Illustration of two planets circling white dwarf stars
Julian Baum/Science Photo Library
Planets in orbit around white dwarf stars may have the potential to remain habitable due to subtle movements dictated by the general theory of relativity.
As sun-like stars deplete their fuel, they expand into red giants, shedding their outer layers, ultimately leaving behind a dense, hot core called a white dwarf. Evidence shows that giant planets can continue orbiting these remnants, indicating that life may withstand the stars’ expansion.
Moreover, rocky planets could potentially orbit close to these stars within a compact habitable zone. This zone is the region around the star where liquid water can exist on a planet’s surface, though it has yet to be observed. White dwarfs can remain hospitable for immense periods, as they cool down very gradually, possibly for trillions of years.
The habitable zone is located million kilometers away from the stars and is significantly narrower than Earth’s orbit of 150 million kilometers. Previous studies indicated that a massive orbiting planet makes survival untenable due to tidal heating effects: the gravitational pull of a larger planet generates internal friction, leading to a runaway greenhouse effect akin to that of Venus.
However, modeling conducted by Eva Stafne suggests this might not necessarily be the case. Juliet Becker, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, found that, under certain conditions, Einstein’s general theory of relativity can provide a lifeline for the inner planet.
According to general relativity, massive objects warp space-time, which can be visualized as a dip or “well” on a flat surface. Essentially, the gravity wells of the host star become detached from the orbiting planet, slowly rotating and interacting inconsistently as the planet moves in and out of these wells.
“There’s a precession that separates the outer planet from the inner planet,” says Stafne, which prevents extreme tidal effects on the inner planet. “Past simulations did not consider general relativity, but this highlights the importance of including it in these close systems.”
Without considering general relativity, the outer planet, which would need to be at least 18 times more massive than the innermost planet, could provoke this runaway greenhouse effect, Becker explains. Yet, “factoring in general relativity changes the outcome dramatically,” she states. The inner planet can remain hospitable to similar distances, even with an outer planet as large as Neptune.
Mary Anne Limbach from the University of Michigan is uncertain about the likelihood of discovering such systems. “I’m not even sure if any habitable planets exist around white dwarfs,” she states. Telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope are actively on the lookout for rocky worlds in the vicinity of white dwarfs.
Nevertheless, this research reveals a unique series of plausible scenarios where inhabitants of distant worlds may thrive under suitable conditions, thanks to the bending of space-time.
“We might have a better understanding of how common relativity can be than we think,” Limbach observes.
The Enigma of the Universe: Cheshire, England
Join a weekend with some of the brightest scientific minds. Delve into the mysteries of the universe through an exhilarating program that includes a trip to see the iconic Lovell telescope.
The primary goal of contemporary astronomy is to search for extraterrestrial life. All organisms on Earth require water, prompting scientists to postulate that locating water in space is essential for finding Earth-like life elsewhere. Discoveries indicate that substantial amounts of water exist in space, often in surprising locations. For example, researchers have identified frosty Calderason Mars and water geysers on Saturn’s Moon Enceladus, among other sites, including the worlds of water surrounding other stars.
Nonetheless, water-rich exoplanets do not necessarily mimic Earth. A prevalent category of exoplanets known as Sub-Neptunes can be 2-4 times Earth’s radius, typically composed of more gas and ice. Researchers have determined the density of these sub-Neptunes, suggesting they may possess a substantial inner layer rich in water, encased in hydrogen layers. This structure diverges from Earth’s, which features thin surface oceans and expansive underground water reserves.
Additionally, scientists have found numerous sub-Neptunes in close orbit to their stars, revealing that they maintain elevated equilibrium temperatures. Consequently, these exoplanets are unable to sustain liquid water layers; instead, they exhibit a vapor atmosphere above a water layer in a state between liquid and gas, referred to as supercritical.
Gas and supercritical fluids dominate over liquids, resulting in Steam Worlds that are inflated compared to colder sub-Neptunes. Their larger radius is sensitive to temperature changes, causing them to expand as they move away from their host star and contract as they approach it. Although scientists have developed computer models of steam worlds previously, outcomes varied as they overlooked either contraction effects or aged deformation.
In pursuit of a clearer understanding of these steam worlds, a collaboration between US and UK scientists generated dynamic simulations of the known exoplanet GJ 1214B to assess its transformations over 20 billion years. Their model featured planets orbiting a red star with a mass less than seven times that of Earth and a radius exceeding 3.3 times Earth’s, with equilibrium temperatures around 540°F (280°C). They structured the model planet across five distinct layers: an inner iron core, varying upper and lower mantle compositions, a high-pressure ice layer, and an external fluid water envelope.
To monitor the temperature changes within their steam world over time, the research team focused on its interior rather than the outermost layer. For planets with vaporous outer layers subjected to solar evaporation, internal temperatures can exceed expectations since atmospheric gases can trap more heat than escape to space. This explains why Venus, the second planet from the Sun, is hotter than Mercury, the closest planet to the Sun.
The team found that their model exoplanet generally cooled and contracted over its lifespan. Starting with a radius over 3.3 times Earth’s and internal temperatures near 1,300°F (700°C), within less than 10 million years, its radius reduced to 2.9 times Earth’s with an internal temperature of 260°F (130°C). After 100 million years, it measured 2.7 times Earth’s radius, while internal temperatures dropped to -190°F (-120°C). Ultimately, after 20 billion years, the model planet’s radius was 2.6 times that of Earth, with a frigid interior temperature of -400°F (-230°C).
The final findings revealed a cooler interior exoplanet, smaller than earlier models of water-rich sub-Neptunes, indicating that it remained tightly compressed and did not lose mass. A denser planet holds less steam in its outer layers. Additionally, its inner ice layer was influenced by chemical transformations between ice and cold plasma, exhibiting properties of both liquid and solid forms, termed superion ice.
The researchers conceded that their model may not accurately reflect real sub-Neptunes, as they assumed pure water layers within the steam world. In reality, these layers likely contain chemical impurities, accompanied by an outer hydrogen and helium gas shell. Nonetheless, they posited that these outcomes could aid international researchers in better deciphering the entirety of Sub-Neptunes, as they indicate a potential relationship between a sub-Neptune’s radius, its density, and the age of its host system. All three characteristics are currently under examination in ongoing missions like JWST and Gaia.
Three distinguished scientists (two from the U.S. and one from Japan) have been awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine for their pivotal discovery related to peripheral immune resistance.
Mary E. Blankku, Fred Ramsdell, and Sakaguchi Shiko were jointly recognized for their breakthrough that “has invigorated the field of peripheral tolerance and contributed to the advancement of medical treatments for cancer and autoimmune disorders,” as stated in a news release by the Nobel Committee. The three recipients will share a prize of 11 million Swedish Kronor (approximately $1.2 million).
“This could also enhance the success rates of organ transplants. Several of these therapies are currently in clinical trials,” he noted.
Autoimmune diseases may arise when T cells, which serve as the body’s main defense against harmful pathogens, malfunction.
Their collective discovery establishes an essential foundation for understanding alternative methods by which the immune system, known as peripheral resistance, functions.
To mitigate damage, our bodies attempt to eliminate malfunctioning T cells within the thymus, a lymphoid organ, through a mechanism termed central resistance. Associated Press.
The groundbreaking research began in 1995 when Sakaguchi, a prominent professor at the Center for Immunology Frontier Research at Osaka University in Japan, uncovered a previously unknown class of immune cells that defend against autoimmune diseases.
Six years later, in 2001, Mary Blankku, who now serves as a senior program manager at the Institute of Systems Biology in Seattle, along with Ramsdell, a scientific advisor to Sonoma Biotherapeutics in San Francisco, identified a specific genetic mutation responsible for a severe autoimmune disease known as IPEX.
They designated this gene as foxp3.
By 2003, Sakaguchi confirmed that the FOXP3 gene he had identified nearly a decade prior was crucial for cell development. These cells are now referred to as regulatory T cells, which are essential in monitoring other T cells to prevent their malfunction.
“Their discoveries were vital for understanding the immune system’s functioning and why serious autoimmune diseases don’t affect everyone,” remarked All Kampe, Chairman of the Nobel Committee.
Nobel Committee Executive Director Thomas Perman announced the award on Monday morning, stating that he was only able to reach Sakaguchi.
“I hugged him in his lab, and he expressed immense gratitude, stating it was a tremendous honor. He was quite moved by the news,” Perman mentioned.
The awards ceremony is scheduled for December 10th, coinciding with the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death, a Swedish industrialist who founded the award to honor individuals who have significantly contributed to humanity. The inaugural award was revealed in 1901, marking the fifth anniversary of his passing.
The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine will be announced in Stockholm at the Karolinska Institute on Monday, followed by the prizes for Physics, Chemistry, and Literature on the ensuing days.
Over a century has passed since the Endurance, reputedly the strongest wooden ship ever constructed, met its fate in Antarctic ice. Recent evaluations of historical evidence indicate that it might not have been as resilient as other polar vessels of its era, casting doubt on expedition leader Ernest Shackleton’s awareness of its limitations.
Shackleton aimed to journey across Antarctica from the Weddell Sea to the Ross Sea, making stops along the way. However, the Endurance never reached the Antarctic coastline. In 1915, it became trapped in ice in the Weddell Sea, leading to its sinking.
Jukka Tukuri, who was part of a significant expedition at Aalto University in Finland, discovered a shipwreck on the seabed in 2022. Upon researching the polar vessels of that time, he found that the narrative surrounding the Endurance was misleading; it lacked the structural strength attributed to it.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, several ships were engineered specifically to navigate sea ice. Many featured an oval hull shape and shallow keels, which helped prevent ice from creating strong hold on the side, allowing it to slide beneath. Additionally, the internal structure of these vessels included a continuous deck spanning the hull’s entire length, which enhanced their rigidity.
In contrast, the Endurance was longer and had taller keels. Tukuri’s calculations indicated that other contemporary polar ships could withstand 1.7 to 2.7 times more compressive force than the Endurance. Furthermore, the ship’s large engine restricted the lower deck to only part of the vessel, creating structural weaknesses due to the absence of a reinforced box-like configuration.
In his review of Shackleton’s letters, Tukuri found evidence that Shackleton was aware of these design flaws. Just before departing for Antarctica, Shackleton noted in a letter to his wife that Nimrod, his previous ship, was more robust. Yet, he pressed on with his journey: “He was willing to embrace the risk,” Tukuri commented.
As predicted, the Endurance could not withstand the immense pressure of the sea ice. The vessel was compressed and distorted until its keel was ultimately torn apart and submerged.
Despite this, a myth arose portraying the Endurance as the world’s most resilient wooden ship, potentially fueled by an article in The Era. According to Tukuri, Shackleton perpetuated this narrative; the reasons remain unclear, but it seems to add an element of drama to his ill-fated expedition. “Endurance may have symbolized strength and heroism poetically,” he said. “Regrettably, that was not the case from an engineering perspective.”
Moon enthusiasts are in for a treat in the coming months, as four supermoons will be appearing. These remarkable full moons are named for the colder months in the Northern Hemisphere: the October Hunter Moon, the November Beaver Moon, and the December and January Wolf Moons. What sets a supermoon apart is its larger and brighter appearance compared to an ordinary full moon.
A supermoon occurs when the full moon coincides with the point in its elliptical orbit around Earth where it is closest to our planet. This results in a moon that is 8% larger and 15% brighter than the typical full moon, a sight that skywatchers everywhere can appreciate.
The next full moon will rise in November, but the difference between this supermoon and the usual ones may not be easily noticed. To fully experience the supermoon, it’s best to observe it when it is on the horizon, as this can create an illusion of it being even larger alongside nearby objects.
The first supermoon is set to appear on October 7th. If conditions are clear, you will be able to view the fully illuminated moon as soon as the sun sets, no matter where you are.
Even if you miss this one, it’s still a splendid time to gaze at the moon. After the full moon, it will travel through the sky toward the constellation Taurus, offering plenty of celestial sights.
By October 10th, the moon will dim, yet more than 75% will still shine brightly, located near the Pleiades, known as the seven sisters—a cluster of young stars about 440 light years away that formed simultaneously.
Only the brightest stars of this group can be seen with the naked eye, which is why they are referred to as the seven sisters. They appear in a roughly square shape with lines extending from one corner, reminiscent of the Plow or the Big Dipper.
On October 14th, the moon will be illuminated at less than 50% and will be positioned next to the planet Jupiter. If you have binoculars or a small telescope, you may be able to spot some of Jupiter’s four Galilean moons, its largest satellites.
If you’re interested in studying the moon closely, take a look through a telescope on October 30th, when it will be in its first quarter phase. Throughout the months, you’ll have the chance to see fascinating optical phenomena on the moon’s surface known as the X and V shapes.
By early November, it will be time for the next supermoon.
The concept of genetically modifying wild lions sparks debate
Andrewfel/Shutterstock
Is there a need to genetically modify wild lions? While it may seem unnecessary, it provokes a quick reaction. Consider a scenario where a devastating disease, introduced by humans, threatens their survival. What if genetic alterations could boost immunity against this disease, providing a natural evolution path through time as more lions perish?
This debate is fracturing the environmentalist community, with discussions set to intensify. Next week, at a meeting of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)—the leading conservation organization—delegates will vote on a proposal to “suspend” genetic engineering in wildlife, including the introduction of modified microorganisms.
“I’m uncertain how the voting will unfold,” says Piero Genovesi from the Italian Institute of Environmental Protection, who backs an open letter opposing the proposal.
While the IUCN’s moratorium on synthetic biology carries no legal weight, it may still have significant repercussions. Various conservation organizations might halt projects involving genetic engineering, and some nations could incorporate such restrictions into their laws.
“Moratoriums would undoubtedly pose challenges on various fronts,” states Ben Novak, of the US-based nonprofit Revive & Restore, which aims to leverage biotechnology for the recovery of endangered and extinct species.
Why is this issue gaining attention now? The answer lies in CRISPR. In 2014, the potential for gene drives using CRISPR technology was demonstrated. Gene drives allow specific DNA segments to be passed down through generations, enabling them to spread even if detrimental. This technology could theoretically eliminate invasive species or spread beneficial traits like disease resistance.
Discussions emerged at a 2016 conference in Hawaii regarding employing gene drives to eradicate invasive mosquitoes that have decimated Hawaii’s native bird species, according to Genovesi. Reactions were mixed; some were enthusiastic, while others expressed deep concern.
This tension led to the proposed moratorium. “Gene drives are being promoted by some as a one-size-fits-all solution to environmental issues,” mentions Ricarda Steinbrecher from Econex, an organization also advocating for the moratorium.
However, the broad language of the proposed motion could affect much more than just gene drives. It might unintentionally restrict passive conservation efforts and the use of live vaccines.
Steinbrecher suggests the moratorium is a temporary halt, indicating another vote may take place later “when more data becomes available.” However, with many proponents of the ban being staunchly against genetic engineering, changing their perspectives may be challenging. “I’m concerned it could lead to an extended pause,” Genovesi states.
Imagine the prospect of using gene editing to make wild animals disease-resistant. While Steinbrecher raises concerns about unintended consequences, current evidence suggests the risks remain low. This is why some genetically edited foods are already being consumed, and the first CRISPR therapy received approval last year.
The same considerations regarding benefits and risks are applicable to conservation efforts. For instance, is it preferable to witness global warming decimating coral reefs rather than releasing genetically engineered symbiotic algae to enhance coral heat tolerance?
The scalability of such endeavors is crucial, asserts Novak. Manual transplanting of corals will not be enough to salvage the reefs. “Synthetic biology tools are essential for achieving the broad objective of restoring 30% of land and saving seed varieties,” he emphasizes.
Ultimately, this discourse revolves around conflicting visions of nature. Some regard it as a pristine entity, wary of genetic modification. Nonetheless, humans have already altered nature significantly. Our actions have unintentionally interfered with genetic selection through practices like hunting, pollution, pesticide use, and the introduction of invasive species and diseases.
These actions necessitate adaptations among many species for their survival; for instance, specific elephant populations are now nearly devoid of tusks.
However, this does not imply that further interference will yield positive outcomes. The release of gene drives carries significant risks, such as their potential spread beyond intended targets.
Researchers are cognizant of these hazards. Methods like self-limiting gene drives can be implemented to prevent unrestrained gene dispersion.
“We are confronted with a severe biodiversity crisis,” Genovesi argues. “We shouldn’t close ourselves off to innovative tools that could assist us in combatting substantial threats.”
Conservation and Rewilding in the Central Apennines: Italy
A journey through Italy’s central Apennines introduces the practical realities and philosophy behind rewilding.
Mary Blankku, Fred Ramsdell, and Sato Shimajimajima have been announced as winners of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine by Committee Executive Director Thomas Perman.
Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP via Getty Images
The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded to three groundbreaking researchers: Mary Blank, Fred Ramsdel, and Shimon Sakaguchi. They have made significant discoveries regarding a unique type of immune cell that prevents the immune system from attacking its own body.
“We have opened up an entirely new area in immunology,” stated Marie Warren Hellenius from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden.
T cells, a type of immune cell, are crucial for detecting and neutralizing harmful viruses and bacteria. These cells are continuously produced throughout a person’s life.
At times, newly formed T cell receptors may mistakenly target the body’s own proteins instead of those from viruses or bacteria, resulting in autoimmune disorders like type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
The body possesses mechanisms to eliminate autoreactive T cells, with newly generated ones migrating to the thymus for evaluation. This has long been believed to be the sole process for the removal of self-targeting T cells.
Yet in 1995, Sakaguchi, now at Osaka University, demonstrated through a mouse study that other circulating cells in the bloodstream must provide some form of protection against autoreactive T cells. When the thymus is removed post-birth, mice develop autoimmune conditions; however, this outcome is averted when healthy T cells are introduced. His research identified that these particular T cells feature the CD25 protein on their surface, thereby classifying them as CD25-regulated T cells.
Meanwhile, Blankku, currently affiliated with the Institute of Systems Biology in Seattle, and Ramsdell, who advises Sonoma Bitherapeutics in San Francisco, studied mouse strains predisposed to autoimmune diseases. In 2001, Brunkow and Ramsdell identified that these mice possess mutations in a gene located on the X chromosome, specifically FOXP3.
Individuals with mutations in this gene are particularly susceptible to autoimmune disorders due to a condition known as IPEX syndrome. In 2003, Sakaguchi connected these findings, showing that the FOXP3 gene is integral to the development of the CD25-regulated cells his team had identified. Many researchers previously remained skeptical of Sakaguchi’s assertions, according to Warren Hellenius. However, the findings from Brunkow and Ramsdell solidified the case.
The discovery of regulatory T cells could pave the way for improved treatments across a variety of conditions. Increasing the presence of regulatory T cells may help mitigate autoimmune responses that lead to diseases like type 1 diabetes. Conversely, reducing these cells can amplify the immune system’s response against cancer. Numerous clinical trials are currently being conducted.
“Their discoveries have been fundamental in understanding the workings of the immune system and explaining why serious autoimmune diseases don’t universally develop,” remarked Orkenpe, the chairman of the Nobel Committee, in a statement.
Parkinson’s disease is currently the fastest-growing neurological disorder in the United States; currently, 90,000 individuals have been diagnosed—a staggering 50% increase since the mid-1980s. The situation mirrors global trends, with an expected 25 million diagnoses by 2050, effectively doubled compared to today’s figures.
In summary, this is a significant issue. However, these numbers aren’t entirely surprising, considering longer life spans and growing populations. What is truly alarming, and frankly, unsettling, is how unprepared we are for this impending wave.
The available treatments are limited. Diagnostic tools are inadequate. Honestly, we still don’t really understand what causes Parkinson’s disease.
Yet, before you plunge into the depths of neurodegenerative despair, there is hope. Scientists worldwide are actively working to change the narrative surrounding Parkinson’s.
In particular, researchers are revolutionizing how we can detect Parkinson’s disease. Armed with cutting-edge technologies, AI, and a fundamentally evolving understanding of disease manifestation throughout the body, they’re aiming to detect it decades before any symptoms present themselves, rather than years.
Presently, there is no single definitive test for Parkinson’s disease. Instead, doctors diagnose it based on physical symptoms like tremors, slow movement, and muscle stiffness, often requiring assessments of tasks such as writing and speaking.
“Today’s neurodegenerative disease is what cancer used to be 50 years ago,” states Professor Hermona Solek, a leading researcher in next-generation diagnostic tools. “We often finalize a diagnosis only when all involved nerve cells are already dead, leaving us unable to properly treat the patient.”
But what if there were a way to diagnose Parkinson’s disease before it could do any significant harm? What if it could be caught on its way, before brain cells face irreversible damage?
This is no longer just a theory. In fact, there are multiple methods emerging.
AI Desk Accessories
Not all breakthroughs in diagnostics require a blood sample; some new innovations could be found right on your desk.
At the University of California, Los Angeles, Professor Junchen‘s lab claims to have developed a diagnostic pen that detects Parkinson’s disease by analyzing your writing.
This unique pen’s soft tip is crafted from an innovative magnetoelastic material that alters the magnetic field in response to pressure or bending—a phenomenon previously known in rigid metals but now applied to soft polymers, creating a new type of highly sensitive and user-friendly sensor.
“Utilizing magnetoelastic effects with soft materials represents a new operational mechanism,” Chen explains. “It can translate small biomechanical pressures, like arterial vibrations, into high-fidelity electrical signals.”
The pen, filled with magnetized ink, captures movements occurring both on paper and in the air, subsequently sending this data to a computer. Here, AI models analyze specific patterns linked to Parkinson’s motor symptoms.
Smart pens can be especially beneficial in countries where affordable diagnostic tools are needed—UCLA Jun Chen Lab
In a pilot study, the system successfully distinguished individuals with Parkinson’s disease from healthy controls with over 96% accuracy. Even better, Chen believes this pen can be mass-produced for merely $5 (£3.70).
“We have already filed for a patent and aim to commercialize this pen,” Chen states. “Simultaneously, we are working on optimizing it to improve our diagnostics’ accuracy.”
If handwriting isn’t your preferred method, Chen’s team has you covered. They’ve also created a Smart Keyboard utilizing the same principles.
This keyboard tracks subtle changes in pressure and rhythm as users type—often imperceptible to the naked eye—and relays that information to machine learning algorithms.
Initial tests indicate that it can identify characteristic motor abnormalities in Parkinson’s disease, and the team is combining this technology with a mobile app for continuous remote monitoring.
Together, these intelligent desk tools offer a glimpse into what Chen describes as the “personalized, predictive, preventive, participatory” future of Parkinson’s healthcare; a future where diagnosis is as simple as taking notes or sending emails.
This portable, soft keyboard employs magnetic elasticity to detect Parkinson’s disease and sends results to your smartphone—UCLA Jun Chen Lab
Parkinson’s Eye Test Detects Changes Two Decades in Advance
Picture diagnosing Parkinson’s disease during a routine eye exam, potentially decades before symptoms manifest. This is the promise of new non-invasive techniques developed by Victoria Soto Linan and her colleague at Laval University in Canada, using an established eye test known as electroretinography (ERG).
According to Soto Linan, this eye test serves as a “window to the brain,” as it’s part of the central nervous system. Issues like blurred vision and diminished contrast sensitivity manifest long before the well-known symptoms of tremors and stiffness.
The Soto Linan team collected data on how the retina responds to light flashes from both mice engineered to develop Parkinson-like symptoms and newly diagnosed human patients.
They identified unique retinal signals demonstrating “sick signatures,” particularly in women. Crucially, this weakened signal appeared in the mice prior to any behavioral disease signs.
This leads Soto Linan to believe that this eye test could detect Parkinson’s as much as 20 years before symptoms arise.
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And unlike other early diagnostic methods, this one is already well ahead of the game.
“ERGs are now employed in clinics to diagnose eye diseases,” she explains. “They also have the major advantage of being non-invasive.”
The patient sits before a dome that flashes lights, capturing how the retina responds. This could easily be integrated into a few minutes of your annual vision test.
The team is currently focusing on enhancing the testing process, with hopes of linking it to machine learning algorithms that will accelerate results, perhaps even making them portable to smartphones.
While the research is still in its early stages, its potential ramifications are enormous. As Soto Linan states, “This tool could identify at-risk individuals up to 20 years before symptoms emerge. Imagine how much less damage could be done by then.”
“Even if there is no treatment available, early intervention can often improve the quality of life in the long run.”
Detecting Parkinson’s Through Vocal Patterns
Can your voice indicate Parkinson’s disease before your physical body does? Recently, preprint research has explored whether AI can identify Parkinson’s simply by analyzing a person’s speech.
Around 90% of individuals with Parkinson’s develop motor speech disorders known as dysarthria, which can lead to issues like irregular pitch and breath control.
Globally, over 8.5 million individuals live with Parkinson’s disease—Getty
These vocal changes often arise earlier than more noticeable motor symptoms like tremors, thus serving as promising early indicators.
The research team collected brief audio recordings from 31 to 195 individuals, which included 33 individuals with the disease. Their data served to train four different AI models to recognize disease-related vocal patterns. When tested on new recordings from the same participants, the models identified Parkinson’s with an accuracy exceeding 90%.
These changes are subtle and occur early, and researchers suggest that speech-based assessments could provide low-cost, non-invasive diagnostic options.
Blood Tests for Diagnosing Parkinson’s
In April 2025, SOREQ and her colleagues—including her son—announced a groundbreaking new study.
The findings were surprising; they revealed a simple and inexpensive blood test utilizing PCR technology (remember this from COVID-19?) that can accurately detect Parkinson’s disease a few years prior to symptom onset.
This test functions by measuring the ratio between two markers that SOREQ and her team discovered in human blood.
Specifically, individuals with Parkinson’s exhibit abnormally high levels of certain molecules known as transfer RNA (tRNA) fragments, identifiable by a specific repeating pattern called conserved sequence motifs.
A new blood test can detect early Parkinson’s by analyzing the unique imbalance of small RNA molecules in your blood—Credit: Getty
Simultaneously, the team uncovered reduced levels of tRNA associated with mitochondria (the “powerhouses” of cells, responsible for producing most of your body’s energy) in the blood of Parkinson’s patients.
“We proposed that if there’s an increase in one sequence and a decrease in another, we could calculate the ratio and identify a probable diagnosis,” says Soreq.
If this ratio exceeds a specific threshold, it strongly indicates a diagnosis.
According to SOREQ, a traditional diagnosis of Parkinson’s can cost up to $6,000 (£4,400). The two PCR tests required for their method? Only $80 (£60).
“This is monumental. It makes a substantial difference,” she states. With some luck, the team anticipates this will become widely available within the next decade, potentially providing a crucial lifeline for patients globally.
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Recent global assessments of the food system reveal that fewer than 1% of individuals consume diets beneficial to both the planet and human health.
Nevertheless, adopting a healthier dietary approach could prevent up to 15 million premature deaths annually and could decrease global greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 20%.
The findings are part of a 2025 Report by the Eat-Lancet Committee, which consolidates insights from nutritionists, climate experts, economists, physicians, social scientists, and agricultural scholars from over 35 countries.
The research team evaluated the effects of current food systems on human health and the environment, concluding that food production poses risks to five crucial Earth systems that are essential for human survival.
These five critical threats include climate change, land degradation, water scarcity, nitrogen and phosphorus pollution, and human-induced contaminants like pesticides and microplastics.
However, transforming the food system to ensure healthy diets for everyone could restore these systems to a safe state and enhance human well-being.
“If everyone adopts a healthy diet, by 2050, 100 billion people could sustain themselves on 7% less land than what is currently utilized,” stated Dr. Fabrice Declerck, EAT’s Chief Science Officer, in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “This has never happened in the history of food production. We have very few resources needed to feed more individuals.”
Justice was a significant aspect of the report, emphasizing the need for equitable wages for food workers and fairer access to food resources – Credit: Anuchasiribisanwan via Getty
Scientists have estimated that 6.9 billion individuals consume excessive amounts of food, particularly meat, dairy, sugar, and ultra-processed items, while 3.7 billion struggle to find access to nutritious food.
As a result, the report advocates for adherence to a planetary health diet (PhD), which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and whole grains.
In a PhD, half of your plate should consist of vegetables, fruits, and nuts, while 30% should be dedicated to whole grains. The remaining portion should be a protein source, with a focus on legumes like beans and lentils.
Meat, fish, and dairy are optional within the PhD framework, with established limits, but the diet allows for flexibility. For instance, one can remain within guidelines even with a weekly intake of up to 200g of beef.
Declerck notes that the diet is adaptable to individual tastes, encouraging people to incorporate their cultural preferences.
“In fact, I believe traditional diets often more accurately reflect health,” he mentioned.
The planet’s healthy food guidelines aim to enhance human health while also benefiting the environment, as stated in the report – Credit: Carl Hendon
Currently, only 1% of individuals meet the report’s dietary suggestions. Declerck emphasized that scientists are not ready to pinpoint the locations of these individuals, given the numerous variations among countries.
“But these individuals reside in societies where they can access healthy diets and earn a livable wage,” he added.
Declerck further remarked that the best examples of healthy eating are often found in middle-income countries, particularly within the Mediterranean basin, the Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia.
For middle-income nations, the challenge lies in avoiding a shift toward a Western diet while maintaining cultural dietary traditions.
Amidst concerns regarding the climate crisis, Declerck stated that the report presents a “surprising” opportunity to enhance both human health and environmental well-being simultaneously.
“We encourage individuals to consume a wider variety of foods, celebrate their own cultural contributions, explore diverse culinary traditions, and enjoy the richness of food diversity,” he asserted. “This is beneficial not only for your personal health but also contributes significantly to the health of our planet as a whole,” Declerck concluded.
The research’s co-author, Professor Johann Lockstrom, co-chair of the committee and director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, stated: “The evidence is irrefutable. It is not only feasible to transform the food system, but it is crucial for ensuring a safe, fair, and sustainable future for all.”
Justice formed another key component of the report, highlighting the fact that the wealthiest 30% of the population accounts for over 70% of food-related environmental impacts.
“Those of us who are unhealthy and walk blocking others’ rights to a secure environment must take action,” the report emphasized.
The findings call for immediate measures to reform the global food system for the benefit of human health, justice, and environmental sustainability.
Researchers from Argentina, Brazil, and the UK have identified a new genus and species of Abelisaurid Theropod Dinosaur.
Geological map indicating the location of Vitosaura Colozacani in the Los Lanos Formation, La Rioja, Argentina. Image credit: Jiménez Velandia et al., doi: 10.5710/amgh.24.09.2025.3653.
The newly identified dinosaur, Vitosaura Colozacani, existed approximately 80 million years ago during the late Cretaceous period.
This ancient species is part of the Abelisaurid family, a group of carnivorous dinosaurs that predominantly thrived in Gondwana throughout the Cretaceous.
Fossil evidence of this family currently comprises over 25 species, with the most comprehensive and well-preserved findings located in Patagonia, Argentina.
“The Abelisauridae is a clade first established in 1985, known for its distinctive features such as a robust and tall skull, well-protected maxillary and frontal areas, a highly compressed axial skeleton, and reduced forelimbs.”
“The discovery of numerous Abelisaurus species over recent decades, mainly on Gondwana’s landmasses, has significantly enhanced our understanding of this theropod lineage.”
“The Abelisauridae represented the predominant clade of theropod dinosaurs during the Cretaceous in Gondwana, with extensive records found in North Africa, India, and Madagascar, extending even into Laurasia, present-day Central Europe.”
“Beyond these findings, this group was remarkably successful in South America, boasting a rich fossil record.”
Fossilized remains of Vitosaura Colozacani were collected during field excursions in 2009 and 2010 at the Los Llanos Formation in La Rioja, northwest Argentina.
“The theropod remains include the first dorsal center, the second dorsal vertebra, a partial sacrum, left ilium, pubic bone, and other uncertain elements,” the paleontologist noted.
“These specimens were found alongside some post-titanosaur remains.”
Vitosaura Colozacani was a medium-sized Abelisaur measuring approximately 4.5-5.5 m (15-18 feet) in length.
The species inhabited a seasonally semi-arid environment where annual rainfall varied between 230 and 450 mm.
“The discovery of Vitosaura Colozacani expands the geographical range of Abelisaurus within the Campania Formation of the Los Lanos Formation in La Rioja; however, the implications of this new species are limited due to its incompleteness and the state of analysis reflected in various phylogenetic studies focusing on Abelisaurus interactions.”
“We believe further research is necessary to enhance the topological robustness of Abelisauridae phylogeny and to discover new materials that could be allocated to Vitosaura Colozacani to more thoroughly test the phylogenetic hypotheses discussed in our study.”
Harold Zimenez Verandia et al. 2025. A new late Cretaceous species of Abelisaurus from the province of La Rioja in northwestern Argentina. Ameguinea 62(5): 1-23; doi: 10.5710/amgh.24.09.2025.3653.
While living with my parents, my mother claimed she could always sense when my period was imminent. I vividly recall the chaos that ensued when she mistakenly purchased chicken breast instead of thighs on the evening I was tasked with cooking.
Such dramatic reactions are typical of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which is a central topic in the book The Brain of the Times: The New Science of How We Understand PMS. The author, Sarahill, who has previously examined the impact of birth control on the brain, outlines methods for managing PMS symptoms with a focus on lifestyle adjustments.
Women’s health has been largely overlooked in the scientific arena for years. Hill, who possesses a PhD in evolutionary psychology and leads a health and relationship lab at Texas Christian University, is in a good position to address these gaps. Unfortunately, her arguments can sometimes feel superficial.
At one point, she links PMS to the notion that women are told to burn an average of 2,000 calories. This implies that researchers should consider an additional 140 calories during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Hill posits that adherence to these guidelines leads to cravings and misconceptions about food, which can exacerbate the issue.
Any woman paying such close attention to her caloric intake is unlikely to dismiss a 140-calorie snack for the sake of anecdotes. To me, Hill’s reasoning appears to overly simplify the onset of PMS.
Although she references plenty of scientific studies, Hill seldom shares details regarding participant numbers or the duration of interventions, which are critical since small studies often overlook various genetic factors.
The potential genetic influence on PMS is another topic that Hill only lightly touches on. While no specific genes linked to PMS have been identified, the condition is reported to occur more frequently in identical twins compared to fraternal twins. Given this, it’s not surprising that genetic factors could also play a role in different menstrual cycle aspects.
Hill frequently suggests symptom relief through inadequately tested supplements, increased sun exposure, and varying exercise routines throughout the menstrual cycle (though the last point may hold some merit). However, acknowledging that severe symptoms could stem from genetic factors rather than merely lifestyle choices would be beneficial.
One thing I concur with Hill about is the need for further research at various menstrual cycle stages to understand how these phases affect responses to psychological treatments like drug metabolism. I also agree that it may be easier to cope with mood swings by recognizing them as natural reactions to hormonal changes, potentially alleviating my anxiety about chicken.
I didn’t finish The Brain of the Times with any groundbreaking insights on reducing PMS. Nevertheless, every book on women’s health contributes to destigmatizing issues like PMS and could encourage more extensive research.
Like many, I prefer not to revisit my teenage years. However, despite the persistent embarrassment they cause, I’ve never viewed adolescence as a mistake to be eradicated.
This perspective doesn’t hold for many characters in Whimper, a mystery series authored by comedian May Martin. The story unfolds in a fictional small-town academy in Vermont, aiming to tame unruly teens and tame the chaos of adolescence. Evelyn Wade (Toni Collett), a commanding figure, oversees the “progressive and intentional community” nestled among saccharine pines, embodying New Age ideals. Yet beneath the surface, there’s a darker undertone to this seemingly blissful place.
Through the eyes of Abby (Sydney Topriff), a Canadian stoner tomboy struggling to meet her father’s expectations, we explore Tall Pines Academy. After sneaking out to meet her best friend Leila (Arivia Allin Lind), Abby is portrayed as a troubled influence, leading to her enforced enrollment under Evelyn’s watchful eye. Upon her arrival, she is stripped of her belongings and encouraged to spy on fellow students for any offenses.
Meanwhile, newcomer police officer Alex Dempsey (played by Martin) and his pregnant wife Laura (Sara Gadon) navigate their new town, with Laura being a cherished alum of the academy, gifted their home by Evelyn. When Alex encounters a frantic runaway student in the woods, he begins to suspect something is amiss with the school.
“
The most frightening part is Therapis Peak, with cruelty disguised as a way to protect mental health “
Tall Pines Academy, surrounded by eerie forests, seems to harbor an unsettling interest in Alex and Laura’s unborn child. Mysterious elements emerge, including a peculiar door hidden underground and Laura’s fixation on an odd toad. A former student, now an employee under Evelyn, breathlessly speaks of the academy’s transformative effects.
However, the core terror of Whimper lies in its therapy culture. The series examines how weaponized mental health jargon disguises real cruelty, cloaked as concern for well-being.
Poor Abby is the subject of attempts to reshape her into someone else, with accusations of harm and efforts to suppress her identity separating her from supportive friends like Leila.
Everyone at the academy is a skilled manipulator, but none compare to Evelyn. She turns the adage “integrity is the best policy” into a twisted form of “treatment,” where students are subjected to peer scrutiny armed with harsh “truths,” ultimately breaking them down. “It’s a way to hold yourself accountable,” Evelyn insists at dinner.
While Whimper presents many intriguing concepts, it evokes more thought than engagement. Unfortunately, after an enticing pilot, it devolves into mediocrity, leaving only fleeting moments of brilliance in character revelations.
If you’re brave enough to relive adolescence, Whimper may be worth a watch. Otherwise, your time might be better spent elsewhere.
Toni Collette delivers a standout performance in this haunting tale of intergenerational trauma, where uncanny events unfold after the family’s matriarch passes away.
This book traces the 200-year movement to dismantle familial structures, urging alternative child-rearing methods beyond privatized units, offering insightful perspectives whether or not you fully embrace its arguments.
Bethan Ackerley is an assistant culture editor for New Scientist. She has a passion for science fiction, sitcoms, and unsettling stories. x Follow her at @inkerley
New Scientist Book Club just read Ursula K. Le Guin’s novel The Dispossessed
Gollancz; Benjamin Brink/Oregonian/AP/Alamy
Alex Foster’s reading experience, after shifting our perspectives in a circular motion, led the New Scientist Book Club into two contrasting worlds in Ursula K. Le Guin’s novel The Dispossessed. This authentic sci-fi classic from 1974 oscillates between two timelines. One follows physicist Chebek as he departs from the barren moon Anar to study at the university on Uras, a more prosperous planet, while he simultaneously grows within the anarchist society of Anar.
I first encountered The Dispossessed during my second year of university. At that time, I was captivated by the novel’s structure and the anarchist principles shaping Chebek’s hometown. After all, what better time to dive into radical fiction than as a budding student? On this subsequent reading, however, I found myself more attuned to the human aspects of the narrative. I now have a deeper understanding of Chebek’s character, albeit one I didn’t always sympathize with.
Many club members expressed excitement when we announced The Dispossessed as our next reading. “This is my favorite Le Guin book, though it’s truly hard to choose,” remarked Kelly Jensen. In Rachel Hand’s corners of reading on our Facebook Group, it had been a long-awaited selection for some. For others, it marked their first encounter with Le Guin’s work. New Scientist describes it as a “dive into the deep end.”
Despite its daunting reputation, some readers relished how The Dispossessed brims with concepts surrounding politics, physics, and language. “It’s absolutely spectacular that Le Guin tackles physics on the ‘time’ side of the space-time continuum,” said Laura Akers. Elizabeth Drummond Young appreciated the exploration of “sudden engagement,” examining linguistic and behavioral references, such as how individuals name themselves, paralleling notions introduced by Einstein in the novel.
However, a consensus emerged: few would wish to inhabit Anar, despite its egalitarian ideals. As Laura noted, “They can’t genuinely evaluate life as we do on Earth.” They hold a profound awareness of their ecosystems, yet remain focused on their operational realities.
Gosia Furmanik expressed ambivalence: “On one hand, it’s tremendous that there’s no exploitation, and they can, in principle, do as they please.
This notion came up during a conversation with Marcus Gipps, editor at Le Guin’s publisher, Gollancz. “Everything really comes down to perspective,” he told me. “I’m fascinated to learn about East Germany’s depiction prior to its fall in relation to this book, and I will continue to explore this!”
Perhaps the most contentious aspect of the novel is its portrayal of women. Some readers found the book’s gender ratios frustratingly outdated, feeling that our views of Anar and Uras are filtered through a biased human lens. “I perceived the book’s viewpoint as an internalized bias from the author, which is perhaps expected given its time of writing,” Gothia remarked. “The portrayal of relationships, such as Chebek’s interactions in the planting camp, presents a significant distortion of cis-heteromonogamy—despite the absence of marriage!”
Conversely, others interpreted the novel’s gender politics as more deliberate. “Le Guin aimed to provoke thought about the status of women within Anar’s framework,” Neil Leighton stated. “I don’t agree that we should assume she’s advocating a particular vision of utopia based on the characteristics of Anar’s society.”
With so many intricate ideas woven throughout, it’s no surprise not everyone found the book easy to digest. Phil Gurski had to stop reading around 160 pages in due to confusion, while Steve Swan remarked on needing patience during the initial chapters. Judith Lazelle echoed this sentiment.
I resonate with Phil, Steve, and Judith’s experiences. There are indeed peculiar moments where the book overwhelms with ideas. However, “Ursula Le Guin is an absolute literary master, and I’m a tremendous admirer. I understand why this work has garnered so many accolades.” Yet, I question whether the extensive philosophical deliberations detract from the narrative itself—though as usual, the maestro concludes in a deeply satisfying fashion.”
Fortunately, many members of the book club genuinely enjoyed The Dispossessed. “I adored this book,” exclaimed Neal. “I read it as a teenager and believe it to be one of the most influential texts in my thinking.” Rachel shared, “The ending was my favorite part,” while Terry James found the final 50 pages to be a “fantastic imaginative ride.”
We are now transitioning from a fantastical science fiction realm to the intricate world of neuroscience with our next book club selection: an award-winning nonfiction work. We are thrilled to explore the winners of this year’s Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Award, Our Brains, Ourselves by neuroscientist and clinician Mazood Hussain. Through seven captivating case studies, Hussain illustrates how various neurological conditions impact identity and belonging. This book is sure to engage fans of Oliver Sacks, as Grace Wade termed it “engaging and informative” earlier this February for those eager to delve into neuroscience.
You can find excerpts from this book as well. Additionally, Sandra Knapp, a plant taxonomist at the Museum of Natural History in London and head of the Jury Committee, offers unique insights into the award selection process. She shares what makes Our Brains, Ourselves stand out among other exceptional entries and highlights learnings from this “incredibly compassionate” work. Share your thoughts with us in our Facebook Group, and let us know if you’re excited for our next read.
Large Magellanic Cloud, Milky Way Satellite Galaxy, nearby star SDSS J0715-7334 discovered
Josh Lake/NASA/ESA
A star relatively close to us appears to be almost devoid of heavy elements produced by supernovae and may be a direct descendant of the universe’s first star.
Astronomers postulate that the initial stars consisted solely of hydrogen and helium, remnants from the Big Bang. It was only after these stars exhausted their fuel and exploded as supernovae that heavier elements could disperse beyond helium. The gas enriched with these new elements formed the subsequent generation of stars, with this cycle continuing, ultimately producing the elements we see in today’s stars and planets.
Most stars observed in our galaxy belong to multiple generations and are excluded from this early star population. However, “star archaeologists” have discovered nearly untouched stars believed to be from the “second generation,” born from the remnants of the early stellar explosions.
Recently, Alexander Z from the University of Chicago and his team identified the star with the lowest total amount of “metals,” referring to all elements besides hydrogen or helium, in the known universe. Named SDSS J0715-7334, this star resides in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way, and has a metal content approximately 0.8 times that of our Sun, making it about 20,000 times less metallic.
After initially detecting the star in data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, due to its notably low metallicity, JI and his colleagues conducted observations with the Magellan telescope at the Las Campanas Observatory in Chile. They confirmed that while the star has minimal iron, comparable to other nearly untouched stars, it also exhibits very low carbon levels, which are not typical for Milky Way stars.
“It’s quite an exciting discovery regarding iron levels. This is even more extreme than some of the other examples we have previously found,” said Anke Ardern-Arentsen from Cambridge University. “However, most interestingly, this star has significantly less carbon compared to natural stars we know about.” This observation might imply that it formed in a distinctly different manner than stars found in the Milky Way, according to Anna Frebel from MIT.
To form a star like SDSS J0715-7334, a relatively small and cool gas mass is required. Typically, this process necessitates heavier elements with high-energy electrons, such as carbon, which aid in cooling the gas effectively. The scarcity of carbon in this star complicates this process.
One potential alternative explanation is the presence of a cloud of cosmic dust made up of heavier elements. This dust may contribute to cooling, a mechanism not observed early in the universe’s history, at least within our own galaxies.
“There’s an issue here. Do varying environments across different regions of the universe cool gas at different rates during the early formation epochs?” Frebel questions. “We can raise the question of why different cooling rates occur, but we lack a satisfactory answer.”
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The asymmetry in the average temperature of the cosmic microwave background is inconsistent with the standard model of cosmology
ESA/Planck Collaboration
Cosmic anomalies have puzzled scientists for years, and recent examinations of data from various radio telescopes further complicate the understanding of their origins.
This peculiar fluctuation appears in the afterglow of the Big Bang, representing radiation that has journeyed toward us since the dawn of time, referred to as the cosmic microwave background (CMB). Physicists generally expect this radiation to be uniform in all directions; therefore, significant deviations are perplexing. Current measurements indicate a gradient in CMB temperatures, resulting in colder and hotter areas known as a dipole, as explained by Lucas Behme. His team at Bielefeld University in Germany utilized data from radio telescopes to delve deeply into these anomalies.
Böhme notes that while the presence of the CMB dipole isn’t surprising, its magnitude defies the expectations of our prevailing cosmological models. Radiation emitted from moving sources—and perceived by observers who are also in motion—appears warmer or colder due to the Doppler effect and other relativistic effects. Yet, the dipole observed is approximately ten times more intense than anticipated.
To analyze this discrepancy, Böhme and his colleagues examined data from six radio telescopes and meticulously narrowed their focus to the three most precise measurements. Böhme describes their method as dividing the sky into pixels to determine the number of radiation sources within each. Nevertheless, despite their exhaustive adjustments, the dipole mystery endured.
Dragan Huterer from the University of Michigan finds the team’s thorough analysis noteworthy. He emphasizes that this is crucial for establishing the dipole as an undeniable feature of the CMB. “This is a significant insight, indicating that we fundamentally misunderstand our spatial context within the universe, or that our most accurate theories fail to align with the evidence,” he states. However, Huterer also points out the challenges inherent in accurately measuring radio astronomical data, which may result in systematic errors.
Part of the difficulty lies in the faintness of the radio signals collected, Böhme explains. “We aim to measure extremely subtle phenomena. Fine-tuning this measurement is challenging,” he notes. Yet, this is not the only evidence supporting the existence of the dipole. Infrared radiation from quasars tends to reinforce the findings from radio wave measurements, and forthcoming telescopes may enhance precision in observations, potentially resolving some of the dipole’s enigmas.
However, researchers Fabian Kratz and Josef Brüderl at Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich argue that this belief may not hold true.
Kratz feels compelled to reevaluate the U-curve claim. The researchers analyzed self-reported happiness data from 70,922 adults who took part in the Socio-Economic Panel Survey in Germany from 1984 to 2017, modeling how happiness evolved over individuals’ lifetimes.
Contrary to the U-shaped model, they discovered that happiness typically declines during adulthood, only beginning to rise again in the late 50s.
Kratz believes that prior research may have drawn erroneous conclusions by oversimplifying the happiness trajectory and neglecting deaths due to suicide or illness. “It can seem that happiness increases after a certain age simply because those who are unhappy have already passed away,” Kratz explains.
“In the social sciences, there’s been considerable debate over conflicting findings—results often evaporate with new data collection,” says Julia Roller at the University of Leipzig. “Yet, another overlooked issue is that researchers may analyze data in ways that are systematically flawed. This can yield replicable findings, but still mislead.”
Others posit that these findings raise important questions. “This study provides an excellent opportunity to reconsider our understanding in this field,” remarks Philip Cohen at the University of Maryland, highlighting the need to explore why our happiness shifts throughout life and how we can ameliorate low points. Both Kratz and Brüderl express a desire to avoid speculation on the reasons behind these observed changes.
Oswald notes that the study presents “interesting results” worthy of consideration, but he emphasizes that factors such as marriage and income are beyond his control.
Furthermore, he points out that the study focuses on a single country, leaving it unclear whether these results are applicable elsewhere. Kratz suggests this may provide a useful foundation for future research. Notably, the findings could inform policy. “Previous scholars argued for the importance of proactive policies to help individuals navigate mid-life crises,” Kratz mentions. “While we do not dismiss this urgency, our results indicate that addressing declining well-being in older adults should be a priority.”
Do you need someone to talk to? In the UK, contact Samaritans at 116123 (Samaritans.org); in the US, reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 (988lifeline.org). For services in other countries, visit bit.ly/suicidehelplines.
As dawn broke, a peaceful calm enveloped the city. The shadows along the roads gradually receded, leading us into a radiant morning. It was June, and the few early risers setting up market stalls relished the serene, gentle light, even with the enemy only 50 miles away. Many who had fled the metropolitan area clung to the hope that the defense line would hold after nearly four years. Hope remained alive.
On Houseman Street, a handful of cars headed east, but otherwise, the street was quiet as most residents lingered in wakefulness. However, the inhabitants of the second-floor apartment at No. 102 had been awake for quite some time—indeed, all night. The window shutters remained tightly drawn, as they had been for months. A green bedside lamp glowed in the otherwise darkened room, amidst furniture shrouded in shadows and filled with stramonium steam for asthma, creating a stifling atmosphere. The sounds from the street, coupled with the soundproof cork-lined walls, contributed to a sense of suffocating confinement that visitors undoubtedly felt.
Sitting on a bed in a beautifully adorned Japanese courtyard, propped up by large cushions, he usually lost himself in his manuscript. But today felt different. Overwhelming fear consumed him. One side of his face seemed to sag. When addressing Celeste, his housekeeper, he worried his words lacked clarity, turning his speech into an almost incomprehensible ramble. Convinced he was on the brink of a major stroke—the same fate that plagued both his parents—he found no alternative explanation. It was a hereditary concern. And had his beloved mother, Jeanne, escaped complete frailty? Her stroke had robbed her of language, rendering her unable to communicate with her cherished sons.
In the summer of 1918, as the Germans initiated their final offensives of World War I towards Paris, the renowned novelist Marcel Proust sat on a blue satin chair, engulfed in fear of potential brain damage. Now in his late 40s, he was all too familiar with aphasia; his mother had suffered from it, and his father, Dr. Adrian Proust, had authored an entire book on the subject prior to his own stroke.
Young Marcel had also befriended many of the city’s most distinguished neurologists. At that time, Paris stood as a prominent hub for neurology, with pioneering experts making significant advancements in understanding language disorders following strokes. Without such insights, where would Proust find himself?
On that June morning in 1918, he anticipated a meeting with Joseph Babinsky, a well-known neurologist. Babinsky, unaware of the reasons behind Proust’s visit, simply inquired, “Do you have any symptoms?”
Proust’s intention was to persuade Babinsky to perform a trepanation—drilling holes in his skull—driven by his profound belief that such a drastic step was necessary to halt the looming stroke. However, Babinsky, an expert in his field, reassured Proust that there was no evidence suggesting he was experiencing a stroke and declined to proceed with the operation. It’s difficult to imagine how the trajectory of Proust’s monumental novel would have shifted had he suffered a stroke. While Marcel Proust never experienced a stroke, the shadow of that fear haunted him throughout his life, lingering long after, even when he was near death from pneumonia, it was Babinsky he called upon.
Proust’s anxieties surrounding brain-related illnesses resonate with many. While diseases can afflict anyone in various ways, our deepest fears often lie in disorders that impact our minds. Why is that? Because neurological conditions can transform individuals dramatically. Some may struggle with communication, as Proust feared, while others could experience memory loss, distorted perceptions, or hallucinations. Some might exhibit socially inappropriate behavior, a lack of empathy, or rudeness. Others could become impulsive or withdrawn, developing new addictions or suffering from pathological indifference.
Such behavioral shifts can be distressing and terrifying for both individuals and their loved ones. Yet, they reveal profound insights into our very nature. By examining the consequences of certain brain functions being impaired, we glean understanding about our own normality, how cognitive functions shape our identities—personal and social, formed through our connections with others.
For someone like Marcel Proust, losing the ability to communicate would be devastating. Not only would he lose his gift for writing, but he would also risk dismantling his carefully crafted social presence. The social identity he had labored to cultivate would effectively disintegrate. Proust had invested years nurturing relationships with key figures in French society and possessed remarkable perceptions regarding his connections with influential individuals. As a gay man from a Jewish background, He adeptly navigated the complexities of prejudice and societal expectations in Paris.
Through keen observation and emulation, he became an integral part of the circles he thought he belonged to. Some observers suggested that Proust was a master manipulator, indicating that even while isolated in his dimly lit bedroom, he was unwilling to relinquish control over those around him. However, without language, the intricate web he had worked to weave would no longer be accessible; he would no longer “belong.”
This excerpt is from Massoud Hussain’s workOur Brains, Ourselves(Canong’s publication), recipient of The Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize and the latest selection from the New Scientist Book Club. Join us to read together.
The human brain is one of the most intricate entities ever to exist.
Andriy Onofriyenko/Getty Images
Science literature, particularly those authored by scientists, is often perceived as monotonous and challenging. They are sometimes regarded as mere textbooks meant for structured learning. However, the book featuring the finalists for the Royal Society’s Trivite Science Award proves this perception wrong and showcases the judges’ selection for this year: Our Brains, Ourselves by neurologist Masd Hussain.
I was fortunate to serve as a panel chair among six dedicated readers and book enthusiasts, including New Scientist‘s Jacob Aron, who faced the daunting challenge of curating a list of nominees. Our discussions, led by passionate advocates for science, were diverse and engaging, reflecting the love we all share for both literature and science.
We frequently engaged in respectful debates, as I was usually in the company of individuals willing to consider opposing viewpoints. Our varied backgrounds and experiences enriched our understanding of the privileges associated with reading and the act of reading itself.
This year’s submissions featured numerous outstanding scientific works, yet Our Brains, Ourselves notably blended exquisite storytelling with rigorous, cutting-edge science, particularly evidenced in its humanistic approach. Hussain is a neuroscientist and a clinician; seven personal narratives from his patients are highlighted throughout the book.
The experiences shared are diverse. One individual feels an overwhelming apathy post-stroke, while another believes she has a connection with her husband. Each story illustrates profound transformations. This book is a poignant exploration of how neurological disorders can radically alter one’s identity and breed societal alienation.
A recurring theme in the book is the concept of “self” and how our brains shape our identities. It is conveyed empathetically and personally. The scientific elements are firmly grounded in Hussain’s own research, presented in an easily digestible manner, while acknowledging the unknowns. I appreciate this transparency; real science encourages the pursuit of further questions.
While case studies in clinical practices might seem commonplace, the unique personal touch here makes a significant difference. Have you ever felt a disconnect from personal attributes? The narratives of patients with brain disorders provoke thought regarding identity, selfhood, and our social roles.
This notion resonated strongly with our panel. What constitutes belonging? Some individuals encountered in the book are members of immigrant communities, facing prejudice and violence to carve out their place in society. It would seem that as our world becomes increasingly interconnected, our fear of differences should diminish—but this isn’t always the case.
Our Brains, Ourselves encourages readers to reflect on how neurological disorders can profoundly disrupt one’s sense of belonging while illustrating how cognitive function influences one’s identity. Ultimately, our brains substantially define who we are. This compassionate narrative not only educates readers about science but also showcases extraordinary human kindness.
Sandra Knapp is a plant taxonomist at the Museum of Natural History in London and chaired this year’s Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Award judging committee. The winner of the award is Our Brains, Ourselves, the latest addition to the New Scientist Book Club.
Complex problem solving can arise sooner in child development than previously believed
PlusOnevector/Alamy
Research reveals that four-year-olds can devise efficient strategies for complex challenges, such as independently creating sorting methods akin to those used by computer scientists. The researchers assert that these abilities appear much earlier than once thought, warranting a reevaluation of developmental psychology.
Past experiments led by Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget popular in the 1960s, required children to physically arrange sticks by length. His findings indicated that structured strategies didn’t emerge until around age seven, as children tended to experiment haphazardly through trial and error.
Contrarily, recent work by Huiwen Alex Yang and his team at the University of California, Berkeley, shows that a notable fraction of four-year-olds can create algorithmic solutions for the same task, with more than a quarter exhibiting these skills by age five.
“Perhaps we haven’t given our children enough credit,” Yang states. “We must delve deeper into their reasoning capabilities.”
In a study involving 123 children aged 4-9, researchers asked them to sort digital images of bunnies by height. Initially, they could view groups of bunnies and directly compare their heights, allowing all children to sort them aptly using straightforward methods.
However, once the heights were obscured, the children had to compare only two bunnies at a time while being informed whether their order was correct. This approach necessitated the development of new strategies, as they couldn’t see the entire group simultaneously.
The researchers examined the children’s application of these new strategies, looking for evidence of known solutions and demonstrated instances where children utilized established algorithms. It was found that overall, children frequently outperformed random chance. Remarkably, they independently identified at least two efficient sorting algorithms recognized in computer science: Selection Sort and Shaker Sort.
In 34% of trials, children employed various comparisons, signaling their use of known sorting algorithms for a portion of the time. Out of a total of 667 tests run, the children utilized selection and shaker sorting in 141 instances, with some employing combinations of both strategies. Notably, 67 out of 123 children demonstrated at least one recognizable algorithm, and 30 children used both at different stages in the experiment.
Nonetheless, the age of the children directly influenced how many used algorithms. Only 2.9% of four-year-olds applied identifiable methods, while this rose to 25.5% among five-year-olds and 30.7% for six-year-olds. By age nine, over 54% were using identifiable algorithms.
“This has long been a challenge to Piaget,” remarks Andrew Bremner from the University of Birmingham, UK. He acknowledges Piaget’s groundbreaking contributions to developmental psychology in setting stages for learning but emphasizes that Piaget often designed experiments without proper controls. “Critics have been eager to illustrate that children can achieve more than Piaget claimed.
Essentially, while Piaget initially had a correct understanding of child development, his assessments of the ages at which children achieve certain milestones were overly pessimistic. This latest study strengthens the evidence supporting earlier development stages. Interestingly, it revolves around sorting. Bremner indicates this as the last bastion of Piaget’s work, proving applicable to younger children than once believed.
“Children can successfully navigate this particular problem much sooner than we anticipated,” states Bremner. “They do not approach the world as mere blank slates, but rather implement strategic techniques in problem-solving.”
Sam Wass from the University of East London points out that Piaget contended that children needed a comprehensive grasp of complex systems before they could devise strategies to engage with them, a notion he is finding increasingly unnecessary.
“This research signifies a significant trend in psychology that contests the assumption that intricate thoughts and understanding are prerequisites for executing complex behaviors,” notes Wass. “The study illustrates that complex behaviors may emerge from a far simpler array of rules.”
A splendid fairy (left) attempts to evade the cuckoo
David Ongley
More than 20 bird species globally utilize similar “whining” alarm calls to alert others about the presence of cuckoos. These calls seem to resonate across species, shedding light on their evolutionary significance.
Cuckoos are among the numerous 100 species recognized as brood parasites, laying their eggs in the nests of other birds and relying on them to raise their young as if they were their own.
Will Feeney and his team at biological stations in Spain and Doñana identified 21 species that last shared a common ancestor around 53 million years ago. These species exhibit structurally similar “whimper” calls when they detect a breeding parasite.
Examples include the splendid fairy-wren (Malurus cyaneus) in Australia, the yellow-brown prinia (Prinia subflava) in Africa, Hume’s leaf warbler (Phylloscopus humei) in Asia, and the green warbler (Phylloscopus trochiloides) in Europe.
“It seems these diverse bird species worldwide have converged on the same vocalization to alert against their respective brood parasites,” observes Feeney.
Researchers often observe that species producing this alarm call tend to inhabit areas rich in brood parasites, which exploit various host species. When a potential host detects the whining, they often resort to aggressive defense behaviors.
“Brood parasites present a unique threat. They pose significant risks to offspring while largely being non-threatening to adult birds,” says Feeney. “Our findings suggest that [the call] plays a crucial role in promptly alerting fellow birds and potentially securing their protection.”
“In the case of the splendid fairy-wren, they are cooperative breeders, which likely means that the mobbing call is intended to attract additional individuals for support,” explains Rose Thorogood from the University of Helsinki, Finland.
To deepen their investigation, Feeney and colleagues recorded calls from brood-parasite hosts across continents and played them to potential host birds in Australia and China. They discovered that hearing foreign alarm calls prompted just as quick a response as calls from their own species.
“This indicates that the function of this vocalization is geared towards fostering interspecies communication rather than merely internal signaling,” highlights Feeney.
Thorogood cautions: “The ancestral alarm calls shared by our forebears may not have solely targeted brood parasites. Instead, they likely feature specific acoustic properties that are effective in repelling these threats.”
The research team also conducted similar experiments with yellow warblers (Setophaga petechia) in North America, which serve as egg hosts for brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater) yet do not produce the distinctive whining alarm call. When exposed to the splendid fairy-wren’s alarm, warblers responded promptly by returning to their nests, demonstrating distress through various calls in addition to mobbing.
Feeney suggests that numerous bird species respond to innate components in alarm calls, while local birds in areas where brood parasites are prevalent adapt their calls and responses to convey information about local dangers.
“These birds have adapted distress calls for new contexts related to offspring threats,” he explains. “This provides insights into why birds across the globe utilize similar sounds.”
Charles Darwin proposed in his 1871 work, The Descent of Man, that spoken language’s origins could be traced back to imitation and adaptation of instinctual sounds made by humans and other animals. These instances may not only involve cries of fear but can also reflect pain. “A bird adapting these instinctual calls for different purposes might represent a foundational step towards language,” concludes Feeney.
Rob Magrath of the Australian National University notes, “Calls often convey specific meanings, sometimes referring to external objects or incidents, rather than merely indicating internal states like fear or traits such as gender or species.”
“This referential quality suggests that such vocalizations bear resemblance to human language, frequently referencing the external world,” he adds. “Thus, animal communication and human language may exist on a continuum rather than being distinct attributes of humans.”
Recent explosive growth has led to the “erroneous” planet achieving the title of the fastest-growing planet ever observed.
Several months ago, this planet started to rumble within the gaseous envelope surrounding it, and it is now consuming 6 billion tonnes (2.2 trillion pounds) per second. New research reveals it as the most voracious world recorded to date.
Known as Cha 1107-7626, this celestial body is 5-10 times larger than Jupiter and located 620 light-years away. As a “rogue” planet, it does not orbit a star but instead moves freely in its own path.
While the origins of these rogue planets remain a mystery, this finding suggests they may form more like stars than traditional planets.
“People often envision planets as tranquil, stable environments, but this discovery indicates that objects on planets drifting freely in space can lead to an exhilarating landscape,” said Dr. Victor Almendros-Abad, an astronomer at the National Institute of Astrophysics in Italy and the lead researcher on this study.
CHA 1107-7626 is enveloped by a disc of gas and dust, which is spiraling onto its surface and facilitating its growth through a process called accretion.
Last year, astronomers observed the planet’s increasing appetite for gas, leading to a situation where, by August 2025, it had ingested eight times more gas than it had just months prior.
“This represents the most intense accretion event ever documented for planetary mass objects,” stated Almendros-Abad.
Astronomers have uncovered hundreds of rogue planets, yet their origins remain elusive – Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech
The exact characteristics of these drifting worlds have puzzled astronomers for years. There are currently two primary theories: they may have originally formed around stars but were ejected, or they emerged from a collapsing gas and dust cloud like stars.
To gather insights, astronomers captured light from the planet both before and during its recent growth spurt. They detected indications of a robust magnetic field influencing the gas accretion onto the planet. Additionally, they noticed signs of water vapor present during the growth phase but absent before it. Both phenomena are typically associated with growing stars and have not been observed on young planets.
“The concept that planetary objects can function like stars is awe-inspiring, prompting speculation about what an early stage of such worlds might entail,” remarked Dr. Amelia Bayo, an astronomer at the Southern Observatory in Europe, who contributed to this study.
Shedding pounds might be as straightforward as swapping out some sausages, beef, and bacon in your meals for legumes. Recent research highlights this find.
Researchers from the University of Helsinki directed 51 Finnish men, aged 20-65, to cut back on their red and processed meat intake by just 200g (7oz) a week.
Simultaneously, these men incorporated more legumes, particularly peas and fava beans, into their diets, constituting 20% of their protein sources, while still consuming chicken, fish, eggs, and other proteins.
Apart from this substitution, participants were not advised to eat less or restrict calories. Remarkably, just six weeks later, they experienced an average weight loss of 1 kilo (2.2 pounds).
“This was astonishing because we didn’t set out to encourage weight loss,” said Professor Anne Maria Pajari, a molecular dietitian and senior author of the study, as reported by BBC Science Focus. “We encouraged volunteers to maintain their daily eating habits while monitoring their red and processed meat and legume consumption.”
Pajari noted that while legumes are associated with healthy weight, the degree of change observed in just six weeks was unexpected. This was just the beginning.
By the study’s conclusion, participants consuming legumes had lower total and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels, indicating that this dietary switch could lower heart disease risk.
Moreover, the men’s iron levels improved, an outcome surprising since lean meat is typically regarded as a primary source of dietary iron.
According to Pajari, the food exchange was well-received by participants; only one volunteer chose to leave the study.
“I’m very satisfied with the results,” Pajari remarked. “This is something everyone can do. By cutting back on red and processed meat and incorporating more plant-based foods, individuals can make a meaningful impact on their health.”
“Even small adjustments can lead to significant benefits for both personal health and the environment,” she added.
The focus on men specifically was intentional, as they generally consume more meat compared to women.
Pajari observed that in Finland, the average man consumes double the amount of meat than the average woman, making men a “more vulnerable group” in terms of red and processed meat intake.
Lean meats include beef, pork, and lamb, while processed meats consist of cold cuts, sausages, and bacon – Credit: via Guido Mieth
The study also involved control groups, with another 51 men consuming 760g (27oz) of red and processed meats weekly—making up a quarter of their total protein intake, without any legumes.
This group showed no notable improvement in their blood cholesterol or iron levels and lost only 300g (0.6 pounds) on average. Pajari suggested this was merely a byproduct of participating in dietary trials.
“Participation in a diet trial often raises awareness about one’s eating habits,” she explained. “It’s quite sensitive, leading individuals to make healthier choices even when not instructed to.”
Overall, Pajari hopes that men will consider substituting some red and processed meats in their diets with peas, beans, and lentils for the sake of their health and the planet.
Astronomers utilizing the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope have identified phosphine (PH)3 in the atmosphere of the brown dwarf Wolf 1130c, part of the triple system 1130ABC.
Schematic diagram of the Wolf 1130ABC triple system, featuring red dwarf star Wolf 1130a (left), compact white dwarf companion 1130b (center), and distant brown dwarf Wolf 1130c (right); each component scaled according to its relative size. Image credit: Adam Burgasser.
Wolf 1130ABC is located approximately 54 light years away in the constellation Cygnus.
The system is also known for LHS 482, Gliese 781, and Ross 1069b. It consists of three components: the Cool Red Star Wolf 1130a, the massive white dwarf Wolf 1130b, and the brown dwarf Wolf 1130c.
Initially discovered in 2013, Wolf 1130c orbits the closely bound systems of Wolf 1130a and Wolf 1130b on a wide trajectory.
“The astronomical initiative known as the Ancient Arcana concentrates on ancient, metal-rich brown dwarfs to enhance our understanding of atmospheric chemistry,” stated Adam Burgasser, a professor at the University of California, San Diego.
“Identifying phosphine was one of our primary objectives.”
Phosphine naturally emerges in the hydrogen-dominated atmospheres of gas giants like Jupiter and Saturn.
This has led scientists to theorize that phosphine should exist in the atmospheres of exoplanetary gas giants as well.
Nevertheless, previous Webb observations often failed to detect phosphines, pointing to an incomplete understanding of phosphorus chemistry.
“Before Webb, the expectation was that phosphine would be plentiful in planetary and brown dwarf atmospheres, according to theoretical models based on the turbulent mixing in these environments.”
Wolf 1130c is of particular interest to brown dwarf astronomers due to its lower concentration of “metals” (elements beyond hydrogen and helium) compared to the Sun.
In contrast to other brown dwarfs, the team successfully detected phosphines in the infrared spectral data collected by Webb from Wolf 1130c.
To accurately interpret their findings, researchers needed to ascertain the abundance of this gas within the atmosphere of Wolf 1130c.
“We employed a modeling approach called atmospheric recovery to quantify the molecular constituents of Wolf 1130c,” explained Dr. Irene Gonzalez from San Francisco State University.
“This technique leverages Webb’s data to validate the expected presence of various molecular gas species in the atmosphere.”
“It’s akin to reverse-engineering a delicious cookie when a chef remains committed to a recipe.”
“Typically, phosphorus may bond with other molecules, such as phosphorus trioxide,” remarked Dr. Baylor.
“In the metal-poor atmosphere of Wolf 1130c, insufficient oxygen prevents phosphorus from forming this way, allowing it to arise from phosphine-rich hydrogen.”
Alternatively, the phosphine could have been synthesized locally within the Wolf 1130ABC system, particularly from the white dwarf Wolf 1130b.
“The white dwarf represents the remnant shell of a star that has completed hydrogen fusion,” Professor Burgasser explained.
“These stars are incredibly dense and can accumulate material on their surfaces, potentially spurring runaway nuclear reactions.”
While astronomers have not observed such phenomena in the Wolf 1130ABC system in recent history, nova events usually cycle every thousands to tens of thousands of years.
This system has been recognized for just a century, and earlier invisible explosions may have contributed to a legacy of phosphorus contamination.
Gaining insights into why this particular brown dwarf exhibits a distinct signature of phosphine could shed new light on phosphorus synthesis in the Milky Way and atmospheric chemistry on exoplanets.
“If we aim to use this molecule in the quest for life in terrestrial worlds outside our solar system, understanding the atmospheric phosphine chemistry of brown dwarfs becomes crucial,” Professor Burgasser commented.
This study will be published in the journal Science.
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Adam J. Burgasser et al. Observation of unexpected phosphines in the atmosphere of the cold brown dwarf. Science. Released online on October 2, 2025. doi:10.1126/science.adu0401
Cha J11070768-7626326 (shortened to Cha 1107-7626), a young and isolated exfoliating planet five to ten times the mass of Jupiter, has undergone a remarkable “growth spurt,” accumulating approximately 600 million tons of gas and dust within just a few months in the new sulse.
Artists’ impressions of Xplanet CHA 1107-7626 floating freely. Image credits: ESO/L. Kalsada/M. Kornmesser.
Located approximately 620 light years from the constellation Chamaeleon, Cha 1107-7626 is a free-floating exoplanet still in formation, drawing material from a gas and dust surrounding disc.
This material consistently falls onto planets, a process known as acquisition.
By August 2025, CHA 1107-7626 had increased its accretion rate to about eight times faster than just a few months prior, reaching an astonishing 6 billion tons per second.
“While it is often thought that planets are quiet and stable, this discovery shows that planetary mass objects drifting in space can be incredibly dynamic,” says Dr. Víctor Almendros-Abad.
“We have observed this newly forming illicit planet devouring material at a fierce pace,” remarked Ray Jayawardana, a professor at Johns Hopkins University.
“Our ongoing monitoring over recent months, utilizing two of the most powerful telescopes on Earth and in space, has provided us with rare insight into the infant stages of isolated objects not much larger than Jupiter.”
“Their early existence appears to be significantly more turbulent than previously conceived.”
“This represents the most intense accretion episode ever documented for planetary mass objects,” added Dr. Almendros-Abad.
The discovery was made using the X-Shooter spectrograph on the Very Large Telescope (VLT) operated by ESO in the Atacama Desert, Chile.
Astronomers also employed data from the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, as well as archived data from the SINFONI Spectrograph of the VLT.
“The origins of illicit planets remain an open question: are they the lowest mass objects that form like stars, or are they giant planets ejected from their birth systems?” queried Dr. Alex Scholz, an astronomer at St. Andrews University.
Results suggest that at least some illicit planets may follow formation pathways similar to stars, as analogous bursts have been previously observed in younger stellar bodies.
“This finding blurs the line between stars and planets, offering a glimpse into the earliest formation periods of these objects,” states Dr. Belinda Damien, an astronomer at St. Andrews University.
By comparing the light emitted before and after the burst, astronomers gathered insights into the nature of the accretion process.
Interestingly, magnetic activity seems to contribute to driving this intense process.
This indicates that even low-mass objects can possess strong magnetic fields capable of fueling such accretion events.
The team also discovered that the chemistry of the surrounding discs changes during accretion episodes, with water vapor detected in the steam.
This phenomenon has been noted in stars but not previously observed in any type of planet.
“We are beginning to understand how the early life of a free-floating planetary mass object resembles that of a sun-like star,” stated Professor Jayawardana.
“Our recent discoveries emphasize this similarity, suggesting that some giant planet-like objects may form in a manner akin to stars and experience growth episodes similar to newborn stars as they accumulate gas and dust with their own discs.”
The team’s paper was published today in the Astrophysics Journal Letter.
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Victor Almendros-Abad et al. 2025. Discovery of accretion bursts on free-floating planetary mass objects. apjl 992, L2; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ae09a8
Researchers have brought ancient microorganisms back to life from permafrost cores dating back up to 40,000 years, extracted from four sites within the permafrost research tunnel near Fairbanks, Alaska. They found that as underground permafrost melts, microbial activity begins with a slow “awakening”, but significant transformations in the microbial community occur within six months.
Archaeal abundance in whole samples collected from a permafrost research tunnel near Fairbanks, Alaska. Image credits: Caro et al., doi: 10.1029/2025jg008759.
Currently, permafrost across the globe is melting at an alarming pace due to climate change driven by human activities.
Scientists are concerned that this could initiate a dangerous feedback loop. When permafrost thaws, the microorganisms within the soil begin to decompose organic matter and release it into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide and methane, both potent greenhouse gases.
“This is one of the biggest uncertainties in climate response,” stated Professor Sebastian Copp from the University of Colorado at Boulder.
“How does the thawing of this frozen ground, which contains significant amounts of stored carbon, impact the ecology and climate change rate in these areas?”
To investigate these uncertainties, researchers visited the US Army Corps of Engineers’ permafrost tunnels, a distinctive research setting.
The facility has been extended over 107 meters (350 feet) and continues toward the frozen ground below central Alaska.
Scientists have gathered permafrost samples ranging from thousands to tens of thousands of years old from the tunnel walls.
The samples were then treated with water and incubated at temperatures of 4°C and 12°C (39°F and 54°F).
“We aimed to replicate scenarios that would occur during Alaska’s summers under projected future climatic conditions that allow these temperatures to penetrate deeper into permafrost,” explained Dr. Tristan Caro, a postdoctoral researcher at Caltech.
The researchers utilized water containing unusually heavy hydrogen atoms, referred to as deuterium, to track how microorganisms absorbed water and used hydrogen to construct lipid membranes surrounding all living cells.
In the initial months, these colonies grew slowly, with some even replacing only one cell for every 100,000 daily.
In laboratory settings, most bacterial colonies can be entirely replenished in a matter of hours.
However, by the six-month mark, everything had transformed. Some bacterial colonies even developed visible biofilms.
“These microorganisms likely pose no threat to human health, but they were kept in sealed environments nonetheless,” remarked Dr. Karo.
“The colonies don’t seem to wake up quickly in warmer temperatures.”
“These findings may provide insights regarding thawing permafrost in real-world conditions. It appears that after a warm period, microorganisms can take several months to start emitting significant quantities of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.”
“This means that a longer Arctic summer increases risks for the planet.”
“While a single hot day might occur during an Alaskan summer, the primary concern is the prolonged summer season, with warm temperatures extending into autumn and spring.”
“Many questions remain unresolved about these microorganisms, such as whether ancient organisms exhibit similar behavior in different global locations.”
“There is an abundance of permafrost worldwide. In Alaska, Siberia, and other northern cold regions, our sampling covered only a small fraction of that.”
The findings were published on September 23rd in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences.
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Takaro et al. 2025. Microbial resuscitation and growth rates in deep permafrost: Lipid-stable isotope probing results from the permafrost research tunnel in Fox, Alaska. JGR Biogeosciences 130 (9): e2025jg008759; doi: 10.1029/2025jg008759
AI can be utilized to synthesize the toxin lysine, which is also sourced from castor beans found in many gardens.
American Photo Archives/Alamy
Artificial intelligence holds the potential to revolutionize biology, enhancing the development of advanced drugs, vaccines, and even synthetic organisms that can, for instance, consume waste plastic. Nonetheless, there are concerns about its potential misuse in creating biological weapons that might evade traditional detection methods until it is too late. So, what level of concern is warranted?
“AI advancements are catalyzing breakthroughs in biology and medicine,” states Eric Horvitz, Chief Science Officer at Microsoft. “With these new capabilities comes the responsibility to remain vigilant.”
His research team explored whether AI could be utilized to design proteins that mimic the functions of known hazardous proteins while being distinct enough to avoid detection as dangerous. The specific proteins they attempted to redesign were not disclosed, although some research details were withheld, including toxins such as lysine, infamous for its role in a 1978 assassination, and botulinum, a potent neurotoxin known as Botox.
Creating numerous proteins akin to Botulinum requires a blueprint—the DNA that encodes it. Typically, if biologists need a specific DNA sequence, they order it from specialized companies.
Due to anxieties about bioterrorism, the option to order recipes for biological weapons exists through this method. Some DNA synthesis companies have voluntarily implemented screening processes to detect potentially hazardous orders. Proteins are essentially sequences of amino acids, and the screening examines whether the amino acid sequences correspond to a “sequence of concern,” meaning a biological threat.
However, AI theoretically enables the design of protein versions with altered amino acid sequences that still perform the same functions. Horvitz and his colleagues applied this approach to 72 potentially hazardous proteins and found that existing screening methods frequently overlooked these alternative variations.
This isn’t entirely unexpected. For a variety of reasons, the team did not physically create the redesigned proteins. Additionally, in a previous study conducted earlier this year, they tested a redesigned version of a non-toxic protein and determined that it did not function as intended, as detailed in their findings.
Moreover, while bioterrorist attacks have occurred, the frequency is low, and there’s limited reason to attribute this to a failed voluntary screening system. Numerous methods to circumvent regulations exist without resorting to AI redesign. For example, lysine can be harvested from castor oil plants found in many gardens. This study serves as a cautionary tale that great sophistication is not required to exploit gaps in security—much like in a scene from Mission Impossible, when a vault door remains wide open.
Lastly, apart from government-sponsored actions, historical records show that bioterrorists have rarely leveraged protein-based biological weapons effectively. For instance, the Aum Shinrikyo cult attempted to employ Botulinum for mass harm but ultimately relied on chemical agents. Letters laced with lysin sent to the White House failed to result in any fatalities. Based on casualty statistics, firearms and explosives pose significantly greater risks than biological toxins.
Does this imply we should cease our concerns over AI-generated biological weapons? Not at all. While Horvitz’s research focused strictly on proteins, viruses present a substantial threat. AI is already being leveraged to redesign entire viruses.
Recently, a team from Stanford University unveiled their attempt to redesign a virus that infects bacteria like E. coli. Consistent with findings from the protein redesign efforts, the results were underwhelming with respect to E. coli, but this is merely the beginning.
In discussions regarding AI-created viruses, James Diggans from DNA manufacturer Twist Bioscience, a member of Horvitz’s team, remarked that detecting viruses encoded with DNA is generally easier than finding proteins of concern. “Synthetic screening functions best with abundant data. Therefore, at the genomic level, it proves exceedingly beneficial.”
Nevertheless, not all DNA manufacturers are conducting such screening, and desktop DNA synthesis options are now accessible to the public. There are narratives of developers allegedly refusing to create harmful viruses or attempting to discern malicious intentions, yet individuals have discovered numerous ways to circumvent safeguards against creating bioweapons.
To clarify, history indicates that the threat posed by “wild” viruses is significantly higher than that of bioterrorism. Contrary to assertions from the current U.S. administration, evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 emerged as a result of a bat virus crossing over to other wildlife.
Moreover, the act of becoming a bioterrorist could inflict massive damage by merely releasing known viruses such as naturally occurring pathogens. There are substantial gaps in the Bioweapon Control efforts, thus reducing the need to rely on advanced AI techniques.
For all of these reasons, the risk of AI-engineered viruses being deployed is likely minimal at present. However, this risk increases as various technologies continue to improve. The COVID-19 pandemic has illustrated the chaos a new virus can unleash, even when it is not particularly harmful. Thus, there are justified reasons for concern.
Over 1,000 gold and silver coins, valued at roughly $1 million, have been retrieved from an 18th-century shipwreck located off the coast of Florida, as reported by the Shipwreck Salvage Company.
The company, 1715 Fleet Queens Jewels, LLC, stated in a news release that it recovered the coins in July from the renowned Treasure Coast region in southeastern Florida.
This discovery is part of an estimated $400 million worth of gold, silver, and gems that were lost by the Spanish fleet during the hurricane of 1715.
“The find represents more than just treasure; it tells a story,” said Sal Guttuso, the company’s operations director, in a statement. “Every coin connects us to the lives and work of those who navigated the seas during the Spanish Empire’s Golden Age.”
Over 1,000 silver coins have been discovered from a shipwreck site in Vero Beach, Florida. 1715 Fleet – Queen’s Jewels, LLC
“Finding over 1,000 coins in one excavation is indeed rare and remarkable,” he noted.
The prized assets of the 1715 fleet included coins from Spanish colonies in Mexico, Peru, and Bolivia. Many of these coins still exhibit clear dates and mint marks, making them significant to historians and collectors alike.
“The condition of these coins indicates they likely originated from a single chest or a portion of the ship that dispersed when the hurricane struck,” the news release clarified.
During a call on Thursday, Guttuso mentioned that he discovered coins concentrated in various areas beneath the sand, indicating they were likely housed in some kind of container.
“I believe they were probably stored in wooden boxes,” he theorized.
He also revealed that he found a Royal Lead Seal inscribed with the impression of King Philip II of Spain, who reigned during the mid- to late-1500s.
“We can reasonably speculate that this lead seal may have belonged to a prominent family,” he noted. “It likely associated with important documents that may have granted ownership of land or rights.”
Fragments and gems from a golden chain were also retrieved. 1715 Fleet – Queen Jewels, LLC Gold artifacts were also found in Vero Beach, Florida. 1715 Fleet – Queen Jewels, LLC
The Queen’s Jewels of the 1715 Fleet claims exclusive salvage rights to the wreck of the Treasure Fleet but stated that the recovered coins will undergo meticulous conservation before being publicly displayed, with plans for exhibition at a local museum.
“Each discovery contributes to piecing together the narratives of those connected to the 1715 fleet,” Guttuso remarked. “We are dedicated to preserving and researching these artifacts, enabling future generations to recognize their historical importance.”
Requests for comments on the findings were not immediately returned by the US District Court of Florida or by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s office.
An autumn vibe is anticipated across much of the Midwest this week.
The remarkable October warmth could lead to record-high temperatures in the Northern Plains and Midwest over the next few days, with forecasts predicting that Minneapolis may hit 90 degrees Fahrenheit this weekend.
Across the region, temperatures are projected to be up to 30 degrees higher than average on Friday and Saturday, with highs from eastern South Dakota to Illinois soaring above 80 degrees Celsius. The National Weather Service notes that some areas could see temperatures in the mid-90s.
Numerous daily temperature records are expected to be broken on Friday and throughout the weekend, including in Minneapolis, Bismarck, North Dakota; Rapid City, South Dakota; Madison, Wisconsin; and Moline, Illinois.
These regions aren’t accustomed to such summer-like conditions at this time of year. For instance, the Minneapolis-St. Paul area has only recorded three days reaching 90 degrees since records began in 1872, according to the National Weather Service.
This week’s unusual warmth is attributed to high-pressure systems lingering over the plains and Midwest, according to the National Weather Service. These high-pressure areas tend to trap warm air, resulting in elevated temperatures for several days.
Dennis Chou
Denise Chow is a science and spatial reporter for NBC News.
“B-mesons assist us in unraveling significant cosmic queries. Why is there a predominance of matter over antimatter?”
sakkmesterke/alamy
Did you know that in the realm of physics, there are facilities dubbed beauty factories? This term doesn’t refer to aesthetics; rather, it describes an experiment where electrons collide with their antimatter equivalents, positrons, to create B-mesons.
B-mesons are constructed from quarks, the building blocks of normal matter. Typically, everyday matter comprises up-quarks and down-quarks, while B-mesons are made up of beauty quarks combined with up, down, charm, or strange quarks.
This unique configuration results in B-mesons having a fleeting existence, seemingly detached from common life. However, their significance lies in the potential answers they hold regarding universal enigmas, such as the imbalance of matter versus antimatter.
We understand that all particles have corresponding antiparticles. Yet, when we observe the universe, we see a predominance of particles, like electrons, overshadowing their antiparticle counterparts, positrons, which are merely identical but with reversed charges.
Mesons are particularly intriguing as they inhabit the space between the prevalent matter and antimatter realms. This positions them as potential keys to unlocking the mystery of the disparity between the two. Grasping this could clarify why the universe holds such a favorable balance of matter when encounters between matter and antimatter typically result in annihilation. The formation of B factories arises from the desire to decode this cosmic puzzle.
The complexity deepens when considering mesons and their own antiparticles. Each B-meson consists of beauty quarks paired with up, down, charm, or strange quarks. Neutral B-mesons, devoid of charge, exhibit oscillatory behavior as they transform between mesons and their antiparticles. In essence, neutral B-mesons exemplify a spontaneous non-binary state.
These neutral B-mesons are pivotal in addressing the asymmetry of matter and antimatter. Their non-binary characteristics are anticipated within the standard model of particle physics, which catalogs known particles. However, we must determine whether these oscillatory states are evenly distributed. Are collisions more likely to yield a meson or its antiparticle? Disparities in these oscillations may shed light on the core asymmetries of matter and antimatter.
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B factories could illuminate the nature of an elusive component: dark matter, which remains unseen in laboratories. “
In 2010, researchers from the Fermilab Dzero collaboration identified a 1% deviation, although subsequent studies haven’t corroborated this result. The exploration of these discrepancies continues to intrigue, particularly as variances emerge in unrelated vibration studies.
B factories may also expand our comprehension of dark matter, an entity detected only through its gravitational effects on visible matter. Approximately 85% of the universe’s mass seems to consist of this invisible material, which the standard model has yet to account for.
Crafting a theory to explain dark matter necessitates postulating new particles or forces, some of which might interact subtly with known particles, complicating detection. These interactions often hinge on mediators—entities that facilitate such connections. While these mediators are elusive, under optimal conditions, they may not be directly observable. However, we can anticipate witnessing decay products, such as electron-positron pairs, serving as indicators. This is where B factories play a crucial role; they are engineered to analyze the outcomes of electron-positron collisions.
In addition to collider physics, the longevity of data acquisition and experiments is particularly captivating. For instance, the BABAR experiment at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory closed in 2008, yet researchers continue to sift through its data, educating the next generation of physicists.
In 2022, Brian Schub and his undergraduate team at Harvey Mudd College near Los Angeles revisited ideas involving nearly two-decade-old BABAR data. They proposed that virtual particles, referred to as axions, may function as mediators between visible and dark matter. Long-time readers may recognize that axion research is a focal point of my work.
So, do these hypotheses regarding our universe’ mechanics hold water? This inquiry aligns with our quest to comprehend matter-antimatter asymmetry.
Artistic Representation of Cha 1107-7626, a rogue planet located roughly 620 light years from Earth
ESO/L. Calçada/M. Kornmesser
The voracious rogue planet consumes a staggering 6 billion tons of gas and dust every second. This peculiar behavior challenges the distinction between planets and stars, indicating that both may form via similar mechanisms.
It appears that free-floating gas bodies, not gravitationally bound to a parent star, are quite common, potentially outnumbering stars in galaxies. However, astronomers remain uncertain about whether these bodies will develop like planets orbiting stars, wander alone through galaxies, or independently emerge like stars.
Víctor Almendros-Abad from Palermo Observatory in Italy, and his team have observed remarkable growth of the rogue planet now known as CHA 1107-7626.
The planet garnered astronomers’ attention back in 2008 due to what appeared to be a disc of primitive planets around it. Almendros-Abad and his colleagues began monitoring these celestial objects in April this year using a sizable telescope in Southern Europe, but by June, the planet’s mass consumption rate surged to nearly ten times what it had been previously.
Such a growth rate aligns with what has only been previously observed in stars, including our own Sun.
“This indicates that the formation processes of stars and these objects are likely very similar,” says Almendros-Abad. “Thus, when considering star formation, we must also account for these rogue planets.”
To elucidate this unprecedented growth rate, Almendros-Abad and his team speculate that a mechanism akin to that observed in stars is likely at work; however, the reason and timing of the planet’s sudden surge in mass consumption remain unclear.
The similarities in their growth mechanisms imply that the line between stars and planets may be even hazier than previously believed, suggests Almendros-Abad. “Every time I observe these rogue planets, I see that the boundary between a star and a planet is not as defined as we thought. There must be chemical signatures, yet we have yet to discover the ‘Rosetta Stone’ that differentiates the formation processes.”
World Capital of Astronomy: Chile
Discover the astronomical marvels of Chile. Explore some of the most advanced observatories in the world and gaze at the star-studded sky beneath some of the clearest conditions on the planet.
Melting ice sheets in Antarctica will elevate sea levels
durktalsma/getty images
Recent studies suggest that Antarctica may have crossed a critical climate threshold, diminishing hope for recovery. Experts highlight a concerning correlation between the abrupt decline in sea ice since 2016 and anthropogenic ocean warming.
Historically, Antarctic sea ice levels remained stable despite rising global temperatures. However, a drastic shift occurred in 2016, marked by significant reductions in sea ice extent.
By February 2023, Antarctic Ocean Ice recorded a new all-time low, marking the third consecutive summer of reduced sea ice within just seven years. September 2023 also saw unprecedented high levels of Antarctic Ocean Ice.
While climate models have long forecasted reductions in Antarctic sea ice, the pace and scale of the decrease since 2016 are alarming. Researchers convened at the Royal Society in London to evaluate whether these changes signal a critical turning point.
As Marilyn Rafael from the University of California, Los Angeles, notes, natural climate variability alone cannot account for such a rapid shift.
Satellite observations of sea ice have been available since 1979. By utilizing proxy data from Antarctic weather stations, Raphael and her team extended their research timeline back to the early 20th century.
Their analysis, based entirely on historical data, indicates that the likelihood of reaching a minimum sea ice extent in 2023 was less than 0.1%. “We are observing extreme patterns in sea ice behavior,” she explained at the Royal Society Conference.
Alexander Hauman from the Alfred Wegener Institute in Germany emphasizes that this rapid decline in ice formation signifies a climate tipping point, with potential repercussions for the entire continent and broader climatic and ecological systems.
“The entire Antarctic sea ice system is reacting collectively,” he stated at the meeting, noting that the changes observed are poised to have long-term implications.
Last summer’s minimum Antarctic Ocean Ice extent was significantly below historical averages
NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio
Hauman explains that “changes in ice dynamics” may be responsible for this phenomenon. Emerging research indicates that warming seawater contributes to accelerated ice loss, as roughly 90% of the excess heat generated by human activity is absorbed by the oceans.
In Antarctica, a layer of warm, fresh water separates colder, mixed surface waters from warm deep-sea water. However, a recent study by Hauman and his team highlights how shifts in wind patterns and salinity in the Southern Ocean have severely weakened this barrier since 2015, allowing warm deep water to rise to the surface and encourage ice melting. This phenomenon is further exacerbated by climate change-induced warming of deep waters, as indicated by recent research.
Hauman suggests that natural fluctuations in climate may have triggered modifications in salinity and wind patterns, intensifying the effects of anthropogenic warming trapped in deep waters. This could imply that the impact of warming seawater is already being felt in Antarctica, obstructing new sea ice formation.
Hauman notes that recent shifts in ocean circulation can only be counteracted by either mitigating upwelling effects or sudden alterations in salinity within the Southern Ocean. Nevertheless, the potential responses of the system remain highly uncertain.
The ramifications of these developments could be catastrophic. Antarctic sea ice plays a critical role in stabilizing land glaciers and ice sheets. Without adequate sea ice formation, the rate at which these ice structures melt may increase, leading to significant global sea level rise. It is estimated that the Antarctic ice sheet holds enough water to potentially raise global sea levels by up to 58 meters.
The depletion of ice in the Antarctic also alters the Earth’s surface albedo. Darker oceans absorb more solar heat compared to reflective white ice.
Additionally, vast stores of carbon trapped in the Southern Ocean could be released into the atmosphere as deep-sea temperatures rise, as suggested by various studies.
Researchers are just starting to grasp how these types of climate feedback mechanisms might unfold in Antarctica, after many years of relying on inaccurate and low-resolution models.
Feedback is New Scientist Popular Sideways reviews the latest in science and technology news. You can send emails to Feedback@newscientist.com with items that might intrigue our readers.
What is the squeal?
The experience of mouse squeaks is sadly limited to the dead (or sometimes almost alive) ones that our cats insist on bringing into the house. This means that you’ve likely heard a significant portion of the creak.
So, I was taken aback to learn that the squeaking sounds of mice have been largely overlooked by science. Reporter Alex Wilkins has reviewed recent studies and confirms that it is true, as detailed in Biology Letters, with an article titled “Hidden in Plain Sound: The Scientific Possibility of House Mouse Squeak.”
The focus on house mouse vocalizations tends to be on ultrasound sounds that humans cannot perceive. They gained attention, perhaps due to their novelty and surprise factor. Meanwhile, the authors note that the unnoticed squeaks lead to a “lack of research focused on squeaks.”
This is clearly an oversight. The authors argue that squeaks possess “significant scientific potential.” They suggest that “the extent to which squeaks communicate information about the vocalizers and influence listener behavior across various social contexts has not yet been fully explored.”
The feedback suspects that squeaks are a highly effective form of communication. After reading Terry Pratchett, I recall that the ominous character known as the death of the rat can convey much with a well-timed squeak. Perhaps you need a catchphrase: What do you want? Squeak. When do you want it? Squeak!
Determining the penalty
In a somewhat roundabout way, nominal determinism might have relevance here.
Paul Meara points out that a recent feature on body clocks (August 2, p 30) highlighted Angela Leregio, a researcher at MSH Medical School in Hamburg, Germany, who also runs a company called Timemeter.
Unfortunately, the feedback doesn’t speak Portuguese; otherwise, as Paul noted, you would know that “Relógio” translates to “clock.”
Furthermore, feedback recognizes that there have been decades of research into a protein called amyloid related to Alzheimer’s disease.
Thus, we were particularly surprised to discover that the University of Dundee in the UK has an expert on Alzheimer’s named Amy Lloyd.
His research began with a simple 1953 study, titled “Notes on Nail Growth,” where Bean shared “observations made over the past decade.”
His work peaked in the 1980s and continued with several similar studies, including “Nail Growth: Observation Over 35 Years,” published in Archives of Internal Medicine. Feedback has reviewed this detailed paper.
Bean described his research as “a comprehensive record of the growth of human deciduous tissues,” providing a slowly moving keratin cymograph that measures the age of unfortunate absissas.
What were the findings? Bean’s initial discovery revealed that different nails grow at different rates, which remained consistent over time.
“In simple terms, toenails grow more slowly than fingernails, while the middle fingernails grow faster compared to the thumb, pinky, or any of the other middle fingernails. By measuring one nail, the growth rate can be inferred for all.”
However, certain factors can cause noticeable delays in nail growth. For instance, Bean experienced a mumps infection in 1950, which resulted in a “decisive slowdown,” but he noted a compensatory speedup afterward. Ultimately, he identified a gradual long-term slowdown. “For example, the average daily growth of the left thumbnail dropped from 0.123 mm per day when he was 32 to 0.095 mm per day at 67.”
Our only question is whether Bean was deserving of an IG Nobel for his notably lengthy research.
Other awards included studies on “the extent to which certain lizards prefer specific types of pizza,” “what a nursing baby experiences when the mother eats garlic,” and “whether cows painted with zebra stripes can avoid being bitten by flies.”
Feedback especially appreciates the Chemistry Award, which investigated whether consuming foods rich in indigestible Teflon results in fewer calories. Rat experiments suggested a successful and non-toxic outcome; nonetheless, we advise readers not to attempt this at home.
To play it safe, you might just consider sprinkling powdered nails and adding too much food on top.
Have you shared feedback?
If you have stories to share, please email feedback@newscientist.com, including your home address. This week’s and past feedback can be found on our website.
“Before the 1970s’ war on drugs, there was a variety of promising research into therapeutic psychedelics.”
Adrià Voltà
In the early 1950s, notable figures in science, philosophy, culture, and politics—such as Albert Einstein, Carl Jung, and Graham Greene—were part of an initiative called “outsights” aimed at exploring powerful psychedelics. Although circumstances shifted, I find myself captivated by what could have been.
I’ve been delving into psychedelics in the new trip series on BBC Radio 4. I previously shared my experiences of vivid hallucinations while in a coma from Covid-19. This sparked my curiosity to understand why individuals actively pursue psychedelic experiences, navigate legal challenges, take risks at home, seek healing, and address unmet needs.
There has yet to be a global consensus banning psychedelics. Responding to inquiries by scientist Humphrey Davy, who researched suboxidized oxides in 1799, Humphrey Osmond, coining the term psychedelic in the 1950s, expressed that the study of chemically induced altered states merits rigorous and thoughtful research.
Before the U.S.-led drug war commenced in the 1970s, extensive and promising research into psychedelics as potential treatments was underway, alongside their longstanding use in sacred and ritual contexts by Indigenous cultures. Unfortunately, rather than permitting this exploration, it was driven underground, leaving many to view substances such as fungi and plants, or their lab-created variants, as otherworldly. This otherness surprised me.
Currently, psychedelic research is investigating their therapeutic potential for conditions like depression, addiction, PTSD, eating disorders, dementia, and intergenerational trauma, gaining momentum globally. Studies explore their possible use in extending the recovery window following strokes, enhancing rehabilitation, and even unraveling the nature of consciousness.
Conversations with researchers who meticulously examine substances like psilocybin and DMT in clinical environments feel worlds apart from the psychedelic narratives prevalent in popular culture. These molecules profoundly and enduringly influence our minds and perceptions. It’s perplexing how we opted to stifle a broader inquiry and obstruct our brightest minds from discovering their true potential.
Today’s discussions among researchers are as engaging as they come, yet I can’t help but linger on the “what if?” In light of the global mental health crisis, governments and health systems are eager for new treatment alternatives. Public funding is dwindling and faces threats in many areas, while large corporations driven by profit show substantial interest in the accessibility of new therapies. Changes are happening rapidly.
Examining humanity’s history with psychedelic substances reveals a narrative marked by significant self-inflicted wounds. Ultimately, the funds for the outsight initiative never materialized, leading to a drastically different chapter in history. The war on drugs has stalled research across numerous substances for decades and continues to cast a shadow today.
The narratives surrounding these substances serve as warnings. Politics should never obstruct scientific breakthroughs. In light of today’s world, it feels like an urgent moral imperative to safeguard and nurture the conditions necessary for science to thrive. The stakes are too high.
Learning to play an instrument encompasses both cognitive and creative pursuits
Andrew Fox/Alamy
Engaging in music training seems to enhance reading comprehension among young children by boosting their ability to discern and manipulate the sounds that constitute words.
Research has long suggested a connection between learning to play musical instruments and improved early reading skills, as shown in studies like Improved early reading ability and Mathematics. However, the mechanics behind this connection were previously unclear, as mastering an instrument requires a plethora of skills.
“Beyond reading musical notes—which necessitates learning a new form of written language—you must also perceive the sounds and adjust your physical movements accordingly,” highlighted Maria Garcia de Soria from the University of Aberdeen, UK. This process indicates that music education can enrich our cognitive abilities, enhance memory, and improve sound perception.
To further investigate the relationship between music training and reading abilities, Garcia de Soria and her team assessed 57 children aged 5 to 9. Approximately half of these children had engaged in instrumental study for at least one month with a practice schedule of a minimum of 30 minutes per week, while the others participated in non-musical extracurricular activities.
The researchers discovered that the children involved in music lessons outperformed their peers on phonological awareness tests. This skill relates directly to the capacity to recognize and manipulate the individual sounds—or phonemes—that constitute words, such as the three phonemes found in “dog.” Additionally, they demonstrated enhanced reading proficiency.
The research team accounted for various factors that could influence literacy levels, including socioeconomic status and overall cognitive capability.
In a separate component of the study, researchers utilized EEG to monitor and analyze the brain activity of the children while they were exposed to the Gingerbread Man fairy tale.
They observed that heightened neural activity in the language-related regions of the left hemisphere of the brain correlated with better reading performance across all participants. Notably, the music group recorded higher reading scores despite lower levels of this neural activity, suggesting a more developed capacity for adult-like language processing.
“Adults typically engage music and speech processing across both hemispheres, occasionally favoring the right side. It appears that children receiving music training develop more adult-like capabilities in this area,” noted Garcia de Soria.
This finding connects to the way individuals adapt their reading strategies as they mature, moving from sounding out phonemes to recognizing words and their meanings without mental rehearsal, explained team member Anastasia Klimovich-Gray at the University of Aberdeen.
Phonological recognition is a crucial precursor to learning how to read, which supports the idea that music education can enhance literacy by fostering increased sensitivity to phonological structures, according to Klimovich-Gray. However, it’s not necessarily a one-sided relationship; Garcia de Soria added, “Music fosters reading skills, but reading may also bolster future music performance.”
Demonstrating that these skills can mutually enhance one another may assist children who struggle with reading, Klimovich-Gray explained. “For those facing phonological challenges early on, potentially before a dyslexia diagnosis, music training could provide supplementary support alongside phonics instruction.”
“The revelation that music training refines the phonological encoding processes in the left hemisphere aligns with broader academic findings,” stated Alice Mado Proverbio at the University of Bicocca in Milan, Italy. Furthermore, music education may also cultivate specialization in the right hemisphere of the brain, which promotes faster reading development, she concluded.
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Jane Goodall revolutionized our understanding of chimpanzees
Europa Press Reportajes/Europa Press/Avalon
Jane Goodall, who passed away at 91, profoundly impacted the world through her perspective on animals, particularly chimpanzees.
In 1960, at just 26 years old, she observed a chimpanzee named David Graybeard using stripped leaves to fish for termites. “At that time,” she reflected, “we believed only humans used tools. I was taught that the best definition of humanity was being human; yet, I witnessed chimpanzees crafting and using tools.”
She relayed her findings to her mentor, paleontologist Louis Leakey, who subsequently reshaped the concept of what constitutes a ‘tool.’ His famous telegram proclaimed that we needed to redefine ‘tool’ and acknowledge the chimpanzee as having human-like traits.
Ultimately, the decision was made to explore how other species were unique. Goodall’s research played a critical role in challenging the notion of human superiority that had been entrenched in scientific and societal discourse.
Goodall in the TV special Miss Goodall and the Wild Chimpanzees, filmed in Tanzania and originally aired on CBS in December 1965.
CBS via Getty Images
Her research challenged the long-held beliefs of French philosopher René Descartes, who argued for animal exploitation and environmental degradation over 400 years. Descartes posited that animals lacked souls and functioned merely as machines. Goodall demonstrated that chimpanzees possess the intelligence and foresight to create and utilize tools, attributing such behaviors to their emotions and personalities. Some were gentle like David Graybeard, while others were curious and full of energy.
In this regard, she mirrored another pioneering scientist with remarkable observational skills. In his work Expressions of Human and Animal Emotions, Charles Darwin examined the evolution of facial expressions and linked them to emotional states: joy, anger, love, etc. However, he faced resistance not only regarding animal emotions but also in applying similar insights to humans.
Darwin’s work was not well received at the time and largely ignored for over a century. Similarly, Goodall’s early research from the 1960s faced skepticism and was even ridiculed. Her status as a young woman with lesser credentials did not help either. Both Darwin and Goodall were fueled by intense curiosity, patience, and keen observation—qualities that underpinned their achievements. When asked by New Scientist what was necessary for success, Goodall humorously replied, “Patience, a large stomach, and a bucket full of surprises.” Today, we recognize that both Darwin and Goodall were correct; many animals experience emotions and possess rich inner lives.
Goodall with chimpanzees, including David Graybeard, in 1965
Granger/Shutterstock
Goodall was selected by Leakey to study chimpanzees in Gombe, located in present-day Tanzania. Leakey aimed to explore human evolution and theorized that observing wild chimpanzees—something no one had done before—would be invaluable. He preferred individuals untainted by conventional scientific beliefs and believed that women could serve as more patient and empathetic field researchers. It’s unlikely a traditional biologist would have achieved the breakthroughs Goodall did.
Initially, her observations were made from a distance through binoculars, but as time progressed, she gained the chimps’ trust. The first to accept her was a male she named David Graybeard, recognized for the white hair on his chin. Although she later earned a PhD from Cambridge and faced criticism for naming animals instead of assigning them numbers, she felt naming them was more natural. David Graybeard demonstrated tool use, which Goodall described as a pivotal moment in her research.
She also became the first scientist to elucidate the mating rituals of chimpanzees, their reproductive cycles, and how mothers introduce their infants to their social groups.
Goodall at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, in February 2018
Agence 18/SIPA/Shutterstock
In the 1970s, the direction of her work shifted as she began advocating for the protection of chimpanzees. This marked the beginning of her second phase of global change. She founded the Jane Goodall Institute in 1977, which grew into a major nonprofit organization with offices in 25 countries. In 1986, she organized a conference for field biologists working with chimpanzees across Africa, highlighting the threats facing both the animals and the forests they inhabit. She also became aware of the challenges faced by local communities living near chimpanzee habitats.
In 1991, Goodall established Roots and Shoots, an initiative aimed at educating youth about conservation, which operates in over 75 countries. Continuously advocating for animal rights and conservation, she addressed around 300 audiences annually. In 2024, she visited Jane Goodall Institute offices to share her media insights about conservation efforts.
Goodall passed away in California while on a speaking tour. Throughout her life, she authored 32 books, including 15 for children. Her final work, Book of Hope, reflects her enduring commitment to conservation.
Goodall also spoke about the influence of 20th-century environmentalist Rachel Carson. At Cambridge University in the 1960s, she read Carson’s Silent Spring and was inspired by Carson’s courage in battling pharmaceutical companies, government, and scientific communities regarding the environmental risks of DDT.
“Carson knew the struggle would be long but never wavered, continuing to inspire,” Goodall remarked. “The same can be said for my journey.”
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Recent studies suggest that our evolutionary predecessors may have prioritized gender over survival, potentially explaining why men tend to have shorter lifespans than women.
Historically and globally, men usually live shorter lives than women. To understand the reasons behind this evolutionary trend, researchers at the Max Planck Institute in Germany focused on insights from our animal relatives rather than solely examining human history.
Their study, published in Advances in Science, analyzed over 1,000 animal species to identify evolutionary traits associated with gender differences in lifespan.
The team discovered that while genetics plays a role, monogamy is also significant in influencing male lifespan. In contrast, parenting may contribute to women’s longer lives.
In humans, women live on average 5 years longer than men, but this trend is not unique to our species. In fact, 72% of mammals show that females live on average 12% longer than their male counterparts, with some female moose living more than twice as long as males.
However, this pattern doesn’t hold true across all animal species. In birds, males frequently outlive females.
A primary explanation lies in chromosomes, which are fundamental to gender differences. Female mammals possess two X chromosomes, whereas males have a shorter Y chromosome.
According to Dr. Johanna Staerk, the lead researcher, “Men’s single X chromosome means they are particularly susceptible to harmful mutations, as they lack a second copy for compensation,” she explained to BBC Science Focus.
“The ‘toxic Y’ hypothesis posits that the Y chromosome may harbor genetic factors that negatively influence health and aging.”
Conversely, in birds with ZW chromosomes, males have two Z chromosomes while females possess one Z and a truncated W chromosome. However, if chromosomes were the sole factor, males would live longer in all bird species.
“Some species demonstrate the opposite of what we expect,” Staerk noted. “In many birds of prey, for instance, females exhibit longer lifespans than males. This indicates that sex chromosomes alone cannot explain the patterns.”
What other factors are at play? Researchers believe that the issue involves more than mere genetic sex; it includes reproductive strategies. While birds typically show monogamous behavior, only a minority of mammals do.
“Males frequently bear the burden of mating endeavors,” Staerk said. “To attract mates, they develop traits like big horns and manes that require energy investments, increasing their risk of injury and reducing their lifespan.”
The effort to develop large horns and then engage with rivals means that male moose live only half as long as females – Credit: Getty Images
Attractive and robust males tend to father more offspring, but the biological resources required for developing larger muscle and horn structures negatively impact their lifespans. In monogamous species, the competition is less intense, allowing males to avoid such trade-offs during evolution, resulting in smaller lifespan gaps between sexes.
One intriguing finding highlighted how parenting influences lifespan. While one might assume that parental responsibilities detract from longevity due to energy exertion, the opposite was observed: caregiving genders often live longer, especially in species like primates, where offspring require extended care.
For example, a mother chimpanzee may care for her young for up to a decade. This implies that mothers who live longer are better positioned to nurture their offspring.
“Extended lifespans enable caregivers to obtain selective advantages by ensuring that their young reach maturity,” stated Staerk.
However, it remains challenging to determine definitively whether the longevity benefits stem from parenting alone or from monogamy.
Ultimately, being a dedicated partner and parent seems crucial to achieving a longer lifespan for men, particularly from an evolutionary standpoint.
Approximately 12,000 years ago, during the Pleistocene-Chlorocene transition, humans navigated a network of seasonal waters in Northern Arabia, marking significant locations with camels, ibex, wild equids, gazelles, and monumental rock carvings of Auloc, as well as establishing access routes.
Jebel Arnaan rock art panel. Image credit: Mariaguanine.
As part of the Green Arabia Project, archaeologist Michael Petraglia from Griffith University and his team have uncovered over 60 rock art panels featuring 176 sculptures in three previously unexplored locations.
The sculptures predominantly illustrate camels, ibex, equids, gazelles, and aurochs, comprising 130 life-size and naturalistic figures, with heights exceeding 3 meters and 2 meters.
This sculptural activity occurred between 12,800 and 11,400 years ago, a time when seasonal water bodies re-emerged following a period of severe aridity.
These water sources, identified through sediment analysis, facilitated early human migration into the interior desert and offered rare survival opportunities.
“These large-scale sculptures are not just rock art; they likely represent assertions of existence, access, and cultural identity,” noted Dr. Maria Guanine, an archaeologist at the Max Planck Institute.
“Rock art signifies water sources and movement routes, potentially indicating territorial rights and intergenerational memory,” added Dr. Seri Shipton, an archaeologist at the University of London.
In contrast to previously known sites where sculptures were hidden in crevices, the Jebel Mleiha and Jebel Arnaan panels were carved on the face of a towering 39-meter cliff, making them visually dominant.
One panel required ancient artists to ascend narrow ledges to create their work, emphasizing the effort and significance attributed to the imagery.
Various artifacts, including Levantine-style Erkiam, Hellwan stone points, green pigments, and dental beads, indicate extensive connections to pre-Pottery Neolithic (PPN) populations in the Levant.
Nevertheless, the size, content, and arrangement of these Arabian sculptures distinguish them from others.
“This unique form of symbolic representation reflects a distinct cultural identity evolved to thrive in harsh, arid environments,” stated Dr. Faisal Al Ghibrien, a heritage researcher at the Saudi Ministry of Culture.
“The project’s interdisciplinary approach aims to bridge significant gaps in the Northern Arabian archaeological record between the last Glacial Maximum and the Holocene, shedding light on the resilience and innovation of early desert communities,” remarked Dr. Petraglia.
The team’s paper has been published in the journal Nature Communications.
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M. Guanine et al. 2025. Monumental rock art indicates that humans thrived in the Arabian desert during the Pleistocene and Holocene transitions. Nature Communications 16, 8249; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-63417-y
Breugnathair elgolensis – This species, part of the Hook-tooth group, thrived in the central Jurassic period around 167 million years ago, displaying a unique blend of anatomical features not usually observed in its raw group. Its head-to-body proportions, along with dental and jaw characteristics, reveal serpent-like traits, with the original extermination group linked to Jeccos.
Reconstruction of the life of Breugnathair elgolensis. Image credit: Brennan Stokkermans/National Museums Scotland.
Breugnathair elgolensis is recognized as one of the earliest relatively complete fossil lizards yet discovered.
These ancient reptiles possessed serpent-like jaws and curved teeth reminiscent of modern pythons, all while exhibiting short bodies akin to well-formed lizards.
With a length of approximately 41 cm (16 inches) from head to tail, it ranks among the largest lizards in its ecosystem and may have preyed on smaller lizards, juvenile dinosaurs, early mammals, and various vertebrates.
Dr. Roger Benson, a curator in the Department of Paleontology at the American Museum of Natural History, remarked:
“Breugnathair elgolensis features snake-like traits in its teeth and jaw, yet in many aspects, it appears surprisingly primitive.”
“This suggests that the evolutionary predecessors of snakes might have been vastly different than we anticipated. Alternatively, it may indicate that predatory behaviors similar to those of snakes developed independently in archaic, extinct groups.”
Paleontologists place Breugnathair elgolensis within a new family of reptiles (encompassing lizards and snakes) named Parviraptoridae, a group that may hold significant implications for snake origins.
“Previous studies had identified bones with snake-like teeth found alongside those exhibiting gecko-like traits,” they noted.
“However, their striking differences led some researchers to believe they belonged to two distinct species.”
“Our research on Breugnathair elgolensis challenges these earlier conclusions, demonstrating that both snake-like and gecko-like characteristics can coexist within a single species.”
The fossil remains of Breugnathair elgolensis were unearthed in 2016 by Stig Walsh of Scotland’s National Museum on the Isle of Skye.
“The Jurassic fossil sediments on the Isle of Skye are vital for understanding the early evolution of numerous living groups, including lizards, which started to diversify during this period.”
“I initially described Parviraptorids around three decades ago based on much more fragmented specimens, making this feel like discovering the top of a jigsaw puzzle years after being stumped by the original picture with a handful of pieces.”
“The array of primitive and advanced features indicated in this new specimen reinforces the notion that evolutionary pathways can be unpredictable.”
A paper discussing the discoveries related to Breugnathair elgolensis was published today in the journal Nature.
____
RBJ Benson et al. Mosaic anatomy in early fossil reptiles. Nature Published online on October 1, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09566-y
Jane Goodall, a renowned researcher who studied chimpanzee behavior and social structures, later emerged as a prominent figure in the animal welfare movement, passed away on Wednesday.
At the age of 91, Goodall died of natural causes in California while on a speaking tour, as reported by the Jane Goodall Institute in a statement.
“Dr. Goodall’s contributions as an ethologist transformed scientific understanding, and she was an unwavering advocate for the preservation and rejuvenation of our natural world,” the statement added.
Jane Goodall participated in the TV special “Miss Goodall and The World of Chimpanzees” in 1965. CBS via Getty Images File
Hailing from the UK, Goodall gained recognition in the 1960s for her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees in Tanzania. She meticulously documented their social interactions over several decades.
The foundation noted that she adopted an “unconventional approach” to chimpanzee research, “immersing herself in their environment to experience their intricate societies as neighbors rather than distant observers.”
Goodall’s research revealed that chimpanzees used sticks to fish for termites, challenging the prevailing notion that tool use was exclusive to humans. She also documented the chimps’ communication methods and complex social behaviors, including their meat-eating habits and occasional aggression.
“They are part of Elizabeth Freyman, a primate specialist and postdoctoral researcher at Brown University,” said:
Robert Seyfers, professor emeritus at the University of Pennsylvania who specialized in primate behavior, remarked that Goodall’s passing signifies “the end of an era.”
“Her thorough and detailed observations have resonated with our entire generation—myself included—and inspired many others interested in this scientific field,” Seyfers stated.
He noted that Goodall was among the first researchers to observe chimpanzees as individual beings with distinct personalities, unlike many of her contemporaries who lacked such observational training.
“Her insights into chimpanzee emotions were groundbreaking,” he conveyed, adding that Goodall was an “authentic chronicler” of animal behavior.
“Her goal was to help people comprehend chimpanzees in all their complexities,” Seyfers shared.
As Goodall’s career evolved, she became aware of the threats posed by habitat destruction and illegal trafficking to chimpanzee survival, leading her to prioritize conservation and animal welfare in her work.
The Jane Goodall Institute, which she founded in 1977, stated, “We entered the forest to study the extraordinary lives of chimpanzees, and she emerged from the forest to advocate for their protection.”
Jane Goodall in Paris during October 2024. Joel Saaget/AFP via Getty Images
Ingrid Newkirk, the founder of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, stated that Goodall “played a pivotal role in helping the organization end the confinement of chimpanzees in desolate metal chambers for testing.”
At just 26 years old, Goodall embarked on her first journey to Tanzania to study chimpanzees. She began her career without any formal scientific training. Louis Leakey, a notable Kenyan and British anthropologist, recruited her to document her findings on chimpanzees. Goodall later attained her PhD from Cambridge University.
During an interview on this year’s podcast “Call Her Daddy,” Goodall recounted to host Alex Cooper that her initial expedition was funded through a shoestring budget provided by philanthropists.
With funding for six months, the first four months yielded little success, as primates were too wary for her to observe closely. However, one chimpanzee eventually became accustomed to her presence, leading to her groundbreaking discovery of their use of tools.
“This discovery was exhilarating because, at the time, it was believed in Western science that tool-making was a human-exclusive trait. We defined ourselves as the only tool-using species,” Goodall recollected. “So, when I wrote to my mentor, Louis Leakey, he was thrilled.”
That revelation captured the interest and support of National Geographic, ultimately altering the trajectory of Goodall’s career.
As Goodall rose to prominence, she leveraged her visibility to bolster public interest in animal welfare and scientific exploration. She authored numerous books about her experiences with chimpanzees, including several aimed at children.
Primate specialist Freyman reflected that he dressed as Goodall for Halloween in fourth grade. He later mentioned receiving fan mail from children while interning at the Jane Goodall Institute in Washington, D.C., at the age of 19.
“I became a primatologist because I had a hero I admired,” Freyman, now 29, shared.
Correction (October 1, 2025, 11:38pm ET): Due to an editing error, earlier versions of this article referred to primate specialist Elody Freyman using “he.” Freyman is a woman.
Jane Goodall researched chimpanzee behavior in Tanzania
Penelope Breese/Liaison
Renowned conservationist Jane Goodall has passed away at the age of 91. For decades, she dedicated her life to studying and advocating for chimpanzees, becoming a preeminent expert on our closest primate relatives and transforming our understanding of humanity. Her legacy is one of profound empathy and commitment to nature. She died from natural causes while on a speaking tour in California, as confirmed by the Jane Goodall Institute in a statement on October 1.
Goodall began her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees in Tanzania’s Gombe Stream National Park in 1960. Her studies made significant contributions to our understanding of their behavior and social structures. Over the next 65 years, she evolved into a passionate advocate and expert, enlightening the world on the similarities between humans and other primates and drawing attention to the challenges faced by chimpanzees and wildlife, including climate change, poaching, and habitat loss.
In 1977, she established the Institute bearing her name, a nonprofit focused on the study and protection of primates and their habitats while fostering a greater public understanding of nature. The institute’s mission has since broadened to include community health initiatives across Africa and conservation efforts aimed at protecting whales. Goodall also played pivotal roles in numerous other environmental projects.
She attributed her success to remarkable patience, stating, “There was a moment when I was feeling despondent and the chimpanzees were evading me, and I had plenty of time in the field. [But] If I had decided to give up, I would never have been able to forgive myself. I couldn’t live with that.” New Scientist 2022.
In her later years, Goodall focused her efforts on global conservation, traveling extensively to spread the message that chimpanzees and all animals share commonalities with humans. She persistently urged us to improve our treatment of the natural world.
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