Archaeologists from the Israeli Ancient Bureau (IAA) have discovered historical agricultural archaeological sites at the KH site, located in Kahru Chatta of central Israel.
Mosaic floors in the building of KH’s archaeological site. Israeli Kahufrata. Image credit: Israeli Ancient Bureau.
“The grandeur of the discovered structures, the exquisite quality of the mosaic floors, and the remarkable agricultural facilities indicate the significant wealth and prosperity of the local Samaritan community over time.”
“The Kh. KafrHatta site is noted as the birthplace of Menander, the Samaritan magician, a precursor to the Gnostics and a successor to Simon Magus, regarded as one of the first converts to Christianity.”
In one of the structures, archaeologists uncovered a stunning mosaic floor adorned with intricate geometric patterns and representations of plants.
“Alongside the central medallion, the acanthus leaves are interwoven with distinctive motifs of fruits and vegetables, including grapes, dates, watermelons, artichokes, and asparagus,” they noted.
“At the doorway of this room, a partially preserved Greek inscription wishes good fortune to the building’s owner!”
“The name of the owner was prevalent in the Samaritan community.”
In the northern area of the estate, researchers discovered olive presses, large storage buildings, and Mikube (public bathing facilities).
“The close proximity of the oil press to Mikube likely facilitated the production of high-quality olive oil,” they mentioned.
“The olive press was meticulously designed, comprising two wings.”
“The Northern Wing featured a major production area, while the Southern Wing included auxiliary facilities.”
“Within the production area, two screw presses and a large basin for crushed olives were found.”
“This type of olive press is more characteristic of the Jerusalem region and the Jewish Shephela, making it less common in Samaria,” explained Dr. Nagorsky.
“Over the years, the estate has experienced significant transformations.”
“The opulence and grandeur of the structures have been supplanted by oil production and agricultural infrastructure.”
“New walls damaged the mosaic floors, incorporating grand capitals and pillars into the updated structures.”
The team suggests these changes are connected to the Samaritan uprisings during Byzantine rule, which occurred in the 5th and 6th centuries, against Byzantine emperors who enforced restrictive laws on non-Christian communities.
“What makes this site particularly fascinating is that, unlike other Samaritan locations that were destroyed during these rebellions, the Kahru Kasim estate has continued to be used, preserving the Samaritan identity.
“It is a captivating site that illustrates the historical contrast between the era of prosperity and the decline of the Samaritan community,” remarked Dr. Nagorsky.
“Its longevity and remarkable findings enable us to reconstruct its history across centuries, enhancing our understanding of this ancient population.”
Illustration of rapamycin (red), a drug that inhibits proteins known as MTOR (blue)
Science Photo Library/Alamy
The anti-aging benefits of rapamycin may be related, at least in part, to its ability to prevent DNA damage in immune cells.
Initially created as an immunosuppressant for organ transplant patients, rapamycin blocks the function of the MTOR protein, which is crucial for cell growth and division. Studies suggest that low doses can extend the lifespan of various organisms, including the mouse, potentially by disrupting processes associated with aging, such as inflammation, intracellular breakdown, and decline in mitochondrial function.
Recent research by Lynn Cox and colleagues at Oxford University has demonstrated that rapamycin also appears to prevent DNA damage in certain types of immune cells. DNA damage is one of the key factors contributing to aging in our immune system, accelerating the aging process throughout the body.
The researchers conducted experiments with human T cells, a type of white blood cell responsible for fighting infections. When T cells were exposed to an antibiotic named zeocin alongside rapamycin, significant DNA damage occurred.
Results showed that rapamycin lowered DNA damage and tripled cell survival rates compared to T cells exposed to zeocin alone.
The researchers found no indication that the observed effects were due to other actions of rapamycin, such as preventing cell failure. “We consistently observe this effect regardless of whether rapamycin is administered prior to, during, or post-injury,” noted team member Ghada Arsare at Oxford University.
The rapid response suggests a direct impact. “The effect is very swift, indicating it influences the DNA damage response and accumulation. The lesions observed last about four hours, so it’s unlikely that there are downstream effects impacting other processes,” explained Cox.
According to Matt Kaeberlein from Washington University in Seattle, the findings support the notion that rapamycin can directly protect DNA, but “this is not the critical mechanism.” Researchers aim to explore rapamycin-induced alterations in RNA and proteins produced in immune cells.
In a separate part of the study, nine men aged 50 to 80 were assigned to receive either 1 milligram of rapamycin or a placebo daily. Blood tests conducted eight weeks later revealed that T cells from men taking rapamycin exhibited less DNA damage. Furthermore, neither group experienced a decrease in overall white blood cell counts, indicating that rapamycin does not negatively impact immune functionality. “Our findings confirm that low doses are safe, which is crucial,” stated Cox.
Mitigating DNA damage in the immune system may provide a pathway for reducing overall aging, according to Cox. Arsare highlighted the potential for rapamycin to be used preventively, such as for astronauts exposed to cosmic radiation.
“Rapamycin is particularly promising in addressing aging-related issues where DNA damage is a significant factor, such as skin aging,” noted Kaeberlein. Referring to a study, he added that local use of rapamycin reduces aging markers in human skin. However, he cautioned against generalizing results to other types of damage, such as radiation, given that Cox’s team used antibiotics to create DNA damage.
Zahida Sultanova from the University of East Anglia emphasized the necessity for trials involving women and individuals across various age groups, as the placebo-controlled experiments were limited to older men. Evidence from non-human animal studies indicates that rapamycin may have sex-specific and age-specific effects.
Nasal sprays available over-the-counter, historically noted for their safety and efficacy in treating seasonal allergies, could be perceived in a new light following clinical trial results released on Tuesday.
The antihistamine azelastine has been observed to have antiviral properties against various respiratory infections, including Influenza, RSV, and viruses responsible for COVID, according to a growing body of research.
Researchers from Saarland University Hospital in Germany conducted a study involving 450 adults, predominantly in their early 30s. One group of 227 participants used a nasal spray three times daily, while the other 223 received a placebo spray under the same regimen.
Throughout nearly two months, all participants underwent COVID rapid testing twice weekly. The results indicated that the incidence of symptomatic infections was 2.2% in the azelastine group, markedly lower than the 6.7% infection rate in the placebo group.
Furthermore, azelastine seemed to diminish the incidence of other symptomatic respiratory infections, as highlighted in a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine.
While researchers remain uncertain about the exact mechanism by which azelastine limits infections, they hypothesize that it may bind to the virus in the nasal mucosa.
Another possibility is that azelastine interacts with the ACE2 receptor, the primary entry point for COVID viruses into human cells, thereby preventing their attachment.
“Our findings imply that azelastine could serve as a scalable and commercially viable preventive measure against COVID, especially in high-risk scenarios such as crowded indoor events and travel,” the researchers noted.
However, the study had limitations, including that all participants were relatively young and healthy, according to the researchers.
Valz emphasized that azelastine should not replace vaccination and further research is essential before considering it as a standard precautionary measure for the public, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Dr. William Messer, associate professor at Oregon Health & Science University, found the results “rationally convincing” in terms of risk reduction, but pointed out the intensive regimen of daily sprays in the trial.
He questioned whether wearing a mask might be a simpler approach to preventing COVID infection.
“Masks can be inconvenient and bothersome, yet may be easier to adhere to than remembering to use three nasal sprays daily,” Messer remarked.
Nevertheless, he added, “I do not discourage anyone who wishes to try it.”
Other researchers are seeking more data to ascertain the effectiveness of nasal sprays in high-risk populations, such as the elderly and immunocompromised individuals who require additional preventive measures.
Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, a professor at UCSF Health specializing in Infectious Diseases, speculated that azelastine could serve as an additional COVID-blocking tool for individuals already using nasal sprays for seasonal allergies, although he believes the evidence is insufficient for broader recommendations.
“While the potential is promising, I believe now is not the appropriate time to recommend it as a COVID preventative,” he stated in an email. “For those over 65, I continue to advocate for vaccination as the primary defense against COVID.”
Nonetheless, Chin-Hong highlighted that the trial results underscore the importance of targeting the nasal mucosa in developing future vaccines against COVID and other respiratory viruses as a more effective means of infection prevention.
“Current COVID vaccines have not proven to be highly effective in preventing infection,” he remarked. “There is a need for more mucosal vaccines for respiratory viruses. While flu vaccines are widely used, ongoing efforts are being made to create mucosal vaccines for coronaviruses, necessitating continued advocacy for federal support and prioritization for these initiatives.”
Scrap vehicles are composed of various metal alloys, posing recycling challenges.
Mark Hill/Alamy
Innovative recycling methods for metals extracted from scrap cars can potentially eliminate millions of tons of waste annually while decreasing carbon emissions associated with the production of new aluminum.
Historically, a significant portion of scrap aluminum from cars has been repurposed into lower-grade cast alloys for engine blocks in traditional combustion engines. Yet, as the auto industry shifts towards electric vehicles, this low-grade metal no longer has utility.
Without effective strategies, there is a risk of generating millions of additional tons of carbon dioxide by accumulating “mountains” of unusable scrap and increasing the production of virgin aluminum for new vehicle manufacturing, warns Stephen Pogatcher from Leven University in Austria.
“As engine blocks become obsolete with electrification, we lack current paths for scrap utilization,” he cautions. “This constrains our recycling capabilities.”
Pogatscher and his team have developed a novel approach for recycling metals from scrap vehicles, which could convert approximately 7-9 million tons of waste annually into high-quality aluminum alloys suitable for various components of new cars.
The key lies in generating new products by harnessing a variety of alloy materials sourced from scrap vehicles, he elaborates.
Typically, when a car is discarded, its materials—plastic, fabric, steel, and aluminum—are processed separately. Moreover, as many as 40 different aluminum alloys are extracted from each vehicle across various recycling streams. Any non-separable components tend to blend into the engine block, associated with combustion engines.
The innovative recycling method pioneered by Pogatscher’s team involves melting all the scrap aluminum from the car simultaneously.
This results in a block of highly brittle material that resembles a metal ceramic, according to Pogatscher. Interestingly, the team found that reheating this block at approximately 500°C for 24 hours can restructure the metal, enhancing its strength and toughness. “Ultimately, it offers improved mechanical properties compared to conventional alloys,” he notes.
The team asserts that this new material rivals traditional automotive alloys, featuring “impressive” strength and versatility for fabricating various car components, including chassis and frames. Pogatscher emphasizes that it can be produced using standard industrial practices and has the potential for rapid scalability. While he recognizes the challenges in mainstream adoption of new alloys within the conservative manufacturing sector, discussions with industry partners regarding process development are already underway.
Jeffrey Scamans at Brunel University in London finds the concept “very intriguing,” but he stresses that further validation is essential, particularly to ensure the new alloy meets the stringent testing requirements for automotive applications.
He also cautions that achieving consistent high-quality alloys may be difficult since vehicles are discarded in a varied manner, not according to specific types. “It’s challenging to envision how to collect individual alloy compositions practically,” he remarks. “Scaling from laboratory experiments to full-scale metal production is notoriously complex.”
Mark Schlesinger at the Missouri University of Science and Technology states that commercial production must delineate and manage the composition of the new alloy. “Randomly mixing scrap in the furnace won’t yield acceptable results,” he says. “This necessitates precise scrap chemistry assessments, which subsequently raises handling costs.”
If you’ve recently browsed fitness content on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, you might have encountered influencers who have used steroids. A recent global meta-analysis suggests that steroid usage among gym-goers varies from 6% to a shocking 29% across different countries.
This statistic might come as a shock. According to Timothy Piatkovski from Griffith University, the landscape of steroid use has evolved over the last decade. Many fitness influencers now present themselves as knowledgeable figures, openly discussing their drug use and advising followers on steroid usage.
“Regrettably, the level of medical knowledge and judgment varies significantly among these influencers,” states Piatkowski.
Influencers’ perceptions of health risks differ greatly, he observes. While some acknowledge the dangers of steroid use, asserting that risks can be managed sensibly, others are more reckless, promoting drugs like trenbolone, which is typically used to prevent muscle wastage in livestock, branding themselves as “Trenfluencers.”
Millions may question whether these substances are actually safe, or if influencers are leading them into perilous situations. What is the truth regarding the dangers associated with steroids? Is there a safer way to use them?
Piatkowski notes that research on the long-term health consequences of steroids is sparse. This is largely due to the mismatch between doses and usage patterns studied by researchers and those employed by actual users. He and his colleagues seek to bridge this gap by collaborating closely with steroid users to create more relevant and realistic studies.
However, this mismatch has already led to some influencers losing faith in mainstream scientific and medical perspectives, prompting users to seek advice from fitness and bodybuilding forums instead. These social media channels have become a major contributor to both the support network and the marketplace in the surge of steroid usage.
Users now have quick access to a range of substances that can be obtained illicitly. This includes oral anabolic steroids known as SARMs (selective androgen receptor modulators) and synthetic human growth hormone, naturally produced by the pituitary gland during adolescence. Collectively, they improve physique and performance, but their mechanisms can vary significantly.
One of the most prevalent substances is anabolic steroids, potent synthetic derivatives of testosterone. A 2022 study estimated that around half a million men and boys in the UK used them for non-medical purposes in the previous year.
Understanding Steroids
To determine whether steroids are safe, one must first grasp their effects on the body. Anabolic androgen steroids work by interacting with hormonal receptors that promote male sexual traits, particularly in muscle and bone tissues. “They aid in muscle growth and are vital for bone development; they guide boys through puberty and literally transform them into men,” explains Channa Jayasena from Imperial College London.
The desired result is evident: a bigger, stronger physique in a shorter timeframe. Medically, some of these substances are prescribed to treat conditions like muscle wasting associated with HIV. At lower doses, investigations suggest that steroids can be well tolerated. However, this is not a strategy commonly employed outside clinical settings.
Non-medical steroid use rarely mimics regulated clinical trials. Many users resort to “stacking” various drugs and alternate between cycles to allow bodily recovery, adopting practices like the “blast and cruise” regimen. Although these methods lack comprehensive scientific scrutiny, influencers often tout them as ways to minimize health risks or achieve effective muscle growth. This could explain why many users turn to influencers and online forums instead of healthcare professionals for advice.
The Risks of Unregulated Use
The temptation to test various drug combinations or follow cycling protocols stems from the belief that such strategies mitigate the adverse effects of anabolic steroids. The best-documented side effect is cardiovascular complications. Anabolic steroids are known to lower levels of high-density lipoproteins, or “good” cholesterol, while raising blood pressure and increasing low-density lipoproteins, known as “bad” cholesterol. This can thicken the heart muscle, potentially leading to cardiomyopathy—severe heart dysfunction and a lethal condition, as noted by Jayasena.
A Danish population study revealed that anabolic steroid users were three times more likely to die than other males during the study’s duration. “It’s akin to cocaine,” asserts Jayasena. Cardiovascular disease and cancer emerged as the most prevalent natural causes of death among these individuals.
Increased risk of heart disease and stroke is a well-known consequence of prolonged anabolic steroid use
3dmedisphere/shutterstock
Beyond cardiovascular matters, Jayasena highlights that the psychosocial implications of steroid use are significant and well-documented. The term “Roid Rage” encompasses various mental issues including aggression, mania, and mental illness—particularly among individuals consuming high doses. “When observing why steroid users have fatal outcomes, one notes three primary causes: cardiomyopathy, suicide, and aggression,” he notes, suggesting a possible correlation between steroid use and heightened tendencies toward criminal behavior.
This relationship remains contentious, as it’s challenging to differentiate the effects of steroid use from other contributing factors like recreational drug usage or pre-existing mental health issues. Nonetheless, it indicates that discontinuing steroid use may precipitate depression and suicidal thoughts. “The mind becomes lethargic,” explains Jayasena. “The recovery period can extend over months, sometimes even years.”
Research led by Jayasena revealed that nearly 30% of men who ceased steroid use experienced suicidal thoughts and major depression, possibly due to lingering steroid residues in brain areas responsible for emotional regulation. Additional studies indicate that steroids can impair kidney function and elevate cancer risks, although the data is less conclusive and heavily reliant on isolated medical case reports.
Several investigations have demonstrated that some of these health concerns might be reversible. For instance, the liver appears adept at self-repair and can manage lower clinical doses of certain steroids. Conversely, effects like high cholesterol and hypertension can be reversible post-steroid cessation; in contrast, others may require long-term or costly interventions to address, such as mood disorders and infertility.
The most severe repercussions of steroid use tend to be the hardest to treat. Structural alterations in the heart, along with research indicating lasting blood flow impairments to vital organs, is a concern that may linger long after users cease taking steroids.
Seeking “Safer” Steroids
Given the extensive and complex list of potential harms, many users experiment with steroid protocols aimed at risk reduction. This includes altering doses, timing, or combining them with other substances. However, there is a dearth of research examining the safety of these “protocols,” asserts Piatkowski.
One of Jayasena’s studies indicated that post-cycle therapy, where users take medications to restore natural testosterone production following steroid cycles, significantly lowered the risk of suicidal thoughts. Piatkowski’s research compares high-dose cycles and gradual tapering, identifying that those following a Blast Cruise approach reported fewer adverse health effects once they stopped using.
High-quality, controlled studies evaluating the effects of recreational steroid use are sparse, often characterized by small sample sizes or case reports that complicate the establishment of causal relationships. The evidence supporting specific protocols is also thin, particularly as patterns of steroid use evolve more rapidly than researchers can track.
Anabolic steroids are commonly injected into the subcutaneous fat layer located between the skin and muscle.
ole_cnx/istockphoto/getty images
“Further longitudinal and cohort studies are essential,” Piatkowski asserts. Such studies track individuals’ health and wellbeing over time, ultimately clarifying real risks and potentially providing strategies for risk mitigation. Nevertheless, in the absence of robust evidence, healthcare providers often struggle to offer guidance to steroid users.
Greg James, a clinician at Kratos Medical in Cardiff, UK, mentions that he provides private health and blood testing services. Some patients even inquire about combining steroids with GLP-1 drugs that suppress appetite, as well as other peptides that regulate hunger. “They ask me if these peptides are safe,” James notes. “And I respond that I cannot confirm their safety due to the lack of long-term data.”
Researchers like Piatkowski are beginning to directly engage with users in realistic settings, navigating the challenges posed by inadequate clinical data and rapidly changing user behaviors. Rather than viewing users as patients or outliers, this method considers them as valuable sources of real-life experience, contributing to the development of more relevant and realistic research.
A recent study conducted by Piatkowski and collaborators examined steroid samples from users, revealing that over 20% were contaminated with toxic substances such as lead, arsenic, and mercury. More than half were incorrectly administered, meaning users may have been taking far more potent agents intended for livestock use.
Another study involving interviews with diverse steroid users identified trenbolone as having the most negative consequences, particularly for psychological and social health. This suggests that focusing on trenbolone as a distinct harmful substance, along with targeted screening and intervention strategies, could be more effective for harm reduction compared to broad-ranging methods.
Fitness influencers are frequently regarded as authorities who provide guidance on anabolic steroid use to their followers.
Kritchanut Onmang/Alamy
This open and collaborative methodology in drug research mirrors approaches seen in other recreational drug strategies, like psychedelic research. By engaging with real users, insight can be gained not only into harm reduction techniques but also previously unrecognized medicinal applications.
They may also collaborate with influencers and users to promote safer behaviors, rather than outright condemning drug usage, Piatkowski emphasizes. “Enhancing knowledge within these communities and legalizing information is crucial. It’s an ongoing experimental endeavor. The more we stimulate this discussion, the more we can advance the field.”
In 1964, a San Diego high school student named Randy Gardner participated in a Science Fair Project by staying awake for an astounding 11 days.
By the second day of the experiment, Gardner began to experience memory lapses. By the seventh day, he suffered from intense hallucinations, and by the 11th day, he exhibited inconsistencies, paranoia, and muscular tremors.
Fortunately, the 17-year-old fully recovered without any lasting effects. No one has surpassed this record since then, as noted in the Guinness Record Book. Due to health concerns, sleep deprivation records were discontinued in 1997.
However, cognitive decline can occur without an 11-day deprivation; even a few nights of poor sleep can lead to diminished functioning, memory recall, and emotional regulation.
Now, let’s explore the science behind sleep and its impact on brain performance.
What happens to your brain while you’re sleeping?
Photo credit: Getty
During sleep, our brains engage in essential repairs and various tasks, including removing waste and detoxifying itself.
Short-term memories are organized, long-term memories in the neocortex are solidified, and REM sleep plays a crucial role in problem-solving and emotional regulation.
But it’s not just all activity; there are restorative phases during non-REM sleep stages 1, 2, and 3, which slow the heartbeat, relax the muscles, and reduce brain wave activity—with brief bursts during stage 2.
In REM sleep, brain activity intensifies, resembling the state of wakefulness. The amygdala and hippocampus are highly active, aiding in memory processing and emotion regulation. This dream phase supports creative thinking when you wake up.
Brain impacts of poor sleep
Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality can impact your brain’s performance in several ways.
The prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and problem-solving, becomes less effective. This leads to reduced attention, cognitive flexibility, and working memory.
An overactive amygdala can hinder the emotional contextualization of information, and difficulties in storing information in the cortex weaken memory integration.
Other short-term effects of inadequate sleep include: • Impaired judgment • Slowed reaction times • Declined risk assessment
When sleep deprivation becomes normal
For individuals with chronic sleep disorders, these short-term consequences are part of their everyday reality.
Moreover, chronic sleep deprivation has serious ramifications. Research conducted by the National Medical Library reveals a link between chronic sleep deprivation and Alzheimer’s disease.
“Studies indicate that sleep performs essential housekeeping, such as clearing potentially harmful beta-amyloid proteins,” states the Sleep Foundation.
“In Alzheimer’s disease, the aggregation of beta-amyloid leads to cognitive decline. Even one night of sleep deprivation can increase the accumulation of beta-amyloid in the brain.”
According to one study, individuals with sleep disorders have a significantly elevated risk of developing Alzheimer’s, with an estimated 15% of cases linked to lack of sleep.
Maintaining brain health and cognitive function heavily relies on regular, quality sleep, making it essential to optimize your sleep environment.
Optimizing sleep quality
Hästens, a bed maker based in Sweden, recognizes the vital importance of quality sleep. Since 1852, Hästens has crafted handmade beds in the Swedish town of Kaepi, taking up to 600 hours and using only natural materials.
“A good night’s sleep will enhance your performance,” notes Hästens. “In today’s fast-paced world, sleep may feel like a luxury, but from a medical standpoint, it’s crucial for a strong immune system and overall health.”
Explore the full range of Hästens beds and accessories, and learn more about the benefits of quality sleep here.
Local Hästens Sleep Spa bed tests can be booked online www.hastens.com or at your nearest certified retailer.
When you mention buying a used car to most people, they tend to shy away. Some roll their eyes, claiming they want to avoid risks.
However, there are others who argue that it was the best decision they ever made. I count myself among them.
Having driven electric vehicles (EVs) daily for 15 years, owning seven different models, and covering 170,000 miles with just one set of batteries, I’ve gained valuable insights. Remarkably, I’ve faced no issues during those miles.
My only repair bill came recently. For my Tesla Model 3, the cost to replace the front control arm bushes was £375. I’ve owned it for five years and clocked 50,000 miles.
Driving Made Easier
Purchasing a used EV carries far less risk compared to a pre-owned combustion engine vehicle. An EV drivetrain consists of roughly 20 moving parts, unlike the endless list of potential issues in gasoline or diesel vehicles—think clutches, gearboxes, fuel pumps, and exhaust systems.
Numerous studies confirm that EVs degrade less quickly than their combustion counterparts.
For routine maintenance on your EV, you’ll primarily need to replace the cabin filter, change the brake fluid every three years, and rotate the tires. This is due to the limited number of friction-based components.
Understanding the mechanical simplicity of EVs helps identify key maintenance areas to watch for.
The most significant concern for used EV buyers is the battery. Luckily, extensive data shows that lithium-ion batteries have low failure rates.
Most EVs come with an 8-year, 100,000-mile battery warranty. If the capacity dips below 70%, the manufacturer will replace it at no cost. I drove one EV 250,000 miles with its original battery pack before it exited warranty.
Some EVs even show original battery packs functioning well beyond 300,000 miles.
Today, experts agree that EV batteries may even outlast the car chassis.
According to Consumer Reports, average battery packs have a lifespan of approximately 200,000 miles, while Geotab Research showed only a 10% loss in capacity among 10,000 EVs over ten years.
In contrast, combustion engines tend to lose efficiency due to wear and tear after just ten years.
read more:
What to Look For
Dealers now offer State of Health (SOH) certificates for batteries, and many EVs come with software allowing owners to check the SOH themselves. For instance, I checked my Tesla at 50,000 miles and found it still had 93% capacity.
When buying from a dealer, request a SOH certificate, or verify battery capacity in private sales. A capacity around 90% suggests minimal cell degradation, indicating plenty of useful life left.
However, some models have had issues. Early Nissan Leafs had battery cooling problems, resulting in a faster loss of range and capacity than other EVs.
Initial Renault Zoes faced battery management issues, while older electric smart vehicles can be challenging to maintain. Similarly, the earliest BMW i3 models showed reliability glitches, as noted by What Car. The concerns also extend to the MG4 and Vauxhall Corsa E.
The consensus is to be cautious with earlier EV models.
Though there’s no official count of private charging points in the UK, the charging point mapping app ZAPMAP estimates over 1 million locations. Photo credit: Alamy
Battery technology has evolved, providing better software, extended ranges, and faster charging times.
Some EVs feature Chademo plugs, which are being phased out in many regions. Adapters are available to convert these to the universally used CCS charging system.
Choosing EVs from 2017 onward generally means accessing more advanced technology.
Hybrid batteries tend to wear out faster due to frequent charging cycles, leading to premature failures.
Hybrids are also less reliable compared to purely electric EVs. This is compounded by the dual powertrains of gasoline engines and batteries.
Additionally, maintaining hybrids can be costlier. Their electric ranges typically fall between 20-40 miles for plug-in hybrids, while mild and full hybrids rely primarily on gasoline engines and aren’t true EVs.
Some EVs have encountered problems with charging port flaps, ports, and cables, although these issues are relatively rare.
Make sure to test the charging port and flap functionality prior to finalizing a purchase. Monitor the central screen for charging alerts and connection failures.
Before you arrive, ensure the seller has charged the battery to 100% and check the displayed range against the manufacturer’s estimate. If it’s significantly lower, reconsider the purchase.
While most EVs experience range reductions in cold weather, a warm ambient temperature should yield a range close to official numbers. EVs equipped with heat pumps show improved low-temperature performance.
Although 12-volt batteries in some EVs (similar to combustion vehicles) may lose charge over time, it’s advisable to replace the auxiliary battery every three years. This can impact how effectively the main battery charges, potentially triggering software issues.
Beyond electrical concerns, inspect for suspension wear in the front control arms and bushes. If you notice any rattling or creaking, inquire about it; the EV should operate smoothly and quietly.
Currently, a robust global dataset confirms that EVs are generally more reliable than gasoline or diesel vehicles.
Lastly, before buying, consider investing in a home charging unit (if space permits) to facilitate convenient charging at home.
This allows for an average full charge cost of under £15, translating to about 3p per mile. Even with a second-hand EV, this is significantly more economical than traditional filling stations for petrol and diesel vehicles.
Using the Widefield Camera 3 (WFC3) mounted on the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, astronomers have captured a breathtaking new image of the Spiral Galaxy NGC 7456.
This Hubble image showcases NGC 7456, a spiral galaxy located 51 million light-years away in the constellation of Grus. Image credits: NASA/ESA/Hubble/D. Thilker.
NGC 7456 was discovered by British astronomer John Herschel on September 4, 1834.
This galaxy is approximately 51 million light-years from Earth, in the constellation Grus.
Also referred to as ESO 346-26, IRAS 22594-3950, or LEDA 70304, it spans a diameter of 117,100 light-years.
The NGC 7456 belongs to the LDC 1547 Galaxy Group, which includes 16 large galaxies.
“In Hubble’s image, one can observe the intricate, swirling arms of this galaxy in exquisite detail, complemented by a dark, diffuse mass of dust,” remarked an astronomer from Webb.
“The bright pink regions signify gas-rich areas where new stars are emerging, illuminating the surrounding clouds, as this gas emits transmitted red light.”
“The Hubble program has been gathering these data to study stellar activity, tracking new star-forming clouds, hydrogen, star clusters, and gaining insights into galaxy evolution over time,” they further explained.
“With its capability to capture visible ultraviolet and some infrared light, Hubble isn’t the only observatory focused on NGC 7456.”
“ESA’s XMM-Newton satellite has imaged X-rays from galaxies multiple times and discovered what is known as a hyper-luminous X-ray source.”
“These compact objects emit significantly more powerful X-rays than one would expect for their size.”
“We are still investigating what drives these extreme objects. NGC 7456 contributes several examples to this research.”
“Additionally, the area surrounding the galaxy’s supermassive black hole is incredibly bright and energetic, making NGC 7456 an active galaxy.”
“Whether viewed in visible light or X-rays, there’s always something intriguing about this galaxy, whether focusing on its core or its outer regions.”
Based on data gathered by the sensors aboard the US Department of Defense Space Test Program Satellite 6 (STP-SAT6), we discovered a direct correlation between the frequency of electrical discharges on a spacecraft and the electron density in its environment.
STP-SAT6. Image credit: Northrop Grumman.
Spacecraft environmental discharges (SEDs) are short-lived electrical failures that may harm sensitive onboard electronics and communication systems.
While researchers have acknowledged the presence of SEDs for some time, the relationship between spatial environments and their electrons remains unclear.
“To explore this, we required two sensors on the same spacecraft: one to monitor electron quantity and activity, and another to detect radio frequency signals,” explained Dr. Amitabh Nag, a researcher at Los Alamos National Laboratory.
SEDs arise from variations in surface charging, typically due to the accumulation of electrons on the surfaces of orbiting spacecraft.
This process differs from static electricity on Earth. For instance, when someone walks across a carpet and discharges static after touching a door handle, a buildup of energy occurs. Likewise, when a spacecraft’s energy storage reaches a critical voltage, it results in an electrical discharge in space.
The STP-SAT6 is fitted with both sensors, allowing a unique opportunity for researchers to analyze both radio frequency and electronic activity simultaneously.
“We managed to assess the speed of SEDs as reported by the radio frequency sensors and compare it with the electronic particle activity within specific voltage ranges,” Dr. Nag noted.
“Our findings indicated that the peak of SEDs coincides with the peak of electronic activity.”
The authors analyzed data from two sensors over a year-long period, identifying heightened electronic activity during 270 high-speed SED occurrences and numerous episodes.
In roughly three-quarters of instances, the peak in electronic activity occurred 24-45 minutes before the SED event.
This delay implies that the buildup of charge from low-energy electrons plays a crucial role in preparing the spacecraft for electrostatic discharge.
“We noted that as electronic activity increases, the spacecraft begins to gather charges, especially in the 7.9-12.2 keV range,” Dr. Nag added.
“This process continues until a tipping point is reached, resulting in an SED.”
“Such lead time presents an opportunity for potential forecasting tools to reduce risks.”
“Future missions could include real-time monitoring of low-energy electrons to predict and react to charging events before they disrupt operations.”
The results will be published in the journal Advances in Space Research.
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Amitabag et al. 2025. Radio frequency transients correlated with electronic flux installed in STP-SAT6. Advances in Space Research 76 (6): 3692-3699; doi: 10.1016/j.asr.2025.07.026
Named Huashanosaurus Qini, this new dinosaur species is estimated to be about 12 m (39 feet) in length.
It existed in the Cantonese Autonomous Region of present-day China approximately 200 to 162 million years ago.
“The Jurassic sauropods are notably abundant in China, particularly in regions like Yunnan, Sichuan, and Xinjiang, with fewer known areas such as Ganshu, Ningxia, Anhui, Tibet, and Gitsou.”
“In Guangzhou, the record of Jurassic dinosaur fossils is limited compared to those from the Cretaceous period.”
Two specimens of Huashanosaurus Qini, including partial skeletons, were collected from Huqiu Quarry, part of The King’s Formation, located east of Guangzhou in southern China.
The site also yielded some bone fish scales, teeth (likely from Scalpidotes sp.), incomplete plesiosaur teeth, and fragmentary dinosaur bones.
“There is an ongoing debate regarding the geological age of the Prince Formation,” remarked the paleontologists.
“Initially thought to be early Jurassic, the formation has limited paleontological evidence.”
“Scientists are considering it to date from early to mid-Jurassic due to the presence of larger species from this era.”
The team indicates that Huashanosaurus Qini is a member of eusauropoda, a derived group of sauropod dinosaurs.
“This marks Guangzhou’s second eusauropod discovery,” the researcher noted.
“The first eusauropod described, Jingia dongxingensis, was excavated from the late Jurassic Dung Xing Formation.”
The discovery of Huashanosaurus Qini adds valuable information to the understanding of the evolutionary diversification of eusauropod dinosaurs.
“Huashanosaurus Qini is positioned more basally than early Jurassic forms like Balcanodon, Tazoudasaurus, and Goncyanosaurus, as well as early to mid-Jurassic representatives such as Barapasaurus,” stated the scientist.
“It is generally accepted that the main radiation of eusauropods occurred towards the end of the early Jurassic and the early Jurassic intervals.”
“From this perspective, the discovery of Huashanosaurus Qini provides further evidence for early to mid-King’s age.”
Survey results have been published in the journal Acta Geologica Sinica.
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Jinyou Mo et al. 2025. A new eusauropod dinosaur from the Jurassic Prince Formation in lower and central Nieming County in Guangzhou, southern China. Acta Geologica Sinica 99(4): 909-924; doi: 10.1111/1755-6724.15331
Consider the idea of sustainable cuisine. While humble lentils may come to mind, is it feasible to indulge in luxurious options while remaining eco-conscious? Bivalves like oysters, mussels, scallops, and clams possess inherent green credentials thanks to their ability to purify polluted waters. Recent research indicates they might also help sequester carbon. Could agricultural bivalves emerge as the pinnacle of sustainable food?
Food production contributes to around a third of global greenhouse gas emissions, making it crucial to identify options that mitigate this damage. In seafood, aquaculture is generally more sustainable than wild fishing; however, farmed fish rely on wild fish for part of their diet. Recent studies reveal that the reliance on wild fish for aquaculture feed is often underestimated. Additionally, fish farms can create significant waste issues from fish excrement and uneaten feed.
A notable advantage of bivalves is their minimal need for supplemental feed. As filter feeders, they consume tiny nutrient particles suspended in seawater and plankton. With most coastal waters currently suffering from nutrient overload due to nitrogen and phosphorus runoff, harvesting cultivated bivalves can help alleviate this excess and purify the waters as a byproduct of their production.
Conversely, harvesting wild bivalves poses ecological threats. For instance, overfishing of wild scallops can damage delicate marine ecosystems like seafans, corals, and sponges. However, comparison shows that farmed bivalves come with significantly fewer drawbacks, especially when compared to rainforest destruction for beef production.
But there’s more to explore. In recent years, various studies have suggested that agricultural bivalves can sequester carbon, potentially allowing farms to earn carbon credits as an additional revenue stream.
Yet, Fabrice Pernett from Brest University in France remains skeptical. A review of over 50 studies has left him unconvinced. Many of these studies are based on theoretical models that assume the formation of calcium carbonate shells absorbs CO.2 from the sea.
However, this phenomenon holds true only over geological timescales. Over shorter periods—critical when addressing climate change—the carbon cycle shows carbonate formation often releases CO.2.
Moreover, the common practice of incinerating waste shells frequently leads to even more CO.2 being released into the atmosphere instead of returning carbon to the ocean to mitigate CO.2 emissions. Similarly, carbon from the flesh of seafood also gets released as CO.2 following consumption.
Some researchers are now claiming that organic matter deposited under bivalves represents a significant carbon sink.
This latest assertion builds upon oyster research conducted within five large enclosures. However, Pernett cautions that similar studies feature shortcomings, such as CO.2 measurements being conducted only during the day and summer months when photosynthesis peaks.
The research team argues this limitation does not influence the findings. “The budget suggests that carbon accumulation and sequestration exceed carbon extracted in shells,” asserts Shuang-lin Dong from China Maritime University. Nevertheless, Pernett is still unconvinced. “Current evidence indicates that bivalve farming releases CO.2 overall,” he remarks.
However, don’t cancel your reservation at your favorite oyster bar just yet. Although bivalve farming may be a carbon emitter, the emissions are relatively low—around 1.4 kilograms of CO.2 per kilogram of edible weight based on 2021 research. This figures significantly lower than that of wheat or corn, all while requiring less land and freshwater.
“Indeed, agricultural bivalves rank among the greenest food sources,” states Pernett. A culinary delight.
Exercise doesn’t need to be lengthy to yield substantial rewards
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If you’re skipping exercise due to time constraints, integrating just a few short bursts of activity—like 5 to 6 active sessions of 10 seconds each—can greatly impact your health. A US study revealed that individuals engaging in over a minute of intense activity daily had a significantly lower mortality risk over the next six years compared to those who were inactive.
Currently, only about 15% of adults participate in regular exercise, according to Emmanuel Stamatakis from the University of Sydney, Australia. “The majority of the adult population struggles with including regular exercise into their routine, whether due to a lack of interest or difficulty.”
To further investigate, Stamatakis and his team studied the health benefits associated with incidental exercise, which can occur through activities like walking downhill, playfully engaging with children, and carrying heavy objects. They monitored participants for one week as part of a larger health study, assessing their activity levels and examining mortality risks in the following year.
In 2023, findings from the UK Biobank study involving tens of thousands of participants indicated that those with approximately 4.4 minutes of daily active time were 38% less likely to die from any cause in the next seven to eight years compared to non-exercisers.
Additionally, the research included results from 3,300 individuals in the US NHANES study. “This group, on average, is significantly overweight and less active,” remarks Stamatakis.
This group only required 1.1 minutes of intense activity daily to lower their overall mortality risk by 38% over the subsequent six years.
This demonstrates that this less active US group experienced similar relative benefits with just 1.1 and 4.4 minutes of activity found in the fitter UK group; however, it doesn’t imply they reached the same health status. Participants in the US study generally had lower fitness levels to start with and were at a higher baseline risk of mortality.
“This observation may indicate a more sedentary, higher-risk demographic that benefits considerably from minor increases in activity, and I concur,” states Carlos Celis Morales from the University of Glasgow, UK. “This phenomenon is known as the ceiling effect; those with high fitness levels have diminished potential for further improvement, while individuals with lower fitness levels have significant room for enhancement.”
The findings further support the notion that even small amounts of intense, unintentional movement can yield substantial health benefits. However, Stamatakis cautions that causation hasn’t been firmly established yet. “While it seems logical that health benefits might exist,” he notes. “This type of study cannot definitively prove causality.”
His research team is planning future studies to provide stronger evidence that observed health improvements stem from increased incidental exercise. “Our long-term objective is to discover methods to incorporate more activity into people’s everyday lives without requiring trips to the gym,” Stamatakis expresses.
Sheet Web Spider Psechrus Clavis is known to utilize the coloration and web of its own body as visual cues to effectively capture and consume insects. Interestingly, it doesn’t immediately eat the male fireflies, referred to as Daifan Lampaloid; instead, these spiders retain them on the web, allowing the fireflies to continue emitting bioluminescent signals for up to an hour. This observation has raised intriguing questions among a research team from Tunghai University, the University of New South Wales, the Sydney Institute of Technology, and the National Museum of Natural Sciences in Taiwan.
Sheet web spider with fireflies caught in the web. Image credit: Tunghai University Spider.
Researcher I-Min TSO and colleagues at Tunghai University documented Psechrus Clavis retaining fireflies on the web while these insects continued to emit bioluminescent light for up to an hour.
They noted that the spiders periodically check for the captured fireflies.
Fascinated by this peculiar behavior, the researchers designed an experiment to see if it serves as a hunting strategy.
The experiment involved placing firefly-like LEDs on the actual sheet spider web, using other webs as controls.
The results indicated that the web with LEDs attracted three times as many prey compared to the control web.
This figure increased to ten times more prey when actual fireflies were visible.
The findings affirm that the presence of captured fireflies enhances the spider’s hunting success.
Researchers also discovered that the majority of captured fireflies are male and likely mistaken for potential mates.
“Our findings underscore the previously unrecognized interaction where Firefly Signals, intended for sexual communication, also benefit spiders,” remarked Dr. TSO.
“This study provides new insights into how sit-and-wait predators can adapt to attract prey, revealing the intricate complexities of predator-prey interactions.”
“This behavior may have evolved in sheet web spiders as a way to avoid the energy costs associated with producing their own bioluminescence, similar to anglerfish.”
“Instead, spiders can leverage the allure of their prey’s glow to attract their own targets.”
Video recordings taken during the experiments show sheet web spiders employing various tactics when interacting with different prey species.
The spider swiftly consumes a moth caught in the web but takes its time with the trapped fireflies.
“The varying treatment of prey suggests that spiders may use specific cues to differentiate between prey species and adjust their responses accordingly,” explained Dr. TSO.
“We hypothesize that the bioluminescent signals of fireflies help spiders to fine-tune their handling behavior towards different types of prey.”
This study was published in Journal of Animal Ecology.
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Ho Yin Yip et al. Visual seduction through bioluminescence of prey seduces waiting predators. Journal of Animal Ecology Published online on August 27th, 2025. doi:10.1111/1365-2656.70102
A recent study discovered that engaging in high-ventilation breathing exercises while listening to music is linked to experiencing blissful states and diminishing negative emotions. This practice is also associated with increased blood flow to brain areas responsible for processing emotions.
Kartar et al. We propose that circuits supporting the integration of mutual acceptoral expressions and the processing of emotional memory are potential neurobiological substrates for HVB-induced ASCs. Image credit: Ram Jain.
The use of breathing exercises as a method for alleviating psychological distress is rapidly gaining traction. Breathing techniques that enhance ventilation rate or depth in conjunction with music can lead to altered states of consciousness (ASC) akin to those induced by psychedelic substances.
High ventilation breathing (HVB) may present fewer legal and ethical challenges for widespread use in clinical settings, offering a non-pharmaceutical alternative.
Nevertheless, the neurobiological mechanisms and subjective experiences linked to ASCs resulting from HVB have not been thoroughly explored.
To address this knowledge deficiency, Dr. Amy Amra Kartal from the University of Sussex and her team characterized ASCs triggered by HVB conducted by experienced practitioners, analyzing self-reported data from 15 participants online, and 8 to 19 individuals in a lab setting.
Their study included 20-30 minute sessions of uninterrupted circular breathing paired with music, followed by various surveys within 30 minutes post-session.
Findings indicated that the intensity of ASCs from HVB correlates with cardiovascular sympathetic activation and shows signs of a potential stress response, evidenced by decreased heart rate variability.
Moreover, HVB-induced ASCs were related to a significant reduction in blood flow to specific brain areas, including the left surgery and posterior island, which are involved in representing the body’s internal state, including respiration.
Interestingly, despite an overall reduction in cerebral blood flow during HVB, there were increases noted in the right amygdala and anterior hippocampus—regions pertinent to emotional memory processing.
These alterations in blood flow bear a resemblance to psychedelic experiences, suggesting that such changes may underlie the beneficial effects of this breathing technique.
Throughout all experimental conditions, participants reported a decrease in fear and negative emotions without experiencing side effects.
In various participant settings, HVB indeed reinforced the marine infinity (OBN)-controlled ASC, a concept introduced by Freud in 1920, encapsulating a range of experiences such as spiritual insights, feelings of bliss, positive emotional shifts, and a sense of unity.
OBN is regarded as a fundamental element of ASCs generated by psychedelic substances like psilocybin.
The researchers emphasize that their findings are pioneering and exploratory, advocating for future studies with larger sample sizes and control groups to discern the effects of music on brain activity.
Despite certain limitations, these results offer valuable insights into HVB and its potential therapeutic applications.
“Our research represents the first use of neuroimaging to map the neurophysiological changes occurring during respiratory work,” the team stated.
“Key findings indicate that breathing exercises elicit profound psychedelic states.”
“We believe these conditions are tied to shifts in function in specific brain areas involved in self-awareness, fear, and emotional memory processing.”
“We discovered that deeper alterations in blood flow in certain brain regions correspond to stronger sensations of unity, bliss, and emotional release referred to as ‘marine boundaries.’ ”
Survey results published online in the journal on August 27, 2025 PLOS 1.
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Kartar et al. 2025. Neurobiological substrates of altered states of consciousness induced by high ventilator respiratory practices with music. PLOS 1 20(8): E0329411; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0329411
Cancer arises from the proliferation of abnormal, uncontrolled cells that create dense masses, known as Solid Tumors. These cancer cells possess unique surface markers called antigens that can be identified by immune cells. A crucial component of our immune system, T cells, carry a protective protein known as FASL, which aids in destroying cancer cells. When T cells encounter cancer antigens, they become activated and initiate an attack on the tumor.
One form of immunotherapy, referred to as chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy or CAR-T therapy, involves reprogramming a patient’s T cells to recognize cancer cell antigens. However, CAR-T therapy often struggles with solid tumors due to the dense, hostile environment within these tumors, which obstructs immune cells from infiltrating and functioning effectively.
Another significant hurdle that clinicians encounter when treating solid tumors is their heterogeneous composition of various cancer cell types. Some of these cells exhibit antigens recognizable by CAR-T cells, while others do not, complicating the design of CAR-T therapies that can target all tumor cells without harming healthy cells. Solid tumors also produce the protein Plasmin, which further impairs the immune system’s ability to break down FASL and eliminate cancer cells.
Researchers from the University of California, Davis investigated whether shielding FASL from plasmin could preserve its cancer-killing capabilities and enhance the efficacy of CAR-T therapy. They found that the human FASL protein contains a unique amino acid compared to other primates, making it more susceptible to degradation by plasmin. Their observations suggested that when FASL was cleaved, it lost its ability to kill tumor cells. However, after injecting an antibody that prevents plasmin from cleaving FASL, it remained intact and preserved its cancer-killing function.
Since directly studying cell behavior in the human body poses challenges, scientists culture tumor cells and cell lines in Petri dishes under controlled laboratory environments. To gain insights into plasmin’s role, the team examined ovarian cancer cell lines obtained from patients, discovering that CAR-T resistant cancer cells exhibited high plasmin activity.
They noted that combining ovarian cancer cells with elevated plasmin levels with normal cells displaying surface FASL diminished FASL levels in the normal cells. When they added FASL-protecting antibodies, CAR-T cells effectively eliminated not only the targeted cancer cells but also nearby cancer cells lacking the specific target antigen. These findings indicated that plasmin can cleave FASL in T cells and undermine CAR-T therapy, suggesting that safeguarding FASL may enhance CAR-T treatment’s effectiveness.
To assess whether tumor-generated plasmin can deactivate human FASL in more natural settings, researchers examined its function in live tumors within an active immune system. They implanted ovarian, mammary, and colorectal tumor cell lines from mice into genetically matched mice to elicit a natural immune response. When human FASL protein was directly injected into mouse tumors, the cancer cells remained intact. In contrast, injecting a drug that inhibits plasmin resulted in cancer cell death. Additionally, administering FASL-protecting antibodies also led to the elimination of cancer cells.
As a final experiment, the team aimed to determine whether activated T cells from the mice’s immune systems could penetrate the tumors and kill cancer cells. They implanted mice with both plasmin-positive and plasmin-negative tumors, treating both with drugs to enhance immune cell activity and boost FASL production.
They discovered that in tumors with low plasmin levels, mouse immune cells expressed high amounts of FASL on their surfaces, while in tumors with elevated plasmin levels, FASL was significantly reduced. Once again, injecting FASL-protected antibodies into these tumors increased FASL levels. The researchers concluded that plasmin can diminish the immune system’s ability to eliminate cancer cells by depleting FASL from immune cells.
In summary, the team found that tumors exploit plasmin to break down the protective protein FASL, evading immune system attacks. Based on their findings, they proposed that plasmin inhibitors or FASL-protected antibodies could augment the effectiveness of immunotherapy in treating cancer.
The narrative of Earth is one of transformation. Over 4.5 billion years, our planet has evolved from a scorching mass of molten rock and poisonous gases into a temperate and vibrant habitat teeming with diverse life forms. This evolution was punctuated by pauses, restarts, and cataclysmic events, as the intricate biogeochemical processes shaped the most extraordinary phases in Earth’s history.
Our understanding of this vast tale is largely thanks to rocks. They preserve the chronology of events that contributed to the surface’s stratification through various deposits. This intricate ordering is understood through hierarchies, and the scientific discipline dedicated to interpreting them is known as stratigraphy.
In Strata: A Story from Deep Time, journalist Laura Poppick delves into this nuanced science of rock interpretation, offering insights on how planets respond to and recover from periods of upheaval. “Through these layers, we glimpse ancient versions of our planet, gaining contextual awareness as we traverse through the present,” she observes.
Poppick highlights several transformative periods in Earth’s history, selecting four key episodes. The first examines the development of oxygen-rich atmospheres, tracking the evolution of photosynthesizing microorganisms and significant oxidative events that led to mass extinctions around 2.4 billion years ago.
The second segment discusses “Snowball Earth,” a period approximately 720 million years ago when many regions are believed to have frozen over. Following this, she explores the advent of mud and the subsequent rise of vegetation. Finally, the Mesozoic era, dominated by dinosaurs, records atmospheric carbon dioxide levels much higher than today’s due to volcanic activity, offering a framework to understand planetary responses to climate shifts.
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Sedimentary rocks maintain a distinct layer system that clearly records the events that have shaped our planet’s surface. “
Throughout each episode, Poppick introduces geologists working to unravel the numerous unanswered questions regarding the timing and causes of these changes. She visits significant geological sites, from Newfoundland to the Australian Outback, where one can observe the strata that articulate these narratives.
The recurring theme emphasizes the importance of paying attention to rocks. To an untrained observer, they may appear ordinary; however, Poppick reminds us that “a trained eye discerns physical and chemical indicators—proxies—that reveal the characteristics of our planet during the formation of these rocks.” She underscores the value of geologists’ expertise.
This book is a remarkable attempt to make stratigraphy engaging. At times, it falters, and Poppick’s fragmented writing style led me to lose the thread of the narrative.
Her comparisons of geological transformations to human-centric changes sometimes felt uneasy. For instance, she likens the Mesozoic greenhouse climate to modern carbon emissions, though the historical era’s temperatures were so extreme that such analogies may be misleading, even at optimistic emission projections.
Another limitation lies in the currently incomplete nature of geoscience. Some of the pivotal questions raised by Poppick—including the true cause of Snowball Earth—remain unresolved or are subject to debate among different factions. By the end, I was left with a sense of uncertainty about what can be definitively stated. Yet, that unpredictability might be intrinsic to geology itself. “Nothing is immutable in stone as our understanding of geology continues to evolve, just like the rocks,” Poppick states.
Nevertheless, the book effectively captures the grandeur of the story embedded in rocks. It does so particularly well by showing how seemingly mundane observations about rocks can lead directly to profound insights into Earth’s history. Such revelations illuminate the stratigraphic process as Poppick examines overlooked outcrops, encouraging us to perceive the rocks in our surroundings with renewed appreciation.
“Hierarchies are, in many ways, love letters from a maturing Earth,” she argues. This book abundantly reveals the reasons to uncover the secrets they hold.
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Following the successful testing of techniques using solar group spacecraft, it may soon be possible to forecast significant solar storms capable of disrupting Earth’s electronics by more than half a day in advance.
The Sun periodically emits powerful plasma bursts known as coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which create strong magnetic fields that can harm electronics on our planet. While satellites and telescopes do monitor CME indicators, their predictions depend on the magnetic field within each CME, making it challenging to identify which emissions will be hazardous.
One of the most reliable instruments for assessing these magnetic fields is found in satellites positioned in gravity-stable orbits around the Earth, known as Lagrange Points. Though these satellites are positioned hundreds of thousands of kilometers away, they exist at only about 1% of the distance to the Sun, which contributes to their ability to provide warnings about the intensity of a CME within an hour of its impact.
Now, Emma Davis from Glaz and her colleagues at Austria’s Space Meteorological Office have discovered a method utilizing the European Space Agency’s solar orbiter to issue earlier alerts. “Solar Orbiters are primarily a scientific mission and not specifically designed for this purpose,” Davis explains. “This is an added benefit from unforeseen alignments during a CME event.”
On March 17th and 23rd of this year, two sets of CMEs were heading toward Earth while the solar orbiter was positioned between our planet and the Sun. Davis and her team leveraged the spacecraft’s magnetic field and solar wind speed measurements to model the internal magnetic architecture of each CME and anticipate the severity of the geomagnetic storms they would induce. Remarkably, the entire forecasting process required less than five minutes, allowing predictions 7 and 15 hours before the events reached Earth.
Davis noted that their predictions closely aligned with the actual geomagnetic strengths observed, which she found remarkable considering the dynamic changes the CME’s magnetic fields undergo as they approach Earth. “The fortunate aspect was that not many unexpected events occurred, and these CMEs behaved rather predictably,” she adds.
She cautions that upcoming storms may not follow the same predictable patterns and that determining the exact arrival time of these storms remains challenging, with uncertainties lasting several hours.
Nevertheless, she underscores the importance of real-time measurements once a CME departs from the Sun. Chris Scott from the University of Reading, UK, who was not part of this research, noted, “It provides an early indication of the potential configuration of the magnetic fields within each eruption.”
However, data from these two events alone are insufficient for fine-tuning predictive models, and further observations are essential before establishing reliable, specialized solar storm monitoring missions near the Sun, Scott concludes.
Astronomy’s Global Capital: Chile
Explore Chile’s astronomical wonders. Visit some of the world’s leading observatories and gaze upon a star-studded sky that boasts some of the clearest views on the planet.
In Mason Coyle’s exile, a human crew arrives on Mars
Shutterstock/Gorodenkoff
This month brings new releases from renowned authors like Cixin Liu, Stephen Baxter, and John Scalzi. I’m particularly interested in Ian McEwan’s journey into a submerged world of 2119 in Salt Crop. The tale chronicles the downfall of Mason Coil within a fledgling Martian colony, while also capturing my attention is the time-travel noir from the talented Nicholas Binge.
This month, I’m taking a classic route in the New Scientist Book Club with Ursula K. Le Guin’s 1974 masterpiece, The Dispossessed. Join us in reading and see how it stands against today’s best science fiction. But let’s not forget about September 2025…
Literary authors are turning to sci-fi—this isn’t unprecedented (who could forget the 2010s’ Solar?). In his latest, we’re taken back to 2014, reflecting on great poems never to be heard again. Fast-forward to 2119, as lowland Britain finds itself submerged. Scholar Tom Metcalfe delves into early 21st century archives, uncovering the myriad opportunities of the past. He discovers a clue that might lead to “the great lost poem”…
For fans of The Three-Body Problem, Cixin Liu presents a collection of short stories exploring first contact, artificial intelligence, and cosmic dread. With 32 stories included, expect explorations of devoured planets and interstellar crafts.
Three Body Problem adaptation in 2024
Ed Miller/Netflix
The hearth serves as the “celestial birthplace” of countless planets, where humanity has flourished for millennia. As an unknown foe covets the wealth of this realm, Commander Ula Breen strategizes to unite diverse forces and retaliate. Will she uncover humanity’s original purpose for coming here?
In a future where coastal cities are submerged and oceans teem with mutated fish, we follow Sailor Skipper, the youngest of three sisters who make a life by collecting and selling ocean plastic. When she receives a mysterious call for help from her oldest sister, Nora, who seeks a remedy for failing crops, she and another sister, Carmen, embark on a perilous journey across the sea. Kitasei, the author of Deep Sky and Stardust Grey, delivers an astonishing tale.
In a time-travel murder investigation, detective Julia Togrimsen (what a name!) returns from retirement to solve the case of a billionaire she once infiltrated. However, she discovers two bodies—both belonging to billionaire Bruno Donaldson. We loved Binge’s previous sci-fi thriller, Dissolution, and anticipate this next offering.
This marks Scalzi’s seventh installment in the Old Man’s War series. After a decade of peace in interstellar space, humanity faces the threat of war from the most advanced alien species yet. Caught in the tumult, bureaucrat Gretchen Trujillo receives a covert mission that could reshape the future for both humans and aliens.
I am captivated by the cover and premise of this new novel from the late author of William (which I enjoyed). Set in 2030, this tale reveals a human crew preparing the first Martian colony, only to discover a half-destroyed base. They must question three robots dispatched four years earlier, one of which is still missing…
In a desolate lab in the desert, Kinsey and her team unearth bizarre specimens in the sand. Breaking quarantine to bring one inside, they soon realize it seeks a new host.
This intriguing blend of horror, science fiction, and fantasy captures my attention. Set against a backdrop of ecological dread, Kinsey excavates two ancient bodies found in Somerset Fen, while also exploring “her own wildness,” alongside archaebotanist Nell.
The decommissioning of Palmer has played a significant role in contributing to sea level rise, particularly as certain regions of Antarctica face limited access, raising concerns among scientists regarding potential ice sheet collapses.
In a statement to NBC News, the National Science Foundation (NSF) announced plans to streamline resources by consolidating McMurdo, Amunsense Cott South Paul, and Palmer Station, with the goal of maintaining three research stations operating throughout the year in Antarctica.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Antarctic Program (USAP) mentioned that they aim to “maintain an active and influential presence in Antarctica while facilitating cutting-edge research in biology and glaciology.”
The NSF was the first to propose the termination of the lease this spring, following the Trump administration’s proposed budget cuts of 55%. Scientists expressed their disappointment that Congress initiated the process of abolishing the ship before finalizing its budget.
“Oceanologist Karos Moffat, an associate professor at the University of Delaware, discussed the budgets that have made advancements in both Senate and House appropriations committees.
The NSF is exploring alternative vessels to take on some of Palmer’s responsibilities and plans to return the vessel to its owner, Edison Chowest, a marine transport company based in Louisiana.
In 2024, the NSF finalized the charter of another Antarctic vessel, RV Laurence M. Gould, which has been upgraded to operate in sea ice, rather than utilizing icebreakers. This reduces the options available for enhancing research in polar oceanography and supporting Palmer Station, an annual base on the Antarctic Peninsula that previously depended on two ships.
The NSF mentioned on Friday that there are “alternatives” available to support and resupply Palmer Station, including commercial options.
Measuring 308 feet, the Palmer, named after a 19th-century seal captain, commenced its service in 1992, exploring various regions of Antarctica. The vessel accommodates approximately 22 crew members and can host around 45 scientists.
No other U.S. research vessels can fulfill all the missions that this polar icebreaker is designed for. The vessel is crucial for studying Antarctic ecology, the Southern Ocean carbon cycle, and monitoring the rate at which ice shelves recede and melt, ultimately influencing sea level rise.
Julia S. Werner of the University of Houston, second from the right, friend of Nathaniel B. Palmer.Courtesy Julia S. Werner
While satellites offer valuable data on the dynamics of ice sheet growth and reduction, the primary research on these changes relies on subsurface measurements.
Without such data, U.S. scientists will lack critical insights into the major ice sheets of the Southern Ocean, which are key to predicting future flooding risks in U.S. coastal cities. For instance, researchers highlight that other U.S. vessels are not suitable for safely accessing the notorious Swaitonga glacier, often referred to as the “end of the Apocalyptic Glacier.”
Researchers frequently describe the West Ku as a cork for a bottle that could rapidly drain the West Antarctic ice sheet, serving as a protective barrier against its collapse into the Amundsen Sea. This could result in a sea level rise exceeding 10 feet over a span of hundreds of thousands of years.
By the year 2100, the likelihood of such a collapse could elevate sea levels significantly beyond the 1-3 feet previously anticipated, as indicated in recent reports by the Intergovernmental Panel.
This disintegration could also alter ocean circulation patterns, affecting how quickly the ocean absorbs carbon, which remains an active area of research. Several studies suggest that current Earth temperatures may have surpassed the threshold for collapse, although further investigation is necessary.
Current shifts in mass and stability are influenced by factors occurring hundreds or thousands of feet beneath the water’s surface, necessitating optimal access through robotic instruments.
“To grasp the drastic changes occurring, it’s essential to be at the edge of the ice where it interacts with the ocean,” Werner explained. “And that’s precisely what this boat allows us to do.”
Scientists typically travel to Palmer every two years, using the data collected over the course of a month or more to advance their laboratory research.
The information gathered aboard the vessel is invaluable, enabling scientists to study ice comprehensively for over a decade, adding vital icebreakers to the U.S. science fleet and alleviating the longstanding backlog of researchers seeking fieldwork opportunities at Palmer.
Olson noted that the wreck lies in shallow waters approximately 20 feet deep. He observed that the bottom of the hull is mostly intact, while the ship’s sides are cut and flattened like fillets.
Tamara Thomsen, a maritime archaeologist at the State Historical Preservation Office of the Historical Society, dedicated several weeks to scrutinizing newspaper clippings, archival insurance records, and a database of port registrations, which is comparable to vehicle registrations.
Thomsen and her team also undertook diving missions to identify specific characteristics of the wreck.
Based on the ship’s exterior and its general wreckage location, the Historical Society confirmed that Olson had unearthed the long-lost remains of the Frank D. Barker.
“What’s fascinating about this wreck is that it’s all there,” Thomsen remarked. “It spreads across the bottom like a puzzle piece that you can visualize and reorganize.”
The 137-foot Frank D. Barker was constructed from wood in 1867 by veteran shipbuilder Simon G. Johnson in Clayton, New York. This canaler is specially designed for operation in the Great Lakes, as Thomsen explained. It was built to navigate the Welland Canal, which includes a series of locks that permit ships to bypass Niagara Falls, in addition to a combination of natural and modified waterways.
The Frank D. Barker primarily transported grain from the ports of Milwaukee and Chicago to Lake Ontario, and on westward voyages, it typically carried coal from Lake Erie’s ports to the Midwest, fueling factories and industries.
In 1887, the Frank D. Barker sailed from Manistee, Michigan, to Escanaba, Michigan, to load a cargo of iron ore. Unfortunately, the ship’s captain and crew strayed off course due to inclement weather and fog.
Ultimately, the vessel ran aground and was stranded by blown limestone on Spider Island. Multiple attempts to salvage the ship in October 1887 and again in August, September, and October of 1888 were unsuccessful.
“They finally concluded that they couldn’t retrieve it from where it was stuck and decided to abandon the ship,” Thomsen explained.
According to the Wisconsin Historical Society, the estimated loss of the ship was around $8,000 at the time, which translates to over $250,000 today.
Rediscovering the Frank D. Barker after 138 years is a momentous occasion for Door County, but it holds personal significance for Olson as well.
After informing the state’s historic preservation office about the findings, Olson chose to delve deeper into the exploration.
“When I think about my six-year-old son snorkeling on a shipwreck for the first time,” he shared.
Nearly two months following the devastating July 4 flood in Texas, which claimed over 130 lives, D-Texas Rep. Lloyd Doggett continues to seek clarity on fundamental issues related to the federal response.
What emergency personnel were deployed by the National Weather Service on the night of the flood? How effectively did the agency prepare for the storm? And how did vacancies in critical local National Weather Service positions, like warning adjustment meteorologists, impact the situation?
In four letters sent to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, along with a fifth from the Commerce Department, Rep. Doggett requested records that could shed light on the events of July 4th.
“I have yet to receive any written response,” Doggett expressed, accusing the agency of evasion.
This push for transparency highlights the lack of public accountability regarding that day’s events. Shortly after the flood, an internal meteorologist indicated that the National Weather Service provided a timely warning, citing the constraints of their forecasting technology during flash flooding.
However, it remains unclear how effectively the agency communicated with emergency managers and other ground stakeholders when risks became evident. A former NWS meteorologist commented on the difficulties faced when their forecasts are compromised by staff shortages or overwhelming workloads.
Lloyd Doggett at the U.S. Capitol in 2024. Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images File
“If there’s nothing to conceal, and if Trump’s budget cuts haven’t impacted weather services, then they need to create logs,” Doggett remarked regarding the records he seeks. “Drawing public attention to this issue may be the only way to prompt a response from the administration.”
Neither NOAA nor the Commerce Department has responded to requests for comment.
Doggett wrote his initial letter to NOAA on May 20, prior to the flood, raising concerns about staffing levels in the Austin/San Antonio weather office. This office is responsible for forecasts and communications in areas that faced significant impacts from the July storm.
“The 22% vacancy rate in the local NWS jeopardizes the timeliness of forecasts and alerts that communities depend on,” Doggett stated, inquiring about how the agency would address staff shortages and fulfill their operational roles.
Following the flood disaster, Doggett subsequently contacted NOAA on July 8 with 15 more questions about their responses. He reported having a video conference with agency director Ken Graham on July 11.
In a letter sent after their July 11 meeting and a follow-up on July 24, Doggett requested call logs, chat logs, radar archives, and shift logs from the agency.
“He mentioned that providing these was straightforward,” Doggett noted, recalling Graham’s remarks during the Zoom call. “I’ve been following up since then, but there’s been no satisfactory explanation.”
The agency is permitted to respond at its discretion to queries from Congress members overseeing it. Interpretation of the Department of Justice Law. Nonetheless, agencies often voluntarily address congressional inquiries.
Doggett has persistently contacted NOAA via phone and text, and in a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Luttonick on August 27, he accused the Secretary of suppressing responses that he believes NOAA was ready to provide.
“I recommend that responses to my inquiries be prepared, but these have been withheld by your office,” Doggett wrote. “There’s no documentation demonstrating NWS’s preparation, communication, or response—perhaps indicating that some aspects of this tragedy are being concealed.”
Doggett mentioned that four children from Austin lost their lives in the floods and has called for an investigation similar to those conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board after significant disasters.
“If 27 children perish in a plane crash, the NTSB conducts a thorough investigation of all involved parties at state, federal, and local levels,” Doggett remarked.
NBC News has submitted multiple Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to NOAA seeking records from NWS. Some of these requests might yield records that address Doggett’s inquiries, but thus far, there has been no response.
According to the Commerce Department’s Public Records website, one of the requested chat logs and communications between forecasters is currently “assigned for processing.” The agency indicated that information regarding staff cuts and recruitment will be managed in batches alongside other similar requests related to the Texas flood.
“We aim to provide a provisional release by early September, with additional releases occurring periodically through the end of the year,” wrote Julia Swanson, FOIA Coordinator, in an August 18 status update. “To effectively allocate limited staff resources, all other FOIA requests are temporarily set aside to prioritize addressing flood-related inquiries in Texas.”
Cow teeth dating back 5,000 years could provide new insights into the construction of Stonehenge.
Utilizing advanced isotopic analysis, researchers examined the jawbone, which was first discovered at the southern entrance of Stonehenge in 1924, a location of significant ritual importance.
The findings indicate that the cow spent its early years on terrain that existed more than 400 million years ago, beneath the massive stones.
“This is the first evidence linking the timing of the cow’s life to the movement of the bluestones, which are connected to both Wales and Stonehenge,” said Professor Jane Evans, the study’s lead author, in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “The insights from a single tooth tell a larger narrative than I had anticipated.”
The bluestones of Stonehenge are smaller standing stones that contrast with the larger Sarsen stones, which were transported over 200 km (125 miles) from the Preseli Hills in southwest Wales.
The journey of these stones remains one of archaeology’s great mysteries. Were they carried on sleds, floated down rivers, or perhaps moved with the assistance of animals?
Researchers sliced the teeth into nine layers, each capturing a chemical signal reflecting a brief period in the cow’s life.
Oxygen and carbon isotopes revealed a dietary transition over roughly six months, from stored winter feed to summer grazing. Strontium analysis indicated that the cow’s diet came from diverse geological sources, implying that either the cow moved to the food or vice versa.
However, the lead isotopes presented a more unexpected finding. Their makeup suggested the geological settings of Wales, while unusual spikes indicated that lead stored in the skeleton was released during pregnancy.
This lead would have been incorporated into the skeleton earlier in the cow’s life. In essence, while its life concluded at Stonehenge, it likely began in Wales, mirroring the journey of the stones.
Subsequent tests confirmed that the animal was female, and she may have been pregnant or nursing when the tooth section formed.
Together, these findings enhance our understanding of the logistics involved in transporting the massive stones of Stonehenge, weighing approximately 4.5 tons (5 tons) over several hundred kilometers.
Rather than just a group of men carrying stones, the existence of cows—potentially pregnant and possibly providing milk—suggests a larger community engaged in their transport.
“We may theorize that the cow could have been used to pull loads,” Evans noted. While this specific animal might not have moved stones, it indicates that Neolithic people potentially utilized “beast of burden” techniques in the region.
“This study offers important new perspectives on the life history of this remarkable cow, which was interred at a vital site at Stonehenge’s entrance,” said Richard McGwick, a co-author of the research and professor of archaeological sciences at Cardiff University.
“It reveals unprecedented details about the animal’s distant origins and its arduous journey. Although grand narratives dominate studies of significant archaeological sites, this focused biographical approach to a single animal introduces a fresh dimension to the story of Stonehenge.”
Evans mentioned that further investigations could be conducted on other animal remains found in and around the monument.
For now, this cow’s teeth provide compelling evidence that the journey of Stonehenge’s stones may have involved both animals and humans.
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About our experts
Jane Evans is an honorary researcher and emeritus professor for the UK Geological Survey at the University of Leicester and the University of Nottingham. She is an isotopic geochemist specializing in isotopic system origins and their applications to archaeological dietary problems.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that in the last 12 months, the United States has seen six rabies-related fatalities, marking the highest toll in years. From aggressive skunks in Kentucky to grey foxes and raccoons in Long Island, biodiversity in over a dozen states is facing a surge in lethal diseases, partly due to diminished natural habitats and improved monitoring.
“We are monitoring 15 potential outbreaks that may vary,” stated Dr. Ryan Wallace, leader of the CDC’s rabies division. Areas affected by these outbreaks include Nassau County, New York, which, last month, showed concerns about rabies beyond the notorious wildlife, with states like Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Alaska, Arizona, California, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, North Carolina, Oregon, and certain Vermont regions also noted.
“There seems to be an increase in inquiries and reports from various parts of the US,” Wallace commented. “It remains to be seen whether these numbers will show a significant rise by the end of the year. However, for now, we are experiencing a high volume during peak rabies season.”
Each year, approximately 1.4 million Americans receive a series of vaccinations to guard against potential rabies exposure, as reported by the CDC.
Samantha Lang was among those last month. The 22-year-old believed a bat had bitten her after one flew into her apartment through a ceiling gap in Greenwood, Indiana. The day after noticing a small mark on her arm, she found the bat hanging from her air conditioning vent. Upon contacting local health authorities, she was advised to receive post-exposure rabies prophylaxis, which she promptly did.
“I didn’t think it was a big deal,” Lang remarked.
The bat bite caused a rash on Samantha Lang’s arm. Marina KOPF / NBC News
Rabies viruses infiltrate the central nervous system and are nearly always deadly once symptoms manifest. Early symptoms, which can appear within a week to a year post-exposure, mimic influenza, rapidly evolving into confusion, paralysis, difficulty swallowing, and hallucinations, often resulting in death within a few weeks.
Experts express concern regarding the uptick in human rabies fatalities last year. In contrast, between 2015 and 2024, the CDC documented 17 human rabies cases.
Most rabies exposures happen through the saliva of infected wildlife and can penetrate through wounds, eyes, or mouths, making bites particularly hazardous. Prior to the 1960s, the majority of human rabies infections originated from domestic pets, especially dogs. Strict vaccination regulations have effectively eradicated rabies in dogs across the US.
A stark rise in wildlife rabies cases has been noted in Franklin County, near North Carolina’s Research Triangle, which has seen confirmed cases in wildlife double over the past year.
“This year’s rabies season has been alarming with a 100% rise in confirmed cases,” remarked county health director Scott Lavigne.
Lavigne believes that the expansion of urban areas into wildlife habitats is a significant factor accelerating the spread of rabies.
“Franklin County’s population has increased by 35% since 2010, creating new demands for housing,” he explained. “This leads to land development and the growth of residential neighborhoods.”
Animals that were previously secluded are now more densely populated, increasing the likelihood of rabies spreading among them, Lavigne noted.
In North Carolina, Franklin County animal control sets traps in areas where rabid skunks are detected. Marina KOPF / NBC News
Often, individuals are unaware of their exposure to rabid animals. Fatalities have been recorded from individuals who did not realize they were bitten or who encountered a bat and declined necessary vaccinations.
In December, a California teacher succumbed to rabies a month after handling bats in her classroom, unaware of her infection.
Viruses adapt and present differently based on animal species and strains. Many assume rabid animals are aggressive, yet sometimes infected creatures exhibit calm behavior.
“There’s a rabies strain that can make animals unusually friendly,” Lavigne shared. “A family observed a raccoon in their backyard that appeared ill yet was friendly and sought affection.”
The family cared for and fed the raccoon until it died, subsequently calling animal services to remove the body. “Thankfully they did because it tested positive, and the entire family required vaccinations,” Lavigne noted. “If they hadn’t contacted animal services, they would have remained oblivious.”
Flyers issued in Franklin County, North Carolina, indicated rabid raccoons and bats were found. Marina KOPF / NBC News
Concerns Regarding Dog Vaccination Rates
With the increasing spread of rabies among wildlife, veterinarians are particularly worried about vaccine hesitancy among pet owners. A 2023 survey published in a journal revealed that nearly 40% of respondents felt the dog vaccine was unsafe, while 37% believed it might cause cognitive issues in dogs, such as autism.
Gabriella Motta, a veterinarian from Glenolene, Pennsylvania, and a co-author of the study, has encountered many clients apprehensive about the vaccine’s safety for their dogs.
“This is a concern that may escalate in the future,” Motta explained. “If vaccination rates continue to dwindle due to hesitancy, could we witness an increase in rabies not only among wildlife but also in pets? We’re starting to raise alarms.”
The rabies vaccine has evolved significantly from when injections were given in patients’ abdomens after exposure. The current regimen involves administering a dose of immunoglobulin containing rabies antibodies right after exposure, followed by four additional vaccine injections into the arm.
Experts advise that rabies should be suspected whenever a wild animal displays abnormal behavior.
New structural faults have been discovered beneath the Atlantic Ocean, potentially heightening the risk of significant earthquakes and tsunamis that could impact the region. This finding is based on a recent study published this week in Natural Earth Science.
For centuries, the reason behind Portugal’s susceptibility to major earthquakes, despite its distance from prominent fault lines, has puzzled scientists.
On November 1, 1755, Lisbon was struck by a catastrophic earthquake registering 8.7 on the Richter scale, resulting in the deaths of tens of thousands and triggering a tsunami that reached the Caribbean. In 1969, a magnitude 7.8 tremor off the Portuguese coast killed 25 individuals.
“One of the challenges is that these earthquakes occur on completely flat plains and are distant from fault lines,” stated Professor Joan Duarte, a geologist at the University of Lisbon and the study’s lead author, as reported in BBC Science Focus.
“Following the 1969 earthquake, it became clear that there were signs of a subduction belt, indicating something unusual in that region.”
The subduction zone, where one tectonic plate moves under another, is responsible for some of the planet’s most destructive “megathrust” earthquakes, including the catastrophic events in the Indian Ocean in 2004 and Tohoku in 2011. However, the Atlantic Ocean has traditionally been viewed as relatively stable, with its plates slowly drifting along the mid-Atlantic ridge.
Duarte’s team compiled earthquake records and utilized computer models from the Horseshoe Abyss Monkey Plain, a deep seabed located southwest of Portugal. They uncovered evidence that the mantle—a hot, dense layer beneath the Earth’s crust—is undergoing a process known as peeling.
“The base of the plate is separating as if peeling off, like the sole of a shoe,” Duarte explained. “The first moment of realization came when I thought, ‘Oh, there’s something out there.’ The second was when our computer models confirmed this peeling process.”
This artwork illustrates the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. A combination of earthquakes, tsunamis, and subsequent fires nearly obliterated the Portuguese capital – Credit: Getty
This phenomenon is unusual in oceanic crust, which typically behaves like a “crème brûlée,” resting on a more pliable layer below due to its rigid buoyancy.
In this instance, it appears that water has been infiltrating the rock for millions of years, chemically weakening it and enabling the mantle mass to descend toward the Earth’s depths.
The research suggests that we might be witnessing the emergence of a new subduction zone in the Atlantic Ocean, which could ultimately reunite Africa, Europe, and the Americas into future supercontinents.
For now, however, the immediate concern is the potential for earthquakes.
“A significant earthquake will occur again,” Duarte emphasized.
“If there’s a forecast for rain tomorrow, you’d take an umbrella,” he added. “We don’t need to know the exact time of the rain, just that we must be prepared.”
“The same goes for earthquakes. While we can’t predict when major ones will strike, we understand the likelihood, so we need to be ready.”
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About our experts
Joan Duarte is an assistant professor of tectonics at the University of Lisbon and serves as the president of the Department of Tectonics and Structural Geology within the European Union of Geosciences. His research has been featured in journals such as Geophysical Research Letters, Nature Communications, and Geology.
“You always seem to make quite the racket in your sleep,” my dear wife says as we get ready for bed. “That’s why I need these.”
On her side, she has a heavy-duty earplug that fits snugly in her ears. On my side, I apply a magnetic strip on the bridge of my nose to see if it helps with the noise levels. Apparently, I’m a snorer (or so she tells me).
The reason I’m using a magnet on my face is to hopefully tackle this issue and improve her sleep. The strip is called Iro, and it costs £60. It’s a curved piece of hard plastic with magnets at both ends.
These magnets adhere to small magnets that attach to either side of my nose, just above it. The magnets gently lift my nostrils as they snap together. It’s an odd sensation, but not unpleasant. It almost feels like my airways are being mechanically eased open for better airflow.
The issue is right beneath your nose
So, why do I need such a device? One of the intriguing physical quirks I’ve discovered is that I have a deviated septum. This is likely why my wife depends on costly earplugs to get her beauty sleep.
A deviated septum (which about 70% of people have) is linked to snoring, sleep apnea, breathing difficulties, and a compromised sense of smell.
I can feel it when I press on my nose (for the sake of science, of course). My left nostril is significantly more open than my right. The tissue separating them (the aforementioned deviated septum) doesn’t run straight down the middle but instead leans to one side.
This misaligned wall made of bone and cartilage is why I snore and breathe through my mouth. A deviated septum hampers my airways; thus, I often feel like I’m not getting enough oxygen when I breathe through my nose.
A deviated nasal septum occurs when the thin wall dividing the nostrils leans to one side instead of being centered. – Photo credit: Getty
I dislike running because my breathing feels more labored than it should. While sleeping, I end up gulping erratic breaths, similar to snoring.
If that wasn’t enough, I also suffer from occasional night terrors, or sleep paralysis, which leaves me waking up feeling unable to move or breathe.
“Patients with a deviated septum can face numerous challenges,” says Professor Peter Andrews, Chairman of the British Nose Association. “They often resort to breathing through their mouths, which can negatively impact lung function.”
Andrews emphasizes the importance of breathing through the nose. “The nose acts as an air condenser designed to filter and condition air, making it better for oxygen exchange once it reaches the lungs. When your nose is blocked, efficient breathing becomes compromised.”
However, when your nasal passages are open, that’s not an issue. “If you can breathe through your nose at night, you shouldn’t, in theory, snore,” Andrews explains. Iro claims it enhances both breathing and sleep.
The company asserts it reduces snoring “in real-time,” doubles nasal airflow, and grants an additional hour of sleep each night.
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Is breathing easy?
The first night wearing the Iro strip went remarkably well. Despite being attached to my face, it didn’t bother me or disrupt my sleep. It was quite comfortable. The next morning, my wife was astonished that she didn’t have to use earplugs for this test.
“I didn’t hear a sound from you,” she remarked.
The next night was a different story. I had night terrors right after falling asleep, and the following morning, my wife’s brow furrowed. “Last night didn’t go well at all,” she told me. “Not one bit.”
For better or worse, I didn’t notice any significant changes in sleep quality. When I checked the data from my Apple Watch, it confirmed that my overall sleep duration remained unchanged. I was averaging just under 6 hours a night with or without the Airo Strips.
No wonder I feel tired.
Interestingly, the watch tracked various stages of my sleep.
While the Apple Watch isn’t a clinical-quality sleep tracker, I noticed minimal variations in overall sleep duration. However, I found that I received over 30 minutes of REM sleep and about 20 minutes of deep sleep while wearing the Airo. It also seemed to shorten the instances of waking up throughout the night.
During the day, I tried them out at the gym while running. They remained comfortable, and I felt a difference in my airflow. I couldn’t tell if it improved my workout, though.
As I ran, the adhesive began to slip as I started to sweat, and the Airo shifted along the bridge of my nose.
Eventually, I had to remove it before it fell off, but before that, I felt I could breathe more freely.
“The nasal strip definitely contributes to opening the airways,” notes Andrews. Airo’s magnetic strips come in one design. Adhesive strips placed on the nose serve a similar purpose, but other aids are designed to fit inside the nostrils, effectively opening the airways. Research indicates they may help diminish snoring, but overall sleep improvement results are varied.
My wife may not be a sleep expert, but she is open to longer trials, even with mixed results.
Case study
subject: 43-year-old man, snoring treatment
Abstract: Can magnetic nasal strips enhance sleep quality and alleviate night terrors?
test: Quantitative sleep data monitored on my Apple Watch; qualitative sleep data recorded by my spouse.
result: No change in total sleep duration, but improvements in REM and deep sleep. Mixed results on subjective sleep satisfaction.
About our experts
Professor Peter Andrews serves as the chairman of the British Rhinology Society at University College London, UK, and is a professor of reform at the University of London. He has contributed to esteemed journals like Facial Plastic Surgery, Diagnosis, and OTO RHINO European Archives of Laryngology.
A Key Review involving over 62,500 adults indicates that adhering to a specific diet may lower the risk of cognitive decline in older age by 40%.
Researchers from Shandong University in China examined 15 studies involving individuals aged over 60 and discovered that those who followed a Mediterranean or mind-focused diet were notably less likely to experience memory and cognitive issues compared to those without a healthy diet.
The Mediterranean diet and the Mind diet share many similarities, both emphasizing vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and moderate amounts of fish, chicken, and dairy products. Conversely, they limit processed foods, lean meats, and sugar.
However, while the Mediterranean diet draws inspiration from specific regions, the Mind diet is designed explicitly to safeguard the brain against age-related decline.
The Mediterranean diet highlights certain culturally significant ingredients, such as olive oil, while the Mind diet focuses on nutrient-rich foods like berries and leafy greens.
Researchers have long speculated about the impact of diet on brain aging, although evidence has been mixed. To clarify this issue, the Shandong University team aggregated data from 15 studies to gain a better understanding of the correlation between diet and aging in the brain, as well as extended risks of related diseases like dementia.
The studies included presented varied results. However, their combined findings indicated that elderly individuals who maintained healthy eating habits were significantly less likely (by 40%) to experience cognitive decline compared to those following unhealthy diets.
Consequently, researchers concluded that older adults should be encouraged to incorporate vegetables, fruits, fish, and legumes into their meals.
The Mediterranean diet emphasizes plant-based foods like vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats, while limiting processed foods and sugars.
Experts not involved in the study cautioned in BBC Science Focus that the interplay between diet and cognitive health is complex and the findings should be interpreted cautiously.
Professor Keith Frain, Professor Emeritus of Human Metabolism at Oxford University, remarked, “This study convincingly demonstrates that healthier diets correlate with enhanced cognitive function in older adults.”
However, Frain cautioned that the study does not imply that a better diet causes improved brain health. He explained that the studies involved in this analysis were observational, which means other factors like wealth, privilege, or non-dietary healthy habits could contribute to the observed link.
“While striving for a healthy diet as we age for various reasons is important, it is misleading to suggest that diet alone can alter our cognitive function,” Frain added.
Meanwhile, Dr. Oliver Shannon, a Lecturer in Nutrition and Aging at Newcastle University, noted in BBC Science Focus that the findings of this study, consistent with previous research and recent clinical trials, suggest that consuming healthier diets in later life could positively influence the brain. Thus, there might be a causal relationship present.
“Making small dietary adjustments towards healthier options, such as increasing the intake of vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and fish, can help older individuals maintain their memory and cognitive skills as they age,” he stated.
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About Our Experts
Professor Keith Frain is a professor of human metabolism at Oxford University in the UK and an honorary fellow at Green Templeton College in Oxford. His research focuses on metabolism and nutrition, and he has authored numerous books, including the textbook Human Metabolism: A Regulatory Perspective.
Dr. Oliver Shannon is a lecturer in nutrition and aging at the Center for Human Nutrition Research at Newcastle University, UK. His research primarily investigates the impacts of nutrition, including dietary patterns like the Mediterranean diet, on cognitive and cardiovascular aging. Shannon has published over 80 peer-reviewed articles in leading nutrition journals.
As we grow older, our cognitive learning and memory capabilities decline—recent studies have identified the proteins responsible for this phenomenon.
Researchers at UC San Francisco have pinpointed the culprit: an iron-associated protein called FTL1. Its detrimental effects hinder cognitive awareness throughout the aging process, and understanding this may allow us to target it in treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
“It’s essentially a reversal of the challenges,” said Saul Vilda, PhD, Associate Director and Senior Author of the Papers at UCSF Bakar Aging Research Institute; Natural aging. “It’s about more than just slowing or preventing symptoms.”
The hippocampus, a brain region essential for learning and memory, is particularly susceptible to the effects of aging. Researchers observed an increase in neuronal FTL1 in the hippocampus of older mice, correlating with cognitive decline and reduced intercellular connections.
The hippocampus, shown here, is vital for the formation of new memories (credit: Getty Images)
In an experiment, scientists artificially increased FTL1 levels in young mice, leading to brain and behavior changes reminiscent of older mice. Elevated FTL1 levels hinder synaptic connections, ultimately resulting in poorer memory performance.
Interestingly, their motor skills and anxiety levels remained stable, indicating that the cognitive impairments were specifically linked to memory and synaptic functions.
When researchers reduced FTL1 levels in the hippocampus of older mice, they noted improved neuronal connections and enhanced performance in memory tests, effectively reversing some signs of aging.
The FTL1 protein is involved in iron storage and metabolism, regulating long-term levels in the brain. As we age, alterations in iron metabolism lead to increased FTL1 in neurons.
By reversing aspects of cognitive aging in mice, this discovery could pave the way for treatments that counteract the effects of FTL1 in the brain, potentially restoring cognitive function in older adults.
“Identifying elements that seem to promote aging while keeping your brain youthful is crucial for overall health and activity as you age. FTL1 appears to be an anti-aging champion,” stated Andrew Steel in BBC Science Focus.
“This is an intriguing preliminary study, but as this research was conducted on mice, we must observe whether the same effects occur in humans.”
The most effective inventions address everyday challenges with a hint of flair and efficiency. However, that’s not always the case. Some inventions appear bizarre as they tackle nonexistent problems or approach solutions in unconventional ways.
Featured Case: From brain-powered cat ears to dazzling car tires, here are ten truly peculiar items, including several strange hats. Let’s kick things off…
1. Cat Mimi
Journalists wearing headsets with cat ears called “Cat Mimi.” The ears respond to a brain wave analysis interface, moving as a form of nonverbal communication. Photo by Yoshikazu Tsuno/AFP/Getty Images
In 2011, the inventor merged Japanese technology with a playful animal-themed accessory, resulting in Nekomimi—cat ears that move based on the user’s brain waves. Concentration powers the ears, while a relaxed state causes them to drop.
Despite its oddity, this gadget is a hit among cosplayers and can be found in Japan for around £90.
2. Mono-Wheel Bike
The Dynasphere, a mono-wheeled vehicle, was tested in Breen Sands, Weston Supermare, England, in February 1932. Photo: Fox Photos/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Cars and motorcycles are iconic inventions, but had the Dynasphere gained popularity, the landscape of vehicles might have been very different.
This mono-wheeled vehicle could reach speeds of up to 48 km/h and was available with either a gasoline engine or an experimental electric motor.
However, safety concerns were paramount. Standing 3 meters tall, it was difficult to steer and prone to “gerbilling,” where the driver could be spun around like a rodent in a wheel.
3. Tomatan
Kagome employee Suzukijima prepares to eat tomatoes served by the Tomatan, a promotional tomato dispenser for marathon runners. Photo by Yoshikazu Tsuno/AFP/Getty Images
Who hasn’t dreamed of being fed by a robot? Well, maybe not many of us.
Nonetheless, Japanese juice maker Kagome envisioned this concept, allowing marathon runners to eat tomatoes on the go. Unfortunately, it was just a prototype and not for sale—how unfortunate!
4. Glowing Tires
In this 1961 archive image, a woman adjusts her stockings with light from a Goodyear lighted tire. Photo: Douglas Miller/Getty Images
In the ’60s, Goodyear had a fascinating idea: illuminating tires! These were crafted from synthetic rubber and featured bulbs within the wheels, making them glow.
While they offered a range of colors and looked stunning in the dark, their performance in wet conditions was lacking. They also tended to melt under heavy braking, leading to abandonment of the concept.
5. Hayfever Hat
Kawasaki Ken, founder of the International Chindog Association, showcases his creation, the “Hayfever Hat,” in Tokyo on June 3, 2009.
Kawasaki Ken is renowned for quirky inventions, coining the term “Chindogu,” meaning “strange tool,” and has created hundreds of unusual items, including mini shoe umbrellas and eye-drop funnels.
Next on the list is the “Hayfever Hat,” designed to dispense paper continuously to combat sneezing caused by allergies. While it seems odd, it offers a unique solution to a persistent problem.
6. Bed Glasses
A woman demonstrates Hamblin glasses, designed for comfortable reading in bed, captured in 1936.
Hamblin’s reading glasses enable users to read while lying down. Featuring a mirror system like a periscope, they allow reading at a 45-degree angle. They also double as a tool for checking your feet while walking.
7. Cat Meow Machine
The mechanical cat meowed 10 times per minute while lighting up. Photos by Keystone/Getty Images
Craving all the perks of cat ownership without the actual commitment? This bizarre invention from the 1960s Japan wasn’t even available for purchase.
Marketed to scare off mice, it ultimately failed as the rodents were not fooled, ensuring that pet owners could avoid cleaning up after a real cat.
8. Nap Pillow
A man demonstrates his nap pillow. Photo by Ostricpillow
The original nap pillow, Ostricpillow, is delightfully peculiar. It allows you to nap at your desk while blocking light and sound, and you can breathe through your nose or mouth.
The only downside? Your coworkers might not appreciate your snoring during crucial meetings, though you might be too cozy to care.
9. Submarine Car
Rinspeed’s Squba, the world’s first functional submarine car, was showcased at the Geneva Car Show in March 2008.
In the 1977 film The Spy Who Loved Me, James Bond took his Lotus Esprit for a swim. Although the Esprit wasn’t actively marketed as a submersible vehicle, Rinspeed—a German car company—decided to create its own version.
The result was the Squba, a zero-emission electric sports car that could dive to depths of 10m at a speed of 3 km/h, powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Despite the buzz, it never moved beyond the prototype phase.
10. Mustache Shield
The mustache shield was designed to prevent interference from food and liquids while eating. Photo: Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Mustaches have been a prominent form of facial hair for centuries, with handlebar varieties becoming popular during the latter part of the 19th century. In 1876, Virgil Gates patented a protective shield to keep them clean while eating and drinking.
Composed of rubber and metal, the guard was secured by elastic cords that looped over the ears. Unsurprisingly, it didn’t gain widespread acceptance.
11. Fliz Bike
Conceptual illustration of the Fliz Bike, photographed in 2012. Photo: Fliz
The Fliz resembles a bicycle but functions similarly to a scooter. It harks back to the Laufmaschine Bike (or hobby horse) invented by Baron Karl Drais over 200 years ago. Like the Fliz, this early model had no chains and required riders to provide their own propulsion.
The key difference? Instead of sitting on a seat, riders dangle from the frame atop the bike. Constructed with a carbon fiber frame, the Fliz is lightweight and modern—but its practicality remains questionable.
12. Pet Rock
Gary Dahl, creator of “Pet Rock,” is seen packing the one-millionth toy for sale in 1975. Photos by GettyImages
Long before Tamagotchis and virtual pet simulations, there was the pet rock—a pet that required no upkeep. This quirky toy came with “bedding” and a ventilated carrier to mimic the experience of real pet ownership.
For a fleeting moment, it topped the charts as America’s best-selling toy. However, after just six months, interest waned, leading to the Pet Rock’s quick discontinuation in February 1976.
13. V-Shaped Bed
Evelyn Myers tests the V-shaped spring-free bed, created by Joseph Pilates. Photo: George Rinhart/Corbis/Getty Images
Joseph Pilates was not only known for popularizing fitness techniques but also for his unique creations, including a V-shaped bed designed after he moved to America. He filed a patent in 1930, believing traditional beds were uncomfortable and that his design would provide better support for the back and limbs. Unfortunately, public reception was lukewarm.
14. Crane Head Cereal Serving Device
Artist and inventor Dominique Wilcox showcases the Crane Head Cereal Serving Device in Kellogg’s wearable breakfast collection at the Serial Killer Cafe in Camden, England. Photography by photo
Artist and inventor Dominic Wilcox is known for his bevy of unconventional designs, such as a nose stylus for smartphone use in the bath.
The Crane Head Cereal Serving Device consists of a milk-powered hydraulic crane attachment worn on the head. Users can operate its arms to transfer cereal from a box to a bowl and pour milk on top. For some reason, this peculiar contraption hasn’t hit the market yet.
15. Baby Cage
An example of a baby cage proposed by the London Council in January 1934, intended to be mounted outside apartment windows. Photo: Fox Photos/Getty Images
Baby cages are a chilling concept that thankfully never took off. Designed for apartment dwellers with limited access to outdoor space, these cages were seen as a feasible solution for getting babies fresh air.
They were trialed in various locations around the globe, including New York and London, but fortunately, parents weren’t enthusiastic about the idea of their infants dangling outside a window.
Thanks to the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have made significant progress in understanding the connection between the raw materials of rocky planets. This cosmic material—crystalline silicate dust and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons—was analyzed in the core of the remarkable bipolar planetary nebula known as the Butterfly Nebula.
Hubble and Webb/Alma images of Butterfly Nebula. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/Webb/Hubble/Alma/Matsuura et al. , doi: 10.1093/mnras/staf1194.
The Butterfly Nebula, also referred to as NGC 6302, is among the most extensively studied planetary nebulae.
This nebula is situated approximately 2,417 light years away from Earth, in the constellation Scorpio.
Its distinctive butterfly shape has expanded over two light years, roughly half the distance from the Sun to Proxima Centauri.
The object exhibits extreme bipolarity, complex morphology, and features very high excitation gases, high molecular weight, and crystalline silicates.
“The planetary nebula is one of the most stunning and elusive phenomena in the cosmic landscape,” stated Mikako, an astronomer from Cardiff University, along with Matsui Ko and her colleague.
“These nebulae form when stars with masses between 0.8 and 8 times that of the Sun shed most of their mass at the end of their lifecycle.”
“The nebula phases on planets are transient, lasting only about 20,000 years.”
“Despite their name, planetary nebulae have no connection to planets. The confusion arose centuries ago, when astronomers noted that these nebulae appeared round, resembling planets.”
“Although many planetary nebulae are not round, their titles often reflect misleading names, and the Butterfly Nebula is a prime illustration of the extraordinary shapes these nebulae can assume.”
“As a bipolar nebula, the Butterfly Nebula has two lobes extending in opposite directions, forming what resembles butterfly ‘wings’,” they continued.
“The dark band of dusty gas acts as the ‘body’ of the butterfly. This band is actually a donut-shaped torus that conceals the central star of the nebula.”
“Dusty donuts may indeed contribute to the insect-like shape of the nebula by hindering gas from escaping outward from the star uniformly.”
New images from Webb’s Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) offer a close-up view of the center of the Butterfly Nebula and its dusty torus, revealing its complex structure like never before.
Astronomers have detected nearly 200 spectral lines, each providing insights into the nebula’s atoms and molecules.
These lines uncover nested interconnected structures tracked by various species.
Researchers have also pinpointed the central star in the Butterfly Nebula, which heats a previously undetected dust cloud surrounding it, causing it to emit bright light at mid-infrared wavelengths.
The star boasts a temperature of 220,000 Kelvin, making it one of the hottest known central stars in the galaxy’s planetary nebulae.
This image takes viewers diving deep into the heart of the Butterfly Nebula, as seen by Webb. Image credit: NASA/ESA/CSA/WEBB/M. MATSUURA/ALMA/ESO/NAOJ/NRAO/N. HIRANO/M. ZAMANI.
“This incredible, radiant engine is responsible for the stunning brilliance of the nebula, yet its full effect is moderated by the dense band of thin gas, the torus, that surrounds it,” the author noted.
“New data from Webb reveals that the torus comprises crystalline silicates such as quartz and irregularly shaped dust particles.”
“Dust grains measure about one millionth of a meter, typical for space dust.”
“Beyond the torus, emissions from various atoms and molecules form multilayer structures.”
“Ions needing the highest energy to form cluster near the center, while those requiring less energy are positioned farther away from the central star.”
“Iron and nickel are particularly noteworthy, following jets that erupt outward from the star in opposite directions.”
In an intriguing finding, the team also identified light emitted by carbon-based molecules known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
“These molecules have a flat, ring-like configuration, reminiscent of honeycomb shapes found in beehives,” said the astronomer.
“On Earth, PAHs are often present in smoke from campfires, vehicle exhausts, or burnt toast.”
“Given their location, these PAHs likely form when the winds from the central star push against the surrounding gas.”
“This discovery marks the first evidence of PAH formation in oxygen-rich planetary nebulae, offering a glimpse into the processes behind their formation.”
Survey results were published this week in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.
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Mikako Matsumura et al. 2025. JWST/MIRI view of Planetary Nebula NGC 6302 – I. UV irradiated torus and hot bubbles cause PAH formation. mnras 542(2):1287-1307; doi:10.1093/mnras/staf1194
Horseshoe-shaped crabs are ancient creatures with an evolutionary history that stretches back 450 million years (during the Ordovician period) and are often regarded as “living fossils.” Paleontologists from West Virginia University have identified a new genus and species of true horseshoe-shaped crabs from Silurian specimens found in Indiana, USA. This species fills an 80 million-year gap in the fossil record of horseshoe-shaped crabs and exhibits a morphology reminiscent of those from the Ordovician period.
Ciurcalimulus discobolus holotype. Scale bar – 5 mm. Image credit: James C. Lamsdell, doi: 10.1098/rspb.2025.0874.
“Horseshoe-shaped crabs (order Xiphosura) are aquatic arthropods characterized by the fusion of their body segments in the thoracic area,” stated Dr. James Ramsdell from West Virginia University in his recent publication.
“Currently, there are four known living species, each exhibiting isolated geographical distributions: one inhabiting the Western Atlantic (from the East Coast of Canada to the Gulf of Mexico) and three found in the Western Pacific and Northeast Indian Oceans (from southern Japan to the East Coast of India).”
“This group is widely recognized as a classic example of an evolutionarily conservative lineage, often referred to as ‘living fossils.’ However, recent studies indicate that they undergo ecological transitions tied to significant morphological changes within the group.”
“The evolutionary history of horseshoe-shaped crabs dates back to two species from North America (450 million years ago) and one slightly older species (early Ordovician, 480 million years ago) from Morocco, which is pending formal description.”
“The origins and early evolution of horseshoe-shaped crabs remain largely unknown, with an 80 million-year gap between these Ordovician species and the first record of Xiphosurida (horseshoe-shaped crabs with a reduced retroabdomen, dating back 370 million years).”
“The absence of Silurian horseshoe-shaped crab fossils occurs during a period of rapid diversification of other aquatic groups, complicating efforts to pinpoint the timing of the origins of Xiphosurids.”
The new species of horseshoe-shaped crab thrived during the Silurian period, approximately 424 million years ago.
It has been designated as Ciurcalimulus discobolus, known from a single specimen discovered in 1975 by JR Samuel J. Sieuca, found in the Kokomo member of the Wabash Formation in Indiana.
“Kokomo members consist of finely stacked dark drostons reaching up to 30 meters, and their age is considered Silurian based on Conodont data,” the paleontologist noted.
“The Kokomo region is primarily recognized for its endemic Euripterid fauna, which exists on a single horizon and is linked to significant extinction events. In this area, various algae of Euripterid and Brachiopod coexist, sometimes alongside corals, above the corals at the upper levels of the sub-arm phyla.”
“Ciurcalimulus discobolus is derived from Euripterid-rich horizons and is preserved similarly to Euripterids, featuring a compressed fossil with well-defined cuticles.”
Ciurcalimulus discobolus differentiates itself from other early horseshoe-shaped crabs by a distinctive combination of traits that are not found in other species.
“Ciurcalimulus bears resemblance to the Ordovician Lunataspis, characterized by a distinctly rounded prosomal shell and a semicircular thorax that lacks lateral segment boundaries or prominent projections, along with a multisphere retroabdominal region,” the researchers explained.
“Nonetheless, the new genus Ciurcalimulus is set apart from Lunataspis due to the absence of axial nodes on the chest and the marginal edge of the thorax being defined dorsally by fur.”
“The Silurian era Ciurcalimulus maintains the common morphology observed in Ordovician species, suggesting its survival beyond the Ordovician mass extinction had a limited impact on the evolution of horseshoe-shaped crabs.”
“Throughout their evolutionary journey, horseshoe-shaped crabs have achieved a global distribution,” he continued.
“However, the first known horseshoe-shaped crabs hail from ancient Roursia and Siberia while the oldest can be traced back to Laurentia.”
“The discovery of Ciurcalimulus in Laurentia indicates it may be a crucial area for the evolution of early horseshoe crabs, but it is essential to acknowledge the strong historical bias in paleontological studies focused on European and former colonial regions.”
“This suggests that Laurentia may have been sampled more intensively than other ancient continents, such as Gondwana. This is a vital consideration given that the oldest horseshoe-shaped crabs currently identified are undescribed species from Morocco.”
The paper was published on June 18 in Proceedings of the Royal Society B.
____
James C. Ramsdell. 2025. The first Silurian horseshoe-shaped crab reveals insights into the ground plans of Xiphosurans. Proc. R. Soc. B 292 (2049): 20250874; doi: 10.1098/rspb.2025.0874
Carbon dioxide influences our perceptions. Emissions from power stations, vehicle exhausts, and the burning of natural habitats contribute to our planet’s increasing warmth. These realities are compelling lawmakers and decision-makers to confront climate change earnestly.
CO2, comprised of one carbon atom bonded to two oxygen atoms, is essential for life on Earth. However, the escalating levels of CO2 are now exacerbating global warming and threatening life itself. This contradiction is a central theme explored by Peter Brannen in A Shared Narrative2: Planetary Experiments, a meticulously researched and persuasive read.
Brunnen, a science journalist known for his previous work on the extinction events of Earth’s history, now tackles a monumental task: elucidating the carbon cycle (CO2) and its implications, a topic often overlooked in educational settings, while revealing the fascinating stories that span our planet’s history.
It’s easy to overlook the periodic table. It’s also simple to disengage readers with mundane discussions about air movement. Yet, Brunnen artfully revitalizes this narrative, emphasizing CO2‘s significance for all living beings. He vividly depicts events from millions of years ago, like the “Snowball Earth,” and the 56 million-year phase when the planet was “held captive by ice,” compelling readers to visualize these extraordinary, yet unimaginable, realities.
We learn in school that wood consists of carbon. However, Brunnen expands on this, discussing elements such as “mushroom psychedelics, pepper spices, and coffee caffeine.” While many authors might stop there, Brunnen elaborates: Carbon exists in “your eyeball, bougainvillea petals… blue whale baleen, fat, and brain… your tub scum, lion’s mane.”
These rhetorical flourishes may risk overwhelming the reader, yet Brunnen delivers a cogent and artful case. The highest praise I can offer this book is that it frequently inspires a childlike awe—a feeling we often take for granted, much like the subjects that permeate our daily lives.
However, this isn’t merely a children’s book. In addition to the planet and its inhabitants, Brunnen draws on historical insights to urge immediate action, advocating for a transition away from fossil fuels.
His analysis draws careful parallels between our current CO2 emissions and those that precipitated the last mass extinction, a theme he reiterates throughout his work, articulating a growing urgency as he approaches his conclusions. “We can’t escape this dilemma,” he asserts. He critiques the notion of carbon capture and storage as merely a stopgap, arguing that it serves only to mitigate our current lifestyle without addressing the root cause. “In summary, we’re in deep trouble,” he writes.
Assuming no actions are taken and trends continue, he warns that companies may only awaken to their environmental impact after it’s too late, likening such reactions to misguided efforts.
This prevailing attitude, he observes, is common in “some climate circles,” and demands correction. “Sticking to the current path will undoubtedly lead to severe climate disaster, and regardless of how successful changes may be, we must explore all options to avoid catastrophe,” he states.
Decision-makers aiming to steer society away from fossil fuels would benefit immensely from engaging with this book.
Chris Stokell Walker is a technology writer based in Newcastle, UK
New Scientist Book Club
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My perspective on the moon has changed in the past year, especially since I gave birth during the harvest month, coinciding with the full moon.
In those early months with my son, time felt peculiar. The boundary between day and night blurred. Yet, the lunar cycle marked the passage of time. Each full moon signified that another 29.5 days had gone by and reminded me that my son was growing month by month.
<p>The upcoming full moon will carry special significance, as it coincides with a total lunar eclipse on September 7th, 2025.</p>
<p>This spectacular event will be visible to many around the globe, including parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and South America. In my location in the UK, the moon will emerge from below the horizon around 20 minutes later, at approximately 7:30 PM, and will remain visible until the eclipse concludes.</p>
<p>As I mentioned, the full moon occurs every 29.5 days. During this phase, our planet is positioned between the sun and the moon, allowing the moon to fully reflect sunlight towards us.</p>
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<p>However, because the moon's orbit is slightly tilted relative to Earth's orbit around the sun, these celestial bodies don’t always align perfectly (a phenomenon known as Syzygy).</p>
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<p>When syzygy happens during the new moon, a solar eclipse occurs. Conversely, if it happens during the full moon, we witness a total lunar eclipse.</p>
<p>During this event, the moon will enter Earth's shadow, which is why it appears dark and red. The only light that reaches the moon's surface and is reflected back to us has passed through Earth's atmosphere, scattering most wavelengths except for the reds.</p>
<p>To discover the best times to view the lunar eclipse and what you can see from your location, check out the <a href="https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/lunar/2025-september-7">Interactive Solar Eclipse Map</a>.</p>
<p>Unlike solar eclipses, no special equipment is necessary for viewing the lunar eclipse—just a clear sky. Once you know when to look, find the moon and watch it transition to a dark, red hue (as shown in the photo). If you're in the UK, you’ll find the moon positioned on the eastern horizon, so make sure to find a spot with a clear view to the east.</p>
<p>This full moon, occurring just before the autumn equinox, is often referred to as the harvest blood moon due to the reddish color it takes on during the eclipse.</p>
<p>I’m not certain how old he has to be to appreciate it, but I plan to take my son outside to witness this beautiful lunar sight that coincides with his birth in the harvest month.</p>
<p><em>Abigail Beall is the editor of New Scientist and the author of *Art of Urban Astronomy*. Follow her @abbybeall</em></p>
<p>For more projects, please visit newscientist.com/maker</p>
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Psilocybin, the hallucinogen, is derived from numerous magical mushrooms
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A single dose of the psychedelic compound psilocybin may suffice to alter the connections within specific brain networks.
Psychedelic substances like psilocybin, sourced from various magical mushrooms, impact individuals’ perceptions of time, space, and self. Furthermore, they exhibit potential in addressing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, largely due to their capability to enhance brain plasticity—though the mechanisms remain unclear.
Currently, Alex Kwan, from Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, and his team conducted experiments where mice received injections of either psilocybin or saline. The following day, they injected a genetically modified rabies virus, known for crossing synaptic gaps and indicating neuron connections.
Scans and dissections helped visualize the virus’s effects throughout the brain, revealing new neuronal connections. This research demonstrated that mice treated with psilocybin fortified the links between the brain’s resfluniur cortex—which integrates imagination, memory, and sensory data—and areas of the prefrontal cortex tied to planning and social behavior, in comparison to those receiving saline solutions.
Moreover, psilocybin seems to reduce connections involved in the cortical recurrent loops, which, while valuable for holding onto important memories, can, in some mental health conditions, perpetuate negative thoughts and behaviors. It is theorized that disrupting these loops is vital in addressing various mental health conditions.
“I believe this is the next phase we need to clarify,” stated Michael Wheeler from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. “Understanding these circuits that connect associative regions could be pivotal to unlocking mechanisms.”
“The modifications brought about by psilocybin treatment play a significant role in its effects on mood disorders,” said Eero Castén from the University of Helsinki, Finland. He added, however, that psilocybin merely offers a chance for remodeling; the actual circuits that strengthen or weaken may depend on the animal’s actions.
This line of research suggests that in the future, one might be able to select which brain connections to alter based on the mental health condition being treated. “Our findings present an exciting pathway for future work that combines neuroregulation with psychedelics to precisely target specific neuroplastic circuits,” the researchers noted in their publication.
Psilocybin use illustrates the “set and setting” phenomenon linked with psychedelic substances, exploring how various activities and environments influence brain alterations. The user’s mindset and surroundings can significantly impact drug effectiveness, resulting in “good” or “bad” trips.
Although this study was conducted on mice, it remains uncertain if the same connectivity changes occur in humans after consuming psilocybin. Nevertheless, Wheeler suggests the mechanisms might be comparable. This mouse study parallels findings in human brain scan research from 2024, which indicates that psilocybin may enhance connectivity in specific brain areas.
Deep brain stimulation is already utilized for Parkinson’s disease
Living Art Enterprise/Science Photo Library
Brain implants capable of detecting pain and responding with deep brain stimulation may provide relief for individuals suffering from previously untreated chronic pain.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) involves using tiny electrodes to stimulate the brain, showing potential but also yielding inconsistent outcomes. The conventional method has typically applied a one-size-fits-all targeting of brain regions, despite indications that pain can stem from varying circuits in different individuals.
Thus, Prasad Shirvalkar and his team at the University of California, San Francisco, explored whether a personalized system might yield better results. In their study, six individuals with previously untreated chronic pain had their intracranial brain activity recorded and stimulated across 14 locations in the brain for ten days.
Out of five participants, the researchers pinpointed specific sites and stimulus frequencies that resulted in the most significant pain relief. While one participant noted no substantial relief, he could hold his wife for the first time in years, a notable improvement in his physical capabilities.
The research team employed machine learning to analyze and differentiate the electrical patterns associated with high and low pain levels. Consequently, they implanted permanent DBS electrodes personalized for each participant to monitor brain activity and optimize stimulation for pain detection and deactivation during sleep.
After six months of adjustments, each device underwent a trial where participants experienced real personalized stimulation for three months, followed by fake stimulation for another three months, or vice versa. The false stimulation targeted non-ideal locations with very low frequencies, and pain metrics were monitored multiple times daily throughout the trial.
On average, authentic stimulation led to a 50% reduction in daily pain intensity compared to the increase observed with spurious stimulation. Notably, the daily step counts increased by 18% during the false stimulation phase. Participants also reported fewer depressive symptoms and less pain interfering with daily life when undergoing real stimulation. These improvements persisted for over 3.5 years post-trial.
“This significant study employs the latest tools,” remarks Tim Dennison from Oxford University.
A previous challenge with DBS technology involved habituation; the brain would adapt to continuous stimulation, diminishing its effectiveness. Dennison suggests that extended benefits may arise from stimulating participants only when pain levels are elevated. The next phase will involve comparing adaptive versus constant stimuli to evaluate differences in outcomes.
“The other major hurdle lies in the economic feasibility and scalability of this method,” Dennison notes.
The world’s most advanced engines are remarkably compact, achieving astonishing levels of efficiency, mirroring some of nature’s tiniest machines.
A thermodynamic engine represents the most straightforward mechanism to illustrate how the laws of physics govern the conversion of heat into useful work. These engines feature areas of heat and cold interconnected by a “working fluid” that goes through cycles of contraction and expansion. Molly’s Message and James Mirren from King’s College London and their team have constructed one of the most extreme engines yet, utilizing microscopic glass beads in place of traditional working fluids.
The researchers employed electric fields to trap and position the beads in diminutive chambers crafted from metal and glass with minimal air. To operate the engine, they varied the electric field parameters to tighten and loosen the beads’ “grip.” A handful of air particles within the chamber acted as the cold section of the engine, while manipulated spikes in the electric field represented the hot section. These spikes enabled the particles to move significantly faster than the sparse air particles in their vicinity. Notably, the glass particles experienced speeds greater than what they could achieve in gas while remaining cool to the touch, despite their temperature briefly spiking to 10 million Kelvin—approximately 2,000 times the sun’s surface temperature.
This glass bead engine functioned in an atypical manner. During certain cycles, it displayed striking efficiency, as the strength of the electric field propelled the glass beads at unexpected speeds, effectively generating more energy than was inputted. However, in other cycles, the efficiency dropped to negative levels, as if the beads were being cooled in scenarios where they should have heated further. “At times, you believe you’re inputting the correct energy. You’re attempting to run the fridge with the appropriate mechanisms designed to operate the heat engine,” explains Message. The temperature of the beads fluctuated based on their location within the chamber, an unexpected outcome given that the engine was designed to maintain specific hot or cold sections.
These peculiarities can be attributed to the engine’s minuscule size. Even a single air particle colliding randomly with the beads can drastically impact the engine’s performance. Although traditional physical laws generally prevail, sporadic extreme phenomena persist. Mirren notes that a similar situation exists for the microscopic components of cells. “You can observe all these strange thermodynamic behaviors, which make sense on a bacterial or protein level, but are counterintuitive for larger entities like ourselves,” he states.
Raul Rika from the University of Granada in Spain mentions that while this new engine lacks immediate practical applications, it may deepen researchers’ understanding of natural and biological systems. It also signifies a technical breakthrough. Loïc Rondin from Paris’ Clay University asserts that the team can further investigate numerous unusual characteristics of the microscopic realm with this relatively straightforward design.
“We are significantly simplifying what will become a biological system ideal for testing various theories,” states Rondin. The team aspires to apply the engine in the future for tasks such as modeling how protein energy varies during folding.
Journal Reference: Physical Review Letters, In print
Depiction of the uprising preceding the French Revolution
Stefano Bianchetti/Corbis via Getty Images
Intense volcanic eruptions along with alterations in solar activity may have triggered some of the most notable rebellions throughout history, including the French Revolution.
It has long been recognized that extreme environmental events like drought, deforestation, and temperature fluctuations can lead to societal upheavals, agricultural failures, and outbreaks of disease.
One of the most significant climate events in recent history, known as the Little Ice Age, affected the northern hemisphere—particularly Europe and North America—between 1250 and 1860.
David Kaniewski, from the University of Toulouse in France, along with his colleagues, examined historical records to identify 140 significant rebellions that occurred during this timeframe.
For their research, they cross-referenced records of social unrest with data on solar activity, volcanic eruptions, and climatic shifts. They aimed to uncover any connections between these factors and the extreme weather phenomena associated with the Little Ice Age, particularly in relation to grain and bread prices.
“We observed spikes of unrest that align with environmental changes and the challenges they impose on society,” Kaniewski stated.
The research team found that the coldest periods during the Little Ice Age coincided with a noticeable rise in the frequency of rebellions.
“Major volcanic eruptions that temporarily lowered temperatures led to statistically significant levels of social unrest,” Kaniewski remarked. “Furthermore, sunspot records, which track solar activity, showed that lower sunspot counts associated with cooler temperatures correlated with increased uprisings.”
During temperature declines of between 0.6°C and 0.7°C, whether from volcanic activity or reduced solar spots, there was an average of 0.72 rebellions per year, mirroring a reduction in rainfall.
However, the most significant correlation was found between rebellion frequency and the prices of wheat and barley, with sudden price increases resulting in 1.16 additional rebellions per year.
Kaniewski asserts that when harvests fail, hunger escalates, prices soar, and social unrest is likely to follow. Nevertheless, the research also indicated that some nations, such as England, which also faced weather patterns during this period, managed to adapt more effectively than others.
Researchers propose that while climate does not directly incite rebellion, it sets off a chain of events that can lead to food shortages and rising grain prices, which in turn motivate people to resist authorities.
“Food scarcity is akin to a dry forest after a prolonged drought,” Kaniewski explained. “A political or social grievance can spark rebellion.”
Following the eruption of the Laki Volcano in Iceland in June 1783, which raised sulfur dioxide levels in the atmosphere, a significant climate cooling occurred. The research revealed that from 1788 to 1798, the frequency of rebellions reached an average of 1.4 per year, including events leading up to the French Revolution.
Kaniewski emphasizes that understanding the Little Ice Age can offer insights into the challenges humanity faces in predicting future climatic changes. “Today’s climate change may prove to be much more devastating.”
Tim Flannery from the Australian Museum in Sydney remarked that, as illustrated by the study, the link between climate change, rebellion, and revolution reflects correlation rather than causation.
“People can descend into chaos during times of stress, leading to migration, suicide, and other behaviors, including rebellion,” Flannery noted. “While I’m not dismissing the findings, I believe we require a deeper analysis for more progress beyond our previous understandings.”
Jeremy Moss from the University of New South Wales in Sydney highlighted that the direct impacts are only one aspect of the issue, given the vulnerabilities experienced by people and natural systems due to climate change. “Often, it is equally critical to consider how both individuals and natural systems are made vulnerable and how we respond to those vulnerabilities,” Moss stated.
What’s confiscated takes place in the twin world of Anar and Urras
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A wall existed. Its significance was debatable. Constructed from unshaped stones, it stood visible to adults, while even children could scale it. Where it bisected the road, rather than a gate, it merely melded into geometric lines and borders. However, the concept of the wall was tangible. That was crucial. For seven generations, this wall had been paramount.
Like all walls, it represented duality. What lay within and what lay beyond depended entirely on which side you viewed it from.
From one perspective, the wall enclosed a desolate 60 acres known as Anarl Port. This place featured large gantry cranes, rocket pads, three warehouses, a truck garage, and a dormitory. The dorm was sturdy yet grimy, lacking in life. No garden flourished, no children played. Clearly, it was uninhabited, intended for only temporary use. In actuality, it functioned as a quarantine zone, encasing not just the landing fields but also the spacecraft, their crews, and the vast universe beyond. Anar remained outside its confines, unshackled.
Viewed from the opposite side, the walls enclosed the Anar, capturing the entire planet within. Here, significant detention facilities stood, isolated from other civilizations and populations, perpetually quarantined.
Numerous individuals traversed the road toward the landing field or lingered where the road intersected the wall.
Many hailed from the nearby city of Abenay, eager to catch a glimpse of the spacecraft or simply to behold the wall itself. After all, it was the singular boundary wall in their realm. There were no prohibitive signs to indicate trespassing. This was particularly captivating for the youth, who approached the wall, sitting atop it. There might have been gangs unloading wooden frames from trucks in the warehouse, or cargo vessels on the pads. Although the freighter only docked eight times a year, usually unannounced aside from Syngix, which operated at the port, the young ones remained. A foreman emerged from one of the warehouse crews and declared, “Today we are closing for our brothers.” Adorned with her defensive arm band, she was as rare a sighting as a spacecraft. Her tone remained composed, though it was the last moment of normalcy. As the foreman, she knew she would be supported by her Syngix if provoked. And, realistically, there was little to behold. The aliens, known as Owarders, remained concealed within their ship, revealing nothing to their spectators.
It was equally monotonous for the defense crew. Sometimes, the Foreman hoped for someone to attempt crossing the wall, or perhaps an alien crew to make an attempt to leap onto the ship. Yet, such events never transpired — nothing ever occurred. If an incident did arise, she was ill-prepared for it.
Cargo ship captain Mindful queried, “Is that crowd gathered around my ship?”
The Foreman noticed a genuine throng, over 100 individuals gathered at the gate. They stood there as people do when hunger drives them to crowd around food stalls. This reality filled the Foreman with dread.
“No. They’re just… protesting,” she confessed slowly with a constrained breath. “Protest, you know. A passenger?”
“You mean they’re protesting this jerk we’re supposed to transport? Are they trying to stop him, or us?”
To the Foreman, the captain’s insult, an untranslatable term in her language, meant nothing, yet she was unsettled by its sound and tone. “Can you manage things?” she asked curtly.
“Of course. Just ensure you expedite the rest of this cargo and get this passenger jerk aboard. We won’t face any issues,” he replied, tapping at the peculiar objects on his belt, metallic shapes resembling distorted appendages, all while exuding disdain toward the women.
She dismissed him, “The boat is operational 14 hours a day,” she affirmed. “Safeguard your crew. A 40-hour lift-off. Leave a note for ground control if you require assistance.” She strode away before the captain could retort. Her irritation intensified towards both her crew and the encroaching crowd. “Clear the way!” she instructed as she neared the wall. “The truck needs passage; someone will get hurt. Move aside!”
The men and women in the crowd exchanged apprehensive glances with her. They made tentative crossings over the road, with some pressing against the wall. However, they largely ensured a clear passage. While the Foreman had never taken charge of a mob, they had no experience of solitary decision-making. Lacking the communal emotion, members of the crowd stood immobile, disregarding the Foreman’s calls for compliance. Their naïveté spared the lives of those aboard the ship.
Some were there to exact vengeance on the traitors. Others sought to obstruct his departure, hurling shouts of indignation, or merely to get a glance at him. But these diverse intentions obstructed the singular aim of one assassin. Though the couple possessed knives, none brandished firearms. Their attack would be a physical confrontation. They aimed to take matters into their own hands. Expecting the traitor to be safeguarded within the vehicle, they watched intently. When he appeared, striding alone down the road, clashes broke out with an irate driver inspecting the cargo truck. Once they recognized him, he was already advancing across the field, pursued by five defensive synjics. The individuals intent on his demise relied on speed and accuracy. By the time he reached the ship, they barely missed their target, yet a two-pound flint struck one defense crew member on the head, killing him instantly.
The hatch of the ship sealed shut. The Defense Forces turned away, carrying their fallen comrade, making no attempt to halt the crowd, who hurried towards the ship. The Foreman stood aghast with shock and fury, cursing them as they rushed past, ducking to evade her. Once onboard, crowd leaders paused in a daze, bewildered by the ship’s silence, the sudden motion of the towering gantry, the strange fiery glow of the ground, and the dislocation from human proportions. Steam and gas erupted from the engines, adding to their apprehension as they gazed up towards the Rockets, the immense black void above. Sirens blared warnings, resonating far beyond the field. Gradually, several began to retreat towards the gate. No one detained them. Within a mere ten minutes, the area was cleared, with the throngs dispersing along the path back to Abenay. Ultimately, as it turned out, little had occurred.
This is an excerpt from Ursula K. Le Guin’sThe Dispossessed, the latest selection from the New Scientist Book Club. Join us and read along here.
When a newcomer to Lugin asks where to begin, I seldom suggest It Was Confiscated. I do not encourage strangers to plunge into the deep end of the pool. The narratives intricately navigate the complexities of the mind, not just in terms of intellect if you’re astute, but also in how we engage mentally while reading. (Things can get tricky, especially if the author is your mother.) Other Lugin works are more grounded in the psyche, making them a safer recommendation for beginners. However, if pressed for my favorite Lugin book, It Was Confiscated, published in 1974, is frequently my response.
The writing decade kicked off in the early 1960s, encapsulating the essence of Earth’s narratives. The Left Hand of Darkness sits alongside It Was Confiscated. A bibliographic account cannot adequately convey the exhilaration and exhaustion of that period. She authored novels while juggling family obligations, giving birth to her third child (me), coordinating everything (plus cats), and even spent a year in London. Ursula later confided that even with a supportive environment, one can underestimate the toll that writing a novel takes on one’s physical state. I haven’t ventured into novel writing myself, so I can only squarely reflect on her last decade and say, yes, I can envision it.
It’s certainly true that Ursula had a preference for the genre structures of the era. It Was Confiscated. Indeed, we have a rocket ship, but also cultural nuances within both Urla and Anar, from attire to social customs. Ursula’s lifelong intrigue with the natural sciences is evident in her depictions of Shebeck’s profession and the theories leading to the existing technologies. Her academic background enriched her portrayal of institutional pettiness. Above all, political philosophy and practicality emerge—a framework for radical collective reimagining and a nuanced utopia, as indicated in the full title of the book.
This framework has remarkably resonated over 50 years. I would like to acknowledge at least one generation in gratitude, alongside certain academic circles, recognizing The Left Hand of Darkness and It Was Confiscated as foundational texts in discussions on gender, anarchism, and anti-capitalism. I consider these works akin to my cousins. They are distinct yet consistently challenge my preconceptions. However, in my view, The Left Hand of Darkness addresses gender politics without being a purely “political” narrative. I can imagine myriad political systems serving as the backdrop for Geten. Indeed, Ursula remarked in a 1997 interview, “Politics is [The Left Hand of Darkness] is not thoroughly considered.” Conversely, political philosophies and systems are at the forefront. It Was Confiscated may be considered a superior work—The Left Hand excels in alternative important aspects. Yet for those who appreciate the blend of intelligence, ethics, poetic expression, and the merging of mind and heart, It Was Confiscated is hard to surpass.
For a generation whose reading may pivot on this duo of texts, the perception of the author’s legacy as an early radical thinker is enhanced by viewing her 2014 National Book Foundation speech video, with anti-capitalist themes crystallizing across both novels. I do not mind this view of my mother, nor did she—being labeled a radical thinker is preferable to being called “The Grande Dame of SFF” or any other gender and genre bias. Nonetheless, the idea of Ursula as an eternal radical oversimplifies her life’s intricacies and condenses her journey of reconciling early romantic capitalist ideals with an understanding of the intersection of art, ethics, justice, and politics. The period I’ve mentioned in Ursula’s life, from her early 30s to early 40s, profoundly shaped this reconciliation.
As a young child during that time, Ursula seldom discussed her work, leaving me to ponder the process of her artistic evolution. With her triumphs and a supportive partner, her life finally allowed for deep introspection and exploration. The roles of child, spouse, and mother transformed dramatically after her father’s passing. The U.S. engagement in the Vietnam War, which Ursula fervently opposed, crystallized her thoughts on pacifism and systemic inequality. Much had shifted in the world—and in Ursula—from The World of Locanon (1966) to It Was Confiscated as she became ready to delve into alternatives to ongoing cycles of human injustice and brutality.
The New Scientist Book Club is currently reading Ursula K. Le Guin’sIt Was Confiscated. Sign up and read with us here.
New Scientist Book Club discusses Alex Foster’s Circular Motion
The New Scientist Book Club has taken a turn by revisiting Alex Foster’s Circular Motion, moving from Adam Roberts’ futuristic Lake of Darkness, set thousands of years ahead in a world eerily similar to ours. However, a significant distinction exists; Foster’s universe is dominated by massive aircraft that can traverse the globe in mere hours. This “westerly circuit” not only facilitates rapid travel for the wealthy but also speeds up the Earth’s rotation as the narrative unfolds, especially evident by the conclusion where just two hours have profound implications.
As I mentioned, this book left a strong impression on me. It ticked all my boxes for science fiction: an impending apocalyptic event of nightmarish scale? Absolutely. A society desperately trying to maintain a facade of normalcy? Definitely. A cast of engaging and relatable characters? Yes, indeed. From a science fiction standpoint, it has become my favorite (new) read thus far. I ponder whether it leaned more towards grand physical phenomena (storms, gravity shifts) or more intimate experiences (the psychological burden of merely two hours in this world).
Yet, I found myself at odds with my two-sentence summary. (And isn’t that the charm of a book club, where different interpretations bloom?) While I relish a good dystopia, Neil Leighton found Foster’s grim portrayal of life on Earth a bit overwhelming. “I appreciated it and am glad I read it, but it was overly dystopian, and I’m not likely to recommend it as a gift,” he shared in our Facebook group. “I will say it is solid literary science fiction, but I struggled to suspend my disbelief, and it felt somewhat forced at times. It struck a decent balance between character work and ideas, yet was too dystopian for my palate.”
I wasn’t the only one grappling with the narrative. “I typically have no issues with suspending disbelief, but Circular Motion challenged that,” Jennifer Marano admitted. “Furthermore, the dystopian elements felt too oppressive for Gothia Fulmanik. The narrative felt uncomfortably close to home.”
I am thankful that Gosia highlighted the theme of climate change in this context. Video Interview The book is intended to draw parallels to our current reality. Instead of halting aircraft operations, the protagonists resort to constructing a colossal, vacant “shell” as a technological solution to the very issues they created within the Western Circuit. Many of you witnessed Foster’s characters facing calamities that resonate with our daily existence. “The theme of hubris (attempting to build shields to rectify issues with pods, circuits, gravity, and time) was a poignant and overt lesson,” Steve Swann remarked. It became a discussion point where we all tried to align the world correctly, only to end up exclaiming, “Well, there’s nothing we can do about it.”
For Niall, “as someone concerned about climate change, it serves as a more profound cautionary tale, replete with wise critiques of ineffective technical fixes.”
One aspect that perplexed me was Foster’s dating system, presented as “AH 976,314:17.” Many of you shared the same confusion. Eliza Rose echoed my thoughts, stating, “I didn’t grasp it, nor did I attempt to. I just read along, assuming it wasn’t crucial to the plot.” Phil added, “I would have liked an explanation of the new AH time-measurement system and its introduction.” Thankfully, Paul Jonas provided clarity: “It translates to hundreds of thousands of hours, consistent globally. 970,000 corresponds to 11 years, but good luck wrapping your head around it unless you reset.”
Members of the New Scientist Book Club expressed a desire for more substantial science within this science fiction work. “I felt that the scientific elements were secondary to the characters’ narratives,” articulated one member. “What I longed for was speculation on how an accelerating Earth impacts non-human life forms. This would have significant repercussions for flora and fauna. Gosia, too, expressed a wish for Foster to delve into the experiences of less privileged communities amid the apocalypse (especially considering how climate change disproportionately affects the Global South).
“I craved deeper insights into the systems responsible for the escalating issues surrounding time and travel. For me, it fell short of being authentically science fiction,” Paul remarked.
We aspire that our next reading fulfills those expectations: it is one of the most lauded science fiction novels in history—the award-winning anarchist utopian work by Ursula K. Le Guin, The Dispossessed, released long before 1974. We haven’t tackled classics in a while. Le Guin has been recommended by several of you as the next author, so I’m enthusiastically on board! Book Club members can also enjoy essays from Theo Downs Le Guin, the son of the late Le Guin, who offers unique insights as both a son and a reader (which is fantastic). Join us on our Facebook group for a discussion about this timeless classic and share your thoughts.
When you plan laundry, a beach trip, or a BBQ this week, the weather app is probably your first go-to. Yet, satisfaction with its accuracy often falls short. This leads us to ponder: why are weather apps so unreliable?
Even professionals like Rob Thompson from UK Reading University share this frustration. He recently experienced a night of dryness that unexpectedly turned into morning rain, illustrating a common concern. Typically, our complaints center around unforeseen rain or snow.
Our expectations of weather apps and actual weather conditions significantly contribute to this issue. However, this isn’t the sole complication. The complexity of weather systems combined with the vast amount of data required for local forecasts makes accurate predictions extremely challenging.
Thompson acknowledges that some apps have struggled with accuracy in the UK lately. This is partly due to the unpredictable nature of summer rainfall, he explains. Convection rain happens when sunlight warms the ground, causing hot, moist air to rise, cool, condense, and form isolated showers. This differs greatly from the large-scale weather fronts influenced by pressure changes that dominate other seasons.
“Imagine boiling water. You can estimate how long it will take to boil, but predicting where the bubbles will form is impossible,” Thompson states.
A similar phenomenon occurs in North America and continental Europe. However, weather forecasting tends to be a localized endeavor, so let’s concentrate on the UK to better understand why pinpointing the exact timing of weather events is so difficult.
In general, forecasting for specific towns or villages can imply an unrealistic degree of precision.
“I’m in my mid-forties. In my career, there’s no way to predict shower clouds to the extent that rain hits my village of Sinfield while missing Woodley just three miles away,” says Thompson. Apps might claim to forecast two weeks ahead, but he finds that incredibly optimistic.
The two-week forecasting limit has long been established, and accuracy tends to diminish beyond that. Some researchers are using AI and physical models to extend predictions over a month, but managing vast global data while refining local forecasts remains a challenge for weather apps.
Though Thompson utilizes weather apps, he feels nostalgic for an era when TV forecasts provided context. Meteorologists had the time and tools to explain weather fronts, detailing the certainty of rain between specific times, along with the likelihood of showers within those windows. Such nuances are crucial. In contrast, a weather app may indicate a 50% chance of rain at 2 PM and 3 PM, losing subtleties that can lead to frustration even when the data is accurate.
If you inquire about the weather in Lewisham at 4 PM and are informed of heavy rain that doesn’t materialize, it may seem like an error. Yet, wider forecasts could highlight missed opportunities due to unpredictable fronts. These predictions come with margins of error, not outright failures.
One truth is clear: app developers are often reluctant to address these challenges, choosing instead to maintain the facade of absolute accuracy. Both Google and AccuWeather did not respond to New Scientist, while Apple declined to comment but requested an interview. The Met Office similarly chose not to engage but stated, “We are constantly exploring ways to enhance our app’s forecasts and provide more weather insights.”
The BBC also refrained from comment but noted that over 12 million users appreciate the Weather app’s straightforward interface, highlighting the extensive thought and user-testing that informs its design to balance complex information with user comprehension.
Striking this balance is challenging. Even when data is flawless, simplifying information leads to the inevitable loss of detail. Many weather conditions are condensed into a few symbols, each carrying subjective meaning. For instance, at what point do clouds replace the sun symbol with white or gray clouds?
“If you and I formulate an answer and then ask our mothers for their interpretations, we might not get the same response,” Thompson explains. This compromise opens the door for ambiguity and disappointment.
Other issues persist as well. Some predictors intentionally introduce a bias, making apps slightly pessimistic about rain probability. In his research, Thompson identified a “wet bias” across multiple apps. Users who experience shining sun often find that more frustrating than those caught in an unexpected shower. As a gardener, this often aggravates me.
Meteorologist Doug Parker from the University of Leeds emphasizes that many apps save on costs by leveraging freely available global forecast data rather than fine-tuning region-specific models.
For instance, some obtain data from the US government’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Raw global data may suffice for predicting large cyclones but falls short when considering localized rain forecasts, like at Hyde Park during lunch on a Monday.
Parker notes that when estimating the likelihood of flash floods in Africa—often a matter of life or death—some apps simply lack necessary data. He mentions several free forecast products with questionable reliability regarding Kenyan rainfall radar, stating, “It’s misleading since Kenya lacks comprehensive rainfall radar.” While satellite radars occasionally pass overhead, they don’t provide full data coverage. Without knowing the origin or reliability of these forecasts, users face significant uncertainty.
In contrast, the Met Office’s app utilizes refined models and rigorous post-processing to enhance UK weather predictions, drawing from the organization’s substantial human expertise. The app team crafts a distilled yet accurate representation of weather data through a thorough process.
“Presenting model data is a vast area of focus at the Met Office. They have a dedicated team for it,” Thompson remarks. “It’s essentially its discipline.”
Creating a weather forecast model involves integrating a huge volume of real sensor data and executing it on a supercomputer, a demanding task. Yet, this extensive work corresponds to realities we may not fully perceive. Current forecasts are better than ever and continue to improve. Our ability to predict weather today’s standards was unimaginable just decades ago.
Much of the frustration we experience with weather apps originates from misalignments in expectations regarding accuracy at a local level, oversimplified data representations, and the rising demands of a busy populace that often overlooks scientific nuances.
Parker notes that as meteorological capabilities have advanced over the decades, public expectations have swiftly adjusted, leading to an ever-increasing demand for accuracy. “Will people ever be satisfied?” he questions. “I doubt it.”
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