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.
Microorganisms residing in your gut might be contributing to your insomnia, according to new research conducted in China. Conversely, your sleep patterns can also impact your gut health.
While earlier studies have hinted at a connection between sleep habits and gut health, a recent analysis featured in the journal General Psychiatry suggests that this relationship may indeed be causal. This implies that sleep can influence your gut directly, and vice versa.
Dr. Ph.D., who leads the research at an affiliated brain hospital of Nanjing Medical University in China, told BBC Science Focus that this study could “reshape our understanding of insomnia and spark interest in microbiome-based interventions.”
In the future, treatment for insomnia could involve gut-focused solutions such as probiotics (found in yogurt or sauerkraut), prebiotics (fiber sources), or even fecal transplants.
“Moreover, gut microbiomes may act as biomarkers, tracking the effectiveness of these treatments and enabling personalized care,” Shangyun noted.
Researchers employed a statistical approach known as Mendelian randomization (using genetic data to determine causal relationships) to explore the connection between insomnia and the gut microbiota.
They identified specific genes connected to insomnia and assessed whether individuals with these genes were more likely to harbor certain gut microorganisms.
The researchers also reversed the inquiry, examining whether specific gut microorganisms could affect the likelihood of developing insomnia.
For their analysis, scientists used data from 387,000 individuals with insomnia alongside gut microbiome data from 26,500 individuals, all sourced from European populations. Thus, these findings may not apply universally.
Intestinal microbiomes comprise the community of bacteria and yeasts inhabiting the digestive system – Credit: Tom Leach / Science Photo Library
The analysis suggested that 41 types of gut bacteria may contribute to insomnia, at least in part.
However, Shangyun indicated that certain microorganisms hold more significance than others. Notably, they identified 14 groups associated with a higher likelihood of insomnia, while others were linked to a lower chance.
In contrast, the research found that insomnia is associated with a decrease of 43-79% in a specific group of seven bacterial types.
Furthermore, insomnia correlated with a 65% increased likelihood of 12 bacterial groups being four times more prevalent in the intestines.
A particular class of bacteria, known as Odlibacter, was found to be closely tied to insomnia risk. This type of gut bacteria is often linked to improved gut health.
Overall, this study highlights a vicious cycle: certain gut bacteria may lead to insomnia, while a lack of sleep can alter gut microbiota.
Shangyun emphasized the need for further research before healthcare providers can recommend gut health strategies to enhance sleep quality.
Read more:
About our experts
Dr. Shi Shangyun is a scientist at the Faculty of Psychiatry, affiliated with the brain hospital at Nanjing Medical University in Jiangsu Province, China.
Researchers have successfully created a chromosomal-level genomic assembly of a sweet potato cultivar known as “Tanzania.”
“Tanzania” sweet potato variety. Image credit: Benard Yada from the National Crop Resources Institute in Uganda.
The sweet potato is a crucial global staple crop that supports millions of people, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Its inherent resilience to harsh climates significantly contributes to food security.
Despite its importance, this humble root vegetable has hidden its genetic complexities for many years.
Sweet potato DNA is exceptionally intricate. While humans have two sets of chromosomes from each parent, sweet potatoes possess six sets.
This phenomenon, known as Hexaploidy, involves deciphering genetic codes that aim to piece together a set of six distinct, albeit similar, encyclopedias mixed together.
Utilizing advanced DNA sequencing and other state-of-the-art technologies, Professor Zhangjun Fei and his team at the Boyce Thompson Institute have produced the first complete genetic blueprint of “Tanzania,” which is widely appreciated in Africa for its stress tolerance and high dry matter content.
The key challenge was organizing the 90 chromosomes of the plant into six original sets known as haplotypes.
The researchers succeeded in either completely or incrementally separating this intricate genetic puzzle.
“Having this complete gradual genome provides an unprecedented level of clarity,” Professor Fei noted.
“This allows us to explore remarkable details of the sweet potato’s genetic narrative.”
The research team found that the sweet potato genome is a mosaic formed from various wild ancestors, some of which remain unidentified.
Approximately one-third of the genome is derived from ipomoea aequatoriensis, a wild species from Ecuador believed to be a direct progenitor of sweet potato cells.
Another significant portion is similar to the wild species of Central America, Ipomoea batatas 4x, though actual wild donors have yet to be discovered.
Dr. Shan Wu, a researcher at the Boyce Thompson Institute, stated:
“In sweet potatoes, ancestral sequences are intermixed within the same chromosome, resulting in a unique genomic structure.”
This complex genetic heritage suggests that sweet potatoes can be tentatively classified as segmented allopolyploids—hybrids that effectively function as though derived from a single species while originating from different ones.
This genomic merging and recombination grant sweet potatoes exceptional adaptability and disease resistance, essential for subsistence farmers globally.
“The six sets of chromosomes in sweet potatoes also contribute to their resilience,” Professor Fei added.
“With multiple versions of key genes, these plants can retain backup copies that assist them in surviving droughts, resisting pests, and adapting to diverse environments. This phenomenon is referred to as the polyploid buffer.”
“However, to fully comprehend the genetic capabilities of sweet potatoes, we need to decode multiple varieties from various regions, as each can possess unique genetic traits absent in others.”
Survey results were published this month in the journal Nature Plants.
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S. Woo et al. Gradual chromosomal level assembly provides insight into the genomic architecture of hexaploid sweet potatoes. Nature Plants Published online August 8, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41477-025-02079-6
Textbooks frequently depict primates as having evolved and dispersed exclusively in warm tropical forests, largely based on fossil evidence found in tropical regions. However, a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Reading indicates that the earliest primates may have thrived in North America’s cold climate, experiencing hot summers and frozen winters.
Primates have transitioned to historically diverse climates: (a) For all primates, transition between the main climates of temperate (top), arid (left), tropical (bottom), and cold (right). The size of the arrows represents the percentage of phylogenetic branches with each transition. (b) Climate transition of early primates living between 650,780,000 years ago. (c) Climate transition of species that lived between 47.8 and 2303 million years ago. (d) Climate transition of species that have lived from 2,303 million years ago to the present. Image credit: Avaria-llautureo et al. , doi: 10.1073/pnas.2423833122.
In this research, Jorge Avalia Lautulo from the University of Reading and his team harnessed statistical modeling alongside fossil data to reconstruct ancient environments and trace where the common ancestors of modern primates existed.
“For decades, the prevailing belief was that primates evolved within warm tropical forests,” stated Dr. Abaria Lautzleo.
“Our findings dramatically overturn this narrative. We discovered that primates did not originate in the lush jungles but in the cold, seasonal environments of the Northern Hemisphere.”
“Understanding how ancient primates adapted to climate change offers insights into how current species might respond to modern shifts in climate and environment.”
Primates, capable of relocating swiftly in response to rapid weather changes, excelled at reproducing, ensuring that offspring survived to establish new species.
As they migrated, primates moved towards entirely different, more stable climates. On average, those remaining in similarly unstable regions were about 561 km apart.
Early primates might have hibernated through the frozen winters, much like today’s bears, sleeping through the coldest months to slow their heart rates and conserve energy.
Some small primates continue this behavior today; for instance, the dwarf lemur in Madagascar digs underground, sleeping for several months during colder periods, shielded from freezing temperatures by layers of roots and leaves.
It wasn’t until millions of years later that primates reached tropical forests.
They began in cold habitats, gradually migrating through temperate zones, arid desert-like areas, and ultimately arriving at today’s hot, humid jungles.
As local temperatures and precipitation fluctuated drastically, primates were compelled to seek new habitats, which facilitated the development of new species.
“Our research indicates that non-tropical, changing environments exerted strong selective pressures on primates with greater dispersal capabilities, encouraging primate diversification and the eventual colonization of tropical climates millions of years post-origination,” the authors concluded.
Their paper was published on August 5th in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
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Jorge Avalia Rautreo et al. 2025. Radiation and geographical expansion of primates due to diverse climates. PNAS 122 (32): E2423833122; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2423833122
An AMPD1 variant from Neanderthals reduces enzyme activity by 25% in lab-produced proteins and up to 80% in muscles of genetically modified mice. This variant is present in all sequenced Neanderthals but absent in other species. It entered the modern human gene pool through interbreeding approximately 50,000 years ago, leading to its presence in up to 8% of today’s Europeans.
Maccak et al. Research indicates that genetic variants inherited from Neanderthals impair essential enzyme functions in muscle performance. Image credit: Holger Neumann/Neanderthal Museum.
The enzyme AMPD1 is crucial for muscle energy production and overall muscle function.
A decrease in its activity due to genetic mutations is the leading cause of metabolic myopathy in Europeans, with a prevalence of 9-14%.
In a recent study led by Dr. Dominik Macak from the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, researchers compared ancient Neanderthal DNA with modern human genomes.
They discovered that all Neanderthals have specific AMPD1 variants absent in other species.
Enzymes produced in the lab with this variant exhibited a 25% decrease in AMPD1 activity.
In genetically modified mice, this reduction in muscle tissue activity reached 80%, negatively affecting enzyme performance.
Moreover, the study shows that modern humans acquired this variant from Neanderthals who lived in Europe and Western Asia before interacting with modern humans around 50,000 years ago.
Currently, approximately 1-2% of non-African individuals carry Neanderthal DNA.
The Neanderthal AMPD1 variant is found in 2-8% of Europeans today, indicating general acceptance in the gene pool.
“Interestingly, most individuals with these variants do not face serious health concerns,” noted Dr. McCuck.
“However, enzymes seem to significantly influence athletic performance.”
Analysis of over 1,000 elite athletes across diverse sports showed that those with non-functional AMPD1 are less likely to reach the highest athletic levels.
“Having defective AMPD1 enzymes decreases the chances of achieving elite athletic ability by half,” Dr. McCuck said.
While AMPD1 activity appears to have moderate significance in contemporary Western societies, it becomes crucial under extreme physical conditions, such as those faced by athletes.
Researchers highlight the need for studying genetic variation within physiological and evolutionary contexts to grasp biological implications.
“Cultural and technological advancements in both modern humans and Neanderthals may have lessened the necessity for extreme muscle performance,” explains Dr. Hugo Zeberg, a researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology and Karolinska Institute.
“Understanding how current gene variants influence human physiology can yield valuable insights into health, performance, and genetic diversity.”
Survey results were published in the journal Natural Communication on July 10, 2025.
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D. McCuck et al. 2025. Muscle AMPD1 exhibited reduced deaminase activity in Neanderthals compared to modern humans. Nat Commun 16, 6371; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-61605-4
Updown Cemetery Girl’s Skeletons Reveal West African Ancestry
M George et al.
The discovery of two unrelated young men buried in British cemeteries during the early Middle Ages suggests they may have had grandparents from West Africa. The exact means by which their ancestors arrived in the UK remains unknown, but this insight implies that Anglo-Saxon immigration was far more complex than previously assumed.
Following the Romans’ withdrawal from England in 410 AD, the British Isles were invaded and settled by Germanic tribes including the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes. To explore the possibility of migration from other regions, Duncan Sayer and his colleagues from The University of Central Lancashire conducted an analysis of ancient DNA obtained from skeletons in two 7th-century cemeteries located on the southern coast of England.
One of these cemeteries is found in Kent, where a wealth of traded artifacts from various regions were unearthed, including Frankish pottery, buckles, and brooches. Burial customs at this site indicate that items such as cookware, cutlery, and combs were included with the dead.
The other site is the Matravars cemetery in western Dorset, which had fewer individuals interred with Romano-British practices.
While the majority of individuals buried here had ancestry from Northern Europeans or Western British and Irish, both the Updown girl and the young man from Worth Matravers exhibited genetic ties to West Africa, likely from grandparents.
In both cases, mitochondrial DNA, inherited maternally, traced back to Northern Europe; however, the autosomal DNA, inherited from both parents, revealed 20-40% ancestry from West African groups such as Esan, Yoruba, Mende, and Mandinka.
This indicates that the West African DNA likely traces back to their grandparents, marking the first known genetic link between Britain and Africa during the early Middle Ages.
Both individuals were interred as typical members of their community. DNA analysis revealed that the Updown girl had relatives—a grandmother and an aunt—buried in the same cemetery, who were approximately 11-13 years old when she died.
Examination of the carbon-nitrogen isotope ratios in the bone samples of the young man from Worth Matravers, who lived between the ages of 17 and 25, suggested insights into his diet during his growth period.
“His dietary habits suggest he was born and raised in the UK,” notes team member Ceiridwen Edwards from Huddersfield University.
Edwards indicates that evidence of West African DNA in York existed during the Roman period; however, Sayer contends that the proportion of West African DNA in these individuals is significantly lower than that of descendants from the Roman era. “This finding pertains to grandparents, rather than survivors of the Roman legions or administrators stationed for centuries,” he asserts.
Moreover, there is no evidence to support the notion that these individuals were enslaved, according to Sayer:
Instead, it suggests a context of transactions and mobility of people and goods. At some point, West Africans may have arrived in England aboard trade ships and settled here.
Sayer speculates that their arrival could have been tied to North Africa’s connection with the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century, driven by military interests in accessing gold from sub-Saharan Africa. “The revitalization of this trade route coincides with a time when we can identify these grandparents,” he remarks.
“This research underscores the dynamic state of what we refer to as post-[Western] Rome and the early medieval period in England,” comments Marina Soares da Silva at the Francis Crick Institute in London. “The authors propose a trade route supported by Byzantine governance in North Africa, which I consider a plausible scenario.”
According to Sayer, 7th-century England was not merely a collection of isolated communities in a ‘dark age,’ but rather dynamic societies engaging in trade and genetic exchanges with West Africa and beyond.
Historic Herculaneum – Discover Vesuvius, Pompeii, Ancient Naples
The exploration of history and archaeology takes you on an intriguing journey where the past comes alive through Mount Vesuvius and the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Antibiotic resistance poses a significant challenge to humanity, emphasizing the urgent need for new antibiotics. While the majority of antibiotics are derived from fungi and bacteria, Archaea presents largely untapped sources for discovering new antibiotics. In a recent study, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania employed deep learning techniques to investigate paleozoans. By analyzing the proteomes of 233 archaeal species, we discovered 12,623 potential antibacterial compounds.
Torres et al. Synthesized 80 alkierins, 93% of which showed antibacterial activity in vitro against Acinetobacter baumannii, E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus spp. Image credits: Torres et al, doi: 10.1038/s41564-025-02061-0.
“Previous attempts to discover new antibiotics have mainly focused on fungi, bacteria, and animals,” stated Dr. Cesar de la Fuente, a researcher at the University of Pennsylvania.
“Historically, we have leveraged AI models to identify antibiotic candidates across various sources, from the DNA of extinct organisms to the compounds found in animal venom.”
“We are now applying these methodologies to a new dataset: hundreds of proteins from ancient microorganisms.”
“There are undoubtedly other life forms waiting to be investigated.”
In contrast to bacteria and eukaryotes (which include plants, animals, and fungi), Archaea represents a distinct branch on the evolutionary tree.
While they may resemble bacteria under a microscope, archaeal organisms differ fundamentally in their genetics, cell membranes, and biochemistry.
These unique features enable them to thrive in some of Earth’s most extreme environments, such as heated seabed vents and scalding hot springs like Yellowstone National Park.
Archaea typically flourish in isolation from other organisms, and their biology has evolved in unprecedented ways, with limited evolutionary pressure, exposure to toxic substances, and extreme temperatures.
This presents a promising, yet largely uncharted, source for novel molecular tools, including compounds that may act like antibiotics but function differently than existing treatments.
“Our interest in archaeal organisms stems from their biochemical adaptations to extreme environments,” remarked Dr. Marcelo Torres from the University of Pennsylvania.
“We hypothesized that having survived billions of years under such conditions, they might possess unique strategies to fend off microbial rivals.”
To uncover antibiotic compounds within Archaea, the researchers utilized artificial intelligence.
They adapted an upgraded version of APEX, an AI tool initially designed to identify antibiotic candidates from ancient biological sources, including proteins from long-extinct animals like woolly mammoths.
With thousands of peptides (short amino acid chains) known for their antimicrobial properties, the AI can predict the likelihood that a given amino acid sequence will exhibit similar effects.
By re-calibrating APEX 1.1 to incorporate data from thousands of additional peptides and pathogenic bacteria, the scientists established tools to forecast which peptides in Archaea might inhibit bacterial proliferation.
Upon scanning 233 archaeal species, over 12,000 potential antibiotic candidates were identified.
The authors labeled these molecular compounds, and chemical analysis indicated they differ from known antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), notably in their charge distribution.
The team subsequently selected 80 archaeal compounds for further testing against live bacteria.
“Finding new antibiotic molecules individually feels like searching for needles in a haystack,” commented Famping Wang, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Pennsylvania.
“AI accelerates the search by pinpointing the location of the needle.”
Antibiotics can function through various mechanisms. Some disrupt bacterial membranes, while others inhibit protein synthesis within the organism.
Notably, the researchers found that unlike many known AMPs that target the outer defenses of bacteria, Alcaeasen operates by disrupting internal electrical signals that are vital for cell survival.
Tests on drug-resistant bacteria revealed that 93% of the 80 alkadeins exhibited antibacterial activity against at least one bacterial strain.
The team chose three alkaiersins to evaluate in animal models.
Four days following a single dose, all three alkaiersins halted the spread of drug-resistant bacteria commonly acquired in hospitals.
One of these compounds exhibited activity on par with polymyxin B, an antibiotic often used as a last resort against drug-resistant infections.
“This study underscores the vast potential for discovering new antibiotics within Archaea,” stated Dr. De La Fuente.
“As the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria rises, exploring unconventional sources for new antibiotics is essential.”
A paper detailing the results was published today in Nature Microbiology.
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MDT Torres et al. Deep learning reveals antibiotics in the archaeal proteome. Nat Microbiol. Published online on August 12, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41564-025-02061-0
On July 24, 2025, with 4,608 Mars Days, or Sols, into the mission, NASA’s Curiosity rover captured a stunning image of a wind-shaped rock resembling coral formations in Gale Crater on Mars.
This image of Papsolok was captured on July 24, 2025, by Curiosity’s Mahli instrument. Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS.
One of the rocks shaped by the wind was photographed by Curiosity’s Mars Hand Lens Imager (Mahli), which is located on the end of the rover’s robotic arm.
“At the time this image was taken, it was known as Paposo, and the rock was roughly 5 cm (2 inches) from the Mahli,” a member of the Curiosity team stated.
On the same day, Curiosity observed another coral-like rock through a remote microimager, which is part of the ChemCam instrument.
This image of the wind-shaped rock was captured by Curiosity’s remote microimager on July 24, 2025. Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS.
“Curiosity has identified many small features like these, which originated billions of years ago when liquid water existed on Mars,” the researchers noted.
“Minerals dissolved in water permeated the rock’s cracks, eventually drying and leaving behind hardened minerals.”
“Over years of wind erosion, surrounding rocks have been worn down, resulting in these distinctive shapes.”
“This natural process is commonly observed on Earth and also results in fascinating rock forms on Mars, including those that resemble flowers.”
Curiosity Rover took this selfie on October 11, 2019, at Glen Etive, where it drilled twice. Just to the left of the rover are two drill holes labeled Glen Etive 1 (right) and Glen Etive 2 (left). Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS.
Launched on November 26, 2011, Curiosity is the fourth rover the United States has dispatched to Mars.
The mission, overseen by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, involves nearly 500 scientists from the US and around the world.
Curiosity is exploring a 154 km (96 miles) wide crater and collecting rock, soil, and air samples for analysis.
The car-sized rover, comparable in height to a basketball player, utilizes its 2.1 m (7 feet) long arms to place tools near selected rocks for research.
Human Y (right) and X chromosomes observed with scanning electron microscopy
Power and Syred/Science Photo Library
A recent study involving over 30,000 individuals has revealed that men who experience a loss of Y chromosomes in a substantial number of immune cells are at a higher risk for narrower blood vessels, a significant factor in the development of heart disease.
“The loss of Y chromosomes greatly impacts men,” states Kenneth Walsh from the University of Virginia, who was not involved in the research. “Men’s lifespan averages six years shorter than women’s, primarily due to the instability of sex chromosomes.”
Loss of the Y chromosome is one of the most prevalent mutations following conception in men. This phenomenon typically occurs in leukocytes, the immune cells responsible for attacking and eliminating pathogens, as the rapidly multiplying stem cells that generate white blood cells undergo division. The cells without Y chromosomes accumulate and become more frequent as individuals age; approximately 40% of 70-year-old men show detectable losses.
This issue gained traction in 2014 when Lars Forsberg from Uppsala University in Sweden and his colleagues noted that elderly men with significant Y chromosome loss in their blood typically had a lifespan that was five years shorter than those without it. Walsh later linked this loss to heart disease.
Forsberg and his research team have now uncovered further connections between Y chromosome loss and specific cardiovascular issues. They analyzed data from Swedish cardiopulmonary bioimaging studies, which provided detailed vascular scans of 30,150 volunteers aged between 65 and 64. None of the participants exhibited symptoms of cardiovascular disease; however, they were assessed for vascular stenosis or atherosclerosis.
Among the male participants, 12,400 possessed the necessary genetic information to evaluate their Y chromosome loss. They were categorized into three groups: those with no detectable Y loss in leukocytes, those with less than 10% loss, and those with over 10% loss. Atherosclerosis scores for these groups were then compared with each other and with a female cohort in the study.
The researchers discovered that approximately 75% of men who had the highest Y chromosome loss exhibited narrowed blood vessels, while around 60% of those with less than 10% loss showed similar findings.
Despite some atherosclerosis being observed even in those with undetectable Y loss, about 55% of men and roughly 30% of women in this category had been affected. “Clearly,” Forsberg noted, “[loss of Y] involves other factors.”
In the coming months, Thimoteus Speer and colleagues from the University of Goethe in Frankfurt studied men undergoing angiography, an X-ray technique for examining blood vessels due to suspected cardiovascular disease. They found that over the next decade, individuals who lost Y chromosomes in more than 17% of their immune cells were more than twice as likely to die from a heart attack compared to those with less affected cells.
“The findings of Lars Forsberg and our study are quite consistent,” Speer remarked. “He observes increased coronary atherosclerosis, correlating it with a higher risk of mortality from myocardial infarction [heart attack], emphasizing the relationship with coronary atherosclerosis.”
Walsh acknowledges that neither study definitively proves that Y chromosome loss directly causes these outcomes. However, statistical analyses suggest its independent effect aside from smoking or aging— the primary risk factors for mutations.
The pressing question remains: how does Y chromosome loss impact health? Previous research by Walsh indicated that removing chromosomes from mouse immune cells adversely affects the cardiovascular system by driving fibrosis, which is the formation of scar tissue. However, heart attacks and atherosclerosis are typically more associated with inflammation and lipid metabolism defects than fibrosis. Both Speer and Walsh assert that more research is essential to unravel this relationship.
With a deeper understanding of the underlying processes, Speer hopes that future blood tests for Y chromosome loss will guide proactive interventions. “[These tests] may help in identifying patients who could particularly benefit from specific treatments,” he concludes.
The impact of social media polarization transcends mere algorithms. Research conducted with AI-generated users reveals that this stems from fundamental aspects of the platform’s operation. It indicates that genuine solutions will require a re-evaluation of online communication frameworks.
Petter Törnberg from the University of Amsterdam and his team created 500 AI chatbots reflecting a diverse range of political opinions in the United States, based on the National Election Survey. Utilizing the GPT-4o Mini Large Languages Model, these bots were programmed to engage with one another on simplified social networks without commercial influences or algorithms.
Throughout five rounds of experiments, each consisting of 10,000 actions, the AI agents predominantly interacted with like-minded individuals. Those with more extreme views garnered greater followership and reposts, increasing visibility for users attracted to more partisan content.
In prior research, Törnberg and his colleagues explored whether different algorithmic approaches in simulated social networks could mitigate political polarization. However, the new findings appear to challenge earlier conclusions.
“We expected this polarization to be largely driven by algorithms,” Törnberg states. “[We thought] the platform is geared towards maximizing engagement and inciting outrage, thus producing these outcomes.”
Instead, they found that the algorithm itself isn’t the primary culprit. “We created the simplest platform imaginable, and yet we saw these results immediately,” he explains. “This suggests that there are deeply ingrained behaviors linked to following, reposting, and engagement that are at play.”
To see if these ingrained behaviors could be moderated or counteracted, the researchers tested six potential interventions. These included time series display only, diminishing the visibility of viral content, concealing opposing viewpoints, amplifying sympathetic and rational content, hiding follower and repost counts, and obscuring profile bios.
Most interventions yielded minimal effects. Cross-partisan engagement shifted only by about 6% or less, while the prominence of top accounts changed by 2-6%, but some modifications, like concealing bios, worsened polarization. While some changes that reduced user inequality made extreme posts more attractive, alterations aimed at softening partisanship inadvertently drew more attention to a small group of elite users.
“Most activities on social media devolve into toxic interactions. The root issues with social media stem from its foundational design, which can accentuate negative human behavior,” states Jess Maddox of the University of Georgia.
Törnberg recognizes that while this experiment simplifies various dynamics, it provides insights into what social platforms can do to curb polarization. “Fundamental changes may be necessary,” he cautions. “Tweaking algorithms and adjusting parameters might not be sufficient; we may need to fundamentally rethink interaction structures and how these platforms shape our political landscapes.”
This excerpt is from our human stories newsletter, focused on the archaeological revolution—sign up to receive it monthly.
In human stories, I aim to address common questions about human evolution. In February 2021, I tackled a query that many find perplexing—whether Neanderthals and modern humans are distinct species (short answer: species boundaries are ambiguous).
This month, we confront another frequently asked question: Do Denisovans, the extinct human group once prevalent in Asia, have a designated species name? If so, what should that name be?
The debate regarding the “official” name of the Denisovans has been lively since their discovery in 2010. Notably, in June, the skull of Harbin, dubbed the Dragon Man from northern China, was classified as Denisovan through molecular evidence. This marked the first acquisition of a Denisovan skull, giving us insights into their facial features.
While participating in New Scientist discussions, host Rowan Hooper asked why Denisovans lack a species name. Why can’t we refer to them as Homo Denisovanensis, similar to how Neanderthals are called Homo Neanderthalensis?
I preferred a straightforward explanation: insufficient information has hindered a definitive classification of Denisovans. Their DNA shows significant divergence from Neanderthal DNA; yet, we require detailed insights into their anatomy and skeletal structure.
However, this inquiry is multifaceted. First, we must identify which fossils unequivocally belong to Denisovans. This involves analyzing numerous specimens and decades of research, complicating the resolution. Secondly, we need to determine which of the assigned names should take precedence under our classification norms—a legal question that adds to the complexity.
Who’s Included and Who’s Excluded?
A brief reminder about Denisovans: they are an enigmatic group of humans initially identified in 2010 from fragments of a finger bone discovered in the Denisova Cave in Siberia’s Altai Mountains. Genetic analysis revealed they were distinct from both modern humans and Neanderthals. Moreover, many contemporary individuals, especially in Southeast Asia and Melanesia, carry Denisovan DNA.
This suggests that Denisovans were quite widespread in East Asia over the past several hundred thousand years. So, where are the Denisovan fossils?
Fifteen years later, a handful of Denisovan fossils have been actively categorized. For example, mandibles discovered on the Tibetan Plateau were identified through fossil proteins and sediment DNA. Similarly, a jawbone retrieved from the Pengle waterway off the coast of Taiwan was confirmed as Denisovan in April.
Nonetheless, we still lack a complete skeleton. Identifying the Harbin skull as Denisovan brought us closer to understanding their appearance, yet many more discoveries are necessary.
Numerous human fossils in East Asia potentially belong to Denisovans. However, categorizing these remains has proven challenging, as they often do not resemble established species like modern humans, Neanderthals, or even Homo Erectus. If adequate specimens surface, thus confirming their Denisovan identity, our understanding could significantly improve, leading to a formal classification.
But how do we determine which fossils are Denisovan? Ideally, we seek molecular evidence of preserved DNA or protein for comparison with the original Denisovan remnants. However, many fossils remain unanalyzed or inaccessible.
One notable effort to address this issue was a preliminary study submitted by a team led by Xijun Ni from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in March 2024. By comparing 57 human fossils for various physical traits, they constructed familial relationships between these findings.
The team found three primary groups among Eurasian hominins: Modern Humans, Neanderthals, and a third group composed of the original Denisovan fossil, the Tibetan cave jawbone, the Pengle jawbone, and the Harbin skull. This third category appears to represent those we refer to as Denisovans.
This is an intriguing proposition, but others disagree.
A collection of contentious fossils from Hualongdong, southern China, offers a wealth of material: an almost complete skull, 14 teeth, an upper jaw, six isolated teeth, and additional fragments dating back around 300,000 years.
While the NI team classified the Hualongdong specimens as part of the Denisovan group, a study led by Xiujie Wu in July suggested that these teeth did not show clear correlations, proposing instead that they may belong to a different hominin group. Another interpretation could be that the Denisovans at Hualongdong were somewhat disparate from those in other regions.
In the meantime, other intriguing fossils from Asia continue to emerge. Among them are specimens from Dariscal and Jinniushan, both around 260,000 years old, which Ni’s team has suggested might also belong to the Denisovan lineage.
As the list of contending Denisovan fossils grows, we must decide how to categorize them.
The Harbin Skull
Hebei Geo University
Homo — What Does It Mean?
Interestingly, I was part of the team that described the Harbin skull in 2021, and we named it Homo Longhi. So, could that be the name we assign to Denisovans?
However, last year a competing proposition was put forth by Woo and Christopher Beh from the University of Hawaii, who suggested that we should center around fossils from Xujiayao in northern China, proposing to call this new species Homo Jurensis—fossils that would include the original Denisovan findings.
This idea’s strength lies in the resemblance of Xujiayao fossils to Denisovan remains, a point also observed by the NI team. However, Bae and Wu aimed to designate the Xujiayao fossils as “type specimens.”
This raises two issues: the classification of fossils and the naming protocols. Let’s examine each aspect separately.
In classification, the Homo Jurensis proposal faces challenges. Bae and Wu classify the Harbin skull as Homo Jurensis or Denisovan, yet it lacks sufficient resemblance to warrant such designation. A study published in June demonstrated molecular evidence clearly linking the Harbin skull to Denisovans. Hence, identifying those fossils as Denisovan would contravene objective realities, making Homo Jurensis seem unfounded.
What about taxonomy? This area is intricate. A crucial factor is the concept of priority, where the first proposed name tends to gain precedence. Hence, Homo Longhi might likely take precedence over Homo Jurensis as it was suggested three years earlier.
Are there alternative names for Denisovans?
The excavators of Denisova Cave never formally classified Denisovans as a distinct species. Anatoly Derebianco, part of that team, suggested the name Homo Sapiens Altaiensis, implying they would serve as a modern human subspecies—yet this proposal lacked formal status, rendering it typically insignificant.
This year, Derebianco has published a series of papers discussing what Denisovans could be. His references include locations in Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Iran, referring to them collectively as Homo sapiens denisovan. I remain unsure if formal explanations were provided, as only abstracts were published, and if completed, it occurred post the naming of Homo Longhi.
Lastly, it’s possible that one of the names was assigned to an Asian human fossil within an obscure publication decades ago. If the fossil is ultimately identified as Denisovan, the name takes precedence (assuming it was adequately introduced). Nevertheless, Wu, Bae, Ni, and others assessed this notion in 2023 and concluded that many crucial fossils were not appropriately named. For instance, there was a suggestion to label Dali’s skull as Homo Dariensis, yet such ideas amounted to informal statements rather than formally recognized classifications.
Your head might be swirling from this cascade of names and species classifications, so let’s recap: the critical takeaway is our evolving understanding of Denisovans, which brings us closer to officially designating their name.
Given our comprehension of taxonomic norms and their significance, Homo Longhi could emerge as the official designation. Although I can’t influence the decision, they will always remain Denisovans in my mind.
The landscape of the internet is shifting, moving away from traditional users and towards automated web-browsing bots. A recent report indicates that, for the first time this year, non-human web browsing bots make up the majority of all traffic.
Alarmingly, over half of this bot traffic stems from malicious sources, including those harvesting unsecured personal data online. Yet, there’s a rising trend in bots designed by artificial intelligence companies, aimed at gathering data for model training and responding to user interactions. Notably, OpenAI’s ChatGPT-User accounts for 6% of total web traffic, while Claudebot, created by Anthropic, represents 13%.
AI firms argue that data scraping is crucial for keeping their models updated, while content creators voice concerns about these bots being tools for vast copyright violations. Earlier this year, Disney and Universal took legal action against AI company Midjourney, claiming that its image generators were reproducing characters from popular franchises such as Star Wars and Despicable Me.
Given that most creators lack the financial means for prolonged legal battles, many have turned to innovative methods to protect their content. They implement online tools that complicate AI bot scraping, with methods like misleading bots, causing AI to confuse images of cars with cows. While this “AI addiction” tactic helps safeguard creators’ work, it may also introduce new risks on the web.
Copyright Concerns
Historically, imitators have profited off artists’ work, which is primarily why intellectual property and copyright laws exist. The advent of AI image generators like Midjourney and OpenAI’s DALL-E has exacerbated this issue.
A key concern in the U.S. is the fair use doctrine, allowing limited usage of copyrighted materials without permission under certain circumstances. While fair use laws are designed to be flexible, they hinge on the principle of creating something new from the original work.
Many artists and advocates believe that AI technologies blur the lines between fair use and copyright infringement, harming content creators. For example, while drawing an image of Mickey Mouse in The Simpsons universe for personal use may be harmless, AI can rapidly produce and circulate similar images, complicating the transformative aspect and often leading to commercial exploitation.
In an effort to protect their commercial interests, some U.S. creators have pursued legal action, with Disney and Universal’s lawsuits against Midjourney being among the latest examples. Other notable cases include an ongoing legal dispute involving the New York Times and OpenAI regarding alleged misuse of newspaper stories.
Disney sues Midjourney over its image generator.
Photo 12/Alamy
AI companies firmly deny any wrongdoing, asserting that data scraping is permissible under the fair use doctrine. In an open letter to the US Bureau of Science and Technology Policy in March, OpenAI’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, Chris Lehane, cautioned against strict copyright regulations elsewhere in the world. Recent attempts to enhance copyright protections for creators have been critiqued for potentially stifling innovation and investment. OpenAI previously claimed it was “impossible” to develop AI models catering to user needs without referencing copyrighted work. Google shares a similar stance, emphasizing that copyright, privacy, and patent laws create barriers to accessing necessary training data.
For now, public sentiment seems to align with the activists’ viewpoint. Analysis of public feedback on copyright and AI inquiries by the U.S. Copyright Office reveals that 91% of comments expressed negative sentiments regarding AI.
The lack of public sympathy for AI firms is attributed to the overwhelming traffic their bots create, which can strain resources and may even take some websites offline—and the content creators feel powerless to stop them. While there are methods to exclude content-crawling bots, like tweaking a small file on a website to prevent bot access, these requests are sometimes ignored.
Combatting AI Data Addiction
Consequently, new tools have emerged, empowering content creators to better shield their work from AI bots. This year, CloudFlare, an internet infrastructure company known for protecting users from distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, launched technologies to combat harmful AI bots. Their approach involves generating a labyrinth of AI-generated pages filled with nonsensical content, effectively distracting AI bots from accessing genuine information.
A tool called AI Labyrinth is designed to manage 50 billion requests per day from AI crawlers, according to CloudFlare. The objective of AI Labyrinth is to “slow, confuse, and waste the resources of AI crawls and other bots that disregard the ‘no crawl’ directive.” Following this, CloudFlare introduced another tool that compels AI companies to pay for accessing their websites or restricts raw content usage.
An alternative strategy involves allowing AI bots to access online content while subtly “poisoning” it, rendering the data less useful. Tools like Glaze and Nightshade, developed at the University of Chicago, serve as a focal point of resistance. Both tools are freely available for download from the university’s website.
Since its 2022 launch, Glaze defends by introducing imperceptible pixel-level modifications, or “style cloaks,” to artists’ works, causing AI models to misidentify art styles (e.g., interpreting watercolors as oil paintings). Launched in 2023, Nightshade degrades image data in a way that leads AI models to create incorrect associations, such as linking the word “cat” with images of dogs. Both tools have been downloaded over 10 million times.
Nightshade Tool alters AI perceptions of images.
Ben Y. Zhao
Tools designed to combat AI data addiction are empowering artists, according to Ben Zhao, a senior researcher at the University of Chicago involved with both Glaze and Nightshade. “These companies have trillion-dollar market caps, and they essentially take what they want,” he asserts.
Using tools like these allows artists to exert more control over the use of their creations. “Glaze and Nightshade are interesting, innovative tools that demonstrate effective strategies that don’t rely on changing regulations,” explains Jacob Hoffman Andrews from the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a U.S.-based digital rights nonprofit.
Self-sabotaging content to deter copycats is an old strategy, notes Eleonora Rosati from Stockholm University. “For instance, cartographers might include fictitious place names, making them evidence of plagiarism if rivals replicate them. A similar tactic was noted in music, where the lyrics website Genius claimed to have embedded unique apostrophes to prove Google’s unlicensed use of their content. Google denies this claim, and the lawsuit was dismissed.
The term “sabotage” raises eyebrows, says Hoffman Andrews. “I don’t view it as disruptive; these artists are modifying their content, which they have every right to do.”
It remains uncertain how many unique measures AI firms are implementing to handle data tainted by these defensive tactics, yet Zhao’s findings indicate that 85% of these methods maintain their efficacy, suggesting AI companies may deem dealing with manipulated data more troublesome than it’s worth.
Disseminating Misinformation
Interestingly, it’s not just artists experimenting with data poisoning tactics; some nation-states might employ similar strategies to disseminate false narratives. The Atlantic Council, a U.S.-based think tank, recently revealed that the Russian Pravda News Network has attempted to manipulate AI bots to spread misinformation.
This operation reportedly involves flooding the internet with millions of web pages masquerading as legitimate news articles, aiming to boost Kremlin narratives regarding the Ukraine war. A recent analysis by NewsGuard, which monitors Pravda’s activities, found that 10 out of 10 major AI chatbots have output text aligning with Pravda’s viewpoints.
The effectiveness of these tactics emphasizes the challenges inherent in AI technology: the methods employed by well-intentioned actors can inevitably be hijacked by those with malicious intent.
However, solutions do exist, asserts Zhao, though they may not align with AI companies’ interests. Rather than arbitrarily collecting online data, AI firms could establish formal agreements with legitimate content providers to ensure their models are trained on reliable data. Yet, such arrangements come with costs, leading Zhao to remark, “Money is at the heart of this issue.”
As per the textbook definition, we have lost the capability to synthesize vitamin C. However, studies on animals indicate that this loss may have actually provided a survival advantage by helping their ancestors combat parasitic infections.
Most animals produce vitamin C using an enzyme known as Gulo. Yet, in our primate ancestors, the Gulo gene underwent mutation approximately 60 to 70 million years ago, leading to the loss of this capability. Similar losses are observed in various other animal groups, including certain bats and rodents like guinea pigs.
The conventional theory posits that if an animal consumes adequate vitamin C in its diet, mutations affecting the Gulo enzyme do not pose a disadvantage, which is why natural selection hasn’t preserved the enzyme. This mutation is considered neutral.
It appears that there is an additional advantage. For animals with functional enzymes, blood levels of vitamin C stay stable, while in humans, these levels may drop significantly, especially if individuals go without food for several days.
If producing vitamin C carries benefits, why do some animals lose this ability? The common evolutionary explanation is that such losses could enhance protection against diseases and parasites.
These freshwater parasites can penetrate the skin and develop within the host. Many symptoms associated with schistosomiasis stem from the immune response to the eggs laid by adult worms, causing the resulting disease.
To investigate whether vitamin C deficiency could bolster protection against parasites, Agathocleous and his colleagues deleted specific Gulo genes in mice.
When these mice were fed a low vitamin C diet, they did not exhibit the typical fecal symptoms or excrete feces after being infected with schistosoma. In contrast, mice with functional Gulo enzymes released numerous eggs, most of which did not survive.
“What we demonstrated provides evidence of a potential benefit,” Agato Creos states. Although it remains unproven that the loss of Gulo in our ancestors was a conscious evolutionary choice to fend off disease, these findings suggest that such a scenario is plausible.
“Many textbooks illustrate this as a ‘use or lose it’ case concerning a gene. Many scientists, including myself, contend that there is enough evidence to affirm this evolutionary advantage related to gene loss.” Deborah Good at Virginia Tech, who did not participate in the study, remarked, “Parasite protection could indeed be a factor in this.”
Weaver Ant chains can easily surpass all other creatures.
Weaver Ants (Oecophylla smaragdina), found from India to northern Australia, create long chains to gather leaves and construct nests. They grip one another by holding onto the abdomen of the ant in front using their mandibles.
To assess their strength, Chris Reed from Macquarie University in Sydney and his team provided the Weaver Ants with paper leaves instead of real ones for nesting. They attached a transducer to the tip of the paper leaf to measure the force exerted by a group of up to 17 ants while rolling the paper.
Researchers discovered that individual ants could generate an average pulling force of 60 times their body weight, while in teams of 15, each ant was capable of pulling over 100 times their weight. Consequently, the average power contribution per ant nearly doubled in group settings.
This finding seemingly contradicts the well-established principle of teamwork known as the Ringelmann effect, which posits that larger groups tend to diminish individual productivity due to loss of coordination and motivation.
The researchers did not calculate how Weaver Ants compare to humans in terms of strength, but Reid noted that even without scaling up to human size, they would pose formidable opponents in a tug-of-war. “Even a guinea pig-sized Weaver Ant could outpull a human,” he remarked. “Their key advantage lies in having six legs, which provides excellent traction.”
This might explain their ability to counteract the Ringelmann effect, according to Reid. The precise mechanism behind their collective strength remains unclear, but one theory suggests that some ants are anchored to the ground while others are pulling, effectively creating a force ratchet.
“When comparing Weaver Ants with other species, their ability to exert force on the ground is extraordinarily high, significantly surpassing that of other ants,” Reed stated.
Insects and Ecosystem Expedition Safari: Sri Lanka
Embark on a journey to the heart of Sri Lanka’s diverse biodiversity on this unique entomology and ecosystem-focused expedition.
Flammability assessments on western juniper trees (Juniperus occidentalis)
Rebecca Koll
In a laboratory at the University of Exeter, UK, Rebecca Koll is examining conifer species to explore critical questions related to future forest fire dynamics.
Wildfire severity is on the rise globally as temperatures continue to increase. This is largely attributed to heightened heat, prolonged drought, and stronger winds, all of which elevate the risk of igniting timber when sparks occur.
Yet, Koll is among a team of researchers who believe that factors beyond drought are influencing fire risk. “Is climate change actually altering the properties of the plants? I’m quite certain it is,” she shares.
She posits that climate stress factors could be modifying leaf chemistry. With an increase in UV radiation, plants may produce more volatile compounds as a stress response.
While global initiatives aimed at restoring the ozone layer may mitigate UV radiation risks, studies indicate that climate change, especially the uptick in hot, clear days in Northern and Eastern Europe, has resulted in rising ground-level UVB levels in recent years. Models predict that this may escalate later in the century.
Koll is currently engaged in a project examining changes in leaf chemistry and flammability by exposing 87 conifer species to elevated UVB levels. Using climate-controlled chambers with optimal temperature and moisture regimens, they simulate exposure levels tripled compared to current conditions. After 4 to 8 weeks, the trees undergo analysis and combustion tests to evaluate their flammability.
“It’s designed to be an ideal environment. These plants are in a very favorable climate, except we bombard them with radiation,” Koll explains. “We’re observing early signs of yellowing in areas that should remain green. Their biochemical reactions during various tests are altering the chemistry of their leaves,” she elaborates.
The pivotal question remains whether these biochemical shifts will lead to heightened flammability and if they elucidate the increasing intensity of forest fires. “We’re already elevating UV levels in our natural settings,” Koll notes. “This may imply that the risk extends beyond drought to include the direct impacts on plant biology.”
Uncovering these insights could provide scientists with a clearer understanding of wildfire risks in the predominantly coniferous regions of the Northern Hemisphere. “This is fundamentally what leads to severe home destruction,” Koll states. “The natural surroundings are becoming increasingly flammable.”
This project is among the initial experiments conducted at the University of Exeter’s Global Weather Simulator, a newly established facility dedicated to plant research that opened this year. The climate control chambers can recreate variations in wind, precipitation, heat, and atmospheric variables to analyze how plants and insects respond to rapid climatic shifts.
Matthew Robson of the University of Cumbria emphasizes that this research may confirm the significance of leaf compound changes in determining certain tree species’ flammability. “The relative impact of these climatic factors on volatile and combustible carbon-rich compounds has not been thoroughly explored, which makes the current research at Exeter particularly intriguing,” he states.
Lamer noted that detailed analyses and FEMA’s approximate maps can often exaggerate flood risk, which tends to be what clients typically seek.
“I was asked, ‘Please prove we aren’t in the flood plain.’ We’re working 30 feet above the river,” Lamer shared regarding FEMA’s initial mapping. “That’s the flaw in these maps.”
It’s a nationwide practice to adjust FEMA maps both before and after they are officially confirmed.
Syracuse Professor Prall, who has researched flood policy, alongside academic Devin Lee, analyzed five years of data on modifying the FEMA map. They found over 20,000 buildings in 255 counties across the U.S. were remapped outside special flood hazard zones from 2013 to 2017 via various appeal processes. Despite this, more than 700,000 buildings remain within the special hazard flood areas in those counties.
According to Prall, the agency has approved the majority of map revisions, with Lamer, who has processed hundreds of applications, noting only one rejection. Thus, achieving a 92% success rate with the Camp Mystic exemption is actually standard.
“If it’s not likely to be approved, we won’t submit it,” Lamer remarked. There’s little financial motivation for clients to pursue the process further unless the data demonstrates reduced flood risks compared to FEMA’s findings.
FEMA’s high-risk flood zones often expand after agents finalize new maps; however, property owners and communities can subsequently mitigate those zones.
A study by Pralle and Lee in their work, Risks of Public Policy, Crisis, reveals that alterations to special flood hazard zones are increasingly frequent.
Their research indicates that the appeal system presents consistent incentives for decreasing federal flood map designations.
“FEMA lacks the resources to double-check everything,” Prall stated.
A FEMA spokesperson mentioned that the agency reviewed the Camp Mystic case and submitted elevation data following its protocol, asserting that the approval of the amendment “will not significantly alter the reality of flood risks and dangers.”
Storms like those that have impacted Camp Mystic are projected to occur more frequently in a warming world. To address existing knowledge gaps, independent organizations are creating data-driven tools for better predicting heightened heavy rain risks.
For instance, First Street utilizes a global climate model to anticipate extreme weather events and integrate this data into risk maps. The firm provides information and analysis notably to individuals, banks, investors, governments, and more.
The national analysis revealed that more than twice as many buildings fell within the 100-year flood plain when compared to FEMA’s mapping. Porter noted that this inconsistency stemmed from heavy precipitation risks that FEMA maps failed to capture.
The company’s 100 Years of Flood Zone mapping for Camp Mystic indicates that events like this will impact both old and new campsites. In certain locations, flood zones extend beyond both Hewitt and the FEMA’s unenforced 100-year flood plain, while in other spots, they are much narrower and closer to the engineering work of Hewitt.
Steubing from the flood plains association mentioned that indications suggest the July 4 flood was anticipated to be the first significant event in 800 years, but emphasized that more assessments are necessary, as some engineering firms continue to evaluate the flood’s extent. It’s still unclear how accurately the flooding corresponds to various risk maps.
While First Street’s mapping includes climate risks, it too has its limitations, lacking the detailed river analyses completed by Hewitt.
“I don’t have boots on the ground,” Porter remarked.
In an ideal scenario, flood mapping would merge comprehensive ground engineering, current rainfall and river flow data alongside forecasts of future climate risks. According to Steubing, flood plain managers need more adaptive tools to represent different flood scenarios accurately. These should differentiate between rapid surface run-offs and slow, sustained storms, ultimately leading to better risk assessment for individual communities.
Texas is working to address various historical data gaps to move toward this goal, Steubing explained.
However, many regions, including some near Camp Mystic, have never been thoroughly studied or mapped.
To fill these gaps, the state is funding a new FEMA program called Basic Level Engineering. This initiative aims to estimate basic flood levels in under-researched areas using high-resolution LIDAR data and contemporary modeling techniques. The new mapping is intended to complement existing FEMA maps rather than replace them, and the updated mapping is now accessible statewide, including regions near Camp Mystic, representing an advancement that will aid in mitigating future disasters.
Paleontologists have discovered a variety of animals, including saber-toothed predators, burrowing foragers, and large salamander-like creatures that flourished in southern Pangaea about 252 million years ago, just prior to the mass extinction of the Permian period.
Artistic rendering of an evening about 252 million years ago during the Late Permian Epoch in the Luangwa Basin, Zambia. This scene features several sabertooth Golgonopsians and Dishnodons in the beak. Image credit: Gabriel Ugueto.
“The extinction at the end of the Permian was catastrophic for life on Earth,” stated Professor Christian Saidal of the University of Washington.
“Yet, we do not have a complete understanding of which species managed to survive.
“The fossils we gather in Tanzania and Zambia provide a broader perspective on this remarkable period in our planet’s history.”
All new fossils were uncovered in three basins in southern Africa: the Roof Basin in southern Tanzania, the Luangwa Basin in eastern Zambia, and the Zambezi Central Basin in southern Zambia.
The majority were found by team members during several month-long excavation trips to the region over the past 17 years.
Others were analyzed from specimens excavated decades ago, preserved in museum collections.
“These regions in Zambia and Tanzania are home to incredibly well-preserved fossils from the Permian era,” Professor Saidal remarked.
“They provide us with an unparalleled glimpse into terrestrial life leading up to the mass extinction.”
The Permian period marks the conclusion of what paleontologists term the Paleozoic era.
During this time, animal life, which first emerged in our oceans, began to colonize land and developed complex terrestrial ecosystems.
The Permian epoch saw a diverse range of amphibians and reptile-like creatures inhabit environments ranging from early forests to arid valleys.
The mass extinction at the End-Permian wiped out many of these ecosystems, paving the way for the Mesozoic era, which witnessed the evolution of dinosaurs, the first birds, flowering plants, and mammals.
For decades, scientists relied on the Kalu Basin in South Africa for their best understanding of the Permian, the corresponding extinction, and the onset of the Mesozoic Era, which boasts nearly complete fossil records from before and after that mass extinction.
However, since the 1930s, paleontologists have noted that the fossil records in the Tanzanian and Zambian basins are comparably pristine.
This excavation represents the most extensive analysis of the local fossil record from the period surrounding the Permian mass extinction to date.
“The quantity of specimens found in Zambia and Tanzania is extraordinarily high, and their condition is so exquisite that paleontologists are able to draw species-level comparisons with those in South Africa,” Professor Sidor explained.
“We recognize that there is no better location on the planet to make such precise conclusions and comparisons to glean sufficient detail about this era.”
In the Series of 14 Articles published in Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, researchers have detailed numerous new species of dicynodonts.
These small, burrowing, reptile-like herbivores first emerged during the Central Permian.
By the time of the mass extinction, the Dishnodons had beak-like snouts featuring two small tusks; many of them dug holes and became the dominant plant-eating animals on land.
The findings also uncover several large saber-toothed predators known as Golgonopsians, along with new species of amphibians, such as large salamanders.
“We can analyze two distinct geographical regions of Pangaea and observe the happenings before and after the Permian extinction,” Professor Saidal concluded.
“This allows us to explore critical questions regarding which species survived and which did not.”
In a new paper published in the journal Iscience, astrophysicists at the University of Fudan have explored the potential for sending nanocrafts from Earth to black holes located 20-25 light years away. This mission aims to investigate the properties of strong gravitational fields and the fundamental aspects of physics.
Black holes represent the strongest gravitational fields known in the universe and serve as ideal laboratories for testing Einstein’s general theory of relativity under extreme conditions. Professor Bambi discusses the speculative nature and challenges of launching small spacecraft to the nearest black hole, yet emphasizes that it remains a plausible endeavor. Image credit: Cosimo Bambi, doi: 10.1016/j.isci.2025.113142.
“While we lack the necessary technology today, it may be feasible in 20 or 30 years,” stated Professor Cosimo Bambi, an astrophysicist and black hole specialist at the University of Fudan.
“Two significant challenges lie ahead: identifying a nearby black hole and developing a probe that can survive the journey.”
Currently, the closest recognized black hole to Earth is Gaia BH1, which was discovered in September 2022 and is located 1,560 light-years away.
However, it is anticipated that many undiscovered black holes may exist closer to Earth.
Simple estimations suggest that, despite significant uncertainties, the closest black hole could potentially be within only 20-25 light years.
“Our understanding of stellar evolution implies that black holes might be hidden just 20 to 25 light years from Earth, but detecting them is not straightforward,” noted Professor Bambi.
“Since black holes do not emit or reflect light, they are nearly invisible to telescopes.”
“Scientists typically rely on observing nearby stars and their interactions with light to identify and study these elusive objects.”
“New methods have been developed for detecting black holes, and I believe it is reasonable to expect the discovery of something nearby within the next decade.”
Once a target is located, the subsequent challenge will be reaching it.
Traditional spacecraft powered by chemical fuels lack the efficiency needed for such long journeys.
Professor Bambi suggests nanocraft as a promising solution—tiny probes consisting of microchips and light sails.
Lasers from Earth would propel the sails using photons, accelerating the craft to one-third the speed of light.
“At that speed, a craft could arrive at a black hole 20 to 25 light years away within about 70 years,” he explained.
“The data collected would then take roughly another 20 years to return to Earth, leading to a total mission duration of approximately 80-100 years.”
“When the craft nears a black hole, researchers could conduct experiments to answer some of the most pivotal questions in physics.”
“Does a black hole truly possess an event horizon? Can light escape the gravitational pull beyond that point?”
“Do the laws of physics alter in proximity to black holes?”
“Is Einstein’s general theory of relativity upheld in the universe’s most extreme conditions?”
“The laser system alone could cost 1 trillion euros, and currently, we lack the technology to fabricate nanocrafts,” Professor Bambi stated.
“Nevertheless, in 30 years, those costs might decrease, and technological advancements could align with these ambitious concepts.”
“While it may sound quite outlandish and resembles science fiction, past disbeliefs—like the detection of weak gravitational waves or imaging black hole shadows—have been proven wrong over time.”
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Cosimo Bambi. Interstellar missions to test astrophysical black holes. Iscience. Published online on August 7th, 2025. doi:10.1016/j.isci.2025.113142
Paleontologists have discovered a new species of Dromaeosaurus dinosaur from a nearly complete and unique skeleton found in Mongolia during the 2000s.
Reconstruction of Sri Lapax. Image credit: Connor Ashbridge / CC by 4.0.
This newly recognized dinosaur lived during the Campanian stage of the Cretaceous period, approximately 75 million years ago.
Based on various derived traits of the skull, vertebrae, and overall skeletal structure, this species can be classified within a group of bird-like theropods known as Dromaeosauridae.
It has been named Sri Lapax, marking it as the second species in this genus, following Sri Devi, which was identified in 2021.
“Dromaeosauridae represents a clade of small to medium-sized theropod dinosaurs that have been found in various Cretaceous deposits across North America, Asia, Europe, South America, and extending as far as Antarctica and Madagascar.”
“Remnants of feather-like structures, true pennaceous feathers, and gastrointestinal remains can be observed in well-preserved Dromaeosaurus specimens from the Lower Cretaceous period, such as Daurong Wanggi, Sinornithosaurus millenii, and Micro Raptor Zhaoianus.”
“Together with Troodontids, Dromaeosaurids are generally acknowledged as the closest modern relatives of birds.”
The nearly complete skeleton of Sri Lapax was discovered in the Djadochta Formation in Mongolia.
“This Dromaeosaurus specimen was illegally collected prior to 2010 and subsequently passed through private collections in Japan and the UK before being obtained by a French company,” noted paleontologist Eldonia.
“The precise location of the discovery remains unknown.”
“We plan to propose a tentative origin for it in the Mongolian Ukhaa Tolgod region based on documentation relating to the specimen.”
Holotype of Sri Lapax prior to preparations at the Royal Institute of Natural Sciences in Belgium in 2010. The arrows denote single femurs reconstructed using parts from both original femurs (which were separated during preparation). Image credit: Moutrille et al., doi: 10.1080/08912963.2025.2530148.
Sri Lapax exhibits a unique combination of vertebral and pelvic characteristics along with notably robust hands.
“One of the most distinctive features of Sri Lapax,” the researcher remarked.
“When adjusted for equal length, the phalangeal elements of the Pollex are about 150% more robust laterally compared to homologous elements in other Djadokhtan Dromaeosaurids, and these hands are stockier than those found in other known Dromaeosaurids.”
“We propose that frequent interactions with the Serratopsians, along with aggressive behaviors from those species, may have driven the development of more robust forelimbs and stockier hands in several Djadokhtan velociraptorines.”
“Assuming that Sri Lapax shared predatory habits with its close relative Velociraptor mongoliensis, the more robust construction of its hands suggests an adaptation for hunting larger and sturdier prey compared to typical Velociraptor diets.”
A study detailing this discovery was published online in the journal Historical Biology on July 13, 2025.
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Léa Moutrille et al. New bird-like dinosaurs from the Mongolian Upper Cretaceous period indicate niche diversification among belosirapthrins with particularly robust hands. Historical Biology published online on July 13th, 2025. doi:10.1080/08912963.2025.2530148
Dakar, Senegal – the largest meteorite discovered on Earth – a 54-pound (25 kilograms) rock that fetched over $5 million at a New York auction last month, setting a world record.
However, in a West African nation where rusty red rocks have been excavated from the Sahara desert, authorities have initiated an investigation into what they describe as “illegal international trafficking,” suggesting it may have been smuggled from the country.
Here’s what you should know about meteorites and legal controversies:
How was it discovered
According to Sotheby’s, the rock, designated NWA 16788, was dislodged from the surface of Mars by a massive asteroid collision and journeyed 140 million miles (225 million kilometers) to Earth.
It was uncovered in the Sahara, northwest Niger by an unnamed meteorite hunter in November 2023, as per the auction house’s report. The identities of buyers remain undisclosed.
In the arid regions of the Sahara like Niger, meteorite hunting is on the rise. While meteorites can fall anywhere on Earth, the Sahara has emerged as a prime location for their discovery due to its climate, which is conducive to conservation.
Hunters often seek space rocks to sell to collectors and scientists. The most coveted and valuable meteorites are from Mars and the Moon.
As reported by the Heritage Academic Journal, the rock was sold to international dealers and eventually made it to a private gallery in Italy. Last year, a team of scientists from the University of Florence examined the rock to determine its structure and origins before it fell to Earth.
The meteorite was briefly showcased in Rome before appearing at the New York auction last month.
Why Niger is investigating
Following the sale, Niger raised concerns about how the meteorite was made available for auction.
Last month, the Niger government launched an inquiry into the discovery and sale of meteorites, stating that it resembles “illegal international trafficking.”
Last week, President Abdullah Hamanetiani halted the export of precious stones, semi-precious stones, and meteorites to ensure proper traceability.
In a statement to the Associated Press, Sotheby’s maintained that the meteorite was exported from Niger and transported in line with all applicable international regulations.
“In selling this item, all necessary documentation was obtained at each stage of the journey, consistent with best practices and the requirements of the involved countries,” the statement indicated.
Niger authorities did not respond to inquiries from the Associated Press.
What international law says
Patti Garstenblis, a cultural heritage attorney and expert on illegal trade, noted that rare minerals like meteorites are recognized as cultural property under the UNESCO Cultural Property Treaty, which both Niger and the United States have ratified.
However, Garstenbliss pointed out that Niger needs to establish ownership and that the meteorite was stolen.
“I doubt Niger could reclaim the meteorite if it wasn’t stolen and was properly declared upon entering the U.S.,” she stated to the Associated Press.
Paleontologist Paul Sereno, who has spent years uncovering dinosaur fossils in Niger’s Sahara, is advocating for the return of the nation’s cultural and natural heritage, including meteorites.
“When laws clearly state that rare minerals like meteorites are cultural artifacts, unique and valuable items cannot just be claimed without consideration for the country,” he told the AP.
“We are no longer in a colonial era,” he added.
In certain countries, including Morocco, a major source of meteoritic specimens for international markets, if an object is found on their territory, compensation is required. Nonetheless, due to the expansive desert regions and the informal trading networks, enforcement remains challenging.
Myrna (Jennifer Dale) perhaps experienced a more favorable blind date. Her appetizer of edible flowers appear somber. The two tables are surrounded by an oddly shaped shroud of Vitrine covering the setting. After a brief conversation with her date, Karsh (Vincent Cassel), who owns the restaurant, it becomes evident that the environment is intricately linked to the cemetery in architectural, economic, and intellectual aspects.
This cemetery isn’t just a place; it includes gravestones equipped with screens. The deceased are enveloped in a technologically advanced, camera-laden shroud, allowing visitors to witness their loved ones from afar as they undergo life-changing events.
Over his five-decade career, David Cronenberg has perfected the craft of delivering narratives at an unconventional pace. On paper, as well as within the context of “Plesis,” his films might read as satire. Their whimsical nature is apparent, considering the characters’ last names—Karsh is “Relikh,” and Myrna is “Shovlin.” By treating this scenario earnestly, one can discern the potential for conversations with AI-created avatars of the deceased, engaging in various money-driven ventures alongside lists of “grief technology” startups.
Yet, Cronenberg seldom writes pure satire; he crafts narratives that resonate deeply with what we could genuinely experience.
Although Karsh’s date with Myrna is uneventful, he finds solace (and more) with Terry, a digital personification resembling his late wife, Becca. Diane Kruger portrays both the role and voice of the unreliable digital assistant, Honey, created by Terry’s ex-husband, Molly (played by the cunning Guy Pearce).
After many projects, it is evident that sorrow fuels the entirety of David Cronenberg’s artistic journey.
By night, Becca battles bone cancer, navigating her illness without arms. Are these nocturnal encounters mere reflections or figments of his imagination? Amidst everything, Karsh’s affections remain unwavering for his wife, raising the question: will he become more human? Or will they truly care for him?
Kirsh grapples with conflicting emotions—guilt, rage, and longing—as Becca might be deceiving him with her past professor and first love. Yet, these layers serve as mere facades, obscuring more significant, political conspiracies involving China, Russia, or Budapest. Meanwhile, Terry, who enjoys the unfolding drama, finds herself in the position of encouraging Kirsch’s obsessive behaviors.
Carolyn Zeyfman, Cronenberg’s spouse, passed away in 2017. Shroud emerges as a product of profound emotional sharing, delving into every stage of grief through an exceptional portrayal by Kassel—armed with unresolved, fantastical plot elements twisted by delusional technological visions. Is there a chance that China could exploit our physical forms for surveillance? Or did Morley code this metamorphosis?
Meanwhile, Shroud firmly establishes that sorrow remains the pivotal force driving Cronenberg’s cinematic catalog. It resembles a constructed film where characters articulate complex revelations to one another while maneuvering through intricate conspiracy theories, perpetually shrouded. Nothing significant evolves because, ultimately, we confront… death. It unfolds at a calm, steady pace, relentlessly.
This ranks among the catastrophic productions great directors occasionally create when they have nothing left to prove, and the only narrative to convey.
I would also recommend Simon’s works…
Asphyx Peter Newbrook
The two Edwardian Tinkers (Robert Stephens and Robert Powell) attempt to invent a method for the Grim Reaper to freeze mid-strokes.
Ring Nakata Fumi
No one consulted us about our desire to live. This thriller explores mortality through cursed videotapes that ensnare viewers within a week.
Simon Sings is a novelist and science writer. Follow him on X @simonings
The Arts and Science of Writing Science Fiction
Join us this weekend to explore new dimensions in science fiction writing, dedicated to crafting innovative worlds and artistic expressions.
As a child, my Malaysian grandmother would take me to the local market. There, we would spend time inspecting every piece of fruit and vegetable, just as only an Asian grandmother knows how. She would weigh the papayas, analyze the patterns on every watermelon, and pull the leaves of pineapples to assess their quality.
Fast forward over 30 years, and I see $200 yoga pant influencers on social media using many of her techniques at farmer’s markets.
Nowadays, these techniques are not only simple but also scientifically sound. However, it’s the vibrant ones that tend to go viral. One popular tip circulating on my social media feed claims that the number of bumps at the base of a pepper is indicative of its flavor. Supposedly, “female” peppers with four bumps are sweeter and better raw, while “male” peppers with three bumps are sweeter and ideal for cooking.
To clarify, peppers are not strictly divided into “male” and “female” in a biological sense. Pepper fruits are the fertilized ovaries of flowering plants, which, like 90% of all plants, contain both male and female components.
However, this explanation doesn’t entirely negate the cultural aspect of categorizing these plants. In traditional remedies, numerous plant varieties are designated as “male” or “female.” Genetics suggests that various plants indeed appear subtly different.
Moreover, the number of lobes in a pepper is largely a genetic trait of the variety. While it is far from a strict binary classification, peppers can have anywhere from one to six or more lobes.
So, do four-lobed peppers really taste sweeter than those with three lobes? After extensively reviewing the literature, we were unable to find any studies correlating sugar content with the number of lobes in pepper fruits.
What we do know is that, like most fruits, their sweetness is closely linked to ripeness. Ripening, from green to red, affects flavor, and bitter-tasting alkaloids may mask sweetness as well.
Ironically, these bitter compounds are concentrated in the placenta, which is the white membrane found between the folds of each pepper. Thus, the more lobes a pepper has, the less likely it is to taste sweet. Sorry, influencers.
James Wong is a botanist and science writer with a keen interest in food crops, conservation, and the environment. Trained at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, London, he lives in a small flat filled with over 500 houseplants. You can follow him on X and Instagram @BotanyGeek.
For more projects, please visit newscientist.com/maker
Should players identify a character from a set of 24 through guessing?
Shutterstock/Jayanthi Photo
You can enhance your odds of winning a board game. By employing a strategy crafted by mathematicians, you may encounter some challenging logical puzzles.
Originally launched in 1979, Zenkon allows players to secretly choose characters from a collection of 24 distinct figures. Players then take turns questioning each other to deduce a yes or no or make a guess about the hidden character.
Numerous individuals engage in a variant of the game, successfully narrowing down their opponent’s character to a single option to win. Mathematicians have explored the optimal approach for this variant, which involves posing two-part questions.
However, official game guidelines stipulate that victory can only be achieved by directly guessing the secret character, rather than merely eliminating incorrect options from the board.
David Stewart from The University of Manchester, UK, and his team devised techniques for winning within the parameters of official rules. They discovered that, in most situations, both players must utilize two-part questions to divide potential suspects into equal or unequal groups based on the remaining suspects. This approach results in the first player winning about 65% of the time. Nevertheless, certain scenarios exist where the number of remaining characters necessitates alternative strategies.
“Mathematics often presents peculiarities. What appears to be a straightforward setup, stripped of all visuals, turns into a mere collection of n objects; you’re striving for efficiency. It’s fascinating to uncover these exceptional cases.
To unearth the best strategy, he and his colleagues began with the most basic scenario, such as having two characters left for each player, calculating optimal strategies for each case, and progressively tackling more intricate scenarios through a method known as mathematical induction. They also created Online Games, a platform for applying the strategies outlined in their research.
The research team identified that when four, six, or ten characters remain on the board and only four players are left, specific rules must be followed—like asking questions that split the four possibilities into one and three. While this is a riskier approach, the potential rewards are significant in these situations.
“It’s intriguing that this isn’t always applicable to games where outcomes seem purely random,” remarked Daniel Jones at the University of Birmingham, UK.
Stewart and his collaborators also uncovered an even quicker method to win the game: “Is your character blonde? If the answer is no, and the character has brown hair, the opponent cannot respond with ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ This creates a contradiction, as the question’s response contradicts itself. By posing this type of question, players gain more insights than with standard two-part inquiries, though it bends the rule that all questions must yield a YES or NO answer.
This method may prove effective for professional mathematicians and computer scientists, yet tends to challenge amateurs. Brian Laverne, a software engineer who developed this clever tactic, notes, “It requires some effort and practice. While you can conceptualize each step, keeping everything organized in your mind simultaneously is the real challenge, even though each step is quite simple.”
From 1950 to 2020, intense heatwaves led to a 25-38% decrease in bird populations inhabiting these biodiverse tropical regions, as reported by Maximilian Cotts and his team from Barcelona’s Super Computing Center.
The researchers have yet to utilize these findings to forecast future bird population trends as global temperatures continue to rise, but early indicators are concerning. “The situation looks grim,” Cotts remarks.
He and his team have initiated a comprehensive analysis of global bird populations using the Living Planet Database. This dataset, however, does not include seabirds. Additional data on habitat destruction was sourced from the Hyde database for global environments, along with historical weather and climate data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts.
The researchers compared this information to identify correlations that could shed light on the observed changes in bird populations. Their findings suggest that habitat loss is a significant driver of decline, corroborating earlier studies, particularly in regions with latitudes between 21° and 43° north or south.
In contrast, extreme heat is the predominant factor affecting bird survival in tropical areas, where many species often exist at the edge of their heat tolerance limits. If these limits are exceeded, they risk mortality , explains Kotz. Even if they manage to survive an intense heat episode, their health is typically compromised, diminishing their reproductive success.
The team is also analyzing how the exacerbation of extreme heat is attributable to anthropogenic climate change, and how bird populations would behave in a scenario without warming. This approach enables researchers to gauge the impact of climate change on bird abundance.
Although such attribution studies have been traditionally employed to assess extreme weather events related to climate change, Kotz notes that this is the first instance of applying this methodology to evaluate ecological repercussions.
There remains a significant lack of data regarding bird population trends, particularly in tropical regions. Kotz acknowledges this deficiency but believes there is enough evidence to draw meaningful conclusions. He cautions that insufficient data in these areas may lead to an underestimation of the impacts.
Insects and Ecosystem Expedition Safari: Sri Lanka
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Nickel West, Australia, is among various mines that can use microwaves for CO2 storage in waste.
BHP
Mining produces billions of tons of waste rock annually. By reacting these unused rock piles with carbon dioxide, we can potentially eliminate considerable amounts of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. The current technique, however, involves burning fossil fuels to heat rocks to high temperatures. Our findings suggest that activating carbon removal could allow these rocks to require less energy when reacting with CO2.
“It’s akin to microwave popcorn,” says Shawn Laurie, a technology developer at Arca, Canada. Instead of heating the entire rock, microwaves target specific molecules. This mechanism differs from how kitchen microwaves pop corn by heating water within the kernel.
Rocks serve to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, mitigating emissions from fossil fuel combustion. Some projects enhance rock weathering by spreading crushed volcanic rocks on farms, which mineralize CO2 as they dissolve. Others inject CO2 into similar underground rocks. Numerous companies, including ARCA, are focused on utilizing mine tailings from extracting metals like nickel and chromium.
These metals frequently arise from ores rich in magnesium-bearing serpentine, which reacts with CO2. According to an analysis by ARCA, approximately 28 billion tons of such tailings exist globally, with 3 billion tons produced each year. They estimate that current tailings can store up to 8.7 billion tons of CO2, roughly equivalent to two years’ worth of U.S. emissions.
However, serpentine does not react quickly under normal surface pressures and temperatures. Heating rocks to elevated temperatures significantly enhances their reactivity and accelerates CO2 mineralization. Yet, this process usually necessitates the burning of fossil fuels to generate heat.
Utilizing microwaves to heat the rocks brings various advantages, asserts Peter Schuman from Arca. Instead of burning fuel for heat, this method relies on clean electricity, using less energy than conventional heating. Additionally, the treatment time for rocks is significantly shorter. This potentially enables mining companies to incorporate microwave processes into tailing treatments or even utilize them as standalone systems, he notes.
An application for a patent from the company reveals that Schuman and his Arca colleagues have successfully treated serpentine with microwaves for several minutes, enhancing their reactivity to CO2, inducing chemical changes, and consuming less energy than traditional heat treatment.
“By energizing the rock, you break the bonds within that structure and release magnesium,” states Scheuermann, which then reacts with CO2. Treated serpentine has been shown to react with significantly higher amounts of CO2 than untreated rocks, mineralizing the gas at an accelerated rate.
“The improvements they demonstrate are quite remarkable,” comments Raphael Santos, who reviewed the patent application at the University of Guelph, Canada. However, he notes that it’s challenging to ascertain from the documentation alone the exact quantity of serpentine treated by microwaves and how these results might translate to practical scenarios.
Scheuermann has not specified the exact amounts expected from microwave treatment in terms of CO2 capture in serpentine but mentions, “It’s a tremendous increase—by several orders of magnitude in both reaction rate and capacity.”
Currently, the company is only testing its approach in the lab and has yet to sell any of its 700 tons of CO2 removal. However, Scheuermann indicates that the scaled-up process would include supplying rocks through a chute or conveyor belt. Additionally, they have developed an autonomous rover designed to mix the tailings for optimal air exposure. Once the reaction concludes, a fresh layer of tailings is applied.
“This preprocessing using microwaves significantly enhances the likelihood of CO2 storage,” states Quin Miller from the Pacific Northwest Research Institute in Washington. “It’s promising,” he adds, noting that the treatment process also aids in extracting nickel, an essential metal for battery production, from the rocks.
While many anticipate retirement, staying active in the workforce during later years can enhance your happiness—particularly for men.
Increasing numbers of people are extending their careers. According to a report from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), 28.9% of individuals aged 65 to 69 across 38 member countries were still employed in 2023, up from 15.9% in 2000. However, the overall effects on well-being remain largely unexplored.
To delve into this topic, Alisa Lewin from Haifa University and Haya Stear from Tel Aviv University analyzed social survey data from Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics. They compared the experiences of over 3,300 women and more than 2,000 men who reached 62 and 67 years of age, respectively.
The researchers found that individuals with lower household incomes were more inclined to work full-time. Notably, the men reported financial, family, emotional, and overall life satisfaction levels that were equal to or exceeded those who were not employed.
This trend held true regardless of the nature of their full-time employment. Meanwhile, women showed an increase in family and economic satisfaction.
“Men, even today, still recognize their responsibilities in providing for their families and achieving workplace success,” notes Carrie Cooper from the University of Manchester, UK.
Results concerning the happiness of participants working part-time were more variable. Outcomes differed based on job type, satisfaction metrics, and participant gender.
Those who began with higher happiness levels tended to work full-time later in life, which could have influenced the findings. Cooper cautions that the results may not be applicable to other cultures or countries.
Dennis “Tink” Bell (far right) during a Christmas celebration at Admiralty Bay Station in 1958
D. Bell; Archive REF: AD6/19/X/20/18
The remains of a meteorologist who perished on an Antarctic glacier 66 years ago have been unearthed and returned to England.
At just 25, Dennis “Tink” Bell embarked on a two-year mission to Antarctica in July 1959 to study the climate of the Falkland Islands, which was the predecessor of the British Antarctic Survey (BAS).
Bell encountered a crevasse but managed to call out for assistance. He secured a rope to his belt and was pulled to safety, although the belt broke, causing him to fall again. This time, he did not call out for help.
His colleague made it back to base, but worsening weather conditions jeopardized further rescue efforts.
Ieuan Hopkins noted that working in Antarctica during the 1950s and 1960s was perilous, and fatalities were tragically common. Many bodies of other BAS staff remain lost today.
“There was an average 1% chance that you wouldn’t return,” remarks Hopkins. “It’s an extremely hostile environment. We’re at risk of losing people.”
Earlier this year, a team from the Arkdowsky Poland Antarctic Station on King George Island discovered numerous bone fragments on the glacier’s surface, having been exposed as they shifted over time.
“It’s a large, dynamic glacier, so things are perpetually moving,” explains Hopkins. “The presence of bone fragments suggests significant forces at play.”
The remains were transferred to the Falkland Islands and subsequently returned to Britain by the Royal Air Force aboard an Antarctic research vessel alongside Sir David Attenborough.
Denise Syndercombe Court at King’s College, London, identified the body through DNA comparisons with samples from his older brother David Bell and younger sister Valerie Kelly, as Bell commented in a statement.
The Polish team also uncovered many personal belongings believed to belong to Bell, including radio equipment, flashlights, ski poles, engraved wristwatches, knives, and pipe stems made of ebonite.
Ibogain, a psychedelic substance, is derived from the roots of the Iboga plant
Farmer Dods / Alamy
The psychedelic substance ibogaine has been shown to slow brain wave activity in individuals with traumatic brain injuries, potentially accounting for its effectiveness in treating symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
A study conducted last year revealed that ibogaine, sourced from the African Iboga plant, significantly enhanced the overall mental and physical well-being of military veterans suffering from traumatic brain injuries. Yet, the precise mechanisms behind these effects were previously unknown.
To investigate further, Jennifer Lismore from Stanford University and her team examined brain imaging of 30 individuals involved in the initial study. During a 5-day treatment session at a facility in Mexico, participants received a dosage of 12 milligrams of ibogaine per kilogram of body weight and participated in supportive activities like yoga, meditation, and therapy.
As part of the study, the researchers collected EEG data that recorded participants’ brain electrical activity. These scans were taken 2-3 days prior to and 3.5 days following the ibogaine treatment.
By comparing the EEG findings, Lismore and her team observed an overall deceleration in brain wave activity post-treatment, particularly in the gamma waves—the fastest brain waves—which exhibited nearly a 16% reduction in strength in the occipital region after ibogaine therapy. While gamma wave intensity saw a slight rebound after one month, levels remained significantly below those recorded prior to treatment.
Additionally, the intensity of slow theta waves rose by approximately 17% in the back of the brain and 13% at the front 3.5 days post-treatment. However, this increase lost its significance after one month.
Lismore suggests that the observed reduction in brain wave activity may clarify why ibogaine is effective for alleviating PTSD symptoms in many patients. “The deceleration of brain function has allowed patients, particularly those experiencing hyperawareness and sensitivity associated with PTSD, to find relief,” she noted. “One way to understand this slowing process is as a mitigation of the heightened distress often seen in PTSD cases.”
The temporary spike in slow theta waves could also indicate that ibogaine promotes neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and rewire itself. Previous studies in animals have associated theta wave activity with brain adaptability, Lismore explains. By inducing a short-term increase in theta wave presence, ibogaine may create conditions conducive to improving mental health.
“Ibogaine essentially addresses the chaotic, restless nature of the brain, facilitating a sort of normalization,” remarked Conor Murray from the University of California, Los Angeles. “Ultimately, it instills a sense of security for participants, reassuring the brain.”
However, he cautions that these findings don’t fully reveal the mechanisms through which ibogaine effects these brain changes.
Another challenge is the absence of control measures, complicating the assessment of the influence from other treatment components, points out Lismore. Nonetheless, she asserts that these insights represent “a significant first step toward understanding why this treatment is so impactful.”
Recent studies have indicated significant enhancements in daytime alertness, overall sleep quality, and reductions in apnea paralysis index, suggesting that respiratory muscle training using blown shanks (conch) could become a novel approach for alleviating obstructive sleep apnea symptoms in the future.
Upper airway muscle training through shank blowing enhances subjective assessments of daytime drowsiness and sleep quality by improving objective indicators of obstructive sleep apnea severity. Image credit: Sharma et al., doi: 10.1183/23120541.00258-2025.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent sleep disorder characterized by repeated breathing interruptions during sleep due to airway obstructions.
This condition leads to excessive snoring, disrupted sleep patterns, and daytime fatigue, while also heightening the chances of hypertension, cardiovascular issues, and strokes.
Blowing the shell of a conch or shank has been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries.
Recent research revealed that individuals with moderate OSA who engaged in shank blowing experienced improved sleep quality, greater daytime alertness, and fewer nighttime breathing disturbances.
Dr. Krishna Sharma, a researcher at the Eternal Heart Care Center and Research Institute in Jaipur, stated:
“The standard treatment for OSA involves a continuous airway pressure machine (CPAP), which keeps the airways open by delivering airflow through a face mask throughout the night.”
“While effective, many patients find it uncomfortable and struggle to adhere to its use.”
“In my clinical practice, several patients reported feeling more refreshed and experiencing fewer symptoms after regularly practicing shank blowing, a traditional yoga breathing technique that involves expelling air through the conch shell.”
“These insights prompted us to design scientific research to rigorously evaluate whether this ancient technique serves as a substantial treatment for those suffering from OSA.”
The study included 30 participants aged 19-65 diagnosed with moderate OSA, who were evaluated at the Eternal Heart Care Center and labs between May 2022 and January 2024.
Polysonography was utilized for assessment, where participants were monitored during sleep and questioned about their sleep quality and daytime alertness.
They were randomly assigned to either practice blowing conch shells (16 patients) or engage in deep breathing exercises (14 patients).
Participants were provided with traditional shanks used in yoga and received in-person training from the research team before commencing home practice.
They were encouraged to practice at home for at least 15 minutes, five days a week. After six months, participants were re-evaluated.
Those practicing shank blowing exhibited a 34% reduction in daytime sleepiness compared to those doing deep breathing exercises.
Additionally, they recorded higher blood oxygen levels during sleep.
“The technique of blowing the shank is distinct,” Dr. Sharma explained.
“It incorporates deep inhalation followed by a powerful, sustained exhalation through tightly pursed lips.”
“This method generates strong vibrations and airflow resistance, which can fortify the upper airway muscles, such as the throat and soft palate.
“The unique spiral design of the shanks may also create acoustic and mechanical effects that assist in stimulating and regulating these muscles.”
“For individuals living with OSA, particularly those who find CPAP uncomfortable, costly, or inaccessible, our findings present a promising alternative.”
“Shank blowing is a simple, low-cost breathing technique that can enhance sleep and mitigate symptoms without reliance on machines or medicine.”
Krishna K. Sharma et al. 2025. Effectiveness of shank blowing on moderate sleep apnea: a randomized controlled trial. ERJ Open Research 00258-2025; doi:10.1183/23120541.00258-2025
Astronomers utilizing the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope have captured breathtaking new images of sections of the spiral galaxy known as NGC 45.
This Hubble image depicts the outer arm of the NGC 45, a spiral galaxy approximately 22 million light-years distant in the Cetus constellation. This color image was generated from individual exposures taken in both visible and near-infrared light using Hubble’s Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3). The colors have been produced by assigning different hues to each monochromatic image captured through various filters. Image credits: NASA/ESA/Hubble/D. Calzetti/R. Chandar/Mhözsaraç.
NGC 45 is located about 22 million light-years away within the constellation of Cetus.
Also referred to as DDO 223, ESO 473-1, or Leda 930, this galaxy spans roughly 81,000 light-years in diameter.
The discovery of NGC 45 dates back to November 11, 1835, by British astronomer John Herschel.
“The data from Hubble utilized to create this portrait of NGC 45 was obtained from two complementary observational programs,” stated Hubble astronomers.
“Initially, we leveraged Hubble’s capability to capture light from ultraviolet to near-infrared ranges to broadly observe galaxies and examine star formation within them.”
“In the second program, we focused on many of the same nearby galaxies as the first, narrowing down to a specific wavelength of red light known as H-alpha.”
“Star-forming nebulae emit strong H-alpha light, and several of these areas can be identified by their bright pink red color throughout NGC 45.”
“These observational programs aim to investigate star formation across galaxies of varying sizes, structures, and separations, making NGC 45 a particularly compelling target.”
Though it may appear to be an ordinary spiral galaxy, NGC 45 is actually a remarkable low surface brightness galaxy.
“Low surface brightness galaxies are more intriguing than the evening sky and are incredibly challenging to detect,” articulated the researchers.
“They possess relatively fewer stars in relation to the amount of gas and dark matter they contain, making them appear unexpectedly faint.”
“Since the accidental discovery of the first low-surface brightness galaxies in 1986, scientists have learned that 30-60% of all galaxies may fall within this category.”
“Investigating these elusive galaxies is crucial for understanding the formation and evolution of galaxies, and Hubble’s sensitive instruments are well-suited for this task.”
This weekend, powerful and destructive thunderstorms are anticipated in the Midwest, Central Plains, and Southeast, leading to heavy rain and flash flooding in the upcoming days.
By early Saturday, rain and strong wind gusts had already left over 50,000 residents in Nebraska without power. Poweroutage.us. The National Weather Service warns that severe weather may still be unfolding.
The agency forecasts “massive nocturnal thunderstorms” affecting parts of the Midwest from the weekend through Monday.
Clusters of thunderstorms, especially during nighttime, are likely to produce “very heavy rain” along corridors extending from northern Missouri to southern Iowa and southern Wisconsin. The National Weather Service reports.
Consequently, there is a significant flash flood threat across the region.
In the Southeast, storms are expected to persist, particularly in northern Florida and southern Georgia this weekend, accompanied by heavy rainfall.
“The daily heavy rains on already saturated ground present localized flooding risks, especially along the coast in southeastern Georgia,” the local NWS branch in Jacksonville, Florida, stated in their weekend predictions.
Central and South Florida may experience numerous showers and slow-moving storms, leading to damaging winds and heavy downpours, according to the NWS.
Meanwhile, the Southwest is grappling with record-breaking heat. Triple-digit temperatures are widespread in Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico, with Phoenix hitting 118 degrees Fahrenheit on Thursday, breaking the city’s daily record. Other Arizona cities, including Scottsdale, Yuma, Bryce, and Deer Valley, have also reported similar daily temperature records. The National Weather Service confirmed.
Although the weekend temperatures in Arizona and other areas of the Southwest Desert are expected to be less extreme than recent highs, the NWS indicates that high temperatures above 110 degrees Fahrenheit are still possible.
In Albuquerque, Friday’s high of 101 degrees Fahrenheit shattered the previous record of 98 degrees F set in 2011. The NWS reported. A heat advisory remains in effect until Saturday evening, just before a storm moves through central and northeastern New Mexico on Sunday.
Evacuations that impacted thousands in Ventura and Los Angeles counties have been reduced to warnings, indicating ongoing risks to life and property.
The Canyon fires are active in the hilly areas north of Los Angeles and are progressing towards the Castatic community in LA County.
Officials from Ventura County reported on Friday that the use of water and fire retardant has significantly hindered the fire’s spread, supported by the consistent efforts of ground crews.
Despite this progress, the fire remains a considerable threat and is continuing to extend eastward.
In a Friday update on X, the LA County Fire Department noted that three firefighters sustained minor injuries while combating the blaze and were transported to a local hospital “out of an abundance of caution.” They are expected to make a full recovery.
The South Coast Air Quality Control District has issued advisories concerning wildfire smoke for parts of LA County, particularly along the I-5 corridor near Lake Castaic. Air quality issues are anticipated to persist until Sunday morning, as reported by the agency that tracks air quality for Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties.
Wildfire smoke is a significant pollution concern, as it contains fine particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers—about 4% of the width of an average human hair. Such pollution is hazardous, as these particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, exacerbating conditions like asthma, lung cancer, and other chronic respiratory diseases.
The Canyon Fire ignited near Holster Canyon on Thursday afternoon, rapidly consuming over 1,500 acres within a few hours.
This blaze is one of several significant fires currently affecting California, including the massive Gifford Fire, which started on August 1st in the Rospadres National Forest, burning over 100,000 acres and achieving only 21% containment. As per Cal Fire.
Recent research suggests that the concealed structural weaknesses in the Yukon, Canada, may be primed to trigger a significant earthquake of at least magnitude 7.5, as outlined in the latest study.
The Tintina Fault, stretching from northeastern British Columbia to central Alaska, has been silently accumulating tension for over 12,000 years. A new investigation previously deemed relatively harmless indicates that it remains very active.
Regrettably, scientists are unable to predict when the next major quake will strike.
“Our findings indicate that the fault is active and continues to build strain,” said Dr. Theron Finley, the lead author of the study published in Geophysical Research Letters, in a statement to BBC Science Focus. “I expect it will eventually rupture again.”
The Tintina Fault is classified as a “right-lateral strike-slip fault,” where two blocks of the Earth’s crust slide horizontally past each other. If one side moves to the right during an earthquake, it’s identified as right-lateral.
Over the ages, one side of the fault has shifted approximately 430 km (270 mi), during a geological period that spanned roughly 560 to 33.9 million years ago, predominantly in the Eocene epoch.
The Tintina Fault extends 1,000 km (600 mi) from northeastern British Columbia to Alaska. – Credit: National Park Bureau
While minor earthquakes occasionally occur in the region, the Tintina Fault has generally been considered dormant.
“There have been small earthquakes in the 3-4 magnitude range detected along or near the Tintina Fault,” Finley noted. “However, nothing has strongly indicated that a larger outbreak is likely.”
This perspective changed when Finley and his team revisited the fault with advanced technology. By integrating satellite surface models with drone-mounted Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) data, researchers uncovered hidden seismic activity within the dense Yukon forests.
The landscape revealed cliffs associated with the fault, forming long, narrow terrains created when a quake pushed material to the surface, often collapsing in the process. These features can span dozens or even hundreds of kilometers, but are typically only a few meters tall and wide.
“In the case of the Tintina fault, these features appear as a series of intriguing mounds,” Finley stated.
By dating these surface formations, researchers determined that the fault has ruptured multiple times over the last 2.6 million years, though no significant earthquakes have occurred in the past 12,000 years.
Fortunately, the region is sparsely populated. However, if the fault does rupture, Finley cautioned that major landslides, infrastructure damage, and impacts on nearby communities would be highly probable.
“We want to emphasize that we don’t have a precise sense of how imminent an earthquake is,” he noted. “Our observations indicate it has been a long time since the last significant quake, but there’s no way to know if one is more likely in the near or distant future.”
Finley remarks that the fault has been confirmed as active, and the next step is to better estimate the frequency of large earthquakes in the area. This could help provide a more reliable timeline, even though scientists cannot accurately forecast when the next rupture may happen. Stay tuned.
“Earthquakes don’t necessarily occur on a regular basis, but they can give us a clearer understanding of how often we can expect significant events,” Finley explained. “Regardless, when the Tintina fault finally releases, it won’t be inconsequential.”
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About our experts
Theron Finley is a geologist at the Yukon Geological Survey. He recently obtained a doctorate from the University of Victoria in Canada and has conducted research on active faults in Western Canada, utilizing remote sensing, structural geology, and paleoseismology.
Our brains are glowing. While this phenomenon isn’t visible to the naked eye, scientists have the ability to detect faint light that permeates the skull. Recent studies indicate that this light varies based on our activities.
All living tissues generate a subtle light known as Ultraweak Photon Emissions (UPE). This emission ceases once the organism dies. The human brain, however, emits a considerable amount of this light due to its high energy consumption, accounting for around 20% of the body’s total energy.
“Ultraweak photon emissions, or UPE, are extremely faint light signals produced by all types of cells throughout the body—trillions of times weaker than the light from bulbs,” stated Dr. Nirosha Murugan, an Assistant Professor of Health Sciences at Wilfrid Laurier University in Ontario, Canada. BBC Science Focus.
“Although UPE is a weak signal, the energy expenditure of the brain generates more light than other organs,” she explained. “Consider the hundreds of billions of brain cells; each one emits a weak light signal, but together they create a measurable collective glow outside the head.”
Murugan’s research team aimed to explore whether this glow fluctuated with brain activity and if it could be utilized to assess brain functions.
To investigate, scientists equipped participants with caps containing electrical sensors to track both electrical impulses and light emitted from the brain. Twenty adults were invited to sit in a darkened room.
Participants were directed to open and close their eyes and follow simple audio instructions.
Comparisons were made between the captured electrical signals and UPEs, revealing notable correlations.
“We discovered that the optical signals detected around the head correlate with electrical activity in the brain during cognitive tasks,” Murugan noted. “These patterns of light emission from the brain are dynamic, intricate, and informative.”
The brain emitted this light in a slow, rhythmic pattern, occurring less than once per second, creating the illusion of stability throughout the two-minute tasks.
All living cells emit ultrawave light as a byproduct of chemical reactions such as energy metabolism – Credit: Sean Gladwell via Getty
Murugan indicated that measuring this brain light could offer scientists and medical professionals a novel method for brain imaging, potentially identifying conditions like epilepsy, dementia, and depression.
This light is not merely a by-product; it might also play a functional role in the brain. Murugan emphasized that examining it could “uncover hidden dimensions” of our cognitive processes.
“I hope that the possibility of detecting and interpreting light signals from the brain will inspire new questions previously deemed unfathomable,” she stated. “For instance, can UPEs permeate the skull and influence other brains within the vicinity?”
This study serves as a preliminary exploration, suggesting that plenty remains to be uncovered about our illuminating brains.
Nonetheless, Murugan expressed hope that the team’s discoveries will “ignite a new discussion regarding the significance of light in brain functionality.”
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About our experts
Dr. Nirosha Murugan is an assistant professor in the Department of Health Sciences at Wilfrid Laurier University, Ontario, Canada. She was recently appointed as Tier 2 Canada Research Chair of Biophysics at the University of Algoma in Ontario.
You might have come across the term “fibremaxxing.” This recent health craze, popularized on platforms like TikTok, involves individuals significantly increasing their daily fiber intake. The recommended amount is 25-30g (0.9-1 oz) per day with the goal of enhancing gut health.
Influencers are now dubbing fiber as the “new protein,” promoting high-fiber foods such as beans, lentils, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Some even resort to fiber supplements to meet their daily targets.
This theory suggests that such increases have potential health benefits, including improved digestion, more regular bowel movements, increased gut bacteria, and relief from symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
This trend arises from the belief that modern diets often lack sufficient fiber, and there is certainly some truth to this.
So, ramping up fiber consumption must be beneficial, right? However, it’s not that straightforward, particularly in relation to diet and health.
Intestinal Reactions
Fiber plays a crucial role in gut health for several reasons.
Though it is a carbohydrate, fiber differs from other carbs like starch and sugar; it is not digested in the small intestine. Instead, it travels to the large intestine where gut bacteria utilize it. These bacteria offer various health benefits by producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that contribute positively to our health.
Non-decomposable fibers absorb liquid, increase stool bulk, and make elimination smoother. Thus, boosting fiber intake can help prevent constipation and regulate bowel movements.
Individuals with IBS often believe enhanced fiber intake soothes symptoms, particularly if they experience more constipation than diarrhea.
Vegetables offer a variety of fibers, both soluble and insoluble, beneficial for gut health.
Research suggests that adequate fiber intake can reduce the risk of colon cancer. One SCFA produced in the large intestine, butyrate, is believed to have anti-inflammatory and protective properties for colon cells.
By facilitating stool passage, fibers minimize the contact time colon cells have with harmful substances, potentially explaining the rising incidence of colon cancers worldwide. Particularly among young individuals who consume insufficient fiber-rich foods.
Nonetheless, while incorporating more fiber into your diet is generally beneficial, “fibremaxxing” requires a nuanced understanding of nutrition. It’s akin to running a marathon without proper training for your gut.
The Risks of Overconsumption
The gut is a complex ecosystem, finely tuned to maintain balance, and introducing excessive specific nutrients can lead to unintended consequences. Some proponents of “fibremaxxing” advocate for fiber intakes exceeding 50g (1.8oz) daily, possibly resulting in side effects such as bloating, cramps, and diarrhea.
There’s also a variety of fiber types to contemplate. Soluble fibers absorb water and slow digestion, while insoluble fibers pass through largely intact, hastening digestion. Moreover, fermentable fibers feed bacteria in the large intestine.
A healthy gut requires a balance among these fibers. Excessive insoluble fiber (found in wheat bran and some vegetables) may bulk up stool but irritate sensitive digestive organs. Certain fermentable fibers, like oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (known as FODMAPs), can complicate absorption and potentially aggravate IBS symptoms.
To effectively support gut health, a balance of different fiber types is essential. By aiming excessively high, such as 50g (1.8oz) daily, “fibremaxxers” might confine their diet to a limited array of fiber-rich foods.
For example, high-fiber breakfast cereals provide 12.4g of fiber per 100g (0.5 oz per half cup); to reach their lofty goals, individuals may feel compelled to consume multiple bowls throughout the day. However, cereal mainly offers insoluble fiber, lacking soluble and fermented fiber.
Consequently, excessive fiber can lead to increased digestive discomfort and disrupt the delicate equilibrium required for a healthy gut, particularly if individuals neglect to consider how to balance their nutrient intake.
Cleansing Trends
By prioritizing one nutrient for specific health benefits, fibremaxxing fits into a long tradition of cleansing and detox trends targeting digestive health.
While various gut cleansing rituals frequently trend on social media and appear enticing, they often cause more harm than good. For instance, juice cleanses can strip away vital nutrients, and “detox” teas and laxatives may result in dehydration and long-term harm to the intestinal lining.
Additionally, recent trends involving enemas can disrupt the natural rhythm of the intestines and eliminate beneficial bacteria.
Juice cleansing is neither a healthy nor a safe dieting approach.
Experts advise caution regarding trendy supplements and extreme elimination diets that exclude entire food groups without proper oversight, as these may reduce microbial diversity and impair digestion. Your gut won’t appreciate these drastic resets; what it truly needs is ongoing, careful, and balanced support.
Monitoring Your Fiber Intake
How can you determine if you’re consuming enough fiber in your diet and if you need to increase your intake?
Signs such as fatigue and weight gain are often early warnings. Soluble fiber slows digestion, contributing to prolonged feelings of fullness while gradually releasing sugar into the bloodstream.
In its absence, blood sugar levels can fluctuate unpredictably, leading to fatigue shortly after meals. Such energy dips can tempt you into snacking, resulting in weight gain.
While fibremaxxing may have begun as a sincere effort to boost well-being, like many health trends that go viral, it oversimplifies complex bodily processes and poses risks by overdoing things.
It’s evident that most individuals will benefit from increasing fiber consumption, especially from plant-based foods, which can aid digestion, lower disease risk, and help maintain healthy weight. However, this must be done cautiously; excessive, sudden, or unbalanced increases can be detrimental.
Your gut is a finely tuned ecosystem that flourishes through diversity, consistency, and balance—not through drastic changes or quick fixes.
The planetary candidate, Alpha Centauri AB, may be a gas giant orbiting at a distance of one to two times that of the Earth from the Sun, as indicated in two research papers. Astrophysics Journal Letter. If verified, this planet would be the closest known to Earth within the habitable zone of a Sun-like star. Nonetheless, since it is a gas giant, astronomers do not believe it could support life as we understand it.
Artist’s rendering of the gas giant Alpha Centauri A. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI/Robert L. Hurt, Caltech & IPAC.
Alpha Centauri resides in the Centaurus constellation and represents the nearest star system to Earth.
Also referred to as Rigil Centaurus, Rigil Kent, and Griese 559, this system includes a bright binary star pair, Alpha Centauri A and Alpha Centauri B, alongside a fainter red star known as Alpha Centauri C.
The two prominent stars are approximately 4.35 light-years away, while Alpha Centauri C, commonly called Proxima Centauri, is slightly nearer at about 4.23 light-years.
In comparison to the Sun, Alpha Centauri A is a G2-type star similar in nature, but slightly larger (1.1 times the size of the Sun and around 1.5 times its luminosity).
Alpha Centauri B, classified as a K1-type star, is slightly smaller and less luminous (approximately 0.9 times the mass of the Sun, with about 45% of its visual brightness).
These two stars orbit around a common center of gravity approximately every 80 years, maintaining a minimum distance of about 11 times that of the Earth-Sun distance.
Astronomers study these stars closely along with our nearest interstellar neighbor, Proxima Centauri, making them prime targets in the search for potentially habitable planets.
“This proximity offers the best chance to gather data on planetary systems beyond our own,” stated Dr. Charles Beichman from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the Exoplanet Science Institute at IPAC Astronomy Center in California.
“However, the brightness and swift motion of these stars present significant challenges in observation, even for the world’s most advanced space telescopes.”
The Alpha Centauri star system captured by different terrestrial and space-based observatories: DSS, Hubble Space Telescope, and James Webb Space Telescope. While the DSS shows the triple system as one light source, Hubble distinguishes between Alpha Centauri A and B. Webb’s Milimask image mitigates glare from Alpha Centauri A via a coronagraphic mask. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/ANIKET SANGHI, CALTECH/CHAS BEICHMAN, NEXSCI, NASA & JPL-CALTECH/DIMITRI MAWET, CALTECH/JOSEPH DEPASQUALE, STSCI.
The first observations of this system occurred in August 2024, employing a Coronagraphic Mask with Webb’s Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) to reduce the brightness of Alpha Centauri A.
The presence of nearby companion star Alpha Centauri B added complexity to the analysis, but astronomers successfully subtracted the light from both stars, uncovering objects that were more than 10,000 times dimmer than Alpha Centauri A.
On the other hand, an initial detection was promising, but further data was required for a definitive conclusion.
However, subsequent observations in February and April of 2025 did not unveil any objects akin to those detected in August 2024.
“We are facing a case of disappearing planets,” remarked Dr. Aniket Sangi from Caltech.
“To unravel this mystery, we employed computer models simulating millions of potential orbits, taking into account the insights gained from observing planets and their absence.”
In the simulations, the team incorporated the 2019 sightings of potential exoplanet candidates reported by the ESO’s Very Large Telescope, alongside new data from Webb, considering the gravitational stability of orbits influenced by Alpha Centauri B.
“The non-detections in the second and third rounds with Webb were not unexpected,” stated Sangi.
“In many simulated orbits, the planet was positioned too close to the star, rendering it invisible to Webb during both February and April 2025.”
“Based on mid-infrared observations of planetary brightness and orbital simulations, this gas giant could have a mass similar to Saturn, orbiting Alpha Centauri A at a distance one to two times greater than that between the Sun and Earth.”
“If confirmed, the potential planets identified in Webb’s Alpha Centauri images will represent a significant milestone in exoplanet imaging efforts,” Sangi added.
“Of all directly imaged planets, this would be the closest star we have ever observed.”
“Moreover, it would be the nearest to our home, with gas giants in our solar system that are similar in temperature and age to Earth.”
“The mere existence of two closely separated star systems poses intriguing challenges to our understanding of planetary formation, survival, and evolution within chaotic environments.”
If substantiated by further observations, these findings could reshape the field of exoplanet science.
“This will become a pivotal object in exoplanet research, offering multiple opportunities for detailed characterization by Webb and other observatories,” Dr. Beichman concluded.
____
Charles Beichman et al. 2025. The Neighbor World: Imaging a giant planet candidate, orbital and physical properties of CEN A, and habitable zones at the exozodiacal upper limit. ApJL in press; Arxiv: 2508.03814
Aniket Sangi et al. 2025. The Neighbor World: Imaging a giant planet candidate in the habitable zone of Cen A. II. Binary Star Modeling, Planetary and Exozodiacal Search, and Sensitivity Analysis. ApJL in press; Arxiv: 2508.03812
Could the gravitational wave signal be from a black hole or something more peculiar?
Titoonz / Alamy
Exotic viscous stars might emulate signals from black holes, mirroring the ripples in spacetime.
Since 2015, scientists have been uncovering the universe’s secrets by monitoring both light waves and gravitational waves, the ripples in the cosmos. Jaime Redondo-Yuste from the Neals Bohr Institute in Denmark and his team found that they can reflect gravitational waves, similar to light waves, but only from unusually viscous celestial objects.
The researchers began exploring the possibility of creating a gravitational wave mirror. While earlier studies hinted at its feasibility, developing equations that adhere to physical laws proved challenging. They eventually understood that reflectors don’t need to be flat.
“We can have a spherical mirror, and we need stars,” explains Redondo-Yuste. However, these stars must possess an extraordinarily high viscosity akin to molasses. Their calculations indicated that such stars could indeed reflect gravitational waves, as they are too rigid to be disturbed by passing waves.
Daniel Kennefick from the University of Arkansas highlights that this behavior is rare since most materials are transparent to gravitational waves, just as glass is to light. “Even when we are very near sources of powerful gravitational waves, they pass through us without any noticeable effect,” he remarks.
In addition to their strangeness, stars capable of deflecting gravitational waves must be compact and on the brink of collapsing into black holes. Redondo-Yuste notes that black holes themselves are very viscous. Therefore, when gravitational wave signals reach Earth, other highly viscous objects could be misidentified as black holes, with subtle differences in their signals. For instance, collisions between viscous stars and black holes would yield slightly distinct gravitational wave signatures due to tidal influences.
Researchers have previously detected celestial bodies believed to have heightened viscosity, such as extremely hot neutron stars formed from the merger of others. However, it’s still uncertain whether these stars possess sufficient viscosity to align with the team’s mathematical model, according to Paolopani from the University of Sapienza in Rome, Italy.
He suggests that forthcoming gravitational wave detectors will enhance our understanding of the viscosity of known objects and assist in discovering new ones. “This serves as a prelude to what we should be searching for,” Kennefick says.
To date, observational data hasn’t provided strong evidence for classifying what scientists identify as a black hole as an exotic star. All three researchers agree that the likelihood of observing these viscous stars has been minimal thus far.
“However, it’s our responsibility to continue these investigations,” insists Redondo-Yuste. “Only in this way can we compile a complete catalog of the entities populating our universe.”
Spectroscopy enables astronomers to detect traces of matter in stars, galaxies, and other cosmic entities. Black holes consume dust and encounter various phenomena around them; as material spirals into a black hole, it compresses and heats up. Stephen Finkelstein, a co-author and professor of astronomy at the University of Texas at Austin, noted that all of this can be observed through spectroscopy.
“We’re searching for these signatures of extremely fast gas,” Finkelstein explained. “We’re discussing speeds of 1,000, 2,000, and at times even 3,000 kilometers per second. There’s nothing else in the universe that moves this quickly, so we can confirm it must be the gas surrounding a black hole.”
Scientists have pinpointed a potential distant black hole candidate, which stands as the oldest candidate confirmed via spectroscopy, he added.
Researchers also find galaxies containing new black holes to be intriguing discoveries. According to Taylor, these galaxies belong to a class known as “Little Red Dots.”
While not much information is available about Little Red Dots, they were first detected by the James Webb Space Telescope. Some have been found relatively close by, but Finkelstein indicated that they are likely more prevalent in the early universe.
Investigating the Capers-Lrd-Z9 Galaxy may offer insights into the rarity of red dots and what defines their unique coloration, researchers noted. It could also shed light on the growth of these ancient black holes during the universe’s formative stages.
In subsequent studies, researchers aim to locate more black holes in the distant cosmos.
“We’re just going to examine a very limited section of the sky using the James Webb Space Telescope,” Finkelstein stated. “If we discover one thing, there ought to be more.”
Kick off with Moth Genitalia. Joe Harkness originally intended to write a book centered on “The Benefits of Niche Nature.” Ecologists, naturalists, and conservationists often have a fondness for squirrels or even peculiar genitalia for identification purposes. However, a suggestion from his editor redirected him. What if the themes of these niche interests overlap with feelings of anxiety?
Harkness, diagnosed with ADHD, reflects that upon returning to interviewees, it’s not surprising to find that many have also been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, or other “DYS” conditions (like dyslexia, dyspraxia, or dyscalculia).
The book, Neurodivergent, essentially: Why Neurodiversity Needs Biodiversity, presents a crucial and engaging exploration of the significance of “nature” for the neurodivergent community, thoroughly examining how neurodiversity interacts with the conservation sector in the UK.
Readers are introduced to striking and unexpected contrasts. Harkness and his interviewees often describe the wild outdoors as “safe spaces” and “non-judgmental” environments where sensory stimulation can occur without overwhelming the senses. Yet, it becomes clear that many of Harkness’s subjects work in highly competitive fields characterized by high demands and low earnings. “We cannot overlook the evident exploitation that happens in this field,” he states, especially when taking into account neurological conditions.
Defining neurodivergent experiences can be a tricky and potentially foolish endeavor. Harkness opts for a more open-ended approach, stressing that the “unique neural skillset” possessed by many in conservation work often goes unrecognized and unutilized.
He highlights an intense focus, heightened sensory awareness, and a moral compass directed solely towards nature. Conversely, he also addresses the drawbacks—hyperfocus might lead to excessive literal thinking.
Harkness acknowledges the ongoing tension many neurodivergent conservationists face. “We prefer to invest our energy in safety rather than dealing with chaos. However, we need to attract these individuals for them to drive positive change.”
While the book occasionally shifts focus, particularly when addressing the challenges faced by women, youth, and individuals from ethnic minorities, it serves as a helpful reminder of how neurodiversity intertwines with a myriad of social, economic, political, and environmental issues. There are no easy resolutions here.
Harkness is a charismatic and passionate guide in familiar territories, engaging with a wide array of voices. His conversations are often exhilarating, sometimes distressing, and frequently humorous, yet there’s a desire for more personal narratives from those he interviews.
Though Harkness critiques the employment practices and workplace culture of certain conservation organizations from a neurodivergent perspective—some aspects may feel diluted later on—the work remains captivating and essential. Addressing our climate and ecological crises requires perspectives from all sides.
Richard Smith is a writer and crossword compiler for New Scientist
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What might the artistic concept of a gas giant in orbit around Alpha Centauri A resemble?
ESA/Webb Copyright: NASA, ESA, CSA, STSCI, R.
A massive planet comparable to Saturn is potentially identified orbiting a sun-like star in our nearest stellar system, Alpha Centauri.
Located just four light-years from Earth, Alpha Centauri is the closest star system to us, comprising three stars: Alpha Centauri A, Alpha Centauri B, and the Red Dwarf Star Proxima Centauri. Scientists have long speculated that planets akin to those in our solar system could exist in such systems, and whether planets can reside at distances similar to our Sun’s “habitable zone” around binary stars has been a matter of intrigue. “These stars are very bright, relatively close, and move quickly across the sky,” mentions Charles Baichman from Caltech in a statement.
Recent observations gathered by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) mid-infrared instrument suggest that a gas giant possibly as substantial as Saturn is orbiting the sun-like star, Alpha Centauri A. This discovery has come as a surprise. “Webb was specifically designed to identify the most distant galaxies, not exoplanets,” remarked Beichman, underscoring that such an identification must be meticulously coordinated through numerous observations, evaluations, and computer simulations, which “can yield remarkable insights.”
While previous methodologies for detecting planets relied on indirect measurements, the JWST executed a “more ambitious” approach by actually gathering light from potential planets, according to Alan Boss of Carnegie Science in Washington, DC, who was not involved in this particular study. Nevertheless, visibility of the potential planets was lost in subsequent observations.
“We’re encountering a case of a disappearing planet!” exclaimed Aniket Sanghi, also at Caltech, in a statement. The research team ran simulations of millions of possible trajectories to solve this conundrum, determining that “in half of the possible simulated orbits, the planet would have been too close to the star, making it undetectable by Webb in both February and April 2025,” he said.
As a gas giant, this planet wouldn’t support life as we know it. However, if this finding is validated, it could significantly enhance our understanding of planet formation around stars. “The mere existence of two closely situated stars within a stellar system will challenge our comprehension of how planets form, survive, and evolve under such chaotic circumstances,” Sangi pointed out. “This is also crucial for Earth, as it is our closest neighbor, beside the giant planets in our solar system, with a temperature and age somewhat akin to Earth.”
This revelation has been documented in two accepted papers for publication in Astrophysics Letters.
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