Astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery by directly detecting how turbulent clouds of ionized gas between stars bend and distort radio signals from distant quasars for the first time.
The radio signal from quasar TXS 2005+403 travels approximately 10 billion light-years to Earth, passing through the Cygnus region, one of the Milky Way’s most tumultuous environments. The left image depicts a quasar with a vibrant accretion disk and jets emanating into space, resembling lighthouses in the dark. The right image illustrates how turbulent gas distorts our view of the quasars, similar to how fire haze obscures objects behind it. Image credit: Melissa Weiss / CfA.
The interstellar medium, the space between stars in our Milky Way, is filled with clouds of ionized gas and electrons, creating a turbulent environment.
As radio light waves from distant quasars navigate this chaotic material, they become bent and distorted, akin to how haze from a fire blurs our vision of objects behind it.
While this distortion has allowed astronomers to infer turbulence’s presence over the years, fully understanding its intricate structure has proven challenging—until now.
Astronomer Alexander Pravin from Harvard University, alongside colleagues from the Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, focused on the quasar TXS 2005+403 for this groundbreaking study.
This bright radio source, driven by a supermassive black hole, lies approximately 10 billion light-years away in the constellation Cygnus.
As its radio light travels toward Earth, it is refracted and altered while traversing the Cygnus region, recognized as one of the Milky Way’s most turbulent and scattering settings.
“Most of the information we gather from the radio data does not originate from the quasars themselves but rather from the scattering effects caused by turbulence in this region of the Milky Way,” stated Dr. Pravin.
“This scattering, along with the resultant distortions, enables us to investigate turbulence and improve our understanding of its structure.”
To delve deeper into the influence of turbulence on the light from TXS 2005+403, researchers analyzed nearly a decade’s worth of archival data from NSF’s Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA).
Initially, they anticipated that as the radio light passed through the Milky Way, it would gradually blur and fade.
Contrary to their expectations, they discovered distinct, consistent patterns that created structured, mottled distortions in the light—evidence of turbulence’s influence.
“The farthest pair of telescopes would typically be unable to observe the quasar image, but surprisingly, they clearly detected its faint glow,” noted Dr. Pravin.
“This phenomenon cannot be explained by simple blurring or characteristics of the quasars themselves; the effects of interstellar turbulence are evident as it behaves as theorized.”
“The scattering properties along this line of sight through the galaxy have shown persistence over time.”
For more details regarding the survey findings, check out this paper published in the Astrophysical Journal Letter.
_____
AV Pravin et al. 2026. Direct detection of interstellar turbulence signatures on quasars by very long baseline interferometry: TXS 2005+403. APJL 1003, L4; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ae60f4
A massive tyrannosaurid dinosaur likely roamed the floodplains of present-day New Mexico around 74 million years ago, as revealed by a team of paleontologists from Bath University, Montana State University, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.
Bistahieversor sealeyi hunting Pentaceratops sternbergi. Image credit: A. Belov / CC BY 3.0.
“Tyrannosaurids were among the largest and latest predatory dinosaurs,” stated lead author Dr. Nicholas Longrich from the University of Bath and his collaborators in their research paper.
“Following the extinction of carcharodontosaurs during the mid-Cretaceous, tyrannosaurs diversified and evolved into larger forms, dominating as the primary predators of the late Cretaceous in North America and Asia.”
“By the Late Campanian era, multiple groups of tyrannosaurids, such as Albertosauridae, Daspletosaurini, and Teratophonii, achieved impressive weights of 2 to 3 tons.”
“Their evolutionary journey culminated with the emergence of titanic forms, like tyrannosaurus, the largest known predatory dinosaur ever to exist.”
In this study, paleontologists analyzed an exceptionally large tibia (shin bone) from a Tyrannosaurus specimen sourced from the Hunter Wash Formation in New Mexico’s Kirtland Formation.
The tibia measures 96 cm in length and 12.8 cm in diameter, representing about 84% and 78% of the dimensions of the largest confirmed tyrannosaurus specimens.
Based on comparisons with known tyrannosaurus species, researchers estimated that this prehistoric predator weighed around 4 to 5 tons.
“This discovery marks the oldest giant tyrannosaurus found in North America, potentially identifying it as the earliest known species of Tyrannosaurini,” they noted in their publication.
The tibia exhibits features akin to later tyrannosaurids, specifically tyrannosaurus rex.
Researchers considered three scenarios: the fossil belongs to an unusually large known tyrannosaurus from New Mexico, Bistahieversor sealeyi; it might represent a new lineage of colossal tyrannosaurs; or it could be an early member of the tyrannosaurus rex lineage and its Asian relatives.
After thorough comparisons with other tyrannosaurids and conducting a phylogenetic analysis, the authors determined that the third hypothesis is the most plausible.
“Regardless of which hypothesis is accepted, the unusual size of the Hunter Wash tyrannosaurus is significant as it signifies the presence of a previously unknown large tyrannosaurid in the late Campanian, suggesting their earlier than anticipated evolutionary emergence,” the researchers added.
Paleontologists have long debated the geographic origins of giant tyrannosaurs.
Some theorize that this lineage started in Asia before migrating to North America, while others argue that the massive tyrannosaurus rex originated in the southern part of western North America known as Laramidia.
The newly discovered fossils bolster the theory of a southern Laramidian origin.
“The Hunter Wash tyrannosaurs underscore the remarkable diversity of Laramidian dinosaurs, with smaller albertosaurines and daspletosaurids inhabiting the northern regions, while gigantic tyrannosaurids thrived in the south,” the paleontologists concluded.
The team’s findings were published in a research paper in March 2026 in the journal Scientific Reports.
_____
NR Longrich et al. 2026. A large tyrannosaurid from the late Cretaceous (Campanian) of North America. Scientific Reports 16, 8371; doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-38600-w
A prolonged series of mushroom poisonings in California has tragically resulted in four fatalities and left 43 individuals hospitalized, marking the largest outbreak of its kind in the history of the U.S., according to experts.
Subscribe to read this story without ads
Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.
Three cases emerged earlier this week, notably after the typical growing season for the mushrooms notorious for causing this illness, prompting public health officials and mycologists to investigate the widespread poisonings and the factors contributing to this alarming trend.
These three new cases involved family members who foraged for mushrooms in Napa County on Saturday, fell ill on Sunday, and were subsequently admitted to Stanford Medical Center, as reported by Napa County Public Health Officer Dr. Kristin Wu.
Since the onset of the outbreak in November, affected individuals have ranged in age from just 19 months to 84 years old. California Department of Public Health indicates that incidents have clustered, with at least six families linked to the same batch of mushrooms. Four individuals have undergone liver transplants due to their ailments.
Poisoning incidents have spanned over a dozen counties within the San Francisco Bay Area and California’s central coast. Following a surge in cases during late fall, state health officials have cautioned the public against consuming foraged mushrooms.
“This outbreak is significantly larger than previous years, with its duration extending beyond what we anticipated,” stated Heather Hallen-Adams, chair of toxicology for the Mycological Society of North America. “The reasons for this are still unclear.”
Deathcap mushrooms, native to Europe, have made their way into the United States.Ann Pringle
The primary source of the poisonings has been identified as the invasive death cap mushroom, often referred to as fly agaric. Additionally, the Western destroying angel, known as amanita, has been implicated in several cases. Typically, 50 cases of amanita poisoning are reported annually across the nation, but California has already surpassed that number this year, with five new infections reported this month.
This situation is highly atypical,” noted Anne Pringle, a mycology professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. “Typically, the peak season for these mushrooms is in December and January. We are left wondering why this occurrence is happening.”
This outbreak has brought to light significant gaps in California’s public health infrastructure, revealing a lack of rigorous scientific understanding of these toxic mushrooms.
Healthcare providers currently are not mandated to report amatoxin poisoning cases to public health authorities, as outlined in state regulations. This has led the California Department of Public Health to track cases through a more cumbersome and less structured procedure than for other conditions like E. coli and West Nile virus.
“At present, our primary source of information about these incidents stems from the California Poison Control System,” Dr. Wu remarked. “They are actively working to identify and report these cases to CDPH.”
Dr. Wu indicated that efforts are underway to include amatoxin poisoning in the list of reportable diseases. However, the ministry has yet to respond to inquiries regarding this issue.
Dr. Wu revealed that the three family members who fell ill recently were not from Napa County and had been foraging mushrooms in rural areas within the county.
“Their case came to my attention solely due to their mushroom foraging activities in Napa County,” Dr. Wu stated, pointing out that there was no obligation for notification. “This information allows me to act to protect other community members in Napa.”
Since the outbreak’s onset, the majority of those affected by the toadstools predominantly communicate in Spanish, with others speaking Chinese, Ukrainian, Russian, Mam, and Mixteco (an indigenous language from Central America).
Consequently, public health experts suggest that some individuals may be relying on foraging practices rooted in traditions from their countries of origin.
“Research indicates that the death cap and Western angel of destruction closely resemble some native edible mushrooms found in their home countries,” Dr. Wu explained.
Dr. Wu mentioned that Napa County Public Health Department has initiated radio advertisements in English, Spanish, and Mixteco to alert the public about toxic mushrooms. The California Department of Health has also produced flyers available in nine languages.
“It’s surprising that we haven’t undertaken more outreach to Spanish-speaking communities; this poses a significant public health risk,” Dr. Wu remarked. “We are committed to improving our efforts in this area.”
The decomposing mushroom is an invasive species that was introduced to California through imported seedlings in the 1930s. The destroying angel mushrooms are specific to certain nations. In California, death caps typically thrive near oak and sometimes pine trees, usually growing several inches tall but can reach larger sizes, featuring white gills, a pale yellow or green cap, and a distinctive ring around their stem.
Amatoxins produced by these mushrooms can severely damage the kidneys, liver, and gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms of amatoxin poisoning may take up to 24 hours to manifest and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. More severe reactions, including potentially fatal liver damage, can occur within two to three days. Amatoxins account for the majority of deadly mushroom poisonings, as even a volume comparable to a sugar cube can be lethal.
Mike McCurdy, president of the San Francisco Mycological Society, reported increased occurrences of death cap mushrooms over the weekend.
“This is a significant growth surge; it’s a widespread phenomenon, stretching from Monterey to Napa,” McCurdy lamented. “This level of activity during the spring is unprecedented.”
McCurdy recounted spending around 20 minutes searching for death cap mushrooms on Saturday, during which he identified more than 20 “fruiting bodies” around five live oak trees along the coast.
Pringle expressed her confusion over the unusual abundance of death cap mushrooms this year and their extended presence deep into the season, stating, “It’s both an intriguing and alarming situation.”
In comparison to plants and animals, mushrooms are less frequently studied and receive considerably less research funding, Pringle noted. There remains a lack of comprehensive understanding of the toxins they produce.
“Science requires funding to tackle these challenges,” she concluded. “If we can mitigate the factors contributing to these outbreaks, we can save lives.”
Starship on the Launch Pad at SpaceX’s Starbase in Texas
Credit: SpaceX
SpaceX’s Upcoming Starship Test Flight
SpaceX is poised to conduct a highly anticipated test flight of its significantly upgraded Starship next week, which has the potential to become the tallest and most powerful rocket in history. This flight is crucial for NASA’s ambitious plans to return humans to the Moon by 2028.
The Starship system consists of two main components: an upper stage, also referred to as the Starship, and a lower stage known as the Super Heavy. Since the last test back in October, SpaceX has implemented several substantial modifications to both stages.
The upcoming test flight scheduled for May 19th will feature new iterations of both the Starship and Super Heavy, including three distinct models. Each stage is powered by the enhanced version 3 Raptor engines, which have been tested only sparingly in previous launches. The stakes are higher this time, as the launch will occur from a newly designed pad at SpaceX’s Starbase facility in Texas.
In the configuration of Super Heavy 3, the number of grid fins has been reduced from four to three, but their size has been increased by 50% to ensure precise atmospheric maneuverability. Starship 3 incorporates larger propellant tanks, an advanced on-orbit refueling capability, and enhanced heat-resistant tiles designed for atmospheric reentry.
At launch, the rocket will reach a total height of 124 meters, surpassing the previous version 2 by about one meter. This height also exceeds that of NASA’s 98-meter Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the 111-meter-tall Saturn V, the historic rocket that transported astronauts to the Moon during the 1960s and ’70s.
Starship 3 is engineered to produce a staggering thrust of 75,000 kilonewtons, nearly double that of the SLS’s 39,000 kilonewtons, making it the most powerful rocket to date.
Research from the University of Sheffield, conducted by Alistair John, indicates that the collective power output of all engines combined in the Starship stack at maximum capacity exceeds the total electricity generation of Germany. “It’s enormous,” John remarked.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has outlined plans for the Starship to transport satellites into orbit, as well as serve beyond Earth with missions to Mars. Moreover, NASA selected it as one of two commercial lander designs for the Artemis program, aiming for a human return to the Moon, alongside the Blue Origin lander backed by Jeff Bezos.
After the successful unmanned Artemis 1 mission in 2022, the recent Artemis flight saw four astronauts venture further from Earth than any humans before, orbiting around the Moon.
A recent NASA document confirmed details of the Artemis III mission, which will send a crew into low Earth orbit aboard the Orion spacecraft atop an SLS rocket. They will then rendezvous with one or both commercial lunar landers offered by SpaceX and Blue Origin. This critical maneuver is necessary for transferring crew and fuel to the lander in preparation for a lunar landing mission targeted for Artemis IV as early as 2028.
SpaceX employs a rapid iteration and learning strategy, typical of Silicon Valley, distinct from the more cautious approach usually adopted in space exploration. Out of 11 test flights conducted thus far, six have succeeded while five have encountered failures. Neither SpaceX nor NASA has commented on these outcomes.
Dr. Peter Shaw from Kingston University believes SpaceX remains aligned with its Artemis timelines despite earlier setbacks. “Rocket science is inherently complex and difficult,” remarks Shaw. “Can they succeed? Absolutely. Will they meet their deadlines? There is confidence in their ability; even if they face more failures, they will learn, adapt, and innovate.”
The forthcoming Starship test is vital for confirming the integrity of the Version 3 design, which will underpin SpaceX’s Human Landing System (HLS) essential for Moon landings. The HLS will require significant adaptations, including a different engine tailored for the Moon’s lower gravity and will forgo the heat shield since it will not need to handle Earth reentry.
“While this represents a small, incremental improvement, it is also the most significant iteration. Version 3 is what we require for the Artemis program; its predecessors were merely prototypes,” explains John. “Version 3 is effectively the inaugural test of the production model. Our goal is reliability.”
Beach in Southampton, New York Treated with Olivine Sand
Cheyenne Morrow
Initial studies of adding crushed olivine to ocean waters for atmospheric carbon dioxide absorption showed no adverse effects on the seafloor ecosystem during the first year.
While the New York State trial offers promising findings for this innovative carbon removal technology, researchers advise caution, as it may not encapsulate all potential negative impacts.
Emilia Jankowska from Hourglass Climate, the nonprofit organization conducting the study, stated that while the addition of olivine to the ocean should be regulated, “there are methods to minimize effects while maintaining effectiveness.”
The UN climate change agency highlights the necessity for carbon removal strategies, including reforestation and advanced carbon filtration methods, to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. With rising emissions, the aspiration to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius remains a challenge.
Olivine, a magnesium iron silicate mineral, is often found within the Earth’s mantle and reacts with CO2 when reaching the surface, forming stable compounds that can sequester carbon in the ocean for millennia.
A recent study indicated that spreading crushed olivine and similar silicates on crops could enhance this process, potentially removing up to 1.1 billion tons of CO2 annually. U.S. startup Vesta aims to introduce olivine directly into ocean waters, facilitating increased carbon absorption through bicarbonate formation.
However, olivine may contain trace amounts of heavy metals. Research has detected elevated nickel and chromium levels in crustaceans and mollusks exposed to olivine. There are concerns about sand potentially suffocating benthic organisms, such as crustaceans and worms.
In 2022, Vesta distributed 650 tons of olivine sand along Long Island’s coast, overlaying it with 13,500 tons of regular sand for shore reinforcement. However, as storms intensified, tides washed away much of the olivine.
Researchers collected sediment samples from shallow waters up to 160 meters offshore before and after adding olivine, and a year later. They compared these to samples from areas where only regular sand or no sand was added.
Among numerous species, only a minor decline was observed in the fringe bloodworm within the olivine-treated area, with overall benthic species’ abundance and diversity rebounding within two months. Species composition shifted similarly in regions where only regular sand was used, indicating common beach aquaculture practices.
Crucially, nickel, chromium, cobalt, and manganese concentrations in organisms remained low. “Natural systems are highly dynamic, causing dissolved elements to dilute rapidly,” Jankowska remarked.
While Vesta oversaw environmental monitoring for these trials, the analyses conducted by Hourglass were independently funded by the Grantham Foundation.
Olivine’s dissolution in ocean waters may lead to calcium carbonate precipitating from seawater, potentially trapping trace metals, as noted by Christopher Pierce at the UK National Marine Centre. Nevertheless, this might limit the additional CO2 absorption capacity of seawater.
This significant research transitions understanding from laboratory settings to real-world applications. Further investigation remains essential to comprehend varying biological responses and infection rates associated with CO2 ingestion.
Nonetheless, the study’s assertion of no negative effects may overstate the findings, according to James Kelly of Ocean Care. He notes that fluctuations in olivine concentrations could imply limited exposure, questioning the notion that olivine is inherently safe.
Hourglass Climate is currently tracking the results from a large-scale trial with Vesta. In 2024, 8,200 tons of olivine were identified 450 meters offshore from Duck, North Carolina. Preliminary insights suggest recovery in species richness and diversity, although metal accumulation analysis is ongoing.
Smog Contains Particles That Reflect Sunlight and Cool Earth’s Surface
Credit: Dennis McDonald/Alamy
Addressing air pollution in Europe and North America could inadvertently weaken the Atlantic Meridional Circulation (AMOC), a crucial ocean current influencing Europe’s climate.
Air pollution, including smog and soot, claims approximately 7 million lives annually and contributes to widespread health issues. Interestingly, aerosols, which are tiny particulate pollutants like sulfur dioxide, can reflect sunlight, making clouds brighter and reducing surface heat absorption.
Recent research indicates that reducing air pollution from maritime sources and other sectors could accelerate global temperature increases. “If we cut back on aerosols, we will start to see the extent of warming,” says Michael Diamond from Florida State University.
Historically, scientists’ insights into aerosols’ climatic impact have relied on global simulations akin to those used for examining the greenhouse effect. These models suggest that “higher aerosol levels cool the North Atlantic surface and strengthen the AMOC,” according to Robert Allen from the University of California, Riverside. Conversely, if global aerosol emissions are reduced, the Earth’s surface may warm, weakening the AMOC.
Nonetheless, these simulations often overlook the regional characteristics of air pollution. Unlike greenhouse gases, which linger in the atmosphere for years, most aerosols dissipate within a week, meaning their climatic effects typically manifest close to their source, revealing the complex consequences of pollution reductions.
To gain deeper insights into the impacts of clean air initiatives, Allen and his team employed eight distinct climate models to assess how changes in regional aerosol emissions impact both local and global climates. The models evaluated AMOC strength under high-emission scenarios established by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and reformulated these scenarios with enhanced air quality regulations.
The findings indicate that if greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise but aerosol pollutants decrease, the AMOC could weaken by a third by mid-century compared to scenarios where aerosol levels remain elevated.
While Allen’s research does not delve into the regional weather implications of AMOC weakening, previous studies suggest that such a decline could lead to adverse outcomes, including increased droughts across Europe, exacerbated sea level rise in northeastern North America, and disruption of global monsoons and rising temperatures in Northern Europe.
Allen’s analysis revealed that the most significant impact on AMOC would stem from reduced aerosol levels in Europe and North America. However, he noted that air quality improvement initiatives in East Asia are also proving impactful. Cleaner air in East Asia is affecting global temperatures—despite their short lifespan, aerosols can travel long distances and mask warming effects wherever they reach, potentially leading to further weakening of the AMOC.
“To improve air quality, we must acknowledge that there will be associated climate changes,” Allen states. “To achieve clean air while minimizing our climate impact, we must simultaneously reduce other greenhouse gases like CO2 and methane.”
Diamond echoes this sentiment, stating, “When considering clean air policies, it’s vital to concurrently address decarbonization strategies.”
Topics:
Climate Change/
Air Pollution
This version retains the original HTML structure while enhancing the SEO aspect through targeted keywords and improved readability.
Visitors at Kew Gardens in London are captivated by the peculiar aroma emanating from the greenhouses, as the Corpse Flower, scientifically known as Amorphophallus titanum, reaches over 2.5 meters in height and blooms for the first time in several years.
The allure of this exotic plant has garnered global attention. Memorable is the experience of witnessing a flower that can truly be compared to a star in the botanical universe. Kew staff frequently gather to snap photos and take in the unique scent. Initially subdued, the odor intensified, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
As we gathered around, we discussed the smells with a level of sophistication akin to expert sommeliers. Comments ranged from “It has a leftover quality” to “There’s a hint of stale cabbage,” with classic undertones of decaying meat.
This rare flower blooms only once every 7 to 10 years. If you missed the opportunity this time, don’t worry—Kew Gardens currently hosts around 15 A. titanum specimens. Keep an eye out for your next chance to see (and, more notably, smell) these fascinating plants!
Illustation of CAR T cell therapy for melanoma, a form of skin cancer
Nemeth Laszlo/Shutterstock
Innovative therapies are transforming the treatment landscape for blood and skin cancers, with recent studies highlighting enhanced effectiveness. In murine models with advanced skin cancer, researchers have discovered that manipulating the physical properties of cancer cells amplifies the efficacy of immunotherapy—specifically, CAR T-cell therapy. This promising breakthrough could significantly improve survival rates for patients undergoing immunotherapy.
“This groundbreaking concept addresses a critical medical issue from a physical perspective,” notes Lee Sui from Queen Mary University of London, who is not associated with this research. “The outlook is very hopeful.”
“We examined whether the softness of cancer cells allows them to evade the immune response and how T cell mechanosensing affects the cellular response to cancer,” explains Lee Tan, who presented his findings on May 11 at an academic conference hosted by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, Switzerland. The Biophysical Immunoengineering: From Insights to Clinical Applications conference in London focused on these innovative approaches.
The researchers set out to uncover why cancer cells exhibit softness by contrasting their membranes with those of healthy cells. They discovered that both murine and human cancer cells tend to be softer due to high cholesterol content in their membranes.
The team subsequently injected 24 mice with melanoma cells, notorious for being the deadliest skin cancer. Nine days post-injection, the mice received genetically modified T cells specifically designed to target the tumor, emulating CAR T-cell therapy, which is approved for conditions like acute lymphoblastic leukemia and B-cell lymphoma.
Additionally, the mice underwent three injections over five days of IL-15, a protein that heightens the cancer-killing capacity of tumor-specific T cells.
Crucially, only half of the mice received a third treatment involving methyl beta-cyclodextrin (meβCD), a compound that reduces cholesterol levels in cell membranes, administered directly into the tumors daily from day 9 to day 18 post-cancer cell injection. The other mice received saline as a control.
After roughly one month, all 12 mice that did not receive meβCD succumbed to rapidly-growing tumors. In stark contrast, only seven mice in the meβCD group perished, while five experienced complete tumor resolution. “The results are compelling. Very encouraging,” states Lance Cam from Columbia University, New York.
Further analysis indicated that meβCD enhanced the adherence of tumor-specific T cells to tumor cells by stiffening them. Consequently, T cells were more effective in delivering toxic agents such as perforin, which perforates and obliterates cancer cells.
The research team aims to extend this approach to a broader array of tumors in mice, according to Tang. “The significant challenge lies in ensuring this understanding translates to human applications,” Kam emphasizes. Few successful immune-targeting drugs in mice yield equivalent results in humans, primarily due to immune system disparities. However, since cancer cells tend to be soft in both species, there is potential for therapies that modify cancer cell stiffness to be more effective.
Moreover, researchers are actively working on developing therapeutics with effects akin to meβCD that can be delivered with a single injection.
Engaging in self-exploration can enhance your understanding of your mind. Start by placing your finger on the area of your body that resonates with your sense of self. Avoid overthinking this; there are no right or wrong choices. Simply connect with your identity and where you feel most centered.
If you’re like most individuals, you’ll likely touch either your head or your heart. This choice may seem trivial, but several studies indicate that it can reveal your thinking style—whether you lean toward logic and analysis or intuition and emotion. Understanding how to switch between these modes can remarkably improve your decision-making capabilities.
It’s widely accepted that our decisions hinge on whether we think with our heads or hearts, a notion that’s prevalent in popular culture. Interestingly, this connection was first studied scientifically in 2013 by researchers Adam Fetterman from the University of Houston and Michael D. Robinson from North Dakota State University, who examined if our perceptions truly influence our actions.
Through self-report questionnaires, it emerged that “head-locators” frequently categorized themselves as rational thinkers, while “heart-locators” identified as emotionally driven. Remarkably, these perceptions correlate with objective behavioral metrics. For instance, Fetterman and Robinson observed that those who considered themselves ‘head-locators’ tended to excel on general knowledge exams, indicating a more cognitive-focused lifestyle. Conversely, ‘heart-locators’ often reported heightened sensitivity in stressful scenarios, reflecting their emotional depth.
The researchers found that individuals’ self-perception could predict outcomes related to their rational or emotional thinking styles a year later, signifying that this is a stable trait. However, many aspects of our psychology remain pliable. Just as levels of extraversion can fluctuate based on social context, it’s worth questioning whether our self-concept is equally adaptable. Robinson’s team explored this concept in a recent study.
In the studies, participants (n=455) were prompted to envision themselves engaging in various activities, rating how prominently their self-awareness was rooted in their brain or heart on a scale from 1 (not present) to 7 (very present). As predicted, responses varied based on the task; for example, self-awareness was more pronounced when engaged in analytical activities versus emotional reflection. This flexibility related directly to test performance. Participants who exhibited higher adaptability in their self-awareness scored better on key assessments, such as the American College Testing (ACT) and the North Dakota Emotional Ability Test, which assesses emotional intelligence.
These findings align with the “dual process theory” of cognition, which posits that our mental systems engage in either methodical reasoning or instinctual responses. Robinson’s research suggests that self-perception impacts which cognitive approach we employ, with those adept at reverting between modes enjoying superior decision-making capabilities in various domains. High achievers were found to effectively practice the “art of employing strategies” suitable for each task, merging head-driven logic with heart-driven intuition.
Can we all cultivate this skill? When I queried Robinson, he posited, “Achieving conscious control over this mental flexibility may require time and practice, possibly through meditation and other body-focused exercises.” As someone who leans intellectually, he admitted the journey can be challenging.
In a preliminary experiment from their 2013 study, having participants touch specific body locations altered their cognitive processes. For example, touching one’s temple promotes logical thinking, while touching the chest encourages instinctual moral reasoning, akin to the famous trolley problem. These bodily interactions also improved performance on true/false tests necessitating logical reasoning by around 9%.
Although I won’t depend on this method without larger trials to validate it, my awareness of my self-location has shifted since learning about Robinson’s ongoing studies. At times, my sense of self seems to align straight behind my eyes, while other moments place it lower in my ribcage. The contrast is so vivid that I now recognize transitions I once overlooked. By acknowledging these shifts, I gain deeper insights into what influences my decision-making.
That’s the beauty of psychological research—it unveils critical facets of our existence that we often overlook.
David Robson’s latest book is The Law of Connection: 13 Social Strategies That Will Change Your Life. If you have questions for his column, feel free to reach out: davidrobson.me/Contact
Topics:
This version optimizes for SEO by incorporating relevant keywords naturally throughout the text, providing clearer headers and enhancing user engagement while preserving the original HTML structure.
“Invasive studies involving rectal tubes have hindered our understanding,” he asserts, adding, “Our knowledge hasn’t progressed significantly since.”
But there’s good news! Hall’s team is developing a groundbreaking Human Fart Atlas to chart normal flatulence ranges across the population. A key element of this initiative is innovative smart underwear that detects human gas emissions.
A coin-sized sensor clips discreetly onto standard briefs, continuously monitoring gas releases and sending data to an app, providing valuable insights for both users and researchers.
In a study published in December 2025 in Biosensors and Bioelectronics: X, participants wore these smart pants for at least 11 hours over three days. Findings suggest that people fart far more than previously believed.
The average healthy adult expels gas about 32 times a day, but the range is diverse.
The study revealed individual differences, with participants reporting anywhere from 4 to 59 farts daily. Unpublished data indicates even higher numbers in some cases.
“Some individuals farted up to 175 times a day,” Hall noted, contrasting it with others on similar diets who only farted four times.
The human gut microbiome contains approximately 38 trillion bacterial cells – Photo credit: Getty
Breakthrough in Gas Detection
These fascinating insights stem from a technology the research team has refined over five years.
Hall humorously describes its inception: “As a microbiologist, one day I was studying microbial metabolism in an anaerobic chamber when everything went wrong. Someone farted, and we got a groundbreaking signal.”
This incident led to placing sensors in a place no wearable has ventured before—inside your pants. The sensors detect hydrogen, a gas produced by intestinal bacteria during food metabolism.
While future versions aim to capture a broader gas spectrum, current technology mainly detects the “hydrogen bomb.”
This data allows researchers to begin monitoring flatulence frequency and proceeds to shape a comprehensive Human Flatus Atlas. Hall mentioned the oversubscription for study participation demonstrates how comfortable the device is to wear.
“The most unexpected revelation was that there was room for the sensor in that area,” he explains. “You won’t even feel it. We’ve tested various shapes and materials; ultimately, we found that a round shape works best.”
Holding up what he coined a “butt mannequin,” he elaborates on sensor placement next to the perineum. “When seated, you’re typically not in contact with it,” he adds.
“Plus, women often wear menstrual pads without issue; our device is much smaller.”
Read more:
Gastrointestinal Insights
Wearing Hall’s smart underwear provides critical insights into our daily bodily functions. For skeptics, it offers essential information about your gastrointestinal health.
Generally, farting is a normal part of digestion. In fact, individuals consuming a fiber-rich diet often pass more gas, as beans and vegetables ferment in the intestines, producing excess gas.
Bloating can indicate good gut health but might also signify irritable bowel syndrome or a food intolerance.
Changes in frequency or habits can hint at shifts in your microbiome, influenced by stress or dietary changes. Excessive or foul-smelling gas might indicate lactose or gluten intolerance.
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent digestive symptoms, such as diarrhea, pain, or bloating.
The variation in flatulence stems from multiple factors, including genetics, diet, and microbiome diversity. For instance, lactose intolerance is often hereditary.
“Those who are lactose intolerant must adjust their diets accordingly, as consuming milk can lead to increased gas production,” Hall explains.
The average person produces enough gas in a day to inflate a small balloon – Photo credit: Getty
Hall envisions that smart pants technology could revolutionize personal health tracking, providing clinicians with valuable data for better patient care.
“While we lack medical approval for this technology currently, future adaptations could empower gastroenterologists with this data, making it easier to distinguish normal from abnormal,” he explains.
His dream is to create a “fart score” akin to cholesterol levels, enabling individuals to monitor their health effectively.
Next steps involve adding methane detection, known to correlate with constipation, while exploring how farting habits across the globe compare with those in the United States.
Don’t you just love the smell of progress in the morning?
Deep X-ray Observation of Abell 2029 – Researchers have uncovered evidence of ancient cosmic collisions within this galaxy cluster, recognized as the most serene in the universe, which features a colossal spiral of superheated gas stretching over two million light-years.
This composite image integrates both original and subtracted X-ray data from Abell 2029’s Chandra deep observations. Image credit: NASA / CXC / CfA / Watson et al. / Panstars/SAO/N.Walk/P.Edmonds.
“Galaxy clusters are the largest gravitationally bound structures in the universe,” stated Boston University astronomer Courtney Watson and her colleagues.
“These clusters contain hundreds or even thousands of galaxies, along with invisible dark matter and significant amounts of gas that fill the spaces between galaxies.”
The gas, heated to millions of degrees, emits X-ray light, allowing astronomers to study it effectively.
Utilizing NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory, astronomers have conducted the deepest X-ray observations of Abell 2029, a galaxy cluster approximately one billion light-years away in the constellation Virgo.
New data indicate that this galaxy cluster is continuing to settle after a violent collision with a smaller cluster around 4 billion years ago.
“The spiral shape of the hot gas likely formed when the gravitational forces from the cluster collision caused the gas to be pushed sideways, similar to how wine moves within a glass,” the researchers explained.
The sloshing spiral of Abell 2029 is one of the longest ever recorded, extending roughly two million light-years from its center.
“We have uncovered significant evidence of past collisions that have not been previously seen together in a cluster, enabling us to trace the cluster’s collision history with unprecedented detail.”
“For instance, we observe signs that the collision dispersed cold gas across a broad area.”
“The remnants of superheated gas from the collision may also produce shock waves akin to sonic booms generated by supersonic aircraft.”
“Additionally, the hot gas displays a ‘bay’ feature, likely resulting from the overlap between the outer section of the vortex and the materials stripped from the smaller clusters as they traversed the larger clusters.”
“We believe this indicates impact debris, although alternative explanations may exist.”
According to the researchers’ computer simulations, the smaller cluster’s mass was about one-tenth that of the larger cluster.
“The sloshing spiral emerged when a small star cluster initially passed through a larger one, pulling gas sideways,” the scientists noted.
“The gravity of the larger cluster then decelerated the smaller cluster, leading to a second collision.”
“This triggered the shockwave, creating a wake of material and forming a droplet field.”
To uncover these various features, the authors employed a specialized technique that analyzes how much the cluster’s hot gas deviates from a symmetrical shape.
“Most hot gases are symmetrical and roughly elliptical in shape.”
The team’s results were published in the Astrophysical Journal.
_____
Courtney B. Watson et al. 2026. Deep Chandra X-ray observations of A2029: Merger history of a relaxed and strong cool core cluster. APJ 996, 106; doi: 10.3847/1538-4357/ae2026
Paleontologists have unveiled an exciting discovery: a new genus and species of Somphospondylan titanosaur dinosaur, heralded as the largest ever found in Southeast Asia. Fossilized bones uncovered in Thailand provide compelling evidence that this region once hosted a remarkably diverse array of giant herbivores during the Early Cretaceous period.
Reconstruction of the life of Nagatitan chaiyapumensis in the arid floodplains of the Late Early Cretaceous Aptian-Albian period. Image credit: Pachanop Boonsai.
This newly described dinosaur species inhabited what is now northeastern Thailand approximately 113 million years ago.
Named Nagatitan chaiyapumensis, this ancient giant measured about 27 meters (89 feet) in length and weighed between 25 and 28 tons.
During its time, it coexisted with smaller plant-eating dinosaurs like iguanodonts and early ceratopsians, as well as predatory dinosaurs such as carcharodontosaurs and spinosaurs, alongside sharks, turtles, crocodile relatives, and pterosaurs.
“Our dinosaur is large by most standards, likely weighing at least 10 tons more than Dippy” (referring to Diplodocus carnegie), stated lead author Titiut (Pers) Sesapanitisakul from University College London.
“However, it still pales in comparison to massive sauropods like Patagotitan (60 tons) and Luyangosaurus (50 tons).
The fossil of Nagatitan chaiyapumensis was excavated from the Khok Kruat Formation in Chaiyaphum Province, Thailand.
“We consider Nagatitan chaiyapumensis the ‘last giant’ of Thailand,” Sesapanitisakul explained, “because it was found in a rock formation that contains the youngest dinosaurs.”
“Younger sediment deposited towards the end of the dinosaur era is unlikely to reveal dinosaur remains, as the area transformed into a shallow ocean by then.”
“This could represent the final or most recent large sauropod discovered in Southeast Asia.”
To classify Nagatitan chaiyapumensis, paleontologists compared its anatomy with over 150 other dinosaur species, situating it within the sauropod family tree.
The analysis established that the new species belongs to Euhelopodidae, a group of Somphospondylan titanosaurs primarily found in Asia.
This group also includes notable species such as Puwiangosaurus cylindornae from Thailand and Tanvayosaurus hofeti from Laos.
“This discovery highlights a trend of increased body size among Asian titanosaurs during the Mid-Cretaceous, likely driven by rising temperatures and the expansion of suitable habitats,” the researchers commented.
The identification of Nagatitan chaiyapumensis enhances the known diversity of sauropods in Southeast Asia and significantly contributes to our understanding of titanosaurs’ biogeography in this region.
The team’s paper has been published in the scientific journal Scientific Reports.
_____
T. Setapanitisakul et al. 2026. The first sauropod dinosaur discovered from the Early Cretaceous Khok Kruat Formation in Thailand enriches the diversity of vertebrate titanosaurids in Southeast Asia. Scientific Reports 16, 12467; doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-47482-x
A significant genetic study has unveiled that Australia’s so-called “wild dogs” are predominantly dingoes, redefining the discussions surrounding conservation and wildlife management in the region.
Australian dingo. Image credit: Charcolot.
“Dingoes fulfill a vital ecological role in the Australian ecosystem, being the only terrestrial apex predator on the mainland (and some offshore islands) since their arrival over 3,000 years ago,” stated Yassin Souilmi, a researcher at the University of Adelaide.
“They hold immense cultural significance for many Indigenous Australians, frequently appearing in ancestral songlines as essential contributors to ecological and cultural balance.”
“However, dingoes have historically clashed with livestock farmers since the colonial era (the 1800s), leading to extensive dingo management strategies implemented throughout Australia.”
In a groundbreaking new study, researchers examined over 300 free-roaming dogs across Australia and discovered that only 11.7% of their DNA originated from domestic dogs.
These domestic DNA levels were highest in southeastern Australia, particularly in Victoria and New South Wales, while being significantly lower in remote northern and western regions.
“Over the decades, various genetic tests have produced conflicting results regarding the composition of dingoes, which are descended from European dogs and free-roaming animals,” Dr. Souilmi explained.
“Our research utilized pre-colonial dingo DNA as a true benchmark to clarify this discrepancy, concluding that the majority of free-roaming dogs in Australia are indeed primarily dingoes.”
This revelation is supported by ancient DNA records and has profound implications for species classification and population management.
“The term ‘wild dog’ obscures crucial biological and cultural distinctions. Dingoes are fundamentally different from feral dogs,” Dr. Souilmi emphasized.
“Future wildlife management strategies should incorporate local insights and work closely with Australia’s Indigenous communities, who have long regarded dingoes as companions and relatives.”
This innovative testing technology maintains accuracy with a minimal number of DNA markers, paving the way for large-scale, cost-effective ancestry screening.
“Our test’s reliability with minimal markers means that ancestry screening can now be routinely employed,” explained lead author Dr. Shamsunder Ravishankar, also from the University of Adelaide.
“Wildlife organizations can now achieve dependable results without needing extensive whole-genome budgets.”
The study categorized Australian dingoes into eight genetically distinct populations, including two newly identified groups in northern and central Australia.
Considering domestic dog ancestry, the findings revealed that southeastern populations exhibit far less genetic diversity compared to those in northern and central regions.
Dingoes from the Mallee (Great Desert) in northwest Victoria stood out, showcasing even lower ancestral diversity than the small, isolated Kugari population.
“Eliminating the domestic dog component alters our understanding,” stated co-author Dr. Ní Chau Nguyen, also from the University of Adelaide.
“While the ancestors of domestic dogs increased the overall genetic variation among southeastern dingoes, they simultaneously compromised some genetic traits that distinguish these dingoes.”
“Our research also corroborated previous studies indicating that gene flow from European dogs to dingoes peaked in the mid-20th century, especially during the 1960s, coinciding with rapid post-war population growth and agricultural expansion in southeastern Australia.”
For detailed findings, see the published study in the journal Conservation Letters.
_____
Shamsundar Ravishankar et al. 2026. European dog admixture inference based on paleogenomics allows for scalable dingo conservation. Conservation Letters 19 (3): e70052; doi: 10.1111/con4.70052
Greenhouse gases play a crucial role in trapping heat in the atmosphere, and one significant gas found beneath the ocean floor is methane. This gas is often locked in an icy form known as methane hydrate. When methane hydrate begins to decompose or melt, methane gas is released into the ocean, potentially exacerbating global warming. Factors like thawing permafrost, tectonic activity, tidal shifts, and sea level changes can also trigger methane release from sediments. Despite ongoing research, scientists are still unraveling how these triggers will react to future climate changes.
Researchers have proposed that future global warming might accelerate the influx of methane into the oceans. To explore this hypothesis, they examined an ancient global warming episode that occurred approximately 56 million years ago, known as the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM). During this period, temperatures in the Arctic Ocean occasionally soared above 20°C (68°F), serving as a valuable comparison to the current warming conditions we face today.
Once methane is released into seawater, its outcome largely depends on two biological processes. Currently, around 90% of the methane emitted from the ocean floor is consumed by tiny organisms called microorganisms through a process known as anaerobic methane oxidation. During this process, microorganisms use methane along with sulfate, resulting in the production of solid iron-sulfur minerals called pyrite. Anaerobic methane oxidation effectively traps methane in minerals, preventing it from escaping into the atmosphere, thereby transforming the ocean into a reservoir, or sink, for methane.
However, excessive methane can overwhelm the sulfate-dependent cycle. In such cases, another group of microorganisms consumes methane along with oxygen through a process called aerobic methane oxidation. This process removes carbon dioxide, a potent greenhouse gas, from the ocean. While today, about 10% of oceanic methane consumption occurs via aerobic oxidation, this ratio may have differed in geological history.
To investigate the balance of anaerobic versus aerobic methane oxidation during the PETM, researchers analyzed sediments retrieved from the Arctic ocean floor. As sediments accumulate on the ocean floor, they compact over time. Scientists can drill deep and extract cylindrical samples, known as cores, from this compacted sediment.
Within a sediment core, the age of the material increases with depth, meaning that younger sediments are found at the top and older sediments at the bottom. For this project, the team worked with cores sourced from the Arctic Ocean, containing sediments up to 100 million years old. They found evidence of PETM deposits at a depth of 386 meters (1,266 feet) within these cores.
Researchers noted that microbes leave behind distinctive carbon-based molecules called organic biomarkers during decomposition. These organic biomarkers accumulate in sediment layers on the seafloor. Different types of methane-consuming microorganisms produce distinct biomarkers, one for anaerobic and another for aerobic methane oxidation. By measuring the abundance of these biomarkers in sediment cores, the team was able to determine which microorganisms prevailed during the PETM.
The biomarker indicative of aerobic methane oxidation is Hop(17)21-ene. The researchers observed a four-fold increase in Hop(17)21-ene during the PETM. Conversely, the biomarkers associated with anaerobic methane oxidation, Glycerol dialkyl tetraether, decreased by half. These trends suggested a rise in aerobic methane oxidation and a decline in anaerobic processes, attributed to the release of significant amounts of methane during warming conditions, which overwhelmed the sulfate-dependent methane cycle.
To estimate carbon dioxide output from aerobic methane oxidation during the PETM, researchers identified another biomarker in the sediment core, Fitan. This compound, produced by organisms that consume carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, offers clues about historical carbon dioxide levels. The study revealed that during the PETM and long thereafter, carbon dioxide concentrations in the Arctic Ocean were four times greater than today’s levels. This indicates that the Arctic Ocean remained a long-term source of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, even after the PETM period.
The research team proposed that the increased aerobic methane oxidation observed during the PETM could parallel current trends in the warming Arctic Ocean amid climate change. Their findings underscore the potential dangers of converting methane to carbon dioxide, which further warms the atmosphere, heats the oceans, and triggers additional methane release from the ocean floor—all contributing to a feedback loop that can escalate and hinder recovery efforts.
ALTADENA, Calif. — In response to alarming lead levels, an Altadena mother has initiated chelation therapy for her son. Geochemists are now required to don respirators and full-body suits before entering homes affected by contamination. A filmmaker has invested thousands in testing and remediation on his property, which once served as his home, to address heavy metal contamination—efforts not included in any government cleanup initiative.
Subscribe to read this story without ads
Enjoy unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.
Sixteen months post-Eaton Fire, the residents of Altadena are resorting to drastic measures to tackle severe contamination from toxic compounds like arsenic and asbestos affecting their homes and health. This pollution stems from an unprecedented urban firestorm which devastated numerous homes, releasing heavy metals into the air.
Despite efforts to clear charred debris and repair homes, tests indicated dangerously high lead levels—enough to threaten children’s health.
The Eaton fire not only destroyed structures but also left behind significant metal contamination. Evan Bush/NBC News
Jennifer Rochlin, a potter and single mother, shared, “I purchased a lead test from Amazon for $75 and after several tests, I found lead everywhere,” including in her HVAC system. Her insurance provider initially refused to authorize a lead inspection at her home.
Rochlin has relocated twice, incurring costs to replace absorbent household items like mattresses.
The events surrounding the Eaton Fire have resulted in many residents of Altadena, a suburb in northeastern Los Angeles, still not returning home. Nearly two-thirds of residents were adversely affected by the fire, leading to prolonged stays in temporary housing, creating financial burdens for individuals and insurance companies as policies expire.
Uncertainty surrounding the timeline for rebuilding has compelled academics, independent scientists, and community advocacy groups to undertake their own assessments of the contamination. Below is an account of these findings and the conflicts they incite, based on interviews with numerous affected residents, scientists addressing the pollution crisis, debris removal workers, local officials, and insurance representatives.
The shared experiences highlight the inadequacies of existing systems for responding to fire-related disasters, including insurance frameworks, restoration services, local governance, and environmental regulations.
“This was an urban fire, and the contamination we encountered was unlike anything seen in previous events,” stated Dawn Fanning, managing director of the nonprofit Eaton Fire Residents United.
Dawn Fanning, managing director of Eaton Fire Residents United, noted that approximately 70% of residents in smoke-damaged homes have yet to return. Evan Bush/NBC News
California currently lacks safety standards for indoor contamination from various hazardous substances prevalent in Altadena, aside from lead and asbestos. This absence complicates the decision-making process for homeowners and insurers regarding when it is safe to return to their properties. Moreover, testing companies don’t adhere to consistent methodologies. Areas affected by fire were not subjected to soil testing by FEMA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, leaving residents with significant information gaps regarding potential hazards.
Whistleblowers from the Corps involved in the cleanup have expressed concerns that communities may face lingering soil contamination issues.
Both individuals, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal, indicated that the cleanup process was rushed and plagued by inconsistencies. One whistleblower noted an alarming amount of debris left behind compared to past wildfire responses.
“This cleanup is subpar. We typically remove everything, going fence to fence, but this time ‘contaminants are still present,’” one individual remarked.
A spokesperson for the Corps stated that the cleanup’s scope, including the criteria for debris removal, was established by FEMA in coordination with California state officials and Los Angeles County.
“The assigned mission encompassed the removal of structural ash and debris, along with soil in the top six inches of the structural foundation,” the spokesperson clarified. “Soil testing was not included in the USACE mission directive from FEMA.”
The Hidden Soil Threat
Altadena embodies the intersection of nature and urban life.
Nestled against the San Gabriel Mountains, this area radiates warm terracotta hues at dusk, with the silhouettes of downtown Los Angeles visible in the distance.
The January 2025 Eaton Fire devastated 9,400 homes and structures, releasing smoke laden with lithium from electric car batteries, arsenic from antiquated wood, and asbestos from insulation. Winds during thefire reached up to 90 mph, propelling the flames.
Alireza Namayande, a National Science Foundation postdoctoral researcher at Stanford, collected smoke samples during the fire within the plume at Pasadena Park. His findings indicated that most particulates were nanoparticles, measuring one-thousandth the width of a human hair—capable of penetrating lungs, bloodstream, and brain.
Melting glaciers, such as those in the Ilulissat Icefjord, can trigger significant methane releases.
Gerald Wetzel, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Germany
Increasing alarms are being sounded over the potential for melting glaciers to unleash tremendous quantities of greenhouse gases, particularly methane. Recent studies indicate that meltwater is releasing frozen methane hydrates from sediments along the Greenland ice sheet’s edge, a phenomenon reminiscent of patterns observed during the last glacial maximum between 29,000 and 19,000 years ago.
Methane hydrate is created when gas molecules become entrapped within a structure of frozen water molecules, creating what resembles ice, often referred to as “fire ice.” Despite being composed of 85% water, these hydrates pose significant environmental concerns. Burning them could release vast amounts of methane.
These hydrates form under high-pressure and low-temperature conditions present in oceans, permafrost, or beneath glaciers. Some estimates suggest that methane hydrates could hold double the carbon content of all the earth’s coal, oil, and natural gas combined.
However, global warming is altering the cold, high-pressure conditions where methane hydrates exist. For instance, a mystery crater discovered on the Arctic ocean floor in 2014 was believed to have been caused by melting permafrost, which suddenly released pressure on methane hydrates, resulting in a “violent physical explosion,” per the findings of a 2024 survey.
New research indicates that meltwater from Greenland’s glaciers can also release methane hydrates. “We found a new mechanism for releasing methane that was previously thought to be stable,” said Dr. Mat’s Houuse, who led the study from the University of Manchester, UK.
Dr. Hughes and colleagues identified that methane hydrates frequently accumulate between sediment grains at the bottom of Melville Bay in northwestern Greenland. Seismic surveys by oil and gas companies noted 50 large pockmarks on the ocean floor, up to 37 meters deep, near grounding wedges where the last ice sheet once met the ocean floor.
Initially believed to be caused by iceberg movements, investigations through sediment core samples revealed the top sediment layer had minimal methane, despite ideal methane hydrate conditions. The findings indicated substantial fresh water instead of expected seawater, likely due to ice sheet melt. Researchers hypothesize that during the last glacial maximum, meltwater flowing under Melville Bay’s glaciers pushed out methane hydrates through the grounding wedge.
As other glaciers continue to recede under climate change, melting could similarly wash away hydrates at the edges of additional glaciers, posing a significant risk. “In the near past, perhaps 12,000 to 15,000 years ago, there was a considerable methane release. The same could occur tomorrow or in the next century with ongoing ice sheet retreat,” warns Dr. Hughes. “Such events carry alarming implications since we’ve never accounted for them before.”
While the study does not quantify the methane released in Melville Bay, estimates suggest it could be around 130 million tonnes, equating to around two years of fossil fuel emissions. However, Dr. Hughes notes this methane could have been released over a century, rather than in a short timespan, making it a monumental yet singular event.
Additionally, methane dissolves in seawater, and not all of it may escape into the atmosphere, contingent on its saturation levels.
The Antarctic ice sheet likely contains even more methane hydrate than Greenland. Within polar regions, estimates suggest that between 100 billion and 760 billion tonnes of methane are potentially stored in subglacial and ocean hydrates. Even a small release could rival the 48.7 million tonnes of methane currently emitted annually from Arctic and boreal regions, predominantly from wetlands, lakes, and rivers, and could significantly exacerbate climate change.
Methane is already emanating from beneath the Greenland ice sheet. A recent study suggests that snowmelt across western Greenland contributes about 715 tonnes of methane each year. While some may derive from hydrates, it’s more likely to result from ancient plant material transformed into methane gas by bacteria beneath the ice, according to researcher Jade Hutton. This trend could escalate.
“If melting intensifies, it may tap into subglacial regions housing preserved organic carbon stocks that can easily convert to methane,” Hutton states. “This could lead to sizeable future releases.”
Vocal Fry: Challenging Stereotypes about Women’s Speech
Cavan Image/Alamy
Have you tuned into a podcast or scrolled through TikTok? If so, you’ve likely encountered vocal fry—a unique sound produced when speaking in a deep vocal range. Although commonly linked with young women, recent research reveals a lack of substantial evidence supporting this stereotype.
Vocal fry happens when vocal cords are relaxed, leading to a distinct sound as airflow decreases towards the end of a statement. However, in popular culture, this phenomenon is often viewed negatively, particularly concerning young women. A recent study by Jeanne Brown and her team at McGill University, Montreal, is encouraging a reconsideration of these biases.
The researchers analyzed voice recordings from 49 Canadians obtained online, focusing on specific acoustic markers characteristic of youthful voices, such as tonal irregularities. Surprisingly, these vocal traits were found to be more common in men. Additionally, the study indicated that vocal squeakiness tends to increase with age, demonstrating that being young or female does not define the squeakiest voices.
Professor Brown stated that previous studies also align with their findings on vocal squeaks as acoustic features, but the reason behind their association with women remains unclear. “Perhaps the way we process the acoustic signals influences our perception of women’s voices,” she noted.
To explore this further, 40 participants listened to audio samples featuring manipulated voices that varied in squeakiness and gender ambiguity. Participants could identify the squeaky sound but struggled to attribute it exclusively to either gender. Brown’s research was presented at the Acoustical Society of America meeting on May 14th in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
“Both controlled studies did not support the theory that women’s voices are inherently louder,” Brown explained.
Researchers including Lisa Davidson from New York University found that while people generally recognize squeaky voices accurately, biases based on social and cultural factors influence perception. Age also played a role; older individuals often rated squeaky voices less favorably compared to younger listeners. “It’s noteworthy that negative media portrayals rarely mention annoying male voices,” Davidson emphasized.
“Perceptions surrounding vocal fry and squeaky voices extend beyond sound,” remarked Brown. “Judgments may stem from societal interpretations about the individuals behind the voices, including the social groups they are perceived to represent.”
Picture a quantum computer. You might think of it as a traditional computer but enhanced. However, this assumption is misleading. Quantum computers operate on unique quantum phenomena occurring in qubits, setting them apart from classical computers. Their unusual nature gives rise to myths and misconceptions. Quantum computing expert Shayan Majidi, lead author at Harvard University, provides insights in Building a Quantum Computer. Here, we explore the latest developments in this field.
1. Quantum Computers Are Already Here
Recently, while flying, a fellow passenger asked, “When will we actually have quantum computers?” The reality is they already exist and are in use daily. Researchers across the globe are utilizing quantum computers, with some companies offering public access, enabling individuals to harness their power from home.
However, quantum computers don’t resemble the large-scale language models we routinely use on laptops. These machines are specialized tools, and their applications greatly differ. Scientists are continually enhancing quantum computers, using them to create foundational elements for future systems or to explore fundamental scientific inquiries.
We’re on the verge of showcasing how quantum computers can solve problems that classical systems cannot. In the next 5 to 10 years, I anticipate that students will routinely access quantum computers via the cloud for experimental purposes.
2. Quantum Computers Won’t Simplify All Calculations
A common misconception is that quantum computers will surpass classical systems in speed, rendering them obsolete. In reality, quantum computers excel in specific applications rather than offering a blanket increase in speed.
Notable examples include factoring large numbers faster than any classical algorithm, which is crucial for decryption, and rapidly searching unstructured data. Additionally, quantum systems excel in simulating quantum phenomena, conducting sampling tasks, solving specific optimization challenges, and addressing linear algebra problems under particular conditions.
The advantage of quantum systems lies not in speed but in the thoughtfully designed quantum algorithms they utilize. These algorithms take advantage of critical quantum effects, like superposition, interference, and entanglement, making them highly effective for a narrow range of applications.
For the vast majority of tasks—like web browsing, texting, or gaming—quantum computers provide no tangible benefits over conventional laptops. Problems that are deemed quantum-easy are complex for classical computers, and vice versa. Thus, utilizing quantum computers for simple tasks would be a massive inefficiency.
3. Quantum Computers Are Not Equivalent to Multiple Classical Computers Working Simultaneously
Many envision quantum computers operating by placing qubits in a superposition, enabling simultaneous calculations; however, this is a misconception. A superposition state indicates that a qubit can represent both 0 and 1 at once. For n qubits, the potential states are exponentially large, approximately 2n options. However, the idea of infinite parallelism is a myth since you cannot read this information directly. Once a qubit is measured, it collapses into a conventional classical value.
The true capabilities of quantum computers are more intricate. They can generate numerous answers and leverage algorithms to enhance correct responses while diminishing incorrect ones. A well-designed algorithm integrates these superimposed possibilities, ensuring that the accurate answer surfaces during the final measurement.
Scanning Electron Micrograph: Fetal Muscle Cells Differentiating into Skeletal Muscle Cells
Credit: Steve Gschmeisner/Science Photo Library
A groundbreaking study shows that by reactivating stem cells from aging mice’s muscles, researchers can significantly enhance muscle growth and recovery from injury. This innovative approach may pave the way for rejuvenating aging muscles in humans.
“Theoretically, if muscle stem cells from older individuals were extracted, rejuvenated, and reintroduced, we could see enhanced functionality,” states James White from Duke University, North Carolina.
Muscle stem cells typically remain dormant in muscle tissue but spring into action when damage occurs, facilitating the repair process. “Muscle tissue is particularly vulnerable to mechanical strain and relies on regeneration,” explains White. “The soreness you feel after a workout is a sign of muscle damage. Your immune system interacts with stem cells, enabling the repair of muscle tissue through the creation of new cells.”
As we age, however, the quantity of muscle stem cells diminishes, complicating the regeneration process. In experiments with mice, White and his team found that aging muscle stem cells exhibit a reduction in the enzyme glutaminase, which hampers the production of essential lipid molecules, such as palmitate and oleate. “Stem cells must significantly enlarge to become muscle cells, requiring lipids for building cell membranes and energy,” emphasizes White.
To address this deficiency, researchers harvested muscle stem cells from older mice and enriched them with additional palmitic and oleic acids. These enhanced stem cells were injected into the injured leg muscles of other aged mice, resulting in a 45 percent increase in muscle fiber growth compared to untreated stem cells. The mice also demonstrated improved mobility during treadmill tests and other physical assessments.
Similar reductions in glutaminase levels in human muscle stem cells with age may explain the observed decline in muscle mass, strength, and recovery capacity, which often leads to decreased mobility and an increased risk of falls.
Researchers propose that increasing glutaminase or lipid levels in muscle stem cells could mitigate or even reverse muscle degeneration, according to David Lee, also from Duke University. “We are currently exploring avenues to translate these findings into clinical applications,” he adds.
However, consuming glutaminase, palmitate, or oleate as oral supplements may not be effective, as inadequate amounts can reach the stem cells within the muscles. Furthermore, there is a potential cancer risk associated with these substances, as they are also utilized by cancer cells. White suggests a safer approach may involve extracting stem cells from older individuals, activating them with enzymes and nutrients in a lab setting, and reintegrating them into the body.
It is important to note that young athletes and bodybuilders may not achieve greater muscle growth or recovery through this method, as they typically do not experience a deficiency in stem cells. “Their muscles are already abundant with functional stem cells,” White remarks.
In related research, the Florida-based company Longveron is investigating the potential of injecting young individuals’ stem cells to rejuvenate muscle function and combat frailty in older adults. This involves harvesting mesenchymal stem cells capable of transforming into various cell types, including muscle cells, from healthy bone marrow donors aged 18 to 45. Clinical trials have shown promising results, with frail volunteers aged 75 to 80 able to walk more effectively after intravenous injections of young stem cells.
Remnants of Wildfire in Glacier National Park, Montana
Gorsky/Nurfoto/Shutterstock
In 2021, underground coal seams ignited,
sparking a wildfire in Poverty Flats, Montana, that scorched 267 square kilometers and decimated about 50,000 trees, primarily ponderosa pines. This devastation impacted ranching operations at Gentry Ranch, where cattle found shade.
Scorched remnants remained scattered across the barren landscape. These “widows” pose risks, as they can drop unexpectedly, causing harm to livestock and potentially fueling future wildfires. Traditional methods would involve burning the downed trees, releasing approximately 7,000 tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere.
However, innovative excavating tactics were employed. A bulldozer and specialized felling machinery relocated the trees into a 5,000 square meter pit, which was subsequently covered with six meters of earth, gravel, and polypropylene cloth. Mast Reforestation, the organization behind this initiative, asserts that this process will inhibit decay for centuries, thus curbing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating future wildfire risks. They also have the opportunity to generate carbon credits to finance the planting of new trees.
“This is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for forest management, it’s a significant advancement,” declares Grant Canary from Mast Reforestation.
The United Nations Climate Change Agency states that offsetting hard-to-reduce emissions will require CO2 extraction techniques, including tree planting and air filtration systems. Plants, including trees, absorb CO2 as they grow, but they also release it upon decay. To combat this paradox, startups are converting forestry and agricultural residues into biochar, which can be applied to fields, formed into bricks, or stored underground.
Mast has expanded its focus to include wildfire-damaged timber. Historically, the West has experienced wildfires that have grown exponentially larger, with current conditions potentially leading to another severe wildfire season following this spring’s extreme heat.
Approximately half of wood mass remains after a wildfire, with carbon content remaining substantial. For the Gentry project, Mast meticulously calculated the CO2-equivalent mass of logged trees, estimating around 7,000 tons using nitrogen and moisture levels, eventually selling 4,277 verified carbon credits through the Puro.Earth registry.
For bulk buyers, these carbon credits are available for less than $200 each—more expensive than traditional tree-planting credits but competitive with biochar credits.
Ponderosa Pine Seedlings on Eastern Montana Property Affected by Wildfires
Mast Reforestation
Mast has allocated a portion of its profits to cultivate seedlings, planting them on ranch areas which saves owners from the hefty costs associated with land clearing. In Montana, around 6.5 million tons of trees destroyed by fire remains available for recovery, according to Canary. The company is now preparing to expand its operations with a goal of processing 150,000 tons of timber annually by 2030.
The Puro.Earth guideline indicates that sequestration through buried biomass can last beyond a century. Research in 2022 found that a cedar log buried near Montreal retained 95% of its carbon after 3,775 years. However, exposed wood can begin to decompose in just a few months under unfavorable conditions.
Wood-decaying fungi and bacteria thrive on oxygen, moisture, and warmth. By isolating wood from air, these microorganisms can be neutralized. Ning Zeng from the University of Maryland discovered that burying logs under at least one meter of clay-rich soil is effective in preventing air infiltration.
Although soils in the western U.S. are predominantly stony, impermeable deposits like glacial fields can still be available near burn zones. Further research is crucial to understand optimal conditions for wood preservation, Zeng suggests.
“While we support these commercial initiatives, the primary concern remains proper execution,” says Zeng. “It’s essential for implementers to be well-informed, as precise scientific guidance is still evolving.”
If buried wood were to decompose, emissions could soar as machinery operates for removal or relocation. Excavation can also disrupt vegetation and release soil carbon; however, maintaining the integrity of the topsoil and applying it back over can mitigate this impact, according to Zeng.
A former employee’s wrongful dismissal claim alleged that the company inflated the values of carbon credits sold through reforestation efforts that excluded dead tree burial. Mast has since resolved the lawsuit, assuring that its operations remain unaffected.
Certainly! Here’s the SEO-optimized rewrite of your content while keeping the HTML structure intact:
Asteroid 2026JH2 Approaches Earth Safely
Mark Garlick/Science Photo Library/Getty Images
An asteroid known as 2026JH2 is set to make a close approach to Earth next week. Estimated to be around 90,917 kilometers away, it will pass at a quarter of the distance between Earth and the Moon.
According to Dr. Mark Norris from the University of Lancashire, UK, “Astronomically speaking, that’s as close as you can get without a collision.”
Only five asteroids are predicted to pass within the Moon’s orbit this year, with 2026JH2 being the second closest.
Discovered by the Mount Lemmon Survey in Arizona and the Far Point Observatory in Kansas, 2026JH2 will reach its closest point to Earth on May 18th at 9 p.m. UTC. Norris points out that viewing the asteroid will be challenging for southern hemisphere astronomers due to its brief visibility and its high speed of 9.17 kilometers per second, akin to that of a satellite.
Its diameter ranges from 16 to 36 meters, based on data released by Solmano Observatory. “If 2026JH2 were to hit Earth, it would be capable of causing significant destruction, similar to a city-wide catastrophe,” Norris warns.
Astronomers believe they have identified and monitored nearly all asteroids over 1 kilometer in our solar system. As detection techniques advance, we will increasingly catalog smaller asteroids, like 2026JH2, which can be challenging to observe due to inadequate light reflection, according to Dr. Mark Burchell from the University of Kent, UK. “Such small bodies are difficult to detect.”
If 2026JH2 were to collide with Earth, it could unleash energy comparable to that of the 2013 Chelyabinsk meteorite, which produced 30 times the kinetic energy of the Hiroshima bomb, reports the head of the European Space Agency’s Planetary Defense Directorate, Richard Moisle.
Topics:
This version retains the HTML structure while enhancing SEO elements, such as including keywords related to asteroids, adding alt text for the image, and improving clarity and readability.
Suzanne Simard and Rowan Hooper Discuss the ‘Mother Tree’ Concept
Forest ecologist Suzanne Simard, a trailblazer in the spirit of Jane Goodall, Rachel Carson, and Lynn Margulis, has transformed our understanding of trees. In her pivotal 1997 paper, she revealed how trees connect and exchange nutrients via an underground fungal network, famously dubbed the ‘Wood Wide Web’ by Nature.
In 2021, Simard published Finding the Mother Tree: Revealing the Wisdom and Intelligence of the Forest, captivating a broader audience eager for insights into natural communities. However, like James Lovelock’s Gaia hypothesis, her claims sparked controversy among some researchers who questioned the concept of resource-sharing among trees.
Raised in a logging family, Simard is acutely aware of the ecological damage wrought by unsustainable forestry practices. Currently, she leads the Mother Tree Project at the University of British Columbia in Canada, aimed at exploring and understanding tree relationships in forest ecosystems. Her latest release, When the Forest Breathes, serves as a sequel to Finding the Mother Tree.
Rowan Hooper: What is the ‘Mother Tree’ concept?
Suzanne Simard: My research demonstrates that trees form interconnected communities. In British Columbia’s rainforests, we’ve shown that trees communicate and share resources through a fungal network. The ‘Mother Tree’ emerges as the most connected tree, facilitating the exchange of resources and nurturing seedlings that regenerate forests.
Essentially, the Mother Tree is the largest and oldest tree, playing a vital role in forest regeneration.
Does this network also connect different species?
Yes, indeed. My research, highlighted in Nature, examined how species like paper birch and Douglas fir share resources. The allocation of these resources is influenced by each tree’s photosynthetic capacity throughout different seasons and conditions.
When did you first face backlash?
The initial criticism emerged in the late 90s, mainly from British scientists who claimed insufficient evidence existed. After addressing their concerns, the critique waned. However, following the release of Finding the Mother Tree, a larger wave of criticism surfaced.
A recent review suggested inadequate evidence that fungal networks persist long-term. How did you respond?
Critics have focused on perceived flaws and questioned our claims about the significance of fungal networks, often downplaying the role of competition in forests. I systematically addressed these critiques but found it disheartening. Fortunately, engaging with Indigenous communities in rainforests deepened my understanding and resolve to continue advocating for these concepts.
Suzanne Simard’s Latest Book, When the Forest Breathes
Allen Lane
Are you still identifying as a scientist?
Absolutely! I embrace my scientific identity.
Do you think science alone is enough for your mission?
I often refer to myself as a “recovering scientist.” While I employ the scientific method and value peer-reviewed processes, I recognize its limitations. My goal is to deepen public understanding of our relationship with the natural world, incorporating Indigenous knowledge systems.
So you apply scientific methods while also sharing broader narratives?
Indeed! Our societies are built on interconnected relationships, and I wanted to communicate that. Many people are losing touch with their roots, and the scientific community isn’t always conveying this urgency, which propelled me to write my books.
Is such storytelling part of the criticism you faced?
To resonate with audiences, you must engage their imagination. While scientific writing is efficient for conveying facts, stories capture imaginations. When I blend my scientific insights with personal narratives, people connect more deeply.
Can you tell us about the Mother Tree Project?
Covering 1,000 kilometers, the Mother Tree Project spans various climatic zones. This research aims to understand how forests might evolve with changing climates, focusing on methods to conserve old trees while managing younger trees.
Our findings underscore the significance of preserving old trees: they safeguard carbon stores and protect biodiversity, vital for species thriving in ancient woodlands.
“We’re finding… that leaving old trees behind really matters,” says Simard
Jonathan Brady/PA Images/Alamy
Did James Cameron’s Avatar draw inspiration from your research?
Absolutely! I initially thought they were merely intrigued, but I later learned they intended to reference my work. It was a thrilling acknowledgment.
While Avatar expands beyond science, it portrays increasing interconnectedness. How do you view this?
Children naturally understand the vastness of our world. Trees were my childhood friends, and I realized early on my intrinsic connection to nature.
Did this understanding persist while you were part of the forestry industry?
Indeed. I always sensed a connection with the forest, yet my formal education pushed the idea that trees operated as individuals rather than part of interconnected systems. However, I had to realign my understanding with what I intuitively knew to effect change in forestry practices.
What drives your mission to transform forestry?
The forestry industry’s extractive nature threatens native forests. However, public sentiment is shifting as awareness of industrial logging’s impact grows. People are demanding change, but much has been lost along the way.
This is an edited version of an interview from New Scientist‘s podcast, The World, The Universe, and Us.
Gerald Wetzel, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Germany
Following the last glacial maximum, meltwater has washed frozen methane hydrate from sediments along the edge of Greenland’s ice sheet, raising significant concerns about the potential release of this powerful greenhouse gas due to melting glaciers.
Methane hydrate forms when gas molecules are trapped within a lattice of water molecules and freeze into a solid, often referred to as “fire ice.” Despite being composed of 85% water, its flammability is notable.
This unique structure forms under high pressure and low temperature conditions found in oceans, permafrost, or beneath glacial sediments. Estimates suggest that methane hydrate may contain double the carbon found in all coal, oil, and traditional gas resources on Earth.
However, climate change is disturbing the cold, pressurized environments necessary for the stability of methane hydrate. For instance, some scientists suggest that a mysterious ocean floor crater discovered beneath the Arctic in 2014 was formed by the sudden release of pressure on methane hydrate due to thawing permafrost, described as a “violent physical explosion” in a 2024 study.
Recent research from Greenland indicates that methane hydrate can also be released by glacier meltwater flows. “We discovered a new release mechanism for methane that was assumed to be secure,” says Dr. Mat’s House from the University of Manchester, UK. “What we previously thought was stable is, in fact, methane.”
Hughes and his team recognized that methane hydrate is often found in spaces between sediment grains in Melville Bay, northwestern Greenland. Seismic surveys conducted by oil and gas companies during 2011 and 2013 revealed 50 large pockmarks on the ocean floor, some reaching depths of 37 meters, situated near long grounding wedges. These are locations where the floating ice sheet met the ocean floor during the peak of the last ice age.
Initially, researchers believed these pockmarks were caused by icebergs tipping over. However, drilling sediment cores in the area revealed that the upper sediment layer contained minimal methane, despite ideal temperature and pressure conditions for methane hydrate formation.
Moreover, significant amounts of freshwater were located in the sediment, contradicting the expected seawater findings, a situation only possible due to recent ice sheet melting. The research indicates that during the last glacial maximum, meltwater flowing under glaciers in Melville Bay likely passed through the grounding wedge, pushing out methane hydrate.
As climate change leads to glacier retreat, meltwater might similarly erode hydrates at the edges of other glaciers, Hughes notes. Grounding zone wedges exist across the Arctic, potentially signifying similar risks.
“Perhaps 12,000 to 15,000 years ago, a substantial amount of methane was released. A similar event could occur imminently with ongoing ice sheet retreat,” he warns. “This is concerning as it’s an aspect we’ve yet to fully consider.”
While the study does not estimate the methane released from Melville Bay, Hughes hypothesizes it could be around 130 million tonnes, approximately equivalent to two years’ worth of fossil fuel emissions. However, he notes this methane might have released over a century rather than in a short timeframe, characterizing it as a singular release event.
Furthermore, methane is water-soluble, and depending on saturation levels, not all of it may transition into the atmosphere.
The Antarctic ice sheet likely harbors even more methane hydrate compared to Greenland. Overall, it is estimated that between 100 billion and 760 billion tons of methane exist in subglacial and ocean hydrates across polar regions. A fraction of this could match the 48.7 million tonnes of methane currently released annually from the Arctic and boreal zones, potentially accelerating global warming.
Methane is already seeping from beneath the Greenland ice sheet. A recent study published this month estimates that snowmelt flowing through western Greenland emits around 715 tonnes of methane each year. Though some may stem from hydrates, it’s more likely derived from ancient plant matter converted to methane by bacteria thriving under the ice, led in research by Jade Hutton from the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology. This trend may intensify in the future.
“As melting accelerates, it may access regions of the subglacial system harboring well-preserved organic carbon that can be converted to methane,” she predicts. “This could lead to sizable releases in the future.”
In 1941, the battleship USS Arizona sank during the attack on Pearl Harbor, along with approximately 5,000 tons of oil stored in its fuel tanks.
This oil has been leaking gradually for the past 84 years, with the tank still estimated to be half full.
While this represents the longest duration of human-induced oil spillage, its volume is significantly smaller compared to others globally. For instance, the Coal Oil Point seep area off the coast of California contributes a much larger output.
This location naturally leaks around 17 tons of oil into the ocean daily and has been doing so for at least 500,000 years.
This article responds to the query posed by Joshua Hughes via email: “What is the world’s longest oil spill?”
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out via email:questions@sciencefocus.com or send us a message onFacebook,Twitter, orInstagram(please remember to include your name and location).
Explore our ultimatefun facts and discover more amazing science content.
Read more:
In this optimized HTML content, I’ve made sure to include relevant keywords like “USS Arizona,” “oil spillage,” and “Coal Oil Point” to improve SEO while maintaining the integrity and meaning of the original text.
Neanderthal dentistry may have been remarkably advanced, according to a recent study led by scientists from the Russian Academy of Sciences in St. Petersburg.
This study examined a 59,000-year-old molar tooth discovered in Chagyrskaya Cave, Russia, featuring a deep central hole.
Archaeologists believe that the tooth was intentionally punctured with a sharp tool to treat an infection and alleviate pain.
This represents the oldest known dental evidence, dating back over 40,000 years and surpassing previous findings from about 14,000 years ago in Italy, which were previously considered the first examples of dental treatment by Homo sapiens.
“What surprised me was that the owner of this tooth understood exactly what was causing the pain and intuitively knew it could be alleviated,” remarked the first author, Dr. Aliza Zubova from the Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnology, Russian Academy of Sciences.
“Neither Neanderthals nor even later modern humans have encountered anything like this before.”
To investigate the treatment of this tooth, archaeologists utilized a method known as microtomography to capture highly detailed X-rays. This analysis revealed microscopic grooves on the tooth’s surface.
Researchers performed experiments on modern human teeth, attempting to replicate similar holes and markings using techniques accessible to Neanderthals.
Neanderthal tooth labeled Chagyrskaya 64, photographed from five angles – Image credit: Zubova et al., 2026, PLOS One, CC-BY 4.0
Senior author Dr. Kseniya Korobova from the Siberian branch of the Russian Academy stated that these experiments showcased the technical proficiency of the procedures, involving the removal of carious tissue via deep holes in the tooth.
“It’s important to remember that we couldn’t fully replicate the real-life conditions,” she noted. “The inflammation and swelling in the oral cavity would have introduced additional challenges during the procedure.”
She emphasized that the mouth is a “complex area to work,” necessitating “manual dexterity, patience, and a caregiver to keep the head still.”
Remarkably, all of this was achieved without anesthesia. Thus, while the patient likely experienced pain, archaeologists believe the method effectively alleviated tooth discomfort.
Second author Dr. Lydia Zotkina remarked, “What astonishes me is the incredible willpower this Neanderthal must have possessed.”
“This finding is a striking illustration of how archaeological evidence allows us to gain insights into past lives, revealing the strength and resilience of these individuals. Every visit to the dentist now reminds me of that Neanderthal.”
For Zubova, this research contributes to a growing body of evidence indicating that Neanderthals provided care for one another regularly.
“Historically, Neanderthals have been viewed as more primitive than modern humans, making their care for Middle Paleolithic community members an exception,” she explains.
“As evidence accumulates, it increasingly suggests that Neanderthals cared for the sick and infirm just like modern humans.”
During the Neoproterozoic Era (1 billion to 538.8 million years ago), Earth underwent dramatic climate fluctuations, notably the Sturtian Ice Age, where ice is believed to have enveloped the planet. Understanding the geological record and the survival of life during this pivotal event has remained a significant challenge. Geochronological studies indicate that the Sturtian Ice Age persisted for an astonishing 56 million years, far exceeding predictions made by conventional climate models. A recent study from Harvard University proposes that Earth may have experienced cycles of ice-covered and ice-free states during the Sturtian period.
Artist’s impression of ‘Snowball Earth’. Image credit: Oleg Kuznetsov, http://3depix.com/ CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The global glaciation that occurred near the advent of animal life, known as the Neoproterozoic Snowball Earth event, represents one of the most severe climate transformations in Earth’s history and likely had profound effects on biological evolution,” stated Charlotte Minsky, a Harvard graduate student, along with her research team.
“However, the causes, severity, and ecological impacts of these glaciations continue to be the subject of intense debate.”
Employing a coupled model of ancient climate systems and the global carbon cycle, researchers propose that Earth was not trapped in a singular, incessant snowball state.
Their simulations indicate that extensive weathering of basalt in the Franklin Igneous Province, a significant volcanic area in northern Canada that likely erupted prior to the Sturtian Ice Age, dramatically reduced atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, leading to multiple global ice ages.
As volcanic activity and other processes gradually rebuilt atmospheric carbon dioxide, global temperatures rose, ice melted, and previously covered basalt regions were exposed once more.
This renewed decomposition through weathering replenished carbon dioxide, triggering another snowball cycle.
The authors contend that this recurring cycle of freezing and thawing driven by carbon dioxide could sustain glacial and interglacial variations for tens of millions of years.
The mechanisms revealed in this study address several longstanding discrepancies, particularly the duration of the Sturtian Ice Age, which was previously challenging to reconcile with established climate models.
This research aligns with sedimentation patterns from that era, elucidating how atmospheric oxygen levels could remain stable amidst extreme climatic shifts.
Moreover, frequent returns to warmer, ice-free states may have been critical in preventing a total collapse of atmospheric oxygen.
“This discovery may elucidate how aerobic life continued to thrive throughout such severe intervals,” Minsky noted.
For more details, refer to the study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
_____
Charlotte Minsky et al. 2026. The snowball greenhouse cycle repeats within Neoproterozoic Sturtian glaciers. PNAS 123 (19): e2525919123; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2525919123
In November 2025, scientists seized a historic opportunity when the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS passed between ESA’s Jupiter Icy Moons probe (JUICE) and NASA’s Europa Clipper spacecraft. This unique alignment allowed one spacecraft to capture the comet’s dazzling dayside while the other focused on its dusty nightside.
In November 2025, 3I/ATLAS passed between ESA’s Juice spacecraft and NASA’s Europa Clipper spacecraft. Image credit: NASA/ESA/Southwest Research Institute.
“As the comet journeyed between Juice and Europa Clipper, we successfully coordinated informal observations between the two spacecraft,” stated Dr. Kurt Retherford, a planetary researcher at the Southwest Research Institute.
“We notably observed emissions of hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon,” he added.
“These elements arise when gases leaking from a comet’s core break down into atoms upon exposure to sunlight.”
This exceptional observation leveraged the ultraviolet spectrometer (UVS) instruments aboard both the Juice and Europa Clipper spacecraft.
“Studying interstellar comets has provided exciting bonus science,” remarked Dr. Philippa Molyneux, also from the Southwest Research Institute.
“The resulting rare data set includes valuable insights into gas emissions and airborne dust.”
“This marks the first instance of directly observing the coma of a gas-emitting comet from two perspectives simultaneously.”
“While Europa Clipper captured the comet’s night side, abundant with dust, Juice documented the glowing gas of the day side.”
Early findings indicated that carbon emissions from 3I/ATLAS were unexpectedly high compared to typical solar system comets, corroborating other observations regarding the origin and composition of interstellar comets.
By examining trends in emissions over multiple days, researchers can track changes in the molecular ratio as the comet traverses the solar system.
“Studying the ratio of water ice to dry ice allows us to compare this interstellar comet’s composition with those from our solar system,” Molyneux explained.
“This analysis will illuminate whether the solar system in which 3I/ATLAS formed is similar to or different from our own.”
“I found the collaboration with Europa Clipper to be a rewarding demonstration of how both projects can synergize their observation programs,” Dr. Retherford commented.
“The SwRI team is involved in both missions, making this a special highlight in our collaborative efforts.”
The recent discovery of fossils, including those of a giant tortoise, ground sloth, a lion-sized armadillo relative known as pampatea, a striped-toothed cat, and others such as horses, camels, and mastodons in Bender’s Cave on Texas’ Edwards Plateau, may unveil a previously unknown warm period about 100,000 years ago.
An artistic representation of Ice Age mammals: Fossils of species resembling the armadillo-like pampatea and giant sloth were found in a Texas water cave. Image credit: Jaime Chirinos.
Bender’s Cave, situated on private land in Comal County, serves as a crucial fossil repository. This underground water channel, significant for central Texas’ groundwater system, is reported to be dense with fossils.
“I’ve never encountered a cave with so many fossils scattered around. The bones were literally everywhere,” commented John Moretti, a paleontologist at the University of Texas at Austin.
The bones were believed to have entered the cave through a sinkhole triggered by erosion and flooding thousands of years ago, where they have been preserved ever since.
“Evidence suggests that these fossils could be from the last warm interglacial phase, approximately 100,000 years ago,” Dr. Moretti stated.
“Despite extensive paleontological studies in the area over the past century, no fossils from this epoch had been previously identified in central Texas.”
“This discovery is providing invaluable insights, showcasing the area’s unique environmental and animal communities, which are unlike anything documented before in Texas.”
Dr. Moretti and local caver John Young extracted fossils from 21 distinct zones within Bender’s Cave.
To access the fossils, we donned goggles and snorkels, crawling along the riverbed where collecting was effortless—simply pulling bones from the river’s bottom without needing to excavate them.
Remarkable finds include hespero test do giant tortoise bones, giant sloth Megalonix Jeffer Sonnypanpasser, and remains from scimitar-toothed cats homotherium serum, horses, camels, and mastodons.
All fossils displayed a polished, rounded appearance with comparable rust-red mineralization, indicating they were deposited in the cave at roughly the same time.
“This study highlights the fact that even in a well-explored region like central Texas, new discoveries continue to emerge,” commented Dr. David Ledesma from St. Edward’s University, not involved in the research.
The team’s findings are published in the journal Quaternary Research, detailing how these late Pleistocene megafauna could hold evidence of the last interglacial period. For more information, visit the published study.
_____
John A. Moretti and John Young. 2026. Discovery of late Pleistocene megafauna at Bender’s Cave on the Edwards Plateau in Texas may indicate evidence of the last interglacial period. Quaternary Research 131: 134-160; doi: 10.1017/qua.2025.10071
A groundbreaking synthetic process has successfully engineered bacteria to produce Gadusol, a natural compound that protects transparent fish eggs from harmful sunlight. This innovation brings us closer to creating a sustainable sunscreen alternative for humans, which is more environmentally friendly.
Naturally found in species like zebrafish, salmon, and sturgeon eggs, as well as in coral, Gadusol offers vital protection against UV damage. Its limited availability from natural sources makes it impractical for widespread use as a sunscreen.
A team led by Jiang Ping at Jiangnan University in China successfully inserted zebrafish genes into Escherichia coli to provide the necessary enzymes for Gadusol synthesis. The research team enhanced Gadusol production by using small RNA molecules and optimizing growth conditions, achieving an impressive nearly 93-fold increase—from 45.2 mg to 4.2 grams per liter of culture medium.
Initial experiments indicate that Gadusol possesses antioxidant properties comparable to vitamin C, potentially neutralizing harmful free radicals that damage cells. However, researchers from New Scientist did not respond to interview requests regarding further details.
Unlike melanin, Gadusol is transparent, effectively blocking UV rays while allowing for stealth in organisms. James Gagnon from the University of Utah, a key contributor to the research, noted, “I don’t think we necessarily get the credit we deserve. This is an amazing molecule.” Gagnon emphasized the need for further studies but mentioned that Gadusol is likely safe for humans and the environment since many animals already utilize it. Its transparency avoids the milky residue left by conventional sunscreens.
“Everyone is hinting this could be a great sunscreen for humans,” Gagnon explains. “However, two hurdles remain before Gadusol can be commercialized: developing a cost-effective manufacturing method and finding chemical combinations that provide long-lasting formulations.”
“While Gadusol may be the active ingredient, future sunscreen products will involve a variety of components to ensure Gadusol adheres to the skin and resists washing away,” Gagnon states. “There is still significant work to be done in materials science.”
Topics:
This optimized version enhances clarity and SEO performance while preserving HTML tags.
Certainly! Here’s a rewritten version of your content, optimized for SEO, while keeping the HTML structure intact:
A tooth discovered in Sunjiadong, China. Homo erectus.
Credit: Qiaomei Fu, Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
For the first time, researchers have successfully extracted significant amounts of preserved protein from fossils attributed to ancient humans, specifically Homo erectus.
While previous discoveries of H. erectus fossils exist, this is the first instance revealing substantial insights into this species. The recovered protein indicates interbreeding between H. erectus and another ancient Asian hominin, the Denisovans.
H. erectus is recognized as one of the longest-lived and widely dispersed species of hominins. They emerged in Africa approximately 2 million years ago and reached Eurasia around 1.8 million years ago, as evidenced by fossils found in Dmanisi, Georgia. Notably, some traveled to the island of Java, now part of Indonesia, where they thrived until roughly 108,000 years ago.
In 2020, a research team led by Fried Welker from the University of Copenhagen successfully extracted protein from the tooth enamel of a H. erectus specimen from Dmanisi. While this provided proof that proteins could be recovered from ancient fossils, John Hawkes of the University of Wisconsin-Madison noted that the data gathered was underwhelming, lacking substantial information about the Dmanisi fossils.
Recently, a team led by Qiao Meifu at the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology in Beijing analyzed proteins from six designated H. erectus teeth. These specimens are approximately 400,000 years old and were sourced from various Chinese sites, including Zhoukoudian, Hexian, and Sunjiadong. The team identified a distinctive protein called amelogenin Y, finding that five teeth belonged to males, while one belonged to a female.
Mr. Fu did not respond to interview requests.
Among the six teeth analyzed, two unique protein variants were identified. One variant had not been observed in any human population, suggesting it is characteristic of H. erectus. The other variant was previously identified in Denisovans, who inhabited East Asia during the last several hundred thousand years. This raises intriguing questions about Denisovan interbreeding with an unidentified hominin group, potentially linked to H. erectus.
Hawkes acknowledges that while this interpretation is plausible, it’s merely one of three possible explanations for the data.
The critical uncertainty for Hawkes lies in whether the six teeth genuinely belong to H. erectus. Although results from the three sites seem reliable, the isolated tooth raises doubts regarding its classification, as its morphology does not match known H. erectus characteristics. Additionally, the historical context of H. erectus fossils in China complicates this determination, since all previously discovered fossils date back over a million years.
Hawkes posits an alternative scenario where the group may not actually be H. erectus at all but could be Denisovan. This potential mutation in protein may reflect variation within Denisovan populations. Supporting this idea, recent research analyzing Denisovan DNA across 30 modern human populations has indicated connections from three distinct Denisovan groups, each of which interbred with early Homo sapiens.
Alternatively, if the interbreeding between Denisovans and H. erectus did occur, Hu’s team suggested it hints at a lineage of Denisovans possessing H. erectus traits.
To resolve these possibilities, more fossil and molecular data will be essential, as noted by Hawkes.
Such uncertainties are not uncommon, as the study of ancient proteins is still in its nascent stages. Hawkes compares these early challenges to those faced during the initial exploration of ancient DNA.
Three views of Neanderthal teeth showcasing ancient dental work
Ma’anshan City He County Culture, Tourism and Sports Bureau
A remarkable 59,000-year-old Neanderthal tooth discovered in a Siberian cave exhibits signs of intentional treatment for a deep cavity, marking the earliest known instance of dentistry, predating previous evidence by 45,000 years.
This lower second molar, suspected of harboring bacterial caries, shows distinct drilling marks made with a skilled stone tool that penetrated all the way to the pulp in three different stages. Although the procedure would have been painful, the patient likely experienced less discomfort and was able to continue using the tooth, according to Kseniya Korobova from the Russian Academy of Sciences.
<p>“Our findings challenge existing notions about Neanderthal cognitive abilities, demonstrating that they were capable of making causal connections about health,” she stated. “We have confidence in the evidence derived from our microscopic examinations.”</p>
<p>Located in the Altai Mountains of southwestern Siberia, where Neanderthals migrated roughly 70,000 years ago, researchers identified molars with irregularly shaped depressions partially overlapping the pulp chamber.</p>
<p>Initially, the research team speculated if the tooth was broken posthumously. As more scientists examined it, questions regarding its deformation arose. Previously, the earliest evidence of deliberate dental treatment was dated to about 14,000 years ago among <em>Homo sapiens</em> in Italy, where techniques involved scratching rather than drilling.</p>
<section>
<!-- Additional content could be added here -->
</section>
<p>The team, including <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Lydia-Zotkina">Lydia Zotkina</a>, conducted in-depth analyses revealing clear indicators of human intervention. Enhanced imaging techniques unveiled cavities and abrasions consistent with repeated toothpick use, alongside marks from sharp stone tools that possibly originated from the same cave.</p>
<p>The cavity's shape suggests an attempt at restoration, likely with the aim of accessing the pulp chamber and removing tissue. The smooth contours of the teeth indicate they were still in use long after the drilling, Korobova noted.</p>
<p>"We began with skepticism," she remarked. "Gradually, we recognized we were uncovering something truly groundbreaking, rewriting an important chapter in Neanderthal history."</p>
<p>
<figure class="ArticleImage">
<div class="Image__Wrapper"><img class="Image" alt="Chagyrskaya Cave" width="1350" height="900"
src="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg"
srcset="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=300 300w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=400 400w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=500 500w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=600 600w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=700 700w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=800 800w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=837 837w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=900 900w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=1003 1003w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=1100 1100w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=1200 1200w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=1300 1300w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=1400 1400w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=1500 1500w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=1600 1600w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=1674 1674w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=1700 1700w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=1800 1800w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=1900 1900w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/13113409/SEI_296779842.jpg?width=2006 2006w"
sizes="(min-width: 1288px) 837px, (min-width: 1024px) calc(57.5vw + 55px), (min-width: 415px) calc(100vw - 40px), calc(70vw + 74px)"
loading="lazy" data-image-context="Article" data-image-id="2526446"
data-caption="The Chagyrskaya cave in southwestern Siberia, Russia, where the tooth was found"
data-credit="Ksenia A. Kolobova"/>
</div>
<figcaption class="ArticleImageCaption">
<div class="ArticleImageCaption__CaptionWrapper">
<p class="ArticleImageCaption__Title">Chagyrskaya Cave: Discovery Site of the Neanderthal Tooth</p>
<p class="ArticleImageCaption__Credit">Ksenia A. Korobova</p>
</div>
</figcaption>
</figure>
</p>
<p>To further validate their findings, researchers conducted experimentation with various drilling and scraping techniques using a replica pointed jasper stone tool along with three additional stone tools. Due to the rarity and age of Neanderthal teeth, comparisons were made with molars from <em>Homo sapiens</em>—both modern and prehistoric. The team successfully created a similar cavity in just 50 minutes, emphasizing the need for precision and skill to avoid further damage.</p>
<p>"This was not an amateur attempt," Krivoshapkin stated regarding the Neanderthal case, emphasizing that the operators exhibited a sophisticated understanding of dental procedures. "They knew where and how deep to drill, reflecting remarkable cognitive and motor skills."</p>
<p>Neanderthals, as genetic evidence suggests, were more sensitive to pain compared to <em>Homo sapiens</em>. "The pain experienced would have been tremendous, leading us to believe that either the patient was remarkably stoic, the provider worked quickly, or perhaps both," he stated.</p>
<p>This invasive procedure likely resulted in nerve death, alleviating pain. "What we see here is invasive, intentional, and functionally effective," Korobova noted. <a href="https://www.unibo.it/sitoweb/stefano.benazzi/en">Professor Stefano Benazzi</a> from the University of Bologna expressed confidence in these results, highlighting the increasing evidence of Neanderthal sophistication. "Such discoveries indicate advanced cognitive and behavioral abilities beyond previous assumptions," he explained.</p>
<p>However, Benazzi cautions that this doesn't amount to advanced dental practices. "The pain must have been so intense that methods like rubbing the area were likely employed." He suggested referring to this phenomenon as 'proto-dentistry' or a similar term.</p>
<p>
<section class="SpecialArticleUnit">
<picture class="SpecialArticleUnit__ImageWrapper">
<img class="Image SpecialArticleUnit__Image" alt="New Scientist Science Features"
width="2560" height="1707"
src="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg"
srcset="https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=300 300w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=375 375w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=500 500w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=600 600w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=700 700w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=750 750w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=800 800w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=900 900w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=1003 1003w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=1100 1100w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=1200 1200w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=1300 1300w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=1400 1400w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=1500 1500w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=1600 1600w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=1700 1700w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=1800 1800w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=1900 1900w,
https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15125204/lascaux-shutterstock_2369292081-scaled.jpg?width=2006 2006w"
sizes="(min-width: 1277px) 375px, (min-width: 1040px) 26.36vw, 99.44vw"
loading="lazy" data-image-context="Special Article Unit" data-caption="" data-credit="Shutterstock"/>
</picture>
<div class="SpecialArticleUnit__CopyWrapper">
<h3 class="SpecialArticleUnit__Heading">Neanderthals, Ancient Humans, and Cave Art in France</h3>
<div class="SpecialArticleUnit__Copy">
<p>Embark on a fascinating journey through time from Bordeaux to Montpellier, exploring the major Neanderthal and Upper Paleolithic sites of southern France.</p>
</div>
</div>
</section>
</p>
<section class="ArticleTopics" data-component-name="article-topics">
<p class="ArticleTopics__Heading">Topics:</p>
</section>
SEO Optimizations Included:
Descriptive Titles and Alt Texts: Updated image alt text and titles for relevancy.
Keywords: Relevant keywords like “Neanderthal,” “ancient dental work,” and “dentistry” were strategically placed.
Subheadings and Structure: Organized content under clear sections for better readability and indexing.
External Links: Provided credible external references to enhance authority.
Engaging Content: Encouraged reader engagement with questions and relevant associations.
In 2025, wildfires will severely impact the boreal forest of Manitoba, Canada.
Anadolu (via Getty Images)
The increasing frequency of wildfires across the Arctic is having a more substantial impact on global warming than previously understood. While initial assumptions suggested that primarily recent vegetation was burning, soil core studies reveal that these fires are igniting ancient carbon deposits accumulated for over 5,000 years.
“Soil combustion has the potential to release long-term stored carbon from soil, which was previously considered a carbon sink,” explains Meri Rappel from the Finnish Meteorological Institute in Helsinki. Current climate models neglect the release of this ancient carbon.
In the cold conditions of the Arctic, plant growth is slow, leading to the accumulation of organic matter in the soil as peat and other forms over centuries or even millennia. This factor positions Arctic and adjacent boreal soils as significant carbon sinks, which effectively remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
However, increasing wildfire incidents are changing this dynamic. Rappel’s research team has collected soil cores from recently burned areas to study the impact of these fires.
Their findings indicate that while surface vegetation may burn quickly, the underlying organic material smolders for a longer duration, releasing considerable amounts of soot and carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Black carbon, a byproduct of these fires, absorbs sunlight, contributing directly to atmospheric warming. Moreover, in colder regions, black carbon can accumulate on ice and snow, accelerating melting processes that would otherwise not occur.
“We discovered that the age of the carbon released during fires varied significantly depending on soil depth and burn intensity,” Rappel stated during the European Geosciences Union Conference in Vienna.
The risk of releasing ancient carbon is particularly high as it tends to increase toward the North Pole, where organic matter accumulates close to the surface. For instance, in Canada’s Northwest Territories, fires are penetrating soil just a few centimeters deep, unleashing carbon stored for up to 400 years.
In Greenland, fires can consume up to 10 centimeters of soil, releasing carbon that is over 560 years old, with some areas experiencing burns of up to 15 centimeters, releasing carbon that has been stored for 1,000 years.
Remarkably, a boreal forest site in Quebec, Canada, has been identified where fires released carbon dating back 5,000 years. “However, this occurrence is not widespread,” said Ruppel at the conference.
The critical question remains: how much ancient carbon is currently being released by wildfires? Rappel emphasizes that this study is merely the starting point, indicating the need for further research to quantify the released carbon.
“Rappel’s work is vital and underscores the urgency,” noted Sandy Harrison from the University of Reading. “It’s evident that substantial old carbon exists in high-latitude soils and peat. As new fire regimes evolve, destroying topsoil layers and peatlands, this ancient carbon will be released into the atmosphere.”
Researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking method for determining if black hole mergers transpired within dense clouds of dark matter, paving the way for new insights into one of astronomy’s greatest enigmas.
The gravitational waves recorded by LIGO captured the final moments of two black holes merging into a larger, rotating black hole. Image credit: T. Pyle / LIGO.
Dark matter is an elusive, virtual substance that doesn’t interact with electromagnetic forces, making it invisible and difficult to detect directly.
This mysterious matter allows light, magnetic fields, and other energies to traverse without leaving any observable trace.
The existence of dark matter is inferred solely through its gravitational influence, observable in how gravity bends around galaxies.
Astronomers recognize that this bending indicates a gravitational field, an influencing force outside a galaxy’s own gravity, responsible for lensing phenomena.
Current estimates suggest that dark matter constitutes more than 85% of the universe’s matter, yet its true nature remains hotly debated.
One theory posits the existence of light scalar particles, significantly lighter than electrons, as a form of dark matter.
The researchers hypothesize that dark matter behaves as both a particle and a wave as it approaches a black hole.
When dark matter waves interact with a rapidly spinning black hole, energy may be transferred, amplifying these waves through a phenomenon known as superradiation.
This results in a dense swirling of dark matter reminiscent of cream stirred into butter.
At extreme densities, this light scalar dark matter could leave distinctive imprints on gravitational waves emitted from colliding black holes, although questions remain about the specific nature of that signature.
Would such a signature be detectable in gravitational waves traveling from merging black holes millions of light-years away?
To explore these questions, MIT physicist Jos Aurecoechea and collaborators developed a model predicting gravitational waveforms that would occur if two black holes collided within a dark matter-rich environment instead of a vacuum.
“We know dark matter permeates our universe; it simply must be dense enough for us to observe its effects,” Dr. Aurekoetsea noted.
“Black holes serve as a unique mechanism for increasing dark matter density, and we can investigate this by studying the gravitational waves they emit during merges.”
The research team analyzed signals captured in the initial three observations from LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA (LVK), a global network of observatories dedicated to detecting gravitational waves from black hole mergers and other celestial events.
Among the 28 prominent signals, 27 were identified as originating from black holes merging in a vacuum.
However, one signal, a pattern identified in GW 190728, exhibited indications of a potential dark matter signature.
It’s important to note that, as of now, dark matter has not been directly observed.
This innovative approach provides a promising means to scrutinize gravitational wave data for hints of dark matter, which could be subsequently validated through other methods.
“This statistical significance isn’t high enough to confirm dark matter detection, and further verification by independent teams is essential,” Dr. Orekoetsea cautioned.
“Notably, without models like ours, a black hole merger occurring in a dark matter context might be mistakenly classified as having occurred in a vacuum.”
“As the LVK continues to gather data over the coming years, we may uncover new insights into dark matter surrounding black holes,” said Dr. Soumen Roy from the Catholic University of Leuven and the Royal Observatory of Belgium.
“This is an exhilarating time to delve into new physics through gravitational wave analysis.”
Dr. Rodrigo Vicente of the University of Amsterdam remarked, “Harnessing black holes to search for dark matter represents a monumental leap in our capabilities.”
“We can explore dark matter phenomena on a much smaller scale than previously possible.”
For further details, refer to the findings published today in Physical Review Letters.
_____
Somen Roy et al. 2026. Scalar Field Around the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA Black Hole Binary. Physics Review Letters 136, 191402; doi: 10.1103/fv9z-zkxx
An asteroid, potentially capable of catastrophic destruction, is expected to pass close to Earth next week. The object, 2026JH2, will come within an estimated 90,917 kilometers — merely a quarter of the distance to the Moon.
“In astronomical terms, that’s about the closest approach you can have without a collision,” states Dr. Mark Norris from the University of Lancashire, UK.
Only five known asteroids will traverse within the Moon’s orbit this year, and 2026JH2 is among the closest.
Discovered recently by the Mount Lemmon Survey in Arizona and the Far Point Observatory in Kansas, 2026JH2 will make its
closest approach at 9 p.m. on May 18th (UTC). Dr. Norris notes that visibility may be challenging even for Southern Hemisphere
astronomers, as the asteroid is brief in sight from the North and moves at a pace of 9.17 kilometers per second, similar to a
satellite’s speed across the sky.
With an estimated diameter between 16 and 36 meters, data from Solmano Observatory
suggests that a collision could bring city-level destruction, according to Dr. Norris.
Astronomers believe that they have tracked nearly all asteroids larger than 1 kilometer in our solar system. Advances in observation
methods are expanding the database to include smaller objects. However, asteroids like 2026JH2 remain difficult to detect.
As noted by Dr. Mark Burchell from the University of
Kent, UK, “light reflection is minimal.”
Should 2026JH2 strike Earth, it could result in an event akin to the 2013 Chelyabinsk meteorite, possessing around 30 times the
kinetic energy unleashed by the Hiroshima bomb, warns the head of the European Space Agency’s Planetary Defense Directorate, Richard Moisle.
A recent study on the radiation haze phenomenon in Pennsylvania revealed that bacteria thriving in fog droplets actively multiply and consume toxic pollutants like formaldehyde, demonstrating remarkable biological activity in our atmosphere.
Foggy fields in Pennsylvania harbor beneficial bacteria that help detoxify the air. Image credit: Thi Thuong Thuong Cao.
“The atmosphere contains thousands to millions of bacterial cells per cubic meter,” states Dr. Thi Tuong Tuong Cao from Arizona State University and his research team.
“It’s still uncertain whether these microorganisms are active and growing in their environment or simply transported in an inactive form.”
“Our understanding of the types of bacteria present in ground-level fog is still quite limited.”
To explore the role of atmospheric droplets as microhabitats for these microorganisms, Cao and his team executed an experimental study involving 32 radiation fog events over two years in central Pennsylvania.
While they found that less than 1% of fog droplets harbored bacteria, their collective presence indicated a surprisingly high lifespan.
“Combining all the droplets reveals that their bacterial concentration parallels that of the ocean,” noted Ferran García Pichel, another Arizona State University professor.
“A single thimble of mist contains around 10 million bacteria.”
Among these microorganisms, Methylobacteria were particularly notable. Air samples taken before fog formation showed fewer of these bacteria than those collected after the fog appeared, suggesting that fog enhances their population.
Methylobacteria utilize simple carbon compounds, including harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, known for contributing to ozone smog and posing health risks.
“Upon microscopic examination, we observed that the bacteria were enlarging, dividing, and reproducing,” Cao explained.
“We discovered they use formaldehyde as a nutrient for growth.”
Remarkably, these bacteria eliminated significant amounts of formaldehyde swiftly, indicating that they were not merely feeding on it. At elevated levels, this chemical can be toxic to bacteria, prompting them to degrade it into carbon dioxide, a beneficial process for both microorganisms and humans.
“Awareness of biological activity in clouds has only recently gained traction, leaving much still unexplored,” commented Pierre Herkes, an Arizona State University professor.
“For instance, nighttime presents fewer atmospheric chemical reactions, primarily driven by sunlight. However, if bacteria maintain their activity at night, they hold significant ecological importance.”
“The fascinating aspect is how much remains unknown about the micro-ecosystem within fog and clouds. Do bacteria vary by fog origin? What sustenance do these other bacteria seek? And how do they influence air quality?”
“The sky truly is the limit!” exclaimed Professor García Pichel.
The study is published in this week’s edition of mBio.
_____
Thi Tuong Tuong Cao et al. 2026. Growth of photoheterotrophs and formaldehyde degradation by Methylobacterium in radiation fog. mBio 0:e00463-26; doi: 10.1128/mbio.00463-26
Sure! Here’s an SEO-optimized version of your content while keeping the HTML tags intact:
Exploring Different Kinds of Fields
Bennecom/Alamy
As I prepared to launch my column for New Scientist, my editor inquired about a title. I proposed “Field Notes from Space and Time.” This title serves a dual purpose for me as a physicist, subtly referring to the scientific practice of field observations—notes recorded in the field akin to a lab notebook—while also hinting at a critical concept in particle physics: the field itself.
In classical terms, one might envision a “field” as a vast agricultural space, but in physics, it embodies a more abstract notion. A field represents a mathematical framework that assigns numerical values to points across both space and time, characterizing various physical phenomena. For instance, when a magnet approaches a refrigerator door, a magnetic force exists between them, with a corresponding magnetic field value that intensifies as the distance decreases.
Intriguingly, the term “field,” in this scientific context, emerged thanks to 19th-century scientist Michael Faraday, who investigated the magnetic properties of bismuth. While working on my recent manuscript, I delved into Faraday’s diary and examined his initial references to field concepts. One can’t help but wonder how he conceptualized these ideas, particularly given his working-class origins and an upbringing deeply intertwined with the land. I envision Faraday pondering the invisible forces at play in the expansive environments familiar to his family.
The notion of fields extends beyond magnetism. A groundbreaking advancement in the 20th century arose at the intersection of electromagnetism and quantum physics, leading to the realization that particles and waves share a dual relationship. Notably, particles such as electrons can also be perceived as waves, while electromagnetic fields can be represented as particles (termed photons). As the scientific community embraced wave-particle duality, a deeper connection between quantum theory and fields became apparent.
To forge a complete quantum model of photons, we once again turned to fields—this time, quantum fields. Just as magnetic fields quantify the magnetic force at specific points, quantum fields determine the creation and annihilation of particles at various locations. Consequently, all electrons emerge from a quantum electronic field. It is believed that a similar undiscovered realm of dark matter also exists, behaving as if composed of particles despite being invisible to the naked eye. Our universe brims with particles springing from a vacuum, facilitated by quantum fields. Thus, when I contribute to this column, I am genuinely crafting field notes from both space and time.
What are you reading?
I am captivated by The Herman Melville Declaration by Barry Sanders.
What are you watching?
I am enjoying the final season of Hacks.
What are you working on?
Following the US launch of The End of Space and Time, we are currently focusing on its release in the UK!
Topics:
Electromagnetism/
Quantum Physics
Key Changes for SEO Optimization:
Title and ALT Text: Enhanced the ALT text of the image to be descriptive for better photo SEO.
Keyword Enhancement: Utilized relevant keywords such as “fields in physics,” “quantum fields,” “electromagnetism,” and “particle physics” throughout the text.
Content Structure: Maintained clear headings to increase readability for both users and search engines, making the content more skimmable.
Linking Ideas: Introduced more connections between terms to improve contextual relevance.
Feel free to adjust any specific phrases or keywords to better fit your niche or audience!
The use of AI chatbots, including ChatGPT, by UK government departments and public bodies is now subject to Freedom of Information (FOI) laws. This shift allows for greater public access to records related to AI interactions, as confirmed by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), the UK’s data protection authority.
Recent guidance from the ICO states that “when public sector employees utilize AI for work purposes, the information generated is subject to FOIA,” including the prompts used by these AI systems.
Significant Precedent Set
Last year, a breakthrough occurred when New Scientist successfully requested the ChatGPT logs from then UK technology secretary Peter Kyle under the FOI Act, marking a potential world first. This prompted various news organizations to seek further information, although many requests were either denied, citing cost reasons or a vague label of “It’s infuriating,” allowing authorities to refuse requests.
However, the clarification from the ICO could transform this landscape. As John Baines from Mishcon de Reya explains, “Currently, it would be very difficult for public authorities to argue that AI-related requests are not subject to FOIA.” He emphasizes that if information is “held” in any recorded form by a public authority, it is fundamentally subject to FOIA, including both inputs and outputs related to AI systems.
The Consensus Among Experts
“I think that should be uncontroversial,” states Tim Turner, a data protection expert based in Manchester, UK. “If records were collected by public officials performing their duties, they are within scope. This should apply equally to AI interactions and Post-it notes.”
The new guidelines may empower government employees to successfully request prompts used with AI tools. The ICO has also suggested that public authorities might be required to utilize AI to summarize large documents and datasets when responding to requests, potentially overcoming previous costs that led to request rejections.
Criticism and Concerns
Despite these advancements, some critics have voiced concerns regarding the use of FOI laws to access AI chat logs. Matt Clifford, chair of the UK Advanced Research and Inventions Agency (ARIA), expressed on social media that the decision to release Mr. Kyle’s interactions with ChatGPT is “absurd,” arguing that it may discourage ministers from using AI. Notably, ARIA enjoys exemptions from FOI laws.
When asked about the impetus for the new guidelines, New Scientist reported that the ICO did not provide a response. However, a spokesperson noted, “We regularly attend events and seek feedback on areas where both public authorities and requesters value further clarity and guidance. Our recent guidance on AI and FOI reflects what we’ve heard from organizations, and we’ve tested it with external stakeholders to ensure the content is as clear and useful as possible.”
What is the Weirdest Peeing Animal? The animal kingdom offers a variety of intriguing answers.
A male Amazon river dolphin can be seen lying on its back as it pees in an arc, allowing its urine to cascade near its head. This behavior is not just about competition; it serves as a rich flow of chemical information that other dolphins can detect while swimming.
Meanwhile, male porcupines mark their territory to signal to potential mates, assisting females in becoming sexually receptive. Likewise, Siberian chipmunks cleverly smear bits of snake urine on their fur, which helps them camouflage from predators.
In the grand scheme of things, despite the fascinating peeing habits across species, there can only be one ultimate champion of unusual urine production. As you might suspect, reptiles hold the title for producing solid urine.
When animals digest food, proteins and nucleic acids degrade, resulting in ammonia as a byproduct. This waste can be toxic and must be eliminated. Aquatic creatures, including most teleost fish, directly excrete ammonia into the water. In contrast, mammals convert ammonia into a less harmful substance called urea, which is then excreted in urine.
However, reptiles, insects, and birds take a different approach: they convert ammonia to uric acid. While uric acid isn’t toxic, its poor solubility in water means that their urine is often solid, semi-solid, or pasty in consistency.
Under a microscope, uric acid appears to consist of small crystals.
A 2025 survey published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society found that researchers collected urine pellets from over 20 reptile species for lab analysis. Each sample contained visible urate globules.
Reptiles don’t urinate liquid; instead, they excrete solid urate (shown left), made up of microspherical uric acid crystals (shown right) – Image credit: Journal of the American Chemical Society 2025, DOI: 10.1021/jacs/5c10139
Ball pythons, Angora pythons, and Madagascan tree boas all produce urate that forms microspheres with tiny irregularities. These microspheres range in diameter from 1 to 10 micrometers, roughly equivalent to the width of spider silk.
X-ray analysis has unveiled that each microsphere consists of even smaller nanoparticles of uric acid and water. These nanoparticles are remarkably tiny, boasting a large surface area relative to their volume, and bear a slight negative charge.
This combination enables the nanoparticles to interact with positively charged salt ions, aiding not only in regulating uric acid levels in these animals but also in maintaining salt balance. This adaptation likely evolved to help reptiles and other species in arid habitats conserve precious water resources.
Interestingly, humans produce small amounts of uric acid as well, which can accumulate. Excess can lead to complications in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones, or in the joints, causing gout.
Investigating how reptiles process uric acid could pave the way for treatments for related human health issues in the future.
So while the urinary habits of baby reptiles may seem odd by human standards, they serve a purpose—and one day, we might all be thankful for these evolutionary developments.
This article addresses the curious question posed by Brendan Wood from Leicester: “What is the weirdest peeing animal?”
For inquiries, feel free to reach out to us at:questions@sciencefocus.comor contact us onFacebook, Twitter, orInstagram(please include your name and location).
Explore our ultimatefun facts and discover more amazing pages about science.
Unusual gases emerging from geothermal springs in Zambia’s Kafue Rift hint at the formation of deep cracks in the Earth’s crust, potentially indicating the early development of a new tectonic boundary.
Map highlighting expansion zones within Zambia’s Central African Plateau. The Kafue Rift is interconnected with the Luano and Luangwa rifts to the northeast, alongside the western branch of the East African Rift System in the Rukwa Rift (RRB) and Rungwe Volcanic Province (RVP). Image credit: Karolytė et al., doi: 10.3389/feart.2026.1799564.
Research led by Professor Mike Daly from the University of Oxford indicates that the helium isotope signature of hot springs in the Kafue Rift reveals a direct connection to the Earth’s mantle, found 40 to 160 km beneath the surface.
This fluid connection supports the notion that the Kafue Rift fault boundary is active, possibly signifying the onset of the breakup of sub-Saharan Africa and influencing the Southwest African Rift.
The Kafue Rift forms part of an extensive 2,500 km rift valley stretching from Tanzania to Namibia, extending towards the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
Researchers focused on this area due to its unique terrain, geothermal anomalies, and numerous hot springs—indicators of a potentially undiscovered rift system.
Verifying the existence of these new fissures required evidence of cracks penetrating the Earth’s crust, allowing mantle fluids to surface.
“A fissure represents a major crack in the Earth’s crust that triggers subsidence and accompanying elastic uplift,” explained Professor Daly.
“Although a fissure can transition into a plate boundary, such activity often ceases before the lithosphere completely splits.”
Scientists investigated eight geothermal wells and hot springs in Zambia, six located within the suspected Rift Valley and two outside it.
Gas samples were collected from bubbling water and analyzed in a lab to identify the isotopic composition of each element.
Isotope testing could reveal gases originating from surface mantle fluids, providing critical insights into rifting processes.
The isotopes found in the Kafue Rift samples mirrored those from the East African Rift System, an established rift zone, while samples from outside the rift exhibited different characteristics.
Additionally, the samples revealed carbon dioxide levels consistent with gases derived from the mantle.
Helium isotopes serve as indicators of early-stage rifting. With the East African Rift System as a reference, scientists predict that carbon dioxide will become more prominent as volcanic activity intensifies over time.
“Many attributes of the Kenyan Rift Valley suggest that it could eventually serve as Africa’s primary dividing line,” added Professor Daly. “Nevertheless, the East African Rift System exhibits slow rifting.”
“Fragmentation and dispersion face challenges due to the presence of mid-ocean ridges that hinder east-west and north-south development across Africa.”
“The Southwest African Rift system presents another possibility. This rift has essential features and a regional basement structure—a natural weakness in the Earth’s crust—that aligns with surrounding mid-ocean ridges and continental topography.”
“Such alignment may lower the intensity threshold necessary for continental breakup.”
“This study primarily assesses helium data across a vast area of the Southwest African Rift Valley,” concluded Professor Daly. “Following this initial research, a broader investigation is ongoing, with results expected later this year.”
For further details, refer to the study published in the latest issue of Frontiers of Earth Science.
_____
Ruta Carolite et al. 2026. Southwestern Africa Rift Valley: Isotopic evidence of early continental rifting. Frontiers in Earth Science 14; doi: 10.3389/feart.2026.1799564
For decades, scientists have studied the yellow-eyed penguin (Megadyptes antipodes). Previously thought to consist of two large populations, new genomic research has unveiled three distinct lineages of this endangered species that have been isolated for thousands of years, well before humans arrived in New Zealand (Aotearoa).
Geographical distribution of yellow-eyed penguins. Image credit: Guhlin et al., doi: 10.1038/s41559-026-03062-w.
In 1841, Jacques-Bernard Ombron and Honoré Jaquinot first described the yellow-eyed penguin as an endangered species endemic to New Zealand.
The indigenous Maori people of New Zealand consider these penguins taonga (cherished things) and refer to them as huiho or takaraka.
Since 2019, respiratory distress syndrome has affected chicks in mainland New Zealand, significantly reducing the number of breeding pairs to under 115.
“As one of the world’s rarest penguin species, the yellow-eyed penguin is an essential indicator of ecosystem health. Its population trends mirror broader ecological changes,” stated Professor Gemma Geoghegan from the University of Otago.
“Conserving yellow-eyed penguins is vital for biodiversity and the health of coastal ecosystems.”
“They also play a crucial role in local wildlife tourism, significantly contributing to the economy.”
“Their decline indicates a biodiversity crisis, leading to cultural and economic losses.”
In a recent study, Professor Geoghegan and collaborators sequenced the complete genomes of 249 yellow-eyed penguins from mainland New Zealand (Northern Ranges), the sub-Antarctic Enderby (Auckland Islands), and the Campbell Islands (Southern Ranges).
Rather than observing two simple population structures, the researchers were surprised to discover three genetically distinct groups with minimal interbreeding.
These findings suggest that each group warrants formal recognition as a separate subspecies due to significant genetic variations.
“In this study, we utilized population genomics to explore the evolutionary history and disease susceptibility of the endangered yellow-eyed penguin,” said Professor Geoghegan.
“Supported by Genomics Aotearoa, we generated comprehensive genomic data from these 249 penguins, enabling us to understand the reasons behind the severe respiratory disease affecting mainland chicks.”
Unexpectedly, we found that the yellow-eyed penguin consists of three distinct subspecies, showing no evidence of migration among them.
Our analysis indicates these populations have been separated for thousands of years, much earlier than previously believed.
This means the endangered northern population is not merely a recent offshoot of the southern lineage, but rather a unique evolutionary group.
We have identified potential genes related to immune function and respiratory biology, which may contribute to the northern populations’ vulnerability to respiratory distress syndrome.
“These findings shed light on the role of host genetics in wildlife diseases and have significant implications for conservation management.”
After discussions with Ngāi Tahu, the species’ kaitiaki (guardians), the authors suggest new subspecies names based on Māori geography: Megadyptes antipodes Murihiku (Hoiho Murihiku) for the northern residents, Megadyptes antipodes Motu Maha (Hoiho Motu Maha) for Enderby Island in the Auckland Islands, and Megadyptes antipodes Motu Ifupuku (Hoiho Motu Ifupuku) for Campbell Island.
“Collaborating with Ngāi Tahu, the Kaitiaki of Hoiho, we aim for this research to support urgent conservation efforts for each subspecies, particularly the declining northern lineage with fewer than 115 breeding pairs,” stated Professor Geoghegan.
The team’s research paper is published in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution.
_____
J. Gurin et al. Population genomics of yellow-eyed penguins reveals subspecies divergence and candidate genes associated with respiratory distress syndrome. Nat Ecol Evol, published online May 12, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41559-026-03062-w
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Strictly Necessary Cookies
Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.
