The Doctor Says This Is the Ideal Sleep Environment.

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Many theories exist around the “ideal” sleeping position. One common belief suggests that sleeping on the left side aids digestion.

This notion stems from basic anatomical structure. The stomach is positioned on the left, and its outlet (pylorus) tilts slightly to the right, leading into the small intestine.

Some studies indicate that sleeping on the left side could help decrease acid reflux compared to sleeping on the right, as this position may prevent stomach acid from rising into the esophagus.

If you experience reflux or heartburn, it may be worth experimenting with this position.

That said, digestion occurs regardless of your sleeping posture. So unless you have a specific digestive issue like reflux, your position likely won’t make a significant impact.

Additionally, sleep involves more than just digestion. Sleeping on your back is often recommended to alleviate pressure on the neck and hips. However, this position may contribute to snoring and sleep apnea as it can cause the tongue to fall backward and partially obstruct the airways.

Side sleeping is the most prevalent choice, as it tends to keep airways open, reducing snoring and sleep apnea.

Pregnant women frequently sleep on the left side to enhance blood flow to the baby and alleviate pressure on the liver, though sleeping on the right side is usually acceptable as well.

For those experiencing back or pelvic pain (especially during pregnancy), placing a pillow between your knees can help reduce pressure on the lower back.

So, what is the best sleeping position?

In the end, there is no single best position for everyone. While left-side sleeping may offer benefits for reflux and pregnancy, comfort, spinal support, and the quality of sleep should take precedence for most individuals.

Honestly, no matter how meticulously you position yourself at bedtime, you often wake up drooling on your pillow in a completely different stance!

This article answers the query posed by Tim Hatley of Lincoln: “What is the best place to sleep?”

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The Moon Could Soon Be the Site of Humanity’s Wildest Experiments

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

What would occur if a Super Collider encircled the moon? Surprisingly, scientists and engineers are intrigued by the concept of a Super Collider of the Moon.

This type of machine operates similarly to the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN near Geneva, which is the world’s most extensive and highest-energy particle accelerator. These “atomic smashers” generate two beams of particles that travel in opposing directions through ultra-high navigational rings.

A robust superconducting electromagnet propels the beams to nearly the speed of light. When these beams collide with detector instruments, they produce a cascade of additional particles that can be measured and analyzed.

The greater the energy of the particles involved, the more substantial the mass of the collider’s “products”.

Numerous inquiries in contemporary particle physics necessitate exploring this high mass parameter space. Consequently, physicists are eager to construct larger, more powerful colliders. The moon, in this case, serves as an ideal location.

One study from 2022 explored the concept of atomic smashers surrounding the moon, spanning approximately 11,000 km (6,835 miles). This collider could operate at 1,000 times the energy of the LHC, enabling physicists to search for new particles and phenomena.

The Large Hadron Collider has enabled us to deduce important properties of dark matter. A nuclear clock may further illuminate this enigmatic material that constitutes most of the universe. – Photo Credit: Getty Images

While it is challenging to foresee the discoveries that such an enormous accelerator might yield, scientists hope it could provide insights into the evolution of the universe and its colossal structures.

But why construct these machines on the moon instead of Earth? Essentially, it boils down to real estate. Colliders exceeding 10,000 km (6,214 miles) in diameter present numerous geological, technical, and political challenges on our planet.

Conversely, the moon offers several advantages. Building a circular tunnel beneath its surface and maintaining the essential superconducting ring would be easier (and more cost-effective).

Additionally, the moon is more geologically stable than Earth and has a plentiful supply of solar energy.

Engineers estimate that establishing a Super Collider on the moon would take over 20 years, assuming human presence is established there. Thus, the prospect of a “Mega-Collider” materializing in this century appears slim.

This article addresses the question posed by Faye Holmes via email: “What if we made a Super Collider around the Moon?”

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The Most Intoxicated Animals and Its Effects on Them

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Finding tales of animals getting tipsy isn’t hard. A Swedish moose was discovered with its head trapped in a tree after indulging in fermented apples, creating a surprisingly enchanting sight.

In Botswana, elephants revel in the fruits of Marula. My pet mouse eagerly taps into my homebrew and laps up the spills. They all appeared intoxicated — or did they?

If you know where to look, nature offers a vast pub that serves up alcoholic delights in the form of fermented fruits, sap, and nectar. Unlike humans, different animals exhibit varying levels of tolerance.

Generally, humans who frequently consume fermented foods metabolize alcohol faster and are less impacted by it.

Consider the Malaysian pentailed shrews, which have adapted to thrive on the fermented nectar of Beltum Palm. Despite consuming amounts equivalent to 10-12 glasses of wine (relative to their size), they show no signs of addiction.

The same holds true for certain native bats in Central and South America. They often feast on fermented fruits and nectar, and can maintain flight even when their blood alcohol concentrations exceed three times the legal limit for humans.

However, cedar waxwings in North America have a different story. These birds savor a variety of berries but occasionally overindulge on the fermenting berries of Brazilian chili pepper trees. This rarely ends well.

A Swedish moose is found with its head trapped in a tree after consuming fermented apples – Photo credit: Getty

These birds struggle to fly straight, often crashing into windows and fences.

Tests conducted on deceased birds like these revealed that their livers can reach a blood alcohol concentration of up to 1,000 parts, which is deadly for humans.

So, for any waxwing out there, remember three crucial tips: never “drink” and fly, know your limits, and alcohol-free berries are always within reach!

This article answers the question posed by Joshua Newman from Peterborough: “Can animals get drunk?”

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Ancient Mammoth Remains Yield the Oldest Host-Related Microbial DNA on Record

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In a recent study, researchers examined the ancient microbial DNA of 483 mammoths, preserved for over a million years. This included 440 newly analyzed unpublished samples from Steppe Mammoths dating back 1.1 million years. Through metagenome screening, contaminant filtering, damage pattern analysis, and phylogenetic inference, they identified 310 microorganisms linked to various mammoth tissues.

Ginet et al. Partial genome reconstruction of erysipelothrix, representing the oldest confirmed host-related microbial DNA from the oldest mammoth samples. Image credit: Ginet et al., doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2025.08.003.

“Envision a mammoth tooth from a million years ago,” stated Dr. Benjamin Ginette, a postdoctoral researcher at Stockholm’s Paleogenetic Centre and the Swedish Museum of Natural History.

“Imagine if it still harbors traces of ancient microorganisms that existed alongside this mammoth?”

“Our findings push the boundaries of microbial DNA research beyond a million years, unlocking new avenues for understanding how host-associated microorganisms evolved in tandem with their hosts.”

The team discovered six microbial groups consistently linked to mammoth hosts, including relatives of Actinobacillus, Pasturella, Streptococcus, and erysipelothrix. Some of these microbes may have been pathogenic.

For instance, one Pasturella bacteria identified in this study is closely related to the pathogens responsible for a fatal outbreak among African elephants.

Given that African and Asian elephants are the closest living relatives of mammoths, these results raise concerns about whether mammoths could also be susceptible to similar infectious diseases.

Remarkably, scientists have reconstructed a partial genome of erysipelothrix from a Steppe Mammoth that lived 1.1 million years ago, marking the oldest known host-related microbial DNA ever recovered.

This advances our understanding of the interactions between ancient hosts and their microbiota.

“As microorganisms evolved rapidly, acquiring reliable DNA data spanning over a million years has felt like tracing a path that continually rewrites itself,” noted Dr. Tom van der Bark of the Paleobiological Centre and the Museum of Natural History in Sweden.

“Our discoveries illustrate that ancient artifacts can retain biological insights far beyond the host genome, offering a perspective on how microorganisms influenced Pleistocene ecosystem adaptation, disease, and extinction.”

Determining the exact impact of the identified microorganisms on mammoth health is challenging due to DNA degradation and limited comparative data, but this study provides an unparalleled view into the microbiota of extinct megafaunas.

The findings suggest that multiple microbial lines coexisted with mammoths for hundreds of thousands of years, spanning vast geographical areas and evolutionary timescales, from the extinction of woolly mammoths on Lengel Island over a million years ago to their decline around 4,000 years ago.

“This research opens a new chapter in understanding the biology of extinct species,” says Professor Love Darren, a researcher at the Swedish Museum of Natural History and the Paleogenetic Centre at Stockholm University.

“Not only can researchers study the mammoth genome itself, but they can also begin to explore the microbial communities that cohabited with it.”

This study was published this week in the journal Cell.

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Benjamin Ginet et al. Ancient host-related microorganisms recovered from mammoths. Cell published online on September 2, 2025. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2025.08.003

Source: www.sci.news

Junho Analyzes the Ultraviolet Satellite Footprint of Jupiter’s Moon Callisto

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Jupiter showcases the most brilliant and magnificent auroras in the solar system. Near its poles, these shimmering lights provide insight into how its moons and planets engage with the solar wind propelled by Jupiter’s magnetic field. In contrast to Earth’s auroras, the largest of Jupiter’s moons generates its own unique auroral signature within the planet’s atmosphere. The auroras linked to these moons, referred to as satellite footprints, illustrate the interactions of each moon with its immediate spatial environment.

Junho captures the mark on Jupiter in all four Galilean Moons. The aurora associated with each are labelled IO, EUR (europa), Gan (for Ganymede), and Cal (for Callisto). Image credits: NASA/JPL-CALTECH/SWRI/UVS TEAM/MSSS/GILL/Jónsson/Perry/Hue/Rabia.

Prior to NASA’s Juno Mission, three of Jupiter’s largest moons—Io, Europa, and Ganymede—were known to produce distinct auroral signatures.

However, the farthest moon, Callisto, remained an enigma.

Despite numerous attempts using the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, Callisto’s footprints were faint and difficult to detect, often overshadowed by the bright Main Auroral Oval, the region where auroras are prominently observed.

NASA’s Juno Mission has been in orbit around Jupiter since 2016, providing an unprecedented close-up view of these polar light displays.

To capture Callisto’s footprint, the main auroral oval needs to be bypassed while imaging the polar regions.

Additionally, to incorporate it into the suite of instruments analyzing the fields and particles within Juno’s payload, the spacecraft’s path must cross the magnetic field line linking Callisto to Jupiter.

These necessary conditions coincidentally occurred during Juno’s 22nd orbit of the giant planet in September 2019, leading to the discovery of Callisto’s Auroral Footprint and offering samples of the magnetic fields related to particle populations, electromagnetic waves, and interactions.

Jupiter’s magnetic field extends far beyond its largest moon, forming a vast area (magnetosphere) where solar wind flows from the sun.

Just like solar storms on Earth can push the Northern Lights to lower latitudes, Jupiter’s auroras are also influenced by solar activity.

In September 2019, a significant and dense solar stream impacted Jupiter’s magnetosphere, causing the auroral ellipse to shift towards the equator, revealing a faint yet distinct feature associated with Callisto.

This finding confirms that all four Galilean moons leave their imprint on Jupiter’s atmosphere, with Callisto’s footprints closely resembling those of its inner companions, thus completing the family portrait marked by Galilean Moon Auroras.

“Our observations substantiate the electrodynamic coupling between Callisto and Jupiter,” stated Dr. Jonas Lavia, a researcher at Astrophysics-Planetology and CNRS, along with colleagues.

“This combination will undergo further examination by NASA’s JUICE mission, which was successfully launched in April 2023. This mission will facilitate repeated explorations of Callisto and its local environment, enhancing our understanding of the magnetospheric interactions between Callisto and Jupiter.”

“Reported in situ and remote observations complete the family portrait of the footprints of Galilean Moon Auroras, addressing a long-standing question about whether Callisto’s electromagnetic interactions differ fundamentally from the inner three Galilean satellites.”

“The observed similarities in both the auroral structure and the in situ characteristics of electrons point to the universal physical mechanisms at play in the magnetospheric interaction of moons and stars, akin to other binary systems accessible within the solar system and beyond.”

The team’s paper was published this week in the journal Nature Communications.

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J. Ravia et al. 2025. in situ Remote observation of Callisto’s UV footprint by Juno spacecraft. Nat Commun 16, 7791; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-62520-4

Source: www.sci.news

Remarkable Discovery: Two Fossils of Young Individuals Tragically Lost to a Catastrophic Storm in Germany

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists from the University of Leicester studied two immature fossilized skeletal remains of Pterodactylus antiquus, individuals whose wings were damaged and were discovered in Solnhofen limestone, southern Germany. Their findings reveal that these creatures were sadly victims of a powerful Jurassic storm, which created the perfect conditions for fossilization, leading to the preservation of hundreds of similar specimens.

Artistic representation of the hatchling Pterodactylus antiquus, inspired by fossil discoveries, struggling through a tumultuous tropical storm. Image credit: Rudolf Hima.

“Dating back 153-148 million years, the Jurassic Solnhofen limestone deposits in Bavaria, southern Germany, are renowned for their remarkably preserved fossils, including many examples of various pterosaurs, flying reptiles from the Mesozoic era.”

“A puzzling aspect of this site is that while Solnhofen is home to hundreds of pterosaur fossils, almost all are small, immature specimens that are remarkably intact.”

“In stark contrast, larger adult pterosaurs are infrequently found and typically represented by isolated fragments, such as skulls or limbs.”

“This trend contradicts expectations, as larger, more resilient animals should theoretically have a greater chance of fossilization than fragile juveniles.”

In their latest study, the researchers examined the fossilized remains of two immature pterosaurs from the Solnhofen limestone.

These individuals belong to Pterodactylus antiquus, a species that inhabited Germany during the late Jurassic period.

With a wingspan of under 20 cm (8 inches), these hatchlings represent the smallest known pterosaurs.

Both specimens exhibit identical injuries: a clean, sloping fracture in the humerus.

Newborn specimens of Pterodactylus antiquus from Solnhofen limestone, Germany. Scale bar – 20 mm. Image credit: Smyth et al., doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.08.006.

One specimen’s left wing and another’s right wing appear broken in a manner consistent with a strong twist, likely caused by a sudden gust of wind rather than impact with a hard object.

The unfortunate pterosaur was likely submerged beneath the lagoon’s surface, overwhelmed by storm waves, and swiftly sank to the seabed, where it was quickly buried by a fine layer of mud stirred up by the tempest.

This rapid entombment facilitated the exceptional preservation observed in the fossils.

It’s reminiscent of a scene only days or weeks after the animals’ demise, with preservation so remarkable that while no significant skeletal trauma is evident, many other small, very young pterosaurs are found within the Solnhofen limestone.

These juvenile pterosaurs, unable to withstand the storm’s ferocity, were also drawn into the lagoon.

This discovery clarifies why smaller fossils are so well preserved—due to the direct aftermath of the storm, which was a common cause of death for pterosaurs in the region.

“For centuries, scientists believed the Solnhofen lagoon ecosystem was primarily composed of small pterosaurs,” stated Dr. Smith.

“However, we now recognize that this perspective was quite skewed; many of these pterosaurs were not lagoon dwellers.”

“Most were likely immature individuals that lived on nearby islands, inadvertently caught in a powerful storm.”

A study detailing these findings was published today in the journal Current Biology.

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Robert S. Smith et al. Fatal incidents in juvenile pterosaurs and selective sampling within fossil Solnhofen communities. Current Biology, published online September 5th, 2025. doi:10.1016/j.cub.2025.08.006

Source: www.sci.news

Interim NASA Chief Aims to Outpace China in Lunar Exploration

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

NASA is moving full steam ahead, at least according to Sean Duffy, the agency’s agent manager.

During an internal employee town hall on Thursday, Duffy cautioned that he could “make safety an adversary of progress” in the quest for a new space race, as reported in meeting notes acquired by NBC News.

“We must prioritize safety, collaborating with FAA and DOT, yet sometimes that same safety focus can obstruct our progress,” said Duffy, who is also the Secretary of Transport.

“We need to embrace some risks and encourage innovation to carry out this mission. There’s always a balance, but we cannot hold back due to fear of risk.”

A spokesperson from NASA stated the agency remains committed to safety.

Duffy’s remarks arise amidst ongoing turmoil at NASA, where questions about the agency’s budget and priorities have persisted for years. Since the Trump administration began, NASA and other agencies have experienced significant funding and personnel cuts in an effort to downsize the federal workforce.

At a Senate hearing this week, Duffy expressed his frustration about the “shadows cast on everything happening at NASA.”

Image of the moon, captured on February 15, 2025, by Lunar Lander, resilience of Ispace from an altitude of 14,439 km.
iSpace via business wire via AP file

“If that’s the narrative we crafted, I’ll be in trouble,” Duffy remarked. “We beat the Chinese to the moon. We’ll ensure it’s done safely, quickly, and accurately.”

Facing a Time Crunch

He emphasized that time is not in NASA’s favor.

“We are under pressure to perform effectively, rapidly, and safely,” Duffy stated.

NASA’s Artemis program plays a critical role in American efforts to return astronauts to the moon, aiming for regular lunar missions before eventually heading to Mars.

The U.S. previously dominated the Moonshot era during the Apollo program from the 1960s to 1970s, yet its long-standing advantages are now at risk. Competitors like China, Russia, India, and Japan are also aspiring for lunar missions, igniting a new space race.

China, in particular, is swiftly advancing its human spaceflight initiatives. Recently, they tested new lunar mission equipment and rockets, a key step towards realizing their ambitions.

China aims to land astronauts on the moon by 2030, and has announced plans to potentially build a nuclear power plant on the moon in collaboration with Russia to provide electricity.

In the U.S., President Trump’s budget proposal suggested cutting NASA’s funding by over $6 billion.

Despite a proposed budget reduction of about 24%, Duffy maintained that the Artemis program will proceed, although “cost-cutting is vital.”

Around 4,000 NASA employees have taken a voluntary retirement plan as part of the Trump administration’s initiative to decrease the federal workforce.

In July, Reuters reported that over 2,000 senior employees from NASA are expected to exit due to the recent cuts.

Currently, Duffy believes NASA possesses the necessary resources and talent to accomplish its missions in the near future.

“If we fall short, I assure the President 100% that I will approach OMB, the House, and Senate to request additional funding,” Duffy declared.

“More funding doesn’t guarantee success, but I will seek it if needed,” he added.

Duffy stated that he plans to lead initiatives in government space exploration “in the near future.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Walking Regularly Could Lower the Risk of Chronic Lower Back Pain

Posted on September 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In recent research published in the journal Jama Network Open, it was found that daily walking volume and intensity are inversely related to the risk of chronic lower back pain. The results indicate that walking volume may provide more substantial benefits compared to walking intensity.

Individuals who engage in regular walking experience less back pain than those who do not walk frequently. Volume is more crucial than intensity. Image credit: Tung Lam.

Back pain impacts individuals of all ages and is a leading cause of functional health loss, accounting for an estimated 7.7% of all years lived with disability.

In the United States, lower back pain is the most prevalent form of chronic pain, contributing significantly to medical costs alongside neck pain.

The burden of back pain is expected to rise over the coming decades, presenting a major challenge for the sustainability of healthcare systems.

To mitigate this burden, it is important to identify modifiable factors that can be addressed through policies and preventive strategies.

Physical activity is advised in guidelines for managing chronic low back pain.

However, explicit recommendations for physical activity aimed at the primary prevention of chronic low back pain remain unclear.

Walking, a popular form of leisure physical activity among adults, is linked to a reduced risk of various non-communicable diseases and conditions.

Nevertheless, the relationship between walking and the risk of chronic lower back pain has been largely underexplored.

“Individuals who walk for over 100 minutes daily have a 23% lower risk of lower back issues compared to those who walk for 78 minutes or less,” explained PhD candidate Rayane Haddadj from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology.

“While it’s likely not shocking that physical activity benefits your back, until now, we lacked clarity on whether low-intensity walking could help.”

“Strength is also a factor in the risk of chronic back issues, but daily walking volume plays a more significant role.”

A total of 11,194 individuals took part in the Trøndelag Health Study (The Hunt Study).

This study is distinctive as it measured daily walking volume and strength through sensors worn on the participants’ thighs over the course of a week.

“These findings highlight the importance of allocating time for physical activity to prevent chronic back problems and other health issues,” remarked Professor Paul Jarl Mork of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology.

“In the long run, this can result in substantial savings for society.”

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Rayane Haddadj et al. 2025. The amount and intensity of walking and the risk of chronic lower back pain. Jama Netw Open 8 (6): E2515592; doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.15592

Source: www.sci.news

Solar-Powered Devices Harvest Lithium Sustainably

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Lithium-rich brine from an evaporation pond in the Atacama Desert, Chile

John Moore/Getty Images

The extraction of lithium for batteries, essential for the electric vehicle movement and renewable energy utilization, poses significant environmental risks. Nonetheless, innovative solar-powered techniques for generating fresh water and lithium might improve sustainability.

Currently, most lithium is sourced from subterranean salt lakes in the Andes. The brine undergoes a concentration process through evaporation in outdoor ponds for several months, followed by the extraction of lithium carbonate, which consumes a substantial amount of freshwater. Additionally, when salty water is removed from the reservoir, freshwater from the surrounding rock can trickle down to fill the gap, leading to a decline in the water table, highlighting the negative impact of mining on water availability.

Numerous research initiatives are exploring Direct lithium extraction methods that bypass field evaporation. A notable approach, developed by Yu Tang and her team at Lanzhou University in China, has successfully generated usable freshwater and allowed for recovery back into the underground aquifers.

The team utilizes the unique structure of manganese oxides, which exhibit two crucial characteristics: they can convert a significant amount of sunlight into heat and selectively bond with lithium ions.

In their method, a thin stream of salt or seawater flows over a layer of manganese oxide exposed to sunlight. As the sun heats the material, water evaporates and lithium ions adhere to the oxide. Once these layers are saturated, acidic solutions can extract the ions, enabling the reuse of the material.

This process operates within a sealed environment that captures and condenses evaporated water for collection. The research team has tested small prototypes that successfully completed five cycles of lithium adsorption and release, with the collected water meeting the World Health Organization’s drinking water standards.

According to Ugo Bardi from the University of Florence, Italy, the approach is “very clever.” He suggests it could potentially offer a more sustainable lithium source.

“The paper appears credible,” Bardi notes. “One possible concern could be the material’s stability. How many cycles can it endure under real-world conditions?”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

The Galaxy Potentially Discovered by JWST Might Be the Earliest We’ve Ever Observed

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A potentially newly discovered galaxy from the James Webb Space Telescope

NASA, ESA, CSA, CEERS, G. Gandolfi

SEI 264756217 — A potentially newly discovered galaxy from the James Webb Space Telescope

NASA, ESA, CSA, CEERS, G. Gandolfi

Astronomers might have found galaxies that formed very early in the universe, approximately 200 million years apart from their closest counterparts, but they caution that alternative explanations could exist.

Giovanni Gandolfi from the University of Padua, along with his team, examined data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) in search of distant cosmic formations from the universe’s 13.8 billion-year timeline.

The greater the distance of a galaxy from Earth, the longer it takes for its light to reach us, and it will be redshifted due to the universe’s expansion.

Until now, the earliest confirmed galaxy identified by JWST, named Mom-Z14, has a redshift of 14.4, indicating that it has been moving toward us since the universe was just 280 million years old. Gandolfi and his colleagues, however, have reported finding 32 intriguing objects with redshifts, placing them at a time when the universe was merely 90 million years old. They have named this discovery Capotauro after the Italian mountains.

“Capotauro could represent the most distant galaxy we’ve encountered,” states Gandolfi.

The team derived their conclusion from observing minor fluctuations in a deep JWST survey of the sky that resemble a distant galaxy. By utilizing various filters on the telescope, they were able to determine the redshift of the light emitted by the galaxy, arriving at a count of 32.

If validated, this object might represent a very young galaxy in formation, or potentially a primitive black hole enveloped by a dense atmosphere.

Nonetheless, this presumed galaxy appears uncommonly bright, akin to those observed in later redshift instances like Mom-Z14, suggesting it has a mass approximating a billion times that of the Sun.

For a galaxy to reach such mass, its efficiency in converting gas into stars must be near 100%, according to Nicha Reese Chawarit from the National Institute of Astronomy in Thailand, indicating that the stars cannot explode. Modelling, however, suggests that achieving 10-20% or even lower is plausible. “I believe there’s something amiss,” she remarks.

If this is not a galaxy, Gandolfi and his team propose that the object could alternatively be a brown dwarf (a star that didn’t ignite). These alternative theories are also compelling, Gandolfi notes, particularly if it is a cold brown dwarf or distant planet, possibly 6000 light years away and at room temperature.

“It could represent one of the first substellar objects ever formed in our galaxy,” adds Gandolfi.

To confirm this, the team requires additional observing time on the JWST to precisely analyze the light from the object. Leethochawalit supports the notion that it may not be a galaxy but also states that such follow-up research could still be worthwhile.

“If it turns out to be a galaxy with a redshift of 32, then a lot of our previous assumptions might be entirely wrong,” she states.

World Capital of Astronomy: Chile

Discover the astronomical wonders of Chile. Explore some of the world’s most advanced observatories and experience the starry skies under some of the clearest conditions on Earth.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Hot Glue Gun: A Surprising Solution for Repairing Broken Bones

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Broken bones often need a material to fill the void

Sopone Nawoot/Alamy

Researchers have discovered that with slight modifications, hot glue guns, typically used in crafting, can effectively and affordably mend damaged bones.

While bones can often heal themselves after minor injuries, serious trauma or tumor removal may leave cavities that require a synthetic plug to stimulate bone cell growth.

Although 3D printing can create tailored scaffolding to fill these gaps, the method necessitates scanning and remote fabrication, taking at least a week. While this pre-planned approach works for worn joints, it’s unfeasible for emergency surgeries.

To tackle this issue, John Seung Lee from Sungkyunkwan University in Korea and his team have created a solution that can be employed immediately during a single procedure.

They modified hot glue guns to lower their operating temperature from above 100°C to approximately 60°C and developed biological adhesive materials composed of hydroxyapatite (which makes up 50% of natural bone) and a biodegradable thermoplastic known as polycaprolactone.

During surgery, surgeons can utilize hot glue guns to rapidly fill bone voids, enabling bone cells to access these gaps and ultimately heal the injuries permanently over time.

“It’s essentially created from a standard hot glue gun,” Lee explains. “It significantly reduces time and costs.”

Lee and his colleagues assessed the glue gun’s effectiveness by repairing a 1 cm gap in a rabbit’s femur. Twelve weeks later, samples showed no complications or signs of separation between the adhesive and the bone, with bone mass being more than double that of control animals treated with traditional cement.

Furthermore, researchers found that two antibacterial agents can be integrated into the filaments to decrease infection risk, releasing the drugs gradually to the surgical site over several weeks.

Benjamin Olivere from the University of Nottingham in the UK is investigating 3D-printed scaffolds for bone repair but expresses skepticism, suggesting hot glue guns might become a more practical alternative compared to slower scanning and printing methods.

“Is it an intriguing idea? Absolutely. Is it feasible? Yes. Do I believe it’s plausible? Yes,” he states. “However, the practical application may be a different matter.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Baby Palace Took Flight Immediately After Hatching, But Crashed in the Storm

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Artist’s impressions of a pterodactyl hatchling battling a tropical storm

Rudolf Hima

The young pterodactyl appeared to have taken flight just days post-hatching, yet some individuals suffered broken wings during a turbulent storm that struck their lagoon habitat.

This immature pterodactyl possessed an adult-like wing configuration, showcasing strength and aerodynamic traits conducive to flight. However, paleontologists have long questioned whether newly hatched individuals were capable of flying.

At the Solnhofen site in southern Germany, countless plant fossils are trapped in limestone. During an examination using ultraviolet light at Haassov’s Museum Bergel, David Unwin and Robert Smith from the University of Leicester, UK, identified a fractured wing of a Pterodactylus antiquus specimen. They soon discovered another hatchling exhibiting the same wing fracture.

“We were astounded,” stated Unwin. “We are not easily shocked. Under UV light, it practically leapt out of the rock. Our immediate reaction was, ‘Bloody hell!’

Unwin and his team estimated that these two specimens, both measuring just 20 cm and still in their growth phase, lived around 150 million years ago, approximately two million years apart. At that time, the location was part of an archipelago, featuring numerous islands and saltwater lagoons, where intense tropical cyclones occasionally triggered rapid underwater landslides that helped preserve fossilized remains.

The hatchling’s bones exhibited a healthy structure without signs of rotation or healing, apart from clean, angled breaks in the humerus (the upper arm bones supporting the wings). These injuries resemble the typical wing damage that adult birds and bats sustain when navigating through oceanic storms.

Juvenile *Pterodactylus antiquus* skeletons from Solnhofen, Germany

University of Leicester

“The most plausible explanation for these unfortunate pterosaurs with fractured wings is that they were airborne during the incident,” Unwin notes.

“In calm conditions, they could potentially float, but turbulent, wave-driven surfaces would cause them to sink.”

These findings bring valuable evidence to the long-standing debate regarding flight capabilities in hatchling pterosaurs, according to researchers.

“I don’t believe they hatched and simply leapt into the air,” Unwin stated. “However, they were likely airborne almost immediately post-hatching. This is one reason why these very young specimens are represented in the fossil record today.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Observing a Group of Young Giant Stars in the Lobster Nebula

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers utilizing the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope captured stunning new images of the Star Cluster Pismis 24, located in the heart of the nearby Lobster Nebula.

This web image showcases Pismith 24, with young stars clustering around the 5,500 light-year-old star in the Psycholpius constellation. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI/A. PAGAN, STSCI.

Pismis 24 is located roughly 5,500 light years away from the Scorpius constellation.

This cluster, part of the Lobster Nebula, is the largest known star cluster to date.

“As a vibrant stellar nursery and one of the closest locales for the birth of a massive star, Pismith 24 provides unusual insights into the characteristics of large-scale stars,” Webb astronomers noted in a statement.

“This region serves as an excellent venue for exploring the traits of hot, young stars and their evolutionary paths.”

“It’s remarkable to be at the center of this dazzling cluster Pismith 24-1.”

“Within a mass of stars towering above the jagged orange peak, the tallest spire points directly at it.”

“Initially appearing as a massive single star, Pismis 24-1 was once considered the largest known star.”

“In reality, it comprises at least two stars, which cannot be resolved in a Webb image.”

“With respective masses of 74 and 66 solar masses, the two known stars rank among the largest and brightest ever observed.”

This latest image from Webb’s Nircam (near-infrared camera) reveals thousands of gem-like stars of varying sizes and colors.

“The largest and most astonishing, with six diffraction spikes, is the biggest star in the cluster,” an astronomer commented.

“The numerous small members of the cluster appear as white, yellow, or red, differing by star type and surrounding dust levels.”

Webb also highlights tens of thousands of stars positioned behind clusters that belong to the Milky Way galaxy.

A very hot infant star—almost eight times the temperature of the Sun—creates powerful winds and radiation, shaping a cavity in the walls of the star-forming nebulae.

The nebula far exceeds what Nilkham can observe.

Only a few of these are visible at the bottom right and top right of the image.

“Streams of hot ionized gas from the nebula ridge and a faint veil of star-lit gas and dust surround the towering peak,” the researchers explained.

“A dramatic spire protrudes from the glowing gas walls, resisting the relentless radiation and winds.”

“These spires resemble fingers pointing towards the hot young stars that carved them.”

“The intense forces that shape and compress these spires will likely lead to the formation of new stars within them.”

“The tallest spire measures approximately 5.4 light years from its tip to the bottom of the image.”

“Over 200 solar systems in Neptune’s orbit could fit within its tip, which is 0.14 light-years wide.”

“In this image, cyan represents hydrogen gas that has been heated or ionized by a large young star.”

“Dust molecules akin to Earth’s smoke are depicted in orange. Red signifies cold, dense molecular hydrogen; the darker the red, the thicker the gas. Black indicates dense gas that does not emit light.

Source: www.sci.news

The Bird is Astonished by the Breathtaking New Photos

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Capturing birds in photographs can be quite challenging. Their speed, grace, and unpredictable nature can pose difficulties for photographers. Yet, their vibrant colors and iridescent feathers have long captivated those behind the camera. Today, a stunning array of images, showcasing the talent of over 50 photographers from across the globe, takes center stage in the Bird Center.

Birds: Modern Photographic Birds is a remarkable 200-page journey through the enchanting world of birds. Unlike typical bird books that categorize by species or habitat, Aviary adopts a fresh perspective. It presents six thematic chapters that explore the bond between humans and birds through imaginative performances such as “sanctuary” and “meetings.” The collection blends several disciplines, including art, fashion, documentary filmmaking, and ornithology.

Mario CEA, The Blue Trail, 2015.

Mario CEA

Some photographs astound with their simplicity, while others impress with their dynamic capture of movement and intricate details. For example, a striking image freezes a Kingfisher mid-dive, its vibrant blue stripes contrasting with the calm waters (as shown above), masterfully captured by Mariocia.

Red-crowned Crane Courtship.

Alan Walker

In Alan Walker’s image (above), two of the rarest and largest birds, the red-crowned cranes, engage in a courtship display, their heads elegantly arched as soft snow falls around them. Meanwhile, the radiant flamingos captured by Robert Clark appear to rest peacefully, their heads tucked into their feathers, evoking the essence of a traditional oil painting.

Aviary by Danáe Panchaud and William A. Ewing will be available September 11th, with official release on October 14th.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Review of “Internet Storage”: Nick Clegg’s New Tech Book Lacks Substance

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

At the time, Nick Clegg, an executive at Meta, addressed the Technology Summit in Portugal in 2021.

Hugo Amaral/SOPA Images via Zuma Press Wire/Alamy

Nick Clegg, vice president of Global Affairs and Communications at Meta, speaks via web broadcast from the Altice Arena during the 2021 Web Summit in Lisbon, Portugal, attended by approximately 40,000 participants. (Credit: Hugo Amaral/SOPA Images via Zuma Press Wire) — At the time, Nick Clegg, an executive at Meta, addressed the Technology Summit in Portugal in 2021.

Hugo Amaral/SOPA Images via Zuma Press Wire/Alamy

How to Save the Internet
Nick Clegg (Bodley Head (UK, Now, US, November 11))

There were moments when my brain struggled to engage with Nick Clegg’s new book, How to Save the Internet.

After a dull depiction of future families benefiting from artificial intelligence, I found myself flipping to page 131, encountering lengthy quoted segments, first from a Massachusetts tech professor, followed by an excerpt from an NPR article. Overwhelmed by monotony, I had to set the book aside.

However, Clegg, a former executive at Facebook’s parent company Meta and UK’s deputy prime minister from 2010 to 2015, prompted me to revisit it, sensing that valuable insights awaited.

During his tenure, Clegg experienced pivotal moments at Meta, including the two-year suspension of Donald Trump in 2021. His reflections on Meta’s policies are revealing. Despite rising authoritarianism, How to Save the Internet posits that Big Tech is responsible for shaping our online realities.

Yet, wisdom is scarce throughout the book, which is littered with passages from other journalists and researchers. When Clegg does offer his perspective, it often comes across as uninspired and bland: “If businesses can enhance productivity during work hours and glean insights swiftly, it will promote efficiency.” Hardly thrilling.

The book’s concluding chapter, where Clegg presents his grand vision to “save the Internet,” is equally underwhelming, claiming that the US should avoid business as usual while the Chinese AI model Deepseek caused significant market turmoil. He suggests a global agreement to counteract China, but fails to dive deeply into the implications.

What struck me more was Clegg’s explanation of Meta’s response after supporters of Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol, resulting in a presidential ban. CEO Mark Zuckerberg allowed Clegg to make a crucial decision regarding the suspension. This was significant for private firms, yet the process seemed unclear. We were informed of the events, but left without a thorough understanding.

Given Clegg’s background, I’m left wondering why the book lacks a lasting impact. His experiences as a politician and tech executive are evident, yet he shares little of himself, which diminishes engagement with his audience. Questions surrounding AI’s socioeconomic implications and its potential to deepen inequality are posed but left unanswered.

The core issue with How to Save the Internet is its failure to convey substantial ideas. Politicians often shy away from firm stances. The Internet’s origins stretch back to military ARPANET, AI lacks true intelligence, and while social media connects us, it also leads to toxicity.

This reads more like a post-dinner speech or a polished think tank report, adorned with flashy aesthetics. If you’re interested in saving the Internet, proceed with caution.

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

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Source: www.newscientist.com

L-Theanine: Can Matcha and Other Tea Compounds Alleviate Anxiety and Enhance Focus?

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Black and green teas including matcha exhibit various levels of L-theanine

inna finkova / alamy stock photos

L-theanine is a naturally occurring amino acid found in tea leaves. Its association with the calming effects of tea dates back to the 1940s, and it is now available as a supplement aimed at alleviating stress, enhancing focus, and improving sleep quality. Although studies on its effectiveness are still somewhat limited, there are intriguing insights that may suggest advantages for brain health, particularly for those experiencing anxiety.

What are the potential benefits of L-theanine?

Research on L-theanine shows promise but remains in the preliminary stages. “The research is limited, the sample sizes are small, and the results can vary,” says Crystal Haskell-Ramsay from Northumbria University, UK.

Nonetheless, findings from minor trials indicate that L-theanine may help reduce blood pressure during attention-demanding tasks, and during stressful periods, it might mitigate heart rate surges associated with cortisol, the stress hormone. Some evidence also points to its potential for enhancing relaxation and concentration.

How does L-theanine influence the brain?

Upon entering the bloodstream through the intestine, L-theanine is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. It shares similarities with brain glutamic acid and GABA, neurotransmitters responsible for regulating signals in the brain. Studies on rodents suggest that L-theanine may elevate levels of dopamine and serotonin, chemicals linked to various cognitive functions, including mood and reward.

Furthermore, L-theanine is known to increase alpha brain wave activity, which is associated with a calm yet alert state. “When you close your eyes, alpha waves increase instantly,” remarks Manuel Gomez Ramirez from Rochester University in New York.

Does it contribute positively to mood and well-being?

Generally, heightened alpha brain wave activity can enable better focus and diminish distractions, and L-theanine may amplify this effect. “The greater the alpha activity, the better the brain coordinates its surroundings,” explains Gomez Ramirez. The synergy between caffeine and L-theanine likely enhances this effect.

The influence of L-theanine on alpha waves appears to be more pronounced in individuals who are already experiencing anxiety. Studies on stressed rodents reveal that L-theanine can affect dopamine and serotonin levels in certain brain regions, correlating with a reduction in symptoms akin to depression. However, human studies yield inconsistent results, with some indicating a lack of efficacy for generalized anxiety disorder, while others report reductions in stress and anxiety levels.

If L-theanine alleviates anxiety, this could elucidate its benefits for sleep. A review found that it may help individuals fall asleep more swiftly and enhance their overall sleep quality.

Is there sufficient L-theanine in tea?

Teas, particularly green varieties like matcha, contain varying amounts of L-theanine, averaging between 5-40mg per cup. While this could provide a mild effect, most research studies utilize dosages around 200 mg, akin to those commonly found in supplements.

How robust is the evidence for L-theanine?

Many studies involve small participants, focus on short-term outcomes, and frequently test just single doses or limited supplementation periods. “There’s certainly potential, but further work is required in this area,” states Amanda Bluman from the University of Canberra in Australia.

A noteworthy complication is that L-theanine is often studied in conjunction with other components, which complicates the interpretation of results. “It’s challenging to ascertain whether L-theanine is solely responsible,” mentions Haskell-Ramsay. “Disentangling which elements are effective is problematic.”

Moreover, Haskell-Ramsay cautions, “Many people take it consistently for long durations, so long-term data is lacking.”

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Planetary Scientists Suggest Mission to Investigate Upcoming Interstellar Comet

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers at the Southwest Research Institute have completed a study outlining how the proposed spacecraft could fly by interstellar comets, offering valuable insights into properties of these bodies throughout the solar system. Leveraging recent findings from interstellar comet 3i/Atlas, they explored mission concepts and concluded that the proposed spacecraft could potentially intercept and observe 3i/Atlas.

Hubble captured this image of 3i/Atlas when it was 446 million km (277 million miles) from Earth on July 21, 2025. Image credits: NASA/ESA/David Jewitt, UCLA/Joseph Depasquale, Stsci.

In 2017, interstellar object 1i/’oumuamua became the first interstellar comet identified within the solar system.

Following that, the second interstellar comet, 2i/Borisov, was discovered in 2019, and recently, 3i/Atlas was identified this year.

“These novel types of objects present the first true opportunity for humanity to closely examine bodies formed in other star systems,” said Dr. Alan Stern, a planetary scientist at the Southwest Research Institute.

“Flybys of interstellar comets could yield unparalleled insight into their composition, structure, and characteristics, significantly enhancing our understanding of the solid body formation process in diverse star systems.”

Scientists estimate that numerous interstellar objects from distant origins cross Earth’s orbit each year, with up to 10,000 potentially entering Neptune’s orbit in certain seasons.

Dr. Stern and colleagues tackled unique design challenges while defining the costs and payload requirements for interstellar comet missions.

The hyperbolic trajectories and high velocities of these bodies present challenges for current avoidance methods, but this study indicated that Flybee reconnaissance is both feasible and cost-effective.

“The trajectory of 3i/Atlas falls within the intermittent range of missions we designed, and the scientific observations taken during such flybys would be groundbreaking,” stated Dr. Matthew Freeman from the Southwest Institute.

“The proposed mission would involve a rapid, frontal flyby, allowing us to gather substantial valuable data while also serving as a blueprint for future missions to other interstellar comets.”

The research establishes a significant scientific objective for its mission targeting interstellar comets.

Understanding the physical characteristics of a body sheds light on its formation and evolution.

Investigating the composition of interstellar comets may aid in explaining their origins and how evolutionary forces have shaped them since their inception.

Another objective is to thoroughly examine the coma of an object, the escaping atmosphere emanating from its center.

To devise mission orbital options, researchers created software to generate representative synthetic populations of interstellar comets, calculating the minimum energy trajectories from Earth to each comet’s pathway.

Software analyses have indicated that low-energy rendezvous trajectories are achievable, often requiring fewer resources during launch and flight compared to other solar system missions.

Scientists utilized the software to determine the trajectory the proposed spacecraft may have taken from Earth to intercept 3i/Atlas.

They found that the mission could potentially have reached 3i/Atlas.

“It’s incredibly promising regarding the emergence of 3i/Atlas,” noted Dr. Mark Tapley, an orbital mechanics expert at the Southwest Research Institute.

“We have demonstrated that there’s no need to launch any existing technology or mission frameworks that NASA has already employed to engage these interstellar comets.”

Source: www.sci.news

Interstellar Comet 3i/Atlas Exhibits Expanding Tail and Broad Coma

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers utilized a Gemini Multi-Object Spectrometer (GMO) at the Gemini South Telescope, part of the NSF’s International Gemini Observatory in the Chilean Andes, to capture new multi-color images of the interstellar comet 3i/Atlas.

This image of 3i/Atlas was captured by the Gemini Multi-Object Spectrograph (GMO) on August 27, 2025 at the Gemini South Telescope. Image credit: International Gemini Observatory / NSF / AURA / Shadow The Scientist / J. Miller Array / M. M. Rodriguez, nsf/crask of rects Anchorage & Noirlab/M. Zamani, NSF’s Noirlab.

3i/Atlas was identified on July 1, 2025, by a NASA-supported Atlas (Asteroid Ground Shock Last Alert System) Survey Telescope in Riojartad, Chile.

The comet is anticipated to approach the Sun at a distance of 1.4 AU (210 million km, or 130 million miles) around October 30, 2025.

The latest images from Gemini/GMOS reveal a broad coma and tail extending roughly 1/120th of a degree across the sky, away from the Sun.

These features appear significantly more pronounced compared to earlier images of the comet, indicating that 3i/Atlas is becoming increasingly active as it traverses the inner solar system.

Recent observations also imply that the dust and ice from the comet closely resemble those of solar comets, suggesting a commonality in the processes that govern the formation of planetary systems around other stars.

“As 3i/Atlas journeys back into the depths of interstellar space, these images serve as both scientific milestones and enigmatic clues,” states Dr. Karen Meech, an astronomer from the Institute of Astronomy at the University of Hawaii.

“They remind us that our solar system is merely a fragment of a vast, dynamic galaxy, where even transient visitors can leave a lasting impact.”

Alongside capturing a stunning image, the primary scientific aim of the observation session was to obtain the comet’s spectrum, which corresponds to the wavelengths of the emitted light.

The resulting spectra provide critical insights into the composition and chemistry of the comet, enabling scientists to understand its changes as it navigates through the solar system.

“The main goal was to observe the color of the comet to glean information about the composition and size of the coma dust particles, as well as to obtain the spectrum for direct chemical analysis,” noted Dr. Mace.

“We were thrilled to witness the growth of the comet’s tail and to see our first hints of chemistry from the spectrum, indicating particle changes since earlier Gemini observations.”

“These observations yield both awe-inspiring visuals and invaluable scientific data,” asserts Dr. Bryce Bolin, a researcher at Eureka Scientific.

“Each interstellar comet acts as a messenger from another stellar system, and by examining its light and color, we can begin to appreciate the diversity of worlds beyond our own.”

Source: www.sci.news

White House Funding Cuts Endanger AI Weather Forecasting Institute

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Funding for a $20 million artificial intelligence lab aimed at enhancing weather forecasts has been halted by the Trump administration. This decision threatens both the pipeline of scientists and the nation’s capability to evaluate the effects of hurricanes and other weather-related disasters.

According to Amy McGovern, the director of the Institute for AI2ES (AI Institute for Heather and Weather, Climate, and Coastal Oceanography), the National Science Foundation (NSF) informed the institute last month that it would not extend its five-year grant.

McGovern, who serves as a professor of meteorology and computer science at the University of Oklahoma, stated:

She emphasized that, without private funding, the institute may have to close its doors next year.

AI2ES collaborates with various universities to integrate AI into weather forecasting while evaluating its reliability.

This move to shut down AI2ES occurs as the Trump administration is heavily investing in AI and accelerating the establishment of data centers. The administration’s own AI plan advocates for the development of AI systems and programs aimed at fostering AI vocational training programs and specialized AI labs across various scientific fields.

In July, the administration unveiled an ambitious plan to achieve “global dominance” in artificial intelligence, emphasizing both innovation and its implementation—key areas of focus for AI2ES.

Alan Gerald, the former director of the National Intensive Storm Institute at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, described the cut as “dissonance” in light of this trend toward advancing technology.

The White House has not responded to requests for comments regarding this matter.

The institute was established in 2020 under the previous Trump administration as part of the NSF’s AI research labs, having received around $20 million in funding over the past five years. An NSF spokesperson, Michael England, stated that the agency holds the AI Institute’s groundbreaking work in high regard.

The National Science Foundation is fully committed to advancing artificial intelligence research through the National AI Research Institute Program, a pivotal aspect of the administration’s strategy to reinforce the US’s leadership in transformative AI.

NSF and its collaborating partners have provided funding for a network of 29 AI institutes. This year, AI2ES was one of five labs updated through the NSF, with three labs having received updates, while the status of the fourth remains pending, according to McGovern.

The Trump administration has proposed a 55% budget cut for the NSF; however, Congress has not yet ratified the budget. Senate and House appropriations have diverged from the Trump administration’s proposals, suggesting smaller cuts to scientific institutions like the NSF.

“We were an AI lab, so we believed we were secure, given our alignment with the president’s priorities,” McGovern noted.

The Trump administration’s AI plan aims for NSF and other organizations to expose K-12 students to AI careers, develop industry-driven training programs to generate AI jobs, and bolster workforce initiatives to enhance the nation’s AI talent pool.

“They desire a more robust AI-trained workforce. We were doing a significant amount of work,” McGovern emphasized.

She expressed concern that private AI firms are “poaching talent constantly,” as the institute funds around 70 positions each year at various universities, creating a talent pipeline. Among the institute’s achievements are over 130 academic publications and the development of AI tools used by the government today.

The center aided in the creation of AI tools that predict weather events potentially endangering sea turtles near Corpus Christi, Texas, making these animals susceptible to hazards onboard vessels.

Additionally, the institute developed an application enabling forecasters to “see” within hurricanes, even without a polar orbit satellite equipped with a microwave sensor capable of penetrating storm clouds. This application utilizes data from Earth-measuring satellites that cannot penetrate clouds and simulates the internal structure of a hurricane.

The center is also investigating how forecasters evaluate the reliability of AI tools developed by private companies, including Google.

“We have social scientists who engage with end-users to comprehend their trust in AI, their reservations, and what improvements are necessary,” remarked McGovern.

According to Gerald, if the center were to shut down, it wouldn’t adversely affect current weather forecasting but could limit innovation and place the nation at a disadvantage.

“Many other countries are heavily investing in AI-related weather research, like China. They risk falling behind many nations committed to enhancing weather forecasting,” Gerald concluded.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

LCD Lenses: Enhancing Your Divine Glasses Experience

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The inaugural prototype of LCD BeforeCal

Lin et al./APS 2025

Glasses featuring LCD lenses offer a convenient way to switch between correcting for near and distant vision.

Bifocal glasses have a history stretching back to the 18^th century, with designs that haven’t changed significantly over time. Typically, the lower section of the lens is shaped for nearby viewing, while the upper section is designed for distance, requiring wearers to shift their gaze frequently. A team led by Yi-Hsin Lin at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University and Chuo Tung University in Taiwan has developed a pair of glasses that can toggle between two modes at the press of a button.

Rather than traditional glass lenses, these new lenses utilize a thin layer of liquid crystals controlled by an electric field, which alters the arrangement of the molecules to bend light in different ways depending on their function.

The concept of adjustable glasses using this principle, which produces the necessary electric field through thin electrodes embedded in the frame, is nearly 50 years old. However, advancements have been slow due to various technical obstacles. Lin and her colleagues have addressed some of these challenges, creating a wearable prototype.

The current iteration of these glasses offers a limited power range, boasting a functional viewing area of about 10 millimeters (3 to 4 times larger than traditional bifocals) and a switch time of approximately 5 seconds upon pressing the button on the frame. Nonetheless, Lin’s team has successfully identified the physical principles enabling these glasses to function effectively, and they are optimistic about future improvements in areas such as reducing switching times through electronic optimization. “Almost everyone will need prescription eyewear at some point, so the market potential is enormous,” claims team member Victor Reshetnyak from Taras Shevchenko National University in Kiev, Ukraine.

Viola Kanevsky, an optometrist in New York, notes that those most likely to benefit from these adaptive glasses are in technical fields where small objects may occupy significant visual focus or in professions requiring a broad perspective—such as architects evaluating long, straight lines or stockbrokers monitoring multiple large screens both near and far without needing to constantly adjust their heads.

However, these new prototypes are still far from being ready for clinical application due to the limited operational areas of the lenses, according to Mark Rosenfield from SUNY Optometry University in New York. The inclusion of electronic components also raises both the cost and complexity of manufacturing LCD glasses. Similarly, Joshua Silver from Oxford University highlighted that in 2004, he and his colleagues developed alternative self-adjustable eyeglass designs utilizing liquids.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Single Doses of LSD Appear to Alleviate Anxiety

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Can psychedelics be effective against common anxiety disorders?

Science Photo Library/Alamy

SEI 264621700 — Can psychedelics be effective against common anxiety disorders?

Science Photo Library/Alamy

Research indicates that a single dose of LSD may alleviate anxiety without causing lasting side effects.

“We are conducting the first modern examination of LSD and its effects on common anxiety disorders,” says Dan Carlin from Mindmed in New York.

This disorder is marked by persistent worry about various issues, including work and relationships. Standard treatments often involve mood-enhancing medications and therapies, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other antidepressants.

However, approximately half of patients do not respond to these treatments. “SSRIs are ineffective for many; they can produce side effects, such as emotional numbness, and must be taken daily to have any effect,” Carlin explains.

Previous studies propose that LSD might serve as an alternative treatment. Psychedelics are frequently used for their mind-altering hallucinations in recreational contexts. Carlin believes they may operate by enhancing serotonin levels in the brain, which improve mood, and may also encourage the brain’s capacity for rewiring and developing new thought patterns.

Nonetheless, so far, trials directly comparing LSD with a placebo have not specifically evaluated its effects on generalized anxiety disorder.

To address this issue, Carlin and his team recruited 198 adults with this condition. Participants gradually reduced their current anxiety medications, while those receiving psychotherapy continued their sessions.

In a standard clinical assessment, participants rated the intensity of 14 symptoms, including worry, tension, and difficulty focusing, on a scale from 0-4.

The team then randomly assigned participants into five groups—those receiving LSD (in doses of 25, 50, 100, or 200 micrograms) or placebo tablets. The following day, those who received doses of 100 and 200 micrograms reported greater symptom relief compared to other groups, according to Karlin.

One month later, participants who took the 100 and 200 microgram doses noted an average anxiety reduction of 21 and 19 points, respectively, with improvements sustained until the study’s conclusion three months later. Approximately 46% of these individuals were in remission.

In contrast, those receiving placebo and the lower doses experienced a 14-17 point reduction in anxiety over the same period, with about 20% achieving remission. This indicates that the lower doses did not yield significant benefits beyond the placebo effect.

The enhancements seen with the higher doses are significantly greater than those produced by the placebo, states Sunjeev Kamboj from University College London. “This marks a clinically meaningful improvement in terms of distress and disability,” he notes.

The progress observed in the placebo group is a common occurrence in anxiety studies, likely influenced by factors such as participants’ enthusiasm and attention during the trial, Kamboj adds.

The team noted that they could accurately ascertain whether most participants received LSD or placebo. Psychedelics typically produce hallucinations, which can affect many individuals. Across all groups, participants experienced nausea and headaches about 12 hours post-treatment.

At lower LSD doses, those on placebo reported hallucinations significantly less frequently than at higher psychedelics doses. This complicates the assessment of whether the benefits observed are due to individual expectations based on perceived effects or the direct influence of the drug on the brain, Kamboj explains.

Despite these caveats, the study offers compelling evidence that LSD could be a viable anxiety treatment, he states. “It’s a promising finding, indicating it can quickly alleviate symptoms. This is highly relevant for patients.”

The results have led the US Food and Drug Administration to classify MindMed’s LSD formulations as a breakthrough therapy, expediting the drug development process. Karlin mentions that the team has conducted thorough follow-up trials for over three months, with anticipated results forthcoming in the next few years.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Discovering a New Type of Black Hole: Insights from Mirror Technology and Insect-Inspired AI

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Gravitational waves result from colliding black holes

Victor de Schwanberg/Science Photography Library

Researching the universe can be enhanced by AI created by Google DeepMind. With an algorithm capable of diminishing unwanted noise by as much as 100 times, the Gravitational Wave Observatory (LIGO), equipped with laser interferometers, can identify specific black hole types that are affecting our separation.

LIGO aims to detect gravitational waves generated when entities like black holes spiral and collide. These waves traverse the universe at light speed, yet the spacetime fluctuations are minimal—10,000 times smaller than an atomic nucleus. Since its initial detection a decade ago, LIGO has recorded signals from nearly 100 black hole collisions.

The experiment comprises two U.S. observatories, each with two perpendicular arms measuring 4 km. A laser is directed down each arm and bounced off precise mirrors, where an interferometer compares the beams. As gravitational waves pass through, the lengths of the arms fluctuate slightly, and these changes are meticulously documented to help visualize the signals’ origins.

However, achieving such precision is challenging, as even distant ocean waves or clouds can interfere with measurements. This noise can overwhelm the signal, rendering some observations unfeasible. To counterbalance this noise and accurately adjust the mirrors and other equipment, numerous critical tweaks are essential.

Lana Adhikari from the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena stated that his team has collaborated with DeepMind to innovate new AI methods. He mentions that even automating these adjustments can sometimes introduce noise. “That control noise has puzzled us for decades. All aspects in this space are hindered,” Adhikari explains. “How can you stabilize a mirror without creating noise? If left uncontrolled, the mirror tends to oscillate unpredictably.”

Laura Nuttall from the University of Portsmouth, UK, was involved in manually executing these adjustments at LIGO. “Changing one element causes a cascading effect; one change leads to another,” she points out. “It feels like an endless cycle of fine-tuning.”

DeepMind’s new AI, known as Deep Loop Shaping, aims to minimize noise by making up to 100 adjustments to LIGO’s mirrors. The AI is trained via simulations before being implemented in real-world scenarios, focusing on achieving two main objectives: limiting the number of adjustments it performs. “Over time, as it repeatedly operates, it’s like conducting hundreds or thousands of trials in a simulation. The controller learns what strategies work and identifies the best approach,” says Jonas Buchli from DeepMind.

Alberto Vecchio from the University of Birmingham, UK, expressed enthusiasm for the AI’s role in LIGO but mentioned that many challenges remain. The AI currently operates effectively for only an hour under real conditions, necessitating longer-term validation. Additionally, it’s only been applied to one control aspect, while many hundreds, if not thousands, of factors could assist in stabilizing the mirrors.

“This is clearly an initial step, but it’s certainly a fascinating one. There’s considerable scope for significant advancement,” Vecchio remarked.

If similar enhancements could be replicated elsewhere, it’s possible to detect medium-sized black holes—those around 1,000 times the mass of our sun—a category that has yet to see confirmed observations. Improvements are typically seen with the low-frequency gravitational waves generated by large bodies, where noise can obscure the signals.

“We’ve observed black holes up to 100 solar masses and more than a million solar masses in galaxies. What’s out there in between?” Vecchio pondered. “There’s a perception that black holes exist across a spectrum of masses, yet clear experimental evidence remains elusive.”

Nuttall commented that this new methodology could enhance identification of known black hole types. “This appears quite promising,” she stated. “I’m thrilled about this development.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Powerful Image Captures the Hidden Struggles of Southeast Asia’s Fishing Industry

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Fishermen unload their catch in the Philippines

Nicole Tung

These striking images capture the efforts of photographer Nicole Tung, who dedicated nine months to documenting the human and environmental toll of overfishing in Southeast Asia. Since the 1950s, fishing has rapidly evolved from a traditional craft into a global industry, primarily in developed nations. The rise in overfishing and illegal catch practices is alarming, driven by the increasing demand from a growing population.

Tung emphasizes the significance of the region as a vital part of the global fisheries market. Her project received funding from the €50,000 Kaminyak Photojournalism Award for fieldwork, which shifted her perspective on seafood consumption. Rather than suggesting complete abstention, she advocates for greater awareness and informed choices from consumers.

She expressed her distress over harrowing accounts from Indonesian fishermen, who detailed the violence and dreadful conditions they encounter at sea.

The image above illustrates a fisherman delivering a catch of tuna at General Santos fishport in the Philippines after a month at sea, including Bigger Tuna and Blue Marlin.

In other scenes, dock workers from Myanmar sort fish species being offloaded in Ranong, Thailand. Below, the indigenous Ulak Roy people and Thai villagers from Koh Lipe gather wood from nearby islands during a festival celebrating the end of the fishing and tourism season. They utilize the materials to construct ceremonial boats as offerings to their ancestors.

Indigenous Urak Lawoi people and Thai villagers sail their boats in Thailand

Nicole Tung

In this concluding image, a family of Filipino fishermen prepares bait for their fishing line in Quezon, Palawan, Philippines.

Family preparing to fish in the Philippines

Nicole Tung

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Should It Be “Space-Time” or “Space Time”? And Why Does It Matter?

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“Even trying to explain ‘space’ feels challenging…”

ShutterStock/FastMotion

One of the most challenging aspects of writing a book is the need for authors to seek out blurbs. These endorsements, prominently featured on book covers, can entice readers to make a purchase. Right now, I’m at this stage with The Edge of Spacetime, reaching out for letters of recommendation, asking people to read my work and share positive thoughts in return for something more than just my good intentions.

It’s a bit nerve-wracking, yet it can also be fascinating. Those whose endorsements get published were asked in a specific format—what prompted you to use “space-time” with a hyphen rather than “spacetime”?

This seems like a question of simple grammar, but there’s a deeper issue at play. When discussing space or time individually, we have an intuitive grasp of what we mean. The term “space-time” is somewhat newer to scientific discourse. Historically, many cultures have embraced a unified concept that doesn’t differentiate between space and time as distinct entities.

For me, as a science communicator, explaining this concept is quite challenging. Even articulating “space” is complex. I might say space is where movement occurs, but movement also happens within time. I could define space as the realm where things exist, but a similar statement can be made for time. We even pondered describing space as a geographical location, yet that sounds overly academic and abstract. Essentially, we are referring to a site of spatial dimensions.

To elucidate, there are three dimensions of space and one dimension of time, but time only flows in one direction.

However, as Albert Einstein famously asserted, these aren’t separate phenomena. Observers moving at varying speeds, especially as they approach the speed of light, may disagree on when certain events transpire. They may also hold differing views on the size of objects. To truly understand everything, we must quantify space-time rather than merely space or time. This perspective might not feel intuitive, but it is the most effective way to comprehend the mechanics of the universe.

In this regard, it’s worth considering whether space-time represents a confluence of two familiar phenomena or signifies the emergence of something entirely new. This is where the nuances of grammar reflect our scientific understanding, at least from my viewpoint.

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It’s worth considering whether space-time is a merger of two familiar phenomena or something new.
“

My last name includes the very first hyphen I encountered. My parents chose to keep both surnames, so to me, Prescod Weinstein signifies both identities.

The hyphenated version of space-time can be interpreted as indicating that what we discuss encompasses both space and time. Conversely, removing the hyphen to form “spacetime” may suggest we are addressing an entirely distinct entity. It embodies attributes of both space and time while existing as a separate third entity.

Are we contemplating something that is both space and time (space-time), or are space and time merely approximations of a fundamentally different conception of space-time? I find myself somewhat ambivalent. In my earlier book, The Blurbriter, I noted this distinction without employing hyphens, thus raising the question of why I chose to make a switch this time around.

The straightforward answer is that the title of the new book appears in the introductory sections of classic cosmology texts. Large-Scale Structure of Space-Time by Stephen Hawking and Father George Ellis states in the very first chapter that solving the equations that describe the universe “in a sense, involves contemplating the edges of space-time.” Just two pages later, they posit that locations where equations deconstruct (like at the heart of a black hole) can be viewed as “representing part of the edge of space-time.”

My book includes chapters that elucidate the types of equations they reference and the role of boundaries and edges in physics. Since I was about to borrow this phrase for my book’s title, I felt compelled to adhere to their terminology.

This is a surface-level explanation. However, at a deeper level, I am unsure where I stand. Like my request for endorsements, I feel inclined to prefer “spacetime” without a hyphen. Yet, I’m also aware of how habitual language can be, given my repeated use of hyphens in the subtitles of my previous work. Scientifically, I lean toward the notion that “space-time” encompasses both space and time, asserting that it is an entirely different fourth dimension: space-time. This may seem like a complex perspective, but I desire to embrace both aspects simultaneously!

Chanda’s Week

What I’m reading

I’m quite excited about the new Charlie Jane Anders novel Lessons from Magic and Disaster.

What I’m seeing

I’ve just caught up with the sci-fi series Invasion, and it’s truly captivating.

What I’m working on

I have a new postdoctoral researcher joining my group.

Chanda Prescod-Weinstein is an associate professor of physics and astronomy at the University of New Hampshire. She is the author of Cosmos with Disabilities and her forthcoming book, Edges of Space-Time: Particles, Poetry, and the Dreams of the Universe.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Ancient Penguins May Have Used Sharp Beaks to Impale Their Prey

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Following the Cretaceous Mass Extinction, ancient penguin relatives rapidly diversified

Mark P. Witton/Science Photo Library

Four newly discovered fossil species in New Zealand demonstrate the significant diversity of early penguins, characterized by their long, dagger-like beaks for catching prey.

The latest findings provide “an unexpected insight into the early evolution of penguins,” states Gerald Mayle at the Senckenberg Research Institute in Germany.

The fossils were unearthed from the Waipara Greensand Formation in Canterbury, New Zealand, a region recognized for flourishing after the mass extinction that eradicated non-avian dinosaurs, preserving some of the early avian species that diversified.

“A notable aspect of ancient New Zealand is the lack of terrestrial predators, which enabled early penguins to lose their ability to fly,” explains Mayle. This absence of predators might also clarify why certain early penguins reached sizes as large as humans, he remarks.

In total, Mayr and colleagues detailed four new species, showcasing a remarkable variety of shapes and sizes. Many fossils reveal previously unknown skeletal characteristics; one specimen boasted an exceptionally long back toe, along with an incredibly intact skull and beak.

“Fossils with beaks that provide insight into avian diets are exceedingly rare among penguins from earlier epochs [23 million years ago],” says Tatsuro Ando, who was not part of the study at the Japanese Paleontology Museum.

Present-day penguins feature varied beak shapes tailored to their specific prey, which can include krill and small fish, as well as invertebrates like squid, Ando explains. While these beaks can be short, thick, or curved, they do not compare to those seen in early penguins.

“It appears that ancient penguins utilized their long beaks to grasp their prey,” says Mayle. After impaling the fish, they likely surfaced to toss it into the air and catch it, he adds.

Over a span of approximately 20 million years, penguins evolved to lose their elongated, slender beaks. This change was likely an adaptation to prolonged underwater periods. As they transitioned to a more aquatic lifestyle, their feeding strategies and beak structures also evolved.

The newfound fossils underscore the significance of New Zealand as a “cradle of penguin evolution,” remarked Mayle, indicating that the earliest penguins diversified and spread globally to regions including New Zealand, Antarctica, South Africa, and South America.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Our New Vision for the Future Has Run Its Course and Needs Revamping

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The 20th century was a vibrant era for future visions, yet the 21st century has not sparked the same enthusiasm. Sci-fi author William Gibson, known for his groundbreaking cyberpunk work Neuromancer, refers to this phenomenon as “Future fatigue”, suggesting we seldom mention the 22nd century.

This stagnation is partly due to the evolution of many iconic future concepts from the 20th century. For instance, plastic was once hailed as the material of the future. Although it has proven to be durable, versatile, and plentiful, its properties now pose significant environmental and health concerns.

Today’s predominant future imagery carries a legacy of historical influence. Themes such as space colonization, dystopian AI, and a yearning for an imaginary past persist, often shaped by the climate anxiety many people experience. The future begins to feel like a closed book rather than an open road.

Jean Louis Missica, former vice mayor of Paris, articulated it well in his writing: “When the future is bleak, people idealize past golden ages. Nostalgia becomes a refuge amid danger and a cocoon for anticipated decline.”

Another factor contributing to this stuck imagery is social media, which exposes users to a vast array of different time periods at once, fostering nostalgia and a continuous remixing of existing ideas.

However, new visions of the future have emerged this century. For example, the climate aspiration movement gained traction on Tumblr and blogs in the 2000s. Yet, as smartphones became our primary mode of communication, the collective imagination surrounding our vision of the future waned.

I reflect on the future of living, drawing from my experience that a cohesive vision can motivate individuals to drive change. Such visions serve as engines of inspiration and imagination. They enable us to envision the society we aspire to create and commit to working towards that future. Movements like Civil Rights have long recognized this. A unified future vision also manifests effectively in architecture, advertising, and television, with Star Trek inspiring engineers for decades.

As we transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, we find ourselves in a transformative era. This period is daunting yet invigorating. Numerous hotspots of innovation are emerging, such as rooftop solar energy in Pakistan, where households and small businesses actively adopt renewable energy solutions, or the global initiatives like Transition Town, rethinking local economies and cultures.

Nevertheless, we lack a unified vision that integrates these innovations, embedding them within a social context and building pathways from the present to the future.

In my new book, I explore four visions for the future currently taking shape: DeGrowth, which reevaluates our economic roles; SolarPunk, which revitalizes cultural innovation; the Metaverse, which immerses us in a vibrant digital universe; and movements that encourage us to rethink our relationship with nature.

Yet, the future won’t stop evolving. We must cultivate and nurture more emerging visions, allowing them to take shape as we redefine our narrative of what the future could be.

Sarah Hughesley is the author of Designing Hope: A Vision Shaping Our Future

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Exploring Love’s Work: Insights from Psychoanalysis on Love and Heartbreak

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Psychoanalysts Can Aid Couples in Clarifying Relationship Concerns

Carl Navarro Percesus/Getty Images

Labour of Love
Stephen Grosz (UK: Chatto & Windus, Available Now; US: Random House, February 10, 2026)

Psychoanalysts, with their deep understanding of human emotions, might seem to enjoy relationships devoid of the tumult that often impacts our romantic endeavors.

However, in his compelling memoir, Labour of Love, Grosz delves into over 40 years of discussions about love with his patients, observing the intricate web involving four of his colleagues. At first, Susan and Paul appear to be a blissfully married couple, just like Kora and Martin, until it’s revealed that Paul and Kora have maintained a secret affair for two years.

The ensuing critique strikes at the very essence of their profession. “I’ve never fully grasped what it means to be a psychoanalyst,” Susan confides to Kora. “I possess empathy, I care for others, I establish boundaries, I perceive reality. Avoid taking your friend’s husband.” For Susan, psychoanalysis seems to focus on accountability and self-regulation. Kora, on the other hand, believes her journey is about achieving complete self-awareness. To her, psychoanalysis serves the purpose of intentional self-discovery.

Grosz reflects on these paradoxes, arriving at ambiguous conclusions. He suggests that while psychoanalysis may target both objectives, neither should be a primary aim. “It benefits the patient and enhances her well-being. However, these goals may obscure the hidden desire to restrict the patient’s freedom,” he states. Psychoanalysts enable their patients to gain insights into their minds, but how they utilize that understanding remains their own decision.

Skeptics might contend that psychoanalysis lacks scientific validity. After all, how can one measure the effectiveness of interventions on mental processes? Initially pioneered by Sigmund Freud, psychoanalysis employs informal dialogues to uncover unconscious dynamics, often involving extended discussions that may last for years, including in-depth explorations of childhood. This contrasts sharply with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which utilizes specific exercises aimed at altering immediate thoughts and behaviors, such as more aggressive strategies to “reconstruct” experiences.

“
Grosz has drawn comparisons to Anton Chekhov and Oliver Sacks.
“

Nowadays, CBT is often the preferred initial treatment for various mental health issues, yet clinical trials indicate that psychoanalysis effectively enhances well-being. Labour of Love offers a captivating exploration of this process through the stories of Gross’s patients and acquaintances.

Take Sophie, for example. When Gross first meets her, she’s engaged, but despite her hopes for a future marriage, she hesitates to send out any invitations. She is plagued by haunting dreams about her parents’ demise. Together, they eventually trace this fear back to her parents and their loss, which occurred before Sophie was born. She dreads any changes that might separate her from them.

Often, individuals’ issues stem from a fear of losing their identity. “A crucial distinction exists between surrendering to something (or someone) and submitting to it,” Gross asserts. Submissions equate to transactions and involve relinquishing control, whereas mutual surrender fosters vitality, empowerment, and acceptance. In that space, love can flourish.

The journey to comprehend Labour of Love is not straightforward. As the title implies, understanding both ourselves and our beloved requires consistent effort.

Grosz is a compelling writer whose thoughtful narratives frequently illuminate the complexities of human experiences. A review of his earlier work, Researched Life, likened him to literary figures such as Anton Chekhov and Oliver Sacks. His storytelling shines particularly when illustrating the intertwined lives of fellow psychoanalysts. For instance, during Cola’s death, Paul connects deeply with Cola’s family while sitting shiva. In this poignant moment, he finds solace in Susan’s presence.

This scene encapsulates the contradictions inherent in love, as Grosz elaborates: “Susan and Paul loved, resented, married, and divorced. Yet, even during this challenging period, they remained a couple. Their love continued to evolve.”

David Robson is the author of The Law of Connection: 13 Social Strategies That Transform Your Life

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The Pioneering Map of Mammalian Brain Activity Might Have Revealed Intuition

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Map of mouse brain showing 75,000 neurons

Dan Berman, International Brain Research Institute

The initial comprehensive activity map of the mammalian brain has unveiled groundbreaking revelations regarding decision-making processes.

For many years, neuroscientists aspired to capture neuronal activity throughout the brain at an individual level. However, challenges persist, including the limitations on the number of neurons an electrode can record, the number of electrodes deployable in a single brain, and the number of animals that a solitary lab can study.

To address these hurdles, a collaboration among 12 laboratories is underway, with each conducting identical experiments and recording duplicates to ensure consistency in collected data. This joint effort, tracking the activity of over 650,000 neurons, has resulted in the first comprehensive brain activity map related to complex behaviors.

“This research exemplifies a novel approach to addressing intricate inquiries in contemporary neuroscience,” stated Benedetto de Martino of University College London, who was not a part of this study. “Similar to CERN, which unites physicists to tackle profound issues in particle physics, this project will bring together global laboratories to confront challenges too expansive for individual teams.”

In each facility, mice were trained to maneuver a small LEGO steering wheel to direct a striped target towards the center of the display. The target was easily distinguishable when the stripes contrasted sharply. As contrast dwindled, the target nearly vanished, compelling the mice to rely on prior knowledge to respond accurately for a reward.

Bias was factored into the experiment, impacting the mice’s expectations about the target’s location. For instance, it could appear on either side of the screen. When the bias was inverted, the mice adjusted their expectations accordingly.

The resulting activity map indicates that decision-related processes are dispersed throughout the brain, rather than localized in one specific area. “Many assertions claimed, ‘this region is responsible for this function.’ However, our findings reveal that decision-making involves numerous regions collaborating through a consensus,” remarked team member Alexandre Pouget from the University of Geneva, Switzerland.

Furthermore, the findings support earlier research indicating that decision-related signals form long before an action is executed. Pouget noted that even prior to the commencement of individual experiments, signals linked to forthcoming decisions are evident. These signals accumulate when the target is presented, prompting the mice to move the wheels until a threshold is reached.

The second study reveals that beliefs regarding the target’s position are encoded very early in the brain’s activity. Researchers discovered that whether the signal emerged from the eye or journeyed to the thalamus, the brain’s relay center, advanced expectations regarding the target’s left or right positioning were already established.

This suggests that from the moment sensory information is processed by our brains, it is inherently influenced by knowledge, altering the conscious decision-making process unconsciously, according to Pouget. “While speculative, this may align with what we interpret as intuition,” he added.

Interestingly, the encoding not only captures recent sensory experiences but also seems to document the recent history of choices made. Lawrence Hunt from Oxford University pointed out, “This indicates that our actions and subjective experiences shape our perceptions, rather than the true objective reality.”

Does this imply our decisions are predestined? “The brain and its environment operate as a deterministic system. People often resist this idea, but it is accurate,” Pouget stated. “This means one can predict, to an extent, what actions will be taken before a decision is made. Nevertheless, when new information arises, expectations must be recalibrated, remaining unaware of how the surrounding world will evolve,” he explained.

Looking ahead, researchers are optimistic that the findings and collaborative methodologies will enhance the understanding of conditions like autism. A mouse model of autism suggests these animals struggle to update previous expectations with new information, according to Pouget, which resonates with our behaviors and perceptions.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Queen Ant Produces New Male Species for Daughter’s Mating

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Male ants of distinct species laid by the same mother: Messor ibericus (left) and Messor structor (right)

Jonathan Romiguier

In the clutches of the Iberian Harvester Ant queens, another male species, the Builder Harvester Ant, emerges. These males are responsible for siring all the workers in the colony.

“This assertion appears utterly unbelievable, akin to the impossible,” remarks Jonathan Romiguier from the University of Montpellier, France. Nonetheless, he has confirmed its validity.

Romiguier’s curiosity was piqued by the Iberian harvester ants (Messor ibericus) after he discovered that all the workers were hybrids. About half of their DNA aligned with that of the builder harvester ant (Messor structor).

The most plausible explanation is that the queen of M. ibericus mated with a male of M. structor. This occurrence is seen in other ant species. The reasons remain unclear, but two main theories have emerged. One is that hybrids of closely related species could benefit from what’s known as hybrid vigor, where various genes can compensate for each other’s deficiencies.

Another theory suggests this may address a peculiar challenge faced by M. ibericus and several other harvester ant species: whenever M. ibericus queens mate with males of their own species, all offspring become queens. This might stem from a genetic tendency to secure their lineage, but it becomes detrimental for colonies that need worker ants for survival. Breeding with another species may provide a solution.

However, M. ibericus colonies are widespread across various Mediterranean locales, unlike M. structor colonies, which are exclusive to Sicily. Nonetheless, Romiguier and his team encountered peculiar, hairless males of M. structor within an M. ibericus nest. So, where did they originate?

The genetic examination of these unusual males yielded perplexing insights. A tiny segment of the mitochondrial DNA—passed solely from the mother—indicated that these males derive from the M. ibericus queen.

This hinted that the eggs produced by the queen of M. ibericus could encompass males of a different species. To verify this theory, Romiguier brought several M. ibericus colonies into his lab. “Under laboratory conditions, it’s nearly impossible to find a male,” he comments. “We maintained about 50 colonies and observed one male for two years without success. Then, fortune smiled upon us.”

From three M. structor males born in the lab, the evidence was undeniable: the queen of M. ibericus produced males from both species. The only explanation for this phenomenon is that the queen ant cloned M. structor males using stored sperm in specialized organs called spermathecae. The resulting eggs were almost entirely devoid of M. ibericus DNA, except for its mitochondrial component.

This also clarifies the origin of M. structor sperm: by producing two types of males, the queen guarantees that her daughters who evolve into queens can mate with both male types. The females use M. ibericus sperm to generate new queens, while M. structor sperm is utilized for hybrid workers and new male ants.

There are notable instances from other species—including ants, mollusks, and stick insects—where female eggs are manipulated by male sperm from different species, leading to the elimination of egg DNA and the production of unrelated individuals. However, this scenario mainly benefits males. This is the sole known instance where both male and female offspring from distinct species rely on each other for reproduction.

“The queen of M. ibericus is entirely dependent on her cloned males. Without them, she cannot produce workers,” states Romiguier. Moreover, the clones of M. structor need the males of M. ibericus for rearing workers and sustaining their colonies—there is no sign that they mate exclusively within their species.

While these findings may seem far-fetched, they have garnered the support of other specialists. “The researchers conducted thorough investigations into these ants,” comments Nathan Law from the University of Sydney. “Their results robustly affirm their conclusions.”

He speculates that cloned males could accumulate harmful genetic mutations that may not be purged over time due to the lack of interbreeding with other strains. “Eventually, this system may start to decline, especially as environmental conditions shift.”

Romiguier agrees that this exceptional situation might eventually lead to collapse. Yet, at present, it appears that M. ibericus and M. structor have navigated their relationship with ingenious adaptability, propelling their expansion throughout the Mediterranean, while M. structor colonies have not established themselves elsewhere.

Insects and Ecosystem Expedition Safari: Sri Lanka

A voyage into the depths of Sri Lanka’s vast biodiversity through a unique entomology and ecosystem-centered expedition.

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It Could Have Up to 90% Less Carbon Storage Capacity Than You Realize

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Icelandic geothermal power facilities engaged in the underground injection of carbon dioxide for extended storage

sigrg/carbfix

Recent studies indicate that the planet may exhaust its capacity for storing captured carbon dioxide within the next 200 years, revealing that our ability to retain CO.₂ underground is significantly less than previously believed.

Government and industry advocates promote the underground storage of carbon dioxide as a viable solution to achieving net-zero emissions while still utilizing fossil fuels.

Previously estimated industry figures suggested a global geological storage capacity of about 14,000 Gigatonnes of CO.₂. However, as noted by Jori Rogelj from Imperial College London, UK, this capacity was thought to be effectively limitless.

Through comprehensive analysis, Rogelj and his team discovered that the actual available storage space might be considerably lower. By assessing stable geological formations while excluding areas with significant risk factors, such as proximity to major urban centers, sensitive ecosystems, or regions prone to earthquakes, they concluded that only 1460 Gigatonnes of geological storage capacity is viable worldwide.

“From a situation where storage options appeared virtually boundless, we’ve transformed our perspective,” Rogelj explains. “The storage potential we can depend on requires careful management and represents a crucial asset,” he continues, emphasizing that the potential is now ten times more valuable than previously recognized.

Most climate projections indicate that adequate underground carbon storage is essential for the world to attain net-zero emissions. The extent of this storage relies fundamentally on reducing fossil fuel consumption. Researchers caution that if we continue to depend on geological storage to isolate significant emissions post-net zero, we could deplete carbon storage entirely by the year 2200.

Rogelj asserts that his findings suggest underground carbon storage should only be utilized as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted. He recommends relying on zero-emissions solutions whenever feasible, rather than capturing and storing emissions from fossil fuel power stations.

This strategy would preserve underground storage capacity for CO₂ that could be utilized with technologies such as direct air capture (DAC), which extracts excess CO₂ directly from the atmosphere. DACs, along with other “negative emissions” technologies, can potentially help the world achieve net negative emissions beyond reaching net zero, opening up pathways to effectively reverse climate change.

According to Rogelj and his colleagues, the 1460 Gigatonnes of accessible underground CO₂ storage capacity could allow the world to counteract warming by as much as 0.7°C.

Nonetheless, Stuart Haszeldine from the University of Edinburgh warns that the actual usable geological storage capacity might be less than the industry’s 14,000 Gigatonnes estimate and suggests that these revised lower figures could still be overly optimistic.

He argues that the team’s approach to evaluating risk factors is “quite conservative,” pointing out that certain seismic regions, such as the North Sea, have been excluded from consideration but remain suitable for carbon isolation. “We understand enough about carbon storage and oil reserves. An oil field filled with oil, gas, or carbon dioxide can withstand quakes of magnitude 6 without any issues,” Haszeldine states.

He emphasizes that most analysts foresee carbon sequestration as an integral part of the transition away from fossil fuels. Therefore, he predicts that the volume of carbon injected underground yearly should diminish once net-zero emissions are achieved.

“[Carbon capture and storage] encompasses a wide range of climate pessimism and challenges, which have often been overlooked, explaining why we don’t really require a tremendous amount of joint CO₂ storage capacity,” Haszeldine concludes.

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Climate change/
Carbon capture

Source: www.newscientist.com

Using a Smartphone While on the Toilet May Raise Bleeding Risks

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

It may be wise to keep your phone out of the bathroom

Ekaterina Demidova/Getty Images

Do you find yourself using your smartphone while on the toilet? If that’s the case, you might be spending more time there than anticipated, which could increase your risk of bleeding by nearly 50%.

“Our gastroenterologists consistently advise patients, ‘Limit your time in the bathroom,'” says Trisha Pasricha from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, Massachusetts. “However, upon exploring the literature, I discovered substantial data backing this advice.”

Pasricha and her team are currently conducting their own study, asking 125 individuals scheduled for colonoscopy to complete a questionnaire regarding their bathroom habits, overall health, and physical activity. They then analyze the colonoscopy images to check for signs of bleeding, also referred to as a mass in the lower region.

“These conditions can be quite challenging for individuals to identify on their own,” Pasricha explains. “Sometimes they are internal and may not be felt, and what may be perceived externally doesn’t always correlate with actual bleeding.”

Among participants over 45, two-thirds reported using their smartphones in the bathroom. “If we surveyed college students, I suspect almost no one would skip bringing their phones to the restroom,” Pasricha remarked.

The study revealed that 37% of individuals who used smartphones in the bathroom averaged five or more minutes spent in there, whereas only 7% of non-users spent the same duration. Thus, phone users were about five times more likely to linger for five minutes or longer.

However, most participants seemed unaware of this, with only 5% acknowledging that smartphone usage extended their time spent in the bathroom. The data did not show any significant correlation between the participants’ gender and the time spent on the toilet.

After adjusting for age and physical activity levels, the research team concluded that smartphone use in the bathroom correlated with a 46% increase in bleeding risk. “It’s important to clarify that our study doesn’t establish a cause-and-effect relationship,” Pasricha noted. Moving forward, future research will involve interventions, asking some participants to refrain from using their phones while in the restroom.

The research also found no connection between tension and bleeding risk. This might seem surprising given common beliefs; however, the existing evidence is quite limited. In fact, some studies have indicated that the risk of bleeding correlates more with diarrhea rather than constipation.

Pasricha’s research suggests that the main risk factor is the prolonged time spent seated on the toilet. The consensus is that this position offers less pelvic support compared to sitting on a flat surface. “This leads to a passive rise in pressure affecting these muscles due to the lack of pelvic floor support,” she explained.

Lucinda Harris at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona agrees, noting that long durations in the bathroom can mimic the pressure experienced during pregnancy in the pelvic region.

If these findings hold true, the widespread use of smartphones might be contributing to increasing rates of bowel issues globally. Diagnosing such conditions can be tricky, so it remains unclear if the incidence rates are truly changing, Pasricha pointed out. Additionally, dietary changes could also be influencing these rates.

Pasricha advises keeping your smartphone outside the bathroom, although reading materials that aren’t designed to be addictive might be acceptable. “Consider reading things that promote moderation, and keep track of your time,” she suggested. Financial Times

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Why Solar Power is the Most Sustainable Energy Source for the Future

Posted on September 4, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Only 0.3% of the Earth’s land area needs solar panels to fulfill all energy requirements

VCG via Getty Images

Solar energy has been gaining traction for years, and it’s easy to see why. It represents one of the most economical ways to produce energy almost anywhere and stands as a vital measure against climate change.

However, there are skeptics. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright asserts that solar energy cannot meet global energy demands. Many experts highlight that this claim is fundamentally misguided. Over time, sunlight—along with wind energy—offers the only reliable power source capable of satisfying escalating energy demands without harming the planet.

On September 2nd, Wright posted on social media platform x, stating, “Even if we covered the entire planet with solar panels, it would only generate 20% of the world’s energy. One of the greatest mistakes politicians make is equating electricity with energy!”

First and foremost, electricity is quantified based on the energy it delivers, making it practical to consider electricity as equivalent to energy.

Climate scientist Gavin Schmidt from NASA’s Goddard Space Research Institute remarked on Bluesky that the total energy content utilized by all fuels globally in 2024 was approximately 186,000 terawatt hours. He emphasized that the Earth receives 6,000 times that amount in energy each year.

Moreover, Schmidt noted that since 60% of fossil fuel energy is typically wasted in the conversion process to usable electricity, the Earth receives 18,000 times more energy than is needed to satisfy current energy consumption levels.

While existing solar panels only capture around 20% of available solar energy and can’t be installed everywhere, a 2021 report by Carbon Tracker estimated that merely 0.3% of the world’s land area (limited to land) is required to address current energy needs through solar energy alone. This footprint is smaller than that of existing fossil fuel infrastructure. In essence, the report indicates that solar and wind can provide over 100 times the current global energy demand.

We are fortunate, as the current reliance on fossil fuels is already contributing to hazardous climate change with fossil fuels alone supplying 100 times more energy than the planet can sustainably handle. But what about nuclear fusion? If it becomes a feasible option, would it surpass solar energy?

The answer is negative. Eric Chaisson from Harvard University anticipates minimal growth in global energy demand; however, the waste heat generated could potentially elevate global temperatures by 3°C within three centuries. This refers to waste heat from everyday activities like boiling a kettle or using a computer, which consumes the energy produced.

Solar energy—along with wind, tides, and waves—functions fundamentally as a source harnessed from the sun, rendering waste heat irrelevant. The energy we utilize, whether it ends up as waste heat or not, determines its practical value. In contrast, other energy sources, like nuclear fission, do not currently address waste heat management.

“[Carl] Sagan preached to me, and I now relay that message to students. Any planet must ultimately utilize the energy it possesses,” Chaisson remarked in an interview with New Scientist in 2012.

Though three centuries is a long time, the implications of waste heat are already significant. Studies indicate that maximum temperatures in Europe’s summers have increased by 0.4°C. By 2100, average annual temperatures in certain industrialized regions may rise by nearly 1°C due to waste heat—effects not currently considered in climate models.

Ultimately, the only technology that can sustainably harness solar and wind energy to meet global energy demands for centuries, without triggering catastrophic warming, is these renewable sources. The projections couldn’t be more misguided.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Plant-Based Dog Foods Offer Nearly All Essential Nutrients for Your Pet

Posted on September 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Plant-based and meat kibbles might both be deficient in crucial nutrients

Snizhana Halytska/Alamy

To ensure a balanced diet, vegetarian and vegan dog foods need specific adjustments.

Research indicates that meat-free dry kibble fulfills dogs’ protein and fat needs but is typically short on iodine and vitamin B. With the right supplements or improved commercial options, plant-based dog foods can maintain pets’ health while minimizing the ecological footprint of the pet food industry Rebecca Broseyk from the University of Nottingham, UK.

“Provided they get all necessary nutrients from their food, dogs will thrive,” she explains.

Many vegans and vegetarians who have dogs often grapple with the ethics of feeding meat to carnivorous pets David Gardner at the University of Nottingham. In light of this concern, manufacturers are beginning to offer plant-based options.

Organizations such as the European Federation of Pet Food Industry and the American Association for Feed Management are advocating for standardized assessments of commercial pet foods and additives to guarantee nutritional adequacy. Nonetheless, most pet foods globally lack thorough nutritional evaluations by independent experts, according to Gardner.

Brociek, Gardner, and their team examined 25 types of commercially available dry foods for healthy adult dogs, of which 19 were formulated with either meat or plants. Among these, two were labeled vegetarian and four were vegan.

Researchers assert that although marketed as nutritionally complete, none of the official dog dietary guidelines were entirely met. However, all foods did manage to provide appropriate levels of protein, fatty acids, and essential amino acids.

The majority, including five out of six plant-based options, fell short on iodine, although seaweed served as a beneficial remedy for these deficiencies.

The vitamins were generally sufficient, except for vitamin B, which was especially deficient in plant-based options. Dogs lacking vitamin B can experience skin, nerve, and digestive issues, suggesting that manufacturers should bolster their formulations, the researchers state.

The results indicate a need for oversight in dog food production across all types, not just those that are plant-based. Andrew Knight from Murdoch University, Australia, stresses, “Consumers expect that if a product claims to be nutritionally healthy, it should be accurate, but that’s often not the case.”

“A vegetarian diet can be beneficial if nutrients lacking in plant sources are adequately replaced, similar to the considerations for humans choosing vegetarian diets,” says Lucia Casini from the University of Pisa, Italy, who adds that pet owners should refrain from making their own plant-based meals for their pets.

Dogs have evolved to consume a variety of foods, so a well-rounded plant-based diet can fulfill their nutritional needs, which can also lower the environmental impact associated with meat production, including greenhouse gas emissions, according to Gardner.

“They are genuine omnivores,” he remarks. “As many Labrador owners (myself included) will attest, they will eat just about anything.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

It Bans Social Media While Embracing AI, Leaving Teens Disappointed

Posted on September 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

While someone in their 70s didn’t serve in World War II, this statement holds truth, as even the oldest Scepter Agerians were born post-war. Yet, a cultural link persists between this demographic and the era of Vera Lynn and the Blitz.

When discussing parents and technology, similar misconceptions arise. The prevailing belief is that social media and the internet are a realm beyond the understanding of parents, prompting calls for national intervention to shield children from tech giants. This month, Australia plans to outline its forthcoming restrictions. However, the parents of today’s teens are increasingly digitally savvy, having grown up in the age of MySpace and Habbo Hotel. Why have we come to think that these individuals can’t comprehend how their kids engage with TikTok and Fortnite?

There are already straightforward methods for managing children’s online access, such as adjusting router configurations or mandating parental approval for app installations. Yet politicians seem to believe these tasks require advanced technical skills, resulting in overly broad restrictions. If you could customize your Facebook profile in college, fine-tuning some settings shouldn’t be beyond reach. Instead of asking everyone to verify their age and identity online, why not trust the judgment of parents?

“
If you customized your Facebook page in university, you should be able to tweak a few settings
“

Failing to adapt to generational shifts can lead to broader issues. Like veterans who narrowly focus on historical battles from the past, there’s a risk of misdirecting attention. While lawmakers clamp down on social media, they’re simultaneously rushing to embrace AI technologies that rely on sophisticated language models, which significantly affect today’s youth, leaving educators pondering how to create ChatGPT-proof assignments.

Rather than issuing outright bans, we should facilitate open discussions about emerging technologies, encompassing social media, AI, and their societal implications while engaging families in the conversation.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Carbon storage might be only a tenth as effective in fighting climate change as previously believed.

Posted on September 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent research indicates that the ability to safely store carbon is significantly lower than earlier estimates, being only a tenth of what was initially predicted. This finding constraints its viability as a solution to the climate crisis.

New estimates, published in Nature, reveal that carbon capture could lower global warming by just 0.7°C, a stark contrast to the previously estimated 6°C.

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) involves capturing carbon dioxide (CO)₂ from the environment or industrial processes, transporting it, and storing it deep underground to prevent greenhouse gas emissions.

The study cautions that many areas once considered suitable for CCS may pose significant risks. Concerns such as leaks, seismic activity, and water contamination could render numerous potential sites unsafe.

The researchers conducted an extensive analysis of local mapping areas for viable carbon storage locations. Their findings suggest that, in reality, CCS can store only about 146 billion tonnes of CO.₂, approximately 10 times less than previously thought.

“Carbon storage is often framed as a solution to the climate crisis,” stated the lead author, Matthew Guido, a senior researcher at IIASA and the University of Maryland, USA. “Our findings indicate that its effectiveness is limited.”

“With current trends hinting at a potential rise of up to 3°C this century, even maximizing the available geological storage won’t suffice to limit warming to 2°C.”

Co-author Jori Rogelgi, a senior researcher and director at the Grantham Institute, emphasized that carbon storage should not be perceived as an endless solution for climate preservation.

“Instead, geological storage sites should be viewed as a precious resource that must be managed responsibly to ensure a safe climate future for humanity,” he remarked. “It should be employed to halt and counteract global warming rather than wastefully offset ongoing, preventable CO.₂ emissions.”

Trees naturally absorb carbon, while carbon storage technology responsibly hides carbon deep underground – Credit: A. Martin UW Photos

The study also suggests that nations like the US, Russia, China, Brazil, and Australia, as major fossil fuel producers, might benefit from utilizing depleted oil and gas fields for carbon storage.

“This issue transcends mere technology,” remarked co-author Siddharth Joshi, a research scholar at IIASA. “It encompasses concepts of transgenerational and national justice.”

“Countries with the highest historical emissions should lead in utilizing this resource wisely as they hold the most practical carbon storage options.”

Experts not involved in this research are currently debating the accuracy of the paper’s figures and their implications for the future of carbon storage as astrategy to mitigate the climate crisis.

However, Professor Carrie Leah, a climate scientist at Cardiff University who was not part of the study, stated that the finite nature of carbon storage should redirect focus towards reducing fossil fuel usage.

“There is no solitary solution to climate mitigation,” Leah noted. “It’s akin to a pie comprised of multiple slices.

“This study illustrates that the CCS portion of the pie is significantly smaller than previously believed, highlighting the urgent need to address the larger slices of fossil fuel reduction.”

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Archaeologists Discover That Rivers and Tides Fueled the Rise of Ancient Schmer

Posted on September 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The latest study presents paleoenvironmental models indicating how tidal dynamics played a crucial role in the early evolution of Sumerian agriculture and sociopolitical intricacies.

Cylinder seal impression from the Uruk era circa 3100 BC. Image credit: Louvre Museum.

The earliest known network of city-states, intricately linked by common cultural practices and economic ties, emerged in southern Mesopotamia approximately 5,000 years ago.

The prosperity of this urban center, collectively referred to as Schmer, was fundamentally based on agriculture, supported by extensive irrigation systems.

The urbanization of Schmah, following the long-standing rural Ubaid culture, was part of a process that began at least prior to the millennium during the Uruk period (6,000-5,200 years ago).

The concurrent rise in population, innovation, and professional specialization during this time led to the formation of a state system with a complex economy, interlinking urban centers with their rural surroundings.

This “Sumerian takeoff” could not have happened in the challenging, arid tropical region between the Arabian and Iranian deserts without access to the perennial freshwater provided by the Euphrates and Tigris rivers.

However, questions remain about how, and when, labor-intensive large-scale irrigation became prevalent in the area, and how the abundance of water transformed into social prosperity.

“Our findings indicate that Sumer was literally built upon the rhythm of water, culturally,” states Dr. Lviv Giosan, a researcher at Woods Hole Marine Facilities.

“The cyclical tidal patterns and the morphodynamics of deltas—how landscapes evolve over time due to dynamic processes—were intricately woven into Sumerian mythology, innovation, and daily life.”

This research reveals that between 7,000 to 5,000 years ago, the Persian Gulf was expanding inland, with tides pushing freshwater into the lower Tigris and Euphrates twice daily.

Scholars propose that early communities harnessed this reliable hydrology through short canals to irrigate crops and cultivate dates, allowing for high-yield farming without the need for vast infrastructure.

As the river created a delta at the bay’s head, tidal access to the interior was obstructed.

The subsequent loss of tidal influence may have sparked ecological and economic crises, necessitating a significant social response.

The extensive efforts for irrigation and flood management that followed ultimately characterized Schmer’s golden age.

Dr. Reed Goodman, a researcher at Clemson University, remarked:

“The Mesopotamian delta was distinct. Its constantly shifting land spurred some of the earliest intensive agriculture in history and led to ambitious social experiments, driven by that restless land.”

In addition to environmental factors, this study also investigates the cultural impact of this aquatic foundation, linking Mesopotamia to the Sumerian pantheon’s flood myth.

“The key conclusions of this research highlight what we discovered in Ragash,” notes Dr. Holly Pittman, director of the Ragash Archaeology Project at the Penn Museum.

“Rapid environmental changes fueled inequality, political integration, and the ideology of the world’s first urban societies.”

Leveraging ancient environmental and landscape data, new samples from historic Ragash archaeological sites, and detailed satellite imagery, the authors reconstructed what Sumerian coasts may have looked like long ago and envisioned how its inhabitants adapted to their ever-changing environment.

“Our work underscores both the opportunities and risks associated with social transformation in response to significant environmental crises,” Dr. Giosan added.

“It is always fascinating to uncover genuine history hidden within mythology, and interdisciplinary research like ours plays a crucial role in revealing it.”

study Published online in the journal PLOS 1.

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L. Giosan & R. Goodman. 2025. The morpho-mechanical foundations of Sumerian civilization. PLOS 1 20(8): E0329084; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0329084

Source: www.sci.news

Hepatitis B Vaccination Linked to Reduced Diabetes Risk

Posted on September 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Daily vaccinations for hepatitis B are administered worldwide

Mehmet Salih Guler / Getty Images

The hepatitis B vaccine not only prevents infection but also appears to lower the chances of developing diabetes.

In most countries, infants receive this vaccine routinely, typically as part of a three-dose series. In the US, it was incorporated into vaccination schedules in 1991. By 2018, around 30% of adults were fully vaccinated.

Researchers previously noted that vaccination may decrease diabetes risk. This is related to hepatitis B, which infects the liver and is transmitted through blood, semen, and vaginal fluids – impairing the liver’s ability to manage glucose. Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to diabetes.

However, earlier studies didn’t investigate whether vaccination could lower diabetes risk in individuals who were not infected with hepatitis B.

To address this gap, Nhu-Quynh Phan from Taipei Medical University in Taiwan and her team examined health data from over 580,000 people across the US, Europe, Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. These records averaged almost four years for each individual, covering the period from 2005 to 2023.

Participants aged 18 to 90 had no types of diabetes and were not infected with hepatitis B. About half were vaccinated, determined by measuring virus-specific antibodies in their blood.

The study revealed that diabetes prevalence among vaccinated individuals was 15% lower than in the unvaccinated group, with most cases being type 2 diabetes, the most prevalent form. The findings will be shared at the upcoming annual meeting of the Diabetes Association in Vienna, Austria.

This observational study also indicated a dose-response correlation. Participants with higher levels of hepatitis B-specific antibodies were less likely to develop diabetes compared to those with lower levels. Variations in antibody levels might correlate with the number of vaccinations received, timing of immunization, or individual immune responses.

No participants were purposefully infected with hepatitis B, suggesting that vaccination not only wards off the virus but may also lower diabetes risk, Fan notes. One explanation could be that vaccines help alleviate chronic inflammation damaging the liver and pancreas, which produce hormones like insulin regulate blood sugar levels.

Nonetheless, researchers cannot dismiss the theory that some protective benefits of vaccines might stem from their role in preventing infections, she adds. They are keen to investigate credible pathways and how mouse models can elucidate distinctions between diabetes types, Fan states.

Vaccinated individuals might also engage in healthier lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a nutritious diet and staying active. “Those likely to get vaccinated often exhibit greater awareness of health,” states Albert Osterhouse from the University of Veterinary Medicine in Hanover, Germany.

The research team considered factors including participants’ age, gender, and lifestyle choices like smoking, along with conditions such as obesity and hypertension. However, Osterhouse emphasizes the difficulty in ruling out the impact of these variables.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Revolutionary Optical Fibers Could Enhance Communication Capabilities

Posted on September 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In a departure from conventional solid glass cores, the innovative optical fibers now incorporate an air core encased in precisely crafted glass microstructures to guide light. This advancement boosts transmission speeds by 45%, enabling greater data transfer over longer distances before amplification is required.

Petrovich et al. We report microstructured optical waveguides with unprecedented transmission bandwidth and attenuation. Image credit: Gemini AI.

Optical fibers in telecommunications have typically relied on solid silica glass constructs, and despite extensive refinements, their signal loss remains a critical challenge.

This results in about half of the light traveling through the fiber being lost after approximately 20 km, necessitating the use of optical amplifiers for extended distance communication, such as intercontinental terrestrial and undersea connections.

Minimizing signal loss can be achieved within a limited spectrum of wavelengths. This has constrained the data capacity in optical communications over recent decades.

Francesco Poletti and his team from the University of Southampton developed a new type of fiber optic featuring a hollow air core surrounded by intricately designed thin silica rings to effectively guide light.

Laboratory tests revealed that these fibers exhibit an optical loss of 0.091 decibels per kilometer at the commonly utilized optical wavelengths in communications.

Consequently, optical signals with appropriate wavelengths can travel approximately 50% farther before needing amplification.

This configuration offers a broader transmission window (the range of wavelengths where light propagates with minimal signal loss and distortion) than previous fiber optic technologies.

While this novel optical fiber may demonstrate lower losses due to the use of larger air cores, further investigation is necessary to validate these findings.

“We anticipate that advancements in manufacturing, geometric consistency, and reduced levels of absorbent gases in the core will solidify these new fibers as essential wave guiding technologies,” Reservers remarked.

“This breakthrough could pave the way for the next major advancement in data communication.”

Their study will be published in the journal Nature Photonics.

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M. Petrovich et al. Broadband optical fiber with attenuation of less than 0.1 decibels per kilometer. Nature Photonics Published online on September 1, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41566-025-01747-5

Source: www.sci.news

Archaeologists Discover Indigo Dye Residues on 34,000-Year-Old Grinding Tool in Georgia

Posted on September 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Researchers from CA ‘Foscari University have discovered Indigotin, a blue secondary compound also known as indigo, on a non-nanoparticle ground stone tool unearthed from the Zuziana Cave at the foot of the Caucasus in Georgia. Indigotin forms through reactions with atmospheric oxygen and natural glycoside precursors from leaves of the Isatis Tinctoria. This indicates that the plant was deliberately processed as far back as 34,000 years ago, despite its non-educational applications.

Five pebbles from Zugiana Cave, Georgia. Image credit: Longo et al., doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0321262.

Modern humans first appeared in archaeological records approximately 300,000 years ago in Africa.

Much of the evidence regarding their cognitive and technical skills is derived from the limited existence of stone artifacts and the remains of animals, as these endure far longer in the archaeological record compared to plant materials.

As a result, Paleolithic narratives predominantly emphasize animal hunting and the production of stone tools.

The so-called “majority,” particularly plants that lack significant mentions, especially those increasingly shown to be utilized for food, cordage, weaving, and medicine, create incomplete accounts.

This underscores the need to identify and illustrate the roles of plants in an array of activities, many of which may still be undiscovered.

“It’s not solely about viewing plants as food resources; that’s common. We emphasize their involvement in complex processes. It possibly involves transforming perishable materials for use at various stages of Homo sapiens 34,000 years ago.”

“While the identification of elusive plant residues not typically highlighted in traditional research continually improves, our multi-analytical approach unveils fresh perspectives on the technical and cultural sophistication of Upper Paleolithic tools, designed to skillfully exploit the vast resources of plants and fully acknowledge their significance.”

In their investigation, researchers examined stone tools dating back 34,000 years, discovered in Zugiana Cave, Georgia.

They identified signs of mechanical processing of soft, wet materials consistent with plant matter such as leaves.

Employing an array of microscopic techniques (both optical and confocal), blue residues (occasionally fibrous) alongside starch grains were unexpectedly revealed.

These residues were particularly prevalent in the areas of the tools that displayed significant wear.

To ascertain the blue residues’ nature, scientists used advanced microscopy techniques, specifically Raman and FTIR spectroscopy.

These analyses confirmed the existence of indigotin chromophores in several samples.

“Once the molecules responsible for the blue coloration were identified, new questions arose. How and why were these residues associated with the tool’s working surface?” the author remarked.

They subsequently investigated the porosity of the stone, a crucial factor for trapping and retaining biological residues.

Both microscopic fragments of the archaeological tool and larger samples of experimental replicas underwent analysis using Micro-CT tomography.

This analysis confirmed the presence of pores capable of holding trace biological remnants.

Consequently, the team devised a series of replication experiments.

Initially, raw rock materials resembling those used by prehistoric inhabitants of Zuziana were sourced.

The pebbles were collected by Nino Jakeli from the Nikrisi River, located just beneath the cave.

Following this, controlled experiments were conducted, mechanically treating a range of plants, including fiber sources (such as bast fiber) and potentially indigotin-yielding species.

“We employed a rigorous approach to pollution control and biomolecular analysis to provide insights into contemporary human behaviors and the technical and ecological knowledge likely prioritized during the Upper Paleolithic era,” the researchers stated.

“Whether this plant remains serve medicinal purposes or have other uses presents a new perspective on the intriguing potential for diverse plant utilization.”

Survey results have been published online in the journal PLOS 1.

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L. Longo et al. 2025. Direct evidence of treatment of Isatis Tinctoria L., non-nutritional factories, 32-34,000 years ago. PLOS 1 20(5): E0321262; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0321262

Source: www.sci.news

New Research Uncovers the Secrets of Burgess Shale Trilobites

Posted on September 3, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Appendages of arthropods serve various functions, including feeding, locomotion, and reproduction. Fossils dating back to the Cambrian period (539-487 million years ago) provide remarkable details of extinct arthropod appendages, enhancing our understanding of their anatomy and ecological roles. However, due to the limited number of fossils and often incomplete preservation, studies on appendage functions typically depend on idealized reconstructions. This new research focuses on the paleontological species Olenoides serratus, a prolific trilobite from the Cambrian Burgess Shale, noteworthy for its numerous well-preserved specimens featuring soft tissue that allow for a detailed analysis of appendage functionality.

Olenoides serratus from Burgess Shale. Image credit: Losso et al., doi: 10.1186/s12915-025-02335-3.

Situated in British Columbia, Canada, the Burgess Shale is renowned for its exceptional fossil preservation, including soft tissues such as limbs and internal organs.

While trilobites are common in fossil records, their soft limbs are seldom preserved due to their hard exoskeleton, leading to a limited understanding of these structures.

The trilobite species Olenoides serratus offers a unique chance to investigate these appendages further.

Harvard paleontologist Sarah Ross and her team examined 156 limbs from 28 fossil specimens of Olenoides serratus to reconstruct the precise movements and functions of these ancient arthropod appendages, shedding light on one of the earliest successful aquatic animals.

“Understanding the behavior and movement of fossils poses challenges, as we cannot observe their activities like we do with living organisms,” stated Dr. Ross.

“Instead, we meticulously analyzed the morphology of numerous specimens while also utilizing modern analogues to infer how these ancient creatures lived.”

The researchers also assessed the range of motion of the legs of living horseshoe crab species Limulus polyphemus.

“Arthropods possess articulated legs composed of multiple segments that can flex upwards or downwards,” they noted.

“The range of motion is influenced by the specific directional capabilities of each joint.”

“This range, combined with the limbs’ shape and segment configuration, determines how the animal utilizes its appendages for walking, grasping, and burrowing.”

Horseshoe crabs, commonly found along the eastern coast of North America, are compared with trilobites due to their analogous behaviors.

“Despite their close relation to spiders and scorpions, horseshoe crabs are part of a different branch of the arthropod tree, whereas trilobite relationships remain ambiguous.”

The comparison arises from both animals’ adaptation of articulated limbs for navigating the seafloor.

However, the findings revealed that their similarities were minimal.

In contrast to horseshoe crabs, characterized by specialized limb joints for bending and expanding—facilitating feeding and protection—Olenoides serratus exhibited a simpler yet highly functional limb structure.

“We found that the limbs of Olenoides serratus had minimal extension, primarily far from the body,” Dr. Ross explained.

“Their limbs functioned differently than those of horseshoe crabs. Olenoides serratus could walk, dig, bring food to their mouths, and even elevate their bodies above the seafloor.”

To realize these findings, the scientists constructed advanced 3D digital models based on hundreds of fossil images captured from various angles.

Since trilobite limbs are often crushed and flattened, reconstructing them in three dimensions presents a significant challenge.

“We depend on exceptionally well-preserved specimens, comparing limb structures from multiple angles while leveraging related fossils to fill in any missing details,” said Professor Javier Ortega-Hernandez of Harvard University.

The team correlated the morphology of trace fossils to the movements of the limbs.

“The different movements of Olenoides serratus could create trace fossils with varying depths,” Dr. Ross elaborated.

“They were capable of raising their bodies on deposits, allowing them to traverse obstacles and navigate efficiently through swift currents.”

Remarkably, the researchers found that males possessed specialized appendages for mating, and each leg featured gills for respiration.

The findings were published in the journal BMC Biology on August 4th, 2025.

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Loss et al., 2025. Quantification of leg mobility in Burgess Shale Olenoides serratus reveals the functional differences between trilobite and Xiphosuran appendages. BMC Biol 23, 238; doi:10.1186/s12915-025-02335-3

Source: www.sci.news