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

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About Our Experts

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

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

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

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The study was published in Astrophysical Journal Letters.

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

Source: www.sci.news

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

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.sci.news

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

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.sci.news

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

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.sci.news

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

Posted on July 16, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Naps are regarded as significant for early brain development

Quintanilla/Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Source: www.newscientist.com

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

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

CNRI/Science Photo Library

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Source: www.newscientist.com

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

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

Elizabeth Czitronyi / Alamy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Source: www.newscientist.com

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

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.nbcnews.com

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

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

“Our model interprets these marks with remarkable precision.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.sci.news

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

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Here’s a rewritten version of your content:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Feel free to modify any part further as needed!

Source: www.nbcnews.com

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

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.nbcnews.com

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

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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

pandorumbs/alamy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Source: www.newscientist.com

A Complicated Knot May Be Simpler Than a Basic One

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The knot problem for mathematicians finally has a solution

Pinky Bird/Getty Images

Why is it trickier to untie two small knots compared to one large knot? Surprisingly, researchers have found that larger, seemingly complex knots formed by combining simpler ones are, in fact, easier to untangle. This discovery contradicts notions held for nearly 90 years.

“We were searching for counterexamples without anticipating we’d actually find one, as this speculation has persisted for so long,” Mark Brittenham from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, shared. “In the back of our minds, we thought the speculation was likely right. It was an unforeseen and astonishing outcome.”

Mathematicians like Brittenham study knots by considering them as intertwined loops with connected ends. A fundamental principle in knot theory is that each knot has a “knot number,” representing the instances a string is cut, with another segment inserted and rejoined at a junction known as a “note.”

Calculating knot numbers can be computationally demanding, with certain knots containing 10 intersections remaining unsolved. Thus, analyzing knots by breaking them down into two or more simpler knots is often advantageous. This concept is akin to prime numbers in number theory.

However, a longstanding enigma is whether the unnote-note numbers of two knots combined results in a larger knot value. Intuitively, one might assume that the difficulty of untangling the connected knots equals or surpasses that of their individual counterparts. In 1937, it was speculated that disentangling a combined knot would always be more challenging.

Now, alongside Susan Hermiller at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Brittenham demonstrates that this may not be the case. “This speculation has lingered for 88 years; as people failed to disprove it, the desire for it to be true persisted,” Hermiller noted. “Initially, we uncovered one example, soon revealing an infinite number of knot pairs where the number of knots was strictly less than the total for the two knots combined.”

“We discovered that our understanding was not as clear as previously thought,” Brittenham remarked. “Even knots that lack connections may untie more efficiently than we expected.”

Examples of knots that are easier to undo than components

Mark Brittenham, Susan Hermiller

Finding and verifying counterexamples involves a mix of existing knowledge, intuition, and computational strength. Remarkably, the final proof verification was achieved through a straightforward, practical approach: tying knots with a rope and physically demonstrating their resolvability.

Andras Juhasz from Oxford University, who previously collaborated with AI firm DeepMind to validate various knot theory speculations, attempted to solve this latest challenge similarly but faced no success.

“We spent a year or two seeking counterexamples without luck, so we eventually abandoned the effort,” Juhasz mentioned. “AI might not be the best tool for finding counterexamples, akin to searching for needles in haystacks – a profoundly elusive pursuit.”

Applications of knot theory vary widely, spanning from encryption to molecular biology. Nicholas Jackson at the University of Warwick in the UK cautiously suggests that this new development could have practical implications. “We seem to have gained a deeper understanding of how circular entities operate in three-dimensional spaces than we did previously,” he remarked. “Concepts that were unclear a few months ago are now coming into clearer view.”

Source: www.newscientist.com

Climate Scientists Call on Peers to Embrace CO2 Tracking as We Reduce Emissions

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Carbon dioxide monitoring at the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii may be discontinued due to US budget cuts

noaa

Scientists from various countries are urged to prepare for the potential takeover of the major carbon dioxide monitoring services currently operated by the US, according to climate experts.

The monitoring efforts could be terminated next year if budget cuts proceed, leading to the loss of vital data. “At this moment, no one is stepping forward to say, ‘We can take that responsibility,'” states Pierre Friedlingstein from the University of Exeter, UK. “It’s imperative that we do.”

Friedlingstein leads the Global Carbon Budget, an international initiative focused on accurately assessing carbon emissions and absorption by land and oceans, which is essential for understanding global temperature trends.

This work heavily relies on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), whose budget cuts are proposed by the Trump administration. A 2026 budget document suggests eliminating funding for climate and weather research and decreasing the workforce by over 2,000 employees. Furthermore, it plans to close labs, including the Mauna Loa Observatory, a key CO₂ monitoring site.

“NOAA GML [Global Monitoring Laboratory] is essential for the Greenhouse Gas Program, which supports multiple functions,” says Ralph Keeling from the California Institute of Oceanography.

NOAA directly measures gas levels, including CO2, at various sites and aids in monitoring at additional locations worldwide. According to Friedlingstein, this includes calibrating measurements with samples sent from different areas.

The agency compiles and evaluates global data, leveraging subtle variations in CO2 levels across locations, combined with knowledge of atmospheric circulation, to trace CO2 flows accurately.

“NOAA provides critical baseline data,” Keeling noted. “If NOAA’s efforts cease, our ability to monitor CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions globally will diminish.”

“All of these responsibilities must be assumed by other organizations,” Friedlingstein observes.

However, exchanging the loss of monitoring sites and NOAA records for new data poses challenges. “This is where maintaining long-term consistency becomes crucial,” Keeling explains. “It can’t simply switch from one data set to another; this would compromise the reliability of trend analysis.”

There is particular concern regarding ongoing monitoring at Mauna Loa, which has been conducted since 1957, providing the longest continuous CO₂ record from a single location. NOAA supports the Scripps-led monitoring efforts.

“Without NOAA’s involvement, continuing nearby measurements becomes challenging, although not impossible,” Keeling states.

He also expresses worry about Scripps-led monitoring in Antarctica, which currently depends on NOAA personnel from the US Bureau. The site’s funding, sourced from the National Science Foundation, is also at risk.

“Antarctica represents the most significant long-term station in the Southern Hemisphere. Establishing a reliable long-term global average is just as critical as the Mauna Loa data, particularly for tracking variations between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres through large-scale carbon flows,” says Keeling.

CO₂ levels can also be monitored using certain satellites, which, according to Friedlingstein, measure CO₂ not just at the surface but throughout the entire atmospheric column up to the satellite.

When asked whether there’s a plan to substitute NOAA’s functions, the European Union’s Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service New Scientist reached out to the European Commission’s Defense Industry and Space Administration (DEFIS). DEFIS did not reply before the deadline for this article.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Revolutionary Zombie Cell Killers: The Ultimate Solution to End Your Back Pain for Good

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Innovative treatments may transform the management of lower back pain by addressing the root causes associated with inflammatory “zombie” cells. Recent research conducted using mice.

A group of scientists, led by researchers from McGill University in Canada, found that a combination of two medications, O-Vanillin and RG-7112, effectively eliminates zombie cells from mouse spinal tissues, alleviating pain and inflammation symptoms.

“Our results are promising because they indicate that by eliminating cells that not only obscure pain but also contribute to issues, we can approach lower back pain treatment in a novel manner,” stated the senior author, Professor Lisbet Haglund from McGill’s Ministry of Surgery.

Zombie cells, also referred to as senescent cells, do not function like typical cells. Rather than undergoing division and death to make way for new cells, they persist in the body.

As we age, these zombie cells can build up, leading to inflammation, pain, and spinal damage.

For the hundreds of millions of adults globally suffering from back pain, the impact of zombie cells is often masked and inadequately addressed by current medications.

This new treatment, however, aims to alleviate back pain by targeting and eliminating these lingering zombie cells, thereby addressing the underlying issues.

Aging or zombie cells accumulate in the shock-absorbing discs between each spinal vertebra, releasing inflammatory molecules that damage discs – Credit: Nemes Laszlo/Science Photo Library via Getty

The McGill research team discovered this promising new treatment while working with mice genetically engineered to develop spinal injuries and lower back pain over seven months.

The researchers administered varying doses of O-Vanillin and RG-7112 to these mice. Some received only one of the drugs, while others received a combination of both.

RG-7112 is a medication already established to remove zombie cells in various contexts, though it hasn’t been applied to lower back pain treatment until now.

O-Vanillin, a natural compound sourced from turmeric, is recognized for its anti-inflammatory benefits, but had not been previously tested against zombie cells.

After 8 weeks of treatment, mice receiving both drugs at higher doses exhibited the lowest levels of zombie cells, inflammation, and pain.

Those treated with a single drug showed some improvement, but the results were not as significant as those achieved with the combination therapy.

“The pressing question now is whether these medications can produce the same effects in human subjects,” Haglund remarked.

read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Discover Top Exercises Tailored for Your Personality Type

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Tailoring your workout routine to align with your personality can significantly enhance your commitment to your training regimen, according to new research.

The study, led by Professor Flaminia Ronka at University College London, found that individuals who derive enjoyment from sports are more likely to maintain their participation. This indicates that a customized fitness plan is more effective than a generic approach.

“If you don’t follow that, there’s no point in prescribing the ideal exercise plan,” Ronka stated in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

“Fun is crucial for behavioral change. To encourage the population to be more proactive, a strategic approach is essential in identifying enjoyable activities for individuals.”

This study explored the impact of personality traits on preferred types of exercise.

Researchers categorized participants based on the five major personality traits: agreeableness (willingness to cooperate), conscientiousness (self-discipline and detail orientation), extraversion (sociability), neuroticism (tendency toward anxiety or unhappiness), and openness (willingness to try new things).

The findings suggested that individuals who are more sociable enjoy engaging in intense workouts, particularly those that involve social interactions like team sports and dance classes, implying that many can find enjoyment in vigorous aerobic activities.

Conversely, those who are higher in neuroticism preferred privacy and were less comfortable being observed while completing the 15-minute cycling exercise used to assess fitness levels. Moreover, they were also less inclined to monitor their heart rate during workouts.

“This indicates that individuals in this category may value a setting that allows for independence and privacy during their exercise routine,” Ronka explained. Participants in this group typically favored more calming exercises, such as stretching, yet remarked that “high intensity was acceptable as long as breaks were allowed.”

All participants who adhered to the program reported positive outcomes, but the more anxious individuals particularly stood out.

“These participants exhibited a notably significant reduction in stress following the exercise program,” Ronka noted. “This is encouraging, as it highlights that those who experience the greatest stress relief are highly responsive to exercise.”

More anxious individuals tended to benefit from calmer exercises, such as stretching – Source: Getty Images

To examine how personality influences exercise habits, this study required participants to engage in an eight-week home fitness program involving cycling and strength training.

Fitness levels were assessed at both the beginning and end of the program, during which participants completed a questionnaire to evaluate their personality type and attitudes toward exercise.

Not all personality types exhibited strong inclinations. Agreeable and open individuals did not show a preference for a specific type of exercise.

“Nonetheless, agreeableness and openness can influence how we participate in health behaviors in different ways, such as the types of exercises we are willing to try,” Ronka added.

“As long as you do not enjoy a specific session, don’t worry,” she concluded. “You can always try something different.”

About our experts

Flaminia Ronka is an associate professor at the Institute of Sports, Exercise, and Health at the University of London. Her research focuses on motor neuroscience and the connection between movement and cognition. Ronka also collaborates with British police to enhance officer wellbeing and performance.

Read more

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Keylistbones Emerged in Bird Ancestors Millions of Years Earlier Than Previously Believed

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A group of paleontologists from Yale University and Stony Brook University made a significant discovery while studying dinosaur fossils, including two bird species found in the Gobi Desert, Mongolia.

This scene illustrates the oviraptorid dinosaur Citipati appearing astonished as it rests on sand dunes. The creature raises its arms in a threat display, exposing its wrists and emphasizing the small, relocated, closed carpal bones (highlighted in blue x-ray). Image credit: Henry S. Sharp.

For years, the identity of a particular carpal bone in the bird’s wrist was a scientific enigma, until researchers determined it functioned as a trap.

This bone, originally resembling a kneecap-like sesame bone, shifted from its original position in the wrist, replacing another carpal bone known as Urna.

Positions in modern birds indicate a link that enables the bird to automatically fold its wings when it bends.

The bone’s large V-shaped notch allows for the alignment of hand bones to prevent dislocation during flight.

Consequently, this bone plays a crucial role in the bird’s forelimb and is integral for flight.

“The carpal bone in modern birds is a rare wrist bone that initially forms within muscle tendons, resembling knee-like bones, but eventually takes the place of the ‘normal’ wrist bones known as Urna,” commented one researcher.

“It is closely associated with the muscle tissue of the arm, linking flying muscle movement to wrist articulation when integrated into the wrist.”

“This integration is particularly vital for wing stabilization during flight.”

In their recent study, Dr. Bhullar and his team analyzed two Late Cretaceous fossils: Troodontid (birds of prey, related to Velociraptor) and citipati cf. osmorusca (an oviraptorid with a long neck and beakless jaw).

“We were fortunate to have two rigorously preserved theropod wrists for this analysis,” said Alex Rubenstal, a paleontologist from Yale University.

“The wrist bones are small and well-preserved, but they tend to shift during decay and preservation, complicating their position for interpretation.”

“Observing this small bone in its correct position enabled me to thoroughly interpret the fossil wrists we had on hand, as well as those from previous studies.”

“James Napoli, a vertebrate paleontologist and evolutionary biologist at Stony Brook University, noted:

“While it’s unclear how many times dinosaurs learned to fly, it’s fascinating that experiments with flight appear only after they adapted to the wrist joint.”

“This adaptation may have established an automated mechanism found in present-day birds, although further research on dinosaur wrist bones is necessary to validate this hypothesis.”

Placing their findings within an evolutionary framework, the authors concluded that it was not merely birds but rather theropod dinosaurs that underwent the confinement of this adaptation by the origin of Penalaptra, a group of theropods that includes Dromaeosaurids and Oviraptorosaurs like Velociraptor.

Overall, this group of dinosaurs exhibited bird-like features, including the emergence of feathered wings, indicating that flight evolved at least twice, if not up to five times.

“The evolutionary replacement of Urna was a gradual process occurring much deeper in history than previously understood,” stated the researchers.

“In recent decades, our understanding of theropod dinosaur anatomy and evolution has expanded significantly, revealing many classical ‘bird-like’ traits such as thin-walled bones, larger brains, and feathers.

“Our findings suggest that avian construction is consistent with a topological pattern traced back to the origin of Penalaptra.”

The team’s paper was published in the journal Nature on July 9, 2025.

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JG Napoli et al. Theropod wrist reorganization preceded the origins of bird flight. Nature, Published online on July 9, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09232-3

Source: www.sci.news

New Research Indicates Mars Was Warm and Wet 3.7 Billion Years Ago

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Planetary scientists have identified over 15,000 km of ancient riverbeds in the Noachis Terra region of Mars’ southern highlands, indicating that the planet may have been significantly wetter than previously believed.

This image depicts a flat upper eroded river wavy ridge above Mars, with dunes moving over it. Image credits: NASA/JPL/University of Arizona.

The nature of Mars’ climate during the Noatian-Hesperian transition, which occurred around 3.7 billion years ago, is still being debated. This period saw significant geological and climatic changes, as well as the formation of surface features like valley networks and lakes associated with liquid water.

There are two prevailing theories: the first suggests that a warm and wet environment followed early Mars, allowing liquid water to persist on the surface for an extended time. The second posits that Mars has generally been cold and dry, with flowing water created sporadically by melting ice during brief climate shifts.

In Noachis Terra, climate models predicting “warm and humid” conditions suggest significant precipitation levels.

A recent study led by Open University Ph.D. student Adam Losekoot and his team analyzed the region’s wavy ridges, also known as inverse channels.

“These formations likely resulted from sediments laid down by rivers that solidified, later exposed through the erosion of surrounding materials,” noted the lead researcher.

“Similar ridges have been identified in various Martian terrains.”

“Their presence implies that flowing water once traversed the area, with precipitation being the most probable source,” he added.

The team found that river-wave ridges are widespread throughout Noachis Terra, amounting to over 15,000 km in total length.

While many segments are isolated, some systems extend several hundred kilometers.

“Exploring Mars, particularly less altered regions like Noachis Terra, is thrilling because they have remained relatively unchanged for billions of years,” Losekoot commented.

“It acts as a time capsule that captures fundamental geological processes in ways that are impossible to observe on Earth.”

In their investigation, the researchers utilized data from three orbital devices: the Context Camera (CTX), the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA), and the High-Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE).

These datasets enabled them to map the locations, lengths, and forms of the ridge systems across various areas.

“Our findings present new evidence indicating that Mars was once a much more dynamic and complex planet than we suppose,” they stated.

“The size and interconnectivity of these ridges suggest that liquid water existed for an extended period, indicating that Noachis Terra experienced warm, wet conditions for a geologically significant time.

“These results challenge the conventional belief that Mars has been predominantly cold and dry, with valleys formed only by sporadic, short-term meltwater from ice sheets.”

The scientists presented their results on July 10th at the National Astronomical Conference of the Royal Astronomical Society 2025 in Durham, England.

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Adam Losekoot et al. The history of the rivers of Noachis Terra, Mars. NAM 2025

Source: www.sci.news

New Neornithischian Dinosaurs Discovered in China

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Paleontologists have announced the discovery of what they believe to be a new species of early-running Neonysikhia dinosaurs, part of the Jurassic Yangliao Biota in northern China.

Skeleton of Plasaurustinron shown in side view. Image credit: Hailong Zhang.

Named Plasaurustinron, this newly identified dinosaur species lived in what is now China approximately 160 million years ago during the Jurassic period.

The ancient reptiles are part of what is known as the Yanliao Biota, a Jurassic ecosystem that included dinosaurs, mammals, amphibians, insects, lizards, and numerous plants.

“The Yanliao Biota is one of China’s most significant Mesozoic Lagerstättes, comprising fossil communities from the Jiulongshan and Tiaojishan formations, dating from 168 to 157 million years ago,” according to researchers from the China Academy of Sciences and Yunnan University.

“Overall, between 54 and 58 vertebrate species have been reported from the Yanliao Biota, which includes nine non-avian dinosaurs.”

“The Yanliao Biota preserves a large array of vertebrate material from various species, offering valuable insights into major paleontological milestones, such as the emergence of birds and the early evolution of mammals.”

“However, all non-avian dinosaurs found within the Yanliao Biota are small ceratopsians, while Ornithischia is represented by merely one species likely from the Jehol Biota.”

“This contrasts sharply with other contemporary Chinese terrestrial faunas, like the Shishugou and Shaximiao Faunas, where body sizes and taxonomic compositions are far more diverse.”

Plasaurustinron belongs to the group known as Neornithischia (New Ornithischians), a category of dinosaurs within the order Ornithischia.

First identified in 1985, Neornithischians are characterized by a thick layer of asymmetric enamel on the inner surfaces of their lower teeth.

“Neornithischia is a significant group of dinosaurs with early origins traceable to the central Jurassic region and possibly represented by several early extinction species such as Sanxiasaurus, Agirisaurus, and Hexine Rusaurus found in China,” said the paleontologist.

“Besides China, Neornithischian fossils have been reported from Jurassic regions in Eastern Europe, Scotland, and other geological periods and countries.”

“Neornithischia experienced rapid diversification into numerous species during the Cretaceous period.”

Well-preserved specimens of Plasaurustinron were discovered in the Tiaojishan formation in the Hebei Province of China.

“The fossil comprises nearly complete skeletons encased in slabs of brownish-red sandstone,” the researchers noted.

“The specimen retains most of its skull and complete post-cranial skeleton.”

According to scientists, Plasaurustinron was a small neornithischian dinosaur.

“The specimen’s total length is approximately 72.2 cm (measured from the rostral end of the skull to the caudal end of the last preserved vertebra), whereas the skull measures around 8 cm,” they mentioned.

The identification of this new species enhances our understanding of the biodiversity of the Yangliao Biota and the evolutionary relationships of early-running neornithischians.

“Phylogenetic analyses position Plasaurustinron at the base of Neornithischia, in proximity to Agirisaurus, the earliest neornithischian known,” the authors explained.

“This new species marks the first Neonysichian found within the Yangliao ecosystem and will help bridge the temporal and geographical gaps in the distribution of Neornithischia in China.”

“Additionally, the preserved remains of Plasaurustinron represent the second documented occurrence of ossified laryngeal structures among non-avian dinosaurs.”

“The laryngeal structures observed in Plasaurustinron suggest the presence of ossified laryngeal devices across other dinosaur species.”

In a manner resembling the arc shape found in modern birds, Plasaurustinron may have possessed bird-like vocalizations.

The discovery of Plasaurustinron is detailed in a paper published in the journal PeerJ.

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Y. Yang et al. 2025. A new neornithischian dinosaur from the Jurassic Tiaojishan formation in northern China. PeerJ 13:E19664; doi:10.7717/peerj.19664

Source: www.sci.news

You Can Lose Weight Without Regularly Using Medications Like Ozempic

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications might not need as frequent dosing as currently prescribed

Associated Press/Alamy

Individuals using GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic can still achieve weight loss despite facing difficulties in obtaining their prescriptions.

Medications like Semaglutide, marketed under the names Ozempic and Wegovy, have transformed obesity treatment, yet the increasing demand has led to significant supply shortages. In the U.S., changes in insurance coverage for these drugs can lead to confusion. For instance, CVS Caremark, which assists insurers in managing their prescription plans, recently discontinued coverage for Eli Lilly’s Zepbound, linked to the GLP-1 drug tilzepatide.

To investigate the impact of this confusion, Kaelen Medeiros and a colleague from a New York firm analyzed data from over 6,000 participants in the U.S. who enrolled in their program for a year between 2021 and 2024.

The program provided access to an app delivering bi-weekly lessons aimed at optimizing lifestyle choices such as nutrition and physical activity. Additionally, participants enjoyed regular one-on-one consultations with a health coach who assisted in applying these lessons. For an extra charge, all participants received GLP-1 medications, like Ozempic, mainly on a weekly basis.

By the program’s conclusion, 73% of participants experienced at least one disruption in GLP-1 access, defined as missing the medication for a minimum of 13 weeks. These participants received, on average, eight months’ supply of GLP-1 over the year-long trial. Participants lost an average of 14% of their body weight, compared to a 17% reduction among those who did not face such disruptions. The findings were shared at the Endocrinology Society’s annual general meeting in San Francisco on July 14th.

A similar rate of weight loss was observed in the program’s second year, regardless of the consistency of GLP-1 supply. “Although this confusion is concerning, it’s encouraging to see significant clinically relevant weight loss achieved despite it,” Medeiros remarks.

“This study is promising,” says Priya Jaisinghani from NYU Langone Health, New York. However, further research is needed to assess how the health coaching and lifestyle lessons provided to participants influenced weight loss, she notes. The researchers didn’t measure the engagement levels of participants in this segment of the program. Medeiros pointed out that variations in adherence might have impacted the outcomes.

Some participants also took metformin, a medication for type 2 diabetes that can aid in weight loss. Nevertheless, metformin is associated with only about a 2% reduction in body weight.

Topics:

Medical drugs /
Weight loss

Source: www.newscientist.com

Easter’s Rise: Overlooking New England’s Traditions

Posted on July 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The Nor’easter Storm that caused flooding in Lynn, Massachusetts in January 2024

CJ Gunther/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

The notorious New England storm system, dubbed the Norwegian Star, has intensified since the 1940s, posing an increased threat to the Northeastern U.S. coast, likely due to elevated ocean temperatures.

“The cause of rising sea surface temperatures is clear: greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on trends,” states Michael Mann from the University of Pennsylvania.

Mann and his team have compiled data on nor’easters and their trajectories over the last 85 years. They employed statistical techniques to discern patterns in maximum wind speeds and variations in precipitation during storms.

“Our findings indicate that while we couldn’t pinpoint significant changes in the average intensity of these storms, the most powerful storms are indeed gaining strength,” Mann revealed.

This phenomenon relates to how the sea temperatures that power the storms interact with various factors, including wind shear, influencing overall strength. Weaker storms tend to be more influenced by elements other than ocean temperature, which dictates potential storm strength. “Bringing a bit of personality to the analysis, these storms have the chance to realize their full potential,” Mann commented.

While hurricanes at tropical latitudes have been known to behave this way, the reaction of nor’easters to rising temperatures remains less understood. “Unlike hurricanes, nor’easters draw energy from a variety of elements,” notes Brian Tan from the University of Albany, New York.

A slight increase in both intensity and precipitation has been observed. The alteration in wind speed of the strongest storms is just shy of 2 meters per second since 1940.

Combined with rising sea levels, storm surges are causing flooding along the coast, while increases in snow and rain contribute to flooding inland. “The primary hazard is water,” Tan emphasizes.

The article was revised on July 14th, 2025

We have disclosed the strongest changes in nor’easter wind speeds.

Topic:

Hurricane/
Extreme Weather

Source: www.newscientist.com

Integrated Fire Extinguisher: A Safeguard Against Battery Explosions

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Lithium-based batteries, such as those used in electric vehicles, face the danger of overheating

yonhap/epa-fe/shutterstock

Batteries enhanced with polymeric materials that emit chemicals to suppress flames at elevated temperatures are considerably less prone to catching fire. This innovation can markedly improve the safety of battery-operated devices, including electric vehicles and medical equipment.

“Our method enhances safety in conventional liquid lithium batteries,” says Ying Chan from the Chemistry Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. “It functions like a safety valve. These chemicals help to stifle flammable gases before they ignite, thus preventing fires.”

Zhang and her team developed and examined polymeric materials that extinguished flames in prototype lithium metal batteries. These batteries are presently being utilized, but upcoming versions are expected to potentially replace current batteries in electric vehicles and portable electronic gadgets. Lithium metals can store ten times more energy than widely used lithium-ion batteries by utilizing pure lithium in place of graphite for the negative electrodes.

The researchers incrementally raised the temperature of the prototype battery along with standard lithium metal batteries to 50°C. When the temperature exceeded 100°C, both batteries began to overheat, yet the special polymeric material in the prototype began to break down autonomously, releasing chemicals that functioned as “microscopic fire extinguishers.”

At temperatures surpassing 120°C, the standard battery without safety mechanisms overheated to 1000°C within 13 minutes and ignited. In contrast, under similar circumstances, the prototype battery’s peak temperature reached 220°C without any fire or explosion.

This “innovative material science strategy” suggests that it’s not only lithium metal batteries that can benefit, but also specific lithium-ion and lithium-sulfur batteries which may lower the risk of battery fires and overheating. Jaggit Nanda at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, California, expresses that this could lead to safer batteries, especially for electric vehicles and aircraft.

Fire control technology has been incorporated into current battery manufacturing as a “short-term safety enhancement,” and the industry is actively seeking a long-term solution that encompasses alternative battery designs and materials, according to Zhang. However, she notes that integrating polymeric materials into the battery necessitates a re-manufacturing process.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

AI Uncovers 386 Potential Antibiotics in Animal Venom

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

University of Pennsylvania researchers used a deep learning tool named Apex to explore a worldwide venom dataset in search of new antibiotic candidates.

Guan et al. Vococcus is a rich source of previously hidden antibiotic scaffolds, showing that merging experimental validation with extensive computational mining can enhance the search for urgently needed antibiotics. Image credits: Guan et al., doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-60051-6.

The increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens, especially Gram-negative bacteria, underscores the critical demand for new treatments.

Venococcus represents a vast, largely untapped source of bioactive molecules with potential antibacterial properties.

In their recent study, researcher César de La Fuente and his team analyzed a comprehensive database containing 16,123 poison proteins and over 40 million poison-encoded peptides via a vertex deep learning model.

The algorithm successfully pinpointed 386 candidate peptides that differ in structure and function from known antimicrobial peptides.

“These poisons are evolutionary wonders, yet their antibacterial capabilities have not been thoroughly examined,” said Dr. de la Fuente.

“Apex can rapidly explore extensive chemical landscapes, identifying exceptional peptides that combat some of the most stubborn pathogens worldwide.”

From the potential candidates selected by AI, scientists synthesized 58 peptide variants for laboratory assessment.

Remarkably, 53 of these demonstrated efficacy against drug-resistant bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, at doses safe for human red blood cells.

“By combining computational analysis with traditional laboratory techniques, we achieved one of the most thorough antibiotic studies to date,” noted Dr. Marcelo Torres, co-author of the research.

“The platform has mapped over 2,000 novel antibacterial motifs, enhancing its capacity to eliminate or suppress bacterial growth through short, specific amino acid sequences within proteins or peptides.”

“Our team is now advancing the top peptide candidates towards the development of new antibiotics, optimizing them through medicinal chemistry modulation.”

results will be published in the journal Nature Communications.

____

C. Guan et al. 2025. A global assessment of venom data for antibacterial discovery using artificial intelligence techniques. Nat Commun 16, 6446; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-60051-6

Source: www.sci.news

Maryland’s Blue Crabs and Their Harvesters Face a Challenging Season

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Annapolis, Maryland – Two species are in jeopardy within the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland.

This season, the surveys for legendary crustaceans reached one of the lowest levels ever recorded. This has driven up prices at restaurants as disposable income tightened and inflation increased costs for food and other consumer items.

Luke McFadden, 29, who has been crabbing since he was 18, mentioned that the season got off to a tough start.

“We’re doing our best to serve our customers at the lowest price possible to cover our expenses,” he remarked. “But I get it; it’s not easy.”

Krabal Luke McFadden.
Cesar Gonzalez / NBC News

At a family-owned crab house, Pit Boys, Seafood Manager Charlie George indicated that customer prices range from $75 to $140 based on size. This is “much higher” than previous years due to the shortage of crabs in the bay.

According to the 2025 Blue Crab Advisory Report, the overall blue crab population has declined to approximately 238 million, down from 317 million last year. This marks the second lowest level since the annual winter dredge survey commenced in 1990.

Alison Colden, Executive Director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, attributes the decline to pollution, climate change, and the encroachment of invasive blue catfish throughout the Chesapeake Bay. These catfish were introduced in the 1970s and 1980s to enhance recreational fishing.

“Since then, they’ve proliferated across nearly every river and stream in the Chesapeake Bay region,” Colden remarked. “They are voracious predators.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Hubble Space Telescope Reveals Breathtaking Images of Ancient Spherical Clusters

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent images from the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope highlight NGC 1786, a spherical cluster located in the constellation of Dorado.

This Hubble image depicts NGC 1786, a spherical cluster approximately 163,000 light-years away in the Dorado constellation. The color images were created from various exposures captured in visible and near-infrared regions of the spectrum using Hubble’s Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3). Three filters sampled different wavelengths. Colors were assigned by applying distinct hues to each monochromatic image related to individual filters. Image credits: NASA/ESA/Hubble/M. Monelli/M Hözsaraç.

Spherical clusters are ancient star systems, bound together by gravity, typically spanning around 100-200 light-years.

These clusters host hundreds of thousands, or even millions, of stars. The significant masses at the cluster’s core attract stars inward, forming a spherical configuration.

Considered among the universe’s oldest known objects, spherical clusters are remnants from the early Galactic era. It’s believed that all galaxies harbor a population of these structures.

The Large Magellanic Cloud, a neighboring dwarf galaxy located about 163,000 light-years away, possesses roughly 60 spherical clusters, including NGC 1786.

This spherical cluster, also referred to as ESO 56-39, was discovered on December 20, 1835, by the British astronomer John Herschel.

“Data from the new image is derived from spherical clusters within Milky Way galaxies, including the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds, as well as Fornax dwarf spheroidal galaxies,” stated Hubble astronomers.

“Our galaxy contains over 150 of these extensively studied ancient spherical formations.

“Due to its stability and longevity, it acts as a galactic time capsule, preserving stars from the galaxy’s formative stages.”

“While it was once believed that all stars in spherical clusters formed nearly simultaneously, our research on ancient clusters within our galaxy has revealed multiple populations of stars of varying ages,” they further explained.

“To utilize spherical clusters as historical markers, it’s essential to comprehend their formation and the origins of stars from different ages.”

“This observational program analyzed older spherical clusters like NGC 1786 in external galaxies to determine whether they contained multiple star populations.”

“Such studies can provide insights into the original formation mechanisms of the Large Magellanic Cloud as well as the Milky Way galaxy.”

Source: www.sci.news

Are Contact Lens Batteries the Future of Energy Storage?

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Faraday 2 battery developed by Superdielectrics

Superdielectrics

SEI 258681427 — Faraday 2 battery developed by Superdielectrics

Superdielectrics

The innovative battery storage solution, utilizing SuperCapacitor Technology, may “jump” traditional lithium-ion batteries, transforming the landscape for renewable energy storage and use, according to its creator.

On July 8th, British firm SuperDielectrics unveiled its new prototype storage system, dubbed the Faraday 2, at an event in central London. Incorporating a polymer designed for contact lenses, this system boasts a lower energy density than lithium-ion batteries but claims numerous advantages, such as quicker charging, enhanced safety, reduced costs, and a recyclable framework.

“The current energy storage market at home is reminiscent of the computer market around 1980,” said SuperDielectrics’ Marcus Scott while addressing journalists and investors. “Access to clean, reliable, and affordable electricity isn’t a future goal; it’s now a practical reality, and we believe we are creating the technology to support it.”

Energy storage is pivotal for the global transition to green energy, crucial for providing stable electricity despite the intermittent nature of wind and solar power. While lithium-ion batteries dominate the storage technology market, they present challenges, including high costs, limited resources, complex recycling processes, and safety risks like overheating explosions.

With its aqueous battery design grounded in supercapacitor technology, SuperDielectrics aims to address these challenges. Supercapacitors store energy on material surfaces, facilitating extremely rapid charge and discharge cycles, albeit with lower energy density.

The company’s design employs a zinc electrolyte, separated from the carbon electrode by a polymer membrane. SuperDielectrics asserts that this membrane technology is cost-effective, utilizing abundant raw materials, thus unlocking a new generation of supercapacitors with significant energy storage capabilities.

During the event, the company’s CEO Jim Heathcote mentioned that the technology could outperform lithium-ion systems in renewable energy storage.

The Faraday 2 builds on the earlier Faraday 1 prototype launched last year, claiming to double the energy density. The Faraday 2 operates at 1-40 Wh/kg, allowing for faster charging times, which will harness fleeting spikes in renewable energy production, as noted by Heathcote.

However, Gareth Hinds from the UK National Physical Laboratory points out that the technology still lags behind lithium-ion batteries, which can achieve around 300 Wh/kg at the cell level. Andrew Abbott of the University of Leicester adds that the energy density now offered by SuperDielectrics is akin to that of lead-acid batteries commonly used in automobiles and backup power systems. “There are no immediate plans among leading manufacturers to transition,” he states.

Marcus Newborough, scientific advisor at SuperDielectrics, acknowledges that they are still “on a journey” to enhance the system’s energy density. “We are aware of our high theoretical energy density,” he mentioned, noting the company’s commitment to realizing this potential in the coming years, aiming for a commercial energy storage solution ready for launch by the end of 2027.

Despite the optimism, Hinds remains skeptical about the technology competing with lithium-ion batteries regarding energy density. “Clearly, it’s an early-stage development, and while they continue to push for higher energy density, achieving lithium-ion levels is a significant challenge due to strict limitations,” he comments.

Nonetheless, he suggests that there could be a market for larger storage solutions that provide lower energy density but at a much more affordable price than lithium-ion batteries and with a longer lifespan.

Sam Cooper from Imperial College, London, concurs: “If we can develop a system offering equal energy storage capacity to the Tesla Powerwall, regardless of size or weight, and at a cost of 95% less, that would represent a groundbreaking achievement.”

Source: www.newscientist.com

Machine Learning Aids in Discovering New Planets

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers are focused on discovering planets that closely resemble Earth in size, composition, and temperature. Earth-like planets face numerous challenges in this quest. These planets are small and rocky, making them hard to detect. The current methods of planet hunting tend to favor gas giants, complicating matters. For a planet to have temperatures similar to Earth, it must orbit its host star at a similar distance, similar to Earth’s orbit around the Sun. This means it takes about a year to complete its orbit around the star. This raises an additional challenge for astronomers: locating Earth-like planets around a star requires telescopes to be dedicated to monitoring them for more than a year.

To maximize efficiency and reduce time spent on monitoring, scientists are seeking alternative methods to identify promising stars for in-depth searches before committing resources. A team of astronomers explored whether observable characteristics of planetary systems could indicate the presence of Earth-like planets. They found that the arrangement of known planets, along with their mass, radius, and proximity to their nearest star, could help predict the likelihood of Earth-like planets existing in those systems.

How effectively did the team test their approach using Machine Learning? They initiated their study by compiling a sample of planetary systems, some with Earth-like planets and some without. Since astronomers have only discovered about 5,000 stars that host orbiting planets, this sample size was too small for training machine learning models effectively. Consequently, the team generated three sets of planetary systems using a computational framework that simulates how planets form, based on the Bern model.

The Bern model initiates with 20 dust clumps, measuring around 600 meters, which is approximately 2,000 feet. These clumps help kickstart the accumulation of gas and dust into full-sized planets over a timespan of 20 million years. The planetary system evolves to a stable state over more than 10 billion years, leading to a Synthetic Planetary System that astronomers can utilize in their datasets. Using this model, they created 24,365 systems with sun-sized stars, 14,559 systems with similar stars, and 14,958 systems with different types of stars. Each group was further subdivided into those containing Earth-like planets and those without.

With these larger datasets in hand, the team utilized machine learning techniques known as Random Forest Models to categorize planetary systems based on their potential to host Earth-like planets. In a random forest setup, outputs are determined as either true or false through various components called trees that outline subsections of the entire training dataset. The team concluded that if a planetary system could host one or more Earth-like planets, the Random Forest algorithm should categorize it as “true.” They evaluated the algorithm’s accuracy using a metric known as the Precision Score.

The random forests made decisions based on specific characteristics within each synthetic planetary system. These factors included the number of planets, the presence of similar systems observed by astronomers, the system’s total planet count, and the mass and distance of planets over 100 times that of Earth, as well as the characteristics of the stars involved. The team allocated 80% of the synthetic planetary systems for training data, reserving the remaining 20% for initial testing of the completed algorithm.

The findings revealed that the random forest models accurately predicted where Earth-like planets are likely to exist with an impressive precision score of 0.99. Building on this success, they tested the model against data from 1,567 stars of similar sizes, each with at least one known orbiting planet. Out of these, 44 met the algorithm’s threshold for having Earth-like planets, suggesting that the majority of systems in this subset are stable enough to host such planets.

The team concluded that their models can effectively identify candidate stars for hosting Earth-like planets; however, they issued a caution. One concern is that the synthesis of planetary systems is time-consuming and resource-intensive, limiting the availability of training data. A more significant caution is rooted in the assumption that the Bern model accurately simulates the layered structure of planets. They urged researchers to rigorously validate their models for future theoretical work.

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Source: sciworthy.com

Much of this Century’s Warming May Result from Decreased Air Pollution

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Coal Power Plants Contribute to Cooling via Sulphate Pollution

Frank Hermann/Getty Images

The presence of sulfate air pollution causes clouds to darken and reduces sunlight. This factor could contribute to recent temperature increases beyond just greenhouse gas effects.

“Two-thirds of the global warming observed since 2001 is attributed not to rising CO2 levels, but to decreasing SO2 levels,” says Peter Cox from the University of Exeter, UK.

While some sunlight is reflected and some is absorbed before being released as heat, increased carbon dioxide levels enhance the retention of this heat. This greenhouse effect is a primary driver of global warming, but the albedo, or reflectivity of the planet, significantly influences temperature.

Since 2001, satellite instruments like Ceres have measured sunlight reflection and absorption. These observations reveal a decline in sunlight reflectivity, indicating a darker planet with diminishing albedo, leading to more intense warming.

Factors contributing to this reduced albedo include diminished snow and sea ice as well as fewer clouds. However, Cox and Margaux Marchant’s analysis of Ceres data spanning 2001 to 2019 suggests that the most significant contributor is the darkening of clouds.

Industrial and maritime sulfate emissions are known to enhance the density of cloud droplets, improving their reflectivity. This principle underpins a proposed geoengineering technique called Marine Cloud Brightening. However, recent shifts away from high-sulfur fuels like coal have led to reductions in these emissions.

Thus, Merchant and Cox explored whether the observed loss of cloud brightness is linked to reduced SO2 levels and found correlations. They presented initial findings at the Exeter Climate Forum recently.

These findings are promising, as the accelerated warming trends indicate that some researchers fear the global climate sensitivity (the temperature rise associated with increased atmospheric CO2) could be at the upper range of estimates. While the short-term effects of reduced pollution contribute to warming, this suggests greater warming potential as CO2 emissions rise if cloud darkening results from increased CO2.

“If this darkening signifies a genuine shift in cloud feedback indicating greater sensitivity than previously thought, rather than a mere result of decreased SO2 emissions, it is promising news,” stated Laura Wilcox from the University of Reading, UK, who was not involved in the research.

Wilcox notes limitations in the datasets utilized by Marchant and Cox; for instance, the SO2 contamination data may have changed since their analysis.

Furthermore, two recent studies suggest dimming is largely due to reduced cloud cover, not darker clouds. “The factors behind these recent darkening trends are currently being intensely debated,” she says.

Overall, Wilcox adds that her research supports the view that the recent acceleration of global warming is chiefly driven by reduced air pollution, and this effect is likely to be temporary.

topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

Exercise Science: Surprising Advantages of Isometric Exercise

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

“Isometric movements like planks can help alleviate pain.”

Sutulastock/Shutterstock

Brunette woman performing isometric exercise with a pink exercise mat. ShutterStock ID 2490925757. — “Isometric movements like planks can help alleviate pain.”

Sutulastock/Shutterstock

In my previous article, I discussed how isometric exercises, which involve holding muscles in a fixed position, can effectively lower blood pressure. Since then, I’ve started integrating them into my workouts. This leads me to ask: Do these exercises provide additional benefits?

The answer is yes—and some benefits were surprising. Isometric exercises, such as planks (as shown) and wall squats, can alleviate pain, prevent injuries, and significantly enhance fitness in an efficient manner. In fact, most individuals will likely gain from incorporating these into their workout regimes.

One of the most notable advantages of isometric exercises is their ability to build strength with minimal movement, making them less physically demanding compared to more dynamic workouts. They are indeed effective: a review revealed that isometric training over 42-100 days could boost muscle strength by as much as 92%.

These strength gains can be highly targeted. Athletes frequently employ isometric exercises to strengthen the challenging aspects of their movements, like the lowest point in a squat. This focused training may enhance overall performance, as researchers have discovered that isometric training could surpass jump-based training in terms of durability.

Moreover, these exercises are gentle on the body, making them easy to include at the beginning or end of a standard workout, providing extra benefits. They serve as excellent warm-ups and research has shown they can reduce muscle soreness post-exercise without hindering running performance. This contrasts with static stretching, which doesn’t alleviate muscle pain and can actually decrease performance.

Incorporating some isometric movements into your warm-up routine can also help in preventing injuries. Slow, controlled training that targets less active stages during workouts is commonly used to guard against hamstring injuries in soccer players; however, isometric exercise is found to be more effective, according to a study.

While the exact mechanism remains unclear, it appears that isometric exercises can activate the signaling pathways between nerves and muscles, enhancing muscle responsiveness during workouts. This could help in correcting muscle imbalances, which are often a source of injuries.

These advantages are not limited to athletes. A review published this year demonstrated that isometric training significantly reduces pain and strengthens muscles in individuals with osteoarthritis. Because they are low-impact, these exercises are perfect for beginners and those with limited mobility due to injuries.

Considering their myriad benefits, isometric exercises have become a consistent part of my training routine. Furthermore, because they require no equipment and minimal space, I can perform them almost anywhere at any time.

Grace Wade is a health reporter for New Scientist, based in the US.

For more projects, please check out newscientist.com/maker

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Foundation Review: The New Season Promises Drama but Ultimately Falls Flat

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Kassian Billton stars as Dawn, a clone of the galaxy.

Patrick Redmond/Apple TV+

Foundation
Apple TV+

Mel Brooks and Carl Reiner had a nightly movie ritual, often indulging in cheesy films where phrases like “ensure you have boundaries!” get thrown around. So, why bring this up in relation to Foundation? This adaptation of Isaac Asimov’s work started with provocative ideas but has since become a formulaic experience—something like a ticking clock.

It’s been two years since the last season of Foundation, so if you’re a bit hazy about the plot, here’s a quick recap: the empire has long been governed by genetic dynasties. Three clone emperors—representing dawn, day, and dusk—come to rule, under the watchful eye of Demerzel (Laura Birn), the last existing robot. Approximately 150 years after Season 2, the first Foundation, conceived to replace the empire, now governs the outer planets.

Hari Seldon (Jared Harris), with the ability to foresee the empire’s fall through the mathematical theory of psychohistory, has uploaded his consciousness to a secure location just before the impending “Seldon Crisis.” These crises signify pivotal moments that can plunge the galaxy into epochs of darkness. Meanwhile, the second Foundation—a secretive colony with telepathic prowess—operates covertly, aiming to prevent the third Seldon crisis, led by a version of Seldon and his protégé, Dornik (Rurbell).

Visually stunning—an array of exquisitely rendered planets render the cosmos seemingly infinite.

That’s the essential backdrop as we venture into Foundation‘s third season. There’s much to unpack, especially with new characters joining the narrative. There’s Quento (Cherry Jones), the inaugural ambassador of the Foundation, navigating a complicated rapport with the Empire; Han Pritcher (Brandon P. Bell), a spy operating between the two Foundations; and Toran Marrow (Cody Fern), a descendant of Wily Hober Marrow from Season 2.

This ensemble is designed to create a rich and intricate universe filled with well-crafted characters. The show skillfully merges drama with grand concepts, particularly involving DeMerselle, giving it a visually spectacular quality as numerous planets are rendered beautifully.

However, herein lies the paradox: while Foundation strives for intellectual stimulation through its lore and epic scope, many of its plotlines come off as ridiculous and superficial. The most captivating elements—the two Seldons, the potential alliance between the Foundation and the Empire, and the intrigues among the three emperors—remain largely unexplored. The narrative often feels intellectually shallow at times. And don’t get me started on the awkward dialogue; phrases like “we have a partnership” made me cringe, not to mention the repeated insistence to “ensure you have boundaries!”

It’s disheartening to watch a promising show decline while retaining traces of its former brilliance. After viewing nine episodes, I’m hopeful the tenth episode will tie everything together, much like Seldon’s Vault, with its buried secrets finally unearthed. Until then, whether you can overlook its shortcomings may determine your enjoyment of Foundation, which feels a step removed from the television gems it once resembled, at least offering some form of unsatisfactory entertainment.

Recommendations for Further Viewing…

Andor
Disney+
Foundation caters to historical enthusiasts intrigued by civilization’s cycles. For a similar experience, check out this Star Wars series that chronicles key figures in a very different empire’s downfall—something quite rare.

The Rise and Fall of the Galactic Empire
Chris Kempshall
While still rooted in Star Wars, this narrative of Emperor Palpatine’s 24-year reign, depicted from an in-universe historian’s viewpoint, makes for an engaging read.

The Art and Science of Writing Science Fiction

Engage in the craft of science fiction writing this weekend by creating new worlds and artistic creations.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

LIGO Uncovers the Most Massive Black Hole Collision Ever Recorded

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Illustration of black hole merger

Shutterstock / Jurik Peter

New records for black holes have transformed our understanding of the universe’s most extreme entities.

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) began its groundbreaking detection of gravitational waves—ripples in the fabric of spacetime—ten years ago, unveiling nearly 100 black hole collisions. On November 23, 2023, Rigo announced receiving a signal described as “an extraordinary interpretation that defies explanation.” According to Sophie Binnie from the California Institute of Technology, her team ultimately concluded that it corresponded to the largest black hole merger ever recorded.

One of the merging black holes was approximately 100 times the mass of the sun, while the other neared 140 solar masses. Previous records featured black holes that were almost half as massive, primarily due to earlier mergers. Team member Mark Hannam from Cardiff University, UK, emphasized that these black holes were not only immense but also spinning at such high speeds that they challenged mathematical models of the universe regarding their formation.

According to Hannam, the masses of these black holes exceed those typically formed from the collapse of aging stars, suggesting they likely resulted from earlier mergers between smaller black holes. “It’s possible that multiple mergers have occurred,” he notes.

“A decade ago, we were astonished to find black holes around 30 solar masses. Now, we observe black holes over 100 solar masses,” adds Davide Gerosa from the University of Bicocca in Milan, Italy. He mentions that gravitational wave signals from these large, quickly rotating black holes are shorter and consequently more challenging to detect. Binnie presented her findings at the Edoardo Amaldi Conference on Gravitational Waves in Glasgow, England, on July 14.

Both Hannam and Binnie emphasize that future observations of similarly remarkable mergers are essential to further decipher these new signals, including unraveling the origins of black holes. As upgrades progress, LIGO is expected to detect more cosmic record-breakers. Yet, in May, the Trump administration proposed halving resources at the facility, which, in Hannam’s opinion, could render capturing new signals exceedingly difficult.

Topic:

Source: www.newscientist.com

What Your Dog Likely Understands When You Speak

Posted on July 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A closer look at the internet reveals numerous charming videos of dogs seemingly learning to “speak” with their owners by using electronic buttons pre-programmed to produce specific words, often referred to as soundboards.

Take, for instance, Labrador Copper. These Labradors press the “copper” and “eat” buttons when they’re craving cheese and tap “Where” and “Dad” when their owner is gone.

While it may seem impressive, the question arises: are these dogs truly communicating, or are they merely reacting to cues from their owners?

I was fascinated by Federico Rossano from the Department of Cognitive Sciences in San Diego, California, who enlisted the help of 59 dogs trained by their owners to utilize these soundboards.

While working from their homes, owners and researchers randomly pressed select buttons and recorded whether the dogs responded appropriately. For example, if the word “outside” was heard, dogs would likely approach the door after hearing a food bowl or another sound.

At least for some words, the answer was indeed “yes.” Dogs were significantly more likely to exhibit play-related behaviors upon hearing the word “play” and looked towards the door when they heard “outside.”

Are these dogs genuinely communicating, or are they simply reacting to their owners’ cues? – Photo credit: Aramie

Importantly, these responses were true regardless of whether the button was pressed by the owner or researcher; it didn’t matter who initiated the button press or verbalized the word.

This suggests that the dog isn’t merely reading body language from the owner but is actually processing the words themselves, according to Rossano.

So, is the debate settled? Not quite. The study indicates that dogs can recognize and respond to verbal cues (which we already knew), but critics argue that this doesn’t clarify what the words convey for dogs.

So when Bunny asks, “Where’s Dad?” and her owner replies, “He’s on a climbing trip now,” does she truly understand? For now, Bunny is the only one who knows.

This article answers the question posed by Hatty Kingston from Bristol: “Do dogs truly understand the words associated with soundboard buttons?”

Please email us to submit your questions Question @sciencefocus.com or Message Facebook, Twitter or Instagram Page (don’t forget to include your name and location).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Low Iron Levels Are Common, But They Can Be Improved: Here’s How to Naturally Boost Yours

Posted on July 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Recent reviews published in Lancet Hematology by Dr. Ashley Benson and Dr. Jamie Law at Oregon Health and Science University reveal that iron deficiency impacts nearly one in three women, making it the most prevalent nutritional deficiency globally.

This deficiency is crucial for energy production, brain development, and maintaining a robust immune system.

According to the World Health Organization, anemia affects 31% of women of reproductive age, 36% of pregnant women, and 40% of children under 5.

Inflammation can interfere with iron absorption, stemming from acute diseases or chronic conditions such as obesity. With rising global obesity and chronic disease rates, this creates additional challenges in tackling iron deficiency worldwide.

Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, as iron is vital for red blood cell production. Anemia is characterized by low hemoglobin levels, the protein that gives blood its red color and transports oxygen.

The World Health Organization reports that anemia affects 31% of adult women of reproductive age, 36% of pregnant women, and 40% of children under 5 years old. Approximately half of all global anemia cases result from iron deficiency. Common symptoms include pale skin, fatigue, shortness of breath, and irregular heartbeat (known as palpitations).

Iron deficiency poses serious health risks, especially when it causes anemia, including a weakened immune system, complications during pregnancy and childbirth, maternal and infant mortality, and delayed growth and brain development in children.

Diet can influence iron absorption. – Photo credit: Getty

The repercussions of iron deficiency are particularly severe for women and children, who are the most susceptible.

Menstruating women have a heightened need for iron due to monthly blood loss. Pregnant women require extra iron for the placenta, fetus, and increased blood volume. Children need iron for rapid growth and brain development, making adolescent girls—who are both growing and menstruating—especially vulnerable.

In their study, Benson and Law convened a panel of 26 experts alongside four patient representatives. Their collective recommendations advocate for a more positive and inclusive strategy for managing iron deficiency, particularly for at-risk populations.

The panel stressed the importance of regular screening during pregnancy and early childhood. They emphasized utilizing ferritin, a blood protein indicating liver iron storage, as a reliable marker for diagnosing iron deficiency and determining intervention timing.

If treatment is necessary, oral iron supplements are the first recommendation. They are effective, widely accessible, and cost-effective. For those experiencing side effects like nausea and constipation, the panel suggested taking supplements on alternate days to enhance tolerability. In more severe instances, or if oral iron proves ineffective, intravenous iron may be needed.

Lastly, the panel asserted that iron deficiency should not be viewed as an isolated issue, but rather part of the routine care for mothers and children, including pregnancy tests, child health visits, and nutrition programs.

Iron Advice

While some individuals may need treatments for iron deficiency, many cases can be prevented through daily dietary choices.

Begin by adding more iron-rich foods to your meals, such as pulses, legumes, green leafy vegetables, nuts, and iron-fortified cereals (opt for lower sugar options for kids and adolescents).

For those consuming animal products, limit intake to moderate amounts of lean meat—about 70g (2.5oz) per day, as recommended by the UK Eatwell Guide—which can provide easily absorbable iron.

If you primarily follow a plant-based diet, consider pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources like lemon juice, tomatoes, and strawberries to enhance iron absorption.

Avoid drinking tea or coffee during meals as polyphenols can hinder iron absorption; this applies to taking iron supplements as well. Consuming them with a vitamin C source, such as orange juice, can significantly improve absorption.

If you belong to a higher-risk group—such as menstruating individuals or caregivers of young children—or if you experience excessive fatigue, consult your doctor. A simple blood test can evaluate your iron levels. In children, iron deficiency may also manifest as unusual cravings, such as for ice or non-food items.

Iron deficiency is prevalent but manageable and often preventable. With awareness and mindful choices, maintaining healthy iron levels can be as straightforward as selecting what goes on your plate.

For more fact-checked news, visit the BBC Verification Website.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Why Knee Pain Increases with Age and How to Improve Flexibility

Posted on July 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Atrophy can affect nearly every part of our body, but the knees bear a particularly heavy burden as they age. Why? Because they are intricate anatomical structures with numerous components that undergo constant wear and tear.

As we grow older, the muscles supporting our knees weaken, and bone density declines. The cartilage that cushions our bones may wear thin, and the ligaments connecting them also lose elasticity.

This leads to stiffness, pain, reduced mobility, and those involuntary sounds we all make when we rise from the sofa.

Fortunately, like any machine, our knees can thrive with proper care. Understanding the risk factors for knee injuries and osteoarthritis is a crucial first step.

The main threats to healthy knees include excess weight and footwear lacking adequate support for multiple joints.

For instance, in 2021, French researchers found that Parkour athletes experienced an average of 1.7 knee or ankle injuries per 1,000 hours of training.

While this might not sound alarming, it can lead to long-term damage—affecting more than just those jumping off risky buildings.

A study focused on elite dancers revealed that knee injuries, such as meniscus tears, are among the most prevalent injuries.

Activities that involve impact on the legs or require rapid direction changes can strain the knees significantly. A severe ACL injury can sideline football players for up to a year.

Moreover, research suggests that ten to twenty years post-injury, about half of those affected may develop osteoarthritis linked to their original injury.

There’s also an ongoing debate about whether running is beneficial or detrimental to knee health. For example, some claim running on pavement can be as punishing as hitting the soles of your feet with a hammer for an hour.

As you age, the muscles that stabilize your knees become weaker and bone density decreases – Illustration credit: Daniel Bright

However, a 2017 study found no significant differences in the risk of knee osteoarthritis between runners and non-runners.

In fact, exercise is believed to strengthen joints. A 2023 study indicated that individuals engaged in strength training are up to 20% less likely to experience osteoarthritis than those who do not.

Additionally, strengthening surrounding muscles, such as the quadriceps, appears beneficial. If you invest in properly fitting shoes and maintain a regular exercise routine, another key practice for knee care is recognizing mild discomfort.

Minor injuries can easily escalate into more serious, long-lasting conditions. If experiencing pain, consider using knee supports or opting for swimming.

Some research suggests that non-weight bearing activities, like swimming, can facilitate recovery from minor knee injuries and lessen the risk of long-term complications.

This article addresses the question posed by Thomas McPherson from Wakefield: “How do I take care of my knees as I age?”

Please email us to submit your questions at Question@sciencefocus.com or Message Facebook, Twitter or Instagram Page (don’t forget to include your name and location).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Gene Editing Could Soon Transform Our Meat: Here’s What It Means

Posted on July 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

From hot dogs to crispy bacon, by 2026, many food staples in the US will utilize gene-edited meat. Indeed, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently given the green light to the agricultural use of certain genetically enhanced pigs. Other global regulators may soon follow suit.

But should we be concerned? Is this modified pork safe? And what about the ethics of creating these pigs?

Firstly, it’s important to note that not all gene-edited animals are produced in a laboratory setting. Instead, these livestock come from animals whose DNA has been modified early in their development, often conferring advantageous traits starting from a single cell or fertilized egg.

This gene editing isn’t focused on enhancing pork flavor; it’s primarily aimed at safeguarding the pigs from diseases.

For instance, a UK company is currently developing genetic modifications in pigs that render them resistant to Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), a virus that significantly weakens the immune system of pigs. PRRS poses a serious threat, leading to the deaths of piglets, miscarriages in pregnant sows, and increased vulnerability to other infections.

Pork is the third most consumed meat in the United States after chicken and beef.

These genetically enhanced pigs are significant particularly because there is currently no effective vaccine for PRRS.

The stakes are high, with efforts to manage PRRS costing the US pork industry about $1.2 billion (£878 million) each year.

When the virus does break through, the implications can be dire. In 2006, a pandemic in China infected over 2 million pigs, resulting in 400,000 deaths.

CRISPR Bacon

How much have these pigs really changed? That’s a valid concern. However, the actual modifications are surprisingly minor.

To combat the PRRS virus, scientists have edited out a portion of the CD163 protein in the pig’s DNA, which the virus uses to invade pig cells.

Pigs with this genetic modification show resistance to nearly all known strains of PRRS, but they are otherwise similar to conventional pigs. Despite initial fears that viruses could evolve to bypass edited proteins, this hasn’t occurred.

Dr. Christine Tait-Burkard, a researcher at the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute, describes the original CD163 protein as “like nine beads on a string,” with only one bead—the fifth one—removed during editing.

This minor alteration is sufficient to block viral infection, she elucidates, while not significantly affecting other protein functions (such as those involved in clearing damaged red blood cells).

Interestingly, the gene rearrangement could also occur naturally in some pigs. “It’s possible there is a pig somewhere in the world resistant to this virus,” Tait-Burkard states. “However, we don’t have the luxury of time for natural breeding, so we must utilize biotechnology to introduce it into our breeding programs.”

The editing employs a toolkit known as CRISPR, a Nobel Prize-winning technology that has gained popularity in scientific research for its efficiency, precision, and affordability. The CRISPR tool uses a “guide” sequence to target DNA, employing protein “scissors”—naturally occurring proteins found in bacteria—to make necessary cuts. Minor adjustments, such as those seen in PRRS-resistant pigs, disable particular genes.

A New Norm?

Once they hit grocery store shelves, PRRS-resistant pigs are expected to become the first widely consumed gene-edited animals. However, they are not the first genetically modified products available to consumers.

Hypoallergenic “Gal Safe” Pork, designed for consumers with meat allergies, received approval in 2020. In 2022, the FDA also approved a type of cow known as Smooth cow—a breed enhanced with traits from naturally occurring genetic variants in tropical cows for shorter hair and better heat recovery. Additionally, genetically modified “Aquadvantage” Salmon is available in the US, albeit primarily sold in restaurants.

The situation is more complex across the Atlantic. As it stands, gene-edited foods cannot be marketed in the EU, and legislation for Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) in the UK lays groundwork for breeding gene-edited crops, but it has not yet been extended to animals.

Even if regulations evolve globally, will consumers be eager to purchase gene-edited sausages and bacon?

The labeling for this new gene-edited pork remains undecided, but Dr. Katie Sanders, a communications specialist at North Carolina State University, suggests that there is greater potential for consumer acceptance compared to traditional genetically modified (GM) foods. This perception stems from the belief that gene-edited products appear more natural.

In the past, genetically modified (GM) crops stirred up fears and headlines focused on “frankenfood.” However, many of these crops were ultimately approved, with most scientists considering them safe for consumption. These GM crops often incorporate foreign genes—like “Bt” corn, which carries genes from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis to repel insect pests.

In contrast, the current wave of CRISPR-edited foods only features modifications that could naturally occur within the species. Scientists have not created an entirely new variety of pigs.

Sanders and her colleagues, along with associate professor Jean Parera at Texas A&M University, conducted a national survey of more than 2,000 Americans to gauge attitudes towards CRISPR-edited pork. While results await publication, Sanders notes that respondents generally indicated a likelihood to purchase CRISPR-edited pork.

This trend was especially noted in urban populations (compared to rural ones) and among those with lower educational attainment (as opposed to individuals with degrees).

In 2006, PRRS outbreaks in China affected over 2 million pigs, leading to 400,000 deaths.

When asked how producers can persuade more consumers to adopt gene-edited meat, Parrella emphasized the importance of “responsible use and ethical considerations surrounding CRISPR applications.”

Initial marketing of PRRS-resistant pigs highlights these ethical considerations, demonstrating they have been addressed. A division of the industry, known as The Pig Improvement Company—yes, that’s its actual name—underscores benefits like enhanced animal welfare, reduced antibiotic reliance, and positive environmental effects.

If their messaging resonates, could more gene-edited animals find their way to our dinner tables? Perhaps. Scientists at the Roslin Institute are currently researching edits to combat other livestock diseases, including the bovine diarrhea virus.

However, Tait-Burkard cautions that engineering resistance to specific viruses, like avian influenza, may pose more significant challenges or require edits harmful to animal cells. The proteins they edited for pig PRR resistance are “excellent targets,” but they are challenging to identify.

For traits linked to productivity, such as improved breeding and meat quality, the agricultural sector is already refining efficient breeding techniques to achieve these objectives. As such, it’s unlikely that costly gene editing will be utilized to create “super” meat anytime soon.

Nonetheless, if gene editing can enhance animal protection, minimize antibiotics, and alleviate environmental burdens, it could swiftly transition from novelty to normalcy—provided animal welfare remains uncompromised.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Astronomers Suggest 3i/Atlas Could Be the Most Ancient Comet Ever Observed

Posted on July 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Research conducted by astronomer Matthew Hopkins and his team at Oxford University suggests that 3i/Atlas, the second interstellar comet discovered near our solar system, may have been on its trajectory over 3 billion years ago.

Top view of the Milky Way displaying the predicted orbits of our Sun and 3i/Atlas. Comets are represented by dashed red lines, while the sun is indicated by a dashed yellow line. The comet’s route to the outer thick disc is mostly clear, whereas the sun remains close to the nucleus of the galaxy. Image credit: M. Hopkins / Otautahi Oxford Team / ESA / Gaia / DPAC / Stefan Payne-Wardenaar / CC-SA 4.0.

“All comets formed alongside our solar system, like Halley’s comets, are up to 4.5 billion years old,” Dr. Hopkins explained.

“In contrast, interstellar visitors can be significantly older. Our statistical analyses indicate that 3i/Atlas is very likely to be the oldest comet we’ve observed thus far.”

Unlike 1i/Oumuamua and 2i/Borisov, the two previous interstellar objects that passed through our solar system, 3i/Atlas appears to be on a more inclined path through the Milky Way.

A recent study forecasts that 3i/Atlas is likely to be rich in water ice, as it probably formed around the star of the ancient, thick disc.

“This is an aspect of the galaxy that we’ve never encountered before,” said Chris Lintot, a professor at Oxford University and host of The Sky at Night.

“I believe there is a two-thirds chance that this comet predates the solar system and has been drifting through interstellar space ever since.”

As it nears the Sun, the heat from sunlight activates 3i/Atlas, generating a coma and tail composed of steam and dust.

Initial observations indicate that the comet is already active and may even be larger than any of its interstellar predecessors.

If this is validated, it could influence the detection of similar objects by future telescopes, such as the upcoming Vera C. Rubin Observatory.

Furthermore, it could offer insights into the role that ancient interstellar comets play in the formation of stars and planets throughout the galaxy.

“We’re in an exciting phase. 3i/Atlas is already displaying signs of activity,” remarked Dr. Michele Bannister, an astronomer at the University of Canterbury.

“The gases we might observe in the future, as 3i/Atlas is heated by the Sun, will help us evaluate our models.”

“Some of the world’s largest telescopes are currently monitoring this new interstellar entity. One of them may make a significant discovery!”

The astronomers presented their findings today at the National Astronomical Conference of the Royal Astronomical Society 2025 in Durham, England.

____

Matthew Hopkins et al. Intergalactic interstellar object population in LSST. NAM 2025

Source: www.sci.news

Webb Marks 3rd Anniversary with Stunning Cat Paw Star Photos

Posted on July 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

To celebrate the remarkable advancements in science during the third year, astronomers have utilized the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope to capture images of the Cat’s Paw Nebula.

This web image depicts the Cat’s Paw Nebula, a significant star-forming region located 5,500 light years from the constellation Scorpio. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI.

The Cat’s Paw Nebula resides in the southern constellation of Scorpio and is approximately 5,500 light years from Earth.

First identified in 1837 by British astronomer John Herschel, this dynamic star-forming region spans an estimated 80 to 90 light years.

Also known as NGC 6334 or the Bear Claw Nebula, it is one of the most vibrant stellar nurseries in the night sky, producing thousands of young, hot stars that emit light not visible from our perspective.

Recent images captured by Webb’s NIRCam instrument reveal structural details and functionalities previously unseen.

“Massive young stars are actively interacting with nearby gas and dust, and their bright stellar light produces a luminous, hazy glow, represented in blue,” Webb astronomers stated.

“This scenario illustrates a transient period where a destructive young star plays a significant role in the broader narrative of the region, characterized by relatively short lifespans and high luminosity.”

“Due to the dynamic activities of these massive stars, the local star formation process will eventually come to a halt.”

“We begin with a central area identified as the ‘opera house’ because of its hierarchical circulatory structure,” they noted.

“The principal sources of the blue glow in this area are likely positioned towards the bottom, obscured by dense brown dust, interspersed with light from bright, yellowish stars or nearby sources.”

“Beneath the orange-brown dust lies a bright yellow star displaying distinct diffraction spikes.”

“This giant star is sculpting its surrounding environment but has not managed to push gas and dust away sufficiently nor create a compact shell of surrounding material.”

“Take note of smaller regions, such as the tuning fork-shaped area adjacent to the opera house, which contains fewer stars.”

“These seemingly vacant zones are still in the process of forming stars, indicating the presence of dense filaments of dust that obscure the light of background stars.”

At the center of the image, small, fiery red masses can be seen scattered within the brown dust.

“These glowing red sources highlight areas where large-scale star formation is occurring, albeit in a less visible manner,” the researchers explained.

“Some of the blue-white stars, particularly in the lower left area, appear more sharply resolved than others.”

“This sharper appearance is attributed to the material between the star and the telescope being diffused by the star’s radiation.”

Near the bottom of this area is a compact dust filament.

“These small dust aggregates have managed to survive the intense radiation, indicating they are dense enough to give rise to protostars.”

The small yellow section on the right marks the location of a massive star still in its formative stages, managing to shine through the intervening material.

Numerous small yellow stars are scattered across the scene, displaying distinct diffraction spikes.

“The bright blue-white stars prominently feature in the foreground of this web image, with some possibly being part of the larger Cat’s Paw Nebula region.”

A particularly striking feature of this web image is the bright red-orange oval shape located in the top right corner.

The low concentration of background stars indicates it is a dense area where the star-forming process has only recently commenced.

Several visible stars are distributed throughout the region, contributing to the illumination of central materials.

Some of the developing stars have left behind traces of their existence, such as the shock wave visible in the lower left area.

Source: www.sci.news

Discovery of a Gigantic New Sauropod Dinosaur Species in China

Posted on July 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Chinese paleontologists have uncovered the fossilized skeleton of the colossal Mamenchisaurus dinosaurs, heralding a remarkable new genus from the late Jurassic epoch.

Fossil remains of Tongnanlong Zhimingi. Image credit: Wei et al., doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-09796-0.

The newly identified species inhabited southwestern China approximately 147 million years ago (late Jurassic epoch).

Scientifically designated as Tongnanlong Zhimingi, this sauropod dinosaur measured around 23-28 m (75.5-92 feet) in length.

“Sauropods are enormous, herbivorous quadrupeds and represent the largest terrestrial dinosaurs that ever existed,” remarked Dr. Xuefang Wei, a researcher from the Western Center for China Geological Survey.

“They first appeared in the late Triassic period, spread globally by the Middle Jurassic, and ultimately went extinct at the end of the late Cretaceous period.”

More than 150 genera have been documented, including over 20 genera from the Jurassic period within China.

“Southwest China is a significant area for Jurassic sauropod discoveries, particularly in the Sichuan Basin,” they added.

The sauropod fauna found in the Jurassic Sichuan Basin was once considered an endemic population distinct from the terrestrial fauna of Pangaea.

This distribution was often explained by the East Asian seclusion hypothesis, suggested to have occurred between the Jurassic and early Cretaceous periods.

However, this hypothesis faces challenges from recent phylogenetic analyses conducted in China, as well as the discovery of Neosaurupod dinosaurs, including a Mamenchisaur dinosaur found in Africa.

The holotype specimen of Tongnanlong Zhimingi was excavated from a construction site in the Dongnan district of the Chonging region within the Sichuan Basin.

This includes three dorsal vertebrae, six caudal vertebrae, scapulae, coracoids, and hind limb bones.

“Our fieldwork indicates that the fossil site belongs to the upper part of the Jurassic. The Monitor formations are situated above Quaternary sediments,” noted the paleontologist.

“The Sorning Formation is composed of purple-red mudstone and sandstone.”

“The layer is rich in invertebrate fossils, including various freshwater Conchostracans, particularly ostracods and stone trails.”

Several vertebrates are identified from this layer, such as fish Ceratodus szechuanensis, turtle Plesiochelys Tatsuensis, and dinosaurs like Mamenchisaurus anyuensis.

Anatomical and phylogenetic studies affirmed that Tongnanlong Zhimingi is part of the sauropod dinosaur family Mamenchisauridae.

“Mamenchisauridae was not a fauna confined to East Asia, but rather had a global distribution during the late Jurassic period,” the researchers concluded.

“Tongnanlong Zhimingi enhances the diversity of Eusauraupods and offers new insights into sauropod diversity and evolutionary developments from the mid-Jurassic to the Late Jurassic as they increased in size.”

Their study was published in the journal Scientific Reports on July 10th.

____

X. Wei et al. 2025. New Mamenchisaurus discoveries monitoring the Upper Jurassic formations in the Sichuan Basin, China and their implications for sauropod gigantism. Sci Rep 15, 24808; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-09796-0

Source: www.sci.news

Concerns Grow for FEMA’s Future Following Texas Flooding

Posted on July 12, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

The catastrophic flood in Texas, claiming nearly 120 lives, marked the first major crisis encountered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) under the current Trump administration. Despite the tragic loss of life, both former and current FEMA officials have expressed to NBC News that the effects on smaller geographic regions don’t adequately challenge the capabilities of the agency, especially as staffing has been reduced significantly.

They argue that the true tests may arise later this summer, when the threat of hurricanes looms over several states.

As discussions about the agency’s future unfold—with President Donald Trump hinting at the possibility of “dismantling it”—Homeland Security Secretary Christy Noem, who oversees FEMA, has tightened her control.

Current and former officials have mentioned that Noem now mandates that all agents personally authorize expenditures exceeding $100,000. To expedite the approval process, FEMA established a task force on Monday aimed at streamlining Noem’s approval, according to sources familiar with the initiative.

While Noem has taken a more direct approach to managing the agency, many FEMA leadership positions remain unfilled due to voluntary departures. In May, the agency disclosed in an internal email that 16 senior officials had left, collectively bringing over 200 years of disaster response experience with them.

“DHS and its components are fully engaged in addressing recovery efforts in Carville,” a spokesperson from DHS remarked in a statement to NBC News.

“Under Chief Noem and Deputy Manager David Richardson, FEMA has transformed from an unwieldy DC-centric organization into a streamlined disaster response force that empowers local entities to assist their residents. Outdated processes have been replaced due to their failure to serve Americans effectively in real emergencies… Secretary Noem ensures accountability to U.S. taxpayers, a concern often overlooked by Washington for decades.”

Civilians assist with recovery efforts near the Guadalupe River on Sunday.Giulio Cortez / AP

On Wednesday afternoon, the FEMA Review Council convened for its second meeting, set up to outline the agency’s future direction. “Our goal is to pivot FEMA’s responsibilities to the state level,” Trump told the press in early June.

At this moment, FEMA continues to manage over 700 active disaster situations, as stated by Chris Currie, who monitors governmental accountability.

“They’re operating no differently. They’re merely doing more with fewer personnel,” he noted in an interview.

While some advocates push for a more proactive role for the agency, certain Republicans in Congress emphasize the need to preserve FEMA in response to the significant flooding.

“FEMA plays a crucial role,” said Senator Ted Cruz of Texas during a Capitol Hill briefing this week. “There’s a consensus on enhancing FEMA’s efficiency and responsiveness to disasters. These reforms can be advantageous, but the agency’s core functions remain vital, regardless of any structural adjustments.”

Bureaucratic Hurdles

A key discussion point in the first FEMA Review Council meeting was how the federal government can alleviate financial constraints. However, current and former FEMA officials argue that Noem’s insistence on personal approvals for expenditures introduces bureaucratic layers that could hinder timely assistance during the Texas crisis and potential future hurricanes.

Current officials voiced that the new requirements contradict the aim of reducing expenses. “They’re adding bureaucracy…and increasing costs,” one official commented.

A former senior FEMA official remarked that agents need to procure supplies and services within disaster zones, routinely requiring their authorization for contracts over $100,000 to facilitate these actions.

“FEMA rarely makes expenditures below that threshold,” disclosed an unnamed former employee currently involved in the industry to NBC News.

In addition to the stipulation that Noem must approve certain expenditures, current and former staff members revealed confusion regarding who holds authority—Noem or Richardson, who has been acting as administrator since early May. One former official noted a cultural shift within the agency from proactive measures to a more cautious stance, as employees fear job loss.

DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin referred to questions regarding who is in charge as “absurd.”

Further changes are underway. Last week, agents officially ceased their practice of sending personnel into disaster areas to engage with victims about available services. This decision followed complaints regarding interactions that had been criticized last fall. Acting managers previously labeled this conduct by FEMA staff as “unacceptable.” Distancing from the scrutiny, the dismissed personnel claimed to have acted under their supervisor’s instructions to avoid “unpleasant encounters.”

Although many individuals access FEMA services through various channels like the agency’s website and hotline, two former officials emphasized that in-person outreach remains essential for connecting disaster victims with available resources. It remains uncertain if the agency plans to send personnel into Texas for door-to-door outreach.

This week, Democratic senators expressed frustration that Noem has yet to present the 2025 hurricane plans she mentioned in May, after they were promised to be shared.

New Jersey Senator Andy Kim, leading Democrat on the Disaster Management Subcommittee, plans to send another letter to Noem on Wednesday to solicit these plans.

“The delay in FEMA’s 2025 hurricane season plan report at the start of hurricane season highlights the ongoing slowness of DHS in providing essential information to this committee,” Kim asserted in his letter.

FEMA’s Future

Critical questions remain regarding FEMA’s role in disaster recovery: What responsibilities will it retain, and which will be delegated to states to manage independently?

Experts consulting with NBC News concur that while federal agencies should maintain responsibility for large-scale disasters, the question persists as to whether states could be empowered to handle smaller ones rather than deferring to federal assistance.

“Disaster prevention is paramount,” remarked Jeff Schlegermilch, director of Columbia University’s National Center for Disaster Response.

Natalie Simpson, a disaster response expert at the University of Buffalo, added that larger states could assume greater risk during disasters.

“I believe we could establish a local FEMA due to economies of scale in larger states like California, New York, and Florida, but I doubt their efficacy in smaller states,” she stated during an interview.

Current and former FEMA officials, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott, have criticized FEMA as “inefficient and slow,” asserting the need for a more responsive approach. They highlighted that the governor called for a FEMA disaster declaration within days of the flood.

On Sunday, the president sidestepped inquiries about potential agency restructuring, stating:

White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt commented that ongoing discussions are taking place regarding the agency’s broader objectives. “The President aims to ensure that American citizens have the resources they need, whether that assistance is provided at the state or federal level; it’s a matter of continuous policy discourse,” Leavitt remarked.

Source: www.nbcnews.com