving 50 countries reveals that individuals who meet their partners online report lower relationship satisfaction and less emotional connection compared to those who meet in person initially.

The rise of the internet has transformed relationship dynamics. For instance, while in the mid-20th century, heterosexual couples typically met through mutual friends, by the early 21st century, this trend shifted to online interactions as primary.

To explore how these changes impact relationship quality, Malta Kowal from the University of Wroclaw, Poland, and her team studied 6,646 individuals in heterosexual relationships across all continents except Antarctica.

Participants were asked whether they started their relationship online and to rate their satisfaction levels. Additionally, they were assessed on emotional intimacy (how well they feel understood by their partner), passion, and commitment (including whether they view their relationship as long-term).

Those who met their partners online scored an average of 4.20 out of 5 on the relationship satisfaction scale, whereas those who met offline scored 4.28—indicating a small but statistically significant difference. Online couples reported lower scores in intimacy, passion, and commitment.

According to Kowal, several factors might contribute to this disparity. Research suggests that partners who meet online often have less in common in terms of educational background and ethnicity compared to those who meet in person. Kowal and her collaborators propose that this might lead to differences in their everyday lives and shared values.

Kowal also points out the issue of “Choice Overload.” With dating platforms presenting numerous options, individuals may second-guess their choices, which can ultimately diminish satisfaction.

Moreover, she notes that some people tend to misrepresent themselves in online dating profiles. “You might see someone and think, ‘No way is he two meters tall; he’s more like 170 centimeters,'” Kowal explains. This kind of disparity can negatively impact relationship satisfaction.

Luke Brunning from the University of Leeds in the UK finds this research “fascinating” and “valuable” for future studies, particularly in considering how online dating may redefine relationship approaches or if shifting attitudes toward commitment drive these changes.

He further suggests that the overall difference between couples who meet online and offline is “relatively small.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Limited Advantages of GPT-5 Indicate a Slowdown in AI Advancement

Posted on August 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

GPT-5 is the latest version of OpenAI’s flagship language model

Cheng Xin/Getty Images

OpenAI has recently unveiled GPT-5, their latest AI model, marking another step in AI evolution rather than a dramatic breakthrough. Following the successful rollout of GPT-4, which significantly advanced ChatGPT’s capabilities and influence, the improvements found in GPT-5 seem marginal, indicating that innovative strategies may be needed to achieve further advancements in artificial intelligence.

OpenAI has described GPT-5 as a notable advancement over its predecessor, boasting enhancements in areas such as programming, mathematics, writing, healthcare, and visual comprehension. The company claims a reduction in the incidence of “hallucinations,” instances where AI generates incorrect information as factual. According to their internal metrics, GPT-5 claims to excel in complex and economically significant tasks across various professions, asserting it matches or exceeds expert-level performance.

Notably, however, GPT-5’s results on public benchmarks are less competitive when compared with leading models from other companies, such as Anthropic’s Claude and Google’s Gemini. Although it has improved from GPT-4, the enhancements are subtler than the leap observed between GPT-3 and GPT-4. Numerous users have expressed dissatisfaction with GPT-5’s performance, citing instances where it struggled with straightforward queries, leading to a chorus of disappointment on social media.

“Many were expecting a major breakthrough, but it seems more like an upgrade,” remarked Mirela Rapata from the University of Edinburgh. “There’s a sense of incremental progress.”

OpenAI has disclosed limited details regarding the internal benchmarks for GPT-5’s performance, making it challenging to assess them scientifically, according to Anna Rogers from the University of Copenhagen.

In a pre-release press briefing, Altman emphasized, “It feels like engaging with an expert on any topic, comparable to a PhD-level specialist.” Yet, Rogers pointed out that benchmarks do not substantiate such claims, and the correlation between advanced degrees and intelligence is questionable. “Highly intelligent individuals do not always hold PhDs, nor does a PhD guarantee superior intelligence,” she noted.

The modest advancements in GPT-5 may reflect broader challenges within the AI development community. Once believed to be an inexorable progression, the capabilities of large-scale language models (LLMs) seem to be plateauing, as recent results have not supported the prior assumptions that increased training data and computational power would lead to significant enhancements. As Lapata noted, “Now that everyone has adopted similar approaches, it’s evident that we’re following a predictable recipe, utilizing vast amounts of pre-training data and refining it during the post-training phase.”

However, whether LLMs are nearing a plateau remains uncertain, as technical design specifics about models like GPT-5 are not widely known, according to Nicos Aretra from the University of Sheffield. “It’s premature to claim that large-scale language models have reached their limits without concrete technical insights.”

OpenAI is also exploring alternative methods to enhance their offerings, such as the new routing system in GPT-5. Unlike previous versions where users could select from various models, GPT-5 intelligently assesses requests and directs them to the appropriate model based on the required computational power.

This strategy could potentially be more widely adopted, as Lapata mentions, “The reasoning model demands significant computation, which is both time-consuming and costly.” Yet, this shift has frustrated some ChatGPT users, prompting Altman to indicate that efforts are underway to enhance the routing process.

Another OpenAI model has recently achieved remarkable scores in elite mathematics and coding contests, hinting at a promising future for AI. This accomplishment was beyond the capabilities of leading AI models just a year ago. Although details on its functioning remain scarce, OpenAI staff have stated that this success implies the model possesses improved general reasoning skills.

These competitions allow us to evaluate models on data not encountered during training, according to Aletras, but they still represent a narrow aspect of intelligence. Enhanced performance in one domain may detrimentally affect results in others, warns Lapata.

GPT-5 has notably improved in pricing, as it is now significantly cheaper compared to other models—e.g., Claude models are approximately ten times more expensive when processing an equal volume of requests. However, this could lead to financial issues for OpenAI if revenue is insufficient to sustain the high costs of developing and operating new data centers. “Pricing is extraordinary. It’s so inexpensive; I’m uncertain how they can sustain it,” remarked Lapata.

Competition among leading AI models is intense. The first company to launch a superior model could secure a substantial market share. “All major companies are vying for dominance, which is a challenging endeavor,” noted Rapata. “You’ve only held the crown for three months.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

A Steam-Activated Mouthpiece Can Harbor Fungi That Threaten Airway Health

Posted on August 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Vaping offers a healthier alternative to smoking, yet it is not without risks.

Matthew Horwood/Getty Images

Fungal sequences linked to lung issues have been identified from e-cigarette mouthpieces.

While vaping is often recommended as a means to avoid smoking, the long-term health impacts remain largely unclear.

Devices designed for vaping utilize battery-powered coils to heat liquids that typically contain nicotine, generating vapors for inhalation by the user. The primary health concerns center around the toxicity of the liquid’s chemical components; however, the presence of microorganisms transferred from the device to the user’s airways has not been thoroughly investigated.

For further insights, refer to Borna Mehrad and his team at the University of Florida, who studied 25 daily users of disposable vapes. Researchers isolated microorganisms from the mouthpiece of the devices and compared them with samples taken from the participants’ mouths.

Although the sample size was limited, researchers noted that more than half exhibited a “rich colonization” of fungal species distinct from those found in the participants’ mouths, with 80% of these species linked to potential illnesses in humans.

The predominant species identified was Cystobasidium minutum, which is associated with blood infections in immunocompromised individuals. To evaluate its impact on lung health, the research team exposed mice to C. minutum, mimicking the inhalation process associated with vaping.

“Our findings showed that the fungus most frequently found in vape samples induced characteristics of chronic bronchitis in mice,” explains Mehrad. This condition is characterized by airway inflammation and can result in flu-like symptoms.

Regarding the source of these fungi, some may be present in the environment or on our hands. However, Jason Smith indicated that while this has not been tested, it is possible that some microorganisms were already within the vaping liquid when purchased. “Residual material in the vape device can create a nutrient base for mold proliferation,” he adds.

Ian Musgrave from the University of Adelaide in Australia has noted that these fungi have also been detected in shisha (commonly referred to as hookah or waterpipe), which is known to contribute to lung diseases induced by microbes. “Notably, the microbiota documented in this study were predominantly composed of potentially pathogenic fungi that are uncommon in the oral microbiota,” he remarks.

Team member Katy Deitz expressed that the results were not surprising, considering that around one-third of participants who reported respiratory complaints, such as coughing, did not properly clean their vapes.

Musgrave advocates for regular cleaning of vaping devices but stresses that current evidence does not definitively indicate that these fungal species exist in sufficient quantities on vape mouthpieces to pose a health threat.

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Source: www.newscientist.com