Jovian auroras shine hundreds of times brighter than those visible from Earth, according to a team of astronomers led by Dr. Jonathan Nichols at the University of Leicester.
These observations of Jupiter’s aurora were captured on December 25, 2023 by Webb’s near-infrared camera (NIRCAM). Image credit: NASA / ESA / CSA / STSCI / RICARDO HUESO, UPV / IMKE DE PATER, UC BERKELEY / THIERRY FOUCHET, OBSERVATORY OF PARIS / LE FLETCHER, JOSEPH DEPASQUALE, STSCI/J. NICHOLS, UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER/M. ZAMANI, ESA & WEBB.
When high-energy particles enter the planet’s atmosphere near its magnetic poles, they collide with gas atoms, creating the auroras.
Jupiter’s auroras are not only massive in scale but also exhibit energy levels hundreds of times greater than those seen on Earth.
These auroras are primarily triggered by solar storms, where charged particles entering the atmosphere excite gas particles, resulting in vibrant red, green, and purple hues.
Additionally, Jupiter has a unique source of auroral activity—its strong magnetic field captures charged particles from its surroundings.
This includes not only those from the solar wind but also particles ejected from the volcanic moon Io.
The eruptions from Io’s volcanoes release particles that escape both the moon’s and Jupiter’s gravitational pull.
Solar storms also discharge vast amounts of charged particles towards Jupiter.
Jupiter’s immense magnetic fields accelerate these charged particles to extraordinary speeds.
When these high-velocity particles collide with the planet’s atmosphere, they excite the gas and produce radiant displays.
Thanks to the advanced capabilities of the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, new insights into Jovian auroras can be gained.
The telescope’s sensitivity enables astronomers to use faster shutter speeds to capture the rapidly evolving features of the auroras.
This latest data was collected using Webb’s near-infrared camera (NIRCAM) on Christmas Day 2023.
“What a Christmas gift; it truly astonished me!” exclaimed Dr. Nichols.
“We aimed to observe how quickly the aurora transformed, hoping to see beautiful fluctuations within about an hour.”
“Instead, we witnessed the entire aurora region illuminating the sky in a spectacular display.
Astronomers noted fluctuations in the effects caused by trihydrogen ions, known as H.3+, which varied more than previously assumed.
These observations help scientists unravel how Jupiter’s upper atmosphere undergoes heating and cooling.
Additionally, several unknown phenomena were identified in the data.
“What made these observations particularly intriguing was that the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope was capturing images simultaneously in ultraviolet light,” Dr. Nichols commented.
“Strangely, the brightest light observed by Webb seemed to have no corresponding feature in Hubble’s images. This left me puzzled.”
“To produce the brightness observed in both Webb and Hubble, we would require an improbable mix of a substantial quantity of very low-energy particles impacting the atmosphere.
study Published in the journal Nature Communications.
____
JD Nichols et al. 2025. The dynamic infrared aurora of Jupiter. Nature Communications 16, 3907; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-58984-z
A wildfire in British Columbia, Canada, blazes in June 2023
Imago/Alamy stock photos
2023 set new records as one of the hottest years, but it could have been even warmer. Climate models indicate that without the cooling effect of smoke from large wildfires in Canada, the average summer temperature in the Northern Hemisphere would have been approximately 1°C higher. Smoke may also be present in August, India’s driest month.
“It’s difficult to grasp the scale of such a massive fire. It was extraordinary,” remarks Iurian Allyn Roz from the Crete Institute of Technology in Greece.
According to Rosu, emissions from wildfires this year were estimated to be five to six times higher than those recorded during previous wildfire seasons in Canada. Although carbon dioxide from these fires contributes to warming, in 2023, this warming was offset by the cooling effects of the smoke blocking sunlight.
To quantify the smoke’s cooling impact, Ross and colleagues conducted a series of climate model simulations, comparing scenarios with and without emissions from Canadian wildfires. The findings suggest that between May and September, smoke caused local cooling up to 5.4°C (9.7°F) in certain areas of Canada, leading to an overall cooling of 0.9°C (1.6°F) for the Northern Hemisphere.
This might be unexpected given that record temperatures were reported in parts of Canada that summer. However, while the heat was mostly concentrated in the west, Ross explains that the smoke drifted eastward, where it had the most significant cooling effect.
The effects extended beyond Canada as well. In this model, emissions from wildfires altered wind patterns in Asia, diminishing the monsoon and reducing rainfall in India. This aligns with actual observed phenomena.
“The precipitation discrepancies observed in the data closely resemble those predicted in the model,” notes Rosu, affirming the model’s accuracy.
Nonetheless, the cooling effect proved to be short-lived. “Data analysis for November and December showed minimal impact,” says Rosu.
The record for the hottest year of 2023 may not last long, as 2024 is shaping up to be even hotter.
The debilitating nature of migraines can significantly hinder a person’s daily routine
Alfred Pasieka/Science Photo Library
A medication called Ubrogepant, which is currently prescribed for migraine treatment, has been found to alleviate non-headache symptoms that often precede the onset of migraines. This makes it the first medication known to address these initial signs.
Before migraine headaches decrease in intensity, many individuals experience warning signs such as light sensitivity, sounds, dizziness, and neck stiffness, all of which can significantly disrupt daily activities.
Developers of migraine medications have predominantly concentrated on treating the headaches themselves, with no effective solutions available for alleviating these preliminary symptoms.
However, Ubrogepant demonstrated promising results when administered during the early stages of migraine symptoms, according to Peter Goadsby from King’s College London and his team, who are eager to further explore this potential.
Their study involved 438 participants, aged 18 to 75, all with a history of migraines. Half received a 100 mg dose of the medication upon experiencing suggestive symptoms of an impending migraine. The other half took a placebo during a subsequent episode of prodromal symptoms.
Following the administration of Ubrogepant, participants reported an enhanced ability to focus after 1 hour, decreased sensitivity to light after 2 hours, and reduced fatigue and neck discomfort after 3 hours, compared to their experiences while taking the placebo. They also noted less sensitivity to dizziness and sound when using Ubrogepant.
“Taking Ubrogepant allowed individuals to mitigate these non-pain symptoms even before the headache began,” Goadsby remarked.
This study did not delve into the impact of the medication on aura, another early feature of migraines that includes sensory disturbances like flashing lights or blind spots.
“The potential for intervention in the migraine progression is clinically significant given the often debilitating early symptoms,” remarked Parisa Gazerani from Oslo Metropolitan University, Norway. However, she emphasizes the need for further studies to ensure broad applicability.
“This research indicates that migraine treatments could lessen these preliminary symptoms and may prevent the progression to the main headache phase,” stated Rob Music, head of the Migraine Trust in the UK. “We are eager to see more investigations in this area to lessen the burden of migraines on daily living.”
Hyundai has invested $7.5 billion in a factory near Savannah, Georgia, to produce some of its most sought-after electric vehicle models. Local officials, who have lobbied for Hyundai’s establishment in the area for years, are worried about potential legal changes.
“For a company, it’s challenging to commit to an area and then face changing conditions,” noted Bert Brantley, CEO of the Savannah Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Our perspective is that stability is beneficial, especially when companies are making significant investments.”
Nevertheless, Brantley expressed hope that Georgia can maintain its position as a frontrunner in electric vehicle production, regardless of any alterations to the tax incentives. “This is a long-term strategy. We hope to be engaged in this for an extended period,” he remarked.
Limbo’s Other Energy Technologies
Over the last three years, the federal government has backed a variety of emerging energy technologies that are still in the developmental stage, including low-carbon hydrogen fuels suitable for trucks, innovative methods to manufacture steel and cement without emissions, and carbon dioxide extraction technologies.
Many of these initiatives could benefit from tax reductions under the Inflation Reduction Act. Additionally, several are funded by billions in grants and loans from the Department of Energy.
In western Minnesota, DG Fuel aims to construct a $5 billion facility to generate aviation fuel from agricultural waste. Meanwhile, in Indiana, cement producer Heidelberg Material is working on capturing the carbon dioxide it generates and storing it underground. In Louisiana, a company is set to produce low-carbon ammonia for use in fertilizers.
New Orleans, a key center for natural gas exports, has experienced a surge in new industries like carbon capture and hydrogen, which may help mitigate future emissions. “We are very diverse,” stated Michael Hecht, chairman of Greater New Orleans and the Southeast Louisiana Economic Development Bureau.
A tale is shared about miners who discovered copper cans in early mining-era dumps. According to them, wastewater from copper mining flowed across his land, transforming steel cans into copper.
The tale may not be entirely true, but the process is factual and is known as cementation. Montana Resource, which succeeded the Anaconda Copper Company, still employs this alchemical method in the operations at the Continental Pitmine in Butte, Montana.
Adjacent to the mine lies the Berkeley Pit, filled with 50 billion gallons of highly acidic and toxic liquid. Montana Resource channels this liquid from the pits to cascade down iron piles, converting iron into copper for production.
While there have long been methods for extracting metals from water, recent years have ushered in a global rush for metals—vital for manufacturing and technological advancements—leading to a new wave of extraction methods and processes.
Researchers are currently focusing on mineral-rich sources like wastewater, including saline water from desalination plants, oil and gas fracking water, and mining wastewater. Researchers at Oregon State University estimate that the saline water from desalination plants alone contains approximately $2.2 trillion worth of metals.
“Water is a mineral reservoir of the 21st century,” stated Peter S. Fisuke, director of the National Water Innovation Alliance in California at the Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. “Today’s technology allows us to gather wastewater and extract valuable resources.”
There is extensive research dedicated to recovering rare earth elements—metallic elements sought after due to their increasing demand—from waste. For instance, researchers at Indiana Geological Water Survey at Indiana University are Mining rare earths in coal waste which includes fly ash and coal tails. Additionally, researchers at the University of Texas Austin have created membranes that imitate nature for Separating rare earths from waste.
Utilizing mining wastewater is not only quicker and more economical than establishing a new mine, but it also generates lesser environmental impact.
The vast, contaminated reservoirs in the pit near Butte contain two light rare earth elements (REEs): neodymium and praseodymium. These are crucial for creating small yet powerful magnets, medical technologies, and enhancing defense applications like precision-guided missiles and electric vehicles. Notably, an F-35 Fighter Jet uses around 900 pounds of rare earth metals.
“We’re transforming significant liabilities into assets that contribute to national defense,” remarked Mark Thompson, vice president of environmental affairs at Montana Resources. “There’s a lot of complex metallurgy at play here—the real cutting-edge science.”
This is a crucial moment for exploring domestic rare earth production. The U.S. currently lags behind China, and President Trump’s trade tensions have raised concerns that China may tighten its rare earth mineral exports in response to U.S. tariffs. Experts in mineral security at the Center for Strategic and International Research warn that this gap could enable China to accelerate its defense advancements more swiftly than the U.S.
The Trump administration is particularly fixated on Greenland and Ukraine due to their valuable rare earth deposits.
Trump has recently authorized the government to commence mining on much of the seabed, including areas in international waters, to tap into mineral wealth.
There are 17 distinct types of rare earth metals identified in the Berkeley Pit. While not rare in abundance, they are often deemed scarce due to their dispersion in small quantities.
Rare earths are divided into two categories: heavy and light. Heavy rare earths, including dysprosium, terbium, and yttrium, tend to have larger atomic masses, making them more scarce and thus typically traded in smaller quantities, leading to shortages. In contrast, light rare earths are characterized by a lower atomic mass.
Acid mine drainage is a hazardous pollutant created when sulfur-containing pyrite within rocks interacts with oxygen and water during mining. This process results in the formation of sulfuric acid, which poisons waterways. This environmental issue affects thousands of abandoned mines, contaminating 12,000 miles of streams across the nation.
However, acids facilitate the dissolution of zinc, copper, rare earths, and other minerals from rock formations, presenting an opportunity for extraction techniques that were not previously available.
Paul Ziemkievich, director of the Water Institute at West Virginia University, has been researching Butte’s pit water for 25 years. Alongside a team from Virginia Tech and the chemical engineering firm L3 process development, they developed a method to extract crucial metals from acid mine drainage originating from West Virginia coal mines, the same approach utilized in Butte. Large, densely woven plastic bags filled with sludge from the water treatment plant are employed, allowing water to seep through slowly and yielding about 1-2% rare earth preconcentrate, which requires further refining through chemical processes. The final patented step involves a solvent extraction method that results in pure rare earth elements.
“One of the remarkable aspects of acid mine drainage is that our concentrations are particularly rich in heavy rare earths,” explained Dr. Ziemkiewicz. “Light rare earths carry a lesser value.”
The Butte project is awaiting news on a $75 million grant from the Department of Defense, which is critical for enhancing rare earth enrichment and commencing full-scale production.
Zinc is also abundant in the acid mine drainage mixture and serves as an essential financial asset for the process as it commands a higher market price. Nickel and cobalt are also extracted.
Demand for rare earth elements is high; however, China dominates production, manipulating prices to maintain low costs and stifle competition. This is why the Department of Defense funds various projects focused on rare earth elements and other metals. The U.S. operates only a single rare earth mine in Mountain Pass, California, which produces roughly 15% of the global supply of rare earths.
The Berkeley Pit has posed a chronic problem since 1982, when Anaconda copper companies ceased their open-pit mining operations and halted water pumping, causing it to become filled with water. The acidity levels from the mine’s drainage have proven dangerous; in 2016, thousands of snow geese that landed in the pit quickly succumbed to poisoning, with around 3,000 birds reported dead.
The Atlantic Richfield Company and Montana Resources play crucial roles in permanently treating pit water to avert pollutioning the surrounding groundwater (Montana Resources operates the continental pit adjacent to the Berkeley Pit). The Clean Water Act mandates that companies manage acid mine drainage, and enhancing treatment capabilities at the local horseshoe bend plant is more cost-effective than developing a new facility, which may also offset treatment costs while boosting profits.
Numerous research initiatives have been launched to extract suspended metals from the water. Thompson displayed a map illustrating where radiation was emitted from Butte and where water samples have been dispatched to research facilities nationwide. However, the ongoing metal production process stands as the first to demonstrate profitability.
The mineral wealth present in this region has been recognized for many years; however, extracting it has proven challenging until Dr. Ziemkiewicz’s team innovated new methods. They generate rare earths from two coal mines in West Virginia, where acid mine drainage presents ongoing issues. Each of these mines yields about 4 tons of rare earths annually.
On the other hand, the Berkeley Pit is projected to produce 40 tons annually, bolstered by significantly higher concentrations of rare earths in solution and substantial water content. Dr. Ziemkiewicz believes that this method, when applied to other mines, could potentially satisfy nearly all domestic rare earth requirements for defense-related uses.
However, certain forecasts project that demand for rare earths may surge by as much as 600% in the next few decades.
Lawrence Berkeley laboratories are investigating technologies related to water filtration, particularly experimental approaches to improve membranes, as part of their overarching efforts to purify water, recover significant minerals, and produce necessary minerals. They operate a particle accelerator known as an advanced light source, which generates bright X-ray light that enables scientists to examine various materials at an atomic scale.
The lab has collaborated with external researchers to develop a new generation of filters referred to as nanosponges, designed to capture specific target molecules like lithium.
“It’s akin to an atom catcher’s mitt,” explained Adam Uliana, CEO of Chemfinity, a Brooklyn company exploring the use of nanosponges to purify a variety of waste. “It only captures one type of metal.”
In addition to rare earths, lithium, cobalt, and magnesium have gained significant attention from researchers.
Ion exchange, a well-established technology for extracting metals from water and purifying contaminants, is also gaining interest. Lilac Solutions, a startup based in Oakland, California, has developed specialized resin beads to extract lithium from brine via ion exchange, with plans for their first production facility in Great Salt Lake, Utah.
The company’s technology involves pumping brine through an ion exchange filter to extract minerals, returning water to its source with minimal environmental disruption. If this approach proves viable on a larger scale, it could revolutionize lithium extraction, significantly decreasing the necessity for underground mines and open-pit operations.
Maglathea Metal is an Auckland-based startup that produces magnesium ingots from the saline effluent generated by desalinating seawater. The company processes the brine, which consists of magnesium chloride salts, using a current powered by renewable energy to heat the solution, resulting in the separation of salt from molten magnesium.
CEO Alex Grant noted that the process is exceptionally clean, although it has yet to be applied to magnesium production. Much of the company’s work is funded by the Department of Defense.
With China accounting for 90% of global magnesium production, the current smelting process, known as the Pidgeon process, is highly polluting and carbon-intensive, involving heating to around 2,000 degrees using coal-fired kilns. Dr. Fisuke anticipates further innovations on the horizon.
“Three converging factors are at play,” he stated. “The value of these critical materials is climbing, the expenses associated with traditional mining and extraction are escalating, and reliance on international suppliers, particularly from Russia and China, is diminishing.”
A significant long-term issue is pulmonary fibrosis, a progressive condition characterized by the thickening and stiffening of lung tissue due to scarring, which hinders oxygen transfer into the bloodstream. Dr. Elsaeg likens the lungs affected by pulmonary fibrosis to “hard balloons from the party store.” I feel my face flush when attempting to force air, but I adamantly refuse to inflate.
With former Palisades residents planning to return to their neighborhoods, Dr. Elsaeg has also taken on the role of a reliable confidant, using his personal experiences to assist patients in navigating uncertainty and discovering solutions.
“Ideally, we’d all declare, ‘Everyone living in Pallisard and LA County, let’s move somewhere else. There’s no need for concern,’” he remarked. “But that isn’t the reality. We’re striving for a challenging balance between helping us return to normalcy and leading our lives while ensuring we do so as safely as possible.”
In early February, Dr. Elsaeg took a seat next to Dana Michelles, a cybersecurity attorney and healthy mother of three, assessing the damage at her home, where she now struggled with coughing.
“Lover, you’re not moving air at all,” Dr. Elsaeg stated while listening to her lungs through a stethoscope, promptly ordering a breathing test and a nebulizer. The student observing asked to listen and then looked at Dr. Elsaeg in confusion.
“I haven’t heard anything,” the student remarked. Dr. Elsaeg acknowledged him with a nod.
After years of renting, Michelle and her husband secured their first mortgage nearly four years ago, marking a significant family achievement. Now, as their home in Palisades is engulfed in smoke, the family has been split across two rental apartments in Marina del Rey—one for the boys and another for the girls.
The 11-foot alligator that capsized a canoe on May 6th, resulting in the death of a woman in Central Florida, serves as a reminder that while attacks by crocodiles on humans are “quite rare,” they can sometimes lead to tragic outcomes, according to state wildlife officials.
“This highlights the powerful wildlife that inhabits our natural spaces,” remarked Roger Young, executive director of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
The committee advises individuals to be vigilant during the crocodile mating season from early April to June, as the risk of attacks tends to rise. This increased danger is attributed to crocodiles being more active, aggressive, and visible during this time.
Wildlife agents and committees have shared tips for avoiding and staying safe around reptiles.
Where are they?
Crocodiles inhabit areas from central Texas to North Carolina, as noted by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Louisiana and Florida boast the largest populations, exceeding 1 million. Georgia has between 200,000 and 250,000 crocodiles, while South Carolina is home to around 100,000.
Morgan Hart from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources believes that the rise in crocodile attacks is due to “significant population growth in the South Carolina Coastal Plains.”
New residential developments often create artificial lakes, soon attracting crocodiles.
Exercise caution around alligators.
If you see a crocodile on land, “the best option is to leave it alone,” Hart advised.
Crocodiles may hiss if they feel threatened by someone standing too close, according to her.
People should be cautious about approaching crocodiles, as this could indicate that the animals have been fed and associate humans with food.
“They generally do not pursue people, but they can close the distance quickly,” the agency notes, explaining that crocodiles can sprint at speeds of up to 35 mph over short distances.
Keep a close watch on children and pets.
Crocodiles are likely to pursue prey that they can easily overpower.
“Pets can often resemble crocodiles’ natural prey,” said Lauren Clareabout, a spokesperson for the Florida Wildlife Commission.
People should keep pets leashed and prevent them from swimming or playing in known crocodile habitats such as canals, ponds, or lakes.
“The sounds of dogs barking and splashing can attract crocodiles,” the Florida Wildlife Commission cautioned.
Be mindful where you swim.
Wildlife agencies recommend swimming only in designated areas during daylight hours, free from pets.
“Crocodiles are most active during dusk and dawn,” Clareabout noted.
Feeding alligators in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas is illegal and can be dangerous (with the exception of designated hunting seasons).
According to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife Fisheries, people should avoid throwing fish scraps or feeding other wildlife in areas where crocodiles congregate.
“Feeding them only leads to trouble,” stated Donald Hauser, general manager at Gator Park, located just south of Miami. He highlighted that once crocodiles are fed for three days, they lose their natural fear of humans.
“The key is to stay away,” he advised.
How to defend yourself.
Officials state that you should only confront a crocodile if it has latched onto you.
“In such cases, target the most sensitive areas: the eyes, nose, or throat,” Everglades National Park in South Florida advises, recommending that individuals “hit, kick, or jab with as much force as possible to compel the crocodile to release you.”
Nevertheless, if you find yourself caught in the crocodile’s jaws, your chances of escape are slim, Hauser cautioned.
“It’s best to have trained individuals handle such situations,” he advised.
“Crocodiles generally do not eat humans,” he explained, but they might take a bite and then release. However, if the grip is long enough, it could be too late,” he concluded.
Updated May 12th: Additional insights Executive Order and its implications .
On Monday, President Trump is set to sign an executive order aimed at reducing various drug prices in the US by aligning them with what other prosperous nations pay. This was reported by True Social on Sunday evening.
He noted that his proposal cannot alter federal policies, describing it as the “most favored nation” pricing approach. While specifics regarding the types of insurance covered or the number of drugs affected were not shared, Trump emphasized that the US must secure the lowest prices compared to its counterparts.
“In the end, our nation will be treated equitably and citizens’ healthcare expenses will decrease significantly,” he stated in a social media update.
This kind of plan is likely to face legal challenges, and it remains uncertain whether it will succeed without input from Congress.
During his first term, Trump attempted to implement a similar Medicare strategy, targeting 68 million Americans aged 65 and older or those with disabilities. This plan would have focused on 50 medications administered in healthcare settings funded by Medicare. However, it was blocked by a federal court, which ruled that the administration bypassed necessary procedures in policy formulation.
The pharmaceutical sector strongly opposes this concept, arguing it may severely impact their profit margins. They have ramped up lobbying efforts against the proposal as discussions revive in Washington. Industry leaders caution that such measures will hinder research funding and limit patient access to innovative treatments.
“Every form of government pricing is detrimental to patients in America,” declared Alex Schriver, a staff member of a prominent pharmaceutical lobbying organization. He added: “Policymakers should prioritize reforming flaws in the US system instead of adopting ineffective strategies from abroad.”
Trump’s support for these ideas distinguishes him from the majority of Republicans, who are generally hesitant about government pricing. Meanwhile, Democrats are advancing a similar proposal.
Amiet Salpatwali, a pharmaceutical policy specialist at Harvard Medical School, noted that Trump is capitalizing on ideas that resonate with populist sentiments.
Trump has long expressed concerns about the significant disparity in drug prices that the US faces compared to other wealthy nations. He is correct; in the United States, the cost of branded medications is, on average, three times higher than that in peer countries.
This is despite the fact that a substantial portion of the research leading to new drugs is conducted in American laboratories and hospitals.
Pharmaceutical manufacturers generate a significant majority of global profits from US sales, typically developing their strategies with the US market in mind.
The pharmaceutical industry contends that the elevated prices in the US provide additional advantages. Analyses funded by the industry have indicated that US patients tend to access medications more swiftly and face fewer insurance restrictions compared to their counterparts in other countries.
On Monday, President Trump signed an executive order urging drug manufacturers to voluntarily reduce prices for major medications in the United States.
Nonetheless, the order lacks explicit legal authority to enforce lower prices. It states that if drug companies do not comply, the administration may explore regulatory actions from foreign nations or consider importing drugs from abroad.
This seemed like a win for the pharmaceutical sector, backing policies that could severely impact their profits.
Last week, Trump emphasized the announcement, stating it was “significant enough to make an impact.” He also mentioned in a Sunday evening post on Truth Social that they would connect U.S. drug prices to those in comparable countries under the “most favored nation” pricing model.
His executive order won’t achieve that goal. Following the news, drug stocks surged on Monday.
This order by Trump came just hours after House Republicans slashed about $700 billion from the Medicaid and Obamacare markets, proposing extensive healthcare changes that could potentially leave 8.6 million Americans without insurance. Congress declined to include measures that would impose direct limits on drug prices in its packages.
The executive order also called for federal agencies to investigate the reasons behind lower prices in European nations and to pursue additional payments. The Trump administration has limited power to influence drug prices in Europe.
“I’m not criticizing pharmaceutical companies,” Trump remarked before signing the order. “I’m primarily critiquing the country rather than the pharmaceutical firm.”
Trump opted not to suggest measures that could be more effective, such as proposing that the administration collaborate with Congress to reform how government health programs compensate for certain drugs.
“The executive order seems more like an ambitious statement than a genuine effort to initiate policy shifts,” commented Amith Salpatwali, a medical policy student at Harvard Medical School.
While numerous Republican lawmakers have resisted attempts to control drug prices, Trump has consistently challenged the existing system, pointing out that U.S. drug companies charge significantly more than their counterparts globally.
“We plan to support pharmaceutical companies in other countries,” he said at an event on Monday.
Trump also threatened to leverage trade policies to pressure European nations into paying higher prices for prescription drugs. However, pharmaceutical companies are already tied to government contracts, and attempts to raise prices for new drugs could be met with resistance from European countries. Experts warned that an increase in prices in Europe does not automatically result in lower prices in the U.S.
During his first term, Trump aimed to implement a more comprehensive policy to reduce drug prices for Medicare, a health insurance program for those over 65 or with disabilities. This plan would have impacted only 50 drugs administered in clinics and hospitals, but a federal court blocked it, determining that the administration sidestepped due process in policymaking.
If pursued correctly, it’s uncertain whether the policy could have survived legal scrutiny. Some experts opined that Trump required congressional support to enact the law.
The White House heralded the announcement as groundbreaking. Trump’s Monday executive order calls for broader reforms than were proposed during his first term, potentially affecting more drugs and all Americans instead of just some Medicare patients. However, there is no clear pathway for implementing price reductions.
“It almost seems like: we want a lower price and will see what happens,” remarked Stacey Dusetzina, a health policy professor at Vanderbilt University, who studies drug pricing. She added that in the absence of more substantive actions, “I don’t foresee drug prices decreasing anytime soon.”
The order stated that if initial measures do not yield notable progress in lowering U.S. drug prices, the Trump administration may “consider a regulatory plan to impose pricing standards based on the most favored nations.”
Democrats have introduced numerous bills aimed at aligning American drug prices with those in other countries, and laws passed during the Biden administration now allow Medicare to directly negotiate prices for a limited selection of drugs used in the program. Overall, drug pricing policies enjoy broad public support across both Republican and Democratic voters.
The pharmaceutical industry has voiced its concerns over potential tariffs on imported drugs that Trump has promised to impose immediately. These tariffs are likely to reduce drug manufacturers’ profits, even as they might increase some drug prices in the U.S. and pass on additional costs.
Investors reacted positively, recognizing that Trump did not propose more substantial policies. After earlier declines, drug stocks rebounded when details of Trump’s announcement emerged, with Merck shares rising 6% and Pfizer’s shares nearly 4%. The small biotech stock index also rose by 4%.
“Better than expected,” a Wall Street Bank analyst mentioned in a note to investors. “More bark than bite,” commented analysts at TD Cowen.
In Monday’s statement, a drugmaker lobbying group asserted that the U.S. should not look to other countries to determine drug pricing.
However, significant industry organizations, including PhRMA, commended Trump for using trade negotiations to pressure foreign governments to “pay their fair share for medicines.”
“U.S. patients should not bear the financial burden of global innovation,” stated Stephen J. UBL, PhRMA’s CEO.
Currently, U.S. brand drug prices are three times higher on average compared to similar countries.
Drug manufacturers typically design their business strategies around U.S. profits. Essentially, U.S. profits drive their revenues.
Pharmaceutical companies assert that U.S. prices accompany additional advantages. Industry-funded analyses show that U.S. patients gain faster access to medications, and experience fewer insurance limitations compared to other regions.
In many affluent countries, governments generally cover prescription drug costs for the entire population, negotiating substantial discounts with drug manufacturers. Numerous other nations employ comparative pricing to establish what they are willing to pay.
In contrast, the U.S. government has minimal direct involvement in setting drug prices, aside from the Biden-era program affecting a limited number of Medicare drugs, which is currently under the Trump administration’s oversight.
Earlier this month, Republican Senator Josh Hawley from Missouri and Democrat Peter Welch from Vermont introduced a bill aimed at capping the average prices paid based on peer country comparisons.
In an interview, Welch expressed agreement with Trump’s assertion that Americans are overpaying for drugs and believes that international comparisons could help establish fairer pricing. However, he emphasized that congressional action is necessary to create enduring policies.
“It’s essential to tackle this legislatively,” he stated.
Trump’s executive order assigns his administration a month to communicate voluntary “price targets” for select drugs to pharmaceutical companies. White House officials indicated that it is likely that a weight-loss drug known as GLP-1 (which includes popular medications like Zepbound and Wegovy) might be among those discussed.
Trump noted at a press conference on Monday that the costs for “weight-loss drugs” are substantially lower in Europe than in the U.S.
In many scenarios, Americans face costs of around $500 a month for these medications without insurance, while European pharmacies often charge a few hundred dollars less. Most patients in Europe pay out-of-pocket for drugs, as the national health systems typically do not cover them.
According to court documents submitted on Monday in a deletion lawsuit, the Agriculture Department plans to reinstate climate change information that was removed from its website when President Trump took office.
The omitted information encompassed pages detailing federal funding and loans, forest conservation, and rural clean energy initiatives. This also included sections from the U.S. Forest Service and the Natural Resources Conservation Services, featuring climate risk viewers, including comprehensive maps that illustrate how climate change impacts national forests and grasslands.
The February lawsuit indicated that farmers’ access to pivotal information was hindered, affecting their ability to make timely decisions amid business risks tied to climate change, such as heat waves, droughts, floods, and wildfires.
The lawsuit was filed by the Organic Farming Association in Northeast New York alongside two environmental organizations, the Natural Resources Defense Council and the Environmental Working Group.
The plaintiffs sought a court mandate requiring the department to restore the deleted pages. On Monday, the government affirmed that this restoration would be compulsory.
Jay Clayton, a U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, informed Judge Margaret M. Garnett that he represents the agricultural division in this suit and has commenced the process of restoring the pages and interactive tools highlighted in the complaint. He indicated that the department “anticipates completing the restoration process significantly in about two weeks.”
Clayton requested a postponement of the hearing set for May 21, suggesting a report on the restoration progress be submitted in three weeks, and mentioned he is working on determining “the appropriate next steps in this lawsuit.”
“The USDA is pleased to recognize that the unlawful removal of climate change-related information is detrimental to farmers and communities nationwide,” stated Jeffrey Stein, assistant attorney for Earthjustice, an environmental law nonprofit that represents the plaintiffs, alongside the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University.
Witnessing how flamingos feed is truly a captivating experience. They tilt their heads in the water and perform a charming waddling dance, sifting through small crustaceans, insects, microscopic algae, and other minute aquatic morsels in shallow waters.
Victor Ortega Zimenez, a biologist from the University of California, Berkeley, recalls being captivated by this behavior in 2019 during a family visit to the Atlanta Zoo. Since then, he has pondered what transpires beneath the water’s surface.
“While the birds were stunning to observe, my main question was, ‘What hydrodynamic principles guide the filter feeding behavior in flamingos?'” he shared.
Upon returning home, he was struck by the lack of scientific literature on the subject, prompting him to embark on his own research journey. After years of careful investigation, he and his team made remarkable discoveries, detailed in a recent publication by the National Academy of Sciences. They revealed that flamingos actively use the physics of water flow to sweep up prey and direct it into their mouths.
“We’re disputing the common notion that flamingos are merely passive filter feeders,” Dr. Ortega Zimenez stated. “Just as spiders create webs, flamingos generate vortices.”
Dr. Ortega Zimenez collaborated with three extraordinarily supportive flamingos from the Nashville Zoo: Matty, Marty, and Cayenne. Zookeepers trained these birds to feed in transparent containers, allowing researchers to capture their feeding behaviors using high-speed cameras and fluid dynamics techniques. The team introduced oxygen bubbles and food particles to visualize the water flow facilitated by the birds. After observing live flamingos, they constructed a 3D model of a flamingo’s head to further investigate its biomechanics.
The researchers found that flamingos frequently and quickly retracted their heads while feeding. Each movement generated tornado-like vortices, drawing particles from the bottom to the water’s surface. Additional experiments with mechanical beaks revealed that flamingos rapidly pound their beaks while partially submerged, directing the flow of water straight to their mouths and aiding in prey capture. Their uniquely shaped L-shaped beaks played a crucial role in creating vortices and recirculating water. They utilized the surface layer for feeding, reaping the benefits of their specialized feeding techniques.
Another “surprising discovery” involved the flamingos’ feet, as Dr. Ortega Zimenez noted. Researchers explored this through mechanical models of flamingo feet and computational simulations. The dance-like movements underwater contributed to the vortices, propelling additional particles toward the waiting mouths of the birds, which feed upside down in the water. Collectively, these findings indicate that flamingos are “superfeeding machines,” employing their entire bodies in the feeding process.
Biophysicist Sunghwan Jung from Cornell University commended the study for showcasing how biological morphology and motion interact functionally with surrounding fluids.
Alejandro Rico Gevala, an evolutionary biologist at Washington University in Seattle, who was not involved in the research, also concurred, stating that the new findings challenge the idea of flamingos as merely passive filter feeders. “Numerous hypotheses have attempted to explain how their peculiar bills function,” he remarked.
In addition to elucidating that mystery, the study reveals “a distinctly evolved method for capturing elusive small prey,” he added. This research hints at another possible evolutionary purpose for the birds’ webbed feet, beyond simply functioning as paddles.
Dr. Ortega Zimenez, fueled by curiosity about the dynamics of water flow used by flamingos, is now planning to investigate what occurs within the bird’s beak during feeding. Ultimately, such discoveries may lead to bioinspired technologies aimed at addressing issues like toxic algae and microplastics, he said.
“What is the essence of filter feeding in flamingos?” he questioned. “As scientists, we aspire to understand both the shape and function of these fascinating and enigmatic birds.”
On Monday, the Energy Bureau announced it is set to revoke energy and water conservation standards impacting a range of appliances and gas devices, totaling 47 regulations. In this context “It was raising costs for Americans and diminishing quality of life.”
The initiative follows a Presidential Order in which President Trump directed the energy sector to “remove constraints on water pressure and efficiency regulations that make household products more costly and effective.”
However, energy efficiency specialists and climate advocates argue that this move will increase operational costs for household appliances like dehumidifiers and portable air conditioners, as well as industrial machines like air compressors.
“If this consumer assault is successful, President Trump will significantly raise expenses for families when manufacturers flood the market with energy and water-draining products,” stated Andrew Delaski, executive director of the Appliance Standards Awareness Project, a consortium of environmental, consumer groups, utilities, and governmental agencies.
Delaski further asserted that this initiative breaches anti-backsliding provisions established decades ago.
“It’s evidently illegal, so please exercise caution,” he remarked in a statement.
Similar to many nations, the US has been implementing standards for years that regulate the energy and water usage of appliances, including light bulbs, dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines.
According to government scientists’ reports, the efficiency standards saved the average American household roughly $576 on water and gas bills in 2024, leading to a 6.5% reduction in national energy consumption and a 12% decrease in public water use. These measures have prevented the total energy and water usage by American households from rising faster than population growth.
Nonetheless, the Trump administration has characterized these standards as an example of government overreach. Trump frequently criticized weak water pressure from shower heads or toilets that do not flush effectively, denouncing the efficiency standards associated with these devices. Conservative factions, too, argue that efficiency standards compromise appliance performance, especially for dishwashers.
The list of energy sector appliance regulations targets various devices, including air cleaners, battery chargers, compressors, cooking tops, dehumidifiers, external power supplies, microwaves, dishwashers, and faucets.
The department indicated that the rescinded standards would “eliminate over 125,000 words from federal regulations.” However, rolling back the standards necessitates a new rule-making process that may take several months. Additionally, these rollbacks could encounter legal opposition.
The department has not yet responded to requests for comments.
Simultaneously, the Environmental Protection Agency is planning to eliminate the Energy Star program, a universal energy efficiency certification for appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators, and dryers.
Historically, manufacturers have backed government efficiency standards, but they are now attempting to leverage Trump’s inclination to deregulate.
The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, representing 150 manufacturers responsible for 95% of household appliances sold in the US, is still assessing Monday’s announcement.
However, Jill A. Notini, a public relations officer for the association, highlighted in a statement that the standards “have facilitated decades of successful advancements in appliance efficiency.” The association further noted, “With most appliances operating at near peak efficiency, substantial savings in some products are unlikely.”
In addition to rolling back efficiency standards, the energy sector intends to abolish several clean energy and climate change initiatives. This includes rescinding reporting requirements for voluntary programs that allow businesses to report greenhouse gas emissions and terminating programs that provide compensation for electricity generated from renewable sources.
The energy sector is also discarding what it terms “unscientific” diversity, equity, and inclusion prerequisites for grant recipients, proposing to eliminate regulations that prevent subsidies from discriminating based on gender, race, or age.
Certain proposals appear to be unrelated to the department’s core focus. One suggested repeal involves “termination requirements for a single sex member to compete on sports teams of the opposite sex.”
Here’s a rewritten version of your content while keeping the HTML tags intact:
Rizatriptan is frequently recommended for various migraine types
Aleksandr Zubkov/Getty Images
The standard medications prescribed for migraines provide limited relief for the vestibular symptoms, which include dizziness and typical migraine manifestations like headaches and light sensitivity. This is true even for rizatriptan, which is sometimes recommended for such types of migraines.
Research on vestibular migraine treatment has been inconsistent, yielding mixed results across different medications, according to Jeffrey Staab from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Some newer medications, like galcanezumab, may reduce the frequency of attacks, but no randomized trials have previously evaluated the effectiveness of migraine medications in alleviating vestibular symptoms during episodes.
To fill this research gap, Staab and his team investigated vestibular migraines. Participants were instructed to take 10 milligrams of rizatriptan or a placebo at the onset of vestibular symptoms, such as balance problems and spinning sensations. Their symptoms were subsequently evaluated on a scale of 0 to 3 at several intervals until the episodes resolved.
One hour after administration—at which point rizatriptan reaches peak concentrations in the bloodstream—it was not more effective than the placebo in relieving symptoms which are often considered to act quickly. Both groups were allowed to use back-up medications after waiting the necessary hour.
After 24 hours, rizatriptan showed a slight improvement in sensitivity to movement, light, and sound, but not in dizziness. Participants also reported marginally higher scores concerning physical well-being—such as energy levels and the ability to carry out daily activities—when compared to those taking the placebo. However, no differences were noted in mental well-being or the acceptance of side effects.
Rizatriptan falls under the triptans class of drugs, typically effective against migraines, but may not alleviate vestibular symptoms, as noted by Staab.
The study’s findings indicate that the brain pathways linked to vestibular migraines (the vestibular system, which is considered “primitive” from an evolutionary standpoint) may lack sensitivity to triptans for reasons that are yet to be explored. According to Peter Goadsby from King’s College London, vestibular migraines should not be treated as distinct conditions from other migraine types; rather, their symptoms represent a “slight variation” of migraine pathology that necessitates targeted treatment approaches.
“I think it’s important to communicate with fellow clinicians about these symptoms,” Goadsby states. “For instance, if you are treating someone with a vestibular migraine using a triptan, be prepared for it to potentially be ineffective. It’s crucial to recognize that this doesn’t imply the patient is difficult or unreasonable.”
Topics:
This retains the original HTML structure while rephrasing the content for clarity and flow.
This week, the country is bracing for early seasonal heat waves, with record or near-record high temperatures anticipated across the Northern and Southern Plains, Southwest, and vast regions of central and southern Texas.
On Monday, temperatures climbed into the 90s in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota, with some areas likely reaching triple-digit highs.
Beginning Tuesday, Texas will experience its hottest conditions, with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit becoming commonplace throughout the state, according to the agency.
In a series of posts on X, the San Antonio Weather Service office cautioned that many people may struggle to adapt to such extreme temperatures, heightening the risk of heat-related illnesses and fatalities.
“Temperatures are slated to soar above 100 on Tuesday, with some locations potentially hitting 110 mid-week. Ensure you have access to cooling and ample hydration before the heat arrives,” the office advised. I shared this on X.
As the week continues, the heat will intensify in the central and southern plains, eventually spreading to the southeastern U.S. and Florida.
Cities likely to set new daily temperature records this week include Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, and Houston in Texas, as well as Oklahoma City; Shreveport, Louisiana; Charleston, South Carolina; and Tallahassee, Jacksonville, and Orlando in Florida.
The unseasonably high temperatures are attributed to strong high-pressure ridges situated over much of the country, particularly in Texas. These “thermal domes” effectively trap heat in the region, leading to elevated temperatures for several days.
Southern California recorded historic highs over the weekend, peaking at 103 in downtown Los Angeles, surpassing the previous record of 99 set in 1988. According toreports, this significant increase has raised concerns.
During the Los Angeles heat wave, individuals took a moment to hydrate on Sunday. Carlin Steele/Los Angeles Times Getty Images
Research indicates that climate change is intensifying the frequency, duration, and intensity of heat waves globally. Scientists predict yet another hot summer following two consecutive years of record-breaking global temperatures (2023 and 2024).
These ongoing record temperatures are part of alarming warming trends long anticipated by climate change models. The hottest years on record since 1850 have all occurred within the last decade. According tothe National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Certainly! Here’s your content rewritten while preserving the HTML tags:
As President Donald Trump took office, the wildfires in Los Angeles were still burning, prompting a return to previous Biden-era directives for federal agencies addressing the climate crisis. Flip
January’s fire conditions, exacerbated by climate change, played a significant role in igniting wildfires in Palisades and Eton. Nearly 40,000 acres were affected. By March, Adam Smith, the chief investigator of the $1 billion weather and climate disaster program at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), was still assessing the severe impact of the LA wildfires when he received informal orders to cease all work-related communications.
Each month, Smith’s team maintained an extensive online database tracking losses from over 400 natural disasters since 1980, all causing more than $1 billion in damages. Following the LA wildfire, Smith reported having received restrictions that prevented him from updating this database and sharing initial findings with the public. The wildfire incurred damages amounting to at least $50 billion.
In early May, Smith resigned due to concerns about the agency’s plans for the future. The billion-dollar weather and climate disaster online database Smith had developed over 15 years at NOAA was subsequently shut down. Days later, NOAA confirmed it would cease updates for this important resource, which provides essential data for scientists, citizens, and insurance firms evaluating climate risk.
A NOAA spokesperson stated that the database would no longer be updated “due to changing priorities and staffing adjustments.” The White House did not provide any comments regarding the matter.
According to Smith, the database’s economic losses are particularly vital, as billion-dollar disasters like hurricanes and widespread wildfires are increasingly common. In 2023, the US set new records for billion-dollar disasters, with the database indicating a staggering $28 billion event. Over the past five years, the US has averaged about $24 billion in disasters annually, a significant rise from just $3 billion average during the 1980s.
“We need to be more prepared than ever,” Smith told NBC News. “Some have access to the data and insights for better preparation. Unfortunately, discontinuing resources like these creates a gap in knowledge.”
Researchers have identified rising global temperatures as a key driver in these changes over recent decades. Long-term droughts and increased wildfire risks are affecting regions across the western United States, where warming atmospheres retain more moisture, resulting in more intense storms and hurricanes.
This increase in extreme weather events presents significant challenges for insurance policyholders in areas susceptible to natural disasters. Rates in hurricane-prone states like Louisiana and Florida have surged, with some homeowners facing nearly $10,000 in annual insurance premiums. In California, major insurance firms, including State Farm, have rescinded policies due to escalating fire risks.
A study from the National Bureau of Economic Research revealed that the heightened risk of disasters would drive up annual insurance costs for households affected by climate issues by an estimated $700 over the next three decades. On a global scale, reports from German insurance giant Munich RE indicated that natural disasters resulted in record insurance losses of $140 billion worldwide in 2024.
“You cannot conceal the costs of climate change from those who are already incurring those costs through their insurance premiums,” stated Carly Fabian, a civic policy advocate from a consumer rights nonprofit. “The insurance and reinsurance sectors are built to withstand a limited number of major multi-billion dollar disasters, but are not equipped for consecutive disasters occurring with such frequency.”
Data compiled in the multibillion-dollar disaster database illustrates the financial toll of hurricanes, severe storms, and wildfires across the nation, serving as a critical resource for private insurers modeling climate risks and establishing rates for homeowners in vulnerable areas. Although insurance companies utilize various datasets for their climate risk assessments, the scale of NOAA’s database remains unmatched.
Jeremy Porter, a climate risk expert at the First Street Foundation, emphasized that the database is one of the most effective tools for illustrating the economic impact of climate-related disasters. First Street utilizes the $1 billion disaster database for its national risk assessment reports.
The NOAA database also serves as an essential resource for homeowners facing rising rates, non-renewals, and cancellations in home insurance.
“We are navigating an industry where insurers have extensive access to private data while the average consumer lacks insight into that data,” remarked the policy director for Americans for Financial Reform, a nonprofit advocating for stricter regulations. “The removal of public data sources exacerbates this imbalance, hindering individuals’ ability to understand their risks and the challenges they face from financial service providers.”
Madison Condon, an environmental law professor at Boston University, highlighted that the cuts to NOAA’s $1 billion disaster database are part of a broader trend involving rollbacks of national climate assessments and data resources, including the annual report detailing the impacts of climate change in the US released in late April. The Trump administration notably rejected numerous scientific contributions to these reports.
Additionally, the Trump administration has eliminated data products related to melting Antarctic glaciers and sea ice cover, marking yet another setback for US Antarctic research. Leaked documents obtained by ProPublica indicated that Trump intended to reduce NOAA funding by 27%, particularly for innovative climate-related initiatives, and proposed nearly 75% cuts to the Bureau of Ocean and Atmospheric Research, responsible for maintaining global climate models essential for insurers’ climate risk assessments.
Let me know if you need any further modifications!
Tianwan Nuclear Power Station on the Yellow Sea coast of China
Xinhua Newsletter/Alamie
Researchers in China have created a cost-effective and energy-efficient method for extracting uranium from seawater. As the global leader in nuclear power plant construction, China’s advances will bolster its uranium supply.
The oceans are estimated to contain around 4.5 billion tonnes of uranium, significantly more than is available through traditional mining methods. However, these resources are challenging to extract. Previous methods have involved immersing materials in artificial sponges or polymers inspired by natural structures, or utilizing a more costly electrochemical approach to capture uranium atoms via an electric field.
A team led by Shuangyin Wang from Hunan University has developed an enhanced electrochemical technology that is not only cheaper but also requires less energy than existing methods. Unlike conventional systems that draw only uranium atoms towards a positive electrode, this new device utilizes two copper electrodes.
This innovative method managed to extract 100% of uranium from a brine solution within 40 minutes, whereas physical adsorption techniques typically yield less than 10% of the available uranium.
When tested with small amounts of natural seawater, the system processed about 1 liter at a time, achieving 100% extraction from East China Sea water and 85% from South China Sea water. In the latter scenario, larger electrodes allowed for complete extraction.
The energy cost of this method is over 1000 times lower than that of traditional electrochemical procedures, with extraction costing approximately $83 per kilogram of uranium—four times cheaper than earlier methods and significantly less than the $360 per kilogram average.
By scaling up production and device size, researchers believe this technique could lead to the “industrialization of uranium extraction from seawater” in the future. During a 58-hour test in 100 liters of seawater, the largest experimental setup managed to extract over 90% of the available uranium.
A notable earlier success in uranium extraction from seawater occurred during the 1990s, when the Japanese Atomic Energy Agency used physical adsorption methods to recover kilograms of uranium, setting a significant benchmark for subsequent research in China.
In 2019, China’s state-run nuclear power company partnered with research institutes to form the Innovation Alliance for Seawater Uranium Extraction Technology. The goal is to establish a demonstration plant by 2035 and achieve continuous industrial production by 2050. South China Morning Post.
Half of the reactor projects currently in development are located in China. The country is positioned to significantly increase its nuclear capacity by 2030, potentially surpassing both the US and the EU. International Energy Agency.
Nonetheless, China still imports the majority of the uranium it requires, making any economical extraction from seawater highly valuable.
Don Pettit, NASA’s oldest active astronaut, made his return to Earth on April 20th, coinciding with his 70th birthday. This marked the end of his fourth mission, a demanding 220-day stay at the International Space Station.
Throughout his time aboard the space station, Pettit engaged in various experiments, interacted with students, and exercised extensively to maintain his health and combat bone density loss. However, his most captivating contribution was through his photography.
For many on Earth, going to space is simply a dream. “I caught a glimpse of how they perceive my image,” said Pettit during a press conference following his return to Japan.
Pettit mentioned that dedicated photographers always carry a camera. “I could gaze out of the window and enjoy the stunning views,” he described. “But every time I look out, I am just enjoying it, saying to myself, ‘Wow, look at that. Oh, there’s a flash. What’s happening there?’ and, ‘Ah, a volcano appears.’ Then I think, ‘Where’s my camera?’
At times, he would set up five different cameras simultaneously in the cupola module, where seven windows offered sweeping vistas of space and Earth.
Capturing images in space shares similarities with night photography; the stars are faint and require longer exposure times to gather sufficient light. However, in orbit, everything is in constant motion, with the space station racing at 5 miles per second while the Earth spins beneath.
At times, Pettit embraced the dynamic beauty. The shimmering lines blurred under the light showcased the stars tracing arcs across the night sky.
“These meld science with art,” Pettit noted on X. “There are so many techniques to observe, or you can simply sit back and think, ‘How cool!’
His camera was fitted with a “trajectory fitting tracker,” a homemade device that gradually adjusts for the space station’s movements, keeping the lens focused on a particular point in the sky.
Thanks to this tracker, he was able to capture a 10-second exposure of the Milky Way shining above the cloudy Pacific Ocean just before dawn, revealing a captivating blue-purple glow from sunlight scattering through nitrogen in Earth’s atmosphere.
The sidereal tracker also contributed to capturing the image below from the windows of the docked SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft.
The photo reveals the large and small Magellanic Clouds, the closest galaxies to our Milky Way on a cosmic scale.
In April, Pettit filmed the mesmerizing rhythmic pulsations of the aurora, a glowing phenomenon caused by high-energy solar particles interacting with atmospheric molecules.
On occasion, vibrant lights were the result of human activity, not celestial events. The green lines seen in this photo are similar in color to the aurora but actually result from fishing boats off Thailand attracting squid.
While photographing Earth, Pettit recorded lightning striking in the upper atmosphere above the Amazon Basin in South America. These videos captured time intervals ranging from 6 to 33 seconds, showcasing more intricate details of the flashes.
The Betoshiboca River in Madagascar reminded Pettit of the visual patterns seen in human eyes’ blood vessels.
Similar to wildfires, urban areas intensify in brightness at night.
Pettit seized the opportunity to document spacecraft launching and returning to Earth, including a test flight of a SpaceX Starship rocket from Texas last November…
…and the docking of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, scheduled to transport cargo to the space station in December.
During his mission, Pettit also designed an entertaining science experiment. One showcased electrically charged water droplets dancing around a Teflon knitting needle. “I aim to do in space what can only be done in space,” he stated. “I’m worried that when I return, I’ll have to catch up on all the TV shows.”
In another experiment, he injected food coloring into a droplet of water, producing a sphere resembling Jupiter or a pristine marble.
Pettit also dissolved antacid tablets in water. In a microgravity environment, the escaping bubbles create entirely different patterns of pop, fizz, and hiss compared to on Earth.
He even froze thin water ice wafers at minus 140 degrees Fahrenheit. “What can you do with a freezer in space?” He wrote on X. “I decided to grow a thin layer of water ice just for the fun of it.”
Photographing the ice layer through a polarizing filter revealed intricate crystal formations.
While Pettit holds the title of the oldest NASA astronaut, he is not the oldest person to orbit Earth; that honor goes to John Glenn, who flew around the Earth in 1962 and again in 1998 at the age of 77.
Pettit is also not the oldest individual to spend time aboard the International Space Station; that distinction belongs to private astronaut Larry Connor, who was 72 during his two-week mission in 2022, organized by Axiom Space in Houston.
“I’m only 70, with a few good years ahead of me,” Pettit remarked during a news conference. “We’ve managed to squeeze in another flight before we had to finalize the rocket nozzle.”
On Monday, President Trump plans to sign an executive order intending to reduce various US drug prices by aligning them with the rates paid by other affluent nations. True Social reported on Sunday evening.
The proposal, referred to as the “most favored nation” pricing model, cannot alter federal policies. Trump did not specify which insurances or drugs would be included, but asserted that the US should secure the lowest price among comparable countries.
“Our nation will be treated fairly, and citizens’ healthcare costs will drop to unprecedented levels,” he stated in a social media update.
This initiative may face legal challenges, and it remains uncertain if it can proceed without legislative action.
During his first term, Trump attempted to implement a version of this Medicare concept. It would have affected 68 million Americans aged 65 and older or those with disabilities. The proposal would have targeted only 50 drugs given in clinics and hospitals reimbursed by Medicare, but a federal court blocked it, citing procedural oversights by the administration.
The pharmaceutical sector staunchly opposes this notion, fearing significant cuts to their profits. They have been actively lobbying against it as policy discussions have intensified in Washington in recent weeks. Companies caution that such measures could lead to reduced research funding and limit patient access to new medications.
“Government pricing in any form is detrimental to patients in America,” stated Alex Schriver, an employee of a prominent pharmaceutical lobbying group. He added, “Policymakers should concentrate on addressing flaws in the US system rather than adopting unsuccessful policies from abroad.”
Trump’s openness to these ideas distinguishes him from the majority of Republicans, who are generally skeptical of government pricing. Democrats are also proposing a version of the concept.
Amiet Salpatwali, a pharmaceutical policy expert at Harvard Medical School, noted that Trump is capitalizing on ideas that carry “populist appeal.”
Trump has long complained that the US pays much higher prices for the same drugs compared to other affluent countries. His claim holds merit: in the US, branded drug prices are on average three times higher than those in peer nations.
This disparity occurs even though a significant portion of the research that leads to new drugs is performed in American laboratories and hospitals.
Pharmaceutical firms generate a considerable majority of their global profits from US sales, often tailoring business strategies to the US market.
The industry asserts that higher prices in the US have certain advantages. According to industry-funded analyses, patients in the US access medications more rapidly and face fewer insurance restrictions compared to other nations.
Soon, tens of thousands of Americans will be compelled to transition from well-known obesity medications to alternatives that are likely to yield less effective weight loss, thanks to decisions made by Health’s insurance providers.
This situation exemplifies the consequences of a clandestine agreement between a pharmaceutical company and an intermediary known as a pharmacy benefits manager (PBM), appointed by employers to manage prescription coverage for their workforce. While employers benefit from lower medication costs, employees find themselves restricted from accessing competitive healthcare options. This type of insurance denial has become increasingly prevalent in the last decade.
Caremark, part of CVS Health and one of the largest PBMs, has opted to eliminate coverage for Zepbound, despite research indicating its weight loss efficacy surpasses that of Wegovy.
Ellen Davis, a 63-year-old resident of Huntington, Massachusetts, is one of those affected by Caremark’s decision. “It’s as if the rug has been pulled out from under me,” she expressed.
After using Zepbound for a year, she lost 85 pounds and experienced significant health improvements, having retired after a 34-year tenure at Verizon.
In a letter addressed to Verizon, she stated, “This forces patients to transition to less effective medications without any justification for medical care.”
Verizon did not respond to inquiries.
Following Caremark’s announcement, word spread rapidly online. A physician’s assistant at a weight loss clinic in New Hampshire started a Change.org petition to urge the company to reconsider. As of Sunday afternoon, it had garnered over 2,700 signatures. Caremark is set to cease Zepbound coverage in July.
Doctors assert that both Wegovy, from Novo Nordisk, and Zepbound are effective medications; however, they prefer Zepbound for most patients. This shift greatly limits their ability to tailor obesity medication prescriptions to individual needs.
It remains unclear if the omission of Zepbound will enhance Caremark’s profit margins.
Executives from Novo Nordisk claim they are not attempting to obstruct Zepbound’s availability. They maintain that patients and healthcare providers should have the autonomy to select their preferred medications.
David Whitrap, a spokesperson for Caremark, stated that the firm’s objective was to reduce drug costs. He noted that the agreement would lower obesity drug prices for Caremark’s employer clients by 10-15% compared to the previous year.
“CVS Caremark has aimed to let PBMs competitors often put forth their best efforts. Our choice is to encourage competition among clinically similar products while providing the lowest net costs to our clients,” Whitrap commented.
When queried about studies highlighting Zepbound’s advantages, Whitrap indicated that both medications are highly effective, and that clinical trial outcomes frequently diverge from real-world results.
The actual pricing that employers pay for medications is usually confidential. The Health Transformation Alliance, a consortium of major employers, reports that the average monthly cost for a large employer falls between $550 and $650.
Without insurance, patients might spend approximately $500 monthly on their medications. Many recently lost cheaper alternatives when regulators halted the sale of generic versions that cost below $200 monthly.
Countless employers do not cover either Zepbound or Wegovy due to their high cost. Medicare excludes most drugs for obese patients, and the Trump administration recently declined to support the Biden administration’s proposal to expand coverage.
Caremark, along with two other PBMs, dominates 80% of the prescription market. Other players, like Cigna’s Express Scripts and UnitedHealth’s Optum Rx, have not implemented similar restrictions on weight loss medications.
Since 2012, major PBMs have increasingly employed strategies that disrupt patient care and complicate treatment plans. Medications have been abruptly removed from the PBM’s official list of covered drugs.
According to a drugmaker-funded analysis, the number of medications excluded from at least one PBM list surged from 50 in 2014 to 548 in 2022. This count reflects instances where patients were compelled to switch to entirely different drugs, not merely to a standard version or alternative replica.
Limitations fluctuate frequently, leaving patients uncertain about the reasons behind them. One PBM might cover a specific drug while another does not, but competing managers may do the reverse.
Exclusions are generally purported not to harm patients; in certain instances, they may even be beneficial if patients are nudged toward more effective medications.
However, some exclusions have prompted significant concern among patients and healthcare providers.
In 2022, Caremark compelled patients to switch from one widely utilized blood-thinning elixir to Xarelto, leading to anecdotal reports that patients experienced complications during their treatment change. A group of physicians criticized this move, and the company restored coverage for the elixir six months later.
Individuals with autoimmune diseases, such as arthritis, often face similar mandatory drug switches. Asthma patients are also experiencing transitions to alternate inhalers.
“We’ve witnessed numerous situations,” remarked Dr. Robin Cohen, an asthma specialist at Boston Medical Center.
Representatives on behalf of employers indicate that patients affiliated with Caremark have already reached out via calls and emails, inquiring about the potential impact on their prescriptions. While they may remain on the PBM’s drug list, they have not played an active role in shaping it.
Caremark’s changes are applicable only to specific private insurance beneficiaries whose employers selected the most prevalent drug list managed by PBMs. This movement excludes patients receiving a version of diabetes medication.
Patients can consider switching to Wegovy or three other weight loss alternatives.
Whitrap noted that Caremark provides a “case-by-case medical exception process for individuals who may require alternatives,” including patients who have previously utilized Wegovy and saw insufficient weight loss.
However, many individuals may not meet the criteria for the exemption. In a conversation, one patient expressed a desire for Zepbound specifically and was not interested in switching.
“I selected Zepbound in consultation with my physician,” stated Carl Hoode, 49, from Saugus, Massachusetts.
Some patients are contemplating using their own funds to continue Zepbound. For 28-year-old Victoria Bello of Syracuse, New York, the medication has provided significant health improvements, and she fears losing access to it.
“I wasn’t prepared for such a sudden change,” she remarked. “I’m concerned for my health and the potential setback in my progress.”
A study funded by Eli Lilly conducted direct comparisons of medications across 750 clinical trials over a span of 16 months.
Participants receiving high doses of Zepbound shed an average of 50 pounds, whereas those on Wegovy lost around 33 pounds. Though both medications are administered via injection and share side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, the frequency of these effects was generally comparable between the two drugs. A small proportion of patients in both groups discontinued medication due to side effects.
Both drugs function similarly but have critical differences. Wegovy mimics only a single appetite-regulating hormone, while Zepbound influences two. Researchers believe that engaging more hormones leads to greater weight loss.
Dr. Jason Brett, an executive at Novo Nordisk, indicated in a recent interview that the quantity of weight lost is just one aspect of obesity treatment. Both medications are associated with improved heart health, though only Novo Nordisk has obtained regulatory approval to market the drug with that claim.
Medical professionals contend that both options must remain accessible, as Wegovy may outshine Zepbound in terms of weight loss efficacy or having milder side effects.
Healthcare providers advocate for the availability of both medications due to the diverse responses patients exhibit when using either Wegovy or Zepbound.
Supporters of Caremark argue that their decision to restrict Zepbound is merely fulfilling their responsibilities.
Benefits managers engage with pharmaceutical companies to negotiate payments known as rebates, which ultimately reduce employers’ costs for prescription drugs. These negotiations can yield substantial fees for the biggest market players. Caremark stood to gain significant revenue from weight loss medications without needing to exclude Zepbound.
The weight loss pill market is thriving, with both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly vying for market share.
Caremark engaged both drug manufacturers regarding rebate amounts associated with making their products available. However, neither Novo Nordisk nor Eli Lilly disclosed specific amounts provided. Novo Nordisk maintains that it did not advocate for or pay to inhibit Zepbound’s availability, emphasizing that the exclusion was solely Caremark’s decision.
“We believe that patients and physicians should determine what’s in the best interest of the patient,” stated Lars Flugaard Jorgensen, CEO of Novo Nordisk. He elaborated to Wall Street analysts this month.
Elizabeth DeGalier, 56, of Rochester, Minnesota, shared that Zepbound had a transformative impact on her life, expressing her frustration over Caremark’s choice. “It appears they overlooked scientific evidence,” she remarked. “They were primarily motivated by financial considerations.”
She added, “I am apprehensive about the future. I rely on several other expensive medications. Will they also be discontinued?”
Recent research indicates that wild chimpanzees have established a more nuanced communication system than previously thought, employing various mechanisms that merge vocalizations to convey new meanings.
These aspects of chimpanzee communication are detailed in studies published in Friday Journal Science Advances, resembling some basic elements of human language.
Researchers examined recordings from three groups of chimpanzees residing along ivory shores, revealing that they can combine vocalizations much like humans use idioms and rearrange words to form new phrases.
This study marks the first documentation of such complexity in non-human communication systems, suggesting that chimpanzees’ capabilities reflect an evolutionary turning point between basic animal communication and human language.
“The ability to combine sounds to create new meanings is a hallmark of human language,” stated Catherine Crockford, a researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology and co-director of the Tai Chimpanzee project. “It is crucial to explore whether similar capabilities exist in our closest living relatives, chimpanzees and bonobos.”
Another study published last month provided similar evidence indicating that bonobos can also combine calls to form phrases. Together, these studies imply that both species are evolving fundamental components of human language.
Bonobos and chimpanzees are the species most closely linked to humans in evolutionary history, suggesting all three may have derived from a common ancestor with this capability.
“Our findings indicate a highly generative vocal communication system that is unmatched in the animal kingdom. This aligns with recent discoveries about bonobos and implies that complex combinatorial abilities may have already existed in a common human ancestor.”
Researchers identified these new complexities in chimpanzee vocal systems by tracking specific animals in the field from dawn to dusk for approximately 12 hours daily, capturing the sounds they produced and their interactions with others in the group. They documented over 4,300 vocalizations from 53 wild chimpanzees.
While observing the vocalizations, researchers noted the activities, social interactions, and environmental changes occurring simultaneously, indicating whether the chimpanzees were eating, playing, or encountering predators.
The team performed statistical analyses on particular two-call combinations, such as “bark followed by bark,” recorded across various animals.
Their findings revealed that chimpanzees combine sounds to reference everyday experiences, with combinations that can express a range of meanings.
Simon Townsend, a professor at the University of Zurich who studied primate cognition and contributed to the bonobo study, noted that he wasn’t involved in this particular research.
He suggested that the common evolutionary ancestors of bonobos, humans, and chimpanzees likely possessed this ability.
“This suggests that our linguistic capabilities were already developing about 6-7 million years ago,” Townsend stated, referring to the time when these species likely diverged in the evolutionary tree.
Not all primates showcase such intricate communication. Townsend noted that forest monkeys, with simpler social structures, primarily utilize vocalizations to address predatory threats.
However, he believes that increasingly larger and more intricate social groups—a common trait among great apes and humans—have catalyzed the evolution of more sophisticated communication and ultimately, language.
For bonobos and chimpanzees, “Their biggest challenge is managing their intricate social environment. They exist in larger groups… There are conflicts, reconciliations, territorial disputes, and intergroup interactions. Vocalization is likely one evolutionary response to navigating these complex social dynamics.”
In human language, syntax refers to a set of rules that create a system capable of expressing infinite meanings.
“Syntax pertains to conveying increasingly precise and sophisticated information, which probably becomes necessary as social interactions grow more complex,” Townsend stated.
As the saying goes, you can’t brush aside the truth, but you can examine it closely—and you definitely should.
Medical professionals have long recognized that the state of our toilets offers valuable insights into our overall health. This wisdom also applies to how frequently we use them.
Discovering the Goldilocks Zone of Bowel Movements
Last year, a team of researchers found a connection between the frequency of bowel movements and long-term health outcomes.
They studied 1,400 healthy adults, excluding those with certain conditions and medications that could alter their stool.
The researchers categorized bowel movement frequency into four groups: constipation (one or two movements per week), low normal (three to six movements per week), high normal (one to three movements per day), and diarrhea.
According to the Bristol Stool Chart—or perhaps suspicious cupcakes—your stool should neither be too hard nor too soft. – Illustration: Lynn Bremner
Within this scale, the team identified a sort of Goldilocks zone.
Ideal bowel movements fall within a high normal range, according to Professor Shawn Gibbons, one of the study’s authors from the Institute of Systems Biology.
“Going every other day is reasonable. Ideally, twice a day is within a safe range,” he explains. “Some people take pride in it; they make a point to go at 10 a.m. every day.”
What Our Stool Reveals About Gut Health
Gibbons’ fascination with our collective bowel habits stems from the increasing understanding of the microorganisms inhabiting our gut.
“Transit time or intestinal motility is a crucial factor in this ecosystem,” he notes.
As stool moves through the intestine, microorganisms utilize available dietary fiber, fermenting it into beneficial fatty acids.
However, if the stool lingers too long, these microorganisms switch to protein, leading to toxin release into the bloodstream.
“Accumulations of toxins, like indoxyl sulfate and trimethylamine, are associated with chronic kidney and cardiovascular diseases,” Gibbons warns.
The average individual produces 3,500-3,800 kilograms (7,700-8,400 pounds) of stool in their lifetime. – Photo credit: Getty
Regular bowel movements lead to similar yet subtly different biological processes.
“Individuals with diarrhea often show elevated levels of systemic inflammation, such as C-reactive protein,” he clarifies. “I noticed a stress marker in the liver that ended up in the bloodstream.”
Of course, there are natural variations in how often people experience bowel movements. Most people recognize when their patterns change, but many healthcare providers aren’t overly concerned.
Gibbons states that the general consensus among clinicians is that unless changes are extreme, treatment may not be necessary.
“However, we argue that variations might be worth investigating,” he says. “Aiming for a consistent schedule of once a day or every other day is important. Deviating from this pattern can raise potential risk factors for chronic illnesses and aging.”
Examining Stool Texture and Consistency
Another way to evaluate your stool is by observing its characteristics. The Bristol Stool Scale serves as a visual guide to assessing stool health and can be quite revealing.
Developed in 1997 as a diagnostic tool, the scale categorizes stool into seven types—from small, hard pellets to watery diarrhea.
In addition to frequency, we should also seek a healthy balance in terms of shape and consistency. A smooth, sausage-like stool that passes easily is considered ideal.
It’s also necessary to notice the effort involved during bowel movements. Stool should not feel like a strenuous ordeal, nor should it feel like it’s happening all at once.
Read More:
Emphasizing a Healthy Lifestyle
If you find yourself consistently outside these Goldilocks zones, researchers suggest several strategies.
Gibbons and his colleagues discovered that individuals who fall into the beneficial higher frequency category tend to lead healthier lifestyles.
“They consume more fruits and vegetables, are more physically active, and tend to hydrate better,” he mentions. “These three factors can make a significant difference.”
He also recommends exploring new health trends. “Consider taking dietary fiber supplements or incorporating flaxseed and chia seeds into your meals. These can be quite beneficial.”
Be wary of certain wellness trends as well. Popular weight loss medications like Wegovy and Ozempic may offer multiple health benefits, but Gibbons cautions that they can slow intestinal transit time, potentially affecting frequency.
“High-protein diets can also pose risks due to the byproducts generated from protein fermentation. There is considerable evidence suggesting links to type 2 diabetes, particularly in younger individuals.”
So the next time you find yourself on the throne, consider it your personal health assessment.
Meet Our Experts
Professor Shawn Gibbons is an associate professor at the Institute of Systems Biology and leads the Gibbons Lab, which focuses on microbiology, ecology, and medicine. He earned his PhD in Biophysics from the University of Chicago in 2015. His expertise lies in microbial ecology, evolution, complex adaptive systems, bioinformatics, and the human microbiota.
In 1979, Pompeii faced an attack. The eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius released clouds of ash and rock into the air, showering an ancient Roman trading hub and resort with a relentless downpour of small volcanic debris.
Many residents scrambled to escape, desperately searching for safety and their loved ones before the estimated 1,500 victims were buried under layers of volcanic material.
A recent study published in a journal Scabbi di Pompeii documents this tragic event. Scientists recorded the experience of a family in one of the homes as they took refuge in a back room, desperately trying to bar the door with a wooden bed against the onslaught of volcanic debris known as Rapili.
The small, intricately designed house, referred to as the home of Hell and Flix, featured beautifully adorned frescoes in the dining area. It chillingly depicts the mythical siblings Phullissus and Helle, who fled from their evil stepmother, with Helle tragically falling into the sea below.
Like many residences of that era, the atrium was centrally located with an open roof, serving for ventilation and rainwater collection. Unfortunately, this feature also allowed volcanic debris to enter more readily. Most residents exclaimed, “I had no idea what was happening,” says Gabriel Zuchtliegel, the study’s author and director of the Archaeological Park at Pompeii. “Many believed the end of the world was upon them,” he added.
In the years that followed, the intense ash that filled the home solidified, allowing archaeologists to create plaster casts to replicate the shape of the wooden bed that had been pressed against the door. This technique powerfully illustrates the tragic final moments of Pompeians and how everyday items made from wood, fabric, and leather deteriorated in the environment.
Four skeletal remains, believed to be from the same family, were identified in the study. Rapili, which reached heights up to nine feet in places, was overwhelming. Researchers believe the individuals made desperate attempts to escape, barricading themselves inside a small room but ultimately reaching only the Triclinium, the formal dining space where the bodies were discovered.
Dr. Zuchtliegel noted, “The family in the home of Hell and Flix likely perished when the so-called detrital flow—a torrent of hot ash and toxic gases—struck, causing parts of the building to collapse.”
He and his colleagues propose that the four individuals found in the house may have included enslaved persons who worked there. However, it remains uncertain whether they resided there or fled after the homeowners had escaped.
“It is not guaranteed that the individuals found are family members,” said Marcello Mogetta, an associate professor of Roman Art and Archaeology at the University of Missouri, who was not involved in the research.
Among the skeletal remains was a bronze bull, likely belonging to a child. Ancient amulets were found around the necks of young boys, intended to ward off danger until they reached adulthood.
“There’s a tragic irony in that the talismans were meant to protect them,” remarked Caitie Barrett, a professor of archaeology at Cornell University, who was not involved in the research.
In the 18th century, Bourbon explorers sent by Charles III conducted rudimentary excavations at Pompeii, which impeded the discovery of skeletal remains in the homes of Hell and Frixus. They left gaping holes in the walls as they tunneled through the residence searching for treasures like jewels and artworks, showing little concern for the preservation of human remains or their cultural significance.
Today, however, it is the human tragedy that captivates many archaeologists and the visitors flocking to Pompeii. Whether the bodies found belong to family members remains a question researchers hope to answer through DNA analysis in the near future.
Regardless of their familial ties, the personal tragedy of this event is undeniable.
“No matter the nature of their relationships, they would have been the last to offer each other comfort,” Dr. Barrett noted.
In the event of a global disaster affecting international trade and fuel supplies, our survival may hinge on a resilient yet practical diet consisting of peas, potatoes, sugar beets, and spinach.
This perspective emerges from a recent study featured in the journal PLOS 1.
The research, conducted by Dr. Matt Boyd of Adapt Research Ltd and Professor Nick Wilson from The University of Otago, New Zealand, examined how cities could sustain themselves amidst scenarios like nuclear conflict, severe pandemics, or significant solar flares that might disrupt global food systems.
These situations could hinder access to vital resources, such as fuel and fertilizers, jeopardizing industrial agriculture and long-distance transportation.
Prior studies have highlighted urban agriculture, including rooftop gardens and community plots, as potential methods to bolster local resilience. However, Boyd and Wilson sought to determine the actual efficacy of these efforts.
They utilized satellite imagery to assess the food production capacity of Palmerston North, a temperate city in New Zealand.
The findings revealed that urban agriculture could sustain only about one-fifth of the city’s population, even under optimal conditions where all suitable urban spaces became gardens.
To fully nourish the city, over 1,140 hectares of farmland would need to be repurposed for food production, along with an extra 110 hectares to cultivate biofuel crops for agricultural machinery in the absence of liquid fuels.
Perhaps the most noteworthy aspect of the study is the proposed diet.
“Every individual requires a specific amount of protein and energy to stave off hunger,” Boyd stated to BBC Science Focus.
“Among the crops we analyzed, peas necessitate minimal land to fulfill one person’s protein and energy requirements when cultivated with urban farming techniques.”
Palmerston North in New Zealand – home to around 90,000 residents – was used to estimate how urban areas and adjacent farmlands could feed a moderately sized city in the aftermath of a global disaster. – Getty
However, Boyd noted that while peas thrive in situations with climates similar to today’s, they may not survive the colder conditions anticipated after a nuclear winter.
This phenomenon occurs when soot from a nuclear explosion blocks sunlight, cooling the planet and resulting in shorter growing seasons and lower average temperatures. In such scenarios, sugar beets and spinach would be more viable options, as both crops are hardy and high in energy content.
Traditional farming methods remain accessible just outside urban areas, assuming limited reliance on nearby land and fuel. Under typical climate conditions, potatoes can efficiently feed people using minimal land.
“However, they are susceptible to frost,” Boyd remarked, which is problematic in nuclear winter conditions.
“When we combine 3% carrots with 97% wheat, we achieve optimal protein and energy levels for wheat. Both wheat and carrots can endure frost and require less liquid fuel than potatoes.”
Fortunately, this doesn’t imply a rigid diet consisting solely of these foods. The study offers a strategy for maximizing the number of people fed with minimal land usage, representing a worst-case scenario dietary plan.
“In practice, it’s likely that a diverse crop mixture would be cultivated,” Boyd explained. “However, when determining what to grow near a city, priority should be given to crops that provide high protein and energy levels.”
The researchers believe their methodology will assist cities globally in evaluating food security and developing land use strategies that enhance resilience. However, cities bounded by large bodies of water or those that are densely populated may need to explore alternative approaches.
“The likelihood of global catastrophes is increasing due to emerging bio threats, geopolitical tensions, and technological advancements,” Boyd cautioned. “Society must be prepared for both the destruction of infrastructure and the aftermath of such events.”
“Our study’s insights suggest that with local government support and proactive measures, cities can adopt localized solutions to enhance resilience.”
About our experts
Matt Boyd founded Adapt Research in 2015, focusing on custom research collaborations with experts. His work centers on analyzing and mitigating significant global risks, along with technology and public health issues. Boyd’s findings are published in peer-reviewed journals, including New Zealand Medical Journal and Public Health Journals in Australia and New Zealand.
All 28 of the largest cities in the United States are gradually sinking, which could impact 34 million residents, according to new research.
Researchers at Virginia Tech’s Earth Observation and Innovation Lab utilized satellite-based radar technology to assess sedimentary land subsidence in these major urban areas.
The data revealed that in all examined cities, at least 20% of urban regions sank by a minimum of 2mm per year. In 25 out of the 28 cities, nearly two-thirds of the land exhibited signs of sinking.
“The immediate dangers of land subsidence include heightened vulnerability to localized flooding, potential structural damage to buildings, roads, bridges, and pipelines, as well as disruption of essential services,” stated Assistant Professor Manoochehr Shirzaei from Virginia Tech, as reported by BBC Science Focus.
Certain areas of Houston, Texas, are experiencing a sinking rate of 1cm per year. – Credit: Art Betting via Getty
Shirzaei noted that even slight annual movements can compromise building foundations and distort land enough to create surface cracks.
“In places like Houston and New York, local subsidence is already associated with infrastructure vulnerability and heightened flood risks during storms,” he explained.
This phenomenon of subsidence is largely driven by groundwater extraction. As urban populations grow, the demand for freshwater intensifies.
Water is drawn from aquifers, allowing for the flow of rocks containing water and other geological layers.
However, if water is extracted faster than it can be replenished, the aquifer can become compressed, leading to subsidence of the land above.
“Urban centers built on reclaimed or depositional areas, such as parts of San Francisco and New Orleans, face particular vulnerability,” added Shirzaei.
Studies indicate that cities like New York, Chicago, Seattle, and Denver experience sinking rates of about 2mm annually.
In Texas, certain cities experience sinking rates of around 5mm per year, with specific areas in Houston sinking as much as 1cm annually.
Localized zones in cities such as Houston, New York, Las Vegas, and Washington, DC, are sinking significantly faster than adjacent areas.
“As time progresses, subsidence exacerbates the effects of climate change, especially in coastal regions and flood-prone areas,” warned Shirzaei. “As the land sinks and sea levels rise, the floodplains stretch, and storm surges reach further inland.”
He emphasized that the study offers a “roadmap for aggressive, science-based planning” to assist experts and policymakers in monitoring subsidence and mitigating its impacts.
The 28 most populous cities in the United States include New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, Jacksonville, Austin, Fort Worth, Columbus, Charlotte, San Jose, Indianapolis, San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, Washington, Portland, Las Vegas, Detroit, and Memphis.
This study has been published in Natural City.
Read more:
About our experts
Manoochehr Shirzaei is an associate professor of geophysics and remote sensing at the Faculty of Geo-Science at Virginia Tech. He specializes in geodesy and geophysics, focusing on satellite geodesic theory, inverse theory, signal processing, modeling techniques, and the physics of crustal deformation.
Recent studies indicate that wild chimpanzees exhibit a natural talent for drumming, tapping to the rhythms present in their environment.
A significant international collaboration involving researchers from Europe, Africa, and America has concluded that chimpanzees drum with intentional rhythms, striking the trunks and roots of trees as they move and vocalize. These discoveries offer scientists valuable insights into the potential origins of human musicality.
“Humans are fundamentally rhythmic beings,” stated Professor Katherine Hofighter from St Andrews University in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “Rhythms permeate our music, dance, and songs, and even in our conversations. This may be part of our evolutionary inheritance, as it is a universal trait among humans.”
To investigate the roots of this rhythm, researchers turned to our closest living relatives.
“Since both language and music are non-fossilized skills, it’s impossible to find them in the geological record and trace their evolution,” remarked the study’s lead author, Vesta Eleuteri from the University of Vienna in an interview with BBC Science Focus. “We must examine other species and investigate the foundational elements that may precede the development of language and music.”
Hobaiter added: “This demonstrates that the elements of rhythm existed long before humans evolved into humans.”
Four images portray an eastern chimpanzee from the son’s community in Budongo Forest (Uganda) drumming with a wooden buttress. – Credit: Adrian Soldati
Recently published research in Current Biology represents the culmination of years of meticulous observations and analyses, encompassing 371 recorded chimpanzee drumming encounters across 11 wild chimpanzee communities in West and East Africa.
“People often underestimate the time commitment required to gather this data,” explains Hobaiter. “While the forest is my happy place, it sometimes means decades of research at each location.”
All recordings were carefully collected, coded, and analyzed. The researchers measured the duration of each drumming sequence, the intervals between hits, and the variability of the rhythms, concluding that these rhythms were not random.
Moreover, individual chimpanzees showcase their own unique styles of drumming. Regional variations also exist among different chimpanzee communities and subspecies.
For instance, West African chimpanzees tend to maintain regular spacing between drum hits, whereas East African chimpanzees display a mix of shorter and longer rhythms.
While the reasons for these differences remain unclear—Hobaiter mentioned they “got a bit crazy”—Eleuteri proposed these variations might stem from social or cultural differences among chimpanzee subspecies.
Habaiter emphasized that these rhythmic distinctions highlight the importance of conservation efforts: “Every group of chimpanzees holds unique significance.”
“Recognizing that distinct populations or subspecies have unique differences is crucial for preservation,” she asserted. “Losing any group could result in the disappearance of a unique culture, music, or rhythmic heritage that can never be restored.”
Read more:
About Our Experts
Vesta Eleuteri is a doctoral student at the Faculty of Behavior and Cognitive Biology at the University of Vienna, focusing on African elephant communication. She has previously researched chimpanzee drumming at the University of Rome and the University of St Andrews.
Katherine Hofighter is a professor of psychology and neuroscience at St. Andrews University, with 15 years of experience studying primates in Uganda and across Africa. Her research group, The Wild Minds Lab, emphasizes long-term field studies on communication and cognition in wild African apes. She has spent nearly six months in the field and has recently established new research sites in Uganda (Bugoma Primate Conservation Project) and Guinea (Moenvating Chimpanzee Project).
Here’s a question you might want to skip while enjoying a meal: Which animal has the fastest urine stream in the world? Is it the elephant? The lion? Perhaps the horse?
Interestingly, as revealed in a journal study Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, one of the unexpected contenders is the CICADA. Researchers, likely equipped with goggles, found that these tiny insects can shoot their pee at speeds of up to 3 meters per second.
While that’s quite astonishing, billions—possibly trillions—of cicadas emerged in the US in 2017, possibly making you reconsider your summer plans.
So, should you be hiding away until the cicada frenzy subsides? Experts say that it might be wise, but it may not be for the reasons you think…
What are Cicadas and why are they headed our way?
“Cicadas are remarkable insects known for their unique life cycle and distinctive sounds,” says Dr. Elio Charita, one of the primary researchers on their urination studies at BBC Science Focus. “These sap-sucking insects belong to the order Hemiptera and can be found in temperate and tropical regions worldwide.”
Cicadas can grow quite large and are, indeed, very noisy. Their calls can reach volumes comparable to a chainsaw.
“One intriguing aspect of cicadas is their long juvenile phase, during which they spend several years underground feeding on plant roots. Depending on the species, this phase can last from a few years to 17,” Charita continues.
This year, the US will witness the significant emergence of Brood XIV, the most extensive group of regular cicada broods, as noted by the University of Connecticut.
After spending over a decade underground, these fascinating insects will appear en masse for a brief but enthusiastic mating season. Expect to see them across much of the eastern US, including states like Georgia, Kentucky, Indiana, Massachusetts, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
If their activity persists until late June, prepare for their numbers to swell at any moment.
For more on the cicada life cycle, be sure to check out our detailed article.
Is it time to prepare for a pee-pocalypse?
Before stocking up on canned goods and toilet paper this summer, Dr. Jonathan Larson, an entomologist at the University of Kentucky, tells BBC Science Focus that there’s really not much to worry about.
“For many, the thought of a swarm of six-legged bugs might recall sci-fi movies, but in reality, it’s more of a spectacular, almost Mardi Gras-like experience.”
Though large, cicadas pose no threat to humans, animals, or crops.
Larson also points out that compared to the Peruvian cicada species, which emerges annually, US cicadas are expected to feed and urinate less during their short lifespan.
Read more:
“In our studies, we find that these US species feed far less as adults compared to some others. When they emerge, their primary focus is finding a mate,” Larson explains.
Nevertheless, they still spend time feeding and urinating. Charita notes that cicadas have been seen urinating jets, even captured on camera.
Another upside (if you can call it that) is that cicada urine isn’t like that of larger animals. As mentioned, cicadas primarily excrete sap from trees, which is the same substance that forms the basis of maple syrup. Thus, what drips down is a sweet, watery substance known as “honeydew.”
Although it has a delightful name, I wouldn’t recommend tasting cicada pee this summer, but at least if it lands on you during a walk, it won’t be unpleasant.
As Larson says, “You can leave your umbrellas at home; these cicadas aren’t a big problem.” Phew.
“Watch your step.”
So, while cicada pee is remarkably fast, it’s not a major concern. According to Larson, the real issue arises when they die, not when they urinate.
“They tend to die en masse, creating piles of carcasses, which can lead to slippery sidewalks. I think that’s a more significant issue to worry about,” Larson says.
How significant could this be? Reports from 1990 indicated that people used snow shovels to clear sidewalks of dead cicadas.
What’s even worse is that when billions of these bugs die simultaneously, it leaves behind a nasty odor. Some have described the stench as reminiscent of rotten nuts.
Billions of cicadas emerge from the ground, mate, and soon after die. – Image credits: Getty
On the bright side, this process enriches the soil with nutrients, such as nitrogen. Although the smell may be unpleasant, these insects are beneficial to the ecosystem.
How Cicada Pee Could Inspire Future Robots
According to Charita, the fact that cicadas can generate such powerful urine jets is surprising for two reasons.
Most insects don’t exhibit this behavior because producing jets like larger animals demands a significant amount of energy. Typically, insects excrete urine in droplets. And since cicadas primarily consume sap with low nutritional content, this adds another layer of energy efficiency issues.
Moreover, earlier studies suggested that creatures weighing less than a kilogram are too small to generate such powerful jets, making cicadas’ ability unexpected.
Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for a variety of reasons. Given that cicada populations can number in the trillions, their role in environmental nitrogen cycling may be significant.
“We still do not fully grasp the ecological effects of cicada excretion on surrounding flora and fauna, especially for the seasonal species,” Charita notes.
Cicadas can produce jets of liquid traveling up to 3 meters per second. – Image credit: Elio Challita
When feeding, cicadas consume up to 300 times their body weight in sap daily, and all that sap has to go somewhere.
The research team also considers broader applications for this work. Insights gained could lead to advancements in small robotic jets, nozzles, and various applications in additive manufacturing and drug delivery systems.
“Our study underscores the significance of exploring seemingly trivial aspects of animal biology, such as excretion,” concludes Charita. “Investigating these processes reveals fascinating adaptations and illuminates how animals interact with their environments.”
“It also serves as a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, there’s still much to learn about the natural world.”
About our Experts
Elio Charita is a postdoctoral researcher at the Harvard Microrobotics Research Institute. He previously worked at Georgia Tech, where he studied how ultrafast invertebrates (including insects, hexapods, and arachnids) tackle challenges in fluid dynamics (e.g., feeding, excretion, predator evasion, etc.).
Jonathan Larson is an extension entomologist and assistant professor at the University of Kentucky, providing insect expertise for urban landscapes, turfgrass, nurseries, greenhouses, and household issues. He also co-hosts an informative insect podcast, Arthro-Pod.
A recent study utilized NASA’s IXPE (Imaging X-ray Polarized Explorer) to analyze a highly relativistic jet originating from the Blazar Bl Lacertae, a supermassive black hole surrounded by luminous discs.
This artist’s rendering illustrates the core area of Blazar Bl Lacertae, featuring an ultra-massive black hole surrounded by bright discs and Earth-directed jets. Image credit: NASA/Pablo Garcia.
Astrophysicists elucidated a highly relativistic jet, proposing two competing theories regarding an X-ray component made up of protons and electrons.
Each theory presents a distinct signature in the polarization characteristics of the X-ray light.
Polarized light signifies the average direction of the electromagnetic waves comprising light.
When X-rays in a black hole’s jets are highly polarized, it indicates production from protons that circulate within the magnetic field of the jet or protons interacting with the jet’s photons.
Conversely, low polarization in X-rays implies that the generation of X-rays occurs through electron-photon interactions.
The IXPE is the sole satellite capable of making such polarization measurements.
“This was one of the greatest mysteries involving supermassive black hole jets,” remarks Dr. Ivan Agdo, an astronomer at Astrophicidae Athtrophicidae and Andocia-CSIC.
“Thanks to numerous supporting ground telescopes, IXPE equipped us with the necessary tools to ultimately resolve this issue.”
Astronomers concluded that electrons are likely the source, through a process known as Compton scattering.
This phenomenon, also referred to as the Compton effect, occurs when photons lose or gain energy through interactions with charged particles (primarily electrons).
Within the jets of a supermassive black hole, electrons move at speeds approaching that of light.
IXPE enabled researchers to determine that, in Blazar jets, electrons possess enough energy to scatter infrared photons into the X-ray spectrum.
Bl Lacertae, one of the earliest discovered Blazars, was initially thought to be a kind of star in the Lacerta constellation.
IXPE monitored Bl Lacertae for seven days in November 2023, in conjunction with several ground-based telescopes also measuring optical and radio polarization.
Interestingly, during the X-ray polarization observations, Bl Lacertae’s light polarization peaked at 47.5%.
“This marks not only the most polarized BL Lacertae has been in the past 30 years, but indeed the highest ever recorded,” states Dr. Ioannis Riodakis, an astrophysicist at the Institute of Astrophysics.
Researchers noted that X-rays are significantly less polarized than optical light.
They were unable to detect strong polarized signals and ascertained that the X-rays could not exceed 7.6% polarization.
This finding confirms that electron interactions with photons via the Compton effect must account for the X-ray emissions.
“The fact that optical polarization is considerably higher than that of X-rays can only be explained by Compton scattering,” he added.
“IXPE has solved yet another mystery surrounding black holes,” claimed Dr. Enrico Costa, an astrophysicist associated with the planet spaziali of astituto to astituto to n diastrofísica.
“IXPE’s polarized X-ray capabilities have unraveled several long-standing mysteries, which is a significant achievement.
“In other instances, IXPE’s results challenged previously held beliefs, opening up new questions, but that’s the essence of science, and certainly IXPE excels in its scientific contributions.”
Ivan Agd et al. 2025. The height of X-ray and X-ray polarization reveals Compton scattering of BL Lacertae jets. apjl in press; doi: 10.3847/2041-8213/ADC572
The genus Tyrannosaurus had its direct ancestors migrate from Asia over 70 million years ago, according to a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at University College of Paleontologists in London.
Tyrannosaurus Rex evolved in North America, while its direct ancestors originated from Asia. Image credit: Pedro Salas/Sergey Krasovskiy.
This research, led by Cassius Morrison, a Ph.D. student at University College London, indicates that the rapid increase in the size of tyrannosaur dinosaurs and their close relatives, the Megaraptors, coincided with a global climate cooling that followed a temperature peak 92 million years ago.
This finding suggests that Tyrannosaurus Rex and its relatives may have been better adapted to cooler climates compared to other dinosaur groups at the time, likely due to their feathers and warmer physiology.
The geographical origins of Tyrannosaurus Rex have been a topic of intense debate,” stated Morrison.
“Paleontologists remain divided over whether their ancestors originated from Asia or North America.”
“Our modeling indicates that the “grandparents” of Tyrannosaurus Rex likely migrated to North America from Asia, crossing the Bering Strait between modern-day Siberia and Alaska.”
“This aligns with prior research showing that Tyrannosaurus Rex shares a closer relation to Asian relatives like Turbosaurus than to North American relatives such as Daspletosaurus.
“Numerous Tyrannosaurus Rex fossils have been found in North America, but our findings imply that the direct ancestors of this group may not yet have been unearthed in Asia.”
Paleontologists concluded that Tyrannosaurus Rex actually evolved in North America, particularly in Lalamidia, and was widely distributed across the region.
This conclusion contradicts last year’s findings suggesting that Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis, discovered in New Mexico, could be North American ancestors of Tyrannosaurus Rex from 3 to 5 million years ago. The team argued that the fossils of Tyrannosaurus mcraeensis were not properly dated.
For this study, researchers examined the migratory patterns of Tyrannosaurus and its relatives across the globe.
They employed mathematical models that represented fossils, dinosaur evolutionary trees, as well as the geography and climate of the era.
Importantly, the model addressed gaps in the fossil record and factored in uncertainties in the calculations.
Megaraptors are considered one of the most enigmatic large carnivorous dinosaurs.
In contrast to Tyrannosaurus Rex, they evolved slender heads and limbs as long as human height, with claws measuring up to 35 cm (14 inches).
Scientists conclude that Megaraptors were more widely distributed than previously thought, first appearing in Asia around 120 million years ago, spreading to Europe, and likely reaching Gondwana (encompassing regions of present-day Africa, South America, and the Southwest).
This suggests that Megaraptors inhabited regions like Europe and Africa, where no fossils had been found before.
They may have adapted differently from their Tyrannosaurus relatives, perhaps utilizing their claws for hunting instead of relying on powerful bites.
In South Gondwana, they could have preyed on small sauropods, while Tyrannosaurus Rex hunted large herbivores such as Triceratops, Edmontosaurus, and Ankylosaurus.
Both Tyrannosaurids and Megaraptors grew to enormous sizes nearly simultaneously as the climate cooled after the Cretaceous thermal peak 92 million years ago.
This rapid growth occurred following the extinction of other giant carnivorous dinosaurs, Carcharodontosaurids, which left a void at the top of the food chain.
The authors suggest that both Tyrannosaurus and Megaraptor could utilize cooler temperatures more effectively than their rival dinosaur groups.
By the end of the dinosaur age, Tyrannosaurus Rex weighed up to 9 tons (similar to very large African elephants and light tanks), while the Megaraptor reached lengths of up to 10 meters.
“Our findings illuminate the emergence of the largest tyrannosaurs in North and South America during the Cretaceous period and how they thrived by the end of the dinosaur epoch,” remarked Charlie Scheller of the University of London.
“They may have achieved their massive size to fill the ecological role left by the similarly large Carcharodontosaurid theropods that went extinct approximately 90 million years ago.”
“This extinction likely removed any ecological barriers that previously constrained the growth of tyrannosaurs.”
“Around 120 million years ago, Megaraptors were part of a diverse array of dinosaur species,” stated Dr. Mauro Alanciagaroland, a paleontologist at the Museum of Natural Sciences and the Bernardino Rivadavia Museum in Argentina.
“As the Cretaceous period progressed and the continents began to drift apart, these predators became increasingly specialized.”
“Such evolutionary shifts prompted them to adapt to more specific habitats.
“In areas like Asia, Megaraptors were ultimately replaced by Tyrannosaurus, but in regions like Australia and Patagonia, they became apex predators, dominating these ecosystems.”
This study is published in the journal Royal Society Open Science.
____
Cassius Morrison et al. 2025. The Rise of the King: the origins of Gondwanan and the evolution of the Megaraptor dinosaurs. R. Soc. Open Sci. 12(5): 242238; doi: 10.1098/rsos.242238
St. Louis has experienced two tornadoes within the last two months. A recent fire led to the evacuation of a new nursing home in Enterprises, Alabama, last month. Meanwhile, Cleveland dealt with a blackout as crowds attended the NCAA Women’s Basketball Final Four.
In these incidents, local health officials managed aftermaths, supported hospitals, located new residences for displaced individuals, and coordinated efforts with fire services, police, and other municipal sectors.
The total cost of these responses reached approximately $735 million, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The budget proposed by President Trump allocates zero funds for such efforts.
The proposed budget cuts have increased anxiety among health officials, especially following a $12 billion reduction to state and local health agencies in March. Nineteen states and the District of Columbia have filed lawsuits aiming to stop these cuts.
“Both artificial and natural disasters are not reliant on federal funds, but the response aimed at saving lives certainly is,” stated Dr. Matifha Fratova Davis, Health Director of St. Louis. (Dr. Davis has resigned but will remain until a replacement is appointed.)
The city faces substantial sinkholes and is situated on fault lines prone to floods, in addition to being at risk for earthquakes. “We genuinely depend on this fundraising,” Dr. Davis remarked. Without it, “the entire community of St. Louis and its visitors will stay at risk.”
The Department of Health and Human Services directed budget-related inquiries to the Office of Management and Budget, which did not reply to requests for comments.
The funding has garnered interest from local health sectors via the Public Health Emergency Preparedness Cooperation Agreement, established after the September 11, 2001 attacks to prepare for biological threats and other emergencies.
This funding aids authorities in overseeing public health implications of both natural and artificial disasters while also containing infectious disease outbreaks. It also finances salaries of experienced officials tasked with readiness and mitigation of public health issues.
Funding amounts vary by jurisdiction. St. Louis and Cleveland each receive roughly $250,000, covering salaries for three staff members. In comparison, Dallas is allocated nearly $2 million, supporting salaries for 17 employees.
“There’s minimal cushion for these funds, especially at the local level,” noted Dr. Philip Fan, director of the Dallas County Health and Human Services Department in Texas.
If these funds vanish, even larger cities like Dallas will feel the effects. “The smaller the health department, the more pronounced the impact will be,” he explained.
Dr. Davis indicated that her department receives less than 1% of the overall St. Louis city budget. Should CDC public health emergency funds be reduced, Missouri and its cities may need to compensate for the deficit, as current budgets imply.
“These individuals will soon find themselves jobless,” Dr. Davis remarked regarding employees funded through the grant.
In Alabama, emergency response programs are fully financed through federal grants. Winter tornadoes, hurricanes, and ice storms can wreak havoc and necessitate intervention from health authorities.
“Accusations have been made against the Alabama Department of Public Health,” stated Dr. Scott Harris, state health officer.
In several jurisdictions, staff depend on hundreds of volunteers to assist with COVID-19 and MPOX vaccinations. Nevertheless, paid staff is essential for coordinating those activities and training volunteers, Dr. Huang explained.
“You can’t appear before everyone claiming, ‘Yes, I’m a doctor,'” he added. City officials will verify volunteer qualifications and mobilize them for emergencies as needed.
In Cleveland, health officials responsible for preparations receive midnight calls from hospitals regarding potential charcoal or other bacterial infectious threats.
“We’ve encountered numerous challenges with our efforts,” commented Dr. David Margolius, Director of Public Health in Cleveland. “However, it’s always better to be prepared than to be caught off guard.”
Some officials have expressed concern since the election about whether the Trump administration will continue funding for these programs. However, they did not anticipate a sudden cessation of funds, as seen with other CDC funding streams.
If Congress implements a funding cut, he noted, “We’ll have to urgently assess their situation.” “It’s entirely unfair for these teams and Cleveland residents to rely on these services under such circumstances.”
Fifteen states have taken legal action against the Trump administration regarding the declaration of an “energy emergency,” contending that there is no legitimate emergency and that the directive instructs regulators to unlawfully circumvent reviews of fossil fuel projects, which could harm the environment.
The President’s executive order issued on January 20th, “Declaring a state of national energy emergency,” mandated federal agencies to hasten energy initiatives such as oil and natural gas drilling as well as coal mining, while omitting wind and solar energy. He argued that despite record-high production levels in the U.S., energy output still does not meet the nation’s demands.
The lawsuit filed on Friday claims that President Trump’s declaration, which was lodged in federal court in the Western District of Washington, means that reviews mandated by environmental laws like the Clean Water Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the National Historic Preservation Act have been either expedited or overlooked.
The lawsuit notes that emergency procedures have traditionally been reserved for major disasters. “Now, however, several federal agencies, pressured by dubious executive orders, are attempting to widely implement these emergency protocols in situations that do not qualify as emergencies,” the complaint asserts.
The plaintiffs are requesting the court to declare the directive unlawful and to prevent the agencies from issuing expedited permits under the order. Attorneys General from Washington, California, Arizona, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin have submitted the case.
“The President’s efforts to circumvent essential environmental safeguards are illegal and will be detrimental to the residents of Washington,” remarked Washington Attorney General Nick Brown. “This will not lower prices, enhance our energy supply, or bolster our national safety.”
Trump spokeswoman Taylor Rogers stated that the President possesses “the exclusive authority to determine a national emergency, not state attorneys or judicial systems.” She emphasized that Trump “understands that unleashing American energy is vital for our economic and national security.”
In addition to Trump, the lawsuit lists Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll, the head of the Army Corps of Engineers, and the federal entity known as the Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation as defendants.
An Army spokesperson declined to make a comment. A representative from the Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation did not immediately respond to inquiries for comment.
The lawsuit contends that declaring an emergency is reserved “not due to a shift in presidential policy,” and that this alteration would adversely affect the state’s interests, including clean drinking water, wildlife habitats, and historical and cultural resources.
Los Angeles County public health officials have reported an outbreak of hepatitis A. This highly contagious liver infection is caused by a virus that can, in rare instances, lead to serious illness.
Typically, there are fewer than 50 cases annually in LA County, but at least 138 individuals were infected in 2024, with cases continuing to rise significantly in 2025. These numbers are incomplete.
Here’s what you should know.
How is hepatitis A transmitted?
The hepatitis A virus is spread via the oral-fecal route, meaning it can be ingested through food and beverages contaminated with microscopic stool from infected individuals. The virus can also be transmitted through close contact with someone harboring it, even if they show no symptoms.
Certain individuals face a higher risk of contracting hepatitis A due to inadequate access to clean toilets and handwashing facilities. It is more prevalent among travelers, in settings with poor hygiene, among men who have sex with men, and among drug users.
Officials note that many recent cases have appeared in individuals lacking these risk factors. The reasons remain unclear, but Dr. Timothy Brewer, an infectious disease specialist and epidemiologist at UCLA, is increasingly concerned about two issues: food contamination and community transmission.
“In a community with good hygiene and access to drinking water, we shouldn’t see high numbers of infections,” he remarked. “Something is happening, but we aren’t sure what it is.”
What are the symptoms of hepatitis A infection?
Initial symptoms include fever, fatigue, nausea, and loss of appetite, followed by vomiting and diarrhea. Infected individuals may subsequently develop jaundice, dark urine, and pale stools.
One significant challenge in controlling the spread of hepatitis A is that contact tracing can be quite challenging. The virus can incubate for up to seven weeks before symptoms appear, and carriers can transmit it for up to two weeks before they feel ill.
Moreover, many infected individuals do not exhibit severe symptoms, according to Dr. Edward Jones Lopez, an infectious disease specialist at Keck Medicine at the University of Southern California, which means they might not seek medical evaluation, undergo blood tests, or report their cases.
Severe symptoms are predominantly observed in the elderly, those with chronic liver diseases, and individuals with compromised immune systems or HIV. While fatalities from hepatitis A are rare, at least seven deaths have been linked to the outbreak. Officials suspect that the true number of infections is significantly higher than reported, as many individuals likely remain asymptomatic or have mild symptoms that go unrecognized.
What is the treatment for hepatitis A?
There are no specific antiviral treatments for hepatitis A, as the infection typically resolves on its own within weeks without causing permanent liver damage. However, hospitalization might be necessary for some patients.
In rare instances, hepatitis A can lead to acute liver failure, known as fulminant hepatitis, which may necessitate a transplant, stated Dr. Jones Lopez. “It can escalate rapidly. It’s a serious condition.”
If you believe you may be infected, consult your doctor, stay hydrated, and rest adequately.
How can I prevent it?
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent hepatitis A. The vaccination schedule consists of two doses given at least six months apart, which provides substantial protection. While children have routinely received this vaccine for the past two decades, many adults over the age of 25 do not get vaccinated unless they belong to a high-risk group.
“Infection can occur anywhere,” warns Dr. Anne Limoyne, a professor of epidemiology at UCLA.
If you have been exposed to someone with the virus but haven’t been vaccinated, a prompt vaccination can prevent infection. Experts suggest that individuals with compromised immune systems may also benefit from receiving immunoglobulins. Practicing good hygiene, such as thorough handwashing with soap and water after using the restroom and before preparing food, is essential for everyone.
After 53 years traversing the cosmos, a quirky Soviet spacecraft known as Cosmos-482 has made its way back to Earth, penetrating the atmosphere at 9:24 am on Saturday, according to Los Cosmos, a Russian state entity overseeing the space program.
Cosmos-482, designed for a landing on Venus, may have survived its descent. As reported by Roscosmos, its remnants were found scattered across the Indian Ocean near Jakarta, Indonesia.
Launched on March 31, 1972, the Kosmos-482 became tethered to Earth’s orbit due to a premature shutdown of one of its rocket boosters. Its return evokes memories of the Cold War space race, sparking images of terrestrial forces projecting into the solar systems.
“It takes me back to a time when the Soviet Union was bold in space exploration. We might all be more adventurous in space,” remarks Jonathan McDowell, an astrophysicist at the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, who monitors orbiting objects. “In that context, it is a bittersweet occasion.”
While the U.S. triumphed in the lunar race, the Soviet Union set its eyes on Venus through its Venella program.
Between 1961 and 1984, the Soviets dispatched 29 spacecraft towards this enigmatic world, although many missions did not succeed more than a dozen fell short. The Venella missions observed Venus from orbit, gathered atmospheric data, descended through its caustic clouds, collected and analyzed soil samples, and transmitted the first images from the planet’s surface.
“Kosmos-482 serves as a reminder of the Soviet Union’s encounter with Venus 50 years ago, a tangible relic of that endeavor,” states Asif Siddiqi, a historian at Fordham University focusing on Soviet space activities. “It’s oddly fascinating how the past continues to linger in orbit around the Earth.”
Fifty years later, as the country aims to return to the moon and dispatch probes to Mars, Jupiter, and various asteroids, only an isolated Japanese spacecraft remains at Venus amidst proposals facing delays with uncertain timelines and an unpredictable future.
While landing astronauts on the moon during the space race was a monumental achievement, it also highlighted the rest of our solar system. As the U.S. increasingly focused on Mars, the Soviet Union turned its attention to the second planet from the sun.
“Back then, both nations were intrigued by Mars, but Venus proved a more accessible target,” asserts Kathleen Lewis, curator of the International Space Program at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum.
Often referred to as Earth’s twin due to its similar size, Venus is shrouded in a dense atmosphere of carbon dioxide and veiled under thick layers of sulfuric clouds. Its surface endures scorching temperatures reaching 870 degrees Fahrenheit, coupled with atmospheric pressure nearly 90 times greater than Earth’s.
“How do you create technology capable of surviving a months-long journey across the solar system, entering a thick atmosphere, and capturing images without being destroyed?” Dr. Siddiqi questioned. “It’s an astonishing challenge to consider solving back in the 1960s.”
Venella 9 Descent Craft and Lander credit… Via NASA
The Soviets, unbothered by the challenges presented by such a hostile world, persistently launched hardware towards Venus. At that time, no blueprint existed for such endeavors.
“You were essentially inventing the technology to send to Venus,” Dr. Siddiqi explained. “Today, if a country like Japan wishes to send a mission to Venus, they have decades of knowledge and engineering guidebooks. In the ’60s, there was nothing.”
The Soviet Venella program achieved many milestones, including being the first probe to enter the atmosphere of another planet, the first spacecraft to successfully land on another planet, and the first to capture sounds from an alien landscape.
The breakdown of Kosmos-482 occurred midway through this timeline, and its re-entry wasn’t the first encounter with Earth for the intended Venus lander.
Around 1 am on April 3, 1972, merely days after the troublesome launch, several 30-pound titanium spheres, each the size of a beach ball and inscribed with Cyrillic letters, descended upon the town of Ashburton, New Zealand.
One landed in a turnip field, leaving local residents cautious. The New Zealand Herald reported in 2002 that one of these spheres was ultimately confined in a police cell in Ashburton.
According to space law, ownership of a downed space object belongs to the country that launched it; however, the Soviets did not claim ownership of the sphere initially. The “space ball” was eventually returned to the farmers who discovered it.
Although Cosmos-482 was lost, the two other spacecraft launched days earlier successfully reached Venus and relayed data from the surface for 50 minutes. Two years later, when Venera 9 and 10 arrived, the Soviets ensured redundancy by launching both spacecraft.
The Venera program concluded in the mid-1980s with an ambitious Vega probe, which, starting in 1984, deployed a landing craft on Venus’s surface in 1985 and flew by Halley’s Comet in 1986.
“The legacy of Soviet Venus exploration in the 70s and 80s was a point of pride for the Soviet Union,” Dr. Lewis noted.
The re-entry of Cosmos-482 holds unique historical significance but isn’t particularly unusual today, as nations and companies continue to launch more technology into orbit, resulting in an increase of objects descending from the sky.
“We see frequent re-entries nowadays,” says Greg Henning, an Aerospace Corporation engineer and space debris specialist. The nonprofit organization tracks objects in orbit. “We observe dozens of instances each day, most of which go unnoticed.”
This is particularly true now, as heightened solar activity expands the Earth’s atmosphere, increasing drag on orbiting objects.
Some of these re-entries create spectacular light displays, whether through controlled descents like SpaceX’s cargo and crew capsules or unintentional ones, such as the failed test flight of SpaceX’s Starship prototype. Others, like China’s Long March 5B rocket booster, are uncontrolled and potentially hazardous.
However, in rare instances, spacecraft such as Cosmos-482 return to Earth as remnants of humanity’s formative endeavors.
“There exists an archive of the space race that continues to circle Earth. Many objects released in the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s remain in orbit,” Dr. Siddiqi remarked. “At times, pieces of this living museum may fall on my head, reminding me of its presence.”
Superb Starling (Lamprotornis superbus) Recent studies reveal their behavior of “reciprocity,” where they assist each other with the expectation of future favors.
Superb Starling family (Lamprotornis superbus) at Wilhelma Zoo in Stuttgart, Germany. The lighter-colored bird is between two adults. Image credit: Dennis Irrgang / CC by 2.0.
The Superb Starling is a passerine bird belonging to the Sturnidae family.
This species is widespread, inhabiting various regions in East Africa, including Ethiopia, Somalia, Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania, and beyond.
These birds form large mixed groups consisting of 7 to 60 individuals, with an average size ranging from 13 to 41 members.
“The social structure of Starlings is complex, comprising not only family units but also a mix of both related and unrelated individuals, much like humans.”
“It’s well-known that animals tend to assist their relatives to enhance genetic fitness and propagate their genes.”
“While Starlings prioritize helping relatives, they also lend support to unrelated individuals.”
Professor Rubenstein and his team discovered that this support arises through the establishment of mutual relationships.
However, proving that such behaviors are present in non-relatives remains challenging.
The study is rooted in two decades of research by the authors on these birds in Africa, thriving in the harsh savannah climate.
From 2002 to 2021, thousands of interactions among hundreds of birds were documented, alongside DNA samples to analyse genetic links.
By merging behavioral data with genetic information during 40 breeding seasons, they posed pivotal questions: Did birds prioritize aiding relatives? Did they assist non-relatives when related individuals were available? Did they reciprocate support over time?
Ultimately, the findings revealed that while helpers prioritized their relatives, they often supported specific unrelated individuals consistently, even when relatives could assist.
“Many of these birds forge friendships that develop over time,” Professor Rubenstein stated.
“Our next goal is to investigate how these relationships are formed, their longevity, and why some bonds remain strong while others diminish.”
The study was published today in the journal Nature.
____
Advertising et al. The enigmatic role of mutual assistance among birds in cooperative breeding. Nature Published online on May 7, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-08958-4
The Soviet spacecraft, which was launched on a failed mission to Venus in 1972, is thought to have crashed to Earth early Saturday morning.
The European Space Agency monitored the craft’s uncontrolled descent and reported that it was last tracked by German radar. By the time of the anticipated crash, radar could no longer locate Cosmos 482, concluding that “it is likely that re-entry has already occurred.”
No injuries have been reported.
Cosmos 482 was part of the Soviet Venera Program, a series of probes designed to study Venus. While ten of these missions successfully landed on the harsh planet, the rocket carrying Cosmos 482 malfunctioned, leaving its upper stage, including the descent module, trapped in Earth’s orbit.
For the next 53 years, the approximately 3-foot-wide, 1,069-pound spacecraft orbited Earth in a smaller, elliptical path until it was close enough to descend into the atmosphere.
It’s common for space debris to re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere. The ESA reports that over 2,400 human-made objects fell from space in 2022. Most burned up upon re-entry, with the majority not landing in the ocean.
However, Cosmos 482 was engineered to withstand the dense atmosphere of Venus and operate on a planet with an average temperature of 867 degrees Fahrenheit (464°C). This design means it was theoretically robust enough to endure a routine re-entry through Earth’s atmosphere.
There are no recorded instances of space debris causing human fatalities. An ESA official stated in a blog post about Cosmos-482, “The risk of a satellite re-entering and causing injury is exceedingly low. The annual chance of an individual being harmed by orbital debris is less than one in 100 billion. By comparison, a person is approximately 65,000 times more likely to be struck by lightning.”
On Friday, U.S. space forces estimated that the spacecraft would re-enter the atmosphere at 1:52 AM on Saturday over the Pacific Ocean, west of Guam.
Distal regulation—the capacity to control genes across vast distances, spanning tens of thousands of DNA letters—emerged during the early stages of animal evolution, approximately 650-700 million years ago (the Kleigenian era).
Diagram of DNA molecules. Image credits: Christophe Bock, Max Planck Informatics Institute/CC BY-SA 3.0.
Distal adjustment relies on the physical folding of DNA and proteins, along with intricate loops.
This mechanism enables regions distant from a gene’s starting point to activate their functions.
This additional regulatory layer may have assisted the first multicellular organisms in developing specialized cell types and tissues without necessarily inventing new genes.
Key innovations likely originated from marine creatures or common ancestors shared by all existing animals.
Ancient organisms developed the ability to fold DNA in a controlled manner, forming 3D loops that facilitated direct contact between different segments of DNA.
“These organisms can utilize their genetic toolkit in various ways, akin to a Swiss Army knife, which allows them to fine-tune and explore innovative survival strategies,” explains Dr. Nacional Accidental Accidental Genmica, a postdoctoral researcher at the Center for Genome Regulation.
“I was surprised to find that this level of complexity dates back so far.”
Dr. Kim and his team discovered these insights by examining some of the oldest branches of the animal family tree, including species such as walnut-shaped comb jellies (Mnemiopsis leidyi), placozoans, cnidarians, and sponges.
They also investigated single-celled relatives that share a common ancestor with animals more recently.
“Studying unique sea creatures enables us to uncover much new biology,” states Professor Arnau Sebe-Pedrós, a researcher at the Center for Genome Regulation.
“Previously, we focused on comparing genomic sequences, but thanks to new techniques, we can now analyze the gene regulatory mechanisms that influence genomic function across species.”
A large individual of Mnemiopsis leidyi with two aboral ends and two apical organs. Image credit: Jokura et al., doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.07.084.
Researchers applied a method known as Micro-C to map the physical folding patterns in each of the 11 types of DNA analyzed. To provide context, each human cell nucleus contains approximately 2 meters of DNA.
Scientists sifted through 10 billion sequencing data points to create detailed various 3D genome maps.
Although no evidence of distal regulation was found in single-celled relatives of animals, early branches such as comb jellies, placozoans, and cnidarians exhibited numerous loops.
Over 4,000 loops were identified across the genome, particularly in the sea walnut.
This discovery is remarkable considering its genome consists of roughly 20 million DNA characters.
In contrast, the human genome contains 3.1 billion characters, with our cells housing tens of thousands of loops.
Previously, distal regulation was believed to have first emerged in the last bilateral ancestors, which appeared on Earth around 500 million years ago.
However, the comb jelly’s lineage branched off early from other animal lineages roughly 650-700 million years ago.
“The debate over whether the comb jelly predates the sponge in the tree of life has persisted in evolutionary biology, but this study suggests that distal regulation occurred at least 150 million years earlier than previously thought,” the authors concluded.
A paper detailing these findings was published today in the journal Nature.
____
IV Kim et al. Chromatin loops are characteristic of the ancestors of animal regulatory genomes. Nature Published online on May 7, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-08960-W
The successful conservation of certain endangered species relies on a precise scientific evaluation of their presence and population dynamics. This data can often be volatile or lacking in scientific credibility, particularly for low-density carnivorous species like the snow leopard (Panthera uncia), which inhabit remote and challenging environments. In a recent study, a team of scientists from India’s Ladakh and Wildlife Institute employed a double sampling strategy to evaluate the population and distribution of snow leopards and their prey across the Trans-Himalaya region of Ladakh.
“Large carnivorous animals are among the most emblematic species, symbolizing robust ecosystems and conservation hope,” remarked Ladakh researcher Pankaj Reina alongside her colleagues from the Union Territory.
“Their position as apex predators plays a crucial role in regulating nutrition, nutrient cycling, and disease control.”
“Nevertheless, large carnivorous species face widespread extinction, significantly affecting the functionality of contemporary ecosystems.”
“Within the realm of elusive large carnivores, the snow leopard is the flagship species of the mountainous regions spanning 12 countries in South and Central Asia.”
“Snow leopards are renowned for their elusive, wide-ranging behaviors, necessitating a landscape-level approach for effective population monitoring and conservation.”
In their study, the authors investigated the population and distribution of snow leopards across a vast 59,000 km2 area of Ladakh.
Initially, they conducted a thorough survey to gather evidence of snow leopards, including tracks, droppings, and scratch marks.
They also assessed the presence of other large carnivores such as brown bears and lynx, as well as wild herbivores and livestock.
Subsequently, they deployed 956 camera traps covering over 8,500 km2 of snow leopard habitat, facilitating accurate population estimates across the region.
Using artificial intelligence, they analyzed images to identify individual snow leopards based on their unique forehead patterns.
The team estimated that Ladakh hosts approximately 477 snow leopards, representing 68% of India’s total population.
Snow leopard density was observed to vary between 1-3 individuals per 100 km2, with Hemis National Park noted for having the highest recorded density globally.
Remarkably, up to 61% of snow leopards in Ladakh coexist with human populations.
Resource-rich grasslands, characterized by moderate climates and complex terrains, tend to be prime habitats for snow leopards.
“A profound respect for wildlife among the communities in Ladakh, coupled with the economic benefits from snow leopard tourism and effective conflict management strategies, supports some of the highest snow leopard densities globally.
“To capture images of the snow leopard’s forehead, I positioned myself strategically in front of the camera.”
“This involved applying a small amount of perfume near the camera placed by a favored scented rock atop a high ridge.”
“Out of curiosity, the snow leopard lowers its head to investigate the scent, allowing us to capture invaluable photographs.”
“The fingerprinting of snow leopards employs specialized pattern recognition software that models the 3D features of the snow leopard’s forehead, extracting and cataloging spot patterns for comparison with other photographs, ensuring accurate matches.”
“This approach has significantly enhanced our work, improving the accuracy of individual identification—critical for population estimates using statistical models.”
The team’s research paper was published online in the journal PLOS ONE.
____
P. Reina et al. 2025. A comprehensive assessment of snow leopard distribution and population in Ladakh, India’s Trans Himalayas: Standardisation Methods for Evidence-Based Conservation. PLOS ONE 20(5): E0322136; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0322136
The discovery of this superwalled black hole was made possible by the newly identified tidal disruption event, AT2024TVD.
Tidal Disruption Event AT2024TVD. Image credits: NASA/CXC/University of California, Berkeley/Yao et al. /ESA /STSCI /HST /J. DEPASQUALE.
“A tidal disruption event (TDE) occurs when stars are either stretched or ‘spaghettified’ by the immense gravitational forces of black holes,” explained UC Berkeley researcher Dr. Yuhanyao.
“The remnants of the torn-apart stars are pulled into a circular orbit around the black hole.”
“This process creates high-temperature shocks and emissions that can be detected in ultraviolet and visible light.”
The AT2024TVD event enabled astronomers to utilize the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope to identify elusive wandering supermassive black holes, supported by observations from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.
Interestingly, these 1 million rogue black holes are often found to be supermassive and actively consuming surrounding material.
Among the roughly 100 TDEs recorded by the Light Sky Survey, this marks the first instance of an offset TDE being identified.
In fact, at the center of the host galaxy lie ultra-massive black holes differing in mass by 100 million solar masses.
Hubble’s optical precision indicates that the TDE is located just 2,600 light-years from the larger black holes at the galaxy’s core.
This distance is comparable to just one minute of the span between our Sun and the central ultra-massive black hole of the Milky Way.
The larger black hole expels energy as it accumulates material, classifying it as an active galactic nucleus.
Interestingly, the two supermassive black holes exist within the same galaxy but are not gravitationally linked like a binary pair.
Smaller black holes can potentially spiral toward the center of the galaxy, eventually merging with their larger counterparts.
However, at this point, they are too distant to be bound by gravity.
“AT2024TVD is the first offset TDE captured through optical observations, opening up new possibilities for studying this elusive population of black holes in future surveys,” Dr. Yao remarked.
“Currently, theorists have not focused extensively on offset TDEs.
“I believe this discovery will drive scientists to search for more instances of this type of event.”
The black holes responsible for AT2024TVD are traversing the bulges of gigantic galaxies.
Black holes periodically consume stars every tens of thousands of years, lying dormant until their next “meal” arrives.
How did the black hole become displaced from the center? Previous studies suggest that three-body interactions can eject lower-mass black holes from a galaxy’s core.
This theory may apply here, given its proximity to the central black hole.
“If a black hole undergoes a three-body interaction with two other black holes in the galaxy’s core, it can remain bound to the galaxy and orbit the central region,” explained Dr. Yao.
Another possibility is that these black holes are remnants from a smaller galaxy that merged with the host galaxy over a billion years ago.
In such a case, the black hole could eventually merge with the central active black hole in the distant future. As of now, astronomers remain uncertain about its trajectory.
“There is already substantial evidence that the galaxy will increase its TDE rate, but the presence of a second black hole associated with AT2024TVD suggests a past merger has occurred.”
Initially thought to be a primitive Cambrian mollusk, Shishania Ashreata—a 500 million-year-old spine-covered fossil from Yunnan, China—has now been identified as a distant relative of sponge-like creatures known as chancelloriids, according to a research team from Yunnan University, Yuki Normal University, and Durham University.
Shishania Ashreata. Image credit: Yang et al., doi: 10.1126/science.adv463.
Shishania Ashreata was previously thought to display characteristics similar to mollusks, including muscular legs and unique mineralized spines.
However, new fossils suggest that these ancient animals are more akin to bag-like creatures, akin to prime minister-like organisms, with spines anchored to the seabeds of Cumbria.
“Our findings reveal that many previously considered mollusk traits are misleading, artifacts of fossilization,” stated Martin Smith, a paleontologist at Durham University, and his colleagues.
“For instance, what were once thought to be ‘feet’ have turned out to be distortions from fossil preservation, a phenomenon known as taphonomy.”
“These ancient fossils have proven to be masters of disguise. Shishania Ashreata appeared to exhibit all the characteristics we expected from early mollusc ancestors.”
“Nevertheless, we discovered that the mollusk-like contours of the fossil material represent misinterpretations, prompting us to revisit our interpretations.”
“My discovery of chancelloriids in very similar conditions started to unravel the mystery.”
Reclassifying Shishania Ashreata places it among chancelloriids, an enigmatic group known solely from Cambrian rocks, significant for having vanished around 490 million years ago.
Though they may look like sponges at first glance, their bodies feature star-shaped thorns, indicating a complex microstructure that could connect them to more advanced animals.
The simple thorns of Shishania Ashreata suggest that they developed elaborate structures independently, rather than evolving from existing skeletal frameworks.
This sheds light on the evolution of complex body plans during the Cambrian explosion—a rapid evolutionary event that led to the emergence of all contemporary animal groups.
“When Shishania Ashreata was first reported last year, I was thrilled—it resembled the ‘slug-like’ creatures I had always imagined,” Dr. Smith remarked.
“However, the new findings required me to reassess everything.”
Further examinations indicated that certain patterns appeared randomly throughout the fossil, and attributes once believed to reflect mollusk biology, such as ‘paintbrush-like’ formations in the spines, were actually preserved artifacts.
The distortion and compression from fossilization made simple cylindrical animals appear more anatomically complex than they were.
This reinterpretation is crucial not only for understanding primeval organisms but also for clarifying other ambiguous Cambrian fossils.
We are revisiting questions about early mollusk evolution, being cautious of overinterpretation regarding ambiguous fossil characteristics.
“Simultaneously, it contributes to solidifying our understanding of chancelloriid origins and offers fresh insights into the emergence of evolutionary novelty,” the researchers concluded.
Their study was published today in the journal Science.
____
Ziyan et al. 2025. Shishania is not a Cambrian mollusk; it is a prime minister. Science 388 (6747): 662-664; doi: 10.1126/science.adv463
Paleontologists have identified three new fossil species. Sivulliusalmo Alaskensis was found in a purine cream formation in northern Alaska, USA.
Chinook salmon (oncorhynchus tschawytscha). Image credit: US Geological Survey.
“Sivulliusalmo Alaskensis reveals significant insights,” remarked Dr. Patrick Druckenmiller, the director of the University of Alaska Museum in the North.
“Our research uncovers several additional species of ancient fish new to the Arctic, including two new pike species: Archaeosiilik Gilmulli and Nunikuluk Gracilis, as well as the oldest record within the group comprising carp and minnows.”
“Many fish we now consider unique to Alaska’s high-latitude environment existed alongside dinosaurs.”
The discovery of Sivulliusalmo Alaskensis adds an impressive 20 million years to the fossil history of the salmon family.
Previously, the oldest known salmonidae fossil was from British Columbia and Washington.
“It’s noteworthy that the Salmonidae, which typically thrives in cold water, adapted and flourished during the warm Cretaceous period, enduring for millions of years amidst significant geographical and climatic changes,” noted Andres Lopez, Fish Curator at the University of Alaska in the north.
“Even though the Arctic was warm during that era, there would still be substantial seasonal variations in temperature and sunlight, much like today.”
“Salmon were among the fish adept at navigating these dramatic shifts.”
“Despite the planet’s numerous geological and climatic transformations, the ancestors of the same species group persisted in dominating the region’s freshwater ecosystems.”
The new species is the latest finding from the Prin Creek Formation, renowned for its dinosaur fossils discovered along the Colville River in northern Alaska.
During the Cretaceous period, Alaska was significantly closer to the Arctic than it is today.
“Fish fossils are among the most abundant in the Purine Creek Formation, yet they are challenging to distinguish in the field,” stated Dr. Druckenmiller.
“Consequently, we transported the fine sand and gravel samples to our museum lab, where microscopic analysis revealed the bones and teeth.”
“Our new findings heavily rely on small, fossilized jaws, some of which are small enough to fit on the edge of a pencil eraser.”
For detailed examination, the researchers employed micro-computed tomography to digitally reconstruct the small jaws, teeth, and other bones.
“We identified very distinct jaws and other components of the salmon family, which were recognized as belonging to this lineage,” said Dr. Druckenmiller.
“The presence of salmonidae in the Cretaceous polar regions and their coexistence with common low-light fish from this period suggests that salmonidae likely thrived in northern climates.”
“The high latitudes of the northern regions may have been vibrant centers for their evolutionary development.”
This paper was published in the journal Paleontology papers.
____
Donald B. Brinkman et al. 2025. Fish from the Purine Cream Formation in the northern slopes of Alaska: the pre-Cretaceous and their paleobiogeographic significance. Paleontology papers 11(3): E70014; doi: 10.1002/spp2.70014
The Cicadidae family is among the most diverse insect families today. However, the fossil record of Cicadidae is notably sparse compared to the number of extant species. The recently discovered species, Eoplatypleura Messelensis, is not only one of the earliest Cicadidae fossils found on the Eurasian continent, but it also represents the oldest record of the subfamily CICADINAE globally.
Reconstruction of Eoplatypleura Messelensis. Image credit: Dinghua Yang.
Eoplatypleura Messelensis thrived in Europe approximately 47 million years ago during the Eocene period.
“The Cicada family is one of the most diverse groups of insects today,” states Dr. Sonja Wedmann, a paleontologist at the Senckenberg Forschungsinstitut und Naturmuseum Frankfurt/Main.
“Despite this, the fossil record is quite limited compared to the many modern species.”
“The Platypleurini group within this family is particularly noteworthy, containing numerous species with wide distributions and unique traits.”
“For the first time, we have described a fossil from this Cicada group.”
Two fossil specimens of Eoplatypleura Messelensis were found at Messelpit, an open-cast oil shale mine located 10 km northeast of Darmstadt in Hesse, Germany.
“The new Messel fossil showcases a compact head with a subtle composite eye and a broad forewing featuring a distinctly curved tip,” notes Dr. Hui Jang, a paleontologist at the Senckenberg Forschungsinstitut and a doctoral researcher at the University of Maine and Nanjing University.
“The fossils are female, but their classification implies that males in this group may produce loud mating calls.”
Eoplatypleura Messelensis, an adult female. Image credit: Senckenberg Forschungsinstitut und Naturmuseum Frankfurt/Main.
These ancient insects measure 2.65 cm in body length and have a wingspan of 6.82 cm, notable for their expansive, intricately patterned wings.
“These patterns resemble those of contemporary Cicada species in the Platypleurini group, which inhabit wooded and scrub areas,” explains Dr. Jang.
“Considering the subtropical vegetation of the Messel region approximately 47 million years ago, these color patterns may have served important ecological functions, such as camouflage.”
Eoplatypleura Messelensis is one of the oldest known representatives of today’s true cicadas in Eurasia and signifies the earliest records of the subfamily Cicadinae worldwide,” Dr. Wedmann remarks.
“This is also the Cicada that has been first described from the Messel Pit.”
“This discovery not only enhances our understanding of the fauna at Messelpit but also fills a crucial gap in the history of Eocene cicadas.”
“In the future, Eoplatypleura Messelensis may serve as a reference point for significant time series in genetic research regarding the evolutionary history of these insects, providing new insights into the origins and dispersal of Platypleurini.”
The team’s paper was published in the journal Scientific Reports on April 29, 2025.
____
H. Jiang et al. 2025. Sound from the Eocene: The first singing Cicada from Messelpit, Germany. Sci Rep 15, 12826; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-94099-7
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Strictly Necessary Cookies
Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.
