Tears, Joy, and Expressions: A New Book on Emojis—Illustrated Yet Imperfect

Posted on July 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Standardizing the look of the irrepressible emoji must have been a challenge

Caner Elci/Alamy

Face with Tears of Joy
Keith Houston (WW Norton)

If a picture can convey a thousand words, what role does an emoji play in our evolving vocabulary? In Face with Tears of Joy: The Natural History of Emojis, Keith Houston delves into the intriguing tales behind these peculiar symbols and explores how they have become a staple in our everyday conversations.

An understanding of their origins and dominance in our communication is essential. Houston navigates through the early days, uncovering insights that trace their lineage back a decade earlier than the commonly accepted timeline.

It’s an astute investigation. By extending the emoji lineage to specifics of niche Japanese tech from the 1980s, Houston offers new perspectives, suggesting a timeline closer to the millennium than previously recognized.

Clearly, the work is well-researched, evident from Houston’s review of the intricacies during various subcommittees of the Unicode Consortium.

What makes emojis such a significant cultural phenomenon? While Houston lays out a timeline of these images, he grapples with larger philosophical questions about how countless interpretations of commonly used images converge into a shared societal and cultural understanding.

One notable section shares how Facebook users reacted to a video of the 2017 terrorist attacks on London’s Westminster Bridge. When users sought to respond, the platform defaulted to just one of six emojis, none of which seemed particularly appropriate. Houston’s observations here are profoundly insightful.

Typewriter artists crafted images using keystrokes—the forerunners of the emojis we know today.

Unfortunately, throughout the book, Houston veers away from delving into such enriching insights and experiments. He also fails to delve deeply into a Unicode meeting discussion over the merits of adding emojis like tacos and other popular items to countless smartphones globally. Instead, we get a list-style overview of events as they occurred.

This chronological format holds significance, but it’s also replicated in a roughly twelve-page timeline at the book’s conclusion. I found myself reading the bullet points and questioning if I could’ve learned just as much about the emojis and their history without perusing the preceding 180 pages.

That’s unfortunate. Houston contends that emojis warrant thorough and thoughtful exploration, and their cultural ramifications should be taken seriously. It’s unclear why specific details are highlighted while others are overlooked. For instance, he mentions presenting users with images of reality TV stars displaying various emotions related to Kim Kardashian’s 2015 Kimoji app in media reports but cites a staggering figure of 9,000 downloads per millisecond at its peak, countering reality with 9,000 downloads per second. What relevance does this bear beyond mere anecdote?

Nevertheless, there are engaging pieces and illuminating insights about this relatively new mode of communication. Houston reveals stories about early typewriter artists who ingeniously transformed keystrokes into beautiful representations, setting the stage for contemporary emojis.

Overall, Face with Tears of Joy is an in-depth and often enlightening read. However, I frequently felt it was padded with content that could’ve been far more meaningfully enriched with analyses exploring the “why” and “what” behind emoji usage over the last two decades.

Ultimately, Houston’s work serves as a valuable starting point for dissecting the cultural significance of emojis. I look forward to future explorations on this topic.

Chris Stokell Walker is a technology writer based in Newcastle, UK

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Discovery of a New Rock Type Originating from the Old Slug Heap

Posted on July 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

French lens slug heap

Caroline Bancoilly/Alamie

Nearly two decades ago, New Scientist conducted a thought experiment titled “Imagine Earth Without People,” projecting how our planet would evolve over millennia in the absence of humanity. This intriguing exploration highlighted the environmental impacts of our species without relying on speculative dread. The takeaway was clear: while it would take considerable time, nature would eventually reclaim its landscapes, leaving scant evidence of our existence. “What’s humbling and paradoxical is that Earth forgets us so swiftly,” the piece concluded.

This reflection resurfaced when I encountered a recent research article in Geology, where researchers from the University of Glasgow unveiled a geological process indicating that the Earth may never truly forget us.

The team investigated the geology of Derwent Howe along the coast of Cumbria, England, a site that served as a major iron and steel hub for about 125 years from the 1850s. This location generated massive amounts of industrial waste known as slag, with approximately 27 million cubic meters deposited along a two-kilometer stretch of coastline. While the slag heaps persist, they are steadily eroded by oceanic forces.

During their fieldwork, researchers discovered outcrops comprised of unusual sedimentary rock types. Formerly sandy shores had their geology altered quite recently, clearly indicating detrital formations made of fragments from other rocks and minerals. A closer examination revealed that this material was derived from the slag heaps, suggesting a cycle where the slag erodes, enters the ocean, and rapidly solidifies into rocks onshore.

Remarkably, this process occurs much faster than typical rock formation, which usually spans thousands or millions of years. Here, however, it seems to transpire in mere decades.

Rock industrial waste on the Cambria coastline is turning into rocks in just a few decades, research reveals

University of Glasgow

Even more astonishingly, the researchers uncovered two artifacts embedded in this rapid rock formation. One was a penny minted in 1934, and the other was a pull tab from an aluminum beverage can, less than 36 years old. This suggests that calcification can happen in mere decades, leading the team to propose a new geological process termed the “anthropomorphized rock cycle.”

Researchers suggest that this is an entirely new geological process: anthropomorphized rock cycle.

“What’s remarkable is we’ve found that human-made materials can integrate into natural systems and dissolve over decades,” explained Amanda Owen, the team leader, to the University of Glasgow news team. “This challenges our understanding of rock formation and implies that the waste created during the modern era will have a lasting impact on our future.”

Much like with Derwent Howe, this phenomenon extends worldwide. A similar rock was discovered near Bilbao, Spain in 2022, though dating it proved challenging. David Brown, a team member, noted that slag waste presents a worldwide occurrence that will turn into rocks wherever it interacts with ocean waves.

At first glance, this might seem problematic. The environmental implications of such processes remain ambiguous. However, this discovery could indeed have a silver lining. If industrial waste solidifies into rock formations, that may offer a neat, albeit indirect, way to manage it. Rocks from Derwent Howe also revealed remnants of clothing, plastics, car tires, and fiberglass. Perhaps this process could serve as a rapid disposal method for our discarded remnants.

The study yields varied conclusions. For years, Earth scientists have debated the designation of a new geological epoch called the Anthropocene, to acknowledge that humanity has superseded natural processes as the primary influence on Earth’s systems. I’m a strong advocate for this designation, as it underscores the myriad perturbations in natural processes that have kept our planet habitable for millennia. Yet, last year, the International Geological Union opted not to endorse the Anthropocene due to controversy regarding its inception.

Now more than ever seems the right moment to reconsider that decision. Our impact on Earth’s surface marks the beginning of a new geological chapter that commenced roughly 175 years ago, observable by future civilizations. If this isn’t a new geological era, then what is?

Graham’s Week

What I’m reading

I’m listening to an anthology of comedic poems by Tim Key on audiobook.

What I’m watching

Wimbledon, the Women’s Euro, and later this month, the British and Irish Lions Rugby Test Series against Australia.

What I’m working on

I’m tending to my vegetable garden. As a beginner, I’m learning from my mistakes. How can you tell when beetroots are ready to be harvested?

Graham Lawton is a staff writer for New Scientist and the author of Must Not Grumble: The Surprising Science of Everyday Ailments. You can follow him @grahamlawton

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Have You Discovered an Unexpected Solution to the Environmental Impact of Air Travel?

Posted on July 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Will it take flight? This question is increasingly raised by those mindful of the environment. Boarding a plane might seem like the only realistic choice, especially during hard times or when loved ones live far away.

We can certainly engage in some air travel as part of a sustainable future, but we must first dispel certain misconceptions and clearly outline feasible ways to lessen our global warming footprint.

The most common myth is that sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) can resolve our issues. This label is misleading, as SAFs often don’t live up to their name.

Here’s why: there are three primary categories of SAF. The first type is derived from waste, particularly used cooking oil. However, this only accounts for about 2-3% of global flights. The second type consists of synthetic SAFs produced from raw materials like captured carbon dioxide, using renewable energy. The efficiency of these processes is quite low (at least 2 kilowatt-hours of energy are needed to generate 1 kWh of fuel), which is a misguided use of limited renewable resources. The third type is made from crops, which puts immense pressure on farmland and the food system, posing major challenges. In reality, sustainable aviation fuel is not the revolutionary solution many hope for.

Another hopeful concept I often encounter is the idea that electrification or hydrogen fuel could decarbonize aviation. However, electrification is practical only for short-haul flights; battery weight makes it unfeasible for long distances. Hydrogen poses its own challenges due to its bulky storage requirements, even when compressed to 700 times atmospheric pressure.

On a brighter note, there are significant opportunities that haven’t garnered enough attention.

Potential solutions for greener aviation have been overlooked until recently. The high, wispy trails produced by aircraft exhaust – which account for over 60% of the climate impact of flights – carry even more weight when considering their short-term influence over the next two decades.

These contrails reflect Earth’s heat back into the atmosphere and function somewhat like a blanket. However, their overall impact is complex. They can not only trap heat but also reflect sunlight on clear days, creating a cooling effect that mainly occurs during the day, particularly over dark surfaces like oceans. Unfortunately, the warming effect tends to dominate during warm nights over dark surfaces.

By making small adjustments to flight paths, we can manage contrail formation. Changing an aircraft’s altitude or trajectory in specific weather conditions can be beneficial. Deliberate modifications while flying over sunny waters could yield positive results. A slight alteration in flight routes—just 1.7%—could potentially reduce contrail warming impacts by almost 60%. Real-time modeling is essential for integrating this into flight planning, similar to current practices for avoiding storms and managing air traffic.

This presents a relatively cost-effective solution that requires industry leadership. Once contrail management becomes established, the role of SAF might shift significantly, allowing it to contribute to cleaner burning and mitigate the worst impacts of contrails on more challenging flights.

Does this imply we can ignore the climate ramifications of flying? Unfortunately, no. Yet, understanding these factors provides a legitimate reason for optimism.

Mike Berners-Lee is the author of True Climate: Why We Need It and How to Get It

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Global Battle Against Measles is Losing Ground

Posted on July 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A 7-year-old boy receiving the MMR vaccine in Texas amid a significant measles outbreak

Jan Sonnenmair/Getty Images

This month, a British child succumbed to measles, and in June, a Canadian infant lost their life to the same disease. Additionally, two American children have died from measles this year. This situation is tragic considering measles is preventable, yet we are witnessing a regression in public health behavior. If we do not take appropriate action, we may see a resurgence of other vaccine-preventable diseases.

The United States is currently grappling with its largest measles outbreak since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000, with 1300 confirmed cases, marking the highest incidence in 33 years. Europe is not exempt; in 2024, it reported its worst outbreak in over 25 years, more than doubling the cases from the previous year. Last year alone, the UK recorded nearly 3000 confirmed cases, the highest since 2012. Meanwhile, Canada saw a rise in measles cases, reporting over 3,800 cases this year, a total not seen in the past 26 years.

This unprecedented situation mirrors a time when many countries experienced major outbreaks in the 1980s and 90s, largely due to a single-dose vaccination policy for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). Implementing a two-dose program proved to be about 97% effective in preventing measles, leading to a significant decline in cases, and many nations had proclaimed the elimination of measles by the early 2000s.

This current crisis is astonishing. The resurgence of measles is not due to ignorance on how to prevent it but a lack of effort in vaccination campaigns. “We have never before seen measles spread this way, primarily driven by vaccine hesitancy,” says Tinatan from Northwestern University, Illinois. “This is particularly disheartening given the availability of a safe and effective vaccine.”

Herd immunity against measles occurs when over 95% of the population is vaccinated. This threshold was achieved in American kindergarteners with a two-dose regimen during the 2019-2020 school year, but by four years later, coverage dipped below 93%.

However, national averages can obscure the reality on the ground. Vaccination rates began to decline in many US counties prior to 2019. In fact, Peter Hotez from Baylor College of Medicine raised concerns about the declining vaccination rates in Gaines County, Texas—epicenter of the current outbreak—as early as 2016. Since then, coverage has deteriorated dramatically, from around 95% to under 77%. “We’ve been anticipating this situation for at least a decade,” Hotez states. “To understand the crisis, one must look at local vaccination rates, revealing pockets with alarmingly low coverage.”

Similar trends are evident globally. In Canada, vaccination rates for children aged two holding at least one MMR dose plummeted from nearly 90% in 2019 to below 83% in 2023. Alberta, a hotspot in the current outbreak, reported percentages dropping from over 83% in 2019 to approximately 80% in 2024, with some communities as low as 32%.

Meanwhile, the UK has seen less than 85% of five-year-old children receive both MMR doses between 2023 and 2024. Out of the 48 OECD member countries, the UK ranks 30th in measles vaccination rates with Canada at 39th, New Zealand at 32nd, and the US at 4th. Hungary leads with close to 100% coverage, while Romania lags behind at around 20%.

The rise in vaccine hesitancy significantly contributes to this decline, with prominent figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. leading the charge against vaccination, making unfounded claims that equate the risks of the MMR vaccine with measles, which can include encephalitis and blindness. The risks tied to measles infections remain significant—about 1 in 1000 individuals contracting measles develops encephalitis, compared to 1 in 1 million vaccinated children.

Despite his stance, Kennedy encourages vaccinations. During a Fox News interview in March, he mentioned that the US government is committed to ensuring vaccines are accessible.

However, this may be too little, too late. While measles incidents seem to be decreasing in the US, Hotez warns of a potential spike in cases when children return to school. The ongoing outbreak, now in its seventh month, risks jeopardizing the US’s measles elimination status. The UK has already faced similar challenges, losing its status two years after eradicating measles in 2016, before finally regaining it in 2023.

Hotez expresses concern that the current measles outbreak may be just the beginning and that increasing vaccine refusals could hinder progress against other preventable diseases, such as polio and pertussis. “I fear this won’t stop with measles,” he warns.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Rising Demand for AI May Increase Electricity Bills in the US, Even with Caution

Posted on July 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Even speculative AI energy consumption can raise electricity bills

Oscar Wong/Getty Images

The technological aspirations of high-tech firms are set to necessitate a substantial increase in power-hungry data centers. This rising demand poses a risk of higher electricity bills for everyone, even if some data centers remain unbuilt.

Utility companies in the U.S. are hastily constructing additional power plants, transmission lines, and gas pipelines to accommodate the swiftly increasing energy demands of data centers. U.S. housing costs have surged nearly 30% since 2021—outpacing inflation—according to a report by Powerlines, a nonprofit organization focused on utility regulations in the U.S. Over the past two years, electricity bills nationwide have increased by $10 billion each year.

A new report published by the Southern Environmental Law Center, a Virginia-based environmental nonprofit, highlights that it might overestimate the demand stemming from speculative data center projects. Developers frequently submit overlapping requests for electrical services across multiple regions for each project before settling on a single location.

“If the anticipated load from the data center isn’t fully realized—all indications and frankly, common sense at this point indicate that. Rate payers will ultimately bear the economic burden of unnecessary and underused gas and electricity infrastructures,” says Megan Gibson of the Southern Environmental Law Center.

Former executives from firms such as Google and Meta admit that the practice of securing redundant data center power is typical, as outlined in the report. “Tech executives are candidly voicing concerns,” Gibson mentions. New Scientist reached out to Amazon, Google, Meta, and Microsoft regarding their data center development plans, but received no additional comments.

Considering all U.S. data center projects announced between 2025 and 2030, the inflated estimates stand out even more. Collectively, they are projected to consume 90% of the global chip supply—despite the fact that the U.S. currently makes up less than 50% of global chip demand. “It’s uncommon for the entirety of the world’s chip supply to cater to this specific segment in the U.S.,” notes Marie Ng Fagan from London Economics International, a global consulting firm based in the U.S. and Canada.

To ease the burden on regular bill payers, “states should mandate utilities to forge contracts with potential data center customers that allocate this risk to the data center itself,” advises Ali Pescoe from Harvard Law School, a consultant for Powerlines.

Some state governments are already taking action. On July 9th, the Ohio Regulatory Authority issued an order that mandates large data center customers of Ohio’s largest utility company to pay at least 85% of their subscribed power load, even if their actual consumption falls short. Similarly, officials in Georgia are grappling with a rule designed to prevent data center growth from imposing burdens on other bill payers.

“The data center industry is dedicated to bearing the full costs of services for energy used, including transmission fees,” asserts Aaron Tingjum from the Data Centers Union, a Virginia-based trade association. “It’s crucial to guarantee fair electricity bills for all customers.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Babies Created with Three DNA Sources Are Free from Genetic Disorders

Posted on July 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The baby became pregnant via IVF

Zephyr/Science Photo Library

Eight young children seem to be shielded from severe genetic disorders following their birth through a three-parent DNA technique. This method involved replacing defective maternal mitochondria with those from a female donor.

Approximately 1 in 5,000 individuals carry mitochondrial defects that provide energy to cells and are inherited solely from the mother. Such defects may result from genetic mutations leading to issues like blindness, seizures, and, in extreme cases, death. “Families find it incredibly challenging to cope with these diseases. They are heart-wrenching,” states Bobby McFarland from Newcastle University, UK.

In 2015, the UK first sanctioned a procedure called pronuclear transfer for women at high risk of passing on mitochondrial conditions, particularly those who cannot benefit from pre-implantation genetic testing.

This nuclear transfer technique utilizes eggs from both mothers and donors, which are fertilized with paternal sperm via IVF. After roughly 10 hours, the nuclei from both eggs are extracted, leaving behind the crucial genetic material that is separate from mitochondrial DNA.

The nucleus from the mother is subsequently inserted into the donor’s egg, yielding an embryo that primarily inherits DNA from its biological parent while acquiring mitochondria from the donor. Some mitochondrial DNA from the mother may still be unintentionally transmitted, according to Burt Smeet from Maastricht University in the Netherlands.

McFarland, who pioneered this method with her team, has applied the technique to 19 women harboring harmful mutations in over 80% of their mitochondria, typically the level that causes issues.

Seven of the women achieved pregnancy after the final embryo transfer, resulting in eight healthy births, including one pair of twins.

The researchers evaluated blood samples from the newborns, finding no harmful mitochondrial DNA mutations in five, and only trace levels in the remaining three. “The results have exceeded expectations,” says Mike Murphy from Cambridge University.

In the months or years following these nuclear transfers, all children have shown progress with developmental milestones. However, some may encounter complications that may or may not be linked to the procedure. For instance, one child developed high blood fat levels and an abnormal heartbeat, both of which were successfully addressed, while another experienced epilepsy at 7 months old, which resolved on its own.

The research team plans to monitor these children to assess the long-term consequences of the procedure.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Genetically Enhanced Microorganisms Could Optimize the Microbiota

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The human gut microbiota plays a crucial role in health

Science Photo Library/Alamy

Genetically modified enterobacteria can effectively degrade compounds linked to kidney stones. This innovative approach to regulating gut microbiota could extend beyond just treating kidney stones, opening pathways for new therapies for various conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer.

“The gut microbiota significantly influences our health and presents an exciting opportunity for intervention,” says Weston Whitaker from Stanford University in California. However, prior efforts in this area have encountered challenges. Bacteria, whether they are naturally occurring probiotics or genetically engineered strains, often struggle to colonize the large intestine because they must compete with the existing microbial flora.

In an innovative twist, Whitaker and his team decided to genetically modify bacteria that are already prevalent in most people’s intestines, specifically Phocaeicola vulgatus. “We aimed for a strain that would assimilate well into the gut environment,” he explains.

The research team made three key genetic modifications. The first enabled the bacteria to break down a compound called oxalates, which is known to contribute to kidney stones. The second modification allowed them to digest porphyran, a carbohydrate found in red seaweed, providing a competitive edge since most gut microbes do not utilize porphyran. The final adjustments made the bacteria dependent on porphyran for survival, allowing researchers to manage microbial growth effectively.

The researchers conducted a study involving 12 rats on a high-oxalate diet over four days, half of which were treated with genetically modified bacteria that could process oxalate. All rats received porphyran in their daily diet. After six days, those receiving the engineered bacteria had an average of 47% less oxalate in their urine compared to the control group.

The team also examined nine engineered microorganisms in cases of intestinal hyperoxaluria, a condition where excessive oxalate absorption leads to recurrent kidney stones. All subjects consumed 10 grams of porphyran daily for 28 days. On average, participants with the condition but without treatment displayed 27% more oxalate in their urine compared to those receiving the modified strains.

While this reduction in oxalate was not statistically significant, likely due to the small sample size, Whitaker notes that existing clinical trials indicate a 20% decrease in oxalate is sufficient to alleviate symptoms. Therefore, there remains hope for bacteria to help prevent kidney stones.

No serious side effects were reported among participants; however, those treated with genetically modified gut microorganisms were more prone to mild gastrointestinal issues such as abdominal discomfort and diarrhea.

A significant concern emerged from the genetic analysis of the gut microbiota of human subjects, conducted eight weeks post-supplementation, which revealed that only four individuals retained the engineered bacteria capable of digesting porphyran. This suggests that the modified bacteria exchanged genetic material with the resident gut microorganisms. Although this shouldn’t pose safety risks for participants, Whitaker emphasizes the necessity for further investigation in this area.

“This [approach] represents a major breakthrough,” states Christophe Thaiss at Stanford University, who was not involved in the study. He highlights the potential for designing intestinal microorganisms with therapeutic properties that can be reliably integrated into the gut, offering strategies to address various medical conditions.

“We understand that our gut microbiota is linked to many diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer,” Whitaker observes. “However, the specific relationship between the microbiota and disease causation or prevention remains unclear,” he adds, emphasizing the need for further exploration into this approach.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Billions of Phones Capable of Detecting and Alerting Users to Nearby Earthquakes

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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Advanced warnings can save lives before an earthquake, such as the 5.6 magnitude tremor that affected hundreds of people in Indonesia in 2022

Aditya Aji/AFP via Getty Images

Your mobile device might already be part of the billions of gadgets worldwide functioning as an early warning system for earthquakes across numerous nations.

Launched in 2020, Google’s Android Earthquake Alerts System has expanded to reach 2.3 billion Android phone and smartwatch users, enabling them to receive alerts about seismic activity, according to a recent study by Google researchers. However, these devices do more than just issue warnings; they also contribute to earthquake detection.

“Billions of Android devices come together to form mini-seismometers, establishing the world’s largest earthquake detection network,” states Richard Allen, a visiting researcher at the University of California, Berkeley.

Developed by Allen and his team, the system analyzes vibrations captured by accelerometers in Android devices and smartwatches. This collective network of sensors can determine the magnitude of an earthquake and identify which users are in close range of danger for timely warning messages.

Google’s system alerts users when it detects tremors of 4.5 or greater on the Richter scale. Yet, Allen notes that the system “may not detect all earthquakes” due to the need for sufficient nearby devices. For instance, earthquakes from most central ridges may go undetected, but the system can identify seismic events occurring up to hundreds of kilometers offshore.

A critical challenge is the swift and accurate assessment of each earthquake’s magnitude. Researchers have refined the detection algorithm over time by creating regional models that better represent local structural movements and by considering the varying sensitivities of different Android devices.

According to Allen, Google’s global system is now as effective as the ShakeAlert system, which serves the US West Coast, as well as Japan’s early warning system. He emphasizes that Google’s initiative is intended to complement, not replace, seismometer-based services, which provide warnings like ShakeAlert to West Coast residents. “Many earthquake-prone areas lack the local seismic network necessary for timely alerts,” Allen comments.

Google’s system serves as a “unique source” for nations without an existing earthquake early warning framework, states Katsu Goda from Western University in Canada, who is not affiliated with the project. He noted that even in regions with existing alert systems, Google’s solution reaches a broader audience.

The system currently delivers alerts to 98 countries and territories, including the United States, but excluding the UK. “Our focus has primarily been on countries at high historical risk for earthquakes that lack existing early warning solutions,” explains Marc Stogaitis from Google.

Android devices in the region captured seismic waves during the 6.2 magnitude earthquake in Turkey in April 2025

Data SIO, NOAA, US NAVY, NGA, GEBCO, LDEO-COLUMBIA, NSF, Landsat/Copernicus, Google Earth

A recent study evaluating system performance and accuracy revealed that the system generated alerts for 1,279 earthquake events up until March 2024, with only three false alarms. Of these, two were due to thunderstorms and one stemmed from an unrelated mass notification that caused several phones to vibrate. The research team improved their detection algorithm to minimize these types of false alerts.

Most Android devices are automatically enrolled in a mobile phone-based seismometer network and receive alerts regarding nearby earthquakes by default, although users can modify these settings. In a Google User Survey, over one-third of participants reported receiving alerts before feeling any shaking, and most indicated that these notifications were extremely beneficial.

If users remain subscribed to alerts, they will receive two types of notifications: more urgent action alerts encouraging immediate precautions like “drop, cover, hold,” which often provide only a few seconds of advance warning, and out-of-interference alerts that share general information, allowing a brief window before a user experiences the earthquake.

“The nature of earthquakes implies that there are less warning time before strong shaking compared to weaker events,” states Stogaitis. “Nonetheless, we are continuously examining adjustments to our alert strategies to extend warning times for future earthquakes.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

A Healthy Baby Conceived with Three DNA Sources to Combat Hereditary Diseases

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

LONDON – Eight healthy babies have been born in the UK, aided by experimental techniques designed to prevent mothers from transmitting severe rare diseases to their offspring through DNA, researchers have announced.

The majority of DNA resides within the nuclei of our cells and is inherited from both our mothers and fathers—essentially, it shapes who we are. However, mitochondria, the cell’s energy-producing structures, also contain DNA outside the nucleus. Mutations in this mitochondrial DNA can lead to various illnesses in children, resulting in symptoms like muscle weakness, seizures, developmental delays, major organ failure, and even death.

In vitro fertilization (IVF) testing typically helps identify these mutations, although there are instances where this is not evident.

Researchers have pioneered methods to circumvent these issues by employing healthy mitochondria from donor eggs. They reported their findings in 2023 in an article detailing the birth of the first babies born using this technique, which involves extracting genetic material from the mother’s eggs or embryos and transferring it to a donor egg or embryo possessing healthy mitochondria, while discarding the bulk of its original DNA.

Dr. Zev Williams, head of the Fertility Center at Columbia University and not involved in this study, stated that this research “marks a significant milestone.” He believes that broadening reproductive choices will allow more couples to achieve a safe and healthy pregnancy.

This method results in an embryo containing DNA from the mother, the father, and the donor’s mitochondria—an approach that became legally viable in the UK after law changes in 2016. Similar procedures are also permitted in Australia, though they remain banned in many countries, including the US.

Experts from Newcastle University in the UK and Monash University in Australia reported in the New England Journal of Medicine that they successfully implemented these new methods for fertilizing embryos from 22 patients, with one woman still pregnant.

Footage released by the Newcastle Fertility Center shows delicate IVF procedures.
Fertility Centre in Newcastle

One of the eight babies born exhibited unexpectedly high levels of abnormal mitochondria, according to Robin Lovell-Badge, a stem cell and developmental genetics scientist at the Francis Crick Institute, who was not involved in the research. While these levels are not currently deemed harmful, monitoring is required as the baby grows.

Andy Greenfield, a reproductive medicine expert at Oxford University not associated with the research, emphasized its significance, noting that mitochondrial replacement techniques are primarily used in other settings aimed at avoiding genetic illnesses, like early-stage embryo testing.

“This technique was certified a decade ago, so we have all been anticipating this report,” he shared with NBC News via email. “Fortunately, the children appear to be healthy.”

Long-term follow-up with these children is essential as keeping them healthy is a priority, he emphasized.

Lovell-Badge noted that the donor DNA’s contribution is minimal, asserting that the child will not exhibit characteristics from the women who provided the healthy mitochondria. The donor genetic material constitutes less than 1% of the DNA in babies conceived using this technology.

“In comparison, if you received a bone marrow transplant from a donor, you would possess significantly more DNA from other individuals,” he explained.

In the UK, all couples seeking childbirth via donated mitochondria must obtain approval from the national fertility authority.

Concerns have been raised by critics, who warn that the long-term effects of such innovative techniques on future generations remain uncertain.

“At this time, clinical application in the US is not allowed, mainly due to regulatory restrictions regarding genetic modifications to embryos,” Dr. Williams from Columbia said via email. “Whether this situation will evolve remains unclear and is subject to ongoing scientific, ethical, and policy discussions.”

For almost ten years, Congress has included provisions in the annual funding bill that prevent the FDA from accepting applications related to clinical research protocols involving the intentional creation or modification of human embryos to incorporate genetic alterations.

However, in jurisdictions where such methods are allowed, advocates argue they can offer a promising option for some families.

Liz Curtis, whose daughter Lily passed away from mitochondrial disease in 2006, is collaborating with other families affected by these disorders. She expressed the devastation of receiving a diagnosis indicating that death was inevitable for an infant without intervention.

Curtis reflected on how the diagnosis “turned our world upside down, and yet there was minimal discussion about it, what it entailed, and how it would affect Lily.” Following this experience, she founded the Lily Foundation in her daughter’s honor to raise awareness and support regarding the disease, alongside her latest initiatives at Newcastle University.

“This development is incredibly exciting for families who have little hope for a positive outcome,” Curtis remarked.

The UK fertility authority, which oversees human fertilization and embryology, endorsed the findings, noting that this technique might only be accessible to individuals with a high risk of transmitting disease to their children.

As of this month, 35 patients have been approved to undergo the procedure.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

What Your Dog’s TV Watching Habits Reveal About Their Personality

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent studies indicate that a dog’s response to your preferred TV show can reveal much about your personality.

In a recent Nature study, researchers found that enthusiastic dogs tend to interpret what they see on TV as reality, whereas anxious dogs are more inclined to react to non-animal elements, like humans and vehicles.

According to Lane Montgomery, a graduate student from Auburn University who spearheaded the research, there was a single consensus among all dogs regarding one topic.

“Overall, dogs generally seem to enjoy television, particularly when it features other dogs and animals,” Montgomery said to BBC Science Focus.

However, a note of caution before curating dog video playlists for your beloved pet: nearly half of the 453 dogs analyzed reacted every time their on-screen counterparts barked or howled.

Interestingly, breed and gender did not appear to influence their reactions, with older dogs exhibiting similar caution to younger puppies.

Dogs have been enjoying television alongside humans for nearly a century. Today, there are even specialized channels and programs designed to enhance dogs’ lives while their owners are engaged elsewhere.

Despite this, there has been little scientific inquiry into how dogs respond to visual stimuli.

To fill this gap, Montgomery encouraged dog owners to complete a survey that documented their pets’ responses to various dogs, animals, humans, inanimate objects, and environmental effects appearing on TV.

Montgomery posits that more impulsive dogs are likely to chase objects appearing on the TV screen or look behind the TV to track their movement, indicating they perceive the visuals as real.

Research indicates that dogs engage with TV for an average of 14 minutes – Credits: Getty Images/Manabougaswara

Conversely, skittish dogs were more prone to react when they saw people on TV or heard doorbells.

This research focuses solely on interactions with the most common individuals, rather than assessing whether these interactions are positive or negative.

Nevertheless, the insights gathered could aid owners in targeting training to eliminate undesirable behaviors and better identify which shows might be stressing their pets.

“The primary aim of this study was to enhance our understanding of how dogs react to various TV programs, thereby increasing the effectiveness of television as a tool for dog enrichment,” Montgomery stated. “Understanding which types of shows captivate dogs can help dog TV programs improve their content according to what dogs are likely to enjoy.”

About our experts

Lane Montgomery is a doctoral candidate in the Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences Program at Auburn University, USA. Her research concentrates on canine behavior and cognition to enhance the welfare of companion dogs and the efficiency of working dogs.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Rising Rates of Gastrointestinal Cancer Among Individuals Under 50

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Rising Rates of Gastrointestinal Cancer in Young Adults

Gastrointestinal cancers, which encompass colorectal, gastric, and pancreatic cancers, are increasingly prevalent among young adults, though the reasons remain largely unclear. The potential causes warrant further investigation, according to experts. A review published in JAMA on Thursday highlights that gastrointestinal cancer has become the fastest-growing cancer among adults under 50 in the United States.

This review offers one of the most comprehensive overviews of gastrointestinal cancer trends, synthesizing data from a major international cancer database alongside 115 studies published from January 2014 to March 2025. The authors stress the importance of adhering to colorectal cancer screening guidelines. They recommend that individuals at average risk begin screening—typically through colonoscopy or stool tests—at age 45. As screening for pancreatic, stomach, and esophageal cancers remains infrequent in the U.S., the authors are exploring innovative ways to broaden screening access.

“This underscores the necessity of improving screening and early detection,” stated Dr. Kimmie Ng, co-author and director of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s Young Onset Colorectal Cancer Center.

According to the findings, colorectal cancer is the most frequently diagnosed early-onset gastrointestinal cancer, with approximately 185,000 cases worldwide in 2022, including nearly 21,000 in the U.S. This reflects a 2% annual increase since 2011, as reported by the American Cancer Society. “This is unprecedented in this age group, and we are witnessing a significant rise among individuals in their 20s, 30s, and 40s,” commented Dr. John Marshall, chief medical consultant for the nonprofit Colorectal Cancer Alliance, which was not involved in the study. A notable case is actor Chadwick Boseman, who was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016 and passed away at age 43 four years later.

Emerging research indicates a rise in early-onset cases of pancreatic, stomach, and esophageal cancers as well. Previous studies suggest that the incidence of these gastrointestinal cancers is disproportionately higher among Black and Hispanic populations. Pancreatic cancer, known for its high mortality rate, shows that only 13% of patients survive five years post-diagnosis. Although colorectal cancer is the most common, healthcare providers possess a better understanding of the factors contributing to early-onset cases compared to other cancers.

“Understanding the dynamics of colorectal cancer has given us insights into its initiation,” noted Dr. Scott Kopetz, a professor of gastrointestinal medical oncology at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. He posited that multiple factors likely contribute to the increase in early-onset cases. “There isn’t one overarching theory,” he said.

The recent review in JAMA suggests that lifestyle factors such as obesity, sedentary behavior, inadequate nutrition, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption are largely associated with early-onset gastrointestinal cancers. A specific study highlighted that women who consumed more sugary beverages during puberty faced a heightened risk of developing early-onset colorectal cancer. “The behaviors and exposures during childhood and adolescence likely contribute to the cancer risks seen in young adults,” remarked Dr. Ng.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has raised concerns about the correlation between sugary drinks and health issues, including cancer. Recently, President Donald Trump announced that Coca-Cola would switch to cane sugar instead of U.S. corn syrup; however, the company did not confirm this change to NBC News.

Dr. Marshall speculated that the uptick in early-onset colorectal cancer may be linked to shifts in gut microbiota. Factors such as diet, antibiotic usage, microplastics, and chemical exposures could impact these bacteria, yet scientists lack a clear understanding of what constitutes a healthy microbiome and its implications for health. This area is ripe for research.

The review by Dr. Ng found that between 15% and 30% of individuals with early-onset gastrointestinal cancer carry hereditary genetic mutations, indicating a propensity to develop cancer earlier. She advocates for genetic testing for all patients diagnosed under 50.

Despite improvements in treatment and screening that have boosted overall survival rates for gastrointestinal cancer, the review indicates that younger patients often experience poorer outcomes. This trend persists despite receiving more comprehensive treatment, including surgeries, radiation, and aggressive chemotherapy regimens. One reason cited is that primary care physicians may overlook symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, heartburn, and reflux in younger patients, delaying diagnosis.

“In my experience, when young individuals present with non-specific symptoms, there tends to be a lack of consideration for colorectal or other gastrointestinal cancers, leading to more advanced-stage diagnoses,” said Dr. Howard Hochster, director of gastrointestinal oncology at Rutgers Cancer Institute and RWJBarnabas Health. However, Dr. Ng pointed out that younger patients still display worse survival rates, even when accounting for the stage of diagnosis. “This leads us to contemplate whether cancers that arise in younger individuals might possess unique biological characteristics that render them more aggressive or less responsive to treatment,” she concluded.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

The Plague Returns: Should You Be Concerned?

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Earlier this week, health officials in Arizona reported a death due to pneumonia, specifically that Plague – responsible for decimating nearly half of Europe’s population during the 14th century, historically known as the Black Death.

At the same time, the US is grappling with its largest measles outbreak in 20 years, with over 1,300 cases confirmed according to the CDC.

The resurgence of numerous infectious diseases, once thought to be under control, raises important questions: how common is the reappearance of disease?

We consulted Professor Paul Hunter, a medical expert from the Norwich School of Medicine at UEA. He discusses the reasons for this resurgence of diseases, the alarming truth behind their persistence, and what it would take for society to face another catastrophic outbreak akin to the Black Death.

How normal is it for infectious diseases believed to be eradicated to return?

The real question is whether they ever truly disappeared. Many infectious diseases that were once common are still circulating and may resurge with vigor. On a global scale, we typically observe one or two significant outbreaks or reappearances annually.

For many of the classic infectious diseases that seem to be re-emerging, they likely never vanished entirely; rather, their reoccurrences can be more localized. For instance, cholera might flare up in areas that haven’t experienced outbreaks for decades.

Is it feasible to eradicate a disease completely?

In theory, it might be possible to eradicate certain diseases. Initially, I believed polio could be eradicated, but it doesn’t seem likely now. Generally, we don’t anticipate the complete eradication of most infectious diseases. While global control and management of infections is achievable, complete eradication remains nearly impossible.

In the case of polio, the vaccine was highly effective, public health initiatives were strong, and it was relatively easy to diagnose outbreaks swiftly.

Today’s landscape presents unique challenges. Many infectious agents can spread before individuals exhibit any symptoms. As demonstrated during the Covid pandemic, it’s nearly impossible to eradicate a disease when transmission is often undetectable.

Compounding this is the difficulty in managing outbreaks in conflict zones. While a vaccine for Ebola exists, controlling outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains a challenge.

What triggers the return of diseases?

The primary factor is viral evolution. This is evident with the flu virus, which adapts over time. Occasionally, significant evolutionary changes lead to faster-spreading variants known as “escaped mutations,” as observed with various Covid variants.

Another factor is how diseases can be transmitted to humans. Some illnesses, like the plague, persist in nature. The “Silvatic plague” infects rodents, and environmental changes can lead to increased human contact with these animals.

In the US, sporadic plague cases have been noted among hunters or individuals who come close to rodent populations.

A major plague outbreak occurred in Madagascar decades ago, largely driven by environmental degradation that put humans in closer contact with infected rodents.

Climate change is also reshaping the distribution of many infectious diseases, introducing them to areas where they were previously uncommon. For instance, small outbreaks of dengue fever are beginning to appear along the Mediterranean coast, a region typically not associated with this disease due to warming temperatures.

A significant contributor to the resurgence of diseases is the decline in vaccination rates. This is particularly evident with the current measles situation in the UK.

I contracted measles as a child, and most people from my generation did as well. However, younger individuals may never have seen a case, leading to reduced urgency surrounding vaccination. When vaccination rates drop, diseases like measles can re-emerge.

What factors contribute to the resurgence of diseases like the bubonic plague?

In essence, there is little difference between modern and historical bacterial infections. The plague remains as virulent as ever, but due to antibiotics, it can be treated in ways that were not available in the Middle Ages.

While the plague remains a serious threat, proper treatment means that few should die from it today, even if infected.

Societal collapse occurs when these diseases become uncontrollable. This phenomenon has been observed in Madagascar, where conflicts, environmental degradation, and economic downturns led to closer interactions between humans and animals, facilitating disease transmission.

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Which infectious disease poses the greatest risk of resurfacing?

Cholera poses a significant threat in certain regions, particularly in Ukraine and Gaza. While cholera is not currently present in either conflict zone, should it appear, it could spread rapidly and result in devastating fatalities.

Currently, there is a cholera vaccine shortage, partly due to the shift in focus toward Covid vaccine production and pandemic disruptions, as well as the recent uptick in cholera infections.

Typically, there would be ample reserves of cholera vaccines, but stockpiles are now depleted, with any upcoming supply already allocated to high-risk countries.

Perhaps the most dangerous threat is the potential for another major flu pandemic, similar to the Spanish flu of 1918. While Covid primarily affected older individuals, the Spanish flu led to agonizing deaths, with severe pulmonary complications. It could cause higher mortality rates than many other infectious diseases.

Another concern is international travel, as evidenced by Covid. What other risks can come from overseas?

Travel poses significant risks, especially from antibiotic-resistant organisms, which some might consider emerging infectious diseases. These viruses have existed for some time but have now developed resistance to multiple treatment options.

Much of this issue arises from practices such as sex tourism, leading to the spread of drug-resistant sexually transmitted infections.

Medical tourism also contributes to this risk, as individuals traveling for affordable cosmetic or dental procedures might inadvertently foster the spread of these resistant strains.

Listen to our complete interview about instant geniuses.

About our expert

Professor Paul Hunter specializes in the epidemiology of emerging infectious diseases at the Norwich School of Medicine, University of East Anglia (UEA). His research focuses on diseases influenced by environmental factors and has been published in journals such as PLOS 1, Lancet Public Health, and British Medical Journal (BMJ).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

New Study Uncovers the Optimal Walking Pace for Longevity and Health

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Walking slightly faster than usual can markedly enhance the health of seniors, according to new research from the University of Chicago.

Specifically, researchers discovered that frail or at-risk adults can bolster their health and quality of life by increasing their walking speed by at least 14 steps per minute over their normal pace.

“Increased walking speed is a well-documented protector against mortality,” stated Dr. Daniel Rubin, associate professor of anesthesia and critical care at the university, as reported by BBC Science Focus. “Older adults who walk more briskly tend to live longer.”

The study involved 102 participants from 14 retirement communities, implementing a structured walking program over four months.

During this period, 56 participants maintained a normal walking pace while the remaining 46 were encouraged to walk quickly yet safely.

At the conclusion of the program, each participant’s walking speed was assessed during a 6-minute walk.

While all participants reaped benefits from the walking program, those who managed around 100 steps per minute showed the most significant improvement in their frailty levels from the start to the end of the study.

Researchers had long recognized that walking speed correlates with the health of older adults, but previous recommendations on how to enhance pace were often subjective and challenging to quantify.

Traditionally, older adults were advised to walk at a pace where talking was easy but singing was difficult.

Frail adults are at increased risk of falls, hospitalization, and loss of independence. Warning signs include weakness, unintentional weight loss, and fatigue. Image Credit: Getty.

“We can offer the elderly straightforward and targeted advice like, ‘Try to walk five steps per minute faster than your normal pace.’

Healthcare providers and researchers can use wearable technology, such as accelerometers, to track walking speed. Rubin and his team are currently developing an app for individuals to measure their speed at home.

In the meantime, Rubin suggests utilizing a metronome to establish a baseline walking pace, syncing steps with the metronome’s beat.

“Once a comfortable pace is established, you can gradually add 5-10 steps per minute to enhance your cadence,” he noted. “The target is to aim for an increase of 10-15 steps per minute, which is acceptable.”

Nonetheless, Rubin emphasizes that seniors must walk safely and monitor for any symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.

“Our hope is that older adults will find this a practical strategy for guiding walking intensity, enabling them to live longer and continue engaging in activities they enjoy,” he added.

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About our experts

Dr. Daniel Rubin is a physician at the University of Chicago and an assistant professor of anesthesia and critical care. His interest in gait studies stems from his clinical experience with elderly patients preparing for surgery.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Neanderthal Community Cultivated a Unique Food Culture

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Depiction of a Neanderthal group engaged in food preparation

Luis Montagna/Marta Montagna/Science Photo Library

Neanderthals likely developed distinct food preparation traditions that varied between groups. Excavations at two caves in what is now northern Israel indicate that these ancient inhabitants had unique methods for processing similar types of prey.

Contrary to popular belief, Homo sapiens were not the first to prepare and cook food. Evidence shows that Neanderthals, who thrived in Europe and Asia until approximately 40,000 years ago, hunted, cooked a diverse array of animals, and employed flint tools to enhance their meals with wild herbs.

For further insights into Neanderthal cuisine, see Analle Jaron from Hebrew University in Jerusalem and her team, who investigated findings at the Amdo and Kebara caves.

Located merely 70 km apart, these sites provide a unique lens through which to examine cultural differences among Neanderthals. The stone tools, remnants of food, and hearths uncovered at both locations suggest that these groups occupied the caves concurrently, possibly during winter months.

As Jaron remarks, “The same animal species were being hunted, set against a similar landscape. The weather conditions were alike, and both Neanderthal groups primarily feasted on gazelles and some fallow deer.”

However, notable differences were also present. For instance, bone evidence indicates that larger prey was favored in the Kebara cave, where more substantial animals were brought in and processed.

Jaron and her colleagues utilized microscopic analysis to study bone remnants from the sediments dated between 50,000 and 60,000 years ago, examining cut marks made by stone tools.

They discovered that while the flint tools were similar across both sites, the patterns of cut marks varied. “The cuts in Kebara displayed a greater fluctuation in width and depth, while in Amdo, they were concentrated in large clusters, often overlapping,” Jaron explains.

To determine whether these discrepancies influenced hunting practices, the researchers focused on the long bones of gazelles from both sites, which exhibited similar variations.

“We’re discussing two groups living in close proximity that both butchered the same type of meat, but it appears that at one site, the meat was processed closer to the bones.” says Ceren Kabukcu from the University of Liverpool, UK.

Past studies examining bone cut marks from later human societies indicate that the variations observed in Neanderthal butchery are not merely due to a lack of skills or difference in technique. It’s not a matter of expertise; it’s a difference in approach.

Jaron posits that these contrasts are likely a result of intentional choices regarding butchering methods. She suggests that Neanderthals in Amdo may have preferred to prepare their meat in ways that preserved it, such as drying or hanging before cooking.

“In the context of opportunistic behavior in slaughtering, one would expect the most efficient methods to be employed to maximize utility; nevertheless, it appears that cultural or social factors played a more significant role,” Jaron states. “This might relate to the group’s practices, passed down through learning and generations.”

“The existence of differences and the subtlety in technological usage in daily life isn’t entirely surprising,” notes Kabukcu. “As research deepens, we may uncover more nuances across various Paleolithic sites, even in China.”

It remains uncertain whether the caves were inhabited simultaneously or if different groups intermingled. “They could have been occupied at the same time or separated by hundreds of years. There’s no definitive way to ascertain that,” Jaron adds.

Nonetheless, she points out that the pronounced clustering of cut marks in Amdo is consistent across both the oldest and youngest sediment layers, suggesting that groups returning to the cave may have maintained similar butchering practices over centuries.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Gemini North Telescope Captures Stunning New Images of Interstellar Comet 3I/Atlas

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers utilizing the Gemini North telescope at NSF’s International Gemini Observatory have observed the interstellar comet 3i/Atlas as it passes through our cosmic neighborhood.

This image from the Gemini North Telescope Multi-Object Spectrometer (GMOS-N) showcases the interstellar comet 3i/Atlas. Image credits: International Gemini Observatory/Noirlab/NSF/Aura/K. Meech, Ifa&U. Hawaii / Jen Miller & Mahdi Zamani, Noirlab.

Interstellar objects are those that emerge from and traverse beyond our solar system.

Ranging from several meters to a few kilometers in size, these cosmic fragments are remnants from the formation of the host star’s planetary system.

As they orbit their stars, interactions with the gravitational pull of nearby planets and stars can eject them into interstellar space, allowing them to traverse other solar systems.

Studying interstellar visitors provides critical insights into distant star systems.

They carry valuable information about chemical elements, including their formation timelines and locations, offering scientists glimpses into the formation of planetary systems throughout the history of the Milky Way galaxy.

3i/Atlas marks the third interstellar object discovered, following 1i/Oumuamua in 2017 and 2i/Borisov in 2019.

Astronomers suspect that numerous interstellar objects might regularly pass through our solar system, but capturing them is challenging as they are only visible when telescopes are oriented correctly at the right time.

Multiple teams worldwide utilize various telescopes to monitor 3i/Atlas during its brief visitation, enabling them to collectively assess its key properties.

While many aspects remain unknown, 3i/Atlas is already recognized as distinct in comparison to 1i/Oumuamua and 2i/Borisov.

Previous observations suggest that 3i/Atlas could have a diameter of up to 20 km (12 miles).

New comets typically exhibit highly eccentric orbits, which define how much the object’s path deviates from a perfect circle.

An eccentricity of 0 indicates a circular orbit, while 0.999 signifies a highly elongated ellipse.

Objects with an eccentricity greater than 1 follow paths that do not loop around the Sun and come from, then return to, interstellar space.

The eccentricity of 3i/Atlas is recorded at 6.2, classifying it as a highly hyperbolic interstellar object.

In contrast, “Oumuamua’s” eccentricity was around 1.2, and Borisov’s was about 3.6.

As of now, 3i/Atlas resides in Jupiter’s orbit, approximately 465 million km (290 million miles) from Earth and 600 million km (370 million miles) from the Sun.

On December 19, 2025, it will come within roughly 270 million km (170 million miles) of Earth, posing no threat to our planet.

The closest approach to the Sun will occur around October 30, 2025, at a distance of 210 million km (130 million miles).

During this close approach, it is expected to travel at about 25,000 km (15,500 miles) per hour.

The latest image of 3i/Atlas was obtained using the Gemini North Telescope Multi-Object Spectrometer (GMOS-N).

“The sensitivity and scheduling precision of the International Gemini Observatory played a critical role in observing this interstellar wanderer,” remarked Martin Still, NSF Program Director at the International Gemini Observatory.

“We eagerly anticipate the wealth of new data and insights as this object warms in sunlight before continuing its cold, dark journey through interstellar space.”

Source: www.sci.news

Children Born from Donor Mitochondria Are Thriving Today

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Mitochondria supply energy to cells, yet mutations can lead to defects

Nobeastsofierce Science / Alamy

SEI 259196070 — Mitochondria supply energy to cells, yet mutations can lead to defects

Nobeastsofierce Science / Alamy

Eight young children are believed to be shielded from severe genetic disorders after being born through a procedure that replaces the mother’s faulty mitochondria with those from female donors.

Approximately 1 in 5,000 individuals inherit defective mitochondria, which are responsible for energy production in cells and passed down solely from mothers. Such defects can stem from genetic mutations leading to serious health issues like blindness, seizures, and even death. “Families face immense challenges with these conditions, as they are devastating,” said Bobby McFarland of Newcastle University in the UK.

In 2015, the UK became the first nation to sanction a technique known as pronuclear transfer for women at high risk of transmitting mitochondrial diseases who may not benefit from genetic testing prior to the transplant.

This technique involves utilizing eggs from both the mothers and donors, then fertilizing them with sperm from the father via IVF. After approximately 10 hours, the nuclei from both eggs are removed. This separates the crucial genetic material from the mitochondrial DNA.

The nucleus from the mother is subsequently inserted into the donor’s egg, resulting in an embryo that retains most of the genetic information from its biological parent while gaining mitochondria from the donor. It’s important to note that some maternal mitochondrial DNA could still be passed on unintentionally, as mentioned by Burt Smeet of Maastricht University in the Netherlands.

McFarland, who pioneered this approach with colleagues, has since employed the technique on 19 women possessing harmful mutations in over 80% of their mitochondria, typically the threshold for complications.

Following the transfer of the last embryo, seven women achieved pregnancies, resulting in the birth of eight healthy babies, including one set of twins.

Blood samples taken from the newborns were analyzed, revealing no harmful mitochondrial DNA mutations in five of them, while the other three showed only minimal levels. “The results have met our expectations,” noted Mike Murphy at Cambridge University.

Months or even years after undergoing nuclear transfer, some of the children have encountered challenges in reaching developmental milestones. Some have faced complications, potentially related to the transfer process. For instance, one child experienced elevated blood lipid levels and an irregular heartbeat, both of which were treated successfully, while another developed epilepsy at seven months, which resolved itself over time.

The research team intends to monitor the children to assess the long-term effects of this procedure.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Study: Common Sweetener Erythritol May Impact Brain Cells and Elevate Stroke Risk

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A recent study from the University of Colorado Boulder indicates that erythritol, a widely used non-nutritive sweetener, may be linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events.

Berry et al. Our study demonstrates that erythritol, at concentrations commonly found in standard size sugar-free beverages, negatively impacts cerebral microvascular endothelial cell oxidative stress, ENOS activation, NO production, ET-1 expression, and T-PA release in vitro. Image credit: Tafilah Yusof.

Erythritol is a popular alternative to non-nutritive sugars due to its minimal effects on blood glucose and insulin levels.

This four-carbon sugar has a low-calorie content of 60-80%, being as sweet as sucrose, and commonly replaces sugar in baked goods, confections, and beverages.

Authorized by the FDA in 2001, erythritol is recommended for individuals with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes, as it aids in regulating calorie consumption, sugar intake, and minimizing hyperglycemia.

Found naturally in small amounts in certain fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods, erythritol is quickly absorbed in the small intestine through passive diffusion.

In humans, erythritol is produced endogenously from glucose and fructose by erythrocytes, liver, and kidneys via the pentose phosphate pathway, making its levels dependent on both endogenous production and external intake.

“Our findings contribute to the growing evidence that non-nutritive sweeteners, often considered safe, could pose health risks,” stated Professor Christopher Desouza from the University of Colorado.

A recent study involving 4,000 participants from the US and Europe revealed that individuals with elevated erythritol levels are at a significantly increased risk of experiencing a heart attack or stroke within three years.

Professor Desouza and his team sought to determine what factors were contributing to this heightened risk.

They exposed human cells lining blood vessels in the brain to erythritol for three hours, using concentrations similar to those found in standard sugar-free beverages.

The treated cells exhibited several alterations.

Notably, they produced significantly less nitric oxide, a molecule critical for dilating blood vessels, while increasing the expression of endothelin-1, which constricts blood vessels.

Furthermore, the challenge of a thrombogenic compound called thrombin significantly slowed the cell’s production of T-PA, a naturally occurring compound that promotes coagulation.

Cells treated with erythritol also generated more reactive oxygen species, or free radicals, which can lead to cellular damage and inflammation.

“We’ve been diligently working to share our findings with the broader community,” noted Auburn Berry, a graduate student at the University of Colorado in Boulder.

“Our research indicates that erythritol may indeed heighten the risk of stroke.”

“Our study solely focused on sugar substitutes,” emphasized Professor Desouza.

“For individuals consuming multiple servings daily, the potential impact could be even more pronounced.”

The researchers caution that their findings are based on lab research conducted on cells, necessitating larger-scale studies involving human subjects.

Nonetheless, they advise consumers to check product labels for erythritol or “sugar alcohol.”

“Considering the epidemiological evidence informing our research, along with our cellular discoveries, monitoring the intake of such non-nutritive sweeteners seems wise,” Professor Desouza remarked.

The study was published today in the Journal of Applied Physiology.

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Auburn R. Berry et al. 2025. The non-nutritive sweetener erythritol negatively affects brain microvascular endothelial cell function. Journal of Applied Physiology 138(6):1571-1577; doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.00276.2025

Source: www.sci.news

Tsunami Advisory Issued for Alaska Following 7.3 Magnitude Earthquake off the Aleutian Islands

Posted on July 17, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Alaska’s coastal regions were on alert for a tsunami Wednesday following a 7.3 magnitude earthquake that hit the Ariuya Islands, according to officials.

The earthquake occurred at 12:38 PM local time (4:38 PM ET), with its epicenter located 55 miles south of Sandpoint, a community on Popf Island. The quake was recorded at a depth of 12 miles.

Tsunami data was not immediately available, and effects for Kodiak Island were not anticipated until 2:40 PM local time (6:40 PM ET).

Although no large-scale flooding is expected, the Tsunami Warning Center stated that dangerous currents and waves could pose risks to those in close proximity.

The initial tsunami warning has since been adjusted to a tsunami advisory.

These advisories span various coastlines, from Unimak Pass in the Aleutians to the entrance of Kennedy, located 40 miles south of Homer.

Emergency personnel in Kodiak, a city of around 5,500 that lies about 250 miles south of Anchorage, announced that shelters would be opened and sirens sounded prior to the warning being downgraded.

“The sirens are sounding, and remain vigilant if you’re near the coast,” Kodiak Island Emergency Management advised on social media.

Emergency officials reported no threat to Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, following the earthquake.

Debi Schmidt, the city manager of Sand Point, discussed the earthquake with NBC affiliate Ktuu, describing it as the strongest quake she had ever experienced.

“I was at home for lunch when the house began to shake; things were falling, and the cupboard door swung open,” she recounted to the station. “Fortunately, there was no damage.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

A Compact Device Generates Water, Oxygen, and Fuel from Lunar Soil

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Image of the moon captured by Chang’e 5 Lander in China, which gathered samples in 2020

CNSA/Xinhua/Alamy

Solar energy systems can generate water, oxygen, and fuel from lunar regolith for future settlements of lunar explorers.

It has been established that significant amounts of water are bound in the minerals of the moon. However, methods proposed for extracting resources from lunar regolith typically involve complex and energy-heavy techniques that aren’t practical for long-lasting lunar colonies.

Recently, Lu Wang and his team at the Chinese University of Hong Kong discovered that a relatively straightforward solar-powered nuclear reactor could yield useful materials simply by exposing lunar regolith to sunlight and utilizing them through astronauts.

In their experiments, the researchers utilized lunar samples obtained from China’s Chang’e 5 mission, along with simulated samples made from Earth-based rocks.

During the operation of the reactor, sunlight first extracts water from the lunar soil, and then the soil facilitates a reaction between CO₂ and water to produce carbon monoxide, oxygen, and hydrogen, which can serve as fuel.

While lunar soil contains various minerals that can aid in these reactions, a compound known as ilmenite is highlighted as a key catalyst, according to Wang.

“The mechanisms of these chemical reactions are quite fascinating and could lead to the creation of essential lunar resources,” says Haihui Joy Jiang, who was not part of the research team at the University of Sydney in Australia.

“We still need to address several questions and direct future research to determine if this process is applicable in a practical, feasible, and scalable manner on the moon,” Jiang adds.

Wang acknowledges the challenges of expanding this process to produce sufficient water, oxygen, and fuel to support a lunar colony. “The moon’s extreme environment presents unique challenges, including severe temperature variations, a high vacuum, intense solar radiation, and low gravity,” he notes. “Moreover, the variability in lunar soil and scarcity of co-resources pose considerable hurdles to technical implementation.”

Topics:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Rare Photos Showcase Snow Leopard Cubs in Their Den

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Two of the five snow leopard cubs recently photographed in Mongolia

SLCF-Mongolia/Snow Leopard Trust

A team of researchers explored two snow leopard dens in the Tost Mountains of Mongolia, studying and capturing images of five cubs, which provided a rare chance to gather data on this endangered species.

Before their expedition in June and July, researchers had not been able to access snow leopard nests globally since 2019. Örjan Johansson of Snow Leopard Trust noted, “The burrows are situated in tight cracks and caves. We only get one opportunity. If the mother returns before we locate the burrow, we have to stop our search. Going back more than once is too intrusive.”

Johansson and Bren Nyam, a local field ranger, pinpointed the burrow’s approximate location by tracking GPS collars that had been previously attached to 20 adult female snow leopards.

The burrow where the cubs were found was located by tracking the mother’s whereabouts

SLCF-Mongolia_snow Leopard Trust

Johansson explained, “The range of female snow leopards’ homes in Mongolia’s South Gobi region typically spans about 130 square kilometers, which is approximately 2.5 times the area of Manhattan. Without the GPS collar, we would not have discovered their burrows.” However, even with the collars, the team had to search an area as vast as 60,000 square meters to pinpoint the exact location.

The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is categorized as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, with an estimated 3,920 to 6,390 individuals remaining in the wild. These cats inhabit alpine terrains across Central Asia, spanning 2 million square kilometers across 12 countries, including China, India, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia. Their populations face threats from habitat loss, poaching, and conflicts arising from livestock predation.

Johansson noted, “To effectively model and predict population trajectories of multiple species, we must grasp essential factors such as fertility, mortality, and the dynamics of animals entering and leaving an area.” He collaborated with the Snow Leopard Conservation Foundation on this project.

“Visiting the dens is crucial as it is the only means to gather information on average litter sizes and cub survival rates during their first five to six months. Before this age, cubs typically remain secluded with their mothers. Accessing the burrow allows researchers to collect invaluable data that would otherwise be unattainable. Such information is essential for enhancing understanding of snow leopard ecology and informing conservation strategies for a sustainable future.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Urgent Need to Discuss Geographic Engineering

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

We are moving towards a significantly warmer future. As we go, there’s a substantial risk of reaching a “tipping point” that could drastically worsen climate disruption. With our failure to decrease carbon emissions, geoengineering’s allure for cooling the planet is growing, but is that a sound solution?

“Geoengineering can avert climatic tipping points, but it can’t be delayed,” some researchers suggest, proposing that injecting solar-reflecting aerosols into the stratosphere might prevent collapse events, like the slowing of vital ocean currents. Yet, the risks associated with geoengineering are considerable.

Initially, achieving an international agreement on this matter seems unlikely; if a single country acts independently, it could lead to severe consequences, like altered rainfall patterns globally. If one nation perceives itself harmed by another’s geoengineering efforts, we might find ourselves in a climate conflict where geoengineering is weaponized.

Even with a consensus, the situation remains complicated. If geoengineering goes awry, it could worsen conditions instead of improving them. There have been too few practical tests of computer models and geoengineering concepts for us to feel confident in their efficacy.

We might face a climate war where geoengineering is employed as a weapon.

The urgency is palpable. The sooner geoengineering is initiated, the better our chances of evading perilous tipping points. At the very least, it’s an avenue worth exploring.

However, many scientists oppose geoengineering research altogether. One concern is that it could be leveraged as a rationale for neglecting carbon reduction efforts. But that discussion is hardly impactful in a reality where U.S. President Donald Trump has rolled back climate initiatives without much justification (see “What will climate repercussions look like from Trump’s ‘big beautiful bill’?”).

Geoengineering might be a catastrophic notion, but we won’t grasp its implications unless we conduct extensive research. This exploration is essential before we are compelled to take drastic measures without solid scientific guidance.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Astronomers Unveil Their First Solar System Discovery

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers have, for the first time, been able to witness the early stages of solar system formation, discovering small entities that would eventually evolve into planets orbiting a distant young star.

This represents the earliest phase of planetary formation ever documented, giving us insight into our own solar system’s appearance shortly after the Sun ignited.

“We observe signs of planetary development – the transformation of tiny dust particles into slightly larger grains – and in some systems, this provides insight into earlier phases. Professor Merel Van ‘T Hoff, a co-author of the new study, elaborated on these findings. BBC Science Focus.

“This can be likened to researchers studying human evolution who, for the first time, can observe infants by examining young children.”

The Baby Planetary System is coming to life around a young star known as Hops-315, located 1,300 light years from Earth.

Stars in this early stage are thought to closely resemble our Sun, making them ideal subjects for uncovering the secrets of our solar system’s inception and Earth’s genesis.

Young stars like Hops-315 are enveloped by hot disks of gas and dust termed “protoplanetary discs.” Initially, these disks are extremely hot, causing silicon and iron – crucial planetary components – to be in gaseous form. However, as the disk cools, these elements begin to solidify.

Evidence from ancient meteorites in our solar system suggests that the first solid materials were formed from these discs, specifically crystalline minerals containing silicon monoxide (SiO).

These images illustrate how hot gas condenses into solid minerals around Baby Star Hops-315. The left image captures Hops-315 and its surroundings as seen by the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (Alma). Two insets depict an artist’s representation of silicon monoxide molecules condensing into solid silicates – credit: ESO/L. Calsada/Alma (ESO/NAOJ/NRAO)/M. McClure et al.

Using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (Alma), international teams identified SiO in its gaseous form and as a newly formed crystalline mineral surrounding Hops-315, strongly indicating that solidification is just beginning.

“The first tiny minerals we observe clump together to form ‘pebbles,’ roughly the size of thumbnails,” Professor Melissa McClure, who led the research, stated. BBC Science Focus. “If they cluster closely enough, they can naturally collapse under their own gravity, forming bodies similar in size to kilometer-sized asteroids.

“Eventually, these will collide and merge, creating a planetary embryo, a full-sized rocky planet, or even the core of a gas giant like Jupiter.”

The research team plans to continue its observations of Hops-315 while also looking for other systems at this nascent stage of planetary evolution.

However, don’t expect to witness planetary formations in real-time. As Van’T Hoff remarked, “The timescale for disk evolution spans hundreds of thousands of years.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0j-mh6_qlba

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About our experts

Merrell van T. Hoff is an assistant professor at Purdue University in the United States. His research aims to understand how planets form and how frequently Earth-like planets exist in the Milky Way and other galaxies. Before joining Purdue, Professor Van’T Hoff was a postdoctoral researcher with the Michigan Fellows Association at the University of Michigan.

Melissa McClure is an assistant professor at Leiden Observatory in the Netherlands and a Beni Prize laureate. Her research employs observations and models to trace how solid building blocks of life (such as “dust” grains like ice and rocks) are incorporated from the formation of dense molecular clouds to the evolution of planets within protoplanetary discs and young exoplanets.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

We Might Have Discovered a Simple Method for Producing Water on the Moon

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers have created innovative technologies to extract water from lunar soil, potentially offering vital support for future lunar explorers.

Findings published in the journal Joule highlight how this could significantly lower the astronomical cost of transporting water from Earth, which stands at $22,000 per liter ($83,000 per gallon).

If successfully scaled, this technology may play a crucial role in supporting long-term missions on the moon.

Utilizing samples brought back by China’s Chang’e-5 mission in 2020, scientists showed that water can be extracted from lunar materials and used alongside carbon dioxide to produce essential resources. These resources include oxygen for astronauts to breathe and hydrogen-based chemicals that can be transformed into rocket fuel.

“We never fully imagined the ‘magic’ contained in lunar soil,” said Professor Lou Wang, one of the study’s authors from Shenzhen University and Hong Kong’s China University, in a statement.

“The most surprising aspect of our work was the real success achieved through this integrated approach. One stage of lunar ₂O extraction and photothermal _CO2 catalysts enhances energy efficiency and simplifies infrastructure development.”

This technique employs a photothermal method (which converts sunlight into heat) to facilitate water extraction and the chemical conversion process.

Chang’e-5 lunar samples on display in Beijing, China. The mission returned 1.7 kg (3.7 pounds) of lunar material to Earth in 2020 – Source: Getty

In laboratory tests, the team employed actual lunar soils from Chang’e-5, along with simulated samples, exposing them to CO2 while concentrating light into a batch reactor. The CO2 used in the conversion process can be easily obtained from astronaut exhalations on the moon.

Previous methods for extracting water from lunar regolith lacked direct links to generating other vital resources. This integrated approach indicates a more efficient advancement; however, researchers recognize that significant challenges persist.

The moon’s extreme temperatures, high radiation levels, and inconsistent soil composition complicate efforts to scale this technology. The amount of CO2 produced by an astronaut’s exhalation may not meet the requirements for complete resource recycling, and the catalytic process still lacks the efficiency needed for sustained life.

Nevertheless, this advancement represents a promising leap towards making life on the moon more viable. There is increasing global interest in establishing a long-term human presence on the moon, and leveraging local water resources could be instrumental for deeper space missions.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

How Human Eggs Stay Viable for Decades

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Egg cells do not dispose of waste like other cells.

Sebastian Kauritzki / Aramie

SEI 259122427 — Egg cells do not dispose of waste like other cells.

Sebastian Kauritzki / Aramie

Human eggs appear to manage waste differently than other cell types.

All women are born with a limited supply of egg cells, or oocytes, expected to last around 50 years. This duration is remarkably extended for a single cell. Certain human cells, including brain and retinal cells, can persist for a lifetime, but the innate processes that facilitate their function often lead to gradual damage over time.

Cells require protein recycling as part of their housekeeping, but this comes with a price. The energy spent during this process can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which inflict random damage on the cells. “This background damage is ever-present,” notes Elvan Beke from the Spanish Genome Regulation Center. “An increase in ROS correlates with increased damage.”

However, it appears that healthy eggs circumvent this issue. To investigate this phenomenon, Beke and her team examined human eggs under a microscope. The cells were immersed in a fluid containing a fluorescent dye that binds to acidic cellular components known as lysosomes, which are considered “recycling plants.” Gabriele Zaffagnini from the University of Cologne, Germany, was involved in this study.

The bright dyes indicated that the lysosomes containing waste in human eggs demonstrated less activity compared to similar structures in other human cells or small mammalian egg cells, such as those from mice. Zaffagnini and his colleagues theorize that this may serve a self-preservation purpose.

According to Zaffagnini, reducing the waste recycling process might be one of several strategies employed by human egg cells to maintain their extended lifespan. Beke suggests that human oocytes appear to “put the brakes on everything” in order to minimize damage, as all cellular functions slow down in these eggs, thereby lowering the production of harmful ROS.

Slowing the protein recycling mechanism seems beneficial for egg cell health, and failure to do so could explain the prevalence of unhealthy oocytes. “This insight might help explain why human oocytes become dysfunctional after a certain age,” states M-Re from Yale University School of Medicine. “This could lead to a broader understanding of the challenges faced by human oocytes,” he adds.

Fluorescent dyes highlight human egg cells, showcasing components
such as mitochondria (orange) and DNA (light blue).

Gabriele Zaffagnini/Centro de Regulación Genómica

Evaluating egg cell health in this manner could enhance fertility therapies. “It’s well-known that protein degradation is vital for cell survival, directly affecting fertility,” explains Beke, who is focused on researching healthy egg cells. There are ongoing comparisons between oocytes and cells from individuals encountering fertility issues. “Elevated ROS levels correlate with poor IVF outcomes,” she states.

Research on human egg cells is still in its early stages due to inherent complexities. “They are hard to manipulate due to sample constraints,” comments Beke. Seri mentions that this is one of several “layers” complicating egg cell studies, including regulatory limitations and funding challenges.

Zaffagnini believes that overcoming these obstacles could lead to “truly astonishing” discoveries. “It’s certainly worth pursuing,” he concludes.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

A Saltwater Pool in an Underwater Volcano: Habitat for Extraterrestrial Life Forms?

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Creatures uncovered near the Mabahismon volcano in the Red Sea, such as amphipods and polychaete worms

Dr. Katrin Linse

SEI 259096022 — Creatures uncovered near the Mabahismon volcano in the Red Sea, such as amphipods and polychaete worms

Dr. Katrin Linse

Ultra-salty lakes rich in carbon dioxide can support extreme life forms that differ from those found in other environments.

Dense saline water, laden with minerals, sinks to the ocean floor, where it can pool in depressions, creating unique brine lakes distinct from the upper waters. These brine pools, identified in various oceans, feature a unique chemical makeup—low in oxygen yet rich in particular minerals—allowing extreme microorganisms to thrive and evolve.

Recently, Froukje van der Zwan from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia and her team have identified a novel brine pool that is warm, carbon-rich, and possibly nourished by underwater volcanic activity.

On a recent expedition to two underwater volcanoes in the Red Sea, Haty Bamons and Mabahismons, Van der Zwan and her colleagues found several brine pools located near the summit of the volcano, about five kilometers from mineral deposits where salt concentration increases. They also discovered regions with numerous hydrothermal vents releasing mineral-rich water at temperatures around 60°C (140°F).

Using a robotic vehicle for sampling revealed that the pool was warmer than the surrounding water and exhibited elevated levels of metallic elements like zinc and manganese.

The hot water vents also contained rich gas. “They show relatively high CO2 levels, similar to methane… however, unlike other hot water vents where liquids mix with seawater, this might function as a trap for these gases, being sequestered in the salt water here.”

Researchers are currently examining microbial samples collected from these pools to understand how life adapts to such extreme environments. Nearby hydrothermal vents revealed thick mats and diverse lifeforms, including polychaete worms and amphipods, featuring microorganisms considerably larger than known marine counterparts.

Living within a saline pool may offer insights into how life might thrive in harsh extraterrestrial environments, such as the salty, iron-rich oceans beneath the icy crust of Jupiter’s moon Europa. If hydrothermal activities exist beneath this surface, it could present scenarios similar to the iron-rich brine pool discovered by Van der Zwan and her research team.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New Study Unveils Countries with the Slowest and Fastest Aging Rates

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A recent study reveals that Denmark boasts the most favorable environmental, social, and political conditions for aging slowly and maintaining a healthier lifestyle.

Published in Natural Medicine, this research pinpointed the elements influencing the biological processes that dictate healthy aging. An international team of researchers examined data from over 160,000 individuals across 40 nations, assessing how various factors influence aging worldwide.

To establish a baseline for the average aging rate, researchers utilized a measurement known as the “Biobiural Age Gap” clock. This AI model estimates the disparity between an individual’s chronological age and their predicted age based on surrounding risk factors. For instance, a 50-year-old person might be predicted to have a biological age of 55 based on these factors, resulting in a five-year age gap.

The findings revealed that among the four continents studied—Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America—European individuals showcased the highest levels of healthy aging. Conversely, in lower-income nations, accelerated aging was prevalent among older individuals.

“This study is significant as it reconceptualizes aging as influenced by not just biology and lifestyle, but also broader environmental and sociopolitical factors,” stated Morten Scheibye-Knudsen, an associate professor of aging at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, who was not involved in the research, in comments to BBC Science Focus.

Egypt recorded the fastest rate of aging, with individuals showing an average biological age 4.75 years older than their chronological age. Following Egypt were South Africa and certain South American nations. Within Europe, Eastern and Southern regions displayed more rapid aging trends.

In contrast, Denmark demonstrated the slowest aging rate, with an average biological age 2.35 years younger than the actual age. The Netherlands and Finland followed in terms of healthy aging.

Key Factors for Healthy Aging

What makes Denmark and much of Northern and Western Europe conducive to healthy aging? Researchers identified crucial factors including environmental elements like air quality alongside social factors such as gender equality and socioeconomic status.

Interestingly, significant influences were also found in sociopolitical conditions. Healthy aging is closely related to political representation, freedom of parties, democratic elections, and voting rights.

“The link between politics and accelerated aging presents an intriguing puzzle in this study,” commented Scheibye-Knudsen. “Possible mechanisms include heightened chronic stress responses due to anxiety and healthcare disparities.”

This study indicated that individuals with accelerated aging face challenges in completing daily tasks and are eight times more likely to experience cognitive decline.

While the study spanned four continents, it primarily represented limited areas of Africa, focusing on Egypt and South Africa.

Researchers stress that their findings illustrate correlations rather than causative relationships. Nonetheless, they advocate for urgent action to address global health disparities.

“Remarkably, risk factors outweigh protective ones, indicating that individuals in low-income countries experience significantly accelerated aging irrespective of their socioeconomic status,” noted Scheibye-Knudsen.

“This reinforces the compelling case for investing in universal initiatives, such as access to education and healthcare, to enhance the health of populations.”

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About Our Experts

Dr. Morten Scheibye-Knudsen serves as an associate professor of aging at the University of Copenhagen and leads the Scheibye-Knudsen research group. He is also the president of the Nordic Aging Association.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

This Unusual Underwater “Blue Dragon” Battles Stolen Jellyfish Venom

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Far from the shore, in the immense stretches of the open ocean, resides an uncommon assembly of creatures known as “Neustons.”

This environment is a vast, two-dimensional layer of the ocean that bridges the atmosphere with the sea.

Among this group, one of the most fascinating beings is the blue dragon, a kind of sea slug, or naujibrance, more widely recognized as the blue dragon, the sea swallow, or Glaucus atlanticus.

Blue dragons float on the surface, buoyed by the air bubbles they have ingested. To evade predators, they employ a unique biological strategy called countershading.

The underside of their body, positioned upside down, exhibits a bright blue hue that camouflages it against the ocean below, concealing it from aerial hunters above.

Conversely, the side that hangs from the surface boasts silver stripes that mimic the shimmering ocean surface, aiding swimming predators in their upward gaze.

Overall, the blue dragon appears peculiar owing to its sea slug nature. The main body, measuring about 3cm (0.4 inches), seems somewhat sluggish, but it features elongated appendages resembling fingers of varying lengths.

These appendages are not used for waving or swimming; they are anatomical structures called ceratha, essentially serving as a secondary gill by extending the intestines and respiratory system to facilitate breathing.

Like many sea slug species, the Blue Dragon utilizes its ceratha as a weapon. They are notorious hunters, primarily targeting other blue-hued Neustons, including Portuguese man o’ war (Physalia physalis) and jellyfish-like creatures like blue buttons (Porpita porpita) and by-the-wind sailors (Velella velella).

Blue dragons can inject venom into these organisms without fear of being stung.

‘They are vicious hunters, and their main prey is the other members of Neuston’ – Photo credit: Matty Smith Photo

Remarkably, these sea slugs can recycle their prey’s toxins, maintaining them intact and incorporating them into their ceratha.

When threatened by predators, they can launch these toxins as a potent defense mechanism.

Modern challenges pose threats to Blue Dragons and their fellow Neuston inhabitants. A study conducted between Hawaii and California reveals that they inhabit the same remote regions of the infamous Pacific Ocean, including the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, where floating plastic debris accumulates due to swirling ocean currents.

One approach to combat this plastic pollution involves placing a net between two vessels to retrieve debris from the surface. However, this method could inadvertently capture a significant number of Neustons.

The complete ecological consequences of this method remain unclear, but it may have significant repercussions on the marine food web. These creatures serve as crucial food sources for a variety of marine species, such as sea turtles and seabirds.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Scientists Say Learning Music Can Reverse Brain Aging, Even in Older Adults

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent research indicates that older adults who play musical instruments tend to have healthier brains.

One investigation examined the impacts of decades of music practice, while another focused on learning new instruments later in life.

In both studies, engaging in music was linked to better brain health and a decrease in age-related cognitive decline.

The first study was published in PLOS Biology and involved collaboration between Canadian and Chinese researchers. They recruited 50 adults with an average age of 65, half of whom had been playing instruments for at least 32 years, while the others had no musical experience.

Additionally, they included 24 young adults with an average age of 23 who had no musical training.

The researchers utilized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess blood flow in the brains of the participants.

During the scans, participants listened to a recording of speakers amid background noise, where 50 other voices were present, and were tasked with identifying what the main speaker was saying.

The scans revealed that older musicians’ brains responded to challenges similarly to those of the younger participants.

Nonetheless, older adults showed signs of cognitive decline. Specifically, musicians exhibited strong neural connections on the right side of the brain that non-musicians lacked, which could place additional strain on their brain.

“The brains of older musicians remain finely tuned due to years of training, so they don’t need to play well-tuned instruments at high volumes,” stated co-author Dr. Yi from the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

“Our findings suggest that musical experience helps mitigate the additional cognitive strain typically associated with age-related challenges, particularly in noisy environments.”

A 2025 YouGov poll revealed that 25% of UK adults can play at least one instrument, with the guitar being the second most favored instrument after the piano.

As individuals age, cognitive functions such as memory, learning, and perception often deteriorate, eventually contributing to dementia.

However, researchers posit that cognitive reserve—the brain’s capability to manage damage and decline—can enhance resilience against this deterioration.

The precise mechanisms remain unclear, as noted by Morten Scheibye-Knudsen, Associate Professor of Aging at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

Some studies suggest that “exercising” the brain through activities like playing instruments, learning new languages, and solving puzzles can improve brain health, but results from other research have been inconsistent.

“Overall, we advocate for brain training, but the evidence is not conclusive,” Scheibye-Knudsen remarked.

Conversely, another recent study, published in Imaging Neuroscience, indicated that musical practice can enhance brain health, even when individuals start playing in later life.

According to a 2024 poll from the University of Michigan, 17% of US adults aged 50-80 engage in playing instruments at least several times a year – Credit: DMP via Getty

Researchers at Kyoto University in Japan continued previous studies that included 53 elderly individuals (average age 73) who took music lessons for four months. Initial findings indicated no significant differences in brain health among participants.

Four years later, the same participants underwent MRI scans (13 of whom had maintained their music practice).

Those who ceased playing their newly learned instruments showed declines in memory performance, with a noticeable reduction in the volume of the putamen—a brain region associated with motor function, learning, and memory.

However, those who continued playing music over the four years exhibited no cognitive decline.

Scheibye-Knudsen noted that the study demonstrates that “playing an instrument not only helps preserve cognitive function as we age, but it may also directly contribute to maintaining the structural integrity of the brain.”

He added, “Engaging in music beyond what this study covered offers additional advantages, such as enhanced social interaction.”

“I encourage people to start making music; it’s never too late to learn.”

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About Our Experts

Morten Scheibye-Knudsen is an associate professor of aging at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark, and leads the Scheibye-Knudsen Research Group. He also serves as the president of the Nordic Aging Association.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Many Exoplanets Discovered by NASA’s TESS Satellite Could Be Larger Than Expected

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The radius of a planet is a crucial factor in understanding its composition and characteristics. Accurate radius measurements are generally obtained by analyzing the percentage of starlight blocked as the planet transits its host star. NASA’s Transit Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) has identified hundreds of new exoplanets; however, its low angular resolution can lead to the mixing of light from stars hosting exoplanets with that of background stars. If not entirely corrected, this additional light may dilute the transit signal, leading to an underestimation of the planetary radius. In their analysis of the planet Tess, astronomers from the University of California, Irvine revealed that systematically incorrect planetary radii are frequently reported in scientific literature.

Artistic impression of a gas giant exoplanet and its parent red dwarf star. Image credit: Sci.News.

“We have discovered that many exoplanets are larger than previously thought, which shifts our understanding of exoplanet characteristics on a wide scale,” states Tae Han, a doctoral student at the University of California, Irvine.

“This suggests that we may have actually identified Earth-like planets that are fewer than we initially believed.”

Astronomers cannot directly observe exoplanets; they rely on the planets passing in front of their host stars to measure the subtle decrease in starlight.

“Essentially, we are measuring the shadows cast by planets,” remarks Paul Robertson, a professor at the University of California, Irvine.

In their study, the authors examined the observations of hundreds of exoplanets detected by TESS.

They found that light from neighboring stars could “contaminate” the light emitted by the stars under study.

This results in planets transiting in front of their stars appearing smaller than their actual size, receiving less light compared to larger planets.

Astronomers have conducted numerous studies explaining the characteristics of planets discovered by TESS.

They categorized the planets based on how different research teams measured their radii and used computer models to estimate the extent of bias resulting from light interference from adjacent stars.

Data from the ESA Gaia satellite was utilized to assess the impact of light contamination on TESS observations.

“TESS data is indeed contaminated, and our custom models perform better than any existing methods in the field,” stated Professor Robertson.

“What we discovered in this study is that these planets could be systematically larger than we initially assumed.”

“This raises the question: How common are Earth-sized planets?”

Previously, it was thought there were fewer planets resembling Earth in size.

“Among the single-planet systems identified by TESS, only three were believed to have a composition similar to Earth,” Han noted.

“This new finding indicates that all of them are larger than we previously thought.”

This implies that instead of rocky planets like Earth, they are more likely to be water worlds (planets entirely covered by vast oceans that are often larger than Earth) or larger gas giants like Uranus or Neptune.

This could have significant implications for the search for life on distant worlds, as water worlds may harbor life but lack the specific conditions necessary for life to thrive as it does on Earth.

“These insights have important consequences for our understanding of exoplanets, including prioritizing follow-up observations with the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope and assessing the prevalence of water worlds in our galaxy,” concluded Professor Robertson.

The study was published in Astrophysical Journal Letters.

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Tae Han et al. 2025. Hundreds of TESS exoplanets may be larger than previously thought. ApJL 988, L4; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ade794

Source: www.sci.news

Koalus Only Spends 1% of Its Life on the Ground, New Research Shows

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Koalas (phascolarctos cinereus) A recent study by scientists from the University of Queensland and Sunshine Coast found that while koalas spend about 10 minutes a day on the ground, this behavior is linked to two-thirds of the koala fatalities recorded.

The wild koala features a custom-built collar that includes a GPS logger and an accelerometer. Image credit: Ami Fadhillah Amir Abdul Nasir.

The koala population in Australia has diminished by 54% over the past three decades.

Annually, millions of dollars are invested in initiatives aimed at safeguarding koalas, preserving their habitats, and treating various diseases.

Tragically, two-thirds of koala deaths occur on the ground due to vehicle accidents or attacks by dogs.

Despite extensive research, the specifics of how koalas interact with the ground remain largely unknown.

Conventional GPS tracking methods offer limited insight, as they typically document locations only once or twice a day.

“Koalas primarily reside in trees, but increasing land development forces them to descend, significantly raising their risk of injury and death,” stated a student from the University of Queensland.

“Our goal was to gain a deeper understanding of their behaviors during ground movements.”

“Key questions remain regarding how frequently koalas climb down from their trees, the distance they cover, whether they remain on the ground, and what factors influence these choices.”

“Identifying high-risk areas and times, and developing mitigation strategies during these vulnerable moments, is critical to our understanding.”

To fill these knowledge gaps, researchers employed a biologger that captures three-dimensional movements at several hundred points, mapping the koala’s directional movements during specific actions.

They tracked 10 wild koalas using an accelerometer and high-resolution GPS device for an average duration of eight days.

The researchers found that the koalas descended to the ground around three times a day, totaling just 45 minutes.

During these visits, the koalas covered an average distance of 260 meters at a typical walking speed of 1.7 km/h, with occasional bursts of up to 10.4 km/h.

By integrating accelerometer and GPS data, researchers were able to pinpoint specific trees that the koalas traversed between.

“Combining GPS tracks with movement data provides us with an in-depth perspective on how koalas navigate their habitats,” Sparks explained.

“The study confirmed that koalas predominantly stay in trees for sleeping and feeding, yet the extent to which they engage with the ground was startling.”

“We were surprised at the frequency and brevity of their ground activities; they descended only 2-3 times nightly, averaging 10 minutes in total, which is less than 1% of their day.”

“The time they spent sitting and pausing on the ground was nearly equal to the time spent walking, with only about 7% of their ground time dedicated to movement.”

“This suggests that koalas carefully assess their environment while on the ground, possibly weighing the energetic costs of remaining on the ground before deciding to climb a tree.”

This study marks the first detailed documentation of ground movements in wild koalas, raising new inquiries about their navigation in increasingly fragmented habitats.

“Currently, we’re investigating how environmental characteristics influence the time koalas spend in trees,” Sparks noted.

“If we can identify the tree and habitat features that encourage extended periods in the trees, we may be able to manage landscapes in ways that minimize the need for ground travel.”

These findings aim to steer koala conservation efforts, prioritizing specific plant types, enhancing canopy connectivity, and minimizing gaps between safe trees.

This research sheds light on koala behavior and is essential for more effective habitat management, ultimately aiming to lower mortality risks in critical zones.

“This research is just one piece of a larger puzzle, but it significantly enhances our understanding of how koalas interact with an increasingly urbanized environment,” Sparkes added.

The scientists presented their findings on July 1, 2025, at the Society for Experimental Biology Annual Conference in Antwerp, Belgium.

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Gabriella R. Spark et al. “Ordinary” Watch: What do koalas do when they’re not sleeping? SEB 2025 Summary #A16.1

Source: www.sci.news

Astrophysicists Identify Gravitational Waves from the Largest Black Hole Mergers Recorded to Date

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The twin detectors of the NSF’s Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) have made a groundbreaking discovery by detecting the highest composite mass recorded to date and the merger of two black holes. This event, identified as GW231123 and discovered on November 23, 2023, produced a final black hole with a mass over 225 times that of the Sun.

GW231123 An infographic detailing the merger of black holes. Image credits: Simona J. Miller/Caltech.

LIGO made history in 2015 with the first direct detection of gravitational waves, the ripples in spacetime.

In that instance, the waves were generated by the merger of black holes, culminating in a black hole with a mass 62 times that of our Sun.

The signal was simultaneously detected by LIGO’s twin detectors located in Livingston, Louisiana, and Hanford, Washington.

Since then, the LIGO team has collaborated with partners from Italy’s Virgo detectors and Japan’s KAGRA to create the LVK collaboration.

These detectors have collectively observed over 200 black hole mergers during their fourth observational run since starting in 2015.

Previously, the largest black hole merger recorded was in 2021 during the event GW190521, which had a total mass of 140 times that of the Sun.

During the GW231123 event, a black hole with a mass of 225 was formed by merging two black holes, one approximately 100 times and the other 140 times the mass of the Sun.

This discovery places it in a rare category known as intermediate mass black holes, which are heavier than those resulting from star collapses but significantly lighter than the supermassive black holes found at the centers of galaxies.

In addition to their substantial mass, these merged black holes exhibited rapid rotation.

“This is the largest black hole binary we’ve observed in gravitational waves and poses a significant challenge to our understanding of black hole formation,” stated Dr. Mark Hannam, an astrophysicist at Cardiff University and a member of the LVK collaboration.

“The existence of such a large black hole defies standard stellar evolution models.”

“One potential explanation is that the two black holes in this binary could have formed from the merger of smaller black holes.”

“This observation highlights how gravitational waves uniquely uncover the fundamental and exotic properties of black holes throughout the universe,” remarked Dr. Dave Reitze, executive director of LIGO at Caltech.

Researchers announced this week the discovery of GW231123, which will be discussed at the 24th International Conference on General Relativity and Gravity (GR24) and the 16th Edoardo Amaldi Meeting on Gravitational Waves, held jointly at the Gr-Amaldi Meeting in Glasgow, Scotland.

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LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA Collaboration. GW231123: The largest black hole binary detected by gravitational waves. Gr-Amaldi 2025

Source: www.sci.news

New Molar Species Identified from 3.2 Million-Year-Old Fossils

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have discovered a new genus and species within the Talpidae family, based on a partial skeleton found at a Pliocene Age site in Camp dels Ninotto, Girona, Spain.

Reconstructing the life of Vulcanoscaptor ninoti. Image credit: Jesus Gamara / Ifesquelka.

The newly identified species is named Vulcanoscaptor ninoti. This mole lived in Spain approximately 3.25 million years ago.

The fossilized skeleton was uncovered in 2010 at the Camp del Sninott site in Girona, Spain.

“This specimen includes the mandible with complete dentition, parts of the trunk, and some bones from both fore and hind limbs, many of which are still in anatomical relationships.”

“Exceptional preservation is exceedingly rare in small mammals like moles, making this specimen one of the oldest and most complete in Europe.”

“These fossils represent the most comprehensive mole fossils known from the Pliocene in Europe, offering significant insights into the evolutionary history of talpid.”

The fossils were partially encased in dense sediment blocks and were fully extracted during excavation.

To study it without causing damage, paleontologists utilized high-resolution microcomputed tomography (MicroCT) scans, allowing for precise 3D digital reconstruction of the skeletons.

“MicroCT enabled us to analyze very small and delicate structures such as phalanges and teeth.”

“This technological approach allowed us to identify unique anatomical features and incorporate them into a robust phylogenetic analysis.”

The structure of Vulcanoscaptor ninoti shows that both the forelimbs and hind limbs exhibit a high degree of adaptation to an underground lifestyle.

“The humerus is particularly robust, featuring a wide array of prominent muscle attachment sites, suggesting strong digging capabilities,” said Dr. Linares.

“However, the preservation of this specimen in lake sediments and its lateral position increases the likelihood that it possessed some aquatic mobility.”

“While we can’t confirm this definitively, there’s a modern mole that excels at both digging and swimming.”

According to the team, Vulcanoscaptor ninoti was part of the Scaropini tribe, which includes moles found today in parts of North America and Asia.

This finding from the Pliocene of Europe indicates a more complicated evolutionary and paleogeographic scenario than previously believed.

“Our explanation of Vulcanoscaptor ninoti confirms that the evolutionary history of moles is far more dynamic than previously understood, suggesting possible intercontinental dispersion and a greater anatomical diversity than previously acknowledged,” said one of the authors.

“It also emphasizes the significance of exceptional fossil sites in preserving species that are rarely found in the fossil record, like small mammals.”

“Despite its distinct fossil morphology, this mole shares close ties with present-day North American species from the genera Scapanus and Scaropas, indicating a more intricate evolutionary history than we previously assumed,” added Dr. Juliolio.

“Its presence in Europe points to past transcontinental migration of moles, challenging the notion that they are low-dispersive mammals.”

The team’s paper was published this month in the journal Scientific Reports.

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A. Linares-Martín et al. 2025. Unexpected scalopinimols (mammals) from the Pliocene of Europe shed light on thalpido phylogeny. Sci Rep 15, 24928; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-10396-1

Source: www.sci.news

Why You Don’t Need to Stress About Napping: It Won’t Keep Your Child Up at Night

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Naps are regarded as significant for early brain development

Quintanilla/Shutterstock

Daytime short naps appear to enhance the overall sleep duration of young children rather than pose a significant risk to their nighttime rest.

Typically, babies and young kids nap during the day, which is linked to the formation of early memories. This habit generally ceases between the ages of 3 and 5, but timing can differ, leaving many parents uncertain about their children’s daytime sleep needs.

In France, where kindergarten begins at age 3, there is a debate on whether staff should allow children to nap. “Although naps are widely acknowledged to positively impact cognitive development, some parents and educators worry that daytime resting might disrupt nighttime sleep or diminish essential learning opportunities,” notes Stephanie Mazza from the University of Lyon, France.

Mazza and her team researched whether naps interfere with nighttime rest by observing 85 children aged 2-5 years across six French kindergartens using wrist sleep trackers for about 7.8 days.

The findings, combined with sleep diaries maintained by parents, showed that an hour increase in napping was linked to a reduction of roughly 13.6 minutes in nighttime sleep, delaying bedtime by about 6.4 minutes. However, children who napped gained an overall 45 minutes of additional sleep.

“Naps have led to a notable rise in total daily sleep, helping children meet the globally recommended sleep duration,” states Mazza. The World Health Organization advises that children in this age group should sleep between 10-13 hours daily.

“Parents need not worry if their child still requires a nap before turning six,” asserts Mazza. “Our results imply that naps can boost total sleep, even if they slightly delay bedtime. Instead of viewing naps as detrimental, they should be seen as a valuable source of rest, particularly in stimulating environments.”

“I believe this indicates—if they can nap, let them nap,” says Rebecca Spencer from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She emphasizes, considering that sleep duration during early childhood varies globally, further research is necessary to assess the broader applicability of these findings.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Brain Changes from Eating Disorders Mirror Those Seen in OCD and Autism

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

False-colored nuclear magnetic resonance images of children’s brains

CNRI/Science Photo Library

New research indicates that children with anorexia nervosa are undergoing significant brain changes that go beyond what starvation can explain. This insight helps clarify the neurological mechanisms behind the disorder, potentially paving the way for improved treatment strategies.

Anorexia nervosa is noted for severe dietary restrictions and a distorted body image, making it a less understood condition. While previous studies have highlighted that the brain’s outer layer, or cortex, is notably thinner in these individuals, it remains uncertain whether such changes stem from malnutrition or are intrinsic to anorexia.

Clara Morrow from The University of Montreal, Canada, examined brain scans of children with anorexia alongside those with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). Although both conditions encompass significant food restrictions and weight loss, ARFID lacks the body image concerns that characterize anorexia. Instead, individuals with ARFID may avoid food due to sensory sensitivities, disinterest in eating, or fear of adverse consequences like choking, vomiting, or gastrointestinal distress. The comparison could shed light on the unique brain changes associated with each condition and malnutrition, according to Moreau.

The study analyzed brain scans from 124 children diagnosed with anorexia, 50 with ARFID, and 116 without eating disorders. All participants were under 13 years old and resided in France. Researchers examined the extent of brain differences between those with and without eating disorders.

On average, children diagnosed with anorexia exhibited a significantly thinner cortex compared to those without eating disorders. Once body mass index (BMI) was taken into account, anorexia correlated with cortical thinning across 32 brain regions, particularly in the superior head lobule, an area involved in sensory information processing. “This aligns with our understanding, as we know anorexic patients often struggle with their perception of weight and size,” stated team member Anael Ayrolles from the University of Paris.

These alterations are akin to those observed in older adolescents and adults suffering from anorexia, notes Moreau. “The effect size is among the most significant in psychiatry,” she comments. “It appears as if they’ve experienced accelerated brain aging or early Alzheimer’s disease, though they show no symptoms of Alzheimer’s. However, if their BMI is normalized, brain recovery is often observed, though not in every case.”

In contrast, no significant differences in cortical thickness were observed between children with ARFID and those without any eating disorders. “We anticipated some overlap with anorexia potentially reflective of BMI,” explains Moreau. “However, our findings did not reveal many similarities between the two conditions.” The reason for this remains unclear, especially since this is the inaugural brain imaging study focused on ARFID. Given that ARFID typically manifests before the age of five, the brain may have adapted to limited food intake, suggests Moreau.

The researchers subsequently contrasted these brain differences with findings from previous studies on other disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), ADHD, and autism. They found a notable correlation between anorexia and OCD, whereas ARFID displayed brain changes similar to those associated with autism. This aligns with Moreau’s assertion that sensory sensitivity is prevalent in both autism and ARFID. Conversely, OCD and anorexia exhibit obsessions, rituals, and preconceived notions.

Nevertheless, individuals with OCD and anorexia frequently present other mental health challenges, notes Joanna Steinglass from Columbia University in New York. Approximately 14% of those diagnosed with anorexia also meet the criteria for OCD. This complicates the understanding of whether a genuine neurological resemblance exists between the two conditions or if other mental health challenges underpin this correlation.

“We were cautious not to over-interpret our results,” said Ayrolles. However, these discoveries imply that malnutrition alone may not account for all the brain changes observed in anorexia. “Mental illness is fundamentally a brain-based illness, and understanding this helps us address patient experiences more effectively, often leading to less blame,” remarks Steinglass. “This insight could drive the development of more effective treatments.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Ancient Rocks Reveal the First Signs of Earth’s Structural Activity

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Pilbara Craton in Western Australia features rocks that date back 3.5 billion years.

Elizabeth Czitronyi / Alamy

Rocks from Australia reveal that tectonic plates were shifting as far back as 3.5 billion years ago, a breakthrough that alters our understanding of the onset of plate tectonics over subsequent hundreds of millions of years.

Currently, along with roughly eight major hard rock plates on Earth’s surface, several smaller plates are interacting with the softer rock layer beneath. When these plates’ edges grind against one another, it can lead to sudden geological upheavals, such as earthquakes, and gradual processes like mountain range formation.

However, there is disagreement among geologists regarding the configurations of these ancient plates and their movements. Some researchers claim to have found indications of tectonic activity as far back as 4 billion years ago when the planet was significantly hotter; others argue that more compelling evidence is noted after 3.2 billion years ago.

Much of this data derives from the chemical compositions of rocks, which suggest past movements. Despite this, records detailing the interactions of early plates remain scarce, which is regarded as critical evidence supporting plate tectonics.

Recently, Alec Brenner and his team from Yale University claim to have uncovered substantial evidence of relative plate movement dating back 3.5 billion years in the eastern Pilbara Craton of Western Australia. They traced the magnetic orientation of rocks aligned with Earth’s magnetic field, observing shifts similar to how a compass needle changes direction when the ground moves.

Brenner and colleagues initially dated the rock using radioisotope analysis, establishing that at certain times, the rock’s magnetism remained unchanged. By observing this magnetization shift, they demonstrated that the rock mass progressively moved at a rate of several centimeters each year. They compared these findings to similarly examined rocks in the Barberton Greenstone Belt in South Africa, which exhibited no such movement.

“This suggests that some type of plate boundary must exist between these two regions to accommodate that relative movement,” remarked Brenner during his presentation at the Goldschmidt Geochemical Conference in Prague, Czech Republic, on July 9.

“Approximately 3.8 billion years ago, the Pilbara plate transitioned from medium to high latitudes, eventually reaching proximity to Earth’s magnetic poles and, possibly millions of years later, to the latitude of Svalbard.”

“If two plates are moving relative to one another, there must be various dynamic interactions happening between them,” noted Robert Hazen from the Carnegie Institute of Science in Washington, DC. “It cannot be an isolated event.”

Nonetheless, multiple interpretations exist regarding the underlying causes of this movement, according to Hazen. The variability in plate movement rates adds to the confusion, and existing data could align with various theories regarding Earth’s interior structure at that time.

At the very least, this discovery indicates the presence of structural boundaries, according to Michael Brown from the University of Maryland. However, he argues that the nature of rock movement appears dissimilar to contemporary understanding of plate tectonics. “Essentially, the Pilbara plate moved to higher latitudes to prevent stagnation, which is atypical within any current plate structural model.”

Brown posits that this aligns with the theory suggesting the Earth’s crust consisted of numerous smaller plates propelled by a thermal mantle plume during that period. He believes the remnants of these small plates examined by Brenner and his team provide evidence of movement; however, due to their limited representation of the crust, they may not accurately reflect broader Earth movements.

Brenner’s team also discovered indications that the Earth’s magnetic field underwent reversals around 3.46 billion years ago. Unlike today’s magnetic field reversals, which occur every million years, these ancient magnetic shifts seemed to happen much more frequently, over spans of tens of millions of years. This could imply a fundamentally different set of energies and mechanisms at play, as noted by Brenner.

Hazen emphasized that the scarcity of magnetic data leads to ongoing debates about the state of Earth’s magnetic field during that era of its evolution. “I believe this discovery raises the bar significantly,” he asserts. “It represents a vital breakthrough in understanding early magnetic reversals, shedding light on the core’s geomechanics in ways previously unexplored.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

New Study Focuses on Historical Floods to Aid Property Owners in Evaluating Climate Risks

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

New research published on Monday indicates that the number of structures in the United States vulnerable to flooding may be greater than previously estimated.

A study, published in the Journal’s Future of Earth, revealed that 43% of North Carolina’s flooded buildings from 1996 to 2020 are outside the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Special Flood Hazard Areas, which FEMA designates as having a 1% chance of flooding in any given year.

Experts and the study’s authors believe these findings may assist more communities in understanding their flood risks and insurance needs. As companies pull back from increasing insurance premiums and insuring homes in certain regions due to more frequent severe weather, obtaining flood insurance is becoming increasingly challenging, leaving property owners more exposed.

According to NBC News, experts stated that having access to reliable data sources could facilitate the creation of nationwide databases like the one outlined in the study.

FEMA’s maps serve as the main reference for identifying flood-prone zones and structures requiring insurance coverage. However, experts argue that this system is outdated and lacks resolution. A 100-year floodplain projection doesn’t fully encompass the areas that could be at risk for flooding, and the authors noted that climate change has compromised the reliability of previously authoritative weather and climate forecasts.

This study enabled researchers to pinpoint specific structures that have experienced multiple flooding incidents by utilizing address-level data. This information could inform property owners on whether to obtain flood insurance, even if they fall outside FEMA’s designated flood hazard zones. In the United States, FEMA reports that 99% of counties have experienced flooding, yet only 4% of homeowners hold flood insurance at least once.

“Detailed information about previously flooded areas can empower individuals to make informed decisions,” expressed Helena Margaret Garcia, the lead author of the study and a doctoral candidate at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill.

FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program did not respond to requests for comments.

FEMA is currently working on revamping its flood mapping system through the Future of Flood Risk Data initiative, aimed at employing more efficient, accurate, and consistent technology to assess the country’s flood risks comprehensively.

Water markers in Orocoke, North Carolina homes illustrate the increasing severity of flooding between hurricanes over time.
Courtesy of Helena Garcia

As global temperatures rise, more intense rainfall events are becoming common since warmer air can hold more moisture. Climate change has also contributed to rising sea levels, increasing vulnerability to flooding even in coastal and some inland areas. Hurricane Helen, the third deadliest hurricane of modern times, inflicted substantial flooding in North Carolina’s mountainous regions. Damage from the storm exceeded a total of $78 billion, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The recent severe rainfall has caused flash floods across many U.S. towns over the last two weeks, most recently impacting towns in New Jersey and New York City. In North Carolina alone, six deaths have been reported, while over 100 fatalities have occurred in Texas. Flash floods have historically accounted for the highest number of storm-related deaths in the U.S., averaging 125 deaths per year over recent decades, according to the National Weather Service.

A North Carolina climate scientist noted that the warm seawater feeding the storm could have been a contributing factor to last week’s Tropical Storm Chantal, which set rainfall and river level records in the state.

With the impacts of climate change, having access to up-to-date maps is essential, experts argue.

In their study, researchers mapped 78 flood events using data from 1996 to 2020 from the National Flood Insurance Program, which allows property owners to purchase insurance for potential flood-related losses. They also incorporated emergency service requests and volunteer-based geographic information obtained from social media, creating what they termed the “first of its kind” database. This historical flood data is often inaccessible to the public, which can hinder homeowners’ awareness of prior flood incidents affecting their properties.

Garcia stated that researchers plan to apply the same methodology from their study to create similar historical maps in various regions across the country, identifying areas previously overlooked concerning flood risk.

The research indicated that out of 90,000 structures, only 20,000 experienced flooding, highlighting a significant number that did not file NFIP claims. The study’s authors are now focused on quantifying the human impact, examining outcomes such as healthcare disruptions resulting from floods and the scale of evacuations caused by repeated flooding, as Garcia explained.

On July 7th, Eastgate Mall’s parking lot in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, was inundated following a tropical storm.
Courtesy of Antonia Sebastian/Helena Garcia

Antonia Sebastian, an assistant professor in the Department of Geology at UNC-Chapel Hill, noted that the study aspires to establish a “comprehensive record of past floods” by gathering data on relatively minor flood events that impact homeowners yet do not receive widespread media attention.

“Areas that have previously flooded are likely to flood again; it’s only a matter of time,” Sebastian remarked. “These sites are inherently dangerous.”

Chad Belginis, executive director of the Flood Plains Association who was not involved in the study, stated that FEMA’s maps are intended to implement the NFIP by utilizing 100-year flood plains to delineate zones for flood insurance coverage. He emphasized that analyzing historical flood research highlights the necessity for flood insurance in areas beyond the mapped FEMA flood hazard zones.

“FEMA’s flood map serves as a starting point, not an endpoint,” Berginnis clarified. “The maps present one kind of flood risk, but to fully grasp flood risk, it is crucial to seek out historical flood data.”

He mentioned that the database models illustrated in the study could be adopted in various other regions. A community manager indicated that identifying past flood sites could enhance community awareness regarding flood risks.

“When we consider the history of floods, [like those along the Guadalupe River], it emphasizes the dangers that have persisted over time,” they reflected. “I truly believe that these areas should be acknowledged as perilous, yet awareness of the actual flooding risks is often lacking.”

June Choi, a doctoral student in Earth Systems Science at Stanford University and not involved in the study, noted that the finding regarding many flooded buildings existing outside FEMA-designated risky areas likely applies to all states. She highlighted that while new databases might have limitations regarding changing building densities over time, the application of historical records and address-specific data still provides valuable insights for assessing future flood risks.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Research Shows Accurate Age Predictions Can Be Made with Just 50 DNA Molecules

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers at Hebrew University leveraged a deep learning network to analyze DNA methylation patterns, achieving a time series age (defined as postnatal time) with median accuracy for individuals under 50 years, ranging from 1.36 to 1.7 years. result This work will be published in the journal Cell Report.

Utilizing ultra-depth sequences from over 300 blood samples of healthy individuals, the research indicates that age-dependent methylation changes happen in a probabilistic or coordinated block-like fashion across clusters of CPG sites. Image credit: Ochana et al., doi: 10.1016/j.celrep.2025.115958.

“We observe that our DNA leaves measurable marks over time,” commented Professor Tommy Kaplan from Hebrew University.

“Our model interprets these marks with remarkable precision.”

“The essence lies in how our DNA evolves through a process known as methylation – the chemical tagging of DNA by methyl groups (CH)₃.

“By focusing on two vital regions of the human genome, our team successfully decoded these changes at the level of individual molecules, employing deep learning to generate accurate age estimations.”

In this research, Professor Kaplan and his team examined blood samples from over 300 healthy subjects and analyzed data from a decade-long study of the Jerusalem Perinatal Study.

The model developed by the team showed consistent performance across various factors, including smoking, weight, gender, and diverse indicators of biological aging.

In addition to potential medical applications, this technique could transform forensic science by enabling experts to estimate the age of suspects based on DNA traces.

“This provides us with a new perspective on cellular aging,” stated Yuval Dor, a professor at Hebrew University.

“It’s a striking example of the intersection between biology and artificial intelligence.”

Researchers found new patterns in DNA alterations over time, suggesting that cells encode both mature and tuned bursts, akin to biological clocks.

“It’s not solely about knowing your age,” explained Professor Ruth Shemmer of Hebrew University.

“It’s about comprehending how cells and molecules keep track of time.”

“This research could redefine our approach to health, aging, and identity,” added the scientist.

“From assisting physicians in treatment based on an individual’s biological timeline to equipping forensic investigators with advanced tools for crime-solving, the capability to decipher age from DNA paves the way for groundbreaking advancements in science, medicine, and law.”

“Moreover, it enhances our understanding of the aging process and brings us closer to unraveling our body’s internal clock.”

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Bracha-Lea Ochana et al. Time is encoded by changes in methylation at clustered CPG sites. Cell Report Published online on July 14th, 2025. doi:10.1016/j.celrep.2025.115958

Source: www.sci.news

The Trump Administration Decides Against Posting Extensive Climate Change Report on NASA’s Website

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Here’s a rewritten version of your content:

On Monday, the Trump administration advanced efforts to complicate access to a crucial legally mandated scientific evaluation regarding the risks climate change poses to the nation and its citizens.

Earlier this month, the official government website indicated its authority, stating that the peer-reviewed national climate assessment was moving offline. These platforms provide essential information for state and local governments and the public regarding what to expect from climate change and how to adapt accordingly. At that time, the White House stated that NASA would host the report to comply with the 1990 Act Requiring Reporting.

However, on Monday, NASA declared the cancellation of those plans.

According to NASA, “The USGCRP (the agency that oversaw and utilized the report) fulfills its statutory obligations by presenting the report to Congress. NASA has no legal requirement to host data from GlobalChange.gov,” meaning no coordinated assessments or data from governmental scientific offices will be routed to NASA.

On July 3, NASA released a statement affirming, “All existing reports will be accessible on the NASA website to maintain continuity in reporting.”

“This document was produced for taxpayers and includes vital information necessary for people to protect themselves in changing climates,” said the Chief Scientist of the Nature Reserve, a co-author of several previous national climate assessments.

Copies of past reports remain accessible at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s library, and you can view the latest reports and their interactive atlas here.

John Holden, a former scientific advisor to the Obama White House and a climate scientist, accused the administration of blatant misinformation regarding its intentions to censor or obscure the report.

“This new approach exemplifies a classic misunderstanding characteristic of the Trump administration,” Holden stated. “They initially aim to soothe outrage over the discontinuation of the GlobalChange.gov site and the disappearance of the national climate assessment, only to retract their reassurances without apology two weeks later.”

“They simply do not want the public to have access to detailed and scientifically validated information concerning climate change’s impact on agriculture, forests, fisheries, as well as storms, floods, wildfires, and coastal properties.

Holden emphasized the significance of these reports for state and local authorities and the general public, asserting that they “aid in understanding how climate change is affecting people’s lives, their loved ones, their properties, and their environments.”

“Trump is intentionally keeping people in the dark,” Holden asserted.

The most recent report published in 2023 revealed that climate change is impacting the safety, health, and livelihoods of individuals across the country in various ways, putting them at an increased risk.

Feel free to modify any part further as needed!

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Private Space Flights Conclude with Pacific Splashdown for Astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Cape Canaveral, Florida – a Private Space Flight from Poland and Hungary, featuring India’s first astronaut in over 40 years, concluded on Tuesday with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean.

The SpaceX capsules detached from the International Space Station on Monday and parachuted into waters off Southern California less than 24 hours later.

Hungarian Tibor Kapu emerged from SpaceX capsules in Southern California on Tuesday.
SpaceX via AP

The four-member crew launched nearly three weeks ago on a mission arranged by Axiom Space from Houston.

Axiom’s Peggy Whitson, the most seasoned U.S. astronaut, served as commander. She was joined by Shuvansch Shukla from India, Slouz Uznansky Wysniewsky from Poland, and Tibor Kap from Hungary, with the countries collectively investing over $65 million in the mission.

SpaceX capsules carrying four astronauts parachute into the Pacific Ocean off Southern California on Tuesday.
SpaceX via AP

“Thank you for the wonderful ride and safe journey,” Whitson remarked post-splashdown. Her record now surpasses that of other American astronauts and women, encompassing a total of 695 days in space across five missions.

The visiting astronauts executed numerous experiments in orbit, celebrating their heritage. The last instance of India, Poland, and Hungary sending individuals into space was in collaboration with the Soviet Union during the late 1970s and 1980s. They waved and smiled as they exited the capsule one by one into the dim early morning.

Poland’s Slouz Uznanski Wysniewski made landfall in Southern California on Tuesday.
SpaceX via AP

This marked Axiom’s fourth mission for the orbital forward base since 2022 and is part of NASA’s ongoing efforts to expand access to space for more businesses and individuals. The company is among those developing their own space stations to succeed the current one. NASA plans to retire its space station by 2030 after over 30 years of service.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Water Could Be Even More Crucial for Alien Life Than Previously Believed

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The alien world found in their “habitable zone” of their stars may not be suitable for life yet

pandorumbs/alamy

Recent findings suggest the potential number of planets capable of supporting alien life may be fewer than previously assumed, largely due to advances in understanding planetary climates. When carbon dioxide levels in an atmosphere surpass a critical threshold, conditions can become inhospitable.

Life as we know it requires liquid water, prompting astronomers to target “habitable zones” around stars—regions where temperatures allow for water to exist in liquid form. However, Haskelle White-Gianella from the University of Washington and her research team have revealed that having liquid water alone does not guarantee habitability.

The researchers conducted nearly 10,000 simulations to determine how CO₂ levels fluctuate based on surface water amounts on planets that are Earth-sized. Their results indicate that at least 20% of Earth’s total water must be present for a planet to be potentially habitable.

This is largely due to the role rainfall plays in carbon storage within the ground through chemical reactions in rocks; insufficient rainfall could lead to CO₂ accumulation in the atmosphere, trapping heat and rapidly increasing temperatures beyond 126°C (259°F).

“We discovered that there exists a water threshold essential for maintaining a stable climate,” White-Gianella stated during the Goldschmidt Geochemical Conference in Prague, Czech Republic, on July 10.

This indicates that simply being in a habitable zone does not guarantee that a planet can support life, according to White-Gianella, necessitating a deeper examination of geological histories.

A parallel situation may elucidate how Venus transformed into the inhospitable environment we observe today, White-Gianella shared at the conference. While the increase in the sun’s brightness since the solar system’s inception is believed to contribute to Venus’ atmospheric changes and temperature rise, it alone doesn’t account for all observed transformations. By re-running models with a Venus-like amount of starlight, the team found that even planets with water levels similar to Earth’s could lose too much CO₂, leading to uninhabitability.

This provides a compelling rationale for how planets similar to Venus can become excessively hot, as noted by Benjamin Tutoro from the University of Calgary in Canada. Over time, reductions in CO₂ emissions complicate planetary climates, as recorded in geological data from Mars.

In the case of Mars, liquid water attracted carbon dioxide and sequestered it as carbonate minerals, which ultimately thinned its atmosphere and cooled the planet, according to Tutoro. White-Gianella stated that the team’s simulations focused on Earth-like planets, agreeing that conditions on planets like Mars could differ significantly.

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Source: www.newscientist.com