The AI Bubble is Popping, but AI’s Future Remains Bright

Posted on October 15, 2025 by

Growing concerns of an AI bubble

CFOTO/Sipa USA/Alamy

Substantial investments in AI are suggesting a global financial bubble that may soon burst, exposing companies and investors to the risk of unmanageable debts unable to be serviced by the scant revenues from current AI applications. But what implications does this have for the future of the technology fueling this financial madness?

Recent warnings have emerged globally about the danger of an AI bubble. The Bank of England, the CEO of JP Morgan Chase, and even OpenAI’s Sam Altman have all cautioned against the current trends. “This isn’t merely a stock market bubble; it encompasses investment and public policy bubbles,” asserts David Edgerton from King’s College London.

The interconnected nature of deals among leading AI firms has raised concerns. Take Nvidia, for instance, which manufactures the GPU chips propelling the AI surge; it recently poured up to $100 billion into OpenAI, while maintaining its own data centers filled with Nvidia chips. Ironically, OpenAI also holds a stake in Nvidia’s competitor, AMD.

According to Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, an estimated $400 billion is spent yearly on data centers, leading to increasing worries about the impending burst of the AI bubble. In the second quarter of this year, the US GDP saw a 3.8% increase, but as Harvard’s Jason Furman points out, excluding data center investment, the actual growth was merely 0.1% in the first half of the year.

Carl Benedikt Frey, a professor at Oxford University, notes that such frenetic deal-making isn’t uncommon in the technology sector’s history. “Overbuilding tends to happen; it unfolded during the railroad boom and again during the dot-com bubble,” he explains.

The concern is whether the fallout from the AI bubble will impact only the companies involved or whether it could ripple through the economy. Frey indicates that many data centers being constructed “off-balance sheet” entail creating new companies to bear the associated risks and potential rewards, usually supported by external investors or banks.

This opacity leaves many unsure about who might be negatively affected. The funding for data centers could be rooted in investments from influential tech billionaires or major banks, and substantial losses might trigger a banking crisis, adding turbulence to the economy. “While a financial crisis isn’t immediately on the horizon, the uncertainties breed potential risks,” Frey comments.

Benjamin Arold, a professor at Cambridge University, states that the crucial factor is the profit-to-company valuation ratio, revealing the disconnect between public perception and the actual financial performance of companies. Such metrics are, he warns, red flags for contemporary tech firms.

“We haven’t seen price levels like this in 25 years; it’s reminiscent of the dot-com bubble,” Arold warns. “It may work out in the end, but investing in it feels risky.”

James Poskett from the University of Warwick argues that the AI sector may face a downturn that could lead to many companies going out of business. However, he believes this doesn’t spell the end for the technology itself. “It’s essential not to conflate that with the notion that the technology itself is flawed or redundant,” Poskett emphasizes. “AI could falter, yet it won’t vanish.”

Poskett suggests we may end up with valuable technology, much like how the collapse of various railroad companies in the past left the legacy of a robust rail system, or how the dot-com bust concluded with an extensive fiber-optic infrastructure.

For consumers, the fallout from the AI bubble could translate to fewer choices, potentially higher costs, and a slower rate of technological advancements. Utilizing an expensive tool like GPT-5 for tasks such as email creation resembles using a sledgehammer to crack a nut and may reveal the concealed costs associated with its use, obscured by the present AI race. “There’s currently a lot of ‘free lunch,’ but eventually, these companies will need to start turning a profit,” Poskett notes.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Scientists Raise Alarm Over Significant Design Flaws in Women’s Running Shoes

Posted on October 15, 2025 by

A recent investigation reveals that women’s running shoes may be limiting their athletic potential.

Published in BMJ Open Sports & Exercise Medicine, the research indicates a “significant gap in running shoe design” that overlooks women’s anatomical differences.

“Most so-called women’s running shoes are not genuinely designed for women,” asserts the study’s lead author, Dr. Chris Napier, an Assistant Professor of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia, Canada, as noted in BBC Science Focus.

“We typically base our models on men’s feet, merely scaling them down and changing the color, a method often described as the ‘shrink and pink’ approach.”

However, Napier emphasized that this method does not “account for the real anatomical distinctions between male and female feet or the way women run.”

Consequently, women’s running shoes may not fit well, potentially hampering performance.

In this study, researchers gathered 21 women to discuss their preferences for running shoes and how their needs might evolve over their lifetimes.

The participants ranged in age from 20 to 70 and had between 6 and 58 years of running experience. Eleven individuals ran recreationally, averaging 30 km (19 miles) weekly, while 10 were competitive runners, averaging 45 km (28 miles) weekly.

Most women expressed a desire for shoes with a broader toe box, a narrower heel, and additional cushioning. Napier noted that this aligns with the general differences in foot shape between men and women.

“Women have distinct lower extremity anatomy, such as wider pelvises and shorter legs relative to body size. This influences running mechanics and the forces exerted on the legs,” says Napier.

Among the participants, mothers reported needing larger shoe sizes, wider fits, and more cushioning and support during and post-pregnancy.

Male and female runners have different shoe needs due to their diverse anatomy, preferences, and life stages – Credit: Alvaro Medina Jurado via Getty

This study is small and qualitative; participants were recruited via posters in stores in Vancouver, Canada, meaning findings may not be universally applicable.

Still, Napier hopes that the research will resonate with female runners.

“During our focus groups, many participants experienced an ‘aha’ moment when they realized their shoe issues were not isolated but a common experience among female runners,” he stated.

Napier also expressed hope that the study acts as a “wake-up call” for the footwear industry.

Footwear manufacturers have invested billions in developing running shoes that prevent injuries, enhance comfort, and improve performance.

Most running shoes are molded to a foot-shaped template based on male anatomy, which is then used across their products.

As a result, “a significant portion of the running community is essentially using shoes that are not intended for them,” Napier explained.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

New Study Shows Baker’s Yeast Can Endure Stress Conditions Similar to Mars

Posted on October 15, 2025 by

Investigating the potential for life to endure under extraterrestrial circumstances is a key aim of astrobiology. In this recent study, researchers utilized the robust model organism, baker’s yeast, to evaluate the impact of Mars-like environments. They discovered that the yeast can resist shock waves and perchlorate treatment, two stress factors linked to Mars. Furthermore, yeast adapt to Martian-like conditions by forming conserved RNA-protein complexes.

A model demonstrating the significance of RNP condensates in facilitating survival under Mars-like stress conditions. Image credit: Dhage et al., doi: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgaf300.

“With advancements in space science and astrobiology, examining Mars’s potential to harbor life forms is gaining considerable interest,” stated Dr. Purusharth Rajguru and his team at the Indian Institute of Science.

“Mars presents a range of extreme environmental challenges that any potential life forms would need to overcome.”

“Hence, it is essential to comprehend its unique and harsh environmental conditions.”

“The stressors on Mars include: (i) high-intensity shock waves from meteorite impacts, (ii) extreme fluctuations in temperature and pressure, (iii) ionizing radiation and solar ultraviolet radiation resulting from a thin atmosphere, and (iv) chaotropic agents such as perchlorates.”

“These factors create significant barriers to the survival of potential life.”

In this investigation, the researchers examined budding yeast, a well-known model organism for studying shock waves and perchlorate.

One reason for selecting this yeast is its previous studies conducted in space environments.

When subjected to stress, yeast, humans, and various other organisms form ribonucleoprotein (RNP) condensates, structures composed of RNA and proteins that safeguard the RNA and influence the progression of mRNA.

When a stressor subsides, RNP condensates, which include stress granules and subtypes called P bodies, disassemble.

Yeast subjected to a shock wave with a Mach strength of 5.6 survived, exhibiting slower growth rates, similar to those observed in yeast exposed to 100 mM sodium perchlorate salt (NaClO₄)—a concentration akin to that found in Martian soil.

The yeast cells also endured the combined stress of shock waves and perchlorate exposure.

In both situations, the yeast accumulated RNP condensates, the researchers noted.

The shock wave triggered the formation of stress granules and P bodies, while perchlorate prompted the yeast to generate P bodies but not stress granules.

Mutants that were unable to assemble RNP condensates fared poorer under Martian stress conditions.

Transcriptome analysis uncovered specific RNA transcripts affected by the Mars-like scenarios.

“This finding highlights the significance of yeast and RNP condensates in understanding how Martian conditions affect life,” the scientists concluded.

For further details, refer to their paper published in today’s issue of PNAS Nexus.

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Riya Dage et al. 2025. Ribonucleoprotein (RNP) condensates regulate survival in response to Mars-like stress conditions. PNAS Nexus 4(10):pgaf300; doi: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgaf300

Source: www.sci.news

Britain Discovers Europe’s Longest Sauropod Dinosaur Footprint

Posted on October 15, 2025 by

In 2024, a remarkable discovery was made at Dewar’s Farm Quarry, located near Bicester, Oxfordshire, England, where new large sauropod dinosaur footprints were found. This year, palaeontologists from Oxford University, Birmingham University, Liverpool John Moores University, and the Oxford University Museum of Natural History uncovered approximately 200 additional footprints comprising four distinct tracks, including Europe’s longest sauropod dinosaur track.

A 166-million-year-old sauropod dinosaur footprint at Dewar’s Farm Quarry in Oxfordshire, England. Image credit: University of Birmingham.

The four newly discovered tracks at Dewar’s Farm Quarry date back to the Middle Jurassic period, approximately 166 million years ago.

These belong to sauropod dinosaurs, which are characterized as large-bodied, long-necked herbivores. Cetiosaurus.

Among these discoveries is Europe’s longest sauropod dinosaur footprint, extending roughly 220 meters from the first exposed footprint to the last.

Professor Kirsty Edgar from the University of Birmingham commented: “We were thrilled to return to the Dewar’s Farm quarry earlier this year to continue our excavation and unveil further dinosaur footprints.”

“This site in Oxfordshire boasts the largest dinosaur footprint in the UK and is likely the largest dinosaur footprint in the world that has been mapped, considering previous discoveries from the 1990s on the same surface nearby.”

Over seven days, the team faced a much drier and harder surface compared to previous years, concentrating on about 80 very large (up to 1 meter) sauropod footprints that create a remarkable trajectory running roughly north-south across the site.

In addition to the extensive sauropod track, three other shorter tracks were revealed, one of which is a continuation of a trace initially discovered in 2022.

While these findings may not be published continuously, the accumulation of data could lead to even longer orbital patterns.

Minor discoveries at the site included marine invertebrates, plant material, and a crocodile jaw.

Professor Richard Butler from the University of Birmingham stated: “Most of what we comprehend about dinosaurs is derived from their skeletons, but dinosaur footprints and deposits can offer valuable insights into how these creatures lived and the environments they inhabited over 166 million years ago.”

“A significant aspect of this latest excavation involves systematic sampling of the sediments associated with the footprints and those filling the footprints, which are currently under analysis to better understand the environment in which they were formed and how they have been preserved.”

“It is likely that additional footprint surfaces will be uncovered in the coming years, and a comprehensive explanation of their significance, new scientific findings, and potential future conservation of the site will be published soon.”

Source: www.sci.news

Researchers Discover That “Linear Dune Canyons” on Mars Were Formed by Sliding Carbon Dioxide Ice Blocks

Posted on October 15, 2025 by

Parallel channels known as linear dune canyons can be observed within some of Mars’ dunes. Contrary to what their name suggests, these canyons are frequently quite winding. It was previously believed that these landforms were created through debris flow processes influenced by liquid water. However, recent satellite imagery has revealed that they are active during the local spring due to processes involving carbon dioxide ice. During the Martian winter, ice accumulates on the dunes, breaking off at the top as temperatures rise in early spring. In new experiments conducted in the Mars Chamber, planetary researchers from Utrecht University, the University of Le Mans, the University of Nantes, the Grenoble Institute of Astrophysics, and the Open University have demonstrated that linear dune canyons form when blocks of carbon dioxide and ice slide or submerge into the sandy slopes of dunes, or shift downwards with considerable force, draining the nearby sand. This drilling action is triggered by a powerful gas flow generated by the sublimation of carbon dioxide ice, as it transitions into carbon dioxide gas. The movement of sliding carbon dioxide ice blocks contributes to the formation of shallow channels, while the excavation of carbon dioxide ice results in the development of deep, winding channels in Martian dunes.

Two examples of Martian dunes with linear dune gullies: (a) linear dune gullies in the dune field of Gall Crater; (b) A linear dune canyon in the dune field of an unnamed crater in the center of the Hellas Plain. Image credit: Roelofs et al., doi:10.1029/2024GL112860.

Linear dune canyons are remarkable and enigmatic formations located in the mid-latitude sand dune regions of Mars.

Despite their designation, these parallel and often meandering waterways, characterized by sharp bends, limited source areas, distinct banks, and hole-like channel terminations, have no equivalent on Earth.

They differ significantly from the conventional canyon topography found on steep slopes both on Mars and Earth, which typically features erosional alcoves, channels, and sedimentary aprons that are often larger than linear dune canyons.

“In our simulations, we observed how high gas pressures cause the sand to shift in all directions around the blocks,” stated Loneke Roelofs, a researcher at Utrecht University and lead author of the study.

“Consequently, the blocks become lodged into the slope and get trapped within cavities, surrounded by small ridges of settled sand.”

“However, the sublimation process persists, leading to continued sand displacement in all directions.”

“This phenomenon drives the block to gradually descend, resulting in a long, deep canyon flanked by small sand ridges on either side.”

“This is precisely the kind of canyon we find on Mars.”

In their research, Dr. Roelofs and colleagues merged laboratory experiments that let blocks of carbon dioxide and ice slide down sandy slopes under Martian atmospheric pressure with observations of the linear dune canyons located within the Russell Crater Giant Dunes.

“We experimented by simulating dune slopes of varying steepness.”

“We released chunks of carbon dioxide ice down a slope and observed the outcomes.”

“Once we discovered an appropriate slope, we began to see significant effects. The carbon dioxide ice chunks started to penetrate the slope and move downwards, resembling burrowing moles or dune sandworms. It was quite an unusual sight.”

“But how exactly do these ice blocks originate? They form in the desert dunes located in the midlands of Mars’ southern hemisphere.”

“During winter, a layer of carbon dioxide ice develops across the entire surface of the dunes, reaching thicknesses of up to 70 cm. As spring arrives, this ice begins to warm and sublimate.”

“The last remnants of the ice persist on the shaded side of the dune’s summit, where blocks will break off once temperatures rise sufficiently.”

“When a block reaches the base of the slope and halts its movement, sublimation continues until all carbon dioxide evaporates, leaving behind a cavity filled with sand at the dune’s base.”

This study was published in the October 8th issue of Geophysical Research Letters.

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Loneke Roelofs et al. 2025. Particle transport driven by explosive sublimation causes blocks of CO2 to slide and burrow, forming winding “linear dune valleys” in Martian dunes. Geophysical Research Letters 52 (19): e2024GL112860; doi: 10.1029/2024GL112860

Source: www.sci.news

Study: Cardamom Seed Extract Enhances Production of Antiviral Proteins

Posted on October 15, 2025 by

Cardamom (Elettaria cardamom) seed extract, notably its primary bioactive element, 1,8-cineole, has been highlighted in recent research for its potential as an antiviral agent by enhancing the production of antiviral proteins known as type I interferons.

Cardamom (Elettaria cardamom) seed. Image credit: Karina Panchenko.

Herbal remedies have long been utilized to address various health conditions, including viral infections.

Medicinal herbs and plants are abundant sources of bioactive substances and have been incorporated into antiviral products by pharmaceutical companies.

These substances interfere with different stages of various viruses’ life cycles and help modulate the body’s immune response to viral threats.

Recent research by Takeshi Kawahara and his team at Shinshu University suggests that cardamom seed extract might possess formidable antiviral properties.

“Even prior to the emergence of the recent coronavirus, we were investigating substances that could help prevent viral infections in daily life,” Dr. Kawahara stated.

“The pandemic has amplified public interest in the antiviral qualities of food, providing us more avenues to pursue this research.”

In earlier investigations, the researchers discovered that cardamom seed extract effectively prevented influenza virus infections.

The latest study involved conducting experiments on human lung cells, specifically A549 cells, treated with cardamom seed extract to simulate viral infection processes and better understand its effects on the production of antiviral molecules.

They found that cardamom seed extract, along with its key bioactive component, 1,8-cineole, activates intracellular nucleic acid sensors that recognize viral DNA and RNA.

These sensors trigger the production of various cytokines, which impact the virus at different phases of infection.

In this instance, treatment with cardamom seed extract or 1,8-cineole resulted in increased production of a specific type of cytokine known as type I interferon, which is crucial for the body’s defense against viral infections, facilitated by the intracellular nucleic acid sensors.

Given these findings, the researchers expressed significant interest in the potential therapeutic applications of their results.

“Traditionally, cardamom has been widely recognized as a medicinal spice, and based on our findings, we aspire to explore its use as an antiviral agent to combat various viral infections,” Dr. Kawahara noted.

“We hope this research sheds new light on the antiviral properties of foods and inspires further exploration of various food components that may aid in preventing viral infections in everyday life.”

These findings were published in the August 2025 issue of Foods.

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Abdullah Al Sufian Shuvo et al. 2025. Type I interferon-enhancing effect of cardamom seed extract via intracellular nucleic acid sensor regulation. Foods 14(15):2744; doi: 10.3390/Food14152744

Source: www.sci.news

Mars Volcanoes Might Have Relocated Ice to the Planet’s Equator

Posted on October 15, 2025 by

Ancient volcanic eruptions on Mars may have led to ice deposits near the planet’s equator

Ron Miller/Science Photo Library

The hottest regions on Mars conceal an unexpectedly dense layer of ice beneath their surface, and researchers might have unraveled its origins. This water could have journeyed from the planet’s interior via peculiar volcanic eruptions billions of years ago, making it a vital resource for future human expeditions.

While Mars is known for its polar ice caps, recent radar data from orbiting satellites indicates that ice also exists in equatorial zones. “There’s a frozen layer at the equator, which is curious given that it’s the warmest area of the planet,” says Saira Hamid from Arizona State University. At high noon, temperatures around the equator can soar to approximately 20°C (68°F).

Hamid and her team conducted simulations of volcanic activity on Mars, revealing that explosive eruptions could have propelled water from the interior into the atmosphere over extensive periods. In ancient times, Mars boasted a denser atmosphere conducive to freeze and snowfall, leading to the ice layers observed today. “This narrative intertwines fire and ice,” adds Hamid.

These eruptions would have differed substantially from those on Earth. Mars’ reduced gravity allows volcanic ash, water, and sulfur plumes to ascend as high as 65 kilometers (65 kilometers) above Earth’s surface, and under certain atmospheric conditions during eruptions, even reach space.

As snow accumulates, the water compresses into muddied ice layers, shielded by a blanket of volcanic ash. This covering prevents the ice from sublimating into space and has contributed to its preservation to the present day.

“The potential for such ice-laden deposits poses challenges for many,” comments Tom Watters from the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. A notable source of confusion is the massive Medusa Fosse Formation near Mars’ equator. “If the water anticipated in the Medusa Fosse Formation were to melt, it could fill the Great Lakes. That’s a substantial volume of water.”

Another theory for the ice’s formation suggests that Mars’ axial tilt may have changed drastically over time, potentially shifting equatorial areas to pole-like conditions. “However, these volcanic eruptions are sufficient to generate ice without requiring shifts in axial tilt,” Hamid pointed out. “It’s the simpler explanation.”

Equatorial regions are also prime sites for landing missions to Mars because the faint atmosphere thickens in these areas, helping to decelerate landers approaching the surface. The availability of water there could be crucial for future human missions, although initial missions may not exploit this resource. Subsequent landings could benefit from the ice.

“On our inaugural trips, we intend to carry plenty of water, just in case we misinterpret our radar readings,” says Watters. “Without enough water, venturing out with only a shovel expecting to strike water is unwise. Bring a shovel, but also ensure you have sufficient water.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Who Was the First Person to Set Foot in the British Isles?

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

homo heidelbergensis The ancient banks of the River Thames in modern-day Swanscombe, England

Natural History Museum/Scientific Photography Library

This is an excerpt from Our Human Story, a newsletter focused on the advancements in archaeology. Subscribe to receive it directly to your inbox each month.

When contemplating regions that are challenging for human habitation, we often envision extreme environments: the Sahara Desert, the Arctic, and the peaks of the Himalayas. While the British Isles may not be as severe, they posed significant challenges for ancient inhabitants.

A recent study I came across in September examined some of the earliest signs of human presence in Britain. The occupations highlighted in this study date back over 700,000 years, which is relatively recent when considering the migration patterns of early humans out of Africa. For instance, these early adventurers reached Indonesia quite swiftly but took longer to make their way to England.

To put numbers to this timeline: Around six to seven million years ago, humans roamed Africa. The oldest widely acknowledged evidence of humans outside Africa comes from Dmanisi, Georgia, where Homo erectus remains were uncovered, dating back 1.8 million years. These ancient relatives seem to have broadened their migration paths, eventually reaching locations like Java, Indonesia.

Nevertheless, the earliest evidence of human populations in Britain emerges within the last million years, indicating a significant gap.

Some scientists suggest that hominins could have been outside Africa much earlier, hinting at an even larger delay. For instance, stone tools have been identified in China’s Xihoudu, dating to 2.43 million years ago, and artifacts from Shangcheng are dated to 2.12 million years ago. Over the last five years, I’ve documented findings of Jordanian tools believed to be over 2 million years old, as well as Indian artifacts thought to date back to 2.6 million years. While the validity of these claims remains contentious—debating whether these objects are actual human tools or merely stones shaped by natural forces—the number of discoveries is growing, and I won’t be surprised if more concrete evidence surfaces shortly.

Regardless, it seems that settling in Britain was a gradual process for our ancient ancestors.

Farewell, Clear Skies

Alternatively, perhaps early humans arrived, took one look at the environment, and decided against settling without leaving a trace. Although the UK’s climate is mild in terms of its lack of extreme heat or cold, its gloomy weather and frequent rains present unique challenges.

During discussions about the British climate with Nina Jablonski from Penn State University, he remarked that in the UK, “the harsher the weather, the lower the UV rays, and the higher the seasonality.” Essentially, it’s jarringly overcast. Unless you venture to polar regions, finding a place with less sunlight is quite rare.

This pattern persists even today, and there were even colder periods. Since the onset of the Pleistocene epoch 2.58 million years ago, the climate has fluctuated between icy ages and warmer interglacial phases. We’ve enjoyed an interglacial phase for the last 11,700 years, during which polar ice sheets expanded south, enveloping vast regions of Britain.

Historically, evidence of ancient humans predominantly comes from warmer interglacial phases, but that narrative has shifted recently.

Research has focused on excavations at Old Park, adjacent to Canterbury in southeast England. In the 1920s, this area was home to Fordwich Pit, a quarry that yielded numerous stone tools. Since 2020, Dr. Alastair Key from the University of Cambridge has led excavations in the region.

His team reported in 2022 about their initial findings, which included 112 artifacts from layers dated between 513,000 and 570,000 years old. My colleague Jason Arun Murguez noted at the time that these artifacts represented the oldest of their kind discovered in Britain and Europe.

Three years later, Key’s team extended the dig and uncovered even older layers containing stone tools, potentially dating hominins to between 773,000 and 607,000 years ago.

For reference, a warm interglacial period occurred around 715,000 to 675,000 years ago. Conditions turned colder before and after this span in the ensuing eras.

Additionally, the researchers found two more recent layers with artifacts dating back to 542,000 and 437,000 years ago, coinciding with the earlier glacial periods.

This indicates that hominins occupied Old Park multiple times, even during the harshest climatic moments.

Ancient footprints uncovered in Happisburgh, England

Simon Parfitt

Heading North

In a broader perspective, while Old Park isn’t the earliest evidence of humankind in the British Isles, it comes very close. The oldest known evidence, however, has unfortunately vanished.

In 2013, while exploring a beach in Happisburgh, eastern England, researchers stumbled across 49 footprints preserved in layers of silt exposed by erosion. Sadly, these footprints were washed away weeks later, but archaeologists documented them and verified they were between 850,000 and 950,000 years old.

Happisburgh has also yielded findings of stone tools exceeding 780,000 years in age, while nearby Pakefield boasts artifacts dating to approximately 700,000 years ago. In stark contrast, the oldest human remains were found in Boxgrove, southeast England, dating back merely 500,000 years.

Of course, the archaeological record remains incomplete, making these sites only representative samples. In 2023, Key and colleague Nick Ashton suggested that humans might have already been in northern Europe as early as 1.16 million years ago. With fresh evidence emerging from Old Park, this date might need reconsideration.

And herein lies the mystery: Who were the ancient humans capable of surviving the often brutal climate of Britain?

Although Homo erectus seems to have been the first to venture out of Africa, concrete evidence of their presence in Europe is limited. Tools dating back 1.4 million years have been unearthed in Korolevo, Ukraine, but no hominin remains were found. Similarly, I reported earlier this year on the discovery of fragments of facial bones from Spain, dating to between 1.1 to 1.4 million years ago, attributed tentatively to “Homo af. erectus.”

Northern Spain was also home to another species, referred to as Homo antecessor, identified from a cave that existed between 772,000 and 949,000 years ago.

The Boxgrove hominids, on the other hand, are thought to belong to a distinct species, Homo heidelbergensis. Their classification poses challenges; they likely thrived in Europe hundreds of thousands of years ago, yet clear archaeological sites specifically linked to them remain scarce.

How these species interrelated, along with later groups like us and Neanderthals, remains a mystery. Consequently, the identities of the early Britons are still shrouded in uncertainty, fittingly, considering the cloudy weather.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Paralyzed Man Experiences Sensations Through Others’ Touch

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

Keith Thomas (right) was able to control other people’s hands.

Matthew Ribasi/Feinstein Institute for Medical Research

A paralyzed individual can now move and sense the hands of others as if they were his own due to an innovative ‘telepathic’ brain implant. “We’ve established a mind-body connection between two distinct individuals,” explains Chad Bouton from the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research in New York.

Bouton theorizes this method could serve as a rehabilitation tool following spinal cord injuries, enabling paralyzed individuals to collaborate and potentially allowing shared experiences from a distance.

Bouton and his team collaborated with Keith Thomas, a man in his 40s who became paralyzed from the chest down after a diving accident in July 2020, losing all movement and sensation in his hands.

In a prior study in 2023, researchers inserted five sets of small electrodes into the part of Thomas’s brain responsible for movement and sensation in his right hand, enabling them to monitor his neural activity through a device affixed to his skull.

By processing these signals through a computer equipped with an artificial intelligence model, the researchers deciphered the neural activity and relayed signals wirelessly to electrodes on Thomas’ forearm, prompting muscle contractions and relaxations that allowed him to move his hand. Thomas also used force sensors on his hands, transmitting signals back to his brain implant, thereby creating a sense of touch. Consequently, he was able to use his mind to pick up and feel objects in his hands for the first time in years.

Now, the team has adapted a similar system that enables Thomas to control and sense through the hands of others. In one experiment, a non-disabled woman was fitted with forearm electrodes and numerous force sensors on her thumb and index finger. Although she did not attempt to move, Thomas was able to open and close her hand by merely imagining the action.

He could also perceive the sensation of her fingers gripping a baseball, a soft foam ball, and a firmer ball in his own hand, distinguishing between them based on their hardness while blindfolded. “It definitely feels strange,” Thomas remarked. “You’ll eventually get accustomed to it.”

Though Thomas could only identify the different balls with 64% accuracy, Bouton believes this figure could be enhanced by optimizing sensor locations and numbers on his hands. They also could not discern the shape of the balls, but Bouton is hopeful that additional brain electrodes and force sensors might enable them to recognize various objects.

In another similar trial, Thomas assisted a paralyzed woman named Kathy DeNapoli in picking up a can and drinking from it, a task she struggled to perform independently due to limited finger movement. “It was genuinely remarkable, how you can assist someone simply by thinking about it,” Thomas expressed.

Electrodes implanted in Keith Thomas’ brain are wired to a computer

Matthew Ribasi/Feinstein Institute for Medical Research

After several months of working with Thomas, DeNapoli’s grip strength nearly doubled, according to Bouton. DeNapoli’s paralysis isn’t so severe that receiving invasive surgery is morally questionable. While similar gains in grip strength can be achieved through conventional treatments like electrical muscle and spinal cord stimulation, Thomas and DeNapoli found collaborating far more appealing than rehabilitating alone, Bouton added.

“Just conversing about things like, ‘How’s your weekend going?’ can be beneficial. It enhances your self-esteem and theirs,” Thomas states. Bouton shared that the team intends to explore this approach with more individuals next year.

Rob Tyler, who has paralysis and is a lay member of the scientific committee of the spinal cord injury charity Inspire Foundation, perceives potential value in this method for specific paralyzed patients..

“I view this as a convenient option,” he states. “It’s enjoyable to collaborate with other patients who likely share similar experiences. It can greatly enhance someone’s quality of life.” He emphasized that finding the right combination of people with compatible outlooks and motivations will be critical.

Bouton admits numerous ethical concerns regarding who could benefit from this method must be addressed before it can receive broader medical approval, which he aims to achieve within the next decade.

Nonetheless, Bouton asserts that such technology may have applications beyond medical use, such as allowing non-disabled individuals to remotely control or experience sensations through others. “This could represent a new frontier for human connection,” he suggests.

However, it opens up a plethora of ethical dilemmas. “Is it beneficial or detrimental for society if people can control and feel through others?” questions Harris Akram from University College London Hospital. “I can envision using your body to harm another individual, or controlling someone to perpetrate a crime, and then claiming, ‘That wasn’t me.’

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Geoscientists Report: Greenland is Shrinking and Shifting Northwest

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

This phenomenon is attributed to plate tectonics and the rock movement resulting from the melting of substantial ice sheets above, which alleviates the underground pressure. A new study published in Geophysical Research Journal: Solid Earth highlights that the pressure has been decreasing in recent years due to significant ice melt in Greenland, alongside the ongoing influence of colossal ice masses that have melted since the peak of the last ice age around 20,000 years ago. Consequently, the entire island has shifted northwest by approximately 2 centimeters annually over the past two decades.

Horizontal land movement observed by 58 GNET stations in Greenland. Image credit: Longfors Berg et al., doi: 10.1029/2024JB030847.

“Overall, this indicates that Greenland is gradually decreasing in size; however, with the accelerated melting currently observed, this could potentially change,” stated Dr. Danjal Longfors Berg, a postdoctoral researcher at the Technical University of Denmark and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

“The geophysical processes influencing Greenland’s structure are being exerted in various directions.”

“The region actually expanded during this timeframe, as the melting ice over the past few decades caused Greenland to extend outward and resulted in uplift.”

“Simultaneously, we are observing shifts in the opposite direction: Greenland is both rising and contracting due to alterations in the ancient ice mass associated with the last Ice Age and its conclusion.”

This marks the first detailed description of horizontal movement.

“We have constructed a model illustrating movement over an extensive timescale, from around 26,000 years ago to the present,” remarked Dr. Longfors-Berg.

“Additionally, we are utilizing highly precise measurements from the past 20 years to scrutinize current movements.”

“This allows us to measure movement with great accuracy.”

The new measurements rely on data gathered from 58 GNSS stations (GPS) distributed across Greenland.

These stations monitor Greenland’s overall position, changes in bedrock elevation, and the dynamics of the island’s contraction and expansion.

“For the first time, we have measured with such precision how Greenland is evolving,” commented Dr. Longfors-Berg.

“It was previously believed that Greenland was primarily being stretched by dynamics related to recent ice melt.”

“However, unexpectedly, we also discovered extensive areas where Greenland is converging or contracting as a consequence of this movement.”

This new research offers valuable insights into the potential impacts of accelerated climate change in the Arctic, as observed in recent years.

“Understanding the movements of land masses is crucial,” asserts Longfors-Berg.

“While they are certainly of interest to geosciences, they also hold significance for surveying and navigation, as even Greenland’s fixed reference points are shifting over time.”

_____

D. Longfors Berg et al. 2025. Estimation and attribution of horizontal land motion measured by the Greenland GNSS network. JGR: Solid Earth 130 (9): e2024JB030847; doi: 10.1029/2024JB030847

Source: www.sci.news

Skeleton ‘Pregnancy Test’ May Unlock Secrets of Ancient Maternal Lives

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

Skeleton of a woman holding a baby in her left arm, interred in an Anglo-Saxon cemetery in Screnby, England

Dr Hugh Wilmot, University of Sheffield

Researchers are now investigating ancient pregnancy tests undertaken on women from centuries past.

For the first time, scientists have identified levels of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone in remains of women from the 1st to the 19th century. Some of these women were entombed with their unborn children. This revelation indicates that historic bones and teeth can retain identifiable traces of specific sex hormones, which might aid in discerning which individuals at archaeological sites were pregnant or had recently given birth at the time of their demise, according to Amy Barlow from the University of Sheffield, UK.

“The physiological and emotional impacts of pregnancy, miscarriage, and childbirth carry profound significance for women, yet they remain largely unexplored in archaeological records,” she notes. “This technique could revolutionize how we comprehend the reproductive narratives of ancient populations. We’re genuinely excited about it.”

Establishing pregnancy in ancient individuals can be challenging, particularly if the fetus lacks a visible skeleton. Even second- and third-trimester fetuses may be overlooked due to their bones resembling those of the mother’s hands, often placed on the abdomen during burial.

Contemporary pregnancy tests evaluate hormone levels such as hCG in blood or urine. However, hCG degrades rapidly, leaving minimal evidence in the body.

In contrast, progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone can persist in tissues for extended periods. Recent studies have demonstrated that these steroid hormones are also present in human blood, saliva, and hair. Samples from long-buried Egyptian mummies.

To explore the likelihood of identifying ancient pregnancies, Barlow and her team analyzed rib fragments and one neck bone from two men and seven women interred in four British cemeteries. They also examined teeth from another male.

Two of the women had fetal remains discovered within them, and another two were buried alongside their newborns. The gender of the others was established through DNA analysis.

The research team ground each sample into powder and employed chemical techniques to extract the steroid hormones. Laboratory tests subsequently identified the estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels in each of the 74 samples.

Estrogen was only found in four samples, without a discernible pattern. This may be due to its quicker breakdown compared to progesterone or testosterone, which may not accumulate as efficiently in tissues.

However, between the 11th and 14th centuries, heightened levels of progesterone were discovered in the spines of young women who died while carrying full-term fetuses. A later pregnant woman interred in the 18th or 19th century also exhibited elevated progesterone in her ribs. Moderate progesterone levels were noted in the dental plaque of two women buried with their infants during the 5th or 6th century.

Interestingly, no testosterone was detected in the bones or teeth of these four women. However, one woman who was buried with her premature infant had trace amounts of testosterone in her dental plaque. In contrast, three unrelated women from 8th- to 12th-century sites and Roman tombs showed testosterone in all layers of their ribs and teeth.

Low testosterone levels are known to play a crucial role in women’s health, so its discovery in these samples isn’t unexpected, Barlow states. “However, the absence of testosterone may indicate that she was recently or currently pregnant at the time of her death,” she adds.

“This intersection of archaeology and hormone science is exhilarating and unforeseen,” states Alexander Komninos from Imperial College London. “These methods will enhance our ability to detect pregnancy in human remains with greater precision, providing deeper insights into ancient pregnancies.”

Nevertheless, while the findings show promise, additional research is essential to clarify many aspects, according to Barlow. For instance, moderate progesterone levels were frequently found in the bones and inner teeth of men, but the reasoning behind this remains unclear, she comments. “Interpretation is quite cautious at this junction.”

Walking through Hadrian’s Wall and Rome’s innovations: England

Join this immersive walking tour along Hadrian’s Wall, one of Great Britain’s most iconic ancient structures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Rethinking ADHD: Misconceptions and Their Implications.

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

Is There Life on Mars?

The Perseverance rover from NASA has uncovered unusual leopard spot-like formations on rocks, suggesting potential evidence of ancient microbial life. Scientists consider this discovery to be the strongest and most definitive indication that life may have existed on Mars.

Erratic Weather Patterns

Sudden shifts in weather can lead to severe repercussions. Weather trends are swinging between extremes more rapidly and with greater frequency than ever before.

Experiencing Lucid Dreams

Imagine being able to slip into a lucid dream every night, where everything feels vivid and you have complete control—even the ability to fly. While there are techniques to master this skill yourself, researchers are also innovating technology that could unleash tremendous new experiences.

Breathing Techniques for Better Health

Breathing is often an automatic function, but consciously practicing deep breathing can offer numerous health benefits. Here’s what you need to know to enhance your well-being from the comfort of your couch (or bed!).

Additionally

A Key Tool in Combating Depression: Depression is a common affliction, and researchers are continually exploring quicker and more cost-effective treatment methods. Could the nutritional supplements favored by bodybuilders and athletes hold the key?
Artificial Intelligence: How much further can AI evolve, or has it already reached its peak?
Q&A: I have addressed your queries. This month features a thrilling topic: Are psychopaths born or made? What’s the most chilling experiment we’ve conducted? Which organs can we live without? Can animals detect death? What is the foulest smell in existence? Can you get a phone signal on the moon? Should I store my car keys in a Faraday box? Am I alexithymic? Should I start using rosemary scents? Plus more…

Issue 425 Releases on Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Don’t forget that BBC Science Focus is also accessible on all major digital platforms. You can find a version available for Android, on Kindle Fire and Kindle e-readers, as well as the iOS app for iPads and iPhones.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Maternal Voice Enhances Language Development in Premature Infants

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

Premature babies may face language challenges later, but simple interventions can assist.

BSIP SA/Alamy

The first randomized controlled trial of this straightforward intervention suggests that playing recordings of a mother’s voice to premature infants could expedite their brain maturation processes. This method may eventually enhance language development in babies born prematurely.

Premature birth alters brain structure, leading to potential language disorders and affecting later communication and academic success. A mother’s voice and heartbeat can foster the development of auditory and language pathways. Unfortunately, parents may not always be able to physically be with their infants in the neonatal units.

To explore whether this absence could be compensated for through recordings, Katherine Travis and her team at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York conducted a study with 46 premature infants born between 24 and 31 weeks gestation, all situated in the neonatal intensive care unit.

We recorded mothers reading from children’s books, including selections from A Bear Named Paddington. Half of the infants listened to a ten-minute audio segment twice every hour overnight between 10 PM and 6 AM, increasing their daily exposure to their mother’s voice by an average of 2.7 hours until they reached their original due date. The other infants received similar medical care but were not exposed to recordings.

Upon reaching their due date, these infants underwent two MRI scans to evaluate the organization and connectivity of their brain networks. The results indicated that those who heard their mother’s voice at night exhibited more robust and organized connections in and around the left arcuate fasciculus, a crucial area for language processing. “The structure appeared notably more developed,” said Travis. “The characteristics matched what one might expect to find in older, more mature infants.”

The scans also suggested that this maturation could be linked to increased myelination— the creation of a fatty sheath that insulates nerve fibers, enhancing the speed and efficiency of signal transmission within the brain. “Myelination is crucial for healthy brain development, especially in pathways that support communication and learning,” noted Travis.

Previous studies have indicated that delayed development of these brain areas correlates with language delays and learning challenges. The latest findings imply that targeted speech exposure could improve these outcomes.

However, is it truly vital for infants to hear their mother’s voice rather than others? While this study did not address that, earlier research explains the phenomenon. Babies start hearing around the 24th week of pregnancy, and continue to recognize their mother’s voice after birth due to early exposure in the womb. Travis explained, “This voice is biologically significant and may be especially appealing to the developing brain.”

Nonetheless, Travis emphasizes that language exposure from other caregivers is also critical for language development, and future studies will explore this aspect further.

The intervention is straightforward and can easily be integrated into care protocols. However, David Edwards from Evelina London Children’s Hospital cautioned against overinterpreting the findings. “Given the small sample size, additional control groups, including different audio sources and forms of auditory stimulation, should be evaluated,” he suggested.

Travis and her research team aim to validate these results in larger trials involving medically vulnerable infants. They will continue to monitor current participants to determine if the observed brain differences result in tangible improvements in language and communication skills as these infants grow.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How Residing Near a Golf Course Increases Your Risk of Parkinson’s Disease

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

Inquiring about the health advantages of living near a golf course might come off as someone attempting to leverage scientific studies to persuade their partner that residing adjacent to Gleneagles is a wise choice.

Fair play. I genuinely respect this transparent application of science. So, here’s some evidence from the archives.

When you tee off, appreciate all that lush greenery. Research consistently indicates that residing near green spaces correlates with a diminished risk of conditions such as cardiovascular disease and obesity.

While quantifying these effects is challenging, the study suggests it might lower stress hormones, enhance exercise, and benefit cognitive functions like memory and attention.

In one investigation, researchers concluded that a 10 percent increase in access to green and blue spaces resulted in a 7 percent decrease in anxiety and depression risk.

It’s well recognized that playing golf offers health benefits. In 2023, a Finnish study compared the cardiovascular impacts of playing an 18-hole round of golf (walking – no cart) to one hour of brisk walking and one hour of Nordic walking.

All three activities were beneficial, but golf proved to be the most effective, reducing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.

Additional research has shown that golf training can provide cognitive benefits, particularly for older adults. It’s also advantageous for mental health due to its focus on fostering social connections.

In summary, regular golfing contributes to a longer and healthier life. Researchers found that individuals who played golf consistently experienced a 40 percent reduction in mortality.

That’s not a bad score, but there are some hazards to be aware of. At the start of 2025, a study explored the possible link between Parkinson’s disease and proximity to golf courses, highlighting potential exposure to pesticides.

Some chemicals used to maintain greens and fairways are neurotoxic, and numerous studies have associated them with Parkinson’s disease (although the risks are influenced by factors such as the type of pesticide and level of exposure).

Chemicals used on golf courses to maintain grass health may contribute to Parkinson’s risk – Credit: David Madison via Getty

In recent studies, researchers surveyed residents living near 139 golf courses in the United States. They discovered that individuals living within one mile of a golf course faced a 126 percent higher likelihood of developing Parkinson’s disease compared to those more than 6 miles away.

The risk nearly doubled for those sharing the same water supply zone as a golf course, suggesting that groundwater contaminated with pesticides, along with airborne transmission, may also play a role.

It’s crucial to note that the risk of Parkinson’s disease arises from a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Risks associated with these chemicals are predominantly linked to occupational exposure rather than recreational exposure.

If you happen to reside in the UK, your risk might be lower, as paraquat, a chemical linked to Parkinson’s disease, is prohibited.

Thus, living next to a golf course presents a multifaceted situation, much like residing anywhere else. Why not head to the 19th hole and ponder this?

This article (by Carlisle native Paul Leach) addresses the question: “Will I be healthier if I move next to a golf course?”

If you have any inquiries, feel free to email us at: questions@sciencefocus.com or send us a message facebook, ×or Instagram Page (please include your name and location).

Explore our ultimate fun facts for more amazing science insights.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Hubble Captures Stunning Image of Dusty Spiral Galaxy NGC 7496

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

NGC 7496 is a barred spiral galaxy situated roughly 24 million light-years away in the Taurus constellation.

This Hubble image captures barred spiral galaxy NGC 7496 in the constellation Hyuri, located approximately 24 million light-years away. Image credits: NASA / ESA / Hubble / R. Chandar / J. Lee / PHANGS-HST team.

NGC 7496 was discovered by British astronomer John Herschel on September 5, 1834.

The galaxy is also identified as ESO 291-1, LEDA 70588, and IRAS 23069-4341, and spans approximately 70,000 light-years in diameter.

NGC 7496 belongs to the NGC 7582 group, which comprises about 10 large galaxies.

This galaxy is classified as a Type II Seyfert galaxy, notable for a high star formation rate.

At its center lies an active galactic nucleus containing a supermassive black hole primarily consuming gas.

According to Hubble astronomers, “Hubble observed NGC 7496 for the first time as part of the Physics at High Angular Resolution of the Nearby GalaxieS (PHANGS) program.”

“Alongside the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, this initiative utilizes the capabilities of various powerful observatories, including the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array, ESO’s Very Large Telescope, and the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope.”

“NGC 7496 was the inaugural galaxy in the PHANGS sample to be observed by Webb.”

“Each of these observatories offers a unique perspective on this extensively studied galaxy.”

“With its exceptional ultraviolet capabilities and high resolution, Hubble’s observations reveal young star clusters emitting high-energy radiation.”

“Hubble’s insights into NGC 7496 will assist in determining the ages and masses of these young stars, as well as the degree to which their light is obscured by dust.”

“Previous Hubble images of NGC 7496 were released in 2022,” they noted.

“Today’s image incorporates fresh data showcasing the galaxy’s star clusters amid glowing red clouds of hydrogen gas.”

Source: www.sci.news

Study Suggests Hippos Roamed Central Europe 40,000 Years Ago

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

Small, isolated groups of the Common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) were present in the upper reaches of the Rhine River in southwestern Germany during the Middle Ages. New research indicates their presence during the Weichselian period, which spanned from approximately 47,000 to 31,000 years ago.

Radiocarbon dating indicates that the common hippopotamus was present in the middle Weichselian (Hippopotamus amphibius) in the upper reaches of the Rhine River, Germany. Image credit: Gemini AI.

Hippos likely made their way into Europe from Africa through multiple waves, involving various species within the Hippopotamus genus, including the common hippo, which currently inhabits only sub-Saharan Africa.

At their peak distribution in Europe, hippos were found from the British Isles in the northwest to the Iberian and Italian peninsulas in the south.

Their fossil record generally suggests they thrived in temperate climates, characterized by denser vegetation and abundant freshwater bodies.

Nevertheless, their origins and relation to today’s African hippos, as well as the precise timing of their extinction in central Europe, remain ambiguous.

“Previously, it was thought that the common hippopotamus extirpated from central Europe around 115,000 years ago with the conclusion of the last interglacial period,” stated co-senior author Professor Wilfried Rosendahl, general director of the Ries-Engelhorn Mannheim Museum.

“Our findings reveal that hippos inhabited the Upper Rhine Valley in southwestern Germany from about 47,000 to 31,000 years ago.”

For this study, Professor Rosendahl and his team analyzed 19 hippo specimens collected from a fossil site located in the rift valley upstream of the Rhine River.

“The Upper Rhine Rift Valley serves as a significant continental climate archive,” noted study co-author Dr. Ronnie Friedrich, a researcher at the Kurt Engelhorn Zentrum Archaeological Institute.

“Animal bones preserved for millennia in gravel and sand deposits provide invaluable data for scientific inquiry.”

“It’s astonishing how well-preserved the bones are,” he added.

“In many human remains, we’ve successfully obtained samples suitable for analysis, but such conditions are not to be expected after such extended periods.”

By analyzing ancient DNA, researchers discovered that Ice Age hippos in Europe share a close relationship with modern African hippos, being part of the same species.

Radiocarbon dating confirmed their existence during the mid-Weichselian temperate climatic phase.

Furthermore, extensive genome-wide analyses indicated very low genetic diversity, suggesting a small, isolated population in the upper Rhine region.

These results, in conjunction with additional fossil evidence, imply that the heat-loving hippos coexisted with cold-adapted species such as mammoths and woolly rhinos.

“This finding indicates that hippos did not vanish from central Europe at the end of the last interglacial period, as was previously thought,” stated study lead author Dr. Patrick Arnold, a researcher at the University of Potsdam.

“Thus, there’s a necessity to reevaluate other continental European hippo fossils typically considered to belong to the last interglacial period.”

“This study provides significant new insights that compellingly demonstrate that the Ice Age was not uniform everywhere but rather that regional specificities contributed to a complex picture,” remarked Professor Rosendahl.

“It would be intriguing and valuable to further examine other heat-loving animal species that have so far been linked to the last interglacial.”

This result was published in the journal on October 8, 2025, in Current Biology.

_____

Patrick Arnold et al. Ancient DNA and dating evidence show hippos dispersed into central Europe during the last ice age. Current Biology published online October 8, 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.09.035

Source: www.sci.news

Two Similar Jurassic Mammals Featured Distinctively Shaped Jaw Joints

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

According to recent analyses of fossils from two mammalian forms, the development of jaws in modern mammals proves to be more intricate than previously understood. (i) Polystodon chuananensis, a mid-Jurassic herbivorous tritylodont known for its relatively large size and possibly fossilized lifestyle, and (ii) Camulochondylus rufengensis, a newly identified Morganucodontan from the Early Jurassic.

Reconstructed illustration of Polystodon chuananensis. Image credit: Chuang Zhao / PNSO.

“In mammals, the joint connecting the skull to the lower jaw consists of two bones: the squamous bone and the dentary bone, where the lower jaw teeth are situated,” stated Dr. Jin Meng, a curator at the American Museum of Natural History and a researcher at the City University of New York, along with colleagues.

“This configuration replaced the older temporomandibular joint seen in reptiles, which is composed of two different bones: the quadrate and the articular bone.”

“As organisms transitioned from early mammal-like reptiles to true mammals, various ‘experimental’ versions of this new temporomandibular joint arose to withstand the forces of mastication.”

“Ultimately, this culminated in the formation of the bimandibular joint, with the new dentosquamous joint handling most of the chewing pressure, maintaining the joint functionality in reptiles, and establishing an initial system for detecting airborne sounds.”

“Over time, the dentate squamosal became the sole joint, transforming the quadratoid joint into a diminutive bone within the mammal’s middle ear, a critical feature that aids in hearing.”

However, scientists still lack a comprehensive understanding of how this new temporomandibular joint evolved, primarily due to the scarcity of fossils from this era.

“The evolution of the mammalian temporomandibular joint represents one of the most fascinating yet incomplete chapters in vertebrate history, with gaps in fossil records obscuring significant transitions,” remarked Dr. Meng.

Researchers utilized high-resolution computed tomography scans from the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

One of these species, Polystodon chuananensis, is an opossum-sized creature featuring “horns” potentially used for digging.

The other, Camulochondylus rufengensis, is a newly described squirrel-sized animal that lived during the Early Jurassic, approximately 174 to 201 million years ago.

Paleontologists identified new jaw structures in both ancient species.

In Polystodon chuananensis, they discovered a uniquely formed secondary temporomandibular joint located between the zygoma and dentary. This marks the first identification of this joint structure in a tetrapod.

In Camulochondylus rufengensis, they characterized a simple articular head of the dentary bone that likely indicates an evolutionary step towards a morphology adaptable to the new temporomandibular joint socket.

“These discoveries enhance the diversity of temporomandibular joints in mammalian evolution and broaden our comprehension of the evolutionary lineage of key mammalian features crucial for understanding how mammals process food and perceive airborne sounds,” the authors concluded.

Their study was published in the journal Nature in September 2025.

_____

F. Mao et al. Convergent evolution of diverse temporomandibular joints in mammals. Nature published online on September 24, 2025. doi: 10.1038/s41586-025-09572-0

Source: www.sci.news

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory Cuts 550 Jobs

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

On Monday, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory revealed plans to eliminate around 550 jobs, which represents about 10% of its workforce.

In a statement shared online, Institute director Dave Gallagher indicated that these layoffs are part of a larger “workforce realignment” and are not connected to the ongoing government shutdown.

The positions affected by the layoffs will span various areas including technology, business, and support within the NASA center.

Gallagher emphasized, “Making these decisions this week will be difficult, but they are vital for ensuring JPL’s future by establishing a more streamlined infrastructure, concentrating on our primary technology capabilities, upholding fiscal responsibility, and positioning us for competitiveness within the changing space landscape, all while continuing to deliver critical contributions for NASA and the nation.”

He also mentioned that affected employees will receive notifications regarding their status on Tuesday.

Located in Pasadena, California, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a research and development center funded by NASA but managed by the California Institute of Technology, and is home to some of the agency’s most renowned missions, including Explorer 1, America’s inaugural satellite, launched in 1958.

Additionally, JPL scientists have designed, constructed, and operated all five rovers that have landed on Mars with NASA’s guidance.

NASA is grappling with uncertainty surrounding its budget and future goals. Similar to many government entities, it has experienced considerable budget cuts and staffing reductions as part of a broader federal workforce downsizing initiated under the Trump administration.

Since the commencement of President Donald Trump’s term, approximately 4,000 NASA staff members have opted for deferred retirement programs, leading to a nearly 20% decrease in the agency’s workforce, which originally comprised 18,000 employees.

In July, Reuters reported that about 2,145 senior employees at NASA are expected to retire as part of the layoffs.

The Trump administration assumed office last week amid an ongoing government shutdown. Over 4,000 additional federal workers were laid off across various departments including Treasury and Health and Human Services, although this reduction does not seem to impact NASA.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Fossil of Long-Snouted Ichthyosaur Unearthed in the UK

Posted on October 14, 2025 by

Dean Lomax, a palaeontologist at the University of Manchester, along with his team, has unveiled a new genus and species of leptonectid ichthyosaur based on fossil remains found in Dorset, England.

Reconstruction of Siphodracon goldencapensis. Image credit: Bob Nichols.

The near-complete skeleton of this dolphin-sized ichthyosaur was unearthed near Golden Cap in 2001 by fossil collector Chris Moore from Dorset.

This specimen features a skull with large eye sockets and a long, sword-like snout, marking it as a new genus and species.

Dating back to the Pliensbachian period of the Early Jurassic, the fossil is estimated to be between 193 and 184 million years old.

“I vividly recall first seeing the skeleton in 2016. While we recognized its rarity then, we didn’t anticipate its significant contribution to our understanding of the intricate faunal turnover during the Pliensbachian period,” stated Dr. Lomax.

“This era is critical for ichthyosaurs, as certain families disappeared while new ones emerged, making this new species potentially the ‘missing piece of the ichthyosaur puzzle.’

“It is more closely related to species from the Late Jurassic, and its discovery helps indicate that faunal turnover transpires much earlier than we previously thought.”

“This marks the first early Jurassic ichthyosaur genus to be described in this region in over a century.”

Skeleton and skull of Siphodracon goldencapensis. Image credit: Dean Lomax.

Named Siphodracon goldencapensis, this new ichthyosaur measures approximately 3 meters (10 feet) in length and likely preyed on fish and squid. Evidence of its last meal can also be observed in the remains.

According to Dr. Erin Maxwell, an ichthyosaur specialist at the State Museum of Natural History in Stuttgart: “This skeleton not only offers essential insights into the evolution of ichthyosaurs but also enhances our understanding of life in Britain’s Jurassic seas.”

“The limb bones and teeth appear malformed, suggesting the animal suffered significant injury or disease during its life, and indications show the skull may have been bitten by a large predator, possibly another larger ichthyosaur, leading to this individual’s death.”

“Life in the Mesozoic ocean was perilous.”

The researchers identified several traits in Siphodracon goldencapensis that have not been seen in any known ichthyosaur.

One of the most peculiar features is the lacrimal bone, which has a unique protruding structure around the nostril.

“Thousands of complete or nearly complete ichthyosaur skeletons exist from both pre- and post-Pliensbachian layers,” noted Judy Massare, a ichthyosaur expert from the State University of New York at Brockport.

“Although the overall ecosystem shows similarities, the two faunas differ significantly with no overlapping species.”

“Evidently, a substantial shift in species diversity took place at some point during the Pliensbachian period.”

“Siphodracon goldencapensis aids in pinpointing when this change happened, yet we still lack insight into the reasons.”

This work is detailed in a study published in this month’s edition of Paleontology Papers.

_____

Dean R. Lomax et al. 2025. A new species of ichthyosaur with an elongated snout reveals complex faunal alterations during the poorly sampled Early Jurassic (Pliensbachian) period. Paleontology Papers 11 (5): e70038; doi: 10.1002/spp2.70038

Source: www.sci.news

Exploring the Political Significance of Rare Earth Elements

Posted on October 13, 2025 by

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Kiwifruit, Rye Bread, and Mineral-Rich Water May Alleviate Chronic Constipation

Posted on October 13, 2025 by

This is grounded in the inaugural evidence presented in the Dietary guidelines for adults experiencing chronic constipation. Published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics and the Neurogastroenterology and Motility, the new guidelines highlight that incorporating psyllium fiber supplements, specific probiotic strains, and magnesium oxide supplements may enhance constipation relief.

To enhance certain outcomes related to constipation, recommendations include kiwifruit, rye bread, highly mineralized water, psyllium supplements, specific probiotic strains, and magnesium oxide supplements. Image credit: Aziz3625.

Constipation is a persistent condition that significantly affects quality of life and places a considerable economic strain on both individuals and healthcare systems.

Previous clinical guidelines offered limited and often outdated dietary advice, such as suggestions to increase fiber and fluid intake.

In contrast to older guidelines, the latest recommendations are founded on several thorough systematic reviews and meta-analyses, employing the GRADE framework to evaluate evidence quality.

Professor Kevin Whelan from King’s College London stated, “This new guidance represents a positive development towards empowering health professionals and their patients to manage constipation via dietary means.”

“This means individuals worldwide suffering from constipation can now receive current advice based on the best available evidence to enhance their symptoms and health outcomes.”

“With ongoing research, we have a genuine opportunity to significantly improve quality of life.”

Professor Whelan and his team analyzed over 75 clinical trials, formulating 59 recommendations and pinpointing 12 key research priorities.

“Chronic constipation can greatly influence your daily routine,” noted Dr. Eirini Dimidi from King’s College London.

“For the first time, we outline effective dietary strategies and identify advice lacking robust evidence.”

“By improving this condition through dietary modifications, individuals can better manage their symptoms and, hopefully, enhance their quality of life.”

The recommendations also examine constipation outcomes like stool frequency, consistency, straining, and overall quality of life, thereby allowing for more tailored care based on individual symptoms.

Clinician-friendly resources have also been created to facilitate the implementation of these guidelines in practices globally.

An analysis of the evidence indicates that while certain foods and supplements provide benefits, the overall quality of existing research remains low.

Most studies have concentrated narrowly on single interventions instead of comprehensive dietary strategies, emphasizing the pressing need for improved nutritional research in managing constipation.

“Adopting a high-fiber diet offers numerous health benefits and is generally advised for constipation,” Dr. Dimidi stated.

“However, our guidelines indicate insufficient evidence to confirm that it is effective, particularly for constipation.”

“Instead, our research has revealed some novel dietary strategies that may genuinely assist patients.”

“Simultaneously, there is an urgent necessity for high-quality trials to reinforce our understanding of what works and what doesn’t.”

Source: www.sci.news

Stellar Flares Might Mask Life on Exoplanets – Sciworthy

Posted on October 13, 2025 by

Researchers focused on the quest for extraterrestrial life are actively searching, as aliens have yet to appear on Earth to join us in a galactic federation. Nonetheless, there remains a chance that scientists will find extraterrestrial life close enough for observation, through numerous probes and satellites dispatched throughout our solar system. The anticipation of visitors from the cosmos often generates a constant buzz within the scientific community. extrasolar celestial body passing near the sun.

Many astronomers and astrobiologists are venturing even farther, beyond our solar system and into the realms of other stars. As they cannot deploy instruments to such distant locations for at least several centuries, scientists rely on telescopes to search for indicators of life. These indicators are referred to as biosignatures, which can include elements, molecules, or other characteristics. However, caution is necessary when seeking biosignatures, as measurement inaccuracies and overlooked variables can lead to false positives.

A hypothetical false positive might involve: Exoplanets possessing atmospheres rich in carbon dioxide and nitrogen gas, as well as some hydrogen-oxygen molecules, none of which necessarily indicate life. A powerful burst of matter and energy from an exoplanet’s host star, known as an exoplanet flare, could emit energy that impacts the atmosphere and triggers chemical reactions producing oxygen gas, O₂, and ozone, O₃. Should astronomers detect these compounds in an exoplanet’s atmosphere, they might mistakenly consider the planet a candidate for life.

Recently, a group of scientists explored how such a scenario could manifest on exoplanets and the potential for false life indicators. They conducted a series of six simulations to create plausible scenarios of a flare impacting an uninhabited Earth-like planet. They selected red dwarfs, the most prevalent star type near Earth, and analyzed data on Earth’s atmospheric and surface chemical composition from 4.5 to 4 billion years ago, during a period dominated by carbon dioxide, N₂, and water. They positioned the planet within proximity to its star to receive comparable light levels to what Earth receives from the sun today.

In five of the simulations, they modified the presence of CO.₂ and N₂, adjusting CO₂ levels to make up 3%, 10%, 30%, 60%, or 80% of the atmosphere. The sixth simulation looked at a different atmospheric composition with minimal water. This variant checked for possible extremes in O₂ and O₃ levels, considering that hydrogen from water can bind with stray oxygen atoms. All simulated atmospheres contained trace amounts of O₂ and O_3.

Each simulated atmosphere was then subjected to two flares: one of typical strength observed from real red dwarfs, and the other, known as a super flare, which is 100 times stronger and exceedingly rare. The chemical outcomes of these flares were calculated using specialized software called atmos. Following this, they employed the Spectral Mapping Atmospheric Radiative Transfer (SMART) model to simulate observable effects from Earth-based telescopes.

During standard flare events, O₂ and O₃ levels initially decreased but reverted to their original state approximately 30 years later. Nevertheless, five months post-flare, a slight overshoot in oxygen levels was noted before they normalized.

Analyzing the variations in CO levels, ₂, hydrogen gas, and water within exoplanet atmospheres revealed that each can significantly alter the detectability of oxygen molecules by astronomers. Consequently, the impacts of typical flares are subtle and challenging to discern on actual exoplanets. However, in the unique instances simulated involving super flares, notable increases in O₂ and O₃ occurred, though these levels also nearly returned to pre-flare conditions within 30 years.

Ultimately, the researchers concluded that flares likely have only a minimal and fleeting impact on life detection efforts on these exoplanets. Even if astronomers observed an exoplanet struck by a flare five months prior, the O₂ and O₃ levels, considering potential measurement errors, would not present as distinctly elevated. Nonetheless, the results from super flare scenarios indicate that further examination of false positives in biosignatures is warranted, as high-energy events can substantially disrupt the environmental conditions of exoplanets.

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Source: sciworthy.com

A Black Hole Devoured a Star and Then Disappeared.

Posted on October 13, 2025 by

This orange dot represents a gamma-ray burst, thought to indicate an extraordinary event.

ESO/A. Levan, A. Martin-Carrillo et al.

A black hole that has consumed a star appears to have avenged itself by devouring the star from within, generating a gamma-ray burst located approximately 9 billion light-years from Earth.

This burst, known as GRB 250702B, was initially identified by NASA’s Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope in July. Such bursts are brilliant flashes of light due to jets produced by high-energy occurrences, like massive stars collapsing into black holes or the merging of neutron stars, and generally last only a few minutes.

However, GRB 250702B lasted an astonishing 25,000 seconds, equating to about 7 hours, which makes it the longest gamma-ray burst on record. Researchers have struggled to account for this phenomenon, but Eliza Knights and her team at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center propose an unusual and rare scenario.

“The only [model] providing a natural explanation for the characteristics observed in GRB 250702B involves a stellar-mass black hole falling into the star,” the researchers mentioned in their published study.

In a typical long gamma-ray burst, a massive star collapses to create a black hole and emits a jet during its demise. In this situation, however, the research team posits the inverse. An existing black hole spiraled into a companion star, whose outer layers had expanded during its later stages, resulting in the black hole losing angular momentum and descending toward the star’s center.

The black hole then incinerated the star from the inside, producing a powerful jet perceived as GRB 250702B, potentially causing a faint supernova, although it remained too dim for detection at this distance by the James Webb Space Telescope.

This theory is beneficial for understanding the mechanisms behind ultra-long bursts. Hendrik van Eerten from the University of Bath, UK, remarks, “The arguments presented in this paper are very persuasive.”

Knights and her team hope that, with the help of telescopes like the Vera Rubin Observatory in Chile, we may observe more such events in the future. Meanwhile, van Eerten describes the gamma-ray burst as “absurd.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Chatbots Perform Best When Communicating in Formal Language.

Posted on October 13, 2025 by

Your approach to chatting with AI may matter more than you realize

Oscar Wong/Getty Images

The manner in which you converse with an AI chatbot, especially using informal language, can significantly impact the accuracy of its replies. This indicates that we might need to engage with chatbots more formally or train the AI to handle informal dialogue better.

Researchers Fulei Zhang and Zhou Yu from Amazon explored how users begin chats with human representatives versus chatbot assistants that utilize large language models (LLMs). They employed the Claude 3.5 Sonnet model to evaluate various aspects of these interactions, discovering that exchanges with chatbots were marked by less grammatical accuracy and politeness compared to human-to-human dialogues, as well as a somewhat limited vocabulary.

The findings showed that human-to-human interactions were 14.5% more polite and formal, 5.3% more fluent, and 1.4% more lexically diverse than their chatbot counterparts, according to Claude’s assessments.

The authors noted in their study, “Participants adjust their linguistic style in human-LLM interactions, favoring shorter, more direct, less formal, and grammatically simpler messages,” though they did not respond to interview requests. “This behavior may stem from users’ mental models of LLM chatbots, particularly if they lack social nuance or sensitivity.”

However, embracing this informal style comes with challenges. In another evaluation, the researchers trained an AI model named Mistral 7B using 13,000 actual human-to-human interactions, then assessed 1,357 real messages directed at the AI chatbot. They categorized each conversation with an “intent” derived from a restricted framework summarizing the user’s purpose. Unfortunately, Mistral struggled with accurately defining the intentions within the chatbot conversations.

Zhang and Yu explored various methods to enhance Mistral AI’s understanding. Initially, they used Claude AI to transform users’ succinct messages into more polished human-like text and used these rewrites to fine-tune Mistral, resulting in a 1.9% decline in intent label accuracy from the baseline.

Next, they attempted a “minimal” rewrite with Claude, creating shorter and more direct phrases (e.g., asking about travel and lodging options for an upcoming trip with “Paris next month. Where’s the flight hotel?”). This method caused a 2.6% drop in Mistral’s accuracy. On the other hand, utilizing a more formal and varied style in “enhanced” rewrites also led to a 1.8% decrease in accuracy. Ultimately, the performance showed an improvement of 2.9% only when training Mistral with both minimal and enhanced rewrites.

Noah Jansiracusa, a professor at Bentley University in Massachusetts, expressed that while it’s expected that users communicate differently with bots than with other humans, this disparity shouldn’t necessarily be seen as a negative.

“The observation that people interact with chatbots differently from humans is often depicted as a drawback, but I believe it’s beneficial for users to recognize they’re engaging with a bot and adjust their communication accordingly,” Giansiracusa stated. “This understanding is healthier than a continual effort to bridge the gap between humans and bots.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

What Makes Quantum Computers So Powerful?

Posted on October 13, 2025 by

3D rendering of a quantum computer’s chandelier-like structure

Shutterstock / Phong Lamai Photography

Eleven years ago, I began my PhD in theoretical physics and honestly had never considered or written about quantum computers. Meanwhile, New Scientist was busy crafting the first “Quantum Computer Buyer’s Guide,” always ahead of its time. A glance through reveals how things have changed—John Martinis from UC Santa Barbara was recognized for developing an array of merely nine qubits and earned a Nobel Prize in Physics just last week. Curiously, there was no mention of quantum computers built using neutral atoms, which have rapidly transformed the field in recent years. This sparked my curiosity: how would a quantum computer buyer’s guide look today?

At present, around 80 companies globally are producing quantum computing hardware. My reporting on quantum computing has allowed me to witness firsthand how the industry evolves, complete with numerous sales pitches. If choosing between an iPhone and an Android is challenging, consider navigating the press lists of various quantum computing startups.

While there’s significant marketing hype, the challenge in comparing these devices stems from the lack of a clear standard for building quantum computers. For instance, potential qubit options include superconducting circuits, cryogenic ions, and light. With such diverse components, how does one assess their differences? This aspect will hone in on each quantum computer’s performance.

This marks a shift from the early days, where success was measured by the number of qubits—the foundational elements of quantum information processing. Many research teams have surpassed the 1000-qubit threshold, and the trajectory for achieving even more qubits appears to be becoming clearer. Researchers are exploring standard manufacturing methods, such as creating silicon-based qubits, and leveraging AI to enhance the size and capabilities of quantum computers.

Ideally, more qubits should always translate to greater computational power, enabling quantum computers to tackle increasingly complex challenges. However, in reality, ensuring each additional qubit doesn’t impede the performance of existing ones presents significant technical hurdles. Thus, it’s not just the number of qubits that counts, but how much information they can retain and how effectively they can communicate without losing data accuracy. A quantum computer could boast millions of qubits, but if they’re susceptible to errors that disrupt computations, they become virtually ineffective.

The extent of this “glitch” or noise can be measured by metrics like “gate fidelity,” which reflects how accurately a qubit or pair can perform operations, and “coherence time,” which gauges how long a qubit can maintain a viable quantum state. However, we must also consider the intricacies of inputting data into a quantum computer and retrieving outcomes, despite some favorable metrics. The growth of the quantum computing industry is partly attributed to the emergence of companies focused on qubit control and interfacing quantum internals with non-quantum users. A thorough buyer’s guide for quantum computers in 2025 should encompass these essential add-ons. Choosing a qubit means also selecting a qubit control system and an error correction mechanism. I recently spoke with a researcher developing an operating system for quantum computers, suggesting that such systems may become a necessity in the near future.

If I were to create a wish list for the short term, I would favor a machine capable of executing at least a million operations: a million-step quantum computing program with minimal error rates and robust error correction. John Preskill from the California Institute of Technology refers to this as the “Mega-Quop” machine. Last year, he expressed confidence that such machines would be fault-tolerant and powerful enough to yield scientifically significant discoveries. Yet, we aren’t there yet. The quantum computers at our disposal currently manage tens of thousands of operations, but error correction has only been effectively demonstrated for smaller tasks.

Quantum computers today are akin to adolescents—growing toward utility but still faced with developmental challenges. As a result, the question I frequently pose to quantum computer vendors is, “What can this machine actually accomplish?”

In this regard, it’s vital to compare not only various types of quantum computers but also contrast them with classical counterparts. Quantum hardware is costly and complex to manufacture, so when is it genuinely the sole viable solution for a given issue?

One method to tackle this inquiry is to pinpoint calculations traditional computers cannot resolve without unlimited time. This concept is termed “quantum supremacy,” and it keeps quantum engineers and mathematicians consistently preoccupied. Instances of quantum supremacy do exist, but they raise concerns. To be meaningful, such cases must be applicable, facilitating the construction of capable machines that can execute them, while also being demonstrable enough for mathematicians to assure that no conventional computer could compete.

In 1994, physicist Peter Shor devised a quantum computing algorithm for factoring large numbers, a technique that could potentially compromise the prevalent encryption methods utilized by banks worldwide. A sufficiently large quantum computer that could manage its own errors might execute this algorithm, yet mathematicians have yet to convincingly demonstrate that classical computers can’t efficiently factor large numbers. The most prominent claims of quantum supremacy often fall into this gray area, with some eventually being outperformed by classical machines. Ongoing demonstrations of quantum supremacy appear currently to serve primarily as confirmations of the quantum characteristics of the computers accomplishing them.

Conversely, in the mathematical discipline of “query complexity,” the superiority of quantum solutions is rigorously demonstrable, but practical algorithms remain elusive. Recent experiments have also introduced the notion of “quantum information superiority,” wherein quantum computers solve tasks using fewer qubits than traditional computers would require, focusing on the physical components instead of time. Though this sounds promising—indicating that quantum computers may solve problems without extensive scaling—they are not recommended for purchase simply because the tasks in question often lack pivotal real-world applications.

It’s undeniable that several real-world challenges are well-suited for quantum algorithms, like understanding molecular properties relevant to agriculture or medicine, or solving logistic issues like flight scheduling. Yet, researchers lack full clarity on these applications, often opting to state, “it seems.”

For instance, recent research on the prospective applications of quantum computing in genomics by Aurora Maurizio from the San Raffaele Scientific Institute in Italy and Guglielmo Mazzola at the University of Zurich suggests that traditional computing methods excel so significantly that “quantum computing may, in the near future, only yield speedups for a specific subset of sufficiently complex tasks.” Their findings indicate that while quantum computers could potentially enhance research in combinatorial problems within genomics, their application needs to be very precise and calculated.

In reality, for numerous issues not specifically designed to demonstrate quantum supremacy, there exists a spectrum in what constitutes “fast,” particularly when one considers that quantum computers might ultimately run algorithms quicker than classical computers, despite overcoming noise and technical challenges. However, this speed may not always offset the hardware’s significant costs. For example, the second-best-known quantum algorithm, Shor’s search algorithm, offers a non-exponential speedup, reducing computation time at a square root level instead. Ultimately, the question of how fast is “fast enough” to justify the transition to quantum computing may depend on individual buyers.

While it’s frustrating to include this in a purported buyer’s guide, my discussions with experts indicate that there remains far more uncertainty about what quantum computers can achieve than established knowledge. Quantum computing is an intricate, costly future technology; however, its genuine added value to our lives remains vague beyond serving the financial interests of a select few companies. This might not be satisfying, but it reflects the unique, uncharted territory of quantum computing.

For those of you reading this out of the desire to invest in a powerful, reliable quantum computer, I encourage you to proceed and let your local quantum algorithm enthusiast experiment with it. They may offer better insights in the years to come.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Enigma of Time: Why Physics Remains Divided on Its True Nature

Posted on October 13, 2025 by

For centuries, the greatest minds have pondered the concept of time, yet its absolute nature remains elusive.

While physics does not dictate that time must flow in a specific direction or define its essence, it is widely accepted that time is a tangible aspect of the universe.

The two cornerstone theories of modern physics, general relativity and quantum mechanics, perceive time in distinct ways. In relativity, time functions as one coordinate in conjunction with three spatial coordinates.

Einstein demonstrated the intricate relationship between these dimensions, revealing that the flow of time is relative, not absolute. This implies that as you move faster, time appears to slow down in comparison to someone who remains “stationary.”

Interestingly, photons traveling at light speed experience no passage of time; for them, everything occurs simultaneously.

On the other hand, quantum mechanics, which pertains to the macroscopic realm, views time as a fundamental parameter—a consistent and one-way flow from past to future, disconnected from spatial dimensions and entities (like particles).

This divergence creates a conflict between these two prominent theories and poses a challenge for physicists attempting to unify gravitational and quantum theories into a singular “grand unified theory.”

Crucially, neither general relativity nor quantum mechanics defines time as a “field,” a physical quantity that permeates space and can affect particle characteristics.

Each of the four fundamental force fields (gravity, electromagnetism, strong nuclear force, and weak nuclear force) involves the exchange of particles.

These particles can be viewed as carriers of force. In electromagnetism, the carrier is a photon, while strong interactions are mediated by particles known as “gluons.”

Gravity, too, is thought to be transmitted by hypothetical particles called “gravitons,” yet a complete quantum description of gravity remains elusive.

Scientists continue to struggle with the concept of time, which appears to lack tangible properties like discrete chunks – Credit: Oxygen via Getty

Other “fields” confer specific properties to particles. For instance, the Higgs field involves the transfer of Higgs bosons, endowing them with mass.

In the realm of physics, time—regardless of its true essence—differs fundamentally from a “field.” It is not a physical quantity (like charge or mass) and does not apply forces or dictate particle interactions.

Thus, in contemporary physics, time is not characterized by mediating particles as are the four fundamental forces. The notion of “time particles” does not hold relevance.

Remarkably, recent studies indicate that time might actually be an illusion. This intriguing theory emerges from quantum “entanglement,” wherein the quantum states of particles are interlinked, regardless of their spatial separation.

This article addresses a question posed by Brian Roche from Cork, Ireland: “Is it possible for a time particle to exist?”

If you have any inquiries, please connect with us at: questions@sciencefocus.com or reach out via Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram Page (please include your name and location).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Blue Planet Red Review: Missteps on Mars Make for a Surprisingly Disturbing Documentary

Posted on October 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

This image seems to show a Martian wrench, but it’s just a stone

Brian Cory Dobbs Productions

Handout materials for the movie 'Blue Planet Red.' The Spirit rover captured two peculiar rocks resembling a wrench and a container. See more at https://blueplanetred.net/images — This image seems to show a Martian wrench, but it’s just a stone

Brian Cory Dobbs Productions

Blue Planet Red
Directed by Brian Corrie Dobbs, available on Amazon Prime Video

Blue Planet Red is a documentary focused on Mars. The world depicted by director Brian Corrie Dobbs diverges from our understanding but certainly possesses its allure. It showcases an advanced civilization of pyramid builders that either failed to avert their world’s demise or destroyed it through a catastrophic nuclear conflict.

Dobbs presents his assertions regarding advanced Martian life directly to the audience, complete with expressive gestures and confident poses. I found him quite engaging. Yet, after viewing his work, I wasn’t surprised to discover that a section of his portfolio includes questionable content (referring to dubious videos concerning cell phones, electromagnetic fields, and cancer).

Whether by design or not, Blue Planet Red serves as a historical record. It is a testament to a generation of researchers and enthusiasts raised under the imposing shadow of a two-kilometer geological mound in the Martian region of Sidonia. Back in 1976, NASA’s Viking spacecraft took a blurry photo of what seemed to be a giant human face, known as the “Face of Mars,” at the intersection of Mars’ southern highlands and northern plains.

There’s no need to delve into debunking topics that have already been convincingly dismantled many times before. If you enhance the resolution of the image, the so-called face vanishes. Features resembling tools or bones are simply rocks. Additionally, the presence of xenon-129 in Mars’ atmosphere suggests an ancient nuclear war only if we disregard the well-understood decay process of the now-extinct isotope iodine-129 into xenon-129 within Mars’ cooling lithosphere.

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The ambiguous data from the Viking orbiters fostered the growth of fanciful ideas
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Yet, capturing this narrative holds a certain poignancy. Transforming Ideas gives voice to this generation of researchers. Individuals featured in the film include Richard Bryce Hoover, who led NASA’s astrobiology research at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama until 2011, where he helped prove the existence of extremophiles on Earth. He is convinced he discovered microfossils in Martian meteorites. However, despite his enthusiasm, director Hoover fails to clarify in the film why these fossils rest atop the rock samples rather than embedded within them.

Contributor John Brandenburg is regarded as a respectable plasma scientist, provided he avoids discussing nuclear war on Mars. Mark Carlot, on the other hand, has dedicated 40 years to chronicling remnants of civilization on Mars while others merely see rocks. Upon returning to Earth, he proves to be an adept archaeologist.

After Apollo made its final moon landing in 1972, the initial thrill of the space race began to diminish. The images transmitted back by the Viking spacecraft signaled the next significant discovery. This hazy mixture of revolutionary yet unclear data served as a fertile ground for the emergence of fanciful ideas, particularly in the United States, where the Vietnam War and Watergate bred skepticism and paranoia.

Dobbs’ dynamic recounting of the Martian narrative frames it as a tale of an event occurring 3.7 billion years ago when the wet, warm planet transitioned into a barren dust bowl. For me, it resonates more with what happened to the passionate groups glued to their screens and magazines in the 1970s. Let us momentarily set aside our disdain and engage with this generation. Strong hope should never again hinder a kind heart like this.

Simon also recommends…

Mapping Mars
Oliver Morton

This exploration of Mars’ landscape elucidates how optical technology shaped human focus on its neighbors..

Mars Project (1953)
Wernher von Braun

American and German (and Nazi) rocket scientists drew inspiration from Antarctic exploration to draft this foundational technical specification for a manned mission to Mars.

Simon Ings is a novelist and science writer. X Follow him at @simonings

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Master the Art of Collaboration

Posted on October 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“Many scenarios can be represented using so-called game theory…”

Shutterstock/Anne Kosolapova

In a world where survival favors the strongest, the question arises: how do cooperative behaviors develop?

From the realm of evolutionary biology to the complexities of international diplomacy, numerous scenarios can be analyzed through the lens of game theory. These games consider not only the various actions and strategies available to each participant but also the corresponding payoffs—positive or negative outcomes that each player receives based on various results. Some games are classified as “zero-sum,” meaning one player’s gain directly translates to another player’s loss, while others are not.

A notable example of a non-zero-sum game is the Prisoner’s Dilemma, which presents a compelling situation. The basic scenario involves two “criminals” held in separate cells, unable to communicate with each other.

While there isn’t sufficient evidence to charge them with the most serious offenses, there’s enough to convict both on lesser charges. The authorities simultaneously present each prisoner with a deal: if one testifies against the other while the other stays silent, the betrayer walks free while the silent one serves three years. However, if both betray each other, they each face two years in prison. If they both choose to remain silent, they will each serve just one year for the lesser offense.

The “reward” each player receives can be viewed in terms of years served: if both stay silent, the outcome results in a payoff of -1 for each. If player A betrays player B, A’s payoff is 0 while B’s is -3. In the case of mutual betrayal, both players incur a payoff of -2. Therefore, how can players optimize their outcomes?

In certain scenarios, each participant’s strategy emerges as the optimal response to the other’s actions, leading to a concept known as Nash equilibrium. Both players act in a way that maximizes their individual benefits, resulting in a favorable outcome.

The challenge lies in how actions interact without prior knowledge of the other player’s intentions. Consider if you decide to remain silent; if your counterpart shares that thought, betrayal will yield a greater return for you. Conversely, if they plan to betray you, it’s in your best interest to do the same. Thus, the most logical option appears to be betrayal. This reasoning applies universally, leading both players to defect, resulting in a total payoff of -4.

Should both players trust one another and remain silent, their total payoff would be -2. This implication—that the so-called survival of the fittest can yield suboptimal results compared to cooperative strategies—hints at the potential for collaboration.

A famous experiment from the 1980s involved 62 computer programs engaging in 200 rounds of Prisoner’s Dilemma. Crucially, these programs could adapt their strategies based on their opponent’s previous actions. Interestingly, self-serving strategies proved less successful compared to those grounded in altruism. A successful algorithm would cooperate initially but choose to defect only when the opponent had done so in prior rounds. Furthermore, these programs exhibited a forgiving nature, often returning to cooperation after prior acts of betrayal.

Thus, while “pure” game theory may lead to unfavorable outcomes, incorporating a touch of kindness can pave the way for improved results. Be generous, but remain vigilant against exploitation. Such findings lend credence to game theory.

These articles will be published weekly at:
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Source: www.newscientist.com

Coral Reefs Face a Critical Threshold Due to Climate Change

Posted on October 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Coral reefs are critically threatened by climate change

WaterFrame/Alamy

The recent surge in ocean temperatures has led to extensive bleaching and mortality of warm-water corals globally, marking the onset of the first climate tipping point in an ecosystem on Earth, as stated by scientists.

The deterioration of one of the planet’s most biodiverse and vulnerable ecosystems presents ‘risks to human health and safety’ for which governments are inadequately prepared, cautions Melanie McField, who oversees Florida’s “Healthy Reefs for Healthy People” conservation initiative under the Smithsonian Institution.

Warm-water coral reefs account for one-third of all known marine biodiversity and offer food, coastal protection, and livelihoods for approximately one billion individuals worldwide. Additionally, coral reefs contribute $9.9 trillion annually in goods and services globally.

However, corals are particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in water temperature. Record-breaking global temperatures in 2023 have elevated ocean heat levels to unprecedented highs, resulting in significant bleaching events impacting over 80 percent of the world’s corals. Bleaching occurs when corals react to elevated water temperatures by expelling the algae residing within their tissues, leading them to bleach white. This process can make corals more prone to disease, and prolonged bleaching can deplete their primary food supply, ultimately leading to their death.

The most recent bleaching event represented “an order of magnitude” beyond what scientists had previously witnessed, according to McField. “We are at a tipping point,” she acknowledged. This is generally understood as a crucial threshold that, if crossed, can trigger dramatic and potentially irreversible changes in the climate system.

McField contributed to the chapter on corals in the Global Tipping Point Report 2025, which is now available for purchase. This report, the first update since 2023, was compiled by 160 scientists globally and coordinated by the University of Exeter and campaign organization WWF. It warns that warm-water corals are the initial component of the Earth system to reach a tipping point and are currently facing an “unprecedented crisis.”

Leading experts estimate that the thermal threshold for warm-water corals will be reached at a 1.2 degrees Celsius increase in global atmospheric temperatures above pre-industrial levels, with an upper limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius. By 2024, the world’s average temperature is expected to surpass this 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold for the first time in human history, exceeding the limits within which coral reefs can survive, noted Tim Renton, who spearheaded the report at the University of Exeter.

“We assessed the world at a temperature of 1.5 degrees Celsius and confirmed the results,” he stated during a press conference ahead of the report’s release. “Most coral reefs are at risk of large-scale mortality or bleaching and are transitioning into a different state dominated by seaweed and algae.”

The most promising chance to save the world’s warm-water corals from near-total extinction lies in rapidly reducing global average temperatures to 1.2 degrees Celsius below pre-industrial levels, Renton asserts. However, whether this ambitious goal, which exceeds even the targets set for 1.5°C, is attainable remains uncertain.

Terry Hughes, a researcher from Australia’s James Cook University, emphasizes that “few unbleached coral reefs remain worldwide”. Nonetheless, there is still potential for improvement. “If global greenhouse gas emissions are swiftly curtailed, we can influence the future of coral reefs over the next few decades,” he states.

Although the timing of climate tipping points is often uncertain, researchers caution that significant declines in the Amazon rainforest, melting of polar ice sheets, and collapse of the crucial AMOC current may all occur at warming levels below 2°C.

Moreover, humans can also instigate “positive tipping points” to mitigate these risks, Renton highlighted, pointing to the rapid advancements in renewable energy and the increased adoption of electric vehicles in the past decade. Fast-tracking cleaner technologies could significantly reduce emissions and help keep global warming well below 2°C, the report suggests.

Renton stated that immediate action is crucial from world leaders during the upcoming COP30 summit in Brazil to expedite emissions reductions across the global economy and minimize the duration for which global temperatures exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius. “We are swiftly nearing tipping points in various Earth systems that could have catastrophic impacts on humanity and nature, fundamentally altering the planet. This necessitates immediate and unprecedented action from COP30 leaders and policymakers worldwide,” he urged.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Emergency Alert Issued as Heat Wave Endangers Two Southwestern Counties

Posted on October 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

LAS VEGAS — As spring temperatures began to climb in Phoenix, Dr. Jeffrey Johnston prepared for a grim summer trend featuring numerous fatalities.

In the past decade, Johnston, the chief medical examiner for Maricopa County, Arizona, has witnessed an alarming rise in deaths attributed to extreme heat. The heat-related fatalities in the county surged from several dozen in 2014 to 645 in 2023.

“The spike was so severe and prolonged that we approached it as a mass casualty incident,” he commented, referring to the recent summer.

However, Maricopa County—home to the most populated area in the desert southwest—has made significant investments in heat preparedness and mitigation strategies. Cooling centers in Phoenix are now operational every day of the week. The county has scaled up its heat safety communications efforts and appointed a full-time heat mitigation coordinator.

Consequently, there were fewer heat-related deaths last year compared to the previous year, despite experiencing record temperatures for the first time in a decade. With summer concluded, officials are reviewing the year’s achievements, and initial data indicates that the trend of decline is continuing: Maricopa County has reported 185 heat-related fatalities so far, significantly lower than the 284 reported at the same time last year.

Phoenix firefighters provide aid to a homeless individual during a heat wave in Phoenix on May 30, 2024.
Matt York/AP File

In contrast, a troubling situation is arising in Clark County, Nevada’s second most populous area, which includes Las Vegas. The fatalities from heatstroke here have more than tripled within three years, reaching a record high of 513 in 2024. While the current year’s death toll is still not finalized, it is expected that the number of heat-related deaths will be in the hundreds.

Ariel Choinard, a scientist at the Desert Research Institute in Las Vegas, noted that last summer’s extreme heat served as a major wake-up call.

“Seeing a 120-degree temperature in Las Vegas made people realize, ‘Oh my gosh, this is really serious,'” she said.

Choinard has been pivotal in local initiatives addressing heat-related fatalities in Clark County and is tracking advancements in Maricopa County. She recognizes there is still work to be done.

“They began tackling the heat issue earlier than we did here, so they have made more progress in several respects,” she remarked.

Heat causes more fatalities in the United States each year than other weather-related disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes, as reported by the National Weather Service. As climate change exacerbates the frequency and severity of heat waves, these two counties in one of the fastest-warming regions of the U.S. exemplify the urgent measures needed to preserve lives in light of this escalating threat and the severe consequences of inaction.

“All of these deaths are preventable.”

Heat disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. Individuals lacking access to air conditioning, including those experiencing homelessness or residing in low-income areas or mobile homes, face heightened risks. Outdoor workers, people with pre-existing conditions, and the elderly are also at increased danger.

In Maricopa County last year, 49% of heat-related deaths were linked to homelessness, while 57% were due to substance use. Therefore, strategies aimed at preventing fatalities from extreme heat must prioritize these vulnerable groups.

Maricopa County sought to address this by expanding its network of cooling centers and hydration stations in 2023, especially after experiencing 31 consecutive days of record-breaking temperatures of 110 degrees or higher that led to a rapid increase in heat-related deaths.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Interstellar Objects Such as 3I/ATLAS May Trigger Planet Formation Around High-Mass Stars

Posted on October 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The findings of 1I/Oumuamua, 2I/Borisov, and 3I/ATLAS have revealed a substantial number of interstellar objects in the cosmos. Their widespread presence suggests that such objects are also found in protoplanetary disks, essential sites for planet formation. In these disks, interstellar objects could potentially bypass the 1-meter (3.3-foot) barrier in the traditional model of planet formation, initiating the creation of giant exoplanets.

This colorized image was taken by the CaSSIS instrument aboard ESA’s Trace Gas Orbiter on October 3, 2025, and displays the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS. Image credit: ESA/TGO/CaSSIS.

Interstellar objects, including asteroids and comets, are those that have been expelled from their original star systems and are now traversing interstellar space, occasionally intersecting with other star systems.

Since 2017, astronomers have identified three interstellar objects passing through our solar system: 1I/’Oumuamua, 2I/Borisov, and the latest, 3I/ATLAS.

“Nevertheless, interstellar objects may exert a more significant influence than it appears at first glance,” states Professor Susanne Falzner, an astronomer at Jülich National Park.

“Interstellar objects could potentially incite planet formation, particularly around high-mass stars.”

Planets are formed from dusty disks that surround young stars through a process known as accretion. This theory posits that smaller particles gradually coalesce into larger objects, culminating in the formation of planet-sized bodies.

However, researchers have faced challenges in explaining how accretion can create objects larger than a meter amidst the chaotic collisions of planet-forming disks surrounding young stars. In simulations, the rocks tend to either bounce off each other or break apart upon collision, rather than adhering together.

Interstellar objects might help circumvent this issue. The researchers’ model illustrates how the dust-laden disks surrounding young stars can gravitationally capture millions of interstellar objects akin to 1I/’Oumuamua, which is estimated to be around 100 meters (328 feet) long.

“Interstellar space will supply ready-made seeds for the next phase of planet formation,” said Professor Falzner.

If interstellar objects could act as seeds for planets, it would also resolve another enigma.

Gas giant planets like Jupiter are scarce around smaller and colder stars, referred to as M dwarfs, but are more frequently found around larger stars similar to the Sun.

However, the lifespan of a planet-forming disk around a Sun-like star lasts only about 2 million years before dissipating, complicating the formation of gas giant planets in such a brief time frame.

That said, if captured interstellar objects serve as seeds for accretion, the planet-forming process could hasten, allowing giant planets to form within the lifetime of the disk.

“The more massive a star is, the more effectively it can capture interstellar objects in its disk,” Professor Falzner explained.

“As a result, planet formation seeded with interstellar objects should proceed more efficiently around these stars, offering a rapid pathway to forming giant planets.”

“And their swift formation is precisely what we’ve observed.”

Professor Falzner presented her findings in September 2025 during the EPSC-DPS2025 joint meeting in Helsinki, Finland.

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S. Falzner. 2025. Interstellar objects primarily function as seeds for planet formation surrounding high-mass stars. EPSC abstract 18: EPSC-DPS2025-1927; doi: 10.5194/epsc-dps2025-1927

Source: www.sci.news

Two Greenish Comets Illuminate the Night Sky This Month.

Posted on October 11, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

This autumn, two greenish comets are traversing the inner solar system, presenting a unique opportunity to view them in the coming weeks.

The comets, designated C/2025 A6 (Lemon) and C/2025 R2 (SWAN), are currently observable from the Northern Hemisphere as they journey through our cosmic vicinity.

It is quite uncommon for a comet to be visible twice within the same month.

Both comets can be observed with binoculars or small telescopes until the end of October. Comet Lemon may become visible to the naked eye around its closest approach to Earth and peak brightness on or about October 21st.

Several astronomy enthusiasts have already spotted this icy traveler.

Astrophotographer Julian de Winter, a junior lecturer at the University of Mons in Belgium, captured Comet Lemon’s striking emerald glow and elongated tail from Texas in late September.

The faint green hue arises from carbon in the gas cloud enveloping the comet’s nucleus.

In the Northern Hemisphere, Comet Lemon will appear near the Big Dipper before dawn from now until mid-month. According to EarthSky, a site focused on astronomy and skywatching, the best viewing time is in the northeast sky, just beneath the distinctive bowl and handle of the Big Dipper.

In about a week, the comet will rise in the western sky and can be seen in the evening sky. From then until the month’s end, visibility of these celestial objects may be challenging, although they might be seen with the naked eye.

Comet Swan is visible in the evening sky until the end of the month. The prime time to locate it is about 90 minutes post-sunset, directed towards the southwest. This comet may not be bright enough for naked-eye observation, so binoculars or a small telescope will be necessary.

In the coming days, Comet Swan will ascend higher in the horizon post-sunset and could brighten as it nears its closest approach to Earth around October 20th.

Under optimal conditions of clear, dark skies with minimal light pollution, it may even be possible to see both comets on the same night towards the month’s end.

Discovered in January by the Lemmon Mission, Comet Lemmon tracks near-Earth objects using telescopes located in Arizona’s Santa Catalina Mountains.

Comet SWAN was identified more recently by amateur astronomers in early September while examining images from NASA’s Solar and Heliospheric Observatory’s SWAN instrument, which has been studying the Sun since its launch in 1995.

Additionally, this month, another type of comet—one originating from outside our solar system—is passing through. Comet 3I/ATLAS, the third identified interstellar visitor, was recently photographed by a spacecraft orbiting Mars and is set to make its closest approach to the Sun around October 30th.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Physicists Explore the Moments When Nature’s Strongest Forces Diminish

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

STAR detector of the relativistic heavy ion collider

Brookhaven National Laboratory

We are making strides toward comprehending when the powerful nuclear force weakens its influence on the most basic components of matter, causing quarks and gluons within particles to suddenly morph into a hot soup of particles.

There exist unique combinations of temperature and pressure where all three phases of water (liquid, ice, and vapor) coexist simultaneously. For years, scientists have sought similar “critical points” in matter impacted by the potent nuclear force that binds quarks and gluons into protons and neutrons.

In a particle collider, when ions collide, the strong force is disrupted, resulting in a state where quarks and gluons form a soup-like “quark-gluon plasma.” However, it remains uncertain if there is a tipping point preceding this transition. Shinto Researchers at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in California are getting closer to unraveling this mystery.

They assessed the number and distribution of particles produced after the collision of two high-energy gold ions at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider at Brookhaven National Laboratory in New York. Dong mentioned they were essentially attempting to formulate a phase diagram for quarks and gluons, depicting what types of matter are generated by strong forces under varied conditions. Although the new experiment did not definitively locate the critical point on this diagram, it significantly narrowed the possible area for its existence.

The phase diagram indicates a region where the material gradually “melts” into plasma, akin to butter softening on a countertop, but a critical point would correspond to a more sudden transition, similar to a chunk of ice unexpectedly forming in liquid water. Agnieszka Sorensen from the Rare Isotope Beam Facility in Michigan, which was not part of the study, stated that this new experiment not only guides researchers in pinpointing this critical point but also uncovers which particle properties might best indicate its presence.

Claudia Ratti from the University of Houston in Texas emphasized that many researchers eagerly anticipated the new analysis due to its precision, which surpasses that of previous measurements, particularly in parts of phase diagrams difficult to theoretically compute. She noted that several predictions regarding the critical point’s location have recently converged, and the challenge for experimenters will now be to analyze data at even lower collision energies that align with these predictions.

Dong remarked that the clear detection of the tipping point would mark a generational milestone. This is significant as the only fundamental force suspected of possessing a critical point is the strong force, which has played a crucial role in the universe’s formation. It governs the characteristics of the hot, dense matter created shortly after the Big Bang and continues to influence the structure of neutron stars. Dong concluded that collider experiments like this one could deepen our understanding of these exotic celestial objects once the strong force phase diagram is finalized.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

This Chilling Snake Uses Its Spider-Like Tail as Lure in Captivating Photo

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The spider-tailed viper embodies the essence of two widely feared creatures: arachnophobia (the fear of spiders) and ophidiophobia (the fear of snakes).

Imagine the only scenario where you might confront both fears: donning a clown costume (a fear of heights) and dangling from a high ledge (another fear of heights).

Nevertheless, this scenario is improbable. The spider-tailed viper typically resides in the rocky crevices of the Zagros Mountains, straddling the borders of Iraq and Iran.

Its name derives from its extraordinary tail, which mimics a spider with a swollen tip adorned with elongated “leggy” scales.

The first documented specimen was captured in 1968 and preserved in formaldehyde. When researchers from the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago examined it two years later, they initially mistook it for a Persian horned snake, which is prevalent in the Middle East.

Initially, the spider-like appendage on the snake’s tail was thought to be a spider that inadvertently ended up in the jar. However, further examination revealed that the peculiar ornament was actually part of the snake’s tail.

The significance of this unusual anatomical feature remained ambiguous, with speculation about it being a rare anomaly linked to a parasite or tumor.

Watch a snake hunt in this clip from the BBC documentary Seven Worlds, One Planet.

In 2003, a second specimen was discovered in a damaged state, yet still exhibiting the same tail’s adornment.

The snake was identified as a new species, Pseudocerastes uralachnoides, which translates to “false horn with a spider-like tail,” sparking curiosity among researchers about whether this reptile uses its tail as a lure.

While it may sound peculiar, numerous predators utilize parts of their bodies to draw in prey. For instance, monkfish develop bioluminescent lures protruding from their heads.

The tufted wobbegong shark boasts a caudal fin that resembles a fish. Additionally, over 50 snake species are known to employ a technique called caudal luring, where they wag their tails to entice prey.

The tail of the spider-tailed viper mimics a spider to lure its prey – Credit: reptiles4all via Getty

What makes the spider-tailed viper exceptional is that it is the only species known to have evolved a “caboose” that closely resembles a large arachnid.

It took thirty years for scientists to ultimately validate their hypothesis about its caudal luring technique. They set up camp in the arid mountains of Ilam province in western Iran and captured footage of six successful spider-tailed viper hunts, all occurring…

During these hunts, the snake wagged its spider-like tail, capturing the attention of nearby birds. As the birds approached, the snake struck and injected venom, resulting in the bird’s swift demise. Minutes later, the bird was consumed whole.

Spring marks peak hunting season, coinciding with birds nesting and feeding their young. However, juvenile spider-tailed vipers must adopt different hunting methods.

These young snakes hatch without their distinctive “spider butt” and develop it as they grow. Until reaching maturity, they are believed to prey on small mammals and amphibians.

The lesson here: if you’re trekking through the Zagros Mountains and spot a peculiar-looking spider, it’s best to keep your distance.

We don’t fully understand the effects of snake venom on humans, so you may want to avoid that curiosity altogether.

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

RadioAstron Reveals Stunning Images of Two Orbiting Supermassive Black Holes

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers leveraged data from the Radio Astron satellite to generate radio images of two supermassive black holes located at the core of a distant quasar, OJ287. The secondary black hole follows a 12-year orbit around the primary black hole.

The RadioAstron will map two supermassive black holes at the center of galaxy OJ 287, located about 5 billion light-years away in the constellation Cancer. The middle component corresponds to a primary black hole, while the next higher component indicates a secondary black hole, and the highest component represents the knot of its jet. The apparent elongation of the individual components is not real but rather reflects the beam’s shape. Image credit: Valtonen et al., doi: 10.3847/1538-4357/ae057e.

Quasars are exceptionally luminous galactic nuclei whose brightness arises when a supermassive black hole at the galaxy’s center consumes surrounding cosmic gas and dust.

Previously, astronomers have successfully captured images of a black hole at the center of the Milky Way and another in the nearby galaxy known as Messier 87.

“Quasar OJ 287 is so luminous that even amateur astronomers using commercial telescopes can observe it,” remarked Dr. Mauri Valtonen, an astronomer from the University of Turku.

“What sets OJ 287 apart is that it is believed to have two black holes that orbit each other every 12 years, creating a distinct pattern of light fluctuations over the same interval.”

“The earliest observations of OJ 287 date back to the 19th century, captured through old photographs.”

“At that time, the concept of black holes, not to mention quasars, was unimaginable.”

“OJ 287 was inadvertently captured in photographs while astronomers were focused on other celestial objects.”

In 1982, Dr. Valtonen observed that the brightness of the object varied regularly over a 12-year cycle.

He continued his research as a university scholar and proposed that these brightness variations could be due to two black holes orbiting one another.

Numerous astronomers have been closely monitoring quasars to validate this theory and to gain a comprehensive understanding of the orbital motion of the black holes.

The mystery regarding this orbit was finally clarified four years ago by astronomer Lankeswar Dey from the University of Turku.

The only remaining question was whether both black holes could be detected simultaneously.

The solution came from NASA’s TESS satellite, which identified light emission from both black holes.

However, the images captured under normal light lacked the resolution to distinguish the black holes as separate entities, so they were still represented merely as single points.

What was necessary were images with a resolution 100,000 times greater than that attainable by standard radio telescopes.

In this research, Valtonen and his collaborators compared initial theoretical models with radio images.

The two black holes were precisely positioned in the images where they were anticipated to be.

This finding successfully addressed a question that had lingered for four decades: the existence of black hole pairs.

“For the first time, we were able to create images revealing two black holes in orbit around each other,” noted Dr. Valtonen.

“In the image, the black hole is marked by the powerful jets of particles it emits.”

“While the black hole itself is entirely black, it can be identified by the jets of particles and the luminous gas surrounding it.”

Researchers also discovered a completely new type of jet emanating from black holes.

The jet from the secondary black hole of OJ 287 is twisted, resembling the jet from a spinning garden hose.

“This is due to the smaller black hole moving more swiftly around the primary black hole, causing its jet to be deflected according to its current trajectory,” the authors explained.

Their paper was published in the Astrophysical Journal.

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Mauri J. Valtonen et al. 2025. Secondary jet identified in RadioAstron images of OJ 287. APJ 992, 110; doi: 10.3847/1538-4357/ae057e

Source: www.sci.news

Plant Extract Serum Boosts Hair Growth in Just Weeks

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Hair growth significantly enhanced after 56 days of serum use

Tsong-Min Chang et al. 2025

A serum aimed at reversing hair loss has shown promising outcomes within a two-month period. This topical treatment, formulated with plant extracts and proteins that stimulate cellular activity, demonstrated notable enhancements in hair density compared to a placebo.

Hair loss affects approximately: 50% of men and 40% of women by the time they reach 50. Various treatments, such as finasteride and minoxidil, also known as Rogaine, may be effective; however, their success can vary based on genetics and the degree of hair loss.

Researchers are exploring innovative techniques for hair regeneration, including stem cell applications. Investigations into fibroblast manipulation, a cell type crucial for connective tissue formation, and a drug aimed at revitalizing dormant hair follicles are underway.

In a unique approach, researchers from Schweitzer Biotech in Taiwan have developed a serum enriched with caffeine, commonly found in health products, alongside two proteins known to enhance cellular growth: Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and Fibroblast growth factor-7 (FGF-7), both displaying potential for hair follicle regeneration. Additionally, extracts from Centella asiatica, a tropical herb widely used in skincare, appear to support hair follicle health.

To evaluate efficacy, an international research team enlisted 60 adults aged 18 to 60 without severe hair loss. Participants were divided into five groups; the first group received a placebo serum devoid of active ingredients, while the second group was provided with a basic preparation of 0.1% caffeine and vitamin B5, known for its moisturizing properties. The remaining groups used this base formulation, with the third group incorporating IGF-1 and FGF-7, the fourth group including IGF-1 and FGF-7 with C. asiatica, and the fifth group receiving all components.

All participants were instructed to apply 1 milliliter of serum to their entire scalp nightly for 56 days. Improvements were observed in all groups across various measured outcomes, including hair density, thickness, and reduced hair loss. The most significant increase in hair density was found in Group 5, which saw nearly a 25% improvement—almost double that of the placebo group.

Researchers propose that C. asiatica extracts may enhance hair root strength and boost blood circulation around hair follicles. “This plant has been recognized for its anti-aging, reparative, and anti-inflammatory properties,” explains Christos Tziotsios from King’s College London. “It could be somewhat of a miracle plant. There’s stronger evidence for some of the other components in this study. For instance, IGF-1 and FGF-7 are both known to influence hair cycle dynamics.”

Participants in Group 5 demonstrated improved hair growth

Tsong-Min Chang et al. (2025)

Both Tziotsios and the research team emphasize that while the study’s scale is noteworthy, extended trials are essential before a treatment utilizing this formulation can be deemed available. “This doesn’t negate its potential interest, but it’s clear that further investigation is required,” says Tziotsios. “The more we comprehend the molecular mechanisms linked to hair loss and hair biology, the closer we will be to achieving a definitive treatment.”

Source: www.newscientist.com

Breathtaking Images Showcase the Battle to Safeguard Earth’s Diverse Biodiversity

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Malaysian tropical longhorn beetle

Kim Hee Yu

“It had an unusual expression, reminiscent of an alien, but it wasn’t hostile. It remained motionless on the branch throughout,” said Kim Hui Yu, the photographer of the long-eared longhorn beetle during a family visit to Gunung Jerai on Malaysia’s west coast.

A light bulb inside the mosquito net drew invertebrates during the night. In the morning, she selected the most vibrant ones for photographs. “I want to raise awareness that every creature, even the tiniest, has its place. So we must protect our forests.”

The image titled alien is one of eight featured in the Natural History Museum’s 2025 Biodiversity Exhibit. Visit the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, opening in London on October 17th. The collection includes images from past contests.

The exhibit also showcases a large map illustrating biodiversity levels based on the Biodiversity Intact Index developed by museum researchers.

4 month old black rhino calf

Hilary O’Leary

Hannah McCartney, who oversees the contest, emphasizes the significant influence of images. The aim is to motivate viewers to notice and act. A prime example includes Innocent Betrayed by Hilary O’Leary, showcasing a four-month-old black rhino calf interacting with an anti-poaching scout, captured while the calf was lost in the brush.

Berchtesgaden National Park in the German Alps

marc graff

high and wild, captured by Mark Graf, presents a different perspective on the potential losses of nature. This shot shows trees and rocks emerging from sunlit clouds within Berchtesgaden’s national park.

Intimate moments between harlequin toads

Jaime Culeblas

Jaime Culebras’ happy couple captures mating harlequin toads in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Natural Park, home to numerous endangered species.

Caitlin Woods, marine ranger off Lord Howe Island

Justin Gilligan

rich reflections by Justin Gilligan captures marine ranger Caitlin Woods snorkeling among the vibrant seaweed off Lord Howe Island, located between Australia and New Zealand.

A close encounter between a pygmy rabbit and a stink bug, both found in rabbit burrows, was captured in burrow mate by Morgan Heim in the Columbia Basin, Washington.

Red kite takes off in the UK

owen hearn

flight path: Owen Hearn’s image juxtaposes the close-up of a red kite with a distant airplane silhouette. This pivotal photo was taken at a Bedfordshire site once selected as London’s third major airport, a project halted due to public opposition. Currently, this location offers a unique vantage point for wildlife photography. While the red kite population has dramatically recovered following its near extinction due to historical persecution, Britain remains one of the most depleted nations in terms of wildlife.

Life beneath the ice off the coast of Antarctica

Laurent Ballesta

Laurent Ballesta’s pyramid of life illustrates the biodiversity thriving beneath East Antarctica’s ice, featuring giant ribbon worms and starfish.

The Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition is celebrating its 61st year, with judges evaluating a record 60,000 entries, compared to just 341 in 1965. Winners will be revealed on October 14th.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Costs of Our Ancestors’ Evolving Intelligence

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Model of Homo heidelbergensis, potentially a direct ancestor of Homo sapiens.

WHPics / Alamy

A timeline tracking genetic alterations spanning millions of years of human evolution indicates that variants linked to elevated intelligence appeared most rapidly around 500,000 years ago, succeeded by mutations that heighten the risk of mental illness.

The findings point to a “trade-off” between intellect and mental health issues in brain evolution, according to Ilan Libedinsky from the Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

“The genetic changes linked to mental disorders clearly involve regions of the genome associated with intelligence, indicating a significant overlap,” says Libedinsky. “[The progress in cognitive abilities] might have made our brains more susceptible to mental health issues.”

Humans branched away from our closest relatives, chimpanzees and bonobos, over 5 million years ago, with brain size tripling since then, exhibiting the fastest growth rate in the last 2 million years.

While fossils enable the examination of shifts in brain size and shape, they provide limited insights into the brain’s functional capacities.

Recently, genome-wide association studies have explored the DNA of diverse populations to identify mutations associated with traits like intelligence, brain size, height, and various diseases. Concurrently, other research teams are investigating specific mutation characteristics that imply age, facilitating the estimation of when those variants emerged.

Libedinsky and his team are pioneers in merging these methodologies to form an evolutionary chronology of genetics linked to the human brain.

“There’s no evidence that our ancestors were conscious of their behaviors or mental health issues; we can’t trace them in the paleontological record,” he notes. “We aimed to see if our genome could serve as a kind of ‘time machine’ to uncover this information.”

The research team analyzed the evolutionary roots of 33,000 genetic mutations identified in modern humans, linked to various traits such as brain structure, cognition measures, mental illnesses, and health-related characteristics like eye shape and cancer. While most genetic variations exhibit only a weak tie to traits, Libedinsky emphasizes that “these links offer a valuable starting point but are far from conclusive.”

The study revealed that most genetic variants emerged roughly between 3 million and 4,000 years ago, with a notable surge of new variants arising over the past 60,000 years. Homo sapiensexperienced significant migration out of Africa.

According to Libedinsky, mutations linked to higher cognitive skills evolved relatively recently compared to other traits. For instance, those associated with fluid intelligence (logical problem-solving in new situations) surfaced on average around 500,000 years ago, about 90,000 years after mutations related to cancer and 300,000 years later than mutations connected to metabolic functions. Following closely were the intelligence-related variants and those related to psychiatric disorders, appearing on average around 475,000 years ago.

This trend initiated approximately 300,000 years ago, continuing with the rise of numerous variants influencing cortical shape (the brain’s outer layer crucial for higher-level cognition). In the last 50,000 years, several variants associated with language have evolved, followed by variants linked to alcoholism and depression.

“Mutations influencing the fundamental structures of the nervous system emerged slightly earlier than those influencing cognition and intelligence, which is logical since a developed brain is necessary for advanced intelligence,” Libedinsky states. “Additionally, it makes sense that intelligence mutations precede mental health disorders, as these capabilities must exist before dysfunction occurs.”

These timelines align with evidence indicating that Homo sapiens obtained certain variants linked to alcohol use and mood disorders through interbreeding with Neanderthals, he added.

It remains uncertain why evolution has not eradicated variants that predispose individuals to mental health issues; however, Libedinsky suggests that their mild effects could be advantageous in certain situations.

“This area of research is thrilling because it enables scientists to revisit enduring questions in human evolution and empirically test hypotheses utilizing actual genomic data,” says Simon Fisher from the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics in Nijmegen, Netherlands.

Nonetheless, this research can only assess genetic sites that vary among contemporary humans, potentially overlooking ancient, now widely shared changes pivotal to human evolution. Fisher emphasizes that developing tools to probe “fixed” genetic regions could lead to deeper understanding of our unique human characteristics.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The US Navy Trains Animals to Play Video Games: Here’s Why

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

You might be surprised to learn that there are many animal gamers out there. For instance, in California, U.S. Navy sea lions are trained to: manipulate a cursor on a screen using their noses to press four buttons (up, down, left, and right) to navigate through a maze.

The sea lions, utilized by the Navy for locating and retrieving underwater objects, earn real herrings as rewards for completing their tasks, as opposed to loot boxes or power-ups.

This game is specifically designed to assess the cognitive skills of the sea lions; however, they face tough competition from the Navy’s bottlenose dolphins, which have been trained to control a joystick with their mouths to play the same game.

On land, primates reign supreme as gamers. Chimpanzees and orangutans at zoos in Edinburgh, Scotland, and Leipzig, Germany, have recently been trained to forage for food in a virtual setting.

When one of them discovers a digital snack (with apples, grapes, and bananas scattered throughout the game), they are rewarded with a real-life equivalent of the food.

This game offers valuable insights into how these animals utilize landmarks, like trees, to navigate while searching for food.

Meanwhile, chimpanzees in the United States have showcased their ability to navigate virtual mazes. A 2014 survey conducted by the Language Research Center at Georgia State University revealed that they perform comparably to children aged 3 to 6 years old.

Chimpanzees in the United States demonstrating these remarkable skills – Illustration by Robin Boyden

However, like sea lions, primates also face strong competition. In 2021, four pigs in the United States were taught to operate a joystick using their noses to guide a cursor on the screen to a target, a task that requires a “conceptual understanding of the task and skilled motor skills.”

There are even digital mice and tablet apps for cats that let them “catch” fish with their paws.

Where will this all lead? A hedgehog playing Sonic Racing? A hamster playing Grand Theft Auto? Perhaps not, but these animal gamers reveal that we still have much to learn about their cognitive capabilities.

This article addresses the question posed by Guy Russell via email: “Can animals play video games?”

If you have further inquiries, feel free to email us at: questions@sciencefocus.com or send us a message on Facebook, on Twitter, or on Instagram (don’t forget to include your name and location).

Explore our ultimate fun facts for more amazing science insights!

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Robotic Underwater Glider Embarks on Global Journey

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Redwing glider during test launch

Teledyne Marine

A small robotic submarine embarks on its inaugural round-the-world journey. On October 11, New Jersey’s Teledyne Marine, in collaboration with Rutgers University-New Brunswick, will launch an underwater glider named Redwing from Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, as part of its Sentinel mission.

Researchers have utilized underwater gliders since the 1990s. Unlike traditional submarines, the glider employs a buoyancy engine, which utilizes a gas-filled piston to alter its buoyancy. An electric motor moves the piston, increasing the glider’s weight to allow it to sink gradually at a gentle angle. Once it reaches around 1000 meters deep, the piston retracts, enabling the glider to ascend. This method results in a slow and steady path as it navigates its intended route. Although there is an auxiliary propeller available for use, the objective is to rely on the buoyancy mechanism.

“Redwing will harness the currents rather than fight against them, maintaining an average speed of 0.75 knots, just shy of 1 mph,” says Shea Quinn, who heads the Sentinel missions at Teledyne Marine.

Measuring 2.57 meters in length—similar to a surfboard—and weighing 171 kilograms, the Redwing boasts a robust design featuring ample batteries that enhance its durability for prolonged missions.

“The ambitious Sentinel mission is projected to complete its orbit within approximately five years,” states Brian Maguire from Teledyne Marine. Throughout the journey, Redwing will operate independently, relaying information to engineers from Teledyne Webb Institute and students from Rutgers University via satellite. Mission Control will adjust the glider’s course bi-daily to ensure it adheres to its flight itinerary. Maguire mentioned that battery replacement may be necessary during the five-year expedition.

The Redwing follows the route of explorer Ferdinand Magellan’s circumnavigation of the globe from 1519 to 1522, which included stops in Gran Canaria, Cape Town, Western Australia, New Zealand, the Falkland Islands, and possibly Brazil, ultimately returning to Cape Cod after covering 73,000 kilometers.

These gliders are invaluable for conducting long-distance research missions without requiring costly support vessels, thus playing a crucial role in gathering data essential for understanding climate change. Redwing is equipped with various instruments to monitor ocean currents and temperatures in lesser-known waters.

“We believe this to be the most sustained open-ocean sampling mission ever undertaken,” claims Maguire.

Past glider missions have achieved significant milestones, including crossing the Atlantic in 2009 and the Pacific in 2011, traversing regions like the Ross Ice Shelf that are typically unreachable. “Gliders are excellent tools for acquiring data in perilous conditions, such as during storms or hurricanes, or near melting glaciers,” explains Karen Heywood from the University of East Anglia, UK. The primary hazards to the mission include fishing nets and shipping routes rather than adverse weather; “Gliders are quite resilient and can endure harsh winds and tumultuous seas,” she added.

Alexander Phillips from the UK’s National Marine Center underscores that gliders also face challenges from marine life and biofouling—where algae and other organisms accumulate on their surfaces, which can impair functionality. “Biofouling may cause marine organisms to cling to the glider, making it non-operational. Additionally, these gliders have occasionally been lost to shark attacks or due to mishaps during transport or fishing.”

Data collected from the mission will be distributed to universities, schools, and other organizations worldwide, with the primary goal of showcasing the glider’s capabilities and inspiring future research endeavors.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Farewell, Clear Skies

Heading North

Walking through Hadrian’s Wall and Rome’s innovations: England

Is There Life on Mars?

Erratic Weather Patterns

Experiencing Lucid Dreams

Breathing Techniques for Better Health

Additionally

Issue 425 Releases on Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Understanding the political significance of rare earth elements

In memory of Jane Goodall: Renowned chimpanzee researcher passes away at 91

In vitro fertilization boosts fertility and aids coral reef restoration

Bob Costas hosts a dinner for paralysis research fundraising

‘Cyborg’ beetles, pivotal in rescue missions, are being developed

NASA reveals 2025 astronaut class selected from 8,000 applicants

140-year-old ‘ghost ship’ found in Lake Michigan

Interstellar object 3I/ATLAS is traveling through the solar system

Research reveals thumbs’ influence on brain development

Europe’s glaciers are rapidly melting, irrefutably fastest on earth

Argentinians captivated by deep-sea exploration livestreams

SpaceX Crew-11 departs for ISS

Scientists inject radioactive material into rhino horns to combat poaching

SpaceX launch scrapped due to bad weather

A thriving ecosystem discovered 30,000 feet deep in the Pacific Ocean

New report reveals growing economic impact of weather-related disasters

Dinosaur fossils found in parking lot of Denver Museum

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“All of these deaths are preventable.”